No snow? No skiers
Winter visitation falls amidst dry spell, economic uncertainty
Bella Biondini Times Editor
When Crested Butte Mountain Resort’s lift lines are long, many of those skiers are weekend warriors from the Front Range who — like moths to a flame — obsessively watch the weather and follow the snow. But with a tourism base that’s influenced by the snow forecast, the prolonged dry spell at the start of the year meant fewer skiers made the trek to the mountain this winter. In the past, Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) has been a destination resort, the allure of the extreme terrain attracting winter vacationers from around the country. These skiers, less keen on watching the weather, tended to book
Starview sketch plan not yet approved
Developer proposes new setbacks and wildlife corridor space
Dave Pinkerton Times Staff Writer
The Gunnison County Planning Commission voted unanimously to close the public hearing for the Starview development proposed near Crested Butte South and then adjourned. The commission neither denied or approved the project. Starview developer Harrison Land Development can modify the proposal and reapply for another public hearing.
The Planning Commission and Board of County Commissioners first held a joint public hearing on the Starview subdivision application on Dec.
19 and the hearing was continued on Feb 6. The applicant did not, prior to the February meeting, submit any new information, response or changes to the proposed application. During the meeting, Gunnison County commissioners still raised concerns about the development’s compatibility with community character, the inclusion of commercial buildings, its affordability and permeability for wildlife.
The current proposal plans for 129 residential lots — 84 single- family homes and 40 multifamily units. The proposal also includes 12 commercial units and an area of high- density housing, containing 44 units, 22 of which will be deed restricted. In the current proposal, the maximum size would be close to 2,500 square feet and the minimum 800 square feet.
During the December public meeting, commissioners and over 70 members of the public considered the sketch plan for the development. Planning commission staff summarized pub-
lic and commissioner concerns, which largely focused on whether the development was compatible with community character issues such as fields for sports events, open space, and connectivity to Crested Butte South.
“I’m more interested in an application that is complete and thorough and full and responsive.”
Jonathan Houck County commissioner
The proposed major impact development would be located on a 96-acre parcel along the southeast corner of Hwy. 135
and Cement Creek Road, near Crested Butte South. The new subdivision would exist entirely between the East River and Hwy. 135.
County Commissioner Laura Puckett-Daniels expressed her concern about the potential cost of the larger houses.
“I can't see a way that a home that is 2,500 square feet with a two-car garage would be under $1 million,” she said.
In the two-hour meeting, project representative Gary Hureski presented changes to the sketch plan. The sketch plan is part of a three-step approval process, which includes a sketch plan, a preliminary plan, and a final plan. Application fees are associated with each phase. Only major impact projects require this multi-step approval process. The Starview plan did not progress to the preliminary plan phase.
Changes presented by the developer included modifying
DRAGON DANCE: The Guiding Mountain Dragon & Lion Dance Association made appearances during two Western Colorado University basketball games on Feb. 22 to celebrate the Lunar New Year. For more, see A9. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)
Skiers A6
Starview A7
“It’s a little bit of poking fun at, but mostly a celebration of Gunnison. If you’ve been written into SonofaGunn, you know you’ve made it.”
— Paul Giberson, Director
SERVE FROM THE HEART
See story on A13
“What do you LOVE about the Gunnison Valley?” Out of the hundreds of hearts that the Resiliency Project collected and hung throughout downtown, two sentiments rose to the top: we love the community and the people.
To be eligible for candidacy of the Gunnison City Council, you must:
Police warn of chemical being mixed with fentanyl
The Gunnison Police Department believes cocaine and fentanyl found within the Gunnison Valley recently may be contaminated with BTMPS.
This industrial chemical — designed to protect plastic from UV light — is fine white powder indistinguishable from illicit drugs like cocaine and fentanyl. BTMPS has appeared in multiple drug markets throughout the United States over the past few months, suggesting that BTMPS is being used as a “cutting agent” (mixed with drugs to increase volume) in the drug supply chain.
Currently, there are no known scientific studies about the health effects of BTMPS. However, animal studies suggest that possible hazardous side effects of ingesting large quantities of BTMPS include cellular mutations, respiratory and cardio toxicity, blindness and death. If you or someone you know may have been exposed to or ingested BTMPS, call 911 and seek emergency medical services immediately. Do not contaminate the valley’s sanitation systems with this chemical. Contact the police department between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 970.641.8200 for information on how to safely dispose of narcotics.
Corrections
In the Feb. 20 edition of the Times, the story titled “School board applications open following Roberts’ resignation” provided the wrong email address. Residents should send their application material to jklingsmith@gunnisonschools.net.
A printing error occurred in the story titled “Camp Gunnison welcomes non-members for the first time,” cutting off a portion of a sentence. This statement should have read: “Persistent rumours swirled around town that the property hosted “white extremist groups,” or hired armed guards to patrol the gate, he said.”
One contributor wrote: “What I love about the Gunnison Valley that makes it such a special place is both the community and how easy it is to get involved….While moving to Gunnison was very hard at first, I soon found myself here, my soul if you would say. If you can get involved in the community here and find your passion, it will change your life forever. Additionally, Gunnison is a land full of mentors, and some of the most incredible people I’ve ever met.”
Serving the community on City Council is a central leadership position, and one through which citizens can contribute to the community and the people.
Selecting a new City Council in November may seem months away, but if you are thinking about serving, the time will be here sooner than you think. There are countless reasons why people choose to run for public office. As an elected official, you have the opportunity to make important contributions toward shaping the future of the community. You want to do something, not just talk about it! Serving as an effective municipal elected official requires dedication, knowledge, and a substantial time commitment. Becoming a municipal elected official can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.
Every two years, on the first Tuesday in November of odd numbered years, City of Gunnison voters elect three people to serve on City Council. Elections for City Council are non-partisan. The two individuals with the highest number of votes receive a four-year term. The individual receiving the third-highest number of votes is elected to a two-year term. Newly elected City Councilors will join continuing Councilors Diego Plata (term ending ‘27) and Marisela Ballesteros (term ending ‘27) to make a total governing body of five members.
• Be a citizen of the United States;
• Be registered to vote with an address in the City of Gunnison;
• Be at least 21 years old on the date of the election (Tuesday, November 4th, 2025);
• Have resided in city limits of Gunnison for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the election;
• Not be in financial default to the City.
If you are serious about your candidacy, consider engaging with current government by:
• Attending city council meetings (second and fourth Tuesday of the month);
• Participating in public input sessions on City plans and studies;
• Speaking with a variety of residents about their concerns and vision;
• Examining the Gunnison Home Rule charter;
• Researching the Colorado Revised State Statutes;
• Reviewing municipal ordinances;
• Understanding the requirements of the election laws.
Successful elected officials devote a significant amount of time and energy to a position that answers directly to citizens. If you have an openness to the thoughts and ideas of others, are approachable and accessible, and always show an effort to work cooperatively, this may be your time to consider running for City Council. Leadership qualities such as a willingness to learn, integrity, consistency, confidence, dedication to the interests of citizens and the community as a whole, communication and team-building skills will all serve a City Councilor well.
For more information regarding candidacy for City Council, please contact City Clerk Erica Boucher at eboucher@gunnisonco.gov or call (970) 641-8140. Consider reaching out to a current councilor with questions or their perspective having served. In early summer, the City will host two informational sessions on City governance and the roles and responsibilities of City Council. Notification for the events will be in the newspaper, posted online via social media and on the City’s webpage gunnisonco.gov.
Current City Councilors (L to R): Councilor Matt Schwartz (’25), Councilor Jim Gelwicks (’25), Councilor Scott Frazier (’25), Mayor Pro Tem Marisela Ballesteros (’27), and Mayor Diego Plata (’27).
L. Richard ‘Dick’ Bratton
A memorial service will be held for Dick Bratton this Sunday, March 2 at 1 p.m. at the Western Colorado University Paul Wright Gymnasium. A reception will follow in the University Center. The service will be available by live stream at rmacnetwork.com/ westerncolorado/?B=2224566.
Ian Patrick Anderson
Ian Patrick Anderson, “Friend,” passed away Feb. 16, 2025 at his home in Gunnison. Ian’s great passions were sports, friends and cooking. He was talented at all three, but excelled at being a friend. His goal was to brighten the day for those around him with a quick wit, big laugh and eager hand to help where he could. His career was being a chef but his joy was cooking for friends and family.
Ian was born in Norcross, Georgia and attended Gunnison schools where he played multiple sports, including baseball in high school. Afterward, he enrolled in the Le Cordon Bleu Culinary Academy in Las Vegas where he worked for a couple restaurants before moving to Los Angeles. After training at a few notable restaurants in L.A. and operating a catering business for a few years, Ian moved home to the Gunnison Valley in 2017. He worked at restaurants in Crested Butte and Gunnison and loved being back in the mountains.
Ian was a friend among friends and will be sorely missed by many. His incredible knowledge of sports, food and politics was a wonder to all. His quick wit, generosity and fierce loyalty to his friends and family are gifts we will all carry forever. While it is true we are all created as unique individuals, Ian was famously referred to as “One of a kind,” from the beginning of his life to the end, and
he leaves a big hole in all of our hearts.
He is survived by his parents, Mike and Sheila, brothers Gabriel (Jen) and David, sisters Rachel and Hannah, and his “hounds” Bonnebell and BeBe. He is also survived by an army of aunts, uncles, cousins and too many friends to list here. We will all miss his big laugh and mischievous spirit.
Ian’s service will be at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, March 1 at 11 a.m. Luncheon will follow at the Parish Hall.
God bless you and keep you, Son, holding you in His arms.
Ismael “Chico” Dominguez, 76, of Gunnison, Colorado, passed away peacefully on Jan. 23, 2025, in Mesa, Arizona, surrounded by his loving family.
Chico was born on Nov. 30, 1948, in Pecos, Texas, to Mary and Ysmael Dominguez. He lived a life filled with love, kindness and unwavering dedication to his family and friends. In 1981 he and his family moved to Gunnison where he embraced the great outdoors, pursuing his passion for fishing and hunting in what he lovingly called “God’s Country.” His love for music, entertainment and performing with his band, Rawhide, was second only to his love for his wife, Stella, and the rest of his family.
Throughout his years in Gunnison, Chico worked in various roles, ultimately spending 24 years at Gunnison County Electric Association before retiring in 2014. Along the way, he formed lifelong friendships that he deeply cherished.
Chico is survived by his loving wife, Stella Dominguez; son, Charlie (Michelle) Dominguez; sister, Becky Dominguez; cherished grandchildren, Trinidad (Gionna), Emma (Taylor), Morgan
and Cruz; great grandchildren, Trinidad, Nova and Chico; and nephews, Gilbert Dominguez and Tom Dominguez. His memory will forever live on in their hearts. He will be deeply missed but always remembered by those who knew and loved him.
A celebration of Chico’s life will be held in the spring or early summer. Details will be announced at a later date.
Delores Elizabeth McClain (Carrow)
We celebrate the remarkable life of Delores Elizabeth McClain (Carrow), who passed away peacefully on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, after nearly 91 years filled with love, adventure and service. Born in Bucknob, Missouri, one of nine children raised on a small farm near Festus, Missouri, her early life instilled in her a deep love for nature — drawing both animals and people to her gentle, caring spirit.
Delores devoted her life to service, most notably as a volunteer campground host for the U.S. Forest Service. For twenty years, she warmly welcomed visitors at Cold Springs, Little Lottis, and other campgrounds along Taylor Canyon, always accompanied by one of her trusted dogs — Atlas, Ginger, Camper, among others. Together with her late husband, Dean McClain, she also co-owned and operated a small beach apartment establishment on Blind Pass Road at St. Pete Beach, Florida from the 1950s through the 1980s. Her warm presence and genuine care enriched the lives of countless campers and renters, inviting them to experience the beauty of the outdoors through her eyes.
Family was at the heart of her life. Not only did she lovingly care for her immediate family — leaving behind her daughter, Leia continued on A10
Ismael ‘Chico’ Dominguez
970.641.1414
© 2025 Gunnison Country Times
Publisher/Owner Alan Wartes publisher@gunnisontimes.com
Editor Bella Biondini bella@gunnisontimes.com
Staff Writer Abby Harrison abby@gunnisontimes.com
Photo Editor Mariel Wiley mariel@gunnisontimes.com
Sports Editor Alex McCrindle alex@gunnisontimes.com
Advertising Manager Steve Nunn steve@gunnisontimes.com
Advertising Assistant Bobbie Corn bobbie@gunnisontimes.com
Production Manager Issa Forrest issa@gunnisontimes.com
THE GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES (ISSN 0892-1113) is published weekly by Alan Wartes Media LLC., 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, Colorado 81230. Periodical postage paid at Gunnison, Colorado. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Gunnison Country Times, 218 N. Wisconsin, Gunnison, CO 81230-0240
Hours:
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday
LETTERS
Journalism still alive and well
Editor:
OPINION
It’s easy to get complacent. For extraordinary measures of everyday life to become ordinary. To take things for granted. It’s in resisting this dulling pull of human nature that the three of us would like to pause for just a moment to publicly thank the journalists working in our valley. As three ink-stained former newspapermen ourselves, we know well the toil of working under never-ending deadlines, the pitifully puny paychecks and the thankless nature of the job.
But in the age of AI, internet trolls, banned media outlets and partisan ploys to discredit anything disagreeable as “fake news,” the role of a free and independent press has never been more important. We are extremely fortunate to have a long history of honest, objective, insightful and community-minded journalism in Gunnison and Crested Butte. Nothing and no one is perfect, but in the Gunnison Country Times and the Crested Butte News this valley has been well served in the dissemination of accurate information, the free expression of ideas and fostering of meaningful dialogue about issues of community importance.
It’s with a giant nod of gratitude we’d like to thank Abby Harrison for her brief, but impactful tenure as a reporter with the Times Abby announced a couple weeks ago that she was moving on, but thankfully staying in the industry because, in her words, “this job is too important.” We couldn’t agree more.
We found Abby’s reporting to be very thorough, fair and well written. Exemplary, in a word. She also demonstrated great bravery in tackling extraordinarily sensitive subjects in an intelligent and balanced way.
Abby is a journalist in a world that is in dire need of journalism. We were lucky to have her in our corner for the time that we did. We are sorry to see her go.
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.
have been how we met and got to know them. I don’t think I’ve lived anywhere where there were so many volunteer opportunities. We’re pretty lucky.
Volunteering can be an important facet of life. Volunteering is not only a way to contribute to society but also a means to connect with good places, good people and good causes. Volunteering fosters a sense of community and shared purpose, reinforcing the importance and benefit of collective action. Volunteering, participating in community events and advocating for policies are valuable components of civic responsibility.
So if you don’t already, find a place to volunteer. Be part of a group of good people doing good things for good causes. Be an angel!
Joe Dix Gunnison
Conservation in jeopardy
Editor:
The Gunnison Conservation District (GCD) has served private landowners in the Gunnison Basin since 1957, but is now at risk of dissolving without federal grants that they rely on. The District provides critical assistance to landowners as they navigate the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Farm Bill programs, and works with landowners to advocate for local resource issues in the NRCS funding system. Districts have the ability to receive other funds, though, for specific projects of interest to local landowners, giving them the ability to customize conservation practices and interests to the desires of the local landowners, and to provide programs for landowners to enroll in that are more nimble and timely than the NRCS process.
agreements. The District had also been awarded a Bureau of Reclamation grant to supplement capacity and to fund public and private landowner stream restoration projects, but this grant was funded through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the funding is in jeopardy as portions of the IRA are repealed. Without these grants that cover the majority of the salaries of the two employees, the District is currently waiting to see what happens with the funds that have been obligated to them. The District is piecing together profits from seed sales, county agreements, and a city grant to cover capacity as long as possible, but those funds may soon run out.
The District certainly helps many private landowners, but they also host education events at the local schools and co-hosts workshops for private landowners. The District is involved in providing free native wildflower seed to schools and daycares in the last few years to promote wildlife of all sizes and the native ecosystems that support them. The District has found funding to treat noxious weeds at large trail systems to reduce the chance that they spread further into wildlife habitat and private lands.
If the District loses funding, we all lose a valuable partner in conservation for wildlife, water, natural resources and private landowners. I highly encourage you to call your representatives and encourage them to support local conservation districts, and specifically to continue to allocate money towards agreements between the CSCB and NRCS, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, and other public and private lands funding sources.
Aleshia Fremgen Gunnison
Two letters — a response
Editor:
Regarding the two letters to the Times from Ms. Jane Thomas and Mr. Charles Welch on Feb. 20. Thank you, Ms. Thomas, for pointing out that people have a tendency to "cherry-pick a (Biblical) passage anytime to support your own opinion."
I agree with you that the Bible has many passages directing the believer to give hospitality and kindness to strangers within the land. Does it say anything about granting voting rights to strangers who crossed into the land by breaking the laws of that land? Does the Bible provide any direction on providing aid and comfort to criminal aliens and enemies of the citizens of that land? Criminals and enemies who spread poisonous drugs across that land and murder its citizens?
I was very surprised that she said, "Don't take it (the Bible) too literally because it was written a long time ago and not meant to be taken verbatim." Really? Don't take the Word of God too seriously?
Now to Mr. Welch's letter. He states that mail-in ballots "represent democracy at its best … So, would someone explain to me the downside?" Why sure. Without a tried and true voter identification system in place, what's stopping some people from violating the sanctity of the legal ballot by abusing the system? Are there not some states already involved with attempting to allow non-citizens the right to vote in local elections? Are there not officials who appear to disregard federal voting laws such as what happened in Bucks County, Pennsylvania a few months ago?
Chris Dickey Mike Ritchey George Sibley
Be an angel
Editor:
I have never believed that there are spirits amongst us, vestiges of those who came before. I do believe that our predecessors live on through us. The vestiges of their experiences, their learning, their teaching, throughout the generations, mix to make us who we are. I also have never believed in angels in the usual sense of them. But I do believe that there are angels who live on earth and walk amongst us. Some are our friends and neighbors.
In these fraught times when so many things seem to be beyond our control, think about volunteering. I know many of us do. Many of our neighbors and friends volunteer. That could
Generally the GCD is primarily funded through grants, with funding mostly coming from the Colorado State Conservation Board (CSCB), and several federal sources. These funds go almost entirely towards projects on the ground and capacity. In previous years, the District used funding to create multiple different costshare programs for noxious weed treatment, provided money for treating cheatgrass on private lands for free, and worked with landowners to get supplies for wildlife-friendly fencing free to the landowner. Future grants have line items related to stream restoration projects.
As of right now, the GCD has been obligated funds from a National Fish and Wildlife Foundation grant that was intended to primarily cover salaries of their one full-time and one part-time employee, as well as a stream restoration project. This grant alone would be 37-40% of the District's annual grant income budget for three fiscal years. This grant funding has been frozen given the uncertainty over federal funds disbursement after the Executive Order (since rescinded) pausing all federal grants and
Thanks for student physicals
Editor:
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Gunnison Valley Orthopedics and Sports Medicine for providing sports physicals for students. We needed to get appointments scheduled quickly, and the GVO team made time in their busy schedule to ensure that every student who wants to participate in spring sports has the opportunity to do so, regardless of circumstances. This act of kindness opens doors for young athletes to be part of a team, build confidence, and create lifelong memories. When businesses step up to support our kids, they are not just helping individuals — they are strengthening our entire community, fostering a culture of care, encouragement and opportunity.
Thank you, Gunnison Valley Orthopedics, your generosity and dedication to the youth in our community is truly appreciated!
Erin Harrington Gunnison
I, too, enjoy the convenience of mail-in ballots and the time it gives me to make an informed voting decision. But, then again, I'm an American citizen who immensely appreciates having the constitutional right to vote my conscience without breaking any laws.
One more thing before I conclude. Mr. Welch assumes we respect everyone's beliefs as if they are equal to each other, which they are not. May I suggest to him to read Surah IX from the Qur'an. I will not "respect" any belief which calls for my family's destruction because we don't believe in its god.
Jon Matuszczak Gunnison
Starview, affordability and HOAs
Editor:
I became curious about the definition of an “affordable housing” concept inserted by the Gunnison County Commissioners and Planning Commission for the proposed Starview plan. The county’s high density housing requirement is a new mandate and changed the
Wednesday early-release debate continues with no obvious consensus
School calendar vote scheduled for March 10
Bella Biondini Times Editor
After wading through a laundry list of Wednesday early release alternatives, the school board remains undecided on the best way to meet Gunnison parents in the middle.
Nearly four years after the major schedule change, early-release Wednesdays at Gunnison schools still remain a point of contention for a number of parents and teachers. The program has been successful in Crested Butte, largely as the result of well-established after school programming. In Gunnison, parents are still split. Some have argued the early release schedule is only an added burden on working families who must find child care in the middle of the week.
Taking parents’ complaints into consideration, the school board hesitated when it came time to approve the 2025-26 school calendar earlier this month and asked Superintendent Leslie Nichols to explore alternative weekly schedules. At a work session on Monday, Feb. 24, she presented a list of ranked options that considered ideas like shifting early release to Friday, moving to a four-day school week and removing early release entirely in exchange for occasional full days without students in the classroom.
The discussion, which stretched into the late evening hours, proved inconclusive. It will continue at a regular board meeting on March 10, when the calendar for next school year is up for approval again. Following the resignation of board member Mandy Roberts, a split vote is possible. Each alternative the board
reviewed came with its own list of tangled pros and cons. Still, Nichols emphasized that as a remote school district, it should take advantage of opportunities for cross-school teacher mentorship and professional development. She called on the idea of teacher efficacy, and said she believed that time for collaboration leads to better instruction in the classroom.
“When we believe that we can make an impact on kids, we are better,” Nichols told the board.
The first option Nichols shared was moving early release to Fridays. The switch would help teachers avoid a break in routine for elementary students, and benefit high school athletes, who often need to leave class before 1:45 p.m. to make it to faraway sports games. It may also mean a decreased need for substitute teachers who fill in for staff who coach, or need to leave early for weekend travel.
But with this weekly schedule, educators may lose a time slot for lesson planning or professional development. It's not uncommon for colleagues to head out of town early on Friday afternoon for a medical appointment, to beat incoming weather or to coach a sports game out of town. She also worried that families will find less reason to prioritize Friday attendance, something the district has already struggled with since the pandemic.
Moving to a four-day week schedule came with a number of similar positives, but could mean longer school days or school years to meet the state’s minimum requirement for classroom hours. It may also “radically” increase child care needs and create a 20% reduction in essential services for students, especially those with challenging circumstances at home, Nichols said.
The school board also considered removing early release entirely, and setting roughly one full day a month aside for teachers to work without students in
the classroom. A draft calendar placed most of these teacher workdays on Fridays. This option, while it preserved time for teachers, created “stutter weeks” for students, with a mixture of five-day, four-day and three-day weeks — depending on how holidays and breaks fell.
While it remains an option, Nichols did not recommend different schedules for Gunnison and Crested Butte schools. The early-release schedule, consistent district-wide, has become a “unifying” structure, creating time for curriculum training, data dives, special service provider teams and shared leadership, Nichols said. So far, the impact of the early release structure on teachers has been overwhelmingly positive.
“What prompted this move was so many different struggles that we had before ...This [early release] was landed on after really intense reflection, listening and voices saying we've got to do something different, or we can't continue,” Nichols said.
None of the options presented on Monday night checked all of the boxes. Half the board stood by the continuation and continual improvement of the early-release schedule, while board members Jody Coleman and Mark VanderVeer still pressed for change, sooner rather than later. The board wondered if there were lessons to be learned from the North Valley, or by narrowing down the list of alternatives.
“It's palpable to me — in the elementary school in Gunnison — the stress, anxiety and the fracturedness of the school week from those teachers,” Coleman said. She has continued to reach out to students, faculty and parents for feedback. “They’ve tried this for four years and it’s a nightmare”
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
Elementary students gathered in the Gunnison Community School commons for an assembly last spring.
(Photo by Mariel Wiley)
flights, hotels and accommodations earlier, and stayed in the valley longer. But over time, this trend shifted and today Crested Butte has become more dependent on the whims of the weather, and subsequent ski terrain openings.
Roughly 80% of the valley’s winter visitors drive to Crested Butte, and typically arrive when the snow falls. With the flexibility provided by the Epic Pass, which allows skiers to visit Vail’s partner resorts around the country (and beyond), many look at the snow totals before they make a last minute decision on where to ski.
“We've lost the far away destination market, and it's been replaced, thankfully, by Denver, who understandably can be quite fickle about when they're going skiing and they want good conditions,” John Norton said during a tourism update for the Rural Transportation Authority (RTA) board on Feb. 21. Norton is the executive director of the Tourism and Prosperity Partnership (TAPP).
Presidents Day weekend proved this theory. The recent storm cycle delivered both four feet of snow, and large crowds to Crested Butte. On Saturday, Feb. 15, lift line waits reached up to 30 minutes, and the line to catch a bus or the town shuttle once the lifts stopped spinning at the end of the day stretched to the ticket office. The RTA hit a new record, and carried more than 2,300 people in one day.
But so far this season, the slopes at CBMR have been largely devoid of snow and skiers. The resort’s signature extreme runs have been slow to open, and coverage remains thin, even after the large storm. Despite strong airline reservations, Norton said this is the single-largest winter year-over-year visitation decline he had seen in his decades-long career in the valley.
“Historically, when we've had a great air season, we've also had a great visitation season. And that isn't happening,” he said.
Norton said TAPP has been struggling to understand visitation trends this winter. He noted a “precipitous” drop in visitors to the valley, yet flight bookings at the Gunnison-Crested Butte Airport (GUC) have stayed steady. In December and January, airline bookings rose 9% after a boost in the number of flights to and from Denver.
Following recent airport renovations and improved flight reliability, more locals than ever are flying out of GUC instead of booking out of Denver or Montrose. Of the roughly 16,000 passengers that flew out of the valley over the past two months, a quarter of them were residents, Norton said. Historically, a high percentage of potential passengers have chosen to fly from airports outside of the valley.
“The elusive leakage that [Airport Manager Rick Lamport] has so often talked about is moving in our direction,” he said.
That’s the good news. The bad news is visitation has been down about 12% during the same period, the largest decline Norton said he’d seen since 9/11. And after more than two years of record passenger numbers on the RTA’s free commuter buses, ridership declined in January and February, likely because of the lack of snowfall, RTA Executive Director Scott Truex said. For the first two weeks of the month, ridership fell by 18%.
The winter tourism slump is not isolated to the Gunnison Valley. DestiMetrics’ latest monthly briefing to ski area managers and tourism officials blamed “uneven snowfall, erratic economic news, slipping consumer confidence and renewed resistance to rate increases” for the drop in visitation across the Mountain West. DestiMetrics is the company TAPP uses to monitor and compare the Gunnison Valley’s lodging occupancy and rate data to similar mountain communities.
“Just as we saw signs of pricesensitivity easing, it became a consideration for consumers again this month as broader price and employment concerns caused some skiers and riders to hit the pause button on their mountain bookings,” said Tom Foley of Inntopia, a software used within the adventure travel and hospitality industry.
Looking at the wider ski industry, Epic Pass sales for Vail Resorts — the multi-billion-dollar parent company that owns CBMR and 41 other ski areas around the world — fell by 2% for the 2024-25 winter season. At the same time, the company’s stock prices have continued to plummet after the public relations nightmare that followed the ski patrol strikes in Park City, Utah just after Christmas. A lawsuit, filed in January, also alleged that the public was harmed by a lack of transparency during the strikes, while Vail continued to “collect tens of
millions of dollars” from guests. With declining popularity within the ski community, Vail Resorts stock has fallen by roughly 30% over the past year.
With the busy spring break season on the horizon, there is still time for visitation to recover in March. Now that Crested Butte finally received some snow, Norton said he hopes to see some “pent up demand” deliver skiers from the Front Range. Still, he remained worried about long-term visitation trends at the resort, which has seen few upgrades while its competitors pump millions into base areas and new terrain.
In December, SKI Magazine released a list of the top 30 resorts in the West using the results of a reader survey. It showed some “pretty deep problems with intent to return” to Crested Butte relative to other ski areas, Norton said. While Crested Butte’s ranking rose from 26 to 20 this winter, most readers said they were not likely to come back to the resort.
Alongside compliments about
the challenging terrain, and the “authentic” town, readers aired an assortment of other complaints. Many were about the lift system: “too slow, more lifts need to be upgraded, too many lift closures,” the article states.
“Pure, old-school technical skiing on dramatic, extreme terrain. Beautiful scenery. A bucket-list destination for the purist technical skier … Vail runs it too leanly, to the detriment of skiers,” a reader commented.
It’s not unusual to see a visitation downturn following an election year, TAPP marketing director Andrew Sandstrom told the Times . But the Gunnison Valley’s drive market, the majority of which comes from the Denver area, took a hit this winter. During the meeting, Norton estimated the decline was more than 25%.
Ten years ago, the Front Range was not a particularly important visitor base for CBMR, which instead relied on a number of “major destination” markets such as Atlanta, New Orleans, Miami
and Oklahoma City. This is no longer the case, Norton said. With the shifts in the ski industry, high snow totals help resorts like CBMR capture the attention of Colorado skiers. Many skiers and snowboarders rely on specialized weather forecasting platforms like OpenSnow to make travel plans. The popular app has a feature that shows the daily storm totals at resorts across the country, making it easy for skiers to target the snowiest areas of the state.
After scarce snow in January, “broken” snow reporting at CBMR may have also deterred some skiers from making the trek up to Crested Butte. February’s four-foot storm was greatly understated, he said.
“That's not helpful if you're trying to attract the people who've been waiting for it to snow,” Norton said.
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
A December review of Crested Butte Mountain Resort in SKI Magazine included complaints about outdated and slow lift systems. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)
Skiers and snowboarders mingle at the top of Silver Queen late last year.
the setback between Hwy. 135 and the first row of houses from 120 feet to 200 feet, decreasing the size and number of berms in the setback area, shrinking the open space area in the middle of the development and postponing the development of the commercial area. Further proposed changes incorporated the elimination of four lots on the south end of the development. Hureski said the four-acre parcel could be open space or a dog park, and would allow wildlife to cross over and move through the property without interruption.
County commissioners commented to Hureski about the Feb. 6 revised sketch plan.
“I'm more interested in having an application that is com-
plete and thorough and full and responsive. This one just seems like it is not fully developed,”
said County Commissioner Jonathan Houck.
Public comments during the meeting repeated many of the concerns already listed in the staff memo. But Meredith O’Conner, a Crested Butte South resident, said she also worried that the population increase could stress parents trying to get their children medical care or involved in activities.
“We can't get a doctor's appointment and our kids live in an expensive ski town and they didn't get a spot in ski school,” she said.
After the public comment portion of the hearing, Hureski said that the county’s housing study identified the need for 1,500 new units for the valley. Starview’s 129 residential lots would meet
much of that need if the current proposal were approved.
“We appreciate valid planning concerns and we're willing to address these and that's what we're trying to do. But this is not a popularity contest,” Hureski said.
Commissioners concluded the proposal does not meet the standard for increased residential density, fulfill the Land Use Resolution’s purposes of promoting compact development or align with community values around limiting sprawl, wildlife and environmental resources.
The Planning Commission to close the public hearing and allow the applicant to present a revised sketch plan at a later date.
(Dave Pinkerton can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or dave@ gunnisontimes.com)
A Starview sketch plan from March 15, 2024. (Courtesy Gunnison County Community Development)
We have one board member seat available to serve through November, 2025. Interested parties may submit a letter of interest and résumé until Friday, March 21, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.
Crested Butte snowboarder dies in avalanche
Backcountry conditions remain unstable
Bella Biondini Times Editor
Crested Butte resident Sarah Steinwand, 41, was caught in and killed in an avalanche west of Silverton on Feb. 20.
Her death is the third Colorado avalanche fatality of the winter season, and the second in less than a week.
According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), February is the deadliest month for avalanches in Colorado. Following a massive storm cycle that dumped nearly four feet of snow in the North Valley Presidents Day weekend, this February has been no different. Over the past week, two people have died in avalanches. Another 14 were caught, and eight partially buried. Another, a snowmobiler, remained fully buried for an hour and miraculously survived the avalanche.
Tenemos un puesto disponible para servir siendo miembro del Consejo Escolar hasta noviembre del 2025. Las personas interesadas pueden enviar una carta de interés y currículum vitae a no más tardar del 21 de marzo del 2025 a las 3:00 p.m.
According to the accident reports, in both of the fatalities, the avalanches broke several feet deep and spread across multiple terrain features. CAIC and the Crested Butte Avalanche Center (CBAC) have continued to warn backcountry skiers to use caution as the snowpack around the state remained unstable through the beginning of the week. A “recent string of close calls and accidents in the region validate the challenging conditions,” a recent CBAC forecast read.
“The size of these avalanches, and the severe consequences of getting caught in one, are what’s driving the heightened danger,” CAIC wrote in a social media post on Monday.
According to the preliminary accident report, Steinwand, a splitboarder, and another skier were caught in an avalanche on a terrain feature locally known as “The Nose,” west of Silverton near Ophir Pass. The skier escaped the avalanche, but the debris buried Steinwand.
Staff from a nearby backcountry hut alerted search and rescue of the accident and helped the skier locate her.
Members from the San Juan County Sheriff's Office, Silverton, San Juan County and La Plata search and rescue teams, Silverton Avalanche School and CAIC, along with a helicopter from the nearby Silverton Mountain, joined the rescue, but Steinwand did not survive. CAIC staff visited the site on Friday, but the avalanche center did not release the full report before press time.
The valley mourned the loss of Steinwand, who was known for spreading her love for the
Gunnison Country’s wild places and her community. A Colorado native, Sarah started skiing at the age of 4, and learned to snowboard when she was 13. In Crested Butte, Sarah was the public relations director for Romp Skis, and founded her own company, Treeline PR, where she supported a number of other local outdoor industry businesses. When she wasn’t in the office, she spent her time snowboarding, mountain biking, fly fishing and backpacking.
The years that Eligh Purvis knew Steinwand taught him about the value of shared experiences, he said. Purvis first met Steinwand through his job at Romp.
“People like Sarah are what makes Crested Butte such an incredible and unique place,” Purvis said. “It will forever be a reminder to stay in the moment, look at the flowers, trees, birds, fish and snow and to love the people that are around me.”
On Feb. 24, a group of roughly 50 friends and family members gathered on Mt. Crested Butte for a sunset ride in honor of what would have been Sarah’s 42nd birthday.
“Sarah. A few days ago, you texted me the last thing you’d ever say to me: ‘It’s so good.’ You were talking about the new Caamp song that dropped that day (of course), but really, you somehow managed to gift me the exact words I need to describe what it felt like to be friends with you,” Lisa Slagle wrote in a social media post. “It’s. so. Good. Like you, that sentence is small but strong. Understated, yet full of meaning. Optimistic. You, Sarah, were SO good.”
Friends have started a meal train to help support Steinwand’s brother, Matt “Steiny.” So far, the page has raised $300.
(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)
cbavalanchecenter.org
Crested Butte Avalanche Center
Lions and dragons, oh my!
To celebrate the Lunar New Year, a traditional Chinese holiday, the Guiding Mountain Dragon Lion Dancing troupe made a halftime appearance during two Western Colorado University basketball games on Feb. 22. The dancers worked together to maneuver large lion and dragon costumes, bringing the mythical creatures to life. This Lunar New Year on Jan. 29 welcomed the Year of the Snake, or the sixth animal in the 12-year Chinese zodiac cycle. Western’s Asian Pacific Islanders Club (APIC) organized the performance.
(Courtesy Kai Vong/Western Colorado University Asian Pacific Islanders Club)
(Photo by Mariel Wiley)
ALL UNDER CONTRACT
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 $599,000
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.
457 Ute Dr. (Arrowhead) MLS# 820145 $40,000 Beautiful, secluded 1 acre lot located on the north edge of the Arrowhead subdivision off of the main road. Bring your RV or plan to build your private mountain retreat on this sloped, nicely treed lot with plenty of wildflowers and wildlife to be seen. This subdivision is quaint community located on the Alpine Plateau Road and has quick access to the Arrowhead Lodge where you can enjoy food and drink on their outdoor patio along with occasional live music. Come discover what living in the Rockies is all about!
continued from A3
Morrison of Gunnison; son, Alan McClain of St. Pete Beach; and sister, Mary Audiffred of Pensacola, Florida — but her kindness extended far beyond. Delores was known for caring most about others, offering a helping hand, a warm meal and friendly company to friends, strangers and anyone in need. Her legacy of compassion lives on in her six grandchildren: Logan, Dylan, Coltan, Shaylan McClain and Annbelle and Elle Morrison; her two greatgrandchildren, Whalen and Finley McClain; her many nieces and nephews; as well as all those who were touched by her generous spirit.
A lifelong member of the Church of Christ, Delores’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her steadfast belief in love, community and service guided her every action and enriched her relation-
ships. By offering kindness to those around her, she demonstrated the true meaning of faith in action.
A celebration of Delores’s vibrant life will be held on a future date on St. Pete Beach, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory. Leia and Daren Morrison, along with Alan and Melanie McClain, also wish to extend heartfelt thanks to the Gunnison Health Hospice team, all of the GVH nurses and doctors, the staff at GVH Physical Therapy, and the many friends who devoted their time and care to Delores over the past few years.
Delores’s adventurous spirit, unwavering kindness and selfless dedication to others will forever remain in our hearts. Though she has left this earthly realm, her legacy of warmth, compassion and love will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
continued from A4
2 Ridge Lane MLS# 817530 $330,000 2 bedroom/2 bath home with 1 car attached garage located in Antelope Hills. Cozy home with all appliances included, huge fenced yard and great views from the top floor! Good value in our market!
912 W. Gunnison Lot 2 (UNDER CONTRACT) 81230 MLS #818029 $149K, 912 W Gunnison Lot 3 (UNDER CONTRACT) 81230 MLS # 818033 $149K, 912 W Gunnison Lot 6 MLS #818023 $159K, 912 W Gunnison Lot 7 MLS #818030 $149K, Gunnison Lot 8 MLS #818029 $149K Great opportunity to own a brand new mobile home within city limits. 2 bedroom, 1 3/4 bathroom single wide mobile home at 868 sqft, Still the One model and distributed by Clayton Homes. Call Gunnison Real Estates and Rentals to secure your lot lease and acquire the mobile home. Lots 2 and 3 are under contract.
developer’s plan by adding 44 multi-family units. Okay, I’m all for low-cost housing for workers in our valley. We desperately need it. Are the multi-family housing units (with no garage) affordable? Laura Puckett-Daniels stated that she wants these units to be priced at $782,000 or under. Another fact disclosed during the meeting was that the county will not maintain the roads. I assume that means both snow removal and road upkeep. Add the State of Colorado requirements that the new development be managed by a home owners’ association (HOA). Given that there will be single family homes (one HOA) and multifamily homes (a second HOA) and each are sharing the same infrastructure of roads, water and sewage, a third umbrella HOA will be required. This model replicates Meridian Park’s four HOAs. There is a cost to operate HOAs. Each HOA must hire a management firm, and there are attorney fees for by-laws and state regulations. The multi-family units will have reserve fees/assessments for roof repairs and any outside painting and maintenance. Single family homes will have an HOA for their needs and common area. The umbrella HOA, which oversees the infrastructure, roads and bike path, will have its own HOA
fees. Each owner (single housing or multi-family) will be paying two HOA fees.
Now the financial analysis for multi-family units:
• Purchase price: $782,000
• Closing cost: $3,000
• HOA reserve deposit: $5,000
• Total price: $790,000
• 20% down payment $158,000
• Monthly mortgage payments on a $632,000 30-year loan at 7%: $4,200
• Monthly insurance: $500
• HOA fees (monthly) $500
• Total monthly payments: $5,200
• Add another $300-500 for real estate taxes
Mortgage lenders use the 28% rule that your mortgage payment (including insurance and HOA fees) should be no more than 28% of your gross monthly income. Your income to qualify for this loan is $223,000 annually. I don’t know how many Gunnison County citizens make this amount annually. Probably not many. Is this requirement serving our citizens, or investors who want to short-term-rent for profit?
Neil Watko Gunnison County
City, county step in to help replace school district summer camp
Parks and Rec expand programming to mirror ‘Summer Experience’
Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor
Following a temporary lapse in the school district’s summer programming due to ongoing construction, the City of Gunnison’s Parks and Rec Department plans to fill in the gaps.
Summer Experience, the Gunnison Watershed School District’s six-week program for Gunnison and Crested Butte kindergarten, elementary and middle school students, will not run this summer.
Superintendent Leslie Nichols cited ongoing renovation and site work on the school campuses for the 2025 cancellation, according to a Jan. 13 email sent to parents.
The program previously hosted students in morning sessions throughout June and July at a cost of $25 per student for the six-week course. As parents scrambled to find other child care options, City of Gunnison Recreation Supervisor Ginny Baylor began brainstorming, hoping to create a substitute that mirrors Summer Experience’s half-day programs.
Parks and Rec teamed up with local organizations this month to find ways to match the district’s low-cost summer camp model. Despite financial aid from Gunnison County and scholarships from the Gunnison
Rotary Club, it is still likely parents will face higher summer camp costs than previous years.
“We needed to find a way to allow access and eliminate barriers,” Baylor said. “For some families who are used to the school’s programming, this will be a chunk of change, and that certainly weighs heavily on me. But we’ve figured out a way to drive the cost down as much as possible, and I hope it is accessible for everyone in our community.”
This month, Gunnison County agreed to cover half of staffing costs, reducing the anticipated student fees by nearly half, Baylor said. Early Childhood Council Coordinator Lana Athey, and members of the Gunnison County Substance Abuse Prevention Project (GCSAPP) are requesting help from MetRec. If their grant request is approved, the group would use the money to offer scholarships for families to put toward their summer program of choice. The Rotary Club is also offering $1,000 awards to Gunnison nonprofits “expanding, discounting or making free their summer programs to accommodate more young people.”
After gauging the community need, Parks and Rec founded the “Rec-Trek Summer Club,” as an addition to its perennial summer camp programs such as rock climbing, baseball and swim lessons, among others. Similar to Summer Experience, Rec-Trek plans to offer morning programming for incoming first through sixth graders.
The program will stretch from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday from June 9-26, and then again from July 7-24. Rec-Trek will be divided
Prodigious pupils
into four clubs: outdoor recreation, arts and crafts, sports and a field-trip based “community connection” camp. Each club will meet on a select day of the week. The cost is $120 per club. For example, $120 will cover all six weeks of art camp on Tuesdays, while roughly $480 will cover all four clubs for six weeks, Baylor said.
Although summer camp costs may be higher, Nichols said the school district remained thankful for the community’s response to the 2025 Summer Experience cancellation.
“I’m so grateful for the community support to fill this gap while we’re under construction,” Nichols said. “We’re so appreciative.”
In addition to the RecTrek Summer Club, Western Colorado University’s Junior Mountaineers, the Mountain Roots Food Project and the Go Girls Mountain Bike summer camps plan to expand to cover other gaps this summer, Baylor said. The Rec Center will also host babysitting classes to prepare siblings to watch over little ones when parents are away. Registration for summer programs opens on March 10.
More information can be found at gunnisonco.gov/summercamp.
(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)
Each month, Gunnison Middle School teachers nominate and recognize students of the month for their exemplary participation in the classroom and beyond. In January, the roster included sixth graders Kylie Robbins, Brantley Townsend, Charlotte Jackson and Asher Chodorowski; seventh graders Dylan Smith, Iris Lee, Ari Eberly and Sophia Morris; and eighth graders Gavin Kibler, Ray Nielsen, Yara Flores and Miles Garrison.
The Chamber is an organization dedicated to helping businesses succeed in the Gunnison Valley and are seeking our next Executive Director to lead us into the future. Apply by March 7th!
We’re looking for someone who’s a:
• Leader and passionate about helping businesses thrive and reach their goals
• Connector of people and facilitator of ideas, education, and resources
• Relationship builder for all members and potential members
Organizer and diligent manager of all
This
Boogie with the Crested Buttians
A huge cast of dancers took to the Crested Butte Center for the Arts’ stage for the annual Move the Butte performance Feb. 20-22. The sold out show featured a host of different dance genres, from interpretive to fire dancing.
(Courtesy Nolan Blunck)
SonofaGunn opens tonight
This year’s show a comedy of ‘errors’
Lucia Handmaker Special to the Times
Since 1989, the Gunnison Arts Center has presented SonofaGunn, a locally written and produced satire about life in Gunnison Valley. This year’s show brings together community members in a comedic celebration of the people, places and culture that characterize Gunnison. “The Errors Tour” follows Taylor Swiftly when the Blue Mesa bridge closure traps her in the county. Her interactions and adventures transpire through hilarious twists and turns, all the while commemorating community, adventure and comedy.
Although many things make SonofaGunn special, one of the most important is the way it involves the community.
“It’s true community theater, with different people from the community stepping up to make everything possible,” writer Julie Robinson said. “It’s such an amazing way to just come together and celebrate what we love about Gunnison.”
Robinson and this year’s director, Paul Giberson, have played an integral role in SonofaGunn in the past few years. In 2019, all signs pointed to that being the last SonofaGunn performance ever. However, the combined efforts of Giberson, Erik Kjosness and Craig Beebe helped to keep the tradition alive.
Volunteer cast members join the production for a variety of reasons.
“I’ve seen the show every year up until now and thought that it looks like so much fun, but really had no idea if I could actually get up on stage and do this,” a member of the cast said.
LAKE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE TUESDAY, APRIL 15 4-6:30PM
Preschool Registration Opens March 1. Kindergarten Registration Opens April 1. Tour the school - Come meet the teachers!
At the open house, technical and translation support will be available for those that need assistance applying for UPK preschool scholarships, kindergarten and/or preschool registration. For more info 970-641-7704 TO REGISTER VISIT: lake.gunnisonschools.net
Students must be 3, 4, or 5 years old respectively by August 1st to be eligible for our Preschool 3, Preschool 4, and Kindergarten entry.
La Inscripción Preescolar se abre el 1 de Marzo. La Inscripción para Kínder se abre el 1 de Abril. Recorre la escuela - ¡Ven a conocer a los profesores!
En la jornada de puertas abiertas, habrá apoyo técnico y de traducción disponible para aquellos que necesiten ayuda para solicitar becas de preescolar UPK, kindergarten y/o inscripción preescolar. Para más información 970-641-7704
Para registrarse visite: lake.gunnisonschools.net
Los estudiantes deben tener 3, 4 o 5 años respectivamente antes del 1 de agosto para ser elegibles para nuestra entrada a Preescolar 3, Preescolar 4 y Kindergarten.
“When I found out the theme, I knew I had to join, and it’s been so much fun!”
SonofaGunn is one of the Gunnison Arts Center’s largest fundraisers. The show sells out every year, and all proceeds go to support the GAC. Over the past 35 years, the performances have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars. This year’s show is the first time a SonofaGunn performance will be held in the new theater of the recently renovated GAC, as opposed to the former Black Box Theater.
The show also makes lighthearted fun of many wellknown community members, businesses and institutions as a way to honor them. The Gunnison Arts Center itself has been written into previous SonofaGunn plays, most notably, “The Greatest and Best Play in the World.”
“It’s a little bit of poking fun at, but mostly a celebration of, Gunnison,” Giberson said.
“If you’ve been written into SonofaGunn, you know you’ve made it.”
Featuring prominent local places, people and events, the performance sheds light on and celebrates what makes this community so special.
Tickets are $15-$30. The show runs for two weeks, Feb. 27, 28 and March 1 and March 6-8.
There is also a Saturday matinee on March 1. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the performance begins at 7:30 p.m. On the day of the Matinee performance, doors open at 2 p.m. and the show starts at 2:30 p.m.
Writer Shelly Pierson has been a part of Sonofagunn for over 20 years.
“Are you ready for a good laugh and to support the art center? Come to SonofaGunn,” she said.
UPK 4-Year-Old Scholarship Applications
Available Online Now AT upk.colorado.gov
(Lucia Handmaker is a freshman at Gunnison High School.)
2025 SonofaGunn cast members rehearse “The Errors Tour.” (Photos by Lucia Handmaker)
Applications for big game licenses open March 1
Hunters hoping to draw a biggame license in 2025 are urged to review the changes in licenses, seasons and fees in the 2025 Colorado Big Game brochure prior to the March 1 opening of the primary draw application period.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) encourages hunters to submit their applications early to avoid complications or delays. For a good overview of what’s in store, watch CPW’s "What's New" video for the 2025 big-game seasons. Important information for hunters to take note of this season includes:
Nonresident OTC archery elk now limited
Out-of-state residents can no longer buy over-the-counter (OTC) archery elk licenses for game management units (GMUs) west of I-25 and GMU 140. For new limited hunt codes for nonresident archery elk, see page 43 of the big game brochure. These new limited licenses can be applied for in the draw. A qualifying license (spring turkey or annual small game) is required to apply for the primary draw. Nonresidents can still hunt OTC in certain GMUs east of I-25. See maps on pages 38-39 for more details.
Coyote hunting changes Big-game hunters with an
unfilled big-game license could previously take coyotes during the season on their license with the same method of take as their license. This provision has been removed in an effort to improve coyote harvest estimates. The vast majority of biggame hunters already purchase a small game license, so only a small number of hunters will be affected.
New fail-to-pay policy
If a customer draws a license during the primary or secondary draw, but the license is not paid for by the payment deadline, the license will now be removed from the customer’s account. If preference points were used to obtain the license, those preference points are restored to the pre-draw level.
Secure firearm storage in vehicles
Unless engaged in lawful hunting activities, or the instruction of hunter education offered by CPW, House Bill 24-1348 requires that firearms left in unattended vehicles be securely stored.
Mandatory testing for chronic wasting disease
In 2025, CPW will require mandatory submission of chronic wasting disease (CWD) test samples (heads) from all
deer harvested during rifle seasons from specific hunt codes. See pages 1, 13 and 22 of the big game brochure for more details.
If a hunter is not selected for mandatory testing, but wants to know whether their harvested deer or elk has CWD, they can submit their animal's head and pay a $25 testing fee. Testing fees for voluntary submissions will be waived for all moose statewide, and all deer from hunt codes that were not selected for mandatory testing but are within the same GMUs. Voluntary submissions are accepted annually statewide for a $25 testing fee.
Watch for wolves
Gray wolves are now another one of the more than 960 wildlife species on the landscape in Colorado. Wolves have been released both north and south of I-70, and wildlife managers expect them to explore their new environment and travel widely. One female wolf is exploring the southeast region of the state.
The gray wolf in Colorado is protected by the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA) and state law. The state penalties for illegally killing a gray wolf can include: Civil penalties of at least $1,000; criminal fines of up to $100,000; imprisonment for up to one year; sus-
pension of license privileges for up to life. The federal penalties for illegally killing a gray wolf can include: Civil penalties of up to $25,000; criminal fines of up to $50,000; imprisonment for up to one year; suspension or revocation of federal licenses or permits.
Plan your hunt
Those with questions about setting up accounts, planning hunts or applying for licenses, can call 303.297.1192, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. More hunting resources are available at cpw.state.co.us/ hunting/big-game. Note to hunters: CPW harvest data from 2024-2025 will
Faith Directory
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 Jewish Congregation
PO Box 2537 Crested Butte, CO 81224
305-803-3648 bnaibutte@gmail.com
Serving the Jewish communities of Crested Butte, Gunnison and surrounging areas. Spititual 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
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.
Starting March 5 - Wednesday night service at 7pm.
St. Peter’s Catholic Church
300 N. Wisconsin • 970-641-0808 Fr. Andres Ayala-Santiago gunnisoncatholic.org crestedbuttecatholic.org or call the Parish Office.
St. Peter’s - Gunnison Sat 5 p.m. & Sun
10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. (Spanish) Mass
First Sunday of every month bilingual Mass 11 a.m.
Queen of All Saints - Crested Butte, 401 Sopris Sun 8:30 a.m. Mass
St. Rose of Lima - Lake City Communion Service, Sun. at 10 a.m.
Church in the Barn
8007 County Road 887
Waunita Hot Springs Ranch • 970-641-8741 Sundays, 10:30 a.m. Non Denominational Come as you are.
Church of Christ
600 E. Virginia • 970-641-1588
Sunday Morning Bible Class: 9:30 a.m.
Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.
Sunday Evening Worship: 6 p.m.
Wednesday Night Bible Class: 7 p.m.
not be available until midMarch. License quotas will not be finalized until the May 2025 Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission meeting after staff are finished analyzing data from population surveys.
(Source: Colorado Parks and Wildlife.)
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
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Gunnison Branch 810 N 11th St. 970-648-4804 Sacrament Meeting 10 a.m. Attending church each Sunday is a respite from fast-paced daily living. Join us to worship God, strengthen your spiritual connections, and focus on Jesus. Worship with a community of people who are trying to be more Christlike and learn from each other.
A bull elk wanders through a mountain meadow. (Courtesy of Wayne D. Lewis/Colorado Parks and Wildlife)
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 - Permanent Substitute Bus Drivers Food Service
Substitute teachers
PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
GHS - Social Studies
GES - Music Teacher
CBSS - Science Teacher
CBSS - Science/Health Teacher
CBSS - English Language Arts
Pathways Hospitality and Culinary Arts Teacher
Pathways Outdoor Education and Generalist Teacher (1FTE)
COACHING
GHS - Assistant Girls’ Basketball Coach (C team)
GHS - Girls’ Diving/ Asst. Swimming coach
CBHS - Assistant Track & Field coach
CBHS - Head Hockey Coach
Please contact: Superintendent’s Office JoAnn Klingsmith 800 N. Boulevard 970-641-7760 jklingsmith@ gunnisonschools.net
ADAPTIVE SPORTS
INSTRUCTOR: The Adaptive Sports Center is seeking qualified adaptive instructors to facilitate exceptional adaptive sport and recreation activities for the 2025 Summer Season. Pay ranges from $21-$30/hour based on experience. Benefits for full time seasonal staff include pro-forms, certification and membership dues, exam reimbursement, paid sick days, 5-day stipend and a 401(k) match. More information and summer application is at https://www.adaptivesports. org/careers . Applications are due March 15.
THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring the following positions: Coffee Shop
Attendant $20/hr. + gratuity; Host $16/hr. + gratuity. Employee benefits include ski storage at the base area and discounts on merchandise. Applicants are requested to apply at theclubatcrestedbutte.com .
SAGUACHE COUNTY is seeking an On-Site Wastewater Treatment System Inspector. This position 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
GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Patrol Deputy
Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $72,397.26 to $102,405.83 plus full benefits.
Take home vehicle & uniform allowance provided by the Sheriff’s Office.
Detention Deputy
Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $65,056.55 to $92,022.40 plus full benefits.
Uniform allowance provided by the Sheriff’s Office.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/ week, hourly range from $23.60 to $31.69 plus full benefits.
Shop Technician
Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/ week, hourly range from $26.51 to $35.61 plus full benefits.
Accountant I
Finance: 40 hours/week, hourly range is from $27.84 to $33.84, depending on experience plus full benefits.
Deputy Finance Director
Finance: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range is from $9,071.59 to $11,028.17, depending on experience, plus full benefits.
Community Resource Specialist
HHS: 6 hours/week, hourly range is from $25.01 to $28.48, depending on experience, plus partial benefits.
Administrative Assistant –
Evidence Custodian
Sheriff: 40 hours/week, hourly range is from $22.47 to $25.59, depending on experience, plus full benefits.
Detention Captain Sheriff: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range is from $6,778.80 to $8,240.87, depending on experience, plus full benefits.
Public Trustee Specialist
Treasurer: 40 hours/week, hourly range is from $23.60 to $28.69, depending on experience, plus full benefits.
For more information, including complete job descriptions, required qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCounty.org/jobs.
respond to public health emergencies.
Salary to be determined on experience starting at $37,000/year. Applicants must have a valid Colorado Drivers License, must pass a criminal background check as well as a pre-employment drug test.
The County Employee benefit package includes vision, dental and health insurance coverage, paid time off, 12 holidays per year, and a generous 401k retirement plan.
The employment application and job description can be found on www. saguachecounty.colorado.gov, picked up at the Saguache County Administration Office, 505 3rd Street, Saguache, CO or can be emailed to you, please contact April Quintana at 719-655-2231.
Completed applications can be hand delivered to the Saguache County Public Health, Attention Mona Lovato, 505 3rd Street, mailed to PO Box 68, Saguache, CO 81149 or emailed to mlovato@ saguachecounty-co.gov. Applications will be accepted until filled.
Saguache County is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
BE PART OF THE LOCAL ART
MOVEMENT: The Paragon Gallery is always accepting applications for local artists to potentially become a working member of the gallery or as a guest artist. Currently we are looking for a floor display artist starting this summer. The application deadline for this jurying is March 29. Hurry in! Applications can be picked up at the Paragon Art Gallery, 132 Elk Ave., Crested Butte, Colorado. Open 7 days a week 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Application available at paragonartgallery.com.
THE TOWN OF MT CRESTED BUTTE is looking for a full time, year around, parks worker. This position has a wide range of duties from landscaping, maintaining playgrounds, cleaning up after events, installing and repairing sprinkler systems, operating chain saws, vehicles, power and hand tools, light equipment such as skid steer and lawn mowers, snow removal in the winter with hand shoveling, ice picking and using a bob cat. For a full job description please go to www.mtcb.colorado. gov. Schedule is 4 – 10 hours days with one weekend day in the winter required. Overtime is required based on weather and snow storms. Must have a seven-year clean driving record, the ability to obtain your flagger certification, safety lift 80 pounds, good customer service, communication and team work skills, ability to work outside in the winter and summer for an extended period of time. Starting pay is between $44,000
CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Equipment Operator
Full-Time, $60,300-$70,900/yr Operates a variety of City-owned heavy equipment, vehicles and tools in the construction and maintenance of City streets and alleys, curbs and gutters, sidewalks, traffic/street signage and other City infrastructure and services. Drives garbage and recycling trucks with hydraulic lifts on a rotational basis with other team members along designated routes.
Part-Time Openings Lifeguards: $23-$29.33/hr.
The City of Gunnison offers a competitive benefit package, including 75% of medical, dental and vision premiums paid for the employee and their dependents, 5% of gross wages in a retirement plan, 3 weeks of vacation (increasing based on the years of service), 13 paid holidays and 12 days of sick leave per year.
For more information, including complete job descriptions, benefit packages, required job qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCO.gov/HR.
and $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. Contact Addison Ives at aives@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
LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE is hiring one more amazing teacher to complete our team! Looking for someone who truly loves working with kids, is patient and kind, has a flexible schedule, is hardworking and reliable, and a team player! This position is part to full time and has some time with infants and toddlers and some time with 3-4 year olds. Come be a part of this rewarding career with awesome pay, benefits and a stable year round full time job. Please submit resume via email to Jessica at lilredschoolhouse1@gmail.com
GVRHA IS HIRING a FT/PT Bilingual Receptionist and/or Office Manager. Bilingual is a requirement for the Receptionist role and preferred for the Office Manager position. Pay is $20-$26/hour depending on experience and responsibilities, and position can be FT or PT. Office experience, and computer proficiency is required. If you are interested in working with a highly engaged,
compassionate and fun team, and want to help us make a difference in housing our community members, visit https://gvrha.org/ join-our-team/ for more information. Excellent benefits for FT permanent employees.
POWERSTOP is looking for head cook. Pay is $50,000 minimum, position also offers paid time off and health insurance reimbursement. Pay is based on 40 hours a week. Applications must be able to work mornings or evenings and weekends. Resumes to be in a sealed envelope attention Sean. Drop off at Powerstop.
SGM’S GUNNISON OFFICE is currently seeking a full-time seasonal Survey Field Technician to join our team. The Survey team specializes in a variety of Surveys such as: ALTA’s, LSP’s, Topographic Surveys, Subdivision Plats, Improvement Survey Plats, Property and Easement
- Proven ability to work as part of a team to successfully deliver projects in a fastpaced, deadline-driven environment; good communication skills - Ability to work long hours when needed with occasional out of town travel
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Additional Preferred Qualifications: - Trimble software and hardware experience - Basic understanding of coordinate systems
Survey Technician I or II (2-5 yrs): $27.60$38.60/hr.
Survey Technician III (4-10 yrs): $38.60$44.10/hr.
sgm-inc.com/join-our-team/
VOLUNTEER COORDINATORAMERICORPS POSTION: Gunnison
Country Food Pantry seeks a passionate Volunteer Coordinator. This AmeriCorps position (15-20 hrs/week) involves volunteer recruitment, scheduling, training, and retention. Ideal candidates have strong organizational and communication skills, a commitment to community service, and a valid driver’s license. Spanish language skills preferred. Benefits include a bi-weekly living allowance, education award and professional development opportunities. Service Term: March 10 – Dec. 14, 2025. To apply, email healthyfutures@ mountainrootsfoodproject.org and director@ gunnisoncountryfoodpantry.org
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Estate of Gene Leon Mason
a/k/a Gene L. Mason
a/k/a Gene Mason, Deceased
Case Number 2025PR30004
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Gunnison, County, Colorado on or before June 23, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.
Barbara J. Mason Personal Representative of the Estate of Gene Leon Mason
a/k/a Gene L. Mason a/k/a Gene Mason 50 Sandpiper Trail Gunnison, CO 81230
Please contact through counsel: Jacob A. With, Atty. #:40546
Law of the Rockies
525 N. Main Street Gunnison, CO 81230
970-641-1903 ex. 2
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado
Publication dates of February 20, 27 and March 6, 2025 16251
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The Estate of Paul E. Sammons, a/k/a Paul Edward Sammons, P.E. Sammons, and Paul Sammons, Deceased, Case Number 2025 PR 30005.
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Gunnison, County, Colorado on or before June 20, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.
Edward P. Sammons, Personal Representative c/o Law Office of Robert M. O’Hayre, LLC P.O. Box 179 Gunnison, CO 81230
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado
Publication dates of February 20, 27 and March 6, 2025
16256
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In the Matter of the Estate of:
Ethel Marie Rice
Deceased Case Number 2025PR1
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Gunnison County, Colorado on or before June 15, 2025 or the claims may be forever barred.
Jonathan D. Houck Personal Representative
421. N. Boulevard St. Gunnison, CO 81230
Gunnison Country Times
Gunnison, Colorado
Publication dates of February 13, 20 and 27, 2025 16174
Make a difference in Gunnison County—join the team today!
LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE IN CB
SOUTH is hiring a full-time teacher! This position is with 4 year olds and there is lots of potential to sub in other classrooms to create a full time position. This is a wonderful family environment with fabulous kids and teachers! Creativity, flexibility, and calmness under pressure are traits that help with success in this job. Multiple ways to grow in the field. Great pay, huge benefits, and year round stable employment. Please inquire with resume and interest letter to lilredschoolhouse1@gmail.com.
THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE is hiring a Building Inspector/Energy Efficiency Analyst to join the Community Development team. This position will ensure building code compliance, review plans and permits, manage energy efficiency programs, and enforce building regulations. Candidates with construction management experience may qualify for a highergrade role involving design, planning, and construction management support for Town facilities. Must have or be able to obtain ICC Residential Building Inspector certification within one year with the ability to earn additional certifications. The hiring range for this position is $67,105 - $80,526 (Base), or $73,815 - $88,578 (With Construction Management). This year-round position
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
In the Matter of the Estate of:
JESSIE MARIE WEAVER, a/k/a JESSIE M. WEAVER, a/k/a JESSIE WEAVER
Deceased Case Number 2025PR30002
All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Gunnison County, Colorado on or before June 13, 2025 or the claims may be forever barred.
Dale Weaver, Personal Representative c/o Hoskin, Farina & Kampf, P.C. Post Office Box 40 Grand Junction, Colorado 81502
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of February 13, 20 and 27, 2025 16171
REQUEST FOR BIDS
INVITATION TO BID
Sealed proposals will be received at the Offices of Sopris Engineering, LLC, 502 Main Street, Suite A3, Carbondale, Colorado 81623, until 5:00 P.M., Monday, March 31, 2025, at which time the bids will be publicly opened and read aloud, for the furnishing of all materials, labor and equipment in performing all operations necessary for the Ragged Mountain Fire District Dry Hydrants. Construction is anticipated to begin and finish prior to October 31st, 2025.
Plans and specifications may be inspected at the Offices of Sopris Engineering, LLC, 502 Main Street, Suite A3, Carbondale, Colorado 81623, or Ragged Mountain Fire Protection District office at 3688 Highway 133, Somerset, Co 81434 and are available Friday, February 28th, 2025.
Each proposal must be accompanied by a bid bond or certified check in the amount of 5% of the bid proposal. The Proposal Guarantees accompanying the three lowest proposals may be held until the Contract is awarded, provided this period does not exceed sixty calendar days. The Proposal Guarantees accompanying the other proposals will be returned promptly after the bid prices have been compared.
On-site pre-bid will be held on Monday, March 17, 2025. The first meeting will be held at 9:00 A.M. the GORDON Property site on County Road 265, in Gunnison County. The second meeting will be held immediately following, at the GRIFFIN Property site at 433 County Road 77, in Gunnison County. Attendance at the on-site meetings is a qualification for contract award. Failure to attend will result in an incomplete bid proposal. Maps to both sites will be included with the plans and specifications.
This solicitation for bids may be canceled by the Owner, and any bid of proposal may be rejected in whole or in part for good cause when in the best interests of the Owner. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all proposals or accept what is, in its judgement, the best bid. If a contract is awarded, it will be awarded to the lowest responsible and responsive bidder, whose bid is deemed by the Owner to be in the best interests of the projects.
The Proposal and Proposal Guarantees must be placed in one envelope securely sealed therein and labeled: “Bid Proposal for Ragged Mountain Fire District Dry Hydrants”.
Qualification for Award
includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer paid health, dental, vision, life insurance, and contribution to retirement plan after one year of employment. Full job description is available on the Town’s website at www.townofcrestedbutte.com. Please submit application, cover letter, and resume via email to jobs@crestedbutte-co. gov. Position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring a Restaurant Manager. This is a full-time year-round position with medical, retirement, and vacation benefits. The annual salary range is $65,000 to $70,000 DOE. For more information or to submit a resume please visit: theclubatcrestedbutte.com.
JUDICIAL CLERK 1: The Gunnison
Combined Court is seeking applications to fill a 1.0 FTE (40 hours per week) position of a Judicial Clerk I. The position is responsible for technical clerical work in the processing of court cases and customer service. Applications shall be filed electronically. To apply go to www.coloradojudicial.gov the Careers/Career Opportunities tab and follow the instructions to apply for this position. Applications must be filed electronically on or before 3/4/25.
THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE is looking for a Facility Property Manager.
In order to receive an award for the above construction, the contractor must have successfully met the requirements of prequalification as described herein. Bids received from bidders who are not prequalified will not be opened. A contractor must possess adequate tenacity, perseverance, experience, integrity, reliability, capacity, facilities, equipment, and credit. The determination of whether a contractor possesses these criteria is at the sole discretion of the Owner. Additional criteria for pre-qualification are as follows and must be delivered to Sopris Engineering, LLC, no later than 5:00 P.M., Monday, March 24th 2025. Satisfactory completion of a similar contract for water pipeline, fire hydrant an underground large storage tank requirements of Criteria 1 through 4 inclusive.
Demonstrated record of successful and timely completion of work awarded during the last 5 years.
Experience shall include water pipe, fire hydrant and underground large concrete vaults, and associated materials and appurtenances.
Demonstrated ability to bond projects of this extent and nature.
Attendance at pre-bid conferences on site, at the GORDON site at 9:00 A.M. (MDT) and also at the GRIFFIN site immediately following, on Monday, March 17th 2025. Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of February 27 and March 6, 2025 16350
SUMMONS
DISTRICT COURT, GUNNISON COUNTY, COLORADO
Address: 200 East Virginia Avenue Gunnison, Colorado 81230 (970) 642-8300
Plaintiff: SAW CONTRACTING LLC, a Colorado limited liability company, v. Defendants: ADAM MASONBRINK
Case No. 2024CV30050
Attorneys for Plaintiffs: HUCKSTEP LAW, LLC
Aaron J. Huckstep, Atty Reg No. 39898 426 Belleview Ave, Unit 303
P.O. Box 2958 Crested Butte, CO 81224
Telephone: (970) 349-2009
Facsimile: (970) 797-1023
E-mail: huck@hucksteplaw.com
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
TO THE DEFENDANT NAMED ABOVE: You are summoned and required to file with the Clerk of this Court an Answer or other response to the attached Complaint. If
Qualifications: high school diploma or equivalent and five (5) years of property management or relevant work experience. The preferred candidate will have a college degree, some college, or trade school. Must possess a valid Colorado Driver’s License or obtain one within thirty (30) days of employment. This is a full-time position with benefits. Starting pay is $73,815 - $88,578 DOQ. Benefits include fully subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance. Paid holidays, vacation time, sick time, disability insurance, life insurance, and retirement are also position benefits. Full job description is available on the Town’s website at www. townofcrestedbutte.com. Please submit application to Town of Crested Butte, Attn: Human Resources, PO Box 39, Crested Butte, CO 81224 or email jobs@ crestedbutte-co.gov. Position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
REAL ESTATE
CO-WORKING
service of the Summons and Complaint was made upon you within the State of Colorado, you are required to file your Answer or other response within twenty-one (21) days after such service upon you. If service of the Summons and Complaint was made upon you outside of the State of Colorado, you are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty-five (35) days after such service upon you.
If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within the applicable time period, judgment by default may be entered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint, without any further notice.
The following documents are also served herewith:
District Court Civil Cover Sheet Complaint Exhibit A to Complaint
This Summons is issued pursuant to Rule 4, C.R.C.P., as amended. A copy of the Complaint must be served with this Summons. This form should not be used
or
Signed this 11th day of February, 2025 /s/ Aaron J. Huckstep
Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado
Publication dates of February 13, 20, 27 and March 6, 13, 2025 16211
Tea time talks
Gunnison Senior Care Center residents gathered for a midmorning tea party on Feb. 21. Attendees sipped their earthy brews and ate finger sandwiches while catching up friends, family and other residents. Afterward, the group participated in a cake walk, with the winners taking home-baked cakes made by volunteers. Proceeds from cake walk tickets will be donated to the Gunnison Valley Mentors.
Something sweet
Sugar fiends took over the Gunnison Community School commons for a Valentine’s Day cookie decorating event on Feb. 13. Members of the Western Colorado University women’s volleyball team joined in the frosting fun, and helped their younger peers create delectable designs. The Gunnison Parent-Teacher Association hosted the event.
(Photos by Mariel Wiley)
(Photos by Alex McCrindle)
Lights & Sirens
GUNNISON POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT
FEBRUARY 18
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST DEGREE - VEHICLE — 605 N. BOULEVARD ST.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST DEGREE - VEHICLE — 506 N. 14TH ST. ACCIDENT — 700 W. VIRGINIA AVE.
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST DEGREE - VEHICLE — 311 E. GUNNISON AVE.
THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 350 N. PITKIN ST. PROPERTY - LOST — 515 N. IOWA ST.
FEBRUARY 19
TOBACCO VIOLATION - UNLAWFUL POSSESSION RE1J — 800 W. OHIO AVE.
ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGEMUNICIPAL — 379 CR 14
CRIMINAL TRESPASS: SECOND DEGREE - COMMON AREA —900 N. MAIN ST. PROPERTY - LOST — 910 W. BIDWELL AVE.
FEBRUARY 20
WELFARE ASSIST — E. TOMICHI AVE.
JUVENILE PROBLEM — N. TAYLOR ST.
WELFARE ASSIST - MISSING PERSON N. COLORADO ST
ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGEMUNICIPAL 501 W. TOMICHI AVE.
THEFT - UNDER $100.00 MUNICIPAL — 222 N. MAIN ST. TRAFFIC — 20 W. TOMICHI AVE.
FEBRUARY 21
WELFARE ASSIST — W. DENVER AVE.
ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGEMUNICIPAL — 100 OURAY LN. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF — 1314 W. TOMICHI AVE.
ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGEMUNICIPAL 1099 N. 11TH ST.
FEBRUARY 22
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF — 131 N. MAIN ST.
DISORDERLY CONDUCT - UNREASONABLE NOISE 213 W. TOMICHI AVE.
ASSAULT: SECOND DEGREEWITH INTENT — S. 12TH ST.
FEBRUARY 23
FORGERY — 108 S. 12TH ST. CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE: UNLAWFUL DISTRIBUTION, MANUFACTURE, SALE- EXCEPT MARIJUANA — 112 S. SPRUCE ST. AGENCY ASSIST — CURECANTI DR.
TRAFFIC - DUR - 2ND OR SUBSEQUENT OFFENSE — E. VIRGINIA AVE.
FEBRUARY 24
INFORMATION / INVESTIGATIVE REPORT — W. TOMICHI AVE.
FEBRUARY 25
INFORMATION — E. TOMICHI AVE. PROPERTY WATCH — N. 12TH ST. INFORMATION — W. TOMICHI AVE.
CRIMINAL MISCHIEF - DAMAGE TO PROPERTY — 222 N. 9TH ST.
GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT
FEBRUARY 18
- Theft report - Information report – scam - Information report – found dog
FEBRUARY 19
- Information report – found dog - Information report – abandoned vehicle
- information report – paper service
FEBRUARY 20
- Information report – paper service - Information report – Search and Rescue
FEBRUARY 21
- Theft report
FEBRUARY 22
- Agency assist to Colorado State Patrol
- Harassment report - Theft report - Welfare check
FEBRUARY 24
- Theft report - Information report – civil issue - Information report – fraud - Warrant arrest – failure to appear - Information report – assault
POETRY: The
SPORTS: Mountaineer wrestling to host regional tournament, B4
In full bloom
GHS Blossom Club fosters friendship and community service
Mariel Wiley Times Photo Editor
On the morning of Feb. 14, a handful of Gunnison High School students arrived on campus with new matching souvenirs. Golden key chains, each adorned with several sparkly charms, hung from the teens’ backpacks, car keys and belt loops.
The students — many of whom aren’t in the same classes or sports teams — had all made these matching key chains the night before, during the first GHS Blossom Club meeting. The club is the brainchild of GHS junior Aubriel Loken, who wanted to create a place where girls could form bonds that extended beyond the bounds of their regular social circles.
Several years ago, one of Loken’s older peers at GHS had founded a similar club called “Bloom.” While Bloom garnered an active membership at first, the club’s activity dwindled as its core participants graduated.
“[The founder of Bloom] and my older sisters are at a stage in their lives where they’re doing cool things outside of our small town, so it’s inspiring to see them thrive,” Loken said. “I wanted to build off of that.”
Bloom had left behind a need for a space for connection and personal growth, and Loken decided to pick up from where the former club had left off, she said.
Loken found inspiration in former Presidential candidate Kamala Harris’ election campaign and in the growth of women’s sports, especially the career trajectory of Women’s National Basketball Association star Caitlin Clark. Both women motivated Loken to create change in her own “little corner” of the world, she said.
“Regardless of whatever view you have, seeing a woman on that
big stage really showed me Blossom club B2
Students decorated journals during the first Blossom Club meeting on Feb. 6. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)
The girls sifted through hundreds of stickers. GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES
how important it is to have that representative,” Loken said. “Just seeing these people growing and making an impact, I’ve realized how much that means to me. I want to spread that feeling.”
While the club’s program is tailored to empower girls, anyone looking for a safe space to build connections is welcome to join, Loken said. After facing some life hurdles during her freshman and sophomore years, Loken had leaned on her closest friends for support.
“Making that connection with them helped me become a better person and get out of that bad place,” she said. “I really want to be that person and make that difference.”
Loken envisioned a space where members could gather to do activities that teenage girls “would want to do anyway,” such as crafting, listening to music or watching movies. Not everyone has the space to do these things at home, or the friends to do them with. Blossom provides a teachersupervised space at the school after classes are done for the day for girls to just be themselves, together.
Each meeting will focus on a different activity that prioritizes well being. One club member, GHS junior Janey Mugglestone,
plans to share her love for yoga during an upcoming meeting. Mugglestone, who is a member of the GHS National Honor Society, was eager for an opportunity to meet others outside of her regular social circles.
“If we can build strong relationships between girls in high school and start learning how to have healthy relationships with people that we might not cross paths with regularly, I feel like that’s an important life lesson.”
Janey Mugglestone Club member
“If we can build strong relationships among girls in high school and start learning how to have healthy relationships with people that we might not cross paths with regularly, I feel like that’s an important life lesson,”
Mugglestone said. “Just having that respect for other women who are going through the same experiences as you and knowing that you can support one another is going to be important as we all grow up and move on with our lives.”
Down the line, Loken hopes to expand Blossom’s reach further into the Gunnison community. She plans to reach out to women from around the valley who have achieved success in their lives and careers and invite them to share their wisdom with the club’s members. Community service is also on the agenda as the club becomes more established.
More than 20 students attended the club’s first meeting on the evening before Valentine’s Day. The girls spent their time personalizing gold key chains with colorful charms, and plastered bullet journals with an assortment of stickers. As they worked, the students shared stories with friends old and new.
“It was really cool to be in that safe space and let our guards down outside of that stressful school setting,” Mugglestone said. “I came home with such a big smile on my face.”
(Mariel Wiley can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or mariel@ gunnisontimes.com.)
Journaling regularly can help reduce stress and provides an opportunity to work through complex emotions.
Each student picked out charms that had personal significance to them to add to their key chains.
GHS junior and Blossom founder Aubriel Loken spoke to the group about the merits of journaling.
The members shared laughs with
crafts.
Band concert
The public is invited to a concert on March 4 starting at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium. This concert will feature the 7th/8th grade Advanced Band, as well as the High School Band. We are playing a variety of music, so everyone will find something to their liking. Admission is free.
The Crested Butte School of Dance
The Crested Butte School of Dance will bring an exciting lineup of classes for Adult Block
3. This block will run Feb. 24 to April 11 and feature the following dance styles: Ballet, Tap, Hip Hop, Jazz, Contemporary, Aerial, Dance Conditioning, Belly Dance, Hooping, Dancercise, Fan Fundamentals and Empowered Pole. Most classes are open for full registration or drop-ins! Visit dancecrestedbutte.org to view schedules, create accounts, register for classes and purchase punchcards. Contact programs@dancecrestedbutte.org for more information.
GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS
SonofaGunn Presents:
‘The Errors Tour’
Join us for this hilarious show featuring pop icon Taylor Swiftly, stranded in Gunnison after the town’s bridges close. Chaos ensues with a local cult of obsessed Swifties and town officials trying to cash in on her presence. A mix of miscommunication, fan delusion, and a twist ending awaits!
SonofaGunn dates are Feb 27,
28 and March 1, 6, 7 and 8. The doors open at 7 p.m. for the 7:30 show. The matinees are March 1 and 8. The doors open at 2 p.m. for the 2:30 p.m. show.
Souper Bowl
Join us March 28 from 5-8 p.m. for an exciting evening at the Souper Bowl MMXXV—a celebration of art, soup and fun, supporting the Gunnison Arts Center’s Clay Studio. Enjoy
CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS
Cookbook Club: My America
Come together for a collaborative potluck inspired by My America, part of our Wine + Food Winter Series Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. Pick up a copy at Townie Books or borrow ours, sign up for a dish, and bring your creation to share. We’ll handle the table and wine—it’s a fun way to enjoy food, conversation and inspiration with fellow food lovers. The cost is $25.
The Vagina Monologues
This humbling, powerful, and deeply human experience is not to be missed. Firebird Theatre is producing this wonderful night of funny, poignant and thought-provoking theatre to raise funds for Project Hope of Gunnison Valley on Feb. 28 at 7 p.m. Project Hope’s mission is to support, educate and provide confidential advocacy to individuals affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and/or human trafficking. The cost is $35.
Books and brunch
Call for muralist
The Gunnison Creative District seeks a muralist to design a new landmark public artwork on the High Country Floors building at 111 S. 10th St. Visit GunnisonCreativeDistrict. org to apply.
Western ski weekend
Join us on March 1-2 for the Western ski weekend. This event is open to the entire Western community-alumni, parents and families and friends of Western are welcome. Registration is $10. March 1
tasty soups, live entertainment, handmade bowls of all sizes and friendly competition, all while supporting local artists! All ages welcome.
And Series Watercolor + Wine
Join us March 13 from 5:308:30 p.m. for a relaxing evening of watercolor painting and wine with instructor Karen Hill. Unwind, socialize and explore
Kissidugu performance
Join us on March 7 at 7 p.m. for this original African Arts Theater performance choreographed by world renowned West African artist, Fara Tolno. Wontanara! (We Are Together) will tell a story of humanity through music, movement, multimedia and more. A full live orchestra of Western and traditional African instruments will accompany dancers, aerialists, acrobats, breakdancers and more. Visiting West African artists will be joined by local musicians and dancers to create an unforgettable show for all ages. The cost is $10-$50.
is Mountaineers Day on the Mountain at CBMR and AprèsSki Party at The Elevation Hotel Matchstick Lounge & Billy Barr and March 2 is Breakfast in the Backcountry at the Crested Butte Nordic yurt.
Pickleball tournament
On March 8 at 10 a.m. come to the Mountaineer Field House for Western's Energy Leaders 1st annual Pickleball tournament. It is $5 per person to join and all funds go directly to the club Western Energy Leaders and allows current Western Energy students to travel for
your creativity while sipping wine and learning simple watercolor techniques. No experience necessary—just bring your enthusiasm! Ages 21+.
Moonlight Concert SeriesSalem Band and film event
Join us March 15, for an exciting evening with The Risan Project’s Cresta Alta Film Tour! Enjoy films about cli -
The Floozies
On March 9 at 8 p.m. The Floozies bring the funk into the digital age with their electrifying blend of electronic beats and authentic grooves. Known for their sold-out shows and festival appearances at Bonnaroo, Electric Forest and Red Rocks, this powerhouse duo guarantees a night of unforgettable music and energy. The cost is $45.
professional development for free. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.
Parent Teacher Association
Help the PTA show its appreciation to our teachers and staff for Gunnison Community School and Lake school; sign up to donate/contribute an item to the Potlucks for Parent Teacher Conferences held on March 5. You can find the information and the sign ups on our website gunnisonvalleypta.com
mate change and sustainability, followed by a live concert by Salem, blending alternative rock and environmental advocacy. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m.
Wine Seminar: Alpine wines
On March 12 at 6 p.m. explore the unique wines of alpine regions around the world. We’ll dive into the regions of Italy, Switzerland, France and beyond, uncovering how their high-altitude climates influence wine production. Expect lively discussions on the distinct styles and flavors of alpine wines, along with a tasting to experience them firsthand— because one glass is never enough to fully appreciate these mountain gems. The cost is $50.
The Gunnison chapter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) hosted a breakfast fundraiser on Feb. 22 to support the Gunnison County Library’s summer reading program. Attendees enjoyed pastries and coffee before browsing through a selection of the library’s most popular children’s books. The Gunnison AAUW chapter has fundraised for the valley’s libraries for almost a century.
(Photos by Mariel Wiley)
Cowboy basketball extends win streak
Girls seek redemption against Roaring Fork ahead of postseason
Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor
The GHS girls basketball team is over flowing with confidence ahead of its final game of the regular season.
The Cowboys added to their four-game win streak with a victory over Aspen on Feb. 22, moving the team’s overall record to 15-7. The girls sit third place in the 3A Western Slope League with a record of 10-3, and are No. 17 in the state on the eve of the postseason.
But before tip-off at the regional tournament, the Cowboys will seek redemption against league rivals Roaring Fork at home this weekend.
Mountaineers to host NCAA regional wrestling championship
Western’s grapplers will battle for national qualification
Gregg Petcoff Special to the Times
The No. 13 Western Colorado University wrestling team will host the NCAA Division II Super Region VI Championships on Saturday, March 1, with national tournament qualification on the line.
Western will take on 11 other programs at the Mountaineer Field House, including five who
sit within the National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) top-25 rankings. In addition to the Mountaineers, the regional will host competitors from No. 2 University of Nebraska Kearney, No. 18 Adams State University, No. 23 Colorado School of Mines and No. 24 Colorado Mesa University — all seeking invitations to nationals. The top-three wrestlers in 10 weight classes will advance to the national championships at Farmer Coliseum in Indianapolis March 14-15 Western has a pair of wrestlers in the NWCA individual rankings. Cole Hernandez sits No. 2 at 174-lbs, and Dean Noble is No. 3 at 149-lbs.
Last year at the regional tournament in Pueblo, two Western
grapplers were crowned champions, and five Mountaineers earned tickets to the national tournament. Hernandez was one of the 2024 regional champions, while returners Noble and Cole Gray joined him at nationals in Park City, Kansas. This year’s regional tournament is set to begin at 10 a.m., with bracket finals slated for approximately 5 p.m.
Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for students and children 10 and under and $5 for seniors. Children under 5 can attend for free.
(Gregg Petcoff is the assistant athletics director for communications at Western Colorado University and can be reached at gpetcoff@western.edu.)
(Courtesy Western Colorado University Athletic Communications)
The
Kylee McDougal pulls up for a 3-point attempt against Olathe on Feb. 18. (Photos by Mariel Wiley) Basketball B6
‘Wolverhawks’ skate into league playoffs
The U19 West Elk Hockey Wolverines joined forces with the Grand Junction Riverhawks — a team jokingly known as either the “Wolverhawks” or “Riverines” — and completed its home campaign at the Jorgensen Ice Rink on Feb. 22. The girls lost their first matchup against Durango 2-1, and tied 0-0 in the doubleheader. Nine West Elk players, Bristol Buffington, Tati Collins, Kathryn Frey, Zoe Knox, Faith Pederson, Haley Roberts, Gabby Silva, Tessa Wirsing and Lilah Young, played alongside nine from Grand Junction, with a Telluride-based goaltender in the net. The hybrid team will compete together at the Colorado Girls Hockey League playoffs in Grand Junction Feb. 28- March 2.
(Photos by Mariel Wiley)
(Courtesy Kari Roberts)
Rams currently sit second in the league, and narrowly defeated Gunnison 54-46 in early February. Head Coach Chad Terry said the game presents a final test for the team before regionals.
“The girls are excited to play another really strong team,” he said. “It was a close game last time around, and we played well the whole game. It should be a great opportunity for us to prepare for postseason play.”
The Cowboys relied on their strong defense against league opponents Aspen on Feb. 22. GHS held the Skiers to a single point in the first quarter, thanks to three blocks from senior captain Kylee McDougal, and three steals apiece from Maria Sabas and Yaslin Hernandez. Senior Sienna Gomez added key buckets inside the paint in the second quarter, and the Cowboys sped away to a 14-3 lead.
Despite a slow first half on offense, the girls started to shake the rust in the third quarter. Hernandez added six points to her tally, while juniors Ashlyn Cowan and Kaylee Vincent raked in six points each coming off the bench. Deep into the game, the Cowboy underclassmen polished off the contest with consistent defense and ambition around the rim. Sophomores Brooke Terry and Althea Stansbery added shots to the Cowboy score, and secured the 40-10 win.
Gomez paved the way for the Cowboys with a 10-point, 10-rebound double-double. McDougal led the attack with
five assists, while Hernandez earned eight rebounds, and three steals on defense.
“This is our last season together, and we’ve played together for the last six or seven years,” McDougal said. “It’s obvious on the court that we are comfortable playing together. We’ve put time in together during the offseason, and we’ve built up that chemistry.”
The Cowboys will put their four-game win streak to the test against league powerhouse Roaring Fork on March 1. The matchup presents an ideal opportunity for GHS to earn a higher seed and even more momentum ahead of the big dance.
(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)
Wolverines win regional title
After taking first place in a Colorado Springs tournament earlier this month, the West Elk Hockey Association U14 Bantam team rolled into Eagle where it was crowned regional champions on Feb. 23. The Wolverines faced off against Grand Junction in the Western Colorado Hockey League championship. The team skated to a 6-4 victory, and secured its second banner in seven days. Now, the boys will head to Monument for the state tournament March 6-9. Live coverage will be available on the West Elk Facebook page.
Althea Stansbery draws a foul.
(Courtesy Jennifer Willett)
Josie Whinnery navigates through the Pirates’ full court press.
Ashlyn Cowan protects the basketball.
The art of clear expression and mixed emotions
Wendy Videlock Special to the Times
Many years ago, while reminiscing with a cousin I hadn’t seen in years, he said something that changed everything about my understanding of family, family dynamics and memory.
We were talking about his father, and he reached into his pocket, taking a small memento out of his wallet. He carefully unfolded a small document.
“I keep this with me to remind myself what an absolute monster my father could be,” he explained.
Just as I was beginning to think that this was a pretty unhealthy thing to do, he reached back into his wallet, producing another tiny memento. His voice softened as he continued.
“And I keep this with me to remind myself what an absolute angel my father could be,” he said.
I was deeply moved by this bit of simple wisdom. I was struck by his awareness that our memories, especially of our families of origin, are complicated—and that mixed emotions are not the exception, but the norm. And let’s be honest, if we’ve been paying attention we already know most people are a mixed bag of vices and virtues.
This concept of holding "two opposed ideas in the mind at the same time" gives us the ability to embrace complexity and subtlety, allowing us to consider multiple perspectives.
Of course the poets, artists, philosophers and mystics have been telling us about this for thousands of years. Robert Frost famously said, “Poetry is the clear expression of mixed emotions.” My own
work is filled with reminders (to myself!) that the world is a disarming blend of seeming contradictions.
Dear Universe, In all this calm, in all this mist, a vague shaped continent begins to drift.
A finger lifts, falls again. A foghorn sounds, passionless
Do you wonder what we are in all this calm, in all this mist?
Wolf prints. Red clay. A slender wrist. Murder.
Magic. Ballet.
In a recent Ted Talk I did, I found myself saying that being human means navigating a whole host of mixed emotions and mixed observations on the regular— and not just in others, but within ourselves.
I'm sometimes spring and sometimes wintress, sometimes earnest, sometimes impish, sometimes skinny, sometimes blimpish, sometimes vegan, sometimes steak-ish, sometimes image, sometimes language, sometimes sorrow, sometimes rapture, sometimes whole, sometimes fractured.
What my cousin was showing me that day was an expanded kind of consciousness, an awareness that his father was not the sum of his worst moments — or even the sum of his best moments but rather a mix. I suspect that this particular kind of awareness is not just a result of paying attention, but a mark of emotional intelligence.
According to Wikipedia, emotional intelligence (EI) refers to the ability to understand, manage and express one's own emotions, as well as recognize and respond appropriately to the emotions of others. This encompasses self-
awareness, self-regulation, empathy, motivation and social skills. It's often considered a key factor in building strong relationships and in navigating social situations effectively. On the other hand, having an all or nothing mentality, (known as dichotomous thinking) is aligned with disorders like narcissism, anxiety, depression, fractured relationships and emotional roller coaster riding. Studies show that using extreme terms like always and never, perfect and failure, easy and impossible to describe ordinary things can actually create negative selftalk, and result in a fear of trying new things or trusting others. How we talk to ourselves really does matter.
Do not dismiss the many gifts in cliff and loam and fellowship, the endless shifts perspective gives, the unadorned, the bottom line, the end rhyme, that little bit of opening it takes to make the bigger picture come alive.
According to Aimee O’Neil, a licensed master social worker and writer, black and white thinkers tend to look for what feels sure rather than what is true. She goes on to say, “Being comfortable with uncertainty (or not knowing) is one of the traits of wise people. Seeing the world in shades of gray allows us to acknowledge that we don’t know everything. The truth is we know relatively little.”
Perhaps the most disturbing aspect of dichotomous thinking is that it distorts everything we perceive. It creates an overwhelming love or hate, us and them, with me or against me paradigm. And of course bigotry and willful ignorance is never far behind those particular things.
Thankfully the arts exist to remind us we are not one polarized thing or the other, but rather complex, sentient beings capable of growing, learning and expanding our awareness — mixed emotions, paradoxes, nuances and all.
Wishing Well
Of all the ways there are to move in this world, may I move between extremes—
between the sleekest polished vessel and the old busted raft, between the silent and the belly laugh, between the stars and the grisly mountain pass, between a free association and meticulous craft, between the spacious and the crammed, between the twin understandings of the full and the half glass.
(Wendy Videlock of Palisade serves as poet laureate of western Colorado. Reach her at westernslopeword@gmail.com.)
Crested Butte skiers got a taste of bluebird skies on Saturday, Feb. 22. (Photo by Bella Biondini)
Laura Villanueva, MD
Megan Tucker, DO
Amanda Hill, MD, FAAP
William Gattis, MD Brigid Heckel, FNP
Emily Ferrell, FNP
Kenneth Anderson, DO Sam Elzay, PA-C, MSPH
Maija Swanson, MD
Jay McMurren, MD Eric Thorson, MD
Kira Kitchens, FNP-C Dr. Clinton McBride, MD Julia Mochulsky, PA-C