Gunnison Country Times, June 5, 2025

Federal budget cuts trickle into valley

City, county and nonprofits impacted

Bella Biondini Times Editor

It has been slow and steady, but the passthrough impacts of the federal budget cuts introduced by the Trump administration are beginning to appear in Gunnison County.

For the valley’s local governments, such as the City of Gunnison and Gunnison County, funding uncertainties are clouding the timelines of major utility and transportation projects

BIZCENTS: Paddle Out coming to Boulevard, A11

COMMUNITY: ‘Riding the Range — A Saddle Story, A19

SPORTS: U14 softball fights back in the rain, A29

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Gunnison housing proposal under planning commission review

‘West Thorn’ aims to begin work by 2026

Alan Wartes Times Publisher

After months of community outreach, Denver-based developer Urban Villages has formally launched a plan to create a 500-unit housing neighborhood in West Gunnison. In mid-April the group submitted a sketch plan to the City of Gunnison to initiate the review process. If approved, the project will be built on 25 acres on Gunnison’s west side between Hwy. 50 and the Gunnison River. Originally called Hartland, the development has since been renamed West Thorn, due to trademark con -

cerns. The new name is a nod to Thornton Way, the city street near the property — as well as Daniel Thornton, the governor of Colorado in the early 50s for whom the street is named.

Denver real estate developer Jeff Hermanson is a partner in Urban Villages. He has been a frequent visitor to the valley for five decades and has owned the West Thorn property for nearly

20 years.

“I'm on my 52nd season pass in Crested Butte,” he said. “I think the shortage of housing

An artist’s conception of the West Thorn neighborood proposed for West Gunnison. (Courtesy Urban Villages)

CATCH OF THE DAY: Leo Celestino and his father, Fortino, delicately remove a hook from a trout’s jaws at the annual Outdoor Expo and Fishing Derby at Jorgensen Park in Gunnison. For more, see A10. (Photo by Jaden McNeese)

Thorn A8

“Whitewater is 80% mental, it’s about instinct. You don’t have time to second-guess your line. You just move.”

— Ryan Huck, Whitewater rafter

Lynn Bernard Havel, 78, passed away peacefully in his home in Gunnison, Colorado, surrounded by his loving family on May 23, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer.

See story on A22

Expect traffic delays on Hwy. 133

The Colorado Department of Transportation will begin a chip seal on Hwy. 133 from Roaring Fork High School in Carbondale to McClure Pass on June 3.

Drivers should plan for delays during construction hours. The project has an anticipated completion date of mid-August 2025. Work will include asphalt patching, chip seal applications, fog seal and pavement markings.

Daytime work hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Traffic impacts will include: 20-minute delays; a speed reduction to 40 mph; onelane alternating traffic guided by pilot car; and a 10-foot width restriction.

Two facing weapons, drug charges

Two Gunnison residents were arrested on May 29 on suspicion of weapons offenses, drug distribution and money laundering after a multi-jurisdictional investigation.

After a search last week at a residence on Monte Vista Drive, members of Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office, Gunnison Police Department, 7th Judicial Drug Task Force, Montrose Police Department and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency recovered three AR-15 style short rifles, often referred to as “ghost guns,” with no serial numbers; numerous pistols and hunting-style rifles, cocaine, fentanyl, an explosive detonation cord and 500-plus blasting caps amongst allegedly stolen items and other evidence, according to a press release dated May 30.

Following the search, Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office arrested residents Evan Fullmer, 35, and Desta Duetsch, 27. They are currently being held on a $60,000.00 cash-only bond.

Formal charges pending include child abuse, having weapons with large-capacity magazine (one holding more than 15 rounds), possession of a dangerous or illegal weapon, possession of explosive device, racketeering, unlawful distribution and failing to securely store firearms, among others.

to honor Lynn’s memory and the profound impact he had on so many lives.

Lynn will be remembered for his warmth, his love of the arts, his adventurous spirit and his unwavering love for family and community.

Born and raised in Clyde, Kansas, Lynn was a gifted athlete and a passionate educator. During his college years at Fort Hays State University, he excelled in track and field, laying the foundation for a life full of movement, creativity and connection. He went on to become an art instructor and tennis coach at Butler County Community College for 31 years, inspiring generations of students with his talent, patience and genuine love for the arts.

Lynn was not only a talented artist but also a passionate man of many hobbies. He found deep joy in fly fishing, telemark skiing, sailing, running and playing basketball. Music was another of his lifelong loves — often shared with cherished friends and fellow musicians in the Gunnison Valley community.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 26 years, Joni Havel; his children, David Havel and Kristi Brenner (Corey); and his stepchildren, Erik Austin (Amy) and Emily Tate (Justin). Lynn was preceded in death by his mother Dorothy, his father Don, and his brother Nick. He is also survived by his brothers John, Cam, Martin and Michael and his ten grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

A celebration of life will be held this fall in Gunnison, Colorado,

Edward Phillip “Phil” Perkins, born on June 25, 1933, in Wooster, Ohio, passed away on December 9, 2024, in Grand Junction, Colorado. Phil lived a remarkable life dedicated to education, coaching and family, bringing joy and inspiration to countless individuals throughout his journey.

For over 30 years, Phil was a devoted teacher and coach, beginning his career in Ohio, and extending his influence through Hotchkiss, Colorado, and Phoenix, Arizona. For the last 24 years of his professional life, he passionately taught and coached wrestling and football at Moon Valley High School in Phoenix, where he left an indelible mark on both his students and players.

He graduated from Kent State, where he not only earned his degree but also played football and wrestled. His pursuit of knowledge led him to further his education, achieving a master's degree in school administration from Western State College. It was during this time that he had the pleasure of coaching alongside Pete Peterson and Tracy Borah, shaping the future of young athletes.

Phil cherished the moments spent with family and friends,

particularly those shared with his beloved wife, Joan Perkins, with whom he celebrated 66 years of marriage. He was known for his quiet demeanor, but those who knew him understood the significant impact he had on the lives of his loved ones. Phil's unwavering support for his family, including his brother Robert "Butch" Perkins, sisters Donna Ellis, Peggy Yorks, and Judy Webb, his son Greg (Stephney) Perkins, granddaughter Ticaboo (Mark) Hall, and great-granddaughter to be Sunny Lee Hall, will forever be remembered.

Phil's accomplishments as a coach are proud milestones in his life. He led the Hotchkiss, Colorado wrestling team to a commendable second-place finish in the state wrestling tournament in 1963, and he contributed as an assistant football coach to the Moon Valley High School team that celebrated a state championship win in1982.

Phil took immense pride in his role as a father, highlighted by the joy he felt when his son graduated from Colorado School of Mines. In retirement he accomplished a lifelong dream of building their retirement home in Pitkin, Colorado. His hobbies reflected his love for the outdoors, often spending time hiking, walking or backcountry skiing with his family, friends, and always his beloved dogs. Phil found joy in playing golf, followed by enjoying a cold drink with friends and exploring the natural beauty of the mountains, particularly around Gunnison. He remained a steadfast supporter of his family, young athletes and teams at Western State College, and despite the miles that separated them, he maintained a close relationship with family in Ohio. His spirit for sport shone brightly as he followed Ohio State football and the Cleveland Browns, often reminiscing about the golden days of these teams.

Phil is preceded in death by his parents Howard Perkins and

Betty Roberts, as well as brothers Richard "Cork" Perkins, Jack Perkins and sisters Sally Lacko and Patrice Campbell. A celebration of life will take place on June 27, 2025, at the Western Colorado University Foundation, 909 Escalante Drive in Gunnison from 5-7 p.m. All are invited to come together with family and friends reflecting on the joy of a life well-lived.

Diana Marie Waite Barton

Diana Marie Waite Barton passed away unexpectedly on May 23, 2025, in Tularosa, New Mexico. Born on Feb. 2, 1962, in Pendleton, Oregon, Diana lived a rich and adventurous life that took her across the western United States, embracing each new chapter with passion and purpose. Diana had a true nomadic soul, living in New Mexico, Idaho, and eventually settling in Gunnison, Colorado in the summer of 1993 — a place she came to deeply love and impact in countless ways. In Gunnison, she owned the beloved Trough Restaurant and was a driving force behind the town’s annual Fourth of July Hot Air Balloon Rally, an event that continues to bring joy and wonder to the community each summer. Later, she became affectionately known as the "Paint Lady" at Ace Hardware, where her knowledge, humor and kindness made her a local favorite. She also gave her time generously, volunteering at Six Points where she built lifelong friendships.

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Lynn Bernard Havel

Edward Phillip Perkins

In 2020, Diana embarked on a new adventure in Tularosa with her best friend Paula Swenson. There, she continued living life on her own terms — flipping houses, hiking the breathtaking trails of White Sands National Park and making lifelong friends.

Diana was preceded in death by her parents, William "Russ" and Zina Waite, and her brother, Lonny. She is survived by her daughter Jessi Mycroft and sonin-law Mike Mycroft; her son Christopher Hulet and

daughter-in-law Kristina Hulet; her son Joseph Barton and his father Stu Barton; her beloved grandchildren Bentley, Brighton, Ryddeck, Grace, and Ella; her sisters Maria and Val; and her loyal dog, Sammy. She also leaves behind countless dear friends who became chosen family.

Diana will be remembered as a fiercely capable woman who could accomplish anything she set her mind to. Her strength, creativity, and love left an indelible mark on everyone lucky enough to know her.

A memorial celebration of Diana’s life will be held on July

High altitude outings

5 at 1 p.m. at the Legion Park pavilion in Gunnison. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Diana’s memory to the Otero County Animal Shelter, 601 Wright Ave Alamogordo NM 88310, 575.434.2959. She will be missed more than words can express — but her spirit, laughter, and legacy will live on in the many lives she touched.

Western Colorado University students celebrated reaching the 17,575-foot summit of Gokyo Ri in Nepal during an international Maymester excursion. The experience — led by Assistant Director of Campus Recreation - Wilderness Pursuits Tara Allman and facilitated by Gunnison Valley guide company, Namaste Trex Expeditions — offered students an unforgettable highaltitude experience in the Himalayas.

Now glory be to God, who by His mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of—infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes

NEW PRICE

T OHIO CREEK WATERFRONT

PUBLIC MEETING MEETING STAKEHOLDER

You’re invited to provide input and learn about the Upper Gunnison Drought Plan:

Participate

Where: Gunnison Lake School, 800 N Boulevard St.

Breakfast and lunch will be served all at once in a to -go bag.

The serving line will be set up along the north alleyway

When: Monday-Thursday June 16th to July 24th

Meals will be available from 8:30am to Noon

Questions? Call (970) 641-7714 or email kstanley@gunnisonschools.net

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Desayuno y almuerzo gratis para niños menores de 18 años.!

Adonde: Gunnison Lake School, 800 N. Boulevard St.

Cuando: Lunes – Jueves, Junio 16-Julio 24

Desayuno y Almuerzo: 8:30am-12:00 PM

El desayuno y el almuerzo se servirán juntos en una bolsa para llevar. La línea de servicio se instalará en el pasillo

Stop the spread

High Country Conservation Advocates hosted a cheatgrass pull day in the City of Gunnison on Saturday, May 31. The volunteer crew bagged nearly 450 pounds of the invasion weed.

(Courtesy Isabel Lucas/High Country Conservation Advocates)

Gunnison County lands on DHS ‘sanctuary’ list

Memo citing immigration law noncompliance now withdrawn

Alan Wartes Times Publisher

In late May, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a memo listing over 500 “sanctuary jurisdictions” across the country, including 41 counties and 15 cities in Colorado, as well as the Colorado state government as a whole. Gunnison County was on the list, which labeled the jurisdictions as being noncompliant with federal immigration laws, potentially subjecting them to federal funding cuts.

After receiving significant backlash from a number of included jurisdictions around the country, DHS withdrew the memo as of June 1. It was no longer publicly available on the DHS website as of press time.

County Attorney Matt Hoyt said he was unaware of the criteria used by DHS to determine inclusion on the list.

“We do not understand why we are on that list,” he said. “We consistently have, and will continue to follow state and federal law regarding immigration. We're not aware of anything we're doing or not doing that's not consistent with immigration law.”

The list was prompted by an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in late April directing the federal government to identify jurisdictions which may be limiting local law enforcement cooperation with federal immigration authorities, such as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The order

directed federal officials to notify those jurisdictions of noncompliance and to warn of possible funding cuts as well as potential violations of federal criminal law.

“Some State and local officials … continue to use their authority to violate, obstruct, and defy the enforcement of Federal immigration laws,” the order states. “This is a lawless insurrection against the supremacy of Federal law and the Federal Government’s obligation to defend the territorial sovereignty of the United States.”

“I have never seen what it takes to get on their ‘list,’ so it would be great to find out how that actually works,” Gunnison County Sheriff Adam Murdie stated in an email to the Times “I can tell you that we do cooperate with all our federal partners to the extent that Colorado law allows us to.”

According to Murdie, his office notifies ICE when a person “that is in the United States without following the proper channels” has been arrested and detained in Gunnison County. That includes notification when the person is scheduled to be released on bond.

“It is up to ICE to be here if they want to retrieve those individuals,” he said.

County Commissioner Laura Puckett Daniels said the county has had no direct communication with DHS, though members of Congressman Jeff Hurd’s office notified the county before the memo was published.

“In Gunnison County, we follow Colorado law,” she said. “We follow United States law. When we get federal grants, we follow the federal federal grant guidelines and requirements. So I’m not really sure where that designation came from.”

In a related move, the U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Colorado

alleging that a number of state laws are in violation of federal immigration law and seeking to have them overturned. According to the complaint filed in district court in Denver in early May, these laws “by intent and design interfere with and discriminate against the Federal Government’s enforcement of federal immigration law. That all violates the Supremacy Clause of the United States Constitution.”

“When the laws and the Constitution are grey or bumping heads with each other, the courts take over and make a determination as to what needs to happen, not us,” Murdie said. “As for Gunnison County being a sanctuary county, that’s a matter of opinion and has nothing to do with the Office of Sheriff. This is not in a political position. Sides do not matter when it comes to the law and being a peace officer.”

Especially in light of the memo’s withdrawal, Gunnison County has no plans to challenge inclusion on the list, according to Puckett Daniels. “How do we continue to care for the people that live and work in Gunnison County, that are a part of our community?” she said. “Throughout all of the different federal decisions, whether it's about public lands or health and human services funding or now this, we're really trying to keep that as our North Star.”

(Alan Wartes can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or publisher@gunnisontimes.com.)

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(Photo by Bella Biondini)

970.641.1414

© 2025 Gunnison Country Times

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THE GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES (ISSN 0892-1113) is published weekly by Alan Wartes Media LLC., 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, Colorado 81230. Periodical postage paid at Gunnison, Colorado. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Gunnison Country Times, 218 N. Wisconsin, Gunnison, CO 81230-0240

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GUEST COMMENTARY

Energy dominance harms our public lands

I live in Jackson County, in northern Colorado, where hundreds of inactive and abandoned oil wells litter the landscape. Not only are they an ugly sight, they are also just a few of the estimated 2.6 million unplugged wells across the country that leak methane, benzene and other toxic substances. The reality is that long after I’m gone, most or all of those wells will remain unplugged. The companies and people who once owned them will have been allowed to walk away from their responsibility to clean up their mess.

Uncapped wells are what happens when the federal government enables the fossil-fuel industry to dominate energy policies, as is happening again now, both in the Department of the Interior and Congress. The policies emerging would allow companies, including many foreign ones, to profit from public lands and minerals that all Americans

LETTERS

Field day was a team effort

Editor:

LETTERS POLICY

Letters to the editor must be 500 words or less. We favor local topics and discourage argumentative letters addressed to particular people. If you reference data, please include sources for fact-checking.

We will not print letters from candidates for public office.

Email letters to editor@gunnisontimes.com or send to 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, CO 81230. Include your full name, address and a phone number — for our internal use only.

The deadline is Tuesday at 12 p.m. Letters may be edited for grammar, clarity or length.

I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the coverage of our recent field day in last week’s newspaper. The writing and photos captured the day well.

I also want to clarify that, while the article mentioned my role, field day was a team effort. I helped plan the event with Chase Starman and Rocky Moore, but it was a community event. Teachers, middle school students, alumni and parents all worked together to make it happen.

It’s meaningful to see our community come together to support and enjoy our school.

Thank you again for covering the event.

Matt Harris Gunnison

A call for change

Editor:

Obesity has long been misunderstood, stigmatized and inad-

own. They would also leave taxpayers holding the bag for cleaning up leaking wells.

These abandoned wells already have consequences for wildlife, air, water and rural people.

“I have personally experienced serious health scares after breathing toxic fumes from oil and gas wells near my property,” said Kirk Panasuk, a rancher in Bainville, Montana. “And I’ve seen too many of my friends and neighbors in this part of the country have their water contaminated, or their land destroyed by rushed and reckless industrial projects.”

Republicans and Democrats in previous administrations and Congresses took pains to reform this historically biased federal energy system because of the damage done to rural communities and American taxpayers. Now, the federal government is rolling back those reforms.

Recently, the Interior announced that “emergency permitting procedures” were necessary when carrying out the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Timelines for environmental assessments for fossil-fuel projects were changed from one year to 14 days, without requiring a public comment period. The timeline for more complicated environmental impact statements was cut from two years to 28 days, with only a 10-day public comment period.

In May, the House Natural

equately treated within our health care system. Despite extensive scientific evidence identifying obesity as a chronic disease — similar to diabetes or heart disease — many employer-sponsored health plans still exclude essential treatments such as bariatric surgery and weight-loss medications.

I know this struggle firsthand. Until I transitioned to my current health care plan, I had access to weight-loss coverage under my former plan. Thankfully, I was able to undergo a procedure before losing that benefit. The treatment, along with ongoing medical support, has helped me achieve significant weight loss and reach a healthy weight. However, despite my success, I still require medication to maintain my health. I currently pay out-of-pocket for a GLP-1 medication prescribed for weight loss. Though I can currently afford it, it strains my finances and will likely be a lifelong expense. Under my current employer’s plan, this medication is only covered for people with diabetes or other qualifying conditions. Bariatric surgery isn’t covered at

Resources Committee unveiled its piece of the House budget bill, which enables the federal government to expedite oil, gas, coal and mineral development. It gives Americans basically no say on whether those projects should move ahead, while keeping taxpayers from receiving a fair return on the development of publicly owned lands and minerals.

The administration’s justification for expediting permits is that we face “a national energy emergency.” No such emergency exists. The United States is currently the world’s biggest exporter of liquified natural gas and is producing more oil than any other country on Earth.

Both the House bill — just passed and now before the Senate — and the Interior’s policies, ignore the long-standing mandate to manage public lands for multiple uses. Instead, the new policies:

• Drastically reduce the public’s role in the permitting process.

• Allow large corporations to pay to evade environmental and judicial review.

• Exempt millions of acres of private lands with federal minerals and thousands of wells on these lands from federal permitting and mitigation requirements.

The House bill would also slash the royalty rate for oil and gas production from 16.67% to 12.5%, depriving state and local governments of funding they

all. This exclusion is discriminatory. If health plans denied insulin for diabetes or pacemakers for heart disease, the public outcry would be enormous. Yet similar denials for obesity treatment are disturbingly common—despite obesity being a root cause of many chronic diseases.

Obesity is complex, with genetic, environmental and behavioral causes. I’ve battled it since childhood, as did both of my parents. I’ve witnessed its devastating consequences — diabetes, strokes and heart disease — up close. My personal journey has required not only a procedure but also therapy, exercise and ongoing medical support, a comprehensive treatment approach. Like so many others, I need continued treatment to prevent relapse. Obesity does not simply disappear after weight loss. It requires lifelong management.

The exclusion of obesity treatments from health plans is not just a coverage issue, it’s a moral and legal failure. It punishes individuals for having a medical condition largely beyond their control. Denying access to proven, medically necessary care perpetuates

depend on for schools, roads and other essential services. An analysis by Resources for the Future found that the proposed lower royalty rates would result in a loss of nearly $5 billion in revenue over the next decade.

The Interior Department’s emergency permitting procedures and the House bill are assaults the federal government has waged on public lands since January. The public has been shoved to the side as oil and gas drillers enjoy their energy dominance throughout our public lands.

Now, it’s up to the Senate to strip out these gifts to the fossil fuel industry, and it’s up to us to tell our elected Senate representatives that these policies ignore the wishes of Westerners. We have told pollsters innumerable times that we support conservation, not exploitation of public lands for private interests. What’s happening now is radically wrong.

(Barbara Vasquez is a contributor to Writers on the Range, writersontherange.org, an independent nonprofit dedicated to spurring lively conversation about the West. A retired PhD biomedical researcher and semiconductor engineer, she is board chair of the Western Organization of Resource Councils and a board member of the Western Colorado Alliance.)

stigma and undermines health equity.

So what can be done? First, we need legislation that requires insurers to cover obesity treatments just as they would for any other chronic condition. Second, we must raise awareness among employers and policymakers about the science behind obesity and the importance of long-term care. Lastly, we must speak out — through advocacy, public engagement and direct conversations with decision-makers.

One encouraging step came recently with the passage of the Diabetes Prevention and Obesity Treatment Act (SB25-048), sponsored by Sen. Dafna Michaelson Jenet. We applaud the governor for signing it into law on June 3, 2025. This bill expands access to obesity treatments for those with private insurance in Colorado. It’s a vital move toward equity and evidence-based care. But more work remains.

It’s time to challenge outdated policies and confront the systemic discrimination embedded

Barbara Vasquez Writers on the Range

Tiki tavern coming to Boulevard Street

‘Paddle Out’ set for fall opening

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

Gunnison’s newest hangout spot, “Paddle Out” is set to bring the flavor of the Hawaiian islands to Boulevard Street.

Inspired by business owner Tina Fabulic’s days surfing Hawaii’s famous point breaks, the new bar will feature an island-inspired lounge and extensive alcoholic and nonalcoholic cocktail menus — all to the rhythm of reggae music. Set next to the historic Smith Opera House, the building is expected to be completed after a two-year renovation this fall.

“I’ve always admired the family-oriented nature of Gunnison, and the nostalgia of riding bikes around town,” Fabulic said. “I wanted to build a community place where people can come after work, or bring their significant other for date night.”

Before Fabulic began handrenovating the tiki tavern, the former Western Colorado University student balanced her time between Colorado and Hawaii while working on some of the largest productions in Hollywood. Her first visit to the Aloha State came while working as the head hairstylist on Disney Channel shows “Shake It Up!” and “A.N.T Farm.” Balancing a three-week on, one-week off work schedule, she became a frequent visitor to Hawaii, and fell in love with the laidback lifestyle — a feeling she has since compared to Gunnison.

“In Gunnison, we love to ski, to paddle and be on the water,” she said. “It’s a culture of embracing every possible moment. ”

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in our health insurance systems. Everyone struggling with obesity deserves access to the full range of medical treatments needed for lifelong health. Our lives — and our futures — depend on it.

Leah Petito Crested Butte

We are here for each other

Editor: Thank you to those who reached out following the recent attack in Boulder. On June 1, a premeditated assault occurred during a peaceful demonstration organized by the group Run for Their Lives, advocating for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The assailant used Molotov cocktails and a makeshift flamethrower, injuring 12 individuals, including an 88-year-old Holocaust survivor. This has been

In 2023, Fabulic found herself at a crossroads. She lived in Crested Butte, and when not working on movies such as “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” and “Happiest Season,” she operated her own hairstyling business and worked at Montanya Distillers. She brainstormed ideas of opening a gluten free food truck, or purchasing her brick and mortar salon. But another trip to Hawaii transported her down a tiki-bar rabbit hole. She started dreaming of blending the island and mountain cultures into a single cocktail lounge.

After months of brainstorming, a building on North Boulevard Street hit the market. The structure once served as an accounting business and later as a branch for Gunnison Valley Health. Despite its age, Fabulic felt it was a perfect location to carve a slice of the islands into downtown Gunnison.

“When I first walked in I could practically smell the 70s,” she said. “It’s an old building with a lot of character. I knew it would take a massive renovation, but it had a Hawaiian vibe with exposed wood and cedar shiplap. The building spoke to me, and I was just dying to tear

deemed a hate crime and another clear act of anti-semitism in our country.

While my family and I reside outside of Boulder and are fine, many within our community and across the nation are deeply concerned about the safety of Jewish communities. We stand together in solidarity, as Jewish communities have throughout history. Our strength lies in our endurance, and we are confident in our ability to persevere as we pursue peace (rodef shalom) both locally and in Israel, alongside her willing neighbors.

This week, we celebrated Shavuot, a festival commemorating the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai and the wheat harvest. These themes connect us to the land of Israel and our shared values. Shavuot teaches us about Torah, wisdom, revelation, awareness and commitment to a mission.

In these challenging times, our task is to stand together—Jew and

The City Center

Your local government’s weekly community ad.

Boards and Commissions Vacancies

Specific Information at gunnisonco.gov/vacancies

Parks and Rec Advisory Committee (PRAC) 2 Vacancies

into it.”

In the two years that followed, Fabulic has removed 13 walls and thousands of pounds of sheetrock, cork board and filing cabinets all with the help of her father. The pair refurnished solid wood from the building, and utilized dining booths and chairs from Six Points and other local thrift stores. Now with under five months until its grand opening, Paddle Out houses a full-length bar, dining area and kitchen, alongside an upstairs office space for rent. This fall, Fabulic aims to open with live music and comedy nights, and welcome local food trucks for regular round-ups in the large parking lot. She plans to serve a charcuterie and sandwich menu, and host after work and date night crowds.

(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)

non-Jew—as we did at Mount Sinai, celebrate our Judaism, be proud of our heritage and respond courageously to injustice and bigotry. Silence and fear are not and have never been effective responses.

In Boulder, the extended community, with broad interfaith involvement, is planning a vigilmarch in solidarity against antisemitism and all forms of hate, calling for peace. In the Gunnison Valley, we are fortunate to have an interfaith community that works together to foster understanding, connection and friendship. We model peacefulness in our actions and interactions, and I am grateful for our allies in the Gunnison Valley.

Please reach out if I can be of support. Know that we are here for each other at B’nai Butte. Shalom — Peace.

*PRAC members will be involved in Parks and Rec Master Planning!

Zoning Board of Adjustments and Appeals 1 Vacancy

Any interested parties may submit a letter of interest to the City Clerk by email at eboucher@gunnisonco.gov or deliver to City Hall, 201 W Virginia Avenue

Submit a letter of interest ASAP!

Appointments by Council made on Tuesday, June 10 or June 27 , 2025. th th Get Involved in Your Communit y’s Voice!

When: 5:30pm, 2nd & 4th Tuesday of every month Where: City Hall, Second floor Council Chambers, 201 W. Virginia Ave. Agendas and packets available online the Friday before meetings.

Why become a candidate?

· Be your community’s voice

· Help make decisions on local issues like roads, parks, safety, housing, and more

· Collaborate with fellow leaders to address challenges and shape a better future Run for Cit y Council - Three Seats Open in

Information Sessions

Thursday, June 12 - 8:15am Monday, June 23 - 6:00pm

City Hall, 2 Floor Council Chambers, 201 W Virginia Avenue nd Light breakfast and coffee provided

Questions and RSVP

Contact the City Clerk’s Office at eboucher@gunnisonco.gov or (970) 641-8140

Rabbi Mark Kula Crested Butte

Tina Fabulic and friend. (Photo by Alex McCrindle)

— a number of which are tied to public safety and adequately preparing the community for growth. In the nonprofit sector, slashed funding is hitting students that need extra help, both inside and outside of the classroom, the hardest.

Across the community, grant opportunities are shrinking and organizations are doing what they can to avoid layoffs. With little clarity expected in the coming months, the federal budgetary changes surfacing in the valley are forcing organizations to lean more heavily on each other for support.

“How do we, as a community, work to sustain the things we have already built,” said Gunnison County Juvenile Services Director Kari Commerford. “That’s probably where we’ll be for the next year.”

In Gunnison, the city is actively pursuing one of its largest — and most expensive — infrastructure projects in history: a new water treatment plant. To help lower the costs, staff have been aggressively pursuing grants, and have been largely successful. But stalled funding at the federal level means the construction start date will continue to be pushed back.

Cost estimates for the first three parts of the multi-phase project near $50 million. So far, the city has received close to $5.2 million in grant dollars for planning, design and construction. Now a lot of this money is on hold, hindering major progress. It has also halted the inflow of state dollars, meant to serve as matching funds for federal grants.

For example, in 2024, the city was notified that it would receive $1.75 million from the Environmental Protection Agency. The money also served as the match for a grant from the Colorado River District. The same is true for a grant from the Bureau of Reclamation, which is tied to additional funding from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs.

The city, currently in a “holding game,” does not have the money to go out to bid for construction for phase one, said City Manager Amanda Wilson. While staff are still finding ways to inch forward, this puts a somewhat time sensitive project on pause. The city currently relies on a system of shallow wells for drinking water, a system that is at higher risk should a contaminant enter the aquifer, or in times of drought. The method used to treat the water, although safe, is also outdated and no longer permitted by the state.

“There's a lot in limbo when it comes to funding,” Wilson said. “We're doing our best to continue to make progress, and show that good faith effort [and] that this is still an important project and it has to continue,” Wilson said.

Some Gunnison County departments are also in limbo. Last fall, the county was awarded just over $15 million for the “Safe Streets for All” project. The joint city-town-county proj-

ect addresses safety concerns along the Hwy. 135 corridor. In Gunnison, the money was set aside to increase sidewalk connectivity and increase pedestrian safety at busy Main Street and Tomichi Avenue intersection. In the North Valley, the county plans to build roundabouts at the intersections of Cement Creek, Brush Creek and Red Lady Avenue. It will also be used to install rumble strips along the highway.

Public Works Director Martin Schmidt said the department is still working through the contracting process with the Federal Highway Administration, but is falling behind. Many of the people coordinating the paperwork have left employment, he said, moving the project along “much slower” than he had hoped.

It is a reimbursement grant, which means the county has to spend the money before it is paid by the federal government — typical for construction projects of this kind. So far, the county is not aware that the Safe Streets funding has been removed from the Highway Administration, Schmidt said.

“Both federal uncertainty and state budget constraints create a situation [where it] is really untenable for us to be able to do the work that people want.”

Martin Schmidt Gunnison County Public Works Director

Once the contract is signed, the county has five years to spend the money.

Schmidt also acknowledged a “tightening of the belt” at the state level through the Colorado Department of Transportation. The state cut severance taxes, imposed on nonrenewable natural resources like oil and gas. It is expected to cause a $600,000 decrease in revenue for Public Works, he said. The result will likely be more deferred maintenance on county roads, many of which are already in poor condition.

“We are starved for the ability to do projects on the roads in Gunnison County, and both federal uncertainty and state budget constraints create a situation [where it] is really untenable for us to be able to do the work that people want,” he said.

Millions of dollars have been canceled for farm-to-school programs, and grants to fund day care, counseling and disability services available for kids through the federal Department of Health and Human Services.

In Gunnison County, the department still faces a “lot of unknowns,” said director Joni Reynolds.

“We hear that there will be impacts, but we have not seen formal communications with two exceptions,” Reynolds said.

Two funding contracts that typically start in July through the state, one for immunizations and the other for its women’s wellness programs, have been reduced between 30-50%. The reductions will stay in place until the state receives its own portion of federal money. Through these two programs, the county offers routine vaccinations to children and adults, and annual exams and treatment for sexually transmitted infections for women. Both have regularly full schedules, Reynolds said.

Layoffs at Gunnison Valley Mentors are another indicator that the valley’s youth are also at risk. Gunnison Mentors works valleywide and connects students with mentors who provide guidance and support. But a significant portion of its budget is supported by federal grants, and in April, the nonprofit let go of two of its full-time mentors. Executive Director Tina McGuinness said it’s likely she will have to let more go this fall unless the organization can come up with ways to fill the gaps.

Half of Mentors’ funding is federal and flows from offices like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration, which is facing its own set of budget and staff reductions. The burden will ultimately fall on students. Gunnison Mentors’ waitlist has been over 50 students over the last few months, and that was at full staffing capacity. Students that live with stressful circumstances are often more truant, and without extra support, can quickly fall behind in the classroom, McGuinness said.

“If we wait too long, we totally

lose them … The sooner we can start working with those kiddos, the more likely they are to become successful students,” McGuinness said.

Luckily, Gunnison County Juvenile Services, one of Gunnison Mentors’ main partners, is mostly unscathed. The largest threat, according to Commerford, is shrinking grant opportunities. And with federal priorities shifting away from harm reduction, treatment and prevention, the competition for these pots of money is only growing. For example, the Colorado Opioid Abatement Council recently had $5 million to award, and over $21 million in requests from organizations around the state, she said.

Still, the Juvenile Services team remained optimis -

tic about the work being done through groups like the GRASP Consortium, Gunnison Sanctuary Housing and CB State of Mind to reach residents in need.

“[It] makes the work feel less threatened when we've already seen how dedicated our community partners are,” said health educator Kyle Tibbett.

(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)

West Thorn

in Crested Butte,” he said. “I think the shortage of housing is an extreme challenge for the community. I’m interested in breaking the code of workforce housing and thinking that we could think a little bit out of the box and actually do something that's impactful and transformative.”

The plan proposes approximately 20 housing units per acre, which would make it the highest density development in the city by a wide margin. It would be comparable to Gunnison County’s Whetstone project which is now under construction south of Crested Butte. West Thorn would offer a variety of unit types, including single-family housing, town homes and “traditional mulitfamily units,” according to the plan.

Unlike Whetstone, however, West Thorn will include a number of additional amenities, such as a coffee shop and bakery, day care center, co-working space, community storage and space for community farming, including greenhouses.

“I think we're able to create a neighborhood and not just a building, which is kind of what's been done before,” Ross Holbrook, member of the Urban Villages design team. “Without that density, it's hard to justify some of those amenities and really create a vibrant community within the neighborhood.”

The group has no plans to place deed restrictions on the units. Instead, they intend to make “free market” agreements with employers in the valley and leave it to them to set rents and decide whether deed restrictions are appropriate.

“When we characterize the project as ‘free market,’ it's that we're not just doing lowcost housing and relying on tax credits and all the difficulty with getting people to qualify,” said Hermanson. “Free market also means that we're entrepreneurial. We're going to do it, do it fast, efficiently, and get to the

goal line.”

Urban Villages hopes to shepherd the project through the city planning permitting process in time to begin construction in 2026, with first occupancy in 2027. The plan calls for prefabricated modular units, similar to those used in the county’s recently completed Sawtooth development.

“There's obvious challenges with the construction season in the valley,” Holbrook said.

“That’s one part of why we're using modular construction to kind of speed up that process and build those things in a climate conditioned factory.”

Prior to submitting the sketch plan, Urban Villages consulted with a number of key employers and organizations in the valley, to gauge interest in the project and solicit input on its design. One question that came from those conversa -

tions was whether West Thorn could be connected by some form of mass transit to central Gunnison. Talks with the Rural Transportation Authority have not yielded concrete plans so far, Holbook said.

However, Urban Villages is still “hopeful” that an agreement can be reached. In the meantime they are exploring other options as well, including private shuttle service.

A public hearing regarding the project is scheduled for 6 p.m. on June 25 in the city council chambers at 201 W. Virginia. For more information about the proposed development visit westthorngunnison.com.

(Alan Wartes can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or publisher@gunnisontimes.com.)

Urban Villages held a number of community outreach sessions last year to gether input on the design of the proposed development.

A schematic included in the West Thorn sketch plan under review by the City of Gunnison.

from A1

Hooks, bows and big smiles

Families and community members gathered at Jorgensen Park on Saturday, May 31 for Gunnison’s annual Outdoor Expo and Fishing Derby. The day was filled with casting lines at Pac Man Pond, and hands-on outdoor education activities with local land and wildlife management agencies.

(Photos by Jaden McNeese)

Mobile veterinary practice proudly serving the Gunnison Valley

Specializing in:

• Animal Chiropractic Care

• Veterinary Acupuncture

• Animal Physical Therapy

Debby Burnett, DVM, PT | 970-396-8666

Help any animal with a spine! healingspringsveterinarycare.com

STAND OUT IN A MOUNTAIN CROWD! Signs • Vehicle Decals & Wraps

Store front signs and lettering

Screenprinting • Embroidery

Promotional Products • Stickers

Banners • CANVAS PHOTO WRAPS

Wildly skilled

The Colorado State Taxidermy Championship returned to Gunnison on May 31, and brought a blend of artistry and wilderness to the Fred Field Center. The event featured award-winning mounts, educational seminars and creative displays that were judged across amateur, professional and master levels.

(Photos by Jaden McNeese)

Western’s nursing program gains traction with new director, grant

Seth Mensing

Special to the Times

Western Colorado University’s new nursing education program is gaining momentum this year with major funding support and a new director.

Western first started to explore the possibility of developing a nursing program focused on the unique needs of rural communities in 2023 after it received a $50,000 planning grant from the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. The planning grant was followed by a $1.5 million Opportunity Now grant, and most recently, a $560,000 grant from the Colorado Health Foundation, which will be distributed over the next three years.

Emily McMahill, one of two faculty members helping launch the nursing program, said the award recognizes the importance of supporting programs that serve underserved populations.

“Our efforts to train nurses who understand the unique demands of rural health care resonated with the Colorado Health Foundation,” McMahill said. “The funds provided will help us build a nursing education program that garners awareness about the unique needs of our patient population and how to best support their health.”

During the program’s earliest days, a small and dedicated team of faculty and staff shouldered all of the many administrative tasks required to start a nursing program from scratch. As the program began to take shape, the team turned its attention to leadership.

In March, McMahill announced that Beth Roten had been hired as the founding director of Western’s nursing

education program. Prior to her arrival at Western, Roten served as the associate chief nurse of Outpatient Services at the Grand Junction Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and chief of organizational development and education for the Western Colorado Health Care System.

“Beth brings a wealth of experience in clinical practice, leadership, and rural health care systems,” McMahill said. “Her passion for educating the next generation of nurses and her understanding of our region make her the perfect person to lead this program.”

First cohort of CNAs graduate

The nursing program is already on its way to help alleviate the growing need for frontline health care workers, especially in rural areas. In December, the first cohort graduated from Western’s new 10-week Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program, qualifying them to take the certification test and begin working in the field.

Following the successful launch of the CNA program, Western is submitting a phase II application to Colorado Board of Nursing to launch a fall 2026 accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree, which will take approximately 12 months to complete, along with a traditional four-year BSN.

For more information about Western’s nursing education program, contact Emily McMahill at emcmahill@western.edu or broten@western.edu.

(Seth Mensing is the media and communications manager at Western Colorado University.)

Beth Roten (Courtesy Western Colorado University)

Gunnison Trails would like to thank our amazing community for making the 17th edition of the Original Growler another huge success. Thank you to our partners at the Bureau of Land Management, Gunnison County, the City of Gunnison and Western Colorado University, to our event sponsors Gunnison Valley Health, Fullmer’s Ace Hardware, Shondeck Financial, Campfire Ranch, CB Devo and High Alpine Brewing Company, and to the many volunteers that continue to make the Growler one of the best times on two wheels and an amazing kickoff to summer.

Gunnison Trails is a

Photo: Matt Burt

(Photos by Evan Bjornstad)

Barn murals and rainbow dreams

Have

(Courtesy Theresa Maguire Ely and Anne Michel)

bathtub add a touch of luxury to the bathrooms, while the master bedroom boasts its own oasis with a reading nook or small office space. The 2-car detached garage features 8-foot doors and 10-foot ceilings inside, providing ample space for your vehicles and storage needs. The extra space above the garage, accessible via exterior stairs, presents exciting opportunities. Whether you need additional storage or dream of an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), the potential is yours to explore with City of Gunnison approval. Don’t miss the chance to make this new construction your forever home. Contact us now to schedule a viewing and witness the epitome of contemporary living!

TBD W Denver Ave. MLS# 816647 $589,000

Spectacular 2.5 acre level lot located in Gunnison’s new subdivision Elk Ranch. This parcel is located just outside City limits on the west side of town and seller has it set up to be built on immediately. Lot has a well permit already in place along with the required approval for well from the Upper Gunnison Water Conservancy District which can be transferred at closing. Buyer of lot may also pay for tap fees to hook into the City water and sewer main that will has already been extended north by the City.There is a shared road/driveway into the subdivision and it will be completed by this fall as well. Lot has been surveyed and a building envelope has been established for a single family residence but other dwellings such as barns/sheds etc. will be allowed. Come enjoy some country living with incredible views of mountains up Ohio Valley and the Palisades while being so close to town.

457 Ute Dr. (Arrowhead) MLS# 820145 $40,000 Beautiful, secluded 1 acre lot located on the north edge of the Arrowhead subdivision

Arts and crafts at the GAC

A “Stitches and Screwdrivers” workshop at the Gunnison Arts Center enticed those interested in learning the basics of embroidery to pull up a chair with a cocktail in hand on May 22. Hope Kesler demonstrated the French knot, backstitch and feather stitch, a few of the classics practiced within the hoop. On May 25, students learned that working with watercolors isn’t all that easy during a painting workshop. Together the classmates chose to paint a sunset scene with a few pine trees, waterfront and evening clouds.

(Photos by Rebecca Rose)

‘Riding the Range — A Saddle Story’

GAC show honors shared history of cyclists and ranchers

Bella Biondini Times Editor

When exploring the corners, nooks and crannies of the map in the Gunnison Country, many residents ride in two types of saddles: on the seat of a mountain bike and on the back of a horse.

The Gunnison Art Center’s new exhibit, titled “Riding the Range — A Saddle Story,” threads the stories of the two riders together through their love of place. The art show builds on last year’s summer exhibit “A clever use of circles,” which ran in conjunction with the annual Growler mountain bike races. This summer, the central theme has shifted and honors the Gunnison Valley ranching families that have shared their land with cyclists, anglers and other outdoor recreationalists for generations. The show, on display at the newly renovated Cy Baird Gallery, will run through June 21.

“People have been excited to look at a finely crafted bicycle next to one of the nicer saddles I’ve ever seen and think about how we all do share, even though sometimes we feel like we are in two different cultures,” said Gallery Manager Jeff Erwin.

On opening night at the end

of May, the smell of fresh sage and old leather greeted visitors.

In the gallery, relics of the valley’s ranching history are mixed with mountain bikes of old and new. The vivid colors of a painting by Tina Butterfield of the first woman wilderness ranger in Gunnison County, Polly Oberosler, quickly captures the eye, as does the frame of a handcrafted bike by Chris Besnia and Arly Landry from Goodday Bikeworks.

Some of the pieces give viewers a glimpse of the cowboys of the past: a weathered saddle with silver buckles, a worn leather scabbard for a rifle and

pouch for holding ammunition. On the table in the corner of the room is a visual collection of Powderhorn’s rich, but not littleknown ranching history through the lens of the McKee family. Faded photographs, previously hidden away for nearly 40 years, capture the quiet allure of the wild country. Erwin said the display, which encourages viewers to pick up individual photos for a closer look, creates a more intimate experience, compared to if they had been hung on the wall.

Some of the family’s images show one of the last ranchers in the area to put his hay “up loose,” the way it had been

done for decades before it was baled. In another, a man holds up his proud catch, dozens of fish strung on a line. Together, the photographs are a glimpse into the subtle, but timeless draw of the Powderhorn, experienced by residents and those who came to escape the city life — even just temporarily.

Pat McKee, the individual who shared the collection, moved to Powerhorn in 1976 to work on his grandmother’s ranch when he was 20 years old. Pat said he had an affinity for “cowboying,” and would eventually start a family of his own on the frontier.

Visitors would travel to the

Powderhorn to stay in his grandmother’s cabins and enjoy the free flowing streams, roaming wildlife and rich woodlands. Pat spoke of a traveler from Texas who had rented a cabin decades ago. “I saw him out walking around kind of like he was in a daze. And I said, ‘Are you alright? What's going on?’ He said, ‘This morning I was in a 10-mile traffic jam in Dallas. Here it's so quiet you can actually hear it,” Pat said. “He didn't know what to make of it.”

(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Historic photos from Powderhorn, Colorado shared by the McKee family. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

A fresh start

(Photos by Jaden McNeese)

2nd Annual Brett Redden Memorial Poker Ride

June 8 at the Mill Creek Trailhead. Registration starts at 9 a.m. and the last riders depart at 11 a.m. All ages welcome with your own horse. Please leave dogs at home. Proceeds benefit the 4-H Horse Project.

Farm Tour/Dig-In Day

Glacier Farm will be hosting a joint Farm Tour/Dig-In Day on June 7 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This event is brought to you by Mountain Roots and Crested Butte Land Trust. Attendees will have the opportunity to tour the farm, learn about the space and get their hands dirty. Food and beverages will be provided. The event is free but requires an RSVP. For questions, contact Hannah at hannah@mountainrootsfoodproject.org.

Mountain Roots

Mountain Roots seeks Board and Committee members to join a group of passionate people and help to shape the future of food, farming, access and education. We're looking for board and committee members to make and activate plans and chart our course. Skills in fundraising, events, strategy, business, governance or lived-experience a plus. Part-time residents welcome. Learn more at mountainrootsfoodproject.org or call Holly at 970.417.7848.

Celebration of Life Memorial Event

For three decades, Gunnison Valley Health’s Hospice has stood beside families in their most tender moments. This year, the community is invited to join in commemorating 30 years of hospice service during the fourth annual Celebration of Life event, held on June 7 at 10 a.m. at West Tomichi Riverway Park. To learn more visit gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/hospice or call 970.641.4254.

Gunnison County Republicans

Please join County Commissioner Laura PuckettDaniels and Gunnison County Republicans June 7 at 10:15 a.m. at the Gunnison Library. This event is open to the public.

Cottonwood

restoration day

Join Coldharbour Institute for a Cottonwood Restoration day on June 14 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at 47068 Hwy-50. We’re working hard on our ongoing wetland restoration project and are embracing strategies to mitigate the impacts of beaver activity on the Coldharbour ranch. To protect our cottonwood galleries the Coldharbour team has designed a cottonwood protection and restoration plan that we need your help implementing. Please email cihomesteadfellow@coldharbourinstitute.org to sign up and learn more.

“SALLY”

Crested Butte Film Festival presents their new Sundance film, “SALLY,” June 6-7 at 6:30 p.m. at The Majestic Theater. “SALLY” tells the incredible story of astronaut Sally Ride who was the first American woman to blast off into space. Beneath her unflappable composure there lurked a secret. Sally’s life partner, Tam O’Shaughnessy, reveals their hidden romance and the sacrifices that coincided with their 27 years together.

High Country Conservation Advocates (HCCA)

High Country Conservation Advocates (HCCA) invites community members to participate in stopping the spread of invasive cheatgrass on public lands on June 7. We will meet at the Gunnison Ranger District office, 216 N. Colorado St. in Gunnison, at 8 a.m. before carpooling to the project site. Please bring a smartphone to download the app CheatMaps that will be used throughout the day to track and pinpoint areas with cheatgrass infestations. Visit hccacb.org for more information and to register today. All volunteers will receive Gunnison swag and lunch. Download CheatMaps prior to project at linktr.ee/cheatmaps.

Garden party

Join us June 7 between 6:308:30 p.m at 519 East Georgia Ave. for a garden party to celebrate the end of the inaugural Trades Culture Bootcamp 2025 [TCB]. For its first offering, TCB is hosting a seven day experiential learning class designed to increase trades education in the Gunnison Valley and offer students new professional opportunities.

Gunnison Basin SageGrouse Strategic Committee

The next meeting of the Gunnison Basin Sage-Grouse Strategic Committee will be June 18 at 10 a.m. via Zoom or in the Planning Commission Meeting Room at the Blackstock Government Center. For more updated information, including the most recent agenda and access to the virtual meeting, please visit gunnisoncounty. org/187/Gunnison-Basin-SageGrouse-Strategic-Com. This meeting will continue the discussion from last month's meeting regarding updates for the Habitat Prioritization Tool used in Gunnison County's land use planning process.

Beaver Creek Classic 3D archery shoot

Join us at the Beaver Creek State Wildlife Area West of Gunnison on June 8 for the Bever Creek Classic 3D archery shoot. Registration starts at 8 a.m. and the shoot starts at 9:30 a.m. Entry fee is $40 for payout classes or $30 just for fun. This is a fundraiser event for West Elk Archers.

Ribbon cutting

The community is invited to "The Rainbow Trout Mural" ribbon cutting on June 10 at 4:30 p.m. created by Jennifer Vannatta. Jennifer has created the largest mural in Gunnison on the west and north walls of Hi Country Floors to go at 111 W. 10th Street. Please join us in celebrating this beautiful new and uplifting creation.

VA Mobile Medical Unit

The VA Mobile Medical Unit will be at Post 54 on June 10-11. Call 970.263.2829 to schedule an appointment.

We want your announcements!

The Gunnison Country Times publishes birth and wedding announcements free of charge.

• Please keep your announcement brief (3-5 sentences). You may include one photo.

• Our deadline for submissions is noon on Tuesdays.

• Please send announcements to issa@gunnisontimes.com.

One paddle, no room for error

Huck solo rafts state’s extremes

Jaden McNeese Times Intern

Ryan Huck doesn’t just run rivers. The 22-year-old Gunnison local is redefining what it means to run these rivers armed with a 10-foot boat, and a singular paddle in hand.

Clinging to his raft, Huck has plummeted down massive waterfalls, and made first descents of creeks only kayaks could dream of. Using a meditative approach, Huck goes with the flow of the river and approaches this new type of rafting with his head held high. He is eyeing his ninth go on Crested Butte’s Oh Be Joyful at the annual steep creek race June 7-8, proving he can push himself more and more. Regardless of the outcome, Huck is turning heads in the Colorado whitewater community.

Huck got into whitewater rafting by accident. He recalled his early teenage years fly fishing on the Eagle River, when he used to watch people raft by. Seeing boaters float by on the water in front of him sparked his interest, and this was only the beginning of what was to come.

“Once I started running rapids instead of casting lines, that was it,” Huck said. “It was like the whitewater bug bit me.”

That “bug” took him from casual rivers to daily runs on DOWD Chute, a Class IV stretch on the Eagle River near his hometown, and eventually bigger water and harder lines. Class I rapids are the easiest, with flat, gentle water, while Class V rapids are fast, technical, and pose a much higher risk to boaters. For a while, Huck dabbled in kayaking. A couple of outings where he hit his head on rocks in the river bottom convinced him to return to his raft.

Only this time, he ditched his crew. He taught himself to “R1,” which is the act of solo navigating the river, typically in a small boat built for one, or two people at most. But it isn’t that simple. R1 rafting requires a fine-tuned skill set to perform clean runs on creeks like Oh Be Joyful.

In R1 rafting, the flow of the river is the guide, and the boat follows the current. In kayaking, the use of a paddle with two blades makes river navigation easier. In comparison, R1 rafters only rely on one paddle, which limits movement and control.

Huck’s first run was on the upper Taylor River during his freshman year at Western Colorado University. He has since moved on to runs like Oh Be Joyful, which he has successfully descended eight times. He is one of the few people to do so.

Huck is already well on his way to achieving legend status. Over the past summer, Huck and a few of his close friends made a short film titled “Just Get a Kayak,” which showcases the art of R1 rafting. Through the help of his sponsors, and hours of hard work, the film has already been shown across the state.

Huck’s boat of choice is a 10-foot custom Sotar Excalibur, a boat he helped fine-tune and create with the manufacturer to better match the demands of high-precision solo runs. At just 50 pounds, it’s light enough for him to carry up brutal portage trails and nimble enough to skip across holes and hydraulics in the river — for those with the right expertise. And Huck knows what he’s doing.

He’s eyeing a ninth attempt on the Crested Butte staple — affectionately known as OBJ — this weekend. It packs nine Class V rapids into a 1-mile stretch of pristine, punishing whitewater. Some of these rapids are technical bumps, fast shallow slides and even 25 foot waterfalls. “Heart attack,” a rapid boaters must navigate in the first 20 seconds, plummets a staggering 18 feet over a waterfall into the pool below.

OBJ is a staple for a reason. Each and every move is calculated and made with purpose since a swim in the icy cold waters can be life threatening.

“It’s everyone's favorite,” Huck said. “The drops are clean, the lines are fast and the stakes are real.”

OBJ is more than a Gunnison Valley local badge of honor. It is where elite paddlers come to test themselves against waterfalls and rapids stacked in quick succession.

“Whitewater is 80% mental,” Huck said. “It’s about instinct. You don’t have time to secondguess your line. You just move.”

That mental focus is what drives Huck’s routine. Before each solo river run, he meditates to keep nerves, fear and overconfidence in check. He spends the winter backcountry skiing, training that builds the cardio and resilience he needs for long hikes that are necessary to reach these technical stretches of river.

And he’s had his share of scares. On one run this season, he botched the line on the 25-footer halfway down OBJ and spent eight seconds stuck under the churning pressure of falling water.

“I was so tired that day. Shouldn’t have gone,” he said. “But it reminded me OBJ doesn’t care how many times you’ve run it.”

What separates a seasoned R1 boater from the rest, Huck said, is “boat control, a good j-stroke and learning how to boof properly.” The J-stroke is a paddle motion that controls and propels the raft in specific directions. The boof, which means getting the front of the raft to

skip over holes can mean the difference between a clean line and a chaotic surf session.

This weekend, Huck, he will shoulder his 50-pound raft, hike up the steep trail to OBJ, and

stare down Heart Attack falls again. He knows the risks. He knows the line. And he knows he’ll be back.

(Jaden McNeese is a student at Western Colorado University. He can be contacted at 970.641.1414.)

Ryan Huck prepares to drop a waterfall on Vallecito Creek near Bayfield, Colorado. (Courtesy Ryan Huck)

Ryan Huck.

VETERANS’ VOICE

The date: April 16, 1945. The place: the war-weary waters off Okinawa.

A Japanese Zero makes a diving turn and then, flying barely above the waves, fires on the USS McCord (DD-534), a Fletcherclass destroyer. The general quarters alarm sounds and crewmen race to their battle stations. One of those sailors is a 19 year old, 6-foot 2-inch former high school football player. His battle station is the torpedo launcher turret aft of the ship's bridge.

The destroyer's gunners open fire. What happens in the next few seconds will determine whether or not I'd ever be born.

That tall sailor was born and raised in Logan, West Virginia where he distinguished himself on the high school football team, the Wildcats. Almost 6 feet tall and still growing, he was easy to spot on the gridiron. Then on Dec. 7, 1941 naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. War had not been declared, so to most Americans that raid was a deadly sneak attack — a knife in America's back.

The quote attributed to the architect of that attack, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, upon learning that America's carriers were not at Pearl Harbor as he'd hoped, was prophetic: “I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve.”

That young man from Logan was resolved — very resolved — to settle the score. He headed to the Navy recruiting office. The problem: he was barely 16. The recruiter was impressed by his determination, but informed him he was too young to enlist. However, he added, he could enlist when he turned 17, if his parents consented. Otherwise he would have to wait until he turned 18.

Two more years watching from the sidelines was unacceptable, so at 17, with his mother in tow, he returned to the recruiting office and joined the Navy.

Fast forward to that morning of April 16, 1945. Task Force 58 was under attack in the Battle of Okinawa. Off the McCord's starboard side, the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid (CV-11) was in flames, having been hit by two bombs from a Japanese Zero. The McCord turned hard to starboard to render assistance. Within minutes her crew had pulled one of the Intrepid's injured sailors from the water. Suddenly rounds fired by another Zero started ripping at the McCord's port side.

The A6M Zero — nicknamed the “Zeke” — was a highly maneuverable and fast Japanese fighter. However, as the war progressed and the Japanese faced increasing losses, many Zeros were modified to carry more bombs and extra gasoline tanks. Then they were sent on “kamikaze” suicide missions, crashing into allied ships and violently exploding.

Clearly the kamikaze pilot attacking on that April morning had decided to die for his emperor by crashing into the McCord Oh, he'd die for his emperor, but not in the glorious way he'd imagined. Far from it.

The McCord's gunners zeroed in on the speeding Zeke. Hit by this fusillade, it burst into flames, but its momentum kept it coming directly at the destroyer's torpedo turret.

Without hesitating, the tall torpedoman quickly led another crewman to safety behind one of the McCord's 5-inch guns. The burning Zero flew so close to him that he felt the intense heat on his face.

Parts of the burning plane fell where the two men had been standing just seconds earlier. Had they not taken cover they would have died. The kamikaze barely missed the McCord and

crashed unceremoniously into the sea just 20 yards away.

None of the McCord's crew were injured in the attack, but one officer, seeing the flaming Zero hurtling towards the ship, didn't take cover. He jumped overboard. He was fished out of the ocean an hour later.

In retrospect that officer would have been safer, a whole lot dryer, and not the butt of the inevitable shipboard jokes had he followed the calm and determined example set by the former Logan High School football star — Torpedoman Third Class, Collis “Cal” Callihan.

Thanks for taking cover, Dad. Missing you this Father's Day.

(Thank you to Thomas Bommarito of B&B Printers for his painstaking restoration of the 80-year-old negative of my father's portrait seen here.)

(Michael Callihan is a Vietnam-era veteran of the U.S. Navy. He also participated in the recovery missions of Apollo 8 and 10 in the southwestern Pacific.)

ARE WELCOME! PLEASE JOIN US AND CONSIDER BECOMING A MEMBER.

• 6-23 COAST GUARD AUXILIARY BIRTHDAY.

• 6-27 NATIONAL PTSD AWARENESS DAY. A DAY TO RAISE AWARENESS

Michael Callihan Special to the Times

US Navy photo of the USS Intrepid on fire and a Fletcher-class destroyer turning to help out.

Collis “ Call” Callihan (Courtesy Michael Callihan)

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Deputy Police Chief

Full-Time, $ $115,940-$143,074/yr

Command-level position supports the Chief of Police in managing department operations and advancing modern, community-based policing. Requires a bachelor’s degree and 6 years of law enforcement experience, including supervisory roles. POST certification required (or ability to obtain).

Police Officer

Full-Time, $73,500-$90,700/yr

Performs technical, professional, and administrative duties related to maintaining the security of the City, protecting constitutional guarantees of all persons, protecting life and property, preserving public peace and order, preventing, solving and detecting crimes, facilitating the safe movement of people and vehicles, and other emergency services as needed. POST Certification not required. The City will pay for the Police Academy if needed and pay a cadet wage while attending the Academy. Includes a $15,000 hiring bonus.

City Engineer

Full-Time, $121,275-$143,267/yr

This position oversees municipal engineering projects, including streets, drainage, water, sewer, and capital improvements. Works closely with the Public Works Director to oversee capital improvement projects, manage municipal infrastructure systems, and collaborate with a dynamic team committed to excellence in public service.

Part-Time Openings: Lifeguards: $23-$29.33/hr.

Summer Ditch Laborer: $25.09 to $27.82/hr plus $1.78 incentive completion bonus.

The City of Gunnison offers a competitive benefit package, including 75% of medical, dental and vision premiums paid for the employee and their dependents, 5% of gross wages in a retirement plan, 3 weeks of vacation (increasing based on the years of service), 13 paid holidays and 12 days of sick leave per year.

For more information, including complete job descriptions, benefit packages, required job qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCO.gov/HR.

WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY

seeks applicants for the following full-time (40 hours/week), fully benefitted positions.

Western’s benefit package includes retirement and insurance plans (with generous employer contributions), employee and dependent tuition benefits, paid vacation, paid sick leave, and 11 paid holidays per year. Employees receive basic life insurance and disability insurance at no cost. Employee wellness programs and professional development trainings are available for free!

Annual Giving Coordinator (AGC): As part of the Western Colorado University Foundation, the AGC leads annual fundraising efforts, including Mountaineer Gives Day, Fall Appeals, and donor engagement campaigns. Starting annual salary $55,000 - $60,000. Apply by 6/20/25.

To view the full job announcements and apply, visit western.edu/jobs and click on “View Careers” (EOE)

of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring a summer seasonal Assistant Racquets Professional. Pay range is $20-21/hr. + commission. Commission rates for private instruction DOE. Employee benefits include employee discounts and complimentary golf. For more information or to apply, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte.com or emailjobs@ clubatcrestedbutte.com.

THE MT. CRESTED BUTTE WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT is accepting applications for a full-time Wastewater Operator and/or Licensed Electrician to join a team responsible for operating and maintaining the wastewater treatment plant and collection system for the District. Entry-Level: Starting salary $53,100 to $59,500. A valid Colorado driver’s license is required, and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is preferred at time of hire or must be obtained within one (1) year. A State of Colorado Collections and Wastewater license, or the ability to obtain both within one (1) year, is required (training material provided).

Experienced Operators or Licensed Electricians: Starting salary

$59,500 to $75,000. Operators must meet entry-level qualifications and have experience in construction, field operations, lab analysis, and electrical/mechanical/maintenance repair.

Operators work a 4-day, 10-hour work schedule, participate in an on-call rotation, including select weekends and holidays. The District offers an excellent benefits package including the following: 100% employer-paid family health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance premiums, 12 paid holidays, paid vacation, personal and sick leave, a wellness bonus, employer-provided uniforms, boots, personal protective equipment, and a retirement plan with up to 8% employer match. To apply, please submit a cover letter and resume to Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District, PO Box 5740, Mt. Crested Butte, CO 81225, or email info@mcbwsd. com. Position is open until it is filled. Full job description available at www.mcbwsd.com.

MCBWSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

food, and community? We need you to help lead the future of food. Part time residents welcome. Learn more at mountainrootsfoodproject.org or call Holly at 970-417-7848. THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE PARKS AND RECREATION Open Space & Trails Department is seeking Recreation Instructors for a variety of programs including Tennis, Baseball, Softball, Umpires, Skateboarding and Gymnastics. Pay range of $19-22/ hour dependent on program role. Come help provide valuable programming to your community by being a facilitator for one of our many programs! Please submit your resume via email to jobs@crestedbutte-co.gov. Town

To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91

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old. Visit us in Crested Butte and come be a part of our team! Send your interest and resume to Steppingstonescb@gmail.com.

THE COLORADO PARKS AND WILDLIFE GUNNISON SERVICE CENTER IS HIRING A TEMPORARY ADMINISTRATIVE

ASSISTANT 1:

Job Description: Position will assist with customer services at the Gunnison Area office including license sales, information distribution, cash register operation, radio dispatch, answering telephones, and other office duties and management. Provides responses to inquiries on hunting and fishing regulations, hunting/fishing conditions, directions, wildlife conflict resolution methods, and other requests. Position will be responsible for mandatory animal check-ins, sample collections, and other wildlife related tasks. Position will be trained to take tissue samples, and will be required to take Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) samples. Position may assist with various wildlife management work and other duties as assigned, including potentially transporting injured wildlife to regional rehab facilities.

Position Requirements: Ability to interact with and assist hunters, anglers and the general public, helping with various information requests in person; on the phone; and by email. Knowledge of computer applications such as Word, Excel, and Google Suite are highly desired. Knowledge of hunting and fishing is highly desired. Having the ability to read maps, accurately collect and record data from hunters, and the ability to enter data into computer databases is required. Must be willing and able to lift and handle elk and deer heads, carcasses of mountain lions, bears and bobcats on a regular basis. Assist with other wildlife related calls and management. The ability to drive a pickup truck in varying weather conditions is desirable. Valid Colorado driver’s license required for all positions. Must be willing and able to pass a criminal history background check.

Employment Terms: One full-time (40 hours/week), temporary position is available at the Gunnison Service Center from June 1 through November 30, 2025. Pay Rate: $17-$19/hr commensurate with experience.

Hiring Process: Prospective applicants should send or email a resume and cover letter to: Colorado Parks and Wildlife ATTN: Admin Position, 200 S. Spruce St, Gunnison, CO 81230, or fax to (970) 648-3014, or email to: HYPERLINK “mailto:Kathaleen.dixon@ state.co.us” Kathaleen.dixon@state.co.us For additional info please call 970-641-7060.

INTERESTED IN A CAREER WITH BENEFITS? The Crested Butte Bank, a branch of the Gunnison Bank and Trust Company, has an opening for a full-time teller to join the operations side of our growing bank. Applicants should have strong customer service skills, the ability to multitask, and a willingness to learn. GB&T fosters a learning environment where you will gain exposure to multiple areas of the bank with a strong foundation in operations. Pay starting at $20. Robust benefits package includes 401(k), medical insurance, vision insurance, life insurance and disability insurance (ST and LT). Pooled transportation is available. Send resume to abrown@crestedbuttebank. com or lbeda@gunnisonbank.com.

STEPPING STONES CHILDREN’S

CENTER IS HIRING: We offer competitive pay starting at $20-$23 depending on experience including benefits. Job consists of working with kids ages 12 weeks to 5 years

PROJECT HOPE OF THE GUNNISON VALLEY seeks a Bilingual Advocate for a 25-27 hour/week position to serve victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and/or stalking. To apply, send resume, cover letter, and 3 references to: director@hope4gv.org. See further info on our website at hope4gv.org/employment.

CRESTED BUTTE BURGER COMPANY is hiring Team Members, $16-18/hr. + gratuity, for summer seasonal work from June to September. For more information or to submit a resume, please email: crestedbutteburgerco@gmail.com.

SPECTRUM IS HIRING a Business Account Executive for the Gunnison Valley. You’ll have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with the local community. The AE role is responsible for selling communications solutions to local busineses. Apply online at

ICLEAN IN CRESTED BUTTE is looking for cleaners. Pay DOE. Please call 970-3312417. Buscamos limpiadores para trabajar en Crested Butte. Por favor, comuníquese con IClean al 970-331-2417.

THE SAND JUAN MOUNTIANS ASSOCIATION is hiring a Visitor Information Specialist. The VIS Specialist will work closely with the Gunnison Bureau of Land Management staff and will answer phone calls from the public and provide in person information while performing other miscellaneous front desk duties for the BLM at the Gunnison Field Office. For more information visit www.sjma.org/jobs. To apply, please send a resume and cover letter to jobs@sjma.org.

CURRENT GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: PATROL DEPUTY, Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $72,397.26 to $102,405.83 plus full benefits. Take home vehicle & uniform allowance provided by the Sheriff’s Office. HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR, Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly range from $23.60 to $31.69 plus full benefits.

SHOP TECHNICIAN I, Public Works: 40 hours/week, hourly range from $26.51 to $30.19, depending on experience, plus full benefits.

SUMMER SEASONAL, Public Works: 40 hours/week, hourly range from $21.20 to $24.14, depending on experience, plus partial benefits.

PLANNING TECHNICIAN/PLANNER I, Community Development: 40 hours/week, hourly range from Planning Technician: $27.84 to $31.69 Planner I: $31.28 to $35.61, depending on experience, plus full benefits. IT HELP DESK TECH, Information Technology: 40 hours/week, hourly range from $26.51 to $30.19, depending on experience, plus full benefits.

UTILITY WATER/WASTEWATER MANAGER, Information Technology: 40 hours/week, hourly range from $39.11 to $44.53, depending on experience, plus full benefits.

PUBLIC HEALTH NURSE II —- NURSE FAMILY PARTNERSHIP, Health & Human Services: 32 hours/ week, hourly range from $34.81 to $42.31, depending on experience, plus full benefits. For more information, including complete job descriptions, required qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCounty.org/jobs.

FRONT DESK RECEPTIONIST WANTED: The Inn at Tomichi Village is seeking a friendly, organized individual for front desk duties. Must have strong communication skills and a professional attitude. Full-time and part-time positions available. Experience is a plus, but not required. Apply in person at: The Inn at Tomichi Village. 41883 US Highway 50, Gunnison, CO. GOLDEN EAGLE is looking for CDL and nonCDL drivers. Pay is based on experience. Call 970-641-3230.

POWERSTOP is looking for head cook. Pay is $50,000 minimum, position also offers paid time off and health insurance reimbursement.

THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring the following part-time and full-time seasonal positions: Bunker Crew Team Member, $18$20/hr.; Dinner Sous Chef, $27-$30/hr. + gratuity; Breakfast Cook $22-$25/hr. + gratuity (hours 7:30am-11:30am); Line Cook, $22$26/hr. + gratuity. Employee benefits include employee discounts and complimentary golf. For more information or to apply, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte.com or send an email to jobs@clubatcrestedbutte.com.

KITCHEN LINE COOK WANTED AT PUBLIC HOUSE: Join our team and prepare varied cuisines in a fast paced kitchen. Morning prep, lunch and dinner shifts available. This full-time or part-time, seasonal role starts at $25-$30/hour, depending on qualifications, plus tips and potential for company subsidized housing. The season runs to Oct. Please apply online at elevenexperience.com/careers/ or email jobs@elevenexperience.com for more information on how to apply.

BUILDING INSPECTOR: The Town of

Crested Butte is looking for a Building Inspector to join the Community Development team. The Building Inspector is responsible for performing a variety of commercial, industrial, residential plan review and building and safety inspections of new and existing properties for compliance with Town adopted regulations and building codes. This year-round position includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer paid health, dental, vision, life insurance, and contribution to retirement plan after one year of employment. Starting pay is $35.49 - $42.59 DOQ. Full job description is available on the Town’s website at www. townofcrestedbutte.com/jobs. Please submit application, cover letter, and resume via email to jobs@crestedbutte-co.gov. Position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE is looking for a Deputy Marshal. The Deputy Marshal performs a full range of law enforcement duties necessary to ensure public safety, protect life and property, and enforce laws and ordinances. Compensation: No POST

GHS - Dr. Coleman

GCS - Mrs. Brookhart

CBCS - Mr. Martineau

• Gunnison County Education

Association Negotiations - Mr. VanderVeer

• Gunnison County Education Association 3x3 - Mr. VanderVeer

Fund 26 - Dr. Coleman

Gunnison Memorial Scholarship - Mrs. Brookhart

Health Insurance Committee - Mr. VanderVeer

Housing Advisory Committee-Mr. VanderVeer

• Call to

• Roll call

• Pledge of Allegiance Approval of agenda (ACTION, All) Commendations and celebrations (Information, Successful Students, Strong Employees)

Public comment (Information, Engaged Community)

Please use the public participation form, or use the Q&A feature in Zoom, and indicate your name, address, and topic for comment.

• Consent agenda (ACTION, All) Items in the consent agenda are considered routine and will be enacted under one motion. There will not be separate discussion of these items prior to the time the board votes unless a Board Member requests an item be removed from the grouping for separate consideration.

Board of Education Minutes May 19, 2025 Regular meeting Finance: Approve for payment, as presented by the Director of Finance, warrants as indicated:

• General Account # 45070-45191

• Payroll Direct Deposit # 65391-65785

• Personnel

• Amelia Poppe-4th grade-CBES

• John Caldwell-Social Studies-CBSS

• Noelle Larson-Resignation-Gifted/ Talented-CBSS Meredith O’Connor-ResignationSpanish-CBSS Jayde Wilkerson-Educational Asst.GES

Items for information, discussion, and action

• Facilities Improvement Program Update (Information/Discussion, Functional Facilities)

• Artaic Group: Chris Guarino, John Usery, Matt Prinster, and Austin Rosenthal

• Discussion regarding possible employee/attainable housing project on district properties in Gunnison (Discussion, Strong Employees, Healthy Finances)

Paul Major, Rural Homes Third Quarter Financials Presentation (Discussion, Healthy Finances)

Mrs. Tia Mills, Director of Finance

• Consider approval of Gunnison Watershed School District to Participate in the Coordinated Election on November 4, 2025 (ACTION, Engaged Community)

• Dr. Leslie Nichols, Superintendent

• Consider approval of .5 FTE Literacy Implementation Coach to be filled by a Teacher On Special Assignment (TOSA) (ACTION, Strong Employees) Sally Hensley, CBES Principal

Dr. Leslie Nichols, Superintendent Substance Abuse Prevention Presentation (Information/Discussion, Successful Students)

• Assistant Principals Susan PowersGHS, Renee Brekke - GMS, John TrincaCBSS

• Gunnison County Juvenile Services

staff

• Dr. Leslie Nichols, Superintendent

• Other Administrative Report Items (Information, All)

Dr. Leslie Nichols, Superintendent

Items introduced by Board Members (Discussion, All)

Board committee reports (Information, All)

Board/Student Engagement - Dr. Coleman and Mrs. Schloesser

• School Board Policy - Mrs. Brookhart and Dr. Coleman

• Executive Committee for Bond Project

- Mr. Martineau

• Superintendent Evaluation- Dr. Coleman

• District Accountability Committee (DAC) - Mrs. Schloesser

School Accountability Committees (SAC)

$32.51 - $38.25 per hour ($67,621 - $79,560 per year) / POST laterals negotiable. Requirements: high school diploma or equivalent, Colorado Driver’s License or obtain one within 30 days of employment, possess a valid Colorado Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification or obtain one within 1 year from date of employment, must be 21 at time of POST certification. Full job description is available on the Town’s website at www. townofcrestedbutte.com. Please submit your application, cover letter, and resume to jobs@crestedbutte-co.gov. Position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

NOTICE

NOTICE OF PRACTICE CLOSURE: Effective 7/31/2025: William S. Timothy, MD Peak Physiatry, LLC 112 Spencer Ave., Gunnison, CO, 81230

Department at PO Box 326, Saguache, CO 81149 or email to atorrez@saguachecountyco.gov.

By: Liza Marron, Chairman

Saguache County Board of Commissioners

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of June 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2025

17471

• Gunnison Valley Education Foundation-Dr. Coleman

• Upcoming agenda items and meeting schedule (Information, Engaged Community)

• June 23, 2025 Regular Meeting/Budget Adoption@5:30pm-GHS

Library

August 12, 2025 Regular Meeting@5:30pm GHS Library

August 26, 2026 First Day of School!

August 26, 2025 Work Session@5:30pm Lake School

Executive Session: (Discussion, Strong Employees)

C.R.S. 24-6-402 (4)(f) that the Board enter executive session to discuss a personnel matter. The particular matter that is to be discussed behind closed doors is the superintendent evaluation.

• Adjournment

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication date of June 5, 2025

17515

NOTICE OF BUDGET

Notice is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Board of Education of Gunnison Watershed School District for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 and has been filed in the office of the Superintendent (which has been relocated to 800 W Ohio-Gunnison High School Guidance Office) where it is available for public inspection. A Public Hearing is scheduled for June 9, 2025 at 5:30pm. Such proposed budget will be considered for adoption at a meeting of the Board of Education of said District at 800 W Ohio on Monday, June 23, 2025.

Any person paying school taxes in said district may at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget file or register his/her objections thereto.

Board of Education

Dated: May 20, 2025

Gunnison Watershed School District RE1J Dr. Jody Coleman, Secretary

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of May 22, 29 andw June 5,. 2025 17373

NOTICE OF HEARING

The Board of County Commissioners will hold a Public Hearing at the Saguache County Road and Bridge meeting Room located at 305 – 3rd Street, Saguache, Colorado, on the following date:

MONDAY , JUNE 30, 2025 at 10:00 AM to consider proposed changes to the Saguache County 1041 Regulations.

Chapter 1 – Administrative Regulations

Chapter 2 – Permit Regulations

Chapter 14 – Saguache County 1041 Regulations Regarding Solar Projects

To view the proposed changes BEGINNING FRIDAY, MAY 30, 2025, you may contact the Saguache County Land Use Department

– PO Box 326, Saguache, CO 81149 or atorrez@saguachecounty-co.gov, or by calling 719-655-2321 or you may also view the changes on our website at www. saguachecounty.colorado.gov .

Written comments will be accepted until Friday, JUNE 27, 2025 at 3pm, and may be sent to Saguache County Land Use

Patients may obtain records by contacting: Morgan Records Management Phone: 833-888-0061

Email: Medical@MorganRM.com Online: MorganRecordsManagement. com>Request My Records

OFFICE SPACE CENTRALLY LOCATED

Hwy 50, 400sf, lobby plus 2 offices. Restrooms in the building, most utilities included, $525/mo. $525 deposit, 1 year lease. Inquiries admin@jcycle.com 225-663-0038.

REAL ESTATE

AVAILABLE THIS WEEK: Built in 2007. 3BR, 2.5 bath town home in Gunnison. All appliances plus washer/dryer. $2,330

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE OF INTENT TO DISPOSE

Notice is hereby given to the following parties that their personal items stored at Discount Self Storage, 1825 N. Hwy 135 will be sold or disposed of unless claimed prior to June 19th.

Unit 53 - Jim McDougal Date of Redemption: June 19th, 2025

Unit 265 - Mikah Fontenot Date of Redemption: June 19th, 2025

Notice is hereby given to the following parties that their personal items stored at Discount Self Storage, 500 S. Blvd will be sold or disposed of unless claimed prior to June 19th.

D39 - Ian Lewis

Date of Redemption: June 19th, 2025

Notice is hereby given to the following parties that their personal items stored at Discount Self Storage, 246 Buckley will be sold or disposed of unless claimed prior to June 19th.

Up 9 and Up24 - Michael Kingsbury Date of Redemption: June 19th

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of June 5 and 12, 2025

17453

NOTICE OF NAME CHANGE

PUBLIC NOTICE OF PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Public Notice is given on June 3, 2025 that a Petition for a Change of Name of an Adult has been filed with the Gunnison CCounty Court

The Petition requests that the name of ESTEBAN DENIZ II be changed to ESTEBAN REYES

Heidi Duryea Clerk of Court /s/ Heidi Duryea

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of June 5, 12 and 19, 2025

COMBINED NOTICE (CRS §38-38-103) FORECLOSURE SALE NO. 2024CV30042 To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Writ of Execution: The undersigned Sheri IT caused the Certificate of Levy relating to the Writ of Execution and judgment described below to be recorded in the real property records of Gunnison County, Colorado. Gunnison Judgment Creditors - Arrowhead Improvements Association, Inc. Current Holder of the Judgment Creditor’s Rights - Arrowhead Improvements Association, Inc. Judgment Debtor - Sheri Wareham Judgment Date - December 13, 2024 Court and Case No. Judgment Entered in Transcript of Judgment Recording Date - Gunnison County, Colorado Dist. Ct. 2024CV30042 January 7, 2025 Reception Number of Transcript of Judgment - 700239 County of Recording - Gunnison Writ of Execution Date - April 11, 2025 Original Judgment Amount - $3,138.71 Outstanding Original Judgment Amount$3,138.71

monthly for one year lease. Seasonal rentals considered. Call owner at 361-550-0919 or

Gunnison - Huge parking lot, tons of foot traffic, excellent 135 highway visibility - For more information, call Jordon Ringel at 817733-6947 or visit GunnisonMeadows.com.

2 LOTS: Approximately 1 acre each in a private retreat at Hwy 135 &

NOTICE OF SALE

THEREFORE, pursuant to the said Writ of Execution directing me to sell the said real property, notice is hereby given that I will at public auction, at l0:00 a.m. on Tuesday July 1’1 2025, at 510 W. Bidwell Ave., Gunnison, CO 81230, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Judgment Debtor, Judgment Debtor’s heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the Judgment, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.

THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN. Lot 9 in Block 1 1 of Arrowhead in Gunnison Country Subdivision, Filing No.1 according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded on the 5th day of February, 1974, under Reception No. 298784 of the Gunnison County Clerk and Recorder’s records together with a right of ingress and egress to and from the Alpine Plateau Road No. 559 over the platted roads over said subdivision and from said platted roads over the common grounds to said lot, with all appurtenances, County of Gunnison, State of Colorado. Also known by street and number as: 655 Balsam Rd., Cimarron, CO 81220 THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE WRIT OF EXECUTION AND CERTIFICATE OF LEVY.

CITY OF GUNNISON 2025 Drinking Water Quality Report

Covering Data For Calendar Year 2024 | Public Water System ID: CO0126325

Esta es información importante. Si no la pueden leer, necesitan que alguien se la traduzca.

We are pleased to present to you this year’s water quality report. Our constant goal is to provide you with a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. Please contact DAVID GARDNER at 970-641-8322 with any questions or for public participation opportunities that may affect water quality.

General Information

of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that the water

More

about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-4264791) or by visiting http://water.epa.gov/drink/contaminants.

All drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) or by visiting epa.gov/ ground-water-and-drinking-water.

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immunocompromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV-AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk of infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, or to receive a copy of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and microbiological contaminants call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (1-800-426-4791).

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immunocompromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV-AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk of infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, or to receive a copy of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and microbiological contaminants call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (1-800-426-4791).

The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. Contaminants that may be present in source water include:

• Microbial contaminants: viruses and bacteria that may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife.

• Inorganic contaminants: salts and metals, which can be naturallyoccurring or result from urban stormwater runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.

The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. Contaminants that may be present in source water include:

•Microbial contaminants: viruses and bacteria that may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife.

• Pesticides and herbicides: may come from a variety of sources, such as agriculture, urban stormwater runoff, and residential uses.

• Radioactive contaminants: can be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities. • Organic chemical contaminants: including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production, and also may come from gas stations, urban storm water runoff, and septic systems.

•Inorganic contaminants: salts and metals, which can be naturally-occurring or result from urban storm water runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.

Detected Contaminants

GUNNISON CITY OF routinely monitors for contaminants in your drinking water according to Federal and State laws. The following table(s) show all detections found in the period of January 1 to December 31, 2022 unless otherwise noted. The State of Colorado requires us to monitor for certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants are not expected to vary significantly from year to year, or the system is not considered vulnerable to this type of contamination. Therefore, some of our data, though representative, may be more than one-year-old. Violations and Formal Enforcement Actions, if any, are reported in the next section of this report.

In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment prescribes regulations limiting the amount of certain contaminants

•Pesticides and herbicides: may come from a variety of sources, such as agriculture, urban storm water runoff, and residential uses.

•Radioactive contaminants: can be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.

•Organic chemical contaminants: including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production, and also may come from gas stations, urban storm water runoff, and septic systems.

In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment prescribes regulations limiting the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. The Food and Drug Administration regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water that must provide the same protection for public health.

Lead in Drinking Water

Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. We are responsible for providing high quality drinking water and removing lead pipes, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components in your home. You share the responsibility for protecting yourself and your family from the lead in your home plumbing. You can take responsibility by identifying and removing lead materials within your home plumbing and taking steps to reduce your family's risk. Before drinking tap water, flush your pipes for several minutes by running your tap, taking a shower, doing laundry or a load of dishes. You can also use a filter certified by an American National Standards Institute accredited certifier to reduce lead in drinking water. If you are concerned about lead in your water and wish to have your water tested, contact DAVID GARDNER at 970-641-8322. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available at epa. gov/safewater/lead.

Service Line Inventory

Note: Only detected contaminants sampled within the last 5 years appear in this report. If no tables appear in this section, then no contaminants were detected in the last round of monitoring..

Maximum Contaminant

available treatment technology.

• Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal (MRDLG) - The level of a drinking water disinfectant, below

use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants.

• Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL) - The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a

microbial contaminants.

• Not Applicable (N/A) – Does not apply or not available.

• Parts per million (ppm) or Milligrams per liter (mg/L) - one part per million

• Parts per billion (ppb) or Micrograms per liter (ug/L) -

New state and federal laws require us to inventory all water service lines in our service area to classify the material. A service line is the underground pipe that carries water from the water main, likely in the street, into your home or building. If you would like to view a copy of our service line inventory or have questions about the material of your service line, contact ANDY WOLFE at 970-641-8330.

Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP)

• Picocuries per liter (pCi/L) − Measure of the radioactivity in water.

• Range (R) − Lowest value to the highest value.

• Sample Size (n) − Number or count of values (i.e. number of water samples collected).

• Violation (No Abbreviation) − Failure to meet a Colorado Primary Drinking Water Regulation.

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has provided us with a

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment may have provided us with a Source Water Assessment Report for our water supply. For general information or to obtain a copy of the report please visit wqcdcompliance.com/ccr. The report is located under “Guidance: Source Water Assessment Reports”. Search the table using our system name or ID, or by contacting DAVID GARDNER at 970-641-8322. The Source Water Assessment Report provides a screening-level evaluation of potential contamination that could occur. It does not mean that the contamination has or will occur. We can use this information to evaluate the need to improve our current water treatment capabilities and prepare for future contamination threats. This can help us ensure that quality finished water is delivered to your homes. In addition, the source water assessment results provide a starting point for developing a source water protection plan. Potential sources of contamination in our source water area are listed on the next page.

visit http://wqcdcompliance.com/ccr. The report is located under “Source Water Assessment Reports”, and then “Assessment Report by County”.

COUNTY WSD or by contacting MARLENE CROSBY at 970-641-0044. The Source

mean that the contamination has or will occur. We can use

Please contact us to learn more about what you can do to help protect your drinking water sources, any questions about the Drinking Water Quality Report, to learn more about our system, or to attend scheduled public meetings. We want you, our valued customers, to be informed about the services we provide and the quality water we deliver to you every day.

TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

• Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) − The highest level of a contaminant allowed in drinking water.

• Treatment Technique (TT) − A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water.

• Health-Based − A violation of either a MCL or TT.

• Non-Health-Based − A violation that is not a MCL or TT.

• Action Level (AL) − The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment and other regulatory requirements.

• Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL) − The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants.

• Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) − The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.

• Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal (MRDLG) − The level of a drinking water disinfectant, below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants.

• Violation (No Abbreviation) − Failure to meet a Colorado Primary Drinking Water Regulation.

• Formal Enforcement Action (No Abbreviation) − Escalated action taken by the State (due to the risk to public health, or number or severity of violations) to bring a non-compliant water system back into compliance.

• Variance and Exemptions (V/E) − Department permission not to meet a MCL or treatment technique under certain conditions.

• Gross Alpha (No Abbreviation) − Gross alpha particle activity compliance value. It includes radium-226, but excludes radon 222, and uranium.

• Picocuries per liter (pCi/L) − Measure of the radioactivity in water.

• Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU) − Measure of the clarity or cloudiness of water. Turbidity in excess of 5 NTU is just noticeable to the typical person.

• Compliance Value (No Abbreviation) – Single or calculated value used to determine if regulatory contaminant level (e.g. MCL) is met. Examples of calculated values are the 90th Percentile, Running Annual Average (RAA) and Locational Running Annual Average (LRAA).

• Average (x-bar) − Typical value.

• Range (R) − Lowest value to the highest value.

• Sample Size (n) − Number or count of values (i.e. number of water samples collected).

• Parts per million = Milligrams per liter (ppm = mg/L) − One part per million corresponds to one minute in two years or a single penny in $10,000.

• Parts per billion = Micrograms per liter (ppb = ug/L) − One part per billion corresponds to one minute in 2,000 years, or a single penny in $10,000,000.

• Not Applicable (N/A) – Does not apply or not available.

• Level 1 Assessment – A study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system.

• Level 2 Assessment – A very detailed study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why an E. coli MCL violation has occurred and/or why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system on multiple occasions.

The City of Gunnison will not be hand-delivering this report to consumers. Water Quality Reports are available on the City of Gunnison’s website: www.GunnisonCO.gov/waterreport

IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED;

County Sheriff Adam Murdie

/s/ Josh Ashe

Undersheriff

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: Jacob A. With, Atty. Reg.#: 40546; Law of the Rockies, 525 N. Main Street, Gunnison, CO 81230; 970-6411903 ex. 2

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of May 15, 22, 29, June 5, 12, 2025 17316

COMBINED NOTICE

(CRS §38-38-103) FORECLOSURE SALE NO. 2024CV30043 To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Writ of Execution:

The undersigned Sheriff caused the Certificate of Levy relating to the Writ of Execution described below to be recorded in the real property records of Gunnison County, Colorado.

Judgment Creditors - Arrowhead Improvements Association, Inc.

Current Holder of the Judgment Creditor’s Rights - Arrowhead Improvements Association, Inc.

Judgment Debtor - Michael W. Kessell

Judgment Date - December 23, 2024 Court and Case No. Judgment Entered in Transcript of Judgment Recording Date - Gunnison County, Colorado Dist. Ct. 2024CV30043 January 7, 2025 and March 14, 2025

Reception Number of Transcript of Judgment - 700238 and 70 l 051

County of Recording - Gunnison Writ of Execution Date - April 11, 2025 Original Judgment Amount - $2,937.57

CITY OF GUNNISON 2025

Drinking Water Quality Report Continued

Outstanding Original Judgment Amount$2,937.57

THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN. The real property being foreclosed is

Lot 12 in Block 2 of Arrowhead in Gunnison Country Subdivision, Filing No.1 Amended according to the recorded plat thereof as recorded on the 5th day of February 1974, under Reception No. 298784, with all appurtenances, County of Gunnison, State of Colorado.

Also known by street and number as: 551 Spruce Road, Cimarron, CO 81220 THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE WRIT OF EXECUTION AND CERTIFICATE OF LEVY. NOTICE OF SALE THEREFORE, pursuant to the said Writ of Execution directing me to sell the said real property, notice is hereby given that I will at public auction, at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, 2025 at 510 W. Bidwell Ave., Gunnison, CO 81230, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property

Covering Data For Calendar Year 2024 | Public Water System ID: CO0126325 Esta es información importante. Si no la pueden leer, necesitan que alguien se la traduzca.

and all interest of the said Judgment Debtor, Judgment Debtor’s heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the Judgment, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED; Gunnison County Sheriff Adam Murdie /s/ Josh Ashe Undersheriff

The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: Jacob A. With, Atty. Reg.#: 40546; Law of the Rockies, 525 N. Main Street, Gunnison, CO 81230; 970-6411903 ex. 2

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of May 15, 22, 29, June 5, 12, 2025

17315

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Matthew Jerome Cahir, also known as, Matthew J. Cahir, Deceased Case Number: 25PR30013.

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Gunnison, County, Colorado or on or before September 29, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred. James E. Plumhoff, III- Devor & Plumhoff, LLC, 152 Colorado Ave., Montrose, CO 81401, (970) 249-7000.

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado. Publication dates of May 29, June 5 and 12, 2025

17391

PUBLIC HEARING

CITY OF GUNNISON NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: PLEASE TAKE NOTE THAT, pursuant to Sections 6.7 and 12.5 of the Land Development Code of the City of Gunnison, Colorado, a public hearing will be held at the hour of 6:00 p.m. on the 25th day of June, 2025 in the City Council Chambers, Gunnison Municipal Building, 201 West Virginia Avenue, Gunnison, Colorado on the merits of Major Subdivision application, Sketch Plan, SB 25-3, submitted by Claire Morris-Williams, Dover Kohl & Partners, LLC, representing the owner Sherman Street Holdings, LLC to subdivide a 24.97 acre tract into 103 lots. The property is legally described as: A 24.97 acre tract, situated within the NW1/4 of Section 2, Township 49 North, Range 1 west of the New Mexico Principal Meridian, City and County of Gunnison, State of Colorado. A full description of the tract is located in the Community Development Department.

AT WHICH TIME AND PLACE you may attend and give testimony, if you so desire. The public may attend Public Hearings and Regular and Special Sessions in person or remotely. To attend the meeting remotely go to: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83460041071?p wd=v1Qey90uAofxiR7oWNjvdgyWerrDgN.1

City of Gunnison, Colorado Planning and Zoning Commission /s/ Andie Ruggera, Senior Planner Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of June 5, 2025 17510

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice to Bidders

Gunnison - Crested Butte Regional Airport Gunnison, Colorado 2025 Airfield Pavement Maintenance CDAG Project No. 24-GUC-01

Sealed Bids, subject to the conditions contained herein, for improvements to the Gunnison - Crested Butte Regional Airport, Gunnison, Colorado, CDAG Project No. 24GUC-01, will be received by the GunnisonCrested Butte Regional Airport, at the Airport Administration Offices, 519 Rio Grande Avenue, Gunnison, Colorado, 81230, until Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. (local time). Bids shall be addressed to the attention of the Gunnison County, Stephanie Petsch, 519 Rio Grande Ave, Gunnison, Colorado, 81230, and will be clearly marked “Sealed Bid: 2025 Airfield Pavement Maintenance. DO NOT OPEN”. Bids will

be publicly opened and read aloud at 1:00 p.m. (local time) in the Airport Administration Offices, 519 Rio Grande Avenue, Gunnison, Colorado, 81230, in the order they were received.

The bidding documents are available at https://woolpert.com/bid and/or www. questcdn.com - Reference Quest Number 96647389664738. To be considered a plan holder for bids, register with QuestCDN.com for a free Regular membership and download the bidding documents in digital form at a cost of $22. Downloading the documents and becoming a plan holder is recommended as plan holder’s receive automatic notice of addenda, other bid updates. Contact QuestCDN Customer Support at 952-2331632 or Support@QuestCDN.com for assistance in membership registration or downloading digital bidding documents. Interested parties may view the Contract Documents at no cost prior to deciding to become a plan holder.

In order to submit a responsive bid as a Prime Contractor and to receive all necessary addendum(s) for this project, you must be on the Planholder’s List. It is the planholder’s responsibility to review the site for addendums and changes before submitting their proposal. This includes review for environmental changes. Environmental changes during construction could take up to three months for approval. For additional information, please contact us via email at bid.info@woolpert.com.

The approximate quantities of major bid items involved in the proposed work are: C-105a

Pre-Bid Conference. A pre-bid conference will not be held for this project.

Bid Conditions. All bidders shall make arrangements with the Gunnison - Crested Butte Regional Airport to examine the site to become familiar with all site conditions prior to submitting their bid.

The bidder is required to provide all information as required within the Contract Documents. The bidder is required to bid on all items of every schedule or as otherwise detailed in the Instructions to Bidders.

Bids may be held by Sponsor for a period not to exceed 60 calendar days from the date of the bid opening for the purpose of evaluating bids prior to award of contract.

No Bidder may withdraw its bid after the bid has been opened. Gunnison County reserves the right to waive any informality in bidding and to reject any and all bids. All questions regarding the bid are to be directed to Jesse Erickson, 720 South Colorado Boulevard, Suite 1200-S, Glendale, CO. 80246, Jesse.Erickson@ woolpert.com.

Bid Bond. Guarantee will be required with each bid as a certified check on a solvent bank or a Bid Bond in the amount of five (5) % of the total amount of the bid, made payable to Gunnison County.

Performance & Payment Bond. The successful bidder will be required to furnish separate performance and payment bonds each in an amount equal to 100% of the contract price.

Federal Language Required for Solicitations:

Title VI Solicitation Notice: The Gunnison County, in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (78 Stat. 252, 42 USC §§ 2000d to 2000d-4) and the Regulations, hereby notifies all bidders or offerors that it will affirmatively ensure that for any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement will be afforded full and fair opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and no businesses will be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, national origin (including limited English proficiency), creed, sex (including sexual orientation and gender identity), age, or disability in consideration for an award.

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of June 5 and 12, 2025. 17435

Bethany Church 909 N Wisconsin St. (behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144

One service at 9 a.m. with nursery & children’s church.

Check us out on YouTube at Gunnison Bethany. gunnisonbethany.com

B'nai Butte Jewish Congregation PO Box 2537 Crested Butte, CO 81224 305-803-3648 bnaibutte@gmail.com

Serving the Jewish communities of Crested Butte, Gunnison and surrounging areas.

Spiritual leader: Rabbi Mark Kula is available for you at RabbiMarkKula@gmail.com bnaibutte.org

Community Church of Gunnison

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925

Pastor Larry Nelson

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m. Weekend Services 9:30 a.m.

Nursery & Age-Graded Ministry

Weekly Student Ministry

Weekly Adult LifeGroups

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9-4

For more info: ccgunnison.com or email info@ccgunnison.com

Join us in-person, listen to our broadcast on 98.3 FM, or view online stream on YouTube

Transforming Lives • Building Community

First Baptist Church

120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240

Pastor Jonathan Jones

SUNDAY

Sunday School at 10 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship at 11 a.m.

Sunday Evening Service at 6 p.m. (during school year)

WEDNESDAY (during school year)

Truth Trackers Kids Club at 6:30 p.m.

Youth Group for Teens at 7:30 p.m. firstbaptistgunnison.org.

Gunnison

Congregational Church

United Church of Christ

317 N. Main St. • 970-641-3203

Reverand Ian Wrisley

Welcoming, Open and Affirming, Building a Just world for All. Sundays, 10 a.m. Fridays Meditation, 12:30-1 p.m. “Come-as-You-Are” Worship gunnisonucc.org

Trinity Baptist Church

523 N. Pine St. • 970-641-1813

Senior Pastor - Joe Ricks

Sunday Service 9:30 a.m.

Adult Bible Study 8 a.m. trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church

711 N. Main • 970-641-1860

Senior Pastor Robert Carabotta

Assoc. Pastor Jacob With

Childrens Sunday School – Sunday 9 a.m.

Adult Sunday School – Sunday 9 a.m.

Divine Service of the Word – Sunday 10 a.m.

Starting March 5 - Wednesday night service at 7pm.

St. Peter’s Catholic Church

300 N. Wisconsin • 970-641-0808 Fr. Andres Ayala-Santiago gunnisoncatholic.org crestedbuttecatholic.org or call the Parish Office.

St. Peter’s - Gunnison Sat 5 p.m. & Sun 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. (Spanish) Mass

First Sunday of every month bilingual Mass 11 a.m. Queen of All Saints - Crested Butte, 401 Sopris Sun 8:30 a.m. Mass

St. Rose of Lima - Lake City Communion Service, Sun. at 10 a.m.

Church in the Barn 8007 County Road 887

Waunita Hot Springs Ranch • 970-641-8741 Sundays, 10:30 a.m. Non Denominational Come as you are.

Church of Christ

600 E. Virginia • 970-641-1588

Sunday Morning Bible Class: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship: 6 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Class: 7 p.m.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Gunnison Branch 810 N 11th St. 970-648-4804

Sacrament Meeting 10 a.m.

Attending church each Sunday is a respite from fast-paced daily living. Join us to worship God, strengthen your spiritual connections, and focus on Jesus. Worship with a community of people who are trying to be more Christlike and learn from each other.

The Good Samaritan Episcopal Church

307 W. Virginia Ave. • 970-641-0429

Rev. Laura Osborne, Vicar

First Sunday of each month –11 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II Alternating at Good Samaritan and All Saints in the Mountains

Check our websites for location

Second Sunday-Fifth Sunday –9 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II

Children’s Sunday school –2nd and 4th Sundays, monthly Office hours: M-TH 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Taize – 1st Wednesday, monthly - 7 p.m. goodsamaritangunnison.org

Visit our partnership church: All Saints in the Mountains, Crested Butte Meeting Second-Fifth Sundays at 5 p.m., Holy Eucharist, Rite II

403 Maroon Ave, Crested Butte

Visit our website for location of 11 a.m. Holy Eucharist, First Sunday of each month allsaintsinthemountains.org

SWIM: Rhodes and Hindes compete in Cortez, A30 ATHLETICS: Five Cowboys sign with college programs, A30

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2025

Gunnison softball scraps back against Miners

Comeback cut short by weather delay

Evan Bjornstad Times Staff Writer

The Gunnison U14 softball team surged back to tie the North Fork Miners on June 2, despite a rocky start and poor weather at Jorgensen Park.

The Gunnison girls started the ballgame on the back foot, facing drizzly conditions from the opening pitch. Pitcher McKayla Singer started on the bump, but North Fork relied on stolen bases to drive home six

runs. Gunnison showed early signs of hope in the bottom of the first. Two batters stole home to whittle away at the North Fork lead, catching up 6-2. North Fork sprang out of the away dugout in the second and took a 12-2 lead. But the early deficit lit a fire in Gunnison batters, and the girls sent four runners across home to halve the score, 12-6. The comeback continued into the third inning, as Payton Shroeder took the mound and Gunnison thrived on lockdown defense. Despite North Fork loading the bases, Gunnison’s infield escaped the inning unscathed. Gunnison’s offense came to life in the third, after Brynn

Romero knocked home three RBIs with a double. Down by three runs, Lauren Cowan walked and again loaded the bases. Then, a wild pitch skipped past the North Fork catcher, allowing a final Gunnison runner to snatch a free trip to home plate. The final run tied the game 12-12, right before the heavens opened, and the game was called as a draw.

The Gunnison U14 softball team will return to the plate on Monday, June 9 at Jorgensen Park.

(Evan Bjornstad can be contacted at 970.641.1414.)

McKayla Singer slings a fastball. (Photos by Evan Bjornstad)

Dakota Bennett guards the infield.

Special Guest Artist Concert Echoes of Italy

Featuring Grammy winner Michelle DeYoung, Yumi Hwang-Williams, and members of the Colorado Symphony.

Friday June 6 | 6:00 PM

Kincaid Concert Hall on the WCU Campus (Quigley Hall)

$10 recommended donation at the door

Spring signings

Five Cowboy seniors celebrated their final spring semester by signing letters of intent with collegiate athletic programs. Sam Jones signed on to run with Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina. Brock Fry committed to the rodeo program at MidPlains Community College in North Platte, Nebraska. Morgan Greenhalgh will compete in rodeo with the Lamar Community College Lopes in Lamar, Colorado. Sienna Gomez will take her talents to the track and field program at Wingate University in North Carolina. Talon Kibler signed on to play baseball with a gap year program called Post Grad Sports in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Due to construction for safety, maintenance & capacitybuilding improvements, Lake School, Gunnison Community School and Crested Butte Community School campuses will be closed this summer.

Rhodes and Hindes represent Stingrays in Cortez

Two Gunnison Stingray swimmers kicked off the summer swim season at the Cortez Water Dragons Summer Open May 31-June 1. Ava Hindes and Iliana Rhodes each racked in points at the away meet. Hindes placed third in the 100-meter backstroke, and sixth in 50-meter backstroke to earn 29 team points. Rhodes took seventh in the 50-meter breaststroke, and brought home 17 points across six events.

Debido a la construcción y por medidas de seguridad, mantenimiento y capacidad- mejoras de los planteles, la escuela de Lake, la escuela comunitaria de Gunnison y la escuela comunitaria de Crested Butte estarán cerradas este verano

Yumi Hwang-Williams Colorado Symphony

Andrew Krimm Altius Quartet

Seoyoen Min Colorado Symphony

Dr. Stephanie Mientka Boulder Philharmonic

Dakota Cotugno Colorado Symphony Jeremy Reger, piano Central City Opera

Michelle DeYoung, mezzo The Metropolitan Opera

(Courtesy Sarah Rais)

(Photo by Evan Bjornstad)

Backyard baseball

The Gunnison U10 baseball team opened its summer season with a 3-3 tie on June 3 at Jorgensen Park. The boys will return to action on June 10 at 5:30 p.m.

(Photos by Evan Bjornstad)

FAMILY MEDICINE CLINIC

Laura Villanueva, MD

Megan Tucker, DO

Amanda Hill, MD, FAAP

William Gattis, MD Brigid Heckel, FNP

Emily Ferrell, FNP

Kenneth Anderson, DO Sam Elzay, PA-C, MSPH

Maija Swanson, MD

Jay McMurren, MD Eric Thorson, MD

Kira Kitchens, FNP-C

Dr. Clinton McBride, MD Julia Mochulsky, PA-C