Gunnison Country Times, September 26, 2024

Country Meadows purchase may hinge on infrastructure

One month left before residents’ deadline

Bella Biondini Times Editor

As they attempt to purchase their mobile home park, Country Meadows residents have run into a problem many similar communities across Colorado have faced: deteriorating infrastructure.

Country Meadows, recently renamed Ski Town Village, is located just north of the City of Gunnison. Residents individually own the 52 homes in the park, and pay monthly lot

Meadows A6

NEWS: GUC adds winter flights to Chicago, A11

COMMUNITY: Daylight savings, B1

SPORTS: Mountaineer football tames Grizzlies, B6

OBITUARIES A2, A5

OPINION A4

CLASSIFIEDS A14-A17

SPORTS B6

DA Ryan to step down before election day

Cites high turnover, toll on physical and mental health

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Seth Ryan, the 7th Judicial District Attorney, will resign at the end of October after 17 years of service. His reasons for resignation divulge the severity of staff shortages and heavy caseloads that rural prosecutors face in Colorado.

He announced his resignation on Sept. 23, just a month and a half before embarking on

a second term. He was running uncontested for the seat this fall. In a recent press release, Ryan cited serious staff shortages in the office in the last year that have taken “a significant toll” on his physical and mental health, he wrote.

“It is no longer sustainable for me to cover the daily requirements of court schedules across our nearly 10,000 square mile District while effectively managing, developing, and supervising staff; circumstances beyond my control cannot be overcome.”

The 7th Judicial District encompasses six Western Slope counties, including Gunnison. The District Attorney is an indeResignation A3

Forest Service suspends seasonal hires for 2025-26

National hiring freeze affecting all regions

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

The U.S. Forest Service announced this month that it won't hire any non-fire seasonals, those who work throughout the year to maintain trails, campsites and do critical restoration work, in fiscal year 2025 (FY25). The decision further winnows down the agency’s workforce and creates uncertainty around just how the Gunnison Valley’s 1.2 million acres of Forest Service land will be maintained. Letters sent to regional leadership teams in many Forest

Service regions across the Mountain West were leaked on the crowdsourced social media site Reddit two weeks ago. Soon after, Forest Service Chief Randy Moore confirmed during a Sept. 17 all-employee call that the agency is suspending seasonal hires, also called 1039s, for its coming fiscal year following anticipated budget shortages from Congress. The agency will continue hiring its over 11,000 seasonal firefighters for the coming fire year, National Press Officer Scott Owen wrote in a statement to the Times

“I know that this decision will affect your ability to get some of that critical work done. It will also be felt deeply by managers and units across the agency,” Moore said during the call.

Forest Service A7

FALL FLURRIES: The Elk Mountains were suspended between autumn and winter after the first snowfall of the season in the North Valley over the weekend. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

“This is our home, so if we could give something back, that’s what we wanted.”

— Jay Posner, solar technician

See story on B1

BRIEFS

Beware of money scams

The Gunnison Police Department has received recent reports of an employment scam. An individual has been contacting local cleaning companies and requesting their services. The caller will schedule a future date to have their residence cleaned and then send a check for payment.

The check will be for an amount larger than the cleaning company requested for their services. The caller will ask the cleaning company to forward the extra amount to individuals the caller owes money to through Venmo, Zelle and Cash App.

After the extra money has been forwarded to others, the caller will terminate the scheduled home cleaning and request their money back through the same electronic money exchange application. The check deposited by the cleaning company will eventually be identified as fraudulent.

The police department has also received reports of email messages that threaten to provide embarrassing and intimate photos of an individual to their family and friends if they do not provide the scammer with $2,000 in Bitcoin. These emails often contain specific personal information. To learn more, or to report another incident, contact the Gunnison Police Department at 970.641.8201.

Indoor ice rink opens soon

The Jorgensen ice rink will reopen Monday, Sept. 30 for the 2024-25 winter season. The outdoor rink and Pac Man Pond are expected to open around the third week in December (weather permitting).

Western waives student application fee

This fall, Western Colorado University eliminated the university’s $30 application fee. The change reflects Western's ongoing commitment to reducing barriers for prospective students and creating more opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to pursue a college education.

Candi Kay Borah was a true Gunnison native, born in the Gunnison Valley Hospital on Nov. 5, 1957, to Tracy and Betty Borah. She passed away Aug. 1, 2024, after a brief illness. Candi was a much-loved daughter, sister, aunt and friend. She was a dedicated teacher, an author of children’s books starring her Boston Terriers, and a very active school and community member.

Candi received her Bachelor of Education from Western State College in Gunnison and her master’s from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. She taught 1st grade in Gunnison for many years after beginning her career in Haxton, Colorado and Salida, Colorado.

Candi was a devoted teacher who spent her career inspiring and nurturing young minds. Her passion was teaching children to read and to enjoy reading as a lifelong endeavor. Even after retirement, she volunteered at the Gunnison Community School reading with individual students.

Candi’s beautiful smile and love for the color purple were trademarks of her vibrant personality. She found great joy in tending her flower beds, watching QVC, enjoying episodes of “Law and Order” and spending summers at Spring Creek. An avid reader, she could often be found with a book or Kindle, lost in the pages of a good story, with her Boston Terrier snuggled in her lap.

Candi gave 110% to everything she took on. She was

devoted to the Mountaineer Athletic Association and the Tracy Borah Wrestling Scholarship carrying on the legacy of her dad, a longtime wrestling coach and athletic director at Western State College. She worked through her P.E.O. Chapter HK projects where she was instrumental in the granting of scholarships, grants in aid and additional educational opportunities for women of all ages. She was a member of the Gunnison Pioneer Museum, where her dad’s classic “Old Blue” truck now brings memories of Western’s earlier days.

Candi was a lifetime member of the National Education Association and the Colorado Education Association. For many years, she was president of the Gunnison County Education Association, working with all school employees to enhance the quality of the learning environment for both employees and students.

Candi was seen every year at the Cattlemen’s Days Rodeo ticket booth, selling tickets and promoting the yearly activities of Cattlemen’s Days, the 4-H programs and the Gunnison Ranchland Conservation Legacy.

She is survived by brother Mike Borah (Ingrid) and niece Mariah Borah of Casper, Wyoming and sister Toni Maguffee and nieces Stephanie Meder (Derek), great nephews, Ethan and Landon of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and Julie Head (Ben) of Mustang, Oklahoma.

Candi leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and dedication. She will be dearly remembered by her family, friends and all who were fortunate enough to have known her. In remembrance of Candi, donations may be made to the Gunnison Animal Welfare League, the Tracy Borah Wrestling Memorial Scholarship through the Western Colorado University Foundation, or an organization of your choice.

James Wayne Trujillo

James Wayne Trujillo was born on April 17, 1948 and passed away Sept. 10, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents Paul James and Lucy Trujillo. He is survived by his sisters Joann Hays and Pauline Toevs, nephews Eric Mill, Danny Miller, Heath Noxon and many friends. Some considered him a brother and their children called him Uncle Wayne.

There will be a celebration of life on Oct. 31 from 2-4 p.m. at the St. Peter’s Catholic Church parish hall in Gunnison.

Robert (Bob) Charles Niccoli

It is with tremendous sadness and overwhelming heartache that I must say farewell to my husband and lifelong partner of 41 years, the absolute love of my life, Bob Niccoli.

Robert Charles Niccoli (Bob), was born June 22, 1944, in Gunnison Colorado at the Gunnison Valley Hospital, to Charles (Sid) Niccoli and Justine (Jay) Niccoli and raised on the family cattle ranch seven miles south of Crested Butte. He was a student of the Crested Butte School where he graduated with his four other classmates in 1962.

While in school he participated in 4-H and athletics. His true love, however, was rodeo, where he competed in team roping, calf roping and rode bucking horses. He won many team roping events and even won the “all around” competition in 1969. If

he wasn’t working on the ranch, he would travel across the Western Slope to attend rodeos. During this time, he was also a ferrier, shoeing horses, not only for the family ranch, but also across the Western Slope of Colorado.

In 1969 Bob married his first wife Sandy McLaughlin. They had two children, Ty Robert Niccoli and Jamer Lyn Niccoli. Bob had an intense passion for hunting. He owned and operated a guide and outfit business where he guided day hunts and also packed hunters into the mountains via horseback for weeks at a time. It was on one of these guided hunts in 1983 where I first met Bob, as I came with three other women on an “all women” elk hunt.

Three months later I moved to the Gunnison/Crested Butte area with my two daughters. We moved in with each other in the spring of 1984 and were married on July 5, 1986. Shortly after this Bob adopted the girls as his own daughters, Tarah Danelle Niccoli and Crystal Nicole Niccoli. A little over a year later our son was born in 1987, Peter Galand Niccoli.

The Niccoli family was known for hosting our annual summer “Pachenka” — roasting a lamb or goat over open hot coals. This tradition was passed down by the immigrants from Italy, Austria and Slovenia, however typically done in the high country at hunting or homesteading cabins. This event was looked forward to each summer where there was great food, great friends and fellowship enjoyed by all.

Bob is preceded in death by his father Charles (Sid) Niccoli, his mother Justine (Jay) Niccoli, sister Joan Campbell and brotherin-law J.W. Campbell.

He is survived by his wife Sherry Niccoli, M.D.; sons Ty Robert Niccoli, Jamer Lyn Niccoli, Peter Galand Niccoli; daughters Tarah Danelle Taylor and Crystal Nicole Niccoli; six grandchildren Justin Funk, Kayin Hudson, Bella Hudson, Ella Niccoli, continued on A5

Candi Kay Borah

pendent office created by the Colorado Constitution, unrelated to the Colorado Judicial Branch, the state’s unified court system, or the Office of the Colorado State Public Defender. The district attorney’s office is tasked with prosecuting people who have violated Colorado law, including criminal cases related to serious traffic violations, drug use, homicide, sex assault and more.

In addition to Ryan, the office has an assistant district attorney and 14 deputy district attorneys. Prior to starting as the DA, Ryan served as a prosecuting attorney in the 7th for 13 years. For six of those 13 years, he headed the Special Victims Crime Unit which handles sex offenses against adults and children.

Ryan, a Republican, will resign on Oct. 31, just days before the fall election. The DA is elected every four years and is term-limited to two terms, eight years in total. He was first elected in November 2020 after running unopposed. He replaced former district attorney, Democrat Dan Hotsenpiller, who served two terms in the position.

Uncontested elections for Colorado’s DA offices are not uncommon. Of Colorado’s 22 judicial districts, 16 candidates (including Ryan) are running unopposed this fall, according to data from TRACER, the state’s campaign finance database. In 2020, the story was much the same.

In fact, the 7th Judicial DA has been an uncontested race for over 30 years, according to historical election data from the Colorado Secretary of State’s website. The last contested race was in 1988, when Democrat Michael Stern edged out Republican John J. Mitchel by just over 3,000 votes.

Colorado has been plagued by shortages in district attorney’s offices for years. Ryan highlighted the nationwide labor shortages on his campaign website, calling Colorado the “front lines of this war,” exacerbated by the pandemic and high cost of living. Offices around the state have sought help from the Colorado Attorney General's (AG) Office

to act as a stopgap when local offices lose DAs, he wrote.

“The COVID pandemic and the political aftermath of current events has made it extremely challenging to find, recruit, and retain qualified attorneys,” Ryan wrote in the press release.

In the last four years, the 7th Judicial DAs office has had an average attorney turnover rate of 32%. In 2024, that jumped to 56%, according to the press release. The Gunnison office has had three deputy DAs over the last four years, serving alongside Assistant District Attorney Jessica Waggoner.

In March of 2022, Joshua Dougherty left the office after serving four years. Deputy DA Darren Struble took his place, but left after just two years, yielding the role this summer to Rachel Allen.

For prosecutors in the 7th Judicial, caseloads can be immense. The office handles thousands of cases each year.

Since the start of 2023, each prosecutor in the 7th has filed on average 18.5 felony cases per quarter, according to a database that tracks cases across the 7th. That number does not include misdemeanor charges.

In the second quarter of 2024,

the average number of misdemeanor cases filed per quarter was 94.

Ryan will resign on Oct. 31, 2024. The Governor’s Office is then responsible for appointing a new DA, according to Eric Maruyama, a spokesperson for Gov. Jared Polis’ office. That DA will serve until the next general election, according to state statute. Then, Colorado voters would have to vote to retain him or her. If the vacancy remains following Ryan’s resignation, the AG’s office will take over temporarily.

“I have truly cherished my 17 years at the District Attorney’s Office and the people I have worked with, most especially my loyal staff who have exhibited unwavering support and made tremendous sacrifices during these past few years,” Ryan wrote. “I thank them for working tirelessly with integrity, respect, and in collaboration. I am proud of the work I have accomplished during my career as a prosecutor, zealously promoting justice for the most innocent victims in our communities.”

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

(Courtesy Denetta Sandoval/7th Judicial District)

970.641.1414

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LETTERS

Smith: high-quality representation at Gunnison County

OPINION

Editor: Gunnison County

Commissioner Liz Smith is up for reelection, following a busy first term in which she showed off like Secretariat, running way out front, carrying our best interests on to a blue ribbon. Now, it’s time we return her to the post, and profit once again from her dedicated leadership.

In her recent newspaper column, Liz, we feel, was far too reticent and chose to downplay so many of her accomplishments — bettering the welfare of our children, offering steady service on statewide boards and commissions, leading our city toward safer streets and highways, giving constant attention to our seemingly overwhelming problem with workforce housing and growing the board of commissioners’ relationship with We The People.

But today we focus on Liz’s smart and regular and longrunning work with us and other community partners, trying to salvage Country Meadows mobile home park for the 200 who live there and who do so much of the hands-on work to keep our county moving.

The thing is, Liz shows up. Once there, Liz is in the middle, asking questions, fielding questions, offering suggestions and never giving the residents any reason to believe anything other than what she tells them the county will or won’t do, or can or can’t offer. She lets them know that she is on their side, working constantly for the best outcome possible.

2024

LETTERS POLICY

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

We will not print letters from candidates for public office.

Email letters to editor@gunnisontimes.com or send to 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, CO 81230. Include your full name, address and a phone number — for our internal use only.

The deadline is Tuesday at 12 p.m. Letters may be edited for grammar, clarity or length.

$175,000. But in 2024 the median home price in Gunnison County is $1.2 million. If you don’t have generational wealth, good luck saving up for a down payment! (According to statistics compiled by the National Association of Realtors, 41% of renters could afford to buy a median-priced starter home in 2017, as compared to 37% of renters in 2019 and only 17% of renters in 2024.)

To house people, we need rental properties. The private market does not, and cannot house people at a loss. Kindness does exist in society, but really, the role of government is to protect its people and keep society organized, safe and stable. This includes helping to provide safe housing.

Reading the guest commentary from the two candidates in last week’s Times was illuminating. Jonathan Houck has done his homework. Looking at current statistical evidence and housing needs studies, he concluded that the appropriate role of our county government is to help lead in creating shelter for its citizens. Roads, schools, fire and police protection and health care have been developed to serve the needs of our people. Housing costs have risen to the point that we need to consider that need when considering the greater good in our evolving society.

Gunnison County is a fantastic place to live, work and raise a family. Voters have approved taxes for better schools, libraries, recreation facilities and emergency services. That’s democracy; citizen participation in choosing an enhanced quality of life.

She tells the truth, in other words. That’s the gist of it. That’s Liz Smith, a hardworking member of our community who came up like a lot of us: no Cadillac cruising, just one foot in front of the other, moving forward, always forward. Join us in voting for Liz Smith and a second term as Gunnison County commissioner. She is a winner in this league or any other.

Mike Ritchey Luke Danielson Gunnison

Houck has my support

Editor:

You’ve heard this saying, “If wishes were horses, beggars would ride.” But we know wishing the good old days would come back is pure fantasy. Case in point: housing.

The area median income for Gunnison County in 2024 is $72,100 for a single-person household, $82,400 for a twoperson household. But say you’re making $65,000 per year. Under current affordability guidelines, you can afford a rent or loan payment of $1,517 a month. And that would be fine for a home that’s priced at

35-40% increases in both car and real estate insurance and 20-25% for life essentials over the past three years. "Affordable housing" does not equate to "affordable living.” How many more Joe’s will we lose in the next year or two?

Neil Watko Gunnison

Character matters!

Editor: Let no policy position cloud your vote for leaders this election cycle. More important than any policy is the character of our political leaders. Kamala Harris is calm and civil, and a leader who is generating safety, unity and inclusion, with plans to include and lift up others. Definitely Christian. Donald Trump is angry and uncivil, and a bully who is generating fears, divisions and racism with plans to round up and eliminate others. Definitely not Christian. We are all immigrants, we are all others, we are all together Americans. Vote, vote, vote! “Voting prevents unwanted presidencies.”

Barbara Sibley Gunnison

We’re in this together

Editor:

Thank you Jonathan, for stepping up for your friends and neighbors. You’ve got my support for re-election as county commissioner.

Susan Kerns Crested Butte

Moral blackmail

Editor:

This summer I said “farewell” to my good friend Joe Day. I first met Joe 20 years ago while he was working at the Grand Lodge. Joe always had a work ethic to earn his way in the Gunnison Valley. Joe stated, while he was working his last days at City Market, “I can’t afford the taxes and cost of living here and I’m moving to Grand Junction.” I will miss Joe and our conversations about the Steelers.

Joe realized that next year’s taxes will be the first tax year that includes the Gunnison Watershed School District’s $110 million bond. Now on November’s ballot is a proposal to build a library eight miles away from the Crested Butte and community school libraries. Included in that proposal is subsidized housing.

We lost Joe to higher taxes,

snowpack during the winter of 2023-24, with snow water equivalent levels peaking slightly above the long-term median.

This strong snowpack promised a healthy runoff season, contributing to above-average water supplies across many of the region's reservoirs. Blue Mesa Reservoir peaked at about 79% capacity this summer.

The Gunnison River Basin, which includes critical agricultural areas like the Uncompahgre Valley, experienced near-normal water conditions. Most upstream reservoirs, such as Taylor Park and Ridgway, filled. Looking ahead, recent precipitation has bolstered soil moisture across the basin. This should help moderate water demands through the remainder of the season.

While the Gunnison Basin’s water supply for 2024 was generally positive, it is underscored by a need for ongoing adaptive management to navigate the challenges posed by fluctuating climatic conditions and variable inflow forecasts.

For more detailed water supply projections and realtime updates, please visit the Colorado Basin River Forecast Center (cbrfc.noaa.gov), or head to gunnisonriverbasin.org.

Savannah Nelson Gunnison Basin Roundtable

A fabulous service

On behalf of the Gunnison Country Food Pantry, Mountain Roots Food Project, Gunnison Rotary Club, Trailhead Children’s Museum and GV-Heat, we are delighted to report a great turnout for our “parking lot party” last Wednesday at the food pantry. We celebrated equity of access there as part of the Gunnison Cultural Connection’s Welcoming Week. We’re in this together. There are too many people to thank, but special mention is due to the volunteers from Gunnison High School’s LULAC Club. They made kids activities possible while the grownups checked out food security and energy efficiency services in the valley. Thanks everyone!

Jake Bartholomew Rudy Germany Paul Duba Gunnison

Gunnison Basin water supply update

Editor:

After a summer of moisture, the Gunnison Basin’s water supply situation offers a mixed outlook.

Following a promising snowpack season, water conditions have settled into an average range. As noted in the Colorado River District’s July memorandum, the Upper Gunnison Basin experienced a favorable

Editor:

Last weekend, I had a situation where I needed help and a friend suggested that I call Neighborhood Services, which is part of the Gunnison Police Department.

I just want to say that this is a fabulous service that we have here in Gunnison. The officers went above and beyond, solving my problem with seriousness and determination.

To the officers working in Neighborhood Services, you have my whole hearted thanks for your help solving a difficult problem.

Susan Crawford Gunnison

In regard to Smith’s letter

Editor:

This is in response to "To my Republican friends and relatives" in the Sept. 12 edition of the Times

Thank you, Bill Smith, for informing us which political party you're voting for this November.

I have some questions about the letter. He begins by saying he's voting for the United States Constitution. I simply ask which part? Your party's current presidential selection wasn't made by the primary voting public, but by an elite select few. The party has been in power in the

White House for nearly four years, and presided over the worst southern border crisis this nation has been subjected to for decades. The party has spent trillions of dollars it didn't have which in turn enhanced inflation, thus driving up costs of everyday necessities for all Americans.

Is this world now safer from war with your party in charge? I would say not. Why did 13 American soldiers and at least 170 Afghans die in a rampaging fiasco of something a mostly vacationing President Joe Biden claimed was "a successful withdrawal,” along with leaving billions of dollars in military vehicles, supplies and modern weapons to a terrorist group

continued from A2

Vinny Niccoli and Mahthilda Taylor; brother Charles Niccoli of Greeley Colorado; nephews Justin Niccoli, Mark Campbell, Mike Campbell; niece Mary Nordberg; and mother-in-law Ray Arlene Matthews.

BIRTHS

which subjugates women into property of the males, much like livestock?

The party refuses to acknowledge the legitimacy of the biological female in regards to biological males who steal scholarships, prizes and awards from biological girls and women in sports.

The letter says that with abortion "I will believe as I chose, but I will not try to force my beliefs on others." This is odd, because just before that talking point he discusses forcing his beliefs on our Second Amendment rights.

The letter states that immigrants (I'll assume he meant immigrants who broke no U.S. laws entering the country), do "most of the physical work in the U.S." without even casu -

He will be missed by his family and community of friends.

“Rest in peace my love,” until the day our sweet Jesus comes to join us to live eternally in the presence and glory of our Father in heaven.

A celebration of life will be held at the Fred Field Center,

Piper Josephine Tucker Piper Josephine Tucker was born to Brian and Megan Tucker of Gunnison on Sept. 28, 2024 at 11:18 a.m. in Denver, Colorado. She weighed 6lb 4oz and measured 19.5 inches at birth. She is welcomed by her older brother Camden (2.5 years), grandparents Michael and Patricia Tucker of Lake Forest, Illinois, and Jerry and Laurie Sankey of Fort Collins, Colorado as well as her aunts, uncles, cousins and many other family members and friends.

Better together

ally mentioning their academic achievements in science, medicine, business and so much more through academia and yes, even the space program (Jose' M. Hernandez, for example), is stereotyping many diverse peoples into a single box.

As for his typical fear mongering concerns in regards to the Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025," pie-in-the-sky wish list, it's like Ms. HannahJones' "1619 Project," in the way that much of it will never be implemented by the American people.

By the way, congratulations on reaching 89 years young, Bill.

Jon Matuszczak Gunnison

Gunnison County Fairgrounds, Oct. 4, 2024 from 4-7 p.m.. We would love to see all who can come join us to celebrate Bob’s colorful life. Food and drink will be served.

Hudson Bryant Callaghan

On September 6, 2024 at 7:35 p.m. Hudson Bryant Callaghan was born to parents Brett and Cassandra Callaghan of Gunnison. He weighed 7 lbs. 3.2 oz. and measured 21 inches in length. His grandparents are Bryant and Sheri Callaghan of Cincinnati, Ohio and Chris Lund-Holtz of Tomah, Wisconsin.

Gunnison’s colorful community came together for an afternoon promenade down Main Street during a Diversity Walk parade on Sept. 22. Afterward, the group made its way to Jorgensen Park for a Hispanic heritage celebration. These events marked the end of a busy Welcoming Week, organized by the Gunnison Cultural Connection and a host of other local sponsors.

(Photo by Evan Bjornstad)

rent to the owner.

In June, owner Ski Town Village LLC put the mobile home park up for sale, just two years after purchasing it. The notice followed months of unresolved power outages at a number of homes in the park. Under the Colorado Mobile Home Park Act, residents have 120 days after the property is listed to arrange financing and make an offer. This window closes on Oct. 21.

Over the past two months, the Country Meadows homeowners association, called the Organización de Nuevas Esperanzas (ONE), has been searching for a feasible way to make a purchase offer for the mobile home park. The effort has been all-hands-on deck, and includes ongoing help from Gunnison County as the clock runs out.

This is the second time residents have tried to purchase the property their homes sit on. But with a listing price of $5.7 million, the cost is almost double what it was when it was put up for sale in 2021. In addition to the cost, the infrastructure maintenance the park needs far exceeds what a private buyer would take on without passing on serious expense to residents, likely in the form of rent hikes, ONE board president Elizabeth McGee told Gunnison County commissioners earlier this summer.

The Country Meadows property has aging water, electric and sewer systems, and experiences seasonal flooding. If residents were to purchase

the park, the financial burden of these repairs, which is still unknown, may fall onto homeowners, on top of the purchase price. And as residents look for a lender, these infrastructure problems are complicating the traditional loan process.

Following electrical outages, the Colorado Department of Local Affairs Division of Housing successfully requested a temporary restraining order against Ski Town Village. According to McGee, the electricity has been restored, but the dispute has not been resolved in court. On Sept. 11, the Division filed a $23,500 lien against the park owner for the penalties associated with the ongoing violations.

According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Colorado’s more than 85,000 mobile homes are the state’s largest source of unsubsidized, affordable housing. While many local governments have recognized the need to preserve these parks, infrastructure is more than just a hiccup. When parks are put up for sale, it has become unclear who is ultimately responsible to pay for what is often years, or sometimes decades, of overdue maintenance.

Financial resources exist at the state and federal level for infrastructure work, but the challenge is access, said Chris Lopez. He works for the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority in its southwest Colorado region. This is especially true when the park is still under private ownership. And, mobile home park residents may also need to partner with nonprofits, county governments

or affordable housing organizations to secure money during the purchasing process.

“[It's] not only ‘Where's the money?,’ it is ‘Who can apply for the money?” Lopez said.

The board has expressed interest in becoming a residentowned community (ROC). In this scenario, residents would obtain a loan and acquire the park as a cooperative. Rent payments would then be used to pay off the loan, and also funnel back into park maintenance and operations. The ROC would need to borrow enough to cover necessary infrastructure updates.

Colorado-based Impact Development Fund (IDF), a possible nonprofit lender, is “actively engaged in conversations” regarding Country Meadows, Chief Lending Officer Erica Madison wrote in an email to the Times . But when a community’s infrastructure issues increase the amount of money it needs to borrow, residents often need to find debtfree cash. Otherwise, the associated rent increases are often too excessive for residents to absorb, Madison said.

“Residents are left between a rock and a hard place to solve problems they didn’t create,” she said.

Last month, ONE board members asked the county if it would help pay for an infrastructure assessment, required by IDF as part of the loan approval process. Both the nonprofit Thistle ROC and Proposition 123 — two other places the residents could look for money and technical assistance — also require this type of assessment. Prop. 123, approved by voters in 2022, cre-

ated a pool of money for affordable housing projects across the state.

According to the state, the county cannot request infrastructure funds, and pass the money through to Country Meadows, Cathie Pagano, assistant county manager for community and economic development, said in an email to the Times . The only program Country Meadows may be eligible for is Prop. 123, she said.

Yet, she noted “significant challenges” for the mobile home park residents trying to access this money in a memo to county commissioners. The state prefers to have a local match along with an appraisal and an income-based deed restriction on the property. Award notifications can take up to four months.

Pagano said the county has also reached out to the Colorado Health Foundation and the Gates Family Foundation to inquire about other funding opportunities for Country Meadows, as well as the Elevation Community Land Trust. Community land trusts use a mixture of public and private money to buy land. Elevation aided Durango residents purchase the West Side mobile home park in 2022.

“Staff finds that the structure and timing of Prop. 123 funds will make it nearly impossible for any residents of any mobile home communities trying to buy their park to be successful … [The county] has not identified any clear funding opportunities or easy solutions,” Pagano wrote.

On Tuesday, Sept. 17, commissioners went into an hourslong executive session to

receive legal advice on the possible ways the county could step in and help Country Meadows. Afterward, commissioners directed the county attorney’s office to do a deeper legal analysis of the provisions within the Mobile Home Park Act.

Over the past couple of years, Colorado lawmakers have continued to strengthen the rights of residents through the Mobile Home Park Act. A new piece of the legislation, passed this spring, requires an owner to put money in escrow to cover infrastructure repairs that are not completed before the time of sale. The legislation has yet to be tested in court.

Unresolved notices of violation may lengthen the window of time residents have to make an offer. According to state statute, homeowners are also entitled to extensions if there is a “reasonable delay” in obtaining financing, or a required inspection or land survey.

Country Meadows is not the only mobile home park facing lingering infrastructure issues. The residents of the Animas View mobile home park in Durango successfully purchased their mobile home park for $14 million in 2021. This was the first community to achieve resident ownership under the newly-passed Mobile Home Park Act, and served as a model for other parks across the state. But now their infrastructure is failing, Lopez said.

“Animas View, which is a success story, is still facing an uphill battle,” Lopez said.

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

The dirt road through the Country Meadows mobile home park flooded in March of 2022. According to residents, the streets still flood in the spring when the snow melts and during heavy rains. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

Forest Service

“But ultimately as chief my first responsibility is to ensure we can support the employees we already have on board with us.”

The Times reached out to the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests and the Gunnison Ranger District regarding the number of non-fire seasonals in the area, but after multiple requests, did not receive that information in a reply from the national office.

The GMUG has struggled with staffing for years. Last year, limited staff capacity in the forest held up a multi-million dollar conservation grant slated for wet meadow work, cheatgrass

treatments and overall habitat restoration efforts across the basin. At that time, the office was at capacity and could not complete the required NEPA analysis.

“It opened up [the fact] that we need some of that capacity, which is something the Forest Service has been struggling with for a long time … We’ve been hiring and we’ve been successful, but we’re not building capacity, we’re just maintaining at best,” Gunnison District Ranger Dayle Funka told the Times last year.

Now, following the recent announcement, GMUG will not hire any more seasonal employees for FY25. However, Region 2, which contains the GMUG, is allowing seasonals hired in fiscal year 2024 to complete

their contracts, even those that extend beyond Sept. 30, when the fiscal year ends.

Seasonal workers maintain hundreds of miles of trails by cutting away overgrown foliage, clearing downed trees and cleaning campgrounds and restrooms. They also assist permanent employees in a number of departments that handle things like recreation, wildlife monitoring, restoration work, timber and rangeland. Other public lands agencies and nonprofits, like Gunnison Trails or the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association, rely on these workers to ensure land is rehabilitated as recreationists wear down trails and use campsites. In recent years, the federal

continued on A8

from A1

A Forest Service employee burn piles of downed timber over Slumgullion Pass in 2022. (Photo by Abby Harrison)

$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!

TBD W Denver Ave. MLS# 816647 $610,000 Spectacular 2.5 acre level lot located in Gunnison’s new subdivision Elk Ranch. This parcel is located just outside City limits on the west side of town and seller has it set up to be built on immediately. Lot has a well permit already in place along with the required approval for well from the Upper Gunnison Water Conservancy District which can be transferred at closing. Buyer of lot may also pay for tap fees to hook into the City water and sewer main that will be extended north by City this fall. There is a shared road/driveway into the subdivision and it will be completed by this fall as well. Lot has been surveyed and a building envelope has been established for a single family residence but other dwellings such as barns/sheds etc. will be allowed. Come enjoy some country living with incredible views of mountains up Ohio Valley and the Palisades while being so close to town.

16 Irwin St. MLS# 817525 $625,000 6 bedroom/3 bath updated brick home located in Palisades subdivision. This home has 2 kitchens and separate living spaces and the downstairs has its own entrance from the back of house. The breezeway from the house to the 2 car oversized garage is fully enclosed and is great

In recent years, the federal agency has moved nearly 1,400 seasonal employees to permanent status. Permanent employees, unlike seasonals who are typically younger and less experienced, receive full benefits and don’t have to reapply for jobs each year. Usually, these “perms” could pick up extra pay periods if there are projects, or wildfires, that need attention. However, with no funding available, that work will not extend into next year.

Without a strong seasonal base, permanent employees’ workload, especially field work, could grow significantly. Moore acknowledged that as the non-fire seasonal workforce has dropped in recent years, remaining employees have been tasked to “do more with less.” However, he stated in the call that this time around, rangers and supervisors should instead triage and get high priority work completed irst.

“We cannot do more than we are funded to do,” he said.

“Sometimes we are our own worst enemy because of what this job means to us, because of our commitment to environmental resources and managing those resources entrusted to us.”

On Reddit, users worried that campgrounds across the West will be forced to close, restoration projects will halt and interpretive services, like education and outreach, will dwindle. Others said the removal of seasonals will pile on to permanent employees’ already staggering workload.

“We understand that this will have an impact that will reverberate across all national forests. While we wouldn’t want to speculate on the impacts locally, 1039s typically do a range of important activities,” Owen wrote.

These

The decision is the result of a “budget limited future” Moore stated in an Aug. 29 press release. The Forest Service’s budget is primarily provided through Congressional appropriations each year. The agency requested $8.9 billion in FY25 in the president’s budget ask in March — more than it received last year for both wildfire and non-fire accounts. But the House Interior Subcommittee suggested total funding of only $8.43 billion.

Until legislators can agree on a final budget — which could be well into the new year, as history has shown — the agency will assume funding levels proposed by the House Interior Subcommittee, Moore said. Just last week, Congress passed a resolution that avoids a government shutdown by pushing the decision deadline to Dec. 20.

Like government agencies across the country, the Forest Service is facing the loss of supplemental funding from the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Over the last two years, the agency has offered two cost of living increases totaling around 10%. Forest Service finances will be tight following the November election, no matter who’s elected president or who sits in Congress, said Mark Lichtenstein, budget director for the Forest Service.

“That uncertainty requires us to do our due diligence in planning and we plan for any and all contingencies that could happen,” Lichtenstein said. “We do have pretty concrete evidence that this year, FY25, no matter which way, no matter what happens, will not likely be a robust budget environment.”

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

boots were made for stompin’

Buckel Family Wine welcomed the changing season with the inaugural Gunnison Harvest Festival on Sept. 18. Attendees enjoyed cozy seasonal dishes from the Burnells Farmhouse Eatery food truck paired with Buckel’s house wines. People tried their hand — or foot — at making wine, donning boots to stomp around in a tub full of grapes.

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Parking available in the parking lot, close walking distance from Elk Ave

Clinics

Lures and lifelines

Gunnison County Health & Human Services Office 220 N. Spruce St. Drive-thru and walk-in clinic!

Drive-thru clinic in the south parking lot, enter from Virginia Ave.

Walk-in clinic entrance through the office lobby, use the west parking lot off Spruce St. or park on West Georgia Ave

Last week, anglers waded into rivers and streams around the valley for the annual Risers 4 Rett (R4R) fly fishing tournament Sept. 19-22. Contestants shared meals at the Almont Resort in between long hours on the water. This year marks the 10th anniversary of R4R’s support of the Children’s Hospital Colorado Rett Clinic. Over the past decade, R4R has raised close to $1 million through fly fishing events around the state to support the clinic. The Rett Clinic treats patients with Rett syndrome from across the country. Rett syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that primarily affects girls, causes severe impairments in motor skills, coordination and communication. “Risers 4 Rett was born from a shared love for fly fishing, intertwining our passion with a deep commitment to aiding our cherished friends in their time of need,” said R4R founder Orlin Camerlo. After three days of fishing, tournament participants gathered at the Almont Resort for a final dinner and award ceremony. This year’s winners are Ed Kammerer and Steve Burrows.

2024 Clinicas de Gripe/Flu

¡Protégete a ti mismo y a los que te rodean!

Crested Butte Gunnison

9 de octubre 3-6pm

Dentro del Salón

Parroquial de Queen of All Saints 401 Sopris Ave

Aparcamiento disponible en el aparcamiento, a poca distancia a pie de Elk Ave

17 de octubre 2-6 pm

Oficina de Salud y Servicios Humanos del Condado de Gunnison 220 N Spruce St

Esta clínica ofrecerá servicio desde el coche y sin cita.

clínica de acceso en coche será en el estacionamiento sur por la calle

Virginia entrada a la clínica sin cita será en la área de recepción de la oficina, utilice el aparcamiento oeste de Spruce St o aparque en West Georgia Ave

Vacunas contra la gripe de dosis normal y alta disponibles POR FAVOR TRAIGA UNA COPIA DE SU TARJETA DE SEGURO MEDICO Y SU IDENTIFICACIÓN PARA CONFIRMAR SU INFORMACIÓN NO aceptamos el seguro medico Kaiser Permanente

$25 por la vacuna si no tiene seguro médico

Se aceptan efectivo, cheques y tarjetas de crédito

Las personas a partir de 6 meses pueden vacunarse

(970) 641-3244

(Courtesy Ursula Webhofer/Rocky Mountain Rett Association)

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Llame a Salud y Servicios Humanos para obtener más información

GUC adds flights from Chicago in late winter

Service starts President’s Day weekend

Bella Biondini Times Editor

For the first time in almost a decade, the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) will begin offering direct flights to Chicago in 2025.

The small boost in winter service on United Airlines is an attempt to serve a growing number of Vail Resorts Epic Pass holders in the greater Chicago area. The Rural Transportation Authority (RTA) is incentivizing United with a $118,000 minimum revenue guarantee (MRG), a cost the organization has to cover if airplane seats don’t fill. The flights will be available starting in February on President’s Day weekend and extend through the end of March — some of the busiest weeks of the ski season at Crested Butte Mountain Resort.

Under the existing schedule, United will offer inbound flights on Saturdays and outbound flights on Sundays, for a total of seven roundtrips. Transportation officials believe offering one flight per week out of GUC during the peak winter season is an optimal way to test the market. The RTA board of directors approved the new service and associated MRG unanimously during a regular meeting on Sept. 20.

GUC offered service to the Chicago O'Hare International Airport starting in the winter of 2008, and then again from 2013 to 2017. During this period, the RTA paid roughly $1 million in MRG agreements, and ultimately decided to suspend the flights due to the high cost.

This is the first time flights have been reintroduced since Crested Butte Mountain Resort was acquired by Vail and added to the list of resorts on the Epic Pass. The pass gives skiers and riders unlimited access to ski resorts around the country. According to Bill Tomcich, the RTA’s flight consultant, because of Chicago’s proximity to Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort, there are quite a few of Epic Pass holders in the greater metropolitan area.

The number of passengers traveling to the valley from Milwaukee and Chicago have also jumped over the past five years, likely because of those ski pass holders, Tomcich said.

“Hopefully that'll make a big difference … this is a real way to dip our toe in the water,” said RTA Executive Director Scott Truex.

Gunnison remains the only ski town airport that United serves during the winter that

doesn’t offer non-stop service to Chicago. Because of this, Tomcich believed that Chicago was the next logical target market for the valley. The Chicago service accompanies a third daily flight coming in from Denver this winter. This marked a 25% capacity increase on United.

“It's actually going to complement the existing service we have from Houston and Denver very nicely,” Tomcich said. “It’s one of the more compelling pitches that we’ve made.”

Flights during the sevenweek period would leave Chicago at 3:35 p.m. and arrive in Gunnison at 6:15 p.m. on Saturdays. The plane would depart from Gunnison at 9 a.m. and arrive back in Chicago around noon, on Sundays. These flights could connect passengers to Newark, Boston, Washington D.C. and dozens of airports that United doesn’t currently fly out of its Denver hub.

When the RTA guarantees an airline will make a certain amount of money (whether seats fill or not), the organization is then responsible for making up the difference, up to a set amount or “cap.” The addition of Chicago service will bring the RTA’s total MRG cap up to roughly half a million dollars for United winter service — within the same range as last year. The only other route the RTA is incentivising is Houston with a cap of $464,000. The board recently decided to cut Tuesday service from Houston to reduce the cost. United offers Denver service at its own risk.

“This is the only expansion of service on the weekends, so I think it makes sense,” Truex said. “But it's going to be a challenge to not pay the cap on this one [Chicago]. It's an expensive per-passenger cost.”

Board member Liz Smith said the RTA has already discussed its marketing plans with the Tourism and Prosperity Partnership (TAPP). Because the service will not begin until President’s Day weekend, the organization believed there was still plenty of time to make adjustments to its marketing strategy. The goal is to capture passengers before they book travel plans for spring break.

“Even if we end up paying the MRG, if there's success in getting people here often that translates into an economic benefit,” Smith said

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

School district report card improves slightly Report uses test scores to measure progress

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Each year, the Colorado Department of Education (CDE) aggregates standardized test scores from across the state to issue each school district a “report card,” a measure of how well schools are serving students. This year, the Gunnison Watershed School District retained its accredited status with a score 66.2 out of 100, slightly higher than last year’s score of 65.2.

This annual report card, also called a “District Performance Framework,” uses test scores as a proxy for student achievement and growth, and measures how well Gunnison Valley students are doing compared to other school districts. Third through eighth graders use a test called Colorado Measures of Academic Success (CMAS), ninth and 10th graders, the PSAT and 11th graders, the SAT.

All of those tests include English language arts and math sections. The report looks at academic achievement, academic growth and postsecondary and workforce readiness. Achievement scores indicate how a student is doing relative to state grade level standards, while growth reflects how a student is doing over time.

The district’s score is 20 points above the state considering it accredited, but “low performing.” Despite that comfortable margin, the results reflect the district’s ongoing struggle to serve its English-language learner (ELL) and multilingual students, and those with disabilities.

As a whole, North Valley students continue to score higher on tests than those in Gunnison. Superintendent

Leslie Nichols gave the school board a breakdown of the district’s rating at a regular meeting on Sept. 23.

Achievement CMAS scores for middle schoolers across the district have continued to linger 10-20 percentile points below pre-pandemic scores. Overall achievement and growth scores at Crested Butte Elementary School (CBES) and Gunnison High School dropped 10 percentage points over last year, while the district’s other schools saw increases. Nichols said she is working with CBES administrators and GHS principal Jim Woytek to discover the root causes.

“I'm not terribly alarmed by that,” she said in the meeting. “I don't have answers yet. I haven't studied their data.”

The report reflects that while some district students struggle to meet state standards in raw scores, metrics for growth — how test scores change over time — are higher. For example, the district’s elementary and middle school students either approach or meet state standards for growth across the board, a “notable” result over last year, Nichols said in an email to the Times . The results are mixed for high schoolers.

“A lot of folks in my world, and I tend to lean in this direction, look at growth as the money metric, because we tend to believe that is where we have the most influence. We can't control kids' conditions when they walk into our school, their level of poverty or wealth, their nutrition, their language at home, their ability or disability … We can control taking kids where they are when they come to us, and how far they get next year,” Nichols said.

As the data relies on test scores, the report also measures overall testing participation.

The district clocked low overall participation, but excused fewer students than it did last year, after participation dropped during the pandemic. In 2023, about 90 students were excused from testing — a right afford -

ed to all parents in Colorado. This year, around 70 kids were excused from testing in math and English language arts, and the total participation rate hovers just over 90%.

The dropout rate improved slightly over last year, going from 0.8% to 0.6%. The graduation rate sits at 96.2%, slightly lower than last year, but exceeding state expectations.

Scores among ELL, multilingual learners, students with disabilities and minority student groups have continued to suffer the most. In elementary and middle school achievement, these student groups primarily range from the first to 10th percentile — meaning they perform better on math and English language arts tests than only 1-10% of their Colorado peers in the same category.

Students on free and reduced lunch similarly clock lower percentiles, scoring between the 10th and 50th percentile. In the 2023-24 school year, the number of students enrolled in free and reduced lunch jumped 10% across the district. In Gunnison, 43% of students were enrolled in the program and in Crested Butte, 17%. This is due primarily to a change in how family eligibility was determined, Nichols said.

CDE expanded the certification process last year to use Medicaid enrollment data to determine eligibility. The decision meant less cumbersome paperwork for families and fewer applications for the district to juggle.

“We were not capturing those families with hard copy paper applications very well,” Nichols said. “And now that it's automatic, I just see this as a much truer representation of the families that we have feeling the impacts of poverty.”

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

The district’s elementary school students did especially well last year in academic growth categories. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

Neon nostalgia

Boulder-based 80s cover band the Goonies rocked the stage during a concert at the I Bar Ranch on Sept. 20. The crowd went wild for a rendition of Heart’s “Barracuda.” The show concluded the season for Tincup Mountain Whiskey’s 2024 Summer Concert Series.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Atmos Energy has a rewarding opportunity for a full-time Construction Operator, Service Technician and Distribution Operator in Gunnison or Crested Butte.

This position would be responsible for customer service and construction field activities on distribution and transmission systems and facilities. Must enjoy working with the public working outside in all weather conditions and be available for overtime and call-out. Positions require a high school diploma or GED, along with a valid driver's license. All training will be provided. Relocation assistance may be considered. DOT Drug Test. Background and MVR required. CDL-A preferred. ($29.25-$42.50 DOE).

Interested applicants must apply on line at atmosenergy.com/careers.

EOE/M/F/0/V

WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY

is seeking applicants for the following fully-benefitted position.

Western’s benefit package includes Colorado PERA retirement, low-cost insurance plans (with generous employer contributions to medical/ dental/vision), employee and dependent tuition benefits, paid vacation, paid sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Employees receive basic life insurance and disability insurance at no cost. Employee wellness programs and professional development trainings are available for FREE.

Custodian I: Full-time (40 hours/ week). Starting pay rate $18.78/hour

Equipment Mechanic I: Full-time (40 hours/week). Starting pay rate $22.82/hour.

Security I: Full-time (40 hours/ week). Starting pay rate $17.04/ hour. This position is scheduled for night shifts (8 p.m. – 6 a.m.) and is paid an additional 14% ($19.42/hour) for weeknights and 20% ($20.45/hour) for weekends.

To view the full job announcement and apply, visit western.edu/jobs and click on “View Careers” (AA/EOE).

GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Public Health Nurse II –

Substance Abuse Prevention

HHS: 20 hours/week, hourly pay range from $33.79 to $41.08 plus partial benefits.

Patrol Deputy Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/ week, the annual salary range is from $70,288 to $99,422 plus full benefits.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/ week, hourly range from $22.91 to $30.77 plus full benefits.

Juvenile Services

Facilitator I & II

Juvenile Services: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly pay range is $27.03 - $30.36 plus full benefits.

Bilingual - English and Spanish Speaking (Required)

Family Support Manager

Juvenile Services: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, monthly pay rate is $6,581.00 plus full benefits.

Family Support Partner

Juvenile Services: Part-Time, 20 hours/week, starting hourly pay rate is $21.82 plus partial benefits.

Planner Technician & Planner I

Community Development: FullTime, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $56,215 to $76,786 plus full benefits.

Deputy Emergency Manager/ Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator

Emergency Management: FullTime, 40 hours/week, monthly pay range is $6,209.00 to $7,070.00 plus full benefits.

Administrative Assistant –Permitting/Job Costing

Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly pay range from $27.03 to $30.77 plus full benefits.

Public Health Nurse II – Child Care Health Consultant

HHS: 20 hours/week, hourly pay range from $33.79 to $38.48, depending on experience, plus partial benefits.

Parents As TeachersParent Educator

HHS: 20 hours/week, hourly pay range from $27.03 to $30.77, depending on experience, plus partial benefits.

Shop Technician I Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly range from $25.74 to $29.31 plus full benefits

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

DOE. Email your resume to officehmc1283@ gmail.com or call 970-349-5261.

EXPERIENCED LEAD CARPENTERS

NEEDED in Crested Butte. Local Crested Butte-born, residential construction company, growing regional, excellent pay. Text/call 512-947-7797.

JOIN THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE’S CLERK’S OFFICE: We are seeking an organized and detail-oriented individual to perform various administrative duties, supporting the Town Clerk, Town Council, and Municipal Court. This year-round position includes a salary range dependent on qualifications of $52,551-$63,952 and includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer-paid employee & dependent health, dental, vision, life insurance, and matching contributions to a retirement plan after one year of employment. Full job description and job application are available on the Town’s website at www. townofcrestedbutte.com. To apply, please submit an application and resume to jobs@ crestedbutte-co.gov

THE TOWN OF NT CRESTED BUTTE is looking for a full-time year-round maintenance worker. Seasonal worker will be considered for a qualified applicant with a current CDL and heavy equipment experience. Snowplow experience is preferred. Typical job duties will vary from season to season and will include but are not limited to: snow shoveling, plowing of the Mt. Crested Butte roads and various parking lots, maintaining town equipment and vehicles, emptying trash cans, repairing fence lines, building maintenance, road maintenance including sweeping, flagging, filling potholes, maintaining the town’s ditches and culverts. Schedule is 4 – 10 hour days with one weekend day in the winter being required. Overtime is expected during snow cycles. Minimum qualifications include the ability to obtain a class B commercial driver’s license, clean seven year driving record, ability to obtain their flagger certification, safely lift 80 pounds, good customer service, communication and team work skills, ability to walk on uneven surfaces, ability to work outdoors for an extended period in the summer and winter, basic knowledge of heavy equipment and snow plowing experience. Preferred qualifications include having a class B commercial driver’s license, flagger certification knowledge of heavy equipment operations, loader, backhoe and snowplow experience, knowledge of vehicle and heavy equipment maintenance (mechanic) welding experience and building

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

CBES/GES -

maintenance and upkeep experience. Starting pay range is $47,599 to $66,000 depending on experience. The Town offers an amazing benefit package with paid health, vision and dental insurance for you and your family, 401(1) or pension plan, 12 paid holidays, generous vacation and sick time, wellness program and more. Please visit mtcb.colorado.gov for the full job description. Contact Bobby Block at bblock@mtcb.colorado.gov with any questions. To apply email your resume, cover letter and three references to Tiffany O’Connell at toconnell@mtcb.colorado.gov Applications received prior to October 4, 2024 will receive priority.

CAPITAL PROJECTS SUPERVISOR JOB

POSTING: The Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District is accepting applications for a capital projects supervisor. Under the general direction of the district manager, this full-time position is responsible for professional level oversight on all phases of capital expenditure construction projects for the district. Desired skills and experience include a successful record of delivering projects on schedule and within budget, strong project management skills, effective communication skills, both written and verbal, and a passion for water and wastewater construction projects. Important qualifications include a combination of experience and education with a desired Bachelor of Science degree in construction management, a PMP certification and/or a PE license in the state of Colorado. A valid Colorado driver’s license is required. Starting salary is $90,000-$130,000 DOQ. Excellent benefits package, including 100% employerpaid premium family health, dental, vision and life insurance, 12 paid holiday days, paid sick leave, paid personal leave, 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 wellness benefit/ski pass. Full job description is available at mcbwsd. com. Please submit cover letter and resume to Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District, P.O. Box 5740, Mt. Crested Butte, CO 81225 or email info@mcbwsd.com. Position is open until filled. MCBWSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

THE ICELAB is hiring a Program Manager. This role will work closely with the ICELab Director to further the mission of the ICELab in creating more high paying jobs in Gunnison Valley. They will work hands-on to improve the co-working space and provide a high level of customer support and service.

PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

District School Psychologist GHS - Special Education Teacher COACHING

CBMS - Assistant MS Girls’ Basketball Coach GHS - Assistant Girls’ Basketball Coach GHS - Rock Climbing

Please contact:

Superintendent’s Office JoAnn Klingsmith 800 N. Boulevard 970-641-7760 jklingsmith@ gunnisonschools.net

They will take ownership of organizing small and large events to promote economic development both locally and at regional industry events. All details can be found at unnisoncrestedbutte.com/industry/careers/. EXPERIENCED CARPENTERS NEEDED in Crested Butte. Local Crested Butte-born, residential construction company, growing regional, excellent pay. Text/call 970-5961131.

ADAPTIVE SPORTS CENTER is seeking a Program Manager to help the organization continue to grow and thrive. Work for a local non-profit that provides therapeutic adventure-based programming for people with disabilities, their friends and family members. Join a fast-paced, professional team in a state-of-the-art facility in the Crested Butte Mountain Resort base area. ASC has been rated Outside Magazine’s 50 Best Places to Work many years in a row.

The Program Manager is responsible for consistently facilitating high quality daily operations, managing volunteers and seasonal staff, scheduling, participant record keeping and other key aspects of program management for the Adaptive Sports Center. The Program Manager provides and sets the stage for outstanding customer service for clients and oversees many critical aspects of programming oriented public engagement for the organization. With support from the Program Director and Assistant Program Director, the Program Manager serves as the lead program operations and instructor supervisor in their absence.

This position is year round and exempt. Salary range is $54,400 - $62,500 plus a competitive benefits package including 401(k), Paid Time Off

Estimated annual benefit value starting at an addition of $13,200.

Currently accepting applications. Desired start date Nov. 1 or until the position is filled. To apply, submit a letter of interest, resume, and references to Elizabeth Philbin, Assistant Program Director, elizabeth@ adaptivesports.org and Chris Read, Program Director, cread@adaptivesports.org. Subject Line: “Program Manager”.

The Adaptive Sports Center is an inclusive organization and an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For full job description and more information visit adaptivesports.org/about-us/careers.

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR: Living

Journeys, a local non-profit that provides community cancer support is hiring a full-time Development Director to assist with the organization’s rapid growth. This position will help set the organization’s strategic fundraising agenda to achieve revenue goals. If you are passionate about helping people in our community, have experience running projects to success, and leading a dynamic team, we want to hear from you. Bring your expertise to our thriving organization where your skills will make a difference. This position offers a competitive salary and more. To learn more, go to livingjourneys.org. To apply, please email your resume, cover letter and three references to info@livingjourneys.org by September 30, 2024.

THE GUNNISON VALLEY REGIONAL

HOUSING AUTHORITY (GVRHA )IS

HIRING: Join our team and help us make a difference! We have a newly created role we are hiring for to support our Ownership Program. This is a great opportunity for a detailed oriented person with good Excel, administrative and public service skills, who is interested in contributing to our affordable housing ownership program. See detailed job description on our website here: www. gvrha.org/join-our-team. $23-$25/DOE. Please email resume to hiring@gvrha.org for more information.

THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring a full-time seasonal Ski Valet Manager, compensation range is $25-$27/hr DOE. Employee benefits include employee discounts and ski storage at the base area. For more information or to apply, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte.com.

MOUNTAIN EXPRESS DRIVER: JOIN

OUR TEAM – PAID CDL TRAINING!

Mountain Express is looking to recruit drivers for immediately available shifts. We will offer

CDL training at an outside CDL training agency, as well as a sign-on bonus! Starting wage is $22.60/hr. If you already have a CDL, please apply too! Health insurance is available based on hours worked. Ski locker benefit. Drivers are responsible for safe transport and friendly assistance of passengers on our bus route. Please contact Leah Petito at lpetito@mtnexp.org to apply and for a complete Job Description visit mtnexp.org. EOE

SAGUACHE COUNTY IS SEEKING AN ON-SITE WASTEWATER TREATMENT SYSTEM INSPECTOR: The On-Site Wastewater Treatment System Inspector for Saguache County is responsible for maintaining and enforcing public health regulations relating to the community’s environmental health. Through investigation, inspection, education and enforcement, the On-Site Wastewater Treatment System Inspector takes action to mitigate or eliminate public health hazards. Inspections and investigations occur indoors and outdoors facilities such as residential homes, restaurants, swimming pools, public schools, penal institutions, childcare facilities, nursing homes, body art facilities, cannabis/hemp facilities, campgrounds, mobile home parks, public accommodations, bars/lounges, etc. On-Site Wastewater Treatment System Inspectors are assigned primary responsibilities in specific environmental programs but are required to possess knowledge of all programs in order to respond to public health emergencies. Starting salary of $25/hour depending on experience and qualifications. Saguache County offers an exceptional benefits package including health, dental, vision insurance with an option for a Health Savings Account. Employees enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, 11 holidays. Saguache County is an equal opportunity employer. Saguache County is an EEO employer. Valid Driver’s License, Drug testing which includes marijuana, and a background check will be required also a physical exam may be required for final applicants.

To view the job description and an application they are available at Saguache County Administration office 505 3rd Street, Saguache or printable at www. saguachecounty.colorado.gov. Call 719-655-2231 for more information. Position opened until filled.

SEEKING A PART TIME CAREGIVER FOR A SENIOR CITIZEN: The schedule is Monday to Friday, 5 hours a day & 5 days a week. The time is flexible. We are looking to hire someone immediately. Salary is $30/hr. Send email to ampbellm77676@gmail.com for more details.

ICLEAN IN CRESTED BUTTE is looking for cleaners. Pay DOE. Please call (970) 3312417. Buscamos limpiadores para trabajar en Crested Butte. Por favor, comuníquese con IClean al (970) 3312417.

THE MT CRESTED BUTTE WATER AND

SANITATION DISTRICT is accepting applications for a full-time Wastewater Operator to be part of a team environment focused on the operations of the wastewater plant and collection system for Mt. Crested Butte. Qualifications for the position include construction experience, the ability to work outdoors, prepare and analyze lab responsibilities, and experience with electrical, mechanical and maintenance repairs. A State of Colorado Collections and/or Wastewater license or the ability to obtain such within one (1) year is mandatory (training for certifications provided). Operators will be required to take on-call responsibility including select weekends and holidays. A valid Colorado driver’s license is required, and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is preferred at hiring or the ability to obtain such within one (1) year is required. Starting salary is $53,100 to $59,500 for entry level. $58,000 to $75,000 salary available for operators/electricians with experience and appropriate state licenses. Excellent benefits package including 100% employer paid premium family health, dental, and life insurance, 12 paid holiday days, two weeks paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid personal leave, employer contribution to retirement plan (5% automatic mandatory employer matching with 1-3% optional additional matching), employer provided uniforms, and a wellness benefit/ski pass. Full job description is available at www.mcbwsd. com. Please submit cover letter and resume to Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District, PO Box 5740, Mt. Crested Butte, CO 81225, or email info@mcbwsd.com. Position is open until filled. MCBWSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE IN CB SOUTH is hiring a full time infant/toddler teacher to start at the beginning of the school year! This is a great opportunity for a full time year round stable job with great pay and benefits! It is rewarding and fun, and there is a lot of potential for growth in this career. Please submit resume to Jessica at lilredschoolhouse1@gmail.com

IRWIN GUIDES IS SEEKING OFFICE/ SALES ASSOCIATES: Seasonal, 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 seasonal position starting at $20 - $23 per hour depending on experience and qualifications. The Winter season runs December through April. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/careers/.

REAL ESTATE

HOUSE JUST NORTH OF GUNNISON: 3 bed, 2 1/2 bath. 2-car garage. Heated floors. w/d, d/w, d/o. $3,000 plus electricity. 3 1/2 acres. 5 minutes to bus and less that 45 minutes to 3 ski areas. Nov. 1, 2024-May 1, 2025. 970-209-3509.

FOR RENT IN GUNNISON: 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, brand-new townhomes. 427 S. Boulevard Ave. No pets, no smoking. First, last and security deposit. Previous rental references required. Available Nov. 1st. $3,000. Please call 970-901-1798.

TWO HOME BUILDING SITES:405 Sequoia Drive. Each over one acre, stupendous views. Electric, sewer/water available. $112,500 each. Call/text Mindy Costanzo, Bluebird Real Estate, 970-2092300. Mindy-Land.com.

WANTED

WANTED: Colorado Unit 67 Elk Voucher, cow, 2nd season (2 each). Contact George, 713-201-7916.

TO DISPOSE

– PERRY DIMMITT

Date of Redemption: October 3, 2024

Unit Up4 – KORY ENRIGHT

Date of Redemption: October 3, 2024

Unit 61 – EMILY HERPEL

Date of Redemption: October 3, 2024

The Saguache County Planning Commission will hold a Public Hearing at the Saguache County Road and Bridge meeting Room located at 305 – 3rd Street, Saguache, Colorado, on the following date:

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2024, at 6 PM to consider proposed changes to the Saguache County Land Development Code.

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

Written comments will be accepted until Friday, September 27, 2024, at 3pm, and may be sent to Saguache County Land Use Department at PO Box 326, Saguache, CO 81149 or email to atorrez@saguachecounty-co.gov .

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of September 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2024 14758

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

AALSH LLC, 8200 S Quebec St, Ste A3187, Centennial, CO 80112, (720) 883-7200, has filed an application for an amendment to a Limited Impact (110d) Designated Mining Operation Reclamation Permit with the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Board under provisions of the Colorado Mined Land Reclamation Act. The proposed mine is known as the Lucky Strike Mine & Mill (Lucky Strike Mill), and is located at or near Section 10, Township 48 North, Range 1 East, on the 10th Prime Meridian.

The proposed date of commencement is September 2024, and the proposed date of completion is September 2054. The proposed future use of the land is Wildlife Habitat.

Additional information and tentative decision date may be obtained from the Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, Colorado 80203, (303) 866-3567, or at the Gunnison County Clerk & Recorder’s Office, 221 N Wisconsin St, Gunnison, CO 81230, or the above-named applicant. A complete copy of the application is available at the abovenamed County Clerk and Recorder’s office and at the Division’s office.

Comments concerning the application and exhibits must be in writing and must be received by the Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety by 4:00 p.m., 10 days after the publication of this notice.

MAIN STREET COMMERCIAL SPACE: 2,100 Sq. Ft . Alley access. Fireplace. $2,600 monthly. liskorinternational@gmail. com. 847-769-7800.

Unit E34 – PETER HOLM Date of Redemption: October 2, 2024 Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of September 19 and 26, 2024 14863

Please note that under the provisions of C.R.S. 34-32-101 et seq. Comments related to noise, truck traffic, hours of operation, visual impacts, effects on property values and other social or economic concerns are issues not subject to this Office’s jurisdiction. These subjects, and similar ones, are typically addressed by your local governments, rather than the Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety or the Mined Land Reclamation Board.

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of September 26, 2024 14864

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

Serving the Jewish communities of Crested Butte, Gunnison and the East River Valley in Colorado.

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

New Song Christian Fellowship

77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034

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

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

Faith Directory

Community Church of Gunnison

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925

Pastor Larry Nelson

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

SUNDAY

Sunday School at 10 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship at 11 a.m.

Sunday Evening Service at 6 p.m. (during school year)

WEDNESDAY (during school year)

Truth Trackers Kids Club at 6:30 p.m.

Youth Group for Teens at 7:30 p.m. firstbaptistgunnison.org.

Gunnison

Congregational Church

United Church of Christ

317 N. Main St. • 970-641-3203

Open and Affirming

Whole Earth · Just Peace Sunday, 10 a.m.

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

Trinity Baptist Church

523 N. Pine St. • 970-641-1813

Senior Pastor - Joe Ricks

Sunday Service 9:30 a.m.

Adult Bible Study 8 a.m. trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church

711 N. Main • 970-641-1860

Senior Pastor Robert Carabotta

Assoc. Pastor Jacob With Childrens Sunday School – Sunday 9 a.m.

Adult Sunday School – Sunday 9 a.m.

Divine Service of the Word – Sunday 10 a.m.

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.

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 6:30 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, Sat. at 4 p.m.

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.

Homeward bound

Western Colorado University students, faculty and alumni shared their school spirit with the greater community during a busy homecoming weekend from Sept. 20-22. On Friday, the Mountaineers paraded down Main Street, ready with smiles, waves and candy to toss. Later that evening, students and community members met on the Paul M. Rady School of Computer Science & Engineering building lawn to watch W Mountain’s signature letter set ablaze.

September 13 - 22, 2024 13-22 de septiembre de 2024

The Gunnison Cultural Connection thanks you for being a part of Welcoming Week 2024! ¡La Conexión Cultural de Gunnison les da las gracias por participar en la Semana de Bienvenida 2024!

This year's Welcoming Week brought our Gunnison community together in so many ways.

We had community paint days, Farmer's Market booths, potlucks, a school playground ribbon cutting, a parking lot party, informational nights and events, a putt putt night, a Diversity Walk parade, and a Hispanic Heritage Celebration showcasing local food vendors and entertainment. Thank you to all those who were “All In" and participated to help us make Gunnison a community where everyone is welcome and can call this special place home.

La Semana de Bienvenida de este año unió a nuestra comunidad de Gunnison de muchas maneras. Tuvimos días de pintura en la comunidad, puestos en el mercado de agrícola, comidas compartidas, cortes de listón en los patios de recreo de las escuelas, fiestas en los lotes de parqueadero, noches y eventos informativos, noches de golf putt putt, un desfile de la Caminata de la Diversidad, y una Celebración de la Herencia Hispana con vendedores locales de comida y entretenimiento local. Gracias a los que participaron “Todos Juntos” y nos ayudan a hacer que Gunnison sea una comunidad donde todos son bienvenidos y pueden llamar a este lugar especial su hogar.

Thank you to our event hosts and sponsors! ¡Gracias a nuestros colaboradores de eventos y patrocinadores!

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Lights & Sirens

GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT

SEPTEMBER 16

HARASSMENT: COMMUNICATIONS DEVICE — 909 ESCALANTE

MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT: THIRD DEGREE — 412 W. TOMICHI AVE. CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE: POSS/CONSUMPTION 2OZ OR LESS MARIJUANA UNDER 21 — 800 W. OHIO AVE.

ACCIDENT — 623 N. MAIN ST.

ASSAULT: THIRD DEGREE - BODILY INJURY — 1500 W. TOMICHI AVE.

ACCIDENT — 880 N. MAIN ST.

SEPTEMBER 20

PROPERTY - FOUND — 124 E.VIRGINIA AVE.

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION — 609 S. 10TH ST. INFORMATION THEFT - UNDER $100.00 MUNICIPAL — 900 N. MAIN ST. THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 1099 N. 11TH ST.

SEPTEMBER 21

ACCIDENT — 211 E. TOMICHI AVE. AGENCY ASSIST — W. HWY. 50 ACCIDENT - HIT & RUN — 580 ESCALANTE DR.

ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGEMUNICIPAL — 501 N. 7TH ST.

HARASSMENT: MUNICIPAL — E. GEORGIA AVE.

SEPTEMBER 22

DISTURBING THE PEACE — N. COLORADO ST. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE — W. TOMICHI AVE.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: FIGHTING IN PUBLIC — N. COLORADO ST.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

- ALCOHOL — 880 N. MAIN ST. THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 221 W. HWY. 50 WELFARE ASSIST — W. TOMICHI AVE.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE

SEPTEMBER 17

- Black and white, male Akita found near mile marker 22 on Hwy. 133 and taken to the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League and given food and water

- Information report on stuck semi on CR 3

- Found Polar Outdoors inflatable paddle board - between Stevens Creek and North Willow.

SEPTEMBER 18

- Damaged property report - the gate at the landfill was run into and responsible party contacted road and bridge - Welfare check

SEPTEMBER19

- Found black French Bulldog dog taken to the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League and was retrieved by his owner later that morning

- Search and rescue at white River National Forest for a male hiker who was ill. West Elk SAR made found hiker and escorted him back - A cute black and white dog was taken to GVAWL after being found on Hwy. 50 just before Little Blue Canyon.

- Papers served

SEPTEMBER 20

- Unattended death CR 742

SEPTEMBER 21

- Information report on a possible protection order violation

- Theft of a phone- summons issued

SEPTEMBER 22

- Welfare check – possible suicidal subject

- Information report- welfare check on a hunter

- Disorderly conduct from passengers on the RTA bus

SEPTEMBER 23

- Information report on a possible theft of an iPhone

- A subject came in to turn themselves in on one in county warrant and 3 out-of-county warrants

- ALCOHOL — 901 N. MAIN ST. AGENCY ASSIST — HWY. 135

Expert Care. Designed for you.

Care designed for ...

WOMEN

At Gunnison Valley Health we offer services designed to meet the specific health needs of women at every stage of their lives.

WOMEN’S HEALTH CLINIC

We offer comprehensive gynecological care to support the health of women of all ages.

HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY | ANNUAL WELL WOMAN EXAMS | MENOPAUSE CARE

SPECIALTY CLINIC | 970-641-3927

711 N. TAYLOR | GUNNISON

OBSTETRICS

Dr. Maija Swanson specializes in family practice obstetrics and is available to provide full spectrum prenatal, labor and delivery and postpartum care.

FAMILY MEDICINE CLINIC | 970-642-8413

707 N. IOWA ST., GUNNISON

BREAST SCREENINGS

We provide a comprehensive set of breast screening services.

3D TOMOSYNTHESIS MAMMOGRAPHY | AUTOMATED WHOLE BREAST ULTRASOUND (ABUS)

RADIOLOGY DEPARTMENT | 970-641-7253

711 N. TAYLOR | GUNNISON

MOUNTAIN MAMAS CAFE

Come meet other mamas and their little ones! | ¡Ven a conocer a otra Mamas!

GUNNISON: MONDAYS, 1:30 - 3:30 P.M. MENTORS SCHOOL HOUSE, 101 NORTH 8TH ST. (EN ESPANOL) GUNNISON: MIERCOLES, 2 - 4 P.M. MENTORS SCHOOL HOUSE, 101 NORTH 8TH ST.

CRESTED BUTTE: THURSDAYS, 10 A.M. - 12 P.M. OH BE JOYFUL 625 MAROON AVE

SPORTS: Cowboy soccer weathers away games, B6

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024

Community solar project puts more food on the table

Mariel Wiley Times Photo Editor

A solar array that once crowned the rooftop of an elementary school in Evergreen, Colorado, is getting a new lease on life atop the Gunnison Country Food Pantry. Once destined for a landfill, the repurposed solar equipment will now help offset the food pantry’s utility bill, leaving more money for what really matters: providing food to Gunnison Valley residents.

This week, an energetic crew of volunteers and technicians put the finishing touches on the pantry’s new solar gear. The workers hunched over large dark solar panels atop the pantry’s metal roof, attaching the wires that will soon carry electricity provided by the sun down into the building below. Nearly a decade in the mak-

ing, the project is the brainchild of Gunnison solar company Nunatak Energy and Coldharbour Institute’s Equitable Solar Solutions program.

Lena Wilensky and Jay Posner founded Nunatak Alternative Energy Solutions in 2006, specializing in designing, installing and maintaining power systems that can survive Gunnison’s harsh climate. Both Wilensky and Posner were regular volunteers at the food pantry, and wanted to find a way to support the organization they’d come to love.

At the time, they’d recently acquired a host of solar inverters leftover from a California solar company’s commercial project. Inverters are devices that convert the direct current electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current electricity. Posner and Wilensky had the idea to stash them away to one day install on the food pantry to help cut down on the nonprofit’s utility costs.

“When we started the company, we barely had two rocks to scratch together, but as

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES •

A team spent several days last week installing the solar array atop the Gunnison Country Food Pantry. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)

things got going, we put a little bit aside for every watt we installed,” Posner said. “The idea is that this is our home, so if we could give something back, that’s what we wanted.”

of solar equipment to work together would be crucial in building this “Frankenstein” project, Posner said.

Over the years, Nunatak had received more donated solar panels and the metal rails that support them. Stromberg and his students inspected all of the equipment to ensure that it still had many productive years left, and separated it into two tiers based on meticulous criteria.

Please join us as we honor those affected by breast cancer.

Luminary Lighting Ceremony

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Gunnison Valley Health Hospital Main Entrance

In recognition of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we will light luminaries to honor loved ones and families affected by cancer.

Please join us for appetizers and music followed by a short ceremony.

All are invited to add the name of loved ones to the luminaries.

Luminary bags are available to pick up at GVH locations, allowing time to decorate your luminary at home. We invite you to bring your decorated bag for the lighting ceremony.

The pantry’s greatest expense — around 80% of their utilities cost — is the electricity needed to power multiple refrigerators and freezers. In the past, they used second hand, consumer-grade fridges, which were not energy efficient. Nunatak approached former pantry Executive Director Katie Dix with the idea to install solar, but the project wasn’t feasible while the pantry was still renting its space.

When the pantry bought its current building at 114 South 14th St. in 2022, Posner knew it was go-time. Although Posner had since left Nunatak to start his own company, he continued to work with his former colleagues to plan a custom array atop the pantry’s new roof.

But Nunatak had never worked with repurposed solar equipment before, and recruited Western Colorado University professor and Equitable Solar Solutions (ESS) founder Richard Stromberg to help test the donated equipment.

Like a phone or computer battery, a panel’s ability to produce energy declines over time. Despite the fact that many modern solar panels come with a manufacturer guarantee of up to 30 years, they are often discarded before they’re spent when users upgrade or relocate. In most cases, the equipment ends up in the landfill.

In 2019, Stromberg worked with Western environmental science students to develop the concept for the ESS nonprofit, finding ways to repurpose used commercial solar equipment for low-income housing or community organizations that might not otherwise be able to afford solar. Coldharbour Institute, which champions regenerative research projects, took ESS under its wing.

Stromberg’s experience with adapting different generations

The goal, Stromberg said, is to only use solar panels that will keep providing power for years to come. To meet standards for Tier 1, equipment must pass performance tests that ensure a high output. Tier 2 panels that won’t last more than a decade or that show signs of damage are off the table for reuse.

“We never want people in the community to think that we’re dumping electronic waste from middle- and upper-income neighborhoods on them,” Stromberg said. “There’s a long history of environmental and social injustice in these communities, and we don’t want to add to that.”

Instead, projects like these offer opportunities for lowincome homeowners, nonprofits and other community organizations to benefit from the utility savings that solar offers. Having access to donated solar panels and volunteer labor significantly reduced the upfront cost the food pantry needed for the project, making it easy to say yes to.

The exact dollar amount of savings enabled by the new solar array is still unknown, but Gunnison Country Food Pantry Executive Director Jodi Payne expects it to be significant. And every dollar saved frees up more money for purchasing and storing food for valley residents.

“If we can make a one-time investment in this, we will reap the benefits far beyond this group of people and leaders at the pantry,” Payne said. “It’s a lifelong gift to our organization.”

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

Party at the pantry

The Gunnison Country Food Pantry and Mountain Roots Food Project invited the community to an afternoon of fun during a parking lot party on Sept. 18. Kids decorated paper lanterns, got whimsical face paint and filled up on ice cream from Spenny’s. Nearby, adults browsed booths to learn about local food security services. The event was part of the Gunnison Cultural Connection’s Welcoming Week.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Cinder Ella, the Little Engine That Did

Submitted by Larry McDonald

2024 marks two important anniversaries in the history of Cinder Ella, Baldwin Engine 268 C-16 2-8-0, in our 142-year-old narrow-gauge engines storied career. Her first major “celebrity” appearance took place on the back of a standard gauge flatbed car where she was the showcase “old” engine during the Denver & Rio Grande Westerns Railroad 75th Anniversary tour back in 1945.

And this year marks the 75th anniversary of her second major appearance, at the 1949 Chicago Railroad Fair, where she carried the name “Montezuma”, in tribute to the first engine in the Denver & Rio Grande’s fleet. While there, she hauled passengers around the shore of Lake Michigan on the fictional Cripple Creek & Tincup line, and the accompanying timetable included a brief history of our most renowned ghost town, along with directions on how to build your own model of engine 268.

Pass to Denver to re-unite with her co-stars. Following the release of the movie, the Denver & Rio Grande Western ran a beautiful ¼ page ad titled “Cinder Ella Story”, with a sketch of engine 268 adorned with a “huge wreath of flowers”, in local newspapers along their routes. The lengthy ad stated, “A featured star in the recently premiered ‘Denver & Rio Grande’, ‘Cinder Ella’, narrow gauge locomotive 268, makes her exit with more honor and glory than she has ever known. Acclaimed as a novelty of today, she was a hard-working pioneer of yesteryear…a faithful builder of the west.”

It was during the filming of likely her most visible appearance, the movie “Denver & Rio Grande”, in 1951-52 that her Hollywood co-stars gave her the nickname of “Cinder Ella” and garnered her much attention. The movie is a fictional dramatization of the railroad wars that occurred over right of ways, and it was “Cinder Ella” that transported the 125 actors and crew to the filming locations each day and they became quite fond of her. She was famous enough that another old engine painted to resemble her was used as her stand-in during the climatic head on collision scene which saw two locomotives collide at 40 miles an hour. For the premiere of the movie, “Cinder Ella” was hauled from Gunnison on a flatbed semi-truck trailer over Monarch

2024 also marks the 65th anniversary of Cinder Ella’s final starring role, where she was again hauled over Monarch Pass, this time to take her place in Denver’s Civic Center Plaza during the 1959 Rush to the Rockies Centennial celebration. It was there in a make-believe Pioneer Village that she was put on display next to a brand-new Titan Ballistic Missile, to show the progress Colorado had made since the earliest days of settlement. Two large orange signs titled, “Locomotive 268 Cinder Ella of the Rockies”, gave event attendees a brief background on her intriguing history and visitors to our museum today can find one of them on display in the Sargent Depot.

We encourage you to visit the museum, and our famous “Cinder Ella”, before our seasonal closing date on September 30. That D&RGWRR ad of 1952 we mentioned earlier closed with this statement, “Her Hollywood co-stars named her Cinder Ella, and properly so, for her story ends in the melting pot of progress – she will live ‘happily ever after,’ literally recast to fit a new role in the never-ending advance of civilization.”

Fairview cleanup and potluck

The Fairview Community Association will host a cleanup day and potluck on Sept. 29 from 1-5 p.m. The event is aimed at revitalizing the 1906 Fairview schoolhouse at 4440 CR 730 (3 miles up Ohio Creek Road). Donations can be mailed to Fairview Schoolhouse, Gunnison Savings and Loan, 303 N. Main St., Gunnison, 81230. For more information, email dg@townhouseexperts. com.

Freemasonry exhibit at the Pioneer Museum

Less than two weeks left to explore the new Freemasonry exhibit at the Pioneer Museum. Open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. through September, with admission $15 for ages 13+, $5 for those 6-12, and free for 5 and under.

Burlesque dance workshops

In partnership with the Rocky Mountain Burlesque Festival, the Crested Butte School of Dance will offer workshops on Sunday, Sept. 29 at the Pump Room Studio (306 Maroon Ave. third floor of CB fire station). Workshops are open to all participants 18 and older. Register in advance at dancecrestedbutte.org (click on "Fall Workshops").

Dance Like a Legend: 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Boa Tease Technique: 12:151:15 p.m.

Liquid Motion: 1:30-2:30 p.m.

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

FROM MAY 15 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30.

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

Cooking for parents

Mountain Roots Food Project is offering a free six-week cooking course for parents. Enjoy a delicious meal and take home the groceries to cook at home yourself. Classes will be held every Wednesday starting Oct. 2, from 6- 8 p.m. at Six Points Thrift Store. Spanish translation and childcare are available upon request. Email uma@ mountainrootsfoodproject.org for more information.

Speaking Up and Speaking Out

On Oct. 12 from 10-11:30 a.m., Gunnison County Republicans will host an information session about 2024 ballot initiatives at the Gunnison County Library, 1 Quartz Ave. in Gunnison. This will be followed from 1-3:30 p.m. by a class called Speaking Up and Speaking Out, led by a representative from the Independence Institute and Citizen Involvement Project.

Free coats and more

The Gunnison Rotary Club sponsors a free coat closet on the west side of the Gunnison Country Food Pantry building at 114 S. 14th St. Feel free to take a coat or leave a gently used coat of all sizes.

GriefShare

Are you grieving the loss of a family member or friend? Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in Gunnison will host a 13-week, scripture-based support group on a schedule that will accommodate all participants. Email Rod Morrill at rodmorrill2@ gmail.com for more information and to register.

Bear necessities

LOCATION: 803 E. TOMICHI AVE., GUNNISON (970) 641-4530

Candidate meet and greet

The Gunnison County Republicans Central Committee has invited all Republican candidates to a potluck, meet and greet at the Fred Field Center on Sunday, Sept. 29 at 3 p.m. This event is open to the public.

Blue Mesa Fishing Tournament

The Gunnison Rotary Club will host the annual tournament Sept. 27-29. The event raises funds for scholarships and local grants. In addition, Rotary donates personalized dictionaries to all Gunnison and Marble third grade students. Visit rotaryclubofgunnisonco.com for more information.

Improv at the Mallardi

The improv comedy group “Subject to Change” will perform Sept. 27 and 28 at p p.m at the Mallardi Cabaret Theatre in Crested Butte. Tickets and more information can be found at cbmountaintheatre.org.

We want your event announcements!

The Gunnison Country Times publishes nonprofit event announcements free of charge.

• Please keep your announcement brief (3 sentences).

• Our deadline for submissions is noon on Tuesdays.

• Please send details to publisher@gunnisontimes.com.

Local wildlife photographer Teresa Golden captured a photo of a black bear moving through the sagebrush along Hwy. 114.

(Courtesy Teresa Golden)

‘Stories from the garden’

Lauren and Richard Eisen bring new views of nature to Kinder Padon Gallery

Bella Biondini Times Editor

In search of a muse, Colorado-based artists Lauren and Richard Eisen did not have to look much further than wonders hidden in their own garden.

While their chosen mediums are vastly different, the work in their co-exhibition, “Stories from the Garden,” is centered around the same motif: using flora to display shifting moments in time. Richard builds photographic images that explore themes of rebirth and decay. As a graphite and pencil artist, Lauren focuses on memory and the complex interactions between man and the natural environment.

The exhibition is on display at the Crested Butte Center for the Arts Kinder Padon Gallery through Oct. 10. This is the pair’s first time showing work on the Western Slope.

For years, Richard spent his summers driving around the

Southwest in search of things that hadn’t already been photographed. He eventually returned home, defeated. But then Richard turned to the garden his wife, Lauren, had planted around their house.

“I didn't have to drive around anywhere,” he said. “I just had to go into the garden and find things that were interesting.”

Richard collects materials he finds in his garden: bird feathers, insects wings, veined leaves and the deadheads of daylily blooms. He then adheres the delicate objects to different layers of 1-inch thick plexiglass. His compositions are arranged and then rearranged multiple times before they are photographed. The still lifes are small, about 3 inches across.

The final product is enlarged photographs, inviting the audience into the new garden landscape he has created. Using Photoshop, he manipulates the colors, creating ethereal images of what was once just ordinary. Rich golds, violets and pinks emphasize the shape and textures in his work.

“It usually takes me quite a while to get a composition that I'm comfortable working with, and even so, there is still a certain level of chaos going on,” he said.

Lauren also draws her inspiration from the natural world. In her piece, “Fertility,” Lauren used an underlying grid, similar

to that of a calendar, to move the eye from the upper left corner to the lower right, depicting the evolution of seed pods. By the time the viewer reaches the edge of the drawing, the seeds are ready to be harvested.

Lauren is a daylily hybridizer, and said it can take up to three years to see a new daylily bloom. A plant hybridizer creates new varieties of established plant species by mixing pollen. The result is a rainbow of different colors and patterns.

Like the process of hybridizing, harvesting seeds and seeing the new creations, her art requires patience, she said. The piece, “Narcissi,” created with graphite and colored pencil, took nine months to finish because she kept replanting the bulbs to view a different stage of growth.

Because she is right handed, she works from left to right, careful not to smear her delicate graphite shading. In some of her drawings, she experimented with layering colored pencils underneath.

“It is something about the touch and having those slow, meditative pencil marks … It is really a quiet, meditative practice,” she said.

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

“Paradox,” by Lauren Eisen.

“Daylily Cicada Tulip Feather,” by Richard Eisen.

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024

Mountaineers win Colorado Classic

Thin Air Crew

tames the Grizzlies

Gregg Petcoff Special to the Times

No. 14 Western Colorado University (3-0) won its fourth consecutive Colorado Classic against Adams State (0-3) during its homecoming weekend. The Mountaineer football team shut out the Grizzlies 38-0 on Sept. 21 in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) clash at Mojo Field.

The rivalry between Adams State and Western is the second longest continuous rivalry in Colorado. Adams and Western have been playing each other every year since 1950.

Armed with a rock solid defense, Western earned the game-winning score on its second possession. Braedan Hogan capped off the eightplay, 50-yard drive with a short touchdown run.

Soccer battles through tough away schedule

GHS seeks revenge against Crested Butte

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

After taking down Grand Valley and Ridgway in back-to-back 6-0 thrashings, the GHS boys soccer team weathered a difficult away run.

The Cowboys fell in consecutive defeats to northern rivals Crested Butte, Salida and Coal Ridge in recent weeks. The losses moved GHS to a 3-5 overall record, and 1-1 in the league. Despite the poor run of form, Head Coach Susan Powers is still optimistic ahead of key league rematches against Ridgway and Crested Butte.

“I am proud of the way the kids have met the string of tough away games, and continue to work for improvement at every practice and game,” Powers said. “Our defense continues to develop against high-level teams, and we’re working to capitalize on scoring opportunities.”

The away stretch began against the Crested Butte Titans in a league matchup on Sept. 13.

Cowboy seniors Cristian Aguilar and Colton Huisman led by example, and each contributed to the goal tally. Aguilar bagged an assist, and Huisman found the back of the net to put pressure on the Titans.

Junior striker Cesar Marmolejo continued his excellent form in attack, and also bagged a goal for the Cowboys. The offensive fell short of the Titans, however, and Crested Butte squeaked away with a 4-3 victory.

The woes continued in Salida on Sept. 19, where the Cowboys fell 5-0 to the Spartans. The boys picked their heads up against Coal Ridge and put together a solid performance on Sept. 21. Still, a pair of costly mistakes delivered a 2-0 win for the home side.

“The kids were disappointed in themselves against Salida, because they started poorly and seemed to mentally give up,” Powers said. “In contrast, we played strong until the end against Coal Ridge, and put together a solid game. Our guys haven’t had a ton of rest days between games, so keeping the kids healthy and caught up on school has been a main priority.”

The Cowboys returned to action against 5A powerhouse Grand Junction in another away game on Sept. 24. Results were not available by press time.

GHS will have an opportunity to rebound against Crested Butte at the homecoming soccer game on Oct. 2. The Cowboys will enter the matchup with a chip on their shoulder, and hope to put a dent in the Titans’ 7-1-1 overall record.

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

Eli Coop advances the ball against Cañon City on Aug. 31. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Western B9 The Mountaineers celebrate with the Colorado Classic trophy. (Courtesy Owen Wentz/Western Colorado University)

GHS mountain bikers extend winning streak

Marlo Frazier Special to the Times

The GHS mountain bike team stormed to another first-place victory at the Lazy B Ranch Rally on Sept. 21 in Fountain, CO.

The course, the longest of the season, emphasized technique and speed, over grinding climbs, offering a refreshing change for the riders. Every second counted with no room to back off the pedals as the course demanded constant power.

Despite the added challenge of headwinds throughout the day, every rider posted their fastest lap times of the season. Sophomore Carbon Kruthaupt appreciated the break from the demanding climbs of previous races.

"My legs were still alive hours before they died,” he said.

The freshman and JV boys delivered strong performances once again. JV rider Judson Metcalf made an astonishing Colorado High School Cycling League debut, starting in 108th and finishing 52nd. Porter Houck and Colin Bloomer secured top-20 finishes.

Owen Frazier continues to face tough competition from top riders from Air Academy, Columbine, and Crested Butte high schools. He proved the race was as much about enjoying the ride as it was about pushing limits.

"I'm having so much fun” he shouted mid-race.

Frazier finished second, bumping up a spot from his previous races this season.

Varsity riders Olivia Neyman and Norah Lee also showed

great form. Olivia secured a ninth-place finish, while Norah had a memorable moment of sportsmanship after crashing on her third lap.

The JV and freshman girls wrapped up the day with solid performances, adding crucial points to the team's overall score. Emily Cattles placed in the top 20, and Laney Olmstead thrilled spectators by grabbing a fifth-place podium spot. The freshman beat her nearest competitor by just seven milliseconds in one of the day's most exciting sprints.

Seniors Neyman, Lee and Houck approach their final Crystal Region race on Oct. 6 at the Chalk Creek Stampede in Nathrop. The group leaves a legacy of hard work, leadership, and a love for the sport. The Cowboys are poised for continued success, and the excitement for what lies ahead has never been greater, both on and off the trails.

(Marlo Frazier is a GHS Mountain Bike team parent.)

NUMBER CHANGE

CINTRON PAINTING

-

- Residential - Commercial Javier "Smiley" Cintron, Owner • 719-850-1310

Celebration of Life

Dr. Charles Tutor

The family invites you to join us as we remember and celebrate his life on Sept. 29, 2024 from 12:30-2:30 p.m. at the WCU Aspinal-Wilson Center, 909 Escalante Dr., Gunnison. Please come and share your memories and stories of time spent together.

Owen Frazier fights for the lead. (Courtesy Marlo Frazier)

The Cowboys celebrate another first-place victory.

Adams State held six possessions in the first half and gained just 50 yards. In Western's seven first-half possessions, the Crimson and Slate scored three touchdowns and totaled 186 yards on offense.

The second Western touchdown drive was a clock-eating 14-play, 85-yard onslaught, culminated by another Hogan touchdown run. The third drive took just 9 seconds. A fumbled snap recovered by Grizzlies punter Trevor Allen turned the ball over to Western at the Adams State 14-yard line. Royce Pao took a handoff from quarterback Drew Nash and raced to the right pylon — elevating the Mountaineers' advantage to 21-0.

Western's opening drive in the third quarter ended with an Adam Tasei 24-yard field goal. The Mountaineers next possession was a 10-play, 65-yard drive that ended with a 23-yard Nash touchdown pass to Elias Zarate.

The final score came on the first play of the fourth quarter from Josiah Roy's arm. The Mountaineer second-string quarterback slung a 7-yard touchdown pass to Jaydon Green in the end zone. The score came after Kevondrick Carr blocked a punt, giving Western the ball at the Adams State 9-yard line.

State drove down to the Western 18-yard line with its final drive of the game, but a fourth-down sack by Ryan Downard preserved the shutout for the Mountaineers.

Western's defense limited Adams State to just 100 yards of total offense. The Grizzlies accumulated just 10 first downs in the game —

Galloping stallions

three by penalty — compared to Western's 20 first downs.

The Mountaineer ground game piled up 231 yards, led by Hogan's 85 yards, Tyliq Bowers' 66 yards and Pao's 48 yards.

The Mountaineers will return to the bowl on Oct. 5 to face off against RMAC rival Fort Lewis at 6 p.m.

( Gregg Petcoff is the assistant athletics director for communications at Western Colorado University and can be reached at gpetcoff@western.edu.)

The GMS Mustangs cross country team has been lighting up leaderboards this fall season. The boys team is undefeated, while the girls have notched first-, secondand third-place finishes. On Sept. 30, the boys secured their third victory at the Ramble at the Reservoir meet in Ridgway. Gunnison runner Brandon Hallock finished in first place overall, and teammates Asher Chodorowski, Alder Lamar and Topher Lamar took third, fifth and eighth. The girls team lifted the trophy at the Lake County Invitational in Leadville on Aug. 31. Eliza Wickenhauser and Sophie Nold took sixth and seventh, and Autumn Terry finished 13th. The two teams will return to the trail on Sept. 27 in Lake City.

Adams

The Mustangs boys team celebrates after a first-place win in Ridgway. (Courtesy Kimberly Cowan)

Jaydon Green comes down with touchdown catch for Mountaineers. (Courtesy Owen Wentz/Western Colorado University)

DONORS

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Erk Adventures LLC

Fullmer’s Ace Hardware

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Goddard Ranch

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Gunnison Liquor Store

Gunnison River Fly Shop

High Alpine Brewing Co

2024 ANNUAL SUPERFLY

GUNNISON ANGLING SOCIETY

Thank you donors, participants, beat monitors and volunteers.

Pike leads Cowboy golf

The GHS boys golf team finished in fifth place in the Eagle Valley Invitational at the Gypsum Creek Golf Course on Sept. 23. Preston Pike added another low score to his September record. The senior shot a third-place 79 to lead the Cowboys. This comes after Pike shot a 77 on Sept. 12, earning him a first-place tie at Keystone Ranch. Carson Zummach finished 17th for the Cowboys with an 83, and Paden Davis shot 90 to add to the team score.

High Mountain Liquor

ibex

KNS Reps

Dennis and Judy Miller

Mystic Inception

Ross Reels

SIMMS

The Fly Fishing Show

Tomichi Creek

Preserve

Willowfly Anglers

Pike pitches at Dos Rios.

Carson Zummach tees off.

Preston Pike putts for birdie in Gunnison at Dos Rios Golf Club on Sept. 9. (Photos by Alex McCrindle)

Community colors

is finally complete after weeks of community paint days. The

on

Garren, MD Retiring this fall!

Big News from GVFP!

We’re excited to share that Gunnison Valley Family Physicians (GVFP) is joining forces with Gunnison Valley Health (GVH)!

This integration, set to be completed in early October, will enhance our ability to serve you with even more resources and support, while continuing our 82-year tradition of high-quality, personalized care.

Starting in October, you’ll find us under the GVH name, but rest assured, your trusted providers and medical records will remain seamlessly accessible. This integration will also give you broader access to GVH’s extensive network of specialists and services.

We’re excited about this new chapter and the enhanced care it will bring!

Jay McMurren, MD

Megan Tucker, DO

Lauretta

Laura Villanueva, MD

Eric Thorson, MD

Emily Ferrell, NP

The “Little Corner of Mexico” mural at Tacos La Esquina

Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce celebrated the completion with a ribbon cutting and welcome party

Sept. 21. Tacos La Esquina owner Silvia Perez Hernandez prepared a feast, and attendees enjoyed live music by Fuerza Cora Brasil Musical. The event also aligned with Perez Hernandez’s birthday.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)