Gunnison Country Times, November 13, 2025 by alanwartesmedia

OPINION: Parks suffer when rangers disappear A6

Gunnison Middle School cross country boys win division at state

Victory caps a record-setting year

James Nokes Special to the Times

For the first time in Gunnison Middle School history, the boys cross country team won the Colorado Middle School State Championship on Oct. 25 at Fehringer Ranch Park in Denver. The team finished off an undefeated season with a score of 48 points — 61 points better than the secondplace score of 109. The girls team finished in eighth place in the 24-team field with a score of 234 points.

With four runners in the top 10, the Gunnison boys team cruised to their title

Cross Country A8

NEWS: Fatal crash on Hwy. 135 A9

COMMUNITY: Annual Thanksgiving dinner set to serve, A5

SPORTS: GHS volleyball heads to state, A21

A3 OPINION A6

A17-A20 SPORTS A21

outscored

ACA tax credits set to expire

many face steep increases in premiums

Gia Wright Times Staff Writer

Barring congressional action, Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits are set to expire at the end of 2025. This could mean a rise in health care premiums for individuals and families buying insurance through Connect for Health Colorado, the state’s official insurance marketplace.

“We are definitely concerned about the end of the ACA tax credits because of how important the credits and subsidies are for those folks on the exchange to obtain health insurance at a reasonable cost,”

CEO of Gunnison Valley Health

Jason Amrich said. “Folks are going to have to figure out how to change or stretch their budgets or possibly make the really difficult decision to not choose health insurance.”

On top of the elimination of the enhanced tax credits, insurance rates are also continuing to increase. Rural areas like the Western Slope are facing high -

er increases in premiums due to factors like fewer insurance providers, higher incidents of health issues and higher utilization of healthcare. These combined factors are causing projected premium costs to rise significantly for many marketplace users next year — some as much as 200-300%.

Who is impacted?

Lauren Shondeck of Shondeck Financial Services and Insurance clarified that not all tax credits are set to go away, just the enhanced subsidies rolled out during the Biden era in the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

“If you are above 400% of the federal poverty line, you are no longer eligible for tax credits as of January 1 [2026],” she said.

For an individual tax filer, that limit equates to a yearly income of $62,600. If your income exceeds that limit, you’re no longer eligible to receive tax credits.

“So [starting] at $62,601, it’s a pretty dramatic premium increase for most people,” Shondeck said.

Individuals making less than $62,600 annually will still qualify for tax credits.

“If you’re below those thresholds you’re still receiving tax credits,” Shondeck said.

“[What we’ve seen is that] people below that threshold are in a good spot, with the same amount of tax credits if not better, it doesn’t feel like their premiums are going up dramatically. Some of them are even going down.”

Amrich provided an example of how these premiums could jump for policy holders.

“I was looking at one person’s current monthly costs. Right now the monthly cost for their premium is $630,” he said.

“The tax credit they received was $206, making the monthly payment $424. Their estimated monthly cost for 2026 is $783 and now that person is not going to receive a tax credit so potentially their payment

will go from $424 per month to $783, which is a gigantic increase.”

Not only are those paying for individual or family insurance plans through the exchange potentially facing challenging financial impacts from this change, hospitals and healthcare providers are also bracing for impact as large jumps to insurance premiums may cause larger numbers of citizens to go uninsured.

“Health happens no matter if we have insurance or not,” Amrich said. “We are also bound as a hospital to provide care in our emergency department regardless of ability to pay. We are concerned that we

The Gunnison middle School boys cross country team took first place in state for the first time in the school’s history. The team

the second place finisher by more than 60 points. (Left to right) Coach Cynthia Bruton, Brandon Hallock, David Coop, Beni Timm Rascon, Asher Chodorowski, Houston Stair, Ari Eberly and Alder Lamar. (Courtesy melissa Post)

Gunnison Valley Health (Times archive)

QUOTE of the week

“A community is only as strong as the ties between neighbors.”

— Maryo Ewell, Community dinner organizer

GET YOUR CITY NEWS HERE! CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

A heartfelt thank you to our community for continuing to make civic participation a priority. Congratulations to Matt Schwartz, Loren Ahonen, and Audrey Zahradka, who have been elected to serve as City Councilors. Their terms will begin on December 9, 2025, and we invite the community to join us at City Hall for the swearing-in ceremonies that evening.

Based on the number of votes received, Mr. Schwartz and Mr. Ahonen will serve four-year terms, while Ms. Zahradka will serve a two-year term. Diego Plata and Marisela Ballesteros will continue as City Councilors, each with two years remaining.

See story on A5

SNAP benefits update

Gunnison County reports that the situation around November SNAP benefits has been changing rapidly over the past few days.

Late Friday, about 32,000 Coloradans received their November SNAP benefits before a Supreme Court order paused further payments.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has now directed Colorado to resume payments, but only after recalculating benefit amounts for each household based on household size. Once recalculations are complete, partial payments will be issued — 65% of each household’s newly recalculated maximum benefit amount.

This does not mean everyone will get 65% of their usual benefit. The recalculated amounts will vary for each household. In addition, it will take a few days for the state to finish these recalculations and issue payments.

Gunnison County Health and Human Services does not yet have information on individual benefit amounts or payment dates but will share updates as soon as the state provides them.

For information updates and a comprehensive list of resources available within Gunnison and Hinsdale Counties, please visit gunnisoncounty.org/snaphold.

LEAP accepting applications

Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) is currently accepting applications and processing vendor payments for eligible applicants now through April 30, 2026.

LEAP is not currently affected by the federal government shutdown. While both LEAP and SNAP are federally funded, LEAP funds are awarded to the Colorado Department of Human Services in full at the beginning of the season.

LEAP helps eligible Colorado families, seniors and individuals pay a portion of their winter home heating costs. Last year, the program assisted 222 Gunnison County households, providing benefits between $200 and $1,000 per household during the heating season.

To apply or for more information visit cdhs.colorado.gov/leap or inquire in person at Gunnison County Health and Human Services at 220 N. Spruce St. in Gunnison, Mon.-Fri. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

According to the City of Gunnison’s Municipal Home Rule Charter, the Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem will be selected by a vote of the five councilors on the same evening their new terms begin. Serving in elected office carries great responsibility, and we extend our gratitude to all candidates for their dedication to our shared home.

Fire Services

Preliminary election results show that City voters approved Ballot Issue 2B, a property tax increase to support fire services and replace the aging fire station. As of now, the measure passed by just 16 votes and remains subject to certification. This property tax increase will sit on hold and not go into effect until and if a similar proposal in the Gunnison County Fire Protection District passes. The two ballot issues – 2B and 7A – were designed to work together because revenue from only one jurisdiction is not enough to secure the financing needed for construction.

While funding remains uncertain, the need for a new fire station has not changed. The current 50-year-old storage building is no longer safe or functional, yet it continues to house the dedicated individuals who respond to vehicle accidents, structure and wildland fires, swiftwater rescues, and more. Thirteen pieces of apparatus valued

at over $17.5 million are also stored there, inadequately protected.

The City and Fire District remain committed to finding a solution. “We have an ethical obligation to resolve the current conditions,” said Mayor Diego Plata. “Unfortunately, misinformation about the facility and financial impacts was difficult to correct. What we don’t do is give up.” The two taxing entities will meet this week to discuss next steps.

Land Development Code and Zoning Map

For the past 18 months, the City has worked with residents to update the regulations that shape how land can be used and developed. This effort is intended to help expand housing options, support local businesses, and maintain the character that makes Gunnison special.

The new regulations aim to make rules clearer and more flexible, encouraging and guiding growth while protecting community values. The proposed Land Development Code and Zoning Map go beyond technical code changes; they will influence how Gunnison prospers in the years ahead.

On October 29, 2025, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended that City Council deny the drafted regulations with 52 suggested changes. During the November 4 public hearing, City Council reviewed this recommendation and directed staff to incorporate changes into a final document, referred to as an ordinance, that becomes the “law,” if adopted. Ordinance No. 10, Series 2025, Repealing and Reenacting the City of Gunnison Land Development Code as Title 15 of the Gunnison Municipal Code, will be presented to City Council for preliminary approval on November 18. The public will be provided an opportunity to comment at that meeting and again on December 9 when, subject to final approval, the new Land Development Code and Zoning Map would be adopted and go into effect.

The ordinance will be available for review at gunnisonco.gov/ProposedLDC.

State Sales Tax, Vendor Fees, and Business Licenses

Starting next year, local businesses will no longer need to file a separate City sales tax return. Instead, the State of Colorado will collect and distribute City sales and use tax, aligning Gunnison with other local taxing jurisdictions.

This change will simplify reporting for businesses and streamline revenue distribution. Consistent with state policy, the City will also discontinue the 4% vendor service fee (a tax credit previously provided to businesses). All collected revenue will continue to be used as directed by voters, with the remainder supporting essential City services through the General Fund.

The new year will also introduce a business licensing requirement for all local businesses. This license will serve as a vital registry, help ensure land use compliance and provide an up-to-date emergency contact resource. Applications will be accepted after December 10, 2025. Stay tuned next month for more details.

Thank you to our dedicated community members who continue to stay engaged in City projects, decisions, and conversations. Our goal of sharing timely and transparent updates through articles, our website, social media, and other channels remains central to ensuring the community has access to accurate information that matters.

Marcia Morse Duncan, 92, of Gilbert, Arizona passed away peacefully at her home in Gilbert on Nov. 3, 2025.

Marcia was born on Aug. 10, 1933, to Thomas Weston Morse and Dorothy Seuss Morse in Marlboro, Massachusetts. After graduating high school from St. Ann’s Academy in Marlboro, she studied elementary education at Colby Junior College in New Long, New Hampshire; Lesley College in Cambridge, Massachusetts; and Mt. St. Mary College in Hooksett, New Hampshire.

She married Stuart Blackwell Duncan on Aug. 18, 1956, in

Marlboro. They were married for 40 years until Stuart passed away on Aug. 8, 1997. Marcia is survived by a niece, Susan Woods, of Amsterdam, the Netherlands and cousins on the east coast.

Marcia and Stuart left New England and moved to Colorado in 1968. Even though she left New England, New England never left her as illustrated by her speaking accent and her sensible approach to the world.

Her time in Colorado was spent teaching two generations of Aspen first-graders and helping her husband write how-to books on camping, experiencing the outdoors and carpentry. When she retired from the Aspen School District, they moved to Gunnison for thriving second careers as bookstore owners. They owned The Book Worm from 1992-2008.

Marcia moved to Ajo, Arizona, in 2008 after visiting friends and finding that the community was full of friendly and interesting people and she quickly became involved in a whirlwind of activities.

She gleaned a great deal of

Oct. 23, 1957, in South Bend, Indiana, the son of James and Bonnie (Aspery) Branch.

Scott moved to Batesville, Indiana, in 2015 to care for the family farm, but his heart was always in Colorado. Before moving to Colorado, Scott lived in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, for several years. Around 1986, he moved to Gunnison, where he worked in the Gunnison Valley as a ski instructor at Crested Butte Mountain Resort and spent a few winters at Monarch Resort. Scott loved to ski and especially enjoyed teaching

satisfaction from making an impact on the communities in which she lived and made significant contributions to them. Most recently in Ajo she served on the Ajo school board for 10 years, was the exalted ruler of the Elks Lodge and was involved with the Ajo Council for the Fine Arts and the Reading Seed program. In Gunnison she served on the school board, the Chamber of Commerce and Gunnison County Partners. Additionally, she was a member of the League of Women Voters, Delta Kappa Gamma and past president of the Junior League of Concord. She was awarded the annual citizen awards in Ajo and Gunnison.

She was passionate about teaching, cooking, dogs and books. Her homes, including her apartment in Gilbert, were all located on beautiful pieces of land where she could see the animals, hear the birds and watch the seasons change.

A celebration of life will be held at the Elks Lodge in Ajo on Dec. 7, 2025.

beginners, sharing with them the magic of the sport.

He also spent hunting seasons guiding hunters on horseback for Quaking Aspen Outfitters. In the summer months, Scott worked for many local ranches but spent most of his time with The Deldarita and The Cross Bar. His days were filled with moving cattle, fixing fences, irrigating and putting up hay for the winter. He loved being in the high country on horseback with his dogs, riding the herd.

continued on A4

from the BiBle

THANKSGIVING

The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving

~Psalm 28:7 (NLT)

Marcia Morse Duncan

James Scott Branch, age 68, passed away on Wednesday, Oct. 29, 2025. He was born on

James Branch

OBITUARIES

continued from A4

Scott was also a talented artist who used his real-life experiences in the mountains to express himself on canvas and through

Heather Lane Cooper, 38, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 5, in Gunnison County. She was driving to the Denver airport to board a plane to Oklahoma to attend her 20th high school reunion. She was hit head on and died on impact at the crash site.

his writings. He enjoyed what others might call a lonely lifestyle, but to him, it was bliss. He found joy in the simple things in life — a good steak, a glass of whiskey, a sure-footed horse and

Visitation was held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Wednesday Nov. 12, at Dighton-Marler Funeral Home in Stillwater, Oklahoma. A celebration of Heather’s life will begin at 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at University Heights Baptist Church, 323 S. Knoblock, followed by a graveside service at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Stillwater.

Heather was born in Beaver, Oklahoma, April 2, 1987, the youngest of three daughters born to Page Provence and David L. Cooper. Her father predeceased her in 2000. Raised in Stillwater since she was an infant, she grew up in a loving family and attended Stillwater Public Schools. She graduated from OSU in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology. Since

Amlin showcases new work

The Gunnison Arts Center hosted a show of local artist Patricia Amlin’s body of work, titled Kenetica, for the First Friday Art Walk on Friday, Nov. 7.

his best companions, his dogs. He will be greatly missed by his sisters and brother, Kim (Dave) Winans, Tim (Kristie) Branch and Bonnie (Roger) Meyer; his nephews; and

January, she was enrolled online with OSU to earn her master’s degree in education.

Recently, she spent most of her time in Crested Butte where her sister Jill and her children live. She loved playing co-ed softball in the summers there. In addition to being a wonderful aunt, she had several jobs in Crested Butte. She waitressed at McGills, worked at the bookstore and served in many roles at the local school. She was hired to teach eighth and ninth-grade language arts, which she considered a huge honor.

In the wake of her early death, her family and friends are heartbroken for losing the companionship of such a loving, beautiful soul. It is evident from the outpouring of messages that she

his Colorado family, Steve Hamilton, Tara (Chris) Gebauer and Morgan (Jace) Mortensen. Cremation was chosen, and a memorial service may be held at a later date. Services were

meant a lot to many people.

If you have stories or pictures to share, please email them to MemoriesofHeatherCooper@ gmail.com for the family and to honor Heather’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial in Heather’s honor to Hope4Nations.com or to Stillwater High School Volleyball (please mail donation checks to SHS Volleyball Booster Club Association P.O. Box 562, Stillwater, OK 74076).

Heather is predeceased by David L Cooper (2000); uncle, Paul David Provence (2019); grandfather, Carl N Provence (2024); grandmother Jewel Ann Cooper (2002).

She is survived by her mother and stepfather, Page Provence

entrusted to Meyers Funeral Home, Batesville, Indiana.

and Jim George of Stillwater, grandmother Grace Provence, sister Averi (Jerett) Blackmon, sister Jill Pitt, nieces and nephews Ty, Annie, Jay, Wiley and Sadie. Stepbrother Jim (Anna) George, their children Makayla, Kolby (Hailie), Kaylin (Lonnie) Sims, Ezra (Mia) Sell, Simon George. Stepbrother Tim (Cori) George and their children, Hunter, Ross and Revin. Aunt Jeanette Provence, cousins Kelsey (Austin) Kelly and their children Aria, Aurora, Karlisle and Avonlea; cousin Mitchell Provence. Aunt Jo Deane (Ed) Holleyfield and their children Jolea, Karla and Eddie. Aunt Leah (Sam) Banning. Uncle Butch (Bonnie); Jim, Janet and Dean George.

Rep��

O’Rourke Media Group is searching for a talented reporter to ﬁll a full-time position in Gunnison at The Gunnison Country Times.

Our journalists are driven to ﬁnd stories that matter to our community and are dedicated to fairness, accuracy, and ethics. The successful candidate for this position is someone who knows how to cover hard news but also loves to write about people and their passions. The ideal candidate has exceptional writing skills and is willing to put in the extra effort and research to deliver an engaging story.

Preferred qualiﬁcations for this position include:

• Degree or diploma in journalism, or a related ﬁeld;

• At least 1-3 years of experience as a reporter with experience covering hard news and feature stories or experience at a college newspaper;

• The ability to meet tight deadlines and report the news as it happens;

• Superior language, writing and editing skills;

• Strong photography skills;

• Able to work a variety of schedules, including evenings, nights and weekends;

• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills;

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment;

• A valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle;

• Willingness to live in or near Gunnison, Colorado.

If this sounds like the perfect position for you, we would love to hear from you!

To apply, please send your resume, letter of interest and relevant samples of your work to Chad Richardson, Vice President of News, crichardson@orourkemediagroup.com The salary range is $38,500 to $40,000/year depending on qualiﬁcations and experience.

Heather Cooper

A reason to be thankful

Community dinner feeds many needs

Enid Holden Special to the Times

Why cook on Thanksgiving when you can gather with friends and neighbors in a community setting and enjoy a fabulous meal?

The annual Gunnison Community Thanksgiving Dinner will be held at the Fred Field Center from 12-3 p.m. on Thursday, November 27. The event is sponsored by the Gunnison Country Food Pantry and is free and open to the public. Festivities will include a full meal, live music, a silent auction and kids’ activities. No registration or RSVP is necessary.

This year’s gathering will highlight fellowship and fun with a free meal of hearty food prepared by chef Jeff Boril and his team and served by enthusiastic volunteers. The cooks will be busy preparing the feast for up to three days prior to the party. The menu will feature classic Thanksgiving fare such as mashed potatoes, green beans and turkey, along with cookies and pies for dessert.

The number of guests attending the annual event has risen from 150 to 400 in past years. This year, food will be prepared for 600, as the popularity of this communal celebration has grown. In support of the neighborly atmosphere, large tables will be set and families and friends can sit together or join with others for sharing and conversation.

Musicians will perform live music. Chris Coady, Julian Young and the Cora band, Fuerza Cora Brasil Musical — whose music can be described as Bluegrass meets Mariachi — will perform. Dancing is invited!

“The only need is somewhere to be,” said Jodi Payne, executive director of the pantry. “This year we are encouraging folks to bring their whole family. What strengthens a community are connections. Our roles are to serve the whole community.”

Maryo Ewell, a volunteer organizer of the dinner agrees.

“A community is only as strong as the ties between neighbors,” she said.

Research has shown that a group’s resilience to withstand the impact of disasters and other emergencies is related to how strong the bonds are between individuals and groups. In this case, a number of different organizations and individuals are participating. Janet Nelson-Cox from the Gunnison County Libraries is partnering with the pantry to coordinate the event. Six Points Evaluation and Training is providing the table decorations and a host of local churches are

providing funding.

These include All Saints in the Mountains Episcopal Church, Trinity Baptist Church, Bethany Baptist, Union Congregational Church of Crested Butte, Gunnison Congregational Church, St. Peter’s Catholic Church and others. Mountain Roots is contributing along with City Market and Safeway. Thanks to the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce, there will be a children’s play area with crafts. The Gunnison Car Club and the Community Foundation of the Gunnison Valley are also participating.

Several generous individuals have also made contributions and 50 or so volunteers, including the Gunnison City Manager

Wilson, are donating their time to make this a smoothly run event. Twentyfive prominent local celebrities are creating desserts that will be on silent auction to raise money for next year’s celebration. Guests will be greeted at the door in English and Spanish. For anyone who is homebound or lacks mobility, home delivery is an option. The food pantry is also offering distributions of turkeys, hams, chickens and sides from November 17 to 26.

(Una Celebración Comunitaria para el Día de Dar Gracias, Jueves, 27 de noviembre, 2025 Rodeo del Condado de Gunnison.)

(Enid Holden is a Gunnisonbased freelance writer.)

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A volunteer serves salad to dinner guests in 2024. (Photo by Jacob Spetzler)

Longtime Gunnison resident Butch Clark shares Thanksgiving dinner last year with the next generation. (Photo by Jacob Spetzler)

A family enjoys dinner with the community last year. (Photo by Jacob Spetzler)

OPINION

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THE GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES (ISSN 0892-1113) is published weekly by O’Rourke Media Group, 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

What happens to our parks when rangers disappear?

Alex Johnson Writers on the Range

For over a month, the longest government shutdown in American history has left our national parks in free fall. When the shutdown began in October, the Interior Department sent over 9,000 Park Service staff home without pay, with orders to leave most parks open with gates unlocked. Since then, visitors have continued flocking to parks: More than 25,000 visitors poured into Utah’s Zion National Park on a single day; at New Mexico’s Bandelier National Monument, hikers went off-trail across closed restoration areas; at Colorado’s Rocky Mountain National Park, sightseers walked through sensitive meadows, ignoring posted signs.

Meanwhile, there’s been virtually a public blackout about what’s been happening inside parks after key staffers were fired. That’s because top agency officials curtailed the freedom of park staff to communicate with the public, while website updates went dark. As the shut-

LETTERS

Thank you, Gunnison

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 factchecking.

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.

down continues, national parks lose $1 million a day in uncollected fees.

But the government shutdown and its salary hiatus are only the latest blows to national park management. Because of new federal policies aimed at shrinking government agencies, including the Interior Department, one in four Park Service staffers is now gone for good.

I’ve been learning what this severe cutback looks like as the new Southwest regional director for the National Parks Conservation Association, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting the 433 national park sites across the country. I get to care about and advocate for a landscape of remarkable parks across Colorado, New Mexico, Utah and Arizona.

One of these parks, the Black Canyon of the Gunnison, sits close to my home in Paonia, in western Colorado. Early in the Trump administration, federal reductions cut one-third of its staff. That meant even before the shutdown began, all custodial workers had lost their jobs. Workers who were already filling in for missing staff had to set aside core responsibilities and shift to bathroom maintenance.

With no rangers left, signs posted on the canyon’s North Rim warned visitors that they would need to “self-rescue” if they got into trouble. Then came the South Rim Fire, which

see those goals through.

I want to extend my deepest thanks to everyone who supported me throughout this campaign — to those who lent their time, their encouragement and their faith in the vision we shared for Gunnison’s future.

Last week I came up just short by only a single percent, but I couldn’t be prouder of the campaign we ran together. We stayed true to our values: respectful, community-minded and focused on the issues that matter most to the people who call this valley home.

This result does not mark an end, but rather a beginning. The conversations we started about housing, growth, opportunity and preserving what makes Gunnison special will continue. I will keep doing my part as a citizen, a neighbor and a lifelong member of this community to

I’ve learned so much through this election and I know I have much more to learn. I’m young and my story in public service is just beginning. I’m certain this won’t be the last time you see my name on the ballot.

With the hope being that I will be able to once again ask for the honor to serve the good people of Gunnison in the 2027 election for Gunnison City Council.

To Loren Ahonen, Audrey Zahradka and Matt Schwartz, I offer my sincere congratulations, best wishes and my full support in the work ahead. Gunnison belongs to all of us and I believe we are at our best when we move forward together.

Thank you again to everyone who stood beside me, thank you Gunnison. I’m grateful beyond words.

Tristen Coleman Gunnison

closed the park for the first time in its history, consuming several park buildings though sparing the visitor center. It’s no secret that wildfires in the West are increasing in frequency, even as fewer staff remain to respond.

Of all the American institutions I thought would outlive me, the National Park Service seemed like a safe bet. Throughout 109 years of park history, national polls consistently show that Americans of all stripes love their national parks. They also respect the rangers who bring deep knowledge to their work, rescue adventurers who get into trouble and help ensure that visitors enjoy themselves. People from all over the world come to experience our national parks and monuments because this country has been wise enough to preserve our magnificent landscapes, wildlife and history.

Yet here we are witnessing a deliberate effort to mismanage our national parks by depriving them of the very people and funding needed for their upkeep. The Trump administration also plans another round of mass terminations, meaning many furloughed park staff may never return.

Earlier this year, Congress gutted $267 million from the Park Service budget, eliminating funding that was congressionally allocated for critical park staffing. President Trump’s proposed 2026 budget also calls

Shout out for service

Editor:

We wish to give thanks to Tyler Martineau for his long and deep engagement with the Gunnison Watershed School District. As Tyler’s term as a school board member wraps up in November, we want to take this moment to thank Tyler for his leadership, expertise and dedication.

Over the years, Tyler has been a member of the school board, as well as a key player in the milllevy override, bond election and current construction project. Tyler is also a parent of two students who went through Crested Butte Community School from kindergarten through graduation. It really is tremendous how much time and energy Tyler put into our school community before and long after his children graduated.

Tyler has been a member of the school board for more than

for a $1 billion cut, which could force hundreds of park sites to close across the country.

By starving the Park Service of necessary money for maintenance and repairs, wildlife management, research and other important functions, the administration is setting up our national parks to be sold out from under the American public or handed over to private interests.

We’re living in a moment where hypotheticals — once unbelievable — have become possible scenarios. That is, unless Americans speak up loudly. We need strong advocates to ensure that the Park Service can carry out its mission to “preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of this and future generations.”

We can help by urging members of Congress to hold the line against more indiscriminate firings of Park Service staff, and to restore funding so that parks can rebuild and flourish in the years to come.

(Alex Johnson is the Southwest Regional Director at National Parks Conservation Association and is a contributor to Writers on the Range, an independent nonprofit dedicated to spurring lively conversation about the West.)

seven years, from 2018 to 2025, and served as president in recent years. He has been a member of the Crested Butte Community School Accountability Committee for 24 years, from 2001 to the present, serving as its chair from 2004-2017. He also served on the Gunnison Watershed School District Accountability Committee from 2009-2017. In 2014, he served as treasurer for the school district mill-levy override campaign, which was approved that year by local voters and has made possible the delivery of much-needed educational services for students throughout the school district. From 2017-2022, he participated in planning efforts for the renovation and expansion of the school district’s five campuses. In 2022, he served on the cam-

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paign committee that supported the school district’s successful construction bond election and subsequent school district construction project.

Thank you, Tyler, for everything you have done for this community.

Sean McCune, CBCS principal Sally Hensley, CBCS principal Dalila Fairchild, CBCS PTA president Jennie Reithel, GWSD incoming board member

Disturbing events

Editor:

I write with deep concern for the safety and well-being of our community after witnessing disturbing events in Gunnison County.

Over the summer, my 70-yearold parents were campground hosts when they were attacked by a man more than 25 years younger than them over a forestry fee to dispose of a bag of trash. My mother was pushed to the ground and beaten. When my father came to her defense, the man turned on him, leaving my dad with a fractured femur and torn shoulder that required weeks in the hospital and ongoing recovery. The assailant was arrested and held on a $25,000 bond for about a month.

More recently, our community was devastated by the fatal crash near the Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery that took the life of 38-year-old Crested Butte resident Heather Cooper. According to the Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office, 18-year-old Dylan Blessing-Garcia of Seattle was charged with vehicular homicide after attempting to pass in a nopassing zone. His bond was set at $5,000, and he was released shortly thereafter.

While we may not know every detail of that tragic morning, the facts are clear: a driver’s poor judgment cost a life. Whether caused by fatigue, distraction or impatience, such choices have devastating consequences. The Colorado State Patrol reminds us that drowsy or inattentive driving can be as dangerous as driving drunk — after 18 to 24 hours without sleep, a driver’s impairment can mirror a blood-alcohol concentration of .05 to .10 percent. Driving while fatigued can be charged as reckless driving under C.R.S. 42-4-1401, a Class 2 misdemeanor.

These incidents, though different, share a troubling theme: dis-

regard for the rules that keep us safe. When we allow small acts of disrespect — ignoring campground rules, speeding, passing in no-passing zones — to go unchecked, we set the stage for greater harm.

I call on all who live in or visit Gunnison County to take greater responsibility on our roads and in our shared spaces. Be respectful. Be alert. If you are tired, pull over. Slow down. Obey the lines on the road. A moment’s impatience or carelessness can alter lives forever.

I also urge our local leaders and law enforcement agencies to maintain visible and consistent enforcement of traffic laws. Presence matters — it reminds people that safety is not optional. From minor violations to major offenses, accountability saves lives.

To those who have lost loved ones, including Heather Cooper’s family, please know the community grieves with you. We must honor her memory by learning from this tragedy and preventing another.

What has our society come to when violence and reckless driving have become commonplace? We can, and must, do better. Respect the rules. Respect your neighbors. Above all, respect life.

Cori Balch Gunnison

Housing transition continues

Editor:

As chair of the Gunnison County Board of Commissioners and president of the Gunnison Valley Regional Housing Authority (GVRHA) Board, I want to provide our community with another update on the ongoing transition of the Housing Authority and share how we are ensuring a stable foundation for housing services in 2026 and beyond.

When we began this transition process earlier this year, we said that the Housing Authority was entering a new chapter that will focus on improving service, strengthening coordination and creating a structure that better supports our residents and partners for the long term. That vision remains true today.

Over the past several months, the GVRHA board has prioritized the complex legal and administrative work needed to ensure a smooth and responsible transition. This includes transferring

GVRHA’s housing loan portfolio and real property interests to the Gunnison County Housing Authority in compliance with state and federal guidelines. Simultaneously, we have continued property management, deed restriction compliance, and homeownership program operations without interruption, and we have worked with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs to maintain existing tax credits and loan programs.

Throughout this process, we have been in close communication with all our jurisdictional partners, including the Town of Crested Butte, Town of Mt. Crested Butte and City of Gunnison. I want to thank each of our partners for their steady leadership and commitment to the hard work of creating a shared vision for housing in our Valley.

As this transition unfolds, we are committed to continuing our role as the community’s affordable housing resource and to managing the properties in the GVRHA portfolio. Importantly, I’m also pleased to share that the GV-HEAT program will continue into 2026 under Gunnison County administration. We know how important this program is for helping residents improve energy efficiency and reduce utility costs, and we are committed to ensuring it continues smoothly while we evaluate where it best fits for the future.

As we move into the final two GVRHA meetings of 2025, our focus remains on consistency, accountability and long-term strength. This transition is not about closing a chapter — it’s about building a more stable, responsive, and coordinated foundation for housing work across the Gunnison Valley.

Change always brings questions, but I want to assure our community that this process is guided by transparency, collaboration and a deep respect for the people we serve. Together, we are creating a stronger system that will continue to deliver on the promise of affordable housing for those who call this Valley home.

If you’re interested in learning more about this transition or would like to see the work in action, please feel free to reach out to me directly or join one of the final two GVRHA Board meetings via Zoom or in person.

Laura Puckett Daniels Gunnison County

GUNNISON COUNTY LANDFILL

SATURDAY HOURS

The Gunnison County Landfill Saturday hours will be changing effective December 1, 2025.

The last Saturday the Landfill will be open for the fall will be November 29, 2025. During the winter, regular hours of operation will be: Monday – Friday from 8:00 am – 4:00 pm CLOSED ON SATURDAYS

PLEASE CALL THE LANDFILL AT 641-5522 IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS.

The City Center

Your local government’s weekly community ad.

Your Newly Elected Cit y Councilmembers!

Matt Schwartz, 4-years (2025-2029) Loren Ahonen, 4-years (2025-2029) Audrey Zahradka, 2-years (2025-2027)

New councilmembers join Diego Plata (2023-2027) and Marisela Ballesteros (2023-2027) to fill the five seats of City Council.

Please join us for the Swearing-In, Mayoral Selections, and Resolutions of Recognition for Councilors Gelwicks and Frazier

Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 at 5:30pm Cit y Hall Council Chambers, 201 W. Virginia Avenue

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.

Telluride Mountainfilm on Tour comes to Gunnison!

while Ascent Classical Academy of Douglas County finished second with 109 points.

Four Cowboys finished in the top ten led by Ari Eberly (12 minutes, 23 seconds, 3rd), Brandon Hallock (12:27, 4th), Asher Chodorowski (12:49, 8th) and David Coop (13:06, 9th). Stair (14:05, 34th) had a top-40 finish. Rose Pankratz (15:11, 26th) was the Cowboys top finisher for the girls.

GMS coach Cynthia Bruton said she believes the next lowest score at state in the last 10 years was 74 points.

From the beginning of the season, the team knew success would come down to conquering ‘The Monster’ — a nearly straight up ascent at the end of the Salida Cross Country Classic. They spent all season in preparation for the obstacle. They knew what was coming.

Only a few hundred meters stood between The Monster and the finish line. The runners would have to endure the burn, labored breathing, the loose footing, the tight quarters where few runners could pass each other and the onslaught of new addition to The Monster: stairs on the steep descent.

“Once you got to the top, if you ran the entire way, your legs felt like noodles,” team member Houston Stair said. “And then you have a pretty steep downhill run. In previous years it was straight downhill. This year there were stairs leading down a little bit which made it quite a bit harder. Once you got through those stairs it took a slightly less downhill path and then went into a riverbed and back to the main dirt trail and finish line.”

Attacking ‘The Monster’ was just part of a process that began back in August. When Bruton noticed the Cowboys were internally driven and didn’t need constant prodding to work hard at practice.

“Our runners were so excited

to be working towards the goal and thinking about The Monster,” Bruton said. “We knew it was coming in one of the later meets, so we had fun with it, it was always, ‘we gotta get that hill!’ All the runners got into it.”

Against ‘The Monster’ in Salida on Oct. 4 the boys finished in first place with 22 points, Eberly (1st), Hallock (2nd), Chodorowski (3rd) and Stair (6th) packed the top 10. The girls also finished in first with 33 points and were led by Pankratz (3rd), Sophie Nold (5th), Lily McElyea (8th), Brynna Rota (12th) and Paisley Betts (13th) who all finished in the top 15.

All the practices that were

designed with more hills than usual paid off. There were more runs at Signal Peak and training filled with extra intervals. The Cowboys relished the opportunity to run in practice and Bruton gave them what they wanted.

“We didn’t know what we had until the first practice,” Bruton said. “They were all about it when we pushed them very hard. We knew a lot of good runners were coming up but had no idea how good they were. Normally we start out slow and work into it. We started out gangbusters from the get-go. At our first meet they were ready to go.”

(James Nokes writes for Colorado Preps.)

Tax Credit from A1

will see less people with health insurance and likely see more uncompensated care where the hospital is not getting paid for the services provided by our expert physicians, nurses and paramedics and that’s not good for anybody.”

Shondeck encourages people to consult the Connect for Health website to assess potential changes in premium costs based on income, as opposed to letting policies autorenew.

“The Connect for Health Colorado website is the best in terms of explaining the financial changes,” Shondeck said. “Get on the site or call your broker and check in because a lot of people are on auto-renew and have been for awhile and so maybe you haven’t checked your income in a year or two. It’s really important to get on, check your income against those thresholds and get an idea of what your [new] premium is going to be.”

Shondeck explained that while you don’t have to work with a broker through the process of buying or renewing health insurance on Connect for Health, it doesn’t cost any more to do so and can provide the peace of mind of thoroughly understanding the policies and changes. Brokers can be sought out by zip code on the Connect for Health website.

In an effort to offset the impact of rising healthcare costs, GVH has rolled out several programs like low-cost blood drives and affordable radiology exams, as well as discounts and incentives for cash pay options.

“We also have a pretty incredible screening fund that is a combination between GVH Foundation, Gunnison Tough and Living Journeys where folks can get really important screenings covered like mammography, colonoscopy or dermatology,” Amrich said.

“A really important part of healthcare is not waiting until people get sick but doing everything we can to help with prevention. We’d like to see a higher utilization of the screening funds and I definitely encourage folks to pursue that.”

A guide on how to access these screening funds is available on all three of the nonprofits’ websites.

Additionally, Amrich encourages people to utilize the financial counseling services available at GVH to get help navigating their bills.

Advocacy avenues Congress has the option to extend the enhanced tax credits, let them expire or make structural changes to them. Amrich encourages concerned citizens to reach out to congressmen and other federal elected officials who have the ability to affect this legislation.

“I think individuals [should] advocate to their representatives with their direct screenshots of the changes to their premiums so that our legislators really understand the challenges facing their constituents,” Amrich said. “These tax credits are such an important mechanism of affordability, especially in a community like ours where we have a lot of gig workers and a lot of small employers that can’t afford a health plan.”

Regardless of how the tax credit situation plays out, Amrich feels that GVH is prepared to weather the storm and continue providing quality care to the citizens of the Gunnison Valley.

“We have a really strong and supportive foundation and GVH is well-positioned to navigate some of these difficult changes,” Amrich said. “We are trying to make sure that we are a part of the healthcare access and affordability conversation.”

For more information visit connectforhealthco.com.

(Gia Wright can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or jwright@ orourkemediagroup.com.)

Rose Pankratz on her way to a top finish for the GMS girls’ team at state. (Courtesy Melissa Post)

(Back to front) GMS runners Ari Eberly, Brandon Hallock and Asher Chodorowski helped the team their first state championship. (Courtesy Melissa Post)

Local woman killed in Hwy. 135 car crash

Seattle man charged with vehicular homicide

Gia Wright Times Staff Writer

A head-on collision on Hwy. 135 on Nov. 5 claimed the life of 38-year-old Crested Butte resident Heather Cooper. The accident occurred at approximately 8:20 a.m. near mile marker 14 just south of the Roaring Judy Fish Hatchery.

The other driver, Dylan Blessing-Garcia, was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide. Gunnison County Judge Ashley Burgemeister set bond at $5,000 and scheduled a hearing date for the defendant on Nov. 18 at 9 a.m. Bond was posted for Blessing-Garcia on Nov. 5 at and he was released from custody.

According to investigators, Blessing-Garcia of Seattle, Washington was driving a GMC Sierra pickup when he crossed a double yellow line attempting to pass another vehicle on a blind curve. He collided head-on with a southbound Ford Escape, driven by Cooper. She was pronounced dead at the scene. Gunnison County Coroner Michael Barnes determined the cause of death to be multiple traumatic injuries.

Officers on the scene did not suspect impairment from drugs or alcohol as a contributing factor to the accident, but an in-depth investigation is still ongoing. Trooper Dennis Williams from the Colorado State Patrol Vehicular Crimes Unit said they are currently interviewing witnesses, reviewing evidence collected at the scene and awaiting data from the airbag control module. This will give the troopers a detailed picture of what happened in

each vehicle leading up to the crash — speed, braking, cruise control use, etc. .

“We have the capability to download five seconds of data that will give us that information,” Williams said. “You might think five seconds isn’t that long, but in an episode of a crash it’s an eternity.”

Blessing-Garcia was treated for minor injuries at Gunnison Valley Hospital before being taken to the Gunnison County Jail where he was booked and charged with vehicular homicide — a felony charge in the state of Colorado.

“He could definitely be looking at prison time and a fairly hefty fine,” Williams said.

In Colorado, vehicular homicide can carry a sentence of 2-12 years in prison, which can be extended up to 24 years if the judge finds that “aggravating circumstances” were involved. In addition to potential prison time, fines associated with vehicular homicide can range from $2,000 up to $750,000 depending on the circumstances. Up to 5 years of parole and revocation of license are also mandatory if found guilty of this crime.

“This [type of fatality investigation] isn’t something that just takes us a couple of days to do. It’s a major undertaking and could take weeks or months compiling all of the data. It’s not unusual to have a 200 to 300 page report for an investigation like this and we do it for every single fatality that we cover,” Williams said.

Trooper Williams reminded residents and visitors to avoid reckless passing.

“Don’t pass on a double yellow line,” Williams said. “Even if you make a bad pass successfully between Gunnison and Crested Butte, you’re talking about maybe a minute that you saved, if that.”

(Gia Wright can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or jwright@ orourkemediagroup.com.)

For more than a day

Ways to honor veterans the rest of the year

Millions of people make considerable sacrifices to protect the freedoms of their fellow citizens. According to the Pew Research Center and data from the Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Census Bureau, there are currently more than 18 million living veterans in the United States.

The term “veteran” refers to a person who served in the active military, naval, air service or space service and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. In the U.S., there are actually five types of protected veterans, according to the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. Under VEVRAA, a veteran may be classified as a disabled veteran, recently separated veteran, active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran or Armed Forces service medal veteran.

Veterans deserve respect and admiration all year long, but also get their own holiday each November. Veterans Day

celebrates veterans’ patriotism and willingness to sacrifice and serve. This Veterans Day, people can consider these eight unique ways to honor the veterans in their community.

• Attend events. Organize or participate in local Veterans Day celebrations, such as parades and ceremonial events.

• Get involved with veterans’ affairs. Support veterans by volunteering with organizations that assist them, such as the VA, local veterans groups, VA hospitals or charities dedicated to veteran services.

• Petition for veteran speakers. Reach out to schools, scout troops or other groups and arrange opportunities for veterans to share their stories and contributions. Learning about the sacrifices these men and women made can heighten individuals’ appreciation for veterans.

• Support the families of veterans. Reach out to veterans’ families, who also must make sacrifices and concessions. Anything from shopping, babysitting, doing chores or making a meal can help the families of veterans.

• Make a donation. If finances allow, make contributions to reputable charities that provide

services for veterans like those that offer mental health counseling or job placement services. If there isn’t a charity that fits with your vision, begin one.

6. Hire veterans to work. If you are a business owner or hiring manager, consider hiring veterans for open positions at your company. It can be challenging to re-enter the workforce after service, so make it known that your firm

welcomes veterans.

• Offer personal acknowledgements. Take the time to speak to veterans and thank them for their service. If possible, when dining out, ask the server if you can pay for the meal of a veteran who also is dining that day.

• Don’t forget the fallen veterans. Although Memorial Day is designed to honor those who lost their lives through military

service, people still can honor the fallen veterans on Veterans Day by sharing stories or placing flags at veteran cemeteries. Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11, but opportunities exist all year long to express one’s gratitude and support for the millions of veterans who have served honorably.

(Source: Metro Creative)

American Legion Post 54 hosted a chili cookoff on Veterans Day following a flag ceremony at Legion Park. (Courtesy American Legion)

GHS Drama Club students present original play

Times Staff Report

The Gunnison High School Drama Club presented an original play last week titled “Friday Night Fuego.” The play was written by a pair of GHS students, Anastasia Harvey and Kaysha Brunsting.

The show was presented Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The beginnings of the play go back to last spring, when Harvey began writing a play about the wild west. She eventually presented the play to the GHS Drama Club when school started, and the group decided to begin rehearsals and perform the play for its fall production. After rehearsing for about six weeks, Harvey and Brunsting decided to write a new play that would better accommodate the schedules of the students involved, and from there Friday Night Fuego was born.

Harvey summarized the plot, saying that “a gang of orphaned girls from the 1990s take a scientist and his time travel machine back to the 1970s. While there, they learn to dance, make new friendships and find out what a debt is really worth.”

Harvey and Brunsting wrote the play during their four-day fall break and rehearsal for the new play started Wednesday, Oct. 15. The Drama Club participants were all on board to make the production happen in just three weeks.

Drama Club and the student directors tried their best to

work around student schedules so that students involved with sports, band and other activities could be included and participate.

Along with writing and directing the play, Harvey designed the costumes for both shows. 1890s costumes and props had been collected for the first wild west show, but students had no problem shifting to their new disco outfits, according to club coach and advisor Julia Wilson. Brunsting headed up making props for the show and other actors helped create the props and scenery.

The students were very pleased with how the shows went, especially considering the relatively short amount of time that they had to prepare for it, according to Wilson. She shares those duties with GHS English teacher, Amy Jo

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Meanwhile, Harvey will graduate early in December and will attend BYU-Idaho in January. Brunsting will be leaving Gunnison with her family as well in December.

Wilson said that it is hoped Harvey and Brunsting will write a sequel to Friday Night Fuego.

The cast

Cast members in the production included Harvey, Brunsting, Erin Reyes, Pracilla Goodnight, Julien Klingsmith, Saralyn Harvey, Kinley Dziekan, Emma Carr, Fynn Nelson, Mirabelle Boden, Seth Harvey, Caris Stoerkel, Jack Siegris, Charlie Willis and Jacob Martinez.

Lights were handled by Thomas McNamara.

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Cast members of Friday NIght Fuego pose for a group photo during a recent rehearsal. The play was co-written by Gunnison High School students Anastasia Harvey and Kaysha Brunsting. Submitted photo

Colorado water year 2025 summary

A report from the Colorado Climate Center

Bruce Bartleson Special to the Times

The following excerpts were recently published by Colorado State climatologist Russ Schumacher and are full of good information. The water year (WY), which runs from October 1 through the end of September, is commonly used in climatological and hydrological discussions. It more accurately reflects how water naturally moves through the environment without mixing up precipitation patterns, in contrast to the calendar year.

Here is a summary of some of that information:

Temperatures

“WY 2025 started out with record-setting warmth, with October 2024 ranking as the hottest October on record for the state,” Schumacher wrote. “Late fall and early winter featured a mixed bag of temperature anomalies. November 2024 and January 2025 ranked below average, sandwiching a very warm December (the 3rd warmest on record). From February onward, every other month in WY 2025 finished above average (except for May, which was near average).

Spatially, the above average temperatures were realized in nearly every part of the state, though the most significant warmth occurred in northeast, western and south-central Colorado. A few locations on the Western Slope saw their warmest water year on record.”

Some parts of the state showed some marked trends. For example, Grand Junction had 81 days of 90 degree temperatures compared to their last 30 years average of 68 days. Cortez had 64 days of 90 degree temperatures compared

to their 30 year average of 41 days and Fort Collins had 42 days compared to their 30 year average of 30 days. Gunnison had zero 90 degree days as I recently discussed in the Sept. 8 edition of the Times.

Precipitation

According to Schumacher, WY 2025 finished near-average in terms of precipitation, ranking as the 51st driest in the 130-year record. The last water year that was drier than WY 2025 was WY 2022. Statewide, most months in WY 2025 do not stand out as particularly noteworthy, though there were a few exceptions. November 2024, which featured a recordbreaking snowstorm that affected most of the state, finished as the 5th wettest on record. That abnormally wet month was followed by a much drier December — the 9th driest on record.

Perhaps the biggest story surrounding precipitation during WY 2025 was that conditions were very different depending on which side of the Continental Divide you were on. Much of the Western Slope saw a top-10 dry water year, while a few locations on the Eastern Plains saw a top-10 wettest year. These precipitation patterns also led to variability in drought conditions.

Notable events

Schumacher concludes with the following: “Practically everywhere in the state recorded unusually warm December temperatures … except for Gunnison. They stayed below average for the first several weeks of December. What was the cause of this strange cold signal? Blame it all on geography and snow cover.”

We all know what happened here in Gunnison — it snowed something like a foot the day before Thanksgiving and that reflected all the sun’s heat back out to the atmosphere. Our topography, being in a bowl, kept the cold air trapped and radiant heat loss made it colder.

The full report is available from Schumacher by emailing russ.schumacher@colostate. edu.

(Bruce Bartleson is a retired emeritus professor of geology at Western Colorado University. He spends most of his time now watching the weather.)

MORATORIUM

The City of Gunnison will begin the No Dig Moratorium effective November 19, 2025. Effective November 19, 2025 no excavation will be allowed in the City right-of-way until further notice. The Moratorium will be lifted when the ground thaws in Spring 2026.

Chicken and waffles fundraiser planned

Romp Skis is presenting a chicken and waffles preseason party fundraiser Friday, Nov. 14 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at their location at 420 Belleview Avenue in Crested Butte. All proceeds will benefit the Crested Butte Snowsports Foundation. More information can be found at rompskis.com.

Family resource fair is Nov. 15

A family resource fair is planned for 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the Western Colorado University ballroom.

Families and caregivers will find a resource fair focused on their needs. Meet and connect with local parent groups, learn about family health resources in the valley, and meet local nannies and babysitters. A children’s clothing and toy swap will also be on-site. Come find community and support! For more information, email gunniparentresourcefair@gmail.com.

Sage Grouse Strategic Committee to meet

The next meeting of the Gunnison Basin Sage Grouse Strategic Committee will be Wednesday, Nov. 19 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, visit https://www.gunnisoncounty. org/187/Gunnison-Basin-SageGrouse-Strategic-Com. This meeting will continue the discussion from previous meetings regarding updates for the Habitat Prioritization Tool used in Gunnison County’s land use planning process. Interested stakeholders may attend to provide comments.

San Juan Weavers Guild show planned

The San Juan Weavers Guild 48th annual Show & Sale is scheduled Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Ute Indian Museum, 17253 Chipeta Rd., Montrose. The event is free to the public and will feature educational exhibits, demonstrations and hands-on activities. A vast selection of handwoven, handspun, and related fiber items made by guild members will be for sale. The facility is wheelchair-accessible and provides on-site parking.

During the guild sale, the museum will be sponsoring a demonstration by a Navajo weaver in conjunction with the Adopt a Native Elder program, with rugs for sale to benefit traditional Navajo weavers. Additional hand-crafted items are offered in the gift shop and by Native American vendors. Consult the guild’s website, www.sanjuanweavers.org for additional information about the guild and its annual sale.

GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS

Subject to Change Friendsgiving Improv Night CBMT

Join us Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. with Subject to Change, Crested Butte Mountain Theatre’s in-house improv team. Performing both short- and long-form styles, they bring comedy and community together in an engaging, interactive style that promises belly laughs — and might even inspire you to jump on stage with them.

BOSS Ross Painting Class

Happy little trees await! Join us Saturday, Nov. 15 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. with legendary instruc-

tor Sarah Sharsmith. This relaxed evening of Bob Ross inspired painting will take you through a classic step-by-step process to create a serene landscape filled with happy accidents.

Watercolor and Wine | AND Series

Join us Thursday, Nov. 20 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. to celebrate the colors of autumn in this relaxed watercolor class with Karen Hill. Paint vibrant fall leaves while sipping wine and enjoying good company. Perfect for all skill levels—come unwind, create, and toast to the season!

CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS

Makers Market

The Makers Market at the Crested Butte Center for the Arts will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 14 and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 15. There is no fee for admission.

This curated holiday marketplace has become a pre-holiday staple in Crested Butte—featuring over 25 local makers and donating 10% of all proceeds to the Trailhead Children’s Museum. The event is presented in partnership with the Center for the Arts, the Crested Butte Creative District and the Trailhead. This year brings exciting new elements, including live music, food trucks, a kids market and more.

The Color of Snow

A reception for the Color of Snow, a fundraiser exhibition, will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Nov. 14. The exhibition will run through Jan. 16. There is no fee for admission.

Celebrate the creativity of Crested Butte at The Color of Snow: A Fundraiser Exhibition. In this community-wide showcase, artists of all ages and experience levels come together to transform hundreds of small canvases into big expressions of imagination.

Off the Page: The Way Out with Devon O’Neil

The Way Out: A True Story of Survival in the Heart of the Rockies by Colorado-based journalist Devon O’Neil is a harrowing true story, capturing a tale of survival, tragedy, and resilience in the Colorado backcountry. This unforgettable narrative takes readers into the heart of the Salida, Colorado community, scarred by loss and the complex questions that follow in the wake of disaster. This event will be held at 6 p.m. Nov. 19. There is no fee for admission.

Alla Prima Cornucopia Still Life

On Nov. 17 at 5:30 p.m., capture the rich colors and textures of autumn in this alla prima oil painting class with Karolina Szumilas. Working wet-on-wet, you’ll paint a vibrant cornucopia still life while developing your brushwork and color blending skills. Perfect for painters ready to deepen their practice with a seasonal subject.

Cookbook Club: Misunderstood Vegetables

As part of our extended programming from the Crested Butte Wine + Food Festival, Cookbook Club is back with a playful twist. We’re cooking from Misunderstood Vegetables by Becky Selenguta a celebration of the quirky, overlooked gems of the produce aisle. From kohlrabi to sunchokes, these recipes will spark ideas for creative, flavor-packed Thanksgiving side dishes. Pick up a copy at Townie Books or borrow ours, sign up for a dish, and bring your veggieforward creation to share. We’ll set the table and pour the wine, come discover new flavors and connect with fellow food lovers. This event will be at 6 p.m. Nov. 20. The fee for admission is $25.

The full schedule can be found on our website crestedbuttearts.org.

GOLDEN EAGLE is looking for CDL and non-CDL drivers. Pay is based on experience. Call 970-641-3230.

ID SCULPTURE designs and manufactures climbing boulders, playground sculptures, and ﬁne art sculptures for parks, schools, and public spaces across the country. We use a combination of technology and traditional methods to create unique interactive environments.

IDS provides secure, year-round indoor and outdoor work in a unique fabrication environment with opportunity for advancement. We offer beneﬁts including 80 hrs. of PTO annually, (10) paid Holidays annually, a healthcare plan including medical, dental & life, and matching 401(k) retirement.

ID Sculpture is a Playcore company, an equal opportunity employer. We are currently seeking: Production Assistant(s): Ideal candidates possess a positive attitude, good work ethic and are eager to learn. Applicants must have physical strength, hand eye coordination, and endurance. Initial responsibilities are to provide general labor and assist artists, fabricators and shipping departments as needed. Compensation is $22-$27/hr. DOE. Project Fabricator(s): the ideal candidate for this position has: construction trades experience (min 5 years), welding experience (structural certiﬁcation preferred), steel fabrication (min 2 years preferred), the ability to work well with a team, and a positive attitude. Responsibilities are to fabricate various components for standard and custom products using steel and a variety of other materials. Compensation is $26.00-$35.00/ hr. To apply for this unique opportunity, A position application and full description is available www.playcore.com/careers

Builders FirstSource in Crested Butte is looking to hire full-time CDL and Non-CDL delivery drivers. Full Beneﬁts, dental, vision, 401k, and quarterly proﬁt sharing available. MUST HAVE: Valid driver’s license. Pass MVR review. Obtain a DOT medical card. NON CDL-$26-29. CDL-$30-$34. Please Call or email Evan Gosda, 720-613-7167 Evan.gosda@bldr.com

CARETAKER POSITION, HORSE

BOARDING CB S., start-Spring 2026. Looking for responsible year-round. Horse care, ranch & tractor exp. needed. Work avg. 1-2hr/day, trade for studio apartment, utilities. Resume: scubabwana@hotmail. com

COLORADO HOME (formerly BACK AT THE RANCH) is hiring for a full-time delivery/warehouse person. Monday-Friday, 10am-6pm, this position is salaried, plus housing assistance. Must have valid drivers license and experience driving large box trucks, good driving record, and be able to lift heavy items. Call 970-641-0727 or stop by our showroom at 100 W Spencer Ave.

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Senior Center Coordinator

Full-Time, $56,200-$69,267/yr

Coordinates and manages programs and activities at the Community Senior Center. Oversees daily operations, plans events and classes, supervises volunteers, maintains program records, and ensures a welcoming, safe environment for seniors. Provides leadership in program development, community outreach, and facility coordination.

Head Lifeguard

Full-Time, $53,300-$62,600/yr

FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER-PUBLIC

HOUSE Seeking a hands-on, guest-focused leader to oversee FOH operations, team development, and exceptional service in a fast-paced restaurant. Seasonal, full-time (Dec-Apr), $5,000/month. Must have prior supervisory experience, strong hospitality skills, and ﬂexible availability. Join a team passionate about great food, service, and atmosphere. Apply at: https:// elevenexperience.com/about-us/careers

HEARTH DESIGN BUILD (.org) (@gmail). Small local dynamic ﬁrm dedicated to community housing. Seeking passionate and driven individuals for Carpentry & Excavation work. 802-595-9576

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Lawn & Snow is hiring full/part-time seasonal/annual crew members. Competitive pay, overtime opportunity & bonus incentives available. Snow plow experience is preferred, but not required.

dimitar@paradisecb.com for additional details

GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT

See GWSD website for details gunnisonschools.net

Gunnison Watershed School District believes that students thrive when they are connected to something bigger than themselves. That’s why we create learning experiences that spark curiosity, helping students discover who they are and how to make a difference in the world around them. And as they excel in academics, athletics, and the arts, students

ﬁnd the conﬁdence to pursue any opportunity in life. Our team is “Driven to be the Difference!”

HOURLY OPPORTUNITIES

GCS Signiﬁcant Needs EA

GCS Permanent Substitute Substitute Teachers Bus Drivers

PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

IN SEARCH OF AN EXPERIENCED FRONT END LOADER OPERATOR. Part time when it snows, mostly at night in Crested Butte. Extremely good pay and a bonus at the end of the season. Please call 970-275-8731.

POWERSTOP is hiring a line cook and a lead cook. Looking for people that are available 20 to 40 hours a week to work. Pay is based on experience and starts at $17-$20 before tips. Average daily tips will add $5-$10 an hour to base pay. Some beneﬁts available after 6 month period for a long term position. Submit resume in person at Powerstop. THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE PARKS AND RECREATION Open Space & Trails Department is seeking Recreation Instructors for Basketball and Ice Skating. 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 of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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.

SENIOR ACCOUNTANT

Finance: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $86,226.40 to $110,496.21, plus full beneﬁts.

DEPUTY COUNTY ATTORNEY

County Attorney: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, annual salary range is from $105,000 to $139,000, plus full beneﬁts.

FAST CASE MANAGER

Juvenile Services: Part-Time, 20 hours/week, hourly range is from $29.51 to $33.59, plus partial beneﬁts.

ELIGIBILITY TECHNICIAN

Health and Human Services: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly range is from $23.60 to $26.87, plus full beneﬁts.

MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN I

Facilities: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly range is from $25.01 to $28.48, plus full beneﬁts.

GUNNISON-CRESTED BUTTE REGIONAL AIRPORT INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

Airport: Part-Time, 16 to 30 hours/week, hourly is $21.20, plus partial beneﬁts.

Organizes and administers aquatic programs, in‐services, and provides assistance in the mechanical and chemical operations of the pools, locker rooms, maintenance and repair of the building, and natatorium HVAC systems.

Part-Time Openings

Senior Meals Assistant Cook: $25.09-$27.82/hr.

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

District Psychologist GCS Special Education Teacher (2026/27)

COACHING

GHS Asst. Track Coach Throwers

CBMS Head Volleyball Coach

CBMS Asst. Volleyball Coach

Please contact: Superintendent’s Ofﬁce Kim Fuller 800 N. Boulevard 970-641-7760

kfuller@gunnisonschools.net

BILINGUAL JUVENILE CASE MANAGER/TRUANCY SUPPORT

Juvenile Services: Full-time, 40 Hours/week, hourly range is from $29.51 to $33.59, plus full

DETENTION DEPUTY

Sheriﬀ: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $65,056.55 to $74,068.59, plus

For more information, including complete job descriptions, required qualiﬁcations and application instructions, please visit www.GunnisonCounty.org/jobs. GUNNISON COUNTY AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER (EOE)

THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE is seeking an experienced Finance and Administrative Services Director. This fulltime, year-round role offers a competitive salary ($116K–$142K DOQ) and a generous benefits package, including 100% employerpaid health coverage. If you have a strong background in financial management, budgeting, and leadership—and a passion for serving your community—apply today. Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a closely related field required. MBA and CPA preferred. Minimum of ten years of professional experience, including at least five years of directly relevant work in an accounting or financial management position. Government accounting experience is preferred. The Town of Crested Butte is an equal employment opportunity employer. Please send your resume, cover letter, and application to jobs@crestedbutte-co.gov.

WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY

FOREMAN: The Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District is accepting applications for a full-time Wastewater Treatment Facility Foreman to join a team environment focused on operating the wastewater treatment facility and collection system for Mt. Crested Butte. Key qualifications include experience in treatment and collection system operations and maintenance, employee supervision, construction, and electrical/ mechanical repair and maintenance. A State of Colorado Class B Wastewater Treatment and Class 3 Collection System certification is required. The ability to obtain Class A Wastewater Treatment and Class 4 Collection System certification within one year is mandatory (training for certifications provided). Operators are required to take oncall responsibility, including select weekends and holidays. A valid Colorado driver’s license is also required. The position offers a competitive hourly rate of $36.74 to $45.06, DOE, along with an excellent benefits package. Benefits include 100% employerpaid family health, dental, vision, and life insurance premiums, 12 paid holidays, two weeks of paid vacation, a retirement plan with a 5% employer match and up to an additional 3% optional match, employerprovided uniforms, and a seasonal wellness benefit. The full job description is available at www.mcbwsd.com. 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 will remain open until it is filled. MCBWSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Real Estate

FOR LEASE: The newly renovated mall building located at 123 W. Tomichi Ave. Gunnison. $850/mo. Includes utilities. Contact 720-308-8239.

FOR RENT: Built in 2007. 3BR, 2.5 bath town home in Gunnison. 1140 W. New York. All appliances plus washer/dryer. $2,230 monthly for one year lease. Call owner at 361-550-0919 or Nesbitt & Co 970-596-0922 for more information.

PRIME GROUND FLOOR RETAIL SPACE: Next to City Market in Gunnison. 1,500 sqft of prime ground ﬂoor retail space available in the Meadows Mall next to City Market in 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.

Notice

GUNNISON COUNTRY FOOD PANTRY: The ﬁrst Wednesday of each month a semi-truck from Colorado Springs brings thousands of pounds of food for neighbors and we need groups and individuals to help unload the truck at 9:45 a.m. We are also looking for dedicated volunteers to help with food pickups from local vendors on Wed’s and Fri’s 8:30-11a.m. This role is a vital link between generous stores and the families we serve. It includes lifting up to 50 lbs, driving safely and timeliness. Additionally, we need volunteers in-store, with opportunities for greeters, organizers, drivers, stockers and more. No matter your skills, there’s a spot for you. Varying shifts throughout the week, all times of day. Together, we can keep food on every table. Call 970-641-4156 to get involved.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR HOLIDAY HARVEST BOX PACKING & DELIVERY

MOUNTAIN ROOTS FOOD PROJECT is seeking volunteers to help prepare and deliver Holiday Food Boxes for families in need. Join us in spreading community cheer and kindness by lending a hand with packing and distribution!

When & Where: Fred Field Center, Gunnison Tuesday, November 25th

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM & 1:00 - 3:00 PM Tuesday, December 23rd 9:00 AM - 12:00

PM & 1:00 - 3:00 PM. If you would like to volunteer, please email Jen at jennifer@ mountainrootsfoodproject.org.

Legals

Saguache County Board of Commissioners

The Saguache County Board of Commissioners invites the public, local ﬁre districts, and town boards members within Saguache County to attend a Public Hearing on the Colorado Wildﬁre Urban Interface (WUI) Code.

Date: Tuesday, November 12, 2025

Time: 5:00 p.m.

Location: Road & Bridge Meeting Room, 305 3rd Street, Saguache, CO

This hearing will provide an opportunity for affected ﬁre districts and municipalities— those required to write and enforce the State of Colorado WUI Code—to share their input. The Commissioners are seeking testimony on:

• Opinions regarding the WUI Code.

• The ability to enforce its requirements.

• The ability to write the required codes.

• Authority and feasibility of adopting related fees. Y our participation is important to help guide how the WUI Code will be applied within Saguache County. Pizza will be provided. For more information, please contact the Saguache County Administration Ofﬁce at (719) 655-2231. By Order of the Saguache County Board of Commissioners Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of October 9, 16, 23, 30 and November 6, 13, 2025 18925

PUBLIC NOTICE ADVERSTMENT OF Colorado River District Board Appointment

The Saguache County Board of Commissioners is accepting letters of interest for appointment from an individual who would like to serve as the Saguache County representative to the Colorado River District Board of Directors. Letters of Interest may be addressed to the Board of County Commissioners and submitted to the Saguache County Administration ofﬁce at 505 3rd Street, Saguache, CO or mailed to PO Box 100, Saguache CO 81149 by 3pm on THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11,

O’Rourke Media Group is searching for a talented reporter to ﬁll a full-time position in Gunnison at The Gunnison Country Times.

Editor

O’Rourke Media Group is searching for a talented editor to lead the digital and print newsroom at the Gunnison Country Times, a trusted and award-winning community newspaper in Colorado. This role is not an administrative one, but rather a role for someone who can lead a newsroom and cover their own beats at the same time.

Our journalists are driven to find stories that matter to our community and are dedicated to fairness, accuracy and ethics. The successful candidate for this position is a strong leader and storyteller who understands both the nuances of rural mountain life and the broader forces shaping it. Gunnison is a place where national issues play out on a local scale — from water rights and public lands to housing, endangered species, and economic sustainability — and we’re looking for someone who can guide coverage that helps readers make sense of it all. The ideal candidate has exceptional editing and management skills, values community journalism, understands how to grow our digital audience and knows how to produce a newspaper that reflects the lives, priorities and passions of the people who live here.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• Develop and execute a plan to grow our digital audience;

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS FOR THIS POSITION INCLUDE:

•

• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills;

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment;

• A valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle;

• Willingness to live in or near Gunnison, Colorado.

If this sounds like the perfect position for you, we would love to hear from you!

• Post multiple stories a day to the Gunnison Country Times website;

• Oversee daily news operations, including story planning and editing for print and online;

• Manage and mentor a small but dedicated team of reporters and correspondents;

• Write news and feature stories on a regular basis (this role will include regular beats, including government meetings);

• Coordinate with designers and production staff to meet tight deadlines;

• Uphold high standards of accuracy, fairness and ethical reporting;

• Represent the Gunnison Country Times in the community, building relationships with readers, local leaders and organizations;

• Collaborate with O’Rourke Media Group’s broader editorial network to share ideas and support companywide initiatives.

• Degree or diploma in journalism, communications or a related field;

• At least 3–5 years of newsroom experience, including prior editing or leadership responsibilities;

• Strong editing, writing and storytelling skills across both print and digital platforms;

• Familiarity with AP style, SEO best practices and social media engagement;

• Excellent organizational, communication and decisionmaking skills;

• The ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines;

• A valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle;

• Willingness to live in or near Gunnison, Colorado. The range for compensation is $45,000 to $50,000, depending on qualifications.

O’Rourke Media Group is a family-owned publisher and agency, dedicated to revitalizing local media and connecting communities.

If this sounds like the perfect position for you, we would love to hear from you!

To apply, please send your resume, letter of interest, and relevant samples of your work to Chad Richardson, Vice President of News, at crichardson@ORourkeMediaGroup.com

JOIN OUR TEAM OFFICE MANAGER

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Gunnison Country Times and Gunnison Country Shopper are seeking a friendly, organized Office Manager to join our team. This in-office, customerfacing role involves greeting visitors, answering phones, and supporting our advertising and operations teams.

You’ll help community members place ads, submit announcements, make payments, and connect with the right people. If you enjoy working with the public and being part of a team that keeps local news and information flowing, this role is for you.

WHY JOIN US

• $16-$22/hour depending on experience level.

• Eligible for medical, dental, and vision benefits on the 1st of the month after 30 days of employment.

• Eligible to enroll in the company’s 401 (k) retirement savings on the 1st of the month after 90 days.

• 16 days of PTO plus 4-5 paid holidays.

• Be part of a respected, long-standing local news organization.

• Work with a supportive team that values professionalism and community connection.

Opportunity for growth within O’Rourke Media Group.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Customer Service & Office Operations

Welcome and assist walk-in customers with professionalism and a friendly attitude.

• Help customers place ads, renew subscriptions, and make payments.

• Answer and direct phone calls or inquiries.

• Handle cash and check transactions, prepare deposits, and maintain accurate records.

• Keep the office organized and running smoothly. Advertising & Revenue Support

• Assist the advertising team by routing calls, booking ads, and scheduling appointments.

• Coordinate classified ads, renewals, and customer communications.

• Ensure ad materials and deadlines are met each week.

• Support special sections and promotional projects as needed.

Circulation & Community Engagement

Maintain subscriber lists and assist with subscriptions..

• Manage community submissions such as obituaries, announcements, and public notices.

• Serve as a welcoming resource for anyone visiting the office.

Qualifications

• Previous office or customer service experience preferred.

• Strong communication and organizational skills.

• Proficiency with basic computer programs and office systems.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and weekly deadlines.

• Positive, people-focused attitude.

2025. Letters of interest may also be emailed to wmaez@saguachecounty-co.gov.

The deadline for letters of interest is THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2025, at 3PM. The Board of County Commissioners will review comments and make a decision on this appointment at their regular meeting on TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2025.

Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 13, 20, 27, December 4, and 11, 2025.

PUBLIC NOTICE GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT Special Work Session November 17, 2025

5:30pm Gunnison Lake School

This meeting will be conducted in person and by distance using the video conferencing platform ZOOM Webinar. Please check the GWSD website for further instructions. Items for Discussion

1. Discuss Superintendent Search with Christy Sinner of McPherson & Jacobson Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 13, 2025.

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING A LAND USE CHANGE APPLICATION FOR HARRISON LAND ESTATES, LLC FOR THE STARVIEW SUBDIVISION OF 107 RESIDENTIAL LOTS

HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION: The Gunnison County Board of Commissioners and the Planning Commission on December 18, 2025 at 9:00 a.m., in the County Commissioners Meeting Room, 200 E Virginia Ave., Gunnison, Colorado, will hear public comment concerning a land use change permit sketch plan application for a residential subdivision.

APPLICANT: The applicant is Harrison Land Estates, LLC.

PARCEL LOCATION: The subject parcel is located at 48 County Road 740. The parcel is legally described as a tract of land in Sections 27, 28, and 34, Township 14 South, Range 85 West, 6th pm. The parcel is at the southeast corner of the intersection of Highway 135 and Cement Creek Road (County Road 740).

PROPOSAL: The applicant has revised the Sketch Plan application and proposes the subdivision of 107 lots to include 83 single family lots, 24 essential housing units, 1 lot for Crested Butte South Metropolitan District which may include employee housing.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit verbal or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments by email: planning@gunnisoncounty.org; or letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing. A copy of the application is available online at: https://permitdb.gunnisoncounty.org/citizenaccess/ Select “Projects” Select “Application Number” and type “LUC22-00028” or select “Project Name” and type “Starview” ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact

the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing. /s/ Cathie Pagano

Assistant County Manager for Community & Economic Development

Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 13, 2025.

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPLICATION FOR A RETAIL MARIJUANA STORE LICENSE ALPINE ALCHEMY LLC

PURSUANT TO THE MARIJUANA LAWS OF THE STATE OF COLORADO AND THE CITY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO, Alpine Alchemy, LLC, 1198 N Main Street, Unit A, Gunnison, Colorado, has requested the licensing officials of the City of Gunnison to grant a Retail Marijuana Store License for selling retail marijuana and allowed retail marijuana-infused products in the City of Gunnison.

A Public Hearing on the application will be held in the City Council Chambers, second floor of City Hall, 201 West Virginia Avenue, Gunnison, CO, at 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at which time and place you may give testimony on the application. This public hearing may also be attended remotely by phone or computer by registering at https://us02web.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_mufdgK6MRyKbki40lOV8jg

Date of Application: October 21, 2025

Principal: Eric Piper, 260 Griffing Road, Gunnison, Colorado 81230

Written comments may be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office, City Hall, 201 W. Virginia Avenue, Gunnison, CO, mailed to: City Clerk, P.O. Box 239, Gunnison, CO 81230, or emailed to eboucher@gunnisonco.gov until 12:00 P.M., Monday, December 8, 2025. City of Gunnison, Colorado City Council

/s/Erica Boucher, City Clerk

Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 13, 2025.

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING AMENDMENT OF THE GUNNISON COUNTY STANDARDS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS AND BRIDGES HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION:

The Gunnison Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on November 18, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. in the meeting room upstairs in the Gunnison County Courthouse, 200 E. Virginia Avenue Gunnison, CO 81230 and/or by ZOOM meeting. https://gunnisoncounty-org.zoom. us/j/89798905619 APPLICANT: Gunnison County Board of County Commissioners PROPOSAL: Amendments to the Gunnison County Standards And Specifications For New Construction Of Roads And Bridges. HOW TO VIEW THE PROJECT FILE: A copy of the proposed amendments are available online at: https://gunnisoncounty.org/ ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/9468. If you have questions or issues accessing the files, contact the Public Works Department at (970) 641-0044 or publicworks@gunnisoncounty.org.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments by email: publicworks@gunnisoncounty. org or by letter (Gunnison County Public

JOIN OUR TEAM

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Works, 195 Basin Park Drive, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing.

ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact Gunnison County Public Works prior to the day of the hearing.

/s/ Martin Schmidt, Deputy County Manager for Public Works

Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 6 and 13, 2025.

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS BY PUBLICATION PURSUANT TO § 15-12-801, C.R.S. NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Mary Rose Pasic, aka Mary R. Pasic, aka Mary Pasic, Deceased Case Number 2025PR030024

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Gunnison , County, Colorado on or before March 6, 2026, or the claims may be forever barred.

Thomas Randall Pasic 4210 Yuma Dr Madison, WI, 53711

Attorney or Party Without Attorney (Name and Address): Karen Brady 6870 W 52nd Ave #103 Arvada, CO 80001

Phone Number: (303) 420-2863 E-mail: info@coloradoestateplanning.com

FAX Number: (303) 847-4478 Atty. Reg. #: 18324

Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 6, 13, and 20, 2025.

PUBLIC NOTICE

SUMMONS

DISTRICT COURT

GUNNISON COUNTY, COLORADO

200 E. Virginia Avenue Gunnison, CO 81230

Plaintiffs: Kent Lacey and Janelle M. Lacey, as Trustees of The Lacey Family Trust v. Defendants: Bonnie L. Pearson (deceased); Charles T. Prutsman (deceased); Alice M. Daniel (deceased); Gene P. Daniel (deceased); Gene Paul Daniel, Co-Trustee of the Daniel Family Revocable Living Trust dated May 27, 2009 (deceased); Alice Maxine Daniel, Co-Trustee of the Daniel Family Revocable Living Trust dated May 27, 2009 (deceased); The Board of County Commissioners of the County of Gunnison, State of Colorado; and all unknown persons who claim any interest in the subject matter of this action.

Attorneys for Plaintiffs: LAW OF THE ROCKIES Kendall K. Burgemeister, Atty. Reg. #: 41593 Tess R. Peterson, Atty. Reg. #62416 525 North Main Street Gunnison, CO 81230 Telephone: 970.641.1903 kburgemeister@lawoftherockies.com

Case Number: 25CV30047 THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the complaint filed with the court in this action, by filing with the clerk of this court an

answer or other response. You are required to file your answer or other response within 35 days after the service of this summons upon you. Service of this summons shall be complete on the day of the last publication. A copy of the complaint may be obtained from the clerk of the court. If you fail to file your answer or other response in writing within the applicable time period, the Court may enter judgment by default against you for the relief demanded in the complaint without further notice. This is an action to quiet the title of the Plaintiffs in and to the real property situate in Gunnison County, Colorado, more particularly described as: A parcel of land situated within Section 9, Township 50 North, Range 4 East, New Mexico Principal Meridian, County of Gunnison, State of Colorado. Better described as beginning at a point from which the NE corner of Section 9 bears N45°47’02”E 3203.57 feet; Thence S34°20’21”E 125.00 feet; Thence S55°39’39”W 300.00 feet; Thence N34°20’21”W 125.00 feet; Thence N55°39’39”E 300.00 feet to the point of beginning, containing 0.86 acres more or less as described.

BASIS OF BEARINGS: The bearing between the found GLO Brass Cap monument at the NE comer of Section 9, Township 50 North, Range 4 East, New Mexico Principal Meridian and the found GLO Brass Cap monument at the El/4 comer of said Section 9, bears S00°32’55”E (ASSUMED). Law of the Rockies By: S/ Kendall K. Burgemeiste Kendall K. Burgemeister

Dated: October 31, 2025

Published in the Gunnison Country Times on the following dates: November 13, 20, 27, December 4, and 11, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICE

UPPER GUNNISON RIVER WATER CONSERVANCY DISTRICT BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Public Hearing

210 West Spencer Avenue, Suite A, Gunnison, CO 81230 and via Zoom video/teleconferencing Monday, November 24, 2025 at 5:30 P.M. NOTICE AS TO PROPOSED BUDGET

MEETING AND PUBLIC HEARING: Notice is hereby given that a proposed Budget for the calendar year beginning January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2026, will be considered by the Board of Directors of the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District (UGRWCD). Adoption of the proposed Budget will be discussed at a public hearing during the regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors on Monday, November 24, 2025 commencing at 5:30 p.m. at the UGRWCD offices at 210 West Spencer, Suite A, Gunnison, CO 81230 or via Zoom video/teleconferencing. Any interested party may file objections to the proposed budget at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget. The budget will be available for inspection prior to the meeting. For Zoom login information or other questions, please call the District at (970)641-6065. Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 13, 2025. PUBLIC NOTICE Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District Board of Directors Meeting

Monday, November 24, 2025 at 5:30 PM

The Board of Directors of the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District (UGRWCD) will conduct a regular Board meeting on Monday, November 24, 2025, 2023 at 5:30 PM at the UGRWCD Offices, 210 W. Spencer Ave., St. A, Gunnison, CO 81230 and via Zoom video/teleconferencing. If you plan to attend the meeting via Zoom video/teleconferencing, please register in advance using the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ tZUpd—srzkjGtAdynPI3FlCp4G_rR0ewl4Q After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. A meeting agenda will be posted at the District Office prior to the meeting. Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 13, 2025.

The Saguache County Board of 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, NOVEMBER 17, 2025, at 11 AM to consider proposed changes to the Saguache County Land Development Code. ARTICLE 2, ARTICLE 4, ARTICLE 6, ARTICLE 8, ARTICLE 10, ARTICLE 13, DEFINITIONS

To view the proposed changes, you may contact the Saguache County Land Use Department – PO Box 326, Saguache, CO 81149 or HYPERLINK “mailto:atorrez@saguachecounty-co.gov”atorrez@saguachecounty-co.gov or by calling 719-655-2321 or you may also view the changes on our website at HYPERLINK “http://www.saguachecounty.colorado.gov”www.saguachecounty. colorado.gov.

Written comments will be accepted until Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 3pm, and may be sent to Saguache County Land Use Department at PO Box 326, Saguache, CO 81149 or email to HYPERLINK “mailto:atorrez@saguachecounty-co. gov”atorrez@saguachecounty-co.gov. Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of October 9, 16, 23, 30 and November 6, 13, 2025 18923

The Saguache County Board of 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, NOVEMBER 17, 2025, at 1 PM to consider proposed changes to the 1041 Regulations.

To view the proposed changes, 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 Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 3pm, and may be sent to Saguache County Land Use Department at PO Box 326, Saguache, CO 81149 or email to atorrez@saguachecountyco.gov. Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of October 9, 16, 23, 30 and November 6, 13, 2025 18924

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We’re looking for a motivated Advertising Account Executive to join our sales team. This is a growth role — ideal for someone who wants to build their own client portfolio and become a go-to resource for local business owners.

You’ll be backed by an award-winning newsroom, a full-service digital agency, and leadership that values autonomy and hustle. You bring the energy. We’ll bring the support.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Grow your territory by prospecting and closing new business

• Build long-term client relationships and recurring revenue

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR

• Sales experience or a strong desire to break into the business

• Excellent communication and presentation skills

WHAT YOU’LL GET

• Base salary + commissions

• Full benefits, 401(k), and PTO

• Training, mentorship, and sales playbooks that set you up to win

ABOUT OMG

• Collaborate with internal teams to execute effective ad campaigns

• Guide clients through print and digital marketing strategies

• Self-starter mindset — you take ownership and drive your day

• Competitive edge with a customerfirst attitude

• Full suite of marketing products — from print to SEO to social media

• Strong internal support and a collaborative team environment

• Drive results that keep your clients coming back

• Interest in marketing, business growth, and local impact

• Flexibility, autonomy, and the ability to carve your own path

• The chance to grow with a fast-moving media company

O’Rourke Media Group is a family-owned, rapidly growing media company operating in 8 states and 40 markets. We own over 55 hyper-local newspapers and websites and run a full-service digital agency. Our mission is simple: deliver impactful local journalism and help businesses succeed. Learn more at orourkemediagroup.com

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

Age Graded and Adult Ministry - 9 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Church Service - 10:30 a.m.

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

Faith Directory

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 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.

Wednesday night service at 7pm.

New Song Christian Fellowship

77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034

A Christ Centered Gospel Sharing Community where we want to be part of a community who encourage and support one another in our spiritual journey.

Sunday 10 a.m. / Wednesday 7 p.m. newsonggunnison.net

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

Gunnison seeks redemption at state volleyball tournament

Experience key in return to Denver

James Nokes

Special to the Times

Bright lights won’t be an issue for the Gunnison volleyball team at the state tournament.

With consecutive 3-0 home wins in the Class 3A Region 9 tournament, the Cowboys punched their ticket to the state tournament in back-toback seasons.

“We wanted to experience going to state again,” Gunnison coach Lindsay Hart said. “We got to state last year and folded. We weren’t ready for the magnitude of the experience last year. Our returnees want redemption and they’ve been working so hard for it.”

Because of their Saturday sweeps of Windsor Charter

Academy and The Academy, Gunnison (20-5) has the chance to return to the Denver Coliseum starting Thursday and author their redemption story.

“This year I feel like we are going to come out with more intensity,” senior defensive specialist Ruthie Lock said. “Last year we were just there to play and have fun. This year we want to play to win.”

Part of that winning team is Macy Trezise who didn’t play for the Cowboys last season. She had to persevere through a right ankle injury but the senior right side will get her first taste of the state tournament.

While it took the Cowboys a few matches to gel (the Cowboys started their season 4-4) GHS has lost just one match since September.

“This is beyond my wildest dreams,” Trezise said. “I know these are incredible girls, but we lost some impactful seniors. I wasn’t sure we could all flow

together, but we really got it going.”

As the Cowboys prepare for state, they’ll have their sights set on history. They’ll embark on a journey to Denver they hope culminates in the first volleyball state championship in school history.

Hart has spoken about the challenges of being a western slope athlete. She joined a determined senior class to provide stability to a program that had cycled through four coaches in four years, the opportunity to return home with some hardware is once again in front of the Cowboys.

“They want to see how far they can go,” Hart said. “They’ve worked this year. This team had to work for it. They didn’t just come out swinging. They want to leave a legacy and build this program and get this team as far as it can go.”

(James Nokes writes for Colorado Preps.)

The GHS volleyball squad with their hard-earned trophy as regional champs. (Photo by Evan Bjornstad)

Final buzzer heartbreak for second week

Mountaineers fall to Chadron 27-24

Gregg Petcoff Special to the Times

For the second time in two Saturdays, Western Colorado University put a mark in the loss column via a field goal on the final play of the game, this time falling to host Chadron State, 27-24, in overtime in Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference action at Elliott Field.

Last Saturday the Mountaineers had to watch a field goal sail through the uprights on the final play in regulation in a 24-21 loss to visiting Colorado State Pueblo.

The early action looked like Western would command the scoreboard as it scored on a 24-yard Drew Nash to Kai Goetze touchdown throw on its first possession.

The Mountaineer defense limited Chadron to nine yards on its first drive and six yards on its second, then earned a short field on the first play of the Eagles’ third possession as Blake Nieslanik dove for and caught a tipped pass from CSC quarterback DJ Ralph to give

the Western offense the ball at the Eagles’ five yard line.

On second down from the three Nash found Ramon Ruiz in the front left corner of the end zone to push Western’s advantage to 14-0 with just under half the first quarter still remaining.

Things would change after that score, however, as the Mountaineers would not score again until an Adam Tasei 24-yard field goal late in the third quarter to wrest back the lead, 17-16, after CSC had put a touchdown and field goal up on the scoreboard before halftime then added a go-ahead touchdown on its first drive of the third quarter.

Early in the fourth quarter and deep in Western’s own territory, Nash was hit as he threw and the fluttering ball landed in the hands of an Eagle at the Mountaineer 15, from where CSC was able to move back ahead with a short drive and a two-point conversion.

With just 1:55 to play at the start of Western’s final possession, Nash and company covered 77 yards in 78 seconds, ending the four-play drive with a 38-yard Nash to Joshua Dixon touchdown throw.

Western had a chance to win on the final play of regulation, but a 46-yard field goal attempt was blocked, sending the game to overtime.

Flushed from the pocket on the first play in OT, Nash’s pass was intercepted, providing the Eagles with the opportunity to win with just a field goal.

The Mountaineer defense pushed the CSC offense back five yards on three plays, but Wilson Yee hit from 47 yards to split the uprights for the OT game-winner for the Eagles.

Nash threw for 300 yards and 3 touchdowns, but also had 2 interceptions on the day, while CSC’s Ralph was held to just 111 yards by the Mountaineer defense.

Eight different players car-

ried the ball on the ground for CSC, pounding out 199 yards rushing against a Western defense averaging just 86 yards to opposing rushing attacks.

Running back Quinn Bailey, with six yards rushing, was consistently open as a safety valve for Nash, ending the game as Western’s leading receiver with 65 yards.

Linebackers Kade Musser and Ian Loomis both reached double digits in tackles during the game, Musser totaling 13 and Loomis making 11.

Musser and Ricky Freymond each had three tackles for

loss, with two of Musser’s registering as quarterback sacks, equaling Drew Johnson in that department.

Up next Western closes out its regular season schedule at home on Nov. 15 when it takes on visiting Colorado Mesa University on MOJO Field in Mountaineer Bowl at the Rady Family Sports Complex.

(Gregg Petcoff is assistant director of athletics for communications at Western Colorado University.)

WCU basketball opens season in Colorado Springs

Program boasts new faces this year

Gregg Petcoff Special to the Times

The Western Colorado men’s basketball team dropped its season opener against Colorado College in Colorado Springs last Friday, 92-94 in overtime. However, the team enters the 2025–26 season looking to grow and surprise within the competitive Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

The Mountaineers were projected to finish 13th in the RMAC preseason poll, signaling that many around the league view them as a program still in rebuilding mode.

However, there are encouraging signs of progress and potential on this year’s roster.

Veteran guard Christian Still returns as the team’s leader, bringing valuable experience and consistency to a group that features several new faces.

Western has bolstered its frontcourt with international size and talent, adding freshmen Adam Massarsch from Sweden, David Shelia from Georgia, and Joanis Koulisianis from the Czech Republic. The trio gives the Mountaineers a stronger inside presence than in recent years and reflects the program’s growing recruiting reach.

While this youth movement provides excitement for the future, it also brings challenges. Inexperience and earlyseason adjustments will be key hurdles as Western navigates the physical, fast-paced RMAC schedule.

Developing chemistry between the veterans and newcomers will take time, and the team’s ability to defend, rebound and take care of the ball will determine how competitive they can be. Still’s leadership in the backcourt will be crucial in setting the tone and guiding the freshmen through the grind of conference play.

Western Colorado’s mix of returning leadership and promising newcomers positions them to take meaningful steps forward and potentially surprise a few RMAC opponents along the way.

The Mountaineers head to San Angelo, Texas to take on Angelo State on Fri. Nov. 14 at 11am.

(Gregg Petcoff is assistant director of athletics for communications at Western Colorado University.)

The Mountaineers fell to Chadron State in overtime last Saturday. (Courtesy Western Colorado University)

Western basketball will open the season in Colorado Springs

ROUND UP

Gunnison boys soccer underdog story ends in quarterfinals

By James Nokes

It was just 15 minutes, but to Susan Powers it seemed like an eternity.

In a 1-0 second round win in the Class 2A state tournament

Cesar Marmolejo scored the go-ahead goal with 15 minutes left in the match.

Even though Powers and the Cowboys planned to stick with the style of play that got them there, things changed and time slowly dripped off the clock. Eli Coop joined Zavier Drendel at center back and Sam Anderson

knuckled down between the pipes to make history for the Cowboys.

At No. 21 Cowboys were the lowest seed left in the tournament, and they made the deepest playoff run in program history.

“Going into the game we said we were not going to change anything,” Powers said. “We knew we wanted to focus on our defense and try to turn in a clean sheet. That’s how you win games. We hoped we would just get a couple of good scoring opportunities.

“It might have been the lon-

gest 15 minutes of my life.”

The Cinderella story came to an abrupt end with a 4-0 quarterfinal loss at Forge Christian on Saturday. A dusty first goal came on a flip-toss throw in that officials ruled Anderson touched before it went in the back of the net.

Forge added two more goals in the first 15 minutes and put the match out of reach. But, Powers sees the Cowboys have built something special with the program. There’s more interest at the recreational level in town and the young players on the rise have a standard

towards which they’ll strive.

“It’s been kind of a slow and steady development over time,” Power said. “But we are headed in the right direction.

The commitment and buy in from players gets a little better every year. We spend a little more effort coaching and building the program the way we want. We are always strategizing how the puzzle pieces best fit together when building this program.”

Awards season for softball

The post season accolades

are in for the GHS softball team. The Cowboys (12-12, 7-5 3A Western Slope) lost a firstround playoff game to Alamosa 19-12 on Oct. 18.

Starting pitcher Reese Japuntich was named 1st Team All-League WSL 3A.

Caroline Sudderth, Maddy Bacalis and Kaylee Vincent were named All league 2nd team WSL. The Colorado Coaches of Girls Sports AllState honored Bacalis and Vincent.

Japuntich was also named to the CHSAA Softball All-State Honorable Mention team.

MEET NICOLE HUFF Chief Nursing Officer

What

recent awards and recognitions has GVH received?

Over the past six months, our care team has achieved several prestigious recognitions that reflect our commitment to exceptional patient care.

• COPPER Designation for Pediatric Preparedness in Emergency Rooms

• Gold Star Award for Acute Stroke Ready Excellence

• 5-Star Rating at the Senior Care Center

• Trauma Level IV Re-designation with no deficiencies

• Celebrate 6 Award for Breastfeeding Excellence

Each of these honors reflects our team’s dedication to evidence-based care, compassion, and teamwork. From supporting new mothers to responding rapidly in emergencies, these awards are a testament to how our team turns professional excellence into exceptional patient experiences every day.

How does the culture within the GVH care team contribute to excellence in healthcare delivery?

Our culture is grounded in Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence—our ICARE values. These values guide how we care for our patients and how we support one another. Operating within a Just Culture also encourages transparency, shared learning, and continuous improvement. Through shared governance, every nurse has a voice in shaping care practices, improving quality, and influencing decisions that impact patient outcomes. This empowerment fosters ownership, collaboration, and pride in the work we do. By creating a culture where nurses are trusted partners in care, excellence naturally follows.

What inspires you and your team to consistently deliver award-winning care at our hospital?

Our inspiration comes from the people we serve. Caring for our friends, families, and neighbors makes every success deeply personal. Knowing that our work directly improves the lives of those in our community keeps us motivated to go above and beyond.

The entire team at Gunnison Valley Health is a family of professionals who support, challenge, and celebrate each other. We face every challenge with resilience and heart, knowing that rural healthcare demands creativity, teamwork, and compassion.

The awards are not the goal—they’re the reflection of a team that truly loves what they do and who they serve.

To learn more about Nicole Huff and our amazing team of providers

Gunnison Country Times, November 13, 2025

Gunnison Middle School cross country boys win division at state

Victory caps a record-setting year

ACA tax credits set to expire

many face steep increases in premiums

QUOTE of the week

GET YOUR CITY NEWS HERE! CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS

SNAP benefits update

LEAP accepting applications

Fire Services

THANKSGIVING

OBITUARIES

Amlin showcases new work

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A reason to be thankful

Community dinner feeds many needs

OPINION

970.641.1414

GUEST COMMENTARY

What happens to our parks when rangers disappear?

LETTERS

LETTERS POLICY

Housing transition continues

GUNNISON COUNTY LANDFILL

SATURDAY HOURS

The City Center

Tax Credit from A1

Local woman killed in Hwy. 135 car crash

Seattle man charged with vehicular homicide

For more than a day

Ways to honor veterans the rest of the year

GHS Drama Club students present original play

Times Staff Report

Colorado water year 2025 summary

A report from the Colorado Climate Center

Temperatures

Precipitation

Notable events

MORATORIUM

GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS

Subject to Change Friendsgiving Improv Night CBMT

BOSS Ross Painting Class

Watercolor and Wine | AND Series

CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS

Makers Market

The Color of Snow

Cookbook Club: Misunderstood Vegetables

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ABOUT OMG

Faith Directory

Gunnison seeks redemption at state volleyball tournament

Experience key in return to Denver

Final buzzer heartbreak for second week

Mountaineers fall to Chadron 27-24

WCU basketball opens season in Colorado Springs

Program boasts new faces this year

ROUND UP

Gunnison boys soccer underdog story ends in quarterfinals

MEET NICOLE HUFF Chief Nursing Officer

What

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