Delta County Independent, Aug. 9, 2017 by Delta County Independent

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AUGUST 9, 2017 VOL. 134, NO. 32

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Delta County Fair hits full stride BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Photo by Tamie Meck

Demolition Derby competitors get down and dirty in the mud during the finals Saturday night. The fairground grandstands were packed, but just a few die-hard fans returned for the finals after being cleared out for almost an hour while a thunderstorm rolled through. The yellow and blue “Minion” claimed the grand prize, making driver Madison Milner the first female in history to win the event.

The Delta County Fair hits full stride this week, with livestock shows, Heritage Hall exhibits, rodeos, a concert, coronation of the 2017 fair royalty and the junior market livestock sale. The fairgrounds in Hotchkiss have been hopping for several days. On Friday, 4-H’ers gathered in Heritage Hall for a wall decorating party. They were back Saturday morning with their 4-H exhibits for judging and interviews. On Saturday night, the grandstands were packed for the Demolition Derby and ATV Barrel Challenge. English and Western horse events took center stage in the Events Center on Sunday, while two teams battled it out for people’s choice honors in a

Dutch oven cooking contest. Ranch horse events and a team roping saddle shootout provided plenty of entertainment Monday. All junior livestock was weighed, entered and stalled by the end of the day Tuesday, and ribbons were awarded at the 4-H fashion revue and dog obedience show. An antique tractor pull closed out the day. For the remainder of the week, food vendors will be in place and exhibits will be open to the public until 7 p.m. nightly. Members of the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce will be manning a beer garden during the evening events — on Thursday, there’s a ranch rodeo; Friday is the concert by William Michael Morgan; and Saturday is the rodeo, team COUNTY FAIR TO A3

Arborist assesses Ute Council Tree BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

A professional arborist has been employed by the Delta County Historical Society to assess the health of the Ute Council Tree. Early this week, Gil Mitchell of Davey Tree Company got a close look at the tree, courtesy of a DeltaMontrose Electric Association bucket truck and crew. Mitchell stretched a tape measure through an old wound on the north side of the tree, and it came out the opposite side, through a new wound sustained last week when a huge limb fell from the tree. Mitchell came from Denver to offer his expertise. “We’re trying to exhaust all options before we make a final decision on the fate of this very unique, very historical

tree,” said Keith Lucy, president of the board of directors of the Delta County Historical Society. The Ute Council Tree belongs to the Delta County Historical Society by virtue of a quit claim deed many years ago from Ruth and Fred Wild, adjoining property owners. The 215-year-old cottonwood is a tribute to Chief Ouray and his wife Chipeta, who strove to promote peace between the Utes and the white man. Chief Ouray met with white settlers under the tree. The site is not only a historical landmark, it’s also said to be sacred to the Ute Indians. They, too, should be involved in a final decision about the tree, Lucy said. “This will be an expensive ordeal; all parties who have

an interest in this should be involved,” he said. Mitchell said the tree is about 110 feet in height, with a canopy beginning about 70 feet up. The canopy is very healthy, he said; the question is whether the tree itself can be pruned to keep the mass centered and take weight off the sail, to reduce the risk of additional breakage. When asked if maintenance would simply delay the inevitable, Mitchell said, “Everything you’re doing now is buying time.” Board member Brad Davis observed that if the tree were in the middle of nowhere, it could be left to die a natural death. Unfortunately, the Ute Council Tree is surrounded by neighbors who have seen limbs fall from the tree on

numerous occasions. As a historical landmark, it’s also a local attraction and public safety must be considered. Those factors, plus Mitchell’s final report, will be discussed at an upcoming meeting of the Delta County Historical Society board. The final decision will be made by the entire board, Lucy said. Wilma Erven, director of parks, recreation and golf for

Some landfill fees to increase BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Following action by the Board of County Commis-

New name becomes official at Technical College of the Rockies BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

It’s official — Aug. 9 marks the date the name change for Delta-Montrose Technical College takes effect. The college will now be known as the Technical College of the Rockies. The name change was approved during the most recent legislative session and became official when Governor John Hickenlooper signed the bill into law during a stop in Delta May 20. In addition to a new name, the tech college also has a new director. Former director John Jones retired at the end of the school year and has been replaced by Michael Klouser, who comes to Delta from Pickens Technical College in Denver.

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Back Page ................... D6 Church ............................C6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ..................... A6 Service Directory ........ D5 Sports ..........................B5-6 Surface Creek News ...C1-5 TV Listings ..................C3-4

Klouser began his professional career in real estate development on the Front Range. With a degree in electrical engineering, he switched to teaching electronics and math at both the secondary and postsecondary levels. He initially joined Pickens in 2002. There, his role transitioned into administration and for three years, he served as assistant director. When he began looking for other opportunities in administration, his search took him across the Midwest, the southern U.S. and eventually to Delta County. “My wife Kimberly and I fell in love with the community and with the people,” he said. Although he did not begin his new role until July 1, he spent several months prior to

his official start date getting to know the communities and the students served by the tech college. As he’s listened to the needs of the community, he’s developed a vision for the future and is working with the staff to energize career and technical education programs across TCR’s service area. “Everybody wants this school to be the best it can,” he said of the support he’s seen from the school district, the community and staff. Assistant director Tony Bowling furnishes the institutional knowledge Klouser is lacking, and Angela Valentine continues her role as student services coordinator. Together they have reached out to Telluride to support early childhood education and

possibly hospitality. They’re working to solidify relationships with Gunnison School District for cosmetology and computer aided drafting. They are instituting courses at the new PIC Place in Montrose. A course in clinical medical assistance will be started this fall, and the classroom may also be used for CNA and dental assisting programs. In addition, Klouser said the tech college is collaborating with Western Colorado Community College to create a pipeline for TRC students to continue their educations and obtain associate applied science degrees. For existing programs that have been compartmentalized, Klouser sees opportunities to integrate coursework. TECH COLLEGE TO A3

American Legion Riders to come through Delta On the afternoon of Sunday, Aug. 13, an estimated 400 motorcyclists will be passing through Delta. The American Legion Riders are en route from Fort Dodge, Kan., to the national American Legion convention in Reno, Nev. After stopping in Montrose to gas up, they’ll head to Delta, taking Confluence Drive around town between 4:45 and 5:15 p.m. The riders are participating in the American Legion Legacy Scholarship Legacy Run, which covers education costs for the children of our fallen and disabled, post-9/11 veterans. Lee White, president of the American Legion Riders of Colorado, Post #24, and three other

the City of Delta, last week reminded city council members that cuttings were taken from the tree and nurtured into seedlings for America’s Historic Forests project. Seven of the seedlings were planted near the arbor in Confluence Park, to represent the seven bands of Utes. Wind destroyed one, but six still stand. The Utes also have clones of the tree, she added.

local riders will be joining the group as it passes through Delta. He urges local residents to come out to wave the riders on. A good spot to stand, he said, would be the parking area on the north side of Confluence Drive, across from McDonald’s. White estimates the convoy will stretch about five miles. The American Legion Riders raise funds throughout the year for children’s hospitals, schools, veterans homes, severely wounded service members and scholarships. “This isn’t just a bunch of rowdy bikers,” White said. It’s a group of patriots who are dedicated to a good cause. For more information, call 970-549-7637.

sioners on Monday, some fees at the county landfill will be raised beginning Jan. 1, 2018. The per-ton charge assessed mostly to commercial haulers will rise from the current $28 per ton to $40 per ton. The charge for freon-containing appliances will rise to $25 each. And the charge for containment soil drill cuttings will rise to $28 per ton. The $10 minimum charge will not change, nor will other charges assessed users of the landfill. The current cost of operating the landfill factor out to $34 per ton, commissioners were told. Commissioners noted that even with an increase from $28 to $40 per ton, Delta County will still be one of the lowest cost providers in the region. The need for the fee increase is being linked to the increased costs of state regulatory compliance, equipment replacement, and the cost of future synthetic membrane liners that will have to be used as new cells at the landfill are opened. The county intends to review the landfill fees every other year going forward.

Abachiche sentenced

On July 24, Delta resident Ernest Abachiche pled guilty to distribution of a controlled substance (Schedule 1 or II), a class three drug felony, for selling heroin. The case was investigated by the 7th Judicial District Drug Task Force. He also entered pleas of guilty to vehicular eluding, two cases of domestic violence and probation violations. Montrose District Judge Keri Yoder sentenced Abachiche to prison for the stipulated eight years in the Colorado Department of Corrections, plus parole upon release.

A2 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

OPINION

LETTERS Rebuttal to criticism of Cedaredge Golf Course Dear Editor: This letter is in response to an opinion piece written by Ed and Peggy Baxter on July 12, 2017, titled “Cedaredge continues to rob Peter to pay Paul.” I have lived in a residence on the golf course for 12 years and I am a member of the Cedaredge Golf Club Men’s Club. After reading the Baxters’ opinion piece, it appears to me that they are under several misconceptions about the golf course and its expenses. The Baxters accuse the town of loaning the golf course “hundreds of thousands of dollars, and then writing off those debts.” I believe that most of these “loans” were paid off by the sale/transfer of water rights of the golf course, and not simply written

off. The Baxters, who live outside the town, complain that their $55 monthly water bill for 10,000 gallons of water will now be increased with the new water rates. I live in the town, and I currently pay $73 for the same water usage. Another misconception by the Baxters is that the town is giving “subsidies and write-offs” to the golf course which results in the low green fees and cart rentals for the golfers. After doing some research, I found that Cedaredge Golf Course has the highest 18-hole green fees/cart rental fees in comparison to other nearby golf course (Devil’s Thumb, Cobble Creek and Black Canyon). Because of the golf

course, a hundred plus homes and approximately 40 townhomes have been built and are occupied. The advantages of the golf community is that it adds to the economy of Cedaredge, financial support to the schools, provides volunteer work and has provided scholarship funds to a selected graduating senior. The golf course community is an integral part of this town, and is an asset not a liability. The biggest question I have is, how the Baxters associate the change of water rates with the expenses of the golf course. Where are the facts for that assumption? Could they be misleading the citizens? That would be a sad state of affairs. Gene Gold Cedaredge

Cedaredge back nine is a western Colorado jewel Dear Editor: Cedaredge doesn’t have a golf course problem. Cedaredge has a problem communicating with its citizens about the value of this community asset. Recent letters to the DCI editor suggested that increases in water rates are tied to the operating cost at the golf course. That is not true as stated in the Town of Cedaredge newsletter. “Current water rate revenues are inadequate to pay the costs the town expects to incur, including recent debt service.” Peter is not robbing Paul, in fact no larceny is occurring. Water rates are evaluated on the actual costs of providing water to the residents. The new sewer plant was a requirement and we should be glad there are so many new residents who have moved into the golf course community spreading out these costs among us. Residents of Cedaredge should be thankful and supportive of a jewel of an 18-hole golf course. It attracts visitors to our community which supports not only our great recreational asset but our businesses, restaurants, motels and service

employers. The addition of the Green Lizard par three has made the back nine more enjoyable for new and old golfers. Cedaredge real estate is selling well. Currently, there are at least seven new homes under construction or planned in the golf course area; they all are contributing sales taxes, hiring local businesses and in the long run adding to our property tax base. The idea of closing the back nine would not substantially cut expenses. The pro shop would still need to operate; water share costs would still need to be paid. The cost saved would be lost many times over by the reduction in play by out-oftowners and tournament play. Let’s face it, no outof-town golfer is going to drive to Cedaredge to loop a nine-hole course twice. We find it interesting that people who originally moved to the Cedaredge area because of its great amenities are now ready to do punitive damage to the course. The citizens of Cedaredge should resent the comparison with the Devil’s Thumb golf course economics. We are fortunate that our course has

no debt and can operate efficiently and provide such a great amenity to our community, our children and visitors. Be thankful for the foresight and hard work of Cedaredge leaders who saw the Cedaredge Golf Course as an economic generator bringing in crucial primary dollars. So, let’s ask ourselves: Is the 18-hole course benefitting anyone except golfers? Go ask Big John’s how their lumber sales are going, ask some electricians and plumbers if those new houses aren’t keeping them busy, ask the restaurants if they ever serve visitor golfers, ask the motels and lodges if they host some out-oftown golfers, ask FoodTown if their deli gets some hungry golfers, ask the folks who are on the payroll at the golf course if they spend their dollars in Cedaredge. There are a lot of jobs directly and indirectly tied to the golf course Let’s not cut off our noses to spite our faces. We have something unique and valuable; don’t squander it. Nancy Sturgill President On behalf of the Cedaredge Ladies Golf Club

Transparency missing in trustee appointment Dear Editor: At the Crawford Town Council meeting of July 12, Cameron Clark resigned as a trustee. There was no official publication of this vacancy by the Town of Crawford either in local news media, town website, or town marquee. By Colorado State Statute, municipalities have 60 days to accept and review applicants for vacant council seats. The Aug. 2 Crawford town meeting agenda indicated that a “review of applicants” would be discussed. One of those applicants at the meeting was former mayor of Crawford for 24 years, Jim Crook. Mayor Wanda Gofforth ruled that he was ineligible because he had not gotten his letter of intent

to the council in a timely fashion. Mayor Gofforth then proceeded to present the “only” applicant, Jeff Peed, to the council for a vote to ratify him as the new trustee. I asked Mayor Gofforth what Colorado State Statute gave her the authority to proceed without having given public notice of a trustee vacancy. Her response was CML, Colorado Municipal League gave her that authority, and that “word of mouth” was sufficient. CML is an association of Colorado municipalities. CML has no regulatory or statutory authority. Jim Brown, Crawford town attorney, was present. When I asked him about the response of the mayor, he said, “ I believe there is a 60-day period.” He

Military members are citizens too Dear Editor: In response to Robert I. Laitres’ letter, referencing service members contacting their senators and representatives. As a retired USAF NCO, I can say unequivocally that there is NO prohibition on them being able to contact their senators and representatives. None whatsoever. There is nothing to keep military members from participating in the political process as a citizen of the United States. There are a few rules. They can’t be active

participants in campaigns while in uniform, but they can if they are not in uniform. They can’t run for office while on active duty, but can as a Reservist or a member of the Guard. They can’t participate in rallies or gatherings benefiting a campaign, while in uniform. They can’t speak out in the name of the military. The rules are few and simple, but contacting a member of Congress is by NO means prohibited! Patrick Dean Oklahoma City

could not cite the Colorado statute. Mayor Gofforth proceeded with asking for a second to confirm Jeff Peed as the new council trustee. Trustee Hetty Todd provided the second. It was then unanimously ratified by the town council without Mr. Peed being present for questions or further discussion. There is no public record of Mr. Peed as a registered voter in Delta County or of his time as a resident in the Crawford community. When Mr. Peed takes the oath of office, he will be the second trustee chosen by the council without notification to the public of a trustee vacancy. The Crawford Town Council has now voted itself a favorable majority without the citizens of Crawford being given published knowledge of a trustee vacancy. In the upcoming replacement of a town council trustee in Carbondale, six applicant profiles were published in the Independent Post. It is my belief that the manipulation of local politics mirrors those at the national level. If we as citizens cannot hold our local government accountable for manipulating representation, then all of those who sacrificed their lives for belief in democracy died in vain! Carl Page Crawford

Delta County Independent

Trump’s immigration rules lack awareness Dear Editor: The Trump administration has proposed legislation which would limit legal immigration and award immigration points based on ability to speak English, high-paying job offers, age, record of achievement, and entrepreneurial initiative. Really? How many swindlers can you think of that that describes? This shows little knowledge of how we have become a great country. I have listed here the winners of the Regeneron Science Talent Search. The contest is a resource of The Society for Science and the Public. Look at the names of the winners: Baral/Bingham/Chattopadhyay/Chung/Dalvi/ Das/Endupaganti/Elliott/ Fang/Greco/Hajlasz/ Hord/Iyer/Khandewal/ Lee/Li/Madan/Naidu/ Novek/Peterson/Pierson/ RadiyaDixit/Ramani/ Verma/Wan/Wang/ Weaver/Wellman/Woo/Xu/ Yang/Yang/ Yeiser/ Zhu Some of these are probably sons or daughters of people who would qualify under the proposed rule. But many with names like these probably come

from families that would be by-passed, families who raised children like these because they were determined that they succeed and motivated them. Those qualities aren’t included in the admission tests, but they are

our hope. Some of them, I am sure, are children whose parents had read the words on the Statue of Liberty, words we are now being told do not stand for who we are. Phil Ellsworth Cedaredge

Cannabis warrants a close look Dear Editor: I attended the last meeting of the Orchard City Town Council at which cannabis was discussed. I mentioned the medical benefits of cannabis and recommended that all interested parties watch a 15-minute CNN report on the internet by Dr. Sanjay Gupta. Search for “CNN Charlotte’s Web Documentary.” It tells the story of a young girl named Charlotte, her battle with seizures, and the amazing results of a strain of cannabis developed for her called Charlotte’s Web. I believe that cannabis could become the next wonder drug for treating or curing many of the serious ailments plaguing society today. Unfortu-

nately, the pharmaceutical industry does not want their profits to be affected. Other countries have taken the lead. In fact, Israel has been conducting research on cannabis for several years with excellent results. Orchard City is smart to look at this new revenue source for things like roads and maintenance. It is much better than raising water rates or proposing new taxes. Cannabis is legal. People who support its use, either medically or recreationally, should attend these meetings and tell the council to continue exploring this revenue source. It could also produce well-paying jobs for our community. Bob Page Cedaredge

Law enforcement blotter From the Delta tigation. A Hotchkiss area Police Department: landlord complained that tenants who were being July 31: Linda A. Jones, 70, of evicted from a home took Cedaredge was issued a some of her property with ticket for alleged park- them when they left. A resident of W. ing more than 12 inches from a curb after being Main Street, Cedaredge, involved in a two-vehicle reported the theft of a crash in the 400 block generator. It was later of Main Street. No inju- determined a family ries were reported or member had borrowed observed. Both vehicles the equipment. A break-in was reportwere driven from the ed at a mailbox on 1775 scene. Court, Delta. Aug. 1: Deputies responded to Jessie M. Nation, 38, of Cedaredge was issued cabins on Grand Mesa, a ticket for alleged theft. where a female customer Christopher A. Prough, was reportedly creating 26, of Delta was issued a a disturbance. She was ticket for alleged shop- escorted from the property. lifting. Russell A. Martin, 24, Aug. 2: A one-vehicle rollover of Paonia was issued a ticket for alleged shop- was reported on Highway 50, mile marker 54, at lifting. about 2 p.m. A 2002 Dodge Aug. 2: Jordan L. Sawyer, Caravan driven by Wayne 27, was issued a ticket Haberberger, 31, of Delta for alleged third degree reportedly crossed the assault. Alysha A. Wheel- median and rolled down er, 26, of Delta was issued an incline. He was not a ticket for alleged third injured. The investigation was handled by the degree assault. Colorado State Patrol. Aug. 5: Extra patrols were Eduardo L. Zavala, 26, of Delta was arrested requested on Mathews and jailed on a warrant Lane outside of Paonia, where drivers are reportwith a $30,000 bond. Justin C. Peters, 33, edly speeding 45 to 60 of Crawford was arrested mph in a 35 mph zone and jailed on a warrant “all hours of the day.” Aug. 3: with a $100 bond. A burglary was reportAug. 6: Luis F. Parra-Deval, ed from a storage unit 18, of Delta was issued on Cactus Park Road, a ticket for alleged dis- Cedaredge. The unit may played fictitious license have been seized due to plates, drove a motor lack of payment; the case vehicle without a valid is under investigation. Deputies performed driver’s license, failed to present evidence of a marijuana compliinsurance and possession ance check at a home on of marijuana by under- 2100 Road, Delta. They determined the numage person. Chante S. Martinez, ber of plants was within 27, of Montrose was the legal limit, but the issued a ticket for alleged plants were not properly driving a motor vehicle enclosed. The property while license revoked owner was issued a warn(HTO) and failed to pres- ing. A 40-year-old Fruita ent evidence of insurwoman and her two ance. Citations: Twelve tick- daughters, ages 7 and 11, ets were issued this week were reported overdue for various traffic viola- from a hike on Grand Mesa. They had departtions. Please remember: ed from the Mesa Top All criminal charges are Trail, but became sepamerely an accusation rated from the woman’s and the defendant is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty. From the Delta County Sheriff’s Office (partial list): July 31: An investigation has been launched into possible embezzlement from an Orchard City business. The business has since closed. Aug. 1: Six mailboxes located in a cluster on Joy Road, Austin, were broken into. The mailbox owners are still trying to determine what might be missing. The case is under inves-

husband. Because small children were involved, and none of the parties were prepared to be out overnight, Delta County, Mesa County and West Elk search crews were called out. Two search dogs and an aircraft were employed in the search. The search continued the morning of Aug. 4, ending at about 9:30 a.m. when the trio emerged onto property on George Creek above Cedaredge. The sheriff ’s office estimated they had walked 12 miles. During the night, they said they spotted lights below and decided to walk in that direction. They were unharmed by the ordeal. Jonathon Bozeman, a 28-year-old homeless man, was charged with second degree burglary and criminal mischief after causing about $2,300 damage at All Saints Lutheran Church in Cory. The sheriff ’s office received an anonymous tip that a man was kicking the air conditioning unit at the church. When deputies arrived on the scene, the front door had been kicked in and Bozeman was inside the church, where he caused additional damage. He told deputies he was “mad at God.” He is being held on $20,000 bond. A break-in was reported at a shop in the Hotchkiss area. A generator, tools and possibly firearms were missing. Aug. 4: A Cedaredge area resident reported her underage house sitter had apparently hosted a party at her home. She had not been able to determine if anything was missing. Aug. 5: A motorcycle accident was reported on Highway 65 near Cedaredge at about 1 p.m. The motorcycle, driven by a man from Hawthorne, Calif., went down an embankment. He was not injured. The Colorado State Patrol handled the investigation.

DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT

DELTA COUNTY INDEPENDENT (UPS 152-700) is published weekly on Wednesdays at 401 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416. Second class postage paid at DELTA, CO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: DELTA COUNTY INDEPENDENT, PO BOX 809, DELTA, CO 81416 401 Meeker St. • (970) 874-4421 editor@deltacountyindependent.com ads@deltacountyindependent.com MANAGEMENT General Manager ........... Randy Sunderland Managing Editor ................. Pat Sunderland Advertising Manager . Roxanne McCormick Production Manager ......... Ron Sunderland

YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION RATES Delta County (includes Olathe Somerset & Maher) ....$29.00 Seniors in Delta County (65 and over) ....................................$26.00 In-State ............................................$33.00 Out-of-State .....................................$37.00

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Delta County Independent

Tech college

County fair

FROM PAGE A1 The business department is moving from officetype programs to entrepreneurship, and Klouser is exploring the possibility of incorporating business and technology into high school ag programs. The ENGAGE center, to be located in the old Chaco building in downtown Delta, will provide additional opportunities to integrate all types of industries in a nurturing environment.

The biggest challenge, Klouser said, is making career and technical education accessible across TRC’s extensive service area — Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, Ouray — while ensuring programs are affordable. There is a demand for skilled workers, and TRC is committed to providing the tools current and future employees need to succeed.

Like us. DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT www.deltacountyindependent.com

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Michael Klouser

FROM PAGE A1 roping finals and fair royalty coronation. The fair parade takes place Saturday, Aug. 12, beginning at 10 a.m. in downtown Hotchkiss. Richard Bailey, a longtime fair board member and the founder of the Hotchkiss Sheep Camp Dog Trials, was chosen as the grand marshal of the 112th Delta County Fair parade. This year’s theme is “Country Roots, Dirty Boots.” Back at the fairgrounds, the Delta County Livestock Association hosts a barbecue beginning at 11:30 a.m. Proceeds benefit the association’s scholarship fund. The junior market livestock sale takes place at 2 p.m. Saturday. “We would really like to thank our past buyers for their support at the livestock sale,” said Gary Peebles, president of the Delta County Fair Board. “Many of the same businesses have been buying

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

�� animals for years.” �� Kids ages 3-8 will com-

pete in mutton bustin’ at �� 6:30 p.m. Saturday, prior to the start of the rodeo �� with bulls and broncs. Also taking place Satur�� day evening are the team roping finals and the cor�� onation of the 2017 fair royalty. �� Hotchkiss will also �� host the Farm to Fiddle Festival Friday and Saturday, with music, food and fun to complement �� the fair. �� See next week’s issue �� of the Delta County �� Independent for a complete wrap-up of the fair, �� including results for both �� open and junior exhibi�� tors. ��

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Photo by Pat Sunderland

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Joyce Conger and husband Glen, of the team “Never Trust a Skinny Cook,” competed against the Clock clan — Kirby, Lynette and Tiffany — in the Dutch oven cooking contest at the county fair Sunday morning. Winners were determined by people’s choice. Which would you choose? Bacon-wrapped stuffed meatloaf or chicken cordon bleu? Beer bread or cinnamon apple caramel bread? Peanut butter cup cookie skillet or brownies? Both teams put together mouth-watering menus.

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VCA hosts registration carnivals Vision Charter Academy (VCA) is hosting registration carnivals where learners can complete VCA specific paperwork, take school pictures, see the nurse and reconnect with friends. The carnivals will be held Aug. 15 at the Delta campus, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Aug. 16 at the Cedaredge campus, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; and Aug. 17 in Paonia, 10 a.m. to noon. A number of VCA partners will have informational displays, including Delta County Libraries, Partners, Art Partners, Families Plus, Drug Free Delta County, Civil Air Patrol, Arc of Western Colorado, ASTRA/Altrusa and the Vanguard Parent Association. Learn more at vision charteracademy.org.

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A4 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

Take off with the Civil Air Patrol The Delta County Cadet Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is hosting an open house Monday, Aug. 21, at 6 p.m. The squadron meets in the band room, on the northeast side of the Delta Performing Arts Center every Monday at 6 p.m. The Civil Air Patrol cadet program is for teens ages 12-18 who are looking for a challenge, particularly those interested in aviation or the military. Civil Air Patrol is the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. Meet

CAP cadets and hear firsthand what it’s like to be a cadet. Learn about the incredible opportunities CAP has to offer, including flight training, leadership development, summer activities and more. Parents are invited to this event as well. CAP adult leaders will be on hand to answer questions and explain CAP opportunities for adults. For more information, contact Lt. Samantha Wilcken at 720-757-0408 or Lt. Tom Jones at 970275-3572.

�� • Acupuncture • Massage Therapy • Cupping • Facials • Supplement Store ��

Photo submitted

DHS Class of 1967

Members of the Delta High School Class of 1967 celebrated their 50th reunion during the Deltarado Days festivities. The Saturday evening banquet at Devil’s Thumb Golf Course included the class photo. Pictured center front Joey Blecha; (ﬁrst row, left to right) John Musser, Jim Edwards, Richard Sartori, Jim Hallock; (second row) Tana Wilson Zortman, Jay Belt, Sue Grier Tufﬁn, Vicki Leon Goss, Boots Vanderhoofven Buchanan, Pam Wigram Gardner, Daniell Hull Henrie, Rayleen Kettell Edwards, Gary Davis, Lewis Marlman, Lois Messano Weinmeister, Joan Corcoran Thompson, Carolyn Weldon Conkle, Linda Bruner Sperry, Ann Pritchard Renfrow, Janine Webb Sitz, Steve Messano; (third row) Beverly Holton Emery, Dan Pollock, Lynda Blackburn Freas, Tom Kirkpatrick, Sarah Darter, Lynn Conrad, Barbie Richards Belt, Doug Atchley, Jess Messenger, Lona Lewis Odom, Clark Neil, Tom Gore, John Cole, Jim Schendel, Kathy Dennis Burrows and Russell Tyner.

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Tuell, Sacco exchange vows

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Kaitlyn Nicole Tuell, daughter of Randy and Monika Tuell of Grand Junction, and Nicholas Zachary Sacco, son of Nick Sacco of Pennsylvania and Ronda Sacco, formerly of Delta, exchanged wedding vows July 8, 2017, at the Avalon Theater in Grand Junction. Monika Tuell performed the double-ring ceremony. A reception with dinner and dancing followed at Varaison Winery in Palisade. The maid of honor was Chelsea Neumeier, best friend of the bride. Bridesmaids were Lacy Tuell and Randi Tuell, sisters of the bride. The groom’s best

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friend, Derrick Blodgett, and attends Colorado ty Library. The couple will make served as the best man, Mesa University. She is and Kayle Vernon of employed by Mesa Coun- their home in New York. Ouray and Taylor Tuell, brother of the bride, were the groomsmen. The groom is a 2008 graduate of Delta High School and is attending Colorado Mesa University. He is employed by Mesa County in engineering. The bride is a 2009 graduate of Fruita Monument High School

Pea Green Pedal set for Sept. 9 The sixth annual Pea Green Pedal is scheduled Saturday, Sept. 9, beginning in Confluence Park. Participants can choose an 18-mile or 40-mile bike ride, or a fun run/ walk around the lake. Registration is $40 prior to Aug. 28; a lunch and T-shirt are included. For details, including registration and bike maps, go to dcmhfoun dation.org or call Patti Kalahar at 874-2291.

Kaitlyn (Tuell) and Nicholas Sacco

Broomes celebrate 50th anniversary Longtime Delta residents Orland and June Broome will celebrate their golden wedding anniversary Aug. 13. They were married at Garnet Mesa Baptist Church in Delta in 1967, and will be honored at a luncheon at the church following morning worship on Sunday, Aug. 13 (approximately 12:30 p.m.). The Broomes have two sons, Mark (Leona) Broome of Delta and Bruce (Camie) Broome of Marysville, Wash., seven grandchildren and one

great-grandchild. Orland worked in the sugar factory. June worked in a grocery store and at McKnight’s Jewelry. Now retired, they enjoy church activities, as well as the food and the fellowship at the Delta Senior Center.

June and Orland Broome

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BIRTHS

133 Grand Ave. Paonia, CO 81428 (970) 527-4141

150 Gunnison River Dr. Delta, CO 81416 (970) 874-0100

Nathan and Brittney Madsen of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Alexandria Jay Madsen, born July 27, 2017, June and Orland Broome at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces and was 22 inches in length. Emilea Swanson and Cameryn Edwards of Delta are the parents of a son, Kaysen Alexander Edwards, born July 31, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 5 pounds, 11 ounces and was 18 inches in length. Matt Pinner and Jaime Harrison of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Kaitlyn Jean Pinner, born July 31, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces and was 20 inches in length.

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Clinton and Kali Botts of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Brinnley Karter Botts, born Aug. 1, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 8 pounds, 0.8 ounce and was 19.5 inches in length.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Stitches and fabric help tell a great story BY KAMI COLLINS Staff Writer

Anita Evans and her team of volunteers have spent countless hours surveying community stakeholders, attending meetings, writing grants, collecting gear, and a thousand other small but important tasks, all in an effort to help bring Delta County together and offer richer outdoor recreational opportunities for the youth here. Evans and her crew have also worked tirelessly to build relationships with other groups interested in the same outcome: getting kids off screens, and outside. A partnership has sprung up with the S&B Quilters Guild, which has pitched in to help in the best way they can: with the creation of a custom-designed, beautiful masterpiece of a quilt, which Evans will be able to use in her presentation to GOCO for grant funding for the Nature Connection. Six members of the guild, Connie Berry,

Lynea Schultz-Ela, Lida Litey, Ann Perry, Robyn Reinhard, Pattie Timmerwilke, spent the past three months designing and stitching the quilt. “There are certain things that represent a community, and here in Delta County, I think that it’s our schools,” Evans said. “Our communities really support our schools and our kids. People give because they care. [S&B] is an amazing group of talented and giving ladies. They’re just wonderful. They really represent the heart of what Western Colorado is all about... in rural Colorado, kids really are our community, and everyone comes together.” After hearing one of Evans’ presentations, guild members decided to help with the creation of the quilt. The quilt is a map of Delta County and Olathe, showcasing the rivers and mountain ranges, town and cities, and most importantly, the wide geographic spread of the area. The

wall hanging-sized quilt features the Ragged Mountains and the West Elks, Grand Mesa and the Uncompahgre Plateau, nature stations and National Conservation Areas. The quilt also features the logos of all the organizations that have stepped up to partner in the effort, showcasing just how much community support is behind this initiative. The Nature Connection is a hub of environmental education for youth in Delta County and Olathe. Evans has previously been successful in securing a planning grant for the initiative. Those funds helped the partnering organizations reach out to the community with in-depth surveys, seeking to find out what types of outdoor activities kids most want, and where there are gaps in the desired activities. From that work, the Nature Connection has begun building a gear library, and a comprehensive plan

Test new election equipment by voting for your favorite cookie Delta County Elections Department has replaced its aging voting equipment with the new Colorado uniformed voting system Dominion. Delta County’s voting system, like most of Colorado’s, was over 10 years old and was near the end of its useful life. Selecting a single voting system for the entire state allows for uniformity throughout all counties, results in consistent standards and lowers costs. With

the new voting equipment, voters will use a touch screen connected to a printer to vote, print, view and cast their ballot into a secure ballot box. The system allows for accessible handicap voting which includes audio, larger font, contrast controls and toggle switches. Come join the Delta County Elections Department Monday, Aug. 14, through Wednesday, Aug. 16, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for a demonstration of

Photo submitted

Elections supervisor Rene Loy Maas (right) and her staff try out the uniformed voting system.

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the new equipment. Vote on your favorite type of cookie, ask questions and learn how the new equipment simplifies the election process. Demonstrations will take place in the clerk and recorder’s office at 501 Palmer Street, Suite 211, Delta, and at the North Fork Annex at 196 W. Hotchkiss Avenue in Hotchkiss.

Photo submitted

Members of the S&B Quilters Guild presented the quilt to the Nature Connection at a recent picnic. Pictured is (from left) Connie Barry, Lida Litey, Lynea Schultz-Ela and Ann Perry from the guild, and Anita Evans and Richard Hypio from the Nature Connection. Six members of the guild designed and stitched the quilt to show, visually, the wide geographic area and the multitude of outdoor recreational opportunities available in Delta County and Olathe. was drafted, which will direct efforts to get kids, and their families, outside and learning. The plan encompasses each community within Delta County, and Olathe, and highlights opportunities for outdoor education and recreation in each area, as well as develops additional places and programs for outdoor education and recreation, and pathways to jobs in the natural resource sector for high schoolers. All that work led to the Nature Connection coalition applying for a $1.5 million, three-year grant from the GOCO Inspire program. Those grant funds will be used for implementation of the plan. In a few weeks, Evans and other members of the coalition will go before the grant-fund-

ing board to pitch their proposal. What sets apart this grant proposal is the large geographical area it encompasses, Evans said. Most of the other grantseekers are representing small urban areas or a single neighborhood. “It’s been a challenge for us, to get across the idea of the need here,” Evans said. “We’re dealing with transportation issues, we’re economically depressed, and we have six communities that stretch an area roughly the size of Rhode Island.” That’s why she’s so excited about the quilt, she said. The quilt will make an excellent visual aid to help explain to the GOCO board just how spread out Delta County is, and how very much this area needs financial assistance to help get more kids outdoors. “This

quilt will help us better present all these ideas to the GOCO board and employees,” she said. “It’s a visual of who we are... a rural, connected community with support from a lot of people.” S&B Quilt Guild members presented Evans with the quilt last week at their annual picnic. “It’s beautiful, and these ladies are amazing people, and amazing artists,” Evans said. “There is so much amazing support from this community.” The quilt, after being used in the GOCO presentation, will hang at the Nature Connection offices in Hotchkiss, where it can be viewed. Evans said the group will hear in December if they’ve been successful in earning the Inspire grant.

A6 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Dick Fischer

Lifetime Cedaredge resident Richard “Dick” Fischer died Aug. 1, 2017, at Horizons Care Center in Eckert. He was 87. A memorial service was held Aug. 5 at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta. A potluck followed at Orchard City Park. Richard Fischer was born in Cedaredge on July 3, 1930, to Alexander and Eliza (Dufur) Fischer. He graduated from Cedaredge High School in 1948. The day after he graduated, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. After completing boot camp, he was sent to Japan to await orders to go on to the conflict in Korea. While in Japan, he was accidentally shot by a coworker. He spent 15 months at Fitzimons Hospital in Denver recovering, and then he was sent to Korea where he served as a non-commissioned officer in charge of the 8th Army Code Center. He was discharged in 1952 and returned to Cedaredge. He married Jean Miller in Cedaredge in 1953. Mr. Fischer worked for Palmer and Co. in Cedaredge as a truck driver and ranch manager until 1972. He then worked for Russell Stover Candies as a truck driver until 1987. He and his wife then drove as a team for Munson Trans. out of Monmouth, Ill., until his retirement in 1992. He enjoyed spending time with his best friend, Pepper. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jean Fischer; sons, Kent (Linda) of Austin, Kevin (Nancy) of Cedaredge and Steve of Grand Junction; three others he considered sons, Dennis (LouAnn) Harriman of Grand Junction, Randy

OBITUARIES Miller of Paonia and Ernie Cruz of Baltimore, Md.; 16 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren from immediate and extended family; and a brother, Ron (Diana) of Grand Junction. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Bill, Vernon and Edwin. Memorial contributions may be made to Disabled Veterans of America, 4351 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92501. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

dling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Edith Jardon

Delta resident Edith V. Jardon died July 26, 2017, at her home. She was 97. She is survived by three sons, Reggie (Sally) Jardon of Elk Grove, Calif., Craig (Lil) Jardon of Arvada and Travis (Pat) Jardon of Hotchkiss; and numerous grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and greatgreat-grandchildren. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. Jene Young Andrew “Jene” Young, taylorfuneralservice.com. lifetime Delta County resident, died July 30, 2017, Betty Koehn at his home in Eckert. He Austin resident Betty was 88. J. Koehn died Aug. 1, Graveside funeral ser2017, at Horizons Care vices will be held at 11 Center in Eckert. She a.m. Monday, Aug. 14, at was 87. the Cory Cemetery with She is survived by Pastor Paul Rosin officione son, Ernest Koehn ating. of Denver; one daughter, Mr. Young was born Lorna Gibson of Austin; Feb. 21, 1929, to Frank two grandchildren; and and Nita (Hanson) two great-grandchildren. Young in Cedaredge. He Taylor Funeral Service spent his childhood in and Crematory is hanCedaredge and gradudling the arrangements. ated from Cedaredge Visit the internet obitHigh School. He earned uary and sign the online a bachelor’s degree from guest registry at www. University of Northern taylorfuneralservice.com. Colorado in Greeley. On June 8, 1958, he married Virginia Durkee in Denver. Mr. Young served in the U.S. Air Force and resided in Eckert for 56 years. He was a member of the Eckert Masonic Lodge, AF&AM and Cedaredge American Legion. He was awarded a 50-year continuous membership from the American Legion. Mr. Young enjoyed reading, spending time Suzie Stramel with his family and his Suzie Stramel of home. He is survived by his Cedaredge died Aug. 6, wife of 59 years, Virginia 2017, from breast cancer of Eckert; two sons, Victor at Porter Hospice ResiYoung and Robert Young; dence in Littleton. She and his adoptive daugh- was 62. She was born July 31, ter, Ziggie Hatley. He was preceded in 1955, in Dodge City, Kan., death by his older broth- to Hilary and Mary Jane er, Bill Young; his twin Stramel. Ms. Stramel was a brother, John “Jack” Young; and his son, James longtime resident of Delta County. She started the “Jim” Young. Taylor Funeral Service physical therapy departand Crematory is han- ment at Delta County

Delta County Independent

Memorial Hospital and was a major contributor to the rehabilitation department at Horizons Care Center. She enjoyed skiing, hiking, biking and the Colorado mountains. She also enjoyed shopping, going to movies, trying new restaurants and going to the dog park with her daughter and dogs. She is survived by her daughter, Bridgette Stramel; her mother, Mary Jane Stramel; three brothers, Stanley, Rodney and Douglas; two sisters, Marlene and Shirley; and extended family. Funeral services in Dodge City, Kan., and a celebration of life in Delta are pending.

Dorothy Boren

Dorothy Boren of Delta died Aug. 3, 2017, at the Hospice Care Center in Grand Junction. She was 81. Inurnment took place at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Crawford. Dorothy Gayle Harding was born Dec. 9, 1935, to Robert and Myrtle (Wright) Harding in Paonia. She spent her childhood and attended school in Paonia, graduating from Paonia High School in 1953. On Jan. 20, 1952, she married Elmer Boren in Paonia. Mrs. Boren enjoyed spending time with family, crocheting, needle-

Margaret Rose Sargent Lewis July 3, 1921 ~ July 30, 2017 Services were held Thursday, Aug. 3, 2017, at Memorial Gardens Funeral Home and Cemetery for Margaret Rose Sargent Lewis of Delta, formerly of Colorado Springs. Margaret was born July 3, 1921, in Seattle, Wash., to Joseph Melvin Sargent and Margaret Jane Johnson Sargent, and passed from this life on July 30, 2017, in Grand Junction. Margaret was preceded in passing by her husband of 75+ years, Lloyd Leslie Lewis, and her son, Dennis Lynn Lewis, her parents, a brother, Robert M. Sargent, and a sister Ruby. Margaret is survived by a sister-in-law, Elaine Crow of Aurora, and a brother-in-law, Howard Aab, of Perryville, Fla., several cousins and several nieces and nephews. Margaret’s grandpar-

ents, Joseph and Elsie Sargent, owned and ran the hotel at Sargents, Colo., and ran the toll booth at Marshall Pass for Otto Mears. The town of Sargents at the west end of Monarch Pass in Colorado still carries the family name. The hotel building stood for many years as an exhibit at Buckskin Joe’s near Cañon City. Margaret was raised in Western Colorado

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Fireﬁghters’ tribute

Fire trucks from Delta, Cedaredge, Paonia, Hotchkiss and Olathe lined up at the entrance to the Delta City Cemetery last Friday, in tribute to Ben Martinez, a resident of Delta. Martinez retired from the Delta Volunteer Fire Department in May 2016 after 20 years of service. He died July 31, 2017, at the age of 62. At the Delta Center for Performing Arts, first responders including Martinez’s fellow firefighters, stood respectfully during a celebration of life. Many wiped away tears as memories were shared. Martinez’s survivors include a daughter, Emily.

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point, cross-stitching, fishing and shooting. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Elmer Boren; a son, Keith Boren; a daughter, Amy Bosse; five grandchildren, Cody Boren, Brandon Boren, Shasta Boren, Lindsey Bosse and Mallory Bosse; and one greatgrandson, Landon Boren, She was preceded in death by her sister, Eliza Mae Miller; a son, Robert Boren; and a daughter, Jeanie Boren. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

where she met her husband, Lloyd, in 1938 in Olathe. Margaret and Lloyd were married on Dec. 24, 1940, in Colorado Springs, where they made their home near Garden of the Gods, until 2015 when failing health led them back to Western Colorado to be near family members, Lindsey and Becki Lewis of Cedaredge, who were companions to Margaret and Lloyd in their final years. Margaret was a longtime member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Colorado Springs. Margaret and Lloyd were active in square dance, and spent many of their retirement years traveling across the North American continent enjoying scenery and visiting with old friends and making many new ones everywhere they visited. Paid obituary

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

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Birds have played a significant role in ancient cultures from being harbingers of rain and snow for the Puebloans to messengers to the rain clouds for the Utes and Paiutes. Bird images are frequently found in rock art throughout the Southwest. Local anthropologist Carol Patterson has been studying birds in rock art for over 30 years and will present some of her conclusions at a program in the Centennial Room in Montrose on Aug. 16. “Sometimes they are disguises for katsinas, and at other times they signal solstices and changing seasons,” Patterson said. “I will be showing birds within the cultural context showing their mythical roles

in the lives and beliefs, ritual poetry and ceremonies of several diverse cultures.” After receiving her undergraduate and master’s degrees in the U.S., Patterson moved to Queensland, Australia, to get her PhD at Cook University. She moved back to Denver in 2000 where she taught cultural anthropology at Metro State. In 2004 she moved to Montrose and began teaching anthropology and archaeology at Mesa State. She has worked for the Bureau of Land Management and is currently studying the San Juan basketmaker sites around Bluff, Utah. Her program is being sponsored by the Black Canyon Chapter of the

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Scones offer high energy mix of music that touches on blues, soul, country and classic rock and roll. Incendiary acoustic guitar, flashy banjo and three-part harmony vocals set this group apart. Their selections will also include a few numbers from their 1960s repertoire. Admission is by donation.

John and Candace McCoy

Musical duo to perform at chapel Musical guitar and flute duo John and Candace McCoy will perform at the Chapel of the Cross Sunday, Aug. 13, at 4 p.m. The McCoys are from Delta and play an eclectic mix of classical, flamenco, Celtic and jazz music. Many of their songs are originals. They taught professionally in the Parker area for more than 20 years before moving to Delta five years ago. Candace went to Hotchkiss High School and majored in music at Western State College. John has studied flamenco guitar with world famous Rene Here-

dia and classical guitar with several guitar professors from major colleges. He also teaches at Vision Charter Academy and to local and international students through his studio in Delta. For more information, you can visit their website www.mccoy-music.com. Admission is by donation.

The origin and development of the Surface Creek Valley Historical Society and its multi-faceted

Travel to Chile with astronomer Phil Kelton will present an astronomical travelogue of Chile at the Black Canyon Astronomical Society (BCAS) meeting, Thursday, Aug. 10, at 7 p.m. in the Centennial Room, 24 S. Uncompahgre Street, Montrose. Kelton is an astronomy volunteer at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and a former superintendent of the University of Texas McDonald Observatory. He will describe wonders of the southern night sky that he viewed from Chile, including many striking objects that we can never see from Colorado. Chile has become one of the world’s leading centers for astronomy over the past 50 years and now hosts many major professional observatories and large new telescope projects. In parallel, many excel-

lent facilities for public outreach called tourist observatories have also been developed, making Chile a leading destination for astronomy tourism. Kettel visited many of these places during a nine-day tour in March 2017, and he will summarize his observing experiences at five tourist observatories. Chile is also very interesting culturally and historically, and Kelton will relate some of his best non-astronomy experiences. This Aug. 10 presentation is free and open to the public. The BCAS stimulates local interest in astronomy through lectures, radio features, and public observing events. You can find more information at BlackCanyonAstronomy. com or by calling 970856-7716.

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Scones

Program features Surface Creek Valley Historical Society

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off Centennial Plaza in downtown Montrose. For more information call 970-497-0376.

Rock art illustrates the importance of birds in diverse cultures.

The exciting band The Scones will appear at the Chapel of the Cross Thursday, Aug. 10, at 7 p.m. This well-traveled band is an original Colorado trio performing what is called “rockin’ Americana.” They do a high energy mix of music

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Audubon Society and is open to the public. There is no charge. The Centennial Room is located

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museum, Pioneer Town, will be the focus of a presentation Thursday, Aug. 17, in Grand Junction. The program will be hosted by the Mesa County Historical Society and the Museums of Western Colorado and will feature Gregory Hart, president of the Surface Creek Valley Historical Society. The presentation takes place at noon Aug. 17 at the Whitman Education-

al Center, 248 South 4th Street, Grand Junction. The program is free and open to the public. Please feel free to bring a lunch. Coffee and often cookies are served. For more information contact MCHS president Priscilla Mangnall at 970260-5226 or at Priscilla. Mangnall@gmail.com or contact the Loyd Files Research Library at (970) 242-0971, ext. 209.

Pirates to invade Fort Uncompahgre Fort Uncompahgre presents the second annual “Pirates Invade the Fort” festival Aug. 18, 19 and 20. Due to popular demand, this event has been expanded to three full days of fun-filled activities for the entire family. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for kids 1318 and free for kids under the age of 12. Hours are Friday 1 to 6 p.m., and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Activities include a beer garden, games, tarot and psychic read-

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ings, artisans/merchants, sword fighting, a pirates’ quest for kids, food, drink and music. Live entertainment is scheduled 106 Saturday. The fort is located at 440 N. Palmer Street, Delta. For more information, call the fort at 8748349. Rita Hoback, festival director and head of entertainment, can be reached at 640-1014 or ritahoback@yahoo.com. To inquire about vendor space, contact Mistie Rickard at 970-201-0676 or mistgray23@gmail. com.

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A8 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Citizens for a Healthy Community follows up on oil/gas impact study economic impacts from oil and gas development (DCI 7-19-17). He submitted a letter to the commissioners making a number of points including the following: • County residents are being asked “to believe” in economic benefits from oil and gas development without a full public debate on whether those benefits actually do exist; • Assertions about economic benefits from oil and gas development are “opaque”; Photo by Pat Sunderland • The CHC goal is to start a community conversation about economic Despite repeated attempts, city crews have been unable to remove blockimpacts vs. benefits from age from the storm water drain near 1st and Grand. City engineer Ellen oil and gas development. Michelson explains the line contains “significantly sized calcification Forkes-Gudmundson deposits” that can not be mechanically broken down, causing water to made a number of com“daylight” through existing storm water drains. Wells Farming & Excaments in specific response vating was awarded the bid to place a new storm water line and manto criticism of the study hole along Grand Avenue. The bid amount of $35,735 will be added to an from county officials and existing contract with Wells Farming & Excavating to improve drainage from oil and gas industry along H Road. representatives. In a separate item of business, county treasurer Lisa Tafoya received permission from the com�� missioners to write off �� $10,008 in uncollectible �� taxes owed for six mobile homes, an out-of-business pet store, and a coal mine BY PAT SUNDERLAND electrical supply contracManaging Editor tor that has also gone out The 1st Street Playof business. ers from Dance Around, a Montrose dance studio, will present “Moana the Colorado Melodrama” Friday, Aug. 11, at the Delta PerformCorn to ing Arts Center. Emma Wise, the 13meet in Delta year-old daughter of DarNow’s the Time to Call for Farmers and other nell and Travers Wise of interested parties are Delta, plays the lead role invited to join the Colo- of Moana. Other Delta rado Corn Administra- participants include Jada tive Committee (CCAC) Lannon, Isabel Saenz, and Colorado Corn Grow- Cady Butler, Lizzie Coofor the new school year! ers Association (CCGA) per and Andrew Bruingfor their upcoming dis- ton as Chief Tui. The per�� trict meeting, which will formance is directed and feature updates on the choreographed by Kayln activities of the two orga- Bruington. �� nizations, as well as disA Delta native, Kayln �� cussions about the next Bruington has a master’s �� Farm Bill. degree in performing arts The meeting will take and has been employed at �� place from noon to 1:30 Dance Around for about a �� p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. year. �� A Moana cast “selfie” 16, at the Days Inn, 903 She has served as Main Street. �� a children’s minister, ence participation with Emma will be in the Lunch will be provid- directed musical dramas cheers, boos and hisses. eighth grade at Delta �� ed. No RSVP is required. and taught dance classes Bruington said 1st Middle School this fall. for adults and children Street Players tries to She plays the piano, guiin Delta, Grand Junction accommodate all aspiring tar, ukelele and other and Montrose, but she actors. “If they audition instruments. Her favorsays working with the 1st for a part, we find them ite classes at DMS are Street Players is one of a part, even if it’s in the jazz band and concert her favorite roles. ensemble,” she said. The band. “Music makes me It’s her goal to stage size of the company is happy,” she says. three performances annu- dictated only by the size She devotes much of ally with the 1st Street of the rehearsal studio. every morning to pracPlayers. The group is open Auditions took place ticing the piano, playing to adults, but the prima- in late May and the her ukelele, memorizry focus is on kids. “It’s company has been in ing lines and rehearsing all about giving kids the rehearsals since then. songs — although only experience of a lifetime,” Emma found the audi- her mom has heard her Bruington said. “The tion “really scary,” but sing. “I think she wants focus is not on competi- impressed the judges to surprise her grandpartion, but on giving these despite the fact one arm ents,” Darnell Place-Wise kids opportunities they was in a sling, limiting said. wouldn’t have otherwise her dance moves. “Moana the MelodraAuditions to grow their passion for In preparation for her ma” will be presented Discover just how easy and fun it is to learn to sing with Always wanted to sing 4 part song, dance and theater. role as Moana, Emma Friday, Aug. 11, at 6 p.m. harmony, here is your chance! Free vocal and singing lessons for 4 month and a chance to perform with us on the fall show. It’s an opportunity to fig- has been taking voice at the Delta Performing ure out which part of per- lessons from Norman Arts Center, 822 Grand Julie Mixter 970-216-0781 formance they’re good at, Smith, formerly the vocal Avenue, Delta. Tickets and which part they want instructor at Delta High are $10 and are available Leslie Boyd 970-314-5910 to improve upon.” School. He encourages at the door or in advance The 1st Street Players’ Emma not to mimic the at the Delta Area ChamKaroline Roome 970-901-9612 adaptation of Moana fol- voice of Moana, as por- ber of Commerce, 3rd and Learn more at: www.sweetadelineintl.org lows the story line of the trayed by Auli’i Cravalho Main. For more informapopular Disney movie, in the movie, but to make tion, call 874-8616 or with a few little surprises Moana her own. 216-4895. “here and there.” It’s presented as a melodrama, which encourages audi-

associate program director for Citizens for a Community At the Aug. 7 meet- Healthy ing of the Delta County (CHC), provided a folcommissioners, Andrew low-up presentation to a recent CHC study on Forkes-Gudmundson,

BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Emergency repairs scheduled

‘Moana the Melodrama’ to be performed in Delta

Back to School Physicals and Immunizations

Join the fun, the music and the friendship!

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

New county judge

Delta County’s new county judge is Jin Ho Pack. She was administered the oath of ofﬁce by 7th Judicial District Chief Judge Steven Patrick during a brief ceremony at the courthouse on Monday. She has served as the county attorney and assistant county attorney. Following the ceremony she said, “I am excited for this opportunity. I have had the wonderful experience of working for the county and this will be a continuation of that service. I am delighted to be here.”

NORTH FORK August 9, 2017

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Delegates pitch Delta County at Slow Food summit BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

A group of delegates from Delta County recently joined some 500 delegates from around the globe at the Slow Food Nations Delegate Summit, held July 14-16 in Denver. An estimated 25,000 attended the summit, which featured 305 speakers, 70 exhibitors and 155 events, among them the “Big Bad Breakfast” brunch party, and the “Colorado Made Block Party,” an evening of demonstrations and tasting by some 65 restaurants, held on Larimer Square. Delegates shared conversation, ideas, delicious food and drink, and information about Delta County with other delegates, exhibitors, attendees and producers from all over the world. And while food and drink were both amazing and plentiful, the main purpose of the trip was to promote all that Delta County and the North Fork Valley have to offer, said Paonia resident Jim Brett, president of the Slow Food North Fork (SFNF) chapter. For those seeking good, clean food, Delta County has it all: water, a high concentration of farmers and ranchers and entrepreneurs growing and producing local food and drink, and a welcoming climate. These things are attracting visitors from around the globe to the area, said Brett. “They see what’s going on here.” Broadband is also here, said Brett. “I think that’s an important thing.” More and more, people are buying into the realization that eating locally is one of the best things they can do for themselves, their health, community, and the environment. A 2015 report by the USDA shows that annual local and regional food sales in the U.S. increased by $4.8 billion from 2008 to 2012. Brett, who along with wife Elaine eat mostly local foods, sees the change in how people view and value food as “evolution,” and not a “revolution.” Delegates included Marsha Grant with SFNF, Delta County Tourism coordinator Kelli Hepler, and farmer Lori Vaught with Valley Organic Growers Association, a network of area growers and producers promoting sustainable agriculture and providing unique products to consumers. On opening day representatives attended a delegatesonly summit at the McNichols

Arena. The benefit showcased 65 Denver restaurants and offered a day of breakout sessions on a variety of foodrelated topics and some of the biggest names in eating locally and consciously. There were some “hot topics,” said Grant. “Breaking the Corporate Stranglehold” addressed problems related to abuses within a market controlled by a handful of companies, and “Fighting Labels that Deceive Consumers,” addressed problems with meat labeling. The James Beard Foundation and Slow Food Chef ’s Association encouraged chefs to make an impact on their communities through their menu choices. They believe that food and beverage producers should be a part of the political discussion, said Brett. SLOW FOOD SUMMIT TO B2

A girl and her horse

Aylin Bayles and her mother, Heather, review the showmanship pattern for the 4-H/FFA horse show at the Delta County Fair. Aylin has competed in showmanship three years, but this was the ﬁrst year of competition for her horse, Payday. The full day of competition Sunday included equitation, riding, reining and gymkhana/working ranch horse divisions. Exhibitors were also expected to demonstrate their understanding of equine care and management, both through a written evaluation and in answering questions from the show judges.

Music, food and fun on tap at Farm to Fiddle in Hotchkiss BY KAMI COLLINS Staff Writer

Meanderers, music lovers and localvores are invited to Hotchkiss this weekend to experience the bounty of the North Fork Valley, which will be on display at the second annual Farm to Fiddle Summer Music Festival. “Something for everyone” can sometimes be a promise unfulfilled — not so at Farm to Fiddle. Festival organizers have worked hard to make sure there is something for everyone to do this weekend. Music lovers will rejoice at the free concerts taking place Friday and Saturday, Aug. 11-12. Bring a lawnchair or spread out on the grass at the Creamery Arts Center and soak up the tunes. A taste of all types of sounds, from blues to rock to country and everything in between will be showcased. The concerts begin Friday at noon with the Kid Fiddlers, and wrap up at 8 p.m., on Saturday with the North Fork Flyers. Shoppers will get their fill from browsing the 60+ vendor booths spread along Oak and Bridge Streets. Bring your pocket change, because you’ll definitely want to snap up the freshly-picked, locally-grown produce and cottage foods available. North Fork orchards, farmers and ranchers will be on hand with peaches, honey, lavender and

other tempting goodies. Local artisans and crafters will showcase their wares, including handmade jewelry and art. For those who are looking for a way to give back to the community, make sure to visit with the several non-profit vendors who’ll be at the event, who will talk about how they are making a difference in the community, and how you can best help. Vendors will be open from noon - 5 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. on Saturday. When you get thirsty, make a pit stop into the Creamery, where producers from Big B’s Hard Cider and Mesa Winds Winery will be on hand pour-

BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

When Crawford musician David Hauze was asked to organize the music lineup for the second Farm to Fiddle Summer Festival, he wanted to bring in awesome local musicians, and he wanted fiddle players. Hauze managed both goals, lining up 14 talented musical acts, among them some very capable fiddle players.

BY RANDY SUNDERLAND General Manager

Photo by Randy Sunderland

Crawford town clerk Cally Gallegos administers the oath of ofﬁce for Jeff Peed, who was appointed to ﬁll a vacancy on the Crawford Town Board. He takes the place of Cameron Clark, who resigned his position in July. the vacancy was not reported. Town attorney Jim Brown, attending the meeting to discuss another matter, agreed with Gofforth that the town was not required to advertise for the position, and that the mayor’s interpretation of the law “sounds right to me.”

ing drinks to whet your whistle. While inside the Creamery, make sure to see the gallery’s new wildlife exhibit and stick around for a speaker who will talk about the art of taxidermy. Kids are going to love the Western Colorado Outdoor Expo, which will highlight the amazing scope of outdoor activities available in our neck of the woods. Courtesy of True Life Adventures and Outback Power Company, kids of all ages will have a great time at the rock climbing wall, bouncy house, a surfboard simulator, an archery shooting range and other activities. “We hope people come out

and support the local community,” said Marsy Moore, one of the festival organizers. “We want people to see what Hotchkiss has to offer.” The event, which is sponsored by the Hotchkiss Area Chamber of Commerce, is organized in part to raise funds for the Revitalize Hotchkiss committee, which is actively working towards downtown enhancement and economic development. The committee is currently working towards becoming a Colorado Main Street community and is working on a strategic plan to energize the economic vitality of Hotchkiss and to improve and beautify the town.

Music lineup offers up something for everyone

Crawford quickly fills vacant trustee seat On July 12, the Crawford Town Council accepted the resignation of trustee Cameron Clark during its regular board meeting. On Aug. 2, at the next scheduled board meeting, 22 days after the vacancy was recognized, Jeff Peed was sworn in to serve as trustee until the next municipal election in April 2018. Peed, the pastor of Grace Community Church of Crawford, was the only applicant according to town clerk Cally Gallegos. When Crawford resident Carl Page questioned the process of filling the vacancy during the Aug. meeting, Mayor Wanda Gofforth explained that state law provides 60 days for the board to either fill the vacancy or call for a special election. Page also voiced concern about the abbreviated period between notification of the vacancy and filling the position. He noted it had not appeared in the paper, and asked if the town advertised for the position. The July meeting was not attended by a DCI reporter, and

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Gofforth then made a motion to appoint Jeff Peed to fill the vacant board position, serving until the next municipal election. Chriss Watters seconded the motion and it was approved unanimously. Peed was then sworn in and was seated on the board.

Changes to the line-up are always a possibility. Check the Facebook Farm to Fiddle Summer Festival page for updates. Friday, Aug. 11 12-12:20 p.m. — The Kid Fiddlers, featuring about a half dozen young aspiring student-musicians of Cassandra Shenk will open the Farm to Fiddle Festival music line-up. Performers range in age from 8 to 18 and include North Fork School of Integrated Studies’ third grade students who attended a week-long orchestra camp through the Arts For All program. 12:20-1 p.m. — Zeb Etter, a 15-year-old student of David Hauze’s Vision Charter School music program, will perform a combination of standards and contemporary Christian songs. For his age, said Hauze, “He’s really good.” 1:15-2:10 p.m. — Tim and Richard, a young and energetic duo from Grand Junction, perform American rock fusion music on acoustic guitar and Cajon beatbox. Tim provides vocals and guitar, and Richard is the one on the Cajon. This unique act is a must-see. 2:20-3:20 p.m. — Solar Brothers Roy Martin and Paul Frazier will be offering a blend of original and cover southern blues and folk, classic pop and Americana music. Frazier is a multi-instrumentalist with roots in southern country and blues, and Martin serves up finger style and flat picking guitar styles with soulful singing. 3:40-4 p.m. “Young at Heart,” a group of talented women, all students of Hauze, is as local as they come. 4:30-6 p.m. — Crawford’s own Jeneve Rose Mitchell, a singer/songwriter, multiinstrumental Nashville recording artist returns to F2F to perform cover and original tunes as only she can. 6:30-8 p.m. — HooDoo HEDZ, a hot blues band from Grand Junction, Delta and

Paonia, brings more than 100 years of combined experience to the F2F stage. Saturday, Aug. 12 11-11:45 a.m. — Bill Long brings classic country music to the stage. 12-12:45 p.m. — Katie and Kim, a mother and daughter duo, will play Christian and gospel songs. 1-2 p.m. — The acoustic duo of David and Tamara Hauze will perform an eclectic variety of contemporary favorites from the folk, rock, alternative and country genres, and some original songs. 2:15-3:15 — Beth Williams, a singer, songwriter and Academy of Country Music nominee for Best New Female Vocalist of the Year, brings her soaring vocals, artful lyrics, engaging smile and storytelling ability to the stage. 3:30-4:25 p.m. — Hotchkiss fiddler Fran Stein brings authentic Irish fiddle tunes to the F2F stage. Accompanied by Hauze on guitar and Celtic harp. In recent years Stein has attended violin workshops around the country and has blossomed into an exceptional musician, said Hauze. 4:30-6:10 — As much at home on the local stage or in front of a crowd of thousands, Cedaredge recording artist and Starr’s Guitars owner David Starr has shared the stage and opened for a long list of music greats. He recently recorded a six-song EP, “The Head and Heart,” produced and arranged by John Oates and recorded in Nashville. Starr will play both original and cover songs. 6:30-8 p.m. — The North Fork Flyers will close out the F2F music line-up. Led by Mike Gwinn, this band has undergone several transformations, but has remained a true local band offering rock, pop, reggae, American Songbook jazz standards, and an extensive play list that offers something for everyone.

B2 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Slow food summit FROM PAGE B1 Keynote speaker Ricardo Salvador with the Union of Concerned Scientists spoke on the state of the international food system. Some of the delegates were once a part of that system and are now local suppliers, said Brett. Each session included a unique food sample. Delta County was among some 70 exhibitors represented during a twoday street festival on Larimer Square. Delegates shared maps, brochures, pamphlets and other Delta County literature that Hepler brought to the event. “You name it, she brought it,” said Brett. Paonia resident Pete Kolbenschlag with Colorado Farm and Food Alliance brought a jar filled with 45 different fermented hot peppers for visitors to sample. Farmer Mark Waltermire shared plants from his 15-acre Thistle Whistle Farm on Hansen Mesa, among them, a rare variety of pepper found on the Ark of Taste, a living catalog of foods — meats,

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Photo submitted

From left, Delta County residents Jim Brett, Mark Waltermire, Graham Waltermire (front), and Pete Kolbenschlag man the Slow Food Western Slope booth at the Slow Food Nations Summit, held July 14-16 in Denver. fruits, veggies and more — facing extinction. “He grows a number of Ark of Taste foods,” said Brett. The Ark of Taste is a Slow Food tool aimed at increasing the biodiversity of a variety of rare plant and animal foods around the world and preserving and restoring regional food traditions. Cajun and Creole foods of the Deep South is a good example. Brett met briefly with Sen. Michael Bennet,

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who was among the guest speakers. Bennet told Brett that Delta County is among his favorite places. Delegates also met with chef Alice Waters, who launched the modern farm-to-table movement. Waters served a vegan lunch on the State Capitol lawn and spoke about the Edible Schoolyard Project she founded to promote high-quality student lunch programs. The final day delegates met with other organizations and groups. One meeting was on “Gastronomic Sciences University,” a three-year, Slow Food International-sponsored program covering all

Steak, burgers are on the menu

aspects of food. Students of the university have toured the North Fork area in the past, “to experience where food comes from,” said Brett. Slow Food founder Carlo Petrini gave the closing keynote address. One takeaway from his speech, said Brett, is that in farming, academic and farmer knowledge are equally valuable and significant. That will be the theme for SFI in 2018, said Brett. SFNF was established in 2007 by food writer, Eugenia Bone, who lives in New York City and Crawford. Brett has been president since 2008. They meet regularly between October and April, when people aren’t busy growing, and have a book club. And they share food. “With Slow Food, everything we do happens around food,” said Grant.

Celebrating 34 years

Paonia Farm and Home owners Jim and Linda Link recently sold their business and are preparing to retire. The public is invited to celebrate Farm and Home’s 34 years of service to the community from 3-5 p.m. today, Wednesday, Aug. 9, at 206 Grand Avenue.

‘All Things Fiber’ showing in August at Blue Sage “Quilts and Felt and day, Aug. 11. visit BlueSage.org or call All Things Fiber,” an For more information, 527-7243. exhibit of textiles by North Fork area artists, is open through Aug. 27 at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts. The center is located at 228 Grand Avenue, Paonia. The show features weavings by Ellza Coyle, felted art work, hats by Lynn Gillespie, quilts by Lynn Mattingly, Cyndi Landes and Tonya Markel, and hand-painted silk scarves by Erin Hilleary, with a special piece by Ruby Riggs. JewPhoto by Tamie Meck elry maker Tess Bachran will present a trunk show A handmade felted “cat cave” made by Lynn Matat the Blue Sage on Fri- tingly is one of the unique pieces now on exhibit.

The Crawford Community United Methodist Church is having its annual steak dinner Saturday, Aug. 26, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. A great steak with all the fixins will be $12.; a hamburger or hot dog with everything will be $6. Come eat an excelRotary Club of the lent meal with neighbors, friends or someone new. North Fork Valley will hold its second annual Ducky Derby celebration starting at 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 12, at Apple Valley Park. The public is invited to enjoy food, live music, and games of croquet and bocce ball. Derby

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File photo

Rotary’s Ducky Derby is Saturday tickets are $5 each or five for $20, with proceeds benefiting the Rotary scholarship program. At 6 p.m., the numbered ducks will all be dropped in Minnesota Creek. The ticket holders matching the numbers of the first three ducks to cross the finish

OPENING ��

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Photo by Tamie Meck

Honored for service

Town of Paonia police chief Neil Ferguson and finance officer Cindy Jones were presented certifications of appreciation at the July 25 board meeting. Ferguson was honored for his 10 years of service and Jones for her five years of service.

line will receive a share of $500 in cash. Tickets are available at the event or from Rotary members. Winners need not be present to win.

Tony Furtado in concert Pickin’ Productions presents Americana singer/musician Tony Furtado this Friday, Aug. 11, at the Old Mad Dog Cafe in Crawford. Furtado has performed at prestigious venues and festivals throughout the world, including the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Jazz Aspen, and the Winnepeg Folk Festival. He has toured with many of the greats, including Greg Allman, Derek Trucks and Sonny Landreth. This is a rare opportunity to experience this multi-instrumental talent up close and personal. Admission is free and music begins at 7 p.m. Visit PickinProductions. com for details.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Pickin’ in the park series opener

Performing with opening act, The Wooks, Bluegrass legend Peter Rowan, center, kicked off the Pickin’ in the Park Summer Concert last Thursday at Paonia Town Park. This Thursday reggae singer Pato Baton will bring positive vibrations to the Howard Berkman Stage. The Americana-Soul duo of Freddy & Francine will open. Music begins at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, and food, drink and activities for the kids are available. No glass containers or smoking of any kind are allowed in the park, and dogs must be on a leash. Visit PickinProductions.com for details.

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Holding fast to her hometown roots BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

To say that Jeneve Rose Mitchell has done a lot in her 17 years is an understatement. She grew up living off the grid near Crawford, where she recently helped a mare having a difficult labor to deliver her colt. Mitchell, the daughter of Tim and Jenny Mitchell of Crawford, was singing and playing fiddle by age 2. She has performed seemingly countless concerts and fundraisers, and raised the money to build her mom’s Needlerock Family Health Clinic in Crawford. In 2016 she performed her way to the finals as a contestant on American Idol. Mitchell was among some 200,000 to audition for Idol. In addition to her honey-sweet voice, country looks and spunky manner she brings a sense of humor to her performances. “My mom taught me attitude and facial expression,” she said. “And my dad taught me vocals.” Mitchell will play a set this Friday at the Farm to Fiddle Festival. Of the 13 instruments she plays (she most recently took up the ukulele), she’ll play about a half dozen. “I have a set lined up that’s going to be really fun,” she said. “It’ll be a big ol’ mix of genres so everyone has a good time.” After her Idol appearance, Mitchell gave a homecoming performance at the Paradise Theatre in Paonia. Since then she’s

Photo submitted

Crawford musician Jeneve Rose Mitchell poses recently next to a portrait of ‘the queen of country comedy,’ Minnie Pearl, at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. The American Idol ﬁnalist will play a set Friday afternoon at the Farm to Fiddle Summer Festival in Hotchkiss. played several local shows, has toured the region, and traveled to Nashville twice, the first time to record her CD, “Off the Grid,” a tip of the hat to her family’s lifestyle and one of the many things that set her apart from the other Idol contestants. Mitchell spent two weeks working with Nashville producer Anita Cochran, who also plays multiple instruments. It was a wonderful learning experience, said Mitchell. The CD includes four original songs, three of which were written by Mitchell, and three cover songs. Family friend and Crawford photographer Jaquita Watters photographed the cover images. “I Will,” is a song of

Be ‘bear aware’ as their feeding activity increases At the conclusion of last week’s Crawford Town Board meeting, trustee Mike Tiedeman reminded everyone, “Bears are around. Keep that trash picked up!” That cautionary message is being delivered around the state. Bears are on the move throughout Colorado and are entering a stage known as “hyperphagia,” which means they are eating continually to put on the fat stores they need to get them through their winter hibernation. Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers a reminder that by taking some simple precautions, you can avoid human/wildlife conflicts and help to keep bears wild. Here are helpful tips to prevent conflicts: • Keep garbage in a well-secured location. • Only put out garbage on the morning of pickup. • Clean garbage cans regularly to keep them odor free. • Use a bear-resistant trash can or dumpster; available from your trash hauler or on the Internet. • If you don’t have secure storage, put items that might become smelly into the freezer until trash day. • Don’t leave pet food or stock feed outside. • Bird feeders are a major source of bear/ human conflicts. Attract birds naturally with flowers and water baths. Do not hang bird feeders from April 15 to Nov. 15. • If you must have bird feeders: clean up beneath them every day, bring them in at night, and hang them high so that they’re completely inaccessible to bears. • Do not attract other wildlife by feeding them, such as deer, turkeys or small mammals. • Don’t allow bears to become comfortable around your house. Yell at them, throw things at them, make noise to scare them off. • Secure compost piles. Bears are attracted to the scent of rotting food — and they’ll eat anything. • Bears have good memories and will return to places they’ve found food.

hope she wrote at age 13. After writing songs like “Ragtime Grammy” and “Deck ‘Em,” and songs that tap into her fun side, she was inspired to write something more serious, said Mitchell. “I was thinking, what if I take all the things that mean something in one song? So I put as much good stuff in there as I could.” “Deck ‘Em” is about a girl who takes matters into her own hands when her beau won’t. She wrote it at age 12 when Jenny’s clinic was under construction. A crew from the Delta Correctional Facility was working on it, and her mom urged her to “rile ‘em up like Johnny Cash did at Folsom Prison.” It was a hit with the prisoners. On “Bad Man’s Blunder,” the classic folk tune made popular by The Kingston Trio, Ranger Doug and Too Slim of Riders in the Sky sing the back-up vocals, something her manager made possible. It was another dream come true, she said. “I was so lucky to have them on the album. They’re kind of the cowboy face of the Grand Ole Opry.”

“Colorado Skies” was written for Jeneve by her late uncle. He had recently found out he was dying of lung cancer and paid a visit. He was inspired to write the lyrics by all that he saw around him, said Mitchell: Needle Rock, and the beautiful Colorado skies. “He looked up at night and saw the Milky Way. He saw the rivers and eagles, and was amazed.” Her manager is pitching it to the Colorado State Tourism Board as a state song. Her second trip was to promote the CD. When she got home she opened for Emerson Drive at the Montrose County Fair. It was her first opening, and a great learning experience, she said. Mitchell will graduate from Hotchkiss High School next year, then tour for a year. She plans to attend Colorado Mesa University to study theater. It’s close to home, and the university’s 600seat Moss Performing Arts Center is a top 25 university performing arts center in the nation. While her lifelong dream of being an Idol contestant went beyond her wildest expectations, she still dreams big and works hard. Her No. 1 wish now is to play the Grand Ole Opry. On a recent visit she was allowed back stage, where she had her picture taken next to a portrait of one of her idols, Minnie Pearl. Her dream of performing at Dollywood came one step closer to reality when she interviewed with producers and promoters in June. In October she will open in New York for Scotty McCreery, the 2010 Idol champion with whom she performed a duet on Idol. Through it all, Mitchell has not lost track of her roots. Playing local shows like Farm to Fiddle “is one of my favorite things in the world.” She’s grateful

every day for all she has and all who have helped her along the way, among them, David and Tamara Hauze of Crawford, who first saw her perform at age 7. They have been a big influence on her career, said Mitchell.

And the family is building a new house. “We’re building a house out of straw and mud, literally,” she said. They poured the concrete 20 years ago, with the goal of building a barn. They hope to move in this fall.

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Colorado Parks & Wildlife photo

• Allow grills to burn for a couple of minutes after cooking to burn off grease and to eliminate odors. Clean the grill after each use. • Clean-up thoroughly after picnics in the yard or on the deck. Don’t allow food odors to linger. • If you have fruit trees, pick fruit before it gets too ripe. Don’t allow fruit to rot on the ground. • Keep garage doors closed. • Lock your doors when you’re away from home and at night. • Keep the bottom floor windows of your house closed when you’re not at home. • Do not keep food in your vehicle; roll up windows and lock the doors of your vehicles. • When car-camping, secure all food and coolers in a locked vehicle after you’ve eaten. • Keep a clean camp, whether you’re in a campground or in the backcountry. • When camping in the back-country, hang food 100 feet or more from campsite; don’t bring any food into your tent. • Cook food well away from your tent; wash dishes thoroughly. • Talk to your neighbors and kids about being bear aware. • If you keep small livestock, keep animals in a fully covered enclosure that is electrified. Don’t store food outside, keep enclosures clean to minimize odors, hang rags soaked in ammonia around the enclosure. • If you have bee hives, install electric fencing where allowed. • For more information go to the Living with Wildlife section on the Colorado Parks and Wildlife web site: cpw.state. co.us.

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B4 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

NORTH FORK TIMES

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Delta County Fair has a rich and storied history BY CHUCK FARMER Hotchkiss/Crawford Historical Socity

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Delta County Independent

(Editor’s note: This article was first published in May in another publication. Chuck submitted it to the DCI because it is fair week in Hotchkiss. He reminds folks that the museum is open with free admission on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 11-12, from 1 to 4 p.m.) The Delta County Fair wasn’t always in Hotchkiss. The Colorado Historical Newspaper website reveals that the first official Delta County Fair was held in September of 1897 in Delta. The fair grounds were where Confluence Park is now located. Newspapers advertised that the new grandstand, stables and a half-mile race track were ready to use. Besides exhibits of produce, animals and horse races, the fair featured two bicycle races, one for one-half mile and one for two miles. This fair continued until 1913, when the grounds hosted the last County Fair at this location. In 1913 two men from Oklahoma bought the facilities from the county with a plan to conduct spring and fall races, including sulky horses. This endeavor was successful for only a couple of years and then the owners abandoned the property. The buildings and grandstand were destroyed by fire in 1918. Early Hotchkiss history records reveal that the first “sort of a fair” in Hotchkiss occurred in the fall of 1886 at the newly constructed brick barn built on Enos Hotchkiss’ property. Farmers displayed their produce and field crops, then a dance was held. It was the custom at that time to hold a dance in any newly constructed building, usually lasting all night. In Hotchkiss, the

property where the fairgrounds is located was acquired by George Hiram Duke in 1885, under the homestead act. Of his one hundred and sixty acres, Duke sold eighty acres to Enos T. Hotchkiss in 1889, which was south of the present Bridge Street. From 1889 until 1905 the property was used for a slaughter house and as a brick yard. Carl and Alvin Sherman, Hotchkiss’ nephews, operated the brick yard and built many of the brick buildings in Hotchkiss and the surrounding area. Many of these buildings are still standing. In 1905 seven local Hotchkiss businessmen and ranchers formed the Hotchkiss Fair Association with the purpose of conducting a fair in Hotchkiss. Organizers of the association were James Bainard, rancher; C. E. Wilson, George Duke and John Patterson, merchants; M. M. Brokaw, saloon owner; Fred Simonds, banker and Dr. Micklejohn. The association then entered into a lease agreement with Enos Hotchkiss’ four sons, Fred, Clair, Adair and Leon, to lease twenty-four acres to be used as a fair ground. The five-year lease called for the payment of two hundred dollars in 1905 and two hundred in 1910, with the option to purchase the property at the end of the lease period. The lease included twenty-four shares of the Vanderford Ditch, which takes water out of the North Fork River. Fern Wooley Schafer, local historian, wrote a description of the grounds some years ago. Fern was ten years old when she attended the fair in September 1905. She wrote that the land was covered with underbrush, vines and weeds when in June work was conducted in preparation for a July Fourth celebra-

tion. By September the race track was laid out and more clearing had been done. The result was a well cleared but shaded park. The only entrance to the grounds was in the northeast corner where fees were charged, twenty-five cents for children and fifty cents for adults. The Fourth Street entrance didn’t come until much later. Fern remembered that near the gate was an old building used as a diner. Chicken dinner was sold for twenty-five cents and was sponsored by the First Baptist Church. The original grandstand stood on the east side of the race track, facing west. Exhibits were housed in a circus tent where all kinds of produce and flowers were on display. Fern recalled that on the third day of the fair a heavy rainstorm hit the grounds. Livestock had to be taken to higher ground and all afternoon events were canceled. About four o’clock a man stood on a four feet by four feet lump of coal and shouted that all ticket stubs would be honored the next day for the final races. The grandstand was enlarged and moved to its present location as a result of flooding. (This was probably in 1912 when the river took out the concrete bridge leading to Crawford.) Before the fair in 1906 an exhibit hall was erected that ran north and south. A bandstand was built between the exhibit hall and the fountain to complete a very attractive park. In 1909 a lagoon was dug east of the park and north of the original grandstand. The water was only about four feet deep but provided boating in the summer and skating in the winter. There are old photos of a high diver jumping into the water from a platform about forty feet high. In 1912 the Town of Hotchkiss hired someone to shovel the snow off the ice. After the flood that occurred in May of 1912, no further mention can be found of the lagoon. The fair was very successful with large attendance each year. Exhibits displayed were by the county schools and mesa clubs. (There were no 4H clubs back then.) Fairs were held in September when agriculture products were at their peak. A different school band came to play every day from Delta, Paonia and Hotchkiss. Most years a carnival came to town for several days with booths and stands along the streets. A dance platform was set up either at the fair grounds or in town. (One platform was on First Street across from the present Memorial Hall where the Church of the Art is presently located.) Fern wrote that early parades always went to the park and around the race track where viewers could watch from a shady spot. The horse races were the big attraction as the purse was larger than at the other fairs. The railroad offered special round trip tickets from anywhere on the western slope. In 1910 the Hotchkiss Fair Association exercised their lease option to pay the Hotchkiss brothers for the property. In 1914 the Town of Hotchkiss acquired the property. In April of that year town voters authorized the town to acquire bonds and pay the Hotchkiss brothers forty-five hundred dollars for the grounds. Sam Hartman was the mayor of Hotchkiss at that time. The town operated the fair through 1918. There was no official Delta County Fair from 1914 through 1918, either

in Delta or Hotchkiss. The fire in 1918 had destroyed the facilities in Delta. In 1918 the Delta County Commissioners entered into a contract to purchase the facilities in Hotchkiss from the Town of Hotchkiss. The first official Delta County Fair was held on the present grounds in September 1919. The stone columns on the Fourth Street entrance were constructed in 1938 by William Coutts, a local stone mason. One column has the date 1919, the year the Delta County Fair was established in Hotchkiss, the other column has the date 1938, the year the columns were erected. A wooden entrance sign spanned the columns. By 2008, the entrance sign had deteriorated and was removed. The stone columns were eight inches out of plumb due to improper drainage and the town planned to have the columns removed. However, the Hotchkiss-Crawford Historical Society interceded as they determined the columns were a historic feature and should be saved. An estimate to have the columns straightened was obtained from Foundation Repair of Western Colorado, using hydraulic jacks. If this could be accomplished, a metal entrance sign could be installed between the columns. The historical society conducted a yard sale type auction to start raising funds for the project. Additional funds were raised from many individuals, county businesses, the town and the Delta County Commissioners. When funds were sufficient, the foundation company was able to jack the columns back to plumb. The curved metal entrance sign was fabricated by a company in Spanish Forks, Utah. Hank Le Valley volunteered to transport the sign from Utah. Paul Schmucker oversaw the project and Jim Hardin welded the brackets to attach the sign to the columns. Annette Murray painted the lettering and art work on the sign. The race track is long gone. The last race that I can remember was a mule race about 1990. In the 1980s, one featured attraction was a tractor pull, now it is a demolition derby. There is usually a concert one night and a rodeo on the last night of the fair. The fair now mainly consists of 4H Club exhibits in Heritage Hall and the showing and selling of their livestock. In 2010 Delta County purchased the adjoining nineteen acres and all the buildings from Lois Maloney. This allowed for an east entrance to the grounds, which has been constructed. Over the years there have been many boundary adjustments and improvements made on the grounds. Now there is a metal grandstand with restrooms, a covered riding arena, with restrooms nearby and an exhibit hall. There are two small baseball diamonds, the parking space has been improved and there is a disc golf course in the area along the river. Team penning competition is conducted in the covered arena. The attractive park is used by many out-of-town groups as well as local organizations and families. Individuals volunteer to become fair board members and are appointed by the county commissioners. Ranchers, farmers, 4-H Club leaders and businessmen have all been members of the fair board. Through the years there have been many dedicated fair board members to whom we owe our thanks.

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS August 9, 2017

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

www.deltacountyindependent.com

New generation of coaches at PHS BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

PHS alumni Blaine Escher, Josh Burns and Lucas Wiggins will make up the majority of the Eagles coaching staff as the program heads into the post-Brent McRae era. Veteran coaches Don Holt and Scott Rienks will help with the transition. “It’s nice to return to the community that gave us so much, and to start giving back,” said Burns, who will focus on special teams. “That’s what it’s about.” Escher will take over as head coach. A 2011 graduate, Escher was a three-sport athlete and starting receiver for the Eagles. He showed promise early on, growing from a five-foot, six-inch JV freshman to a 6-2 wide receiver and free safety his senior year. On special teams he returned kickoffs and punts and was PAT holder. After high school Escher was a receiver for the University of North-

ern Colorado, where he earned a degree in exercise science. Halfway through his second season he suffered a careerending knee injury. “It’s okay, though,” says Escher. “Everything happens for a reason.” In 2015 Escher returned home to earn money for graduate school and accepted an invitation from McRae to join the coaching staff. He quickly transitioned to special teams, and also started substitute teaching. Last school year he taught physical education at De Beque High School, and coached the track team. If De Beque had a football program, he would have joined the coaching staff. This spring he accepted an assistant football coaching position at Grand Valley for the 2017-18 school year. Then he got word that McRae was leaving. “I have always wanted to end up back here,” said Escher. But stepping into McRae’s shoes, he

admits, was intimidating. In five years under McRae the Eagles earned a 47-5 record, four league titles, and state titles in 2013 and 2014. In 2015 they were state runnersup. When McRae announced he was leaving to teach at Mountain Vista High School, Rienks immediately thought of Escher. “Blaine loves football,” said Rienks. He remembers Escher as a passionate player who switched from baseball to track his sophomore year to gain the speed needed to play at the college level. A former longtime teacher and coach at De Beque with 23 years of coaching football, Rienks recommended Escher for the De Beque job. A 2009 graduate, Burns majored in special education at UNC, then taught specialized behavior in Weld County for four years, where he coached prep wrestling and peewee sports. He was heading into his second year at University

High School in Greeley. Last spring, Burns said, he attended a Delta track meet to watch younger brother Jesse compete. When Burns left for college, Jesse was 7 years old. Now he’s a junior, said Burns. That realization hit him hard and got him thinking about coming home. At the urging of mom Kitty Burns, he checked the school district website and saw that the PHS special education position had been posted that morning. “It was meant to be,” said Burns. He ran into Escher at the meet and suggested he also check the district jobs postings. A few weeks later Escher was approached by PHS principal Randal Palmer about the head coaching job. “It’s a big responsibility,” said Escher. So he called Burns for advice. “I told him he would be surrounded by other good coaches and to go for it,” said Burns. Escher immediately

Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia High School sophomore Levi Peterson (70) and Justin Holt (75) signal strength and optimism at last week’s team training camp as coaches Scott Rienks, Blaine Escher and Lucas Wiggins look on. Escher, a former Eagles receiver and 2011 PHS graduate, accepted the position of head football coach recently.

tapped Wiggins as defensive coordinator. He and Holt will also team up to focus on O-line and D-line. Wiggins was head coach of the middle school football and wrestling programs at Paonia for two years and his experience and familiarity with the underclassmen is invaluable, said Escher. Wiggins showed interest in coaching at an early age and was a volunteer youth coach in high school. Also a 2009 graduate, he was an allstate running back and state champion wrestler. He went on to play football on a scholarship at Fort Lewis before transferring to Colorado Mesa University. His college career was also cut short by knee injuries, but he played two years of semipro football for the Grand Junction Gladiators. After college he commuted daily from Grand Junction to coach before returning to the North Fork area for good. He was head coach of the middle school football and wrestling programs for two seasons. “Just giving back to the kids, it’s kind of the main reason I moved back here,” said Wiggins. Between the talent of the returning players and the quality of the coaching staff, said Wiggins, “This is going to be a very good football team.” Working with McRae and his staff has helped him prepare for his new job, but Escher said he’s also relying on the wisdom of the veteran coaches to get through the season. “Being around that kind of atmosphere, seeing how the kids respond to that kind of coaching is the approach I’m trying to get here,” he said. “It’s a new generation,” said Escher. Kids today benefit from the “big brother mentor coaching style,” and players still need the authoritative style that Rienks and Holt bring to the team.

Having coaches they trust will get them to run “not to the wall, but through the wall for you.” Based on football camp and summer weight training attendance, turnout looks promising, not only for football, but for the other sports, said Escher, Escher and Rienks will focus on offense. They’ve worked together with the JV program, and want to keep that momentum going, said Escher. Rienks said he will remain with the program through the season to help with the transition. After that, he plans to follow son Dagan’s football career at Colorado Mesa University. Because the three young coaches are familiar with the program, the players and the area, there’s no “awkward transition phase” for them or the players, said Rienks. Once players gain trust in their coaches, “The hard stuff is over.” A 1984 PHS graduate, Holt sees the younger coaches as bringing energy to the team and relating well to the players. “I think they’re smart and they’re hungry and they’ll listen,” said Holt. “They’re knowledgeable, but they don’t pretend to know everything. They’re wanting advice.” Holt pointed to another PHS alum, Joel Simianer, a starting defensive player on both state championship Eagles football teams, as an example of graduates returning home to mentor young players. Simianer, who was recruited by Western State Colorado University, was at last week’s camp working with the secondary. “I think they appreciate the small town and appreciate what they have,” said Holt. High school sports practice officially begins Aug. 14. Paonia will open the season Sept. 1 at Center. Its home opener is Sept. 15, against Ridgeview Academy.

The diagram on the left represents the blueprints for the proposed Hotchkiss High School/ North Fork Pool and Parks Recreation District baseball/softball fields provided by Mesa Engineering and Surveying Co., Inc., in Montrose. The diagram was too large to run with last week’s NFPPR survey story submitted by Tamie Meck. The NFPPR has partnered with Hotchkiss Home Plate Baseball Association to build the baseball and softball complex to be located adjacent to the North Fork Pool on Bulldog Street below Hotchkiss High School. Two baseball fields are featured on the right with two softball fields on the left. Restrooms and a playground are illustrated in the upper left side of the diagram.

Hole-in-ones at Devil’s Thumb The final results from Devil’s Thumb Men’s play for July 17 and 24 indicate some strong play with plenty of accuracy, especially on the 17th. Two hole-in-ones were recorded, one in Senior Men’s League play and the second in Men’s League play. Don Brown was the top net scorer on July 17 in senior’s play with

a 69 acing Mike Brown’s 71. The winner got lots of help with his score by recording a hole-in-one on number 14. Steve Hicks and Lonnie Savage tied for third net honors with identical scores of 74. Ray Tyler placed first in gross play with his 81 and was followed by Jim Timmerwilke and Dennis Phillips’ scores of 82 and 85.

Josh Applegate carded a 31 to win the Men’s League match on July 17. He also duplicated Don Brown’s feat of knocking in his tee-shot on number four (and obviously won the closest to the pin award for the day). Mike Savarrd and Alden Shuss tied for second place in gross play with scores of 41. Kenny Heinze was the

day’s (July 17) top net scorer in men’s play with his 28. Scott Petershiem was second with a 33 and Lyle Wingard had a 34 for third place. In closest to the pin honors (with Applegate), James Nix’s ball came to a stop 19 feet and eight inches from the pin on number 7. Results from July 24 (Senior’s) had Kevin

Davis the day’s top gross 18-hole player with a round of 76. Craig Lund was second with a 79 and Ray Tyler placed third with an 84. In net play, Timmerwilke, Mike Brown and Jack Lonis all shared first place with scores of 68. In Men’s League action for July 24, Dwain Bush’s 37 topped the field in

gross play with Lund’s 40 good for second place and Shuss’ 41 a third place winner. Net winners included Nix (33), Leland Chadwick (34) and a tie for third (35) between Cal Letey and Lyle Wingard. Closes to the pin on the back nine was claimed by Lund (19-11 on number 14 and 17 feet on number 17).

B6 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Photo submitted

Skilled players

Sophia Siennicki of Delta and Kam Schumacher of Cedaredge represented Delta County well at the Rockies Skills Challenge in Denver on Aug. 5. Sophia placed second in the girls’ 67 division, and Kam placed ﬁrst in the boys’ 6-7 division. Kam was introduced on ﬁeld before the Rockies game that evening.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Pickleball was one of several sports-related events sponsored at last weekend’s Deltarado Days functions. Ezekiel Andasion and Jennie Pippin won the 3.5 division.

Photo by Wayne Crick

This unidentiﬁed ﬁsherman was using a bow and Photo submitted arrow on the morning of the Deltarado Days 5k Posing with the First State Bank of Colorado banner are this year’s Deltarado Days grass volleyball chamRun. pions (not in order) Jeremy Stutzman, Carl Stutzman, Anna Thompson and Kelsey Huckle.

Tunget gymnastic teams compete at state meet Tunget Gymnastics Bronze and Silver teams competed at the state meets in June. The Silvers competed the first weekend in June. Isabell Hall was first in uneven bars and second all-around on beam, ninth on floor and 10th on vault for Junior B

division. Sarah Green was second on vault, third on beam, fourth all around, fifth on floor and ninth on bars for Junior A division. Haley Stamper finished second in floor and was sixth all around, eighth on vault, ninth on beam and 14th on bars.

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The Bronze team competed the second weekend in June. Olivia Hines was first all around in floor exercise, second on beam, third on vault and fourth on bars in Senior B division. Bailey Loy was third on vault, seventh on beam, 11th in floor, 12th all around and 14th on bars in the Junior B division. Brook Angelovich was 10th on bars and 13th on vault in the Senior A division. Brailey Angelovich was Photo courtesy Wilma Erven fifth on beam and seventh all around, eighth Members of the third-place team from this year’s Deltarado Days Golf Tournaon floor and 10th on bars ment include, left to right, Chuy Sandoval, Jeremy Allinson, FCNB representain the Senior B division. tive Al Formicola and Pablo Gallegos.

23 teams compete in horseshoes Twenty-three teams competed in the Deltarado Days horseshoe tournament on July 29. The weather was beautiful and Cleland Park was a wonderful setting.

Tribute was paid to a longtime competitor, Glenn Corrigan, who enjoyed a wide range of sports, including horseshoes. He died June 2, 2017, after a brief bat-

tle with cancer. His wife Sheila read a poem and at the conclusion of the tournament, presented his horseshoes to first place winners. The tournament was

sponsored by Grand Mesa Motorsports and Alpine Fencing and Supplies, and run by Alpine Fencing. Cash prizes and trophies were awarded to the top three teams.

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First place winners Paul Lopez and Lenny Lopez

Second place winners Stephen Lemieux and Earnie Gallegos

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Sheila Corrigan (center) presented ﬁrst place winners with her husband’s horseshoes. Glenn Corrigan, who died recently, loved the challenge of horseshoes and was a regular competitor in the Third place winners Augie Terrazas and Randy Lively Deltarado Days tournament.

SURFACE CREEK August 9, 2017

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Potential fee revenue added to cannabis report BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Orchard City Town Board is scheduled to hear a further report from the Cannabis Revenue Committee — trustees Tom Huerkamp and Gynee Thomassen — on potential town revenue from licensing fees on marijuana business at its regular Aug. 9 meeting. The draft report update is a one-page document dealing with “manufacturing, testing, and transport licenses.” Trustees had a wide-ranging discussion of marijuana business issues at their work session on Aug. 2. A number of issues discussed in previous meetings were revisited. Some points were emphasized. For instance, Huerkamp stated repeatedly that his and Thomassen’s directive from the board was to examine potential sources of revenue available to the town from allowing marijuana businesses to operate in Orchard City. Trustee

Craig Fuller argued that political and policy recommendations in the committee’s original report, such as the quick repeal of the town’s current bans on marijuana business, are unnecessary. Trustee Gary Tollefson advocated for the town board to look seriously again at all possible sources of revenue including taxes so that voters have more than just one option. He was promised figures on the subject from town staff. In separate matters at the work session trustees discussed the possibility of hosting constituent open houses for discussion of issues, and the annual town picnic was set for Saturday, Aug. 19, at Orchard City Town Park. The August regular meeting agenda also includes business items concerning “disconnection by ordinance,” fees for subdivision and land use regulations, a girls’ softball lease, and a boundary adjustment.

Deer management meeting tonight Personnel from the Division of Parks and Wildlife will be in Cedaredge to conduct a public meeting for all sportsmen, landowners, ranchers, wildlife watchers and others who have a stake in deer management. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, Aug. 9, at 6:30 p.m. at the Cedaredge Civic Center at 140 NW 2nd Street. The meeting will be an ini-

tial step in gathering public input for the development of a management plan for deer in game management units 411, 52 and 521 that will be effective over the next 10 to 15 years. At the meeting, a biologist with Colorado Parks and Wildlife will present information regarding history of management in these areas, harvest and population trends.

Supporting clean and sober

The annual Serenity Run motorcycle parade along Highway 65 and Cedaredge’s Grand Mesa Drive celebrating recovery from substance abuse and dependence and clean and sober lifestyles took place last Saturday morning with hundreds of riders participating and the roadway lined with enthusiastic supporters. Throughout the event, riders could be seen on the highways and byways as they explored Delta County on motorcycle.

Serenity Run celebrates clean and sober livestyle BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The annual Serenity Run motorcycle rally brought several hundred participants to Cedaredge last week for a massive celebration of the clean and sober lifestyle. Serenity Run riders

Cedaredge begins program to curb feral cat population Check out live trap from PD to capture feral cats in Cedaredge for spay, neutering

were greeted in traditional style with a welcome dinner provided by members of the Cedaredge Assembly of God. Members of motorcyle groups like the Crusaders, Sober Souls, Pathfinders, Survivors, Synergy Brotherhood, and Inner Circle joined together, sometimes in prayer, to share experiences and lend each other support for lifestyles free of substance abuse. They came from all over America and the world: Bull Head City, Holland, Pocatello, Ireland, Santa Cruz, Sweden, and many other locales. Local businesses benefitted from a four-day economic shot in the arm as riders ate in restaurants, stayed in motels, and spent money at stores. Local organizations benefitted, too, by hosting

fundraiser events as did the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Cedaredge High School Music Department. Hundreds of area residents lined Highway 65 and Grand Mesa Drive as a long procession of motorcycles made its way through town in the traditional Saturday parade event. According to the International Serenity Run website, the event is a “clean and sober motorcycle run hosted in Colorado, usually on the first weekend in August each year — right before Sturgis. It’s a great time to experience a weekend of friendship and fellowship while camping (or moteling) with other clean and sober bikers and motorcycle enthusiasts on the western slope of beautiful SERENITY RUN TO C2

Mountain lion taken near town

BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

A totally new animal control program designed to improve the health of cats living in Cedaredge’s feral cat colonies and to reduce the risk of disease transmission to humans is being made available to the public at the Cedaredge Police Department. The program is called “TNR,” which stands for “trap, neuter, and release.” The no-kill TNR program is not itself a new animal control regimen; but, it has not been undertaken by the Town of Cedaredge before. The program is being made possible by $1,000 town funding augmented by a $1,400 donation from Jeff and Susie Hirsh of Surface Creek Veterinary Center. The program, for town residents only, begins by picking up one of four live cat traps at the Cedaredge Police Department. Feral cats captured through the program are taken to the Surface Creek Veterinary Center where Drs. Hirsh will spay, neuter and vaccinate the animal at no cost to the person bringing in the cat. The person who trapped the cat will then return it to the locale where it was taken. The trap is then returned to the CPD to receive a refund of the required $30 deposit. Police Department personnel are not doing the trapping. There are forms to submit to CPD before trapping any feral cats to be treated. The traps are numbered to facilitate tracking. Cedaredge Police Department personnel will provide complete program details and trapping instructions to those wanting to participate.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Inagurating Cedaredge’s new TNR (trap, neuter, and release) program for feral cats with a $1,400 donation last week are, from left, Jeff Hirsh, DVM; Michelle Anderson, animal control ofﬁcer; Susie Hirsh, DVM; and Police Chief Dan Sanders. Drs. Hirsh donated the $1,400 to help initiate the program. Trapped cats are not to be taken to the CPD; they are to be taken to Surface Creek Veterinary Center, 17800 Hanson Road. They must be delivered to the clinic in a town-approved live trap by a participant in the program. Feral cats are a public health and safety issue, explained Police Chief Dan Sanders, because of the possibility of disease transmission. There are several colonies of feral cats in town, explained Michelle Anderson, animal control officer. These colonies harbor feline diseases that can be transmitted to household pets, including some diseases that can be transmitted to dogs and humans. Rabies and plague are two examples. The TNR program is not a feral cat eradication program. Cats trapped and treated are not killed. Anderson noted that feral cat colonies provide a service of keeping rodent populations in check. The Cedaredge Police Department is participating

in the TNR program for feral cats only. The department’s policy is not to answer calls on cats unless there is an immediate serious emergency. Cats trapped and delivered to Surface Creek Veterinary Center must not be domesticated and must have come from a feral cat colony within the Cedaredge town limits to be eligible. Program guidelines include criteria for dealing with the possibility of a domestic cat being trapped inadvertently. The town program is not available to county residents, nor for feral cats from colonies located in the unincorporated areas. Surface Creek Veterinary Center already has a special service for dealing with feral cats from colonies located in the unincorporated areas. “It is a small budget for this program. This program wouldn’t have been possible without the help of Surface Creek Veterinary Center,” Anderson said.

On July 21, on a private property three miles north of Cedaredge, a marauding mountain was taken. The property owner, who asked that her name not be used, told the DCI that state wildlife official had given permission for the animal to be taken. Wildlife officials took

possession of the carcass. The lion had been raiding livestock on family property and had taken three goats. “The goats were taken in predawn and the cat came back in the evening,” explained the landowner in an e-mail. “The approximate weight was 200 pounds and its tail touched the ground when it was draped over the four-wheeler.”

Photo submitted

The size of a 200-pound mountain lion’s paw is gauged next to the hand of a hunter who shot the marauding cat three miles north of Cedaredge on July 21.

C2 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Hospital, credit union expand in Cedaredge BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

To improve patient access, a priority for Delta County Memorial Hospital, the hospital has moved rehabilitation services and blood draws into a clinic at 1240 S. Grand Mesa Drive in Cedaredge. Brooke Loucks, DPT, provides physical therapy on Tuesdays and Thursdays. She is a fiveyear employee of Delta County Memorial Hospital who has been working out of the rehab clinic in Hotchkiss. Previously, she said, physical therapy was

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confined to two rooms in Dr. Pulsipher’s office. Now there’s room to expand and offer a fullyfunctioning clinic similar to those in Hotchkiss and Delta. Loucks said she loves working in a rural setting, where she can work with her friends and neighbors. “I love my job,” she said. “I don’t know if I could do a desk job.” Rehab aide Toni Miracle schedules appointments. The clinic’s phone

number is the same — 856-8587. A blood draw station is open every Tuesday and Thursday from 8 to 11 a.m. DCMH lab manager Tracy Robb said blood is transported to the hospital for lab work, and same-day results are generally available for the patient’s physician. Delta County Federal Credit Union has also increased its presence in the Surface Creek area. Nathan Sponseller, vice president of operations,

says the credit union board has been considering expansion to the Surface Creek area for a number of years. When the pharmacy moved out of Cedaredge FoodTown and back to downtown Cedaredge, store owner Blake Bynum reached out to the credit union. Sponseller said DCFCU has a number of members in the Surface Creek area; the new location meets the credit union’s mission to serve those individuals with a full range

of services. The branch is staffed by Donna Linman, who worked in the Hotchkiss branch for about 10 years, and two employees hired specifically to staff the new location, Erin O’Connell and Sarah Payne. The site formerly occupied by the pharmacy was upgraded to meet both physical and telecommunications needs. “This branch offers everything, just in a smaller package,” Sponseller said.

The drive-up window is open 8:30 to 5, and the counter inside is manned 9 to 5. The Cedaredge office can be reached at 856-4901. Membership in the Delta County Federal Credit Union is open to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Delta County, or members of their immediate families. Businesses and organizations operating in Delta County are also eligible for membership.

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Photo by Kami Collins

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Physical therapist Brooke Loucks offers encourage- Delta County Federal Credit Union is open for business in the former pharment to Sam Stilson, who is rehabbing after knee macy space at Cedaredge FoodTown. surgery.

Cedar Mesa Club hosts salad supper

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The members of the Cedar Mesa Community Club are offering something new this summer — a salad summer fundraiser. On Sunday, Aug. 13, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the clubhouse, 15637 Peach Road, the ladies will apply their wellknown cooking skills to preparing a wonderful variety of salads for everyone to dine on. This will be a summertime version of the club’s ever-popular fall/ winter soup suppers.

Dessert and drinks will also be offered in exchange for a donation to the club’s building fund. Club members are in the process of applying for grants to build an addition on their historic clubhouse, to bring their facility into the 21st century to better serve the members and the community at-large. Until now the only funds that have been earmarked for the building fund are the proceeds received from alumi-

num can recycling. Collection bins are located at Fritchman Packing Shed on Hwy. 65 in Eckert. This income has given them a good start on matching funds for any grants that might be obtained, but much more is needed. Raising this money while still donating to local charities and giving scholarships is a lot to ask of such a small charitable organization, so new projects and fundraisers are in the works. The salad supper is only the

beginning. So if you’re tired on Sunday, Aug. 13, after a busy weekend of fun, or work, and don’t want to cook, please consider the Cedar Mesa Club’s salad supper as a welcome respite. And if you’ve got a house full of company, bring them along. Help the club start a new tradition. For more information about the supper or the club’s building plans, please call 8354844, 443-691-5842 or 856-4165.

Serenity Run

Photo by H. Lohmeyer

Entertaining

Popular local entertainer Roy Martin was a featured performer at last Saturday’s Celebrate Cedaredge.

Two Walk-In Locations: Proximity Space 210 E. Main St., Montrose

FROM PAGE C1 Colorado. We absolutely insist on enjoying life and welcome members of all 12-Step fellowships to join in some of the most gorgeous surroundings you’ll ever see. “Our Purpose: The International Serenity Run was established to further the principles, ideals, and traditions of 12-Step recovery among clean and sober motorcycle riders, providing a place where all clean and sober riders could gather annually in friendPhoto by Hank Lohmeyer ship and in the spirit of A group of Serenity Run riders pauses for a moment fellowship to share their of thanks at the Cedaredge Assembly of God’s tralives in recovery.” ditional welcome dinner.

Senior CommUnity Meals ofﬁce 350 Stafford Lane, Delta

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Delta County Independent

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SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

Garden club savors its herbs BY JOAN CHAMBERS Plant & Dig Garden Club

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Enterprising students

Last week’s Serenity Run provided the opportunity for enterprising CHS students to raise money for the school’s music program. Shown from left above participating in the third annual Serenity Run Bike Wash are marching band members Hannah Hohenstein, Faith Vader, Olivia Hohenstein, Elisabeth Cole and Isaac Vader.

Packed house

The Plant & Dig Garden Club’s meeting for July was all about herbs. Members discussed the ways that we use herbs in cooking, which ones we grow in our individual herb gardens, how we dry them and how much we enjoy having them as part of our personal gardens. Parsley, chives, oregano, rosemary, basil and sage seemed to be among the most popular herbs grown with dill being top of the list for the “picklers” among us. The new xeric bed at Pioneer Town is planted! It will take some time for it to mature into full glory, but the plants are

Photo by Dale Russell Smith

The new group Dawson Springs performed before a packed house at the Chapel of the Cross in Cedaredge on Sunday afternoon. The group consists of (from left to right) Paul Frazier, Larry Claxton, Tom Kay (TK) and Beth Williams. Their wonderful music, vocal blends and talent was enjoyed by all!

doing well, and eventually the three spirea bushes, the yuccas, artimesia, Lamb’s ear, evening primroses, yarrows and ground cover edgings will add much to the beauty of the grounds. Mission accomplished! Special thanks once again to Greg Hart for the new watering system, to Benson Bros. Sand & Gravel for donating the trail mix for the foundation cover and to the Surface Creek Historical Society for allowing us to take on this project. August is our club’s designated month to water and deadhead the beautiful large flower pots in the courtyard at Horizons Care Center. It is a privilege to share in this worthwhile project, helping to maintain this peaceful setting for the residents and staff to enjoy. This year marks the 15th anniversary for this project with every garden club in the area helping to make it a success all through the years. August is usually a month when our club does not meet. But this year we are headed to Grand Mesa for a walk in the woods to view the wildflowers and enjoy a picnic lunch in the fresh air of “Thunder Mountain.” This is the first time the members will do this in August. The mountain will be displaying a different set of flowers for us to observe. Should be interesting

— and fun. We hope you will join us in our monthly adventure into the world of gardening. Our programs are geared to every phase

of gardening. And we have a good time, as well. We invite you to contact us for more information about our club by calling 856-3897 or 856-7077.

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Birds of the Western Slope A look at local birds with Evelyn Horn War Well, the time has arrived. And hummingbird warfare has begun. The black-chinned was here but now he’s gone and the rufous has come back ... again. I think that my rufous is an immature bird, his markings are less distinct, but a bird is a bird! The black-chinned shows the purple band at the bird’s throat. I have only seen it a few times when the light is just right and I’m in the right position. The rufous on the right looks like a mature bird and he’s in the right position for this column. A couple of days ago, Jim Wallace alerted me that he had rufous and black-chinned both. So I should watch. And, here I am, standing on our back porch, waiting for the rain to return, (it has looked threatening all day, but very little rain!). I can see our black-chinned feeding on the trumpet vine’s flowers. The flowers look much better than they did last week for our Bullock’s oriole has apparently gone. A few days ago, I found a carcass near the mail box in front of our house. The cleanup crew had already been busy and I couldn’t tell except

that the bird was either a female or a young one (no dramatic markings like the adult male). I recall reading that the young ones suffer a 75 percent attrition rate. Only about 25 percent grow to maturity. I nearly cried. Whoosh. And here is the rufous! He’s above the black-chinned. Blackchinned flies downward and away to his left ... out of sight. Rufous seems to be jumping up and down! But here comes black-chinned from a lower branch and rufous turns around in mid-air. Neat trick! And away he goes after blackchin. And I wonder if this will ever stop. Yes, when the sun goes down the war will end — for our birds are diurnal. *** According to the Cornell Lab of Ornitholgy, rufous hummingbirds winter in Mexico, can be found in California in the spring, summer in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska and spend time in the late summer and fall in the Rocky Mountains on their return circuit. The black-chinned hummingbird nest in the Rocky Mountains and winter further south along the Pacific coast of southern Mexico.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Fundraising fervor

The feeling of family was in the air at Cedaredge Town Park on Saturday as the Pondy Cancer Warriors staged a beneﬁt fundraising walk to help local people and their loved ones with battles against life threatening disease. Organizer Barb Hladik said the group of volunteers are “generous hearted people.”

Blackchin hummingbird

Rufous hummingbird

After much searching, I found these two photos on the website of Cornell Lab of Birds. I do thank them. Comparing their measurements the two are nearly identical but the rufous is pugnacious. Bird Length Wingspan Weight Blackshin 3.75” 4.75” 0.12 ounce Rufous 3.75” 4.5” 0.12 ounce

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Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

1k fun event

Participants line up for the start of the Family Fun 1k event held in conjunction with the Celebrate Cedaredge vendor street fair last Saturday.

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C6 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Photos by Pat Sunderland

A sweet event

Kason Langlois of Montrose (above) polishes off an ear of corn at the Olathe Sweet Corn Festival. On the right, a cornhole game takes place in the beer garden and Tyller Gummersall gets the crowd warmed up. Food, music, kids’ games and corneating contests were topped by a performance by country artist Rodney Atkins.

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Classifieds

August 9, 2017

Real Estate

D SECTION

Delta County Independent

BUY • SELL • TRADE

Real Estate

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Real Estate

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DCI DEADLINES Space Reservation for ALL Display Advertising Fridays (5 p.m.) Copy for Display Advertising Mondays (noon) Legal Notices Mondays (10 a.m.) Classified Ads Mondays (10 a.m.) Too Late To Classify Mondays (noon) Calendar Of Events Items Tuesdays (10 a.m.)

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Rentals

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OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT! Two office area for rent in upstairs of the Chamber. Great location on Main St.; utilities included. Call 8748616 for more info! (4x29)

Produce PEACHES ARE GREAT to eat, give as gifts, or for canning. Rogers Mesa Fruit, corner of Hwy 92 and 3100 Rd., Hotchkiss. (2x32)

For Sale MISC. KITCHEN ITEMS, pots, pans; Power Climber mtn. bike + 4 rims; misc. old tools; long mink coat; have photos. Call 970-589-2257. (1x32)

ADVERTISE 874-4421

Yard Sales HUGE ESTATE SALE. Antique furniture, collectibles and much more. All must go. Aug. 12 & 13, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 949 Meeker St., Delta. Cash only. (1x32)

Services KEITH'S SMALL TRACTor Service, tilling, marking, brushing, ditch cleaning, corral cleaning, post holes, 970-250-4800. (TFN)

Help Wanted OPERATORS NEEDED: Con-Sy is in search of equipment operators for project in Delta County. Please email resume to consyinc@aol. com or fax to office at 303549-1269. (2x32)

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Thank you for your cooperation

Help Wanted

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Help Wanted

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THE TOWN OF ORCHARD City and Town of Cedaredge are accepting applications for a shared Building Inspector Official. This position is responsible for ensuring all construction occurring within both town limits complies with adopted International Building/ Commercial Code and all other relevant regulations of both Towns. A detailed job description is available at Cedaredge Town Hall. The position is part time, about 8-16 hours weekly during construction season and 4-6 hours weekly off season, with hourly adjustments as necessary. Hourly wage $17-$22 DOE. International Code Council Certification is preferred. Continuing education and local training opportunities are provided within available resources. Interested persons may submit a completed Town application to Cedaredge Town Hall on or before 4:00 p.m. August 31, 2017. Applications may be obtained at Town Hall, 235 W. Main, (P.O. Box 398 for mailing), Cedaredge, CO 81413, www.cedar edgecolorado.com or by calling (970) 856-3123. The Town of Cedaredge is an EOE/ADA employer. The application process will be processed by the Town of Cedaredge with both Towns reviewing and hiring. (4x32)

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ADVERTISING SALES Position: Duties include servicing established accounts and generating new ones in the North Fork and Surface Creek areas, developing creative advertising ideas, proofreading ads and other related duties. No experience necessary but candidate must be outgoing, ROGERS MESA FRUIT AT quick learner, great comthe corner of Hwy 92 and municator, dependable, 3100 Rd in Hotchkiss is hir- multi-tasker and creative. ing seasonal packers and 28-30 hours per week. Good sorters. Please come fill out driving record and reliable an application. (2x31) vehicle required. Email FULL TIME/ PART TIME resume with cover letter CNAs, evening and night to Roxanne McCormick at shifts. $500 sign-on bonus. ads@deltacountyindepend Apply in person at San Juan ent.com or mail/ drop off Living Center, 1043 Ridge at 401 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416. (2x31) St., Montrose. (4x29)

ECKERT PRESBYTERIAN Church will be hiring a new organist/choir director to begin the first Sunday in September. If you are interested in applying for one or both positions, and are musically talented in these skills, please contact Janice Jones at 970-210-3388. (3x31) HELP WANTED PARTtime. $11.00/hr. outside/ inside. 970-901-6212. (2x31) FULL TIME/ PART TIME LPNs and RNs, evening and night shifts. Licensed nurse sign-on bonus. Apply in person at San Juan Living Center, 1043 Ridge St., Montrose. (4x29) ADVERTISE! 874-4421.

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to the DCI. Call 874-4421

for the rates in your area.

D2 Wednesday, August 9, 2017 Help Wanted

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

Delta County Independent

Help Wanted

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WHAT TYPES OF Cottage Foods Can I Produce? Whole eggs, spices, teas, dehydrated produce, nuts, seeds, Honey, jams, jellies, and preserves, fruit butter, candies, certain bake goods If you have any questions, please call: 8742165. Delta County Health Department. (4x32) THE DELTA COUNTY Independent runs these items as a public service free of charge for non-profit organizations, if no fees are charged. However, each group is asked to please keep them current by calling 874-4421. WANNA PLAY A ROUND? Golf with a fun group of ladies. Two membership options available. Sign up at www.cedaredgeladies golf.com. Get to know us on Facebook at “cedar edgeladiesgolfclub”

CARING FOR CAREgivers, C4C - supporting hearts that care. Open to ANY caregiver. Meets monthly in Delta, 2nd Tuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Delta. THE ABRAHAM CONNECtion homeless shelter, located at 480 Silver St., Delta, offers emergency overnight shelter and food to men, women and families in the Delta area midOctober- April. Call us at 970-773-8290 to make a referral, or for information on how to volunteer or donate. www.Delta AbrahamConnection. org.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS Wanted! Delta County Memorial Hospital needs hospital volunteers. Days and hours are flexible. There are currently openings in the ER, Oncology, Gift Shop and some addiALCOHOLICS ANONY- tional areas. If you are mous meets Thursdays at 7 interested, please contact p.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. Volunteer Coordinator, 897 Palmer Street, Delta. Percy Ake at (970) 596-7458 CO FATHER’S NETWORK- for an application. dedicated to providing WOMEN ONLY AA MEETcommunity and education ings, Delta. Wednesdays, to fathers of special needs 5:00 p.m., closed kids. Meets twice monthly (Alcoholics only) at Friends on the 1st Saturday at 11 of Bill W. Club, 897 Palmer. a.m. and the 3rd Monday Saturdays, 11:00 a.m., open at 6:30 p.m. - 511 E. 10th St, (others may attend) at St. Delta. See our website for Luke's Episcopal Church, more details: www.codads. 5th & Palmer (back door). org

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Public Service

Public Service FREE DIAPERS FOR UP to one year! Pregnant women in Delta County can now get help to quit smoking and get something they can really use after their baby arrives — free diapers. Healthy moms have healthy babies. Enroll in the Baby & Me Tobacco Free program today. Contact the Delta County Health Department at 874-2165 or your local physician. SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store. WELCOME RETURNING Veterans, Post 9221 VFW meets at 5:00 p.m. on the 4th Thursday of each month in Cedaredge. To find out how to participate in promoting patriotism and assisting veterans, contact Wayne Hamrick, (970) 2501180. AARP DRIVER SAFETY Course. Save on insurance, keep up on newer traffic laws, learn defensive driving techniques. For details and schedule contact John Loring (970) 856-6924 or (970) 424-1778. HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Historical Museum. Winter hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. thru December 24. $3 admission or free to members. Come see our museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in Hotchkiss. 872-3780. CHECK OUT THE BOOK store at the library. You'll find a great selection of paperbacks at reasonable prices. IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, you will love the Downstairs Bookstore in the basement of the Delta Public Library. NARCOTICS ANONYmous meets at 9th and Palmer, Delta, Mondays and Fridays at 8 p.m. BECAWS! DONATIONS needed. Credit cards accepted. Call 970-527-3350, or visit cawsonline.org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter DELTA FOOD PANTRY needs meals for Delta families who are temporarily in need. Donations of nonperishable food may be brought to 628 Meeker. HELP!!! KEEP THE animal population under control, and SAVE an animal's life. Adopt your new cat or dog from the Delta County Humane Society. Adoption fee is minimal. Call 874-2149. THERE IS A VFW MEETING on the first Monday of each month. At 6 p.m. there is a potluck and the meeting is at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 1250 Pioneer Rd., Delta. For further information, call 874-8172 Jim Baker, Quartermaster. BECAWS! ADOPT A DOG or cat today. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter DISCOUNT BECAWS! spay and neuter coupons available. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and aShelter

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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Wednesday, August 9, 2017

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Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 9, 2017

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D6 Wednesday, August 9, 2017

BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

B A An impetus C to create K P A G E K

Polymer clay artist Karen Brueggemann sets up for a demonstration of her medium during an event at ImpressionZ Gallery.

BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

aren Brueggemann has been creating objects of art her whole life. She has been selling her creative works since she was in junior high school. But it has been only since she and Ted, her husband of 54 years, began their move to Cedaredge 10 years ago that Karen really began to think of herself as an artist. “I have a strong impetus to create,” Karen says. “Creating is something that I have just got to do.”

Karen displays a “cone” she has fashioned. Cones are one of the basic building blocks in her work.

But, perhaps surprisingly, even with decades of work in her portfolio she said, “For a long time I didn’t think of myself as an artist. I denied that I was an artist.” Then while packing up boxes with photographs of the many works she had completed over the years she realized, “I really am an artist. That’s what I was put here for.” Since that time, her artistic enterprise has expanded into a wholly new medium for her — polymer clay — a big departure from the large works of copper, paintings and watercolors she has produced. Though her polymer clay medium is relatively new to her, she still uses it to express favorite themes of the American Southwest from the years she and Ted lived south of Albuquerque. Karen discovered polymer clay when she signed up for a class being offered by artist Tish Collins. Only two students enrolled in the sessions. They set themselves to learning about polymer clay with some of the most personalized, attentive instruction that any art student could hope to have. The course was scheduled for eight hours, and after the first four hours Karen says, “I was hooked. I had gotten it with the polymer clay medium. I was inspired by it.”

That was about eight years ago. It has been a remarkably productive departure for Karen in her long art career. Working with polymer clay keeps her busy for hours at a time in the upstairs studio she has in her log home north of Cedaredge. She and Ted have two grown children and a daughter-in-law who is considered a daughter, too. There are two grandchildren to help keep family gatherings lively. Karen has more time now for her new art since retiring in January from 45 years of displaying her work around the country at shows and art fairs. During those years she showed artwork at Bellevue, Wash., Baltimore, San Juan Capistrano, Austin, Texas, and throughout the Midwest. Now she is selling in galleries. “The arts and craft shows are a lot of work, but it has been a good career,” she says. She also displays work on Pinterest. She said she has many photos of her jewelry and wall art made from polymer clay. One of her photos on Pinterest has been “repinned” over 1,400 times, she said. For a time in the 1980s, she and her daughter had a specialty screen printing business making prints for other artists. Polymer clay is a manmade substance that cures at 275 to 300 degrees. Small works in polymer clay can be cured in a toaster oven at far lower temperatures than earthen clay. Polymer clay is available in over 50 colors. It is lightweight, durable and colorfast after it is cured. Dramatic effects of color and pattern combinations are possible working with polymer clay. Karen uses various techniques of layering, extruding and blending the material to achieve the visual interactions the material is capable of producing. Karen makes the shapes

for jewelry using simple tools and usually finishes them off by hand. The common pasta machine “is a polymer clay artist’s best friend,” she says. It is used to soften the clay and to create the thin sheets which are the basis for creating “cones” from which many of the designs are created. She enjoys the community of artists who work in the medium. “The polymer clay community is a very sharing community,” she says. They like to talk about their work and gather in groups to share ideas and techniques. Karen says it’s a “fun challenge to figure out how another artist has done something” in polymer clay. “I wish I had discovered this 30 years ago. It is all an artist needs — three-dimensional color! What else could an artist ask for?” she says. Her friendship with artist Ella Kelly is one of the best things that has come from being involved with the ImpressionZ Gallery at Cedaredge, she says. The arts community gives support and encouragement to artists. Her work is displayed at

other galleries as well — at Albuquerque, Sedona, Blue Pig at Palisade, Pagosa Springs, Edwards and Pioneer Town. Her creative imagination just keeps clicking with the medium and has been doing so ever since her first lessons.

The vibrant colors and patterns available in the polymer clay medium are more subdued in this stylish necklace and earring display.

A display of Karen’s bracelets shows the wide variety of color and pattern combinations that are available working with polymer clay.

One of these colorful turtles would brighten up anyone’s day.

Karen creates jewelry and many other types of items in her studio work space at home.

Karen’s work includes wall and decor pieces from polymer clay.