Gunnison Country Times, January 18, 2024 by Alan Wartes Media

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Gunnison’s first sober living house opens Offers rooms for up to nine residents in recovery Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Last week, Mary Beth Kelley stooped down on the hardwood floor, rubbing polyurethane into original oak, concealed for decades beneath a carpet. Around her was a flurry of friends from church and county employees, who spent many 10-hour days painting walls and moving furniture to bring Gunnison’s first-ever sober living house to life. Sober living A6

RACE YOU TO THE BOTTOM: Picking up speed on his sled, Joey Martinez took advantage of the fresh snow in Gunnison on Monday, Jan. 15. Only a few locals braved the wind on the slopes of the “green monster,” the hill behind Western Colorado University’s football field. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

INSIDE

RTA bus ridership hits new records

NEWS: Winter grooming underway at Hartmans, A4

Board to draft new operating plan in 2024

TODAY

COMMUNITY: Men who don’t pray for snow, B1

SPORTS: Titans dominate league rivals, B4

OBITUARIES A3 OPINION A4 CLASSIFIEDS A15-A18 SPORTS B4

Bella Biondini Times Editor

The number of visitors and residents choosing to take the Rural Transportation Authority (RTA) free commuter buses soared in 2023. As the program’s popularity continues to grow, the organization is preparing to update its operating plan for the first

time since 2017. The project, which will take most of 2024, will re-evaluate the Gunnison Valley’s transit needs and finetune existing bus schedules and routes. Executive Director Scott Truex gave the RTA board of directors a bus service update during a regular meeting on

Friday, Jan. 12. In December, RTA buses carried 44,000 passengers, a new record for the month. Over the course of 2023, the RTA carried close to 330,000 people, up 31% from 2022. RTA A7

Ballesteros first Cora woman to serve on Gunnison city council Vows to represent youth, Indigenous and Hispanic communities

ONLINE GUNNISONTIMES.COM

Bella Biondini Times Editor

Marisela Ballesteros grew up like many children in the Gunnison Valley, with her hands buried in the dirt and a curiosity to know the land and its people. At the time, there weren’t many Hispanic families in Gunnison, and they

became close to each other. But at school, skin color didn’t seem to matter, and her class welcomed newcomers with excitement, she said. As she got older, Ballesteros learned how to adapt to the American lifestyle, while also safeguarding her Cora heritage. She embraced the opportunities that came with citizenship,

2024 HOMES AND GARDENS is around the corner! GET YOUR ADS IN NOW!

if you’d like to get an ad into the homes and gardens, contact Steve nunn by NOON 2/16 at admanager@gunnisontimes.com OR 970.641.1414

something her parents worked hard to give their children after they immigrated to the United States. Gunnison is home to a large number of Indigenous Cora people, who have come to the Western Slope from the Nayarit state in central Mexico. Now Ballesteros A9

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PAGE 30

Rocky’s Gym:

THE TRANSFORMATION

BACKYARD CHICKENS

KOREAN FARMING

PATIO PROJECTS

RENOVATING WITH KIDS

A2 • NEWS • Thursday, January 18, 2024

QUOTE

of the week “It’s like a little window that people feel safe looking at, and looking through. Theater is more accessible and digestible.” — Heather Hughes, Gunnison Valley Theatre Festival

See story on A8

BRIEFS Water grant program open The Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District is accepting applications for its annual grant program until 5 p.m. on Feb. 15. The district has allocated $300,000 in its 2024 budget for projects that will enhance water supply, improve stream and irrigation conditions, conserve water, provide water education benefits and restore wetlands. All applicants are required to provide a 50% cost match and have shovel ready projects. For more information, visit ugrwcd. org/grant-funding/.

Winter storm scrambles airport schedule After only one roundtrip flight cancellation since November, last weekend’s winter storm added four additional canceled arrivals into Gunnison Crested-Butte Regional Airport. One of those was diverted to Grand Junction and those passengers were bused. Most of the cancellations and diversions occurred over the weekend and into Monday. Significant delays in Denver (hundreds of flight cancellations), Dallas Fort Worth and Houston, complicated the schedule at the Gunnison airport. All three airline carriers that fly into Gunnison airport also also dealt with crew-related delays when staff got stuck in the wrong cities.

Commissioners expedite EMS funding Gunnison County Commissioners approved $1.4 million for Gunnison Valley H e a l t h’s n e w E m e r g e n c y Medical Services (EMS) building. In 2022, the board committed $2 million over 10 years, but agreed at a meeting on Jan. 16 to expedite the rest of the funding into a single payout this year. The new building is located 1200 N. Colorado St., one block from Hwy. 135. It will serve paramedics by offering sleeping quarters, storage space and kitchen facilities. It is also expected to reduce the crews’ response times to emergencies.

Gunnison Country Times

MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE WATER TREATMENT PLANT WHERE DOES MY DRINKING WATER COME FROM? The source of drinking water in the City of Gunnison water currently comes from an alluvial aquifer of the Gunnison River. This means below the surface is a water-bearing deposit of sand and gravel left behind by the river. The City has water rights for multiple wells that pump groundwater from the aquifer.

ARE MY RATES GOING UP? HOW WILL THE CITY PAY FOR THIS PROJECT? Yes. In 2022, the City Council approved an initial increase to water user rates of 25% for three years. That said, before making substantial investments in equipment or construction, the City will be conducting a comprehensive rate study in 2024 to ensure that future rate increases remain responsible. City Council WHY DOES OUR COMMUNITY NEED A WATER recognizes that many in our community struggle to TREATMENT PLANT? Our community needs new water system infrastructure pay utility bills at the current rates. Public hearings and multiple notices will be provided prior to any rate to meet regulatory requirements that ensure safe increases. drinking water. Technically, the City is not currently in violation, but the City knows that our aquifer is IS THE NEED FOR A NEW FACILITY BECAUSE OF influenced by what happens on the surface and that means more advanced treatment is required to address GUNNISON RISING OR OTHER DEVELOPMENTS? No. The new facility is primarily needed to comply potential contaminates. This is not optional. To with regulations that require additional treatment of date, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has not placed the City on notice; however, source water. The facility is being designed to be easily scalable for future growth. when it does, the City will have 18 months to provide additional treatment measures. These laws are based MORE INFORMATION TO COME: As this project upon science and ensure our community has quality drinking water for years to come. Events like wildfires progresses the City will continue to share information with the community in monthly articles, the News or chemical spills and even pesticides can negatively impact our water sources. To protect the public’s health, section of our website at gunnisonco.gov/News, and at City Council meetings. City Council agendas are posted it is critical that our community has multiple ways to at gunnisonco.gov/Council, the Friday before Council adapt to unknowns and changes. meetings and on facebook.com/CityofGunnison the Monday before Council meetings. IS THE WATER SAFE TO DRINK? Yes. The federal government regulates the safety of all public drinking water systems. The state is responsible for verifying that the City complies with state and federal laws. The laws are in place to protect consumers from contamination that ultimately could have an effect on health and safety. The City regularly tests for a long list of contaminants and monitors to ensure that levels do not exceed allowable amounts. At a minimum, this data is reported to the state monthly and to the public annually. Be sure to read our Consumer Confidence Report. HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST? The total upfront costs of all near-term priorities currently exceed $50 million, including new water supply, piping, and a water treatment plant. This is an initial estimated cost, and the City is actively working to bring these costs down where possible by ensuring that the City responsibly phases the project and identifying innovative technical solutions.

Facebook: facebook.com/CityofGunnison

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WATERFRONT BUILDING SITE to build your new home! Two lots totaling 1.78 acres. Great opportunity to own on the Gunnison River, hidden between the trees & close to the White Water Park. Level building site with mature trees and still close to downtown conveniences. 350 Rio Vista Road; $400,000.

SCHEDULE A SHOWING 2800sf home at the end of the Ohio Creek valley sits on 40 acres with Carbon Creek running through the acreage. Custom home & garage offer in-floor heat, 3 bdrm/3 bath, south facing windows with incredible views and a 4 car garage with work space & a walk-in cooler. 3750 County Road 737; $2,500,000.

3 HOMES TOTAL Investment opportunity in town where each home is 2 bdrm/1 bath & tenants pay utilities. Located near the airport and fairgrounds. 314 S. 12th St; $950,000.

COMFORTABLE & COZY 1 bdrm/1 bath home in Pitkin sits on 4 lots & offers willows for privacy & an aspen forest out front. Two woodsheds & outbuilding at this quiet & peaceful end of the road location. 10 State Street; $355,000.

READY TO BUILD lot located 3 miles west of town features a county sewer tap with electric and well installed. No HOA dues. 104 Phyllis Lane; $180,000.

40 ACRE PARCEL close to the city limits of Gunnison. Features include two permitted commercial wells, southern exposure making for possible solar arrays and green energy with endless development possibilities. Crest View Drive; $3,000,000.

40 ACRE historic parcel is the town site of Sherrod and part of the Sherrod Loop on the Alpine Tunnel Loop past Pitkin, just before Hancock Pass. Sherrod was known for its rich silver lodes in the surrounding mountains. Great 4x4 country. 7800 Forest Service Road 839; $215,000.

R-3 LOTS 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.; $297,000.

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Thursday, January 18, 2024 • NEWS • A3

Gunnison Country Times

OBITUARIES Arthur Lee McIntire

Arthur Lee “Art” McIntire, age 64, passed away on Jan. 3, 2024 following a long journey with illness. Art was born Feb. 25, 1959, in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was the first of four and the only boy born to Dean Perry McIntire of Livermore, Colorado and Laura Lee McIntire, who preceded him in death. After leaving Salt Lake City at a young age, Art’s parents moved him to Gunnison for a brief stint and then to Haden, Colorado, where his favorite sister and new, built-in best friend, Laurie, was born. Not long after Laurie was born, Art’s parents moved them to Laramie, Wyoming for a brief stint and

then to Colorado Springs, where he welcomed his two younger sisters, Joddie and Kristi. Art’s parents then moved the family to Ugene, Oregon for nine years and then to Bend Oregon for five. In the five years that Art was in Bend, he graduated from high school and met the love of his life and soulmate, Tami Wormington. After marrying Tami on Jan. 19, 1980, they moved back to Gunnison in 1981 to be closer to Art’s family. On April 10, 1986, Art and Tami welcomed their only child, Jay Jasper Perry McIntire, into the world. For several years Art was a housekeeper at the Gunnison hospital and did other janitorial jobs around the Gunnison area. He then became too ill to work and went on disability. After that, Art enjoyed watching Nascar races, college and NFL football games and spending time with his family. In 2014, Art and Tami relocate d to Grand Junction, Colorado, where he spent the last years of his life. In his time in Grand Junction, Art welcomed his grandson, Jaxson, in 2014 and his granddaughter, Alannah “Lala”, in 2017. In those

final years of his life, he was a devoted papa to his grandchildren, who could do no wrong in his eyes and who he would move the world for if he could. In his final days, he was given amazing care by the Hopewest Hospice team. Art was a devoted and very caring brother to his three sisters, who he loved even when they annoyed the piss out of him. Art was an amazing and wonderful husband, father, father-in-law, papa, brother and son. Art is preceded in death by his mother, Laura Lee McIntire, his grandparents and several aunts, uncles and cousins. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Tami McIntire, of Grand Junction, son, Jay (Avery, Jaxson and Alannah) McIntire, of Grand Junction, father, Dean (Argelis) McIntire of Livermore, sisters, Laurie Kitsmiller of Buckeye, Arizona, Joddie (Les) Partch, of Mesa, Arizona, Kristi (Kelly) Medina of Gunnison, aunt Connie, cousin Tara and several nephews and nieces. No services will be held at this time. In Lieu of flowers, please consider donating to HopeWest Hospice Care Center.

Halloway, all of Colorado, as well as his sister, Evangeline LaRae Case, age 7. Everest was the first baby born at Gunnison Valley Health Hospital in 2024!

of Gunnison on Dec. 22, 2023 at 5:32 p.m. He weighed 5 lbs., 13 oz. and measured 19 in. long at birth. He is welcomed by his grandparents, Kevin Coblentz of Gunnison, Megan Croninger of Lake Kiowa, Texas and Joseph and Valerie Luoma of Riverdale, Utah, greatgrandparents, Sally and Alvin Coblentz of Gunnison, and his siblings, Piper Coblentz, age 11 and Asher Coblentz, age 9, and Aedin Alvey, age 9, and Jameson Alvey, age 5.

BIRTHS Everest Wylder Calkins

Koda Sky Coblentz

Everest Wylder Calkins was born to Cass and Shane Calkins of Gunnison on Jan. 7, 2024 at 7:02 a.m. He weighed 6 lbs., 12 oz. and measured 20 in. long at birth. He is welcomed by his grandparents, Glenn and Leila Calkins and Charles

Koda Sky Coblentz was born to Kylee and Kodie Coblentz

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ALANWARTESMEDIA

Publisher/Owner Alan Wartes publisher@gunnisontimes.com Office Manager Bonnie Gollhofer bonnie@gunnisontimes.com Editor Bella Biondini bella@gunnisontimes.com Staff Writer Abby Harrison abby@gunnisontimes.com Photo Editor Mariel Wiley mariel@gunnisontimes.com Sports Editor Alex McCrindle alex@gunnisontimes.com Advertising Manager Steve Nunn steve@gunnisontimes.com Advertising Assistant Issa Forrest issa@gunnisontimes.com Production Manager Stefan Scott Stefan@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

OPINION

Quartz Creek properties meadow road article Editor: I was recently contacted and interviewed by Abby Harrison of the Gunnison Country Times for the above referenced article. Not only was Abby very thorough and professional in her interview, but she also followed up with her research and wrote a very accurate and thorough article. It is refreshing to know that there are a few (very few) good journalists left and publishers who strive to report factual, unbiased news. Abby and your newspaper are certainly among that few. Thank you! Dave Denison Pitkin

The meat of the matter Editor: I am writing in response to Teresa Golden’s recent admon-

ishment of meat, “Truth to humanity.” In the letter, the writer claims “Truth” in her arguments based upon “the creation story” and references to other religious writings. This is the height of self-righteousness and virtue signaling that has become so common today. Regarding “Truths.” In 2017, in Indonesia, one of the oldest cave paintings in the world was discovered. Daubed in red pigment is a scene showing human figures with spears attacking wild boars and bison. I’m guessing this depicts the acquisition of food. It is at least 44,000 years old, long before men started writing down their “beliefs.” Anthropologists have long contended that the introduction of meat into the human diet accelerated brain development and so the ability to think and adapt. Leslie Aiello, a paleoanthropologist who co-wrote the widely used text “An Introduction to Human

Evolutionary Anatomy,” also concludes that eating meat made it possible for humans to evolve a larger brain size. The rest of the letter’s diatribe seems to devolve into an emotional rant and name-calling. One of the reasons I live in this valley is the ranching community. Through their regenerative ranching techniques, they are stewards of the environment. As a group, I find them responsible, generous and hard-working. They and their families have been here a lot longer than you or I. Perhaps it’s time to lighten up, or leave. Larry McKinley Gunnison County

Thank you Ginny Editor: I suspect that in every neighborhood there is someone who makes everyone’s life a little bit better, even if they aren’t aware of it.

Our neighborhood lost such a person recently: Ginny Thomas — a gardener, veteran and artist. She was a resident of Mountain View Apartments where her many gardens and “fairy gardens” and hanging baskets — and one year, even a joyously decorated gazebo — brought vibrancy and an invitation to chat for a while. You might have never met her, but I’ll bet that if you drove or walked past Mountain View you saw all that color and surely it brought a smile to your face. Research shows that ties among neighbors, and sharing joy, are important elements in a resilient community. Thank you, Ginny. And thanks to all our neighbors who, maybe not even consciously, are making everyone’s life a little bit better, more connected, happier or more meaningful. Maryo Gard Ewell Gunnison

Powder Chinchilla returns to action With over a foot of new snow to work with, Gunnison Trails started grooming winter trails at Hartman Rocks this week. The road gates are closed and routes will soon be open to fat bikers, snowshoers and Nordic skiers.

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

2023

2023 Member

LETTERS POLICY Letters to the editor must be 500 words or less. We favor local topics and discourage argumentative letters addressed to particular people. If you reference data, please include sources for fact-checking. We will not print letters from candidates for public office. Email letters to editor@gunnisontimes.com or send to 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, CO 81230. Include your full name, address and a phone number — for our internal use only. The deadline is Tuesday at 12 p.m. Letters may be edited for grammar, clarity or length. (Courtesy Tim Kugler/Gunnison Trails)

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • NEWS • A5

Gunnison Country Times

New GVH housing coordinator increases occupancy Stribling manages 37 units

bringing dreams home | bbre1.com

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

This past summer, Gunnison Valley Health (GVH) hired its first-ever housing coordinator, Tyler Stribling, who now manages the health system’s 37 units across both ends of the Gunnison Valley. Stribling has already improved overall tenant management and reduced the number of empty rooms, according to GVH executives. Despite a decade-plus of offering employee housing, administrators had long-delegated managing those units to various executives and human resources staff. As GVH bought more homes and entered into master leases, the need for a designated employee became evident, said Vice President of Operations Wade Baker. “We started realizing the logistics of being property managers as well as employers was quite challenging,” Baker said. Stribling is responsible for day-to-day housing coordination, and works with the hospital’s hiring team to help new employees find housing. In just three months, he has increased the number of employees in GVH units, made successful roommate pairings and launched a platform that facilitates the organization’s communication with tenants and rent collections. He was also tasked with filling empty GVH units. Low occupancy can be a persistent complication due to the hospital’s reliance on traveling nurses. Travelers fill critical roles at GVH, but swing in and out of the valley every few days or weeks — layering on a more transient housing need in addition to that of full-time employees. When Stribling started in April of 2023, the hospital only had 12 of its 30 units filled. In just three months, he increased that number to 26. GVH broke into the housing market long before most entities. In 2007, executives closed on the hospital's first two units at the Elk Crest Condos. That purchase was made to house new employees who needed a place to land before finding a permanent home. “We found ourselves in the position where sometimes they'd say, ‘I accepted the offer, but now I'm rescinding it because I couldn't find housing,’” Baker said. But as home prices ballooned and the pandemic increased the hospital’s reliance on traveling nurses, what started as a housing “convenience” grew into a necessity, Baker said. In the last several years, one-tothree month transitional housing leases at the Elk Crest units

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Tyler Stribling, the hospital’s new housing coordinator. (Courtesy Gunnison Valley Health)

have become year-long leases. By 2021, GVH had purchased another eight units at Elk Crest. Since then, the hospital has purchased four units at Lazy-K, two homes in Gunnison and recently finished its seven new apartments at the old Senior Care Center. It leases a countyowned house in Crested Butte, eight units at Paintbrush and five individual leases — bring-

“I have no doubt that [the new coordinator role] is paying for [itself], just in utilization of the units.” Wade Baker Gunnison Valley Health

ing the total to 24 owned and 13 leased. As more units came online, tasks like making sure they were ready for incoming tenants, and that security deposits and rent came in on time, fell by the wayside, as the few staff members responsible for housing were saddled with existing responsibilities around the hospital. Quincy Knight, assistant director of human resources, was involved over a decade ago as GVH drafted a plan to address the issue. Having a clear strategy was non-negotiable, as these projects require the support from housekeeping, facilities, human resources and recruitment, she said. “It just outgrew what each of us were able to piecemeal,” Knight said. Stribling, a Gunnison native and licensed real estate agent,

was hired to fill the gap. He manages an internal housing dashboard that tracks and shares new listings, and implemented an online platform that makes it simple for employees to pay rent and contact Stribling with any issues. “I was looking for something stable, to [increase] my connections here and develop as a real estate person in the area,” Stribling said. “This is a great way to help the community.” Outside of his real estate and business expertise, Stribling brings to the job the necessary skill of people management, Knight said. It’s an addition that has led to better roommate pairings. “Do we really also want to be the person talking to them about the cleanliness of the unit or their ability to pay rent?” she said. “Tyler offers a little more of an honoring separation for the employees.” To date, the hospital has spent approximately $4 million on employee housing, which includes purchasing homes and subsiding rents. But the solution can’t be an unlimited budget for housing, Baker said. In order to keep the majority of its funds available for consistent, quality health care, executives will look to partnerships to move closer to its overall 50-unit goal. Looking back, executives should have hired a housing coordinator sooner, Baker said. “You have those growing pains of not wanting to add more expenses, and then you realize how much money it's actually saving,” he said. “I have no doubt that [the new coordinator role] is paying for [itself ], just in utilization of the units.” (Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

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A6 • NEWS • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Sober living from A1 After years of leading the effort to create a sober living home in Gunnison, Kelley welcomed its first resident just last week. The new home, located in the Palisade neighborhood on the northwest corner of town, offers a supportive environment for men seeking sobriety from drugs and alcohol. Although a local nonprofit will own the communal living space, the day-to-day operation is managed by Oxford House, a sober living organization that has homes across the Western Slope. “I don't think it's a matter of heart or will,” Kelley said. “It’s a matter of the economic situation we're in and the fact that this is a ski community where substance abuse is a serious issue.” For years, the amount of resources available for those in substance abuse recovery has steadily grown in the Gunnison Valley through the work of locals, nonprofits and Gunnison County. Many of those initiatives have coalesced into the

“It’s a little bit of a leap of faith, but everything we’ve done in this project has been a leap of faith, to be honest. And when we needed something, what we needed showed up.” Mary Beth Kelley Gunnison Sanctuary Housing county’s GRASP Consortium, a group devoted to the prevention, treatment, and recovery of substance use disorder. A report from last year, compiled by county employees John Powell and Cole Cooper, revealed that the valley was in desperate need of a sober living home. The valley’s only sober living facility had been New Adam’s House in Crested Butte. But the home, operated by the Oh Be Joyful Church, closed in the early 2000s. The need is clear, as Cooper and Powell estimate that up to 500 people in the valley are in recovery. Now, after years of Narcan distribution (a life-saving drug that stops the effects of an overdose) and community workshops, locals in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction have access to safe and supportive living space. A home for all Oxford Houses are “self-supporting,” democratically-run homes where each resident has an equal voice, said Oxford House’s outreach worker Phil Bohannon. Each person takes

on a different role: managing rent, coordinating chores, facilitating meetings with the regional chapter and interviewing potential roommates. “The sense of community and belonging is where Oxford House flourishes, because the opposite of addiction is connection,” Bohannon said. “People have a lack of connection when they're in their addictions, so getting them involved in the community and making them feel part of something bigger than themselves really helps.” Oxford House welcomes anyone who's working on their recovery from addiction or alcoholism, Bohannon said. They can arrive from treatment centers, from being homeless or simply from another living situation where they didn’t receive enough support. The only requirement is that residents move in sober, pass weekly urine tests coordinated by Oxford House and are in an active recovery program — therapy, intensive outpatient treatment or even a mindfulness program. Although the space can offer a bed to nine people, it’s likely to house between six and eight most of the time, Bohannon said. This way, that ninth bed can be for emergencies. Three have already moved into the upstairs space. The downstairs is still under renovation, but Bohannon is already interviewing potential residents and hopes to fill those beds promptly. Residents can access additional resources from GRASP. The coalition is unable to use its limited budget for capital projects or direct support like offering therapy, but staff can connect people in recovery with resources that exist around the valley, said coordinator Kyle Tibbett. The group also has a small grant pool available for basic needs, or emergency food and housing situations. “More than anything, GRASP is in a supportive role,” Tibbett said. “We're stoked that this is now a resource in our community. It's been a need for such a long time.” A leap of faith For Kelley, the sober living home has been years in the making. She lost her son, Paden Castles Kelley, to an overdose in 2019 after several successful years of sobriety. Since then, she’s devoted much of her life to making sure that other locals struggling with substance use have access to the life-saving resources they need. With help from fellow churchgoer Edward Howard, Kelley started nonprofit Gunnison Sanctuary Housing, which will own the sober living home. What started as a request to her local congregation at Bethany Baptist Church has grown into nearly $120,000 donated to the nonprofit — a combination of support from locals, the church and the Endner Fund, available through the Community Foundation of the Gunnison Valley. Kelley and her husband, Scott, have kept an eye on the market for a little over a year, waiting to see if a suitable home

Gunnison Country Times

Phil Bohannon, Oxford House’s outreach coordinator for the Western Slope, helps prepare the house for its first residents. (Photos by Abby Harrison)

Mary Beth Kelley sorts through odds and ends while volunteers clean the home.

in their price range would go up for sale. But when the house in the Palisades neighborhood appeared, the nonprofit didn’t have enough money to make the purchase. So, Kelley and her husband put a contract on the $515,000 house to secure it until donations caught up. “It's a little bit of a leap of faith, but everything we've done in this project has been a leap of faith, to be honest,” Kelley said. “And when we needed something, what we needed showed up.” Days after purchasing the home, Kelley received a call from the Foundation, informing her that the Endner Fund could fill the gap for a downpayment. The nonprofit now has

enough to cover the cost of the initial purchase, but Kelley and Howard still need to finance ongoing renovations, and eventually pay off the house in cash. That way, rent money may eventually be used to purchase another home in the future. All furniture in the house was either donated, found at a thrift store or purchased for a great deal on Facebook marketplace. For a week, volunteers filtered in and out of the over 60-yearold home, putting art on the walls and adding hangers to closets. “There has been so much tremendous help and outpouring of help and support for this house,” Bohannon said. “It's been amazing. It touched my

heart big time.” Gunnison Sanctuary Housing’s mission includes the goal of providing affordable housing for others in need, whether that be people that are being abused in their current living situation or pregnant women who need a place to stay. Although this home is just for men, Kelley said the goal is to open one for women, as soon as finances allow. To get help or learn more, email Kelley at marybethkelley. cb@gmail.com. (Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • NEWS • A7

Gunnison Country Times

RTA from A1 This winter, the RTA launched its largest bus schedule to date, with 42 daily round trips — compared to 35 last year. Last summer, the board decided to discontinue the “express buses” (which skip the Crested Butte South stop), in exchange for more service during peak commuter times. Last month, approximately 1% of the trips scheduled were canceled due to a lack of available drivers. Riders with the “Transit” app were notified, and another bus typically arrived no more than 15 minutes later, Truex said. Alpine Express reported that bus driver recruitment has been successful with new drivers scheduled to start this week. “Hopefully, we'll have that completely covered from now on,” he said. For real-time updates on bus arrival times and delays, passengers can download the Transit app and sign up for alerts from the RTA. Airport bookings strong headed in 2024 Although not without some delays, 100% of the flights scheduled into the GunnisonCrested Butte Regional (GUC) Airport made successful landings during the month of December. (This quickly changed with the arrival of last weekend’s snow storm). According to the RTA’s airline consultant Bill Tomcich, total passenger counts were the strongest he’d seen since 2005. Even though delays are often out of the airport’s con-

(Photo by Jacob Spetzler)

trol, county commissioner and RTA board member Laura Puckett Daniels asked Tomcich to begin tracking the number of extreme and minor delays to flights headed in and out of the Gunnison Valley. “Sure, 100% completion is a fantastic number,” she said. “But we're also counting 30-hour delays as completions. “I feel like we need to acknowledge that that is a disruption in people's lives.” Airline bookings headed into 2024 are also strong, with January (up 19%), February (11%) and March (16%) pacing well ahead of 2023. This spring, United Airlines, with service from Gunnison to Denver, has extended its second-daily flight to April 8. The airport will move down to one flight a day for about six weeks, through late April to early May. GUC’s summer schedule will begin at the end of May. Planning for the future During the meeting, the RTA board signed an $82,000 contract with consultant Fehr and Peers to develop a new operat-

ing plan for its valley-wide commuter bus service. This process, which will be largely driven by bus riders and the greater community, will start this month. Fehr and Peers will begin by reviewing the valley’s demographics and travel patterns. This will be followed by passenger surveys that will seek specific input on desired bus routes and facilities. The RTA will also use this project as an opportunity to plan for the future by exploring possible locations for a multi-modal transit center and park-and-ride facilities. The roughly 10-month planning process will stretch through the majority of the year, allowing the consultant to collect data during the busy winter and the summer seasons. The work will culminate in a final report that will be reviewed by the board this fall. (Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)

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A8 • NEWS • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Gunnison Country Times

Locals participate in state-wide democracy exercise Conversations will be used to write a play this summer Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

The dictionary definition of “democracy” is as follows, Heather Hughes said, addressing a room of locals in the Gunnison County Library. She glanced down to a ruffled yellow notepad, and recited Webster’s best shot at the popular word. Around her, people from all corners of the community listened in, prepared to offer their own interpretations as the afternoon wore on. The gathering on Saturday, Jan. 13 was coordinated by Heather and husband Stephen Cole Hughes, both theater professors ar Western Colorado University. The conversations will be used as inspiration for a play about democracy in the Gunnison Valley. Locals gathered at the library both days over the weekend to participate. It will be just one of three similar plays put on this summer, as part of a state-wide project to connect disparate communities through theater. The work is a collaboration between three Colorado-based theater companies: Local Theater Company in Boulder, Curious Theatre Company in Denver a n d t h e Gu n n i s o n Va l l e y Theatre Festival, organized each year by the Hughes’. As the disruptions caused by the pandemic subsided, staff at the Local Theater Company began wondering what the next phase of American, and Colorado, theater would look like, said Nick Chase, one of the company’s artistic directors. The company settled on collaboration, with a focus on assembling creative minds from both urban and rural Colorado. With support of a grant from the Redline Contemporary Art Center, the “We the People: The Democracy Cycle” was born. “This summer is going to be slightly fraught for a lot of people, because there's a looming federal election,” Chase said. “We've seen that divide our communities … So how can we communicate in ways that feel constructive, not destructive?” The circles are meant to create an open dialogue about democracy through small group activities, written answers and sticky notes. The goal is to filter out what themes are most prevalent in each place. Participants in each community are given the same set of prompts, the “controlled variable” that will create unity between the final products, Chase said. Throughout January, each company will hold several story circles in their respective cities. At each gathering, a local playwright observes the event and uses the answers and discussion as prompts to write the script for a 20-30 minute play. Once that’s done, each theater

company will bring on a director and actors to bring the concept to life. This summer, the plays will show back-to-back in each respective community, all in the same evening. “ You might see common denominators between the communities, but you're also going to see each community’s unique spirit,” Chase said. Sheltered from the whipping snow and welcomed with cookies, locals gathered for a session on Saturday. School district parents, Western Colorado University staff, longtime writers and even a new school board representative took three hours to grapple with the valley’s most complicated, and sensitive issues. Chase invited the audience to be “soft-brained” about democracy, and consider what it means outside the American binary of Trump or Biden. “These conversations are not fiction, but it's an opportunity to create something that gives an open window. It’s an opportunity to take a peek into each other's lives and find ways that we can talk about who we are, proudly and without shame,” Heather said. While the group talks, playwright Stephen was on scene, furiously scribbling notes as participants responded to prompts like: “What are the sounds of my community,” “I feel most like a local when I do this” and “These are the biggest issues in my community.” At the end of the event, PostIt notes speckled the long white wall. They included what this room full of people considered the greatest issues facing the Gunnison Valley today: affordable housing, mental illness, quality education and a growing wealth disparity. The group debated the responsibility, and effectiveness, of Gunnison’s elected officials, and the ways in which neighbors can take better care of each other. “I’m exhausted and burned out by all things political, and it makes me think about conflict and stress, but I do it out of a sense of obligation,” attendee Karen Hausdoerffer said. “Whereas when I was at this workshop, it was enjoyable, I would have done it just for fun because it was interesting to hear people's thoughts … It doesn't matter if you agree with people. It's just interesting to see what they have to say.” For Heather, using theater to broach real-world issues is a way to talk about them in a more comfortable setting. “It's like a little window that people feel safe looking at, and looking through,” Heather said. “Theater is more accessible and digestible.”

Participants respond to group icebreakers. (Photos by Abby Harrison)

(Left to right) participants Molly Mugglestone, Karen Hausdoerffer and George Sibley discuss a prompt.

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

Heather groups the various answers into themes.

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • NEWS • A9

Gunnison Country Times

market leader Bluebird leads the Gunnison market with the most available listings, the most properties sold and the highest recorded home sale. Marisela Ballesteros officially joined Gunnison City Council in December. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

Ballesteros from A1 serving Gunnison as vice mayor, Ballesteros intends to become a spokesperson for a group that has long been overlooked. Ballesteros, 26 years old, was sworn into office in December. She is Gunnison’s first Cora city council member. Running unopposed, she won 940 votes in November, only falling behind current mayor Diego Plata. Her family, who at first didn’t quite understand why she wanted to run for office, watched with pride as she took her oath at City Hall. As the first Indigenous member of council, Ballesteros hopes to become a role model for both the valley’s young people and others in the Cora community. She said she wants to be highlighted for not only being successful and independent, but for giving back to the community she was raised in. Ballesteros, the oldest of four, was born in Montrose. Shortly thereafter, her parents, both immigrants from Mexico, moved to the Gunnison Valley to work on the Etsy Ranch just three miles north of town. Throughout her youth, her family lived the “typical Hispanic story,” she said, and moved frequently between apartments and mobile homes. She graduated from Gunnison High School in 2015. Afterward, Ballesteros attended cosmetology school and Western Colorado University where she double majored in Spanish and business administration. Today, she is the assistant director of Project Hope, a nonprofit that supports those in the Gunnison Valley who have been affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. Through the years, Ballesteros learned how to blend her family's traditional Cora values with life in the valley. When she was a child, her parents did not allow English in the house, where the family abided by the rule that they speak only the Cora language. This practice served as a reminder to “keep your heritage.” When her mother calls her on the phone, the rule still stands. As the eldest child, Ballesteros was tasked with taking care of her brothers and sister. At a young age, she learned to translate and to manage and serve those around her. “You're not just a child, you

have to be a part of the dream,” she said. “You partake in making sure everybody in the family is stable.” Ballesteros’ parents constantly reminded her that she should not take the rights she has as a citizen for granted. This motivates her to ensure that as Gunnison grows, it is serving all of its residents. The diversity found within the valley is also growing. It has become a home not only to a large number of Hispanics and Cora people, but to Indigenous Maya and Inca people from South America as well. Simultaneously, more people from those backgrounds are stepping into city, county and community leadership positions to communicate these groups’ many needs, Ballesteros said. She has now tasked herself with the responsibility of reducing the barriers the Hispanic and Indigenous communities face on a regular basis. This may be learning a new language, opening a bank account, finding stable housing and overcoming generational trauma — something that is often common within many families. “There's a lot of things that they don't have, we just take for granted,” she said. “I want to make sure they have the [same] opportunities so they will no longer be in that group of ‘need,’ and instead can be part of the help. That’s the transition I want.” During her time on council she plans to represent the valley’s youth and build up the relationship between the city, the school district and Western. “It’s very common to believe that people in their 20s are supposed to struggle,” she said. “How are we supposed to figure out who we are when we can’t even pay rent? That’s not okay.” As a new leader, Ballesteros said she wants the immigrant community to understand the government is here to help. These residents need to know it’s possible to get an education, earn a stable income and have the chance to own a home — the same basic needs as anyone in the valley, she said. “There are so many people that want to help,” she said. “You don't have to be in survival mode anymore. Let's get out of that. What do you want for your life?” (Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)

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A10 • NEWS • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Gunnison Country Times

1203 Van Tuyl Circle, MLS #805249, $769,000, 4-Bedroom 3.25 Bathrooms 1766 sqft built in 2017. This quaint contemporary single family home is surrounded by magnificent views of the Palisades in the quiet neighborhood of Van Tuyl Village. This 4-bedroom 3.25-bathroom property, a primary bedroom with full bathroom on the ground floor and half bedroom by the utility room that is easily accessible by guests and friends when entertaining. The living room is equipped with a pellet stove, moving into an open kitchen area with granite countertops, a deep sink and dining area nearby. The upstairs consists of a second primary bedroom with 3/4 bathroom and two large bedrooms with a full bathroom in the hallway. The natural sunlight from the expansive windows throughout the property provides views and sun exposure. The huge fenced in front yard will enable you to garden and play with your pet(s) and/or entertain your family and friends during the beautiful sunny summers in Gunnison. The irrigation ditch is available during spring/summer/ fall months to water the yard and provide you with ambient noise to enjoy during the pleasant Gunnison evenings. Call the listing agent for further questions and to schedule a showing.

SOLD!

Lawsuits spur BLM to amend management plan

216 Lochleven Lane, MLS #804508, $875,000, 3-Bedroom 2-Bathroom 1,988 sqft, built in

NEW PRICE ADJUSTMENT 1985, and with1.056 acres with attached car garage. Well built home situated in the beautiful

little Homestead Subdivision in Almont. Sit on your large front deck and revel in the views up the East River Valley. Located just 10 min from Gunnison and 20 min from CB, you are centrally located to enjoy the activities the area has to offer from world class fishing, rafting and hiking to snowmobiling and skiing. This 2 story home has its main living area on the top floor with a large open kitchen/ dining living room area with a wood stove that keeps the top floor nice and warm. This area is a great space to gather and entertain as you take in the views surrounding the property. The property also has a sunroom that can be accessed from the second level or has 2 separate entrances from the exterior. There is a 1 car oversized attached garage and located next to the garage is a very large storage room/closet for all of your storage needs. The home has a lot of deck area on the outside for outdoor entertaining or to casually relax and take in the many different views. Almont is a quaint small town with 2 restaurants/bars located within minutes from the property. There is a free bus that runs up and down the valley from Gunnison to CB with a stop located in Almont. 459 Fairway Lane MLS #806172 $850,00 4-bedroom 3-bathroom 2291sqft. built in 1979 This contemporary quaint rustic house is within a profoundly well known subdivision, Dos Rios III. Close vicinity to the back 9 of the Dos Rios Golf Course. On a .46 of an acre, has 4-bedrooms and 3-bathrooms, the house features hardwood/tile floors, kitchen fully equipped with stainless appliances, kitchen cabinets and an open concept living room with a wood burning stove and second living room or/an office has a pellet stove. On the first floor you have a half bathroom that is easily accessible. On the second floor the master suite has an oversized bedroom with a full bathroom and a walk-in closet with a sliding barn door. The other full bathroom is down the hallway between the other two oversized bedrooms. The enormous backyard has a shed and plenty of sun exposure to plant/seed flowers, play with your pets and have get-togethers with friends. The two car garage is attached to the house and is very spacious and heated by a wood burning stove. There is sufficient amount of parking in the driveway and along the east side of the house. This home is magnificent so don’t miss out and schedule a showing by contacting the agent. 413 W New York MLS #805945 2125 sqft 1 bathroom Commercial Retail $525,000 Perfect Opportunity to Move a Business and/or a Start a New Business with great past history of tenants using the retail storefront i.e for nail/salon, daycare, mechanical auto body, pet/animal feed and accessories-retail and granite-retail/distribution to name a few. The property consists of about 1500 sqft of retail space with storefront access to New York and a half bathroom that is easily accessible for staff and customers to use. An added bonus is having an attached garage with about 625 sqft with an overhead garage bay. The garage could be a storage facility or part of business operations. The property has 5 parking spaces and close to Safeway and the new location of 5 Bs. A growing and upcoming neighborhood. Don’t miss this opportunity contact the listing agent to schedule a showing.

71 Caddis Fly Lane - $200,000, MLS# 809269 Nice level 1.07 acre lot with trees located on on dead end road so there is ultimate privacy. Electric to corner of lot and it is with in close walking distance to HOA rental house for owners use. Subdivision located just minutes north of town and includes fishing rights along the Gunnison River and also includes many walking paths throughout the subdivision. Lot A next to this lot is also for sale, now is a great opportunity to pick up 2 lots to create more privacy!

SOLD!

KELLY

MCKINNIS

970.641.4880

MANI

129 EAST TOMICHI AVENUE

GUNNISONREALESTATEANDRENTALS.

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BLM managed lands near the confluence of the San Miguel and Dolores rivers. (Courtesy Maggie Magee/Bureau of Land Management)

Agency will decide where to permit oil and gas development Bella Biondini Times Editor

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public comment on changes to its Uncompahgre Field Office resource management plan, which was adopted in 2020. The plan covers close to 680,000 acres of public lands and nearly 1 million acres of mineral rights in western Colorado — including the northwest portion of Gunnison County. A resource management plan (RMP), which is typically in place for anywhere between 10 to 20 years, dictates how BLM lands are used and what is allowed in certain areas — such as mining, types of recreation and livestock grazing. Local residents often help direct these plans, while state, county and local governments serve as “cooperating agencies.” The scope of the Uncompahgre plan includes public lands in Delta, Gunnison, Mesa, Montrose, Ouray and San Miguel counties. Du r i ng t h e a m e n d m e nt process, the BLM will consider where to allow oil and gas development, how to protect the habitat of the threatened Gunnison sage-grouse and big game species (bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer and pronghorn) and manage public lands with wilderness characteristics. The public comment period ends on Feb. 20, 2024. “G u n n i s o n s a g e - g r o u s e depend on healthy public lands, and expanding fossil fuel development would be deleterious to the health of their public lands habitat,” Sue Navy of

Crested Butte’s High Country Conservation Advocates, said in a press release. “We hope the Bureau of Land Management will listen to the communities affected by this agreement and protect the wildlife and waters that are sustained by this landscape.” The final record of decision and the adoption of the 2020 RMP was challenged by three lawsuits. In the spring of 2022, the agency entered a settlement agreement with the state to initiate two amendments: one for its big game corridor plan, and the second for range-wide Gunnison sage-grouse conservation. This is in addition to two additional lawsuits brought by citizen groups including High Country Conservation Advocates, Center for Biological Diversity, WildEarth Guardians and Western Watershed Project, among others. “The Bureau of Land Management must seriously consider closing these lands to new leasing to protect sensitive resources and local communities, rather than protecting oil and gas industry profits,” Samantha Ruscavage-Barz, legal director at WildEarth Guardians, wrote in a statement. “We will continue pushing the agency to do the right thing for public lands and the climate.” The BLM is hosting two virtual public meetings on Jan. 23 and 24, followed by an open house at the Ute Indian Museum in Montrose on Feb. 1. (Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • NEWS • A11

Gunnison Country Times

Winter blast Gunnison received its first real taste of winter over the weekend, with more than a foot of snow burying town. Jared Denton used a snowblower to clear one of the sidewalks in the VanTuyl neighborhood on Saturday morning.

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A12 • NEWS • Thursday, January 18, 2024

THE CITY OF GUNNISON HAS ARRANGED FOR CHRISTMAS TREES to be picked up for its refuse

customers on Jan. 5th, 19th and Feb. 2nd. Please remove all decorations, lights, nails, and place the tree near your normal refuse pick-up area. City refuse customers and Gunnison County residents, may also take trees to the City Tree Dump (137 County Rd. 51) and set them on the left side of the gate.

Gunnison Country Times

A successful snow dance Over the last week, Crested Butte Mountain Resort received 48 inches of snow, with more on the way. A three-day snowstorm over Martin Luther King Day weekend blanketed the resort in feet of snow, finally giving skiers and snowboarders the powder day and face shots they’d been dreaming of. High Lift, Flatiron, Peel and Forest, along with the North Face, are now open.

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Thursday, January 18, 2024 • NEWS • A13

Gunnison Country Times

Make 2024 prosperous with just a few budget tweaks

Boyd Pederson Special to the Times

‘Tis the season of bloated credit cards and broken budgets. News Year’s resolutions and January gym memberships. Super bowl bets and February regrets. Make 2024 a different year. Pick a habit to replace. Not to break, but replace. Science shows that habits are hard to break if you don’t have something to take their place. If you are looking to replace some financial habits in 2024, here are a few ideas: Want to cut your spending? Use cash envelopes instead of the credit card in the New Year. Dave Ramsey’s research found that we spend 19% less when we spend cash rather than credit, because parting with cash triggers the same chemical release in the brain as physical pain. Spending credit doesn’t register anything. It’s why casinos use chips rather than cash; it feels like a game. I thought it was baloney, too, but I tried it, and it’s true. Google ‘cash envelope system’ for an explanation. Start a savings account for the next holiday season. The best Christmas is the one that doesn’t follow you into the New

Year on January’s credit card statement. Figure out what you spent this year end. Adjust it for next year. Convert it to a monthly savings amount, and save monthly throughout the year for your holiday season expenses. Make a savings goal for an important purchase — whether a home down payment, emergency fund, car, college or opportunity fund. Make a goal and a timeline. Convert it into a monthly savings goal by dividing the target by the number of months in your timeline. If you have a local bank or an internet connection, it is easy to create a savings account and start saving. You can even earn a little interest on the savings these days. Make a retirement savings goal for the New Year. I know: Yawn. Boring! Still, no one beats father time. “I saved too much for retirement,” said no one. Ever. Getting started sooner than later is better. Like better exercise and nutrition, forming better financial habits early puts time and compounding on your side. Start with your employer — do they have a plan? If so, do they match your contributions at all? That is free money just for doing something that is good for you. If you invest $100 , and your employer will match it, that is 100% return on your money on your first day! You cannot match that return anywhere. Eliminate credit card debt. If you have credit card debt, you have to attack it and eliminate it, because it takes away from everything we just discussed. This is actually first in prior-

ity, because the interest savings is better than any investment returns or interest earned on savings and retirement. Every idea discussed will help you with eliminating the credit card debt, starting with the cash envelope system to trim spending, and directing money every month into your short-, midand long-term priorities. If you are like me, I spend whatever money is leftover every month. By paying myself first, I can spend what’s left, because I’ve squirreled away money for the important items first. Budgets are tight today, but we all have silly indulgences that subconsciously add to our monthly spend and eat away our ability to save. Brew coffee at home rather than at the drive through. Do meal prep on the weekend for lunches during the week, and cut out the impulsive lunches out. I quit having a beer every night after work. Make these daily items into weekly items for a while, and see the extra that you have available to reduce debt and start saving. (Boyd along with his wife, Sharalee, share a passion for financial literacy, and have been blessed to raise three children in the Gunnison Valley over the last two decades.)

How much snow? A lot, but not the most

Bruce “Barometer” Bartleson Special to the Times

According to Alantha Garrison of Gunnison County Electric Association, we had 13.6 inches of snow on Sunday, Jan. 14. As we were watching my neighbor shovel for us, he commented, “That’s the most snow in many years, isn’t it?” It turns out that 10-inch snowfalls are uncommon. Going back to 1900, I can only find about 12 storms that produced 10 or more inches of snow. That’s an average of one every 10 years. The last time we had this much snow was on Jan. 6, 2008, when we had 12 inches. We also had back-to-back 10-inch days on Dec. 7 and 8,

2007 — and we had over 2 feet on the ground most of the winter. You might recall that 200708 holds the record for seasonal snowfall of 101.4 inches. Other than that, the last time we had a storm that delivered 10 inches or more was in February of 1989 when we had 11 inches. Many of you old-timers will remember the winter of 1983-84, when legend has it that it snowed for 40 days and 40 nights, starting in October. That’s not quite true, but interestingly enough, it snowed a lot in small amounts again and again, and we had 2 feet on the ground by Christmas and most of the winter. Who can forget the Denver Broncos game on Monday Night Football against the Packers in a driving blizzard? That was fall of 1983. What’s the record? That would be 18 inches that fell on Jan. 7, 1952, during a cluster of snowy winters in the 1950s. A 14-inch storm on Jan. 25, 1956 comes in second place. The other record year of 101.3 inch-

es was in 1955-56. We have had five winters with close to, or above 100 inches, and three of them were in the 1950s. The other 100-inch winter was 1915-16, and there was an 11-inch storm in February of 1916. As you can also see, we used to average 50 inches of snow, and now it has dwindled down to the low 40s. (Bruce Bartleson is a retired Western Colorado University geology professor who now spends his time tracking the Gunnison Valley’s weather.)

A14 • NEWS • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Gunnison Country Times

Western food pantry moves to new location

20% OFF

Western Colorado University’s food pantry, the Mountaineer Marketplace, hosted a grand re-opening with the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 12. Students and staff gathered in the Pinnacles multipurpose room to celebrate the food security milestone. The expanded space, which offers free groceries to students, faculty and staff, features a mural from student Abigail Showman and stickers designed by student Mary Donohue. The marketplace is open Mondays and Thursdays from 12:30-2 p.m.

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(Courtesy Cassondra Grover/Western Colorado University)

THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

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CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT REAL ESTATE RENTALS

A15 A16 A16

LEGALS NOTICES

A16

COMMUNITY CROSSWORD

A16

Classifieds EMPLOYMENT

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 Construction Project Manager Full-time, $83,200-$112,400/yr This is a temporary, full-time position that is anticipated to be renewed annually for technical oversight for a 5-7 year long, $50 million multi-phased design and construction program for the city’s water system improvements project. Police Officer Full-time, $68,900-$93,100/yr $33.13-$44.76/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 of $50,900 while attending the academy. Includes a $15,000 signing bonus. Increased wages over abovelisted salary available for working nights. Personal liability insurance paid by the City of Gunnison. Housing is available. The City of Gunnison offers a competitive benefit package including 75% of medical, dental and vision premiums paid for the employee and their dependents, 5% of gross wages in a retirement plan, 3 weeks of vacation (increasing based on the years of service), 13 paid holidays, and 12 days of sick leave per year. For more information, including complete job descriptions, benefit packages, required job qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCO.gov/HR THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring an HR generalist. This is a full-time, yearround position with medical, retirement and vacation benefits. Salary range is $65$68,000/year. Previous experience in human resources is required. For more information, please email jobs@clubatcrestedbutte. com. To submit a resume, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte.com. THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring the following part-time and full-time seasonal positions: Line cook, $21-$25/hr. + gratuity, server/bartender, $16/hr. + gratuity, host, $16/hr. + gratuity. Employee benefits include employee discounts and ski storage at the base area. For more information or to submit a resume, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte. com or email jobs@clubatcrestedbutte.com.

GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH IS HIRING: Please note this is not a complete list of all our open jobs. You can view all open positions on our website at jobs.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org. Financial Counselor, Customer Service - FT $18.50-$23.12 Cook, Senior Care Center FT $17-$19.55/hour DOE Facilities Tech - FT $21.53-$24.76/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 indepth position descriptions, specific qualification requirements and to apply online: gunnisonvalleyhealth. org/careers/ or call HR for questions 970-641-1456 (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.

GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT See GWSD website for details gunnisonschools.net Gunnison Watershed School District believes that students thrive when they are connected to something bigger than themselves. That’s why we create learning experiences that spark curiosity, helping students discover who they are and how to make a difference in the world around them. As they excel in academics, athletics and the arts, students find the confidence to pursue any opportunity in life. Our team is “Driven to be the Difference!” HOURLY OPPORTUNITIES: ELL-Educational Assistant - GMS Bus Drivers Food Service - CBCS ELL Educational Assistant - CBCS Assistant Building Manager - CBCS Lead Custodian - Lake School Substitute teachers PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES: Counselor - CBES MARBLE CHARTER SCHOOL Marble Charter School Director - (See posting on GWSD website) COACHING: GHS - Speech and Debate GHS - Assistant Girls Basketball Coach CBHS - Assistant Track coach GHS - Assistant Track coach Please contact: Superintendent’s Office JoAnn Klingsmith 800 N. Boulevard 970-641-7760 jklingsmith@gunnisonschools.net

GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Coordinator Juvenile Services: 30 hours/ week, monthly salary range from $5,263-$5,992, plus full benefits. Motor Vehicle/Recording Technician Clerk and Recorder: 40 hours/ week, hourly rate range from $21.82-$24.85, plus full benefits. Administrative Assistant III/ Clerk to the Board of County Commissioners Administration: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,209$4,984, plus full benefits. Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) Administrative Assistant HHS: 5-10 hours/week, hourly rate range from $24.29-$27.65, plus partial benefits. This position is grant funded and will end in April of 2024. Behavioral Health Network Coordinator HHS: 5 hours/week, hourly rate range from $28.64-$32.62, plus partial benefits. Health Navigation Specialist HHS: 10 hours/week, hourly rate range from $27.03-$30.77, plus partial benefits. Administrative Generalist HHS: 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $22.91-$26.08, plus full benefits.

Case Management Aide HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,966-$6,037, plus full benefits. Deputy Chief Financial Officer Finance: 40 hours/week, starting salary range from $100,178$118,618. Full monthly salary grade range from $100,178$141,702, plus full benefits. Caseworker I HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,263-$6,399, plus full benefits. Public Health Nurse II – Substance Abuse Prevention Juvenile Services: 20 hours/ week, hourly rate range from $33.79-$41.08, plus partial benefits. Seasonal Public Works: Guaranteed 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $20.58-$23.43 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. Patrol Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,857$6,669 plus full benefits. Detention Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,263$5,992 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.

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. INFANT TODDLER TEACHERS: Tenderfoot Child and Family Development Center is adding staff members to our infant-toddler team. Both lead and assistant teacher positions available to work with children birth to 3 years old. Part-time and full-time positions with paid time off, free child care and continuing education. $15.42-$21.93/ hour depending on experience. Email tfootdirector@gmail.com or call 970-6421949 for more information. EOE. MOUNTAIN EXPRESS SHOP TECHNICIAN: Join our team! Mountain Express is looking to recruit a shop technician for immediately available shifts. Applicant required to hold a CDL class BP-2 with no air brake restrictions, or we will pay for you to obtain one. Starting wage is $22.60/hr. Health insurance is available based on hours worked. Ski locker benefit. Shop technicians are responsible for daily fueling and cleaning of fleet vehicles and other related tasks at the direction of the shop supervisor. Please contact Leah Petito at lpetito@mtnexp.org to apply and for a complete job description visit mtnexp.org. EOE. HABITAT FOR HUMANITY GUNNISON VALLEY is seeking a construction manager/hands-on builder with experience coordinating subcontractors, ordering materials and working with volunteers.

Thurs.-Sat., May-Oct.. Pay negotiable, based on experience. Send job qualifications to P.O. Box 1295, Gunnison, CO 81230 or for more information call 970-641-1245. CARPENTERS NEEDED: Growing regional, local, Crested Butte born, residential construction company. Excellent pay and benefits. Text 970-765-7414. FOUR DAY/32 HOUR WORK WEEK: CB South Metro District is now accepting applications for a road manager and heavy equipment operator. This position would be responsible for planning, organizing and directing all activities and staff related to the district’s roads and maintenance. Duties include road maintenance, snow removal, drinking water operations, wastewater operations and other day-to-day tasks of running a utility. This job requires the applicant to have motor grader and heavy equipment experience. Applicants must be 18 years of age and have a valid Colorado driver’s license. The successful applicant is eligible to receive an elite benefit package. Full job description, requirements, pay ranges and benefits are available on the district’s website at cbsouthmetro.net. Email resume to info@cbsouthmetro.net or drop off at 280 Cement Creek Road. MOUNTAIN EXPRESS FULL-TIME SERVICE MECHANIC NEEDED: Mountain Express has an immediate opening for a full-time service mechanic. The service mechanic is responsible for the repair and maintenance of fleet vehicles at the direction of the shop supervisor. This position will also maintain shop parts inventory, as well as assist with shop upkeep. A CDL is required for this position, but Mountain Express will provide training to get this certification. This position offers health insurance, life insurance, retirement participation with match, as well as the use of a ski locker at Mountaineer Square. Eligible applicants must be at least 21 years of age and be flexible to fill schedule gaps as needed to ensure year-round mechanic coverage. Annual salary of $55,000 per year based on experience. See full job description by visiting Mountain Express’s website at mtnexp.org/about-mtnexp/employment/. Please submit a resume via email to lpetito@ mtnexp.org. EOE.

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • CLASSIFIEDS • A16

Gunnison Country Times CB FARMER’S MARKET is seeking a reliable, organized and highly motivated individual to fill our market director position. Must be available most Sundays, May 26-Oct. 6, have a vehicle that can tow a small trailer and be physically able to lift/ set-up market tents, tables, etc. Good communication skills are important as you’ll be the main point of contact for all market vendors. It is estimated to be 13 hours/week, with most of that on Sunday. This is a contract position with a $6,650 stipend for the entire season. Email info@ cbfarmersmarket.org for more information or to submit your resume. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OPENING: Gunnison Valley Regional Housing Authority (GVRHA) is seeking an executive director. Primarily operating out of an office in Gunnison, GVRHA is managed by an intergovernmental agreement among the City of Gunnison, Town of Crested Butte, Town of Mt. Crested Butte, and Gunnison County. The executive director reports to a nine-member board of directors and oversees a budget of $900,000 and a team of four staff. Core services include property management, monitoring deed restrictions, overseeing programs such as GV Heat, and consulting with community partners on affordable housing development. This is a great opportunity for a strong manager, creative problem solver and collaborative leader to join a passionate board and community partners in tackling the most important problem facing Gunnison Valley today. Salary range is $115,000-$150,000 annually DOQ and first review is Jan. 28. For more information, visit GMP Consultants at gmphr.com/job-postings/.

HOUSEHOLD & FURNITURE MISC HOUSEHOLD ITEMS: Dressers, large armoire, desks, twin and full beds with antique wood frames, shelves, end tables, upholstered chairs, trunks, wicker, lamps, rugs, old lanterns, wood-crafted kids stools, boxes, rocking horse, keyboard, exercise bike, outside furniture, canoe, gun accessories and more. In CB. Call 970-2755181.

MISCELLANEOUS HESS TOY TRUCKS COLLECTION: 10 plus five small. Various including gasoline, semis, firetruck, airplane and helicopter with hauler, camper, plow tracker, race car. Mid 1990s-2000, great condition, whole set $200. In CB. 970-275-5181. VICTORIAN WOOD DOLLHOUSE: Handcrafted, decorative, painted, three floors, six rooms, 100 items. In CB. Call 970-275-5181.

REAL ESTATE 1 BEDROOM APARTMENT FOR RENT: Utilities included. 970-312-5767. ELK AVENUE OFFICE SPACE: Looking for the ideal office space that combines convenience and charm? Look no further. With a variety of sizes to suit your unique needs, our spaces are conveniently located and affordably priced. Contact Kezia for details. kezia@toadpropertymanagement. com. 970-349-2773. HOME FOR SALE: 1,700 sq. ft. 2020 build. Very accessible single story home in great west Gunnison location. For further details enter 600 Carbon Court, Gunnison, CO into Zillow search and/or contact terravistalimited@gmail.com, 970-4979113.

CLUES ACROSS

1. Microgram 4. Where golfers begin 7. Each 8. Warm weather metropolis 10. Coat with sticky substance 12. Girl’s given name 13. Myth (Spanish) 14. Ultrahigh frequency 16. Former NBAer Jeremy 17. Where rockers work 19. Your consciousness of your own identity 20. Soft-finned fishes 21. Localities 25. Paddle 26. Union 27. Member of religious community 29. Small shrill flute 30. Small

the personal representative or to the District Court of GUNNISON County, Colorado on or before May 9, 2024 or the claims may be forever barred.

PALISADES AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMUNITY

Palisades Apartments is currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Our 2 bedroom, low income apartment community is income-based. You must meet restrictions.

AARON J. HUCKSTEP, ATTY. REG # 39898 ATTORNEY FOR APPLICANT PO BOX 2958 CRESTED BUTTE, CO 81224 Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of January 11, 18, 25, 2024 11891

Our newly renovated 2 bedroom apartments are a must see. Apply in-person at 600 N. Colorado in Gunnison.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of ZETA IRENE GRAHAM, Deceased

We are a no smoking property.

Case Number 2023PR10

For further information please contact us at 970-641-5429 or palisadesmanager@ silva-markham.com

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Gunnison County, Colorado on or before May 11, 2024, or the claims may be forever barred. Kevin M. 2048 Brook Montrose, CO 81403

Legals

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of January 11, 18, 25, 2024

NOTICE OF HEARING

11820

NOTICE OF HEARING BY PUBLICATION PURSUANT TO § 15-10-401, C.R.S. District Court, Gunnison County, Colorado Court Address: 200 W. Virginia Avenue In the Interest of: Andre Swanson Attorney or Party Without Attorney: Tabitha Rich Joshua Hoppstadter 508 S. 12th St. Ste. A. Gunnison, CO 81230 706-455-4000 tabithat2014@gmail.com Case Number: 23PR9 To: Cheree Swanson Last Known Address, if any: Unknown A hearing on guardianship of a minor, guardianship of Andre Swanson, will be held at the following time and location or at a later date to which the hearing may be continued: Time: February 13, 2024 Time: 9 AM Courtroom or Division: B Address: 200 W. Virginia Ave., Gunnison, CO 81230 The hearing will take approximately 60 minutes. Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of January 4, 11, 18, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that upon a vote at a regular meeting the Board of County Commissioners of the County of Gunnison, Colorado on January 16, 2024 have adopted Ordinance No. 21, entitled AN ORDINANCE REPEALING ORDINANCE NO. 4 AND ESTABLISHING THE REGULATION OF VEHICLE PARKING AT THE GUNNISONCRESTED BUTTE REGIONAL AIRPORT as first published as a Public Notice in the December 21, 2023 edition of Gunnison Country Times. A copy of Ordinance No. 21 will also be available on the Gunnison County, Colorado website.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of TERRENCE MICHAEL FOLEY, Deceased Case Number 2023PR30048 All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to

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1. An insane person 2. __ Boothe Luce, American author 3. Buttock muscles 4. Men’s fashion accessory 5. “Hotel California” rockers 6. Electronic communication 8. Magnetomotive force (abbr.) 9. Hostelries 11. A way to resound 14. Exclamation: yuck! 15. A resident of Indiana 18. Exclamation of surprise 19. Make a mistake 20. Boundary 22. Antilles island 23. It’s used to make furniture 24. Clod

Condition of Bidding: Item Condition: The vehicle advertised by the Town of Mt. Crested Butte (the “Town”) for sale by bid is sold AS-IS. The Town shall strive to make its best effort to assist interested parties in obtaining information about the vehicle for sale; however, the Town makes NO warranty of the condition of the vehicle nor accuracy of the vehicle description. Each bidder shall be responsible for verifying condition and accuracy of the item description prior to submitting a bid. The vehicle comes with a Monroe Spreader run by own auxiliary gasoline powered motor and an 11 foot Monroe Plow Blade. The truck is currently exhibiting a loss of power and backfires when or after going downhill. Terms of Sale: The successful bidder shall be provided a written “Notice of Award” within ten (10) days after bid closing date. Successful bidder shall make full payment with cash or a cashier’s check made payable to the Town, and shall arrange to pick up the vehicle within ten (10) days of the Notice of Award. Default of Sale: Vehicle not paid for within the timeline provided shall forfeit their claim to the vehicle and shall not be eligible to bid on future items. If item is not picked up with the timeline provided, payment for the vehicle may be retained, in whole or in part, by the Town for damages. If bidder forfeits claim to bid, the Town may, at its discretion, offer the vehicle to the next highest bidder. To view or test drive the vehicle please contact Bobby Block, Maintenance Supervisor, at bblock@mtcb.colorado. gov or 970-349-6632 ext 114. To see the full bid and bidding instructions please go to our website at www.mtcb.colorado.gov/ departments-services/maintenance Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of January 4, 11, 18, 2024 11751

Dated this 16th day of January, 2024. COUNTY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of January 18, 2024 11956

REQUEST FOR BIDS SEALED

BID

2001

OSH

KOSH

Bidding Item: Vehicle: 2001 Osh Kosh Mileage/Hours: 55,423 miles and 3,946 Hours VIN: 10TBRAF331S070020 Location for Inspection: 911 Gothic Road Mt. Crested Butte, CO 81225 Vehicle may be viewed and test driven prior to submitting a bid. MINIMUM SELLING PRICE:

27. They indicate where places are 28. Bobby __, NHL champ 29. Prints money 31. Honorable title (Turkish) 32. Appetizers 33. Midway between north and northwest 34. Spanish be 35. Breezed through 36. Grilled dishes 37. In a way, excites

CROSSWORD ANSWERS FOR PREVIOUS WEEK

38. Change mind 39. A French abbot 40. Popular candy 44. Partner to cheese 47. Wood or metal bolt 46. Former EU monetary unit 47. Charles S. Dutton sitcom

WATER RESUME DIVISION 5 WATER COURT- DECEMBER 2023 RESUME (This publication can be viewed in its entirety on the Colorado State Judicial website at: www.courts.state.co.us). 11. PURSUANT TO C.R.S., §37-92-302, AS AMENDED, YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT THE FOLLOWING PAGES COMPRISE A RESUME OF THE APPLICATIONS AND AMENDED APPLICATIONS FILED WITH THE WATER CLERK FOR WATER DIVISION 5 DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 2023. The water right claimed by this application may affect in priority any water right claimed or heretofore adjudicated within this division and owners of affected rights must appear to object and protest within the time provided by statute or be forever barred. 23CW3203 (17CW3098; 10CW183; 02CW79) PITKIN COUNTY – ROARING FORK RIVER OR ITS TRIBUTARIES. Ranch Lake 1, LLC, Ranch Lake II, Inc., Ranch Lake IV, LLC, c/o Paul L. Noto, Esq. and Lauren N. Hoover, Esq., Patrick, Miller & Noto, P.C., 229 Midland Ave., Basalt, CO 81621 (970) 920-1030. APPLICATION FOR FINDING OF REASONABLE DILIGENCE: Claim: For Finding of Reasonable Diligence: Names of water rights: Crystal Island Ranch Alluvial Well Field, Crystal Island Ranch Property Well Field, Lower Thomas Ranch Spring, Polo Ditch Augmentation Enlargement, Thomas Feeder Ditch Augmentation Enlargement, Polo Pond Augmentation Enlargement, Lewis Lake Augmentation Enlargement, and Polo Pond No. 2. Original Decree: June 11, 2004, Case No. 02CW79, Division 5 Water Court. Subsequent diligence decrees: April 3, 2011, Case No. 10CW183; December 17, 2017, Case No. 17CW3098. Legal descriptions: A map of all water rights that are the subject of this application is on file with the Court as Exhibit A. Crystal Island Ranch Alluvial Well Field: One or more wells located in portions of the E ½ of Section 22, Township 8 South, Range 88 West of the 6th P.M. (Pitkin County), and limited to the area shown on Exhibit A. The Court decreed this legal description as the changed location of the well field in Case No. 10CW183. The proposed approximate depth of all wells

Colorado Statewide

This notice given and published by the order of the Board of County Commissioners pursuant to C.R.S. § 30-15-405.

The Town of Mt. Crested Butte is accepting sealed bids for the following vehicle until 3pm, February 5, 2024.

11754

constellation in the Milky Way 31. They __ 32. College kid on vacation 39. de Armas and Gasteyer are two 41. Part of the human body 42. A progressive grading 43. Sound unit 44. Noise some birds make 45. Abba __, Israeli politician 46. Portuguese city 48. Be extremely, uncritically fond of 49. Resembling old Norse poems 50. Ask for out of extreme need 51. Sino-Soviet block (abbr.) 52. Midway between south and southeast

Graham Way

$10,000 ALL SALES ARE FINAL AND VEHICLE IS SOLD AS IS.

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A17 • CLASSIFIEDS • Thursday, January 18, 2024 within the well field is between 50 and 100 feet; Crystal Island Ranch Property Well Field: One or more wells located in portions of the E ½ of Section 22, portions of the E ½ of Section 27, and portions of Sections 23 and 26, Township 8 South, Range 88 West of the 6th P.M. (Pitkin County), and limited to the area shown on Exhibit A. The Court decreed this legal description as the changed location of the well field in Case No. 10CW183. The proposed approximate depth of all wells in the well field is between 50 and 150 feet; Lower Thomas Ranch Spring: The NW ¼, SE ¼ of Section 22, Township 8 South, Range 88 West of the 6th P.M., at a point approximately 1,975 feet from the South Section line and 1,450 feet from the East Section line (Pitkin County). The Court decreed this legal description as the changed location of the spring in Case No. 05CW237; Polo Ditch Augmentation Enlargement: The SW ¼, NW ¼ of Section 23, Township 8 South, Range 88 West of the 6th P.M., approximately 1,950 feet from the North Section line and 900 feet from the West Section line (Pitkin County); Thomas Feeder Ditch Augmentation Enlargement: The NW ¼, NE ¼ of Section 26, Township 8 South, Range 88 West of the 6th P.M., approximately 550 feet from the North Section line and 2,450 feet from the East Section line (Pitkin County); Polo Pond Augmentation Enlargement: The NE ¼, SE ¼ of Section 22, Township 8 South, Range 88 West of the 6th P.M., approximately 2,250 feet from the South Section line and 550 feet from the East Section lien (Pitkin County); Lewis Lake Augmentation Enlargement: The SE ¼, SW ¼ of Section 23, Township 8 South, Range 88 West of the 6th P.M., approximately 1,100 feet from the South Section line and 2,000 feet from the West Section line (Pitkin County); Polo Pond No. 2: The SW ¼, NE ¼ of Section 22, Township 8 South, Range 88 West of the 6th P.M., approximately 2,925 feet from the South Section line and 1,700 feet from the East Section line (Pitkin County). The Court decreed this legal description as the changed location of the pond to reflect its actual location in Case No. 05CW237. Sources: Crystal Island Ranch Alluvial Well Field: Alluvium of the Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers; Crystal Island Ranch Property Well Field: Groundwater tributary to the Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers; Lower Thomas Ranch Spring: Spring water tributary to the Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork and Colorado Rivers; Polo Ditch Enlargement, Thomas Feeder Ditch Augmentation Enlargement, Polo Pond Augmentation Enlargement, Lewis Lake Augmentation Enlargement, and Polo Pond No. 2: Thomas Creek, tributary to

Gunnison Country Times

the Crystal, Roaring Fork, and Colorado Rivers. Appropriation Date: September 1, 2001. Amounts: Crystal Island Ranch Alluvial Well Field: 150 g.p.m., conditional; Crystal Island Ranch Property Well Field: 100 g.p.m., conditional; Lower Thomas Ranch Spring: 0.25 c.f.s., conditional for domestic and augmentation uses and for filling Polo Pond No. 2. The Court decreed this water right absolute for 0.25 c.f.s. for irrigation, stock watering, recreation, piscatorial, and aesthetic uses in Case No. 02CW79; Polo Ditch Augmentation Enlargement: 1.0 c.f.s., conditional; Thomas Feeder Ditch Augmentation Enlargement: 1.0 c.f.s., conditional; Polo Pond Augmentation Enlargement: 10 acre-feet, conditional; Lewis Lake Augmentation Enlargement: 10 acre-feet, conditional; Polo Pond No. 2: 10 acre-feet, conditional. Uses: Crystal Island Ranch Alluvial Well Field and Crystal Island Ranch Property Well Field: Domestic and irrigation; Lower Thomas Ranch Spring: Conditional for domestic and augmentation purposes, and for filling Polo Pond No. 2 for subsequent augmentation, piscatorial, and aesthetic purposes, and absolute for irrigation, stock watering, recreation, piscatorial, and aesthetic purposes; Thomas Feeder Ditch Augmentation Enlargement: Filling the Lewis Lake Augmentation Enlargement for subsequent augmentation, piscatorial, and aesthetic purposes; Polo Pond Augmentation Enlargement, Lewis Lake Augmentation Enlargement, and Polo Pond No. 2: Augmentation, piscatorial, and aesthetic. Remark: In Case No. 02CW79, the Court decreed all of the water rights that are the subject of this case as component parts of Applicants’ integrated water supply system under C.R.S. § 37-92-301(4)(b). A detailed outline of the work done to complete the appropriation, including expenditures, is on file with the Court as Exhibit B. Applicants own the land upon which the diversion and storage structures are and will be located, upon which the water will be stored, and upon which the water is and will be put to beneficial use. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT YOU HAVE until the last day of FEBRUARY 2024 to file with the Water Clerk a verified Statement of Opposition setting forth facts as to why this application should not be granted or why it should be granted in part or on certain conditions. A copy of such statement of opposition must also be served upon the applicant or the applicant’s attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service shall be filed with the Water Clerk, as prescribed by Rule 5, CRCP. (Filing Fee: $192.00) KATHY POWERS, Water Clerk, Water Division 5; 109 8th Street, Suite 104 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601.

Bethany Church 909 N Wisconsin St.

(behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144 Two services at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. FREE lunch for college students following the 10:30 a.m. service gunnisonbethany.com 9 a.m.: 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 B’nai Butte Congregation serving the Jewish communities of Crested Butte, Gunnison and the East River Jan. 12, 6 p.m.: Shabbatluck potluck and service. Please bring a generous dish to share. Jan. 13, 10:30-12 p.m.:Kibbitz with the Rabbi @ Rumors Coffee shop, Crested Butte. 5:30 - 7 p.m.: Havdallah service and appetizers. Please bring appetizers or drinks to share. Jan. 14, 11 a.m.: Torah Study Spiritual Leader: Rabbi Mark Kula is available for you at RabbiMarkKula@gmail.com www.bnaibutte.org for additional details and locations

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of January 18, 2024 11925

WATER RESUME DIVISION 5 WATER COURT- DECEMBER 2023 RESUME (This publication can be viewed in its entirety on the Colorado State Judicial website at: www.courts.state.co.us). 30. PURSUANT TO C.R.S., §37-92-302, AS AMENDED, YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT THE FOLLOWING PAGES COMPRISE A RESUME OF THE APPLICATIONS AND AMENDED APPLICATIONS FILED WITH THE WATER CLERK FOR WATER DIVISION 5 DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER 2023. The water right claimed by this application may affect in priority any water right claimed or heretofore adjudicated within this division and owners of affected rights must appear to object and protest within the time provided by statute or be forever barred. 23CW3222 COLORADO DIVISION OF PARKS AND WILDLIFE AND THE PARKS AND WILDLIFE COMMISSION, 6060 Broadway, Denver, CO 80216. Please send all correspondence and inquires regarding this matter to: Elizabeth M. Joyce 720508-6761 and Ema I. G. Schultz 720-5086761, Office of the Attorney General, 1300 Broadway, 7th Floor, Denver, Colorado. APPLICATION FOR ABSOLUTE AND CONDITIONAL WATER STORAGE RIGHTS, in GUNNISON COUNTY. 1. Name, mailing address, e-mail address, and telephone number of Applicant: Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife (“CPW”) Attn: Robert K. Harris Water Resources Section Manager 6060 Broadway, Denver, Colorado 80216; 303-291-7550; robert.harris@ state.co.us 2. Background: The Beaver Lake State Wildlife Area (SWA) consists of approximately 68 acres of fish and wildlife habitat and recreational access near and adjacent to Beaver Lake in Gunnison County. Beaver Lake is an integral part of the Beaver Lake State Wildlife Area. CPW holds a storage right for Beaver Lake in the amount of 72.5 acre feet, originally adjudicated with a priority date of September 8, 1961 in CA5884. Aerial imagery from 1970 shows that the approximate surface area of the lake has been unchanged since the date of adjudication and there have

been no enlargement or dredging efforts in the lake’s history. In 2023, CPW performed a survey of Beaver Lake using updated technology and methodology which revealed that the physical capacity of Beaver Lake is 101.23 acre-feet. This application seeks to adjudicate an enlargement water right for Beaver Lake for the undecreed capacity of Beaver Lake, but does not represent an increase in the physical capacity of Beaver Lake. 3. Claim for new water storage right: Beaver Lake-1st Enlargement A. Name of Structure: Beaver Lake B. Location of Structure: See Exhibit A for location map. i. Legal Description: As originally decreed in CA5884, the initial point of survey of the highwater line of the dike is located at a point whence the Northwest corner of Section Twenty-five (25), Township Eleven (11) South, Range Eighty-eight (88) West of the Sixth Principal Meridian, and bears North 6° 19’ West, a distance of 1753.22 feet. ii. UTM Coordinates: 4326824.0 Northing, 311311.0 Easting, Zone13, NAD 83, estimated from CDSS. C. Source: Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork River, tributary to the Colorado River. D. Appropriation: i. For the absolute water right: a. Appropriation Date: September 8, 1961. b. How appropriation initiated: By filing a map and filing statement, construction of the reservoir, and diverting and storing water in Beaver Lake to its full physical capacity for beneficial use. The surveyed capacity of the lake is 101.23 acre-feet and the existing decreed storage right is 72.5 acre-feet. Based on review of aerial imagery, Beaver Lake has filled to its full physical capacity regularly since the original appropriation. c. Date applied to beneficial use: September 8, 1961. ii. For the conditional water right: a. Appropriation Date: December 29, 2023. b. How appropriation was initiated: By conducting a survey of Beaver Lake, performing internal evaluation of CPW’s augmentation and replacement needs, and filing this application. c. Date applied to beneficial use: n/a; conditional E. Amount: i. 28.73 acre-feet, absolute for uses described in 3.F.i, with the right to refill to keep the lake full when in priority. The original decreed capacity is 72.5 acre-feet, absolute, with the right to refill to keep the lake full when in priority. The 2023 surveyed capacity of the lake is 101.23 acre-feet. See Exhibit B. CPW has diverted the full physical capacity into Beaver Lake regularly since the original adjudication. See Exhibit C. This application does not affect the original decreed amount. ii. 101.23 acre-feet, conditional for uses described in 3.F.ii, with the right to refill. In addition to adjudicating the full physical capacity for the uses decreed in CA5884, this application seeks to add new uses. F. Uses: i. For the absolute water right: fish propagation, waterfowl habitat,

Faith Directory

New Song Christian Fellowship

77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034 A Christ Centered Gospel Sharing Community where we want to be part of a community who encourage and support one another in our spiritual journey. Sunday 10 a.m. / Wednesday 7 p.m. www.newsonggunnison.net

Community Church of Gunnison

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925 Pastor Larry Nelson Christmas Eve Service 7:00 p.m. Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m. Weekend Services 9:30 a.m. Nursery & Age-Graded Ministry Weekly Student Ministry Weekly Adult LifeGroups Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9-4 For more info: ccgunnison.com or email info@ccgunnison.com Join us in-person, listen to our broadcast on 98.3 FM, or view online stream on YouTube Transforming Lives • Building Community

First Baptist Church

120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240 Pastor Jonathan Jones 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 p.m. - Children's Patch Club Gunnison Bible Institute Thursday 7 p.m. - College & Career Christian Fellowship www.firstbaptistgunnison.org.

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.

Trinity Baptist Church

523 N. Pine St. • 970-641-1813 Senior Pastor - Joe Ricks Sunday Service 9:30 a.m. Adult Bible Study 8 a.m. www.trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church 711 N. Main • 970-641-1860 Children’s Christmas Program Sunday, December 17th at 10 AM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7 PM Christmas Day Service at 10 AM

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.

Church in the Barn

8007 County Road 887 Waunita Hot Springs Ranch • 970-641-8741 Sundays, 10:30 a.m. Non Denominational Come as you are

productions of furbearing mammals and other recreational uses. These are the same uses decreed in the original decree. ii. For the conditional water right: Augmentation, replacement, substitution, and use by exchange. Water will be released from storage in Beaver Lake for augmentation on the Crystal River or the Colorado River. CPW can also divert the water right by exchange for use along the Colorado River and its tributaries. Any such use would be pursuant to administrative or judicial authorization. 4. Remarks: Beaver Lake is located upstream of several instream flow reaches decreed to the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) which are junior to CPW’s existing storage right for Beaver Lake. Accordingly, fill and refill to replace evaporation in Beaver Lake under the CA5884 decree are senior to the instream flows based on decreed priority. This application seeks to adjudicate the undecreed capacity that was in existence and use at the time of the original Beaver Lake adjudication. Accordingly, the absolute uses are uses made “pursuant to appropriation or practices in existence” when the instream flows were appropriated, which the instream flow appropriations are subject to under to section 37-92-102(3)(b), C.R.S. CPW intends to seek confirmation of this administration in consultation with CWCB. Because the conditional uses were not part of CPW’s uses at the time of the original adjudication, those will be administered junior to the instream flows. 5. Name of owners of land upon which structures are located: Applicant. WHEREFORE, CPW respectfully requests this Court enter a decree adjudicating the water rights as described herein, and for such other relief as this Court deems just and proper. (4 pages) YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT YOU HAVE until the last day of FEBRUARY 2024 to file with the Water Clerk a verified Statement of Opposition setting forth facts as to why this application should not be granted or why it should be granted in part or on certain conditions. A copy of such statement of opposition must also be served upon the applicant or the applicant’s attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service shall be filed with the Water Clerk, as prescribed by Rule 5, CRCP. (Filing Fee: $192.00) KATHY POWERS, Water Clerk, Water Division 5; 109 8th Street, Suite 104 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601. Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of January 18, 2024 11926

The Rising Church

92 C.R. 17 • 970-444-1545 Service times: Sundays @ 9:30 a.m., Men’s and Women’s group, Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m. Rising Gen (youth ministry) Thursdays @ 6 p.m. Gunnisonrising.church for more details!

Rocky Mountain Christian Ministries

1040 Highway 135 (1/4 mile N. of Spencer Ave.) • 970-641-0158 Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m. 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 5 p.m. & Sun 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. (Spanish) Mass First Sunday of every month bilingual Mass 11 a.m. Queen of All Saints - Crested Butte, 401 Sopris Sun 8:30 a.m. Mass St. Rose of Lima - Lake City Mass Service, Sun. at 10 a.m.

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

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Gunnison Country Times

Lights & Sirens CITY OF GUNNISON POLICE REPORT JAN. 8 FALSE REPORTING TO AUTHORITIES: USE OF A DEADLY WEAPON — 910 W. BIDWELL AVE. WELFARE ASSIST — 600 N. COLORADO ST. ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGE - MUNICIPAL — 403 E. TOMICHI AVE. PROPERTY - FOUND — 902 N. COLORADO ST. IDENTIFICATION CARD - UNLAWFUL USE OF — 500 W. HWY. 50 WELFARE ASSIST — E. TOMICHI AVE. THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 900 N. MAIN ST. TRAFFIC - NPOI — 38000 W. HWY. 50

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION — W. TOMICHI AVE. TRAFFIC - RECKLESS DRIVING — 800 W. OHIO AVE. WELFARE ASSIST — E. TOMICHI AVE.

JAN. 15 JUVENILE PROBLEM — 1099 N. 11TH ST. THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 200 W. TOMICHI AVE. WELFARE ASSIST — ESCALANTE DR. FRAUD - INFORMATION/WIRE — 310 S. 5TH ST. DISORDERLY CONDUCT - COARSE OR OFFENSIVE — 730 N. MAIN ST.

GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT

JAN. 9

JUVENILE PROBLEM — N. COLORADO ST. CRIMINAL ATTEMPT - MUNICIPAL — 118 W. TOMICHI AVE. JUVENILE PROBLEM - RUNAWAY — N. COLORADO ST.

-Traffic infraction report -Agency assist to the Gunnison Police Department finding a missing juvenile

JAN. 10 DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE - ALCOHOL — 100 E. TOMICHI AVE. ACCIDENT — 600 W. TOMICHI AVE. WELFARE ASSIST — N. 14TH ST.

JAN. 11 DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE - ALCOHOL — 300 E. DENVER AVE. WEAPONS VIOLATION: PROHIBITED USE - UNDER INFLUENCE — E. VIRGINIA AVE. HARASSMENT: STRIKE, SHOVE, KICK — 226 N. MAIN ST. ACCIDENT — 600 W. ARTHUR AVE. PROPERTY - FOUND — 900 N. MAIN ST. JUVENILE PROBLEM — N. COLORADO ST.

JAN. 12 WELFARE ASSIST — E. TOMICHI AVE. JUVENILE PROBLEM — E. TOMICHI AVE. NUISANCE CODE VIOLATION — 100 N. 12TH ST. PROPERTY WATCH ACCIDENT — 715 W. GEORGIA AVE. HARASSMENT: REPEATED COMMUNICATIONS — 311 N. 12TH ST. DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE ALCOHOL — 232 W. TOMICHI AVE.

JAN. 13 WELFARE ASSIST — E. TOMICHI AVE. INFORMATION — 600 ESCALANTE DR. ACCIDENT - HIT AND RUN — 400 N. PITKIN ST. IDENTIFICATION CARD - UNLAWFUL POSSESSION OF — 900 N. MAIN ST. ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT — 900 N. MAIN ST. CRIMINAL TRESPASS - MUNICIPAL — 900 N. MAIN ST.

JAN. 14 CRIMINAL TRESPASS - MUNICIPAL — 900 N. MAIN ST.

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • NEWS • A19

GUNNISON SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT MEETING Join us for a school improvement project overview, design update, and Q & A on Wednesday, January 31 from 5:30 – 7 PM at the Gunnison High School cafeteria.

REUNION DE MEJORAS DE LA ESCUELA Únase a nosotros para la revisión del proyecto de mejoras de la escuela, actualización del diseño y preguntas y respuestas, el día miércoles, 31 de enero desde las 5:30 pm hasta las 7:00 pm en la cafetería de la escuela secundaria de Gunnison.

Wednesday, Jan. 31 5:30 - 7 PM Gunnison High School

JAN. 10 -Deputies in Somerset arrested one person for three in-county warrants -Vin check at Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office -Attempted paper service -County resolution 2018-30 - dog at large - taken to Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League and made contact for pick-up with owners -Unattended death

JAN. 11 -Paper service x 4 -Deputies took one person into custody for driving under the influence, obstructing a police officer, resisting arrest, speeding and driving in the center lane where prohibited

JAN. 12 -Harassment report - landlord tenant situation -Trespass report - under investigation

JAN. 13 -Information - possible harassment report -Citation issued for county resolution 2018-30 - dog at large and failure to license -Driving under the influence and failing to display lighted lamps when required arrest

JAN. 14 -Agency assist to the Colorado State Patrol with a single-vehicle car crash -County Resolution 2018-30 - dog at large - citation issued -Deputies arrested one person for an in-county warrant

JAN. 15 -Somerset deputies assisted the CSP with a vehicle crash -County resolution 2018-30 - dog at large report

FAMILY MEDICINE CLINIC

WELCOME TO GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH

DR. WILLIAM GATTIS, MD

Dr. William Gattis, MD is a board-certified family medicine physician. Dr. Gattis attended medical school and completed his family medicine residency at the University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center. Dr. Gattis has extensive experience providing both family and emergency medicine in communities on Colorado’s Western Slope. Recently, he served as the medical director of the Lake City Medical Center. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Gattis, contact: Gunnison Valley Health Family Medicine Clinic | 970-642-8413 WWW.GUNNISONVALLEYHEALTH.ORG

A20 • NEWS • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Gunnison Country Times

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EMERGENCIES

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EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Our Emergency Department (ED) is a fully-staffed eight bed ED which provides emergency care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We have a team approach and direct access to a higher level of care for your emergent needs. CARE BY BOARD CERTIFIED EMERGENCY PHYSICIANS | ACUTE STROKE READY HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT 711 N. TAYLOR | GUNNISON

MOBILE CRISIS SERVICES

Trained mental health clinicians available 24/7 to respond to crisis calls in Gunnison and Hinsdale Counties. Colorado Crisis Services will be the initial point of contact for individuals requesting mobile crisis services.

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COMMUNITY: Skiing for a good cause, B3

PHOTOS: Ice Addiction tournament returns to Blue Mesa, B8

SPORTS: GHS girls basketball back on win column, B4

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2023

The men who don’t pray for snow A driver’s silhouette is visible as the sun begins to rise. (Photos by Bella Biondini)

Plow drivers brave long hours to keep roads safe Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

Gunnison plow driver Chris Hulet rumbled down Teller Street in the early hours of Saturday morning as a massive snowstorm loomed on the horizon. He looked out over the panel, flashing with lights and equipped with knobs, screens and buttons. In 12 hours, the roads would be buried under more than a foot of snow. Hulet grasped the steering wheel with his left hand and lowered the blade with a joystick in his right. The roar of the engine and scraping of the plow bled together as Hulet peeled snow from the road. He circled back, crossing the dark, empty intersection long before locals bustled to life. He drove a Bobtail sanding truck, equipped with a dump bed full of a sand and salt mixture and a massive blade in the front. He twisted one of the knobs to scatter sand behind

the vehicle. After half an hour, the once-buried stretch of road was cleared, and Hulet turned left and continued onto New York Ave. Like many others on the plow crew, when snow starts falling, Hulet endures graveyard shifts, powerful storms and holidays spent away from his family. This year marked the first Christmas in five years he was home. He tries to make every basketball game and birthday party, but there’s little he can do to control the weather. At its core, he says his job as a snowplow driver is to serve the Gunnison community. “My motivation is knowing that I’m making the streets safe for our kids,” Hulet said. “I always think, would cars be able to stop if my kid was crossing the intersection. That’s what keeps me going.” This November, the City of Gunnison changed its plowing policy to reduce driver fatigue and the flashing lights and roar of plows late at night. Now, the driver call-out time is set for 4 a.m., and plows are dispatched after 4 inches of snow, instead of the previous 1 inch. In past years, drivers could get a shift off in the evening and be called back that night for an additional

A grater truck plows a median in the early morning hours on Jan. 13.

12-hour run. “At that rate, our whole crew was shot in two days. It wasn’t sustainable, and it wasn’t safe,” said streets superintendent Jason Kibler. He’s driven plows for more than two decades. Early Saturday morning, only 2 inches had blanketed Gunnison, and Hulet began his day sweeping the roads near Jorgensen Park. He had awoken

at 3 a.m. to dispatch the other four men in the crew. Now, just as the sun peeked over the hills to the east, he could see the ominous clouds approaching. It would be a restless week. The city is armed with seven trucks and five drivers. All of the men work other jobs for public works when not plowing. Hulet works for the Streets and Alleys Department and maintains the

roadways and gutter systems in the warmer months. Wyatt Miller, another plow driver for the city, is an electrical lineman by trade. The drivers all pitch in during the winter, especially during large storms. “We’re just big kids playing with our Tonka Trucks,” Hulet said. “And we’re amateur meteorologists. All of us have Snow plows B2

B2 • ROUNDUP • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Snow plows from B1 over nine weather apps on our phones, and can’t keep our eyes off the forecast.” On Sunday, the skies opened, unleashing an estimated 16 inches of snow in Gunnison. The first significant storm of the season, it sent the drivers into a frenzy. The small crew was all dispatched in the early hours on Sunday morning and worked 12-hour shifts to keep up with the storm. Along with the long hours, heavy workload and little sleep, the drivers also face conflict with homeowners. Kibler said relationships

“We’re just big kids playing with our Tonka Trucks and we’re amateur meteorologists.” Chris Hulet Plow driver between the community and plows always hang by a thread. Tension can build when driveways, vehicles or sidewalks are plowed in. The drivers are trained to clear important drainages, and plow “curb-to-

curb” so streets stay wide. This can lead to towering snow berms in front of houses, or the ruin of freshly shoveled yards and sidewalks. “During big storms, I’ve noticed there’s two types of people,” Hulet said. “There’s those that thank us and bake us cookies along our route. And then there’s people that hate us plowing out in front of our house. I just remind people that, after I finish my day, I have to dig out my own driveway too.” It’s a career that takes grit when the phone starts ringing at 3 a.m. or the snow keeps piling high. Kibler said after 25 years behind the steering wheel, the late nights have worn him thin. “A lot of our younger guys are eager to work overtime,” Kibler said. “Personally, if I didn’t have to work at night anymore, I’d be tickled. I can only ask the community to be patient with us.” After every storm, when the snow stops falling and the sun burns the clouds away, the drivers still must haul away the mountainous snow banks from medians and roadsides. Then, Hulet and the others might get some rest — weather permitting.

Gunnison Country Times

Chris Hulet opens the door to his snowplow.

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

Crew plans out their day, and assigns trucks and routes to the drivers inside Public Works headquarters.

Kibler operates the control panel on a Bobtail sanding truck.

Jason Kibler maneuvers a loader truck ahead of last weekend's storm.

Wyatt Miller, who works as an electrical lineman when not plowing, glances out from his Bobtail truck.

Thursday, January 18, 2024 • ROUNDUP • B3

Gunnison Country Times

Skiing for smiles Friends ski to support childhood cancer patients Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

For lifelong friends Sofija Andrew and Heidi Andringa, some of their fondest childhood memories are playing with American Girl Dolls and skiing moguls together. Today, the Western Slope locals are using both activities to raise awareness for pediatric cancer. In 2013, Durango-based Andringa found inspiration in a social media story about childhood cancer. She began fundraising to donate her favorite toy in the world, American Girl Dolls, to children fighting the disease. Eleven years down the road, the nonprofit organization she founded, Heidi’s Heroes, has donated 352 dolls and 508 care packages to kids across Colorado. North of the San Juans, Crested Butte-based Andrew is also contributing to the cause, by skiing bumps. This month marks her second consecutive year skiing every day in January to raise money for the nonprofit through sponsorships and individual donors. Now, 18 days in, Andrew has already hit the resort, and backcountry skied throughout the Gunnison Valley. She has been joined by rowdy groups of friends who are happy to get turns in for a good cause. “ It m ea n s s o mu ch f o r Sofija to support my nonprofit through skiing,” Andringa said. “Skiing is something that we both love, and it is such a creative way to get people involved.” On the afternoon of Jan. 6, Andrew was joined by a pack of 10 friends at the top of the Painter Boy Lift at Crested Butte Mountain Resort. The group filmed a short video for Heidi’s Heroes social media and then coasted through the park, flying off jumps and twisting 360s. Andrew, an architect at SHM Architects, juggles skiing daily

Heidi Andringa founded the Heidi’s Heroes nonprofit in 2013. (Courtesy Sofija Andrew)

with her full-time job. This makes for many nights on the moonlit nordic track and headlamp-guided uphill outings. Her skiing will continue through the entire month of January. “My drive behind this isn’t raising money, but instead starting a conversation about childhood cancer,” Andrew said. “So many families are struggling, and it's a tough subject to talk about. So I try to get out with touring partners, nordic friends or group rides and dedicate the days to Heidi’s Heroes.” The money Andrew raises this month will fund more American Girl Dolls and care packages for Colorado kids in hospitals. “The dolls are more than just toys, we try to donate them with matching hospital gowns so the kids have little friends during chemotherapy treatments,” Andringa said. “I’ve seen firsthand how the dolls can reduce fear and bring smiles to their faces.” With only 13 days to go, Andrew will continue to ski daily for Heidi’s Heroes. To learn more, visit heidis-heroes. com, or find Sofija Andrew’s Ski for Heroes campaign on Facebook. (Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)

GUNNISON VALLEY SENIORS CALENDAR SENIOR CENTER Ongoing SeniorPROGRAMS Services • Jan. 17 (12:45PM): The Five Wishes Workshop. Come learn about this free tool for end-of-life decision making for individuals and families. Families welcome! Delivery Assistance Hotline: (970) 641-7959 - assistance with ordering, • Jan. 18: Nordic Ski Lesson – registrants will receive location over email. pick-up andSnowshoe deliveryHike of groceries andGulch. prescription medications. • Jan. 23: – Washington Rated intermediate. Registration This includes deliveries Food Bank. required! $7.00 hike fee + from Seniorthe or Rec Center membership. • Jan. 25: Nordic Ski Lesson – registrants will receive location over email. • Jan. 30: Snowshoe Hike – Brush Creek. Rated intermediate. Registration required!

Senior Meals: (970) 641-8272 for advance orders OR (970) 641-2107 for same-day service. Pick-up or delivery only! Meals served@Mondays, Regular Activities: Mondays – Bridge @ 1 pm; Tuesdays – Canasta 2pm; Wednesdays – Book Club @ 1 pm on 1st Weds. of month; Thursdays – Bridge @ 1 pm; Fridays – Art Club @ Wednesdays, & Fridays. Please note: all meals, all days are $4 during this time. 12:30 pm & Mahjong @ 1 pm Order in advance if possible! Upcoming menu: All RSVPs and more info on Senior Center programs: egillis@gunnisonco.gov or 970-641•8272. March 27: Lasagna, green beans, salad, garlic bread, dessert • March 30: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, corn, rolls, fruit, dessert THE REC CENTER – Sign up at Mandarin the Rec Center front desk! • FITNESS April 1:@Stew, carrot/raisin salad, oranges, rolls, dessert Mondays & Wednesdays in the Gym

Senior Hours: - Silver Shopping Sneakers Boom Muscle @ 9:30am SilverMarket Sneakers– Classic @ 10:15am • -City Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (7AM – 8AM) • Tuesdays Safeway@–10AM Tuesdays & Thursdays (7AM – 9AM) in the Leisure Pool • -Silver Walmart – Tuesdays (6AM – 7AM) Sneakers Splash Class (all levels) • Gunnison Vitamin & Health Food Store – Monday - Saturday (8AM – 9AM) • Clark’s Market (Crested Butte) – Every day (8AM – 9AM) SENIOR MEALS Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays @ 11:30 am. $5.00 per meals. Advanced orders appreciate (24Form: hours).www.gunnisoncounty.org/covid19. Pick-ups between 11 – 11:15 am (advanced orders only). Self-reporting ORDER MEALS: 970-641-8272

If you have symptoms but are otherwise OK, please ﬁll out the form. (all ﬁll meals dessert!) If youMenu: cannot outcome the with form, call the Call Center (970) 641-7660.

• Mon., Jan. 22: Beef Stew, salad, homemade bread • Weds., Jan. 24: Chicken Fingerlings, green beans, cottage cheese, homemade rolls having symptoms, cannot ﬁll out the Call Center: (970) 641-7660. If you arepotatoes, • Fri., Jan. 26: Pork Tenderloin, mashed peas, homemade bread

online form, or your symptoms are worsening, call the Call Center. DO NOT go & visitors welcome! Homebound 55 & up eligible delivery. If you need toWalk-in your doctor’s or the hospital. If itadults is anages emergency, callfor 911. a ride, call GVH Senior Bus @ 970-596-6700 (call in advance) or call the Senior Center 970-6418272.

Please practice social isolation. Remain SERVICES 6 feet or more from others when ONGOING needing to be Food out, Pantry but staying at(1home if Wednesdays at all possible. Gunnison Country – Mondays – 4 pm), (1 – 7 pm), Thursdays for 60+ (10 am – 2 pm). Contact: 970-641-4156, Located on the SW Corner of Main St. & Ohio Ave. GVH Senior Bus: 7 days a week, 9 am – 4 pm. Call in advance! 970-596-6700. The Gunnison Senior Center & –Community Recreation Center Crested Butte Senior Bus: Monday thru Friday, 9 am 4 pm Services Montrose & Grand Junction for medical appointments. Call at least 1is week in advance, or more. 970-275-4768. closed until April 30th. Gunnison County HHS Senior Resource Office: Call for appointments. 970-641-3244.

w w w. g u n n is on t im e s .com

Sofija Andrew skins up the Crested Butte Mountain Resort alongside friend Whitney Gilliam.

ONLINE ALL THE TIME!

SWIM AND DIVE: Cowboys finish third in Pueblo, B5

WRESTLING: Mountaineers defeat Orediggers, B6

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, JANUARY 18, 2024

Titans defeat Summit in heated matchup Dietrich, Spann score eyecatching goals to go 3-0 in the league Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

The Crested Butte Titans hockey team put on a top performance at home against the Summit Tigers on Jan. 12. The North Valley boys were poised in defense and ruthless in attack, finishing the league game with a 4-1 victory. “This was one of the best, structured games I’ve ever seen from the bench,” said Head Coach Joey Otsuka. “We executed well, and didn’t get dragged into the mud.” The matchup was elevated Hockey B5

Ethan Suazo leads the Titans off the ice. (Photos by Aric Olson)

Cowboys prevail over Skiers Sabas, Williams aid GHS attack Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

The Cowboys girls basketball team returned to the win column on Jan. 13, defeating league rivals Aspen 49-32 at home. The victory gives GHS a 3-5 overall record, and 1-3 in the 3A Western Slope League. Head Coach Chad Terry said the girls have been revamping their attack. “We need every girl to be involved in the offense. If not, we can be an easy team to guard,” Terry said. “Against Aspen, every kid got involved. We had 10 points in the first quarter, and all of our starters were on the board. Maria Sabas hit some great jump shots, and Eden Williams scored the basketball.” The day prior, the Cowboys

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lost a close game, 38-35, to league opponents North Fork away from home. Despite a late scoring run in the fourth quarter, Terry said the loss illuminated the Cowboy’s struggle to compete for all four quarters. “At this stage in the season, the games keep coming fast, and we’re working to play more complete basketball games,” he said. “We have such a young team, and our ultimate goal is to get better every time we step on the floor.” Against Aspen, the Cowboys flew out of the gates, notching points on the board from all five positions. Kylee McDougal and Sienna Gomez put together complete performances, both under the basket and on defense. Sabas and Williams also contributed, nailing jumpers and completing plays. In the second and third quarters, the GHS offense slowed, and the Skiers crept back into the game. However, a dominant fourth quarter from the

Maria Sabas fires off a jumper at the perimeter. (Photo by Aric Olson)

Cowboys sealed the win. GHS walked away with a vital, 49-32 league victory. GHS traveled to the North Valley to take on local rivals

1/19: BOYS BASKETBALL @ 7 P.M. 1/19: GIRLS BASKETBALL @ 5:30 P.M. 1/19: CB HOCKEY AT JORGENSEN @ 7 P.M. 1/19: BOYS WRESTLING @ 4 P.M. 1/20: BOYS BASKETBALL @ 2 P.M. 1/20: CB HOCKEY @ 8:30 P.M.

Crested Butte on Jan. 16. Scores were not available by press time. The Cowboys will return to their home gym on Jan. 19 to play Meeker at 5:30 p.m.

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

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Thursday, January 18, 2024 • ROUNDUP • B5

Gunnison Country Times

Hockey from B4 Summit earlier in his career and has a tight friendship with the opposing coach. To Crested Butte’s benefit, he knew the Summit tactics to a tee, and was able to draft a strong game plan. In the first period, both teams traded blows. The Titans fired into attack, probing the Summit net with shots from Grady Dietrich and Rhodes Moffett. S l ow l y t h e Ti g e r s ga i n e d momentum and broke out on counter attacks to test sophomore goaltender Ryder Church. Each team weathered power plays on defense, preserving the 0-0 draw into the first intermission. “On paper, we knew how skilled this Summit team was,” Otsuka said. “But it’s amazing what a group of people can accomplish when they have a common game plan and a desire to execute. We have a team that will do anything for the guy to their right, and the guy to their left.” Less than 30 seconds into the second period, Grady Buckhanan smashed open the game with an unassisted goal to take a 1-0 advantage. A minute later, Dietrich doubled the Titans’ lead, finishing off a slick move in front of goal to go 2-0. Crested Butte faced an immediate setback when Carson Zummach and Ethan Suazo were sent to the sin bin for high-sticking and roughing. The Tigers capitalized on the power play, bringing a goal back to tease a comeback. Late in the second, the

SUPER SATURDAY STORYTIME HIBERNATION HANG-OUT

Stories & activities for the whole family

SATURDAY, JANUARY 20 AT 10:30 AM at Gunnison Library

wear your coziest pajamas!

Marshall Spann works the puck against the boards.

Tigers suffered a five-minute boarding penalty and Crested Butte extended its advantage. Marshall Spann beat the goalie with a slapshot from the blue line to go 3-1. Then, with less than a minute remaining, Dietrich returned to the ice after enduring a calf cramp. He re c e i ve d a p a ss f ro m Buckhanan and carved up the Tiger defense, slotting the puck in the net to go 4-1 up. In the third, vital saves from Church kept a firm hand on the victory. Summit was dealt another major penalty — this time for checking-from-behind — and played the remaining seven minutes a player down. The Titans coasted away, win-

ning 4-1. The victory moves Crested Butte to a 5-1-1 overall record, and 3-0 in the talented, 4A Mountain League. Next up, the Titans face the 8-0-1 Glenwood Springs Demons at the Jorgensen Ice Rink on Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. (Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Free & Open to the Public

'tis the season.... TAX SEASON! Have you thought about your IRA contribution? What about your Health Savings Account? Gunnison Savings and Loan can help

GHS swimmers fly into 2024 The Cowboy swim team finished third out of 12 competing teams at the Hornet Invitational in Pueblo on Jan. 13. Kathryn Frey, Maya Petrie and Morgan and Moriah Greenhalgh all swam personal bests. Zia Schwab and Frey also qualified for the state diving tournament. Head Coach Tami Maciejko said Maya Petrie is within striking distance to qualify for the 200 IM as a freshman, and she named Catalina Schwab the swimmer of the meet — who finished 1:07 in the 100-yard backstroke.

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Maya Petrie, Kathryn Frey and Jemma Petrie celebrate a third-place team finish. (Courtesy Tami Maciejko)

B6 • ROUNDUP • Thursday, January 18, 2024

Gunnison Country Times

Gray’s pin clinches win over Orediggers The Western Colorado University wrestling team notched a win against visiting division rivals Colorado School of Mines on Jan. 13. A second-period pin from Cole Gray in the 184-pound division secured the win. Zachary Schraeder highlighted the final match with a thrilling triple-overtime victory that lifted Western Colorado to a 29-15 win. After the victory, the Mountaineers remain unbeaten in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference so far this season. Western will travel next to Nebraska to participate in the Midwest Duals on Jan. 20.

VETERANS’VOICE

(Photos by Aric Olson)

Stories, news and resources for those who have served.

The man who never surrendered — part two Michael Callihan Special to the Times

(Editor’s note: The article is the second of a two-part series. The first installment appeared in the Dec. 14 edition of the Times) In part one we learned that from the time he left home at 14 to work in the copper mines of Montana to the very end of his life, Joseph L. Reiss never gave up, never surrendered, no matter what. We also learned that years of working underground and inhaling rock dust had permanently damaged his lungs. And, we learned that by the time he'd settled just west of Gunnison at Iola, he was a respected authority on copper mining. Ominously, however, in the same month that he made his first copper discovery in the Gunnison Country, Europe cascaded into WWI. Joe Reiss knew he had copper on his mind and silicosis in his lungs, but he could not have

known what fate had in store for him. On April 2, 1917 the U.S. e nt e re d t h e “G re at Wa r.” Thirteen months later, Joe Reiss left Gunnison for Army bootcamp. From there he was sent to England and then into combat in France. There is no mustard in “mustard gas.” In fact, it's not even a gas. At room temperature this yellow chemical warfare agent is a liquid, effectively dispersed by aerial bursts of artillery shells. Initial exposure is usually painless, but by the time the exposed skin starts to feel a burning sensation it's too late: second and third degree burns with blisters oozing yellow fluid soon form. Inhaling the 'gas' can trigger lung infections and later in life even tuberculosis. It is a terrible weapon. Soon after arriving in France, Joe was gassed. By then both sides had developed reasonably effective, but far from perfect, gas masks. Though gassed, Reiss

returned to combat. A newspaper reported that “He took part in many military engagements, one being in the Champagne sector October 1 to 29, 1918.” There Reiss was wounded again: as he charged the German lines he was hit in the left arm by machine gun fire. Ironically, the war was to end just two weeks later, but not for him. Only after eight months of painful treatment for mustard gas inhalation and bullet wounds was he finally discharged and sent home. Back in Iola, Joe pursued his mining interests, but his lungs were failing and he knew it. In 1930, and now struggling for every breath, he checked into Fort Lyon, a tuberculosis sanatorium in southeastern Colorado. There he waged a year-long battle against tuberculosis, a disease likely triggered by his silicosis and that mustard gas attack. It was to be the only battle Joe Reiss ever lost. He died one

week shy of his 45 th birthday. His obituary appeared in the Gunnison News-Champion on March 12, 1931. “Miner's consumption, coupled with wounds received in the World War, resulted in the death of Joseph L. Reiss, well known Gunnison young man Tuesday evening, March 3rd. His remains were brought to Gunnison for interment. Funeral services, which were held on Sunday, were conducted by Post 54, American Legion. The last rites accorded him who had “gone West” were very impressive and a fitting tribute to the departed. Deceased was well known throughout the West. He was a fine young man, and despite his long illness and much suffering, was patient and good-natured, bearing his troubles with the same fortitude that made him an excellent soldier. He had many friends, both here and wherever he was known. The death of this young man

in the prime of his life is indeed regrettable, and the price he paid in his efforts to assist his country, while a heavy one, is nevertheless a price that puts his fellow men in his debt.” And that, dear reader, is the message Joseph Reiss's “magnetic” marble headstone and the headstone of every combat veteran wants us to understand and honor: We are forever in the debt of those who rest beneath them. ( Sp e c i al t ha n k s t o R i t a McDermott, Administrator of the Gunnison Cemetery District, historian Duane Vandenbusche and genealogist Loretta McDonald for their assistance.) (Michael Callihan is a U.S. Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War. He also participated in the recovery missions of Apollo 8 and 10 in the Southwest Pacific.)

PROUD TO SUPPORT GUNNISON VALLEY VETERANS VETERAN EVENTS & LOCAL INFORMATION SAT. FEBRUARY 3RD: VETERAN BREAKFAST AT THE AMERICAN LEGION, 9AM TO 11AM. ALL VETERANS, THEIR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS ARE WELCOME! WED. FEBRUARY 21ST: AMERICAN LEGION POST 54 MONTHLY MEETING. DINNER AND SOCIAL AT 5PM, MEETING STARTS AT 6PM. ALL VETERANS ARE INVITED, NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED! CUB SCOUTS ARE BACK! CONGRATULATIONS TO CUB SCOUT PACK 476 FOR THEIR RECENT FORMAT POST 54 IS PROUD TO BE THEIR CHARTERING ORGANIZATION! THE AMERICAN LEGION BUILDING IS AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE USE, BY DONATION. IT NOW HAS ADA ACCESS AND RESTROOM! VETERANS: YOUR AMERICAN LEGION POST OFFERS FRIENDSHIP, CAMARADERIE AND