Gunnison Country Times June 29, 2023

Gunnison hosts statewide fire college

Firefighters gather to train and build community

Jacob Spetzler

Photo and Sports Editor

Smoke billowed all of Saturday afternoon from the windows cut out of stacked storage containers on the outskirts of town off Hwy. 50 — evidence of the 105th Colorado Fire College training which took place June 21-24. Coached by professional instructors from as far as Florida and New York City, an army of firefighters from across the state fought a structure fire.

The college is organized through the Colorado State Fire Fighters Association (CSFFA) and moves locations each year. This year's event was held in Gunnison, kicking off with classroom sessions

Training A6

NEWS: New city manager shares her story, A8

Western adopts 2023-2028 strategic plan

NEWS: Locals pursue sober living home, A12

COMMUNITY: Ham

radio operators compete nationally, B1

Affordability, student and staff well-being are priorities

dent and staff well-being, making the school more affordable, enhancing academic offerings and ensuring the university’s financial strength. Trustees adopted the plan at a board meeting on June 22.

Spring burns canceled due to wet conditions

Forecasters expect moderate summer fire season

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Summer has descended on the Gunnison Valley, as lateafternoon storms bring muchneeded water to the Gunnison River Basin, and the valley flushes green.

OBITUARIES A3

OPINION A4-A5

CLASSIFIEDS A17-A19

SPORTS B15

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

After nearly a year of deliberation, the Western Colorado University Board of Trustees has adopted its 2023-2028 Strategic Plan. The plan specifically calls for improving stu-

The university welcomes over 3,000 students each year and is tasked with not only offering competitive academic opportunities, but shaping student priorities as they prepare to take on post-college lives. To define these priorities, the university looks to its strategic plan,

Along with a wet winter, abundant early-summer moisture has reduced the potential for grasses and shrubs to burn, so crews at the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forest and Bureau of Land Management Gunnison Field Office have canceled scheduled prescribed burns. Forest Service crews attempted to proceed as planned in a local GMUG burn unit, but that fire did not “reach

objectives,” said Forest Service Fire Management Officer Pat Medina.

“We saw these storms come in every few days, and no sooner did we begin to dry a portion of the unit, we got hit with another amount of snow, and it would knock it back. So we weren't even moving towards prescription,” he said.

Since mid-March, the Gunnison River Basin has no longer experienced drought conditions. As of June 27, the basin was registering 132% of 1991-2020 median precipitation rates. Rain continued through May and early June, breaking the typical “drying pattern” that starts in May. The extra rain compounded the basin’s already ample snowpack and delayed the onset of “conditions conducive to a large fire,” Medina said.

“The grasses are robust, they're green … live fuel moisture is very high for this time of year, and the dead fuel moistures have been able to retain the moisture they absorbed this winter,” he said.

Jacob Spetzler

Elk Creek firefighter Sam Macaulay debriefs with other training participants after a live fire exercise at the Gunnison Fire Training Grounds on Saturday, June 24.

Jacob Spetzler

QUOTE of the week

She made us feel like family, and I feel like she’s forever a part of ours.

AVENUE MULTIMODAL PROJECT

—

Jessica

Peterson, Creative Corner parent

In the next couple of weeks, you will start to see some activity on the west end of Ohio Avenue as work kicks off on Phase I of the Ohio Avenue Multimodal project. Crews will be surveying, saw cutting and removing project on July 10.

The Ohio Avenue Multimodal project is the result of several years of collaboration between the City of Gunnison, Western Colorado University, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), the Federal Highway Administration, the Gunnison Valley Transportation Planning Region (TPR), pedestrian and bike route connecting Western Colorado University’s campus to the downtown Gunnison area. It also provides an opportunity to eventually connect the campus to the VanTuyl trail system and to create a safe route to the Gunnison Watershed schools during later phases of the project.

See story on B7

BRIEFS

Ohio Pass open to through traffic

Ohio Pass opened for the season on Tuesday, June 27 at 4 p.m. Ohio Pass runs from the Ohio Creek Valley and connects to Crested Butte’s Kebler Pass.

Fire burns near Grand Junction

On Monday, the Spring Creek fire grew to over 3,000 acres when fire activity was magnified by topography, fuels and wind. The fire is burning near Parachute, just south of I-70.

Currently, eight crews, 25 engines, air resources including helicopters and retardant delivery aircraft, and more than 300 personnel are working the fire. According to a press release from the Grand Valley Fire Department, additional resources will continue to arrive.

Spring Creek Road and High Mesa Road are open to local traffic only. With the incoming resources, there will be an increase of fire personnel on the roadway. Fire officials have asked travelers to avoid the area if possible and drive with caution.

State announces first full-time Colo. River commissioner

On June 22, the Colorado Department of Natural Resources announced that Rebecca Mitchell will become Colorado’s first full-time commissioner to the Upper Colorado River Commission.

Mitchell will navigate the deep challenges of the Colorado River in this new position, supported by an interdisciplinary team within the Department of Natural Resources and the Colorado Attorney General’s Office. The team will enhance the state’s position in Colorado River inter-state issues and upcoming negotiations on Lake Mead and Lake Powell.

“The next few years are going to be incredibly intense as we shift the way that the seven basin states cooperate and operate Lakes Powell and Mead,” Mitchell said.

This project is intended to improve public safety by constructing improvements along Ohio Avenue between North Colorado Street to North Wisconsin, including:

• An 8-foot, 2 lane cycle track.

• 8.5-foot ADA compliant sidewalks with ADA ramps at each intersection.

• A 4-foot physical barrier to separate motorized and non-motorized

• Ambient & directional lighting, trash receptacles, benches, doggie stations, and additional landscaping on each block.

• Bulbouts and improved cross walks at Hwy 135 and Ohio.

These improvements support the City’s strategic priorities regarding public safety, public engagement and environmental sustainability. Safer multimodal route options encourage more people to walk or bike around town, increasing connectivity throughout the community to a variety of districts and areas within the City, and moderating carbon emissions by reducing the number of vehicles on our streets.

Timeline

Contractors plan to begin work on Ohio Avenue at Wisconsin Street on July 10, and then work their way east to Colorado Street. You will see electronic sign boards at both the Main Street and Colorado Street intersections to notify you about the project and any lane restrictions starting on June 30. Residents and motorists should plan for rolling and heading east to N. Colorado Street. Residents will still have access. Work will continue through the rest of the summer, and this phase of the project is expected to be completed by Fall of 2023.

Funding

The project will be funded by a variety of sources, including federal, state and local funds in addition to funding from the City’s budget. The Multimodal Transportation and Mitigation Options Fund (MMOF) is a state program that seeks to fund multimodal transportation projects throughout the state. Recipients of MMOF funding are required to match funding equal to or greater than the amount of the grant, and the Gunnison Valley Transportation Planning Region (TPR) generously provided that match amount in order to initiate this project. Additional funding was provided by a Federal Safe Routes to School grant and by Western’s Student Government.

Funding Source

$346,500.00 MMOF #1 TPR State Funds

$336,500.00 City Rec and Trails

$10,000.00 Western CU Student Government

$733,500.00 Safe Routes to School - Federal

$760,000.00 MMOF #2 Federal Fund

$100,000.00 City Council Strategic Funds

$2,286,500.00 Grand Total

Information regarding the project will be posted and updated regularly on the City website at www.gunnisonco.gov/cityprojects.

For additional information regarding the project call 970-998-2029 or to receive email updates of the project, please email safe2schoolroutes@ gmail.com

Facebook: facebook.com/CityofGunnison Instagram: instagram.com/cityofgunnison

Absolutely stunning 2,800sf home at the end of the Ohio Creek Valley on 40 acres with 2800sf garage. 3 bdrm/3 bath, custom cabinets, stainless steel appliances, in-floor heat, south facing windows with incredible views & Carbon Creek running through the acreage. 3750 County Road 737; $2,500,000.

NEW LISTING

Fully remodeled home has a large master bedroom, full bath & open living & dining room with spacious kitchen. Updated electric, large windows for passive solar, mud room & storage shed for your outdoor gear. 95 George Bailey Dr #23; $75,000.

Built in 2012, great condition, tile entryway, tucked away in the trees. 832 River Street; $449,000.

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY

chance to purchase R-3 lots & finish the West End Townhomes for a spec option, rental investment or employee housing. City approved site plans allow for two more duplex units. Water & sewer taps are already installed. Centrally located near the schools & RTA bus stop. 817 W. Denver Ave.; $319,000.

NEW PRICE 3 bdrm/2 ½ bath nearly 1,700sf home with additional family room & attached 2 car garage features a fully fenced backyard on just over half an acre. 430 Fairway Lane; $675,000.

MOVE-IN READY 3 bdrm/2 bath nearly 1,200sf home on almost an acre just 15 minutes from town. Cozy pellet stove in the living room, new roof, spacious laundry room, fenced yard, green house, wood shed & storage shed. 97 Deer Trail; $325,000.

BREATHTAKING VIEWS of Blue Mesa Reservoir from this 3 bdrm/2 bath, 1620sf home with 40 x 26 garage with 14 foot garage door for your boat to park next to the fish cleaning station in the garage. Bunk house above the garage sleeps 6 in the 2 bdrms & half bath. 33000 State Highway 149; $385,000.

4 BDRM/2 BATH, 1920sf home and a fully remodeled basement with 2 car detached garage conveniently located near the new library & trail system. Includes a cozy great room & bonus room for storage or crafts. 108 Irwin Street; $629,000.

COZY CABIN on 35 acres features 2 bedrooms, an open living room & kitchen with custom made oak cabinets, Upstairs loft includes additional beds for guests & the woodstove keeps the cabin warm. Well in place & solar panels for electricity. Seasonal pond and sold partially furnished. Lot 1 Stratman Subdivision; $425,000.

Pamela Jean Albright

Pamela Jean Albright passed away on June 1 at the age of 76 at her home in the city of Castle Rock, Colorado. Pam was born in Gunnison, Colorado on March 12, 1947 to Jean Douglas (LeFevre) and D.G. Douglas. Her birth was truly a family affair. Pam’s great grandfather, Benjamin Franklin Cummings, M.D., had delivered a number of his family members as part of his medical career in and around Lake City. Pam had the honor of being the last of Dr. Cummings' family to be delivered by him. At her birth, Pam’s grandmother, Mabel Lefevre, and great grandmother, Maude Cummings, did the heavy lifting as Dr. Cumming’s nurses.

Pam grew up around her family in Gunnison and Pueblo and starting at the age of nine was exposed to a number of places around the country as her father, D.G., re-enlisted in the Marine Corps. Whenever possible they would move to where Pam’s father was stationed and when it wasn’t possible, the family would return home to Gunnison to enjoy life with Pam’s grandmother, greatgrandmother and aunt. Even though Pam attended 8 different schools in places all over the country, it was Gunnison that she chose to return to, attending Western State College, or as it’s currently called: Western Colorado University. Throughout her life, Pam worked for banks, school districts, brokerage firms, a hospital and a hospice and was especially proud of her time with the U.S. Olympic committee and Team USA Taekwondo. In the end, Pam found comfort in her knitting and her 2 dachshunds,

Lucy and Wilhelmina. Pam traveled far, loved many, and laughed often but her home was always here in Gunnison and Lake City.

Pam is predeceased by her daughter, Tiffany Jean Janelle, 1994, father, Donald P. Douglas, 1994, mother, Jean LeFevre Douglas, 2006 and brother, Doyle G. Douglas, 2016, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents. She is survived by her aunt, Margo Riggan, her cousin, Scott Lefevre, her sister-inlaw, Sharon Douglas, her son, Jason Janelle, and her grandchildren; Julianna RoslingFrancisco, Kymera Janelle and Raiden Janelle, as well as her dear friends and those she loved as family all across the country. She is also survived by her sweet pups Lucy Beam and Wilhelmina Grace, who will be retiring to Florida.

A private celebration of Pam’s life will be held later this year in one of her favorite places.

Th e families of Harold “Hal” and Cindy Yale cordially invite you to join us for a celebration of their lives. The service will be held at the Western Colorado University Quigley Bandshell on July 22, 2023 at 10 a.m. We look forward to seeing you there.

Celeste Hendry

Mac Stratman, lifelong Ohio Creek rancher, cowboy and horseman, died comfortably in Gunnison, with family at his side, on June 13, 2023. He is deeply mourned. Service will be private.

Paula Walker passed away on March 6, 2023 in Estes Park, Colorado. Her family will be hosting a celebration of life on July 15, 2023 in Estes Park from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Stanley Park Osprey Shelter.

Please join family and friends on July 1 at 5 p.m. for a memorial to honor Celeste Hendry. Celeste was a healer, friend, daughter and inspiration to many. The evening will include a group meditation, community fire and sharing memories in her honor. The memorial will be held at Sanctuary Somatics, 513 South Main Street, Gunnison. Please bring a dish to share. Donations in Celeste’s name to continue her legacy of chiropractic care can be made via GoFundMe at gofund. me/4915ceba.

Mac Stratman

Paula Walker

Harold “Hal” Yale, Cindy Yale

970.641.1414

© 2023 Gunnison Country Times

Publisher/Owner Alan Wartes publisher@gunnisontimes.com

Office Manager Issa Forrest issa@gunnisontimes.com

Editor Bella Biondini bella@gunnisontimes.com

Photo and Sports Editor Jacob Spetzler jacob@gunnisontimes.com

Staff Writer Abby Harrison abby@gunnisontimes.com

Staff Writer Alex McCrindle alex@gunnisontimes.com

Times Intern Abby Fostveit intern@gunnisontimes.com

Sales Director Bobbie Duft bobbie@gunnisontimes.com

Sales Representative Jack Anderson jack@gunnisontimes.com

Production Manager Michaela Keefe production@gunnisontimes.com

Production Assistant Cassandra Duft cassandra@gunnisontimes.com

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

Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday

A fond farewell after six years — exactly

Since finding out I was expecting a baby due this summer, I knew I wanted to write a farewell commentary. But I don’t claim to be a writer. When Bella Biondini, editor of the Gunnison Country Times, heard me stressing about it at the office, she popped her head into the production room and simply said, "It's just public journaling.” So, here I go.

I never thought I would work for a newspaper. I was born and raised in Gunnison and grew up helping out in our family restaurant business. All I knew was taking burrito orders at the Blue Iguana or slinging pizza pies at Pie-Zan's. When former Times publisher Chris Dickey called in the middle of my summer finance class at Western with an "opportunity," I didn't know what to think. Even so, I decided to give it a try.

I started selling advertising at the Times the week of the Fourth of July edition in 2017 — typically the biggest paper of the year. I learned quickly, because there were ads to be sold. Fast forward to 2021, and I became the sales director when ownership of the Times changed. My last newspaper is this week, coincidentally the

LETTERS

Thank you and good luck

Editor:

This week marks the end of a remarkable run at our hometown newspaper. After six years of being one of the unsung heroes at the Gunnison Country Times, Bobbie Corn-Duft is leaving the crucially important role of advertising manager to prepare for and take on the most important job in the world — motherhood.

I had the good fortune of hiring young Bobbie away from Pie Zan’s Pizza, where she was a server extraordinaire, as she was finishing up a degree at Western. I knew she would be good. It doesn’t surprise me that she became such a great asset to our community.

LETTERS POLICY

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

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.

(Note to hiring managers out there: Want to find great employees? Look to the service industry. If one can thrive in that challenging industry, they can do just about anything.)

Thank you to all the local advertisers out there who’ve supported Bobbie, been an integral piece of our local newspaper, and by extension supported our community. Keep it up.

And while we’ll all miss Bobbie’s presence at the Times, we can certainly look forward with pride and optimism as she and husband Jesse Duft bring the next generation of Gunnison locals into our community.

Thanks for all you’ve done, Bobbie.

Chris Dickey Former publisher, Gunnison Country Times

Bobbie Corn-Duft Times Sales Director

Fourth of July edition. I promise I didn't plan that.

When Dickey took me around town to introduce the new face of sales, he quickly realized that I already knew a lot of the people I was going to be working with. One of the perks of growing up in a small town.

Because of that, I have always had a surface familiarity with our local newspaper, starting with my birth announcement in the 90s, to the mention of my name in sports stories throughout my school career — even though my name was often misspelled! A former coach still calls me "BOB-I-E," emphasizing the "ie" at the end of my name instead of a “y.”

But, I would now consider

11th and Tomichi death zone

Editor: There is a continuous problem of getting people from one side of the street to the other Crosswalks are in disrepair, with some so poorly lit that you can not see people crossing at night. Too many people keep speeding. No, 25 and 35 mph are not minimum speeds. The crosswalk leaving town on the east is not a drag strip.

But the most dangerous is the crosswalk at 11th and Tomichi. Many people risk their lives trying to get across the street there everyday. I’ve been almost hit several times, once by a semi that wouldn’t slow down.

The people I’ve seen dodging traffic include a young mother pushing her stroller; kids from school; two girls at night; a lady pushing her bike and a man with his dog, to name a few.

One that scared me was a 12-year-old girl who was trying to get across when a car sped by and almost hit her.

This is happening all day long. Cars are not stopping or slowing down, they even speed up. They don’t care. You're a sitting duck when you are out there playing Russian Roulette with your life.

The crossing is not marked, and the yellow lights are a joke, even a distraction at times.

There is only one solution, and that is a stoplight. Nothing else will work. If you don’t put up a stoplight, someone is going to be killed. Is the cost worth anyone's life, maybe a child?

myself intimately familiar with how a newspaper works and exactly what it is our local paper does for this valley. Overly simplified, it's a place for news that's sometimes hard to hear or write. It's also a place for fun photos and stories about local organizations and people changing our community for the better.

Within these pages also live advertisements from local businesses that make our community go round. This is where the sales team comes in. I can't stress enough the importance of the ads in the paper each week. Not only does this revenue drive what we do weekly inside the walls of 218 North Wisconsin, it's how businesses reach out and open their doors to you.

I have been honored to help tell their stories. I have been lucky to get to know the amazing nonprofits in the valley and share how they are making a difference. From wishing people happy anniversaries, retirements and birthdays, to weekly clients who have turned into friends — I have enjoyed every Tuesday deadline and Thursday print.

Thank you Gunnison Valley,

Not to mention the cost of a lawsuit to the town.

I’ve talked to many about this, and they agree with the need for a stoplight.

The choice is yours: either put up a stoplight, or it’s someone's funeral.

John Penn Gunnison

An explanation of Christian love

Editor:

In response to the comments and questions about the Christian faith from last week's letters, I would like to respectfully clarify a few points. This is not a letter to induce theological debate, but to more accurately represent one side of the discourse.

The first step is to give background. The Christian faith is centered around the gospel message. The gospel message starts with bad news first. Because of man's rejection of and rebellion toward God in the garden, all of mankind was plunged into sin, and as a result, enmity with a righteous and Holy God arose (Romans 3:23, Romans 8:7, James 4:4). Not one human is innocent of sin. The wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).

The good news is that God loved the world so much He sent His only son that whoever believes in Him should not perish (John 3:16). One must believe, confess their sin and turn from their old ways (repentance), so one can be reconciled to a Holy God (Acts 3:19).

for putting your trust in me over the years. I've said it before, and I will say it again, we couldn't do what we do at the Times and the Gunnison Country Shopper without your support.

I want to extend a special thanks to the people who have stood arm in arm with me over the years to produce a weekly paper, past and current. You know who you are, and you all hold an extremely significant place in my heart. We've been in the trenches together, sometimes working past deadlines to get pages to the printer. But we've also toasted many magazine releases and celebrated the smell of fresh ink drifting in from the back room of the newspaper office every week. I love you all.

Local journalism is rewarding. Helping people and businesses advertise is rewarding. I will miss this for sure.

But I will still be around. See you at the grocery store or catching up on the news with a copy of the Times

(Bobbie Corn-Duft will be sorely missed around the office. )

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9).

How do we know how to obey the Son and follow His commandments? This is revealed to us directly by God through the Bible. Old Testament ceremonial law has been fulfilled through Chirst Jesus. However, the moral law of the Old Testament and New Testament still remains. A Christian perspective of love would be: leading others to this good news of salvation and not eternal damnation, by not keeping this good news hidden. We have to be guarded when we discuss love in relation to the Bible, since many misrepresentations of the biblical meaning of love follow from inserting man-derived concepts of "love" into the biblical text. The Christian is commanded to spread the gospel and teach all people and nations to obey His commands (Matthew 28:1620). If you knew a bridge was out and saw someone barreling towards certain death, love would motivate you to warn them to stop and turn around; anything short of that would not be love.

Christians must love people enough to share the good news with them, but in order to understand how good the good news is, we must also understand the bad news — man's fallen and sinful nature. The Christian perspective is that warning others to turn from sin and accept the offer of God's

2023 Member

LETTERS

salvation is not hate or marginalization, but is an expression of love and concern.

Don't take my word for it. Study the entirety of God's word for yourself. Don't take someone's word who uses an appeal to authority fallacy by saying they have a masters in theology, use your own mind and study scripture. My two cents: start in the Gospel of John followed by Romans or Ephesians. Make your own conclusions. Christ is King!

David Robbins Gunnison

Union decries capitalism

Editor:

On April 22, the Colorado Education Association (CEA) denounced capitalism in a resolution, which states:

“CEA believes that capitalism requires exploitation of children, public schools, land, labor and/or resources. Capitalism is in opposition to fully addressing systemic racism (the school to prison pipeline), climate change, patriarchy, (gender and LGBTQ disparities), education inequality and income inequality.”

This is from the teachers’ union for 39,000 teachers in Colorado.

They attack the economic system that has brought more people out of poverty than any other system. It brought us the Model T and the iPhone. It’s also the economic system that funds the construction of our public schools and pays teach-

ers’ salaries.

Every person living in Colorado who is sending their kids to public school has got to know this is what their union is telling their teachers. This statement could be in Beijing or Havana.

The big question to the CEA union: What replaces capitalism? Socialism? Marxism?

To denounce capitalism is an affront to every business owner, homeowner and second homeowner in Colorado.

To the teachers who pay $60-$90 monthly union dues, there’s a second option. PACE (Professional Association of Colorado Educations) whose dues are $20 per month, and PACE offers twice the amount of liability insurance. More money in the teacher’s pocket with added benefits.

Neil Watko Gunnison County

Thanks for the votes

Editor:

To The Members of GCEA, thank you for your vote of confidence. I will continue to represent the majority of GCEA members. My ongoing commitment is to focus on reliability, affordability, safety, excellent service and good governance.

As for Tri-State, our energy provider, they are moving in the right direction, and I support their Responsible Energy Plan.

Thank you again for your support. Please extend your

support to our linesmen by buying them a cup of coffee if you get a chance. Many thanks to the rest of the GCEA team.

Greg Wiggins Crested Butte

Golf course trail replay

Editor:

Once again, I am writing this letter with sadness and wonder regarding closure of the Dos Rios Golf Course trail onto Hartman Rocks.

The golf course is the jewel of our neighborhood, and I greatly appreciate the generosity of the administration to allow access these many years. I can't imagine what I or my neighbors could have done to cause this action. I walk this trail almost daily, I have never witnessed damage or intrusion at the 13th hole.

If by chance a Hartman Rocks volunteer reads this letter, and has the power to re-name or close trails, may I respectfully request: The Trail to Nowhere.

Small plane crashes near Crawford

All four passengers survive

Alex McCrindle Times Staff Writer

On Friday, June 23, a Cessna 182 plane crashed near Hwy. 92. At approximately 8:42 a.m. the Gunnison Fire Department, Gunnison County Sheriff's Office and Gunnison Medical Services were dispatched to the crash, which was about 150 feet north of mile marker 60.

Identities of the survivors were not available as of press time, though officials do not believe the survivors to be residents of Gunnison County.

The plane departed from Delta that morning. It was registered in Delta County, and officials believe it was rented.

It is unclear what transpired before the crash, said Gunnison County Sheriff Adam Murdie. A sheriff ’s deputy was the first on scene. He observed the plane to be badly burned and immediately made contact with the four survivors. Despite serious burns, three survivors walked

away from the incident, and the remaining victim was carried out by medical officials. All four were transported to hospitals, Murdie said.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has started its investigation and is expected to release a preliminary accident report within three weeks and a complete report no later than 24 months, said NTSB spokesperson Peter Knudson.

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

Sherry McCabe Gunnison

on a range of topics such as firefighter rescue, leadership and death scene response. On Friday afternoon, the practical training began at the Gunnison Fire Training Grounds, which looks like a stack of storage containers from the outside.

Inside, the containers have been outfitted to resemble a variety of indoor spaces with hallways, stairways, windows and even furniture. On Friday, the storage containers stayed cold as classes focused on hose work and rescue missions. Then, on Saturday, classes incorporated live fire.

This is the first time Gunnison has hosted the event since 1995. Locations are chosen a year ahead of time. Paul Acosta, the CSFFA executive board president, said a number of things go into choosing a host city.

“We listen to our membership, and contact the fi re chief … We also look for if they have a good training facility,” Acosta said. “Gunnison, well, I’m so impressed with the facilities they have.”

Th e training grounds on the edge of town are a new addition since the last time Gunnison hosted the college. The facility was modeled in part after the Fire Department Training

Network out of Indianapolis. Th the Gunnison Fire Department, which is unteers. Hugo Ferchau, the city’s fire marshal, said that aspect came in handy when building the training facility. niques, we feel like ours is a little more polished,” he said.

“Part of what's special with us being a volunteer fire department is we do have a lot of different skill sets throughout the [team], with the jobs they actually do day-to-day. We're able to take advantage of that to build this facility and put together something really special.”

selves, the experience was valuable for more than just the concrete skills. Rob Larsen, a Gunnison firefighter and former U.S. Marine said the college represented the sense of community and service that made him want to volunteer in the first place. He also said he appreciates how the college attracts the country to learn shared skills.

“[They] can come together, be given a scenario and still perform their jobs very well … despite the fact that we don’t train together regularly,” Larsen said. “It gives me back a sense of camaraderie as I spent four

years in the Marine Corps infantry. Th e sense of camaraderie we share in the military

is very similar to what I have with this family I work with at Gunnison Fire.”

a master planning document where senior administrators and trustees — with the help of community input — lay out the institution’s guiding principles for the next half decade.

“In order for us to accomplish anything in what we set out to do, we need to have everybody engaged, bought in and all working towards the same goals,” Western President Brad Baca said in a regular Gunnison County Commissioners meeting on June 20.

Baca said the new plan includes some initiatives that are significantly different from what the university had in the past. Those changes could include more unique academic programming, like stackable credits, micro-credentials and “upside-down degrees,” a structure which has students start with technical certifications and delay general education until the end.

But new programs will continue to be underpinned by a liberal arts focus, which Commissioner Jonathan Houck called a “bedrock” of the Gunnison Valley.

“One of the reasons I think our community often excels in problem solving and coming up with good answers is because the very skills that make up the foundation of liberal arts education is what we see a lot of folks in our community … and a lot of them received that foundation at Western,” Houck said.

Thanasis Kinias, faculty representative on the strategic plan steering committee, said the most promising change on the

academic side is the possibility of developing a new General Education (GE) core. Instead of having students check disparate boxes on a GE list, the university hopes to offer more curated requirements, including sustainability, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice Plus (DEIJ+), global outlook and even local environmental studies.

“The GE core would be less generic and really represent what Western is as an institution,” Kinias said.

Making Western more affordable is another focus.

Demographics are trending towards more diverse, less affluent and more first-generation students, all while the overall cost of attendance at Western continues to increase. For that reason, the plan prioritizes making scholarships available to more students and reducing overall student debt.

“As a first-generation college

graduate, I would not be where I am today without the transformational impacts of higher education. And that was only made possible by the generosity of a lot of people, the institution and the donors that supported that in terms of making it affordable for me,” Baca said in the commissioners meeting.

The university’s own financial well-being can be improved through a number of plans, Baca added, like an enrollment management plan, a marketing plan that better communicates Western’s strengths and fine-tuning the annual budget process.

Granular goals

The strategic planning process started about a year ago at a July board retreat. Th e board approved goals in October and appointed a steering committee, who worked over the following nine months to fi nalize those goals, develop an implementation plan and identify metrics for success. All along the way, the administration gathered community input to make sure the plan reflected real-time needs.

The strategic plan prioritizes student well-being, which includes “security, access to mental health resources and personal connection in order for all to thrive,” the plan states. Instead of letting those efforts live in a silo with the Student Affairs department, the intent is to build those efforts into the curriculum.

“If you follow anything about higher education these days, you will know we are in crisis mode on our campuses,” Baca said. “Mental health resources

and mental health needs are consuming more and more of our time and more and more of our resources.”

According to a June 7 board meeting memo, housing remains a big concern, and that initiative drew a lot of conversation from faculty, staff and students. For students, those comments centered on everything associated with upkeep, cleanliness, condition of on-campus housing as well as availability and cost of off-campus housing. The final plan includes shortand long-term solutions like multi-unit lease agreements, new construction and renovations to lessen the housing burden on employees and students

Regarding DEIJ+, comments were somewhat more critical. “[The] sense that we don’t have a good baseline to measure progress from, and that efforts have been somewhat superficial in nature and have not gone far enough,” the memo stated.

But the university is well underway to tackle those issues. Months ago, it hired Steven Parker, Western’s inaugural vice president of inclusivity. Since then, Parker has been involved in the strategic planning process.

“DEIJ+ seems to be centered. It seems to be a primary focus of this strategic plan, and interwoven with inclusivity at the center … folks have been very inclusive as it relates to developing the goals, and developing the priorities that will live out those goals,” Parker told the Times

Some of those programs include the first 2SLGBTQIA+ (Two-spirit, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer,

Intersex, Asexual Plus) scholarship, a multi-faith space for students and staff to gather and a formal Division for Justice and Inclusion, meant to centralize the university’s DEIJ+ efforts.

“This means that we have multiple professionals focusing their attention intentionally on diversity, equity, inclusion and justice plus work in a unified way,” he said.

For faculty, the plan lays out an interest in “empowering the voices of faculty” and creating a comprehensive compensation plan for all Western employees. Innovating titles, salary structures, contracts and benefits is meant to foster a culture of value for non-tenure track faculty and staff

“The faculty didn’t have a lot of criticisms of the plan, so this could be interpreted as general support for it … I think it is a positive strategic plan that has wonderful guiding principles (sustainability, diversity-equity-inclusivity-justice, global outlook, and sense of place) that align with Western’s values (courage, growth, integrity, stewardship and inclusivity),”

Faculty Senate Chair Patrick McGee wrote in an email statement to the Times

There is still some work to be done on the implementation plan, including articulating cost estimates and timing for the different initiatives Baca said. This work will occur over the summer.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

(Jacob Spetzler can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or jacob@gunnisontimes.com.)

As a firstgeneration college graduate, I would not be where I am today without the transformational impacts of higher education.

Brad Baca President, Western Colorado University

Firefighters practice ladder rescues.

Western from A1

Jacob Spetzler

Stockgrowers’ Association honors

Means, Curry and Hildreth

The Gunnison County Stockgrowers' Association held its annual banquet on Saturday, June 10. Over 100 people attended to celebrate the accomplishments of the Gunnison Valley agricultural community. The Stockgrowers’ Association, which has been in existence since 1894, recognized the contributions of David Means, who received the Lifetime Membership Award, Kathleen Curry, who received the Distinguished Service Award and Kelly Hildreth, who received the Friendship Award.

$1,225,000.00

Huge beautiful kit/din/fam main level w/pine bettle kill T&G Vaulted Ceiling! Dual Zone Central Heat W/16 Panel solar plus backup16-20KW Generator! Prewired for Satellite, 600 sq ft attached garage, plus huge detached metal barn.

David Means and Kathleen Curry pose for a photo with their awards.

Courtesy Gunnison County Stockgrowers’ Association

Prescribed burns were also canceled on BLM lands, said Fire Management Specialist Brian Stevens. On June 26, crews collected fuel samples that were burned and weighed to measure moisture content. Th ose samples all pointed to a moderate fire season, he said.

“From everything I'm seeing, it’s predicted to be normal fire behavior. So that defi nitely means we can still see fires, but they're not predicting abovenormal fire behavior,” Stevens said.

But the storm cycle is starting to shift — drying patterns and higher winds are returning to the valley. Medina said the fire season will creep up quickly as the moisture starts to evaporate and valley grasses cure and turn yellow with summer heat. The marker for fire season is simply, “when are the fuels available?” he said. That typically happens when snow melts from lower elevations, dry wind whips through the valley and farmers start to burn ditches.

“Yes, it’s been green and it's been wet, but yet the forest will still catch fire. We will have to deal with our natural starts due to lightning, that's just something that we know. But we

encourage everyone to be prepared,” he said.

Just days ago, a wildfire ignited near Parachute, in Garfield County. Although initial growth of the Spring Creek Fire was slow, dry conditions and high winds on Monday night spread the fire to over 3,000 acres. According to the Upper Colorado River Interagency Fire Management Unit, topography, fuels and wind resulted in extreme fire behavior and rapid growth. As of Wednesday morning, no evacuations had been ordered and additional air support, crews and engines continue to arrive.

Eyes on the monsoon Valley fire professionals are often dispatched to fight fires elsewhere around the nation. GMUG has already sent fire crews to the Great Lakes region and Canada, which has been deprived of moisture this winter.

“We're low right now in terms of our large fire potential, and they are seeing some extreme fire behavior,” Medina said. “So we help with teams and with folks that have those individual qualifications, to help out. We’re beginning to see that draw.”

Locally, fire crews are focused on the window of time between the onset of dry conditions and

the arrival of the late-summer monsoon season. National Weather Service data is used to predict not only the arrival of monsoon season, but its duration — how long the rains will last into the fall.

“Now, all eyes are on the monsoon. We've heard different forecasts, and we're just going to see what happens,” Medina said. “We really need this heat, in some regard, to set up to provide the necessary pump action to draw up that tropical moisture.”

Although there are currently

no fire restrictions in place in the GMUG, Medina said keeping good fire etiquette should be a priority. Every year, crews respond to fires started as a result of poorly extinguished campfires. A single smoldering ember picked up by the wind can trigger hundreds or thousands of acres of fire.

Already this season, GMUG crews have put out two lightingstrike starts — one in Sargents in May and another on Long Branch Baldy Peak in June. Although the Long Branch fire only burned about a tenth of an

acre before it hit moist fuels, it was merely a week after snow had melted from the site.

Fire crews will revisit prescribed fire burn plans in the fall, as temperatures cool and the fuels begin to dry once again. But those decisions are always under constant evaluation, Medina said, and a mere two weeks can change the crew’s outlook on prescribed fire.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Q&A with Gunnison’s new city manager

Wilson stepped into her new role this week

Bella Biondini Times Editor

After two searches and a position that sat vacant for nearly eight months, Amanda Wilson officially began her role as Gunnison’s city manager on Monday, June 26.

Wilson, originally from the Midwest, graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in construction management and spent a number of years traveling, working on large-scale heavy civil construction projects such as bridges and highways. She later started her own consulting business that helped nongovernmental organizations implement infrastructure projects across the world, including Central America and the Middle East.

Following t hat, she shifted into the public sector. Wilson previously served as the director of infrastructure and development for the City of Sandpoint, Idaho, a small community just south of the Canadian border.

The Times sat down with Wilson to talk about what drew her back to Colorado and how she hopes to address some of the long-standing challenges facing the Gunnison Valley community.

(Editor’s note: This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.)

Why Gunnison?

It was important to me to work for a forward-thinking city council and professional staff. Both say a lot about a community. But, fundamentally, Gunnison is the right culture and environment for us. We love the outdoors. We absolutely are excited about the fact that the vision for the community is for it to be a vibrant university town. I think that's really important, and something I'm excited to be a part of.

From the perspective of a newcomer, what do you see as Gunnison’s biggest problems?

Inflation, aging infrastructure and growth. The demands and changes that come with growth are difficult, and all three of those factors directly affect our quality of life here.

Thankfully, though, the city has been working to address these challenges for some time. The

strategic plan, as well as the comprehensive plan both detail strategies for addressing those three issues. I think that there's a clear path forward.

What do you think are this community's greatest assets?

It is a long list. I think Gunnison’s rich history and its people are at the core of its greatest asset. It's very apparent to me, even in the short time I've been here, that this community cares. It cares deeply about the place that we all get the call home. That's invaluable, when our citizens are engaged in what really matters to them.

That is what has historically carried Gunnison forward, and I think it’s going to continue to carry us forward in the future in a positive manner.

Gunnison’s supply of safe drinking water, as well as its reliable power are two other assets that make us uniquely resilient. Last, but not least, it's a recreation mecca. Our open spaces, parks and facilities are world class. And those assets make our problems seem a little bit smaller.

As a new staff member, how do you plan to engage with our community?

City council is a key connection to the community. I have a number of conversations and meetings scheduled with city council and staff over the next month to try and get up to speed as fast as possible. But in addition to our team at City Hall and other facilities throughout the city, I'm so excited to start engaging with the faculty

and the students at Western Colorado University, local businesses, as well as attending our local events. What I’ve found is that being available and allowing time for one-on-one conversation is essential to connecting with the community, and you really can't do it enough.

What experience do you have that makes you suited to lead the city?

A significant portion of my career was spent delivering large scale construction projects, which required and exposed me to being able to lead teams through to completion. My core experience is taking a plan and implementing it. With that, comes skill sets, such as effective communication and being able to facilitate conversations that are often tough. Both of those have contributed to my success in the past.

My past leadership role in the public sector was the foundation for helping me to realize that being able to navigate competing priorities requires active listening and ensuring the right people are at the table.

Over the past couple of years, city council has made inclusivity a priority. How do you plan to continue moving that forward?

It's incredible. I think our community outreach liaisons are absolutely vital to achieving that priority, and I am committed to supporting their efforts. The city's commitment to being clear in our communication, and remaining informative and timely, is crucial. We need to

continue to find ways to meet people where they are.

I intend to revisit this priority with city council and staff as well as the community on a regular basis. When we have a priority like this, performance metrics are really important because the way in which we achieve success means something a little bit different to everybody.

The success is evidence. But I also think that equity, inclusivity and diversity needs to exist at a leadership level. I strongly encourage — and will do my part to encourage it throughout the community — for people to consider being involved in local government. Getting on a commission, a committee or running for city council — that's how we'll have meaningful inclusivity.

When you're not in the office, what do you love to do? We have two German shorthaired pointers, so anything and everything with them. We are lucky, because they love to mountain bike and play in the snow as much as we do. I also love to fly fish and I enjoy horseback riding, baseball and live music. I'm really excited to go down to the I Bar and check out some of those events.

A firefighter extinguishes the remaining embers of a brush fire outside of Crested Butte South in October, 2021.

Jacob Spetzler

Courtesy

Gunnison Country Times Thursday, June 29, 2023 • NEWS • A9

emphasize safety measures for fireworks

Abby Fostveit Times Intern

As the Fourth of July approaches and the Gunnison Valley becomes hot and dry, local officials emphasized the importance of adhering to firework regulations enacted under Colorado law.

Gunnison Fire Marshal Hugo

Ferchau said that, in Colorado, personal fireworks are strictly regulated, and most types are illegal. Fireworks that are illegal include those that explode or leave the ground. According to the Gunnison County Sheriff’s office, this includes cherry bombs, Roman candles and bottle rockets.

However, the Sheriff’s office said that ground-based fireworks such as fountains and sparklers are allowed. Anyone selling legal fireworks must have a license to do so. For those looking to partake in legal fireworks, Ferchau said to do so safely and responsibly on a non-combustible surface. However, it is preferred that residents and visitors do not operate fireworks on their own at all. The safest way to enjoy fireworks on the Fourth of July is to view them at Jorgensen Park, he said, where the annual fireworks display will take place.

Jorgensen Facility and City of Gunnison Events Manager

Andy Eflin said the fireworks show will begin at 9:30 p.m. on July 4, consisting of 911 shells shooting into the sky. To ensure the public’s safety, a 500-foot buff er zone will be established from where the shells go off

Eflin said Jorgensen Park is a safe spot for the fireworks show due to how well-watered the ballpark fields are and the

TIPS FOR USING FIREWORKS SAFELY

• Never give fireworks to young children.

• Stay sober. Never use fireworks with alcohol or drug consumption.

• Have a working hose and/or bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies.

• Never carry a firework in your pocket or hold a lit firework in your hand.

• Never shoot fireworks from a metal or glass container.

• Keep spectators at a safe distance and never aim or throw fireworks at another person.

• Never place any part of your body directly over a firework –even when lighting.

• Light only one firework at a time.

• Never approach or try to re-ignite a firework that doesn’t light the first time.

• Soak your used fireworks in a metal bucket overnight and outside away from anything flammable.

location of the nearby wetlands. Additionally, local fire officials will have vehicles out in the park.

Although Gunnison has dried out over the last week, Ferchau said there is no need for any fire restrictions yet.

Gunnison-based U.S. Forest Service Fire Management Officer, Pat Medina, said that fireworks are prohibited on Forest Service lands in order to reduce the risk of wildfire.

“We’ve had folks that have played with fireworks, and it gets into the forest and we respond,” Medina said. “We’ve had fires in Taylor Park, it’s not that uncommon.”

(Abby Fostveit can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or intern@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Jacob pending 518 E Georgia Avenue | Gunnison Fiveplex | WCU Adjacent | Rental Opportunity | $1,099,000 Brian Cooper Broker Associate c 970.275.8022 brian@bbre1.com

TNT Fireworks press release.) red, white, and bluebird happy 4th of july 341 Blackstock Drive | Crested Butte South 3 Bed + Studio Apt. | 4 Bath | $1,497,777

Spetzler For more information, visit GunnisonProperty.com!

8771 County Road 730 | Ohio Creek Valley 3 Bed | 4 Bath | 73 +/- Acres | $5,100,000 43110 US Highway 50 | Gunnison Ranch 5 Bed | 4 Bath | 87 +/- Acres | $2,900,000 708 Antelope Road | Gunnison 4 Bed | 2 Bath | Detached 2 Car Garage | $495,000

newlisting

43191 US Highway 50 | Gunnison 5 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 20 Acres | 2,400 SF Shop | $1,490,000 pending

Number of OHV users on public lands trending upward

Registration dollars pour back into on-the-ground management

Bella Biondini Times Editor

The number of off-highway (OHV) vehicles roaming Colorado’s public lands has grown dramatically over the past decade, and the Gunnison Valley has not been immune to the rush.

OHVs include all-terrain vehicles (ATV), four-wheelers, dirt bikes, motorcycles and snowmobiles. Although noise and unmanaged or irresponsible use is sometimes frowned upon by non-motorized users, OHV users pay to play. The large sums of money generated by a statewide OHV permitting system feeds directly back into trails and the hands of the agencies that manage them.

Last month, the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Commission approved $6.2 million in annual motorized trail grants to fund projects and trail crews across the state — including some in the Gunnison Valley and the surrounding areas. The majority of this funding comes directly from the purchase of more than 200,000 Colorado OHV registrations and permits.

Back in the 90s, when the OHV program first launched, this user group was willing to step up and pay to help make sure the trails were maintained and remained open for everyone to go out and enjoy, said CPW State Trails Program Manager Fletcher Jacobs. Since it was instated 33 years ago, more than $80 million has been allocated for on-the-ground improvements to Colorado’s public lands.

“It's a point of pride, certainly for the motorized community, that they are helping out and chipping in for this pretty big lift to make sure we've got folks out there taking care of these trails,” Jacobs said.

Over the past decade, he said the agency has seen a significant increase in the number of OHV registrations, which jumped up by almost 31% between 2013 and 2021. While the amount of motorized users spiked during the pandemic as residents crowded public lands around Colorado, it was already trending upward, he said.

The rise in use is accompanied by an ever-increasing need for maintenance and manpower on Colorado’s already

strained public lands. This year, CPW was not able to fully fund all of the grant requests it received, with asks totalling more than $8 million. These grants will not be distributed until 2024.

The annual funding stream will pay for 52 trail projects across Colorado, including trail reconstruction at Canyon Creek Trail in the U.S. Forest Service Gunnison Ranger District.

Trail crews, along with the help of volunteers and youth corps, will rebuild parts of Canyon Creek Trail #481, a popular motorized trail that has been impacted by heavy use and runoff This will be accompanied with heavy maintenance below the Buffalo Fork toward the junction of Waunita Trail #497. Both are located west of Gunnison along Hwy. 50.

Improving the shared-use experience

Due to the abundance of public lands and trail systems, the Gunnison Valley has experienced the rise of motorized recreation first hand. It is not unusual to see ATVs wandering the seemingly endless trail networks of Taylor Park — a popular area because of the number of accessible 4-wheel drive mountain passes — or dirt bikes on single-track trails at Hartman Rocks Recreation Area.

Although motorized trails can be found on public lands (except wilderness), the Forest Service alone manages more than 500 miles of motorized routes that criss-cross throughout the Gunnison Valley and beyond. With 1,400 miles of trails total, the sheer number within the Gunnison Ranger District makes management a challenge.

Untamed OHV trails can become braided like corn rows as users create their own paths once the original is too entrenched to use. Once one person goes off the trail and flattens the vegetation, more usually follow, said Forest Service Trails Manager Greg Austin.

Because the amount of federal funding for trails has fallen over the past few decades, Austin described the money the Gunnison Ranger District receives as a “godsend.”

“If we didn't have that, the resource damage would be worse. It would be horrible,” Austin said. “But some of the more gratifying things we've done with that money is not so much the quantity, but the quality of our work. We make the motorized and shared use experience better.”

Just outside of the Gunnison Valley, OHV users dominate

Kelsey was absolutely amazing! She is so patient, knowledgeable, enthusiastic, professional and kind. She made her self available and present every step of the way. Anytime I had questions, concerns or hesitation she was there. If you are looking to sell or purchase, I would recommend Kelsey 100%!!!! She is the BEST!!!! Thank You Kelsey!!!!

Lake City’s Alpine Loop during the summer months, an area that is managed by the local Bureau of Management Field (BLM) Office. The area has consistently experienced high levels of OHV recreation, said BLM Outdoor Recreation Planner Jim Lovelace. In 2021, the agency recorded 480,000 user days on the Loop, most of which were motorized. Many were visitors, traveling from places like Texas and Oklahoma.

But all of these riders had to purchase an OHV sticker, which goes right back into the state fund. The money pays for the team of rangers who are on the ground, answering questions, helping visitors and cleaning adjacent bathrooms and campgrounds — all things that would not be possible without the grant program, Lovelace said. Education remains one of the largest and most consistent challenges of managing the rise of OHV use. Land management agencies have been tasked with making sure users know how to take care of the resource.

“Making sure that folks know where they should and shouldn't operate those machines is pretty important,

Highly Desirable Homes

particularly in fragile environments like alpine tundra, which can take decades to heal from careless use,” Lovelace said.

Frequently, local volunteers and nonprofit groups work sideby-side with the BLM and the Forest Service to clear trails and maintain the roads and single-track networks they love.

Geoff Heller, president of the Gunnison Valley OHV Alliance of Trailriders, said the organization pushes to make sure it’s headed in the right direction — with riders that are courteous to other users and respectful of the land they recreate on.

“We're all multi-users, the majority of us ride mountain bikes, a lot of us hunt and fish, hike, backpack and camp,” Heller said. “It's important to make sure we're not doing harm to our natural resources and we're helping to improve them for everybody. There is a large misconception that the motorized community is the enemy, but we actually spend a lot of time giving back.”

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

A Gunnison Ranger District OHV trail crew member “bucks out” trail.

Lora Schmillen / U.S. Forest Service

ALL EVENTS, RESTAURANT, BAR AND GOLF ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC UPCOMING EVENTS

Fish Fry Friday

5-7p.m 6/30, & every last Friday of the month through September (7/28, 8/25, & 9/29)

Steak Night

EVERY Friday night 5-7p.m, reservations required.

Wine Tasting

July 26th 3-6p.m, $40 per person

Breakfast

Served Wed-Sun.

970-641-1482

HEATED PAVILLION AVAILABLE FOR LARGE PARTIES BREAKFAST SERVED WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY

BEAUTIFUL TOWN AND COUNTRY HOMES

Wonderfully updated and maintained 3 BR, 2.5 Bath Town home on Bambi Lane. Roomy Kitchen, LR and ground floor Master Bedroom with easy access to a private back yard and BBQ area with Trex Deck and flagstone. Outstanding condition, very reasonable utilities and HOA fees, and easy access to Gunnison, Dos Rios Golf, Gunnison River Water Park, Hartman’s, Blue Mesa and so much more. Call Matt for your appointment. $558,000.

This beautiful home on the western edge of Gunnison has a wonderful 3 BR, 2.5 bath floor plan with a huge second floor bonus room for family and guests. Awesome kitchen features such as granite counters, soft close oak cabinets, oak hardwood flooring, high end appliances and lighting. Custom LR ceilings, and a fabulous main entry.The MBR is private and spacious with a large walk in closet and tiled bath with soaking tub, double bedrooms with tiled bath between, extra large utility room, attached garage, professionally landscaped yard, and a great privacy fenced back patio/BBQ area are all in outstanding condition and ready for you. Call Matt to see this fabulous home and its other custom amenities. $849,000.

Incredible cabin custom built with large round logs, on 40 plus acres bordering U.S National Forest Land. Unbelievable and unobstructed views of numerous 13,000+ peaks along the Continental Divide.

wildlife viewing for elk. deer, moose on your property and the thousands of acres of adjoining forest lands. Solar powered 2 BR, one bath cabin with full kitchen, wood stove, deck, well and septic, propane generator backup, detached garage and guest cabin, pad to add another kitchen outdoors and “NOW THIS IS COLORADO “ views. Treat yourself and your family for generations by investing in this one of a kind property. $995,000.

MANY MORE PHOTOS OF THESE BEAUTIFUL PROPERTIES ARE VIEWABLE AT: www.monarchrlty.com

Matt Robbins, CRS, GRI Monarch Realty, Inc. 970-596-0715 l matt@monarchrlty.com

Locals push for sober living home

Supportive environment offers better chance at sustained recovery

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

For the first time ever, the Gunnison Valley may soon house a sober living home. Although Gunnison County has increased support in recent years for those in recovery from Substance Use Disorder (SUD), gaps remain in the care landscape. A sober living home may help close those gaps by off ering community and stability to those committed to sobriety.

Behind the effort is resident Mary Beth Kelley, who has been in conversation for years with peers and allies in Gunnison County Juvenile Services to see the project come to life. Kelley’s son, Paden Castles Kelley, died in 2019 of an overdose after several successful years of sobriety. While the family lived in Austin, Texas, a sober home was a crucial part of Paden’s process, she said.

“Since I've been here full time, four years, this has been on my radar screen as something I thought we desperately needed in the Gunnison Valley,” she said.

Kelley and fellow church member Edward Howard recently formed a nonprofit to hold the property. The pair hopes to partner with Oxford House, a sober living organization that charters democratically run, self-supporting and drug-free homes, to manage it. Oxford House leases over a hundred homes in Colorado, as close as Montrose. The home has to be fi nancially independent, meaning residents pay rent and support the mortgage on the house. If residents relapse, they’re out.

“You don't just buy a house and say, ‘Okay, we're open for business, I’m going to stay sober,’” Kelley said. “A sober home has to be run with people who know how to do that and have a program that supports people’s sobriety, and there are companies around the country that do that successfully.”

The Gunnison Valley has had only one sober living facility, New Adam’s House in Crested Butte. The home, operated by the Oh Be Joyful Church, closed in the early 2000s. But in the last several years, the county has expanded resources available for SUD primarily through the GRASP Consortium, a valley collaborative devoted to the prevention, treatment, and recovery of substance use disorder. Despite the group’s efforts, large gaps remain.

The 2022 State of the Community Report, which

provided a comprehensive overview of the valley’s behavioral health needs, found that people are getting squeezed financially and looking to cope.

At the same time, accessibility and potency of drugs has increased, and community norms trend toward heavy substance use. All the while, the county lacks adequate recovery and aftercare resources, said John Powell, data coordinator for Juvenile Services.

In response, Powell and Cole Cooper, a Western Colorado University grad student and co-coordinator for GRASP, spent four months compiling a report to better understand how the community can bolster recovery and aftercare services. Th ey estimate that up to 500 people are receiving some form of behavioral health services for SUD in the county, and believe that a sober living home — with space for six to eight people — would fill up almost immediately.

“People are leaving the community to access those services. But there is a disconnect between accessing the services outside a community and then not having adequate support when they're re-entering our community,” Powell said.

Cooper and Powell’s report included sober living as one of four main pathways the valley could pursue to support residents in recovery. Th e pair found that, in addition to helping individuals recover, sober living homes often positively impact the community by encouraging residents in recovery to give back.

“People sometimes turn to substances because they may fi nd aspects of their life unfulfilling, traumatic or stressful,” Cooper said. “Finding ways for them to find meaning and fulfi llment in their recovery is really important … giving back to the community, like as a peer specialist or mentor, can be a great way for them to see themselves as contributing to others who are in similar situations.”

No silver bullet

Kelley has started talking with potential donors and remains “cautiously optimistic” that the pair can raise the funds needed for the project — to bring down the overall purchase cost and ensure afford-

ability for potential residents. She is seeking five donors to raise between $175,000 and $375,000.

“Making it aff ordable, especially to somebody who may just have gotten out of rehab or who doesn’t have a job and may have been homeless, [is] a piece of the affordable housing crisis here that is particularly difficult,” she said.

Th e time is now, she added. Home prices in the valley have started to stabilize, and homes are staying longer on the market. Each time she looks to the market for a possibility, there seems to be at least one that would work, she said.

“These are not a place for people to do drugs, it's a place for people who are committed to recovery, to sustain that recovery … it's normal people trying to live a healthy, sober life with support,” Cooper said.

But sober living is not a silver bullet, he said, investment has to come from many directions. Cooper and Powell’s research identified three other opportunities to improve the recovery landscape: develop a system of free or subsidized legal services for individuals in recovery, a recovery-friendly business coalition where employers offer short-term and flexible job opportunities and a recovery community center to centralize existing programs.

“We need to think about this whole spectrum of the time that someone is even contemplating being in recovery, to those who have been in recovery for 18 or 20 years,” Powell said. “That means something completely different to all those people.”

Cooper and Powell are working with GRASP and Juvenile Services to see the other recommendations come to life. Kelley hopes to have the funding secured by the end of the summer and execute a contract with a sober living company before the end of the year.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@gunnisontimes.com.)

Members of the GRASP Consortium table in IOOF Park last fall. From left to right, John Powell, Mary Beth Kelley and Kyle Tibbett.

Abby Harrison

Fire found to be common in Gunnison Basin history

Study gives a glimpse of relationship between fire and sagebrush ecosystem

Bella Biondini Times Editor

Petar Simic gingerly held a cross section of a Douglas fi r’s trunk in his hands, pointing to black scars on the tree’s cambium, the living outside layer, amongst the rings of wood. The scars were the remnants of a fire from more than 100 years ago. The trunk tried to heal over time, but the mark remained visible for the remainder of the tree’s lifetime.

Counting a tree trunk’s rings not only reveals the age of a tree, but also provides hints about what conditions were like during seasons past. Narrower rings form during times of drought, while thicker rings signify wetter years when resources were abundant. Matching the circular patterns of the rings — which can be so small a microscope is needed to get an accurate count — with the climate chronology of an area can give researchers a glimpse into the history of a landscape that existed long before the modern day.

In his tree-ring samples, Simic, along with a team of researchers, looked for clues that would give them a better understanding of the fire history in the Gunnison Basin. Simic is Gunnison County’s cheatgrass coordinator and a former student in Western Colorado University’s Master of Science and Ecology program — where the project originated. The hope was that these scarred trees would create a clearer picture of how frequently fire burned in the valley’s familiar sagebrush seas and the implications for the imperiled Gunnison sagegrouse.

Sagebrush is home to species that are adapted to a particular type of fire regime, or the general pattern in which fires naturally occurred in a place over an extended period of time, said Jonathan Coop, a fire ecologist at Western and partner on the project. The study revealed how often and at what time of year fires historically burned in the basin.

“This place burns, so don’t be surprised when it burns again,” Coop said. “In the meantime, what are we going to do to have some say in that?”

The study, which started in 2020, revealed t hat, fire has been a relatively common occurrence in the Gunnison Valley’s sagebrush ecosystem. Tree-ring data from 10 sites showed that fires returned on average every 49 years, which

is considered a moderate-frequenc y fire regime.

Some sites burned as often as every 18 years, while others saw fire only once a century. The team was limited to sampling areas with Douglas fir and ponderosa pine, because they are species that can survive and record low-severity fire. The last fire the researchers found dated back to 1892. Since then, fire has mostly been suppressed, until the introduction of contemporary prescribed fire to the area — a “huge shift” in the fire regime of the Gunnison Basin, Simic said.

While many forests rely on fire to stimulate new growth, it kills sagebrush. Results from the study led the team to believe that patchy fires used to burn in the spring when it’s windy, typically after a dry winter. This would form open areas, islands in the sage that would fill with native grasses and wildflowers.

“The sea of sage maybe wasn't such a sea historically,” Simic said. “Our study points out it was likely more of a mosaic.”

The big question that arose is whether these patchier landscapes were better suited for the Gunnison sage-grouse habitat, and if fire was an overall benefit to the species’ survival. Coop said although they speculate fire was a positive thing, bringing it back to the basin in the same way it burned in the past isn’t possible. The landscape has been altered in many ways, from the arrival of invasive cheatgrass and the prevalence of livestock grazing.

“The conditions are different, the land use is different, the climate is different,” Simic said.

“We can’t just replicate historical fire regimes anymore, even though we understand them pretty well.”

Despite this, Coop said the study supports the idea that local land managers need to be proactive and return fire to these landscapes in a way that is beneficial to the ecosystem.

“I don't think we're doing ourselves any favors by eliminating fire from these systems The context has changed, and

it’s really tricky, but we have to move forward with getting the right kind of fi res on the landscape,” Coop said.

A recent report from the U.S. Geological Survey, another project partner, showed that sagebrush ecosystems have been lost at a rate of approximately 1.3 million acres a year over the last two decades. Sagebrush, which is home to more than 350 species of conservation concern, is the largest terrestrial biome in the Lower 48.

While trees are often viewed as an economic resource, sagebrush has historically been underappreciated, Coop said.

“Maybe it doesn't have the same sort or aesthetic values people might come to from afar to see,” Coop said. “But once you dig in there a little bit, it's a pretty remarkable ecosystem.”

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Gunnison Field Office, a partner agency, has not actively pursued much prescribed fire in the sagebrush since the Gunnison sagegrouse was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 2014. But the places that have burned in prescribed fire are beautiful, Coop said, with patches of tall grass and young sage filling in the scars.

Fire may be one way to help create resiliency in declining sagebrush habitat, but time, and education is of the essence. BLM Fire Management Specialist Brian Stevens said he sometimes hears fear in people’s voices when land managers start talking about prescribed fire.

“With drought and climate change, we need to have the ability to have fire on the landscape … We’re either going to start burning it ourselves in small controlled areas, or it's going to burn itself,” Stevens said.

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

A tree-ring sample of a Douglas fir that has fire scars from 1824 and 1879.

Bella Biondini

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH OUTPATIENT SERVICES

Our experienced clinicians will help you create an individualized plan of care designed to meet your personal goals.

OUR SERVICES

•Individual and family therapy designed around your unique needs.

•A psychiatric nurse practitioner available to support with managing and prescribing psychiatric medications.

•Peer support specialists who partner with clients to attain recovery goals and provide connection to community resources.

DIRECT ACCESS COLONOSCOPY PROGRAM AT GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH

Gunnison Energy proposing

six

new

wells in the North Fork

Larger development plan still hangs in the balance

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Gunnison Energy, a natural gas and oil drilling company with projects throughout the Rocky Mountain region, is proposing to add six new gas wells to a development unit on the north end of Gunnison County, which borders Delta County. Those wells are a part of the North Fork Mancos Master Development Plan, which was vacated last summer by a federal judge, citing deficiencies in the environmental assessment (EA).

But Colorado is a dual permitting state, meaning the operator needs a permit from both federal public lands agencies and the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. While the federal permitting process was interrupted by litigation, the state permitting process carries on. The operator has every right to submit permits to the state before the master development plan is approved at the federal level, but it calls into question the safety of the proposals, said Natasha Leger, executive director of the Paonia-based Citizens for a Healthy Community (CHC).

A SCREENING COLONOSCOPY IS RECOMMENDED FOR EVERYONE OVER 45 YEARS OLD EVEN IF YOU DO NOT HAVE ANY SYMPTOMS.

Direct access screening colonoscopies are now available at Gunnison Valley Health. The new initiative is an effort by the health system to increase the accessibility of this lifesaving cancer screening and is available for individuals with no major symptoms or medical conditions.

There are two ways for individuals to take advantage of direct access screening colonoscopies; a referral from their primary care provider or through a self-referral on the Gunnison Valley Health website.

Call 970-641-3927 for more information.

“From a [Commission] regulation perspective, [Gunnison Energy] hasn’t demonstrated that this project is protective of public health, safety, welfare, the environment and wildlife,” she said.

The wells are proposed in the Iron Point Unit of the master development plan, which aims to develop up to 35 horizontal wells in the North Fork Valley and Th ompson Divide areas of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests.

Gunnison Energy submitted an application to the Bureau of Land Management for the master plan back in 2017. The ensuing permitting process includes an EA, a document that evaluates the impact the project would have on the surrounding environment. Gunnison Energy received joint approval on the assessment from the BLM and Forest Service in early 2020.

But in 2021, CHC, High Country Conservation Advocates, Wilderness Workshop, Center for Biological Diversity and Wildearth Guardians sued the BLM, claiming that Gunnison Energy failed to “take a hard look” at impacts of development on climate, wildlife and water, making their initial judgment of “Finding of No Significant Impact,” “arbitrary, capricious and not in accordance with

NEPA,” the lawsuit states.

The groups identified a number of concerns with the master plan, including construction less than 300 feet from Cottonwood Creek, drilling in a potential high priority habitat area for the golden eagle, over 6,500 heavy-duty truck trips estimated and use of a synthetic oil-based drilling mud instead of water-based drilling mud. Water was also a concern. The plan includes drawing on millions of barrels of fresh and recycled water from various locations.

Nearly a year later, federal judge Marcia Krieger issued an order preventing new drilling and fracking in the nearly 35,000 acres of land identified in the master development plan. The decision cited “deficiencies” related to greenhouse gas modeling and lacl of an acceptable range of alternatives.

The Times reached out to Gunnison Energy, but representatives declined to comment.

To comply with the federal court order, the BLM and Forest Service released the supplemental EA for the development on May 10 of this year. The new assessment includes an updated analysis of greenhouse gas emissions from construction, production, compression, transportation and end-use of federal oil and gas. It includes new estimates of air emissions and, according to the agencies, reflects compliance with Colorado Department of Health and Environment regulations.

Public review for the supplemental EA ended in mid-June, and the BLM and Forest Service are now making a final decision. The hearing for the six new wells before the Commission is still scheduled for mid-July.

“Based on the comments we receive, we'll make a determination, if any, if that affects any of the pending applications and current applications that are part of that master development plan,” said BLM Fluid Mineral Branch Chief Kemba Anderson. CHC, alongside the Town of Paonia, Valley Organic Growers Association and the Terror Ditch and Reservoir Company have submitted letters asking the commission to defer the hearing and, when the time comes, deny the permit due to the risks the project poses to the surrounding ecosystem. Delta County submitted a letter supporting the project and Gunnison County did not issue a comment on the application. If the permit is approved both at the federal and state level, Gunnison Energy will have two years to start developing the project.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

WWW.GUNNISONVALLEYHEALTH.ORG BEHAVIO R AL HEALTH

School district’s free summer meals program shows strong numbers

Gunnison Rising is the newest mountain town development with a bold vision. It is a premier destination for people, businesses, and entrepreneurs that hold a love for the natural world. Gunnison Rising is a place to live, work, play, and raise a family in an environment that fosters a commitment to community and the lands which surround it, making Gunnison, Colorado one of the best mountain towns to live in.

Breakfast and lunch available through July 27

Bella Biondini Times Editor

This summer, the Gunnison Watershed School District is offering local youth tasty meals for breakfast and lunch. The best part? They’re completely free.

Thanks to the Colorado Department of Education’s Summer Food Service program, anyone 18 years old or younger is welcomed to eat a meal with their friends at the Gunnison Community School. The kitchen opened on June 5, and breakfast and lunch will be available through July 27.

Meals may not be picked up, and the child must be present to participate. Breakfast is served from 8:15-8:45 a.m., and lunch from 11:15-11:45 a.m., Monday through Thursday each week — excluding the week of July 3. No ID is required, and children do not need to be enrolled in the school district to receive meals.

The Department of Education’s summer sites are deemed eligible based on the area’s income levels, which are pulled from census data. Because of this, Crested Butte Community School was not eligible.

Starting this August, the school district will begin off ering free breakfast and lunch to all students under the “Healthy School Meals for All” program — an initiative passed by Colorado voters last November. While this may bring relief to many local families, it’s a resource that often isn’t available when students are out of the classroom.

“The summertime presents a challenge for a lot of families who have food insecurity,” said Rainey Wikstrom, who

works for a nonprofit organization called Nourish Colorado. Nourish is focused on supporting school food service directors around the state.

“They lose that opportunity to have those free school meals every day. This is a way to capture and to reach those children who need food,” she said.

Recently the breakfast menu has offered a variety of options including turkey sausage and cheese croissant sandwiches, fruit and pancakes. For lunch, kitchen manager Kim Kula and her team are cooking up pulled pork sandwiches, chicken stir fry, burritos, chef salads, nachos and more — much of it made from scratch. The team is also trying to incorporate a variety of local foods into its dishes, such as cherries from Paonia’s Austin Family Farms.

This is far from the first time the U.S. Department of Agriculture program has been offered in Gunnison. Kristen Osborn, the district’s school nutrition director, said the number of participants has continued to grow over the seven years she has been at the school. During lunch, the kitchen crew typically serves more than 100 meals, while breakfast usually falls around 50.

Although the schools are reimbursed for the meals they serve, it has been a challenge for the Department of Education to find sites that are willing to participate, Wikstrom said.

“It’s a labor of love,” Wikstrom said. “It's great that the school district is choosing to do this. Sometimes it's hard to find staffing in the summer, but Kristen's got a top-notch team that is willing to take it on and is excited about offering not just food, but really great food.”

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

THE GUNNISON VALLEY REGIONAL HOUSING AUTHORITY IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE NEXT LOTTERY!

There will be an open house on Thursday June 29th from 4 PM - 6:30 PM.

There will be 4 units that are 1 and 2 bedroom units being offered at $170k- $229k and 2 units that are 3 bedroom units being offered at $409k-$429k.

Application deadline is July 12th and the lottery will be held on July 20th. This will restricted units.

details and an application or you can obtain this information at GVRHA.org. Individuals can apply for all available units and local businesses or institutions can apply for the 3 bedroom units only for employee housing.

Bella Biondini

MetRec gearing up to award grants

Decisions to be made at July 19 board meeting

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

DIRECT ACCESS TESTING IS

NOW

AVAILABLE AT GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH

Direct Access Testing is low-cost laboratory testing in which individuals have the option to choose and order selected tests without a clinical provider’s order.

Payment for testing is due at the time of service and insurance will not be billed. Visit our website to learn more about Direct Access Testing and the available testing options.

Direct Access Testing is available on a walk-in basis, no appointment necessary, Monday to Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. You can pre-register online or register at the time of service.

For more information visit our website or call 970-641-7259.

The Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation (MetRec) District is preparing to award over half a million dollars to the Gunnison Valley for recreation projects.

The grant application cycle closed in late May, and the District received 27 applications. The 2023 grant program consolidated various funding opportunities into three buckets: capital projects, nonprofit operations and community collaboration. Of the $530,000 budgeted for the grants, $522,000 of requests came in — the lion's share in nonprofit operations requests. The District received only one capital construction grant request.

The grant money is budgeted from district-wide and North Subdistrict tax collections.

The grant pool is the largest it has ever been because North Subdistrict voters chose to tax themselves an extra two mills through 2021 ballot measure 6B. MetRec budgeted certain dollar amounts for each grant category, but funding decisions between categories can be flexible as long as they stay within the bounds of the 6B language.

For example, 30% of North Subdistrict collections must be spent on nonprofit operations support. But simply because the money exists doesn’t necessarily mean MetRec should fund

every request, Nehrenberg said.

“It will be an ongoing discussion whether or not it's in the best interest of MetRec or the community to fund everybody because we simply have the money,” he said. "It's proper for the grant review committee to fl ush that out before we weigh in.”

An independent review committee, comprised of Daniel Kreykes, Shelley Popke, Katie Neben, James Ward and Joseph Carlson, is tasked with reviewing applications and will provide scores to the MetRec Recreation Subcommittee. That subcommittee will then give a funding recommendation at MetRec’s July 19 board meeting. The board will then vote on the recipients at that meeting.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

It will be an ongoing discussion whether or not it’s in the best interest of MetRec or the community to fund everybody because we simply have the money.

Derrick Nehrenberg MetRec District Manager

The Wolverines, West Elk Hockey Association’s (WEHA) girls team, play at Jorgensen Ice Rink last February. WEHA was a recipient of 2022 MetRec grant funding.

Jacob Spetzler

Classifieds EMPLOYMENT

DAVID GROSS GENERAL CONTRACTOR is looking for a highly organized individual with bookkeeping experience to work full time, year-round in a fast paced fun office environment. Must have solid computer skills and knowledge of Excel/Google Sheets. Experience in the construction industry is a plus. Please contact David at 970-901-1798 or send a resume to david@davidgrossgc. com.

SERVICE PLUMBER TECHNICIAN:

Timberline Mechanical Contracting is looking for a service technician for troubleshooting and plumbing repair. Plumbing and customer service experience preferred. We offer high pay, paid holidays, paid vacation, health insurance and ski pass. Clean driving record is mandatory.

Timberline Mechanical Contracting Crested Butte, CO. Phone: 970-349-5679. Email info@timberlinemech.com.

LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE PRESCHOOL is looking for a motivated, nurturing, creative, flexible lover of kids to join our team. Position would start in July with part-time and move to full-time midAugust. This is a wonderful opportunity to have a rewarding career including very competitive pay ($19-25/hr starting depending on education and experience), benefits including insurance, retirement, paid sick and vacation days and year-round full-time work with no off-seasons. Paid education to become early childhood teacher qualified is provided as well. Please inquire with Jessica at lilredschoolhouse1@gmail. com with resume and cover letter.

CRESTED BUTTE AUTO REPAIR IS

HIRING: We are looking for a full-time service writer/office assistant for a fastpaced environment. Experience preferred but willing to train. Computer skills and strong attention to detail required. Tasks include communicating with customers, scheduling appointments, answering multiple phone lines, billing and developing cost estimates. Pay starting at $20/hour or more based on experience. We offer health insurance, retirement, vacation and sick pay. Please email resume to crestedbutteauto@yahoo. com or stop by 301 Belleview to fill out an application.

THE CRESTED BUTTE/MT. CRESTED BUTTE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE is seeking a qualified membership coordinator responsible for growing chamber memberships and for building sustainable relationships with new and existing members, for the accounting for new memberships and invoicing new and existing members. This position is responsible for membership communications, renewals and generating and onboarding new members. Attention to detail is key. Knowledge of QuickBooks preferred. This is a contractor position starting in July. Email cover letter and resume with references to director@ cbchamber.com. Please put ‘Membership Coordinator’ in the subject line. E.O.E. cbchamber.com.

CRESTED BUTTE BURGER COMPANY is hiring the following positions: cooks and cashiers, flexible schedule available, starting pay $16-$18/hr. + gratuity. Assistant manager, full-time seasonal, starting pay $18-$20/hr. + gratuity, pay DOE. For more information or to submit a resume, please email crestedbutteburgerco@gmail.com.

NEED SUMMER WORK? Summer grounds and maintenance person needed. $23/hour from now - Aug. Perfect for a college student home for summer looking for beer money. Contact PR Property Management today. prpropertyoffice@gmail.com / 970-3496281.

ALAN WARTES MEDIA IS HIRING A PART-

TIME GRAPHIC DESIGNER/ SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER: This position will be about 20-30 hours per week. Candidate must have experience with Adobe Creative Suite. Indesign expertise a plus. Wage is $20-$23 DOE. Please submit resume and cover letter to Michaela at production@gunnisontimes. com.

DO YOU HAVE MAINTENANCE SKILLS?

Are you looking for a full time year around position in the valley with great pay, health insurance, on-call pay, company vehicle, company phone, paid vacation, ski or health and wellness pass, 5 day work week and more? Iron Horse Property Management is adding another position to our maintenance team and we are looking for the right individual to help maintain our luxury homes. We are looking for someone who has a great work ethic, maintenance skills, is punctual and wants to quit having multiple jobs to make it in the valley. If this sounds like

you, and you have a clean driving record, then please send your resume to steve@ ironhorsecb.com and qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. No phone calls please. Pay DOE.

COUNTER SALES AND DELIVERY

DRIVER: Full or part-time. Will include some Saturdays and Sundays. Need to be able to lift 65 pounds. Attention to details, willingness to work with the public and ability to learn the job are required. Starting salary $16+/ hr negotiable depending on qualifications. Submit application to/or apply in-person at NAPA Auto Parts. 400 W. Tomichi Ave., Gunnison. 970-641-2900. napagunnison@ gmail.com.

CB FARMER’S MARKET: We are seeking a reliable, organized and highly motivated individual to fill our market director position. Must be available most Sundays until October 8th, have a vehicle that can tow a small trailer and be physically able to lift/ set-up market tents and other equipment. Good communication skills are important as you’ll be the main point of contact for all market vendors. It is estimated to be 11 hours/week, with most of that on Sunday. This is a contract position with a stipend for the entire season, which is roughly $25/hr. Email info@cbfarmersmarket.org for more information or to submit your resume.

THE TOWN OF MT. CRESTED BUTTE is looking for a full-time, year-around parks worker. This position has a wide range of duties from landscaping, maintaining playgrounds, cleaning up after events, installing and repairing sprinkler systems, operating chain saws, vehicles, power and hand tools, light equipment such as skid steer and lawn mowers, snow removal in the winter with hand shoveling, ice picking and using a bob cat. For a full job description please go to mtcb.colorado.gov. Schedule is 4 10-hour days with one weekend day in the winter required. Must have a seven-year clean driving record, the ability to obtain your flagger certification, safety lift 80 pounds, good customer service, communication and team work skills, and ability to work outside in the winter and summer for an extended period of time. Starting pay is between $44,000-$61,000, depending on experience.

The Town offers an amazing benefit package with paid health, vision and dental insurance for you and your family, 401(1) or pension plan, 12 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick time, wellness program and more. Contact Tim Roybal at troybal@ mtcb.colorado.gov with any questions. To apply, email your resume, cover letter and three references to Tiffany O’Connell at toconnell@mtcb.colorado.gov.

DO YOU LIKE VARIETY? HELPING

PEOPLE? WORKING WITH AN AWESOME

TEAM? Join our caring and supportive practice as a dental assistant. No experience preferred. Happy to train anyone open to learning new skills and enjoys helping people. Full time, year round, competitive pay and benefits, lots of room for growth. Shoot us an email with your cover letter and resume to amy@crestedbuttedentist.com.

TEMPORARY LABORERS NEEDED:

Need some cash this off season? The Town of Crested Butte Parks and Recreation Department is hiring temporary laborers for spring prep/cleanup season. Work will begin once the snow is gone from the majority of parks and public areas. Duties include raking, power washing, painting and general cleanup and repairs. Full job description and application available online at townofcrestedbutte.com click on “Careers”.

Pay $19/hour. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

STUDIO WEST, INC in downtown CB is looking for a shop hand for immediate hire. One will move and help stage inventory in the showroom and at job sites. Must be physically fit and have a valid driver’s license. Hourly pay starting at $25 and flexible hours. Please submit a resume or request application by contacting manager@ studiowestcb.com or by phone at 970-3497550.

PAVEMENT MAINTENANCE

TECHNICIANS WANTED TO JOIN THE SEALCO TEAM: $33+ hourly - $1,800+ weekly potential with performance and safety bonuses. Seeking motivated, hard-working and dependable individuals. No experience necessary. On the job training working outdoors. Paid weekly. Must be capable of lifting 60 pounds. Email resumes to Aaron@ sealcoincorporated.com or call 970-6414260.

HEAD COOK to direct prep’n of Nepalese & Indian food at Sherpa Cafe, LLC dba Sherpa Cafe (323 East Tomichi Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230). Reqs. 2 yrs exp as a Nepalese Cook or Indian Cook. Mail resume to Ang Tshering Sherpa, Sherpa Cafe, LLC dba Sherpa Cafe, 323 East Tomichi Ave., Gunnison, CO 81230.

DAVID GROSS GENERAL CONTRACTOR is seeking a high level construction project manager to manage multiple current and future projects. Full-time salaried position with potential health, 401k, ski pass and a kick-ass team to work with. Fast-paced high volume general contractor. Pre-construction through punch list. Must have attention to detail and be proficient in all computer related skills. Great work environment. Send resume to david@davidgrossgc.com.

PINNACLE ORTHOPEDICS is seeking a FT medical assistant to join our team. Duties include clinical documentation, x-rays, medical supply inventory management and casting/splinting. Good organization and computer skills while working in a fast-paced environment are important. Position is for both our Crested Butte and Gunnison offices. $20-$24/hr DOE. Please send resume to office@pinnacleorthocolorado.com.

KDCB IS LOOKING FOR LEAD CARPENTERS AND CARPENTERS. Call 970-275-6969.

GUNNISON FAMILY DENTISTRY is seeking a full-time dental front office team member. This position is the face of our practice and handles many of the daily administrative tasks in our busy dental office. This position is Tuesday-Friday and includes paid time off, paid sick leave, health insurance, a retirement account with employer matching and discounted dental services. The rate of pay is dependent on experience and the range is $19-$25/hour. Dental experience is not required, but is preferred. Please send your cover letter and resume to gunnisondds@gmail.com to apply.

4 DAY WORK WEEK M-TH (4x10)

AUTOMOTIVE MASTER TECHNICIAN. If you are curious about how your current job compares to Precision Automotive? EMAIL your resume to precisionauto4040@hotmail.com, call or text Steve at 970-596-9999 ALL INQUIRIES ARE STRICKLY CONFIDENTIAL! Benefits include: PAID VACATION, PAID HOLIDAYS, MEDICAL, DENTAL, MATCHING IRA.

AUTOMOTIVE APPRENTICE Do you love cars? Get your start in the well paid and exciting world of Automotive Repair that could turn into your life passion. Work along side your mentor a Master Certified Technician while completing online modules such as: Electrical, Engine mechanical, Transmission, Drive train, Suspension & Steering, Heating & A/C, Engine Performance and Brakes.

CAR WASH/DETAILER/SHOP MAINTENANCE. Call or text 970-596-9999 for interview. PRECISIONAUTO.NET

GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

*Housing is held for Gunnison County employees and may be available for you to rent*

Health Educator – Health Services Intern HHS: Temporary - Part-time, 2530 hours/week, hourly rate range from $23.02-$25.20, plus partial benefits. This position will start in July of 2023 and go through August of 2023.

Clinical Services Manager HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $7,009-$9,915, plus full benefits.

Juvenile Diversion Case Manager/ School Based Inspire Mentor Juvenile Services: Full-time, 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $27.15-$38.41, plus full benefits.

Clinical Case Management Coordinator Juvenile Services: Parttime, 35 hours/week, hourly rate range from $28.78-$40.71, plus full benefits.

Accountant I Treasurer: 40 hours/ week, monthly salary range from $4,440-$6,281, plus full benefits.

Eligibility Technician HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $3,764-$4,285, plus full benefits.

Summer Seasonal Public Works: Guaranteed 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $15.75-$22.28 depending on experience, plus partial benefits. Outdoor work that includes traffic control, fencing, tree and brush removal, trail work, recycling, equipment training and much more, all in a 4 day work week.

Health Coalition Coordinator HHS: Part-time, 25 hours/week, hourly rate range from $27.15-$38.41, plus partial benefits.

Patrol Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,552-$7,853 plus full benefits.

Detention Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,989-$7,057 plus full benefits. Only work 14 days a month.

For more information, including complete job descriptions, required qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCounty.org/jobs.

EC ELECTRIC IS SEEKING

Journeyman & Residential Wireman for projects in the Gunnison and Crested Butte areas. Must have a valid Colorado driver’s license and pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Top pay & Benefits.

Send resumes to info@ec-electric.com or call 970-641-0195 www.ec-electric.com/careers

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Police Officer

Full-time, $62,200-$84,000/yr.

$29.90-$40.38/hr.

Performs technical, professional and administrative duties related to maintaining the security of the City, protecting constitutional guarantees of all persons, protecting life and property, preserving public peace and order, preventing, solving and detecting crimes, facilitating the safe movement of people and vehicles and other emergency services as needed. POST Certification not required. The City will pay for the Police Academy if needed and pay a cadet wage while attending the Academy. Includes a $5,000 signing bonus.

Part-time Openings

Parking Attendant -up to $25.44/hr.

4th of July Workers $28.68/hr.

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

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

SPALLONE CONSTRUCTION has immediate openings for dump truck drivers in the Gunnison, Crested Butte area. Experience of 3-5 years required. Must be able to assist laborer performing physical tasks involved in construction activities. Must have a valid drivers license, references required. $25-$38 depending on experience, benefits available after one year of employment. Please submit resume to: office@spalloneconstruction.com.

THE TOWN OF MT. CRESTED BUTTE is looking for a full time year around maintenance worker. Typical job duties will vary from season to season and will include

JOHN ROBERTS MOTOR WORKS SEEKS COLLISON CENTER TECHNICIANS AND AUTOMOTIVE CENTER TECHNICIANS.

Competitive pay, 401K, insurance, paid vacations. 40 hour work week. Apply at John Roberts Motor Works.

GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH

Please note this is not a complete list of all our open jobs. You can view all open positions at our website at gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/careers.

Transportation Supervisor (Senior Services)FT $18.50 – 24/hr DOE

Facilities TechFT $21.53 - $25.84/hr DOE

Cook (Hospital)PT, $18 - $22.50/hr DOE

Computer TechnicianFT $22.61 - $26/hr DOE

Benefits Eligibility: Medical, dental, vision, health care FSA, and dependent care FSA: All active employees working 40 or more hours per pay period are eligible for benefits on the first of the month following date of hire. PRN staff are not initially eligible for benefits. Please visit our website for more in-depth position descriptions, specific qualification requirements and to apply online www. gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/careers/, or call HR for questions 970-6411456 . (PRN = as needed). All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a negative 10 panel drug screen test, criminal background check, reference checks, infection prevention procedures (TB test, Flu Shot, immunization records, etc.), physical capacity profile and acknowledgement of policies.

but are not limited to: snow shoveling, plowing of the Mt. Crested Butte roads and various parking lots, maintaining town equipment and vehicles, emptying trash cans, repairing fence lines, building maintenance, road maintenance including sweeping, flagging, filling potholes, maintaining the town’s ditches and culverts. Schedule is 4 10hour days with one weekend day in the winter being required. Overtime is expected during snow cycles. Minimum qualifications include the ability to obtain a class B commercial driver’s license, clean seven year driving record, ability to obtain their flagger certification, safely lift 80 pounds, good customer service, communication and team work skills, ability to walk on uneven surfaces, ability to work outdoors for an extended period in the summer and winter, basic knowledge of heavy equipment and snow plowing experience. Preferred qualifications include having a class B commercial driver’s license, flagger

certification knowledge of heavy equipment operations, loader, backhoe and snowplow experience, knowledge of vehicle and heavy equipment maintenance (mechanic) welding experience and building maintenance and upkeep experience. Starting pay range is $48,590-$56,436 depending on experience.

The Town offers an amazing benefit package with paid health, vision and dental insurance for you and your family, 401(1) or pension plan, 12 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick time, wellness program and more. Please visit mtcb.colorado.gov for the full job description. Contact Bobby Block at bblock@mtcb.colorado.gov with any questions. To apply email your resume, cover letter and three references to Tiffany O’Connell at toconnell@mtcb.colorado.gov.

SPALLONE CONSTRUCTION has immediate openings for laborers in the Gunnison, Crested Butte area. Experience required not required, but preferred. Must be able to assist laborer performing physical tasks involved in construction activities. Must have a valid drivers license, references required. $22/hr or higher depending on experience, benefits available after one year of employment. Please submit resume to: office@spalloneconstruction.com.

THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring the following part-time and full-time seasonal positions: line cooks and dishwasher $20-$25/hr., general facility maintenance $18-$20/hr. Employee benefits include complimentary golf rounds and employee discounts. For more information or to submit a resume, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte. com or email jobs@clubatcrestedbutte.com.

THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE seeks applicants for a finance administrative assistant to join the Finance and Administrative Services team. The finance admin assistant is responsible for daily financial tasks including administration of the sales tax collection process, cash receipting, departmental customer service and file/records maintenance. This yearround position includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer paid health, dental, vision, life insurance and contribution to retirement plan after one year of employment. Starting salary is $47,200$57,500 DOQ. Full job description is available on the town’s website at townofcrestedbutte. com. Please submit application, cover letter and resume via email to jobs@crestedbutteco.gov. Position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

WANTED: Master Electrician to work for local solar installer. Regular part time, seasonal work, no solar experience necessary - will train the solar stuff. Low stress, flexible schedule, and opportunity for more hours/full time work if desired. 970642-5554/info@nunatakenergy.com.

PRECISE PAINTING IS HIRING PAINTERS:

Seasonal or year-round full-time. Must be willing to commit for at least Spring/Summer/ Fall. Pay starts at $22/hr. for inexperienced candidates, more with experience. 4 or 4.5 day work week, earn PTO, raises come quickly, opportunity for benefits. Happy to train the right people. Call Rob at 970-5090851.

FINANCIAL CONTROLLER: Mountain Roots is seeking an experienced individual to oversee all aspects of financial management. Budgets, forecasting, reporting, compliance, internal controls, strategic financial goals. 3 days/week. Salary DOE. Full description at mountainrootsfoodproject.org.

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

CAREER OPPORTUNITY: Gunnison

Savings and Loan Association is seeking applications from qualified individuals with strong customer service skills looking for a career in banking. The position includes performing teller functions and assisting in the loan department. The successful applicant will demonstrate a strong work ethic, attention to detail and an enthusiastic, positive attitude. Benefits include an enjoyable and friendly work environment, employer-assisted health insurance, monthly health savings account contribution, 401-K retirement plan, paid vacation and sick leave. Starting salary will depend on qualifications and experience. Please submit a letter of application and resume with references to Janice English, Sr. Vice President, 303 North Main, Gunnison, CO 81230, jenglish@gunnisonsl.com or 970642-4642. Equal Opportunity Employer.

FLEET MAINTENANCE AND HEAVY

EQUIPMENT OPERATOR: Crested Butte

South Metro District: This is a skilled position responsible for fleet maintenance and heavy equipment operation of motor grader and loader, specifically, with opportunity for fleet management. Applicant must be able to correctly diagnose and make repairs on a variety of equipment, which may include welding. Duties include equipment operation, maintenance repair of various pieces of light and heavy motorized equipment used in road construction, road maintenance, snow removal, drinking water operations, wastewater operations, manual labor and other generalized work. 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.

SHONDECK FINANCIAL SERVICES AND INSURANCE is seeking a part-time office assistant. This position will be responsible for answering the phones and emails, in-person interactions with clients, data management, document preparation, scheduling meetings and much more. This position plays a very important role on our team with the opportunity to expand the role and hours per week. Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits include paid time off, paid holidays and retirement plan. Compensation $17-20/ hour depending on experience. Please email your resume to laurens@shondeckfinancial. com.

HOUSEKEEPER WANTED: $21-23/hour, DOE. Weekends, Fri-Sun starting LateJune through Aug. Contact PR Property Management today. prpropertyoffice@gmail. com / 970-349-6281.

LAKE CITY AREA MEDICAL CENTER is hiring a part-time cross-trained position for dental assistant and PRN reception. Must have proficient computing and communication skills. 40+ hrs/mo. $18-20 to start, training provided. Email your resume to lcmedcenter@lcamc.net. EOE.

DIRECTOR OF AMERICORPS

PROGRAMS: Mountain Roots seeks a program manager to provide leadership, management, and administration for a 30-member program with a regional scope. Work with host site organizations doing food systems work and individuals seeking to gain experience in environmental education, regenerative agriculture, and food security. Full time, $52K with benefits. Open until filled. Visit mountainrootsfoodproject.org for more info.

ROAD MANAGER AND HEAVY EQUIPMENT MONITOR: Crested Butte South Metro District: 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 heavy equipment experience. Motor grader and loader specifically. 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.

ID SCULPTURE is a national leader in the design and manufacture of sculptural playground and public art projects based in Gunnison, CO. We’re looking for the right person to join our team and provide administrative support in logistics and finance. Excellent communication and organization skills are a must. This is a half-time position, with room to grow into a full-time career. Starts at $25/hr. Please email hello@idsculpture.com to schedule an interview.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY in Crested Butte is now hiring and assistant manager – previous management experienced preferred. Counter helpprovide excellent customer service, scoop ice cream, stock cases and other duties. Fun job, great tips. Flexible hours. Apply in person at 314 Elk Ave., Crested Butte or send resume to ashlee.rmcf@hotmail.com.

FOR SALE

MILITARY SURPLUS: Canon City. Delivery or meet in the middle. Ammo, cans, tents and more. Jon 720-220-8951.

GARAGE / YARD SALES

JOIN US FOR A FINE DAY at the Jack’s Cabin antique sale. July 1-4, 10a.m.-5p.m. Decorator’s dream decor. Antiques of all sizes. Primitives. Mirrors. Furniture. Yard Art. Farm-y things. Exquisite Rust. Come have fun. 15644 N. State Hwy 135, Almont. Yellow house at Jack’s Cabin cutoff, CR 813.

STORAGE UNIT SALE: New merchandise added weekly. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays. 108 S. 11th, alley side.

MISCELLANEOUS

HEAVY-DUTY STEEL ROOFING SHEETS: Approx. 50, used. $3 each. Great for interior/ exterior architectural interest, construction. 303-870-3098.

REAL ESTATE

OFFICE SPACE TO RENT: In Gunnison. Health, beauty, general. Shared bathrooms and kitchen. Call 970-641-2423 or text only 970-497-6121.

RETAIL/OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE at the Gunnison Meadows Mall next to City Market, +/-1,500 sqft available. For more information and pricing visit GunnisonMeadows.com or call Jordon Ringel at 817-733-6947.

TRAILER: 2 bedrooms, washer/dryer, wood burning stove. End lot with privacy fence. $35,000. Lot rent is $725. Must be approved by the landlord. 719-221-8739.

PRIME OFFICE SPACE on Main St. Five private offices. Client waiting/conference room, reception desk, 12 paved parking spaces. Call or text 970-596-9999 for more info.

CROSSWORD

Legals NOTICE OF NAME CHANGE

PUBLIC NOTICE OF PETITION FOR

CHANGE OF NAME

Public Notice is given on JUNE 22, 2023 that a Petition for a Change of Name of an Adult has been filed with the Gunnison County, Colorado Court.

The Petition requests that the name of PATRICK BRADLEY BLACK-DALE be changed to PATRICK BRADLEY BLACKDALE

Kate Cook Clerk of Court/Deputy Clerk /s/ Kate Cook

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of June 29, July 6, 13, 2023

9727

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Gunnison Watershed School District is seeking written bids for purchasing 2 school buses: minimum bid is $10,000 each. 2 mini buses: minimum bid $25,000 each. Please call Paul Morgan, Transportation Manager, at 970-596-0450 for more information on the vehicles and bidding procedure.

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of June 22, 29, 2023

9627

ORDINANCE

ORDINANCE NO. 9, SERIES 2023: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO, ADOPTING AN ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION FOR THE FISCAL YEAR

ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2023. A full copy of the ordinance can be found on the City of Gunnison’s website at www.gunnisonco.gov in the City Council e-packet information or at the City Clerk’s Office in City Hall, 201 West Virginia Avenue in Gunnison or by calling 970-641-8140.

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication date of June 29, 2023

9645

SUMMONS

DISTRICT COURT, GUNNISON COUNTY, STATE OF COLORADO 200 East Virginia Gunnison, CO 81230 970-642-8300

Plaintiff: Colorado Outward Bound School f/k/a Outward Bound Wilderness, Inc., a Colorado nonprofit corporation, v. Defendant: Patrick J. Bridge, an individual; and all unknown persons who claim any interest in the subject matter of this action.

Attorneys for: Colorado Outward Bound School Corey T. Zurbuch, #37850 BROWNSTEIN HYATT FARBER SCHRECK, LLP

675 Fifteenth Street, Suite 2900 Denver, Colorado 80202

Phone Number: 303.223.1100; FAX Number: 303.223.1111 czurbuch@bhfs.com

Case Number: 2023cv030025

Div.: 2

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS:

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Saguache County Land Use Office will be holding a series of education / outreach for the public on the passage of the Saguache County Nuisance Ordinance that was recently passed by the Board of County Commissioners. Dates, time, and location will be as follows;

June 20, 2023 – 5:00PM Center Kiwanis

Club of Center – 510 S Broadway St., Center, CO 81125

June 21, 2023 – 5:00PM KV Homeowners Association – 26415 Woodward Ave., Moffat, CO 81143

June 26, 2023 – 5:00PM Tomichi Creek

Trading Post – 71420 US-50, Sargents, CO

81248

June 27, 2023 – 5:00PM Baca Grande

Property Owners Association – 68575 Co. Rd. T, Crestone, CO 81131

June 28, 2023 – 5:00PM Saguache County Road and Bridge – 305 3rd Street, Saguache, CO 81149

To view the Saguache County Nuisance Ordinance that was passed, you can go on the Saguache County Website at www. saguachecounty-co.gov or pick up a copy at the Saguache County Land Use Office, 505 3rd Street, Saguache, CO 81149.

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado.

Publication dates of May 18, 25, June 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2023

9041

REQUEST FOR BIDS

The Saguache County Board of Commissioners are accepting written offers for County Owned Property currently. The lots available will be accepted by the Commissioners, at their discretion, until July 25, 2024.

If you would like to submit a bid offer for any available properties a bid packet and a list of properties is available on the Saguache County website at www.saguachecounty. colorado.gov or you can call the Land Use office at 719-655-2321 or by email request to landuse@sagauchecounty-co.gov.

Bids must be submitted on a County bid form. Funds must accompany bids. NO CASH WILL BE ACCEPTED.

**You must enclose the completed bid form in a sealed envelope marked “County Owned Property Bid” and indicate on the envelope the block, lot or lots and parcel number, the bid is intended for. **

The Board reserves the right to refuse any bid submitted.

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of June 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27, 2023.

L.S.#19598 IN PLACE; THENCE

N74°15’05’’W A DISTANCE OF 189.58

FEET TO THE i POINT OF BEGINNING; SAID PARCEL

CONTAINING 0.752 ACRES, MORE OR LESS.

JUNE 17, 2022

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of June, 22, 29, July 6, 13, 2023

9584

This week at the Pioneer Museum

“The American Eagle”

SUMMONS

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION

DISTRICT COURT, GUNNISON COUNTY, COLORADO

Court Address: 200 East Virginia Avenue

Gunnison, CO 81230

Plaintiff: The Board of County Commissioners of the County of Gunnison, State of Colorado

v.Defendant:

Steve Leigh, an Individual Attorney: Matthew R. Hoyt, Atty. Reg. #51792

Alex San Filippo-Rosser, Atty. Reg. #43874

Sammy Obaid, Atty. Reg. #39392

Office of the Gunnison County Attorney 200 East Virginia Avenue Gunnison, CO 81230

Phone Number: (970) 641-5300

Fax Number: (970) 641-7696

E-mail: mhoyt@gunnisoncounty.org

asanfilippo-rosser@gunnisoncounty.org sobaid@gunnisoncounty.org

Case No. 2023CV030002

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE-NAMED

DEFENDANT: STEVE LEIGH

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 thirtyfive (35) days after service of this Summons upon you. Service of this Summons will 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 to the Complaint in writing within thirty-five (35) days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint, without any further notice.

This is an action to quiet the title of the Plaintiff in and to the real property situated in the City and County of Gunnison, Colorado, more particularly described on Exhibit A, attached to and made a part of this Summons by this reference.

BROWNSTEIN HYATT FARBER SCHRECK, LLP

By:

/s/ Corey T. Zurbuch Corey T. Zurbuch, #37850

Attorneys for Plaintiff

PROPERTY DESCRIPTION

PROPERTY TO BE TRANSFERRED TO OUTWARD BOUND SCHOOL

A PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE VALLEY CLAIM: (MINERAL SURVEY NO. 3388) OF THE ROCK CREEK MINING DISTRICT IN TOWNSHIP 11 SOUTH,. RANGE 87 WEST OF THE SIXTH PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, COUNTY OF GUNNISON, STATE OF COLORADO; SAID PARCEL BEING MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

COMMENCING AT ANGLE POINT NO. 7 OF SAID GREENSBORO PLACER (MINERAL SURVEY NO. 12204) OF THE ROCK CREEK MINING DISTRICT, A STONE IN PLACE; THENCE N32°52’38’’E

A DISTANCE OF 414.00 FEET TO A POINT

ON THE LINE BETWEEN ANGLE POINT

NO. 9 AND ANGLE POINT NO. 10 OF THE GREENSBORO PLACER, A REBAR AND CAP LS.#19598 IN PLACE, THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE N45°15’05”E

ALONG SAID LINE A DISTANCE OF 174.10 FEET TO SAID ANGLE POINT

NO. 10, A REBAR AND CAP L.S. #14111 IN PLACE; THENCE S45°11’00”E ALONG

THE LINE BETWEEN ANGLE POINT NO. 10 AND ANGLE POINT NO. 11 OF SAID GREENSBORO PLACER A DISTANCE OF 430.82 FEET TO A REBAR AND CAP

L.S.#19598 IN PLACE; THENCE LEAVING

SAID LINE N67°15’49’’W A DISTANCE OF 99.59 FEET TO A REBAR AND CAP

L.S.#19598 IN PLACE; THENCE N57°27’42’’W A DISTANCE OF 119.41 FEET TO A REBAR AND CAP L.S.#19598 IN PLACE; THENCE N58°10’26’’W A

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 for declaratory and other relief to enforce violations of Colorado’s On-Site Wastewater Treatment System (“OWTS”) Act, Colo. Rev. Stat. § 25-10-101 et seq., as well as Gunnison County’s land use, wastewater treatment, and building regulations and codes.

OFFICE OF THE GUNNISON COUNTY

ATTORNEY

By: /s/ Alex San Filippo-Rosser Matthew R. Hoyt, Atty Reg. No. 51792

Alex San Filippo-Rosser, Atty. Reg. #43874 Sammy Obaid, Atty Reg. No. 39392

Dated: June 15, 2023

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of June 22, 29, July 6, 13, 20, 2023 9548

Submitted by Larry

McDonald

“Morning dawned yesterday with the glorious American eagle fully prepared for its flight. It started early, for scarcely had the hour hand reached the figure four when the bald headed bird uttered some terrific shrieks. Like other frail things, it was not inattentive bribery, and although Gunnison pushed the figures to a superlative amount, her neighbors, Castleton, Hot Springs, Crested Butte were successful in coaxing the favorite to their camps.” This was how a lengthy article in the July 7, 1883, edition of the Gunnison Review-Press began it’s wrap up of the recent Independence Day activities in the area when Crested Butte and other camps attracted many of our residents to their locales during the day only to see them return to the “roost” for an evening of fireworks and festivities, a tradition that continues for many to this day. The article went on, “In the evening it returned, and by a compromise of entertainments consisting of balls, ice cream socials and pyrotechnic displays fully atoned for its neglect during the day.”

Celebrating the Fourth of July was important to the residents of our many towns and mining camps back in the day and they often competed with one another to see who could draw the biggest crowds from other towns. The headline of the July 1, 1911, Marble Booster read, “Two Bands, Barbeque, big Fireworks, and the 100 Other Things Ready.” Followed by, “The Glenwood band will come up with the Glenwood base ball team and Glenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Glenwood crowd of

citizens. In fact, Glenwood is going to be a big factor in the biggest celebration of the Fourth of July ever held in this part of Colorado.”

“The Marbleites are making all kinds of preparations to receive and entertain their visitors and it is certain they will do everything just about right.”

That earlier Review-Press aricle from 1883 continued highlighting the events of the day with a column titled “ROCKETS”, that included the following tidbits. “Judge Karr enjoyed himself by fighting mosquitoes and adjusting his new coat.” “Kepfer’s orchestra did it up brown.” “The excursion trains and engines were decorated with flags.” “The cannonading on the Palisades last evening made an impression.” “Sid Byers had orders to arrest all men after 9 o’clock, who were sober.” “Fred Krueger was as lively as a cricket. In shooting off torpedoes and firecrackers he shamed the small boy.”

Of all the 4th of July events

I’ve attended in many places over the years, the ones held here in our valley are truly special and a visit to the museum this coming week would be a great way to honor the holiday. Our extensive collections include many related displays including; fire department hose carts, historic American flags, military relics, early base ball equipment and for our thirsty visitors, the new Fabiano Coors Breweriana exhibit. The Review-Press concluded its article with, “The fire works made the city a blaze of splendor reaching high into the heavens. Such was the fourth—a magnificent exhibition of the undying American spirit of liberty, a proof that the deeds of ’76 would be a watchword for the nation’s emulation through all the future.”

MUSEUM OPEN DAILY 9:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M.

FROM MAY 15 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30.

Admission $15 ages 13+, $5 for ages 6-12, Free for 5 and under. Follow us on Facebook for current information and amazing local history!

IF YOU’RE NOT

out large farmers word and replace with "Auto Home Life Business Workers comp recreational. Website info to come.

Leaving a 401(k) with a previous employer could mean leaving it alone with no one to watch over it. At Edward Jones, we can explain options for your 401(k) and help you select the one that’s best for you. If you’d like to roll it over into an Edward Jones IRA, we can help you do it without paying taxes or penalties. So you can feel confident someone is looking out for you and your 401(k).

To find out why it makes sense to talk with Edward Jones about your 401(k) options, call or visit your local investment representative today.

IF YOU’RE NOT AT YOUR LAST JOB, YOUR 401 ( k ) SHOULDN’T BE EITHER.

IRA, you’ll have access to investments that could provide a higher return than you currently earn.

* IRAs are tax-deferred accounts.IRAs do not have rates.Only the underlying investments within an IRA may have rates.Based on corporate bond yields to maturity effective xx/xx/xx, subject to availability and price change.Yield and market value may fluctuate ifsold prior to maturity,and the amount received from the sale ofthese securities may be less than the amount originally invested.Some ofthe available issues are callable.Bond values may decline in a rising interest rate environment.Your local

IF YOU’RE NOT AT YOUR LAST JOB, YOUR 401 ( k ) SHOULDN’T BE EITHER Leaving a 401(k) behind could mean leaving it with no one to watch over it. We can explain your options, and if you’d like to roll your 401(k) over into an Edward Jones IRA,we can help you do it with no taxes or penalties.We’ll look out for you.

If you have an IRA elsewhere, it’s easy to transfer to Edward Jones and begin receiving the face-to-face advice you deserve.

To learn more about the benefits of an Edward Jones IRA, call or visit by April 17.

* IRAs are tax-deferred accounts.IRAs do not have rates.Only the underlying investments within an IRA may have rates.Based on corporate bond yields to maturity effective xx/xx/xx, subject to availability and price change.Yield and market value may fluctuate ifsold prior to maturity,and the amount received from the sale ofthese securities may be less than the amount originally invested.Some ofthe available issues are callable.Bond values may decline in a rising interest rate environment.Your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor can provide more

To find out about 401(k) options that makes sense, call today.

To

AT YOUR LAST JOB, YOUR 401 ( k ) SHOULDN’T BE EITHER.

The setting sun lit up sage and blooming wildflowers in the Saguache County hills north of Gunnison on Saturday, June 24.

Jacob Spetzler

Golfing for EMS

On Friday, June 23, the Dos Rios Golf Club hosted the 15th Annual Gunnison Valley Health (GVH) Foundation Golf Tournament. All of the proceeds went toward new on-site housing for the hospital’s EMS team. In years past, the tournament has raised between $20,000 and $30,000.

Trevor Smith, Tony Smithdorf, Jake Parr and Rob Santilli were the first-place net team. The first place gross team consisted of Mark Pike, Preston Pike, Skylor Wild and Jason Wild.

Brian Marren was born and raised on the south side of Chicago and he is a knuckle-dragging, Guinness-drinking Marine who prefers to learn things the hard way. Follow Brian on his journey to learn as much about human behavior as possible in the hopes that one day he will experience true emotion!

Greg Williams is a world-renowned subject matter expert on human behavior profiling and has been studying and teaching human Behavior Pattern Recognition and Analysis for over 45 years. Often imitated but never duplicated, Greg is THE human behavior juggernaut. A cognitive force to be reckoned with!

WWW.ARCADIA COGNERATI.COM LEFTOFGREG@GMAIL.COM

From locally owned international training provider Arcadia Cognerati, and the Left of Greg podcast. AC is proud to endorse the United States, Our Troops, Our Veterans.

Jacob Spetzler

Valley Housing Fund honors Clark with fundraiser

Members of the Gunnison Valley community gathered at the Clark Cabin in Lost Canyon on June 22 to celebrate Midsummer’s Eve and to honor Butch Clark. Over the years, Clark and his wife Judy, have hosted legendary Midsummer’s Eve parties at the cabin on the solstice. This year’s party honored the Clarks’ vision for affordable housing, conservation and public land use. The Clarks’ created VHF in 2010 with a legacy donation from two separate land swaps involving the U.S. Forest Service, the Trust for Public Lands, Homestake Mining Company and the Crested Butte Land Trust. The Clark Cabin was donated to VHF as part of this process.

Courtesy Valley Housing Fund

Cross country connection

Radio amateurs test preparedness during national competition

Alex McCrindle Times Staff Writer

Cell service is mostly nonexistent atop the sage-covered hills 12 miles south of Gunnison. But that was not a problem for members of the Gunnison Valley Amateur Radio Club. They had assembled at the remote location to communicate using solar-powered radios and Morse code.

The American Radio Relay League, the largest association of amateur radio enthusiasts in the United States, hosted its yearly “Field Day” June 24-25 — challenging over 2,500 radio amateurs around the country to make as many contacts with other operators as possible in 24 hours. The event focused on emergency preparedness, and “hams,” or amateur radio operators, who demonstrated their ability to make off-grid communication in case of a national emergency.

Gunnison’s elevation provides an ideal operation for this band of hams who have won the competition three times in the last eight years. The club, led by Mike Wells and Brad Wick, made more than a thousand contacts around the country this year and attempted to stake its claim as the top single-transmitter operator in the country.

“The idea behind the competition is to pretend all cell phone coverage is down and there is a disaster, like a w ildfire or hurricane — an event where hams could contribute and provide emergency communications,” Wells said. The team who makes the most contacts wins. In 24 hours, we’ll reach everywhere from New York to Hawaii and Alaska.”

Before the contest kicked off, the Gunnison Fire Department helped the club erect a 60-foot “Yagi” antenna and string wires across a hilltop. The collaboration cemented a relationship with local first responders, which enables radio communication in the event of a valley-wide power outage.

“More than anything, this event allows the fire department to come up here and see the operation we have, and if they ever needed something, just to give us a call,” Wells said.

At noon on Saturday, June 24, the competition began. The club members switched between digital, Morse code and voice communications — immediately making contact with other operators. They worked in shifts throughout the night. For 24 hours, the team sat at radios sending out messages and growing their contact list.

Inside a trailer, two monitors flashed with incoming Morse code. Wick, sitting at a desk, squeezed two paddles to rattle off dots and dashes. As if working in a 19th century telegraph office, he responded with the teams’ information: call sign, division (single-transmitter division) and state.

Ham radio B2

The screen shows a rapidly growing list of regional abbreviations, like New Mexico, Connecticut and North Carolina.

Brad Wick exits the trailer as the sun sets over Cochetopa Pass.

Jacob Spetzler

COMMUNITY: Creative Corner’s Russell leaves lasting legacy, B7

FOURTH OF JULY: Healthy grilling alternatives, B25

SPORTS: Six Points athletes bring home gold, B15, B20

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2023

Ham radio

from B1

“Some people speak French, we speak Morse code,” Wick said. “At this point, we don’t even hear letters, we hear complete words.”

After 24 hours of operation,

the sleepless operators had clocked 1,675 contacts from across the world. Even though the competition is limited to the U.S., communication was made with six Canadian provinces, Australia, Argentina and Curaçao. From their isolated

camp, the men communicated with 49 states and exceeded their 8-year average by 10%. Official results will be available by the fi rst week of December, but for now, the team is optimistic about its performance.

“Different people approach

this differently,” Wick said. “Some just get together, make 100 contacts, barbecue and drink beer. But we believe if it isn’t a contest, then why are we keeping score? We call ourselves the ‘Go Big or Go Home Field Day Gang,’ and we are def-

initely in the running for topfive competitors this year.”

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

The “Yagi’’ antenna rises 60 feet above the hilltop. Wires connect the main tower with “dipole” antennas, creating a spider web of connection.

Mike Wells and Brad Wick stand in the trailer, filled with solar batteries, monitors and radio equipment.

Radio frequency knobs line shelves inside the trailer. Jacob Spetzler

shopper@gunnisonshopper.com FIREWOOD HAY FOR SALE HANDYMAN SERVICES You got it, we’ll list it. Delivering every Wednesday for over 50 years Gunnison Country Times Thursday, June 29, 2023 • ROUNDUP • B3

Helpful

HINTS

Turn on white noise and fans inside the house.

Keep yourself calm, the pups read our actions and anxiety.

sure your dog can easily be identified

Annika

2 - 3 year old Boxer. Very sweet but very shy. It will take her a bit to warm up, but once she does, you have a bestie. She loves other dogs, and they help her to understand she is safe. She is fully vaccinated, spayed, and micro-chipped.

2 year old Blue Heeler He is super sweet and lots of fun. He is a typical heeler, loves to keep busy, loves to play with other dogs and loves his human. Thor is fully vaccinated, neutered, and micro-chipped.

6 month old mix. Super playful and super sweet. She is very social and loves people, kids and other dogs. She is fully vaccinated, spayed, and micro chipped.

Thor Call 970-641-3691 to set up an appointment to meet these precious pups.

BMX bikers, skateboarders and a scooterer co-existed peacefully at the Gunnison skatepark on Tuesday, June

Tim “Mayhem” Crosby

Asher Chodorowski

Prudencio Celestino Jacob Spetzler

Float for the 4th

A farmer’s feast

The Gunnison Valley Producers' Guild hosted tours of participating member farms throughout the valley on June 25 followed by a farm-to-table potluck. Participants learned about regenerative agriculture practices, how food is grown and how community members can support local farmers.

Pitkin

Pitkin

ART AND CRAFT SHOW

Featuring the work of the artisans of Pitkin and the Quartz Creek Valley including paintings, glass art, jewelry, woodcraft, knives, needle art, photography, mosaics, paper art, rag rugs, figurines, and leather work.

Julia Sams/Mountain Roots

Free legal help

Get free legal advice on the second Wednesday of every month from 2-5 p.m. at the Gunnison County Library at 1 Quartz St. in Gunnison and at the Old Rock Community Library in Crested Butte. Volunteer attorneys will offer assistance one-on-one, via computer link. In Gunnison call 970.641.3485 or in Crested Butte call 970.349.6535 to be added to the sign-up sheet.

Living Journeys

Living Journeys hosts free and confidential monthly support groups — open to all Gunnison County residents.

-Caregivers Support Group: 1st Monday of each month.

-Bereavement Support Group: 2nd Monday of each month.

-Cancer Support Group: 1st Thursday and 3rd Monday of each month. Professional therapists facilitate in-person and zoom meetings, no RSVP necessary. Get details at livingjourneys.org/Calendar.

People's Fair

Considered by many to be the finale of the Crested Butte summer season, the 37th Paragon People’s Fair will be held Sept. 2-3 on Elk Avenue in Crested Butte. Booth spaces are still

available, so get your applications in by visiting paragonartgallery.com or pick one up at the Paragon Gallery, 132 Elk Ave. in Crested Butte.

Thursday night tennis

Weekly intermediate and advanced tennis mixer will be held Thursday evenings at 5 p.m. in Crested Butte. No registration is needed, just show up at the town tennis courts located across from the visitor center. Mixed doubles is the game. No partner is needed to participate, and anyone is welcome. The cost is $5 per night or $20 for the season, with the cost going toward tennis balls. For more information contact Don Cook at 970.497.0123.

History slideshow

Join Duane Vandenbusche for a slideshow, History of Ranching in the “Gunnison Country”, at the Crested Butte Museum on June 29 at 7 p.m. Admission is free.

Taylor Canyon Fire Station anniversary

Celebrate the first anniversary of the Taylor Canyon Fire Station on July 3 from 12-4 p.m. Enjoy savory barbecue, side dishes, libations and live music by Sunny Downpour. Admission

GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS

Teen Tuesdays

On Tuesdays in July from 3-6 p.m., students, ages 12-18, will be taught centering, wheel throwing and trimming techniques. All ability ranges are welcome. The cost is $149 for members and $175 for nonmembers.

Watercolor and wine

On June 29 and July 6, a local watercolor artist will guide you (and your wine) through a watercolor painting from start to finish, giving instruction on setting up to paint, wash and watercolor painting techniques, composition and more. Absolutely no experience is necessary. The cost is $25 per class.

Adult wheel throwing

On Thursdays in July from 6-9 p.m., students will expand their throwing knowledge to create more advanced forms. All ability ranges are welcome. The cost is $201 for members and $236 for non-members.

Monday concert series

The Alpenglow Summer Concert Series runs Monday evenings from June 19-Aug. 14 at 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Crested Butte. Enjoy free live music with beautiful Crested Butte Mountain and the stunning Paradise Divide as the backdrop.

is free, and donations will be accepted for new fire and safety equipment.

Commemorate the Almont Pavilion

On July 3, Three Rivers Resort will celebrate 100 years of the Almont Pavilion with a happy hour, potluck, history presentation with Duane Vandenbusche and Polly Oberosler and polka with Pete Dunda. Events begin at 5 p.m.

Shamanism workshop

Learn and practice a variety of shamanic journeying skills in a “Basics & Beyond” workshop on July 2 from 12-4 p.m. in Gunnison.The theme is a sense of place and finding meaning and belonging within this physical world. The cost is on a $25$50 sliding scale. Call Barbara Haas at 970.641.2093 for more details and to register.

Snodgrass trail run

Join the Crested Butte Mountain Runners on June 29 at 6 p.m., for the Snodgrass trail run, followed by pizza and refreshments. Meet at the Snodgrass trailhead just north of Mt. Crested Butte. For trail maps and further information please visit cbmountainrunners.org.

Singles clay mixer

On July 7 from 6-9 p.m., singles night will focus on an introduction to wheel throwing. Students will learn to center, pull and shape their own masterpiece. All ability ranges are welcome. The cost is $64 for members and $75 for nonmembers.

Tuesday concert series

Join us every other Tuesday from 5-7 p.m. for free live music in the Feldberg East Courtyard lounge at the Center for the Arts in Crested Butte. From classical to jazz and bluegrass, enjoy intimate live performances over cocktails from the Black Dragon Bar.

CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS

Bethany Church

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

Summer schedule, One service at 9am! gunnisonbethany.com

9 am: Family Service with nursery & children’s church

Check out our website for updates!

Or download our app on the App Store by searching, Gunnison Bethany.

B'nai Butte Congregation

PO Box 2537 Crested, Butte CO 81224 305-803-3648 www.bnaibutte.org

Friday night service, July 7th- 6pm

Shabbatluck at Becky & Joe Williams, bring a dish to share

Saturday July 8th: 10:30am Meet the rabbi, Rabbi Mark at Rumors Coffee

Saturday July 8th, 5 PM Havdallah service and at the Werners, bring a favorite appetizer/summer drink to share.

Sunday July 9th, 11 AM; Torah Study at the Rolfes, in Gunnison RabbiMarkKula@gmail.comwww.bnaibutte.org for additional details

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.

‘Bingo!’

Gunnison Valley residents of all ages packed the Elks Lodge for bingo night on June 27. The weekly event gives participants a chance to win some cash, eat snacks and enjoy each other’s company. Doors open at 7 p.m. every Tuesday for those looking to join in on the action.

Fai Directory

Community Church of Gunnison

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925

Pastor Larry Nelson

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.

Nursery & Age-Graded Ministry

Weekly Student Ministry

Weekly Adult LifeGroups

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9:00-4:00

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

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

Transforming Lives • Building Community

First Baptist Church

120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240

Pastor Jonathan Jones

9:30 A.M. Share & Prayer Fellowship

10 A.M. Sunday School Classes

11 A.M. Morning Worship Service

6 P.M. Evening Service

Wednesday 7 PM - Children's Patch Club

Gunnison Bible Institute

Thursday 7 PM - College & Career Christian Fellowship www.firstbaptistgunnison.org.

The Good Samaritan

Episcopal Church

307 W. Virginia Ave. • 970-641-0429

Rev. Laura Osborne, Vicar

Sunday Morning Holy Eucharist, Rite II 9 a.m.

Children's Sunday school 9 a.m. - 9:40 a.m.

Office Hours: M-Th 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

www.goodsamaritangunnison.com

Visit our partnership church: All Saints in the Mountains, Crested Butte Holy Eucharist, Rite II, Sunday 5 p.m. Union Congregational Church, 403 Maroon Ave., Crested Butte.

Gunnison Congregational Church

United Church of Christ

317 N. Main St. • 970-641-3203

Open and Affirming

Whole Earth · Just Peace

Sunday, 10:00 a.m.

Casual, Relaxed, “Come As You Are” Worship www.gunnisonucc.org

Grace Covenant

Church Gunnison

101 N. 8th St. Gunnison

Meeting at the Historic 8th St School House

Reformed, Confessional & committed to Expository preaching

Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Thursdays 1:00 p.m.

Women's Bible Study gracegunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church

711 N. Main • 970-641-1860

Bible Study and Sunday School at 9:00 a.m. on Sundays Church Service at 10:00 a.m. on Sundays

Pastor Robert Carabotta, Pastor Jacob With

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 10am / Wednesday 7pm www.newsonggunnison.net

Rocky Mountain Christian Ministries

1040 Highway 135 (1/4 mile N. of Spencer Ave.) • 970-641-0158

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30am

Nursery and Children’s ministry through Middle School

“Remedy” Worship Nights Small Group Ministries www.rmcmchurch.org

St. Peter’s Catholic Church 300 N. Wisconsin • 970-641-0808 Fr. Andres Ayala-Santiago www.gunnisoncatholic.org

www.crestedbuttecatholic.org or call the Parish Office.

St. Peter's - Gunnison Sat 8:30 am, 6:30 pm & Sun 10:30 am, 12:00 pm (Spanish) Mass

First Sunday of every month

bilingual Mass at 11am

Queen of All Saints - Crested Butte, 401 Sopris Sun 8:30am Mass

St. Rose of Lima - Lake City Mass Service, Sat 4:00pm

Trinity Baptist Church 523 N. Pine St. • 970-641-1813

Senior Pastor - Joe Ricks

Sunday Service 9:30 a.m.

Adult Bible Study 8:00 AM www.trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Abby Fostveit

‘It takes big hearts to shape little minds’

Sheila Russell retires after 30 years of child care

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Five-year-old Tristan Navidi learned to tie his shoes in a modest white house on the northwest corner of town. He fumbled at first, but eventually his tiny hands grasped the laces and tied the loops into a bow. In the following years, Navidi, under the gentle and watchful eye of child care provider Sheila Russell, would learn to do much more than that — read, play and communicate.

Russell ran Creative Corner from her home for 32 years, providing child care to a valley where offerings can be slim for kids under 5 years old. Each day, a small group of children toddled into her home, and over the course of the day would do things like practice recycling, take winter clothes on and off and even learn to germinate seeds. The day provided practical skills like reading and writing, intertwined with life skills like resolving conflict and emotional regulation.

“Kids love to know that they're valued, and they want to be part of something,” Russell said. “It's just so fantastic. Kids want to know ‘how do I fit into daily life?’ and it's so easy-peasy, they just eat it up.”

Before Creative Corner, Russell worked at the insurance office at Gunnison Valley Health. Eventually, she picked up a book at the library about starting a business in one’s own home,

and the plan was set in motion. After acquiring the proper cer tifications from the state, Creative Corner opened for business in 1991.

Jessica Peterson’s daughter started with Russell when she was just 2, and her son when he was 3 months old. When the family friend who was watching her kids left the state, she scrambled to find a solution. Like many other Creative Corner parents, Peterson heard about Russell through the parent grapevine, to the tune of: “If you can get in there, that’s the best place your kids can go,” Peterson said.

“No one tells you how to raise kids, but Sheila was always that listening ear for us who would give us advice and encourage us,” she said. “She made us feel like family, and I feel like she's forever a part of ours.”

Over the next three decades, Russell would serve over a hundred families around the valley. Thousands of small moments at Creative Corner — assuring a child they can take their own jacket on and off, helping them resolve conflict by gently placing palms on each other's faces or simply encouraging them to wait in line for bathroom — culminate into a care model many parents considered the best in Gunnison. Children under her care always seemed to leave better off, said Creative Corner parent Amanda Allen.

Allen sent each of her three kids to Creative Corner, totaling 10 years of care with Russell. Her children always came home with missing buttons replaced, well-fed and full of stories. Allen, who works as a music teacher at Gunnison Elementary School, would go on to teach Russell's children once they aged out of

her care.

“I could see that difference. I could see the mark she left on them,” she said. “She’s consistent, just a tremendous person … I just think what a gift it was to me when I dropped them off. I never worried about them at all.”

Bre Navidi lives just a block from Creative Corner and knew that it would be the right spot for her kids, having heard rave reviews from other parents.

“Even pre-kid, we always kept in mind that when we did have kids, we were going to try to get in with her, because she cares about the kids. She loves them like they're her own … It takes a big heart to shape little minds. That's my mentality with Sheila, you know? We love her,” Navidi said.

It wasn’t just child care that drew Allen in, it was how Russell cared for parents. Before cell phones, Russell used an Instamatic camera to take photos of the kids, made doubles and gave copies to

each parent so they knew what went on throughout the day. When Allen’s youngest child ended up in the hospital with a severe case of respiratory syncytial virus, Russell was there, rocking him to sleep.

After Russell retired, Navidi struggled to find another child care provider in the valley that had space. Now, Tristan will transition to Lake Preschool and Kindergarten this fall. Despite the new chapter, the legacy of Russell’s time with him remains, Navidi said.

“He came home one day and we were sitting there at dinner, and he said, ‘Mommy, I'm grateful for Miss Sheila,” she said. “Coming from a 4 year old, that really shows you how much she cared about the kids and how she was a reflection on them.”

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@gunnisontimes.com.)

PAVEMENT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIANS

$33+ hourly - $1,800+ weekly potential with performance and safety bonuses. Seeking motivated, hard-working and dependable individuals. No experience necessary. On the job training working outdoors. Paid weekly. Must be capable of lifting 60 pounds.

Courtesy Sheila Russell Creative Corner kids bike to the old Ann Zugelder library on North Wisconsin Avenue.

Introuducing Dr. Bailey Randlett,

Our New Full-Time Veterinarian!

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Bailey to our team at Critter Sitters and Gunnison Vet Clinic.

Dr. Bailey, a Western State Colorado University Grad, then completed her Doctorate at Midwestern University. She and her family have been long-time residents of Gunnison.

Dr. Bailey is dedicated to meeting all your veterinary needs. Whether it's routine check-ups, preventative care, surgeries, diagnostics, or emergency appointments, you can trust our team to provide compassionate and comprehensive care for your beloved pets.

A long-time love for local animals

Randlett joins team at Gunnison Veterinary Clinic

Abby Fostveit Times Intern

As a graduate from Western Colorado University with a passion for the town and its animals, Dr. Bailey Randlett said she is excited for her new fulltime position at the Gunnison Veterinary Clinic after a year of being a part-time veterinarian.

“I enjoy the detective work of being a vet,” Randlett said. “They [animals] can’t tell you exactly what’s wrong so you have to try and figure that out with diagnostics and palpitation and listening.”

After graduating from Western, Randlett attended Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine in Glendale, Arizona.

Few places in Colorado have a richer, more diverse history than the Gunnison Country — early exploration (starting with the Spanish), Native Americans, railroads, mining, ranching, frontier law and order, skiing, tourism and more. The past comes alive with captivating articles, enthralling features and stunning visuals that will captivate both locals and visitors alike.

In June of 2022, Randlett worked at Critter Sitters and Gunnison Veterinary Clinic three days a week. For the other two days, she traveled to Montrose to work at Black Canyon Veterinary Clinic. This June, she began her full-time position as a veterinarian at the Gunnison clinic. Although she said she is relieved to not be making the strenuous journey to Montrose anymore, she appreciates all she learned from the experience.

“The more you can learn from anyone’s medicine, the better you can understand why they do things,” Randlett said. “We all practice very differently in a good way.”

Although her hometown of Payson, Arizona, has grown since Randlett was a kid, it is a lot like Gunnison, she said. It’s a small western town where everyone knows everyone, friends and family make up most of the population and people look out for each other.

Randlett said she loved growing up this way. After her dad died when she was 5, her family was embraced by Payson.

“It took the whole community to raise me and my brother, and I really appreciated that when I grew up,” Randlett said.

As someone raised with animals, specifically horses, Randlett knew she was meant to be a veterinarian. When she was 8 years old, her mom made her a Halloween costume complete with imitation surgeon gear and little stuff ed animals.

As Randlett got older, she began volunteering with veterinary clinics.

When it came time to choose where to pursue her undergraduate degree, Randlett’s mom attended a college fair with her. The booth decorated in Western gear caught her eye. Without visiting the town or applying anywhere else, Randlett was sold.

“The town accepts you so well,” Randlett said. “It's amazing.”

Randlett secured her first veterinary technician position in Gunnison while pursuing her degree in cellular biology. She said she enjoyed the work because it was hands on, and it helped her embrace the versatility of the position.

Despite not being accepted into vet school the first year she applied, Randlett was not deterred. That’s not uncommon, and in her second attempt, she was asked in interviews how it felt to be waitlisted the first time. She said when she was younger, she noticed how some of her family members pursued careers for profit rather than passion. Knowing she wanted to be fulfilled by her life’s work, Randlett was deter-

mined to keep applying until she got in.

“I remember telling them, I know I’m meant for this job,” Randlett said. “I have the passion for it. I have the skill for it. It’s not something that I think won’t fulfill me in my life.”

Randlett described being a veterinarian as a profession with a “white-collar doctorate degree and blue-collar effort.” She said she loves getting her hands dirty, especially if it means helping out someone in the community.

The clinic is going to start offering more large animal calls. This is exciting, since she enjoys working with animals like cows, horses, goats and sheep, she said. Her excitement goes beyond the daily operations that the full time role entails.

“I’m excited to be here to build my home and finally settle in and feel like I can help the community more, to be able to be here for the people who have stuck with us.”

(Abby Fostveit can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or intern@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Perkins Valladolid

“I remember telling them, I know I’m meant for this job, I have the passion for it. I have the skill for it.”

Dr. Bailey Randlett Veterinarian

Soap maker sets up shop in Gunnison

Sustainability a priority at Soladera Soaps

Morgan Raspanti Special to the Times

Jenifer Pusey took time between teaching morning swim lessons at the Rec Center and an afternoon private piano lesson to mix the latest batch of homemade soap in the basement of her Gunnison home. This particular 5-pound batch of coconut, palm oil and shea butter-based soap was adorned with a swirl of rose clay, white clay and indigo dye. It smelled like the beach and will be cured just in time to celebrate the Fourth of July.

Th e new recipe is one of the many formulas Pusey has developed at her company, Soladera Soaps, over the past six years. For her, soap-making is about providing access to non-toxic products, embracing creative expression and practicing sustainable self-sufficiency.

Founded in Denver in 2017, the handcrafted soap company moved to Gunnison two years ago. It reminds Pusey of the small California town where she grew up, and Gunnison County residents are her target market, she said.

Soladera Soap can be found every Saturday through the summer and early fall, at the Gunnison Farmers Market and year-round at Gunnison Vitamin and Health Food Store, Gunnison Arts Center and directly from Pusey by request. When sourcing organic raw materials from soap-making companies, independent producers and the occasional big box store, Pusey said buying in bulk is essential to making her products affordable.

“It shouldn't be just for the wealthy. It should be for everybody. Everybody needs the basic thing of soap,” she said.

For Pusey, soap-making started as a hobby motivated by an irritating skin condition. When her usual product line changed formulas causing her sensitive skin to run dry, she sought an all-natural alternative. A close friend and soap-maker gave her some product to try, which eventually led to the pair crafting soap together. What began as a hobby gradually evolved into a business.

“It’s kind of obsessive that way,” she said.

Along with ethically sourcing natural and organic materials for her handmade soap, Pusey’s practice is sustainable, because she strives to produce as little waste as possible at every stage. While mixing ingredients, she cleans up with rags made from cut up towels and t-shirts and repurposes old containers. Th e soaps are packaged with a simple label. Pusey is experiment-

ing with using locally-sourced tallow and is developing other natural products for personal use.

To share her knowledge and enthusiasm for sustainable living, Pusey teaches soap-making workshops at the Gunnison Arts Center.

“The more things that you can do for yourself, the better

off you're going to be in hard times,” she said.

(Morgan Raspanti can be contacted at 970.641.1414.)

Morgan Raspanti

Pusey points to a list of available soaps.

Jenifer Pusey holds unprocessed silk after it was added to a lye mixture.This is one of the first steps to make soap.

Pusey measures out lye for her soap mixture.

After melting oils on her kitchen stove, Pusey uses an electric thermometer to check the temperature.

Trivia for a cause

The Gunnison Elks Lodge hosted a fundraiser trivia night on Thursday, June 22. Funds went to the local Philanthropic Educational Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to helping women pursue educational opportunities with loans, scholarships and grants.

Jacob Spetzler

Cattlemen’s Days to honor local patriots

Free entry for active duty servicemembers and veterans

Ted Harbin Special to the Times

His words were direct, a reflection of the work he’s been doing to not only promote the Cattlemen’s Days celebration, but also the service men and women.

“Our Patriot Night is going to be amazing,” said Kevin Coblentz, a longtime member of the volunteer committee that produces the annual event. “We have some special things planned for that night, and I can promise you that our opening is going to be powerful. Nobody will want to miss this.”

Patriot Night at Cattlemen’s Days PRCA Rodeo will begin at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 14, at Gunnison’s Fred Field Western Center in Gunnison. All former and active service military will be admitted free — a way the volunteer committee is giving back to those that served.

There are three nights of rodeo, and each has a special event attached to it. The opening night, set for Thursday, July 13, is Pink Night, which honors the legendary status of the Cattlemen’s Days Tough Enough to Wear Pink campaign, the largest in ProRodeo. The campaign has raised millions of dollars, which has been utilized locally for cancer research.

The final performance, set for Saturday, July 15, will honor the Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy, a tip of the cap to the generations of ranching families that have con-

tinued to look after this land and their neighbors.

“Our Patriot Night is a way to honor those that have served and sacr ificed for our country,” Coblentz said. “It doesn’t matter if they’re from Gunnison or have lived here, we just want to honor them for serving. If they’ve come from anywhere and have served in the U.S. military, then we want to honor them on that Friday night.”

The idea behind Patriot Night was developed several years ago, and Cattlemen’s Days organizers have expanded upon it over time. It’s not just military, Coblentz said. The committee will honor those that serve locally, such as police officers, firefighters and ambulance crews.

“Those are the folks that serve this community,” he said. “We’re going to honor Jill Adams, who recently passed away. She was the paramedic captain in Gunnison and had spent 30 plus years as a paramedic. She and people like her are valuable to a community like ours.”

The Gunnison Volunteer Fire Department will be on hand to properly display the giant American flag, and other officers from the various branches will help with aspects of the Friday night production of the rodeo.

“When we salute these heroes and honor our servicemen and women, we want to do it with purpose and meaning,” Coblentz said. “I promise that this will be a rodeo performance that everybody will want to see, because they’re going to witness something unlike anything ever seen in Gunnison.”

(Ted Harbin is the Cattlemen’s Days media director.)

Miss Rodeo Colorado 2021 Hailey Frederiksen.

Best day ever

When Kristen Peterson, an educator and program director at Tenderfoot Family and Child Development Center, saw kids light up at the sight of Spallone Construction’s machines driving down the street, she knew she wanted to organize a hands-on experience for them. After reaching out to Spallone, kids ages 1 to 2 got behind the wheel of dump trucks, loaders and excavators on Wednesday, June 21. Although this was the first time Spallone has ever done this with Tenderfoot, the company hopes to make this an annual event.

“It’s a fun way to explore what’s happening in the community,” Peterson said.

A BIG THANKS TO ACE HARDWARE!

Young Guns 4-H Club would like to give Ace Hardware a big THANK YOU for donating all the hot dogs and drinks for our fundraiser at the Makita Tool Days event. Ace also rounded up receipts over the weekend which helped us raise the funds we needed to send Gunnison youth to leadership camps and conferences all over the state. Your generosity is greatly appreciated! Thank you for supporting 4-H!

Jacob Spetzler

On June 22 and 23, the Gunnison Valley Theatre Festival performed “Misery” by William Goldman, based on the novel by Stephen King. The Thursday performance took place at Western Colorado University’s Quigley Bandshell, followed by one at the Crested Butte Center for the Arts on Friday. The festival went out with a bang on June 24, with music from the Denver-based band Porlolo. The band is made up of Erin Roberts, former Western alumna and Firebrand Delicatessen sandwich-maker, and Roger Green.

OUR SKILLED OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS WORK WITH PEOPLE OF ALL AGES AND AT ALL STAGES OF LIFE TO HELP THEM GET BACK TO THEIR MEANINGFUL EVERYDAY ACTIVITIES.

Orthopedic Care

Hand therapy, arthritis treatment, post-operative care for upper extremities and custom splint fabrication.

Neurologic Care

Stroke recovery, vision therapy and treatment of movement disorders.

Specialty Care

Parkinson’s disease therapy, assistive technology, pediatric therapy, home modification guidance, pain management and workplace health.

GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH WELCOMES

DR. LAUREN SULLENBERGER, DO

TO THE FAMILY MEDICINE CLINIC

Gunnison Valley Health is pleased to welcome internist, Dr. Lauren Sullenberger to the Family Medicine Clinic. Dr. Sullenberger attended medical school at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences and completed her internal medicine residency at Virginia Mason Medical Center in Seattle, WA. After residency she moved to Pueblo, Colorado where she practiced as a hospitalist and nocturnist at Parkview Medical Center.

Dr. Sullenberger’s focus as a primary care physician is a holistic approach to medicine incorporating all aspects of health, including preventative medicine.

‘Misery is alive, Misery is alive!’

Abby Harrison

Q&A with artist Carol

Ann Rasmussen

Michelle Bivens Special to the Times

What brought you to Crested Butte? Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Missoula, Montana, so I have always had a love of the Rocky Mountains. My mother had a huge influence on me. She began going blind when I was about 10 years old, yet she never let it get her down and never complained. Her strength has helped me get through many things in my life. I left home at 18 and met my husband Dave in college. We ended up moving around quite a bit for his career. Some of the places we’ve lived include Butte, Montana, South America, Washington DC, North Carolina and Golden, Colorado. While living in Golden we loved spending time in the mountains but hated the commute. That is what inspired us to move to Cedaredge on the Western Slope.

How did you become an artist?

I have always loved art and had the opportunity to take classes at the University of Montana, and study under some very well-known artists. I especially loved studying color, even more so than the specific techniques of drawing, painting, etc. I took every class on color I could find. Early in my art studies I experimented with pottery and sculpture, but even though my work would win ribbons at local shows, I never considered myself an “artist.”

I discovered painting following a family tragedy. In the early 2000s, my 28-year-old son passed away and as a result I fell into a deep depression. I discovered alcohol inks a couple of years after he passed, when I was visiting an art store and saw them unpacking the most beautiful and vibrant bottles of color. I’d never seen anything like them. No one knew how to use these paints — you can’t use traditional brushes and painting techniques because the paper is slippery, and when the inks/paints are applied they move and change and run together on the paper for about 3 minutes.

I saw life coming onto the paper and it was a beautiful experience. People loved my work, and the recognition really gave me a lift. I began to believe I was an artist, which was very difficult for me to say at first.

What inspired your 2023 poster entry?

My daughter and I both love the mountains and flowers, and we would take trips together and she would capture nature in photographs, the aspens, wildflowers and bluebonnets.

I learned a new technique to make mountains. It is very difficult to get the ink to stay in place. I was excited and began experimenting with it. Sadly, my daughter passed away from cancer a few months before I was asked to paint the image for the poster. I drew on my memories that I had with her and the power we saw in nature. I saw the power of nature in the flowers and mountains and became fascinated in trying to get that power to come out on paper. I felt my daughter was with me while I was painting, in the Town of Crested Butte, the mountains, the Wildflower Festival, and I wanted to capture it.

The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival is scheduled for July 7-16. Rasmussen will be teaching two classes during the festival: one on Saturday, July 8, and the second on Monday, July 10. More information can be found at crestedbuttewildflowerfestival.org.

Courtesy Rasmussen’s winning design. B14 • ROUNDUP • Thursday, June 29, 2023 Gunnison Country Times

RIVER

Taylor Race makes a splash,

WRESTLING: GHS grapplers perform well during training camp, B18

GYMNASTICS: Gunnison teams excel at late season meet, B20

18U softball hosts local rivals

‘Roundrobin’ games a learning opportunity for upcoming fall season

Alex McCrindle Times Staff Writer

The Gunnison 18U softball team hosted Montrose and Grand Junction in a series of round-robin scrimmages on June 24.

Between the two games, Gunnison fell 7-4 against Montrose and 7-1 against Grand Junction. The outing provided more time for younger players and opportunities for the team to grow, Head Coach Alyssa Geist said.

“Seeing different teams and gaining new experiences helps all of our players,” she said. “In

a normal league game we are limited to substitutions, but with scrimmages we can get all of the players on-field experience. There is a relaxed mentality where we’re not really playing for a score. Instead we’re learning from mistakes and taking more risks.”

In the back-to-back games on Saturday, Geist highlighted a few leaders this season.

“Nella Gardner has really stepped up for us as a pitcher this year,” she said. Maddie Vollendorf has stepped up as a leader and taken the younger girls under her wing, leading by example. Kaylee Vincent has been a huge leader and has been really important on offense. And Grace Ricks, she’s our catcher and a workhorse. She puts so much effort in, and is also a real leader for this team.

Last weekend, the girls battled at the Diamonds in the Rockies Tournament. Among Gunnison teams, the 18U girls had the most impressive run

— winning a game in pool play and barely losing 6-4 in the first round of the bracket.

The summer softball season will conclude next weekend in Montrose, with another roundrobin tournament against teams from Cortez, Grand Junction and Montrose.

Geist said the girls are working hard and improving ahead of the fast-approaching fall high school season.

“I’m extremely proud of how these girls have competed this season,” she said. “They put on the best run I’ve seen from a Gunnison team at the Diamonds tournament. They’re learning a lot and working really hard preparing for fall. We have big junior and senior classes with a lot of potential coming into this high school season. It’s really exciting.”

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

Team Six Points strikes gold in Grand Junction

Team competes the at Special Olympics summer Games in Grand Junction

Jacob Spetzler

Photo and Sports Editor

The weekend of June 9-11 was a productive one for a crew of 11 Six Points athletes who traveled to Mesa University in Grand Junction to compete at the Special Olympics Colorado State Summer Games. As a group, athletes competed in a total 31 events and brought home 18 first-place finishes.

The Games kicked off on Friday with distance races, which were held on a 2.5-kilometer course that ran through Mesa University’s campus, rather than the track. Six Points was successful that evening — Johnny Iniego and Jeff Crawley each earned first in the 10K and the 5K, respectively. The duo accepted their awards at the opening ceremony, which included a barbecue later that evening.

On Saturday, the swimmers and the rest of the track and field athletes competed. Joe Day and Paul Carpenter represented Gunnison in the pool. That evening, athletes gathered for another dinner and a dance party. Smith noted that the weekend functions as more than just an athletic event.

“Not everyone [from the Six

Six Points B20

Jeff Crawley competes in the shot put. He took second in his division.

Courtesy Brian Smith and Jennifer Zeikus/Six Points Evaluation and Training, Inc.

Nella Gardner winds up in the pitching circle. Jacob Spetzler

Splashy fast times at the Taylor Downriver Race

The annual Gunnison River Festival looks a little different this year. Rather than all the events happening over a one weekend, they’re spread out over the summer. One of the much-beloved events, the Taylor Downriver Race, went off Friday, June 23, with raft and kayak divisions. The course ran from Todd’s Slot to South Bank. Racers and supporters then moved to the Almont Resort for an after party with music from Floyd Bauler and Jenny, joined by Shannon Redmon.

WOMEN’S KAYAK RACE

First place - Deanna Beisel

Second place - Sydney Dickinson

Third place - Giselle (Gicho) Biolley

MEN’S KAYAK RACE

First place - Dan Kreykes

Second place - Sam Reaman

Third place - Ben Whittaker

RAFT RACE

First place - Three Rivers Outfitters Men’s Raft Team

Second place - Dylan Mechling’s Raft Team

Third place - Angie’s Green Raft Tea

Jacob Spetzler

Jacob Spetzler

Jacob Spetzler

Jordan Arrasmith

Jordan Arrasmith

Jacob Spetzler

Jacob Spetzler

Jacob Spetzler

Jacob Spetzler

Gunnison grapplers dominate at Western camp

Romie Uhrig wins camp championship

Alex McCrindle Times Staff Writer

On June 19-22, The Rocky Mountain Wrestling Camp concluded in an exciting fashion at Western Colorado University. The three-week camp brought 2,000 athletes to campus. Last week, it hosted the final batch of athletes, with 17 women's teams and 48 mens teams competing. GHS wrestlers capped off the event with an impressive run, as sophomore Romie Uhrig won the camp championship.

The four boy GHS wrestlers attending — Zayne Benson, Zach Benson, Brock Fry and Cody Casebolt — finished the camp with 40 matches per person. This amount roughly equals an entire season’s worth of competition. Zach, an incoming freshman, Fry and Casebolt all defeated out-of-state competitors.

The girls fielded a team of five underclassmen: Izzie Crown, Caroline Sudderth, Roxie Uhrig, Cooper Imel and Romie Uhrig. Each grappler competed in 17 matches, and Coach Dave Uhrig said they gained valuable experience ahead of the high school season.

“Womens wrestling is exploding in the United States right now,” he said. “RMAC colleges are starting to build teams, and this camp really helps us keep pace, if not exceed the pace of other high school programs.”

GHS girls left their mark at the camp this week. Sophomore Romie Uhrig walked away with the camp championship — weaving past 17 opponents from around the country to be crowned the camps top womens wrestler.

“To be deemed the No. 1 kid in the camp is a pretty big deal,”

Coach Uhrig said. “Th ere’s 900 kids competing and 17 women's teams. It was really special.”

For Coach Uhrig, raising champions is becoming a habit. His son, Royce, lifted the camp championship last week, and his daughter Romie won this week. But he said his focus is directed toward the upcoming season and preparing the team for the season ahead..

“All of my wrestlers are right in the fight,” he said. “They all have a great attitude and understand that they’ll win some and lose some. We’re all excited for November to roll around, and another high school season.”

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

Cooper Imel (right).

Jacob Spetzler

Romie Urig (left)

It’s all for fun anyway

On Tuesday, June 27, two town league softball games turned into one scrimmage when the Hammerhounds couldn’t produce enough players for their scheduled doubleheader against Wet Grocer and Bethany. Instead, Wet Grocer scrimmaged Bethany, winning 19-12.

WE Do IT ALL

Screen Replacement • Battery Replacement

Charging Dock • Camera Fix • Water Damage

I need iRepair!

Delta defeats Gunnison 12U at home

Adkins prepares team for bright future

Alex McCrindle Times Staff Writer

The Gunnison 12U softball team fell to Delta 13-8 in a home game on June 26. Despite the loss, Head Coach Brett Adkins said the team used its dense schedule to rotate positions — allowing the girls to gain experience across the diamond.

“At this age, I want them to get a feel for all positions and understand the game better,” he said. “We move the girls around a fair amount. But as we approach the end of the season, there’s a couple players starting to play positions more consistently.”

Against Delta, the girls utilized base running to lack on runs. Players took advantage of wild pitches and steals to progress on the basepaths. Catcher Brailey Adkins has played consistently behind the plate, and worked to increase her arm strength to throw out steals at second. Adkins said at the 12U age group, teams tend to rely on base running as a means to score.

“It’s the nature of the game at this age,” he said. “Catchers are still working to throw players out on the bases, so we try to steal second and third often.”

Th e teams preparing for two more away games against Delta and Buena Vista, before setting

We buy and sell used devices, too! 970-596-4536 • www.irepairgunnison.com 118 N. Wisconsin St.

LOCAL FULL-SERVICE WINTER PRUNING, REMOVAL, FIRE MITIGATION, TREE RISK ASSESSMENT, PLANT HEALTH CARE & STUMP GRINDING.

Call for a free quote! 970-316-0777

Crested Butte - Gunnison -

Pitkin Day

July 29, 2023

8 am Fun Run/Walk, 9th & State Street

9 am Kids Fishing Contest, Kid's Pond

10:30 am Games, Basketball Court

Noon Meal, Newcomb Center

2 pm Raffle, Newcomb Center

3 pm Egg/Balloon Toss, Pavilion

Sponsored by and fundraiser for the Pitkin Historical and Community Association

DO YOU HAVE A TREE YOU WOULD LIKE OUT OF YOUR YARD AND THINK IT WOULD MAKE A GREAT CHRISTMAS TREE FOR THE CITY?

Must be easily accessed and be approximately 50ft tall.

Contact the City of Gunnison Public Works at 970-641-8020.

sights on the school season in fall.

“It's been a jam-packed four weeks,” Adkins said. “We’ve had a lot of traveling, back to back games and doubleheaders. It's been full tilt. But the girls have really hung in there. I’m so

happy to see the girls have fun, grow and learn the game and just want to keep playing.”

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

Kylie Robbins prepares to deliver a pitch.

Brailey Adkins geared up in catcher equipment, waits for the pitch.

Jacob Spetzler

Shaugn Rourke swings big.

Jacob Spetzler

Six Points

from B15

Points team] was born and raised in Gunnison. They come from all over”, he said. “Some used to be couples, lots used to just be friends, they have a lot of history together. It's a bonding reunion. We had clients who moved to lower elevations and they have such a history up here with a lot of our folks who know them.”

The next day the track and field finals lasted until noon with Gunnison competitors pulling an enormous amount of podium placements. Aside from the 18 first-place medals, the team earned top five in every event in its division.

After the events were over, the crew loaded back up into the cars for the drive back to Gunnison, stopping at Dairy Queen on the way out of town — a yearly post-Summer Games tradition for the Gunnison Group.

Overall, Smith said it was a great weekend. Temperatures were lower than usual so the time outside was pleasant. “Typically we’re there strug-

TRACK AND FIELD RESULTS

(placements are in divisions, not overall)

Alex Bittle — first in shot put, first in 4x100 meter relay

Jeffrey Crawley — first in 5K run, second in shot put, first in the 4x100m relay

Calvin Curry — second in 200m walk, second in the 400m walk, first in the 4x100 walk relay

Tom Dunahm — first in 1500m walk, first in the 4x100 walk relay, third in the softball throw

Ronnie Ficklin — first in 50m walk, third in the softball throw

Ricky Glatiotis — first in 200m walk, first in the 400m walk

Tony Haus — fourth in 100m walk, first in the 4x100m walk relay, first in the softball throw

Johnny Iniego — first in 10k run, second in the 400m run, first in the 4x100m relay

Angela Lee — fourth in 100m walk, first in the 4x100 walk relay, first in shot put

Donnie Schneider — second in 100m walk, third in 200m walk, fourth in 100m walk

Mark Tredway — fourth in 100m walk, first in 4x100m relay, first in shot put

gling to get shade and water for everyone but it wasn’t too bad,” he said. “Everyone was really excited and supportive of one another. All in all it was an amazing weekend. ”

Gunnison gymnasts take top spots in Silverthorne

The Gunnison Rec Center gymnastics team traveled to Silverthorne on Saturday, June 24, to compete in the second-to-last meet of the season. The team performed well across the board, notching podium placements in both the compulsory and optional divisions. The entire team qualified for one ot more events at the state meet which is set for June 22-23 in Broomfield. The gymnasts will compete again on Friday, June 30 in Commerce City.

(Jacob Spetzler can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or jacob@gunnisontimes.com.)

The Six Points athletes and coaches pose for a group photo with a team banner.

Courtesy Brian Smith and Jennifer Zeikus/Six Points Evaluation and Training, Inc.

Courtesy Sam Denham

ELDER BEAT

Upcoming eventS

• June 30 – Social Hour & Community Meal! Social Hour @ 4 p.m.; Dinner @ 5 p.m. $5.00 for members; $10 for non-members. Featuring a Taco Bar from Palisades Restaurant. RSVPs Required!!

• July 6: Hike – Gunsight Connector/North Lupine Loop. Rated Easy +. RSVP Required! This is a great hike to do to launch your hiking season! New hikers are required to complete an “Easy” hike before signing up

• July 11: Hike – Deer Creek Trail. Rated Easy +/Intermediate (length and elevation). RSVP Required!

• July 12 (12:45p.m.): Medicare & You. Come learn all about Medicare and your options! Led by Region 10 Medicare advisors. Please RSVP for planning purposes.

• July 18: Hike – Scarp’s Ridge. Rated Intermediate (high elevation). RSVP Required!

• July 20 (Morning): Tour of Lost Miner Ranch & Equestrian Center. This tour includes a petting pen with all your favorite ranch animals! RSVPs required for planning purposes. Transportation provided.

FITNESS at THE REC CENTER -

SIGN UP AT THE REC CENTER FRONT DESK!

Mondays & Wednesdays in the Gym

- Silver Sneakers Boom Muscle @ 9:30 a.m.

- Silver Sneakers Classic @ 10:15 a.m.

NOTE: Splash class will resume as soon as possible!

SENIOR MEALS -

NEXT WEEK’S MENU:

Weds., June 28 – Picnic on the Lawn! Advanced orders required. Burgers & Brats on the grill

Fri., June 30: NEW Menu Item – Stir Fry! Chicken & veggies, rice, salad

Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays – 11:30 a.m. arrival. Pick-ups from 11 – 11:15 a.m. $5 per meal.

Advance orders encouraged: 970-641-8272. Homemade desserts with every meal!

AT THE SENIOR CENTER 200 E. SPENCER AVE. ALL SENIOR CENTER PROGRAM INFO & RSVPS: EGILLIS@GUNNISONCO.GOV OR 970-641-8272.

Regular Activities

Mondays –Computer Use (9 a.m.), Bridge (1 p.m.); 2nd & 4th

Tuesdays @ 2pm: Canasta; Wednesdays – Book Club (1st Wednesday); Thursdays –Bridge (1 p.m.); Fridays – Art Club (12:30 p.m.), Mahjong (1 p.m.)

All Senior Center Program info & RSVPs: egillis@gunnisonco.gov or 970-641-8272.

A little maintenance goes a long way

Tips for getting better mileage this summer

Although fuel prices have come down this summer compared to the record highs seen in 2022, the cost of a gallon of gas is still enough to put pressure on tight household budgets. Inflation in other sectors of the consumer economy makes it more important than ever for people — especially those on a fixed income — to save where they can.

That doesn’t mean it’s necessary to purchase a more fuel-efficient vehicle. Properly maintaining the one you have will have a noticeable positive impact on fuel economy. Here are a few simple and inexpensive tips for getting the most out of every gallon of gas.

Inflate tires properly. According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), each decrease in tire pressure of 1 pound per square inch in all four tires can decrease fuel economy by 0.2%. By keeping tires properly inflated, the

Gunnison Senior Center Calendar, Savvy Advice & More!

average driver can improve gas mileage by as much as 3%. Drivers should consult their tire manufacturer’s specifications for proper tire pressure.

Use recommended motor oil. Engines require the right blend of products to work efficiently. The DOE says drivers can improve gas mileage by 1 to 2% simply by using the recommended grade of motor oil. In addition, look for motor oils that include “Energy Conserving” on the label.

Change the air filter. According to experts, an engine’s ability to produce power is directly related to its ability to draw in air. A clean air fi lter assists with that function, whereas a dirty filter will reduce engine power and fuel efficiency.

Get a tune-up. Additional mechanical issues may affect vehicle performance and lead to excessive fuel consumption.

A mechanic can run diagnostics on the vehicle and make recommendations on things to repair or replace, such as spark plugs, ignition coils or faulty oxygen sensors.

Treat fuel occasionally. Debris and moisture in the fuel tank

can compromise combustion and impact performance. A fuel treatment product can clean out debris and dry up moisture to restore function and improve miles per gallon.

Use the air conditioning sparingly. The air conditioning unit in a vehicle uses power directly from the motor of the car. This means the vehicle consumes extra gas to keep the AC unit running, thereby reducing fuel efficiency. Remove excess cargo. Clear the trunk or cargo area of extra items that can weigh down the vehicle, requiring more power to move it. Any heavy load will negatively affect mileage.

Keeping a vehicle in top form can improve fuel economy, which can be especially beneficial in a time marked by soaring fuel costs.

Investing a little time each month to keep your car in good shape can make a real financial diff erence. Every little bit adds up.

(Source: Metro Creative.)

Unique family vacation ideas

Summer is the unofficial season of vacations, especially for families. School is not in session in summer, and kids’ often busy schedules may grind to a halt in summer, when sports leagues, dance classes and other activities go on hiatus.

School closures and a largely empty obligation schedule makes summer a great time for families to go on vacation.

Traditional vacation hotspots like adventure parks and resorts merit consideration, but the following are some unique family vacation ideas that can help parents and their children make lasting memories.

Ballpark tour. For families that love baseball, a summer ballpark tour can be a truly unique experience. Whether families prefer Major League Baseball and its large ballparks or the more intimate settings at minor league stadiums, there’s no shortage of options on a ballpark tour. Both MLB and minor league stadiums tend to be located in large or mid-size cities, which means there’s plenty to do in between games as well.

Camper/RV trip. A family vacation in a camper or RV is a cozy way for families to bond as they vacation at their own pace. National parks across the U.S. make for ideal places to visit when touring each country in a camper or RV. But there’s really no limit to the experiences families can enjoy on self-driving trips when their beds are on board for the ride.

History road trip. Historical landmarks dot the North American landscape, making a history road trip a fun way to hit the road and learn a little something along the way. American history buffs have no shortage of historic sites to see, regardless of which region of the country they plan to visit or which period of history most intrigues them, from

the Revolutionary War to the California Gold Rush to the American Civil War and more. Urban tours. One of the joys of visiting Europe is the chance to travel from city to city without spending too much time in the car or on the train between

stops. Though North America might be more spread out, families can still tour various urban locales in a single vacation. Parents can pick a region of the country (such as the northeastern U.S.) and then plan road trips that enable them to visit

different cities in that area over the course of a couple of weeks. Make an effort to try the foods each city is known for and visit a local landmark, making sure to leave time to walk around so everyone can get a feel for what a day in each city is like.

Family vacations can be as unique as the individuals taking them.

(Source: Metro Creative.)

Metro Creative

Healthier grilling this holiday

Summer is synonymous with family vacations and relaxing days outdoors. For foodies, perhaps nothing evokes the spirit of summer more effectively than grilled foods.

Grilling is a beloved tradition, but it’s not necessarily the healthiest way to eat. Traditional backyard barbecue fare like hot dogs and hamburgers likely won’t make physicians’ hearts flutter, but there are ways to enjoy the flavor of grilling without compromising a nutritious diet.

Here are some suggestions for making that happen.

Replace burgers and hot dogs with healthy proteins. The occasional hamburger or hot dog won’t do much damage, but people who regularly grill should skip these summertime staples and replace them with healthy proteins. The American Heart Association reports that fish and skinless chicken breasts are healthy alternatives to hamburgers and hot dogs. Burger devotees can still enjoy their go-to grilled food, but

replace ground beef with lean ground poultry, which contains less saturated fat than red meat. Avoid overdoing it. Most people have overindulged at a backyard barbecue at one point or another. The relaxed, partylike atmosphere of the backyard barbecue makes it easy to snack on chips and other unhealthy fare before moving on to burgers and hot dogs. Hosts can do guests a favor by replacing snacks and sides like chips and potato salad with healthier alternatives like celery, fruit salad or chickpea salad. Keep portions of grilled fare as close to a healthy size as possible. The

AHA notes that a healthy portion of meat is around 3 ounces and no more than 6 ounces.

Create a salt-free rub. There’s no denying salt makes food more flavorful. But that flavor comes at a high cost. Health care experts note that excessive amounts of salt can contribute to infl ammation from fl uid retention and increase a person’s risk for hypertension, or high blood pressure. Salt may

be a go-to for many grilling enthusiasts, but it doesn’t have to be. A salt-free rub made with chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, and/or other spices is an effective and salt-free way to add flavor to meat, chicken and fish.

Grill more vegetables. Grilled vegetables, whether they’re part of kebabs or simply grilled alongside the main course, add significant flavor and provide all the health benefits of veggies cooked in more traditional ways. The AHA notes that coating vegetables in a healthy oil like olive oil makes it easy to grill them directly over an open flame without sticking. Cooking in this way imparts that signature smoky, grilled flavor to vegetables.

Th is summer, grilling can be as healthy as it is flavorful. All it takes is a few simple strategies to make the menu at your next backyard barbecue one any doctor would love.

(Source: Metro Creative.)

Mojito fish steaks

Grilling season presents ample opportunities to explore new culinary horizons. Just about anything that can be cooked indoors also can be prepared outdoors over an open flame. And many foodies insist that grilling produces unique flavors that simply cannot be replicated when cooking via other means.

Individuals looking to stray from grilling season staples like hot dogs and hamburgers can try this recipe for “Mojito Fish Steaks” courtesy of Andrew Schloss’ “Cooking Slow: Recipes for Slowing Down and Cooking More” (Chronicle Books).

Mojito Fish Steaks

Makes 4 servings

4 fir m-fleshed fish steaks, such as salmon, swordfish,

kingfish, or sable, each 6 to 8 ounces, about 3⁄4-inch thick

2 Tbsp. olive oil, plus more for brushing

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Mojito Mop:

3 Tbsp. light rum

Juice and finely grated zest of

1 large lime

1 Tbsp. canola oil

1 tsp hot-pepper sauce

1 Tbsp. sugar

4 Tbsp.chopped fresh mint leaves

Light a grill for indirect low heat, about 200 degrees. If using a charcoal grill, build a small charcoal fi re at one end of the grill. If using a gas grill, set a burner at one end of the grill to medium-low. Put the grill grate on the grill and clean

the grill grate with a wire brush. Coat the fish steaks with 2 Tbsp. of olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Set aside for 5 minutes. Meanwhile, make the mop: In a small bowl, stir together the rum, lime juice, canola oil, hot-pepper sauce, sugar, and 3 Tbsp. of the mint leaves.

Brush the grill grate with olive oil. Put the fish on the grill away from the heat, spoon

1 Tbsp. of the mop over each fish steak, cover the grill, and cook until the fi sh steaks fl ake to gentle pressure, about 1 hour, basting with mop about every 5 minutes.

Serve each fish steak scattered with the remaining chopped mint and the lime zest.

(Source: Metro Creative.)

does, what

is currently working on, what the requirements are to run, and what the position entails. The same information will be presented at both workshops.

Beat the heat with homemade ice cream

Sponsoredby

Ice cream is an indulgence few people can resist. With a vast array of flavors to tempt any palate, ice cream is popular year-round, but particularly so when the mercury rises. Few desserts can cap a hot day better than a few scoops of thick and frosty ice cream.

The supermarket freezer case or a local ice cream shop may offer plenty of ice cream options, but ice cream also can be prepared at home with some patience and quality ingredients. This recipe for “Meyer

Lemon-Buttermilk Ice Cream” marries the chill of ice cream with summer citrus. A Meyer lemon is a hybrid of a lemon and a mandarin orange, offering a unique balance of citrus flavor. Enjoy this recipe, courtesy of “Chocolate Obsession: Confections and Treats to Create and Savor” (Stewart, Tabori & Chang) by Michael Recchiuti & Fran Gage.

Meyer Lemon-Buttermilk

Ice Cream

Makes 1 quart

3⁄4 cup (6 ounces) heavy whipping cream

2⁄3 cup granulated cane sugar, divided into halves

2 Meyer lemons, (1 zested and both juiced to equal 3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice)

1⁄2 Tahitian vanilla bean, split horizontally

1⁄3 cup whole milk

6 extra-large egg yolks

11⁄4 cups (10 ounces) buttermilk, chilled

Stir the cream and 1⁄3 cup of the sugar together in a small saucepan. Finely grate the zest from the lemon into the pan. (The lemon can then be juiced as part of the 3 Tbsp.

specialoutdoorconcert.Ticketsstartat$25 www.bnaibutte.com fordetails

fresh lemon juice.) Scrape the vanilla seeds from the bean into the pan and then add the bean. Bring the cream to a boil over medium heat. Turn off the heat, cover the top of the pan with plastic wrap, and let cool to room temperature. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate overnight.

The next day, strain the cream through a fi ne-mesh sieve and return to the saucepan. Add the milk. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

While the cream mixture is heating, combine the egg yolks and the remaining 1⁄3 cup sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment. Beat on medium-high speed until the mixture is pale and thick and forms a ribbon when the whip is lifted from the bowl, 3 to 5 minutes.

Switch the mixer to low speed. Slowly pour the hot cream mixture into the bowl and beat just until combined. Do not beat to a froth.

Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard coats a spoon and registers 160 degrees on an instant-read thermometer, about 5 minutes.

Pour through the fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the custard overnight.

The next day, add the buttermilk and lemon juice to the custard and stir to mix. Churn the custard in an ice-cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

(Source: Metro Creative.)

A capital campaign is successfully underway, but we need your help to break ground on the new station! While hoping you never need to dial 911, a new station will dramatically improve response time to emergency calls so GVH Paramedics can provide you, your family, and our community with the best emergency medicine and rescue services available.

Jenny Birnie, Executive Director Gunnison Valley Health Foundation

A sweet goodbye

Kay Walker and Charlie Ashe made a card for Johnny Pierce while their parents played in a town league softball game on Tuesday, June 27. It was Pierce’s last game before moving to Oregon to work for an organization called Youth With a Mission.

Jacob Spetzler