Gunnison Country Times, March 14, 2024

County commissioner race takes shape

Republicans Henry, Bathje to challenge incumbents

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer Mariel Wiley Times Photo Editor

Two Republican candidates have announced a run for county commissioner seats against Democratic incumElection A8

NEWS:

COMMUNITY: The afterlife of trash, B1

SPORTS: Titans lacrosse falls to Skiers, B4

A4

A15-A1

B6

Lowline Fire burn area expected to recover naturally

Only small portion of forest burned at high severity

Bella Biondini Times Editor

A post-fire report issued by the U.S. Forest Service this month shows that the landscape burned by the Lowline Fire is expected to rebound quickly.

The Lowline Fire occurred last summer on the ridgeline between Squirrel and Mill creeks, approximately 10 miles north of Gunnison. While firefighters were able to control the

spread of the fire, it burned for months and was not fully extinguished until snow fell. The Lowline Fire burned roughly 1,900 acres, the majority on Forest Service-owned land.

In August, the Forest Service began working on a burned area emergency response (BAER) report — a document that evaluates the severity of a fire and any restoration work needed once it is put out. The report was shared with local agencies such as Gunnison County Emergency Management, the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District and impacted private landowners on March 7.

The final report serves as a Lowline A6

Taco Bell to close permanently

Community to lose quick, affordable bite

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Taco Bell is one of the last places in the Gunnison Valley where diners can fill their bellies for less than $5. But on March 19, the restaurant will shut down.

The franchise owners, ColCal Colorado Inc., confirmed the closure to the Times. ColCal is a family-run franchise company that has owned Taco Bell restaurants around the Western Slope since the late 70s.

A company representative declined to provide details about the reasons for the closure. The Times reached out to

several Taco Bell employees. All declined to comment.

For many, Taco Bell’s closure is another fallen domino in the loss of affordable food in Gunnison. Two fast food restaurants have closed in the last five years. The local Sonic closed permanently in the fall of 2019, and Subway at the end of 2023. (Subway owners have stated they will reopen the store this summer.)

“I worry about elderly in this town that go over there,” said Gunnison resident Midge Barton. “I worry about the poor kids. I worry about the working class and single parents. Where are they going to go?”

Taco Bell is also one of just a few places in town that’s open past 10 p.m., offering a consistent meal for people getting off a late shift, hikers descending Taco Bell A6

SOUP SEASON: Firebrand’s Heidi Magnus shares her favorite soup memories while chopping onions at the Gunnison Arts Center on March 9. Magnus led a small group through the basics of making a Savannah Bisque soup, which includes carrots, celery, onions and other veggies. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

QUOTE of the week

“It’s so corny to get emotional over Taco Bell, but so many people have a ritual with it.”

— Katie Lewinger, Gunnison resident

See story on A1

Zetta Hazel Marchun

Zetta Hazel (Lehman)

Marchun died on Feb. 21, 2024 with her family by her side in Fruita, Colorado. Zetta was born on her family’s ranch above Ohio Creek in Gunnison County on Jan. 22, 1936. Her family homesteaded the land in the late 1800s. She was a graduate of Gunnison High School and Western State College, where she received her teaching degree. After college, Zetta traveled with friends before moving to Grand Junction to work as a teacher at Pomona Elementary School. She married Carl D. Marchun at her family home in Gunnison. Carl and Zetta soon settled in Fruita, where they lived for over 50 years until their deaths.

Zetta enjoyed volunteering with the Colorado State University extension service, supporting Mesa County 4-H and attending her kids’ and grandkids’ many sporting events. Zetta worked as a staff member, then volunteered thousands of hours at the Colorado Welcome Center. Zetta and Carl enjoyed traveling around Colorado with their fellow CWC volunteers and even represented Colorado in Korea at a tourism trade program. When not volunteering, she enjoyed time on their family farm in Fruita and spending time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Zetta is survived by her children, daughter, Mary E. Marchun (Jeff Heidrich) and son, Ralph F. Marchun (Marla

Marchun) and her grandchildren, Ralph Garrett Marchun, Shania Marie Marchun (greatgrandchildren Mason, Travis and Chloe), Mary Logan Marchun and Grey F. Heidrich. She is preceded in death by her husband, Carl Marchun and daughter, Kristin Kay Marchun, sister, Emmeline Rash and parents, Ralph F. Lehman and Nona Emmeline (Towner) Lehman. A family service will be held later this spring. The family is asking for donations be made to the Gunnison Pioneer Museum in honor of Zetta. Please send a check and note that it is a memorial donation for Zetta Lehman Marchun to the Gunnison Pioneer Museum, P.O. Box 842, Gunnison, Colorado 81230.

Brohdie Sherry Archuleta

Brohdie Sherry Archuleta was born to Margaret Murrens and Storm Archuleta of Gunnison on Feb. 27, 2024 at 4:21 a.m. She weighed 8 lbs., 1 oz. and was 20 in. long at birth. She is welcomed by her grandparents, John and Sherry Murrens of Chicago, Illinois, Sherry Archuleta (deceased) of Denver and Leon and Deborah Archuleta of Denver. She is also welcomed by the family dogs, Boo Boo and Ruby, and cat, Skiba.

North 12th Street to get revamp

Last year, Gunnison voters approved a “rec and roads” ballot measure for the restructuring of the city’s existing sales tax. This provided a permanent revenue stream for street maintenance work.

Rehabilitation work on North 12th Street in 2024 will be the first project that uses this new pool of money.

Crews will remove and replace dilapidated concrete curbs and gutters and repave the street across 10 city blocks from Tomichi Avenue to Spencer Avenue. The project is expected to be finished by August. The total cost will not be finalized until contractors bid on the project later this spring.

Construction projects to impact Black Canyon access

Road improvement projects at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park will begin in 2024 and continue through 2025. This will create significant impacts in accessing the park.

Visitors should plan on delays of up to 30 minutes during their visit and a reduced number of parking spots. Crews will work Monday through Friday in daylight hours. Roads will be alternating one-way traffic.

Road rehabilitation begins on the South Rim in late March 2024. In 2025, the work will continue from the visitor center to the end of South Rim Drive. Construction will impact access to overlooks along the South Rim Drive, as well as availability at the South Rim campground.

Microgrant applications open

Applications for Resiliency Project microgrants are open for the 2024 cycle. Reimbursable grants of $400 are available to support community projects that create connections between neighbors. Visit gunnisonco.gov/microgrants to learn more.

Eyes on the prize

Local wildlife photographer Joe Enenbach photographed a bald eagle near Almont last week.

(Courtesy Joe Enenbach)

County welcomes deputy finance officer

For Ana Canada, it’s ‘teamwork, accountability and accuracy’

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

The Gunnison County Finance Department welcomed a new deputy chief financial officer, Ana Canada, at the start of February. Canada will assist the office as it handles tens of millions of dollars in grants, a $120 million housing project and its largest budget in history.

Gunnison County’s budget has grown both in size and complexity over the last several years, Chief Financial Officer Perry Solheim said. The influx of pandemic-era grant funding and the plan to seek loans to finance the county’s affordable housing development, Whetstone, was a “heavy lift” for current staff, he said.

Canada’s extensive accounting experience will help Solheim step back from the day-to-day line item part of the job, and move into the financial analysis and risk management side. Canada has also worked with OpenGov, a finance software that displays government accounting to the public. The county hopes to implement the program in the coming years.

“She brings a lot to the table, to have more firepower to address the things we're doing,” Solheim said. “So we can continue to do it efficiently, but also to gain more expertise in the areas that we need.”

Canada’s path in local governance started in Grapevine, Texas. Although she was not yet working in finance, her time there piqued her interest in small government and public policy. After a decade in Grapevine, she and her husband moved to Montrose where

she worked as an accounting manager for the city. She spent the next several years working in finance offices across Colorado, before starting the job in Gunnison.

“She brings a lot to the table, to have more firepower to address the things we’re doing.”

Perry Solheim Gunnison County CFO

For Canada, a professional life of sorting numbers and parsing budgets is not only what she always wanted, but what she’s always excelled at. She remembers taking aptitude tests in high school — meant to reveal student’s academic and personal strengths — and always doing well in math.

Canada’s three siblings work as a teacher, nurse and fireman.

So, civic duty “runs in the family,” she said.

For Canada, working in public sector finance offers unique challenges and problem-solving opportunities. The office manages tens of millions of dollars in state and federal grants, sales and property tax revenues, utility fees and esoteric funds like the severance tax (money from oil and gas development). It’s a job done well when there’s “teamwork, accountability and accuracy,” she said.

“How do we match the goals that are coming from the community with what we're trying to accomplish as a county,” she said. “When those match, something good happens.”

Alongside Senior Operations Accountant Lupita Halligan, the office now has two bilingual employees. This means the county can better serve the entire Gunnison Valley community, Canada said, even if it’s for something as simple as understanding a bill.

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

(Courtesy Ana Canada)

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LETTERS

A message from Project Hope

Editor:

Project Hope believes that change happens when we use our voices to stand with survivors. The recent stories on trauma and sexual assault give voice to an unfortunate reality for many survivors in the Gunnison Valley.

We commend Abby Harrison for her empathy and courage in starting a necessary conversation in our community. We also encourage readers to raise their voices in response, whether as active bystanders, supportive friends or trauma-informed professionals. As Sexual Assault Awareness month approaches this April, we invite the community to stand for the prevention of sexual violence by engaging in the conversation and demonstrating support for survivors in the Gunnison Valley.

Let us commit to justice before violence occurs. For those fighting in silence, Project Hope is here. You can contact us by email at info@ hope4gv.org, by our office line at 970.641.2712 or by our crisis line at 970. 275.1193. You never have to fight alone.

The Project Hope family

Give thanks as a community

Editor: Although it is just getting to spring, I would like to talk with you all about Thanksgiving.

successful first annual community Thanksgiving.

When we first met in February 2023, we did not have any idea how to proceed, or how many to prepare for. We reached out to Montrose, which has been doing successful community meals for many years. They were very helpful and much appreciated.

Community members from all over the valley jumped in to help with set up, clean up and children’s activities. Nicole from Health and Human Services provided a class for our volunteers on food safety that was attended by many of our volunteers.

The consensus of the handful of people meeting was if we got 80-100 people there it was a success. We planned for 250 just in case and knew we could send the unopened food out through the pantry. We were very excited to serve over 150 community members, and sent leftovers home with folks who had friends and neighbors that were not able to come. Many of those who attended or volunteered were excited to spread the word and make it an even better event in 2024.

ning meeting is June 13 at 4 p.m. at the library if you wish to attend, but we are working behind the scenes now.

Janet Cox Gunnison

Colorado Code, ‘Title 42-Vehicles and Traffic’

Editor: “Where neither a sidewalk nor road shoulder is available, any pedestrian walking or traveling in a wheelchair along and upon a highway shall walk as near as practicable to an outside edge of the roadway and, in the case of a two-way roadway, shall walk or travel only on the left side of the roadway facing traffic that may approach from the opposite direction.”

This newspaper prints the rules of the road for bicycles quite often, it’s time to publish the rules of the roads for pedestrians.

Kevin Ross Gunnison

SonofaGunn a memorable success

ing you join us for the 35th SonofaGunn in our newly renovated Black Box Theater in 2025!

Elise Park

Gunnison Arts Center

A backdoor gun tax

Editor:

Here's some information concerning Gunnison County gun owners. The following was taken from a Feb. 25 article written by the editorial board of the Colorado Springs Gazette. The article is titled "Colorado lawmakers eye a backdoor gun tax."

If passed and signed into law, HB24-1270, “The Firearm Liability Insurance Requirement,” would require the purchase of liability insurance for Colorado's estimated 2.5 million gun owners. Those who fail to buy this mandated coverage would face a $500 fine for the first offense, and a $1,000 penalty for the second.

This retread of a bill has also been kicked around in California and New York, and is making the rounds in Washington and Maryland.

2023

2023 Member

LETTERS POLICY

Last year, a group of great volunteers got together and planned a free communitywide Thanksgiving meal. We started with a generous donation from Trinity Baptist Church so we would not have to raise funds for the first event. With the enthusiasm and help of the food pantry, Six Points, library staff and many others we had a

So here it is, 2024. We had our first meeting last month to start planning for this year. After last year's event, we had a couple of people volunteer to deliver meals to shut-ins and transport others to the event. Chef Jeff has agreed to cook again next year as have the volunteers who helped him in the kitchen. We have a community member who is excited to round up and sponsor music. Malcolm and Maryo have joined us to help with marketing, promotion and donations.

We have lots of pieces to figure out as we grow. If you are interested in jumping in to help please let us know and reach out to janetdiligenthands@ gmail.com or 720.341.1177 and leave a message. Our next plan-

Poetry and potluck

Editor:

The Gunnison Arts Center extends our heartfelt thanks to the community for supporting the 34th annual SonofaGunn. Every sponsor, volunteer, donor and attendee helped to make this year’s production a memorable success.

As our historic theater and main gallery enter into the final phase of renovations, we are especially grateful to Western Colorado University for providing a space for performances, as well as all of our sponsors, cast, crew, production team, volunteers and donors for supporting community arts and filling our valley with laughter and songs.

We look forward to hav -

Its sponsors are Colorado State Reps. Steven Woodrow (D-Denver), Iman Jodeh (D-Aurora) and Senator Chris Hansen (D-Denver).

The truth of the matter is that the vast majority of Colorado's law-abiding gun owners have committed no gun crimes, crimes in which this bill (and a plethora of others) does nothing to address.

Jon Matuszczak Gunnison

We

The deadline is Tuesday

Poet Aaron Abeyta shared readings from several of his published books and letters with a full house at the Gunnison County Library on March 7. He’d written the letters for the football team he coached in southern Colorado. Before the readings, attendees enjoyed a potluck dinner and caught up with Abeyta and other friends.

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

their couches, outdoor gear, boats and RVs.

To accommodate the growing need, local business Discount Self Storage is trying to expand the gravel parking lot at its Hwy. 135 location to add more spaces for vehicle storage. When the owners applied for the expansion in the summer of 2023, Gunnison County told them the project required “setbacks,” physical space between building projects that ensures owners have room for natural light, ventilation, sound buffers and even emergency access.

But the owners claim that if they were required to use setbacks (which can vary from 15 to 50 feet), there would not be enough room left to make the expansion pencil out financially. And in 2018, the county approved Discount’s first 3-acre gravel parking lot — without setbacks.

At the beginning of March, the owners sued the county to secure another level of review by the court. As a final step to avoid litigation, the county is working with the owners on a variance process, which could allow them to build without setbacks.

The county planning staff “changed the rules” without explanation, leading to a “fatally flawed” interpretation of the county’s land use resolution (LUR), owners’ lawyer James Silvestro said. Discount, which operates under Centennial Storage Partners LLC, is owned by Ken Snyder and business partners John Succo and Larry McGraw.

The Gunnison County Board of Adjustment, tasked with reviewing land use decisions, convened on Feb. 8 to review staff’s interpretation of the code. The board is composed of Julie Baca, Andy Tocke and the three county commissioners.

The owners asked the board to reverse the planning staff’s decision and approve the plans without setbacks. The board upheld staff’s recommendation by a 3-1 vote. Board member Jonathan Houck voted against. Board member Tocke was not present.

Dwindling storage space

Discount Self Storage has three locations in the Gunnison Valley: one right off Hwy. 135, one near the Gunnison-Crested

Butte Regional Airport and one in Crested Butte. Discount is one of several storage companies that offer long-term parking spots in the Gunnison Valley, all of which have a waitlist.

Gunnison Secure Storage, on Hwy. 135, and Plotts Mini Storage, on Hwy. 50, both have long waitlists for their vehicle storage, according to the managers. At Discount, some continue paying for the spot even while their campers or RV are being used because they’re scared the spot will be lost, said property manager Kris Travis.

“They've run out of room,” Silvestro said. “The public need is greater than what they can fulfill at this point.”

To meet the community’s needs, the owners are trying to expand the lot to add 125 parking spaces. In 2018, the planning commission unanimously approved a 134-space expansion of the parking lot. The parking area was allowed to go right up against the lot line, requiring no setback. At the time, the Community Development Department did not raise any issues.

Years later in June of 2023, Centennial applied to expand the outdoor gravel parking area to the south. The request mirrors the one from before, Silvestro said. There are no buildings or other structures and no need for extended utilities.

A couple months later, staff replied that they would not process the request because the expansion did not meet setback requirements for commercial use. Centennial claims that the setbacks would be so extreme that there’d only be a small portion of the new lot that could be used, making it not worth the money to build.

But the county is now claiming that the gravel parking lot represents a land use that requires setbacks, despite the fact that they approved a similar plan years ago without them. The 2018 application should have considered setbacks, said Assistant County Manager for Community and Economic

Development Cathie Pagano.

This was a mistake on behalf of the department.

The conversation during the hearing boiled into a debate about whether a parking lot is considered a “structure” or as requiring a “foundation.” Even if the setbacks were applied, Silvestro wondered how the county would measure them, as the gravel parking lot lacks a foundation. The LUR states that the “setbacks shall be measured as the distance between the nearest lot line and the foundation of a structure.”

In a December 2023 response, county Planning Director Hillary Seminick considered the gravel parking lot to be a “structure” because it’s built on the ground. The definition of structure includes a reference to RVs and that “structure” also refers to storage.

During the appeals hearing, board members Liz Smith, Laura Puckett Daniels and Jonathan Houck agreed that a gravel parking lot should be considered a structure — but not before an hour of debate about the definition of “structure” and “foundation” that at one point had a staff member reading from Webster’s Online Dictionary.

The owners, dissatisfied with the ruling, filed a lawsuit at the start of March against the Board of Adjustment and Pagano. However, the lawsuit is now on hold as the owners wait on a variance process, which could allow them to build without setbacks.

The county has approved just 10 setback variances in the last 20 years, Pagano told the Times . Planning staff advised the owners that if they apply for a variance, the department would likely support the project, Snyder said.

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

The Discount Self Storage location along Hwy. 135. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Lowline from A1

“baseline” and is used to monitor the burned area for several years after the fire is extinguished. The Forest Service will watch for any flooding or erosion near the burn scar and determine if any restoration work is needed, such as reseeding and tree planting.

According to the BAER report, the Lowline Fire as a whole was a low severity fire, and burned across the forest in a “mosaic” pattern. Although the Forest Service will continue to monitor the area — especially this spring as the snow begins to melt — the agency issued a “no treatment” recommendation.

This means the burned area is expected to recover naturally, and little to no flooding or debris flows are anticipated. The report states that within Forest Service land, “the risk to human life and safety is possible but low.” According to observations in September, 5% of the grasses had already begun to regrow in the burned area. While the Forest Service plans to clear burned trees that may be at risk of falling on the 2-mile section of the Lowline Trail that burned, the area is open to the public. The agency lifted the fire closure in January.

The Lowline Fire was “beneficial” not only for the forest ecosystem, but for nearby landowners, said David Carr, a fire management officer for the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forest. The burn scar, which is located in a portion of the Ohio Creek Valley where private farmland overlaps with forested wilderness, will act as a natural fire break. It also cleared out old fallen timber and beetle kill that could act as fuel for a large fire in the future.

“It's definitely a strategic spot to have a fire if you're a landowner here for the next few decades,” Carr said.

Roughly 5% of Lowline’s footprint burned at a high sever-

Taco Bell

from A1

back into the valley after a day in the high country or out-oftowners just passing through. The Times solicited feedback on Facebook about people’s experience with Taco Bell. The unofficial survey garnered over 200 comments.

And day-to-day, Western Colorado University students hungry after a late-night study session, parents with a car full of kids, truck drivers, local senior citizens or Lake City residents who make the pilgrimage for a Crunchwrap Supreme can all be found in the small restaurant. For the vegetarians in town, the just-over-$1 bean and cheese burrito was a staple.

Even if the food isn’t the most nutritious option, it’s always been affordable, said Jess Willis. Willis was the former manager of the now-closed Subway. She

ity. The flames moved through the remainder of the zone at a “moderate” to “very low” severity, while some patches of trees didn’t burn at all.

This kind of mosaic burn will eventually create a forest with trees of mixed age classes, Carr said. High burn areas often become open meadows. Moderate areas will probably convert to aspen — one of the first tree species to regenerate after a disturbance such as an avalanche or a wildfire. Over time, spruce and other conifer trees will fill in the gaps.

“That species diversity on the landscape will add resiliency to the forest community and make it more adaptable to change in the future,” said Assistant Fire Management Officer Theo Engel.

Sometimes wildfires create a water-repellent layer on the top of the soil. Because of this, flash flooding and dangerous debris flows can occur near the burn scars of large, hot fires. In 2021, flash flooding over the Grizzly Creek Fire burn scar in Glenwood Springs triggered a large mudslide over 1-70, temporarily closing the interstate. But this is not the case for the Lowline Fire. The report notes “low water repellency conditions,” making flooding unlikely.

Depending on the severity of the burn, wildfires can degrade the water quality of the surrounding creeks and rivers and cause temporary increases in nitrogen, phosphorus and dissolved carbon. When water flows over the burn scar, it can collect mud, rock and debris, such as downed trees.

The Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District is monitoring one ditch near the Lowline Fire that may become vulnerable once the snow begins to melt. The district plans to take water quality samples near the Ohio Creek Baldwin stream gauge, just downstream of the burned area. Upper Gunnison General Manager Sonja Chavez is not expecting to see significant changes.

The Lowline Fire only impacted three private land -

said the closure will affect local workers who rely on the store for a consistent paycheck.

“These people have kids, these people have grandchildren,” Willis said. “They have employees that are going to come back this summer and hope to work, and it’s going to be closed.”

Taco Bell has “served the needs of many that need help,” Barton said. When she raised her kids, she remembered giving them $10 a week for fast food. Each week, they went to Taco Bell. Willis would call ahead and ask for a Breakfast Crunchwrap Sausage to be ready when she swung in on her coveted free time, a habit she said got her through college.

“Think about the moms. I see them in the drive-thru when I drive home. They’re in [that line] because they're working moms and dads. They're exhausted, but they can feed their family there,” Barton said.

owners across 635 acres in the Ohio Creek Valley and no homes were destroyed. This is largely due to the fact that most had created defensible space around their properties long before the outbreak of Lowline Fire, Carr said. The fire served as a reminder for property owners to plan ahead and prepare for fire.

“Just because we haven't had

one of those 200,000-acre fires on the GMUG, people need to be aware that it can happen,” Carr said. “As the spruce trees die and fall over, we’re getting more and more primed to have one of those larger fires.”

Through an agreement, the Forest Service will work with Gunnison County to repair any bulldozer lines or cut fences from firefighting on private

property. This work is paid for through a cost share program split between the county and the Forest Service. Only one grazing allotment fence is believed to have been burned, but crews have not yet been able to access the entire area.

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

In the landscape of low-paid, fast food shift work, Taco Bell managed to keep its employees for years. Elizabeth Solano started working at Taco Bell while she was couchsurfing in Gunnison and looking for something stable in her “transient” lifestyle.

“I got so many chances to prove that I could be better,” Solano said. “[The manager] always expected the most out of the people that worked in that store. He was the most fair and grounded boss I've ever had.”

Although the Lowline Fire was completely contained, smoke still rose from the forest in December. (Photo by Abby Harrison)

She remembers the rush of Cattlemen’s Days, and the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club rallies. Through it all, the Taco Bell manager kept the store running smoothly, while giving time off for homework or to go pick up kids from school. Solano stayed for three years, off and on.

Gunnison’s Taco Bell will close on March 19. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

An estimated soil burn severity map for the Lowline Fire. (Courtesy U.S. Forest Service)

continued from A6

For many Lake City residents, the Taco Bell was the last stop on the road home, when nothing was open past 7 p.m. in the winter. The closure will be felt in communities beyond Gunnison and Crested Butte, said Lake City resident and school teacher Sarah Eby.

“Most people in Lake City, we go to the doctor in Gunnison, we get groceries in Gunnison. We do a lot of our life in Gunnison. Anything that shuts down there affects us as well,” Eby said.

While Sonic dealt with a slew of health code issues and Subway’s employees alleged poor building and food maintenance, Taco Bell was always

immaculately clean, said former employee Jocelyn Dixon. Dixon worked there for nine years. She said the cleanliness and food safety standards were always high. On a slow day in winter, the crew was on hands and knees scrubbing the grout on the tile floor.

As Gunnison has lost its Subway, Sonic and now Taco Bell (and in prior years, A&W, Dairy Queen, TCBY and Kentucky Fried Chicken) it’s welcomed other national corporations to town. Starbucks and Natural Grocers have both opened in Gunnison this year and Arby’s opened at the end of 2018.

For local Katie Lewinger, the string of closures and grand openings represents the con -

tinued loss of resources for the community’s low and middleincome residents. The local Dollar Tree offered many locals a place to buy cleaning products and toys. It closed in 2020.

“It’s a healthy, happy little staple that’s inclusive,” Lewinger said. “It's so corny to get emotional over Taco Bell, but so many people have a ritual with it.”

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

Gunnison Police Department investigates shooting

On Wednesday, March 13 at approximately 2:25 a.m., Gunnison Police Officers responded to the 300 block of North 9th Street for a report of a disturbance and a male yelling that he needed some kind of help.

Upon arrival, officers contacted a 58-year-old Gunnison resident who was in possession of a firearm. Officers secured the firearm and were told by the local resident that another male had broken into his residence and started assaulting

him while he was in bed. The male stated that he had shot the individual that broke into his apartment.

Officers went to the apartment and located a 31-yearold male that had a gunshot wound to his abdomen.

Officers requested Gunnison Emergency Medical Services and started to provide medical care at the scene to the injured male. The injured male was transported to Gunnison Valley Health, and later to St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction.

The incident is under investigation by the Gunnison Police Department, a process that will reveal if the shooting was done in self defense. No arrests have been made at this time.

Those with any information about this incident should contact the police department at 970.641.8200.

(Source: Gunnison Police Department)

bents Liz Smith and Jonathan Houck. During Gunnison County’s precinct caucuses last weekend, Republicans Lisa Henry and Steve Bathje were nominated for the race.

Bathje is the president of the Gunnison Sportsman's Association Gun Club and served on the Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation (MetRec) District board for two and half terms in the early 2000s. He is also the owner of R & R Precision Machining. Henry is fresh off a school board election where she ran against a Democratic slate.

“Everybody complains about what’s going on in the world, but nobody steps up to do anything about it. I thought it was time to step up.”

Henry and Shane Cox nominated Bathje.

Bathje told the Times that, this election season, he will focus on water rights, creating affordable housing and what Gunnison County’s tax money is being spent on.

“Everybody complains about what's going on in the world, but nobody steps up to do anything about it,” he said. “I thought it was time to step up.”

In addition to the Gunnison Valley’s rising cost of living and limited job market, Henry said Gunnison County’s land use resolution are at the top of her mind this election season.

“I listened to everyone [during the school board election]. I was willing to put myself out there for everyone, whether it was good, bad or ugly,” Henry said. “I think a lot of good came out of the things that I was willing to do.”

During the Republican caucus, Larry Don Suckla, a candidate for House District 58 and incumbent 7th Judicial District Attorney Seth Ryan made bids for election from the podium. Ryan described a state of “attack on law order by the extreme woke agenda,” and criticized laws that he claimed may reduce the penalty for sex offenders.

Suckla championed the Second Amendment and described his history protecting small business by fighting pandemic-era mask fines as a county commissioner in Montezuma County.

Henry will face Smith in District 1, while Bathje will run against Houck in District 2. Both districts are located in the south end of the valley. This year marks Houck’s fourth run for commissioner. He was first elected in November of 2012 and has been reelected twice. Smith was first appointed in July of 2020 (after former county commissioner John Messner resigned), and was elected to retain the seat that November. The board of county commissioners has been composed entirely of Democratic since the start of 2019.

Smith and Houck are already registered as candidates with the Colorado Secretary of State’s Office. Henry and Bathje have not yet registered following the announcement over the weekend.

Both parties held their caucuses on Saturday, March 9. At a caucus, county residents decide which local candidates will appear on the primary ballots. This year, voters will also consider state candidates for Colorado House District 58, U.S. Congressional District 3 and Colorado Senate District 5, among others.

The Democrats met at the Queen of All Saints Parish Church in Crested Butte and the Gunnison County Public Library in Gunnison, and the Republicans at the Fred Field Center in Gunnison.

At Fred Field, following a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, participants enjoyed a homemade potluck breakfast and listened to several speakers before electing precinct captains. Byron Roberts nominated

Democratic Chair Jim Starr led the Crested Butte caucus, while Treasurer Vikki Roach Archuleta acted as temporary chair of the caucus in Gunnison. Afterward, party members gathered at the library for a joint assembly. Gunnison City Councilor Jim Gelwicks nominated Smith for commissioner, while Colorado House District 58 candidate Kathleen Curry nominated Houck.

For Houck, this election season will be about continuing “to give voice” to issues such as developing workforce housing, promoting sustainable tourism, supporting the local business community and preserving the valley’s ranching history.

“I continue to have the energy, the drive and the focus to continue to be — as I always have been — a full-time county commissioner, and work on behalf of the constituents of Gunnison County and deliver on their priorities,” Houck said.

Smith said she’s eager to continue her work with the health and human services sector, where she has advocated for early childhood education and opioid settlement money from the state.

“My attention is focused on solving the problems in our community,” Smith said. “All I can do is show up and explain to people, ‘Here's what I've done and here's what I would like to continue doing.’”

The Colorado primary election will be held on June 25, and the general election will follow on Nov. 5.

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

Liz Smith, Jonathan Houck and Kathleen Curry listen to the opening statements during the Democratic assembly. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

The Republican caucus was held in the Fred Field Center.

Republican party chair Cori Dobson speaks with former chair Stu Asay. (Photos by Abby Harrison)

Steve Bathje County Commissioner nominee

Crazy

choir

(Courtesy Jodie Chinn/Gunnison Regional 911)

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Upper Gunnison forms collective to cover expensive snow survey flights

Statewide

Bella Biondini Times Editor

The technology used to get an accurate idea of how much snow sits in the Gunnison Valley’s major drainages is expensive. But it’s data that has become increasingly valuable as drought becomes more widespread, and small water districts are asking for help to cover the cost.

district applied for $1 million to pay for two flights per year through 2026 with the goal of improving the accuracy of local forecasts.

While the water district did not receive the grant, Chavez still wanted to find a way to fund ASO flights long-term and asked other organizations to pitch in to cover flights for 2024. After a $50,000 investment from the water district, the Gunnison County Electric Association, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the Upper Colorado River Commission and the Colorado Water Conservation Board (CWCB) helped cover the rest. Chavez said she plans to expand the partnership next winter.

“The more people we can get involved in the program, the less each person has to pay,” she said. “And everybody benefits from the data.”

Water managers in the Upper Gunnison Basin need to know how much snow is in the high country to predict how much water will flow into the system in the spring when the snow melts. It’s the same water that will refill reservoirs, fuel river recreation and irrigate farm and ranchland.

Rather than relying on SNOTEL stations, which only measure the snow depth at a single point on the landscape, the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District has begun to incorporate data from Airborne Snow Observatory (ASO) flights. These flights use a laser-imaging system called LiDAR that can map the depth of the snow every few meters by measuring the relief of the landscape with snow both on and off the ground.

Although the Upper Gunnison has proven the value of ASO flights, the agency — as well as many other water districts in Colorado — cannot pay for the costly technology alone. This year, the district created an Upper Gunnison Basin ASO funding partnership, a growing collective of local agencies that will divide the cost of running flights.

“For the Western Slope, it's incredibly important to be able to predict annual hydrology so that we can live within our means on the river,” said District General Manager Sonja Chavez.

The annual cost of conducting snow surveys for the East and the Taylor River watersheds exceeds $300,000. These basins, which encompass roughly 570 square miles, are prioritized because they typically hold the most snow and generate the largest amount of water in the spring.

In 2023, the Bureau of Reclamation, the agency that controls water releases from federally owned reservoirs such as Blue Mesa, launched its first snow water measurement grant program. Last year, the water

The conservation board was the largest contributor to the ASO funding partnership, at $166,000. Looking outside of the Gunnison Basin, the board gave almost $1 million to the Colorado Airborne Snow Monitoring program (CASM) in 2024. Since it was founded four years ago, CASM has worked with agencies across the state to create a plan to consistently fund ASO flights.

As the Colorado-based program grows, water managers expect the number of flights and the amount of money available to advance snowpack monitoring to rise. A “fully developed” program would fund 6-8 surveys per year across all of Colorado’s snow covered areas. According to CASM, as many as 215 flights per year would be needed to provide detailed measurements at the headwaters of all of Colorado’s river basins through the spring melt season.

CWCB special projects coordinator Erik Skeie said the board is trying to figure out a way to secure more consistent funding for ASO flights. While the pool of money is slowly expanding, water districts will likely still rely on a mixture of federal, state and local dollars to pay for flights.

“We need to find better ways to use every single drop … The value of [ASO flights] is growing since it’s currently the best way to get a clear picture of your snowpack,” Skeie said.

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

Chakras and chocolate

Brightly-colored chakra paintings covered tables in the Gunnison Arts Center as artists snacked on chocolate fondue during a “Chakras and Chocolate” event on March 2. Reiki practitioner Eva Paul introduced the group to the seven chakras, or energetic focal points across one’s body, derived from traditional Indian meditative practice. Each artist then selected one chakra to paint with watercolors. Paul’s art showcase, “Making Sense of the Subtle,” is currently on display at the Arts Center.

Gunnison

970.641.6691

Crested Butte

970.349.6691

bbre1.com

powder hound happy spring break

1105 N Pine St., MLS #810392, $845,000. Welcome to your dream home in the picturesque Van Tuyl Village subdivision! This brand-new, 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom property is a testament to modern design and quality craftsmanship. As you step inside, you’re greeted by an open and inviting kitchen-dining area, adorned with cherry cabinets and equipped with state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. The tiled shower and bathtub add a touch of luxury to the bathrooms, while the master bedroom boasts its own oasis with a reading nook or small office space. The 2-car detached garage features 8-foot doors and 10-foot ceilings inside, providing ample space for your vehicles and storage needs. The extra space above the garage, accessible via exterior stairs, presents exciting opportunities. Whether you need additional storage or dream of an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), the potential is yours to explore with City of Gunnison approval. Don’t miss the chance to make this new construction your forever home. Contact us now to schedule a viewing and witness the epitome of contemporary living!

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

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

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

BIZ CENTS

Gunnison River Partnership seeks new members

Venture capital group has invested in local businesses for over a decade

Bella Biondini Times Editor

When the Gunnison River Partnership (GRP) decided to invest in ID Sculpture, the small business only had five employees. Today, its team has grown to 35, and the Gunnison-based playground manufacturer’s pieces — which come in the form of boulders, castles and trees that stretch the imagination — can be found throughout the United States.

The partnership, a private venture capital group, has been investing in Gunnison Valley businesses for more than a decade. Founded in 2012, the group has continued to attract new members who want to see local businesses succeed. Whether it's through financial support or mentorship, GRP targets startups with the potential to create a larger network of high-paying jobs in the valley.

Today, 35 active members have come together to give new companies the money and professional guidance they need to build a stable foundation in the valley. Since GRP made its first deal with ID Sculpture, the

group has invested in 10 businesses. GRP hopes to expand its reach in 2024, an opportunity made possible by new members. ID Sculpture co-owner Andris Zobs has since become a GRP member, hopeful to give other entrepreneurs the chance to have a career in the valley.

“It’s a big leap to start a business in the Gunnison Valley, and GRP gave us the confidence to keep pushing … They believed in us before we even believed in ourselves,” Zobs said. “It was central to our growth.”

GRP consists of qualified investors, called “members,” from within the community. The group shares a common goal: to invest in and support the valley’s most promising early-stage businesses and entrepreneurs. Together the group offers expertise across a wide range of industries from technology to agriculture.

While the ICELab, operated by the Tourism and Prosperity Partnership (TAPP), offers mentorship and space for startups in their earliest phases, GRP has traditionally focused on those that are already established in the Gunnison Valley. But this year, the group is ready to take on more risk and assess opportunities on a company-by-company basis, said Brian Haugh, one of the partnership’s founding members.

To new GRP member Noah Eckhouse, the group’s perfect candidate has “already figured out what its business really is.”

They must have products, a customer base and revenue, and be ready to expand their reach.

Some of the businesses GRP has invested in include Crested Butte’s First Ascent Coffee, Romp Skis, the Gunnison Valley Veterinary Clinic and Campfire Ranch.

Prospective businesses must also aim to boost the number of professional job opportunities in the valley. The core motivation of GRP members is to keep the Gunnison Valley “alive and vibrant,” Eckhouse said.

“Part of that is creating market-rate paying jobs with good benefits … That means supporting all of the right businesses that could use a gentle nudge, a shove or some advice from experienced entrepreneurs,” he said.

GRP invests in companies in a variety of ways, including purchasing a portion of the business, making working capital loans that help finance day-to-day operations and facilitating connections with other funding partners. The members also act as mentors at a time when obtaining the right guidance can make or break a young company.

Campfire Ranch opened a Taylor Canyon location near Almont, followed by a second campground up Washington Gulch in Crested Butte. Campfire Ranch provides “hassle free” tent camping and hut trips to its visitors by offering access to rental gear, onsite activities and group hikes.

An investment from GRP in 2022 helped owner Sam Degenhard hire his first fulltime employees, acquire new properties and expand outside of the valley. Campfire Ranch added a third property on Red Mountain Pass in Silverton last June. The Thelma Hut offers easy access to backcountry skiing in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking during the summer.

“We're thankful that there are resources in this community like GRP for us to lean on and learn from,” Degenhard said. “Without that we'd be arguably years behind and maybe not in business.”

As it grows its member base, the partnership plans to invest in two to four new businesses a year. While GRP is open to investing in companies outside of the Gunnison-Crested Butte

corridor, its focus will remain in the valley. Here, its members want to help build an economy that is not purely reliant on tourism, Zobs said.

“We have this remarkably underutilized talent pool here,” Zobs said. “The people that we ski and share a beer with sometimes are also engineers, designers or have a great product idea. It will help if we keep those people here and give them the support they need to build a business that gives them the security they need to stay and reinvest in the community.”

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

The Thelma Hut is Campfire Ranch’s newest property. (Courtesy Sam Degenhard/Campfire Ranch)

Survivors skate together

For the first time in Gunnison, residents gathered at Jorgensen’s indoor ice rink to share an hour of skating with fellow cancer survivors. Local Ginger Cortez organized the event after realizing a lack of opportunities and spaces for cancer survivors to spend time together. After getting their fill of skating, the group gathered to watch a choreographed performance from two members of the Western Figure Skating Club. Tough Enough to Wear Pink sponsored the event.

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 bnaibutte@gmail.com

March 22- Shabbatluck service, 6 p.m., in Crested Butte - pls bring a dish and drink to share

March 23 - 10:30 a.m., Kibbitz (chat) with Rabbi Mark at Rumors Coffee in CB

March 23, 1-5 p.m., Purim activities and Havdalah service in Crested Butte

March 24, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Torah Study in Gunnison

Spiritual Leader: Rabbi Mark Kula is available for you at RabbiMarkKula@gmail.com

Go to bnaibutte.org for additional details and locations.

New Song Christian Fellowship

Faith Directory

77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034

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

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

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 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. trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church

711 N. Main • 970-641-1860

Children’s Christmas Program

Sunday, December 17th at 10 a.m.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7 p.m.

Christmas Day Service at 10 AM

The Good Samaritan

Episcopal Church

307 W. Virginia Ave. • 970-641-0429

Rev. Laura Osborne, Vicar

First Sunday of each month –11 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II

Alternating at Good Samaritan and All Saints in the Mountains

Check our websites for location

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

Children’s Sunday school –2nd and 4th Sundays, monthly

Office hours: M-TH 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

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

Visit our partnership church: All Saints in the Mountains, Crested Butte

Meeting Second-Fifth Sundays at 5 p.m., Holy Eucharist, Rite II

403 Maroon Ave, Crested Butte

Visit our website for location of 11 a.m.

Holy Eucharist, First Sunday of each month allsaintsinthemountains.org

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.

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 mcmchurch.org

St. Peter’s Catholic Church

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

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

First Sunday of every month bilingual Mass 11 a.m.

Queen of All Saints - Crested Butte, 401 Sopris Sun 8:30 a.m. Mass St. Rose of Lima - Lake City 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 a.m.

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

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

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

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:

Bus Drivers

Food Service - CBCS

Assistant Building Manager - CBCS

Lead Custodian - Lake School Substitute Teachers

PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES:

School Psychologist - District Newcomer Teacher and Integration Specialist

COACHING:

GHS - Speech and Debate

GHS - Assistant Girls

Basketball Coach

GHS - Head Wrestling Coach

GMS Track and Field Coach - (Shot Put and Discus) (Sprints and Long Jump)

Please contact:

Superintendent’s Office

JoAnn Klingsmith 800 N. Boulevard 970-641-7760

jklingsmith@gunnisonschools.net

GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Motor Vehicle/Recording Technician Clerk and Recorder: 40 hours/ week, hourly rate range from $21.82-$24.85 plus full benefits

Case Management Aide

HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,966-$6,037 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.

HAS IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FOR AN OFFICE POSITION AND SERVICE WRITER POSITION.

Competitive pay, 401K, insurance, paid vacations. 40 hour work week.

Apply at John Roberts Motor Works.

212 WEST HIGHWAY 50 GUNNISON, CO 81230

email guncemetery@yahoo.com.

ELEVEN IS SEEKING A CONFIDENT, TEAM-ORIENTED EXPERIENCE MANAGER to lead collaboration with all

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Chief Water Operator

Full-time, $72,800-$85,500/yr

Leads Water department staff and performs a variety of skilled technical duties and skilled labor in the operation and maintenance of the city’s nine (9) potable water wells, water distribution system, wastewater collections system, irrigation ditches, etc.

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 tomaintaining 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 above-listed salary available for working nights. Personal liability insurance paid by the City of Gunnison. Housing is available.

Part-Time Openings Tree Dump GatekeeperUp to $24.23/hr.

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

COMMUNITY

seeking candidates to fill an assistant banking center manager position in our Gunnison banking center. Great opportunity with excellent benefits package. For position details and to apply, please visit cobnks.com. NBH Bank is an equal opportunity employer.

LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE is gearing up for spring and summer. Looking for a part-time teacher to start training in March and working part-to-full time after the mountain closes. This is a year-round, stable opportunity with benefits, great pay and lots of perks. It is also super rewarding. Do

you love little people? Are you flexible and creative? Do you want more stability in your job? Please send resume and interest letter to Jessica at lilredschoolhouse1@gmail. com.

HIGH-VOLUME, PROFESSIONAL

GENERAL CONTRACTOR seeks fulltime, experienced controller with 5+ years experience. Duties include overseeing general ledger and accounting functions, balance sheet reconciliation, maintaining accounting systems access controls and oversight of accounting managers including accounts receivable, accounts payable, billings functions and payroll preparation. Successful candidates will be detail-oriented and proactive in our fast-paced environment, with proficiency in Quickbooks and experience in ProCore a bonus. Competitive base salary and benefits. Please submit resume to david@davidgrossgc.com or call 970-901-1798.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN TREES AND LANDSCAPING now hiring for our 40th summer season. Come join a team that’s deeply rooted in the Gunnison Valley. Visit rockymountaintrees.com/employment/ to view available positions.

CLEAN ENERGY AND HOUSING

COMMUNITY LIASON: AmeriCorps service opportunity. The Gunnison Valley Home Energy Advancement Team (GV-HEAT) of the Gunnison Valley Regional Housing Authority is facilitating energy efficiency upgrades in income-qualified households in the Gunnison Valley and is seeking a Clean Energy and Housing Community Liaison to help sustain and grow its programming. The activities of the AmeriCorps member, between Apr. 8 and Dec. 15, will focus on interacting, educating and collaborating with the local community in four key areas: 1. outreach, 2. program support, 3. workforce development and 4. expansion into the health sector. A living allowance and education award will be awarded. For more information, please view the service description on gvrha.org and apply through mountainrootsfoodproject.org/healthyfutures. Please email healthyfutures@ mountainrootsfoodproject.org with your questions.

SUPERVISOR SOUGHT by ML Keith, LLC dba Complete Coverage, 211 N. 12th St., Gunnison, CO 81230, to oversee painting crew, supplies and overall quality control of paint jobs. Travel required to client worksites within Gunnison County, CO. 36 months experience as painter or related required. Must provide own vehicle to transport supplies and painting crew. Mail resume to Mike Keith, ML Keith, LLC dba Complete Coverage, P.O. Box 3484, Crested Butte, CO 81224.

ELEVEN IS SEEKING A PERSONABLE AND TEAM-ORIENTED WELLNESS

THERAPIST to provide wellness treatments, classes and activities for Eleven guests at Scarp Ridge Lodge, Sopris House, Taylor River Lodge and the Movie Cabin located in and around Crested Butte and Almont, CO. This role will embody the Eleven standard by exceeding guest expectations in all areas of the service, ensuring comfort, satisfaction, and safety for guests while remaining professional. This position requires certification, CPR/First Aid certification, and a valid driver’s license. The ideal candidate will be a flexible team player and interact

in Crested

INTEGRATIVE

Butte is looking for a full or part-time dental assistant position to join our fun, high-energy, passionate dental team. Pay is dependent on experience, however no dental experience is necessary. Benefits are available to fulltime employees. Send your resume to info@ integrativedentistrycolorado.com.

GUNNISON LIQUOR (The Ghost) is currently looking for part-time help. Nights and weekends a must. Pay DOE. Stop by with a resume. 603 W. Tomichi Ave., Gunnison.

LOCAL LAWN CARE SERVICE COMPANY

looking for full-time, seasonal employee, four 10 hr. shifts, Tues.-Fri., May through Oct. Zero turn mower operation, grass trimming and general yard maintenance experience preferred. Sprinkler system knowledge and maintenance a plus. Pay range $20-30 DOE. Submit resume or contact j2funke@gmail. com.

ARE YOU TIRED OF WORKING MULTIPLE

JOBS TO MAKE IT IN THE VALLEY? Iron

Horse is looking for the right individual to join our expanding property care team. This individual is responsible for property inspections, inventories and the overall quality and presentation of vacation rentals in our luxury inventory. You will work hand-inhand with our maintenance, housekeeping and reservation teams to ensure that our guests experience vacation perfection. Excellent pay plus a company car, health insurance, on-call pay, paid vacation, ski or health and wellness pass, 5-day work week and more. If you are detail-oriented, organized, punctual and only want the best, then submit your resume to steve@ ironhorsecb.com and qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. Clean driving record is required. No phone calls please.

WANT TO WORK 32 HOURS AND GET PAID FOR 40 HOURS? CB South Metro District is hiring for a full-time 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, full 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.

BLACKSTOCK BISTRO is hiring for the summer season. To apply, visit Blackstockbistro.com and click employment. Line cook: Starting pay $20/hr, prior experience a plus, must work nights and weekends. Shifts start at 4 p.m. and go until close. Flexible with your other jobs if needed. Kitchen manager: Responsibilities include working on the line cooking during service, preparing food, assisting with inventory. This is a full-time position, around 45 hours per week. Applicant must be able to work most nights and some day-prep shifts. We offer flexible scheduling. Starting pay $45k/year, two weeks paid vacation, free ski pass or rec. center pass.

BOOKSTORE MANAGER: Western Colorado University invites applications for the full-time position of Bookstore Manager. The position reports to the AVP of Campus Operations and Construction and works closely with the faculty and students. This is a full-time, on campus position.

Responsibilities: The Bookstore Manager is responsible for directing operations, planning and administrating all bookstore activities. Accountable for taking book orders from faculty, product purchasing, receiving, pricing, accounts payable and daily deposits. In charge of book buyback, the graduation fair and student regalia, product promotions, displays, marketing, textbooks sales (physical and digital), textbook rentals, football game day events and web sales. Operates a Point-of-Sale System (POS) and conducts annual inventory. Supervises up to 16 student workers, 4 temp workers and 1 full-time employee.

Compensation: $58,000-$65,000 FLSA

exempt. Western offers an excellent benefits package, including shared premiums for a comprehensive health insurance plan, dental insurance, retirement plan, life insurance and other insurance options. After one year of employment, Western provides free tuition for dependents enrolled full-time in undergraduate programs for up to four years.

For minimum and preferred qualifications and to apply, go to Western.edu/jobs. Required attachments for online application include letter of application addressed to Sherry Ford, resume, transcripts and contact information for three professional references. Please direct questions to Sherry Ford at sford@western.edu. Applications and supplemental materials must be received by April 1, 2024. Review of applications will begin immediately. AA/EOE.

IRWIN GUIDES IS SEEKING OFFICE/ SALES ASSOCIATES: Summer seasonal, full-time and part-time. The position will be responsible for assisting the Irwin Guides administrator with day-to-day operations included, but not limited to, data entry, completing and filing paperwork, interacting with guests faceto-face or via phone/email, booking trips and assisting with walk-in traffic and retail inquires/purchases. A strong candidate will have knowledge of the outdoor industry and local activities, strong administrative skills, effective communication, both oral and written, is detail-oriented, responsive to delegation and comfortable working independently and in a fast-paced team environment. During the operational seasons, this position will be required to work some early mornings and late afternoons, at least one weekend day per week and some holidays as necessary. This is a summer seasonal position starting at $19-$22 per hour depending on experience and qualifications. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/careers/.

FULL OR PART-TIME MAINTENANCE

POSITION: Alpine Getaways is seeking a full or part-time maintenance tech to perform basic duties. Full-time employees may receive health benefits. $25-$30 per hour DOE. Please contact Erik at erik@ alpinegetaways.com or call 970-349-0539.

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. For a complete job description, visit mtnexp.org. EOE.

ELEVEN IS SEEKING SEVERAL

ADAPTABLE AND PERSONABLE LODGE

STAFF to support and assist in executing daily logistics for guests while maintaining Eleven’s excellent standards of hospitality. This position will perform general guest services duties including assisting the culinary department with meal service, bartending responsibilities and assisting with basic housekeeping. This position will also assist with general errands and guest logistics, including supporting transportation needs for all Eleven Colorado properties and Irwin Guides. This position requires a clean motor vehicle record, valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (due to flexible schedule), as well as CPR/First Aid and TIPS certification, or willingness to be certified. The ideal candidate will have confidence in their problem-solving skills and extensive knowledge of the Crested Butte and Gunnison County area, as well as enjoy working with a team of diverse personalities in a fast-paced, demanding atmosphere. These full and part-time, summer seasonal positions are paid $20/ hour. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/careers.

WATER TREATMENT FACILITY

FOREMAN: The Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District is accepting applications for a full-time Water Treatment Facility Foreman position to be part of a team environment focused on operation of the water plant and distribution system for Mt. Crested Butte. Important qualifications include a combination of treatment operations, employee supervision, construction and electrical/mechanical/ maintenance repair. A State of Colorado Water B and Distribution 3 license or the ability to obtain such within one (1) year is mandatory (training for certifications provided). Operators are required to take on-call responsibility including select weekends and holidays. A valid Colorado driver’s license is required. Starting salary is $74,200-$91,000 DOQ. Excellent benefits package, including 100% employer-paid premium family health, dental, vision and life insurance, 12 paid holiday days, two weeks paid vacation, employer contribution to retirement plan (5% automatic mandatory employer matching with 1-3% optional additional matching), employer provided uniforms and a seasonal ski pass. Full job description is

GOOD BLACK BULLS

Yearling Gelbvieh and Balancers: Low birth weight, good conformation, good weaning weight and low PAP scores for high altitude performance. Plus, polled and good disposition.

Trich tested to go anywhere.

The total package! Call John and Debbie Hawks 970-596-4292 or 970-417-1897

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

We are a no smoking property.

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

Legals

AGENDA

District Accountability Committee

Agenda

Tuesday, March 19, 2024, 4:00pm - 5:30pm

Lake School Conference Room

This meeting will be conducted in person and by distance using video conferencing.

Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom. us/j/84105247365

District Accountability Committee (DAC)

Membership

Three parents of students enrolled in the district 1. Suzanne Hadley, CBCS, term through May 2025; Chair

2. VACANT, GCS, term through May 2024; 3. VACANT, GHS, term through May 2025

One teacher employed by the district 1. Jennifer Diamond, GCS, term through May 2024

One school administrator employed by the district 1. Ernie Kothe, CBCS, term through May 2025

One person involved in business in the community within district boundaries

1. Scott Clarkson; term through May 2024

Ex-Officio Members

1. Mandy Roberts, School Board Member, appointed November 2021

2. Leslie Nichols, Superintendent 3. Shari Sullivan-Marshall, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment 4. Gina Mile, Director, Marble Charter School

I. Call to Order - 4:00 - 4:05 A. Present: B. Absent:

II. Approval of Minutes - 4:05 - 4:10

Consider approval of January 16, 2024 Minutes - ACTION ITEM

III. Review of DAC Annual Timeline: Six Meetings - 4:10 - 4:15

A. September 1. Organizational meeting to confirm members, elect DAC officers

2. Final Review of District Strategic Plan (UIP) - due to CDE October 15

a. Good orientation for new DAC members b. Include CMAS/PSAT/SAT data breakdown B. November

1. CB/Marble schools UIP Presentations C. December

1. Budget presentation: year to date and forecast for the next fiscal year 2. Consider next school year’s calendar draft from Calendar Committee 3. Data Dive

a. CMAS/PSAT/SAT (July)

b. DIBELS/iReady/NWEA (ongoing; BOY, MOY, EOY)

D. January 1. Gunnison schools UIP Presentations E. March

1. Budget: Review draft budget; prepare recommendations for Board

F. May 1. Data Dive for UIP

a. October Count demographic data

b. Healthy Kids Colorado Survey (May)

c. Teaching and Learning Conditions in Colorado Survey (May)

d. Goal: school climate surveys (not in action yet)

2. Review this Timeline for the coming year!

IV. Regular Business - 4:15 - 5:15

A. Budget: Review draft budget; prepare recommendations for Board

V. Old Business - 5:15 - 5:25

a

request

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Michael Robert Morris, Deceased

Case Number 2023PR6

/s/ Hillary Iza Seminick Planning Director

Gunnison County Community Development Department

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication date of March 14, 2024 12426

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

JOHN LAWRENCE MARSHALL, a.k.a. JOHN L. MARSHALL, a.k.a.

JOHN MARSHALL, Deceased

Case Number: 2024 PR 30002, Division P

All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the Gunnison County District Court, Gunnison, Colorado, on or before July 8, 2024, or the claims may be forever barred.

MICHELE LYNN LAMBERT

Personal Representative 66 Goren Street Crested Butte, Colorado 81224

Telephone: 970-275-2527

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication date of March 7, 14, 21, 2024 12306

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Eric Ian Freson, Deceased

Case Number 2024PR12

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Gunnison County, Colorado on or before July 7, 2024, or the claims may be forever barred.

Anthony Freson

Personal Representative

587 Sugar Hollow Rd.

Pittsford, VT 05763

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of March 7, 14, 21, 2024

12361

Colorado Statewide Network

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two-unit condo is located on the property. The applicant is proposing to build a 10,600 sq. ft. new commercial four-unit building with two stories, along with a 1,356 sq. ft. addition along the north side of the existing structure. The proposal would expand the commercial structures on the parcel to a total of approximately 14,900 sq. ft.

COMMENT PERIOD: Comments regarding the application will be accepted until March 29, 2024. Submit written comments by email (planning@gunnisoncounty.org) or by letter (to the Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230).

A copy of the application is available in the Gunnison County Community Development Department, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO; additional information may be obtained by calling the Planning Department (970) 641-0360.

/s/ Sean Pope Planner I

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Publication date of March 14, 2024 12469

PUBLIC NOTICE

MEETING NOTICE

Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District Board of Directors Meeting

Monday, March 25, 2024 5:30 PM

The Board of Directors of the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District (UGRWCD) will conduct a regular board meeting on Monday, March 25, 2024 at 5:30 PM at the UGRWCD Offices, 210 W. Spencer Ave., St. B, Gunnison, CO 81230 and via Zoom video/teleconferencing.

If you plan to attend the meeting via Zoom video/teleconferencing, please register in advance using the following link: https:// us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ equrzIuG9QCNMpYGG7ueuPHCSXKD4VA

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC

COMMERCIAL USE AT 338 RIVERLAND

DR., CRESTED BUTTE, LEGALLY

DESCRIBED AS LOT 8, RIVERLAND

INDUSTRIAL PARK FILING NO.1

APPLICANT: The applicant is Geordie Van Marter, representing the property owner, Kevin McNamara.

PARCEL LOCATION: The property is located at 338 Riverland Dr., Crested Butte. Legally described as Lot 8, Riverland

Industrial Park Filing No. 1.

PROPOSAL: The applicant is requesting the expansion of commercial use on the parcel. Currently, a 2,947 sq. ft. commercial

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

A meeting agenda will be posted at the District Office prior to the meeting. Questions? Please call the District at 970641-6065.

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of March 14, 2024 12424

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

RFP for the Crested Butte South Metro District meter installation project Summary and background

The Crested Butte South Metro District is accepting proposals for the installation of approximately 275 water meters. The District began installations in 2023 for it’s pilot program in efforts to implement and achieve our water conservation goals. We’re publishing this request for proposals to gather bids for the installation of water meters in every home in Crested Butte South. Please submit your proposal Ronnie Benson, District Manager, by Wednesday, March 27th, 2024.

Guidelines for bidders

We will accept bids for this project until 4:30 P.M., March 27th, 2024. We will require all bidders to be insured and clearly represent their subcontracting intentions. All documents must be prepared and signed by those authorized to do so. All costs must be listed in USD. Further terms are subject to development pending the selection of a bid.

Project scope

The contractor will be responsible for replacing the water meter in homes at times scheduled by District staff. The location of the meter includes, but is not limited to, crawl spaces, basements, utility rooms, closets, and other unknown locations. The contractor will also be responsible for loading the meter information into an electronic device to activate the radio for the meter. District staff will be available to assist with turning the water service off if internal valves are not operating properly.

Proposal timeline and project deadline

Proposals are due electronically to the District Manager prior to 4:30 P.M. on March 27th,2024. Proposals will be evaluated and awarded no later than Monday, April 1st, 2024. Upon contract award, substantial completion of the meter installations must be completed by July 1st, 2024. Substantial completion shall be defined as all meters installed other than meter locations that had trouble with scheduling or other unforeseeable delays.

Budget requirements

Each proposal should include the following for consideration:

Overhead Cost of labor

Total project costs

Criteria

The Crested Butte South Metro District will evaluate proposals based on the following criteria: Overall cost

Company experience

References Proof of insurance

Proposal professionalism and quality

Email proposals to: ronnie@cbsouthmetro.net

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of March 14, 2024

12481

Lights & Sirens

CITY OF GUNNISON POLICE REPORT

MARCH 4

WELFARE ASSIST — N. COLORADO ST.

DISTURBING THE PEACE — 212 S. 11TH ST.

HARASSMENT: COMMUNICATIONS — 312 E. TOMICHI AVE.

ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT

INFORMATION — W. HWY. 50

PROPERTY - FOUND — 420 S. TAYLOR ST.

PROPERTY - LOST — 700 N. MAIN

ST.

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE X 15 — 900 N. MAIN ST.

(THE LARGE NUMBER OF THEFTS REPORTED FROM WALMART RESULTED FROM THE STORE’S

REVIEW OF LOSS PREVENTION

VIDEO AND OCCURRED OVER SEVERAL DIFFERENT DATES IN THE PAST TWO MONTHS.)

MARCH 5

HARASSMENT: MUNICIPAL — 317 N. SPRUCE ST.

TRAFFIC - DROVE VEHICLE W/ OUT VALID DRIVER'S LICENSE — 1099 N. 11TH ST.

NUISANCE CODE VIOLATION — 312 E. TOMICHI AVE.

ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGEMUNICIPAL — 100 OURAY LN.

CRIMINAL MISCHIEF — 215 N.

COLORADO ST.

MARCH 6

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 1099 N. 11TH ST.

WELFARE ASSIST — E. TOMICHI AVE.

HARASSMENT: STRIKE, SHOVE, KICK — W. NEW YORK AVE.

MARCH 7

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE - ALCOHOL — 200 N. WISCONSIN ST.

AGENCY ASSIST — C.R. 50

THEFT - UNDER $100 MUNICIPAL

— 221 N. MAIN ST.

INFORMATION / INVESTIGATIVE

REPORT — 412 E. TOMICHI AVE.

ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGE -

MUNICIPAL — 200 W. SPENCER AVE.

THEFT - UNDER $100 MUNICIPAL

— 400 N. PITKIN ST.

IDENTITY THEFT: USES PERSON-

AL IDENTIFYING INFORMATION —

815 SUNNY SLOPE DR.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT - COARSE OR OFFENSIVE — 404 W. RIO

GRANDE AVE.

MARCH 8

CRIMINAL TRESPASS: SECOND

DEGREE - COMMON AREA — 500

E. GOTHIC AVE.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS: SECOND

DEGREE - COMMON AREA — 500

E. GOTHIC AVE.

ALCOHOL VIOLATION - UNDERAGE POSS./CONSUMPTION — 500 E. GOTHIC AVE.

CRIMINAL ATTEMPT - MUNICI-

PAL — 1198 N. MAIN ST.

WELFARE ASSIST — W. NEW YORK

AVE. INFORMATION — 707 N. IOWA ST.

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE:

UNLAWFUL POSSESSION - EX-

CEPT MARIJUANA — 711 W. RIO

GRANDE AVE.

AGENCY ASSIST

WELFARE ASSIST — 600 N. COLORADO ST.

MARCH 9

CIVIL PROBLEM — 417 PAINTBRUSH AVE.

MARCH 10

BURGLARY: SECOND DEGREE — 314 S. 12TH ST.

HARASSMENT: INSULTS, TAUNTS, CHALLENGES — 221 W. HWY. 50

HARASSMENT: FOLLOWING — 820 W. TOMICHI AVE.

GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT

MARCH 5

-Courthouse security deputy took one person into custody for an incounty warrant

MARCH 6

-Somerset deputies responded to a cold burglary where numerous valuable items were taken. This case is under investigation.

-Search and rescue with Western Mountain Rescue Team and Crested Butte Search and Rescue for a person buried in an avalanche, was retrieved breathing but unconscious - transported to Gunnison Valley Health awaiting care flight. He is currently in recovery.

MARCH 7

-Information report regarding unwanted communication

-Agency assist to the Gunnison Police Department with a disorderly and possibly intoxicated subject

-Deputies took one person into custody on four county warrants and violation of protection order

MARCH 8

-Fraud report - under investigation

-Unlawful sexual contact reportunder investigation

-Gunnison County Resolution #2018-30 - dog at large - found running on the highway - taken to the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League

MARCH 9

-Deputies and WMRT responded to Taylor Park to help a group of stuck snowmobilers

- Missing juvenile report - located safely the next day

MARCH 10

-Deputies took one person into custody for driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol

ATTENTION

COUNTY ROAD 38/ GOLD BASIN USERS

Effective March 15, 2024 County Road 38 (Gold Basin Road) will be closed at the gate just past the shooting range to protect the road from resource damage. Property owners beyond the gate will be given access upon proof of ownership. There will also be a ten (10) ton weight limit during this closure.

The closure will be lifted when conditions allow on May 15, 2024. Please contact:

Gunnison County Public Works Department at 970-641-0044 with any questions.

At Gunnison Valley Health we have the services you need to handle an unexpected injury or illness.

MOUNTAIN CLINIC

THE MOUNTAIN CLINIC IS THE ONLY STATE LICENSED EMERGENCY CENTER AND CERTIFIED URGENT CARE PROVIDER ON THE MOUNTAIN | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

MOUNTAIN CLINIC | 970-349-0321

12 SNOWMASS RD., AXTELL 100, MT. CRESTED BUTTE

URGENT CARE CLINIC

Offering convenient care for minor injuries and illnesses that can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment.

NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY | OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

URGENT CARE | 970-648-7105 707 NORTH IOWA ST. | GUNNISON

PRIMARY CARE

With family medicine, internal medicine and pediatric care, we can help you be healthy and well. ANNUAL

GUNNISON | 970-642-8413 707 N. IOWA |

WCU

| 970-943-2707 104 TOMICHI HALL | GUNNISON

CRESTED BUTTE | 970-642-8413 305 S. 6TH | CRESTED BUTTE

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.

WEATHER: An unusually mild winter, B7

Wastelan d

SPORTS: Kelati wins NCAA championship, B4

The afterlife of the things we throw away

Mariel Wiley Times Photo Editor

The gatekeeper waited in a shack on a hill at the Gunnison County Landfill, her eyes trained on the dirt road that winds through the sagebrush meadows beneath her. A pickup truck crested the horizon. Its bed was filled with scraps destined for the landfill; items that once served a purpose, but soon forgotten.

The landfill, behind a mountain ridge just six miles east of town, is a final resting place for our long-forgotten trash. The site’s three full-time employees spend each day ushering in

items that are both mysterious and mundane. The entirety of the circle of life is represented there, with dead animals buried beneath the ground that the landfill’s living workers walk upon. But their most important task is one that many avoid thinking about: managing the 25,000 tons of garbage produced by Gunnison County residents each year.

Gatekeeper Kerri Lederle is fondly referred to as the “queen of the landfill” by her two coworkers, Garrett Sissung and Dave Jennings. Her shack and the vehicle-weighing bridge attached to it are the gauntlet through which all trash must pass.

As a truck driver approached the weigh station, she popped her head out the window to offer a greeting and ask them what kind of waste items they

had in tow. She ushered them onto the weighbridge after typing their details into her computer. She weighed their vehicle again on their way out to obtain the exact weight of waste they left behind.

For newcomers, Lederle readily provides directions. For regulars already acquainted with the process, she’s always there with friendly banter.

Lederle has a lot of fun at work and enjoys meeting everyone that stops by her shack, she said, but wishes more people utilized the landfill as a resource.

“It makes me so sad when I see people that just dump stuff in town instead of bringing it to the landfill. [Bringing trash here] is a heck of a lot cheaper than getting a fine,” she said.

The gatehouse’s large win -

Landfill B2

Kerri Lederle watches a visitor drive onto the weighbridge.

A murder of crows takes flight above the landfill. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Landfill from B1

dows let in plenty of sunlight and offered spectacular views of Gunnison’s sprawling backcountry. Just to the west of the gatehouse was the landfill, a broad crater tucked between hills. Hulking yellow excavators and compactors trundled to and from an equipment shed as they moved and compressed garbage at the center of the pit.

Discarded items found their home in designated piles that lined the crater’s perimeter, whether they be tires, scrap metal or old refrigerators.

Smoke billowed from a pile of burning tree detritus, and murders of crows circled through the plumes. Only the scent of upturned earth and smoke lingered in the air, thanks to a breeze that whipped over the landscape.

When she’s not assisting visitors, Lederle spends time sorting and packaging batteries to be shipped off for recycling.

When the weather is nice, she puts on a good thriller or history podcast and strolls around the surrounding hills to pick up windblown trash.

Modern landfills originated in the late 1930s, but weren’t widely used in the United States until the late 70s. Today, every county is required to have a functioning landfill. The Gunnison County Landfill has been active since 1991, and has an estimated 70 years left of usability until it reaches its maximum fill height of 290 feet.

Diverting waste to the Gunnison Recycling Center helps to extend the landfill’s life expectancy. After the currentlyactive segment of the landfill retired, the plan is to dig a new site right next to the old one, said Martin Schmidt, assistant county manager for Public Works.

When a segment of the landfill reaches capacity, a six-foot layer of soil is placed on top. Eventually, local flora

will spring from the dirt and fauna will repopulate the space, reclaiming the new hill as a part of the land. Although some of the waste beneath the hill will fully decompose, materials like plastics and metals will long outlast the human lifetime, hidden beneath the ground. The landfill has a waterproof fabric liner that prevents potential pollutants from entering nearby soil and groundwater.

“Landfills get a bad rap for not being environmentally friendly,” said Schmidt. “What’s bad for the environment is the amount of trash that people produce every day, and if we were to leave that unmanaged.”

Just down the road from Lederle’s gatehouse are two 40-foot shipping trailers known by staff as the “Bed Bug Express.” This is where discarded mattresses go to await their fate of reincarnation as recycled material. Rather than be buried in the landfill — where their springy nature would cause them to unearth themselves during the trash compaction process — the mattresses are trucked off to Denver for recycling.

The landfill crew also actively manages pest control. For mice and rats, they employ “mouse control devices,” also known as cats. Jennings and Sissung had hoped the bald eagle who frequented the skies above the dump might ward off invasive crows. But the eagle seemed to be suffering from a lack of predatory motivation.

“He thinks he’s a crow. He’s too lazy to chase them — he just sits there with them,” Jennings said.

For many pet and livestock owners, the landfill is often the only viable option for laying their lost creatures to rest. Schmidt recalled one instance of a local veterinarian showing up with 200 dead cats, removing the burden of burial from their bereaved owners. Schmidt still has an inactive 10 a.m. alarm on his phone titled “bury a dead horse,” which he sometimes still uses. That particular job took

several workers and an excavator to complete.

Dead animals aren’t the only bizarre things that cross over the gatekeeper’s bridge. Sissung’s greatest find was an antique sword that he estimates to be from the 1800s. He also recently discovered a vintage family photograph, likely taken in the early 1900s.

Golf clubs are a frequent find, and staff members have a growing collection that they keep in the equipment shed. During lunch breaks, they bide the time with competitions, driving both golf balls and rocks across the landfill. Jennings currently holds the record for longest drive.

The pair recently came across a lifesize doll head. Sissung suspects it was intended for cosmetology practice, given its spiky haircut and half green, half purple dye job.

Sometimes, the employees’ discoveries give them a fright. Sissung and Jennings once watched a customer dump a limp human-like form alongside other trash. Fearing the worst, they took the customer’s license plate number and waited until he’d left to investigate.

“We thought it was a dead body, but it turned out to be a scarecrow,” Sissung said.

(Mariel Wiley can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or mariel@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Cheeto takes a break from mouse-control duty to roll in the dirt and enjoy the sunshine.

Two small birds perch atop the trash pile.

Sissung and Jennings stand on the road that leads into the landfill.

A fence catches windblown trash. A new 16-foot tall fence, more than double the height of the current one, will be installed along the landfill’s perimeter soon.

‘All in the Timing’

Firebird Theater Company presents David Ives’ “All in the Timing,” a comedic play, at the Almont Resort on March 15 and Queen of All Saints’ Parish Hall on March 16. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. for all performances. Tickets are $15 for seniors, students and military with a valid ID or $20 per person at the door. Find more information and advance tickets at firebirdcb.com/timing.

‘White Rabbit, Red Rabbit’

The Crested Butte Mountain Theatre presents “White Rabbit, Red Rabbit,” by Nassim Soleimanpour, at the Mallardi Cabaret in Crested Butte from March 14-17 and at Western Colorado University from March 21-23. This improvised, solo show features a different actor every night. Find tickets and more information at cbmountaintheatre.org.

Improv night

Firebird Theatre’s improv comedy troupe performs at the Almont Resort on March 17 at 7 p.m. Come see a (loosely) Irishthemed show where the audience supplies the suggestions and the cast does the rest. The show is suitable for ages 18 and up. Tickets are $10 at the door or in advance at firebirdcb.com/ improv.

Film shorts

The Crested Butte Film Festival presents a “Best Of” short film program on March 16 at 6:30 p.m. at the Majestic Theater. The screening is for mature audiences and will feature favorite short films from the 2023 festival. Find more information at cbfilmfest. org.

Conservation District meeting

The Gunnison Conservation District’s annual meeting will be held on March 19 from 6-8 p.m. at the Fred Field Center in Gunnison. Enjoy guest speakers, updates and dinner by Garlic Mike's for $15 a plate. RSVP at gunnisoncd2006@gmail.com.

American Association of University Women meeting

On March 26 at 10 a.m. at the Gunnison Library, the American Association of University Women will be exploring the General Assembly website. This website provides information about bills that are presented to the legislature. Please join if you would like to become more involved in the legislative process. Contact Sharon at 970.641.2883 for more information.

Underdog Rescue fundraiser

Gunnison Gallery will host the 18th annual Cat and Dog Art show to benefit Gunnison Underdog Rescue from April 1-30. Anyone may enter one dog and one cat 8.5 inch x 11 inch photograph or painting with the theme ”FURever Friends.” The fee is $5 per entry and the deadline is March 30 at 3 p.m. Public voting for $5 runs from April 5-25th. Email photos to gunnisongallery124@gmail.com and drop by the gallery at 124 N. Main St. to pay entry fees. Call 970.641.6111 for more information.

Ongoing Senior Services

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!! Are you someone who likes to make others smile? Then you might be interested in volunteering for the Senior Meals program!! Meal delivery and in-person meal hosts needed! Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays mid-day. Mileage reimbursement program available for volunteers age 55 & up. Contact: egillis@gunnisonco.gov or 970-641-8272.

SENIOR CENTER PROGRAMS

Delivery Assistance Hotline: (970) 641-7959 - assistance with ordering, pick-up and delivery of groceries and prescription medications

This includes deliveries from the Food Bank

• March 20 (12:45pm): WORKSHOP – Avoiding Cons & Scams. Presented by Gunnison Police and Gunnison County Law Enforcement Victim Advocates. Learn how to keep yourself, your friends and family member safer by knowing more about common scams, frauds and cons happening in our community. And about the services provided by the Victim Advocate. RSVP requested for planning purposes.

• March 29 (1pm): Featured Activity – Mahjong. Join us to learn this fun and challenging game that originated in China in the 19th century! Very friendly atmosphere. Please call Judy before your first time in order for the group to plan for new additions (973) 5844987.

Senior Meals: (970) 641-8272 for advance orders OR (970) 641-2107 for same-day service Pick-up or delivery only! Meals served Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays. Please note: all meals, all days are $4 during this time. Order in advance if possible! Upcoming menu:

• April 3 (12pm – Special Time!): Book Club. If you are new, please call ahead to Judy (973) 584-4987.

• March 27: Lasagna, green beans, salad, garlic bread, dessert

• March 30: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, corn, rolls, fruit, dessert

• April 1: Stew, carrot/raisin salad, Mandarin oranges, rolls, dessert

• April 10 (12:45pm): Gunnison Valley Trails & Tales with Kay Peterson-Cook. Learn about how some of your favorite trails came into being by someone who was there! Kay, one of the Senior Center’s hike leaders, will share some of her experiences creating recreational trails in the Valley, and some of the tales that went along with those adventures. Please RSVP!

Senior Shopping Hours:

Regular Activities: Mondays – Bridge @ 1 pm; Tuesdays – Canasta @ 1pm; Wednesdays –Book Club @ 1 pm on 1st Weds. of month; Thursdays – Bridge @ 1 pm; Fridays – Art Club @ 12:30 pm & Mahjong @ 1 pm

• City Market – Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (7AM – 8AM)

• Safeway – Tuesdays & Thursdays (7AM – 9AM)

All RSVPs and more info on Senior Center programs: egillis@gunnisonco.gov or 970-6418272.

• Walmart – Tuesdays (6AM – 7AM)

FITNESS @ THE REC CENTER – Sign up at the Rec Center front desk!

• Gunnison Vitamin & Health Food Store – Monday - Saturday (8AM – 9AM)

Mondays & Wednesdays in the Gym

GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS

Teen clay Tuesdays

Learn the art of clay through hand-building and wheel throwing in this self-guided class for ages 12-18 at the Gunnison Arts Center on Tuesdays from March 19-April 9. Register online at gunnisonartscenter.org.

Fundamentals of Qigong

Practice Qigong with Heidi on March 16, 23 and 30 at the GAC. Qigong is a gentle practice of flowing movements that improves balance, strength, mobility and calm. This class is for beginners of all ages and advanced practitioners with a fun, group atmosphere. Pay what you can with a suggested donation of $10-$15. Register online at gunnisonartscenter.org.

CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS

Songwriter shuffle series

Join the Crested Butte Center for the Arts on March 15 and 16 for the Tough Enough to Wear Pink Winter Songwriter Shuffle Series, featuring the Wood Box Heroes and Ward Davis and the Likely Culprits. Tickets are $75 and may be purchased at crestedbuttearts.org.

Opera Colorado

Opera Colorado presents “Cinderella” on March 25 at the CBCA. Is a bracelet as trusty as a glass slipper? Find out in this operatic re-telling of the classic tale. Tickets prices range from $25-$45 and may be purchased at crestedbuttearts.org.

• Clark’s Market (Crested Butte) – Every day (8AM – 9AM)

- Silver Sneakers Boom Muscle @ 9:30am - Silver Sneakers Classic @ 10:15am

SENIOR MEALS

Tuesdays @ 10AM in the Leisure Pool -Silver Sneakers Splash Class (all levels)

Self-reporting Form: www gunnisoncounty org /covid19

If you have symptoms but are otherwise OK, please fill out the form

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays @ 11:30 am. $5 per meal. Advanced orders appreciate (24 hours). Pick-ups between 11 – 11:15 am (advanced orders only).

ORDER MEALS: 970-641-8272

If you cannot fill out the form, call the Call Center (970) 641-7660.

Menu: (all meals come with dessert!)

• Mon., March 18: Friendship Spaghetti Casserole, homemade garlic bread, salad, veggies

Call Center: (970) 641-7660. If you are having symptoms, cannot fill out the online form, or your symptoms are worsening, call the Call Center. DO NOT go to your doctor ’s or the hospital If it is an emergency, call 911

• Weds., March 20: Chicken & Dumplings, veggies, carrot & raisin salad

• Fri., March 22: Beef or Veggie Burritos, rice, corn, Jello with fruit

Walk-in & visitors welcome! Homebound adults ages 55 & up eligible for delivery. If you need a ride, call GVH Senior Bus @ 970-596-6700 (call in advance) or call the Senior Center 970-641-8272.

ONGOING SERVICES

Please practice social isolation. Remain 6 feet or more from others when needing to be out, but staying at home if at all possible

Gunnison Country Food Pantry – Mondays (1 – 4 pm), Wednesdays (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.

Crested Butte Senior Bus: Monday thru Friday, 9 am – 4 pm Services Montrose & Grand Junction for medical appointments. Call at least 1 week in advance, or more. 970-275-4768.

Gunnison County HHS Senior Resource Office: Call for appointments. 970-641-3244.

The Gunnison Senior Center & Community Recreation Center is closed until April 30th

CB lacrosse starts season on the backfoot

Skiers defeat Titans in opening game

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

The Crested Butte Titans lacrosse team fell 10-2 to the Aspen Skiers on March 9, commencing its second year as a varsity program.

The defeat moves the Titans to an 0-1 overall record, with key games against league rivals Fruita Monument and Grand Junction on the horizon. Despite the loss, newly appointed Head Coach Carter Brock was optimistic about the performance.

“It’s tough to start the season with a loss, but it definitely gave us an idea on what to work on,” Brock said. “It was a hard fought battle, but good to start the year with a difficult game.”

In 2023, the team finished its inaugural varsity season with an impressive 5-9 overall record, and fourth place in the 4A Mountain League. A neckand-neck showdown highlighted the team’s growth in a double-overtime loss to rival

powerhouse Fruita Monument last April. This season, senior captains Gavin Fischer and Jack Pierson are leading the team to new heights.

“Last season we didn’t achieve a winning record, which is as to be expected for a young program, but we also had moments where we competed with top teams in the league,” Pierson said. “We want to main-

tain a winning record this season, stay in the top three of the league and go blow-for-blow with the big schools.”

The Titans concluded the preseason last week with a home scrimmage on March 7 against Summit High School. It ended in a competitive 3-3 draw. Two days later, the boys traveled across the mountains to take on Aspen.

The seasoned Skiers team separated itself early, racking on a substantial lead. The Titans continued to battle late in the game, winning the third quarter with a 1-0 scoreline. The contest finished 10-2 for the home side, handing Crested Butte its first loss of the season.

The Titans escaped the defrosting Gunnison Valley to take on league rivals Grand

Junction and Fruita Monument on March 12 and 14. Scores were not available by press time.

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

Kelati wins national championship in 3,000 meter

Western track shines in Kansas

Brenna Barkely Special to the Times

The Mountaineer track and field distance runners lit up the podium at the NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Indoor Track and Field Championships in Pittsburg, Kansas on March 9 and 10.

At the end of the two-day event, junior Simon Kelati was crowned a national champion and the Mountaineers earned All-American honors in five events. The men’s team placed 10th with 18 points, while the women’s team was tied for 20th with 8 points.

Kelati secured a national title

for Western in the 3,000-meter run with a personal best time of 7:57.62.

Kelati started in eighth place for the first 300 meters, maintained a 49-second pace for the next 300 meters and advanced two places. By the 2,100-meter mark, he moved into second place with a 49-second gap.

From the 2,400-meter mark onward, Kelati remained in first place, with Adams State’s Miguel Coca, Colorado School of Mines’ Loic Scomparin and Wingate’s Hamza Chahid hot on his tail. The Mountaineer maintained a blazing pace, and took home a national championship title. Kelati also placed third in the men’s 5,000-meter with a time of 13:55.77, another personal best.

Leah Taylor kicked off day two for the Mountaineers placing sixth in the women’s mile

with a personal best time of 4:45.09. Taylor then competed in the 3,000-meter where she finished with a time of 10:05.33.

The women’s distance medley relay, which included Leah Taylor, Emma Kjellsen, Peyton Weiss and Kaiya Firor, placed fourth with a time of 11:26.44. The Mountaineers were only 9 seconds behind the first-place finisher and 1 second behind the third-place finisher. The men’s distance medley relay — composed of Esteban Deniz, Landon Gary, Edwin Siuda and John Houdeshell —placed ninth with a season-best time of 9:54.99.

(Brenna Barkley is the assistant athletics communications director at Western, and can be reached at bbarkley@western. edu.)

The Titans squad lines up before its opening scrimmage. (Courtesy Graham Koval)

Kelati stands atop the podium. (Courtesy Western Colorado University)

Mustangs charge into the pool

Gunnison Middle School swimmers Gracen Corey and Kelsy Chodorowski excelled at the Western Slope League Bronze Meet in Grand Junction on March 9 and 10. Corey stood on the podium four times, finishing second and smashing a personal best in the 50-yard freestyle, and taking second in the 100 and 500 freestyle. She also took third in the 100 backstroke. Chodorowski also broke personal records last weekend. She was crowned champion in the 100 IM with a PR of 1:18.24, and took second in the 100 butterfly and fourth in the 100 freestyle.

(Courtesy Derek Chodorowski)

WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY SPORTS BRIEFS

Wrestlers prep for championships

Five Western wrestlers will compete in the NCAA Division II Wrestling Championship on March 15 and 16 in Park City, Kansas. Regional champion in the 174-pound division and No. 2 Cole Hernandez leads the Mountaineers.

Hernandez will be joined by regional champion Ryan Wilson, regional runner-ups Dean Noble and Cole Gray and third-place regional finisher, Patrick Allis.

Last season, the Mountaineers finished fourth in the team standings at the national event, and earned four All-American honors.

Juelfs honorable mention on all-conference roster

Kade Juelfs received the Western men’s basketball lone all-conference honor with a spot on the honorable mention roster. The guard helped the Mountaineers to an 11-17 overall record, while going 8-14 in conference play. Juelfs

led the Mountaineers in scoring with 13 points per game. He shot 46% from the field and 42% from 3-point range in 27 games this season. He scored a careerhigh 34 points against Colorado Christian, going 8-for-13 from the field, 5-for-8 from beyond the arc and 13-for-15 from the free throw line.

Nielsen to swim at NCAA national championship

Western freshman Morgan Nielsen will compete in the NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships in Geneva, Ohio March 12-16. She will compete in the 1,650, 500 and 1,000-yard freestyle events. Nielsen set school records in all three events at the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference Championships in February. She enters the national meet seeded No. 15 in the 1,650, No. 28 in the 1,000 and No. 38 in the 500.

Cockman, Schmidt receive all-conference honors

Rachel Cockman earned a place on the second-team roster after leading the Mountaineers womens basketball team in scoring this season with 14.8 points per game and 44% shooting from the field. Defensively, Cockman led Western with 7.3 rebounds per game, and 20 blocked shots on the season.

Ivey Schmidt earned a place on the honorable mention squad. This season, she tallied 12.0 points per game with a 44% shooting from the field. Schmidt registered a career-high 28 points against Westminster. This included going 10-for-16 from the field and 6-for-8 from the free throw line. The sophomore scored 20 or more points in six games this season, and more than 25 points in three games — including the final two games of the season.

Western athlete Brianna Rickert dreams of Olympic gold

Senior Mountaineer selected for skimo world cup

Seth Mensing Special to the Times

Like a lot of kids who grew up in the Gunnison Valley, Brianna Rickert was on skis as soon as she could walk. Before long, she left the other kids behind and reached the top of podiums at Nordic races around the state. Now, in addition to being a senior in Western Colorado University’s accelerated elementary education degree program, she’s a world-class ski mountaineer who is dreaming of Olympic gold.

Rickert was still in elementary school when her father first took her to the town hill, fashioned a suitable uphill setup from a pair of ski blades with telemark bindings and carried her downhill skis to the top of the hill. Rickert skinned along behind. That was the start of a lifelong love affair with ski mountaineering (skimo).

Between Nordic competitions, her father would take her

into the mountains for tours and race training. After transferring to Western as a secondyear student, the call of the mountains became too much to ignore. After years of Nordic ski competitions, she made the transition to skimo.

“The decision to switch was the hardest, but once I finished my first race that year, I knew I had made the right decision,” she said. “This was going to be something I was going to be able to get serious about and see how far I could go.”

Just four years after her first collegiate skimo competition, Rickert has already made a name for herself. After reaching the podium in six races last year, and receiving an endorsement from the U.S. Ski Team’s coaches and the Olympic committee, she was chosen to be one of six athletes to compete in Val Martello, Italy, for the Ski Mountaineering World Cup in 2024.

“She's not just a speed demon in the hills. She's one of the core members of our team,” said Western skimo coach Jacob Dewey. “With a blend of phenomenal skill and an unwavering down-to-earth demeanor, she radiates positivity and brings an infectious energy that uplifts us all.”

Unfortunately, after over -

Showdown on the slopes

Rickert ascends a ridgeline. (Courtesy Western Colorado University)

coming a number of injuries and medical setbacks over the last five years, her World Cup dreams were put on hold when the U.S. Olympic Committee made the decision to forgo this year’s trip to Italy for financial reasons. But that hasn’t slowed Rickert down. She’s still looking to the mountains and finding the inspiration to keep going. With skimo set to appear in the Olympic Games for the first

time in 2026, Rickert recognizes that the format of the sprinting races won’t align with her strengths as an athlete, but she still plans to practice in the discipline for future Olympic qualification.

“I am already looking ahead to the '30 and '34 Olympic years and starting to think about the best plan to make the Olympic team a little bit more possible,” she said. “It's going to be a lot

of work, but I'm ready to put in everything I have and see how far I can get.”

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

From March 5-10, the Westwall Lift at Crested Butte Mountain Resort hummed with action as young racers zipped down the slalom courses. The Rocky Central U16 Showdown Races ran last week and hosted slalom, super-G and giant slalom events. At the end of the week, top finishers received awards on the podium.

Girls first-place finishers

Super-G: Ryleigh Regan 1:17.82

Giant slalom: Catelin Truitt 1:06.63

Slalom: Catelin Truitt N/A

Boys first-place finishers

Super-G: Charlie Heinrich-Clark 1:17.02

Giant slalom: Alek Guziur 1:06.05

Slalom: Alek Guziur N/A

(Courtesy Taylor Ahearn /CBMR)

A recap of the unusually mild winter of 2023-2024

Bruce ‘Barometer’ Bartleson Special to the Times

Now that winter is officially over, I think it’s time to review some numbers. I just ran the statistics for last winter — that is, the combined months of December, January, and February — and I was surprised at the results. It was more dramatic than I thought.

For example, the average temperature for the combined months was 18.4 degrees Fahrenheit. What’s impressive is that the long-term (1900 to 2024) average temperature is 12.6 degrees — that’s almost 6 degrees warmer. Even more impressive is that the average low temperature for the combined months was 4 degrees above zero compared to the long-term average of 3.5 degrees below zero, 7.5 degrees warmer than average. Yes, we had an unusually mild winter.

As far as snow and moisture, we look relatively normal — sort of. This year, the sum of the winter months shows 2.29 inches of water (yes, that includes the water in snow, commonly known as snow water equivalent or SWE) and 28.1 inches of snow. This compares to the long-term average of 2.4 inches of water, and the long term 34.6 inches of snow.

But that’s misleading. If you take out a few days in mid-January, we have very woeful statistics. Recall that December was very dry and there was no snow on the ground until Jan. 14, when we had a snowfall of more than 13 inches. Up till then, the deer grazed on our lawns and bushes, and probably thought they had been magically transported to Grand Junction or Salida.

This brings up an interesting bit of Gunnison history. About a month ago, a friend of mine asked this question: “I was here in the 1970s and again in the 1980s, and I don’t recall there being any deer in town. I’ve talked to several old-timers about this, and they couldn’t pinpoint the exact year the deer moved into town, either.”

I replied, “That’s easy — I’m surprised they don’t know — I thought everybody who had

A feast for furry friends

been here would recall that event!”

It was in the record-breaking winter of 2007-08 when we had 101.4 inches of snow. It covered up all the sage brush on our valley floor, so the deer came into town to find food. Then they stayed, and now this is their home range year-round (at least for this herd) and has been for many generations. A good question for the experts is why they didn’t come earlier, say in the winter of 1983-84 when we had a similar situation?

Finally, we might look at basin-wide statistics for our snowpack and our outlook for runoff this spring. Right now, we’re showing some rosy numbers for snowpack and SWE. Basin-wide, the SWE is 97% of median, and some SNOTEL sites, such as Butte, Park Cone and the Upper Taylor sites are over 120%. But keep in mind that this is in comparison to the last 30 years, which is one the driest periods in recorded history. This is still good, but not quite sensational.

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

Animal lovers packed Palisades Restaurant on Tuesday, March 5 for Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League’s annual Spay-ghetti and No-Balls Dinner. Attendees enjoyed a spaghetti dinner before perusing a wide variety of by-donation dessert options. One litter box themed delicacy was sure to take the cake. All proceeds from the event went to GVAWL to help homeless animals in the Gunnison Valley.

MEETING NOTICE-RTA

The next meeting of the Gunnison Valley Transportation Authority (RTA) will be March 22, 2024 at 8 a.m. at the Commissioners’ Room in the Gunnison County Courthouse – 200 E. Virginia Ave., Gunnison, CO. This meeting will be followed by a retreat with the RTA Air Service Committee. For copies of the Board of Directors meeting packet, please go to gunnisonvalleyrta.com/meetings or call Scott Truex at 970-275-0111. Two or more County Commissioners may attend these meetings.

Fish Fry Friday

DINE IN OR CARRY OUT 5 PM-6:30PM

400 WEST GEORGIA AVE. GUNNISON

FRIDAY, MARCH 15TH

$12 ADULTS, $7 CHILDREN

ST. PETER'S PARISH HALL

BAKED OR FRIED COD - POTATO - COLESLAW - HUSHPUPPIES

ST. PETER’S WEBSITE: WWW.GUNNISONCATHOLIC.ORG

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

MONDAY, MARCH 18 5:30 TO 7:00 P.M.

Gunnison County Public Library 1 Quartz Street Gunnison, CO

Polar explorer Eric Larsen

Free dinner will be provided!