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Every night at 8 p.m. in your time zone, take a minute to step outside and let out a howl! Howling has become a ritual in response to being cut off from one another by the pandemic. We howl to thank our nation’s health care workers and first responders for their selfless sacrifices. Others howl to reduce their pain, isolation and frustration. Some have other reasons, such as to show support for all of our workers on the front lines, such as grocery and pharmacy employees, delivery drivers, restaurant and brewery workers, etc. Set your alarm for 8 p.m. tonight and join us in a cathartic howl!
April 17, 2020
Photo by Dawn Wilson
dawnwilsonphotography.com See Dawn’s new wildlife column on page 6 this week!
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Town COVID-19 Updates Community Relief Funds In March, the Town allocated $250,000 in community relief funds to help fill critical needs in the form of food, housing and business/organizational support. Our Community Relief Task Force, composed of Town staff and local nonprofit leaders, fields requests for grant funds and makes award recommendations. Yesterday, the Town awarded $25,000 to the Estes Park Housing Authority to provide direct rent relief for tenants who can demonstrate financial need. The Housing Authority will be providing an additional $25,000 in rent relief to match the Town's award. This award is in addition to $205,000 awarded in previous weeks to address critical needs associated with food insecurity, housing/shelter, and small business assistance. Learn more at www.estes.org/covid-19partners. Recovery Team looking ahead and providing much-needed resources now The Accelerated Recovery Team (ART) is one of four Town-led teams working on COVID-19 response and recovery. This team is focused on planning for a quick recovery after the end of physical distancing orders implemented by the State and County. The group is focused on sharing resources with each other and the business community; and strategizing specific ways to support a faster and more
robust economic recovery. Members include: Town of Estes Park, Estes Park Economic Development Corporation (EDC), Estes Park Chamber of Commerce, Visit Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, YMCA of the Rockies and the Estes Valley Area Lodging Association. The team has so far collaborated on several initiatives to support business and economic recovery in the Estes Valley, including: *Hosting a virtual Town Hall for business with over 150 participants. Representatives from the Town, Chamber, EDC and Larimer County Small Business Development Center and Workforce Development presented helpful resources and answered questions. *The Town, Chamber and Estes Park Police Department are hosting a multiweek webinar series designed to provide tools for recognizing and understanding the emotional and physiological impact of the COVID-19 crisis. Each week, speakers will focus on a different topic area, all meant to support and nurture our relationships with ourselves and each other during this unprecedented event. The first webinar topic will be "Navigating the Emotional & Physical Impact of Grief " takes place April 15 at 1 p.m. Register at https://business.esteschamber.org/events/details/resources-for-healing-the-whole-persona-self-care-webinar-series-700 *The EDC and Town of Estes Park are
EVFPD firefighters generally respond to During the week of April 5, the Estes medical calls in their personal vehicles, Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) allowing for a faster response. On other responded to 9 calls for service. This inincidents, firefighters respond to a fire cluded: station to respond in department appara- • Emergency medical (assist EPH): 2 tus with specialized equipment. • Gas Leak: 1
3,500 copies were printed this week, and distributed FREE to hundreds (normally) of Estes Valley locations including Allenspark, Glen Haven & Lyons. See p. 5
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partnering to help connect businesses in need with local business advisors. Advisors can help provide guidance and support for businesses in the Estes Valley who are facing a variety of questions and/or challenges as a result of COVID-19. *Visit Estes Park will be hosting a "communication clearinghouse" website that pulls local resources and information together in one location. The site will provide links to the latest Federal, State, County and Local public health information, information on human services (e.g., housing, food, child care, mental health), volunteer and donation opportunities, business recovery resources and more. Emergency order extending vacation home registration timeline The stay-at-home orders have placed a hold on code compliance inspections required for new and transferred vacation home licensees to complete their registrations. A small number (30) of current in-progress registrations or new vacation homes from the Town's waiting list are eligible to apply as others let their registrations lapse within the cap. The emergency order extends the deadline for registration completion from 90 to 180 days in order to allow inspections to occur as soon as orders are lifted. The complete orders are available at https://drive.google.com/open?id=1V O6gPuQF_-4FLSetEc-K_E-dFi2FljsM.
• Motor Vehicle Crash: 2 • Alarm: 2 • Fire: 1 • Assist: 1 Estes Valley Fire www.estesvalleyfire.org
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Estes Park EDC And Town Of Estes Park Business Advisor Program The Estes Park Economic Development Corporation (Estes Park EDC) and Town of Estes Park are partnering to help connect businesses in need with local Business Advisors. Advisors can help provide guidance and support for businesses in the Estes Valley who are facing a variety of questions and/or challenges as a result of COVID-19, including: General leadership/business coaching Change management Operational resiliency
Financial management Technology improvements Navigating small business loans and grants Marketing Businesses of all sizes and types are welcome to participate. If you are interested in participating as a Business Advisor or Advisee, please contact Estes Park EDC President/CEO Adam Shake at ashake@estesparkedc.com.
Help Your Community By Making And Donating Fabric Masks Donation site at Town Hall Larimer County Department of Health and Environment is collecting homemade masks for essential workers. The Town has set up a donation site at the western Town Hall entrance (vestibule
entry to the Police Department, 170 MacGregor Ave.) It will be available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. More information below. Thank you for your support!
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Larimer County Public Health Director Extends Stay-At-Home Order To Slow The Spread Of COVID-19 The Larimer County Public Health Director has extended the Stay-At-Home order through April 26, 2020. Many people are following the social distancing recommendations and this effort needs to continue. More than half of the Larimer County population has significantly decreased the amount they are traveling within our community. In order to reduce the spread of COVID-19, residents need to keep staying home and maintaining strict physical distance to reduce contact with others. Larimer County is using data to try to predict what will happen in the coming weeks and months. Following the stay-at-home orders and maintaining social distancing will minimize COVID-19 case count, hospitalizations and ventilator usage. Physical distancing is currently the most powerful tool available to reduce the burden on hospitals. Continued and increased physical distancing will save thousands of lives in Larimer County. “Now is the time to stay home. The more seriously our community follows these stayat-home orders, the sooner we can loosen those restrictions, ” said Tom Gonzales, Larimer County Public Health Director. “I appreciate the sacrifices we are all making. Your actions at this moment will save lives and reduce the economic impact of this pan-
demic on our community.” Larimer County has identified and defined essential activities, businesses and infrastructure. These definitions and other information about the Stay-At-Home order are available at larimer.org/health/stay-at-homeorder You can help slow the spread of viruses by: • Staying home, • maintaining distance between people of at least six feet to help reduce spread, • washing hands frequently with soap and water, • avoiding touching your face, • covering coughs and sneezes, • wear fabric masks when visiting essential businesses like a grocery store, and • staying home when sick Information about COVID-19 is constantly changing, and the public health response adjusts as more is learned about this virus. While there is plenty of news and media information available, LCDHE is encouraging Larimer County residents to view the latest credible information on COVID19 at www.larimer.org/coronavirus or www.CDC.gov/coronavirus. Additionally, residents are encouraged to follow LCDHE’s Facebook and Twitter accounts at @LarimerHealth.
See article on page 29 “Hearing Loss In A Time Of Physical Distancing” by Cory Workman, Au.D
Estes Park Museum Extends Closure Until Further Notice With the extended stay-at-home orders from the State and County and the continued closure of Town facilities, the Estes Park Museum will remain closed to the public until further notice. This includes the Museum gallery and cancellation of events. The Town will regularly evaluate the status of its facilities and provide updates when the status can
change The mission of the Estes Park Museum is to conduct activities that preserve, share and respect the unique history of Estes Park. For more information, visit the Museum's website at www.estes.org/museum or contact Director Derek Fortini a dfortini@estes.org.
Schedule Time To Meet Virtually With Mayor Todd Jirsa As we continue physical distancing to limit the spread of the coronavirus, I want you to know that I am still available to discuss Town issues, hear your concerns and answer your questions. Throughout my four years as your Mayor, I have held open office hours weekday mornings. In the last two weeks of my term, I will hold virtual office hours, and we can meet one-on-one
through video conference or by telephone. Please use the form at https://dms.estes.org/forms/virtualmayormeetingrequest to request a meeting and staff will reach out to confirm the appointment. I look forward to meeting with you. Mayor Todd Jirsa
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The 2020 Census Is Happening Now It has never been easier to respond to the census on your own, online, by phone or by mail. Go to www.2020Census.gov to complete your form online. 2020 marks the first time the Census has been available online, making it easier than ever to be counted. Delivery of 2020 Census Paper Questionnaires begins About 64 million households across the nation are receiving a paper questionnaire in the coming days as the U.S. Census Bureau continues to ensure responding to the census is easier than ever. Of the nation's households, 46.2% have already responded to the 2020 Census. The remaining households will receive a paper questionnaire beginning April 8. Response rates in Estes Park are at 34.5 percent as of April 7. Larimer County is at 51.2 percent, and the State of Colorado is at 49.2 percent. "If you're among the nearly half of all the nation's households that have responded already, thank you!" said Census Bureau
Director Dr. Steven Dillingham. "It has never been easier to respond on your own, whether online at 2020census.gov, over the phone, or by mail - all without having to meet a census taker. It's something everyone can do while practicing social distancing at home to make a difference today, tomorrow and the next 10 years." Read the complete article. Watch the Estes Valley Library's Census Q&A and hear from "Noah Webster" Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Census-themed events have been postponed. The Estes Valley Library partnered with the Census Bureau for a question-andanswer session with special guest Maureen Reilly from the U.S. Census Bureau. For added fun, storyteller and librarian Kurtis Kelly introduced the segment in the role of Noah Webster. Webster is credited as the person who started the very first Census ever, by traveling from town to town to gather counts of people in villages. View the recorded event at: https://youtu.be/wM2C_q7syu
Estes Park Planning Commission Announces New Members And Meeting Information The newly formed Estes Park Planning Commission will be comprised of members Matt Comstock for a six-year term, Joe Elkins for a four-year term, Matt Heiser for a four-year term, Howard Hanson for a two-year term and Steve Murphree for a two-year term. Meetings will take place the third Tuesday of each month, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Study sessions may precede meetings if needed for consideration of specific matters, but the Estes Park Planning Commission will not routinely hold study sessions each month. The Estes Park Planning Commission reviews development proposals and subdivision proposals within Estes Park town limits. It is the final decision-making body on development proposals and is a recommending body to the Town Board for subdivision proposals. April's meeting is planned to be a study
session only, held as a virtual meeting. This study session will be devoted to basic education and training for new Planning Commission members. The study session will be held Tuesday, April 21 at 11:30 a.m. The meeting will be streamed live via www.estes.org/videos using YouTube. A recording will also be available after the meeting. The Planning Commission is expected to hold its first monthly business meeting on Tuesday, May 19, at 1:30 p.m. This and subsequent monthly meetings may need to be held virtually until public health orders allow in-person meetings to resume. At that time, most meetings are expected to take place in the Town Board Room, Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Avenue. To learn more about the Estes Park Planning Commission, please visit www.estes.org/boardsandcommissions.
Curent Pickup Locations of EPNEWS “print edition” (At some locations you’ll need to ask at the door!!) Safeway Grocery Store Estes Park News (front porch) Estes Mini Mart Dollar General Store First Colorado Realty Mountain Dew Liquor Village Laundy Judy Anderson Realty Leffler’s Vitamin Store Shell Station on Moraine Country Market Grocery Store Coldwell Banker Range Realty
Poppy’s Pizza & Grill Egg of Estes Bart’s Liquor Boulder Valley Credit Union Mountain Home Cafe Estes Park Team Realty Notchtop Cafe True Value Hardware Safeway Gas Station Rambo’s Liquor Mart Ace Hardware Glen Haven Town Allenspark Town
(There are other current drop-off locations not listed, with many readers, but they are not a pickup location. Email info@epnews.com for possible additions.
Hello Estes Park! We have gotten quite a large load of gallon 99% Isopropyl Alcohol and Bleach in stock for all your disinfecting and sanitizing needs! We also have respirators and filters as well! Please watch our video on our FB page for new safety news and inventory updates. We have the products to keep the spread of this virus low and keep our community and surrounding communities healthy and safe! Please share with friends, family and your neighbors so we can get the word out that we have our safety center stocked for everyone. Go to: Facebook.com/ Park Supply Company ParkSupplyCompany 411 Highway 7 PO Box 1469 Estes Park, CO 80517 970-586-6305
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Five Fun Facts About… Coyotes
By: Dawn Wilson
Welcome to a new weekly column in “Estes Park News”. Check this column each week to learn fun and interesting facts about the wildlife that calls Estes Valley home, like our popular elk, or animals that pass through on their migration each spring and fall. The featured animal for this week: coyote. Coyotes are a local resident in the Estes Valley with several packs found in town and in Rocky Mountain National Park. 1. Coyotes are members of the
Canidae family, making them cousins to fox, wolves and your best friend, your dog. 2. Coyotes don’t howl at the moon but rather howl to communicate to their pack and identify territories. Several coyotes performing their chorus of barks, yips and yelps often sound like more animals than there actually are.
3. A coyote pack is often made up of family members, led by an alpha breeding pair with pups from previous years and pups from the current season. 4. The term “wily” refers to the coyote’s high intelligence level. 5. The word “coyote” has Native American origins from the Aztec language word “coyotl.” Dawn Wilson is a professional and award-winning nature photographer who lives in Estes Park yearround. You can see more of her work and purchase prints at DawnWilsonPhotography.com.
See front page photo by Dawn Wilson
News Update From Safeway We appreciate the community's cooperation and understanding during this time and we’d like to reiterate some of the changes that we have put in place for the safety of our customers and employees: We’ve installed Plexiglas at all check stands as an additional protective barrier. 7 a.m.-8 p.m. limited shopping hours
are still put in place. Senior and high risk shopping has extended to Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 7 a.m.-9 a.m. One way markers in aisles have been put into place to help with social distancing. Main door entrance only and facility limit has been put in place so social distancing can be managed accordingly.
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Q & A For Rec & Park District Board Candidates May 5 Election
The election for three open board positions on the Recreation & Park District Board is May 5, 2020. Due to coronavirus restrictions, the League of Women Voters of Estes Park is unable to hold an in-person Voter Forum for the candidates. They submitted a series of questions to each of the eight board candidates and the question and answer session is on our website at
estesparknews.com The May 5th EVRPD Board of Directors election will have a mail-in absentee ballot option. Download the application and return to Heather Drees, the designated election official, before 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28. Go to evrpd.colorado.gov/ or email heather@evrpd.com
Maintaining The Highest Quality Drinking Water During COVID-19
Water Quality and Laboratory Supervisor, Deborah Callahan, and Lab Technician, Helen Taddonio, analyzing water samples. Courtesy photo
"The Town of Estes Park provides safe, high-quality water that exceeds all stringent state and federal drinking-water regulations," said Utilities Director Reuben Bergsten. "Estes Park's watertreatment methods use filtration and disinfection processes which remove and inactivate viruses." According to the CDC, the virus that causes COVID-19 has not been detected in drinking water. (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/php/water.html) Drinking water standards, established by the Safe Drinking Water Act in 1974, are enforced by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Those standards are strictly upheld by the Town's Water Division at all times, including during the pandemic. Our laboratory continues to collect water samples throughout the Estes Valley, ensuring all standards are met. The first priority of the Town's Water
Division is the health and safety of our staff -- to ensure we can continue to test, treat and distribute water. Back in March, we separated our team into two operational groups that do not share spaces, to reduce the risk of spreading the virus. We also have mutual aid agreements with neighboring communities, to provide assistance in the unlikely event that becomes necessary. At a time when everyone has increased worries of all kinds, we are here making sure water is least of anyone's concerns. There are no water shortages and we continue to deliver some of the best drinking water in the state, which also plays a critical role in good hygiene practices that slow the spread of coronavirus. Bottled water is entirely unnecessary. Our dedicated team of water professionals continues to be on the job 24/7 serving our community.
Wildlife Responder Available To Help Knowledge, experience, skills to assist and educate individuals with and about wildlife encounters/situations. Specialty is elk, deer, bears, mountain lions. Part of Rocky Mtn. Cat Conservancy Research. If you see a kill site, call asap, or if you want more information or help with a wildlife situation, call Jayne the “Bear Lady” at 970-685-8756.
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Thank You From Ward Nelson To The Editor: Congratulations to the new Estes Park Mayor and Trustees. Though we have differed on what we think the job of a Town Board member encompasses, all the candidates ran positive campaigns with the “good of the Town” at heart which is what counts. I’d like to thank all my supportive friends for their votes, letters of endorsement, and loyalty during the election.
Your encouragement is so appreciated, and never forgotten. The voters made their choices, and we must now look to the newly elected Mayor and Trustees for propelling our Town’s future. Thank you all for voting and participating in our Estes Park democratic process. Ward Nelson Estes Park
Thank You, Raul And Sweet Basilico To The Editor: There was a fire on Friday morning, April 3rd, that burned down a rental house along Riverside in Estes Park. The occupants were not in the house at the time, but they returned to see their home in flames. The Red Cross and The Salvation Army were called to assist the displaced couple. Since the Sweet Basilico restaurant was nearby, we contacted owner Raul Perez who opened his doors
to allow us to have a place to meet with the couple and determine what could be done to help. Raul even cooked breakfast for the couple while we were working to get help. All of our restaurants need your patronage for carryout and many have been helping Crossroads as well. If you are in Sweet Basilico for carryout, please tell Raul, “Thank You.” An Estes Park good samaritan
The Story Of Alma Otley Ingersoll Hix 2020 offers all of us the opportunity to celebrate not only the passage of the 19th Amendment but also the achievements of women over that last 100 years. Celebrations are planned nation-wide, in every state and in local communities. A number of local organizations and community leaders, under the leadership of Jean McGuire, have formed a committee to coordinate the local celebration under the title, “100 Years: A Celebration of Women.” As a part of the festivities, we plan to collect stories about Estes Valley women in the form of paragraphs. Submission period: Now to May 15. Maximum length: 200 words, A story about any woman with a connection to Estes Park. These paragraphs will be collected by the Estes Valley Library. They will then appear in the local newspapers and 100 will be chosen to be published as a booklet for November release. Submit your paragraphs digitally (preferred) to choymanwendell@estesvalleylibrary.org or hard copy to the front desk. Here is the next of the submissions. By: Shelley Doggett
Alma Hix arrived 1979 with her hus-
band Frank Hix. Frank was born here and they moved back to take over Insurance Associates for Frank's dad. Charlie Hix was retiring. They met and married in Pennsylvania, 1967. Both had lost their spouses. Alma had four boys and Frank three girls. Their children now grown left the east coast and moved here to start a new life. At age 49 Alma had never run a business but was fearless, smart and eager to learn. Frank was still consulting so Alma was in charge. She grew up in Philadelphia, went to Smith College in Massachusetts eventually getting her Master's in Environmental Science at SUNY College in New York. She previously supported the family by raising the children. Alma believed in women defining their own success and in education. I was fortunate to benefit from her belief. She made it possible for me to start as receptionist and become owner of the agency. She taught leadership and team building. She served our community a multitude of ways over 40 years including the Planning Commission, Hospital Board and Museum. Not surprising she was a wonderful mother and wife. She died October, 2019.
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Easter, the time of rebirth and a sure sign of spring, has come and gone. We look out the window and scan the landscape for her; for flowers and budding trees and flitting, flirting birds. But that’s not what we see. Instead we turn up the furnace, huddle under the afghan, and watch the wind, feel the cold and dare I say it? Brace against the snow! Every spring since I began writing this column (2006), I have stated with conviction (and maybe a touch of whining) that I was ready for spring way before she was ready to show up. This year is no different. (I have a reputation to uphold, don’tcha know.) In his poem “The Snow Man,” Wallace Stevens (1879 – 1955) understands the difficulty of tolerating winter, whether that be in January or even worse, in April: One must have a mind of winter To regard the frost and the boughs Of the pine-trees crusted with snow; And have been cold a long time To behold the junipers shagged with ice, The spruces rough in the distant glitter Of the January sun; and not to think Of any misery in the sound of the wind, In the sound of a few leaves, Which is the sound of the land Full of the same wind That is blowing in the same bare place For the listener, who listens in the snow, And, nothing himself, beholds Nothing that is not there and the nothing that is. I was going to say that eventually, we know that spring will get here, but with the topsy-turvy tilt of the planet on its axis these days, I’m not so sure. Nonetheless, let’s assume that, for as offkilter as everything is, we will still have the changing of the seasons. Maybe not on her regular schedule, but some way, some day, some how, spring is going to make her appearance. What an exquisite appearance it will be! And when we throw off that afghan and step outside to dance with her, we will laugh, as Mary and Susan and Emily do in William Blake’s (1757 – 1827) “Laughing Song”: When the green woods laugh with the voice of joy, And the dimpling stream runs laughing by; When the air does laugh with our merry wit, And the green hill laughs with the noise of it; When the meadows laugh with lively green, And the grasshopper laughs in the merry scene, When Mary and Susan and Emily
With their sweet round mouths sing "Ha, ha he!" When the painted birds laugh in the shade, Where our table with cherries and nuts is spread: Come live, and be merry, and join with me, To sing the sweet chorus of "Ha, ha, he!” Isn’t that a tickle? One little poem written in 1789 makes me feel so much better about the state of affairs today. Or at least better about the fact that the milk has turned sour in the fridge. Nobody wants to put on a mask and go to the store for milk, but “come live, and be merry, and join with me…” When life gives you sour milk, make yogurt. It seems like the planet is under one big skywritten cloud that says “NO! ” No leaving the house. No touching your face. Certainly no hand shaking, hugging, or even jogging too close to anyone else. No eating out. No shopping. No toilet paper. But here’s a poem, written by Kaylin Haught (1947 –) where the word “No” doesn’t exist. It is happy and affirming, called “God Says Yes To Me.” I asked God if it was okay to be melodramatic and she said yes I asked her if it was okay to be short and she said it sure is I asked her if I could wear nail polish or not wear nail polish and she said honey she calls me that sometimes she said you can do exactly what you want to Thanks God I said And is it even okay if I don’t paragraph my letters Sweetcakes God said who know where she picked that up what I’m telling you is Yes Yes Yes We’ve been at this social distancing for a month now. Today, when my affiliate Joe and I sat down to partake in another dinner we prepared together, he took my hand and said, “These are good days. ” We are each other’s sole companion and we’re still enjoying each other’s company. Yes! Yet there is plenty of uncertainty out there, beyond our four walls and our daily walking route. Joe Brainard (1942 – 1994) summed up my sentiment about our earth’s lopsided spin and unpredicatable future with this succinct poem: Sometimes everything seems so, oh, I don’t know. You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com. © 2020 Sarah Donohoe
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Estes Park Health’s Emergency Department Is Vital To Our Mountain Community
Dr. John Meyer
In 2019 the Estes Park Health Emergency Department (EPH ED) saw 6,153 patients. Of those patients, 149 experienced a serious trauma and 48 required a Trauma Team activation. At a time when many rural hospitals are closing their doors and are no longer able to provide local emergency care, Estes Park Health remains strong, prepared, and ready for whatever battle is ahead. Currently the EPH ED is at the front and center of the COVID-19 healthcare
crisis. The entire ED staff has been engaged from the beginning to establish processes for diagnosing and caring for a potential COVID-19 patient. The ED staff has received refresher training on proper use of PPE and Donning and Doffing of PPE. At this time, all staff have the appropriate level of PPE to treat a COVID-19 patient. Currently any patient that screens positive for COVID-19 (answers the questions that might indicate that they’ve been exposed or have symptoms) is being moved to a hospital in the valley with an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). COVID-19 testing is only being provided at EPH for patients that require hospitalization or for healthcare workers. This decision is in line with CDC guidelines. Estes Park Health has been preparing for weeks for a possible surge of COVID-19 patient happening at the valley hospitals that would cause EPH to keep COVID-19 patients here. EPH has created negative pressure rooms in Operating Room 1 and 2 and one of our Med/Surg 4-room pods to accommodate, if necessary, COVID-19 positive patients and to improve safety for staff. Our CRNAs and Respiratory Therapists have refined their processes and defined equipment to care for ventilated pa-
tients. And staff has “drilled” the movement of a COVID-19 patient from the ED to the ORs or negative pressure Med/Surg rooms. During these COVID-19 preparations, we are still seeing emergency patients every day. There are a few more steps to enter the ED, but the care remains quick, professional, and compassionate. From a recent patient, “Personnel was professional, informational, timely, especially during COVID-19. They also called me back the next day and asked me how I was and if I had any questions. I have always appreciated their caring attitude.” Trauma Nurse Coordinator and Registered Nurse Tim Gray echoed those sentiments: “I'm proud to work with a dedicated, highly trained team of nurses and doctors in the EPH ED. We have great support from our EMS team, our ancillary departments, and our administration. All of it adds up to a coordinated, capable hospital that can care for any emergency that comes through our door.” Dr. John Meyer, EPH Chief of Staff and Emergency Room Physician shared his thoughts on working with Emergency Department physicians in the EPH ED, “We want to treat each patient like a friend or family member. We want to es-
tablish trust and drive home that every person working in the ED wants the best for the patient. Our jobs as trained Emergency Medicine physicians makes our area of expertise emergent situations like accidents and serious sudden illnesses. Our job is to keep people alive.” He continued, “We see many non-emergent cases currently in the EPH ED because we haven’t had a place for people to go after Physician Clinic hours. I am also proud to be serving as the Medical Director for the new EPH Urgent Care Center opening May 2020. This truly gives us the best opportunity to offer the right care, in the right place, at the right time, to our community and visitors.” The Estes Park Health Emergency Department is prepared and ready to care for you 24/7/365 during the COVID-19 healthcare crisis and for a long time after. For additional information on the EPH ED, go to eph.org/our-services/ emergency-trauma-services/ emergency-department. And to learn more about the EPH Level IV Trauma Certification, please go to eph.org/our-services/emergencytrauma-services/level-iv-trauma.
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Estes Park Health Foundation’s COVID-19 Emergency Response Fund Up & Running On March 19, the Estes Park Health Foundation Board of Directors created the Estes Park Coronavirus and Subsequent Emergency Response Fund. This fund is designed to support Estes Park Health in its response to preventing and potentially treating COVID-19 in the Estes Valley, and $150,000 is needed. So far, the Foundation has successfully donated $45,000 to convert four rooms in the Med/Surg unit at Estes Park Health to negative pressure rooms. Negative pressure rooms prevent air from the rooms of infected patients escaping to other areas of the hospital and are necessary to protect staff and other patients from exposure. Thank you to The Elizabeth Guild, Rotary Club of Estes Park, and everyone else that donated to this campaign. Right now, patients who may need treatment for coronavirus will be sent to facilities in the Front Range. Officials anticipate that these facilities will fill up, and, when they do, Estes Park Health will be able to treat coronavirus patients at Estes Park Health in these negative pressure rooms, which are
expected to be ready this week. The Foundation also funded the purchase of additional scrubs for Estes Park Health Staff. This initiative was made possible by an emergency grant from the Village Thrift Store, and the Foundation is so grateful for their quick response. These scrubs have already been put into service. Estes Park Health is a central hub of care in this community, providing services including prenatal, general medicine, rehab, surgical, home health and hospice. Responding to COVID-19 in the Estes Valley community creates unanticipated demands on every staff member from the medical staff, IT, HR, Dietary, environmental services, and so on. Elective surgeries and non-urgent appointments have been cancelled at the Medical Center since mid-March. The resources needed to provide care and prevention at Estes Park Health continue to grow. You can help by donating to GiveToEPH.org/COVID19 or calling 970-677-4370 today.
We are open as a virtual church without walls See pccrusa.org for fellowship, prayer and worship schedules Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies https://pccrusa.org Virtual Worship and Fellowship Schedule via Zoom E-mail pastor@pccrusa.org for password Activity and Time
Zoom Meeting Number
Fellowship Hour every Sunday 11 AM
208 642 989
Social Hour every Thursday at 4:30 PM
https://zoom.us/j/106492224
https://zoom.us/j/275108954
1-253-215-8782
https://zoom.us/j/787960956
547 178 866
1-253-215-8782
787 960 956
Midweek Worship every Wednesday at 6 PM
1-253-215-8782
275 108 954
Midday Prayer every M-Th at noon
Call In Telephone Number
https://zoom.us/j/208642989
106 492 224
Worship every Sunday 6 PM
Link to Meeting
1-253-215-8782
https://zoom.us/j/547178866
1-253-215-8782
12 » Friday, April 17, 2020
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Virtual Visits With Estes Park Health Physician Clinic Providers
Dr. Amanda Luchsinger and the first Virtual Visit.
No drive time, no waiting room and no need to leave your home. Technology now affords a convenient way for Estes Park Health patients to connect with their expert Physician Clinic primary care provider. The Estes Park Health Physician Clinic is now offering Virtual/ Telehealth Visits for current patients to provide an avenue to have contact with their regular primary care provider while staying safe at home during the coronavirus pandemic. Virtual Visits are either conducted by audio or video via smartphone, computer, or tablet. Please call the Physician Clinic at 970-586-2200 to set up a Virtual Visit or request a virtual appointment via your My Health Connection portal. A Physician Clinic staff member will work with you to assess the appropriate venue for your visit. What is a Virtual Visit? Providers “see” a patient through a secure video or audio chat. How do Virtual Visit work? Patients with access to a smart phone,
Photo by Mary Moore
tablet, or computer with a camera and a microphone can do a Virtual Visit. If patients don’t have a good internet connection to support the video option, they can do an audio phone visit instead. How do I make an appointment? For a Virtual Visit with your primary care provider, please call the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic at 970-5862200. If you need after-hours help (after 5:00 p.m.) or if you have concerns that you have symptoms of COVID-19, please call the Estes Park Health COVID-19 hotline at 970-577-4400. Can I schedule a primary care Virtual Visit online? Please call the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic at 970-586-2200 to schedule. Or, you can send an online request for a Virtual Visit through My Health Connection and a staff member will call you. Who can do a Virtual Visit? Established patients of an Estes Park Health provider in Colorado can do Virtual Visits. Please call the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic at 970-586-2200 and a staff member will help you. Can patients outside of Colorado receive care through Virtual Visit? If you are an established patient of the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic provider, but are currently located elsewhere, you may request a Virtual Visit. Please call the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic at 970-586-2200 and a staff member will help you determine if a Virtual Visit will appropriately meet your needs. In some cases, you may be advised to seek care in your current location. I want to be a new patient. Can I do a Virtual Visit? Not right now. New patients require an in-depth evaluation and management that necessitates an in-person visit. We are not accepting new patients during the COVID-19 health crisis. We are concentrating our resources on managing the urgent and chronic needs of our
established patients. What is the difference between a Virtual Visit or emergency care visit? If you want to see your regular primary care provider, you may request a Virtual Visit. These visits are more personalized because you will see a provider that already knows you. These are available for non-emergent visits during normal Physician Clinic hours. If you need help for an emergent issue before or after Physician Clinic hours (Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to noon), call 911 or go to the Estes Park Health Emergency Department. If you think you have symptoms of COVID-19, please stay home and call the Estes Park Health COVID-19 Hotline at 970-577-4400. If you are ill with COVID-19 symptoms, but you don’t have to be hospitalized, your provider will probably recommend that you isolate yourself and recover at home. If your symptoms worsen and you need additional care, your provider will have you do a Virtual Visit or will direct you to the nearest hospital. How soon can I get a Virtual Visit appointment? Please call the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic at 970-586-2200 and a staff member will help you schedule the next available appointment. What is the cost for a Virtual Visit? A Virtual Visit with your primary care provider is billed the same as a face-toface visit. Please check with your insurance carrier to make sure telehealth is included in your plan. Some plans are offering out-of-pocket relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding that plans and pandemic relief varies, we will not be collecting patient responsibility in advance for Virtual Visit. Usually all patients are required to pay their regular co-pay at the time of service. Patients with private health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid can participate in a Virtual Visit. I’m not very tech savvy. Will I be able to do a Virtual Visit? Absolutely, Yes! The visits are not difficult at all. An Estes Park Health staff member will walk you through how to do the visit. And if your provider needs to see something on your body, like a surgical scar that is healing, a rash, or a close up of your face, your provider will guide you how to move your phone or how to move closer to the camera on your computer. What types of appointments Work well for a Virtual Visit? Your provider will decide whether a Virtual Visit is appropriate to address your individual health situation. If you’d like to learn if a telehealth visit is appropriate for you, please contact the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic at 970-5862200 to speak with a member of your care team. You may also send a message through My Health Connection. Contact your primary care provider regarding the refills of your prescriptions. Providers may not prescribe pain medications via a Virtual Visit.
What types of health issues don’t work well for a Virtual Visit? If you think you’ve broken a bone or you need an orthopedist to examine your body or a physical therapist to provide treatments, a Virtual Visit probably won’t work. Think, if the provider would need to physically put hands on you to determine a treatment option, a Virtual Visit probably won’t work. If you have an emergent condition that requires an immediate physical exam, please go directly to the Estes Park Health Emergency Department. Beginning May 2020, Estes Park Health will open an Urgent Care Center at 420 Steamer Drive to handle urgent care visits. I made an appointment for a Virtual Visit but need to cancel or reschedule. How do I do that? You can cancel your Virtual Visit through your My Health Connection patient portal. If you would like to reschedule your Virtual Visit, please call the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic at 970-586-2200 and a staff member will help you. What if I have an urgent medical issue and I need to come to the Physician Clinic for care? How do I know I will be safe? Anyone who comes to Estes Park Health with symptoms of COVID-19, like a fever, cough or shortness of breath, will be triaged immediately and seen in a separate area from patients who do not have an infectious illness. In all cases, our staff is being cautious about practicing physical distancing and wearing masks. Our providers and staff are doing everything within their resources to keep you safe. Do not hesitate to get inperson care if suggested by your provider. Please call the Estes Park Health Physician Clinic at 970-586-2200 to schedule an appointment and a staff member will provide guidance on how to best access the Physician Clinic during this healthcare crisis. Please make sure you have an appointment prior to arriving at Estes Park Health. You will not be allowed to enter the facility without a scheduled appointment. Which is faster: emailing my doctor or calling for a Virtual Visit? Estes Park Health providers advise patients to call and arrange a Virtual Visit or make requests via My Health Connection. “With Virtual Visits, we can get people in quickly,” one provider says. Why does the Virtual Visit have UCHealth branding? The healthcare community has come together to make sure that all patients have the greatest opportunity to have continued contact with their primary care provider. UCHealth, with help from our local team, provides the technology for Estes Park Health primary care providers to easily connect with their patients in the comfort of their homes during this healthcare crisis. All healthcare agencies are working together to keep our community safe.
Friday, April 17, 2020 « 13
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This list represents all Estes Park restaurants. It does not indicate which ones are open or are doing temporary take out or delivery. Those listed above are regular advertisers in Estes Park News and offer some food service at this time of the COVID-19 pandemic. Call or check their information as needed. Restaurant Antonio’s NY Pizza Avant Garde Ale Baldpate Inn Big Horn Restaurant Bird and Jim Bob & Tony’s Pizza Boss Burgers Gyros Cafe de Pho-Thai Casa Grande Mex. Cascades at Stanley Chelitos Mexican China Garden Cinnamon’s Bakery Claire’s on the Park Coffee on the Rocks Cousin Pat’s Pub Dairy Queen Domino’s Pizza Dunraven Inn Ed’s Cantina Egg of Estes El Mex-Kal Elkins Whisky Estes Park Brewery Estes Park Pie Shop Fresh Burger Stop Grubsteak Rest. Himalayan Curry Hunters Chophouse Kind Coffee Latitude 105 Ale La Cabana Mexican La Cocina De Mama Local’s Grill Lonigans Grill
Address 1560 Big Thompson 920 Dunraven St. 4900 S. CO-7 401 W Elkhorn Ave. 915 Moraine Ave. 124 W. Elkhorn Ave. 861 Moraine Ave. 225 W. Riverside Dr. 220 E. Elkhorn Ave. 333 Wonderview 145 E. Elkhorn Ave. 460 W. Riverside Dr. 920 W. Elkhorn Ave. 225 Park Lane 510 Moraine Ave. 451 S. St. Vrain Ave. 218 E. Elkhorn Ave. 457 E. Wonderview 2470 CO. Hwy 66 390 E. Elkhorn Ave. 393 E. Elkhorn Ave. 160 First St. 1825 N. Lake Ave. 470 Prospect Village 509 Big Thompson 860 Moraine Ave. 134 W. elkhorn Ave. 101 w. Elkhorn Ave. 1690 Big Thompson 470 E. Elkhorn Ave. 101 So. St. Vrain 165 Virginia Dr. 361 S. St. Vrain Ave. 153 E. Elkhorn Ave. 110 E. Elkhorn Ave.
Phone 970 586-7275 970 591-2700 970 586-5397 970 586-2792 970 586-9832 970 586-2044 970 586-3137 970 577-0682 970 577-0799 970 577-4001 970 586-0886 970 586-2488 970 480-1501 970 586-9564 970 586-5182 970 586-7287 970 586-4939 970 586-8181 970 586-6409 970 586-2919 970 586-1173 970 586-4377 970 480-1848 970 586-5421 970 577-7437 970 480-1492 970 586-8838 970 586-6226 970 586-6962 970 586-5206 970 586-1156 970 586-9001 970 586-6900 970 586-4346
Website estesparkpizza.com avantgardealeworks.com baldpateinn.com bighornestespark.com birdandjim.com cafedephothai.squarespace.com casagrandemexicana.com stanleyhotel.com chelitos-restaurant.com chinagardenestespark.com cinnamonestespark.com clairesrestaurantandbar.com cousinpatspubandgrill.com dairyqueen.com dominos.com dunraveninn.com edscantina.com eggofestes.com elmex-kal.com elkinswhisky.com epbrewery.com youneedpie.com grubsteakestespark.com himalayancurryandkebob.com hunterschophouse.com kindcoffee.com ridegelinehotel.com/latitude-105 lacocinadmama.com lonigans.com
Lumpy Ridge Brew 531 S. St. Vrain Ave. McDonalds Rest. 501 Big Thompson Mama Rose’s Rest. 338 E. Elkhorn Ave. Mile High Coffee 356 E. Elkhorn Ave. MollyB Rest. 200 Moraine Ave. Mountain Home Cafe 457 E. Wonderview Napal’s Cafe 184 E. Elkhorn Ave. National Park Village 900 Moraine Ave. Nickys Steakhouse 1350 Fall River Rd. Notchtop Bakery 459 E. Wonderview Oppa Asian Bistro 183 W. Riverside Dr. Penelope’s Burgers 229 W. Elkhorn Ave. Pepper Mexican Grill 401 E. Elkhorn Ave. Poppy’s Pizza & Grill 338 E. Elkhorn Ave. Raven’s Roast Coffee 157 W. Elkhorn Ave. Rock Cut Brewery 390 W. Riverside Dr. Rock Inn Mtn. Tavern 1675 CO-66 Rocky Mtn. Deli 541 Big Thompson Rocky Mtn. Gateway 3450 Fall River Rd. Scratch Deli 911 Moraine Ave. Seasoned Bistro 205 Park Ln. Shakes Alive 513 Big Thompson Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ 820 Moraine Ave. Snowy Peaks Winery 292 Moraine Ave. Starbucks Coffee 537 Big Thompson Subway 517 Big Thompson Sweet Basilico 430 Prospect Village Thai Kitchen 401 S. St. Vrain Ave. The Barrel 251 Moraine Ave. The Village Pizza 543 Big Thompson Twin Owls Steak 800 MacGregor Ave. Vinu Giu 207 Park Ln. Wapiti Colorado Pub 247 W. Elkhorn Ave WayFinder 900 Moraine Ave. Wild Rose Est. 157 W. Elkhorn Ave Ziggi’s Coffee 519 S. St. Vrain Ave.
970 235-1752
lumpyridgebrewing.com
970 586-3330 970 586-2222 970 586-2766 970 586-6624 970 577-7035 970 586-2776 970 586-5376 970 586-0272 970 577-8888 970 586-2277 970 577-0032 970 586-8282 970 586-4326 970 586-7300 970 586-4116 970 586-4791 970 577-0043 970 586-8383 970 586-9000 970 577-7007 970 577-7427 970 586-2099 970 586-1600 970 577-7744 970 586-3899 970 577-7112 970 616-2090 970 577-1300 970 586-9344 970 564-3515 970 586-5056 970 586-3098 970 586-2806 970 591-2532
mamarosesrestaurant.com mollybestespark.com mountainhomecafe.com nationalparkvillage.com nickyssteakhouse.com thenotchtop.com penelopesburgers.com peppersmex.com estesdining.com rockcutbrewing.com rockinnestes.com rockymountain deli.com rockymountaingateway.net seasonedbistro.com shakesalive.com smokindavesq.com snowypeakswinery.com sweetbasilico.com thaikitchenonline.com thebarrel.beer thevillagepizza.com twinowls.net vinogiu.com the wapitipub.com wayfindercolorado.com wildroserestaurant.com ziggiscoffee.com
14 » Friday, April 17, 2020
Pete Seeger wrote a song in the late 1950s titled “Turn, Turn, Turn.” His words were taken directly from the Bible’s book of Ecclesiastes. While other artists have recorded the song, I was introduced to it by an American folk/rock band named The Byrds in 1965. To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, a time to reap . . . I was reminded of those words this past week when snow dampened the spring fever that was germinating around our house. I’d started working on our flower and vegetable beds and was in the midst of planning what plants would go where. Our eldest son, Thad, is always a source of inspiration about this time of year. A prolific gardener, he starts his seedlings indoors in late February and early March. As a result, his home is currently overflowing with starter trays and grow
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lights. While I wish I could claim Thad’s green thumb came from me somehow— that couldn’t be further from the truth. Just ask the few houseplants forced to coexist with us against their will. They’re survivors, they are. No—any gardening skills our son has nurtured must have been passed down to him from his great-grandfather. Thad grew up watching and helping Grampa Bill work for hours at a time in his immense garden. Grampa Bill could grow anything, and Thad can, too. As for Joel and me, we’re not so blessed when it comes to horticulture. The first few years we tried to grow vegetables in Estes Park, our 4-inch above-theground “raised” gardens turned out to simply be 24-hour diners for chipmunks, ground squirrels, birds, and other critters. We’ve never had trouble with deer or elk; in our experience, it’s the little devious ones who cause the
Tigers at the Wildlife Sanctuary. Photo from their Facebook page. www.facebook.com/TheWildAnimalSanctuary
most damage. Through the years, we’ve tried all sorts of contraptions to stop the thievery with very little success. But what we couldn’t accomplish ourselves, the flood in 2013 took care of for us. I’m sure the underground tunnels flooded, flushing the rodents away. Plus, our raised gardens are now countertop high. While the critters are finally beginning to return, they don’t have a chance. With that problem overcome, we still need to deal with the inevitable wind and hail. It’s always something when you’re dealing with Mother Nature. So, how does any of this relate to COVID-19? It’s no secret that Joel isn’t dealing well with the governor’s instructions to stay at home. He’s used to being busy and the bottom line is that he’s completely bored. Unfortunately, that boredom has evolved into an inability to find any sort of motivation. But every night he continues to tell me that the next day he’s going to turn over a new leaf. The strange thing is, I don’t know where he’s stashing all of those leaves, because I’ve yet to see one. Last night, however, while sitting in the hot tub with beautiful light snow falling all around us, Joel brought up a small fenced-in area we have next to the house; it’s about twenty feet square. Many years ago, that was the location of our first ill-fated garden. All of the plantings were at ground level and doomed from the moment they sprouted. “I’m going to be a gardener,” he told me last night with determination. He pointed to the area near our back deck
where my VegTrug beds are and told me I could still have flowers and fun plants, but he was going to grow things to feed us. To be honest, I was a little hurt. My harvest is never huge, but last year I did grow beans, radishes, several varieties of peppers, spaghetti squash, and a few tomatoes. There was even a bumper crop of lettuce and all sorts of herbs that fed us until well into the fall. I was pretty proud of my garden. Last night when I questioned Joel about his plans and asked if he was going to build raised beds, he said no. He’d just plant things in the ground. And he would install an irrigation system . . . “Okay,” I responded. “I’m sure the family of chipmunks living quite comfortably under the air-conditioner base will enjoy the buffet.” “Oh, I forgot about them.” I don’t know if this latest project will become reality. What I do know, however, is that it was great to see my husband excited about something for the first time in at least a month. So, we’re starting to design “his” garden and researching different styles of raised beds—both construction plans and readymade “U-shaped” units. This pandemic affects each of us in different ways and we need to do whatever it takes to put COVID-19 in its place. And if that means planting a bigger garden to help maintain our mental health, count me— and the chipmunks—onboard.
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Updates On Colorado’s Democratic Assemblies And Conventions 2020 It has been over a month since many voters across the State participated in their party’s Colorado caucuses. Slightly more than a week after the caucuses, the Larimer County Health Department published its decision to cancel events and gatherings involving large groups of people. At that time, Democratic party officials at all levels put into place alternative methods of voting by Delegates to Democratic Assemblies and Conventions in order to protect the health of voters, candidates, and officials. These Assemblies and Conventions occur at County, District and State levels. The results of voting at the Assemblies and Conventions will determine the Democratic candidates appearing on the Colorado June 30 Primary ballot. The June Primary ballot will be by mail-in ballot to all registered Democrats in the State and to Unaffiliated voters selecting the Democratic ballot. Candidates on the Primary ballot will be at all levels other than President. Candidates winning the June 30 Primary will appear on our general election mail-in ballots on November 3, 2020, along with the Presidential candidates. In the first series of post-caucus Assemblies and Conventions, the Delegates elected at the Democratic caucus voted at the Larimer County Assembly through mail-in ballot on March 29. Delegates determined at the County As-
Supporting Stephen Alper For EP Health Board Of Directors Dear Editor, We are writing in support of Stephen Alper as candidate for the Estes Park Health Board of Directors. Steve recently retired to Estes Park after a 25-year career in healthcare administration. He has a stellar and highly relevant background in the medical field, with senior experience at a community hospital and as the administrator of a major eye institute in the midwest. He is energetic and conscientious and we feel would be a truly valuable and effective member of the hospital board. We enthusiastically support his candidacy. Liz and Jeff Spalding
sembly move on to other Assemblies/Conventions, such as the Congressional District level and State level. On-line voting at our Congressional District 2 Assembly/Convention was held the weekend of April 10-12. Although results were not posted as of this article, Democratic Congressman Joe Neguse was unopposed and so will be appearing on the Democratic Primary ballot. CU Regent Democratic candidate results for Congressional District 2 were not yet posted. The Colorado State Assembly and Convention are to be held in a virtual format on April 18, and Delegates to the State level will be voting using on-line ballots. Some of the results so far for our Democratic June 30 Primary ballot include Larimer County Commissioners, Colorado House District 49, and Judicial District 8. Following are those results. Larimer County level candidates on the Primary ballot were determined by
Delegate on-line voting on March 29 or by the candidate’s petition process. The Democratic District 2 Commissioner candidate will be Kristin Stephens who received 74.79% of the County Delegate votes. For District 3, Commissioner Democratic candidates on the Primary ballot will be Jody Shadduck-McNally who received 62.03% of the County Delegate votes, and Myles Baker whose petition qualified for the Primary ballot. Other Democratic candidates for our area who will be on the Primary ballot through the Larimer County Assembly/Convention on-line voting include Colorado House District 49 candidate Yara Zokaie and Judicial District 8 District Attorney candidate Gordon McLaughlin, who were both unopposed. At the Larimer County level, Delegate on-line voting for Democratic U.S. Senate candidates was as follows: Andrew Romanoff 70.35%; Stephany Spaulding 2.33%; Erik Underwood 0.39%, Patricia Zornio 4.07%, and Uncommitted 22.87%. Democratic candidate John
Hickenlooper is not listed because he qualified for the June 30 Primary ballot through the petition process. All U.S. Senate candidates not already on the Primary ballot through petition will need to achieve at least 30% of the Delegate on-line voting at the Colorado Assembly/Convention scheduled for April 18 in order to be on the Primary ballot. As noted above, the Democratic Presidential candidates will not appear on the June 30 Primary ballots because that vote was held on March 3 as part of the Super Tuesday voting. To see full results of that voting, use this link: https://results.enr.clarityelections.com/CO/10003 9/web.245375/#/summary In summary, the top four Presidential candidates by Colorado Democratic voters and Unaffiliated voters choosing the Democratic ballot were Bernie Sanders at 37.00%, Joe Biden at 24.64%, Michael Bloomberg at 18.51%, and Elizabeth Warren at 17.57%. Subsequent to the March 3 vote, all Democratic candidates except for Joe Biden either withdrew or suspended their campaigns. At the April 18 State Democratic virtual Assembly/Convention, Delegates to the National Convention will be elected by on-line voting. The Democratic National Convention is scheduled for August 17 through 20, 2020. For questions, please email EstesValleyDemocrats@gmail.com.
16 » Friday, April 17, 2020
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Virtual Yoga With Rock Cut Brewing Stretches & Suds: Virtual Beer Yoga will take place at 8 a.m. this Saturday, April 18 with Rock Cut Brewing. The class will be taught by Kelly McDonald, all levels
welcome, and donations ($10) accepted but not necessary! Follow us on Facebook for meeting link. www.facebook.com/RockCutBrewing/
By now most of us are wearing a “new” look. Our hair certainly is a new style and maybe a new color. Our nails are looking grim, especially our toenails, or at least mine are. Maybe we are not so fastidious with our make-up or matching ensemble…but we are still here and healthy. Oh, I do have to have on my lipstick. It is a southern thing…. preferably red. We have found a different lifestyle. Isn’t it surprising the ways we have found to pass the time? My house is very neat and almost organized to ad nauseum. I have become addicted to internet slot machine games along with solitaire. I almost welcome the snow as the reason I cannot go anywhere. As I mentioned in my last column, my dog Sunshine and I walk a lot despite my bad kneecap. I am studying Deutsch on Babble. Thankfully, my jigsaw puzzle has not arrived yet. I do not know how I will find time for it. Also, who would have ever thought that I, along with most of Estes, would enjoy “howling?” Howling, now that is really something that has caught on here in Estes. We howl to give support to our ‘front liners”, all the health, rescue, volunteers that are fighting this horrible virus. But a funny thing has happened: we are also getting a relief from our tensions and frustrations while howling. In my neighborhood very, few are howling. I got my friend up the street to howl with me and the dog across the street is doing it with us. Sunshine hasn’t caught on; she just sits with me out on the deck. Since we are “living the simple life” and grocery shopping is rather difficult, I thought I would give a very simple recipe. Do you remember, if you are old enough, when Bisquick came out with the “Impossible Pie” recipes back in the seventies? I was a stay at home mom
with four kids, ranging from a six-years old to three teenagers. You can imagine how picky those kids could be. The following recipe is a never fail, that can be easily made with just seven ingredients, and fixed in no time at all. Thanks, Bisquick. I did add a little garlic powder.
Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
Serves 6 Preheat oven to 400 degrees (maybe 425 at high altitude) 2 lb. ground beef (at least 85%) 1 large onion chopped (1 cup) ½ tsp. salt 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (I would also try some other kinds, like Monterey Jack) ½ tsp garlic powder ½ cup Bisquick mix. (Pioneer would work) 1 cup milk 2 eggs Spray glass 9-inch pie dish pie plate with cooking spray Cook beef and onion in skillet. Drain and stir in salt. Spread into dish and sprinkle with cheese. In small bowl, stir rest of ingredients with fork until well blended. Pour over cheese. Bake 25 minutes until knife inserted in center comes out clean. Let cool five minutes. **I am going to bake at 425 and check it at 20 minutes. As I write this on Easter Monday, I look out on the beautiful snow. Aren’t we lucky to live in such a wonderful town! And we can communicate via internet, phone, Skype, Facebook, etc. to one another in so many ways. Wear your face mask and stay healthy. My email: esther. cenac@gmail.com Bon Appétit.
The Fine Arts Guild Of The Rockies Is Taking An Intermission The board members of the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies wish to send support and well wishes to everyone in our community during this time. Due to COVID-19 social distancing, the Fine Arts Guild Youth Theatre Summer Camp, Tap Dance Workshop, and “Creating Something Out of Nothing” improvisation class have all been postponed until later dates. The Youth Theatre summer camp’s production of 42nd Street, and its accompanying tap dance workshop, will be postponed until the summer of 2021. But we are working hard to create a remote the-
atre camp experience for interested youth this summer. Please watch the paper and check out our website at www.fineartsguild.org for updates on virtual youth theatre opportunities. More information will be coming soon! Lars Sage’s “Creating Something out of Nothing” improvisation class will be taking place at a date to be determined. Unfortunately, the Performance Park concert for June has been cancelled, but we will send out information about the July, August, and September concerts as those dates draw nearer. Every great show has an intermission, and we look forward to getting back to sharing great art and creating fun and enriching performances with this wonderful community when the intermission is over! Until then, stay connected through our Facebook page and our website, and check the newspaper for updates about the Youth Theatre and more. Stay safe, Estes, we are in this together!
Friday, April 17, 2020 « 17
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Dear People of Estes Park, I deeply appreciate your support for me as mayor-elect. The kind words warm my heart and encourage me for the awesome responsibilities that await. The design of the Estes Park government keeps the Administrator of the Town in place while mayors (and trustees) come and go. The administrator and outgoing mayor help onboard the incoming mayor during the period between election and swearing in. Enabling a seamless transition of responsibilities while continuing existing plans and priorities. The first step of my on-boarding process was a meeting with Administrator Travis Machalek. During which I asked him to brief me about the Town’s efforts to curtail Covid-19, provide for the health and safety of our people, and address Covid-19’s fiscal and economic toll on Estes. Highlights of the briefing follow. Finance Director Duane Hudson is developing financial projections for sales tax revenue and other Covid-19 related impacts on the Town budget. A $250,000 Community Relief Fund is up and running, with a task force ready to make recommendations. The town is cancelling events, such as the Rooftop Rodeo, that attract large groups of people, limiting exposure to Covid-19. Until I’m sworn in as mayor, Administrator Machalek will brief me each Monday at 2:00 p.m. Afterwards, we’ll meet weekly. As part of my commitment to transparency, I’ll continue providing a
weekly report-out to you. Further, I’m pleased to report that the session for trustees and myself about transparency, ethics, recusals, and so on that I pledged to convene after being sworn in to office will occur May 12, 2020. Experts from the Colorado Intergovernmental Risk Sharing Agency (CIRSA) are leading the session. As a trustee, I found the annual convention of Colorado Municipal League (CML) to be extremely worthwhile. CML is figuring out how to hold a convention that meets Covid-19 standards. This is an exciting development because CML courses do an excellent job preparing town board members for facing a variety of timely topics. Such was the case with the 1-A sales tax course Jerry Miller and I attended. And who knows, perhaps CML will show ways events such as their convention might happen here in Estes. Kudos for the kindness and concern you’re showing each other via donations, meal deliveries, interactions with children and adults, and demonstrations of concern for the mental wellbeing of friends and neighbors. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and a variety of websites are full of happy thoughts, uplifting stories, amazing ideas, information, and much more. If you’re doing it, kept it up. If not, join in. Until next week... be safe, and keep howling! Sincerely, Wendy Wendy Koenig Mayor-elect
What Does a Trustee Do? Thank you to everyone who participated in the recent municipal election. Please stay involved with Estes Park governance. My campaign stressed that I’m a listener who values communication. Your thoughts and suggestions will always be welcome. My activities as a candidate involved answering questions from local residents, including people who aren’t yet old enough to vote. A middle school student asked “What does a Trustee do?” Perhaps you have wondered that yourself. In general terms, a Trustee’s job description includes providing leadership for and acting in the best interests of the town’s citizens, researching issues, facilitating communication between the residents and the town government, and reaching decisions that respect the views of diverse groups of people. The Town Board (Mayor and six Trustees) meets twice a month in a public setting, where they make decisions that range from granting liquor licenses for restaurants to approving big projects. They set the budget for the town, which takes several months to accomplish and involves input from residents. They spend a lot of time meeting with individuals and groups as well as studying town issues. It’s a big job and a great way to serve the community. While waiting to be sworn in as a Trustee on April 28th, I’m preparing in a number of ways. People are already
writing to me with town government questions or good suggestions. Top priorities at this time must involve dealing with the pandemic and helping our businesses, workers, and citizens in any ways possible. This is a difficult time like none of us has experienced before, and we must all support each other. It is imperative that we work together, as residents of the Estes Valley, of Larimer County, and of Colorado. Being aware that getting through the pandemic will require better testing and hopefully an effective vaccine, we must also prepare for the future. I have been studying the town budget, knowing that adjustments will need to be made while our income is negatively impacted. In addition, I’m reviewing other priorities and how my qualifications can best be utilized. As I write this on Easter night, the snow continues to drift down while temperatures drop into the teens. We have participated in the 8 p.m. nightly howl in acknowledgment of our community connectedness and a world battling a common foe. I’m reminded once again that there are things in our lives that we can’t control, and there are both small and large actions we can take to contribute to the greater good. For now, my actions will focus on this community, to restore some normalcy and to create an optimal environment for all who live and work here. Please join me in this effort.
Be On The Lookout For Wildlife
Be careful out there, folks! This photo was taken this week near our EP Health emergency room. While waiting for someone in the ER, this mountain lion wandered by. With so many fewer people and so much less traffic out there, the animals are becoming not as elusive and shy. Make sure to watch out, EVERYWHERE in town, for any wildlife which may be out roaming about.
18 » Friday, April 17, 2020
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“BUT THE GREATEST OF THESE IS…”
If I visited with you at McDonald’s (prior to the pandemic) or we talked about these EPNews articles you probably heard me say: “Send me your ideas. I need your help.” It is always refreshing when that happens and every idea submitted is taken to heart and is considered for future use. Recently I received a letter that certainly can encourage and stimulate us to greater action. Let me share some of his thoughts with us. To introduce our thoughts you may remember that recently I quoted these words from Paul: “And now abides faith and hope…” and you can complete that verse from memory, can’t you? “…And love, and the greatest of these is love,” These words close the great ‘love’ chapter, a chapter that began with these words: “And now I will show you a more excellent way” and continued with a powerful description of what ‘love’ does. In the midst of that description are the words: “love is kind”, which spells out the way that many are showing that they have this ‘love’ quality in their hearts. My Christian letter-writer friend describes these actions. Perhaps you are one he was describing in this list: •A Safeway employee came to work on his day off to fix lunches for fellow employees. • Someone on Jibber-Jabber is organizing a hub for supplies’ drop-off and to seniors. • Village Thrift Store offers free games and puzzles to help during stressful times. • A Person on Jibber Jabber offers free ‘pet sitting’ for anyone who needs help. • Volunteers did free snow shoveling, plowing, and snow-blowing during recent storms and others offer free snow shoveling when needed in days to come. •Estes Park Safe Rides doing free pick-up and delivery for anyone in town. •Someone offering free craft materials for anyone having children at home. •‘Meals on wheels’ volunteers doing their best to get warm meals out regardless of snow, unplowed roads. •People calling elderly neighbors to check on their well-being during these risky times. •Crossroads volunteers putting together boxes of food for families during these times. •Someone on Facebook offering free toilet paper to anyone who needs it. •People volunteering to shop for those who can’t get out. These can be added to the ongoing lists of people mentioned on newscasts and other social media. I would add all those ‘First responders’ in healthcare, law enforcement and fire fighters; all the food store employees; those serving in senior-care facilities; one of our church members who made masks for all our members, and the list goes on. Our world-wide dilemma has provided ample opportunities to show love. And we all know that the Word of God shows us that ‘the greatest of these is love’ because love goes on. Faith and hope are of temporary value, love will last forever. But love will be shown by actions. God’s writer, John, penned: “Let us not love in word or in talk, but in deed and in truth.” He challenged us that “If anyone see a brother in need and ‘closes his heart’ against him, how does the love of God live in Him?” (I John 3:17-18) The Bible tells us why. “We love because He first loved us.” Jesus urges us on by telling us that when we do a kind act for ‘the least of these’ (others) we ‘do it for Him’. (Matt. 25) So, during these tough and uncertain times, we need to show the love that God and Christ have put in our hearts toward others in as many concrete ways as we ‘safely’ can…including ‘social-distancing’. For additional spiritual stimulation turn to the Estes Park Church of Christ website and hit ‘Facebook’ at 11:00am Monday – Friday and join Gabe and us viewers in a daily devotional centered on God’s Word. You’ll like it. May God’s love bless, keep you. Bob
Ohh Thank Goodness
COMMUNITY
HOT MEALS Prepared by someone other than you
need free to anyone in Families, adults, laid off or working harder than ever—
Enjoy
Hot Meals To-Go Tuesday and Fridays, 4-6pm Feeds up to 2 people Friday meals stretch further American Legion Post 119 Enter from hwy 36 and 1st Street
Estes Park Cares!
Ohh, !Gracias a Dios!
COMIDA CALIENTE Good News!
PARA LA COMUNIDAD Preparado Especialmente para usted que lo necesiten s lo os d to a r pa Gratis Familias,adultos, personas sin trabajo o trabajando mas fuerte que antes—
Enjoy
Comida Caliente para-llevar Martes y Viernes, 4-6pm cada comida ailmenta a 2 personas Las comidas de los viernes son mas grandes American Legion Post 119 Entre por hwy 36 y 1st Street
! Meghan Theiss sent us this pretty photo taken by her daughter, Elise, age 17. She said, “In all my 22 years in Estes Park I have never seen a PINK Pasque flower! I hope those little flowers survive the snowstorm’s frigid temps.” Photo by Elise Theiss
Estes Park se Preocupa por Usted!
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Photo by Tim Nicholson
Friday, April 17, 2020 « 19
20 » Friday, April 17, 2020
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Colorado Parks & Wildlife Reminds Us That Spring Is The Season To Be Bear Aware Learn how to do your part to help keep our wildlife wild. Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds outdoor recreationists, city dwellers and rural homeowners that early spring is the time to become Bear Aware. As bears emerge from hibernation, all Coloradans need to be responsible and take steps to minimize human-bear interactions. It’s important to think ahead and be Bear Aware now when preparing your home, neighborhood and outdoor plans with the change in seasons. Bears are omnivores and primarily eat vegetation such as grasses, forbs, berries, acorns, and seeds, which are usually available as bears emerge from hibernation. Human-bear interactions tend to in-
is more likely that a human-bear interaction can occur," said Mark Lamb, Area Wildlife Manager for CPW. "Careless behavior by people, whether leaving your trash out, keeping a dirty campsite or, worst of all, purposely feeding a bear, is most often what leads to these interactions. Unfortunately, our wildlife managers are then tasked to remedy many avoidable
ple to keep bears from becoming human food-dependent at home or while recreating. That effort can begin now; establishing proper Bear Aware behavior in the spring can create good habits that help minimize conflicts throughout the year. Tips to prevent human/bear conflicts for homeowners include: Keep garbage in a well-secured enclosure and only put
are not attracting bears to your property. Talk to your neighbors and kids about being bear aware. Tips for outdoor recreationists and travelers (when travel is allowed): Read CPW’s Camping and Hiking in Bear Country page to prepare for your trip. Pay attention to the surroundings and watch for bear signs, such as tracks or claw or bite marks on trees. Make noise while walking or hiking to prevent surprising a bear. Clap, sing or talk loudly. Travel in a group if possible. Do not keep food in your vehicle; roll up windows and lock the doors of your vehicles.
Courtesy photo crease in the summer months, however, when a late frost or warm, dry weather can lead to localized natural food failures. This can cause black bears from affected areas to become more mobile and persistent in search of human food sources like trash, fruit trees, pet food, bird feeders, livestock and agricultural products. Bears have an extremely keen sense of smell and excellent memories, and once they have learned about a reliable source of food, they will often return. "It's critical for folks to remember that if a bear finds a meal in or around your home and becomes unafraid of people, it
problems." CPW officials say black bears typically do not hunt humans in Colorado; however, because they are large powerful animals, they pose a very serious risk to human health and safety when they become conditioned to finding meals from human sources. "If you accidentally corner or surprise a bear, remember that one bite or swipe from that bear could lead to a person receiving life-threatening injuries, or worse," said Lamb. "Human health and safety is always our primary concern." It requires diligence on the part of peo-
out garbage on the morning of pickup. Use a bear-resistant trash can or dumpster. These are available from your trash hauler or on Internet sites. Clean all garbage cans regularly to keep them odor free. The scent of ammonia can deter bears. Take down all bird feeders – birds don't need to be fed during the spring and summer. Bird feeders are a major source of bear/human conflicts. Don't leave pet food or stock feed outside – never provide food sources for any wildlife. Keep garage doors closed. Conduct a home audit to be sure you
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 back-country. When camping in the back-country, hang food 100 feet or more from your campsite Cook food well away from your tent; wash dishes thoroughly. Don’t bring any food or fragrant items into your tent. For more information about Living with Bears, visit: cpw.state.co.us/learn/Pages/ LivingwithWildlifeWildBears.aspx.
Friday, April 17, 2020 « 21
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Maintain A Social Distance From Young Wildlife - Keep Wildlife Wild, Leave Them Alone Each spring, Colorado welcomes an abundance of new young wildlife across the state. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is partnering with the Colorado Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA) to remind residents to keep wild animals wild and leave young wildlife alone. As wildlife becomes more visible in backyards, trails and open spaces, CPW and local parks receive an increase of office visits and calls from concerned people that report they “rescued” young wildlife that appeared “abandoned” by adult animals. Although reports are made with good intentions, young animals do not need rescuing and are prepared by nature to survive without human intervention. Young animals learn healthy instincts in the wild and gain confidence over time to slowly distance themselves from their parents. People that feed, touch or remove wildlife from their natural environment are actually causing them harm and stunting their growth. This can also lead to mothers rejecting their young
and creating a truly harmful situation for young wildlife. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important now than ever to not feed or touch young wildlife; CPW resources that may normally be available are not during this outbreak, and handling animals may lead to them being rejected by their parents with no rehabilitation alternative. It is also important to leave young wildlife alone to avoid conflicts with animals that can result in hospital visits for injuries or rabies exposure, or create unnecessary in-person
interactions with park rangers and wildlife officers. If you see an injured animal in physical danger, call your local CPW office. Do not move the animal. CPW licensed wildlife officers are trained to properly handle wildlife and seek medical attention for the animal if needed. CPW offices and visitor centers remain closed to minimize the potential spread of COVID-19, but staff is available by phone at CPW offices statewide to answer questions. CPW wildlife transport teams are not fully operational at this time to limit in-person interactions between our staff and customers. People are strongly encouraged not to bring young wildlife to CPW or local park offices because the on-site staff is not there to immediately assist the baby animals. “Our state and local park staff are working together to keep outdoor recreation opportunities available and park visitors safe,” said Allison Kincaid, Executive Director of the Colorado Parks and Recreation Association. “We ask our outdoor community to visit Col-
orado parks responsibly and keep a safe distance from wildlife to avoid unforeseen injuries. During this time of physical distancing in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we hope this will be the next step. Give wildlife the physical distancing they need as well.” What humans might misinterpret as “abandonment” is actually wild animals living a healthy, wild life. Young wildlife is frequently left alone in a safe location while adult animals search for food. It is also common for baby birds to sit outside of their nest as they grow bigger and learn to fly. Humans should not approach baby wild animals, because the mother is probably nearby and might attack if she thinks her young are in danger. “Young wildlife has the best chance of survival when they are left in the care of their wild parents,” said CPW Senior Wildlife Biologist Shannon Schaller. “People mean well when they take wildlife from the wild, but removing young animals improperly from their natural habit is often the wrong thing to do.” Under Colorado law, feeding wildlife is
illegal because it puts an animal’s health and safety in danger. “Wild animals have complex digestive systems and some human food is toxic to animals,” said Frank McGee, CPW Area Wildlife Manager in Colorado Springs. “Young wildlife need to find natural food sources on their own in order to survive and thrive.” Colorado provides a diverse and robust wildlife ecosystem. CPW and CPRA encourage people outdoors to enjoy wildlife from a safe distance and treasure the growing natural wilderness that surrounds us. For more information, visit the CPW website at cpw.state.co.us to read online resources on how to live in harmony with wild animals. Resources include: Living with Wildlife Avoid Conflicts with Wildlife Conservation and Management Species Profiles Colorado Parks and Wildlife- YouTube Videos
Elk cows & calves photo by: Gary Kochel Photography
22 » Friday, April 17, 2020
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EPRNC Creates Nonprofit Relief Fund EPNRC is executing our mission to support, connect, and inspire community nonprofits with intensity during this COVID-19 pandemic. In times of crisis, nonprofits become the safety nets of a community. It is vital that we are supported with nimble funds to be able to do what we do best, adapt to ever-changing needs. With resources available, our nonprofit community can adapt and convene to maintain basic needs are met and essential services remain consistent now and beyond this crisis. In response to COVID-19 and the adaptations it requires, EPNRC has established the EP Nonprofit Relief Fund for disbursement within Estes Park only. This fund will support any operational need that contributes to the execution of an essential service and/or basic need in our community. This fund will be dispersed by an advisory group that consists of leaders across various sectors, chosen for their knowledge of various COVID-19 efforts. They will be able to disperse funds promptly as needs arise. Examples of how this fund could/might be used: ● Funds to support nonprofit organizations in bridging the gap during COVID: rent, utilities, equipment maintenance ● Operational expenses for a COVID related support program
● Technology that supports mobile services ● Size 2 diapers at the Diaper Bank ● Purchase an added phone line to act as a Food Access Hotline ● Fresh foods sourced for the Food Support Network ● Emergency housing assistance ● Childcare scholarships for essential employees ● Routers and other resources that allow students to continue remote learning & for families to be connected to information Many have asked how to help. We understand that this crisis impacts us all and your dedication to giving back in the way you can is spirit-building. If you find yourself in a position to be able to contribute financially to this Nonprofit Relief Fund, now or in the future, understand this donation will not be retained for EPNRC’s operational use, but directed into a separate account for which EPNRC will guide distribution. As always, donations are tax deductible and we are pleased to house this fund locally at the Bank of Colorado. Donate online: epnonprofit.org Drive-thru Donating: No contact donation via the Bank of CO drive-thru. Make checks to EPNRC
Apr 7 - Apr 13, 2020 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
59º 58º 57º 50º 59º 57º 18º
41º 37º 23º 23º 41º 11º 6º
Tr Tr Tr Tr Tr 3.0 3.0
May 7 Full Moon
and add "Nonprofit Relief Fund" to the memo. Tellers are ready to accept your donation & send back a printed receipt. Snail Mail a Check: The old-fashioned way still works & we’ll snail mail a receipt back to you. Again, always note in the memo: "Non-
profit Relief Fund." Checks to EPNRC can be mailed to PO Box 4221. EP, CO 80517. Thank you, thank you, thank YOU! We look forward to updating you next week on the status of this fund and the relief it brings.
Friday, April 17, 2020 « 23
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Before And After In a world where we now feel a daily overload of bad news, we focus on the good in life, even during tough times. April is the cruelest month, breeding Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing Memory and desire, stirring Dull roots with spring rain. TS Elliot, 1922 This column was written during April 2020 when time seem to slow, to stop even. April is National Poetry Month but this year it will be remembered as the month where everything shut down – shops completely closing, restaurants offering take-out only, standing outside of the pharmacy six feet apart from others waiting in line to pick up a prescription, taking long solitary hikes in Hermit Park or walks around Lake Estes. These will be the things we remember. April has always been a month of sadness for me and one of the reasons TS Eliot’s poem, The Waste Land speaks to me so strongly. For almost 50 years, I believed my son died on April 17, 1970. Yes, his birthday and my birth day are today. This is one of those before and after moments. This past year, through the magic of ancestry sites, I learned Rony did not die but lived a happy life far, far away. And just like that, we met, began a new relationship and my annual depression lifted. I no longer look at the calendar anticipating feeling sad but see the date as a joyous reminder to mail that package, send that card, make that phone call. April, after. Here is a before. For twenty-three years I lived on Waltonia Road in the Big Thompson Canyon, seventeen years of them alone. During and after the flood, I wrote a lot about what that was like for me as a single woman living through an event like that. Some of my journal from that time reads: 9/11/2013 Wednesday. Watched some of the 9/11 coverage on TV. Tomorrow to Fort Collins for breakfast meeting. It rained all day and all night. 9/12/13, Thursday. Got up and turned on TV. Said chance of flooding in Big Thompson and to stay home. Keep thinking about those people who drove
into canyon in ’76 and were washed away. Official comes down 34 and says no cars allowed over bridge. 9/13/13, Friday. Woke to totally washed out road. Made way down to bridge by jumping on stones back and forth across road. Water crashing over bridge with lots of debris on it. River took Nebraska house – by end of day took garage too. No river road past Della’s. Watched as a fullgrown pine tree fell into the river. It took a week and a helicopter, a Red Cross bus, a ride from one friend from Fort Collins to Boulder and a ride from another friend from Boulder through Gold Hill to get back to Estes. I carried a bag with extra jeans, a light jacket and in a carrier, my little dog, Skye. When I got back to Estes I had to deal with the necessities, I had no car, I had no home - both down in the Big Thompson Canyon. Nothing was easy. I had to work with FEMA and fill out a lot of forms. I had to make calls, stand in lines, apply for resources, tell my story over and over again all while running a non-profit that had also been impacted by the flood. But, oh, the amazing women I worked with! They presented me with a huge basket full of shampoo, brushes, toothpaste, soap, towels…. everything a person would need who brought out very little. They even found me a temporary place to stay. A local church announced the director of Estes Valley Crisis Advocates needed a car and one of the parishioners lent me his. Remember this is still the “before.” In spite of the gifts I received I was still traumatized. As a victim advocate, I felt guilty about the people who came to rescue me. I kept apologizing to my coworkers for not being there to help them while they were working non-stop finding places for the women and children staying at the safehouse. They said that was ridiculous so I apologized again. I didn’t cry until January when I stopped at Kind Coffee before work. As I was getting out of my car, I spilled my latte. The top came off as I was taking it out of the cup holder. And it spilled. Spilled milk, right? I came into the office and
Lonnie, one of my amazing counselors, took one look at me and opened her arms. I had been strong for so long. I cried so hard while she held me up. I felt all that stress of all those past months spilling out of me like my latte spilling out on the ground. I was a survivor of trauma and I worked with survivors of trauma. Their path through PTSD was mine. I replayed what happened over and over and how I responded. I asked myself, what I could have done differently. I had feelings of fear and a sense of vulnerability and helplessness. I had a loss of trust in others and in the world. I learned first-hand why being a victim is so devastating. It upsets two fundamental assumptions on which we all base our lives: 1) our belief that the world is an orderly, meaningful place and, 2) our personal autonomy. Both assumptions are essential for wholeness. My “after” came much later. I took all of my “before” and created a program that I presented at an annual COVA (Colorado Organization for Victim Assistance) conference the next year. I began to speak out from a personal place and say this is what a trauma survivor needs. They need to be informed of what’s going on, to be treated with dignity and respect, to be made whole. And
now we are in the midst of another trauma, another crisis that upsets our view of the world. For all of us, the world is just not orderly right now. A very, very tiny thing has created physical and emotional hardship for all of us and our need for autonomy. We are isolating ourselves and wearing masks that further separate us. Some of us have been laid off and we don’t know how we will pay our bills or our rent. Some of us are afraid of losing our small businesses and some are worrying about how to pay staff. We need to remember to treat each other with dignity and respect right now and to stay informed. This isn’t quite the “after” yet and a lot of us have been asking ourselves, how can I help? I can’t answer for you but this might help, “When asked, ‘What can I do?’ I’ve found the answer frequently can be found by rearranging the words into the answer, ‘Do what I can.” Ten Menten. Peace, Mary Mary Mesropian has lived in the Estes Park area since 1994 and was the Volunteer Coordinator for Hospice of the Estes Valley in the late 90s until 2000 when she became Executive Director of Estes Valley Crisis Advocates. She retired from EVCA late 2016 and is now a Celebrant, officiating weddings and other ceremonies. Her email is maryruthdancer@yahoo.
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24 » Friday, April 17, 2020
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Rotary International Approves Local Club's Global Grant Cooperative Effort Will Staff Children’s Center In Albania The world may be in “stay at home” mode, but the Rotary Club of Estes Park is still actively serving others. The club recently received approval for an impactful Global Grant from the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International to support a new Children’s Learning Center in Pogradec, Albania. The club is partnering with the Rotary Club of Estes Park Foundation, the Pogradec, Albania Rotary Club and Nehemiah Gateway on this global grant project. Pogradec is a city of 37,000 people in southeastern Albania, one of the poorest countries in Europe. About 34 percent of Albanians live in poverty. The rate is much higher in rural areas and among marginalized groups such as people with disabilities. Albania’s education system offers little support for children with
special needs; in Pogradec, lack of services means that close to 100 percent of children with special needs are never able to attend school, and they reach adulthood with limited options for dignified and independent living. This project will help more children with disabilities receive the support they need to thrive in school. The nonprofit organization Nehemiah Gateway (NG) has helped thousands of people living in poverty in Albania since 1991, offering medical and social aid to people in need, and education for people for whom the public education system is inaccessible. This includes significant work with children with disabilities. NG has raised funds to add a new Children's Learning Center to its current clinical space, addressing a significant community need that cannot be met with exist-
ing staff and facilities. This center, consisting of two therapy classrooms connected by a shared waiting room and restroom, will be staffed by a team of nurses and specialists. “Nehemiah Gateway USA is so grateful to Estes Park Rotarians Jack Boatman and Ron Gordon, the Rotary Club of Estes Park, Estes Park Rotary Foundation, the Pogradec, Albania Rotary Club, and Rotary International for securing this funding,” said Michelle Mann, executive director of Nehemiah Gateway, USA. “This grant will directly impact the lives of disabled and marginalized Albanian children and their families in a positive, life-altering manner.” The project supports several of
Rotary’s global focus areas. It is primarily an education project that will increase education opportunities for special needs children and build capacity in the Pogradec community to meet the needs of special needs children. Additionally, it addresses Rotary’s water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) goals by including funding to install an accessible bathroom including handwashing and drinking water stations in the center, and staff and student instruction on proper handwashing and hygiene. The cost of the global grant project is $35,000. According to members of The Estes Park Rotary Club, the amazing fact is that the club donated $2,500 to the project and it grew to $35,000. The Rotary Club of Estes Park Foundation also contributed $2,500. Nehemiah Gateway provided $5,000 in matching funds. The global grant project will receive $10,000 in matching funds from Rotary District 5440 and $15,000 in matching funds from The Rotary Foundation. This demonstrates the power of Rotary International’s Global Grants. Nehemiah Gateway has raised the funds needed to build the two therapy classrooms. The Rotary funds will primarily be used to support teacher training and personnel costs for the first year of operation. After that, Nehemiah Gateway will cover all ongoing operational costs. “Because Nehemiah Gateway has their U. S. headquarters in Estes Park, they are a natural partner for our club and an outstanding humanitarian organization,” said Jack Boatman, grants coordinator for the Estes Park club. The global grant project continues the Estes Park club’s connection with Nehemiah Gateway and the Pogradec, Albania area. The Estes Park Rotary Club donations, along with district matching funds, financially supported a summer camp in this area of Albania in 2018 and 2019 and will be again in the summer of 2020. The camp provides a safe place for low income children to learn and grow during a time when school is out, and when many children are forced into begging and trash collecting. The Rotary Club of Estes Park, founded in 1926, supports local high school students with its scholarship program, provides grants to local nonprofits, and partners with area charities in the annual Estes Park Rotary Duck Race. In addition, the club raises funds for regional projects and international initiatives. The club’s motto is “Service Above Self.” Nehemiah Gateway
Friday, April 17, 2020 « 25
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26 » Friday, April 17, 2020
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When this global pandemic has passed we all look forward to reuniting. Please stay well…
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Friday, April 17, 2020 « 27
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The Stars Are Shining Bright In Estes Park You may have noticed that the inspirational star on Prospect Mountain has been lit by employees of the Town’s Light and Power Division. Joining in its brilliance is yet another star on the roof of Circle 119—our local American Legion Post at the intersection of Highways 34 and 36. Both are tributes to the spirit and steadfastness of our Gail McLain’s star. small mountain town. In light of that, the Estes Park News would like to ask each and every Estes Park resident to join in an effort to share the spirit of hope and strength in this time of uncertainty. You are invited to decorate your front door or entryway with not only stars but also hearts to show your support and compassion for our medical professionals, First Responders, business owners, employees, and all of those affected by the COVID-19 virus. When you stop to think about it— in reality—that is each and every one of us. We have all been and continue to be affected in one way or another by the pandemic that is currently engulfing the world. If you have children at home, engage
them in designing something for your entryway. It could be an excellent opportunity to talk together and allay any anxiety they might be experiencing during this time. Perhaps you are empty nesters. What better way could you find to express support and solidarity for all those who call Estes Park home? At 8 o’clock each evening the people of France step outside to sing together. In other countries and states across our nation families have relit their holiday lights. People are proudly flying American flags. Here in Estes Park we will light and illustrate our strength with stars and hearts. There are no guidelines other than your own creativity and vision. Please send photos of your front doors and entryways featuring the family members who created them to heartsandstarsforep@gmail.com. We hope to share your visions because no matter what calamity we might be facing, we will do it together and you will always be the heart and soul of our community. You are the shining stars that will light our way to a brighter future.
Real Estate Sales V Property Management V Vacation Accommodations 1050 S. SAINT VRAIN F-1 $290,000 Comfortable 2 bedroom/1.5 bath condo in great location within walking distance to schools, downtown, and golf course. Well kept complex. Condo features large kitchen, enclosed deck on 2nd level, wood burning fireplace, and large windows for lots of natural light. Easy access and affordable for year round living or summer getaway.
Judy Anderson
Eric Blackhurst
Abbey Pontius
GRI, MRE, ABR, Broker
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Jackie Robinson Made America Better By: Ken Zornes
The resistance began immediately. Some of his own Dodger teammates April 15 is a significant day for milsaid they wouldn’t play with Robinson lions of Americans. Normally, it’s the last on the team. That was until manager day to file our federal income tax reLeo Durocher turns. This told them that year, that Robinson deadline has would help get been extended them to the th to July 15 beWorld Series cause there’s and make nothing northem a lot of mal or routine money and if about how we they didn’t must manage play, he would our lives today. trade them. April 15th is They played. indeed signifiThe St. Louis cant for someCardinals thing else. threatened to Again, if we strike if were living in Robinson normal times, came to St. millions of Louis to play Americans but Baseball would be atCommissioner tending a maHappy Chanjor league baseball game on April 15th dler told the Cardinals that any striking where they would notice that every player would be suspended. They player on every team would be wearing played. the number 42 on their jersey. None of this was new to Robinson. It was April 15th, 1947 when Jack RooWhile serving in the US Army and a sevelt Robinson trotted out to his first decade before Rosa Parks refused to base position at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn move to the back of the bus in Montwearing jersey number 42, and became gomery, Alabama, 2nd Lt. Jackie Robinthe first black player in major league hisson, an officer and a gentleman, tory. Robinson went hitless in three at boarded an Army bus and refused to bats, reached base on an error and then move to the back as ordered by the bus scored the winning run as the Dodgers driver. This incident resulted in Robinbeat the Boston Braves 5-3. son being court-martialed for insuborNow, every April 15th Jackie Robinson dination. An all-white panel of military is remembered in baseball parks around officers later acquitted Robinson. the country not only for his exploits on Robinson was considered by many to the field but also for his courage and debe opinionated, stubborn and combattermination as one of America’s great ive. I doubt that Robinson would have civil rights leaders. disagreed with that characterization. He Few people could have handled the said, “I had to fight against loneliness, pressure and endured the abject degraabuse and the knowledge that any misdation and outright hatred hurled at take I made would be magnified beRobinson during that rookie season in cause I was the only black man out 1947. Branch Rickey, owner and Presithere. Many people resented my impadent of the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1947, tience and honesty, but I never cared was determined to break the color barabout acceptance as much as I cared rier in major league baseball. He needed about respect.” a pioneer, a man who could keep his Jackie Robinson died from complicacool, withstand the verbal and physical tions of diabetes and heart failure on abuse that was sure to come, and still October 24, 1972; he was only 53 years play the game at the highest level. He old. Jackie Robinson didn’t just make found that man in Jackie Robinson. baseball better, he made America better. th
WONDERFUL CARRIAGE HILLS HOME This 4 bedroom 3 bath home is located in Carriage Hills on .49 acre lot with wonderful southern exposure. The main level has an open kitchen and living room area with a large window to take in the view of Twin Sisters. Recently added to the main level is a master suite with walk-out to private deck and an efficiently designed handicap bath with large walk-in shower and walk-in jetted tub. 2 additional bedrooms and a full bath are upstairs with another bedroom suite downstairs with 3/4 bath. Completing the property is a detached oversized two car garage. Call Trisha for an appointment to view 2411 Larkspur, offered for $519,000.
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Paint Recycling At All Time High During Stay At Home Order We are having a major influx of paint and stain to recycle. The first ten days of April, we have received 1.7 tons to recycle! Staying at home, folks are finding something to do. That needs to be encouraged! We have three storage units available to store the inventory until the Paint Care truck comes to town. All three units are full. I emailed our request to have a truck come next week and found out that all recycling sites in Colorado have been shut down until June 7th. That
means no truck until June. No one told us. Now we must add two more storage units to handle the influx. We want people to bring us their old paint and stain. This opportunity while the stay at home instructions are in effect, should not be missed. We started this recycling effort to rid Estes Park of these environmental toxins. We are not done! We are still accepting recycles! We are the only site in the whole state still open! Timothy Stolz - Bestway Painting
Picture was from Friday April 10. One day accumulation.
1480 David Drive 5 New Listing
This sun filled Bugle Point end-unit condo has a great location that makes it ideal for a acvacation rental or a vacation home. Easy ac locess from the parking lot and centrally lo cated in the complex. Adjacent to HOA controlled private grassy open space and on the banks of the Fall River. Well-appointed condo includes wood floors, gas log fireplace and a jetted tub. ADA compliant kitchen, wide hallway, ramp access and a sliding glass furnidoor make this very accessible. Some furni ture available.
Text 908795 to 970-237-4137
970-590-9941 MYESTESPARKREALESTATE.COM
320 East Elkhorn Avenue
While watching the snow fall, and trying to figure out what to put in this week’s paper, as it’s week whatever of the social distancing policy (and no school) it became very clear.
The Possible Effect Of COVID-19 On The Estes Park Real Estate Market By: Scott Thompson, Realtor with Coldwell Banker, Estes Village Properties.
I hope this newsletter finds you and your families safe and virus-free. This is an unprecedented time in world history and creates a lot of uncertainty in our lives and in the real estate world. In my personal life I reflect on God’s words, especially in Isaiah 41:10 and Philippians 4:6-7 and encourage you to do the same. Real Estate is a different story and we need to look at some historical facts to give us perspective. When the sub-prime lending bubble burst in 2008 there was a huge market correction nationwide. From 2008 to 2012, 50% of home sales were distressed properties, either as short-sales or foreclosures. This factor caused a huge market correction and in many parts of the country properties lost as much as 50% of their pre-crisis value. In the Estes Valley, 60% of homes are owner occupied leaving 40% of homes as second or vacation homes. Because of this homeowner distribution, our volume of foreclosures was limited. At that time, we had between 200 and 300 properties available for sale and only about 10 foreclosures. In addition, many retirees in Estes Park owned their home free and clear or had a large amount of equity before they moved here. When purchasing in Estes Park, they used this equity to leverage the purchase. It wasn’t like they lost their jobs during this economic crisis. The homes that were on the market did experience a value decrease, but many sellers held the line and waited for the market to come back before selling. The pressure on our prices due to the sale of distressed properties just wasn’t there. In 2013, we were set to have more real estate sales than the previous year since 2007. Then, in September we experienced another crisis, the flood. Most houses that were under contract to sell did continue to closing, and 2013 ended up about the same as 2012. In the first six months of 2014, everyone was in flood recovery mode and not much was happening in the real estate market and we ended up down by 20% in the number of homes sold compared to 2013. By the end of 2014, the number of homes sold in the Estes Valley ended up 10% higher than the number sold in 2013. We had a 30% swing in the number of homes sold in just six months. Today, we are in a health crisis, not a housing crisis. The three necessities in
We are all very lucky to live here!! Please thank all those that are still able to work, stay safe, be humble and be kind…
Photo by Tim Nicholson
life are food, clothing and shelter. Everyone needs a roof over their heads. A recent housing assessment for the Estes Valley revealed that we were short 1500 to 1700 living units to meet current needs. The current stay-at-home order and physical distancing (not social distancing as we still need that social contact) will keep the number of buyers down until we get through this pandemic. Real estate is a supply and demand industry. If demand is high and supply is low, we will see periods of price appreciation like the 40% we saw from 2015 to 2018. Right now, supply is high compared to the demand in number of people who need to sell today. I predict real estate sales and prices will remain flat until the pandemic is over. Once we get through this pandemic, we will still need the 1500 to 1700 units to meet our current needs. There are still many people who will consider buying a second or retirement home in Estes Park. When the demand returns, we will once again find our supply is short and we should see an annual normalized 5% to 7% increase in the value of homes. In the short-term, I predict we should experience the same rebound as in the last six months of 2014. Of course, this is my gaze into my crystal ball based on the information I am receiving at this time. As the effects of COVID-19 can change day-to-day; so can the vision in my crystal ball. People are still listing their homes for sale and the Estes Valley is still a wonderful place, even when physical distancing from neighbors is required. We are taking a lot more precautions now and thanks to new technology that is constantly improving, buyers can view homes online better than ever before. I have always offered a video tour of my listings, and just purchased a new camera and technology that will make the process simpler. I look forward to using it to help my clients. Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you. You receive this newsletter because you are my friend, and that’s what friends do. I can run errands or even deliver a meal from a local restaurant. I made a run in my pickup to the transfer station for a friend this week, and Karen made a run to the airport for a church member who had to fly out. All you need to do is ask. Stay healthy, and we’ll all come out of this stronger than ever! Scott
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Hearing Loss In A Time Of Physical Distancing By: Cory Workman, Owner/Audiologist at Community Hearing Center
Since the start of COVID-19 restrictions I have been concerned about the impact of hearing loss on daily interactions in our homes and the new normal of physical distancing. The stress of being isolated in our homes can lead to a heightened awareness of problematic communication. I look at communication as a process that involves several different tools, from how a conversation should be carried out to the most advanced hearing technology available today. Communication strategy is just as important as good technology, and in many cases it is more important Today more than ever, we all need a reminder about good communication strategy, since we are around our family and companions much more now. There are strategies for both the person with hearing loss and those of us communicating with them. I learned these strategies during my training at Idaho State University. They are simply the acronyms SPEECH and CLEAR, developed by two of my professors Dr. Jeff Brockett, Ed. D and Dr. Ronald L. Schow, Ph. D. SPEECH are the strategies for communicating with a person with hearing loss and CLEAR are for a person who has hearing loss looking to improve their ability to hear in different situations. Let’s start with SPEECH. Strategies for communicating with
someone who has hearing loss. S- Spotlight your face and keep it visible. The person listening to you needs to be able to see your face and thus face-toface conversation is always going to be best. Yelling from across the house is not a good idea for communication. P- Pause slightly between content portions of sentences. We do not need to slow down unnaturally and exaggerate our speech. This causes just as many problems as speaking too quickly. For example, “We are going to the store…… . to get some milk. ” E- Empathize and be patient with the person with hearing loss or impairment. Hearing loss is very difficult for the person and they know you are frustrated. They are frustrated as well and as well their mental exertion to hear and communicate are increased. Be kind and be patient. E- Ease their listening. A colleague of mine has said, “I need three types of attention for you to hear and understand me. I need your eyes, ears, and intellect. ” Get their attention, reduce the noise around them, put down the smartphone game, and turn off the TV to have a conversation. C- Control the situation. Remove noises and distractions as much as possible. Be within five to 10 feet of each other and highlight your face. H- Have a plan. Anticipate communi-
cation difficulties, and set up a plan for when communication breaks down. Rephrase what is being said and have a plan in place that all parties understand when communication falls apart. Next up, CLEAR. Strategies for communication when you have hearing loss. C- Control your communication situations. As mentioned above, the more control you can have with reducing distractions and noise the better the communication will be. L- Look at the speaker. The amount of information from hand gestures, facial expressions, and etc will provide better understanding of what is being said. Put down the smartphone and watch the person speaking. E- Expectations. Hearing loss can be difficult. Be realistic about your hearing abilities and realize that some situations are very difficult to hear in like a restaurant or a television program with an accent. Have a strategy in place ahead of time to deal with a communication
breakdown in understanding. R- Repair strategies for communication breakdown help you and the speaker. Strategies and a mutual understanding of what can be done with breakdowns in communication, reduce stress and allow for you and the speaker to work together. If you miss what is being said, repeat back what you heard and ask for further clarification. “Huh” and “What” are not good strategies to use. Be patient with each other and work together to build better communication strategies during this strange time. Remember that hearing loss is difficult for the person with the loss and for all involved. Take the time to have a plan. Being isolated at home can be stressful, however these strategies of better communication can help to reduce the stress of dealing with hearing loss in the home. As we all social distance and stay at home, I hope that each of you are safe and healthy and I look forward to the day that we can all be out and about again. Be well.
Supporting Miller, Muno & Pinkham For EP Health Board Of Directors To The Editor: We support the election of Monty Miller, Diane Muno, and Bill Pinkham to the Estes Park Health Board of Directors. Following their appointment these
three candidates have shown their ability to work effectively with the board. It’s important to have continuity to finish projects that have been initiated. Karen & Larry Olson
THE RICH FLANERY TEAM. THE PINNACLE OF LENDING.
The Rich Flanery Team has been serving the Estes Park Community for over 20 years.
So, give us a call today at (970) 577-9200 and let our team get to work for you!
Rich Flanery Loan Officer – NMLS# 256117
Phone (970) 577-9200 501 Saint Vrain Lane, Suite 101, Estes Park, CO 80517
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Equal Housing Lender ©2020 Mortgage Solutions of Colorado, LLC, dba Mortgage Solutions Financial NMLS #61602, headquartered at 5455 N Union Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, 719-447-0325. AL 21883; AR 104413; AZ BK-0928346; Licensed by the Dept of Business Oversight Under CA Residential Mortgage Lending Act License 4130456 & CA Finance Lenders Law License 603H857; CO Mortgage Co. Registration; CT ML-61602; DC MLB61602; DE Licensed by the Commissioner, 20424, exp. 12/31/20; FL MLD902; GA 37525; IA MBK-2013-0042, IA MBK-2014-0038; ID MBL-7290; IL MB.6760816, for licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org; IN 17441; KS MC.0001684; KY MC83187; LA Residential Mortgage Lending License; MD 19702; ME 61602; MI FR0018740 & SR0018741; MN-MO-61602, MN-MO-61602.1, MN-MO-61602.2; MO 19-1769; MS 61602; MT Lender & Servicer Licenses 61602; NC L-157264; ND MB102837; NE 2000, NE61602; NJ Mortgage Lender, Licensed by the NJ Dept of Banking & Insurance; NM 02464; NV 4668 & 4399; OH RM.850123.000; OK ML010480, ML011367, ML011368, ML011644; OR ML-4912; PA 43167; RI Licensed Lender 20122869LL, RI Licensed Mortgage Servicer 20153143LS; SC MLS-61602, OTN1, OTN2, OTN3; SD ML.05086; TN 109443; TX-SML Mortgage Banker Registration & Residential Mortgage Loan Servicer Registration; VT Loan Servicer 61602-1; WA CL61602; WI 61602BA & 61602BR; WV ML-32877; WY MBL1022 and SL-2600.
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Our team has over 80 years of combined experience in helping families find the home loan to fit their needs. We offer a full range of products – FHA loans, VA loans, Conventional loans, Rural Home loans and many more. We are looking forward to working with you to make your dreams come true in a practical way. But it starts with a conversation.
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Trail Ridge Quilters, Estes Valley Quilt Guild & Friends Lend Support To Estes Park Health Care Workers & Others Over the last few weeks, the Trail Ridge Quilters, an important supporter of Estes Park Health Foundation, the Estes Valley Quilt Guild and other local Estes Valley residents have stepped up to help our local first responders. The shortage of vitally important supplies for doctors, nurses, police, and more has been well documented in the media. To avoid a shortfall situation here in our town, the leadership at Estes Park Health knew who to turn to for help: Trail Ridge Quilters, the Estes Valley Quilt Guild and other local Estes Valley residents. Over 27 amazing women answered the call for assistance and in just a matter of days delivered over 300 cotton surgical masks and 75 gowns to the staff at Estes Park Health! Knowing there was more to do, the Trail Ridge Quilters kept on sewing and made additional masks for the Town of Estes Park, the Aurora Medical Center, as well as for individual residents and friends who requested them. We are all truly blessed to live in a community of that takes care of our own.
Next Fall, on October 15th, Trail Ridge Quilters will be hosting the Newcomer's Sale and Tea at Rod & Sherry Unruh’s home. We hope everyone can attend and support Trail Ridge Quilters. About Trail Ridge Quilters: Trail Ridge Quilters, an Interest Group sponsored by Newcomers, has been sewing and serving our community for over 30 years. Core to the group is their mission to support the Estes Park Health Foundation. TRQ conducts three to four sales each year with the proceeds going to support the EPH Foundation. Over the years, the many quilt sales have raised over $260,000 for the hospital foundation. These gifts have been used to upgrade services and much needed equipment to serve the health needs of those in our community. In normal times, TRQ meets weekly from 1-4 p.m. each Tuesday in the Long’s Room at Estes Park Health. If you would like to learn more or join this vibrant group of amazingly talented artists, please reach out to Quilters@estesparknewcomers.org.
CARES Act Offers Help For Investors, Small Businesses As we go through the coronavirus crisis, we are all, first and foremost, concerned about the health of our loved ones and communities. But the economic implications of the virus have also weighed heavily on our minds. However, if you’re an investor or a business owner, you just got some help from Washington – and it could make a big difference, at least in the short term, for your financial future. Specifically, the passage of the $2 trillion Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act offers, among other provisions, the following: • Expanded unemployment benefits – The CARES Act provides $250 billion for extended unemployment insurance, expands eligibility and provides workers with an additional $600 per week for four months, in addition to what state programs pay. The package will also cover the self-employed, independent contractors and “gig economy” workers. Obviously, if your employment has been affected, these benefits can be a lifeline. Furthermore, the benefits could help you avoid liquidating some long-term investments you’ve earmarked for retirement just to meet your daily cash flow needs. • Direct payments – Individuals will receive a one-time payment of up to $1,200; this amount is reduced for incomes over $75,000 and eliminated altogether at $99,000. Joint filers will receive up to $2,400, which will be reduced for incomes over $150,000 and eliminated at $198,000 for joint filers with no children. Plus, taxpayers with children will receive an extra $500 for each dependent child under the age of 17. If you don’t need this money for an immediate need, you might consider putting it into a lowrisk, liquid account as part of an emergency fund. • No penalty on early withdrawals – Typically, you’d have to pay a 10% penalty on early withdrawals from IRAs, 401(k) s and similar retirement accounts. Under the CARES Act, this penalty will be waived for individuals who qualify for COVID-19 relief and/or
in plans that allow COVID-19 distributions. Withdrawals will still be taxable, but the taxes can be spread out over three years. Still, you might want to avoid taking early withdrawals, as you’ll want to keep your retirement accounts intact as long as possible. • Suspension of required withdrawals – Once you turn 72, you’ll be required to take withdrawals from your traditional IRA and 401(k). The CARES Act waives these required minimum distributions for 2020. If you’re in this age group, but you don’t need the money, you can let your retirement accounts continue growing on a tax-deferred basis. • Increase of retirement plan loan limit – Retirement plan investors who qualify for COVID-19 relief can now borrow up to $100,000 from their accounts, up from $50,000, provided their plan allows loans. We recommend that you explore other options, such as the direct payments, to bridge the gap on current expenses and if you choose to take a plan loan work with your financial adviser to develop strategies to pay back these funds over time to reduce any long-term impact to your retirement goals. • Small-business loans – The CARES Act provides $349 billion to help small businesses – those with fewer than 500 employees – retain workers and avoid closing up shop. A significant part of this small business relief is the Paycheck Protection Program. This initiative provides federally guaranteed loans to small businesses who maintain payroll during this emergency. Significantly, these loans may be forgiven if borrowers use the loans for payroll and other essential business expenses (such as mortgage interest, rent and utilities) and maintain their payroll during the crisis. We’ll be in a challenging economic environment for some time, but the CARES Act should give us a positive jolt – and brighten our outlook. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones. Member SIPC.
Annual Community Clean-Up We have a new format this year to comply with social distancing protocol. Rather than a designated day, we are allowing organizations to select their own date and time. You may pick up trash
bags, donated by CDOT, at the Marina, fill at your convenience, and return to the Marina for disposal. Questions? Call Annie or Denali at the Marina: 970-5862011.
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Library Invites Your Creative “Book Cover” Photos While we find ourselves in these stayat-home days, the library is offering an opportunity for creativity and stress release. Now through April 30, the Book Cover/Book Character Challenge is open to everyone of all ages. Participants are encouraged to choose a book cover and take a photograph with themselves recreating the character or characters on that cover. It may include dressing up like the book character. It may include the creative use of props from items found around the house. This whimsical “call for photos” is not a competition. Everyone will be a winner. Entries will be shared in upcoming library promotions on the website and on
Facebook and Instagram. Although not required, for anyone who would like to format their photo into a side-byside collage, there is an app that makes the process easy called “Pic Stitch.” Links to the “Pic Stitch” app can be found on the library website’s Book Cover Challenge post at estesvalleylibrary.org. Entries should include a copy of the original book cover. Submit your photography to Cheryl at chomanwendell@estesvalleylibrary.org anytime between now and April 30. Stay connected with library happenings by visiting estesvalleylibrary.org.
Things To Do With Estes Valley Recreation And Park District By: Lisa VonBargen, Community Engagement Manager
GOLF Golf Gift Card Promo ends on Friday, In a situation where the “things NOT to April 17! Any gift card purchase of $100 or more will earn you four free cart do” list is much larger than our “things rides ($56 value!). Gift cards can be to do” list, it was encouraging for me to put our Board of Directors election info used for anything at either golf course on the website. It’s something going for- except for the restaurant. This includes green fees, merchandise, range tokens, ward. It’s planning for the future. It’s and cart usage. Our gift cards never exthinking about how to get from where we are right now to where we want to be. pire; buy some for now and a few more It’s hope. Please take a minute or two on for later! To purchase your gift card, call the 18our website and learn about our excelHole at (970) 586-8146 and leave a lent field of candidates, who have a wide voicemail on Aaron or Austin's extenrange of interests and expertise. We are sion (ext. 4 or 5). We will be at the 18fortunate to have committed, talented Hole returning calls to take your credit people in our community who are willcard phone order on Friday, April 17 ing to serve as Board of Director memfrom 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Gift cards can be bers to make the Estes Valley Recreation mailed throughout the United States at and Park District a vibrant, inclusive no additional cost or they can be picked source of recreation for all of us. up at the course at a later date. EVRPD Board of Directors Election VIRTUAL FITNESS OPTIONS Tuesday, May 5, 2020 While we’re closed due to COVID-19 In order to facilitate safe voting procemandates, your fitness partners at the dures for our upcoming Board of Direc- Rec have found a way to connect with tors Election, we are providing an Abyou. Vicki Jennings, Jackie Nelson and sentee mail-in ballot option. To receive Patricia Gaultier-Owen have each creyour mail-in ballot, you must submit an ated Facebook groups for you to join. application to our Designated Election From these groups you can access your Official, Heather Drees by e-mail: favorite class in a remote setting. Join heather@evrpd.com, fax: 970-586-8192 their Facebook groups today! or mail: P.O. Box 1379, Estes Park, CO Vicki Jennings: VickiJenns Fit friends 80517. The application is available as a (Bethany is teaching from this group download at the bottom of the EVRPD too!) Board of Directors Election Info page at Jackie Nelson: Estes Kundalini! evrpd.com. Ballot applications must be Patricia Gaultier-Owen: Patricia submitted before Tuesday, April 28 for Zumba Party mail delivery. Additional information on Additional options: submitting completed ballots will be California Strength Home Workouts: available next week. visit CaliforniaStrength.com and set up The election will determine three board a free account. members from the following candidate Les Mills On Demand: e-mail Ivana field: Knudson at ivanak@evrpd.com for a Rachel Balduzzi, David Boon, Ryan member link. Bross, Stanley Gengler, Heather Gooch, VIRTUAL MEDICARE Jason Knudson, Sarah Metz and Karen COUNSELING WITH CHRIS GRUBB Randinitis. During the EVCC closure, you may The Estes Park League of Women Vot- still want to do a review of your ers provided each of our eight candidates Medicare needs. Chris Grubb is workwith a series of questions. The full docu- ing from home, answering calls and providing Medicare assistance. Contact ment is available at evrpd.com Board of him for help with any question, big or Directors Election Info page. Each candidate has a tab with their individual re- small! Chris Grubb Licensed Sales Represensponses for your convenience. tative. 970-672-1092 or 888-568-5506.
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While You Can’t Be In Rome, There’s Time To Learn Italian For nearly a year, the Estes Valley Library’s Children’s Librarian, Melanie Kozlowski, and her husband Mark had been planning their 25th wedding-anniversary vacation to Italy. They had visions of exploring medieval towers and Renaissance art, basking in the sunshine amid the fountains and statues of Rome. They would visit gorgeous villas and savor memorable days of Italy’s hospitality, allure, and beauty. But their plans changed this spring. As most of the world shelters in place amid coronavirus precautions, their travels were put on hold. What to do next? First, they are not giving up hope. And second, they are getting all the more ready for future travels. That includes the opportunity to practice Italian using the library’s languagelearning resource called Pronunciator.
ciator is only available through participating public libraries, and local patrons only need their library card number to create an account. In addition to Italian, the site includes Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese, Scotch Gaelic, Russian, Arabic, and many more languages. There are also study resources for English-language learners as well as Citizenship Exam preparation materials. Anyone who lives in the Estes Valley and does not yet have a library card is encouraged to apply for a Digi-Card at estesvalleylibrary.org. This will offer access to Pronunciator as well as the library’s digital books, audiobooks, movies and music. When the library reopens its physical building, the DigiCard can be turned into a regular card. To begin exploring Pronunciator, visit
Italian is just one of 163 languages available through this remarkably robust site. It features effective learning approaches that include the use of human voices, translations and video content. Pronun-
estesvalleylibrary.org and look for the Databases link on the home page. Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact the library seven days a week by phone, email or online chat.
Stronger Together: Library And Its Partners Here For You We are stronger together. That maxim is certainly true in these times. We may be physically distanced from one another, but our collaborative connections are more important than ever. Seven days a week, we’re here and staying connected to serve you. So don’t hesitate to call, email or online-chat with us. The building may be closed, but the Library Reference Desk is very much open for business. We are grateful to our community partners who are working with us in all kinds of new ways: thanks to collaboration, “remote” services are in no way “remote” in spirit. Wi-fi is especially important these days, and our partners at the Town of Estes Park developed a map showing the downtown range of the library and Town’s free wi-fi. You’ll find the map on our website—and remember to practice safe distancing when you’re tech-connecting. We’ve also been working with the Town to spotlight the importance of the 2020 Census for our shared future. We’re happy to report our library staff households are 100% counted, doing our part to help ensure adequate 10-year funding for Estes Valley roads, veterans’ services, and other government support. The schools are also essential partners, and we’re grateful to work together as students adapt to stay-at-home learning. Thanks to school librarians, students have been loading apps on their iPads to access Brainfuse, our online live-chat homework help service. Even before the closure, school librari-
ans worked with us to assure every student has an Estes Valley Library Card. More than ever, it’s essential for our students to know they’re connected. And thanks to our long collaboration with the Larimer Advance Care Planning Team, you can use these stay-athome days to get your Advance Directives signed and sealed. To start working on how you want medical decisions about you to be made if you cannot make the decisions yourself, it’s as easy as filling out an online appointment form. An expert will be in touch to guide you step-by-step. Meanwhile, with the urgent need for medical equipment, we’re grateful to be partnering with over 100 regional organizations making parts for the Northern Colorado Face Shield Project. The Library’s Lulzbot TAZ6 3D printer has been busy printing frames, and the first batch was delivered to NoCoFS last weekend. Check our website for a video link to watch this machine at work. Our local book clubs are keeping book discussion alive and well. We’ve been pleased to work closely with them: in the last week, we’ve hosted three clubs on our Zoom Room platform. If your community group is wondering how to host a Zoom meeting, contact us for advice and a helping hand. As you read these words, they’re delivered through the dedication of our local newspapers, whose staff are keeping us all informed, while operating under challenging circumstances. For now, we continue to join all of you, and our partners, sheltering in place for a safe and hopeful tomorrow.
Need Someone To Talk To? The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is stressful for people. Fear and anxiety can be overwhelming and cause strong emotions in adults and children. Coping with stress will make you, the people you care about, and your community stronger. Talking to someone can make all the difference. Summitstone Health, in partnership with the Health District of Northern Colorado, is able to help. If you are in crisis, please use the crisis help line at 970-494-4200 ext. 4 or text TALK to 38255 to receive mental health crisis support.
Quiet Days
Paul Marcotte photo.
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Will We Take THIS One Seriously? By: Judi Smith
tribute to the increasing levels of air pollution that are endangering so many The Harvard T. H. Chan School of lives. Public Health recently completed an in The Harvard paper shows, scientifidepth study of the COVID-19 virus and cally and mathematically, that prothe level of air pollution. After measurlonged exposure to any degree of air ing particulate count in 3080 counties spanning the USA and considering other pollution increased susceptibility in those who contract COVID-19, resultinfluential attributes like quantity of hospital beds, smoking, and obesity, the ing in a higher percentage of the popustudy found a direct correlation between lace who must be hospitalized and/or increased air pollution levels and the ele- eventually lose their lives. The study found that an increase of particulate vated incidence of hospitalization and death. Definitive result: long-term expo- count as small as one microgram per cubic meter correlates to a 15% rise in sure to minute particulate matter ennumber of deaths. hances complications from asthma and cardiovascular disease, accentuating the The next step in eliminating the NO2, depth of the damage and elongating the CO2, and PM2.5 in the air we breathe is recovery time. to reduce fossil fuels in the air we When pollution spikes, there are respi- breathe – drastically -- by replacing that contaminant with clean energy and ratory reactions causing a variety of transportation. symptoms -- shortness of breath, chest pains, the need for oxygen or a nebuThe other, related, threat to the Earth lizer, even death. There is a proven rela- is global warming which increases tionship between increased air pollution volatility of storms. Methane from our and more heart attacks, strokes, and landfills (and our energy production) emergency room visits. China’s cleanup traps heat, and therefore contributes for the 2008 Olympics dropped the Bei- mightily to the Earth’s predicament. We jing death rate by eight percent. can avoid overfilling our landfills by reusing and recycling recoverable waste While the study has not been peer re– or, better yet, reducing the waste proviewed and is yet to be published, I duced. The Pope commented that the found 230 referring listings, including current disaster could be nature’s reFox News, National Geographic, CNN, sponse, if not revenge, to our forgetfulNew York Times, ABC News, and the ness about floods, fires, and other study itself. According to the World Health Organi- “smaller” catastrophes. He suggested that we slow down consumption. He zation, air pollution kills 700,000,000 people in a normal year, 100,000 of them worried about political hypocrisy and cautioned us to, “Take care of ourselves Americans. There are ways to combat for the future that will come.” this. As a result of the lockdowns, the Due to our elevation, our distance pollution of air and water is down! from the nearest megalopolis, and our NASA photographs depict ever-lessentrees, WE are very lucky in the Estes ing levels of contamination. In Delhi, Valley. In the last year, there have only levels of NO2 and PM2.5 fell 70 percent. been 3 alerts suggesting that those with People in Punjab, India can see the Hiasthma and other respiratory afflictions, malayas (100 miles away) for the first the very young, and the elderly should time in their lives. Shipwrecks on the stay at home – if you do not count bottom of Lake Michigan can be seen COVID-19. from the air. We cannot afford to ignore this lesson. From 2009-2017, regulations have imWhen China lifted the Stay at Home Orproved the NYC particulate levels by 30% over 8 years. Earth Day 2020, April ders pollution shot back up to pre-pandemic levels and more COVID 19 cases 22-24, will be an on-line 50th Anniverappeared. While this experiment proves sary celebration of the original 1970 that humans are at least partially, actuevent, encouraging voter registration and participation to influence legislators ally largely, responsible for our air pollution, we cannot stop the world forever. to promote a greener, more ecologically What will we do to ensure that we learn grounded world. This is not the time to from the experience? How will we give deregulate those industries that conthose at risk a fighting chance?
Estes Park Women’s Golf Association The 18 hole golf course ladies group is planning to start the golf season. The first day of play will be Tuesday, May 5 (if possible). Whether you are a new or experienced player please join us for some fresh air, exercise and fun. Please contact Judi Cunningham at 970577-1221 or mjb44@tdsmail.com for more information.
News From The Art Center ESTES VALLEY PLEIN AIR After evaluating present circumstances as well future challenges, the Art Center Board of Directors has decided to cancel our 3rd Annual Estes Valley Plein Air National Paint Out. Realizing that the priority at this time is meeting the needs of those facing difficulties during this crisis as well as recognizing the struggles that local businesses are facing, the Board acknowledges that this is not an appropriate time to seek financial support for our event as we have relied on in past years to fund this program. We value the support we have received for our last two events and look forward to regaining that support for next year. SOCIAL MEDIA VIEWING While the Art Center remains closed, we suggest taking an opportunity of visiting our Face Book page (Art Center of Este Park) or Instagram page (artcenterofep) or go to our website www.art-
centerofestes.com and click on the icons to view a basic “virtual” tour of the offerings on display. While it is always best to view art in person, this alternative will at least provide a break from “cabin fever” and get an uplift in spirits in this time of uncertainty and stress. The Art Center of Estes Park is a nonprofit organization which provides a facility to support the work of local and regional artists, striving to promote exhibition, education, and excellence in the visual arts. Proceeds benefit the artist and contribute to the Art Center’s education and community outreach. The Art Center is located at 517 Big Thompson Avenue, in Middle Stanley Village, below Safeway and above Subway. For more information, please call the Art Center at 970-586-5882, email us at info@artcenterofestes.com or visit our website at www.artcenterofestes.com.
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Nita Rains Long time Estes Park resident and business woman Nita Rains died at her home Tuesday, April 7, 2020. She was 96 years old. Sarah Juanita Iglehart was born September 2, 1923 in Stanley, KY, on a tobacco farm with no electricity or indoor plumbing. Her parents were Eugene and Ethyl (Forrester) Iglehart. She graduated from Daviess County High School. She served her country in the U.S. Navy Waves from 1943-1945, during which time she trained as an Air Traffic Controller in Atlanta, GA. On November 2, 1945 she married Wilson H. Rains in Atlanta, GA. The couple met in the chow line while he was on KP duty. After being discharged, they moved to Dallas in 1952. After Wilson’s death in 1971, Nita became a sales rep for Pioneer General Life Insurance Company. In 1986 she moved to Estes Park, CO where she was Vice President and Operations Manager for
Rains Transportation until her retirement in 2005. Nita had been a charter member of Northway Baptist Church in Dallas, was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Eastern Star and the American Legion. Nita was an avid water skier and fisherman. She is survived by her son Wilson H. (Hank) Rains, of Estes Park, CO, daughter Sharon Dedat and husband John of Floyds Knob, IN, nine grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Wilson, daughter Lynda Rains-Donnithorne, granddaughter Tori RainsWedan and great grandsons Mason, Hunter and Austin. Nita’s cremated remains will be interred with her husband and daughter in Sunshine Valley, New Mexico at a later date. See www.allnuttestes.com.
Stephen B. Butler Stephen B. Butler passed away at his daughter Jennifer’s home in Ogden, Utah in the early morning hours of December 1, 2019 after a lengthy illness that turned suddenly. Steve moved to Estes Park in 1979, where he met the love of his life, Roberta Gordon, who preceded him in death on February 17, 2017. They were together for almost 40 years. They shared a mutual love of anything relating to motorcycles, their family, and the mountains of the Estes Valley. Steve, who was affectionately known as “Papa” to almost everyone after the births of his four grandchildren, was born in Crowley, Louisiana to Larre and Aloysia (Carter) Butler on June 5, 1951. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Beverly Dominguez. Papa leaves behind two brothers, LG (Corliss) Butler and Brandon (Kam)
Butler; two children, Jennifer (Jeff Sharp) Juneau and John-Reid (Toni) Gordon; his four beloved grandchildren, Brandi (Eric) Maddalena, Michaela (Nic) Maddalena, J’Lyn (Lain) Bernhardt, and Dylan (Logan) Maddalena; his in-laws, Jay, Penny, and niece Wendy Roberts; his two great-grandchildren, Sawyer and Kenny; and his BMW motorcycle and Toyota truck. Steve was an admirer, connoisseur, and advocate of Native American art and culture. His family asks that any donations be to any tribe’s scholarship funds, non-profit organizations, or art galleries. A memorial motorcycle (or car) ride originally scheduled for May 5, 2020, has been postponed. Watch the Estes Park News for a new date for Steve’s Celebration of Life.
Larry E. Carpenter March 31, 1934 – April 14, 2020 Larry E. Carpenter, a 46 year resident of Estes Park, was born in Coshocton County, Ohio, a son of Ralph W. and Nellie H. (Mrock) Carpenter, and died on April 14 at the age of 86. He was married to Violet J. Foster, in 1953. He was drafted into the U. S. Army in January 1955 and served two years. After an honorable discharge, he enrolled in college and graduated from Kent State University with Bachelor of Science Degrees in Geology and Secondary Education. He later received a Master’s Degree in Guidance & Counseling from the same university. He served in the Berea, Ohio school system and at Kent State University before moving to Loveland, Colorado in 1970. In 1974, he and Vi moved to Estes Park where he served as the high school counselor from 1974-1977. He was a charter member of the local aviation club and the genealogical society. He became a leading researcher on airplane crashes, especially those that occurred in Colorado during WWII.
Larry was instrumental in the placing of several memorials to bomber crewmen and the guiding of family members to crash sites that claimed the lives of loved ones. Larry is the author of “The Crown Point B-17 Crash: A Midnight Tragedy – June 13-14, 1944. He also served with the Estes Park Police Auxiliary for several years; was a volunteer in Rocky Mountain National Park for 20 years; and served as a victim’s assistance volunteer during the initial years. He is survived by his wife Vi of 67 years, brother Gary (Martha) Carpenter of West Lafayette, Ohio, and sister Nancy (Lynn) Rotruck of Newcomerstown, Ohio; and numerous nieces and nephews. His parents preceded him in death. Larry attended Mountain View Bible Fellowship Church. A memorial service is postponed until a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Estes Park Police Auxiliary or the Estes Park Aviation Club in care of Allnutt Funeral Services, 1302 Graves Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517. See www.allnuttestes.com.
Virtual & Online Church Services The church is not a building - we may be physically separated, but we still connect. These Estes Park churches are live-streaming or making their services available on-line: Rocky Mountain Church www.rockymountainchurch.com 9:30 a.m. Sundays - Facebook: facebook.com/RockyChurchEstesPark/ YouTube: Rocky Mountain Church Summit Church-you are invited online! Watch live Sundays at 10 a.m. The church being the church, not a building. Worship services online only until further notice. Please join us at www.facebook.com/SummitEP 10:00 a.m. Sundays facebook.com/SummitEP/ Service will also be re-posted on our website: estesparkchurch.org/ Christian Church of Estes Park 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. Sundays funchurch.com Allenspark Community Church www.allensparkcommunitychurch.org Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, Michael A. Moore, Pastor We are offering: Zoom Morning Prayer at noon MonThurs. Zoom Midweek Worship at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays Zoom Evening Worship at 6 p.m. on
Sundays Please see the website for further details. pccrusa.org Mountain View Bible Fellowship is on line Sunday morning at 10:30 at www.mvbf.org or YouTube: Mountain View Bible Fellowship. We are also making our Sunday Connection Bible Study available on line at www.mvbf.org/ministries/adults/sunday-connection/ Scroll all the way to the bottom of the page to find the latest study. Estes Park Baptist Church, 2200 Mall Rd. Join us online Sundays at 10:30 a.m. on Facebook or at epbc.freeonlinechurch.com/live. Our calling is to keep the faithful engaged in preaching God's word. EPIC Church Pastors Mark and Alice Wettengel invite you to EPIC (Estes Park International Church, a spirit filled church). Streaming services at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday and 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays. www.facebook.com/ EstesParkInternationalChurch If your church has upcoming services, virtual or otherwise, please email them to us at kris@epnews.com by any Tuesday at noon for that Friday’s publication.
EMPLOYMENT » Place and View Ads at EPNews.com « EMPLOYMENT
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Estes Valley Memorial Gardens, Inc. is hiring for the Manager position. Duties include: scheduling burial services, accounting and bookkeeping, business management, grounds maintenance, customer service, and sales. Must be compassionate, honest, level-headed, and self-reliant. Hours vary from 2040+ a week. Pay is salary plus commission average $42,000/year. email resume to estesvalleymg@gmail.com
Join Our Team EVS Techs/Housekeepers Full Time Part Time - Temporary Apply online at: eph.org
Friday, April 17, 2020 « 35
Check Out Our Current Openings... • Senior Living Housekeeping Assistant $13.50 per hour
• Senior Living Medication Aide (Resident Care Specialist) Starting wage 13.50 per hour + Differential Please apply on line at www.good-sam.com
Year Round. Full-Time positions qualify for benefits which include health, dental, vision, life, short-term disability and paid time off.
555 Prospect Ave. Estes Park, CO 80517 970‐577‐4458 JOIN OUR TEAM!
Full details on open positions can be found at estes.org/jobs.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
The Town of Estes Park is accepting applications for: Building Permit Technician Close Date: April 20, 2020 by 5pm. Emergency Services Dispatcher Close Date: Open until filled Journey Lineworker Close Date: Open until filled Mechanic II/III Close Date: Open Until Filled Seasonal Position Events Maintenance Worker Close Date: July 31, 2020 Parks Maintenance Worker Close Date: Open until filled Volunteer/Committee Board Positions Estes Park Board of Appeals Plumbing Experience Close Date: Open until filled Parks Advisory Board Close Date: Open until filled (Committee application required) Applications are available at: Town Hall 170 MacGregor Ave. Room 130 (Mon-Fri 8 am – 5 pm) or www.estes.org/ jobs Return Application to: Town of Estes Park, Attn: HR; by mail to PO Box 1200, Estes Park, CO 80517; or via Email to HR@Estes.org or via Fax to (970) 577-4770. The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Help us Help Others Become a CAREGiver Starting at $15 per hour No Medical Background required Flexible Schedule Training and Local Support provided Rewarding & Meaningful Job! Apply online at HomeInstead.com/northerncolorado or call for more information 970‐494‐0289
Non-Profit Executive Director Estes Valley Investment in Childhood Success (EVICS) Family Resource Center is seeking a full time Executive Director to lead this dynamic and growing non-profit organization. EVICS Family Resource Center provides support and coordination around early childhood services, connects families to community resources, and provides parent and provider education. Executive director responsibilities include staff supervision, resource development, budget and financial management, program leadership and broad community involvement for the health and well-being of families and children in Estes Valley. For full job description and qualifications visit: www.evics.org Please submit letter of interest, resume and three professional references to evics.applications@gmail.com through April 30th, 2020.
We’re gearing up for end of summer and the fall season and hiring for the following positions starting at $13.80/hr.: • Checker • Courtesy Clerk • Day-Stocker • Overnight Stocker • Bakery Clerk • Deli Clerk • Produce Clerk • Seafood Clerk • Cake Decorator • Meat Cutter Get your application at: www.careersatsafeway.com. After your application has been completed, please call our hiring manager Ann at 970.586.4447.
PT Housekeeper
Full Time Cashier Wanted Please stop by for an application
1-2 days/wk, 4-6 hrs/day. Must speak English, be responsible, reliable. Late April-mid Oct. Excellent pay. Near YMCA. 970-586-3720. Swiftcurrent Lodge
PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF MEETINGS FOR CONSIDERATION OF INCREASING RATES AND FEES UPPER THOMPSON SANITATION DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 32-1-1001(2)(a), C.R.S., to the customers of the Upper Thompson Sanitation District “District” and all other interested persons that the Board of Directors of the District shall consider increasing the District’s sanitary sewer rates and fees at open public meetings to be held at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 21, 2020, and at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 19, 2020, at the offices of the District located at 2196 Mall Road, Estes Park, Colorado 80517. Virtual attendance of meeting will be facilitated by telephone (conference call-in) via Zoom.us. The meeting will be conducted at the District’s office and as a virtual meeting to facilitate attendance of the Board, UTSD staff, and the public by telephone (conference call-in) via Zoom.us. Those wishing to attend the meeting by telephone (conference call-in) should contact District Manager, Chris Bieker, at 970.586.4544 or chris@utsd.org to request an invitation to join the meeting. In-person attendance will be limited to comply with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations against gatherings of more than 10 people and allowing 6 feet of space between individuals for social distancing. The District recommends meeting attendance via telephone (conference call-in). NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN that any interested party may appear at said times and place for the purpose of providing input, comments or objections to the Board regarding this matter. Information regarding the District’s rates and fees may be obtained from the District Manager, Mr. Chris Bieker. Mr. Bieker may be contacted at the District administration office located at 2196 Mall Road, Estes Park, Colorado 80517; or via email at chris@utsd.org, or by telephone at 970.586.4544. Dated this 17th day of April, 2020. UPPER THOMPSON SANITATION DISTRICT By: Suzanne Jurgens Suzanne Jurgens, Secretary to the Board Upper Thompson Sanitation District (UTSD) prohibits discrimination against its customers, employees, and applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity or gender expression, religion, political beliefs, marital status, familial or parental status, or sexual orientation in employment or in any program or activity conducted by the District. The District will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities. If any person has a disability and requires a reasonable accommodation to fully participate in this event, please contact District Manager, Mr. Chris Bieker, three days before the event via email at chris@utsd.org, or telephone at 970.586.4544, or dial 711 to connect with Relay Colorado.
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RENTALS
RENTALS
SERVICES
SERVICES
HOUSEHOLD
REAL ESTATE
Condos
Commercial Rentals
Home Repair/Service
Other-Misc
Furniture
Commercial
FOR RENT: 2 bedroom condo, 1 bath, newly remodeled, washer & dryer, roommates ok $1,850/mo plus utilities, security deposit negotiable
Class A Office 2014 Construction, Full Service, Furnished or Unfurnished offices in Downtown location, Near Town Hall. $450 to $550 per month. All internet options including Fiber avail2 bedroom condo, 1.5 able. Includes Conference bath, one car garage, Room, Handicap washer & dyer, roommates Restrooms, Copy and ok. $1,850/mo plus utiliScanning Facility, Coffee ties, security deposit nego- Room. tiable Call Thom at Verus Commercial, Inc. Call Home Sweet Home 970-586-2448 Property Service 970-699-6727
SERVICES
Commercial Rentals COMMERCIAL OFFICE SPACE High Quality Finishes. Private Setting Located On River. Reasonable Rates. 6 Offices Available. Call Bret Freedman 970-215-2494
Concrete Services: Driveways-Patios-RV Demo-haul-frame-pour Call Today for your FREE Estimate Alfonso Regalado 970-412-0332
Home Repair/Service
Piano Tuning
Wolfe Bros Construction, LLC Contact: Howard @ 720-827-0409 HANDYMAN Services, trash removal, bathroom remodels, hardwood flooring & tile work, painting, small drywall jobs, patches, etc. Licensed & Insured.
Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com
Need Help Around The House? I do household chores, yard work, housekeeping, run errands, auto detailing & yes... I do windows! I am a long time resident having now lived in Estes Park for 38 yrs! Plenty of references! Call Janice at 970-215-6612. Let me help you! Car for Rent - Int’l DL 970-690-6509
HOUSEHOLD Furniture
FREE Desk and Filing Cabinets. 586-2377
REAL ESTATE Condos/Townhomes
Commercial Spaces for sale and lease. Call Eric. Anderson Realty. 586-2950 3600 sq. ft. Commercial Zoned Building 2 12x12 garage doors, office/showroom, large parking lot. 970-231-6360
SALES Estate Sales Beautiful Ranch Style Cabin For Sale 3 BR/2 1/2 BA/study/ laundry/kitchen 2 fireplaces 1470 sq. ft. Lisa 970-214-6735 $370,000
ESTATE/GARAGE SALE; Need to have one, but seems overwhelming. We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL NOW 970-215-5548
FREE FREE FREE Mahogany Executive Desk At 351 Moraine Avenue Must have means to remove desk. 970-586-8846
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER ACCOUNTING Tax Minimization
APPLIANCE REPAIR
ARCHITECTURE
QuickBooks Support
CLOUD@CCOUNTING
MuellerPyeCPA.com
970.667.1070
ATTORNEYS
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PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER
ATTORNEYS cont.
COMPUTER SERVICES
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FLOORING
CARPET CLEANING
CHIMNEY SWEEP
CLEANING SERVICES
DECK BUILDING/REPAIR
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
DRYWALL CONTRACTOR
ELECTRICIANS CELEBRATING
25 YEARS 1993-2018
Design | Build | Remodel
General Contractors | Timber Frame & Log Homes Serving the Colorado Northwest Mountains since 1993
970-586-7711 | www.ldwatkins.com
CLEANING SERVICES cont. ENGINEERING
970-586-1685 Custom Homes, Additions, Kitchens, Baths, Historic Renovations, Remodels and Design Work
Charles Santagati 1191 Graves Ave glaciercreekinc.com Full service general contracting since 1998
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PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER
GENERAL CONTRACTOR cont.
HANDYMAN SERVICES cont.
HOT TUBS & POOL SERVICES
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LINEN SUPPLY -LAUNDRY SERVICE
720.438.1088 jharris@sevenwest.build • EXCAVATION AND SEPTIC INSTALLS • INTERIOR TRIM • STRUCTURAL FRAMING • COMPLETE HOME RENOVATIONS • WE PROVIDE SUB-CONTRACTING SERVICES TO GENERAL CONTRACTORS Licensed and insured. NAWT certified, Boulder County Public Health license number A-082-16. General Contractor License Number CON-16-0212
We oer Enhanced Cleaning Services for COVID �19 fight!
OPTOMETRIST
GLASS - NEW / REPLACEMENT PAINTING
Call us for all of your painting or staining needs!
• Residential/Commercial • Log Homes/Decks • Free Estimates • 4 Year Warranty
HANDYMAN SERVICES
• Interior/Exterior • Power Washing • Local References • Licensed & Insured
Tim Stolz, Owner • 970-518-4001• 26 Years Experience e-mail: testolz@hotmail.com • www.bestway-painting.com
HEARING & TINNITUS CARE Cory D. Workman, Au.D. Phone: 970-586-5255 • Hearing Aids / New & Repair • Hearing Evaluations • Hearing Protection • Ear Care / Wax Removal • Dizziness / Balance
1186 Graves Ave., Ste. B Estes Park, CO 80517 Fax: 970-577-7260 drcory@estesparkaudiology.com www.estesparkaudiology.com
HOME LIGHTNING PROTECTION
LIGHTNING DEFENSE SYSTEMS TIM STOLZ Owner
P.O. Box 4590 Estes Park, CO 80517
970-518-4001
testolz@hotmail.com www.lightningdefensesystems.com
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PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER
PAINTING cont.
PLUMBING AND HEATING
POWER GENERATION
Friday, April 17, 2020 « 39
ROOFING
TREE SERVICE
PRINTING
PROPANE PASSPORT PHOTOGRAPHY
Property Pruners
REAL ESTATE PEST CONTROL
Full Tree Service, Landscaping and Fire Mitigation. Snow Removal and Yard Cleaning 343 S. St. Vrain Ave. #6 Estes Park, CO 80517 Steven@EPPruners.com Office: (970) 966-5113 propertypruners.com
Licensed & Insured
WINDOW CLEANING
RENTAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
PHYSICAL THERAPY
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