March is typically the month that mature bull elk shed their antlers. Losing his rack will be a majestic farewell to winter.
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Community Invited To Comment On Estes Park Municipal Code Parking Amendments Through March 28
The Town is proposing to amend Title 10 of the Estes Park Municipal Code (EPMC) pertaining to prohibitions on parking. The changes aim to enhance clarity and consistency within the code, ensuring alignment with state regulations and community needs. Residents and stakeholders are invited to review and comment on these proposed amendments through March 28, 2025.
The proposed changes to sections 10.04.030 and 10.04.040 are designed to improve the overall effectiveness of parking safety and enforcement by allowing on-street overnight parking under specific circumstances. Some of
the amendments were designed to ensure the new code reflects what is already in practice locally, while others were changes to the current ordinance adopted by the Town Board in 2022. The draft amendments will be presented at an upcoming Town Board Study Session and Town Board meeting.
To review the proposed changes to the EPMC Title 10 Vehicles and Traffic, visit www.estes.org/parking. Questions or comments about the proposed changes may be directed to Dana Klein, Parking and Transit Manager, at dklein@estes.org or 970-577-3577.
Photos by Estes Park News/ Jordan Hazelton
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.
Meadow Lodge and RV Park to the YMCA of the Rockies campus
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 instructions 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.
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
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 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.
Join The Next Trustee Talk March 27
Community members are invited to join Trustees Kirby Hazelton and Frank Lancaster for a Trustee Talk Thursday, March 27 at 10 a.m. in the Town Hall Board Room, 170 MacGre-
The charge(s) are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
gor Ave.
This is an opportunity for community members to discuss local issues with members of the board in an informal setting.
On 3/15/2025 at 12:51 p.m. officers contacted a 43 year old Estes Park female in the 500 block of Stanley Ave. in reference to a suspicious circumstance call. It was found the female was in possession of a stolen vehicle with removed vehicle identification numbers. She was charged with 2nd Degree Motor Vehicle Theft, 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 9th, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 11calls for serv-
ice. This included:
• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 4
• Alarm Activation: 2
• Odor Investigation: 1
• Possible Gas Leak: 1
• Vehicle Fire: 1
• Assist: 2www.estesvalleyfire.org
Don’t Miss Bigfoot Days Coming To Estes Park April 25-26
www.EPBigfoot.com
Estes Park Bigfoot Days returns celebrating all things Squatchy. The weekend kicks-off with a ticketed dinner at the Holiday Inn on Friday, April 25 with Bigfoot Television Celebrities, continues with a free festival in Bond Park on Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and concludes with a Saturday evening Sasquatch movie premiere at the Historic Park Theatre at 7 p.m. The festival includes talks from the Bigfoot TV Celebrities, the Sasquatch Outpost podcast, live music, inflatable games, craft and food vendors, a Bigfoot calling contest, Bigfoot sighting stories, a short documentary film, a Bigfoot TV series premier and much more!
The Bigfoot BBQ is Friday, April 25, 2025 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Estes Park. This Bigfoot-themed dinner will feature food, drinks, music, photos, and mingling with our Bigfoot celebrities.
Tickets are $90. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.EPBigfoot.com. Wrapping up Bigfoot Days on Saturday, April 26, 2025, will be a Hollywood style red-carpet film premier of The Sasqualogist, a film by Joseph Granda. This touching kind-hearted adventure follows a seasoned researcher and his young protégé as they track Sasquatch through the Colorado Rockies, only to discover the shocking truth behind what Sasquatch is, and who they really are.
The Estes Park premiere of this feature film will be held at the Historic Park Theatre at 7 p.m. There will be a Q&A session with the stars and director, poster giveaway, autographs and merchandise, and a “Walk Like Bigfoot” contest with prizes. Admission is free. View the trailer: www.thesasqualogist.com.
Cliff Barackman Finding Bigfoot
Russel Acord Expedition Bigfoot
Dr. Mireya Mayor Expedition Bigfoot
Courtesy photo
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.
The Conservancy’s achievements include:
• Construction of workforce housing for park staff and researchers
• Acquisition of key land tracts
•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.
Estee Rivera Murdock
Are You Ready? 6th Annual
EVWC
Community Fuel Reduction Event
By: Estes Valley Watershed Coalition
The Estes Valley and surrounding communities know all too well the threat that wildfires bring. While fire is a natural and essential part of the ecosystem, living here means we need to take extra steps to stay prepared. After a winter filled with temperature swings and gusty winds, now is the perfect time to ask yourself: Is your home ready?
To help out, the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition (EVWC) is once again offering FREE 30-yard containers to make it easy for you to clear away slash, bagged pinecones, and pine needles. This is our sixth year working together with Waste Management (WM) and the Estes Valley Fire Protection District to help reduce wildfire risks in the community, and we’d love for you to join in!
Whether you are a part of a group of homeowners, a Property Owners Association (POA), Condominium Owners Association (COA), or Homeowners Association (HOA), you’re welcome to apply. But act fast—there are a limited number of dumpsters available, so ap-
plications will be reviewed and awarded based on how much impact they’ll have on reducing risk in our community.
Here’s the timeline:
First round of applications: Opens April 1st and closes May 15th
Second round of applications: Opens June 1st and closes June 30th
To check out the application guidelines and restrictions, visit www.evwatershed.org/forest-projects and sign up for our newsletter to get the latest updates. Got questions? Feel free to reach out via email at EVWatershed@EVWatershed.org.
Clearing in the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) areas won’t guarantee you’ll avoid wildfires, but it can make your home more resilient. So, what can you do right now? Take a good look around your home—clear out or move anything flammable within a 10-foot perimeter, like trees, pine needles, pinecones, leaves, and woodpiles.
Want to dive deeper? Check out helpful checklists and resources on improving your Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) at www.estesvalleyfire.org/wildfire.
Garden Announcement
Do you want to get your hands in the dirt? Gardening weather is coming soon!
The Estes Valley Community Garden is pleased to announce that we are accepting new and returning gardeners to garden with us this growing season.
The revised version of the application/license for a garden plot is now available on the website.
Look for us at www.evcg.org if you are interested in having a gardening plot at the Community Garden. Just download the 2025 license/contract and send it to evcg@evcg.org. If you want to mail your license/contract to us then send it to EVCG P.O. Box 4158, Estes Park, CO 80517.
Hope to see you at the garden this spring!
Marketing Strategies To Thrive In The Remaining Weeks Of The Off-Season
By: Estes Chamber of Commerce & Hope Hartman, SBDC
As winter slowly fades and spring begins, attracting locals to your business can sustain revenue while you prepare for the return of summer tourists. A targeted marketing strategy will help you stay connected with your community and set the stage for a successful high season. Here are a few tips to get your business moving ahead of seasonal traffic:
1. Attract Locals with Special Promotions
Special Discounts: Offer deals that appeal to residents, such as “locals-only” discounts or loyalty programs. Have a punch card or use an app for them to collect stars towards a free item or discount.
Themed Events: Host events like trivia nights, workshops, or community gatherings to draw customers during quieter months. Include creatives to liven up the atmosphere with music or some type of visual display that is not typically in your store.
Collaborate: Partner with other local businesses to cross-promote products or services, sharing customer bases and cutting marketing costs. You could have a passport or map with all participating businesses to encourage locals to visit them all and then take pictures and share it on social media when they’ve completed the trail or filled up the passport.
2. Refresh Your Online Presence
Update Your Website: Ensure your website reflects your current offerings, operating hours, and any winter promotions.
Engage on Social Media: Share behindthe-scenes content, winter specials, and community-focused posts to keep your audience engaged. People love seeing behind the scenes from receiving supplies to working on displays.
Email Marketing: Reconnect with past customers by sending a newsletter with off-season updates, special offers, and a preview of what’s coming next season. If you don’t have an email list, start considering how you will obtain emails moving forward so you can start a newsletter or special email campaigns.
3. Plan for the Tourist Season
Research Trends: Study upcoming travel trends to refine your messaging and offerings for next year. Your community partners may have information from this year’s trends that could inform planning for next year.
Pre-Schedule Campaigns: Design social media and email campaigns now so you can focus on execution when the busy season arrives. There are tools that can help you automate this process.
Focus on Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google or TripAdvisor. Positive feedback during the off-season will help attract tourists later. If this is new to you, in the future you can offer a small discount if people show you their positive reviews. By staying active in your marketing efforts during the off-season, you may boost winter sales and you’re ensuring your business is top of mind when visitors return.
Estes Land Stewardship Association (ELSA) Meeting Speaker
The public is invited to the Estes Land Stewardship Association meeting (ELSA) on Thursday, April 3rd at 9:30 a.m. in the George Hix Meeting Room at US Bank, 363 E. Elkhorn. (The parking lot at US Bank is now paid parking so park in the library lot.) Larimer County Land Stewardship Manager, Casey Cisneros will be presenting information regarding noxious weed management in unincorporated Estes Valley, a review of 2024 data, introduce meadow hawkweed (new Larimer County Noxious Weed) and 2025 priorities. He will also be answering questions from the audience. Take this opportunity to learn more about how you can be good land stewards and the Colorado Noxious Weed Act.
September. Articles will be posted in the EP News prior to these drop-off events. ELSA is a 501 (c) (3) unincorporated nonprofit organization. Our primary objective is to address the noxious weeds invading the region by promoting awareness of invasive plants and their impacts, through education and outreach efforts.
More information about ELSA sponsored weed disposal events, the Estes Park weed ordinance, ELSA’s weed booklet, Week Alert articles, etc. can be found at estes.org/weeds You can contact the Estes Land Stewardship Association (ELSA) at ELSA.weeds@gmail.com ELSA meetings are held the first Thursday of the month at 9:30 a.m. in the George Hix Meeting Room at US Bank during March and April. Monitored Weed Drop-offs are held the third Saturday in July, August and
Owning property in the Estes Valley can be challenging and different! Bagging mature weeds during the summer months is not how you want to spend your time. Be proactive – learn your native plants and manage the invasive plants in a timely manner with a weed management specialist if you don’t have the time, energy or expertise to manage your property. A list of weed management specialists who can help is available at larimer.org/naturalresources/weeds/applicators. Management strategies and information can be found under at estes.org/weeds under the Helpful Documents page. Twenty Ob-Noxious Weeds in the Estes Valley Identification and Management Guide booklets are available at Ace Hardware, Park Supply, and Estes Valley Library.
183 Days Until Rails In The Rockies, A Great Model Railroad Show
The cost of our garbage collection went up nearly $20 this last billing cycle. A price increase of any amount for anything does not make me happy, whether its trash collection or eggs, with their prices hovering near that of diamonds these days. So I often take action to reduce our expenses when I can.
In this situation, I called the trash company to see what they could do to get us closer to what we were paying prior to When Our Country Became an Embarrassment. In the past—in other situations as well as with garbage collection— my sweet talking has worked. When it hasn’t, I’ve turned to cajoling, and if the person on the other end of the line doesn’t have a sense of humor, then I’ve resorted to actually negotiating a more reasonable price. My efforts usually pay off.
It used to be when I called a company’s customer service number, I could cut through the automated voice recording (“press 2 for hours of operation, press 3 for no reason at all.”). When I pressed 0, I was immediately connected to a real person. Alas, Ms. Automated Voice has caught on and now she completely ignores me when I press 0. She just keeps talking: “Press 7 if you were born on a Tuesday,” etc. So I have to listen carefully to all the options because the menu has recently changed. While I’m waiting, I ponder: how long is it legal for a company to claim its menu has recently changed before it is no longer true? What is the definition of “recently” in this case? Today it didn’t matter which number I pressed, I got put on Hold, where I had to listen to fuzzy, bad music until a representative came back from break and took my call. (I discovered the tune, that one we can all hear in our heads with the shooshy percussion and techno notes—G three times, up to E flat four times, down to D—has a name. It is cleverly called Opus Number One. In 1989, the “music” was created by a 16-year-old and his friend, recorded on a four-track machine in the garage. Imagine that: someone got rich by inventing something in a garage! Opus Number One has been heard—over and over again—by millions who just want to speak to a
human being, preferably in detectable English. I like hearing the different accents but I do need to be able to understand what is being said.)
It was such a relief when a representative finally picked up my call and asked me all the pertinent personal information: name, address, phone number, mother’s maiden name, father’s middle name, zodiac sign. I smiled while answering her questions because people can hear a smile on the phone. But the rep determined I was talking to the wrong person so I was put on Hold again. I won’t admit to you how long I waited or how many times I went through this routine, nor how many times the calls got dropped and I had to call back and start all over. I will confess that eventually my smile faded and I gave up. I never did land in the department where I could get the help I needed.
That’s the end of my story. We’re still paying more than I want to for garbage pickup.
Yet, as much as I love a good deal, honestly, what we pay to have our garbage hauled off is truly a bargain. Think of it: Americans produce waste with profuse abandon, which we conveniently toss into a bag. Then we tie up the bag, set the bag at the curb and dust off our hands. Like magic, it disappears. We never have to think about it again. We don’t have to see it or smell it. It simply vanishes. Some guys in neon vests deal with our stinky, oozy dross while we’re off enjoying the pristine beauty surrounding us.
The cost of eggs may be ridiculous, but what a privilege it is to live in this country where we can go to a grocery any time and buy as many eggs as we desire. We are spoiled rotten.
And somebody else has to handle our rotten refuse. Listening to Opus Number One is a small price to pay for such a privilege.
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
A New Documentary From the Rocky Mountain Channel To Air On 300 PBS Stations Nationwide Following Premiere At 2025 Environmental Film Festival
Huge distribution success marks milestone for Nick Mollé’ s new documentary, “Water, the Sacred Gift.”
“Water: The Sacred Gift, ” the latest documentary from award-winning filmmakers Nick Mollé and Sean Doherty, has achieved a major milestone for Nick Mollé Productions and the Rocky Mountain Channel. The film has been picked up by 300 out of 343 PBS stations nationwide, marking the largest distribution in Mollé’s career and setting a new benchmark for his work. With the potential for even broader reach following its release, Water: The Sacred Gift will soon be available to millions of viewers across the country, debuting after its premiere at the Rocky Mountain Channel’s Environmental Film Festival in Estes Park.
Water: The Sacred Gift, and we are thrilled that so many stations across the nation are committing to air this film, ” said Nick Mollé. “Water is a resource that connects all of us, and I hope this documentary inspires action in communities around the country
place that I don’t recall a memory from my ‘woods. ’ Precious is an understatement as I have dedicated my life and this project to finding truth at the intersection of philosophy, art, and science. ”
The film festival kicks off with a special
the Historic Park Theatre. Tickets for the Environmental Film Festival are available for $15 for a single day or $25 for both days at historicparktheatre.com. All ticket proceeds will be donated to the Rocky Mountain Conservancy to support their efforts to protect our public lands.
The film will have its world premiere on Saturday, April 12, 2025, as the centerpiece of the Environmental Film Festival at the Historic Park Theatre. This twoday celebration of environmental filmmaking, which takes place April 11-12, will feature a rich lineup of films from Nick Mollé Productions and the Rocky Mountain Channel.
“The incredible response from PBS is a testament to the powerful message of
to protect our most precious resource. ” Set against the stunning landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, “Water: The Sacred Gift, ” explores the ways in which water sustains diverse ecosystems, from the tundra to the valleys, and supports habitats across both the eastern and western slopes of the Continental Divide. Through breathtaking visuals, scientific insights, and indigenous perspectives, the film sheds light on the environmental challenges facing our water systems.
“In my youngest memories, I was fortunate to have a wild place behind our house we simply called ‘the woods, ’” said Mollé. “There isn’t a time now when I enter a wild
opening party at Avant Garde Aleworks on Thursday, April 10, featuring live music from Nick Mollé and friends. Friday, April 11, will showcase a selection of Nick Mollé’s earlier works, including a special screening of Climb Longs Peak, the film that launched his filmmaking career.
Saturday, April 12, will feature another day of films, leading up to a reception with dinner generously donated by Lonigan's Irish Pub & Grill, live music, and the premiere screening of Water: The Sacred Gift, followed by a panel discussion with conservationists. All films and reception will take place at
Nick Mollé and the Rocky Mountain Channel would like to extend a special thank you to the film’s underwriters including, the Newendorp Family Foundation Fund and Visit Estes Park. “Water, the Sacred Gift, ” is dedicated to Barb Marshall.
Event Schedule
Friday, April 11:
2:00 p.m.: Wildside Costa Rica
4:00 p.m.: Wildside Australia
7:00 p.m.: Climb Longs Peak
Saturday, April 12:
2:00 p.m. Wildride: The Peak to Peak Highway
4:00 p.m.: Nature of the Beasts
6:00 p.m.: Reception (Dinner & Live Music)
7:00 p.m.: Premiere of Water: The Sacred Gift
So Many Ways To Play: How Nonprofits Can Engage Board Members Who Don’t Like To Fundraise In Fundraising
Not every board member is comfortable fundraising. The Nonprofit Network’s first educational program focuses on how to use board members’ skills and let them play in their comfort zone while STILL contribute to fundraising goals. Register via epnonprofit.org/education.
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.
Quota Presents Student Grant To Karen Owens
Each year Quota Club Student Grant Committee awards scholarship monies to Estes Park residents. Funds are raised through Quota Club’s two fund raisers the Festival of Trees in December and the upcoming Taste of Estes Park on April 24. All funds raised allow us to support our community in numerous ways.
*Graciously Sponsoring the Pavilion for our Gala
Linda Polland, Ann Kasper, Peggy Lynch, Student Grant recipient Karen Owens, Marilyn Irwin and Kathy Brazelton.
Sierra, Brandi And Greta Need New, Loving, Forever Families
Sierra Brandi
Sierra is a gorgeous Husky, about two years old. She loves people, is an awesome dog, funny, crate trained and playful.
Greta
Greta is an 11 month old Doberman/Shepherd mix. She is an absolutely wonderful girl and is very smart. She knows how to sit, shake, and go through a doggy door. She picks up
Brandi is a two year old healer mix. She is fun and high energy. She loves everyone and is crate trained.
All of these great dogs are looking for their forever homes. Please make their wishes come true.
Call (970) 286-1652 if you’d like to meet or foster any of these special pets.
All pets are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a nonprofit organization that is the Estes Valley’s only humane society. You can make a tax-deductible donation to the Pet Association by sending your check to P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517. For more information about the Pet Association, please visit petassociationestespark.com.
on new tricks very fast and loves to please. Greta is a very active dog and loves to run. She is the biggest sweetheart and loves to be loved.
James H. Pickering
Rotary Club Of Estes Park Presents James H. Pickering Thursday, March 27th
James H. Pickering, since 2006 Estes Park 's Historian Laureate, and the author of over 30 books and articles on Estes Park and Colorado history, will be speaking about his most recent book “He Came and Stayed: Pieter Hondius, The Estes Park 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 25th if joining us for lunch.
Janet Zeschin Announces Candidacy For Park Hospital District Board
Submitted by Janet Zeschin
Janet and her husband Larry have lived in Estes Park since 2011. Larry is a native of Colorado and Janet moved here in 1980 when she separated from US Air Force Nurse Corp as a Captain. They have two adult children, who with their families, also live in Estes Park. Janet retired in 2020 after a 46year professional nursing career. She graduated as a hospital- based diploma nurse (RN) and subsequently completed an undergraduate degree in sociology and a master’s degree in health services administration from Regis University. Prior to her retirement, Janet held a Certification in Healthcare Quality and an accreditation in Case Management-RN.
Janet’s career included almost 20 years in critical care nursing and then she transitioned into healthcare quality. The remaining years were in hospital and medical staff quality, patient safety, patient experience, risk management, utilization review, infection prevention as well as federal and state accreditation and regulatory compliance. This work included a leadership role working with hospital administration, medical staff, and hospital staff at all levels and in most departments, as well as the Colorado Hospital Association, Colorado Rural Health Center, regulatory
and quality improvement organizations. She worked as Estes Park Health’s Director of Quality and Patient Safety from 2011-2016 and then again from 2019-2020 until her retirement. The intervening years were spent in a national consulting role. During Janet’s tenure, she regularly attended and provided reports to the Park Hospital District Board of Trustees.
Service Organizations:
Rotarian since 2012 serving in various roles including past president and secretary. Janet currently serves on the Sunrise Rotary’s governing board as the Club secretary.
Estes Valley Library Friends of the Foundation Board since 2024 serving as their secretary.
Estes Valley Land Trust - member 2024
Self-Nomination for Park Hospital District Board of Trustees (BOT):
• My goal in tenure on the Board is to be of service to the community and EPH. My experience and knowledge base is well suited to participation on the BOT and feel I can be a voice for the community, the staff, and the facility.
• I have worked in several small rural critical access hospitals as well as large metropolitan facilities and and understand the internal processes as well as the functions of governing boards.
One Hour with Jesus
Emily Gordon photos
Fitness FUNdraiser
To Benefit Salud Family Health Center
The Estes Park Fitness Community has come together to support the ongoing operations of our local and treasured Salud Family Health Center. Take a tour of our local fitness options in Estes Park with a Fitness Passport. All proceeds go directly to Salud and you get to have fun in the process. Seven locally owned gyms & studios have donated a sampling of all things fitness in Estes Park- one week passes and multiple classes are offered with the Fitness Passport. Try one or try them all, the Fitness Passport allows you access to the following businesses: Jazzercise, Estes Park Yoga, Estes Park
Pilates, ProActive Fitness, Vert Fitness, Estes Functional Fitness & Estes Valley Recreation Center. Passports are available for purchase now at all participating businesses for $199 ($400 value ) and good for six weeks starting April 1st and ending May 15th. Checks only made out directly to Salud. One Grand Prize winner will be drawn from participants that get their Passport punched from at least five of the studios/gyms during the six weeks. Grand Prize is valued at over $1,000 with gift cards from local area businesses. For more information you can contact: MJ Tyman estesparkpilates@gmail.com
¡Cuanto mejor escuche, más sano estará su cerebro! Un estudio de la Escuela de Salud Pública Bloomberg de Johns Hopkins muestra que el uso de audífonos puede reducir el riesgo de demencia en un 32 %. Obtenga más información sobre el trabajo de audición y habla de Quota Club en Estes Park en estesparkquota.com/contact-info Estes Park Quota Club Wants To Help!
The better you hear, the healthier your brain is! A study from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health shows that using hearing aids can decrease the risk of dementia by 32%! Learn more about Quota Club's Hearing and Speech work in Estes Park at estesparkquota.com/contact-info
Village Thrift Shop Grant Applications
Grant applications for 2025 from the Village Thrift Shop (VTS) are available for charitable organizations providing services to the Estes Valley community. Non-profits determined by the Internal Revenue Service to operate as a 501(c)(3) and registered in good standing with the Colorado Secretary of State are encouraged to complete and submit a request to the Village Thrift Shop for funding by March 31, 2025. After review by the VTS Board of Directors, at least $200,000 will be distributed in late April. There’s still time to apply!
should be returned via mail, e-mail or hand delivered by the end of March.
The Village Thrift Shop is a nonprofit corporation that generates revenue through the resale of donated goods. Generous donors, considerate business partners, a dedicated all-volunteer staff, and loyal patrons support VTS profit sharing. Over the past eight years, $1,252,737 has been distributed to qualified nonprofits providing critical services and beneficial programs in the Estes Valley.
Sisters In Pop Music, Dueling Narratives, & The History Of Trees: Don’t Miss
These Upcoming Author Talks
Grant applications and guidelines are posted for download at the VTS website, www.epvillagethrift.org/grant-application. Alternatively, copies will be available for pickup Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Village Thrift Shop located at 1138 Manford Avenue in Estes Park. The completed application package
Merry Marthas To Meet On March 28
The next meeting of the Merry Marthas will be held on Friday, March 28 at 9:30 a.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies on Brodie Avenue. Merry Marthas is a group of women who sew, knit, crochet, or weave and then donate their finished projects to local charities. New members are always welcome whether experienced or a beginner. For more information, please call the church at 970-586-4404.
Last year, the volunteer staff at Village Thrift Shop freely gave over 9,000 hours of their time in order to process a bounty of donated, sellable goods subsequently purchased by first time and regular customers from near and far. The Village Thrift Shop is located at 1138 Manford Avenue in Estes Park. VTS is open for retail sales Wednesday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Donations are accepted on these same days starting at 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
Inspiring author talks aren’t limited to special events like One Book One Valley or Summer Reading Program. Digital time with published writers is regularly available to community readers, courtesy of the Estes Valley Library. This spring, hop online for conversations with Jennifer Weiner and Jodi Picoult, and a special Smithsonian experience with Matthew Fleming, all part of the Library Speakers Consortium – a free service for public library patrons.
On Wednesday, March 26, novelist Jennifer Weiner (the “queen of fun”) will chat about her bestselling slate of books that have been inspiring readers toward self-discovery for decades. In particular, she’ll cover her newest book, The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits, a story set in the world of pop music about motherhood, young love, and the dreams we chase.
Later in the month, visit with Jodi Picoult, the #1 New York Times bestselling
author of 29 novels, including her newest book, By Any Other Name. Told in intertwining narratives, the story is a sweeping tale about a woman performer in 1581 and a presentday playwright who discovers her story. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from Jodi about her writing process and career. Then, take a virtual visit to the Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse as we meet Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming to learn about the stories, science, and history of trees. On Tuesday, April 8, Fleming will guide us through The Tree Book, a piece that combines natural history with a wider look at the uses, symbolism, and mythology of trees in human culture. All events are streamed live, free to attend, and include audience participation through interactive Q&A sessions. Unable to attend the live presentations? Past recordings are easily accessible and available to watch anytime.
The Estes Valley Library has been part of the Library Speakers Consortium since 2022. This program grants member libraries and their patrons access to acclaimed authors of all genres and perspectives via online visits. To browse the full list and register for an upcoming talk, visit the Library Speakers Consortium site at libraryc.org/estesvalleylibrary.
SPRING 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
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 inspire readers to pursue self-discovery. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
Wordsmith & Wonder:
Author Talk with Jodi Picoult
Wednesday, April 2, 5 - 6 p.m., online Chat with highly acclaimed author Jodi Picoult about her newest novel, By Any Other Name. Told
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
in intertwining narratives from two women, the novel is a tale of ambition, courage, and desire. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
The Wandering Season:
Author Talk with Aimie K. Runyan
Friday, April 4, 6 - 7:15 p.m., Hondius Room and online
Get a first look at local author Aimie K. Runyan’s newest book! She’ll take us through the sights, sounds, and tastes of the novel, which is a celebration of travel and a nod to the importance of place in fiction. Presented with Macdonald Book Shop.
ALL AGES
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.
Maker March:
Sublimate a Zipper Pouch
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.
Intro to Needle Felting
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
Friday, March 28, 10 - 11 a.m., Makerspace
Create two unique paintings (a playful cat and an expressive abstract) using acrylic paint, then use scrapers to bring your artwork to life. All ages welcome.
Maker March: Suncatchers
of a spring-themed flower pot. Recommend for adults, teens and tweens.
Make a Spring Gnome Magnet
Thursday, April 3, 4:30 - 5:30 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Monday, April 7, 1 - 2 p.m., Makerspace
Adorn the fridge with a symbol of spring! Make a gnome magnet featuring whimsical butterfly wings. All ages welcome.
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.
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.
Election Information with the League of Women Voters of Estes Park
Thursday, April 3, 12 - 2 p.m., Library Atrium
The League of Women Voters of Estes Park will be on hand to help with voter registration, important election dates, and other information about voting in local, regional, and national elections.
Cricut Adventures: Create a Bigfoot Card
Friday, April 4, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
Use the Cricut Maker 3 to bring Bigfoot to life, just in time for the Bigfoot Days Festival! Recommended for adults and teens.
Monthly Writing Group
Monday, March 31, 5:307:30 p.m., Makerspace
Welcome spring sunshine with your own suncatcher!
Design an insert with alcohol ink, then use the Cricut Maker to tie the piece together. Recommended for adults and teens.
Paint a Spring Sign
Tuesday, April 1, 10 a.m.12 p.m., Makerspace
Craft a charming “Hello Spring” wooden sign, complete with a cute rabbit and blooming flowers. Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens.
Spring Bunny Flower Pots
Tuesday, April 1, 5:307:30 p.m., Makerspace
Make oversized, fluffy pom-poms from yarn, then use them as the centerpiece
Makerspace
Upcycle mint tins into miniature bookcases, then use wood, stickers, paper, hot glue, and cute accessories to frame a selection of tiny books.
Spring Pipe Cleaner Art
Wednesday, April 2, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Makerspace
Make pipe cleaner bunnies and butterflies as an ode to spring! Please note: hot glue guns will be used.
Teen Advisory Council
Thursday, April 3, 6 - 7 p.m., Makerspace
Monthly meeting for tweens and teens (ages 11-18) who would like to recommend ideas for library programming, designs for future teen space, and collection purchases for their age group.
Solder a Robot Car
Saturday, April 5, 2 - 4 p.m., Makerspace
Learn to use soldering irons to create a motorized robot car that follows a black line path. Ages 10 and up.
Babysitting 101
Sunday, Apri 6, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., Hondius Room
This introduction to babysitting course will feature interviewing tips, communication skills, the development stages of young babies and toddlers, safety and first aid, and more. Ages 1118.
KIDS & FAMILIES
Library Storytimes
Baby Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.
Preschool Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Annie: Sat., April 5 at 11 a.m.
For Your Family:
10 Free Library Resources
Thursday, March 27, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Hondius Room
Learn about ten valuable opportunities to take advantage of free library resources. Presented in partnership with EVICS Family Resource Center.
Crafts for Kids: Celebrating Month of the Young Child
Monday, April 7, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Wasson Room
Calling all writers, aspiring writers, and anyone interested in writing! Join us on the first Monday evening of every month to share your writing, enjoy others’ work, and receive and provide feedback. All genres and forms are welcome.
TEENS & KIDS
Lego Club: Tallest Tower Challenge
Saturday, March 22, 11:15 a.m.12:15 p.m., Hondius Room
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.,
Saturday, April 5, 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., Hondius Room
Color an owl mask, stick together a safari animal, create a wooden elephant, all while enjoying free books and other giveaways! Presented as part of Estes Grows Readers and Month of the Young Child celebrations.
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.
Rocky Mountain Conservancy Welcomes Diane Goddard And Darla Sidles To Board of Directors
Diane Goddard and Darla Sidles were elected the newest members of Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s Board of Directors at the leadership team’s most recent meeting Feb. 28th in Estes Park.
“We’re delighted to add Diane and Darla to the Conservancy leadership team as we look ahead to the financial and operational challenges facing Rocky Mountain National Park and our other public lands,” said Walt Borneman, board president. “Each brings lifelong experience and passion in leading beloved public organizations and serving their constituencies.”
Goddard joined the board as a member and treasurer. Her extensive experience in strategic planning and financial management comes from more than 36 years in leadership positions at the University of Kansas including comptroller, vice provost for Administration and Finance, and chief financial officer. Some highlights from her past work include successful initiatives to generate revenue and cost savings of $51 million and overseeing a $350 million project to construct new infrastructure including science facilities, dormitories, a student union, and a central power plant.
Originally from the state of New York, Goddard graduated from Southern Connecticut State University with a
bachelor's degree in economics and earned a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Kansas. She retired from the university in 2020 but advises campus leaders on
budget reviews and optimization practices with the National Association of College and University Business Officers.
Diane, husband Stephen, and their three children, vacationed in Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park every summer for 35 years. Because of their love of Rocky and the
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 vis-
iting estesvalleylibrary.org. Some restrictions apply, such as no residential rental property income or out of state returns. Full-year residents aged 18 and above must file a Colorado tax return before October 15, 2025 to claim your TABOR sales tax refund (the amount varies depending on your income level).
Sunrise Rotary Invites Charitable Organizations To Apply For Funding
The Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary (EVSR) invites proposals from charitable organizations, 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 por tal.clubrunner.ca/5242 and locate the 2025 Community Grants applica-
tion. 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 email: estessunriserotary@gmail.com.
many outdoor activities in the park and connection to the Estes Valley, they purchased a home in Estes Park in 2016 where they now live full time and regularly enjoy hosting their lifelong
friends.
“We enjoy watching our four grandchildren discover all the magic of Rocky Mountain National Park and develop their own deep love of nature as well as the understanding of the need to protect and conserve this amazing natural resource,” said Goddard.
Former Superintendent of Rocky Mountain National Park Darla Sidles’ first exposure to the park came as a 9year-old traveling with her family to their first National Park Service (NPS) experience. After more than three decades of a rewarding career with the NPS, she came full circle back to Rocky
and completed her federal service in Colorado in 2023.
Sidles began her federal career as a Student Conservation Association (SCA) volunteer in the North Cascade mountains in Washington State. She worked summers as a U.S. Forest Service wilderness ranger while obtaining her business degree at the University of Texas at Arlington and then completed graduate school at Western Washington University.
Sidles’ 37-year career spanned numerous national parks and sites across the country including Arches and Zion in Utah; Big Bend in Texas; Denali in Alaska; NPS headquarters in Washington, D.C.; Independence National Historic Park in Philadelphia; Golden Gate National Recreation Area in California; Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument and Saguaro National Park in Arizona; and, finally, the last seven years at Rocky where her leadership was critical in navigating challenges including the pandemic and historic wildfires.
Sidles and her husband reside primarily in Arizona but regularly return to the Rockies where she says, “the park and its communities remain firmly in my heart.”
Joining Borneman as returning board president and Goddard as the new treasurer, are Christina Kraft serving as vice president and Rich Fedorchak returning as secretary. In addition to Sidles, other board members are Brian Ross, Greg Danielson, Timothy Davis, Liza Grant, Laurie Mathews, Claudine Perrault, Jim Pickering, Kim Skyelander, and Zachary Wiebe.
Stanley Home To Host International Best Seller, Aimie Runyon
The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center is hosting international best selling author, Aimie Runyan on April 12 at the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Aimie will provide a reading and writing process seminar.
Aimie K. Runyan writes to celebrate history’s unsung heroines and the spirit of strong women of any era. She has been honored as a Historical Novel 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
Year. Both of her 2024 titles have been long listed for the Reading the West Award in Fiction. Aimie is active as an educator and speaker in the writing community and beyond, and is an adjunct professor for the Drexel University MFA in Creative Writing Program. She is a proud member of the Tall Poppy Writers. She lives in Colorado with her amazing husband, two (usually) adorable children, two (always) adorable kitties, and a dragon. For more information contact, Lisa O’Sullivan Carroll, director@stanleyhome.org.
Diane Goddard
Darla Sidles
Environmental Film Festival Showcases Estes Park And Eagle Rock School Filmmakers
The Estes Valley Land Trust's Student Environmental Film Festival is almost two weeks away! For the first time, on Saturday, April 5th at 1 p.m., both Estes Park High School and Eagle Rock School students will compete for $8,000 in scholarships by unveiling their short films. After the screening, students will participate in a question and answer session with a group of panelists. The event will take place at the Estes Park High School Auditorium located at 1600 Manford Avenue.
The Student Environmental Film Festival is a fun way to meet and learn more about students in our community and their perspectives on environmental conservation.
“We are incredibly excited to participate in the Student Environmental Film Festival, a product of the strong and meaningful partnership between our school and the Estes Valley Land Trust. This festival is such a great match with our values of environmental stewardship, community engage-
Local Photographer Katie Hladky Captures Estes Park In New Photography Exhibit & Website
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 usparticularly 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 launched 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.
ment, and a strong commitment to amplifying student voices.” said Megan Rebeiro, Head of School, Eagle Rock School and Professional Development Center.
The festival will begin at 1 p.m. with the screening of each short film, which are approximately five minutes in length. After viewing the films, all student filmmakers will join a panel of judges on stage for a question and answer session lasting about 30 minutes. Audience participation will be encouraged! Returning panelists include Nick Molle, local environmental filmmaker; Rut Miller, EVICS Family Resource Center Executive Director; and Steve Johnson, Estes Park Middle School Science Teacher (retired).
The Estes Park School District has been has been a festival partner since the first student film was shown, in 2022. “These students are our future,” said Marsha Weaver, Estes Park High School Teacher. “Giving them a voice on environmental issues is essential; it empowers them to share their perspectives and encourages lifelong engagement in their communities.” The live audience and scholarship competition also generates excitement and deepens the student’s commitment to their film.
While the festival showcases studentcreated films that highlight important environmental topics, the true heart of the event lies in the student panel following the screenings. This is where the audience really gets to hear and feel the students’ connection to the environment around them.
The judges use a matrix to score the films and the creators of the top three films will receive academic scholarships. Thanks to our sponsors, $8,000 will be available for student filmmakers this year. The scoring criteria include
the film’s content, accuracy, impact, storytelling, and production and the filmmaker’s effort.
“I am thrilled to feature students from both of our area high schools this year,” said Alicia Rochambeau, Estes Valley Land Trust Event Coordinator.
“I don’t know of any other opportunity for Estes Park High School and Eagle Rock students to come together and discuss the environment or their research findings before a live audience; it’s really an honor to have both groups participate.”
Winners will be announced at the Estes Park High School Awards Night on Thursday, May 8. Through this film festival, and other youth-oriented programs, the land trust aims to foster the next generation of environmental stewards in the Estes Park community. Films will be available to view on the Land Trust’s YouTube channel following the event.
Thanks to our generous sponsors, the film festival is free of charge and complimentary refreshments will be provided. Baked goodies are available for purchase (cash only) to benefit the Estes Park High School Environmental Club. Registration is not required to attend. More information about this event can be found at www.evlandtrust.org/filmfestival.
The Estes Valley Land Trust, founded in 1987 by Estes Park residents, is a nationally recognized land conservation organization that has preserved over 10,000 acres of land in the Estes Valley. Please consider becoming a member of the land trust at www.evlandtrust.org/donate.
Students seated on stage – Caption: Students discuss filmmaking in front of a public audience at the 2023 Environmental Film Festival at Estes Park High School. Photos courtesy John Berry/Visit Estes Park
Participants of the 2023 Film Festival compete for scholarships.
Someone says: “What needs?” I like the commercial by Vision Works showing a man floating in a life raft, sunburned, probably thirsty and hungry, totally adrift in the ocean, being approached by a powerboat driven by an eyeglasses-rep who replaces his glasses. She then asks: “Anything else I can do for you?” His response: “Like what?” as he dismisses her offer to help…perhaps food? water? Sunburn lotion? a tow to shore? But he refuses her offer to help.
During our current challenging time in history, I can visualize some who might respond like our adrift boater…“Like what?” “What needs? What help?” If that is the case, we will be left like our adrift boater, turning our backs on and refusing available help. To keep that from happening, I recommend you turn your attention to one of my favorite Psalms in the Bible: Psalm 107. It begins by telling us to “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good and His love endures forever.” He then describes four different types of people and needs that people of today can probably identify with…unless we had the “Like what?” attitude of our boater.
First of all, he addresses the ‘Wanderers’. “Some wandered in wastelands…they were hungry and thirsty, and their lives ebbed away” (vs.4, 5). During recent times we have read of the thousands…homeless…migrant families…who fit this description. During the recent crisis most have been ‘on the run’. To whom can they turn? And, in our current situation, many others are ‘wandering about’ in their search for employment due to the numerous firings,
Second of all, He speaks to the ‘Shadow dwellers’, people of whom he says: “They sat in darkness and deepest gloom…some, prisoners in iron chains, because they rebelled against the words of God”. Some, but not all, are actually incarcerated, because of choices they have made. I’ve been involved with many such in Nebraska and California prisons, and witnessed their hopelessness. Others are ‘in prisons’ of their own making, due to being controlled and gradually destroyed by habits they’ve chosen.
Thirdly, he speaks of the ‘Fools’. These are not ‘mindless idiots’ that we might think of. These are the people who simply ‘are not wise’ in choices they’ve made, some of which leave them ill and ‘afflicted’ to the degree that they ‘loathed food and drew near to the gates of death’. We’ve all seen warnings from people who have fallen into such, encouraging others to ‘learn’ from their mistakes.
The fourth group are the ‘Overwhelmed’. These are the people who are making their way through life, doing the right things: raising their families, serving in jobs (like fishing) that society needs, and then it happens. The storms, the life-threatening waves. We’ve certainly seen this in recent days. In just the past year we’ve seen: fires that devastated California, followed by floods and tornadoes in the southern states, followed by debilitating snowstorms in northern states, and more fires and floods in various locales. In each case people have ‘lost everything’. He compared such to fishermen, going about their normal duties, only to be hit by that devastating storm that threatens their very lives...‘in their peril’, they do the right thing.
And that right thing? “They call upon the Lord in their trouble and He hears them and saves them from their distress.” “He led them”…Wanderers; “He brought them out of darkness and deepest gloom and broke their chains”…‘Shadow dwellers’; “He sent forth His Word and healed them and delivered them from the grave”... ‘Fools’;. “He stilled the storm to a whisper; the waves of the sea were hushed…and He guided them to their safe haven.”…‘Overwhelmed’.
And then what? After we have ‘called on the Lord in our distress’…after He ‘has heard us and delivered us from our distress’? “Let us give thanks to the Lord for His unfailing love and His wonderful deeds…’let us praise and exalt Him in the assembly of men’.
Bob Lewis
The Fine Art Of Aging Well
By: Laraine Carmichael Nelson
Some say aging well is an art, but art itself can also be an aid to aging – just ask the ladies who are part of the Art Group that meets every Wednesday at the Estes Park Recreation Center! Amid the paints and chatter, a variety of work is being done. Bev, Gail, and Susan paint watercolors, while Carol creates fabric art and Linda makes diamond-art pictures. Others are busy with paper crafts, doing felting, or painting with acrylics. Everyone brings their own supplies and shares their expertise. With laughter and camaraderie, they are enjoying their activity as well as helping their bodies age less quickly.
This group exemplifies what studies have shown - that the more active people are as they grow older, the better they manage. We all know that working out at the gym helps our bodies, but we also need to engage our minds. Activities like painting, playing
music, or doing Sudoku all keep us young. The day I was at the Art Group happened to be the 98th birthday of one of its members - Esther Greenbergwho is still sharp as a tack. Esther attended the Art Institute of Chicago when she was younger and continues to sketch the world around us. To have her with us on her special day was delightful.
Of course, since it was Esther’s birthday, there was a delicious cake for everyone to enjoy.
At a time when loneliness is an epidemic in this country, being part of a group like this one provides connection. It isn’t necessary to be a great artist to be in the Art Group, so if you’re interested in learning more, contact the Recreation Center or just show up at 9:00 a.m. on Wednesday to the classroom on the lower level. If my experience is any indication, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.
Sandra Wong And Victor Mestas Perez To Perform At Estes Park High School Auditorium March 29th
Join violinist and nyckelharpist Sandra Wong and pianist Victor 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
The Art Group members. Standing left to right: Gail Henrichs, Laraine Nelson, Susan Robertson, Beverly Wilczek, Peggy Harrell, Carol Barkley. Seated: Esther Greenberg, Linda Villanueva, and Judy Hess. Photo provided by Susan Robertson
Presentation On Weaving Dhurries At Upcoming Weavers Guild Meeting
The Estes Park Area Weavers Guild (EPAWG) invites you to attend their meeting on Thursday, March 27th, 1:00 p.m. in the Library’s Hondius Room. Kathy Delker will give a presentation on weaving dhurries in the village of Salawas in the state of Rajasthan, India. Dhurries are tightly woven cotton rugs that do not have a pile. The dhurries woven by families in Salawas are prized by people all over the world for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and high quality.
Delker recently returned from a two week tour of Rajasthan. Her tour group
visited one of the weaving families in Salawas, which is about 15 miles outside of Jodhpur. Besides giving a brief introduction on how dhurries are woven on floor looms fashioned from tree limbs, the hosting family displayed a variety of dhurries in both traditional and contemporary patterns. The EPAWG meets monthly except November and December and has programs on a variety of fiber arts topics, not just weaving. The public is welcome to attend the upcoming March meeting as well as other meetings at no charge.
Blood Drive At Estes Park High School
On Sunday, March 30
From 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Estes Park Senior Citizens Center Menu
Mar 24 – 28
Monday, Mar 24 Breakfast Burrito (eggs, cheese, refried beans & potatoes in flour tortilla) w/ green chili on the side
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 24th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Mar 21st. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.
The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 – 1 TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM
Circuit Balance 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
The Emerald Lake Chamber Players In Concert This
Saturday, 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 this Saturday, March 22nd at 2:00 p.m. at the Shepherd of the Mountain Lu theran 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 Woess ner. 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.”
Peak To Peak Concert Series Presents Home-Grown Vocal Ensemble “Simpatica”
The popular “Peak to Peak Concert Series” in Estes Park will present the home-grown vocal ensemble “Simpatica” on Saturday, April 5th at 2 p.m. at the Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail Drive. Members of the group include sopranos Miranda Dillard and Anna Weddle, alto Denise Stookesberry, tenor Steve Tice, and bass Nelson Burke. The Simpatica ensemble was formed as quartet in 2023 and has performed for many town and private functions since its inception. They specialize in close harmonies and acappella singing.
The eclectic program of classical, pop, and jazz selections to be presented include the classic French choral piece “Dirait-on” by Morton Lauridsen, the hauntingly beautiful Hebrew love song “Erev Shel Shoshanim” by Yosef Hadar, arrangements of folk classics “Down to
the River to Pray,” “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” and “The Galway Piper,” pop song arrangements by artists James Taylor and the Wailin’ Jennys, and jazz arrangements of “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square” and “Java Jive” among others. The ensemble will be accompanied on some songs by Cynthia Hunt, pianist, and Gary Hall, guitarist.
The concert will also feature two selections from the guest ensemble, “Nada,” an acappella group of male singers. Nada members include Nelson Burke, Don Bryson, Bob Gunn, Brian Root, Dave Stookesberry, and Randy Welsh.
The Peak to Peak Concert Series spotlights musicians who live in the Estes Valley. The concerts are free, but donations are encouraged. A reception will follow the concert to meet the musicians.
REALTORS® Advocate For Personal Property Rights
Local Advocacy
Currently, two citizens initiatives are gathering signatures to make their way to a vote. The first, a proposed zoning initiative has come under scrutiny for its legal and practical implications. Critics argue that it improperly delegates zoning authority to private landowners and could create a legal liability in land use and planning. By acting as a blanket barrier to development, the ordinance may not only stifle new projects but also complicate private property modifications not explicitly permitted under the current code. The second is to repeal the density bonus and height limits for attainable and workforce housing in multi-family residential zoning. As our community continues to try to balance the needs of a wide range of citizens and members, it is important to be educated on the complexities that these initiatives have on future development and problem-solving.
• HB25-1156 - Aims to permanently reduce tax valuations for senior homeowners.
• SB25-013 - Proposes an income tax credit for senior housing.
• HCR25-1001 - Seeks to implement tax portability for seniors, allowing them to relocate without losing property tax benefits.
• HCR25-1111 - Focuses on expanding homestead exemptions, providing additional tax relief for homeowners.
Statewide Housing Advocacy Efforts
As local debates unfold, state-level advocacy efforts continue to address housing affordability, property rights, and tax relief. The Colorado Association of REALTORS®, including local Estes Valley REALTOR® members, are actively monitoring, and supporting amendments to over 60 legislative bills concerning landlord-tenant laws, investment properties, wildfire preparedness, regional building codes, manufactured housing regulations, and accessibility standards.
Key bills under consideration include:
Nicole White, President of the Estes Valley Board of REALTORS® emphasized the importance of these legislative efforts, stating, "This is about ensuring that property owners and renters alike have fair protections and opportunities. We work hard to make sure legislation supports homeowners while keeping housing options accessible and affordable."
Looking Ahead
As housing policy remains a central issue in Colorado, real estate professionals and policymakers must navigate an evolving landscape shaped by both local and state-level initiatives. We will continue to see new legislation throughout this year and depend on the continued advocacy of organizations like the Colorado Association of REALTORS® ensures that homeowners, renters, and investors have a voice in the legislative process. The outcome of these efforts will significantly influence the future of housing and property rights across the state.
Maximizing Community Investment For Childcare Solutions
EVICS Family Resource Center is thankful to receive $200,000 in funding from the Town of Estes Park to continue providing safe and reliable childcare for families in our community. This investment reflects the Town’s commitment to supporting working families and ensuring that young children in Estes Valley have access to the care they need. We are incredibly grateful for this support and the trust placed in EVICS to serve our community.
However, the need for childcare continues to grow. Our initial request was for $250,000 to meet rising costs and increased demand. With the cost of care ranging from $12,000 to $15,000 per child per year—and the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) still frozen—EVICS remains the only source of childcare assistance in Estes Park. While we will make the most of the funds we have received, we remain committed to pursuing additional funding to ensure that no child in our community is left without the critical childcare services they depend on.
The Town has reserved $50,000 to develop a new tuition assistance program for middle-income families—a need we wholeheartedly support. Many families in Estes Park earn just above the threshold for traditional assistance yet still struggle with the rising cost of childcare.
EVICS is committed and ready to partner with the Town if they choose to move forward with us in implementing this program. We welcome the opportunity to work together to expand services and ensure that every family in need of childcare tuition assistance has access to the support they deserve.
The lack of affordable, accessible childcare in Estes Park is not new to us—it’s the very reason EVICS was founded nearly 20 years ago. While some are just now recognizing the severity of this issue, EVICS has been leading the charge from the start. The passage of 6E funding is a direct result of our community uniting to prioritize housing and childcare solutions—but this is just the beginning. Solving the childcare crisis requires on-
going advocacy at the local, county, state, and federal levels.
Childcare Tuition assistance is an essential service, but EVICS is so much more than a funding provider. We offer wraparound support and a holistic approach to help families not just access childcare, but also build stability and long-term success.
Families who come to EVICS don’t just receive financial assistance—they are connected to a network of community resources.
This comprehensive and holistic approach ensures that no family has to navigate these challenges alone. We are deeply committed to meeting families where they are and helping them build a strong foundation for their children’s future.
Access to childcare is not just about affording care—it’s also about availability. In 2025, Estes Park is expected to gain between 26 and 34 new childcare spots. This growth is not accidental—it is a direct result of EVICS’ investment in recruiting, training, and supporting new childcare providers.
For years, EVICS has worked tirelessly to expand access, and we are proud to see this investment paying off in real, measurable ways. But we must keep going. More families need care. More providers need support. And more funding is needed to bridge the gaps.
EVICS is dedicated to making every dollar count. In 2024, EVICS leveraged a $150,000 investment in 6E funds to provide $315,000 worth of childcare services. That’s a 110% return on investment—more than doubling the impact of the original funding.
Importantly, 100% of taxpayer 6E funding goes directly to tuition assistance. Not a single dollar is used for administrative or operational costs. We make sure that every public dollar invested in childcare assistance goes exactly where it belongs— supporting children and families in Estes Park.
EMPATHY…EVICS CARES
At EVICS, families come first. We listen, support, and stand beside parents and caregivers as they navigate the challenges of raising children in a small, rural
community where access to resources can be limited.
EFFICIENCY…
EVICS HAS GOOD ROI
With a 110% return on taxpayer investment, EVICS ensures that every dollar is used wisely. We are transparent, effective, and committed to keeping administrative costs low so that funding goes directly to the families who need it most.
EFFICACY…EVICS WORKS
We don’t just talk about solutions— we implement them. From expanding childcare access to recruiting providers and securing financial assistance, EVICS has been delivering results for nearly 20 years. For nearly two decades, EVICS has cared, EVICS has worked, and EVICS has delivered results.
To our incredible Estes Park community—your support is essential. Every dollar, every partnership, and every voice advocating for childcare solutions helps shape a stronger future for our children and their families. Join us in ensuring that no child is left without the care they need. Together, we can make Estes Park a place where all children thrive.
Learn more, get involved, or support EVICS at www.evics.org. Stay connected—follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates!
Last Friday nine excited Estes Park high school students and three teacher/chaperones headed to Costa Rica. They are participating in a ten day youth exchange program with Estes Park’s Sister City, Monteverde. While there they have planned a full itinerary including participating in classes at the local high school, learning about ecotourism and environmental sustainability programs, touring Monteverde’s world-renowned cloud forest and experiencing Costa Rican culture.
After their return, the Estes Park Sister Cities Association is planning a “Welcome Back” event in April. The students will make presentations about their experiences in Monteverde and prepare a tasty Costa Rican dish to share with their families and other interested community members. Watch for details!
Off!
Each student is required to raise $700 to help defray the trip expenses. EPSCA provides additional funding through grants awarded by local community organizations. Students are continuing to fundraise and will be selling Duck Race tickets at the April event.
A return exchange visit by Monteverde high school students is anticipated soon.
EPSCA has organized high school exchanges with Monteverde for the past 20 years.
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.
Ashley Fernandez, Fatima Ortiz Rojas and Vanessa Gonzalez Rojas.
March Woman's Club Wrap Up
The Estes Park Woman's Club March meeting was a well attended event. It was a lovely day to get together and enjoy a tasty lunch at Mother's Cafe.
Our tables were decorated with beautiful spring arrangements created by Pam Leitner and they were available to pur-
minded us of all the great presentations that the EV Watershed Coalition presents throughout the year. Certainly worth checking out!
Save the date for our next meeting on Wednesday, April 9th at the Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church. It will
chase to brighten our own home decor. Pictures were taken of 39 attendees for next year's directory. If you were not in attendance, at the next meeting please ask to have your photo taken. Thank you to all of you that donated Goldfish crackers and pretzels to replenish the elementary school supply.
Our speaker Dawn James from the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition gave a spirited talk about all the various projects and challenges we face in our Estes Valley "island" in the middle of Federal Land and RMNP. Their mission and vision certainly enhances the quality of life for our community. She also re-
be catered by Sweet Basilico. Our speaker will be Kurtis Kelly and in celebration of April's National Poetry Month, he will lead a storytelling reenactment of Charles Hewes. As an innkeeper, poet and chronicler of the early days of Estes Park, Hewes was an important figure in the history of our community. Remember advance reservations are needed to attend the meeting and program at epwcreservations@gmail.com.
The Estes Park Woman's Club strengthens our community and enhances the lives of others through education, volunteer service and philanthropic endeavors.
The Athlete In The OR: Dr. Gavin Bishop’s Passion For Motion And Medicine
Leading up to National Physicians Week, March 25 – 31st, 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 Dr. Gavin Bishop, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon. Medicine is my passion, but the great outdoors has always been my playground. From the water to the mountains, I’ve never been one to stay still for long. Whether I’m skiing, cycling, or swimming, I find that staying active isn’t just fun, it’s essential for both body and mind.
cross racing and even tackled the Grand Traverse, a grueling 41-mile ride from Aspen to Crested Butte. The first time I did it, I thought, “Oh, this looks like fun, it’s just a bike ride!” I quickly realized how tough it really was. The second time, I was a little better prepared. The ride takes you deep into the backcountry, where the scenery is absolutely breathtaking.
has been an entirely new challenge for me. Since so much of swimming is about breath control, the lower oxygen levels make a real difference. I’ve met some great people at the Estes Park pool and love seeing such an active swimming community here.
I grew up in Colorado before moving to Northern California, where mountain biking was just getting invented. While I wasn’t one of the original pioneers, I was lucky enough to grow up
Before I found my love for cycling, swimming was my sport. I started swimming in Littleton, Colorado, then continued in Northern California, where I reached the Junior Olympic
riding the same trails that were shaping the sport. My early bikes had no suspension, just two wheels and a lot of grit. Now, with modern full-suspension bikes, riding is an entirely different experience. Mountain biking is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to get out into nature and feed the soul. Over the years, I’ve dabbled in local cyclo-
level in high school. At UC San Diego, I competed in the 100- and 200-yard butterfly, making it to nationals and earning Academic All-American honors. Though I don’t swim competitively anymore, I still enjoy being in the water, whether it’s in a pool, out in the open ocean, or catching waves while surfing. Swimming at altitude
My medical journey has been just as adventurous as my athletic one. After earning my biomedical engineering degree at UC San Diego, I attended George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, D.C. I completed my orthopedic surgery residency at Boston University and then a Sports Medicine Surgical Fellowship at New England Baptist Hospital, where I had the incredible opportunity to help care for the Boston Celtics. In 2016, I returned to Colorado, where I’ve been caring for patients in the Boulder, Longmont, and Estes Park areas ever since.
As a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a subspecialty in sports medicine, I provide comprehensive care for sports injuries, total joint replacements, hand and upper extremity care, pediatric orthopedics, and foot and ankle injuries. I love helping my patients get back to the activities they love, whether that’s skiing, cycling, or simply taking a walk without pain.
Outside of medicine, my life still revolves around movement.
My 13-year-old son is an excellent skier, so we spend a lot of time skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and camping together. And of course, there’s our Bernedoodle, Eggsy, who keeps us all on our toes.
This National Physicians Week (March 25-31), we invite you to celebrate with Dr. Grant Bishop 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/donate or 970-577-4370.
Warmth And Comfort: Trail Ridge Quilters Wrap Patients In Care At Estes Park Health
For many, a visit to the Diagnostic Imaging department can come with a little apprehension. But thanks to the generosity of the Trail Ridge Quilters, patients at Estes Park Health can now experience an extra layer of warmth, both literally and figuratively.
proudly display their donation, standing in the very space where their work will bring solace to patients. Also featured in the photos is Jennifer Hardin, Diagnostic Radiology Manager, who expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the department.
Each quilt carries a special message, stitched into a tag that reads: “Trail
The dedicated quilters recently donated a collection of handmade quilts to the Diagnostic Imaging department, ensuring that patients undergoing procedures, including 3D mammography, have a cozy and comforting experience. These beautifully crafted quilts serve as more than just blankets; they are symbols of care, kindness, and community support.
Pictured alongside the 3D mammography unit, the Trail Ridge Quilters
Ridge Quilters donated this quilt to Estes Park Health Imaging to bring warmth and comfort to patients receiving treatment. We wish health, healing, and peace to all who undergo care here.”
These words reflect the deep compassion behind every stitch, reminding patients that they are supported by an entire community that cares about their wellbeing.
Estes Park Rotary Interact Clubs –
Interact stands for International Action. It is a kind of junior Rotary Club for young people ages 12-18 who want to connect with others in their community or school. Estes Park has two Interact Rotary Clubs that meet monthly at school during their lunch breaks.
This month, both the Middle School and the High School Interact clubs decided to give back to some international communities. They gave three Kiva loans in the amount of $375. They used half of the funds they raised during the 2024 Christmas parade with their hot cocoa and hot apple cider stand.
school learning activities.
https://bit.ly/3DEkD1J
• High School Interact loaned $150
each to:
o 1). Gifty in Nima, Bali to help provide affordable outdoor Wi-Fi to the local community. https://bit.ly/41S0PQf
The Trail Ridge Quilters, long-time partners of Estes Park Health Foundation, hold three sales each year: at Mountain View Bible Fellowship and Estes Park Health. Proceeds from these sales fund vital hospital grants, providing everything from essential equipment to heartfelt gifts like these quilts.
It’s easy to see how these donations make a difference. A simple touch of warmth can ease anxiety and transform a clinical setting into a place of healing. Whether a patient is undergoing a mammogram or another diagnostic procedure, these quilts will be there to provide comfort when it’s needed most.
A huge thank you to the Trail Ridge Quilters for their generosity and to the Diagnostic Imaging team for their commitment to patient care. Because of this wonderful partnership, Estes Park Health continues to be a place where healing is more than just medical, it’s personal.
Thank you, Trail Ridge Quilters, for wrapping patients in warmth and kindness!
The Estes Park Health Foundation increases
• Middle School Interact loaned $75 to Umyati's in Subang, Indonesia to help buy a smartphone as a tool to support
o 2). Jibu in Lusaka, Zambia to help expand safe drinking water to local businesses. https://bit.ly/3DxZu9s Kiva.org uses crowdfunded microloans as a force for good, creating a space where people can have a one-to-one im-
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 970-5774370.
Helping Others Around The World
pact, and together, expand financial access for all. Here’s how it works:
1) Someone applies for a loan.
they can reinvest if they choose.
The Estes Park Interact students decided on these three service projects because they follow the Rotary motto of “…building goodwill…..and being beneficial to all.”
2) A Lending Partner disburses their loan and uploads it to Kiva.org.
3) Our students lend a little toward their goal.
4) The loan is successfully funded.
5) Kiva sends the funds to the Lending Partner.
6) The borrower invests in their livelihood.
7) Our students’ loans get repaid so
Rotary Motto and the 4-way test: “Is it the truth, Is it fair to all concerned, Will it build goodwill and better friendships, Will it be beneficial to all.”
We are enormously proud of these Interact students and the thought that went into selecting their service projects that will have an impact both on the scale of their global reach and the depth of change in a person’s life.
Crossroads Welcomes New Volunteers
By: Brian Schaffer
There are lots of decisions to be made each week and we want to be on the journey with people as they decide what the most strategic choice would be for their current situation and for their future. I’ve heard that decisions are like hats, haircuts and tattoos. Some decisions you try on for a brief period of time, and if you don’t like how it looks, you take it off. With these decisions you can try on several each week without much consequences. Other decisions are like a haircut that you have to live with for a few weeks before you have an opportunity to make it look better or try something different. There may be moments of awkwardness and embarrassment with these types of decisions, but it won’t last long and you can always put on a hat to hide it. And then, there are decisions that are a little more permanent such as a tattoo. Good thing there are shops today that can help erase or fix some of the tattoos that have gone wrong.
At Crossroads, we are always working with neighbors who are at varying stages of decision-making, and we want to help them in whatever way we can to improve their current situation and create possibilities for a better fu-
ture. We accomplish a majority of this work through Life Coaching with trained volunteers who are skilled in the areas of money management, career development, navigating Medicare options, and many other important aspects in life that will help our neighbors maintain a healthy state of wellbeing. It’s our desire that a person’s sense of well-being will grow as their needs are being met. Their need to have a sense of security, access to jobs or growth opportunities, and socialemotional outlets such as connections, networks, and support systems. We believe in a Collect Impact approach where we are engaging with multiple partners across the Estes Valley and Larimer County to ensure we’re providing everyone the opportunity for wrap-around services to increase the likelihood of them living fully into the best life ever. We rely heavily on our staff of volunteers and key community partners to help accomplish this. Maybe it’s the right time for you join our team of volunteers! Check out our website at www.CrossroadsEP.org for more information. If you sign up in the next couple months, we would love to have you join us for our Annual Volunteer Appreciation breakfast on Thursday, May 8th, from 8 a.m.-9 a.m. at the YMCA of the Rockies.
“It Takes What It Takes”
By: Larry Strong
I’m not sure when the phrase, “It is what it is” became popular. I’ve used it many times when realizing I couldn’t impact or change whatever “it is.” The Serenity Prayer says “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.” When we find ourselves accepting that we have no power to change whatever circum stance (or person) we’re dealing with, “It is what it is” sums it up pretty well. Can’t change it, him or her for wha tever reason? It is what it is. At this point whatever emotional, physical or spiri tual energy we expend toward changing some thing unchange able will bring a low return on our investment won’t it?
There is a problem with “It is what it is” ho wever. Sometimes “it isn’t what it is.” This is where the second half of the Serenity Prayer kicks in—“The courage to change the things I can.” If something can change, albeit with the requirement of courage or time being part of the process, it no longer “Is what it is.” It might be at the moment but doesn’t have to be forever.
requires serious effort to adapt to new situations and can trigger feelings of uncertainty or fear of the unknown. Often, the phrase, “It takes what it takes” correlates to how much emotional or physical pain we’re willing to endure before we become willing to change.
I know too many people who remain unwilling to change in spite of the enormous amount of pain they’re in. Standing in a huge hole, covered with sweat and dirt, they remain stubbornly unwilling to admit they’re holding a wellworn shovel. I can relate too well from my personal life journey and I need to be diligent about not picking up the shovel. It takes what it takes for all of us.
An egg can become a little fuzzy yellow chick with some time, growth and willingness to break out. Remember, for a breakthrough to happen something needs to be broken. This is where, “It takes what it takes” comes into play.
I dare say that personal change is one of the hardest things one will ever navigate. That has been the case in my life for sure. Change often disrupts our comfort zones,
Men on Fire is a brotherhood of men from diverse faith and life experiences. Our purpose it to encourage other men as we strive to grow deeper in our personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Transformation takes place as we deepen our faith resulting in changed hearts and lives. We’re on a journey that brings us closer to God’s truth about what it means to be a real man. Not toxic. Not wimpy. Secure in who we are in Christ but learning how to be more humble and sacrificial to all those around us including our wives.
Join us this Saturday, 8:00 a.m. at the Community Center. Breakfast burritos, donuts and coffee are always on hand along with acceptance, encouragement and always laughs. No matter where you are in life or faith journey you’ll fit in—trust me. If you’re thinking you might want to come hang out but a tad reluctant, remember—it takes what it takes. See you Saturday.
By: Judi Smith
The State Of Waste
We live in a strange new world, existing in a state of uncertainty, feeling unprepared and distracted, reeling from one shocking moment to the next. Uncertain, we know not where to turn or what to do. Will this (or that) help – or make the situation worse?
Still, some things remain constant. The Earth is warming, to the extent that the Denver Zoo has decided to move the Rocky Mountain goats to a cooler climate at the zoo in Tacoma Washington. In Estes, we live in a natural wonderland, with trees and wildlife that create an environment quite unique in today’s climate. However, our isolation will not protect us forever from the relentless spread of pollution. Yes, the inhabitants of the Estes Valley are pursuing electric cars, heat pumps, and rooftop solar. The investment on the head-end is recovered through lower transportation and utility costs in the months to follow. Eventually, the investment is recouped and the savings continue. There are also other ways to assist in the Earth’s recovery, ways which take much less financial investment and are accessible to everyone. Reduction comes first. Buy with permanence in mind. While we do not usually consider waste while shopping, we should. When searching the shelves, we should prioritize metal and glass because both are eternally recyclable. Paper and wood also have good recovery but deteriorate faster. Landfilled plastic can last for generations, or even break down to micro-bits adding particulate matter to our breathable air. Be sure to evaluate packaging as a commitment to redirect the disposal of the single use item.
When we discard an item, any item, the first option should be reuse. Thinking in terms of repurposing, chipped cups and old teapots make great catchalls for pens and pencils, kitchen utensils, napkins, marbles, hair ribbons and scrunchies, silverware, small game or puzzle pieces, and numerable other items. They also can serve as planters. Polypropylene (#5) food tubs
are great for takeout or picnics. Frozen food boxes make great blocks! If we as an individual cannot use it, someone else can!
The third level of disposal is recycling. The single stream our collection yards, the Residential Recycling Center (RRC) and the Transfer Station, are only half of this creative possibility. Education is key. Nonrecyclable items placed into recycling can cause heavy contamination, sending items to the landfill. If we want a sustainable community, it is our responsibility to know what is accepted and what is not. For example: most single stream recycling cannot see black plastic, nor capture anything smaller than a half cup or a business card. When in doubt, throw it “out” (in the landfill bucket) – but then learn the correct answer for the next time. See www.estesrecycling.org
But recycling includes many items not acceptable in single stream. Our Planet Partners Program in Estes Park www.estesrecycles.org, Eco-cycle www.ecocycle.org, Loveland Recycling www.lovgov.org>recyclingcenter and Timberline in Fort Collins www.fcgov.com>recycling>dropoff each accept a variety of “hard to recycle” items that the RRC cannot process. Add to this assortment the Estes Recycles Day on August 9 that accepts electronics, paper to be shredded, scrap metal, microwaves, plus bicycle tires and tubes. Sometimes, for convenience sake, a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF), or a collection yard, might use “non-recyclable” to mean “not recyclable here”, but other collection yards might be able to effectively process the item. A good example is black plastic which is difficult for older recycling software to see. If you have a lot of a particular non-recyclable” item, check other opportunities to be certain.
At last count, Colorado’s recycling rate is 33% and Larimer County’s recycling rate is 16%. There are no measurements tracked for Estes Park. Maybe, if we all learn the ins and outs, we can improve on that.
Sunrise Rotary and Noon Rotary have been collaborating on a project titled Crutches4Africa. It is a 501(c)(3) organization and is the international project of Mountain Foothills Rotary Club in District 5450. David Talbot is a Rotarian and a polio survivor. He and his wife Candice, founded this organization after witnessing people in Africa struggling to move due to the effects of polio. Crutches4Africa is now a worldwide organization and every person participating in it is a volunteer. No one is paid. They do this out of the goodness of their heart to provide mobility devices to people stricken with polio. They are living Rotary’s motto: Service Above Self.
Bill Howell, President of Sunrise Rotary, offered his garage as a collection site for donated items. If you have an assistive device you no longer need or want, bring it to our Rotary meeting on the first four Thursdays of the month at the American Legion at 11: 30 AM. I will collect them and deliver them to Bill at his home.
We have been offered an empty RV to serve as a collection site, but I need a 16 foot site where I can park it. If you know of a place, please contact me at anneslack@aol.com.
“Mobility, Health, Dignity, Access: We toil together to enable those we may never see. Hobbled in life by some illness, accident or act of violence. Many are hopeless. The generous donations given to Crutches 4 Africa are the tools we use to help raise the hindered, to lift them from the dust, and help them on their way.”
To contact Crutches4Africa, phone: 303-877-2803 or email: c4a@crutches4africa.org; to view their website go to www.crutches4africa.org. Please help us with this very worthy cause. Thank you, Annie Slack, 970-231-6697
Easter Church Services
Mount Calvary Lutheran Church
Schedule of Services at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 950 N. St. Vrain Ave.Estes Park, Colorado.
Wednesday, Lenten Midweek Worship Services
March 26-6:00 p.m.
April 2-6:00 p.m.
April 9-6:00 p.m.
Maundy Thursday Worship April 17, 6:00 p.m.
Good Friday Worship April 18, Noon, 6:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday Festival Worship Service April 20, 9:00
All are welcome to join us in this season of penitence and great joy in the salvation Christ has won for us on the cross and in His glorious resurrection, which guarantees that we too shall have eternal life!
ments, please call Bishop Williams at (970) 577-0601. And see our website at stfrancisestespark.com
Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church – 920 Big Thompson Ave., Estes Park, Colorado
Mass Times and Schedule for Lent and Holy Week / Easter 2025
March 21: Stations of the Cross 5:00 p.m.
March 28: Stations of the Cross 5:00 p.m.
April 4: Stations of the Cross 5:00 p.m.
April 10: Penitential Service
Reconciliation – Spanish: 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Reconciliation – English: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Eucharistic Adoration: 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church
Lent is a season for reflection, repentance and spiritual renewal leading up to the celebration of the resurrection of Christ. All are invited to spend time with us at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail, which began on Ash Wednesday, March 5. Save the following dates; Wednesday, March 26-Soup supper at 4:30-Holden Evening Prayer at 5:30
Wednesday, April 2-Soup supper at 4:40-Holden Evening Prayer at 5:30 Wednesday, April 9- Soup supper at 4:30-Holden Evening Prayer at 5:30 Maunday Thursday, April 17-Worship at 5:30
Please join us for any or all of these meaningful times together.
St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church
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. Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis. If you have any questions or com-
April 11: Stations of the Cross 5:00 p.m.
April 12: Palm Sunday Anticipatory Mass 4:00 p.m.
April 13: Palm Sunday
8:00 a.m. Mass
10:00 a.m. Mass
Holy Week:
April 17: Holy Thursday – Parish Office closed at 2:00 p.m. No Mass at 8:30 a.m.
7:00 p.m. Mass
Eucharistic Adoration until 9:30 p.m.
April 18: Good Friday – Parish Office closed
No Communion Service at 8:30
Stations of the Cross 6:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m. Good Friday Mass
April 19: Holy Saturday
8:00 p.m. Easter Vigil Mass
April 20: Happy Easter!
8:00 a.m. Mass
10:00 a.m. Mass
11:15 a.m. Reconciliation in Spanish
12:00 p.m. Mass in Spanish
April 21: Parish Office closed https://ourladyofthemtns.org/
If you would like your church Easter church services published here, please email them to kris@estesparknews.com by Tuesday at noon for the next Friday publication.
Some Thoughts For The Third Week In Lent, 2025
By: Bishop Owen Williams, St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church
The days are slowly growing longer. Not so much in a subjective way, the days and the nights are about the same as they were a week or two ago. Winter is hanging on. The snow and the wind oscillate between the bare chilly ground and tortured pine trees. Some of the Aspen are beginning to bud out. Our interior life may be like the fallow field waiting to be seeded, waiting for change.
Are those Lenten practices… the writing in a journal or abstaining from movies or chocolate… are they empty gestures?
Waiting seems to be the theme –Waiting for what? Enlightenment…? Direction…? That “Eureka, I found it,” moment, and you didn’t know it was missing?
The greatness of the Church’s Season of Lent is to show us that… being lost, vulnerable, suffering, even in a small way…it can be a doorway. A Doorway to What? The sense of being in a transitional or "in-between" state. Or to put it in another way, feelings of uncertainty, disorientation, and emotional tension.
The answer may seem very simplistic -- to get to the other side of the door. To be willing to step over the threshold and see what Our Lord, Jesus Christ is offering. That is when the Real Work
begins.
“The Real Work” by Wendell Berry
It may be that when we no longer know what to do,
We have come to our real work; And that when we no longer know which way to go,
We have come to our real journey.
The mind that is not baffled is not employed.
The impeded stream is the one that sings.
Every Friday at 4 p.m. during Lent (through Good Friday on April 18th,) you are invited to join us at St. Francis, 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.
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 this 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.
Service Reminder For Mary Lou Faiella
Mary Lou Faiella passed peacefully in Loveland, CO on September 22, 2024 at 96 years old, surrounded by the love of her family.
Her full obituary can be viewed at www.allmutttestespark.com or estesparknews.com
As a reminder:
Tuesday, March 25th, 2025, there will be an Inurnment at Fort Logan, 4400 W. Kenyon Ave., Denver, CO at 12:30 p.m.
The family requests in lieu of flowers to donate to Glen Haven Historical Society at P. O. Box 68, Glen Haven, CO 80522, or the YMCA of the Rockies Hyde Chapel (contact Rev. Greg Bunton, 970-586-3341, ext. 1077). To leave a message for the family please visit www.allnuttestespark.com
Cornerstone Church Kicks Off Easter Series In Estes And Allenspark This Weekend
Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley and New Covenant Church in Allenspark warmly invite you to our upcoming six-message series, "From Galilee to the Cross,” offering a profound exploration of the pivotal moments leading up to Jesus' ultimate sacrifice and glorious resurrection.
Our journey begins at 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 22 in Allenspark and at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 23 in Estes Park with the message entitled "Setting His Face Toward Jerusalem," focusing on Luke 9:51-62. In this passage, Jesus resolutely embarks on His final journey to Jerusalem, fully aware of the destiny that awaits Him. Jesus traveled through Perea, Jericho, and villages like Bethpage, and Bethany as He made this final trip from Galilee to Jerusalem and the Cross. Along the way, Jesus engages with a diverse array of individuals, each encounter rich with meaning and insight. During this series, we will take a fresh look at familiar stories such as:
congregation in Estes since February 2021 and is deeply committed to guiding individuals on their spiritual journeys. This inaugural sermon sets the stage for a spiritual pilgrimage, inviting you to walk alongside Jesus, reflect on His teachings, experience the depth of His love, and consider the important messages that Jesus focused on during His final days before the Cross.
Series Schedule: (Saturday Services in Allenspark begin at 6 p.m. & Sunday Services in Estes begin at 10:30 a.m.)
● March 22/23 –Setting His Face Toward Jerusalem (Luke 9:51-62)
● March 29/30 –Teaching Along the Way (Luke 13:22-35)
● April 5/6 –Passing Through Jericho (Luke 18:35–19:10)
● April 12/13 –The Triumphal Entry (Luke 19:28-44)
● April 18 –Good Friday Service: The Road to the Cross (Luke 23:26-49)
● April 20 –Easter Sunday: The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)
Note: A joint Good Friday service will be held at 6:00 p.m. at Cornerstone Church in Estes Park. Special Easter Sunday Services begin at 10:30 a.m. in Estes and at 11 a.m. in Allenspark.
● Zacchaeus, the Tax Collector: A transformative meeting leading to repentance.
● Bartimaeus, the Blind Beggar: A display of faith and the power of Jesus’ healing.
Bruce Finger, the lead pastor of Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley, will be delivering this inaugural sermon. Pastor Bruce, who has been serving the
Locations:
Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley, 2200 Mall Rd, Estes Park, 80517 New Covenant Church, 1423 Country Rd. 84W (Wild Basin Rd & CO 7), Allenspark, 80510
We invite you to join us on this transformative journey, reflecting on the profound love and commitment of Jesus. Come, be inspired, and deepen your faith as we walk together from Galilee to the Cross.
John Loftus 88 of Trinity, FL formerly of Estes Park, CO died peacefully in hospice care on March 2, 2025. He was born in Chicago, IL to Michael and Eleanor Loftus on July 3, 1936.
John Loftus
After graduating high school he joined the US Navy and served on the USS Randolph aircraft carrier for two years which he thoroughly enjoyed. After an honorable discharge he worked for IBM for 36 years. In 1970 he met and married Judy Hall on September 26, 1970. Shortly after they moved to Colorado where they started their family. Their daughter Jennifer was born in 1972 and their son Daniel in 1974. He was a loving, caring husband and father. John loved living in Colorado, especially when they moved to Estes Park. He enjoyed hiking, snowshoeing and climbed Longs Peak twice in his 60s. He was an avid skier, and espe-
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
cially loved Aspen. He enjoyed woodworking which he did with great pleasure and made some beautiful things.
He survived by his wife, Judy of 55 wonderful years, daughter, Jennifer Jesseph (Barrett), son Daniel (Annie) Loftus and four wonderful grandsons, Ben and Noah Jesseph, Brady and Logan Loftus; his sister Kathleen (Terry) Machul, brother and sister-in-law’s and numerous nieces and nephews and their families. He was proceeded in death by his parents, Michael and Eleanor Loftus and his brother-in-law Thomas Hall.
There will be a memorial service held on March 22 at the Trinity Memorial Gardens at 11 a.m. with a reception following. Memorial donations may be made to Saint Judes or Gulfside Hospice of Newport Ritchey, FL. John will truly be missed by all. He was a great guy!
Looking for experienced Framer/Interior Carpenter to join our team.
Hourly pay based on experience. Apply by calling 970 586 5796 or stop by our office at 950 Comanche Street Suite 101 to pick up an application.
atio n a l proGraMS 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.
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
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
Full-Time Position.
Duties include road work, operating equipment, snowplowing, general grounds and maintenance work. Wednesday-Saturday plus on call for plowing or emergencies. Company truck provided. Must have good interpersonal skills, be detail oriented and selfmotivated. Pay depending on skills and experience. Resume to Opmgr1902@yahoo.com
FaMi l Y proGraMS 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.
YMCa oF tHe roCKieS
JOIN OUR TEAM! Full details on employment opportunities and the application can be found at estes.org/jobs.
Full-time Police Officer I - III
The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Estes Valley Fire Protection District is hiring for a full-time Wildland Fire Risk Reduction Mitigation Crew. This position will have a starting salary of $48,000-$60,000 depending on qualifications plus benefits. See job description and posting for more details at https://www.estesvalleyfire.org/apply
Homes
Furnished Family Home.
4 bedroom 2 bath w/2 car garage and sunroom. Available April 1 with month to month lease. $2800 per month and security deposit. Utilities included, 970-624-7191
Apartments
2 BEDROOM 2 BATH WORKFORCE HOUSING
AVAILABLE At Grand Estates Apartments and Fall River Village
Fully Furnished and 6 Month Leases
Optional Rent Range
$1,499-$2,034
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 high-speed 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.
Commercial Rentals
Prime Retail Space in Central Downtown Estes Park.
350 SqFt in busy location.
$1,200/mo +++. (425) 818 - 4158
Office Space for Rent 1377 Sq. Ft., Conference Room, 3 Private Offices, High Traffic Area with Great Exposure, Open Lobby Area, Printer Room. 351 Moraine Ave. Suite B 970-227-4865 nathan@kinleybuilt.com
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
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
ENHANCE YOUR SKILLS ENRICH THEIR LIVES
Senior Helpers stands ready to serve with personalized, in-home care and expertly-trained professional caregivers. Join our family of caregivers –apply today!
Home Repair/Service
Owner- Brad Jensen Plumbing/Heating Services Remodels 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
Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com
Spaces for sale and lease. Call Eric. Anderson Realty. 586-2950
PUBLIC NOTICE
Estes Park Housing Authority Project-Based Voucher Site-Based Waiting List Opening
The Estes Park Housing Authority (EPHA) will only be opening site-based waiting list for Section 8 Project-Based Voucher (PBV) units at Talons Pointe Apartments (1715 Redtail Hawk Drive, Estes Park, CO 80517) on April 4th at 8AM. This PBV site-based waiting list will remain open until such time it is closed at the discretion of the project owner. By contrast, the Loveland Housing Authority’s (LHA) Section 8 tenant-based voucher waiting list remains closed at this time. However, all applicant households who are currently on the LHA’s tenant-based voucher waiting list have the option to have their names placed on our PBV site-specific waiting list by filing an application. Under the project-based voucher program, tenants pay only 30% of their monthly adjusted income towards their rent share and tenant-paid utility allowance in PBV program. Under 24 CFR 982.206(a), EPHA is conducting such notification of the opening only of its PBV site-specific waiting list at Talons Pointe Apartments (1715 Redtail Hawk Drive, Estes Park, CO 80517). This property, built in 2003, consists of spacious 2- and 3-bedroom apartments and townhomes (https://esteshousing.colorado.gov/rental-properties/talons-pointe-apartments).
Renting at Talons Pointe Apartments is limited to households earning 60% or less of the Area Median Income. Please refer to the income chart to see if your household qualifies. Current income guidelines are as follows:
ESTATE/MOVING SALE Need to have one, but seems overwhelming. We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL JUDI 970-215-5548
EPHA’s PBV waiting list preference is for households that meet the following requirements as defined in EPHA’s Administrative Plan. Families living in units selected for project-based assistance on the date a PBV proposal was selected, are given an absolute preference for admission to these PBV units. In addition to the absolute PBV preference, EPHA has a preference to serve applicants that live/work in Estes Park first which will be verified. In the Project Based Voucher program, assistance is associated with a unit, not the tenant. Therefore, applicants reaching the top of this sitebased waiting list will only be eligible to reside at Talons Pointe Apartments. Beginning April 4th at 8AM, those interested may apply for EPHA’s site-specific PBV waiting list for Talons Pointe Apartments 1715 Redtail Hawk Drive, Estes Park, CO 80517 / phone at (970) 203-5470 may do so at: Talons Pointe Apartments office between the hours of 8am-11am as well as the Estes Park Housing Authority’s main office M-F 8-5, located at 363 E Elkhorn Ave Suite 101. Talons Pointe will also gladly accept applications from households who have tenant-based Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8).
