OPINION: The pleasuresand perils - of seasonal jobs, A6
City’s plan to bolster economic prosperity set in motion
New economic development corporation proposed
Gia Wright Times Staff Writer
A hot topic of discussion as of late in the Gunnison Valley is the economy—how to revitalize the downtown Main Street storefronts, bolster incomes to match rising costs of living, and how to continue growing into an even more prosperous community. In the recent elections, many candidates focused on these issues as major platform points.
Working towards this goal of economic prosperity, the City of Gunnison has been developing an extensive, multi-faceted economic development strategy plan called “The Gunnison Advantage: People, Place, Opportunity.” The city hired a pri-
City’s plan A3
INSIDE TODAY
EDUCATION: Macort named statewide counselor of the month, A5
COMMUNITY: Christmas trees for a cause, A14
SPORTS: GHS volleyball team drops pair of matches at state tournament A21
OBITUARIES A3
OPINION A6
CLASSIFIEDS A17-A19 SPORTS A21
Gunnison Area Plan adopted by city and county
County approves special area regulations
Alan Wartes Special to the Times
A flurry of agreements and approvals by Gunnison County Commissioners and Gunnison City Council on Tuesday has substantially reduced the regulatory friction faced by potential housing developers in the valley.
On Tuesday morning, Gunnison County Commissioners unanimously approved the Gunnison Area Plan — capping three years of planning and public engagement.
The document is a “shared roadmap for how the City of Gunnison and Gunnison County will collaborate to guide growth over the coming decades,” the plan states.
Gunnison City Council also approved the plan on Tuesday evening.
Specifically, the document sets joint goals for how and where development may take place in areas in unincorporated Gunnison County that are within a threemile radius of Gunnison city limits. It also aims to streamline the approval process, particularly for housing projects.
In support of the plan, commissioners also approved Special Area Regulations meant to set targets for development density within the Area Plan’s boundaries and, in many cases, to dramatically simplify and shorten the approval pipeline. In one example presented to commissioners, the timeline for approval for a theoretical 10-unit housing project dropped from as much as two years to eight weeks.
“The Special Area Regulations are a
more precise tool than countywide Land Use Resolution amendments,” county staff wrote in a memo to commissioners. “They provide specific development and design standards that reflect the area’s proximity to the City of Gunnison and their access to a more urban level of service. These tailored standards are not appropriate for the entirety of Gunnison County, where much of the private land is extremely rural, lacks access to infrastructure and where the County seeks to maintain the distinct character and function of its rural communities.”
The city council also heard a first reading of an ordinance to repeal its Gunnison Land Development Code (LDC) and reenact it — with revisions — as Title 15 of the Gunnison Municipal Code. Council is expected to approve the resolution at a regular meeting on Dec. 9.
The city’s current LDC was adopted in 2014. In 2020, city council approved a comprehensive plan, which identified a number of strategic objectives concerning development within the city. Those included expanding housing opportunities; encouraging economic vitality; and modernizing and simplifying standards.
State law requires municipalities to plan for future growth within the three-mile radius, anticipating infrastructure needs and zoning changes. The Gunnison Area Plan marks the first time the city and county have collaborated to this degree on setting goals and regulations in those locations where the two interface.
“Three miles around Gunnison is a huge area,” Gunnison City Manager Amanda Wilson told the Times. “It’s not reasonable that the city of Gunnison would grow three miles out. If we were in Loveland, then it’s pretty reasonable and we’d better start planning that wide.”
Therefore, rather than being driven by geography, she said, city planning is focused on areas that can be served by city utilities at a reasonable price.
“To get city water all the way up to Garlic Mike’s, for example, would be really expensive,” she said. “We’d need booster stations.”
Then, within the broad boundary of feasible access to utilities, planners identified areas that are most likely to be attractive to future developers. These are locations that are eligible for annexation by the city in the future and could reasonably be served by city utilities. The Gunnison Area Plan identifies these places as within what it calls the Urban Growth Boundary.
Anticipating growth and possible annexation in UGAs, the city and county have agreed to let city permitting rules apply to future development there, even though the land presently lies within the county. In a significant change to the LDC, the city proposes zoning categories within those areas, ranging from single-family to highdensity residential use.
“If we’re going to annex and we’re going to serve utilities, then it kind of makes sense that those properties, when they’re building, are following city rules, instead of county rules,” Wilson said. “ I say that because the density or the type of roads that we would expect in a municipality are obviously very different than we would expect in a county.”
An intergovernmental agreement spelling out the details of that collaboration was also approved on Tuesday by the city and county.
All about housing
Strategic and comprehensive plans adopted by both Gunnison County and the City of Gunnison
On Saturday, Nov. 15, dancers of Gunnison’s High Altitude Dance Academy took the stage with a multiple style dance performance of the classic fairy tale, Cinderella. Kids of all ages showed off their best moves under the bright lights for a packed crowd in the Western Colorado University Taylor Auditorium. (Photo by Evan Bjornstad)
QUOTE of the week
“A small-school counselor has to wear a number of different hats and Sarah (Macort) wears them all well. … She can teach a college and career readiness lesson in the classroom, counsel a student who is dealing with anxiety, write a letter of recommendation for a student’s scholarship and advise a student on concurrent enrollment classes to take at Western within just a few hours on any given day.”— Jim Woytek, GHS principal
See story on A5
CPW continues increased zebra mussel sampling on Colorado River
On Oct. 29, over 70 people from multiple partner agencies and groups joined Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) for a one-day sampling effort on the Colorado River. From the headwaters in Grand County to Westwater, Utah, volunteers from nine agencies spent the day floating the river in search of adult zebra mussels.
Similar surveys were conducted on the Eagle and Roaring Fork rivers, as well as the tail end of the Gunnison River near the confluence of the Colorado River.
The rivers were divided into smaller sections to simplify the identification of potential zebra mussel habitat and maximize the amount of surveying that could be done in each section. Stopping at points along the way, teams conducted shoreline surveys by inspecting rocks and other hard surfaces where zebra mussels may attach.
Staff and volunteers sampled approximately 200 locations, covering over 200 miles between the four rivers.
Through this sampling effort, CPW confirmed a single adult zebra mussel in the Colorado River near Rifle. During surveys following the large-scale effort, CPW Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) staff discovered additional adult zebra mussels within Glenwood Canyon.
With these new findings, the Colorado River is now considered infested from the confluence of the Eagle River down to the Colorado-Utah border.
“Although it is disappointing to have found additional zebra mussels in the Colorado River,” said Robert Walters, CPW’s Invasive Species Program Manager, “this survey achieved its primary objective of gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the extent of the zebra mussel population in western Colorado.”
To date, no zebra mussels — adult or veliger — have been found in the Colorado River upstream of the confluence with the Eagle River.
OBITUARY
Joyce Price
Joyce L. Price of St. Pete Beach, Florida, passed away on Nov. 7, 2025. She was 84 years old, born on Nov. 16, 1940, in Dayton, Ohio.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Byron and Margaret Gerdes of Vandalia, Ohio, and her husband, Leonard E. Price of Gunnison.
She is survived by her children, Mary Beth Branch, of St.
Pete Beach and Micheal B. Price of Somerset, Kentucky; two granddaughters, Taylor Branch of Colorado Springs and Dakota R. Price of Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
Joyce was an avid bridge player and enjoyed spending time with friends and family.
She retired in 1995 as a financial planner and had many different careers in her lifetime. She trained 250 hospice volunteers in bereavement in Gunnison;
worked for Good Samaritan Hospital; and brought body management to Vandalia Butler School District.
She was an amazing woman who brought love and joy to all those she crossed paths with and will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her honor can be made to any hospice. There will be no services or celebration of life at her request.
vate consulting and advisory firm called TIP Strategies, Inc. that specializes in strategic planning for economic development to assist with the formation of the economic plan for the city at large. The three major goals established in this plan are: growing the outdoor recreation economy, leveraging science and technology and investing in place. Extensively detailed actions have been identified that associate with each of these three main goals. In order to implement this extensive plan, the creation of a new nonprofit economic development corporation has been proposed.
“The No. 1 intent of that entity is to bring all of those contributing economic drivers in our community to have a voice at a table that’s leading our economic strategy forward. So the plan is our shared alignment and our collective, shared path forward,” City Manager Amanda Wilson said.
This economic development corporation would be modeled after several successful examples in surrounding communities such as Salida, Montrose and Delta. Once established, an executive director and a board of
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directors and advisors would be selected and put in place. These boards would be composed of representatives from major economic drivers in the Gunnison community such as Western Colorado University, Gunnison Valley Health, the Tourism and Prosperity Partnership (TAPP) and others. While the city’s plan is to initially fund this new economic development corporation, it would eventually be its own separately functioning entity, not governed by the city. Its role and sole purpose would be to enact and implement the steps outlined in the city’s strategic plan.
“It would have an executive director like a non-profit and other (important local) entities such as Western, the hospital and TAPP would essentially be the board members,” Wilson explained. “They would all have a say as far as how best to drive or promote the economic prosperity of the city and the executive director would have to implement that. Just like I have to follow the direction of the five city council members, this executive director would have to follow the direction of that board.”
This plan, however, is still in the works pending some approvals by the city council. Before the proposed economic develop -
ment corporation can be officially formed, the first step will be to get the budget approved for such a project.
“First we need budget appropriation—that’s number one,” Wilson said. “Then from there myself and many of the others that served to help form that (economic development) strategy will begin the next steps of starting to legally create the nonprofit, assembling the board, etc.”
Wilson mentioned that the approval of the budget for this undertaking would be among the items discussed in the city council meeting held on Tuesday. Barring any setbacks, the approval and development of this economic development corporation and the subsequent enactment of the city’s new economic development strategy will begin to take place starting in December and moving forward into 2026.
“Statutorily the budget has to be approved no later than December 15th,” Wilson said. “Council will consider adoption this evening as well as on December 9th, so as long as nothing unexpected goes on it could be adopted on December 9th.”
(Gia Wright can be contacted at 970-641-1414 or jwright@orourkemediagroup.com.)
I WILL GIVE THANKS
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.
~Psalm 9:1 (ESV)
Gems from the BiBle Selected and provided by Renee Balch
Gunnison area from A1
place housing among their top priorities.
“We came up with this area plan to enable more diverse housing opportunities, to help things be more financially feasible for local developers or for other developers,” Gunnison County Community Development Director Cathie Pagano told commissioners. “By reducing the process requirements, giving them predictability and certainty of an outcome and helping them understand what they need to do in order to be successful.”
Both jurisdictions have opted to participate in the State Affordable Housing Fund — created in Nov. 2022 when Colorado voters approved Proposition 123. It sets aside a portion of the refund due under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights for funding housing efforts across the state.
To be eligible for funding, local jurisdictions “must commit to increase their affordable housing supply by a certain percentage annually or a set number of units,” according to a staff presentation to commissioners.
“A key requirement is that local governments must implement a fast-track system by the end of 2026 to review affordable housing projects (at least 50% affordable units) within 90 days.”
According to the 2024 Housing Needs Assessment prepared by consultant Western Spaces, 1,300-1,550 new homes are required in the Gunnison Valley by 2029 to catch up with existing demand.
“What we’re trying to do is a quite substantial change in how Gunnison County has done business before,” Commissioner Laura Puckett Daniels said. “It’s a change in process. We’re moving from
the land use resolution, which is a process-heavy document, to trying to create something that’s more streamlined in response to what we’ve heard from the public over many years. It’s also a change in
product. We’ve never been prescriptive before about the kinds of design we want to see, or the kinds of density we want to see.”
(Alan Wartes can be contacted at 970-641-1414.)
The City of Gunnison’s Lazy K affordable housing development under construction in 2022. (Times archive)
GHS counselor earns statewide honor
Macort named counselor of the month
Chad Richardson Interim Editor
Sarah Macort, a counselor at Gunnison High School, is being celebrated this month statewide. She recently learned she was named the Colorado Council on High School/College Relations Counselor of November.
She was nominated for the award by Jennifer Read. In her nomination, Read wrote:
“Sarah is incredibly knowledgeable about all things school counseling. She is able to advise students on all different tracks, from Boettcher nominees to trade school recommendations, to apprenticeships. And she does so with a calmness and respect that exudes confidence among families, students and colleagues.”
Macort learned about the award from an email sent by Jaimie Ove, the past president of the council on high school relations.
“It is with great excitement that we congratulate you on being nominated by your peers for going above and beyond in your role as a high school counselor,” Ove wrote. “Your colleagues see the incredible impact you have, and we at Colorado Council on High School/College Relations are proud to recognize your outstanding work.
“Your commitment to supporting students’ social and emotional needs, guiding them in their college and career aspirations and stepping up in times of crisis reflects the heart of what it means to be an exceptional school counselor. The work
you do each day—often behind the scenes—makes a profound difference and we are honored to celebrate you.”
GHS principal Jim Woytek said Macort has more than two decades in education, with the bulk of her experience as a counselor.
“She brings incredible empathy and understanding to her position, meeting students where they are and helping them realize what they can be,” he said. “A small-school counselor has to wear a number of different hats and Sarah wears them all well … She can teach a college and career readiness lesson in the classroom, counsel a student who is dealing with anxiety, write a letter of recommendation for a stu -
dent’s scholarship and advise a student on concurrent enrollment classes to take at Western within just a few hours on any given day.”
Woytek said students appreciate Macort’s ability to balance straightforward information with caring and compassion.
“She has an incredible knowledge of and connection with the college advising world and she’s a true mental health professional,” he said. “She goes out of her way to support students and she is a great resource for parents and staff alike.”
(Chad Richardson can be reached at crichardson@ orourkemediagroup.com.)
Sarah Macort
OPINION
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The pleasures – and perils – of seasonal jobs
I was a student at Western Colorado University in Gunnison when my professor told our class he had a message for anyone wanting to work as a seasonal in the outdoor industry after graduating.
His message was simple: “Get out of my classroom.”
It wasn’t that he didn’t want us working as outdoor guides, trail crew leaders or ski bums. He wanted us to work as a seasonal, then come back to college when we were ready to value the economic stability of a degree.
“You don’t need a degree to be a guide,” he said. “A degree is so you can move into management after you burn out.”
Most outdoor guides he knew burned out after five to seven years in the field, he said.
I took his advice and dropped out. It took me only three years to burn out.
LETTERS
Voice opposition to development in Crystal
Editor:
I’m writing to inform our community about proposed developments in the historic town of Crystal. As many know, Crystal—home to the iconic
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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.
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It started when I took a sabbatical between my junior and senior years. I found work for a season on a schooner, then at an organic farm and finally with AmeriCorps in Denver. After finishing my bachelor’s degree, more seasonal jobs followed: a stint at a museum, a tall ship on the Hudson River, working as an outdoor educator. For four years, I moved every two to eight months.
I was lucky. I was still on my parents’ health insurance. My car never broke down. I had no student loans, so I could build up a financial cushion.
Seasonal work provided travel, flexibility, constant learning and sometimes fun. But if you asked me now if I’d recommend it, I’d have to say “no”—unless you plan ahead. I learned that the hard way.
After one seasonal job fell through, I found myself over a thousand miles from home and a month away from being homeless. Luckily, I found work as a library assistant and temporarily moved in with my family back in Colorado. I qualified for the library position only because of my bachelor’s degree in Spanish, which I had finally finished thanks to my outdoor education professor.
Here are some of the hard
Crystal Mill—is one of the most beloved and frequently visited sites in our region. Its beauty, remoteness, and history make it a treasure that deserves careful protection.
A few years ago, the 700-acre property surrounding Crystal was purchased by new owners. They have since announced
questions I had to answer while working as a seasonal: Where would I live between contracts and what was the distance between jobs? Where would I store all my stuff? When I worked on the East Coast, I was a four-day drive away from my family in Denver, which made moving and swapping out gear extra difficult, especially in winter weather. As a seasonal, you also have to keep start and end dates of seasonal jobs in mind, as not all run on the same schedule. If you live in employee housing, you risk becoming homeless between contracts. Always ask about relocation and travel stipends to fund the in-between.
If you enjoy a job and feel like you could learn more, try to return for multiple seasons. You’re more likely to be offered a permanent or management position, and it shows consistency to future employers. You’re also likely to make more money if you ask for a raise every season.
Seasonal work lets you try on professions until you find a good fit, or not. But regardless of how cool a job sounds, or how qualified you are to do it, you always need a backup plan. Apply for multiple positions and be open to learning new
plans to develop a private resort community on the site of the old mining town. The developers are seeking a land use change from Gunnison County to develop on the site of the old mining town. The project has already encountered challenges, including a cease-and-desist order from
skills on the job. If you have the chance to cross-train or pivot to doing something new at the same workplace, do it. And if you get a job with the U.S. Forest Service or any other federal land management agency, know that these days you could be fired without notice.
My professor was right. My degree saved me when seasonal work became too stressful to keep pursuing it anymore. But working seasonally in the “real world” and out of a classroom was invaluable. I had to be resilient and adept at picking up technical skills while connecting with people I would never have met while attending classes. I became someone who was always ready to learn new things.
When I finish my master’s degree, I want to teach, holding onto summers for outdoor jobs. This time, I’ll be doing it right.
Kira Cordova is a contributor to Writers on the Range, writersontherange.org, an independent nonprofit dedicated to spurring lively conversation about the West. She is currently working a seasonal job for Outward Bound while also completing a master’s degree in nature writing online.
Gunnison County for building roads without proper permits—a violation that resulted in a $12,000 fine.
I urge our community to voice opposition to this development. The Gunnison County Planning Commission will be continued on A7
Kira Cordova Writers on the Range
holding a public hearing on the land use application November 20, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. and now is the time to speak up. Written comments to Gunnison County to share your concerns about the loss of this historic piece of our local heritage are due Nov. 19 at 5:00 p.m. to planning@ gunnisoncounty.org. There is a Zoom option to attend the hearing and voice public comments at the online meetings tab at https://www.gunnisoncounty.org/144/Communityand-Economic-Development.
The Gunnison County Land Use Development guidelines require that proposed developments be compatible with community character. This proposed exclusive resort for the wealthy is certainly not. There are other issues such as avalanche risk, wildfire danger and the strain that such a development could place on this fragile and precious environment. The town of Crystal is one of the last untouched spaces in the Crystal River Valley—an irreplaceable place worth protecting for future generations.
Karen Immerso Gunnison
Fractured logic
Editor:
This isn’t going to be long. A little think piece on simple logic. Well, maybe fractured logic.
Let’s take a moment to examine some recent happen -
ings in our fair cities and upon the bounding main that defy logic, or worse, reinforce its fractured nature and the threat to our lives and liberties. Just something to think about.
Let’s think of the United States Department of War blowing up boats in the Caribbean that may well be bringing illicit drugs into the United States. I think they probably are. Does that give us a legal right to blow them up, summarily killing those onboard? Think of this boat, speeding on the open ocean, when, instantaneously, seemingly from nowhere, a projectile, admittedly fired from a United States military source, unseen, strikes the boat, obliterating it and those onboard. By what right, what law, do we have the authority to do this?
Now think of armed, sometimes masked, United States soldiers walking down the streets of one of the several cities to which President Trump has sent them. These soldiers notice a person seemingly surreptitiously, covertly, handing something to another suspicious-looking person. Using the previous logic used to blow up boats, do these soldiers have a lawful right to unholster a sidearm and shoot these people? Let’s take it a step further. Let’s say it is actually a drug deal going down. Do these armed soldiers have a lawful right to shoot those people?
Trump says “we will kill them all,” referring to those whom he says are drug traffickers. This is the same president who thought that we should
just shoot people in the legs who are illegally crossing our borders. Trump says he’s “…just going to kill people… They’re going to be, like, dead.” May be good politics, for some, to kill people whom he says are drug traffickers but haven’t been evidentiarily charged, tried and found guilty. Is it lawful to summarily shoot someone who’s suspected of trafficking drugs?
The body of laws, known collectively as federal law, embodies our Constitution, statutes, treaties, regulations, ordinances and common law. We respect and abide by this body of law. And when we don’t, we’re adjudicated by it. Where’s the law by which Trump has killed people on the high seas and deployed the military to our cities? The War Powers Act has specific provisions governing its application. Trump hasn’t respected or abided by the Act. He says we’re at war in the cities where he’s sent troops yet those cities are all safer than they’ve been in the past. Where’s the logic, or the law? Trump says we’re at war with drug traffickers. Maybe there’s some logic to that but are probable drug traffickers combatants? Aside from all this, we are Americans. We don’t just go around blowing up people, shooting them in the legs, disappearing them from our streets or spiriting them away to unknown locations. Where’s the law or logic in that? Just something to think about.
Joe Dix Gunnison
The City Center
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Upcoming Holiday Refuse Pickup Schedules
Due to the upcoming holiday closures, please be aware of the alternate trash pickup days and have your cans out!
Thanksgiving - Closed 11/27-11/28
Early pickup on Wednesday, 11/26/25
Christmas - Closed 12/24-12/25
Wednesday route pickup on Tuesday, 12/23/25
Thursday route pickup on Friday, 12/26/25
¡INFÓRMATE! en español
By Laura Vanesa Cardozo Mancilla
Juntos por Gunnison organized the first Thanksgiving Dinner Among Friends on Nov. 13, an event that brought together more than 60 women from the community in a celebration that strengthened the bonds among Gunnison residents.
This gathering space allowed women from diverse backgrounds to share not only a table, but also their stories and life experiences or, in the words of Cinthya Saenz, “a space to create connections.”
Saenz, a leadership and civic engagement facilitator for Juntos por Gunnison, has been organizing events for women in the community for over 20 years. Her trajectory reflects
the growth of this need for connection.
“I remember I started meeting with a group of women in the small space my home allowed. At first it was a small group of three women and it grew until we were more than 15 women talking about different topics, advising each other and exchanging experiences on how to stand out as immigrants,” commented Cinthya Saenz.
The success of this first edition of the dinner demonstrates the need to create spaces where women can connect, exchange experiences as pillars of support and recognize themselves as a collective strength within the community.
According to Marcela Alfoso, “the dinner was an excellent opportunity to meet new
people, other cultures and establish strong support networks that help and guide us to work for Gunnison and for ourselves.” She also added that “the food was delicious, the company perfect, the atmosphere welcoming and the conversations entertaining.”
The gathering among women reflected the cultural richness of the community, with different dishes that participants prepared, turning the dinner into a true culinary experience of flavors and culture.
Juntos por Gunnison continues its mission to strengthen Gunnison’s social fabric and invites the community to continue participating in gathering spaces such as Charlas en la Cocina (Talks in the Kitchen) and Cafecito entre Amigas (Coffee Among Friends).
Juntos por Gunnison organizó el pasado 13 de noviembre la primera Cena de Acción de Gracias entre amigas, un evento que reunió a más de 60 mujeres de la comunidad en una celebración que fortaleció los lazos entre las residentes de Gunnison.
Este espacio de encuentro permitió que mujeres de diversos orígenes compartieran no solo una mesa, sino también sus historias y experiencias de vida o, en palabras de Cinthya
Saenz, “un espacio para crear conexiones”.
Saenz, fomentadora de liderazgo y participación ciudadana de Juntos por Gunnison, lleva más de veinte años realizando eventos para mujeres en la comunidad. Su trayectoria refleja el crecimiento de esta necesidad de conexión.
“Recuerdo que comencé a reunirme con un grupo de mujeres en el poco espacio que me permitía mi casa. Al inicio era un pequeño grupo de tres
mujeres y fue creciendo hasta que éramos más de quince mujeres conversando sobre diferentes temas, aconsejándonos e intercambiando experiencias sobre cómo destacar siendo inmigrantes”, comentó Cinthya Saenz.
El éxito de esta primera edición de la cena demuestra la necesidad de crear espacios donde las mujeres puedan conectarse, intercambiar experiencias como pilares de apoyo y reconocerse como una for-
taleza colectiva dentro de la comunidad.
Según Marcela Alfoso, “la cena fue una excelente oportunidad para conocer nuevas personas, otras culturas y establecer redes de apoyo fuertes que nos ayuden y dirijan a trabajar por Gunnison y por nosotros mismos”. Además, agregó que “la comida estuvo deliciosa, la compañía perfecta, el ambiente acogedor y las conversaciones entretenidas”. El encuentro entre mujeres
¡Feliz Día de Acción de Gracias!
En esta temporada de gratitud, quiero dar las gracias a la comunidad de Gunnison por su confianza y apoyo. Si estás pensando en comprar o vender casa, estoy aquí para ayudarte – en español y comprometida a hacer el proceso lo más sencillo posible.
Bet Llavador Egelhoff 970.306.5556 | bet@bbre1.com | gunnisoncasa.com 218 N Main Street, Gunnison, CO
reflejó la riqueza cultural de la comunidad, con diferentes platillos que las participantes prepararon, convirtiendo la cena en una verdadera experiencia culinaria de sabores y cultura. Juntos por Gunnison continúa así su misión de fortalecer el tejido social de Gunnison e invita a la comunidad a seguir participando en los espacios de encuentro como Charlas en la Cocina y Cafecito entre Amigas.
The Gunnison Country Times monthly Spanish language and culture page is produced in partnership with Inmigrantes Unidos.
Juntos por Gunnison celebrates the first Thanksgiving dinner among friends. Juntos por Gunnison Celebra la primera cena de acción de gracias entre amigas. Photo by Laura Cardozo
Tunes and dancing at the Whammy
on Friday, Nov. 14.
Local band, Sugarbush, performed at the Whammy Bar
Despite the tight quarters, attendees found space to boogie, both alone and in pairs. Photos by Jacob Spetzler
Colorado Backcountry Search and Rescue surcharge fee increases
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is increasing the Colorado Backcountry Search and Rescue Program (BSAR) fee on wildlife licenses and boat, snowmobile and off-highway vehicle (OHV) registrations to $1.25 to increase funding support for county search-and-rescue teams and local volunteers.
The previous BSAR fee was set at 25 cents and has not changed since 1987. The newly increased fee, now adjusted to $1.25, is a necessary step to reflect the current customer price index, taking into account inflation, as well as the increase in search-and-rescue incident responses and the number of highly challenging and risky rescues over the last 15 years.
In response to significantly more calls for help, the cost of search-and-rescue administration, training and equipment has also increased over the years, necessitating this fee increase. Current law dictates that CPW has one opportunity to increase the BSAR fee to a base level, after which point this fee may only be increased by the Consumer Price Index.
Colorado is home to around 50 search-and-rescue organizations, which are 100% volunteer-based and provide search-and-rescue services free of charge to indi -
viduals lost, injured or stranded in the backcountry. While these organizations are county-based and coordinated through county sheriffs or county governments, CPW provides support and funding from the statewide level.
CPW sells products that incorporate funding for search-andrescue teams, including the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue Card and the Keep Colorado Wild Pass. These are crucial as the demand for outdoor recreation increases in Colorado, directly impacting the need for search-and-rescue services. Outdoor enthusiasts from various recreational communities, who hunt, fish, boat, hike, snowmobile and drive OHVs in Colorado, all contribute to the Colorado BSAR fund.
CPW BSAR funding is distributed through incident reimbursement forms and a county allocation application process. Counties may use funds to purchase equipment, training, vehicles, small capital improvement projects, mental health services, communications, computer software, maintenance and some fixed costs.
For more information on CPW’s Backcountry Search and Rescue Program, visit cpw.state. co.us/backcountry-search-andrescue-program.
Pierogi curious
Karolina Szumilas taught a workshop on how to cook homemade pierogies in the Gunnison Art Center’s teaching kitchen, Dot’s Kitchen, on Friday, Nov. 14. Photos by Jacob Spetzler
Christmas trees for a cause
Native tree lot is both festive and philanthropic
Gia Wright Times Staff Writer
With the snow starting to fly, it is really starting to feel like the holiday season is around the corner. That means it’s the busiest time of the year for longtime Gunnison residents Tony and Elly Smith and their business: Colorado Native Christmas Trees. The fact that the Smiths’ trees are locally harvested, native Colorado trees isn’t the only unique thing about their Christmas tree operation.
Tony Smith, a Colorado native himself, explained that he has been in the Christmas tree business for the past 40+ years, since he was 19 years old. Over the years, he and his family have worked out an innovative win-win-win approach to the business: one that allows them to help with fire mitigation at no cost, provide excellent quality locallysourced Christmas trees to Colorado citizens and support humanitarian causes by donating a significant amount of their profits.
Tony Smith explained that many of the Christmas trees that are sold in the state of Colorado are actually grown on tree farms out of state.
Sourcing trees from across the country inevitably means several things: costs and environmental impacts of shipping, along with longer wait times or delays involved with trees
arriving in the state. Since they source locally, the Smiths’ tree lots are typically the first to have trees available for purchase, meaning those wanting to set up their trees earlier have the option to do so, he said.
“I’m the only tree lot in Colorado right now with trees so people are calling me already,” Tony Smith said. “Lots of the trees you find in Colorado come from tree farms in North Carolina or Michigan and so they’re not here yet.”
Using trees native to Colorado removes all of these issues and also provides a much needed service to our high fire-risk state: fire mitigation.
“We do free thinning for private landowners, state land and service land,” Tony Smith said. “I’m removing material before it burns, wherever somebody will let us come in and thin the forest for free.
I’ve done [thinning for] City of Boulder Mountain Park, open space, Gross Reservoir with the state forest service, a Girl Scout camp up near Allenspark … It gives us a source of trees and gives them somebody to help them thin their property so it’s a win-win thing.”
Fire mitigation is all too important in a dry state where forest fires are frequent and often devastating. In exchange for trees to sell for the holidays, the Smiths’ business helps out with this service yearly, clearing thousands of trees in high burn risk areas over the lifespan of their business.
Additionally, the Smith family donates the entirety of the profits they make from their Gunnison Christmas tree lot to the charity of their choice: the Pimentel Children’s Ministry
located in the Dominican Republic.
Fourteen years ago, Tony and Elly Smith’s daughter, Audrey, went to the Dominican Republic on a mission trip with what was then the Community Church of Gunnison. Through that trip, the Smith family got connected with Junior Radhamas and his family. They own Pimentel Children’s Ministry, which has made it their mission to feed, educate, clothe and care for around 235 needy children.
“We’ve been supporting this mission for the last 10 years or so, but the last seven or eight years we have had the ability to donate 100% of all the money we make in Gunnison County,” Smith said.
The Smiths own and operate two Christmas tree lots each year, one on the Front Range in Tony’s hometown of Boulder and one here in Gunnison at 777 Ute Lane in Tomichi Heights. While Tony Smith himself used to do most of the heavy lifting, he now shares the load with a team of helpers, including many family members such as his children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. The business has become about more than just simply selling Christmas trees—it’s become an operation built on supporting family, supporting the local community and environment, the international community and humanity at large.
“I believe that what I do on my Christmas tree lots has become about showing love to other people.”
(Gia Wright can be contacted at 970-641-1414 or jwright@ orourkemediagroup.com.)
Owners of Colorado Native Christmas Trees, Tony and Elly Smith.
Freshly cut native Colorado Christmas Trees loaded up to take to the lot. Photos courtesy of Tony Smith
Junior Radhamas and children from his ministry in the Dominican Republic.
From the top
1709 W TOMICHI AVENUE, GUNNISON
$1,750,000 | MLS# 829842
2,899 S.F. custom-built log home on 1.55 acres. Separate 1,125 sq ft garage/workshop. 750 sq ft, 2-bedroom apartment (ADU), perfect for guests, multi-generational living, or rental income. Wood-burning fireplace, in-floor radiant heat, new boiler installed in 2021. Stainless steel appliances plus a brand-new washer and dryer. Private pond, sprinkler system, and a 3 car garage. No HOA and a proven short-term rental with option to purchase fully furnished.
196 LAKE RIDGE DRIVE, CRESTED BUTTE
$3,500,000 | MLS# 813963
3,330 sq. ft. of living space, including 3 bedrooms and
$765,000 | MLS #827890
Charming, 4 Bedroom, 3 1/2 bath modern home with convenient in-town location. Open-concept living/dining area, gorgeous kitchen with granite countertops & new appliances. Gas fireplaces, hardwood floors and new paint. Fully-fenced with new sod in the front. Covered front porch, 1 1/2 car attached garage. 4th bedroom has a private entrance for the perfect rental studio apartment.
Crested Butte Mountain Theater’s in-house improv theater group, Subject to Change, performed at the Gunnison Art Center’s Black Box Theater on Friday, Nov. 14. Photos by Jacob Spetzler
Bethany Church
909 N Wisconsin St.
(behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144
Service at 9 a.m. & 10:30 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
CLASSIFIEDS
for our patients and team. The ideal candidate would approach their duties with enthusiasm, kindness, and the confidence that comes with being a strong clinician. We are open MondayFriday, 8am to 5pm, no weekends. This position is part-time or full-time. We offer competitive pay and a benefits package, including Health Insurance, Dental Discount, Retirement Account, and Generous Paid Time Off. We require our hygienists to have an active Colorado RDH license, current CPR certification, laser certification, and the ability to administer local anesthesia. Any other skills we require will be taught in-office. If you’d like to join our dynamic practice, please send your resume to mgmt. gunnisondds@gmail.com.
4DAY/32HOUR WORKWEEK: CB South Metro District is now accepting applications for a Road Manager & Heavy Equipment Operator. This position would be responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all activities and staff related to the District’s roads and maintenance. Duties include road maintenance, snow removal, drinking water operations, wastewater operations, and other day to day tasks of running a utility. This job requires the applicant to have motor grader and heavy equipment experience. Applicants must be 18 years of age and have a valid Colorado Driver’s License. The successful applicant is eligible to receive an elite benefit package. Full job description, requirements, pay ranges, and benefits are available on the District’s website at cbsouthmetro.net. Email resume to info@ cbsouthmetro.net or drop off at 280 Cement Creek Road.
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
GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT
See GWSD website for details gunnisonschools.net
Gunnison Watershed School District believes that students thrive when theyare connected to something bigger than themselves. That’s why we create learning experiencesthat spark curiosity, helping students discover who they are and how to make a difference in theworld around them. And as they excel in academics, athletics, and the arts, students
find theconfidence to pursue any opportunity in life. Our team is “Driven to be the Difference!”
HOURLY OPPORTUNITIES
GHS Significant Needs EA Substitute Teachers Bus Drivers
PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
CBES Principal (2026/27) District Psychologist
GCS Special Education Teacher (2026/27)
GOLDEN EAGLE is looking for CDL and non-CDL drivers. Pay is based on experience. Call 970-641-3230.
Cleaner Needed in Crested Butte! Pay DOE. Call (970) 331-2417.
¡Se necesita limpiador en Crested Butte! Pago según experiencia. Llame al (970) 331-2417.
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.
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
Full-time Dental Assistant needed in well established dental office in Gunnison. We are seeking the right personality over experience. Experience is still preferred, but not necessary - We will train the right person! This is a clinical chairside position and requires computer efficiency as well. This position is 4 days/week 7:30am5:30pm and offers generous paid time off, employer sponsored group health insurance, dental discount, and 401(k) with employer matching. Wage is heavily dependent on experience in this position. If you have a cando attitude and enjoy serving our community in a lighthearted work environment, please send your resume to mgmt.gunnisondds@ gmail.com.
GCFP Is seeking a motivated and detailoriented team member to support the Food Pantry’s programs and operations. The role involves assisting with program administration, data tracking, and reporting, as well as collaborating with partners to strengthen initiatives that serve foodInsecure households in the Gunnison Valley. The position also supports food inventory management and other programmatic activities. Email Jody, at director@ gunnisoncountryfoodpantry.org to learn more and apply.
WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY
seeks applicants for the following fully benefitted Pipe/Mechanical Trades II position.
This position is full-time (40 hours/week) with a starting pay rate of $28.30/hour. Position duties include operation, maintenance, and repair of campus mechanical, HVAC, water, and plumbing systems and equipment.
GUNNISON SAVINGS AND LOAN IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR A TELLER:
We have served the Gunnison Valley for over 100 years are looking for an individual who wants a career in banking. This position allows for hands on interactions with customers and requires work to be completed with professionalism, accuracy, and in accordance with company standards and policies. Preferred Qualifications: Excellent communication and customer service skills, ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality, experience with office equipment and familiarity with Microsoft products, and cash handling experience.
Benefits: Competitive Salary (entry level skills $35,000 - $45,000; higher with experience) 401(k) retirement plan; Group life and health insurance plans; paid time off; paid Federal Holidays; free checking account; Work Environment: Hours: Mon.Fri. 8am-5pm. Dress: Business Casual. Please submit your resume, references, and letter of application to Imbra Taramarcaz, Vice President/Chief Savings Officer 303 N Main Street, Gunnison, CO 81230 itaramarcaz@ gunnisonsl.com, 970-641-2171.
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
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.
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
PATROL DEPUTY
Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $72,397.26 to $102,405.83, plus full benefits.
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 benefit
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
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
Western’s benefit package includes PERA retirement, insurance plans (with generous employer contributions to medical/ dental/vision), employee and dependent tuition benefits, paid vacation, paid sick leave, and 11 paid holidays per year. Employees receive basic life insurance and disability insurance at no cost. Employee wellness programs and professional development trainings are available for FREE!
Airport: Part-Time, 16 to 30 hours/week, hourly is $21.20, plus partial benefits.
BILINGUAL JUVENILE CASE MANAGER/TRUANCY SUPPORT
Juvenile Services: Full-time, 40 Hours/week, hourly range is from $29.51 to $33.59, plus full benefits.
DETENTION DEPUTY
Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $65,056.55 to $74,068.59, plus full benefits.
To view the full job announcements and apply, visit western.edu/jobs and click on “View Careers” (EOE)
For more information, including complete job descriptions, required qualifications and application instructions, please visit www.GunnisonCounty.org/jobs.
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.
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
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.
For more information, including complete job descriptions, benefit packages, required job qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCO.gov/HR.
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.
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.
JOIN OUR TEAM! Paradise
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.
EMAIL dimitar@paradisecb.com for additional details
THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring a part-time Front Desk Attendant; $18-23/ hr. Employee benefits include discounts and gear storage at base area. For more information or to apply, please visit: theclubatcrestedbutte.com or send an email to: jobs@clubatcrestedbutte.com
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.
OFFICE SPACES FOR RENT: 307 N Main Street, Gunnison, CO second floor office space, FOUR OFFICE SUITES 360 sq ft/ 360 sq ft/ 640 sq ft/ 780 sq ft, available November 20, 2025, $550, $630, $1,120, $1,200/month includes utilities (electric/ garbage collection). Please call 970-6424655 to request a viewing appointment.
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.
ROOM TO RENT IN SPACIOUS HOUSE, nice neighborhood, 2 miles south of Gunnison. Private bedroom and bath. Shared kitchen, living room and laundry. Good cell service. $1000/monthly plus security deposit. Call 970-209-8752.
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
sioners 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, 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 DISTRICT COURT COUNTY OF GUNNISON STATE OF COLORADO UNIFORM DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE ACT CONSOLIDATED PUBLICATION OF NOTICE PETITIONER Aura Cristina Alzate Cardozo RESPONDENT Jesus Alberto Cardoza Contreras CASE NO. 2025DR26
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
Saguache County Land Use is soliciting a project manager under the designation of the Land Use Administrator for 1041 application proposals submitted to the Saguache County Land Use Office. The project manager shall provide insight and expert advice from firms that are expert in environmental impact studies, as well as other matters of State interest contained in the Saguache County 1041 Regulations. This shall include, but not be limited to, a review of the Saguache County 1041 Regulations for analysis of matters of State interest contained therein to include whether sufficient information has been provided by applicants for a complete analysis of all matters of State interest and complies with Saguache County’s 1041 regulations. The proposal will include to be able to manage the project from the beginning to the end of the application process, orders and determines the fees in the pre-application and application submittal, both on-site and off-site collaborations with Saguache County, weekly to monthly updates to the Land Use Administrator and/or the County Commissioners, collaboration with the Land Use Administrator ,the third party reviewer and applicant, Management and Review Prep, Review of Applications to make sure
for completeness, Additional Reviews for the Application as needed, Lead Agency Referrals, Staff Report Preparation, Hearing Preparation and Attendance. Please direct your questions to Amber Wilson, Land Use Administrator at atorrez@saguachecountyco.gov or 719-655-2321. Businesses with expertise in environmental impact studies for large projects are encouraged to respond.
Published in The Gunnison Country Times November 20, 27, December 4, 11, and 18, 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 COLO-
RADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFEN-
DANTS:
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
K.
Dated: October 31, 2025 Published in the Gunnison Country Times on the following dates: November 13, 20, 27, December 4, and 11, 2025
CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Off the Page: The Way Out with Devon O’Neil | Nov. 19 | 6 p.m. | Free
Sponsored by Crested Butte Mountain Rescue.
“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.
Cookbook Club: Misunderstood Vegetables | Nov. 20 | 6 p.m. | $25
As part of our extended pro-
gramming 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.
Western Colorado University Holiday Concert | Dec. 3 | 7 p.m. | $25
Join us for an annual community-favorite concert pre -
GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS
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.
Alla Prima Cornucopia Still Life
On Nov. 17 at 5:30 p.m. cap-
PEOPLE & HAPPENINGS
Free thanksgiving meal planned
A free traditional community Thanksgiving meal is planned at the Fred Field building on Thanksgiving day from noon to 3 p.m. There will be two bands, a play area for children and community celebrities are donating handmade
ture 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.
Winter Watercolor
Join us for three Wednesdays, Dec. 3-17, from 5:30 - 8:00 p.m. to celebrate the beauty of the season with a hands on water-
sented by the Western Colorado University Music Program, the Holiday Gala. Featuring a cozy assortment of wintertime selections performed by the Symphonic Band, Concert Choir and Chamber Orchestra; this program is sure to get you in the holiday spirit.
Fa la la la la, ha ha ha ha: A Holiday Musical Extravaganza! | Dec. 4 | 7 p.m. | $35-50
Unexpected Productions’ ensemble members, Sarah Hanchar and Christine Riippi join together to celebrate everyone’s favorite part of the holiday season, the feel-good made-forTV movie musical. This holiday treat begins with a festive singalong and ends with a movie musical based on your suggestions.
color class with Karen Hill. Learn how to build, blend, and perfect the art of watercolor.
3D clay ornament class
Join us on Dec. 12 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. to create your own handbuild ceramic ornaments. Whether you want to use them as a gift, or keep them for your own memories, this is a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit.
desserts for a silent Auction. Everyone is encouraged to attend. Below is a Spanish translation of the same news brief.
Comida comunitaria tradicional gratuita de Acción de Gracias en el edificio Fred Field (Rodeo)
en el Día de Acción de Gracias, de 12 p.m. a 3 p.m. Dos bandas, zona de juegos para niños... y personajes destacados de la comunidad donarán postres hechos a mana para una subasta silenciosa. ¡Trae a tu familia y amigos! ¡Te esperamos!
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
Gunnison volleyball drops two matches at state, but heads are held high
By James Nokes Special to the Times
Lindsay Hart never wants the Gunnison volleyball team to take a trip to the state tournament for granted.
The Cowboys second straight berth in the Class 3A state tournament ended on Friday. After a 3-0 loss to No. 8 Sterling (2520, 25-21, 25-19) on Thursday and a 3-0 setback to No. 2 Resurrection Christian (25-11, 25-19, 25-15) a day later the No. 9 seeded Cowboys bowed out of the double elimination tournament which Eaton claimed 3-1 over Alamosa on Saturday at the Denver Coliseum.
Because the foundation for continued success is in place, Hart said the potential exists for Gunnison to regularly challenge for a spot at the state tournament.
“I want girls that work hard and achieve that Cowboy mentality,” Hart said. “We don’t give up without a fight. We play hard as a team and represent the school well. I don’t want to place expectations on a team that if we don’t make it to state it’s not a good season. But, I’d like to think we can make it back here every year because we have some solid girls coming down the pipeline.”
After a program-changing senior class played its last match and walked off the court in a Cowboys’ jersey for the last time, the underclassmen in that pipeline have a blueprint for success which they can follow.
With coaching turnover rampant and success hard to find, Hart and the senior class stabilized the program and established a standard for future generations to achieve.
“It’s incredible. I’ve never seen a group of girls work this hard,” said senior outside hit-
ter Aubrey Welfelt. “Being here for four years, I could see the program change. We went from winning two games per season to winning almost 20. I’m so proud. Even if I didn’t get to play the last game. I’m so glad I got to be a part of this.”
A broken leg in the Sterling game meant Welfelt had to watch the last match from the bench. A player that lended pulse to the heartbeat of the program rebuild couldn’t take the court one last time. But she offered emotional support whenever possible.
That’s something she said will always be there for her teammates and future teams.
“The program is a legacy,” Welfelt said. “We won’t be playing but none of us will leave. We’ll be right there for the next group of seniors.”
It’s a bittersweet moment for Hart who was grateful for a senior class that transformed the Cowboys into a program that could be on the verge of being a Western Slope powerhouse. But it’ll be with a new cast of players.
“This experience has changed my life and who I am as a person,” Hart said.
“I wouldn’t be the person I am without this experience. Having them here through all that I’ve gone through, my own stuff and having those girls show up for me as playersthat was really important.
“You see them every day and it becomes part of your daily life. Not seeing them every day will leave a huge hole in my chest. Every year a team gets a piece of me and I think losing seniors every year is hard. But we have a ton of good memories together.
“We changed a program into something to be reckoned with.”
(James Nokes writes for Colorado Preps.)
Roxie Uhrig makes a block. She is a junior at Gunnison High School. Photo by Chad Richardson
Rose Kowal, left, Natalia Sabino, second from left, and Gunnison teammates celebrate after a positive play in Gunnison’s opening-round match of the state tournament on Thursday in Denver. Photo by Chad Richardson
Mountaineers take care of business in must-win game
On a record-setting day for senior All-American quarterback Drew Nash , the 18thranked Mountaineers took care of business in a must-win game Saturday, downing visiting Colorado Mesa University 42-28 in a Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference matchup at the Mountaineer Bowl.
Nash factored into all six Western Colorado touchdowns, throwing for four scores and running in two himself on a day in which his career total for touchdown passes grew to 74, a new Mountaineer career program record.
Just the facts
Final score: Western defeats CMU, 42-28
Records: Western 9-2 overall (7-2 RMAC)
Location: MOJO Field at Mountaineer Bowl at the Rady Family Sports Complex, Gunnison, Colo.
How it happened
It took almost a quarter to get the offense clicking, but late in the first quarter Nash drove Western on a four-play, 47 yard drive that ended with a 23-yard Nash touchdown scamper around the left side on the opening play of the second quarter.
The Mountaineer defense held the Mavericks to a quick three-and-out in the ensuing possession, handing the ball back to Nash and company at the Mountaineer 20.
Eight plays and 80 yards later Nash pushed Western
in front by two scores with a 10-yard touchdown pass over the middle to Joshua Dixon on the first play of the second quarter.
Mesa would finally get on the board with an 11-play, 75 yard touchdown drive, but Western responded with an 82-yard drive in three plays, scoring its third touchdown of the quarter on a 71-yard Nash to Victory David pass.
The Mavs would double-dip around the halftime break, scoring a touchdown with seven seconds left in the second quarter, then opening up the third quarter with a seven minute, 15 second touchdown drive that tied the score at 21-21.
The Mountaineers would score on their next three possessions, though, to build a cushion the Mavericks were unable to overcome.
Blake Kramer scored on a 52-yard pass from Nash for the first of the touchdowns, followed by an 11-play drive that ended with a Nash jump pass from the four yard line to defensive end Ricky Freymond . The final Western touchdown was a fourth and one play at the CMU eight, where Nash took the snap, pushed into the back of the pile, bounced off the mass of humanity then scooted around the left edge untouched.
Mesa would try to inch closer with an answering
touchdown but that would be its final score in the game.
Mojo notes Western entered the game ranked ninth in Super Region Four, with the top eight teams qualifying for the NCAA Division II tournament, making the contest a must-win one for the Mountaineers.
Nash would finish the day with 326 yards through the air on a 15-for-21, four-touchdown afternoon, adding 31 rushing yards with two scores on the ground.
Freshman running back
Quinn Bailey posted a season-high 94 rushing yards, while David (95 yds.), Dixon (78) and Kramer (74) would each post single-game receiving highs for the season.
Mesa was led by 332 passing yards and 3 touchdowns from quarterback Cole Hansen and 135 receiving yards with 2 touchdowns by Trek Keyworth.
Linebackers Ian Loomis , Kaden Stewart , Kade Musser and Cameron Cooper topped the defense’s total tackles column. Loomis led with 10,
Stewart added seven, Musser came up with six and Cooper had five stops.
Loomis, Cooper and Ryan Downard each had one sack of Hansen, with Stewart and Freymond sharing a sack of the Mesa QB.
Safety Drea Thompson added a key play in the game for the Mountaineer defense, intercepting a Hansen pass that gave the ball back to Nash and the offense for what would become its opening touchdown drive.
Members of the Western Colorado University football team run onto the field at the beginning of Saturday’s game. Pictured from left to right are Ian Loomis, Ernesto Lopez and Ricky Freymond. (Photos by Evan Bjornstad)
Western quarterback Drew Nash holds the ball high after scoring a touchdown Saturday. Nash threw for four touchdowns and ran for two.
Freshman runningback Quinn Bailey gets around the corner. He’s from Chadron, Nebraska.
Western senior Victory David races down the field with the ball during Saturday’s game.
Gunnison’s Baker heading to elite cross country race in Arizona
By James Nokes Special to the Times
Ian Baker has the dream of being a Division I runner.
The Gunnison sophomore is headed to the Nike Cross Southwest Regional 2025 at Coyote Run Golf Course on Saturday in Mesa, Arizona. Baker, who finished 57th at the Class 3A state meet on Nov. 1, will compete against runners from Colorado, Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Nevada.
“I’m so pumped,” Baker said. “It’s 3.1 miles at 1,000 feet of elevation, so for us, basically sea level and it’s on a golf course.”
Under the warm Arizona sun surrounded by palm trees, cactuses and some of the country’s top runners, Baker wants to measure his skills against the best. It’s a speed race which will give him a chance to show what his father, Wade Baker has labeled “The Baker Kick.”
At the moment when your leg muscles are starched, cramps are just one more foot turn away
and every part of your body is moments from turning into a limp noodle, that’s when Baker finds another level.
Ideally it happens around 800 meters. Joe: runs out of gas 1,000 meters into the race and has to battle. As he pumps his legs a big higher and opens his hips a touch more there’s a sudden burst. An acceleration to carry through to the finish line. A mental fortitude where you forget about aching muscles, a dry throat and sweat beads stinging your eyes with every step.
You go faster than ever before and that’s The Baker Kick.
“My dad said all Bakers have an amazing kick,” Ian said. “He’s always told me no matter how tired I am when it’s time to kick, you kick. Once you know when you’re feeling empty your mind will just want to go and finish. I pick up my knees a little higher, open my stride and just get going. My body starts moving and I add a little more every step. Before I know it, I am at full speed.”
Gunnison cross country coach Blake Davis ran in the Nike Cross
three times. He marveled at the big race environment. The vibes and energy of the day are infectious as everyone wants to run fast against the best of the best.
While he ran cross country at Western Colorado, Davis knows about the difficulty of training through Western Slope winters. It’s cold, it’s dark before school and dark after school. There’s an internal drive needed and he’s seen it with Ian.
“Ian has been training alone,” Davis said. “He took a few days off after state, then got back after it. He wants to see how fast he can go at sea level. It shows his dedication. He’s willing to do things that are not enjoyable or fun and still do them. It shows a lot of discipline. To go into winter and still train will set him apart from other people. It’s not easy to train through the winter. It’s cold and it gets dark early.”
But on Saturday, it’ll be nice and warm in Arizona.
(James Nokes writes for Colorado Preps.)
Gunnison boys soccer picks up postseason awards
By James Nokes Special to the Times
Post season accolades have poured in for the Gunnison boys soccer team.
After the Cowboys’ quarterfinal run in the Class 2A state tournament, the deepest GHS postseason advancement in program history, four players have been recognized for their play on the pitch.
No. 21 GHS (6-9-2) opened the postseason with a 3-0 first-round win at No. 12 Campion Academy. The Cowboys got back on the bus a few days later for another long trip east and knocked off Denver Christian 1-0 on Nov. 5.
The lowest seed left in the playoffs once again played the road warriors role but never got the match back on track after a freak first goal in a 4-0 loss at No. 4 Forge Christian. The Fury finished runners up in 2A after a 0-0 championship match against Western Slope and crosstown rivals Crested Butte went to double overtime and was settled with a 4-3 loss in penalty kicks.
Junior midfielder Eli Coop and goalkeeper Sam Anderson were named first-team 2A Western Slope. Coop turned in eight goals and eight assists for 24 points on the season. He moved between attacking midfielder and defensive back when he was needed.
GHS coach Susan Powers lauded his ability to transition between the two positions and do whatever the Cowboys needed on the pitch.
“Eli has a focus and intensity
that comes through anytime he’s on the field that is unbeatable,” Powers said. “He’s the example of that in practice and in games.”
Anderson played every match, averaging 12.9 saves per game. He turned in four clean sheets on the season.
“His leadership was great, especially on the field,” Power said. “His ability to see the whole field and coach the back line to make sure everything was covered the way it needed to be covered was a huge contribution.”
Zavier Drendel notched two goals and three assists from the backline. Powers said while he probably would have preferred to be a midfielder, Drendel “ran the show” for the Cowboys’ backline.
Leading goal scorer Cesar Marmolejo found the back of the net 11 times and had two assists to match Coop for a team high 24 points. Both Drendel and Marmolejo were named Western Slope second team.
“When you put someone at the nine or 10 (position) you want them to be a finisher,” said Powers about Marmolejo. “That was his role. He scored the key goal in the game against Denver Christian. It was 0-0 for so long and when we really needed him he stepped up and produced, I’d call that moment his high point of the season.”
(James Nokes writes for Colorado Preps.)
CELEBRATING THE POWER OF RURAL: Why National Rural
Health Day Matters to Gunnison County
THE POWER BEHIND THE NUMBERS
Rural America covers 86% of the nation’s land but houses just under 20% of its people. That geography shapes how care is delivered. The 2,200 rural hospitals across the country — including GVH — serve as both lifelines and economic anchors for their communities.
JASON AMRICH CEO, Gunnison Valley Health
Two-thirds of Health Professional Shortage Areas are rural. Yet, rural residency programs have quadrupled since 2008, and their graduates are far more likely to stay and practice locally. That’s the power of rural — we grow our own solutions.
2,200 2/3 86%
WHAT IT MEANS FOR GUNNISON COUNTY
OF HEALTH SHORTAGE AREAS ARE RURAL.
At GVH, we embrace both the challenges and the independence that define rural healthcare. Serving a remote, mountain community means we can’t simply rely on “standard” models of care—our patients need solutions built for here. That’s why GVH has evolved into a full-service health system, offering comprehensive care from prenatal to end-of-life services.
Every service we provide locally—whether it’s emergency care, behavioral health, surgery, dermatology, or rehabilitation (just to name a few!) — means one less trip outside the valley, one less day away from work or family. Sometimes, it’s one more life saved. In Gunnison County, access to quality care isn’t a convenience; it’s a lifeline.
Our successful implementation of the EPIC electronic health record, in partnership with UCHealth, ensures that our patients’ health information travels with them—securely and seamlessly—whether they’re at home in the valley or seeking specialized care elsewhere. It’s one more way we’re keeping our community connected and empowered.
At GVH, we’re proving every day that rural healthcare can be both personal and progressive. We don’t just deliver care —we deliver peace of mind, close to home.
LOOKING AHEAD
Rural healthcare faces real threats, but our strength lies deep in our community roots and ability to innovate. We know our patients, understand our local rhythms, and deliver high-quality care with fewer resources. What we need isn’t sympathy —it’s recognition that rural healthcare requires different tools and measures of success.
MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER
To our GVH team: thank you for embodying the power of rural every day. And to our community: your trust and support sustain us. National Rural Health Day reminds us that rural healthcare isn’t a smaller version of urban care—it’s a unique, relationship -driven model built on innovation and resilience. At Gunnison Valley Health, we’re proud to lead that tradition. “Small but mighty” isn’t our limitation—it’s our advantage.
