Owl nesting season - this Great Horned Owl minds the entrance to the nesting area while his partner incubates the eggs inside the tree.
The Town of Estes Park’s Public Works Department and its consultant have begun a study on how potential changes to the depth or width of rivers could increase capacity and contribute to better flood control in downtown Estes Park. These changes, along with the potential for new bridges at Rockwell Street and East Riverside Drive, would help reduce the risk of flood damage to buildings in the downtown corridor near the confluence of the Big Thompson and Fall Rivers. Community members are invited to contribute ideas for the outcomes at a presentation and forum to be held on Wednesday, May 1, 4 p.m - 6 p.m., in the Town Board Room of Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Ave. The meeting will be streamed live and available for on-demand viewing at www.estes.org/videos.
The final report in early 2025 will reflect local selection of preferred alternatives and 30 percent design construction plans. The report could be used to help the Town obtain grant funds in the future for construction projects such as the flood mitigation and river and bridge improvements, as well as infrastructure for new recreation opportunities. The Town is seeking public input on the concept of building terraced parks and downtown floodplain benches that double as trails (bike and walk). Discussion is also needed to refine alternatives for multiple safe recreation opportunities in the rivers such as tubing, wading, kayaking, and rafting. In addition, fish habitat and passage conditions may be enhanced by changes to river hydraulics that reduce the flood risk.
This project is made possible by a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) program for Flood Mitigation
Assistance (FMA). The FMA grant program provides funding to communities to assist in their efforts to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings and structures insurable under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program, this project is supported by a grant issued by the Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM).
Those unable to attend the May 1 presentation are invited to provide feedback on the alternatives by reviewing presentation materials beginning May 2 on the floodplain project page at www.estes.org/floodplains, and sending comments to the Town’s Floodplain Administrator, Jennifer Waters, at 970-5773740 or jwaters@estes.org. Subsequent public meetings will occur in summer and fall of 2024.
On Zoom, and at American Legion Hall, 850 N. St. Vrain, Estes Park Wednesday, May 15 at 1:30 p.m.
Join Jena Griswold, Colorado Secretary of State, for a presentation and Q&A. For those joining on Zoom, the Q&A will be via the chat function.
The Estes Park League of Women Voters Annual Business Meeting will follow, for EP League members only.
Jena Griswold is Colorado’s 39th Secretary of State. She was first elected in 2018 as the youngest elected Secretary of State in the United State, and was reelected in 2022. Since taking office, Secretary Griswold has overseen eight statewide elections.
Secretary Griswold grew up in rural Colorado and was the first person in her family to attend a four-year college and then law school. She holds a B.A. in Politics and Spanish
Literature from Whitman College and a J.D from University of Penn Law School.
She is fluent in Spanish and a graduate of Estes Park High School.
The Secretary will speak about her experience as an elected official during the
age of partisan politics; attempts to undermine democracy and election integrity; and the 14th Amendment case, threats to election workers, and how the Secretary is working to make sure Colorado stays the best place to cast a ballot.
To register for the Zoom, go to: lwv-estespark.org or scan the QR code.
No registration necessary if you attend in person.
The Estes Chamber of Commerce that you have come to know and enjoy is celebrating a milestone this month. This is the “new” chamber in Estes Park, 100% founded and funded by members, since May 2019 – and it’s turning five yearsold with a gathering hosted by Hunter’s Chophouse on May 21st
“The mission of the Chamber is to be the champion for business, dedicated to promoting a strong business climate in the Estes Valley trade area and enhancing the quality of life for our members, and over the past five years, our members have grown and thrived” said President Colleen DePasquale.
The Chamber is best known for its signature events which include our an nual:
Visit Estes Park and other organizations collaborating for a stronger business climate and tourism economy. “Over the past five years, we’ve made trips to the legislature, hosted meet-and-greets with elected leaders, and hosted forums on key topics that impact our local business community,” DePasquale added.
· Chamber Cup golf tournament
· Mini-golf tournament
· Community Gumbo Dinner
· Estes Next programming
· Food for Thought educational events
And much more!
Beyond our events we serve as connectors to elevate the voice of the town. The Chamber is the voice of business with the Town of Estes Park, Estes Park EDC,
“The success of the Chamber is measured in making Estes Park a better place to live, work and play, and we are proud of the work our members have done and grateful for the support they have given the Chamber to empower us to deliver programming and events to further amplify the business community looking forward. We are looking forward to celebrating the past five years and to another five-years of success,” said DePasquale.
Join the Estes Chamber for a 5th anniversary gathering on May 21st from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Hunters Chophouse. The event includes wonderful appetizers and one free drink per person. The event is made possible by Hunters Chophouse, Visit Estes Park, and Bank of Estes Park.
Register on the Chamber website, esteschamber.org.
Community members are invited to join Mayor Pro Tem Marie Cenac and Trustee Kirby Hazelton for a Trustee Talk Thursday, April 25 at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Board Room, 170 Mac-
Gregor Ave. This is an opportunity for community members to discuss local issues with members of the board in an informal setting. This session will be an open discussion on local issues.
The Town of Estes Park invites community members to a reception honoring outgoing Estes Park Mayor Wendy Koenig, and Trustees Barbara MacAlpine and Patrick Martchink for their years of service and dedication. The reception takes place prior to the seating of the new Board at approximately 7:30 p.m., in the Town Hall atrium, 170 MacGregor Ave. The Town
EVFPD firefighters generally respond to medical calls in their personal vehicles, allowing for a faster response. On other incidents, firefighters respond to a fire station to respond in department apparatus with specialized equipment.
Board meeting begins at 7 p.m.
Newly elected Mayor Gary Hall, and Trustees Bill Brown, Mark Igel, Frank Lancaster and Cindy Younglund will be sworn in by Municipal Judge Thrower following old business at 7 p.m. After this time, the new board will conduct regular business.
For more information, please contact the Town Clerk’s Office at 970-5774777.
During the week of April 7th, 2024, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 11 calls for service. This
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Celebrate National Park Week, National Volunteer Week, Earth Day, and National Junior Ranger Day at Rocky Mountain National Park. What is National Park Week? This is a week-long celebration of our national parks that begins on Saturday, April 20 and continues through Sunday, April 28, 2024.
On Saturday, April 20:
National Park Week kicks off with a fee free day. All park entrance fees will be waived on this date. Camping, overnight wilderness backpacking, and all other administrative fees remain in effect.
Additional activities include:
On the east side of the park, join NPS and Rocky Mountain Conservancy staff at Beaver Meadows Visitor Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
activity
Decorate a tree cookie and more!
On the west side of the park, join NPS and Grand County Library District staff
Learn about hiking safety
Participate in story time with a Grand Lake Librarian
Plan fun games while exploring the wonders of Rocky
On Sunday, April 21:
Explore informational booths and fun interactive activities for all ages.
Earn your Junior Ranger badge
Learn about different plants and wildlife that call Rocky home
Learn about hiking safety
Participate in an interactive Rocky Lab
at Kawuneeche Visitor Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Explore informational booths and fun interactive activities for all ages.
Earn your Junior Ranger badge
Learn about different plants and wildlife that call Rocky home
Join us on the east side of RMNP at Beaver Meadows Visitor Center at 2 p.m. for the presentation “Dr. Steller’s Jay: A Living History Presentation Done in the Person of G.W. Steller,” with Pete Devine, former Yosemite Conservancy Education Director (retired). This special talk is the final presentation in Rocky Mountain National Park and Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s 2024 Winter Speaker Series. To learn more, visit https://rmconservancy.org/upcomingevents/
Unable to visit in person? Join Rocky’s online celebration! Follow us @RockyNPS on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We will be sharing fun and interesting stories all week long!
To learn more about Rocky Mountain National Park and to plan for your next trip, visit our website at
www.nps.gov/romo, download the NPS App, or call the park’s Information Office at (970) 586-1206.
This Friday & Saturday April 19 & 20
Estes Park Bigfoot Days presented by The Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant celebrates all things Squatchy. The weekend kicks-off with a ticketed dinner this Friday, April 19 with Bigfoot Television Celebri ties, and concludes with a free festival in Bond Park on Sat urday, April 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The festi val includes talks from the Bigfoot TV Celebrities, the Sasquatch Outpost podcast, live music, ax throwing, in flatable games, craft and food vendors, a Bigfoot calling contest, Bigfoot sighting stories, and much more!
are $90. For more information and to purchase tickets visit estesparkeventscomplex.com/bigfoot-bbqdinner.html
In addition to the free Bigfoot Days Festival on Saturday, April 20, 2024, there will be a screening of The Bigfoot of Bailey Colorado and its Portal.
The Bigfoot BBQ is Friday, April 19, 2024 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Estes Park. This Bigfootthemed dinner will feature food, drinks, music, photos, and mingling with our Bigfoot Celebrities. Tickets
The screening of this 51-minute documentary will be held at the Historic Park Theater, located at 130 Moraine Ave., at 4 p.m., with commentary by the filmmakers before the screening. Admission is free.
The Twisted Griffin Irish Pub & Restaurant will host a Bigfoot Days After Party with live music and Bigfoot food and drink specials beginning at 6 p.m. Live music starts at 7 p.m.
For more event information, please visit www.EPBigfoot.com
Larimer County Department of Natural Resources will give away limited amounts of free firewood to the public on April 30 from Hermit Park Open Space, southeast of Estes Park.
The county makes this firewood available following a forestry management project at Hermit Park Open Space.
To be eligible, members of the public must sign up to reserve one of six spots, bring a truck and be able to gather and load their own truckload from a collection point at Hermit Park Open Space. Work gloves and sturdy boots are recommended. Only six spots are available, and reservations are first come, first serve.
Does
If you ever wanted to brush up on Estes Park's history from beginning to today in one easy lesson, do we have the program for you.
"Estes Park History 101" compresses over 1000 years of intermittent habitation and more than 150 years of recorded history into one fun-filled evening.
Similar to "The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)", this evening will accomplish the impossible in 97 minutes, using an interactive game-show format to summarize Estes Park's history, including the remarkable men and women who built and promoted life close to nature and the explosive growth of an activitybased, outdoor-adjacent tourism industry.
The location is the Maude Jellison Library on the YMCA campus, the time and date is 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, and the participants are everyone in the audience, with local historian John Meissner serving as moderator.
The Maude Jellison Library can be reached by taking the second left upon entering the YMCA off of Highway 66/Tunnel Road, then turning right into the Longhouse parking lot. You can either park in this lot and walk 200 feet northwest, or find a parking spot closer to the library building on the upper level.
For any questions, please telephone 5863341, extension 1133, and ask for a librarian.
Those who receive a spot must be available to meet at the Hermit Park Open Space entrance building, 17 Hermit Park Rd., at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 30 (the pick-up date cannot be postponed). From there, they will be escorted to a collection area to load the firewood. Logs are already cut into firewood length. No chainsaws or cutting tools are necessary.
Applications can be submitted here: https://forms.larimer.gov//formdata/user_ forms/74846_2296047/406731/
Larimer County staff will confirm the free firewood reservations via email following the receipt of six registrations.
Habitat for Humanity of the St Vrain Valley dedicated a recently renovated historic cabin in Estes Park. Tim Frontczak, a long-time Estes Park resident, was joined in celebrating his new home by many members of the community. The house received a significant remodel inside and out with a new roof and windows, new sewer line, upgraded electrical system, new floors, a new kitchen, and completely refurbished bathroom.
Habitat staff joined with local volunteers, AmeriCorps members, college students on alternative Spring Break trips, and the new homeowner to make the upgrades to the home. Funding for the project came from the Colorado Division of Housing, the Estes Park Housing Authority, local churches, the Northern Colorado Community Foundation, and local donors.
David Emerson, Executive Director of St. Vrain Habitat stated, “We were so excited to reengage with the Estes Park
community on this project. Through our partnerships with volunteers, funders, and the local government, we have been able to provide another homeownership opportunity to an individual working in Estes Park. The home will become part of Estes Park’s permanently affordable housing stock.”
St. Vrain Habitat recently received approval to build another five homes in Estes Park. Work will begin early this summer to install the needed infrastructure with plans to engage volunteers during the summer and fall.
About Habitat for Humanity of the St. Vrain Valley. St. Vrain Habitat was established in 1988 and has completed 125 homes and 62 critical repairs for individuals and families in the St. Vrain and Estes Valleys. The assessed value of homes built by Habitat in the St. Vrain and Estes Valleys since 1988 is $38.7 million and 89% of its homes are still occupied by their original homeowners.
All Are Welcome!
Join us at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail (across from Good Samaritan), on Sunday, April 21 to celebrate Earth Day. Our service begins at 9:00 as we honor and celebrate our remarkable planet, and all of creation, gifts from God. Earth Day is a reminder of the importance of environmental conservation and sustainability, encouraging us to come together for
a healthier planet and a brighter future. In Estes Park we live in the middle of God’s glorious creation. Help us recognize and give thanks for this gift both locally and globally. We are committed to caring for each other, all those in our community, and all of creation. Our doors open outwardly as all people are welcome. You are always invited. We hope to see you.
Esteemed meteorologist Mike Nelson, a familiar face on Colorado TV screens since 1991 and currently serving as Chief Meteorologist at Denver7, is set to join some upcoming events in Estes Park. Nelson will participate in two events from local organizations as part of Earth Week, a Visit Estes Park initiative aimed at promoting sustainability in the destination.
On April 27th, Nelson will be a featured speaker at the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition’s Symposium, "Water is Finite." This free event, scheduled from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Estes Valley Community Center, will bring experts to the public to discuss the importance of water conservation and sustainable water management practices.
Following the symposium, Nelson will be at the Historic Park Theatre for an exclusive meet-and-greet event with ticket holders starting at 5 p.m. He will also participate in an expert panel discussion fol-
lowing the sneak-peek premiere of the film, "Water, The Sacred Gift,” by Nick Molle. The all-new Estes Park Environmental Film Festival is hosted by The Rocky Mountain Channel and Nick Molle Productions. Along with the never-before-seen peek into “Water, The Sacred Gift,” the festival will showcase many documentaries by acclaimed environmental filmmaker Nick Molle, including the world premieres of "Wild Ride: The Peak to Peak Highway" and "Wildside Australia," along with several of Molle’s other award-winning works.
Tickets for the Estes Park Environmental Film Festival are available at historicparktheatre.com. RSVPs for the "Water is Finite" symposium can be made at evwatershed.org.
For more information, call the Rocky Mountain Channel at (970) 586-6399, or email Lauren Molle at Lauren@nickmolleproductions.com.
At the Estes Park Health Foundation, we rely on the dedication and expertise of volunteers to further our mission of building awareness of EPH and raising philanthropic dollars to support healthcare initiatives. Volunteers play a pivotal role in organizing events, providing input, and advocating for important causes that benefit our community.
Our Board of Directors is instrumental in shaping the direction of our Foundation. Board members provide strategic vision and oversight, ensuring that re-
sources are used effectively to support innovative programs and initiatives at Estes Park Health. Serving on our board offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible impact on the well-being of our community.
We are actively seeking passionate individuals who are committed to healthcare, community well-being, and philanthropy to join our Board of Directors. Whether you bring expertise in finance, marketing, fundraising, sales, or community advocacy, your unique perspective is valued. Our board members embody our organization's core values of cooperation, integrity, and stewardship.
Joining the Estes Park Health Foundation Board of Directors is a rewarding experience that allows you to contribute your skills and passion to a vital cause. If you're interested in becoming a board member, we encourage you to apply. Visit our website to learn more about our mission, values, and our work in the community.
Your involvement can make a lasting difference in our community. To apply or inquire about becoming a board member, please contact Kevin Mullin, president of the Foundation (kmullin@eph.org). Let's work together to shape a healthier future for Estes Park and beyond.
For the past 13 years or so, I have hosted a poetry salon in my home—except for one year when I held it at the Estes Park library. I thought it might draw a big crowd if we gathered in a public space but it didn’t. Alas. That’s the way with poetry. It’s not for everybody. Poetry is like licorice. There are those who can’t get enough of the chew, the mix of bitter and sweet, the stick-to-your-teeth of it, and there are others who push it away with a wrinkle of the nose and an exclamation of “Eeeuuu!” To each one’s own.
Some readers may ask, “What happens at a poetry salon?” It’s simple: A small group of aficionados gather to share poesies. Some may recite from memory (my affiliate Joe is up to holding 86 poems in his heart—and in order), some read favorites from childhood, others read or recite their own original verse, and still others select a poem for its message—or for no reason at all other than it strikes their fancy. Selecting a poem or two to share at this annual event reminds me of choosing books to recommend for my book club for the coming year: there are so many books but so little time to read! Like picking books, selecting poems is such a juicy experience—being charmed by beguiling words, phrases, rhymes, thoughts and surprising twists of ideas at the end. Bliss is this!
I finally decide on two poems I will share for this year’s salon. They are both by Billy Collins, the U.S. Poet Laureate from 2001 to ’03. The first is one Collins wrote about a friend he visited in rural Vermont, who shared with him “a domestic point of etiquette in country living”:
The Country
I wondered about you when you told me never to leave a box of wooden, strike-anywhere matches lying around the house because the mice might get into them and start a fire. But your face was absolutely straight when you twisted the lid down on the round tin where the matches, you said, are always stowed.
Who could sleep that night? Who could whisk away the thought of the one unlikely mouse padding along a cold water pipe
behind the floral wallpaper gripping a single wooden match between the needles of his teeth?
Who could not see him rounding a corner,
the blue tip scratching against a roughhewn beam, the sudden flare, and the creature for one bright, shining moment suddenly thrust ahead of his time— now a fire-starter, now a torchbearer in a forgotten ritual, little brown druid illuminating some ancient night. Who could fail to notice,
lit up in the blazing insulation, the tiny looks of wonderment on the faces
of his fellow mice, onetime inhabitants of what once was your house in the country?
The second Collins poem I will share is called To My Favorite 17-Year-Old High School Girl. Who that girl is is self-explanatory after you’ve read the poem:
Do you realize that if you had started building the Parthenon on the day you were born, you would be all done in only one more year?
Of course, you couldn’t have done it alone,
so never mind, you’re fine just as you are. You’re loved for just being yourself.
But did you know that at your age Judy Garland was pulling down $150,000 a picture, Joan of Arc was leading the French army to victory, and Blaise Pascal had cleaned up his room?
No wait, I mean he had invented the calculator.
Of course, there will be time for all that later in your life, after you come out of your room and begin to blossom, or at least pick up all your socks.
For some reason, I keep remembering that Lady Jane Grey was Queen of England when she was only fifteen, but then she was beheaded, so never mind her as a role model.
A few centuries later, when he was your age, Franz Schubert was doing the dishes for his family but that did not keep him from composing two symphonies, four operas, and two complete Masses as a youngster.
But of course that was in Austria at the height of romantic lyricism, not here in the suburbs of Cleveland.
Frankly, who cares if Annie Oakley was a crack shot at 15 or if Maria Callas debuted as Tosca at 17?
We think you are special just being you, playing with your food and staring into space.
By the way, I lied about Schubert doing the dishes, but that doesn’t mean he never helped out around the house.
If you would like to hear Billy Collins recite these poems along with three others, you may watch him share his work, accompanied by animation, at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddw1 _3ZVjTE. It’s worth the visit. You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
© 2024 Sarah Donohoe
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddw1_3ZVjTE
As citizens, we often take water for granted. Turn on the tap or take a shower and it’s there. In reality, freshwater is a finite resource. Only 3% of Earth’s water is freshwater, and just one-third of that or 1% is usable from our lakes, rivers, and groundwater aquifers. Across the world, increasing demands are being placed on freshwater. The symposium Water Is Finite will focus on the way experts deal with this limited resource in Colorado.
Denver 7 meteorologist Mike Nelson will discuss weather forecasting in a warming climate while using the latest technology. Accurate forecasts enable water planners and managers to effectively do their jobs. Our next speaker, Russ Schumacher, is the Colorado State Climatologist. He has his finger on the pulse of climate data and trends in Colorado. His analyses and predictions help shape climate policy in our state.
Jean Lever is the Big Thompson River Commissioner for District 4. She is responsible for the river’s daily water distribution under Colorado’s water laws. She has fascinating and insightful knowledge of the management of water in Colorado, collectively known as “water rights.” Our final speaker is Jeff Stahla, the Public Information Officer for Northern Water. Northern Water manages the diversion system that moves water from
the Colorado River through the Adams Tunnel to Lake Estes and downstream to cities and farms in Eastern Colorado. This is one of the largest water diversion projects in the nation. Jeff will give us the big picture of managing and distributing water that is diverted from Western to Eastern Colorado.
Come to the symposium, Water Is Finite, Saturday afternoon, April 27, from 12:30 – 4:00 p.m. in the Community Center, 660 Community Drive. At 4:00 p.m. there will be time to chat with the speakers and ask any questions that were not covered during their presentations. As a bonus we will be handing out ponderosa pine tree seedlings while supplies last! Light snacks and beverages will be provided. For more information and to RSVP for this free event go to www.evwatershed.org/events. Space is limited. RSVP now to reserve your spot!
Following our symposium, guests are encouraged to attend the Environmental Film Festival at the Historic Park Theater on Saturday evening. See www.nickmolle.com. Our speakers will join those taking part in the Environmental Film Festival for a panel discussion after the evening films.
The entire Estes Park community – individuals, families, businesses, and nonprofit organizations – have a final opportunity to have your name and logo etched into stone at the Estes Park Museum. For a $1,000 donation, an 8” x 8” paver stone can be engraved with an etched image and custom text to be lined along the pathway between the Museum and Museum Annex. The pathway connects the Annex, which houses artifacts, to the Museum, where artifacts are presented to the public through exhibits and programs, creating
Staying well informed and up-to-date on the prevailing American issues of our time has never been more difficult or complicated than it is right now. Understanding real facts and unbiased information that directly affect you, your children, and your grandchildren has never been more important. Where else can you find that kind of critical knowledge in Estes Park? The New York Times? The BBC? CNN or Fox?
Dr. Jonathan Chanis, National Committee American Foreign Policy.
The Answer: The Great Decisions Forum hosted at the friendly confines of the Estes Valley Library. Each month the Forum meets to discuss a key social, economic, and security issue to gain a full understanding of how government policies and events affect us and shape our immediate future. Forum moderators (a local Estes Park neighbor of yours) leads the group through a short, high quality video lecture. Each video features a nationally recognized
subject matter expert. Forum attendees then freely discuss the topic exchanging ideas and personal experiences. The Forum is apolitical and focuses on building understanding that we need to be educated voters and wise taxpayers. Diversity of ideas is heartily welcomed and embraced by all during our discussion.
For the month of May topic is US – China Trade Rivalry
China’s economic rise and its current policies of increasing the role of the state in the economy have led some U.S. policymakers to seek to deny China access to U.S. technology and investment. This is seen as a necessary corrective to decades of predatory Chinese economic policies. Is this a wise strategy, and how effective can it be? This month’s subject matter expert is the venerable Dr. Jonathan Chanis, National Committee American Foreign Policy. Please join us for our next great session on Thursday, May 2nd at 11 a.m. in the Wasson Room at the renowned Estes Valley Library. Attendance is free and open to the public. Have an unforgettable experience for all the right reasons.
Members of Estes Park Bright Christmas recently donated six baby and child car seats to the Estes Valley Crisis Advocates. Pictured
EVCA Executive Director and Kathy Park- Safehouse Coordinator and Bright Christmas Board Members, Stephanie Hearty & Mary Murphy.
a perfect analogy of the past meeting the present.
This fundraiser supports the Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation, Inc. in their continued efforts towards Museum Annex facility upgrades and collections care with the goal of professionalizing the museum collection and research facility. Donations will lead to the completion of building upgrades for an ideal, secure environment and the preservation of more than 30,000 locally significant historic artifacts with room for the general public and staff to research the collection.
With over 80 pavers ordered, there are just over 70 left! The fundraising opportunity will end in May 2024 for the installation to take place later this summer. Order now for a personal inclusion in this community effort that will be seen by thousands of annual visitors!
If you are interested in supporting this special project or have any questions, please call or email Museum Director Derek Fortini for more information at 970-577-3761 or dfortini@estes.org.
Dr. Robert Hancock will present this Saturday, April 20 at 10 a.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies on "Bugology 101: Why Insects Matter." Dr. Hancock, professor at Metropolitan State University of Denver, is an authority on mosquitoes, bedbugs and other blood-sucking insects. His current focus is on the relationships between larval and adult nutrition and adult “performance” of Aedes aegypti and Ae. albopictus mosquitos (together, these species are the principle global vectors of Dengue, Yellow Fever, Chikungunya and Zika viruses). The work is multifaceted as it involves mos-
quito rearing, microdissections, cage experiments and olfactor/flight-tunnel studies.
After a long COVID-induced hiatus, residents of Estes Park are returning to our sister city of Monteverde, Costa Rica. Through conversations with our partners in Monteverde, which include town staff, environmental scientists, and other community members, we are planning an exchange from July 13 to 20, 2024. This exchange will be one of reacquaintance, where ambassadors from both towns can form connections and provide a solid foundation for future endeavors.
Exchanges are the heart of the sister cities mission, as they provide opportunity for cultural education, new ideas, and to extend local impacts on a global level. Estes Park Sister Cities Association (EPSCA) hopes to engage in exchanges that benefit teachers and students, our libraries, our business and tourism indus-
try, and our relationships to the natural environment.
The exchange this July will see a handful of board members, teachers, and other interested persons travel to Monteverde to tour facilities, establish relationships, and plan for future program opportunities. It will include meetings between educators, with library staff, tours of the cloud forest, and business and tourism introductions. Attendance on this exchange is limited to EPSCA members. If you are interested in being part of this exchange, please notify a board member by May 1. The board of directors includes: Carlie Bangs (president); Dave Thomas (vice president); Sean Jurgens (secretary); Mike Harris (treasurer); Cynda Basch; Chuck Scott; Susan Taylor and Barbara Werner.
Iryna Irkliienko and Natalyia Pleshkova, along with family members, have been doing lunches to support Ukraine and Ukrainians since March 1, 2022. Rocky Mountain Deli has been sold to another Ukrainian family who will not be doing those lunches. Instead, they are pleased to announce that starting this Tuesday, the Ukrainian cuisine charity lunches will be served in the front lobby of Rocky Mountain Church from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. every Tuesday. The Church is located at 451 Promontory Drive. The lunches include three courses:
soup/Borsch, and entrée with assorted meats, dessert, and a homemade drink. There is no charge – only a donation is requested.
Natalyia and Iryna are grateful to Rocky Mountain Deli, its previous and current owners, for being the home base for the charity lunches. Over the last 30 months of war, Ukrainians of Colorado has been able to raise close to $30,000 to help Ukrainians in need. Estes Park is a wonderful community to live in and feel supported!
Feel free to contact Iryna (970) 6916331 or Natalyia (970) 481-9483 for questions. Glory to Ukraine!
Last week you were introduced to three local watercolor artists Scott Rashid, KC Benson and Greg Miles, who will be offering a watercolor class on April 27th and 28th upstairs in the Estes Park Bank Building at 255 Park Lane, in Estes Park. Each of the artists have unique techniques they use to generate their watercolor paintings.
During the two-day seminar, each instructor will show a multitude of techniques that they use to create their art.
like colored pencil drawings than watercolor paintings, even though all he uses is watercolor. Scott creates paintings of birds that he has a great deal of familiarity with, as he is both an avian researcher and a bird rehabilitator with has enabled him to handle many of the subjects that he depicts in his paintings.
Greg’s first and preferred medium is watercolor, but he enjoys working in all types of mediums. Technically, his work is non-narrative representational imagery with abstract elements. He wants it to have strong, intense color on precise images with tremendous contrast. He also enjoys the bold use of light and shadow, negative space, lost edges, and emotion coupled with color and form. He frequently only tells part of a story – using partial images, thus allowing the viewer to become engaged in the piece.
KC’s style of painting frequently includes a very wet style of painting, often called wet on wet. This is a style that incorporates lots of water and bright colors often painted rather rapidly.
Scott uses more of a dry technique and paints with a great deal of detail using small brushes and less water. The result of his style are paintings that look more
The two-day workshop will run from 9-5 on the 27th and 12-4 on the 28th. To attend the workshop, go to KC BensonWatercolors.com and click the green ink at the top of the page. Furthermore, please bring watercolor paint, watercolor paper, brushes, containers for water, subject matter that you might want to paint, lunch and snacks.
See you on the 27th at 9:00 a.m. upstairs in the Estes Park Bank Building at 255 Park Lane, in Estes Park.
The next meeting of the Merry Marthas will be held on Friday, April 26 at 9:30 a.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies on Brodie Avenue. Merry Marthas is a group of women who sew, knit, crochet, or weave and then donate their finished projects to local charities. New members are always welcome whether experienced or a beginner. For more information, please call the church at 970-586-4404.
Help Us Help the Helpers
Friday April 19th, 2024
From 5:00-8:00pm
555 S. St. Vrain Ave. Estes Park, CO
Come bowl a game or join us for food and fun. A portion of the proceeds collected will benefit Restoration Ranch Colorado.
Silent Auction drawings begin at 7:00pm (must be present to win)
$20 admission includes food and bowling
Your support allows RRC to continue innovative programs for First Responders and their families including FREE stays at the nonprofit founders’ Ranch. Local First Responders Need Our Support!
We are excited to announce the Estes ParkRun! A free monthly 4.2 mile race around Lake Estes Saturdays at 7a.m., May 25, June 29, July 13 and August 24. Join us at the Bluebird Pavilion on May 25th to meet fellow runners & walkers in the Estes Valley.
We follow the spirit of the ParkRun movement by providing a welcoming and fun space for runners of all ability levels.
For more information, check out our website at www.runningwildevents.com/estespark-run.html
Are you discouraged when you see trash along Estes Park’s roadsides and trails? If so, we have a plan to return these sites to their natural beauty, and we need your help.
On Saturday, April 27, we will hold the annual town spring cleanup event and send all this trash to the Larimer County Landfill.
Meet at 9 a.m. in the parking lot on the east side of the Visitor’s Center for route assignments and to collect your orange bags. Each route is designed to require about 1 ½ hours to clean up.
We recommend that you wear a longsleeved shirt, long pants, sturdy footwear, work gloves, and bring sun protection, hand sanitizer and tick spray. Bring a friend to make it go twice as fast!
Quickly you should see orange bags popping up all over Town. After noon Town workers will pick them all up and deliver them to the Marina, where Rocky Mountain Dumpsters will take care of the rest.
We are thankful to the Town, the Rotary Club of Estes Park, Rocky Mountain Dumpsters, and the EVRPD for their assistance.
If you have a group that would be willing to do a little larger area, we would be happy to hear from you. We can give you an assignment ahead of time, and you can pick up bags at the Marina the week prior to the event.
Several groups have already signed up, but we still need more volunteers! There is no need to sign up in advance -- just show up on Saturday morning. In case of inclement weather, please come and pick up a route and orange bag and do your pick-up at your earliest convenience.
We thank you for your participation in this valuable community event. For additional information, please contact Tara Moenning at tara@aspenbrookinvestments.com or Beth Weisberg at weisberg.family@verizon.net.
The Allenspark Run Like the Wind is back for its 12th year. Sponsored by The Old Gallery, Allenspark’s community center and art gallery, the family friendly 5k race / dog jog and 2k noncompetitive walk / dog walk will be held Saturday August 31, 2024. Both events begin in the heart of Allenspark, Colorado, with the 5k starting at 9:00 a.m. and the noncompetitive 2k walk starting at 9:10 a.m. This scenic, high altitude, rolling course is run on mostly dirt roads amid the pine forests near Rocky Mountain National Park. It offers amazing views of the high mountain peaks of the area.
More information and previous year’s race photos can be found on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RunLikeTheWind5K/.
Race day registration will open at 7:00 a.m. at the Old Gallery. Race packet includes a commemorative cap with race logo, refreshments, awards and prizes for the top three male/female/non-binary in age categories in addition to the top three overall winners. For participants and their pooch, there will be chances to compete in some whimsical dog competitions after the events. In addition, the event has opportunities for individuals and companies alike to be included as sponsors with publicity and promotion. Please contact Events Coordinator Rene Goodman at rene@theoldgallery.org for sponsorship opportunities.
Registration is available online at GetMeRegistered.com at secure.getmeregistered.com/get_information.php? event_id=139463.
They say it takes a village, well... We agree!
It's been awhile since our beloved dog, Lucky Jack, was missing in Estes Park. He ran off Christmas Eve last year and he was found New Year's Eve.
This letter is an overdue, but it is a very heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to Lucky Jack's search. From the purchase, procurement and placement of supplies to your heart-felt help, best wishes, positive thoughts, prayers, tears, dreams, visioning, communication and holding space for our brave boy's safe return! Special thanks go out to the kind people of Riverview Pines and Castle Mountain Lodge, where we had live traps set up.
Jack braved freezing nights alone amidst predators, he walked many miles, had wounds on all paws, lost a lot of weight and was very traumatized by the time he was found a week after he disap-
peared.
But, thanks to you, the wonderful people and community of Estes, as well as many friends and family and people we have never, and may never meet, he is now safely, and very happily home!
We were, and continue to be, completely in awe of the caring hearts of every person we talked to and met during and after our search!
One word comes to mind...grateful
Thank you wonderful people of Estes Park and beyond! We are so very grateful for your help and support throughout our ordeal!
Lucky Jack will be at The Barrel Tuesday, April 23rd, from 4-7 p.m. to thank all of you who were involved in any way in his search. Come meet him and have a beer on us! We look forward to thanking the wonderful people of Estes!
Tonya & Bruce Harrington
MAY 05, 2024
MAY 05, 2024
Family Activities:
Face Painting | Art Making
Bounce House | Giant Puzzles
Special Performances:
Ballet Renaissance
Grupo Folklorico Mexico Lindo
Los 7 de la Cumbia
In partnership with:
By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network
A reality check from a local executive director: “Emails that communicate their point right off the bat are the ones I’m going to respond to immediately. The rest go in the do-later loop. I spent 80% of my day writing.”
Effective writing is significant in all professional settings. For nonprofits, writing is especially critical; it buys grants and builds partnerships. It’s also ubiquitous (there is no hiding in the back of the room on this one): text messages, contracts, sticky notes, and the ever-loving world of email. Writing can open and close doors. "Communication that Connects: Writing to Build Relationships & Get Results" will offer simple tricks to ensure your writing effectively connects with readers. This class is built for nonprofits but is open to other professionals and community members as well.* The Network has engaged Jenny Morse, PhD, founder of Appendance, Inc. to lead a two-hour workshop that will help nonprofit professionals craft messages that resonate with their audience and drive desired actions. Participants will learn five simple tricks to ensure their writing connects with readers effectively, including designing reader-friendly messages, crafting engaging sentences, and
using questions strategically.
In addition to offering consulting services through Appendance, Dr. Morse teaches Business Writing at Colorado State University and offers writing seminars through the Employers Council in Denver.
Communication
that Connects is held Tuesday, April 23rd from 10:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. at the Estes Valley Library. Space is limited to 25 attendees: bit.ly/ennprogram-april24
*This program is completely free for Estes Valley Nonprofit Staff and Volunteers, $25 for community members, government agencies, nonprofits not serving in Estes Park, and for-profits. Registration closes April 19.
This workshop kicks off Estes Nonprofit Network’s 2024 education programs tailored specifically for local nonprofits! The next two programs are "Lessons from Old MacDonald: EI, EI, O (Emotional Intelligence, Evolutionary Insights, and Optimizing People's Potential)" on Wednesday, May 15 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. and "Nonprofit Lifecycle Organizational Evaluation Tools" in June and July (three sessions). All information and registration can be found on epnonprofit.org. Questions? email alison@epnonprofit.org.
Estes Park Yoga will be hosting Full Moon Breath Work and Sound Bath events on April 22nd, May 22nd, and June 21st, 2024, from 6:007:30 p.m. Estes Park Yoga is located at 517 Big Thompson Ave, #103, Estes Park, CO 80517. Join us for monthly evenings of Breathwork and Sound Healing on the Full Moon at Estes
Park Yoga. Immerse yourself in a transformative experience that combines the power of breath and soothing sounds led by Jody Lockhart, our local breathwork and sound bath facilitator.
Tickets are $33. Space is limited; please visit www.estesparkyoga.com or call 970-586-5522 for more information.
Opening at The Estes Park Resort on May 25, 2024, is Ember, a modern American restaurant, bar, and venue. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Estes and the Rocky Mountains, Ember offers unparalleled dining experiences, featuring upscale Colorado classics for breakfast, lunch, and dinner - seven days a week. As a premier catering and event venue for weddings and corporate events, Ember also provides the perfect setting for unforgettable occasions amidst the natural beauty of Estes Park.
As the fifth establishment under the esteemed Gafner Hospitality Group (GHG), Ember continues the tradition of excellence set forth by its predecessors. Well-known for its successful ventures, such as The Roost, Jefes Tacos & Tequila, Swaylo's Tiki, and 99 Bar Saloon, GHG is thrilled to introduce Ember as its latest addition.
"Our vision for Ember extends beyond being just a restaurant," stated Sean Gafner, Owner and Certified Executive Chef. "We aim to cultivate a welcoming space where guests can commemorate life's milestones and our dedicated team members can flourish and feel appreciated for their exceptional work.”
The Estes Park Resort, a cornerstone of Estes Park since 2001, has recently undergone substantial enhancements, including an ongoing $5 million renovation of its guestrooms and public areas. Now, with the addition of Ember, the resort continues its commitment to elevating the guest experience.
“After careful consideration of various hospitality groups, we chose Gafner Hospitality Group due to their exceptional skill set, experience, and shared values,” shares
Patrick Sullivan of Estes Park Resort.“We are thrilled to collaborate with them. Their meticulous attention to detail, professionalism, Executive Chef Sean Gafner's skill and creativity, and dedication to ensuring every guest enjoys an exceptional experience make them an ideal partner. We believe Ember will be a fantastic addition to our resort and the Estes Park community."
Her design of Ember’s dining room features a large central island surrounded by swanky circular booths, each offering picturesque views. Indoor trees and glowing glass orbs add warmth and tranquility. From intimate gatherings to large events, Ember provides well-appointed spaces, reflecting the Rocky Mountain region's classic lines and natural materials.
Mountain Meals for Tourists and Locals Alike
At Ember, Executive Chef Sean Gafner's culinary expertise shines through in every dish, showcasing a dedication to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Drawing from his farm upbringing and experience in renowned Northern California restaurants, Gafner crafts elevated modern classics that reflect his commitment to fresh produce and sustainable livestock.
Ember's menu features signature dishes that embody the essence of Estes Park, such as the Elk Tenderloin with lingonberry demi-glace, chanterelles, Cambozola potatoes, and Brussels sprouts—an homage to the region's flavors. Ember offers a diverse array of options to satisfy every palate. From Hokkaido scallops with red pepper coulis and shaved black truffle to mouthwatering burgers made with grass-fed beef or veggie patties, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Ember also pays tribute to the culinary heritage of the GHG family of restaurants in Longmont. Drawing inspiration from fan-favorite menu items at GHG predecessors, Jefes and The Roost, Ember features beloved dishes like Squash Tacos and Ahi Poke Wontons.
Ember seamlessly integrates into the resort renovations, enriching the guest experience. Interior designer Samantha Rinaldi's vision pays homage to nature. "The expansive lakefront views framed by the stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop truly distinguish this restaurant's ambiance," notes Rinaldi, who designed it to honor nature rather than compete with it.
Chef Gafner’s passion for culinary innovation is evident in every aspect of Ember’s menu. "I'm excited to put on my chef coat again and experiment with some exciting ingredients," says Gafner. "We envision Ember as a stunning destination offering exceptional dining experiences – ideal for romantic date nights or a relaxed lakeside visit. Above all, it's essential to us that Ember becomes a welcoming hub for locals.”
Estes Park Quota’s Speech and Hearing Committee recently donated funds to the elementary school to be used for a wide variety of audio assistance equipment for classroom use, including microphones, headphones and assessment tools.
Pictured are Jacqui Dantimo, Administrative Assistant, Student Services/Curriculum & Assessment, Estes Park School District R-3 Jill Hawks, SpeechLanguage Pathologist, Estes Park School District R-3 along with Linda Schakenbach, Quota Club.
Congratulations to Fiona Owens, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for Friday, April 19, 2024.
Fiona is the daughter of Karen and Jason Owens.
At EPHS Fiona is a member of the National Honor Society. She has maintained a 3.5 or above GPA throughout high school and she is pleased to say she is graduating a full calendar year early!
Outside of school she loves being outside when the weather is nice and either walking or skateboarding with her friends. Fiona enjoys volunteering with children in our community. Though she’s currently not employed, her favorite job was as a barista. Fiona spends a lot of time investing in her schoolwork, she is very organized, painfully similar to both of her parents and she despises being cold.
When asked a place she’d love to visit, she said, “I would love to live on the northwestern western coast somewhere in Washington state or Oregon.”
The Estes Park Elementary School would like to invite the community to the “Mini” Elementary Art show being exhibited by the Art Center of Estes Park April 26-June 3. The opening reception will be April 26, from 5-7 p.m. The gallery will be open Friday-Monday from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. until May 16. After May 16th the gallery will be open daily, 57 p.m.
This exhibit will feature 87 students in grades 3rd, 4th and 5th. Students have been learning skills that include three different types of weaving, negative and positive space, contour drawing, watercolor, and collage. The pieces have been collected throughout the year to be shown in this special exhibit.
Severyn Cargill has been the elementary art teacher for two years and has been working with the community to bring outside art related activities into the school.
Some of these programs included the Mentor/Mentee art show and the Mask show at the Art Center, in February.
Fiona’s favorite quote is “Well, it ain’t perfect, but I don’t mind because it’s worth it” by Mac Miller, Perfecto, 2018.
The best piece of advice she’s been given is, “You will not be worried about the same things in two years, so stop stressing about the small things in life.”
After high school, Fiona plans to go into health care and will most likely take nursing classes at UNC.
She reached out to the Estes Park Education Foundation and received a grant to help her with materials and supplies needed to display the art in a professional manner.
Thank you Estes Park Education Foundation!
Merchants Donating Prizes for 2024 Duck Race
Latest list as of 4/15/2024
Alpenglow Images & Accents
American Legion Post 119
Art Center of Estes Park
Aspen and Evergreen
Awesome Shirtworks
Bank of Colorado
Big Horn Restaurant
Big Red of the Rockies
BLADES
Blake Trading
Briggs Carpet Care of Estes Park
Brownfield's
Brunch & Co
Cabin Fever of Estes Park, LLC
Cabintique
Casa Grande
Castle Mountain Lodge
Chrysalis at the Stanley
Classic Hair Designs
Coffee on the Rocks
Colorado Homestead
Cousin Patís Pub & Grill
Creativity Cabin
Delaware North Parks and Resorts / Holiday Inn
Estes Park
Della Terra Mountain Chateau
Domino's Pizza
Dr Grant Spencer, Chiropractor
Earthwood Collections
Elizabeth Guild
Emily Gordon Photography
Enchanted Florist
EP Greens
Estes Park Brewery
Estes Park Knife Co.
Estes Park Pet Lodge
Estes Park Pet Supply
Estes Park Pilates
Estes Park Yoga
Estes Valley Aesthetics
Estes Valley Library Friends & Foundation
Fashion Express
Favorite Things
Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies
Frames Games & Things Unnamed
Full Potential Wilderness
Fun City
Guardians Of The Park
H&R Block
Hands Down Best in Town Therapeutic Massage
Heart of the Rockies Gentle Yoga Studio
Hunters Chophouse
iii - initials included inc.
Inkwell & Brew
IntaJuice
Jazzercise Estes Park
Knight Sky Pictures
La Cocina De Mama
Lauraís Fine Candies
Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival
Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co.
Moose Creek Western
Mountain Blown Glass
Move Freely Massage
Mt. Everest Gift House
MURPHY'S RESORT
Once Upon a Hive
Ore Cart Rock Shop
OUTDOOR WORLD
Penelope's Old Time Hamburgers
Plum Creek Shoe Station
Post Chicken and Beer
Quality Inn
Red Rose Rock Shop
Resinated Wood Works
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
Rocky Mountain Connection
Rocky Mountain Conservancy
Rocky Mountain Gifts and T-Shirts
Rocky Mountain Souvenir
Rocky Ridge Music Center
Safeway
Scott and Karen Thompson
Sky Pond Photography and Video Productions
Smith Sign Studio & Wishes Fulfilled
Smokin' Dave's BBQ
Snowy Peaks Winery
Sports Hound - Buckles of Estes - Toy Mountain
Stanley Home Museum
STUFFED
Subway
The Barrel
The Beef Jerky Experience
The Bull Pin
The Mad Moose
The Old Fashion Candy Store
The Phat Bear
The Sweatshirt Center/ Mountain O'clock
The Taffy Shop
The Wheel Bar
Three Blessed Gems
Twin Owls Steakhouse
Village Barber Shop
Village Goldsmith
Wayfinder Restaurant
Wear Me Out T's
Welcome Estes Park
Wild Horse Gift Shop
Wynbrier LTD Wildlife Gallery
You Need Pie! Diner & Bakery
Duck Race Sponsors as of 4/15/2024
Named Sponsor:
Poppy's and Mama Rose's
Venue Sponsors:
Quality Inn
Visit Estes Park
Major Sponsors:
Alpine Gardens
Ameritech Windows
Backbone Adventures
Bank of Colorado
Bank of Estes Park
Briggs Carpet Care of Estes Park
Cheley Colorado Camps
Dallman Construction Co. Inc.
Docter Construction
High Peak Camp - The Salvation Army
Penelope's Old Time Hamburgers
John P Poskey TAMU '94
Peter and Stephanie Sinnott
Premier Members Credit Union
Shotts, Merryman & Company
Snowy Peaks Winery
State Farm
The Rock Inn
The Thompson Group
Town of Estes Park
Trailblazer Broadband
YMCA of the Rockies
Associate Sponsors:
A la Carte Kitchen Store
Chuck and Dale Bonza
Paula Edwards
Elkhorn Law Office
Garrett Group International
Dennis Gellhaus
Alan and Kathy Groesbeck
Kevin Mullin
Wayne Newsom
Jack Overly
Mel and Gray Rueppel
Jim and Robin Scritchfield - ScoBabe Blessed
Ann Wise and Stephen Riedlinger
In Kind Sponsors:
Ace Hardware of Estes Park
Creativity Cabin
Estes Angler
Estes Park News
Estes Park Trail Gazette
FrontDesk Inc
John's Well Service
Nicky's Resort
Holiday Inn/Delaware North
The Rocky Mountain Channel
Wapiti Colorado Pub
Wheel Bar
2024 will present another fabulous opportunity to paint with well-known local artist, Cathy Goodale, who will be teaching monthly from January through December 2024 at the Art Center. Sign up for any number of classes in advance or one at a time, as the year progresses. Each class will meet from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Art Center classroom.
April 17, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
– “Spring Flowers” Cathy’s focus will be as follows: perspective of a flower – interpretation rather than detail – and how to limit your palette when using many colors. How does color affect us emotionally? What are your color choices? How does that affect your painting? Art Center members: $72, non members: $80.
Cliff is an award-winning fine artist that has been painting (both in studio and en plein air) and illustrating since 1980.
April 24 & 25, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.This exciting two-day workshop will give students the opportunity to explore various techniques in oil and pastel for approaching landscape painting and for planning ahead. In addition to “how to” demos and tutorials designed for each individual’s natural way with pastels or oils, there will be plenty of one on one and ongoing critique. Art Center members: $170, non-members: $189.
Current Exhibit
"Spring Sojourn"
Watercolor paintings by Deborah J. Jansen and oil paintings by Bill Fritz. March 15April 22, sponsored by Bill and Sue Pinkham.
cies as an Art Director and Creative Director. He began oil painting after retirement and moving to Estes Park. While developing his artistic skills Bill enjoyed biking and RVing. Bill has always looked forward to capturing the beauty of Estes Park and surrounding areas… he feels blessed to call such a beautiful place “home.”
Deborah J. Jansen: “What a thrill to find that place of wonderful light and color, that certain mood, that provocative living thing—and then paint it! I favor en plein aire, where I am alone with nature’s sounds, scents, and secrets. My watermedia paintings are inspired by my love of life in all forms, and my concern for the environment and the people sharing it.”
Upcoming Exhibit
Florida Garden, Cynthia Price Reedy
Bill Fritz was raised in South Dakota. He attended the University of Nebraska and graduated from the Art Center School of Design in Los Angeles. He spent his career working for major advertising agen-
providing me with a lot of variety. I love to travel and paint on location which provides me with a deeper experience of the place than merely being there. In the studio, I do both realistic and abstract work. Art adds a special richness to my life.”
Tim Diffenderfer grew up in the hills and valleys of central Pennsylvania. He started sketching and painting the rural farming area and later attended a small Liberal Arts college (Thiel College) and continued his education by obtaining a Master’s degree in Fine Art from University of Colorado. Tim currently lives with his wife in Boulder CO and has a barn/studio near Westcliffe CO.
Elementary School Art Show
Center of Estes Park provides a variety of art classes and local and national art exhibits annually for our community.
Satellite Exhibits:
Estes Park Health, US Bank, with newly hung exhibit of artwork by Bruce Boynton and exhibits at VERT, Snowy Peaks Winery, and at the Bank of Estes Park. The public is invited to visit these exhibits.
Montezuma’s Castle, Cynthia Price Reedy
This show also features a small exhibit by Estes Park Elementary School students. This exhibit will feature 87 students in grades 3rd, 4th and 5th. Students have been learning skills that include three different types of weaving, negative and positive space, contour drawing, watercolor, and collage. The pieces have been collected throughout the year to be shown in this special exhibit. (See page 18).
"Color and Shape"
Watercolor paintings by
Cynthia Price Reedy and pastel paintings and lithography by Tim Diffenderfer, April 26-June 3.
Opening reception, 5-7 p.m.
Sponsored by Lea Bowne and Coreen Boeding in Memory of Bonnie Bowne.
Cynthia Price Reedy: “Born in Colorado, I come from a family of artists. I paint in watercolor, acrylic, and oils. I also do scratchboard and clay sculpture,
Social Media:
The Art Center can be viewed not only on our website at www.artcenterofestes.com but we are on Facebook at Art-Center-of-EstesPark and Instagram at artcenterofep. 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,
Have you adopted your ducks yet for the 2024 Duck Race? This is an easy way to support the Art Center. The 36th Annual Estes Park Rotary Duck Race Festival will take place in the river on Saturday, May 4, 2024.
Adopt your ducks now for the Art Center at: www.epduck race.org/artcenter-of-estespark. Adoptions are $25 each, with $22 going directly to the Art Center.
Think about adopting a sixduck Quack Pack for $125, adopt five ducks, get one duck free!
Diffenderfer
in Middle Stanley Village, below Safeway and above Subway. For more information, or to register for classes, please call the Art Center at 970-586-5882 or visit our website at www.artcenterofestes.com.
Mountain Landscape, Tim Diffenderfer
Your continued support of the Art
The Estes Park Duck Race has some exciting new things in store for 2024 including live music announcements and the addition of a new venue. This year, “Big Duck” Scott Robbins is leading the charge for the 36th annual Rotary Duck Race, and backing him up are three eager “Little Ducks", along with an active Duck Race Committee. Little Ducks
Scott Thompson, Karen Thompson and Beth Weisberg are seasoned pros, ready to take on the challenge. Ahead of this year’s festivities, Big Duck Scott Robbins shares his thoughts on behalf of the Rotary Duck Race Committee. Learn all about what’s new for the 2024 Duck Race in this exclusive interview.
Q. What strikes you as the most amazing thing about the Estes Park Duck Race?
A. It’s the remarkable level of community engagement. Sponsors, merchants, our participating organizations, the Town, Visit Estes Park and our residents have all embraced the event. It is now the single largest fundraising event in the Estes Valley. We expect to return over $200,000 to the sixty-three participating organizations in 2024.
Q. Can you tell us what’s new in 2024?
A: We have two big changes in 2024. The first is increasing our payout to nonprofits from $22 per $25 duck adoption to $23 per adoption. When you apply that to 10,000 ducks in the water that’s a significant chunk of change. The second big change in 2024 is emphasizing the festival aspect of the Duck Race by adding a full day of activities at Bond Park. After a long winter, local residents and visitors are ready to get outside in our beautiful mountain community to celebrate Spring! Big Quack to that! Our headliner musical act is Cowboy Brad Fitch. Cowboy Brad is a fixture in the local entertainment scene and we couldn’t be more pleased to have him perform. Prior to Cowboy Brad, Sunny Boy Jim Jack Jones will play guitar music geared to young listeners. Two West African-style Djembe drum groups will kick off the entertainment at 10:30 a.m. followed by a community drum circle for people of all ages that want to join our Djembe West African-style drummers.
We are ecstatic to have the YMCA of the Rockies leading children’s games and family activities at Bond Park. Who could be better at engaging families than the YMCA! We will also have three food trucks available throughout the day. Finally, a number of organizations and sponsors will have informational tables at Bond Park.
Q: What do we need to know about this year’s Race Day?
A: Race Day will start at 9:00 a.m. with the 5K Duck Waddle. We expect over 10,000 duck adoptions this year. All duck adoptions will be made online only, and it’s fast and simple to do so by going to our website, www.epduckrace.org or click on the QR code on duck race posters you see around town. Anyone can adopt a duck from their cell phone,
iPad, computer, or other device in just a couple of minutes. Who knows, adopters may also win one of the hundreds of prizes donated by our local merchants or one of our big prizes: $10,000 cash, $6,000 cash, $4,000 cash, or a stay at historic Camp Hale, CO. Follow the livestream on your phone by going to the website. It’s a community festival, a major fundraiser, and a day full of fun with hundreds of chances to win prizes. It does not get any better than that!
A. There are so many people to thank. We are especially grateful to Poppy’s Pizza and Grill and Mama Rose’s Restaurant for being our Named Sponsors. This has enabled us to have the Rocky Mountain Channel and Nick Molle promote duck adoptions and livestream the Duck Race. Visit Estes Park has done an incredible job managing our Facebook page and promoting the Duck Race through press releases and other publicity outreach.
organizations interested in participating in the race festival.
The generous donations from our many Major and Associate Sponsors are helping to underwrite the event expenses. Delaware North, owner of the Holiday Inn, has once again donated a nice vacation package and has been instrumental in hosting duck race meetings.
Our town’s supportive merchants have donated hundreds of wonderful prizes for duck adopters to win. Tim Moore, Beth Weisberg & their legions of volunteers have spent countless hours securing these prizes. Thanks to all of you.
We continue to be impressed by the Participating Organizations and their enduring commitment to selling duck adoptions and providing volunteers to help with the Duck Race.
The Estes Park Police Department
Auxiliary is donating their services for crowd and parking control and keeping the duck race safe for our festivarians. The Duck Race couldn’t happen without the dedication of the Duck Race Committee and the Rotary Club of Estes Park. I rely heavily on the wise counsel of my Little Ducks. I can’t wait to see where they take the race in 2025. For anyone not receiving a shout-out by name, just know that virtually everyone I have had the pleasure of working with on the 2024 Rotary Duck Race Festival is appreciated. I am grateful to you all.
Q: Can you describe the experience of leading a fundraiser of this scale?
Enjoy the entertainment offerings at Nicky’s Resort, Performance Park, George Hix Riverside Plaza, and Bond Park starting at 10:30 a.m. and running through 4 p.m.
Q: What is the Race Day highlight, in your opinion?
The moment when over 10,000 little yellow rubber duckies are dropped into Fall River from the duck cage suspended high in the air. Suddenly, the river turns bright yellow with a big splash, and away the ducks go down the river to Riverside Plaza!
A close second is learning how much revenue has been raised for the participating organizations. The services they provide are essential to the quality of life here in the Estes Valley and it’s a privilege to contribute to their success.
Q. Many local residents and groups participate in the Race volunteering, entertaining, selling adoptions, serving as sponsors, walking the river, etc. Does that make a Big Duck honk with happiness?
A. That’s a big Quackity-quack! Our partnerships with Visit Estes Park and the Town have been indispensable in 2024 as have the support of our business sponsors, merchants, and all the volunteers from the community.
Q. Here’s your chance to send some thankful quacks before the ducks drop.
The tireless work of Karen Thompson as our venue and entertainment coordinator is as appreciated as it is essential. We are also indebted to all of our musicians who generously share their talents with us.
The Duck Race Committee’s Tech Team of Bob Fulton, Jeff Lindberg, Larry Trifiletti, Lee Lasson and Sandy Lasson have volunteered their services to create and operate much-needed e-commerce system to manage adoptions, a customer relations system to manage communications and data, as well as a user-friendly website with portals for all key stakeholder groups. I can’t thank them enough for their “back office” work that makes the race work.
Three very able Rotarians are managing River Security this year: Carl Robicheaux, Sheriff; Jim Austin, our River Expert Emeritus; and Ben Van der Werf overseeing the finish line duck plucking. River security is crucial to the safe operation of the Duck Race and gives adults an excuse to wade in the water!
Coordination of volunteers has been ably assumed by Andrea Escorcia. Andrea has successfully herded over 100 duckling volunteers to cover all the duties necessary for the festival
Last year’s Big Duck, Bill Solms, has stepped in as our Sponsor leader and has secured our sponsors for the 2024 race festival.
Larry Williams has taken on the task of overseeing the application process for
A: The Duck Race is an Estes Valley institution, and it truly is a privilege to help carry on this tradition. It is absolutely a lot of work, but that work is made lighter by the “many hands” that help out. There are a lot of Rotarians that know a lot more about the race festival than I do and their experience greatly enhances the event. The best part is the people you work with who do what they do because they love the duck race festival and the way it benefits the community.
Q: Do you have advice for future Big Ducks?
A: I highly recommend it to anyone who is curious what it would be like to lead a team of highly committed and competent people who appreciate the place this festival has in the community. Bringing people to help who are as enthusiastic about fun and service as you are. With everyone working together, the Duck Race can go on for another 36 years!
Q: Do you need volunteers on Race Day?
Yes! Please email me at BigDuck@epduckrace.org or Andrea Escorcia, volunteers@epduckrace.org to help make Race Day a success.
The Estes Park Rotary Duck Race Festival occurs annually on the first Saturday in May. The Annual Duck Race continues a tradition started in 1989, which has returned over $3 million to local Estes Park charities and groups. 2024 marks the 36th annual Duck Race.
Mondays - Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Fridays & Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.
KEY
Ⓡ: Registration required. Visit estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.
I’ll Be Waiting For You: Author Talk &
Book Signing with Mariko Turk Ⓡ
Tuesday, April 30, 4 - 6 p.m., Fireside Theater & Hondius Room
Natalie and Imogen are wildly different and yet inseparable. One thing ties them together: their love of the supernatural. Meet Mariko Turk, author of the new YA novel I’ll Be Waiting For You, during this book launch, author talk, and book signing. Denver-based author and bonus guest Jessie Weaver will be in attendance, too!
Genius, Power, & Deception on the Eve of WWI: Author Talk with Douglas Brunt Ⓡ
Wednesday, May 1, 1 - 2 p.m., online Chat with author Douglas Brunt about his debut book and instant bestseller, The Mysterious Case of Rudolf Diesel, a nonfiction work about one of the world’s greatest inventors and his mysterious disappearance. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
ALL AGES
The History of Botanical Art Ⓡ
Tuesday, April 23, 5:306:30 p.m., Wasson Room
Learn about and view examples of botanical art, which combines object and subject, art and science, and history with horticulture. Recommended for adults and teens.
Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County
Wednesday, April 24, 17:30 p.m. Dream Study Room
Thursday, April 25, 1 - 7:30 p.m., Dream Study Room
Schedule an appointment and build your digital skills, including using your smartphone, accessing websites and accounts online, improving online communications, and more. Presented by AmeriCorps service members.
Arbor Day Tree Giveaway
Saturday, April 27, 12 - 2 p.m., Library Entrance
In honor of National Arbor Day, stop by the Green Apple Statue in front of the Library to pick up your free tree sapling from our friends at the Town of Estes Park. Supplies are limited and offered on a first come, first served basis. Presented in partnership with Platte River Power Authority.
Game Night! Ⓡ
Saturday, April 27, 2 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Play board games from our own collection as well as ones generously provided by Frames, Games, and Things Unnamed. All ages welcome – bring your family, friends, and neighbors. Snacks and refreshments provided.
Watercolor Botanical Art Class Ⓡ
Tuesday, April 30, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace
In this workshop, participants will learn basic watercolor techniques used in botanical painting. All skill levels welcome! Recommended for adults and teens; please note that the class is a companion program to the The History of Botanical Art presentation on April 23.
Estate Planning Basics: Ensuring Your Assets Pass to the Right People Ⓡ
Monday, April 29, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Hondius Room
If you possess any assets or property, estate planning is essential. In this class, learn what you can do now to ensure your assets are transferred to the right individuals. Presented in partnership with the Association of Financial Educators.
Election Information with the League of Women Voters of Estes Park
Thursday, May 2, 12 - 2 p.m., Library Atrium
The League of Women Voters of Estes Park will be on hand to help with voter registration, important election dates, and other information about voting in local, regional, and national elections.
May Day Celebration Ⓡ
Wednesday, May 1, 3 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room
Dance around the Maypole, make a flower crown, braid ribbons, and browse the Seed Library! Recommended for ages 6 and up.
Smash Plate Mosaic Art Ⓡ
Wednesday, May 1, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m., Makerspace
Smash plates and cups, then use the pieces to create a beautiful piece of mosaic artwork. This program will use hammers, broken glass, and pottery in a contained and supervised environment and is recommended for ages 9 and up.
Teen Advisory Council Ⓡ
Thursday, May 2, 6 - 7 p.m., Hondius Room
Monthly meeting for tweens and teens (ages 11-18) who would like to recommend ideas for library programming, designs for future teen space, and collection purchases for their age group.
May the 4th Be With You Ⓡ
Saturday, May 4, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Celebrate Star Wars Day with crafts (including making your own lightsaber!), robots, free comic books, a photobooth, and more. Wear your Star Wars themed clothing or costumes!
KIDS & FAMILIES
Library Storytimes
Babies: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.
Preschoolers: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Heidi: Thurs., April 25 at 11 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Annie: Sat., May 4 at 11 a.m.
Early Childhood Music Ⓡ
Saturday, April 20, 11 - 11:30 a.m., Hondius Room
Children ages 6 and under (and their caregivers) are invited to join Annaka Hogelin, musician and music educator, for an interactive thirty minutes of songs, movement, rhythm, and fun.
MAKERSPACE CLASSES
Learn the 3D Printer Ⓡ
Monday, April 22, 5:30 - 7 p.m.
For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult).
LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES Study Session
Thursday, May 2, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room
View the Board of Trustees information at estesvalleylibrary.org/board.
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION
Cliffhanger Used Books
Cliffhanger Used Books, located next to the Post Office, is operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, and music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
KEY
Ⓡ: Registration required. Visit estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.
Natalie and Imogen are wildly different: Natalie is brave and always willing to jump into new adventures, while Imogen is infuriatingly humble and incredibly intelligent. Yet the two are inseparable with one thing that ties them together: their love of the supernatural. Every summer the two friends vacation with their parents at the famously haunted Harlow Hotel. After Imogen suddenly passes away, Natalie is left to navigate her senior year project without her best friend, alongside an arch rival, and while battling strange, ghostlike occurrences at the Harlow.
Publishers Weekly calls I’ll Be Waiting For You, the sophomore release from author Mariko Turk, an “exhilarating novel in many things: an homage to a lost friend, a spine-tingling ghost tale, and a sweet, budding love story.” The book will
launch on Tuesday, April 30, right here in Estes Park!
Join Mariko Turk in the Fireside Theater at the Estes Valley Library at 4 p.m. for an intimate author talk, followed by a book signing at 5 p.m. in the Hondius Room. Copies of Turk’s books will be available onsite for purchase from Macdonald Book Shop.
Turk will also be joined by Denverbased author Jessie Weaver, whose books include Live Your Best Lie and Lie Until It’s True. Before writing about flawed, funny teens with big hearts, Weaver was an English teacher who completed the Stanford University online novel writing program in 2019. Kids, teens, and adults won’t want to miss this two-for-one author talk. Learn more and reserve your seat at calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org.
Cooler temperatures, cleaner air, healthier residents, and so much more: We have much to thank trees for!
The benefits trees bring to all environments, especially urban habitats, are endless. Arbor Day, which translates to “tree” day from the Latin origin of the word arbor, is a holiday that celebrates the planting, upkeep, and preservation of trees.
In Colorado (like many other states), Arbor Day is celebrated on the third Friday in April. In Estes Park, we’ll be honoring Arbor Day with an annual tree sapling giveaway on Saturday, April 27.
After the community-wide river cleanup, stop by the Estes Valley Library from 12–2 p.m. Together with the Town of Estes Park, we’ll be at the Green Apple Statute just south of the Library’s main
entrance, handing out free saplings on a first come, first served basis.
Thanks to the generous support of Platte River Power Authority, small pots and soil will be available if recipients prefer to nurture the saplings until they’re ready to be planted in a permanent location. Otherwise, saplings will come individually wrapped.
Estes Park has been designated as a Tree City USA for over two decades, demonstrating that our community is committed to maintaining and growing our tree cover. To learn more about the Arbor Day Foundation and Tree City USA, visit arborday.org.
To learn more about this year’s tree giveaway, visit the website calendar.estesvalleylibary.org.
While we are still reflecting on the awesome eclipse of the sun, and in light of things that have been happening in recent days, perhaps it would be a good time to think about the ‘eclipse of the Son’…Jesus Christ…that can take place at any time, if we are not careful. The eclipse of the sun took place when something…the moon…got between the sun and our view from earth. So, the ‘eclipse of the Son’ takes place when something gets between Jesus and the view of others that obscures His brilliance and majesty.
As you know, a 3-hour ‘eclipse’ experience took place when Jesus was nailed to the cross…‘the sun was darkened’ – ‘ekleipo’…from the sixth hour to the ninth. (Luke 23:44). It can happen also in the life of a person who claims to be a Jesus’ ‘follower’ and ‘disciple’. The life of a true disciple will exemplify the life of God’s Son in the various aspects of his life. The Bible reports that “the disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.” (Acts 11:26) This name was probably coined by people who were non-believers, who had observed people who ‘belonged to’ Christ, and whose lives reflected it. We have a good example in Acts 4. We read of that early disciples were seen by others who “took knowledge of them that they had been with Jesus”. They did not obscure their Master, but, as He was the ‘light of the world’, they also reflected that light, ‘cities set on a hill’. Jesus said, “Let your light so shine that men will see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matt. 5:14-16) Sadly, this does not always appear to be the case. One African chieftain responded to a missionary in this way: “I might be follower of Jesus if I didn’t know Jesus’ people!” How sad! The writer John tells us how to tell those who belong to Jesus…people who are Christ-ians = ‘of, belonging to’. The beloved apostle wrote: “If we claim to have fellowship with Him and walk in darkness, we lie and do not the truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another and the blood of Jesus, His son, purifies us from all sin.” (I John 1:6,7)
In the light of this, we need to look at ourselves and see if we hinder Christ’s light. “Examine yourselves and prove yourselves whether you are in the faith.” (II Cor. 13:5) Am I ‘walking in the light’. If I am, then it will not obscure people’s view of Jesus when they look at me. Paul would say, confidently, but humbly, “I live, nevertheless, it is not I that lives, but Christ lives in me and the life I live in the body I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.” (Gal. 2:20) No ‘eclipse’ here. However, if they get a distorted view of Jesus when they look at me, then the ‘eclipse’ remains.
How have prominent people fit in here? It began in Civil War days. After Lincoln’s assassination, he was referred to by some as the ‘Nation’s Savior’, so was Abolitionist John Brown, Confederate President Jefferson Davis, and Robert E. Lee received the ‘fullest Jesus-treatment' after his death. So, perhaps, it does not surprise us to see a current Politian claim to be closer to Jesus than others…especially in the way he is ‘persecuted’. One reporter noted: “He was in full Messiah-mode lately…suffering for others, sharing a faux courtroom sketch of himself with Christ at his side.” Someone recently asked: “Why do Evangelical Christians who’ve long defended family values embrace him…a serial liar, repeatedly accused of sexual wrongdoing, and other unChristian behavior?” Perhaps the upcoming election will help answer that question. But, that’s about politics. Jesus rarely addressed such, and so do I. My concern is that we ‘let the beauty of Jesus be seen in us’ and support and encourage others who are determined not to be an ‘eclipse’ where the ‘Light of the world’ is concerned.
Bob Lewis
April 19 – April 25
Estes Park’s Cinco de Mayo fiesta is just a few weeks away. Live dance is a popular part of the festivities. This year, regional dancers from Grupo Folklórico México Lindo will once again bring their pageantry to the event. In addition, the evening will also include a performance by Ballet Renaissance of Estes Park, offering everyone a dance “double feature” program.
Enrique and Olga, owners of Mountain Home Cafe Restaurant, have been coordinating the local Cinco de Mayo since its beginnings over 20 years ago. They express their appreciation for the dance performers:
“Hugo and Laura and their team of
Faltan solo unas semanas para la fiesta del Cinco de Mayo en Estes Park. El baile en vivo es una parte popular de las festividades. Este año, los bailarines regionales del Grupo Folklórico México Lindo traerán una vez más su pompa al evento. Además, la noche también incluirá una actuación del Ballet Renaissance de Estes Park, que ofrecerá a todos un programa de danza de "doble función”.
dancers from Grupo Folklórico México Lindo travel here from Longmont. They have been performing for us at Cinco de Mayo since 2018. They love to share our Mexican dance traditions by performing in various venues throughout the year. We are excited and appreciative of their hard work — not only the dancing — but driving up from the valley with dancers of all ages. They bring their knowledge of the art form and the beauty of all those traditional dresses and costumes. Come see this amazing troupe dancing at 6:45 p.m.”
Estes Park’s Cinco de Mayo is an event for everyone. It takes place on Sunday May 5 from 6 to 11 p.m. at the Estes Park Event Center at Stanley Fairgrounds. Enjoy an authentic and complimentary Mexican dinner from 6 to 7:30 p.m, with dance performances, followed by live music with the group Los 7 de la Cumbia, kids’ activities, door prizes, and much more, with festivities throughout the evening.
Cinco de Mayo in Estes Park would not be possible without the assistance of several major partners: Crossroads Ministry, Ascent Escrow and Title, the Town of Estes Park, Salud Family Health Center, the Estes Valley Library, the Estes Park News, and the Estes Park Education Foundation. This support ensures a meal and a festive evening for everyone. Cash donations are welcomed, but not required.
Our community is encouraged to save the date of May 5 and join in the festive spirit of Cinco de Mayo.
Los Bailarines del Folklórico en el Cinco de Mayo
Enrique y Olga, dueños del restaurante Mountain Home Café, han estado coordinando el Cinco de Mayo local desde sus inicios hace más de 20 años. Expresan su agradecimiento a los bailarines: “Hugo y Laura y su equipo de bailarines del Grupo Folklórico México Lindo viajan aquí desde Longmont. Han actuado para nosotros en el Cinco de Mayo desde 2018. Les encanta compartir nuestras tradiciones de danza mexicana presentándose en varios lugares durante todo el año. Estamos emocionados y agradecidos por su arduo trabajo, no sólo por el baile, sino también por conducir desde el valle con bailarines de todas las edades. Aportan su conocimiento de la forma de arte y la belleza de todos esos vestidos y trajes tradicionales. Ven a ver a este increíble grupo bailando a las 6:45 p.m.”
El Cinco de Mayo de Estes Park es un evento para todos. Se llevará a cabo el domingo 5 de mayo de 6 a 11 p.m., en el Centro de eventos Estes Park en Stanley Fairgrounds. Disfrute de una auténtica cena mexicana de cortesía de 6 a 7:30 p.m., con espectáculos de baile, seguido de música en vivo con el grupo Los 7 de la Cumbia, actividades para niños, premios en puerta, y mucho más, con festividades durante toda la noche.
El Cinco de Mayo en Estes Park no sería posible sin la asistencia de varios socios importantes: Crossroads Ministry, Ascent Escrow and Title, la ciudad de Estes Park, Salud Family Health Center, la biblioteca de Estes Valley, Estes Park News, y la Fundación Educativa de Estes Park. Este apoyo asegura una comida y una velada festiva para todos. Las donaciones en efectivo son bienvenidas, pero no requeridas. Animamos a nuestra comunidad a reservar la fecha del 5 de Mayo y unirse al espíritu festivo del Cinco de Mayo.
The Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC) is pleased to announce the return of programs from UCHealth’s Aspen Club Senior Services to our local community. While many senior residents of Estes Park already have their free Aspen Club memberships, the EPSCC is hosting a presentation not only for these longtime members but also for prospective members to learn about the programs, services, and benefits available to them. All are welcome to attend this free informative presentation by JoAnn Herkenhoff, Supervisor of Aspen Club with UCHealth Northern Colorado, on Tuesday, April 23 from 12:001:00 at the EPSCC, 1760 Olympian Lane. Aspen Club of Northern Colorado was established in 1989 to provide health education, screenings, hospital discounts, and social opportunities to residents ages 50-plus in parts of Larimer, Weld, and Boulder counties. Member benefits include health and wellness classes, resources for caregivers, advanced care planning, nutritional consultations, fall prevention programs, low-cost balance screenings, bi-monthly newsletters, and so much more. Aspen Club programs are always available to members who can travel to any of their numerous locations, and UCHealth looks forward to having many of these opportunities back in Estes Park. The EPSCC will be host-
ing Aspen Club programs at the center beginning this summer.
This presentation provides the perfect opportunity to learn about Aspen Club or become reacquainted with their offerings. Attendees who are not yet members may wish to sign-up onsite after the presentation or complete an application online. If you would like more information about Aspen Club but cannot attend this presentation, please contact JoAnn at JoAnn.Herkenhoff@uchealth.org, (970) 495-8561, or visit their website at www.uchealth.org/services/communityhealth/aspen-club.
For the presentation, light refreshments are provided. Attendees are welcome to bring their lunch or pre-purchase a hot meal by placing an order before 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 22.
For this event, the Senior Center will be serving fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables. The cost is $7 for EPSCC members and $10 for non-members. If you become an EPSCC member for just $35 per year, you will not only enjoy meal discounts but also gain access to all the amazing activities. For more information about the EPSCC or to order a meal for the program, please call the Senior Center at (970) 581-2195.
Discover the fascinating space missions world with Loren Shriver’s enthralling educational event, “Space Shuttle Mission.” On April 24, 2024, join us at Hempel Auditorium for an immersive experience where you will learn about the intricacies of space missions.
During the presentation, you will get an insider’s view of the challenges and strategies involved in embarking on a Space Shuttle Mission, specifically deploying the Hubble Space Telescope. The discussion will also cover various opera-
tions performed in space, including a detailed explanation of how re-entry is performed.
Loren Shiver will be your guide as you explore the depths of space and unravel the mysteries of its operations. Don’t miss this opportunity to satisfy your curiosity about the captivating world beyond our planet. We are excited to welcome you to this enlightening and interactive event. Get ready to blast off into a realm of knowledge and awe!
Apr 22 – 26
Monday, Apr 22 Breakfast Burrito (eggs, cheese, refried beans & potatoes in floured tortilla) w/ green chili on the side
Tuesday, Apr 23 Fried Chicken (3 pc) w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables
Wednesday, Apr 24 Patty Melt Sandwich w/ Tomato Salad
Thursday, Apr 25 Meat Lasagna w/ garlic bread & side salad
Friday, Apr 26 Shrimp Basket (8 fried) w/ Homemade Chips & soup of the day
Apr 29 – May 3
Monday, Apr 29 Quiche (w/ bacon & vegetables), Hashbrowns & fruit
Tuesday, Apr 30 BBQ Platter – Pulled Pork & Beef Brisket w/ Baked Beans & coleslaw
Wednesday, May 1 Hot Turkey Sandwich w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables
Thursday, May 2 Chicken Piccata Milanese (lightly breaded chicken breast, pan fried w/ capers & lemon) w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad
Friday, May 3 Fish & Homemade Chips w/ soup of the day
Meals are $7 for current 2024 EP Senior Citizens Center members and are by reservation only. (Or 3 meals for $20; use pre-paid meal tickets.) Exact cash or check payment required. Reservations must be made by 1:00 PM at least one business day in advance. Note, if you want to reserve a meal for Monday, Apr 22nd, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Apr 19th. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.
The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 – 1
TriFit M-W-F 10:30 – 11:15 AM
Circuit Balance Class Mondays 1 – 1:45 PM
Yoga Thursdays 10:15 – 11:15 AM
Mahjong Tuesdays 10 – 2; Board Games 2nd & 4th Wednesdays 11:30 – 1:30
Live Music & Presentations Tuesday @ 12:00 – 1:30 (TBA)
Two Bridge Groups: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesday of the month & Every Thursday 12:30 – 4 PM
Reserved Meals-to-Go delivered to your vehicle or EAT at the Senior Citizens Center Check out our website: estesparkseniors.org or call for the latest information
When it comes to providing pain relief and sedation, Estes Park Health’s advanced practice nurses called CRNAs are a critical part of the healthcare team.
Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists have a nursing degree, experience in critical care, and a specialized degree to practice anesthesia. The highly educated CRNA team at EPH has 40 years of experience between them.
Kaycee Simon is Estes Park Health’s lead CRNA. She said anesthesia is evolving and that’s good for patients. “It’s not just anesthetic gas and lots of narcotics,” Simon explained. “There are different meds now that make patients be able to feel better after their proce-
dure with better pain control without such heavy narcotics. We get them up and moving. That’s what helps them recover sooner.”
A CRNA’s job starts before any procedure, as the nurse anesthetist reviews the patient’s chart and explains how the anesthesia will work. Sharon Amaya said part of her task is to ease the patient’s anxiety.
“In the short amount of time that you spend with them, trying to ease them in their mind and their physical being for the stressful situation that they’re about to endure is our job,” Amaya said. “We try to make it a pleasant experience instead of a negative experience.”
During a procedure in the operating room, CRNAs provide sedation and constantly monitor the patient’s vital signs, making sure they are breathing well, their blood pressure is fine and their response to the anesthesia is normal. Afterwards, they check on the patient to help them manage recovery, as CRNA Alan Hunt explained.
Hunt said educating patients about what will happen during a procedure can set the stage for an easier experience.
“We love to have patients be comfortable before they go back,” he noted. “We understand it’s not a normal day. Anything we can do to make you more comfortable, we’re more than happy to do it.”
CRNAs often use regional blocks to create long-lasting pain control after a surgery or procedure.
“We have a very active patient population,” Simon commented. “I was once a recipient of a regional anesthetic. I know the value of what that did for me. I like being able to offer that to my patients as well.” Hunt added, “A small amount of medication sometimes is all it takes. It provides pretty good pain relief for up to 20 hours sometimes.”
“I tell my wife all the time, ‘We get you to sleep, but more importantly we get you awake at the end of it,’” he emphasized.
CRNAs are key to Estes Park Health’s operation. The staff says they like working in a small hospital setting.
“I find that in a smaller community, we
tend to see our patients more than once,” Amaya said. “We recognize each other. I think that offers a nice level of comfort for them and for us.”
Simon chimed in that she feels like the focus is on the patient more in a smaller hospital setting.
“You’re not worried about getting as many patients through the door as you possibly can,” she stressed. “You have the time and the ability to focus on every single patient for their procedure.”
When preparing for a procedure that requires anesthesia, CRNAs say don’t rely on the internet. Feel free to call them in advance if you have questions about the kind of sedation they will use.
For great anesthesia care from providers who always focus on what’s safest for the patient, think Estes Park Health.
To watch a video about the services Estes Park Health’s CRNAs perform, go to youtu.be/KxLMHyvBsfA.
Dr. Gavin Bishop brings different approach to hip replacement
The hip joint is one of the largest joints in the body and is a major weight-bearing joint. When arthritis, inflammation
or injury impacts the hip, there are a myriad of interventions doctors can use to help.
“For many people, the thought is that the hip is anywhere from the rib cage all the way down to the knee,” said Dr. Gavin Bishop, Estes Park Health orthopedic surgeon. “That is where we think of the hip, but the hip joint itself is actually deep in the groin.”
When Dr. Bishop examines a patient with hip pain, he tries to figure out where the pain is coming from and where it radiates to. He takes x-rays and performs a physical exam to identify the range of motion and function of the hip joint.
things they want to, even if they do have significant arthritis of the hip joint,” Dr. Bishop explained. “Once we’ve exhausted non-operative options, then we can proceed with a total hip replacement. It’s up to the patient when they want to go forward with the procedure.”
A total hip replacement procedure involves changing out the hip joint for metal, plastic, and ceramic for the head of the femoral component.
Dr. Bishop is bringing a different approach to total hip replacement with a surgery performed with an anterior approach.
“The anterior hip replacement surgery is performed through a relatively small incision in the front of the hip which goes through soft tissue,” he noted. “We move it to the side rather than taking it down and needing it to be replaced and repaired afterwards. Many people have a fast and easier recovery with an anterior approach. However, it is patient specific
and that would be part of the conversation to figure out if that is the right procedure for you.”
Dr. Bishop has years of experience performing anterior total hip replacements in the Longmont area. His patients have been very happy with their outcomes. He is excited to offer this approach in Estes Park.
Giving blood is simple and safe. It can make a huge difference in the treatment of patients who have an accident, need surgery or are undergoing chemotherapy.
The last scheduled on-site blood drive at Estes Park Health was on March 14th. It had to be canceled due to the huge snowstorm on that day.
The staff from UCHealth Garth Englund Blood Center has rescheduled the donation date to Tuesday, May 14th
to accommodate more donors (and get them through the process more quickly!).
We will be hosting the drive at the hospital on May 14th from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. While walk-ins are welcome, you are encouraged to sign up in advance at blood-donation.uchealth.org.
One blood donation could help save three lives.
Whole blood donation time is 30-45 minutes. You can donate whole blood
At Death Cafe people, often strangers, gather to eat cake, drink tea and discuss death.
Our objective is 'to increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their (finite) lives'.
“Sometimes we start with physical therapy and cortisone injections which may help with a lot of the symptoms and may make it manageable for some people to continue being active and doing the
“Patients can recover close to home where their friends and family are,” Dr. Bishop stated. “And I’m happy to offer this procedure that people might have had to travel many miles to get before. We would really like to have patients recover at home. There’s good data to support that patients do very well when they go home the same day as the surgery. We will work hard to pro-
Death Cafe is a group directed discussion of death with no agenda, objectives or themes. It is a discussion group rather than a grief support or
vide the services that the patient needs to recover safely and in good comfort.”
A total hip replacement can be helpful for many people who are limited in their activities because of the joint’s limitation. Surgery can often offer pain relief and good function of that joint after the procedure that can get them back to the life
counselling session. It is respectful and confidential with no intention of leading to any conclusion, product or course of action.
Death Café is for adults and will meet upstairs in the Wasson Board Room of the Estes Valley Library in Estes Park from 2:30 – 4:30 on Saturday, May 4.
To RSVP, text Deborah at 970-4529191.
they enjoy.
To listen to a podcast featuring Dr. Bishop discussing hip pain treatment, log on to tinyurl.com/5xm9cdwe.
For comprehensive orthopedic care close to home, think Estes Park Health. Mountaintop Medicine, Quality Care.
Over the past few years, one of the most significant innovations impacting healthcare in America is the massive expansion of online telehealth services, the practice of providing healthcare remotely through technology. From increasing access to specialists to reducing the spread of germs among vulnerable populations, the advantages of telehealth are considerable.1
Improved technology has made telemedicine easier, even for those who don’t consider themselves computer-savvy.2 Also, a reliable highspeed internet connection, like the one provided by Trailblazer
Broadband’s fiber network, is essential for good connectivity, communication, and diagnostics on a successful telehealth conference.
Whether you’re looking for a faster prescription medication refill or just needing professional advice on taking your child or loved one to a clinic for more urgent care, you’ll likely find that telehealth makes life both easier and more efficient for you and your family!
Cost-effectiveness: Telemedicine can lead to cost savings for patients and healthcare providers. Patients save money on transportation, parking, and childcare expenses associated with inperson visits, while healthcare providers can reduce overhead costs related to maintaining physical facilities.
and cost-effective while improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Considering the value of telehealth services and the incredibly fast growth of the industry, it’s important to know how to access these resources. While Trailblazer doesn’t endorse or recommend any particular service, here are a few to consider:
Estes Park has several telehealth op-
Like Teladoc and Amwell, Doctor on Demand also offers access to physicians and medical professionals 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it easy to get appointments fairly fast. Doctor on Demand’s offerings tend to be somewhat more expensive than others, but its services are highly rated by users and are quite varied. Fun fact: One of the original founders of Doctor on Demand is the famous television personality Dr. Phil McGraw (“Dr. Phil”).
Given the benefits discussed above, it’s no wonder that more and more patients are enjoying telehealth platforms. In 2022, about 25% of all patients took advantage of telehealth services. Compared to pre-2020 figures (i.e., pre-Covid), that represents a fivefold increase from just 5% patient usage! And the convenience and advantages keep attracting new patients to telehealth, both in America and worldwide.
Indeed, according to one study, overall global telehealth revenue in 2023 was estimated at a whopping $120.4 billion. That same study anticipated total revenue will reach $285.7 billion by 2028, a staggering figure representing over 23% growth in just five years.
Telemedicine offers numerous benefits:
Convenience: Telemedicine allows patients to access healthcare from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for travel and reducing clinic wait times. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, busy schedules, or those living in remote areas.
Accessibility: Telemedicine breaks down geographical barriers, enabling patients to connect with healthcare providers regardless of their location. This is especially important for people living in rural or underserved areas with limited access to healthcare services.
Improved efficiency: Telemedicine streamlines healthcare delivery by facilitating quicker access to care, reducing appointment wait times, and enabling more efficient communication between patients and providers. This can lead to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Continuity of care: Telemedicine allows for more frequent and convenient follow-up appointments, promoting better continuity of care. This particularly benefits patients with chronic conditions requiring ongoing monitoring and management.
Reduced exposure to infectious diseases: Telemedicine reduces the need for in-person visits, thereby lowering the risk of exposure to contagious illnesses, including colds, flu, and COVID-19. This is especially relevant during public health emergencies and pandemics.
Enhanced specialist access: Telemedicine enables patients to consult with specialists who may not be readily available in their local area. This expands access to specialized care and expertise, improving overall healthcare quality.
Patient empowerment: Telemedicine empowers patients to take a more active role in managing their health by providing access to resources, educational materials, and remote monitoring tools. This can lead to better health outcomes through increased patient engagement and self-management.
Overall, telemedicine has the potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery by making it more convenient, accessible,
tions in its backyard. Estes Park Health offers virtual visits, and UC Health offers Virtual Urgent Care throughout Colorado. Online assistance can be accessed through a computer or tablet with a working webcam, speakers and a microphone, or a smartphone. UC Health offers access to Virtual Urgent Care through its downloadable app.
One of the original pioneers of telehealth in the early 2000s, Teladoc provides a variety of health and medical needs at all hours. You can reach out to Teladoc when you need their expertise, no matter the time of day (or night).
Teladoc has been particularly recognized for its mental health services, so patients considering online therapy may want to check out its offerings.
Amwell
Another thorough and nearly complete telehealth service to consider is Amwell. Amwell is best known for collaborating with the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic and is well-regarded for its Second Opinion Service. Amwell might be a good option for patients seeking another expert or diagnostician to provide an opinion or prognosis after a previous diagnosis. However, remember that Amwell and its additional services are on the pricier side, though they also work with many kinds of insurance.
Doctor on Demand
Sesame Care
The most budget-friendly option on our list is Sesame Care.
With Sesame Care’s online visits costing as low as $29 each, patients looking for more affordable telehealth will want to check it out.
Sesame Care recently partnered with Costco, whose members receive even better pricing. Unlike the other telehealth services we recommend, Sesame Care does not employ an app to conduct consultations. Simply navigate to its website in a browser and follow the steps to book an appointment.
A reliable high-speed internet connection is critical to making the most of your telehealth appointment. Only a 100% fiber-to-the-home connection provides the same upload and download speeds. Upload speed is particularly important for video conferencing, where you need to be seen and heard effectively by the healthcare professional on the other end of the video conference.
Indeed, it’s not uncommon for doctors to decline to make a diagnosis if the video connection isn’t clear enough to assess the patient’s condition and symptoms confidently. Only fiber internet has the necessary speeds and generous bandwidth to convey the large amounts of data—video, voice, test results, medical charts, etc.—that telehealth consultations require, without interruptions that impede a proper medical assessment.
In this way, fiber ensures distortionfree video conferencing and clear communication between patients and healthcare professionals, regardless of which telehealth service you choose.
For a fiber internet connection you and your family can rely on, visit TrailblazerBroadband.com or call 970-577-3770.
1 “Benefits of Telemedicine | Johns Hopkins Medicine”
At the April Woman's Club meeting we learned about the history of the YMCA here and nationwide. A nice lunch and great fellowship was enjoyed at Mother's Cafe.
Save the date for the next meeting Wednesday, May 8th at Twin Owls Steakhouse. This is an important meeting to attend as it will be our last until next September. More importantly we will be
up on May 4th. This is an important event and fundraiser for the EPWC. In order to be considered a participant the club must have a minimum of 25 ducks adopted in our name. The duck adoption process is all online at www.epduckrace.org/estes-park-womans-club. Any questions, contact Karen Thompson at 970-590-9942 or Karen@EstesParkHome.com. We need
installing our new officers and honoring past presidents. Please remember that advance reservations are needed to attend the meeting and luncheon at epwcreservations@gmail.com.
some volunteers for the race day as well at volunteers@epduckrace.org in order to participate.
Looking forward to seeing you at the May 8th meeting!
The annual Duck Race will be coming
The 100-Mile Swim Challenge at the Community Center Lap Pool is a friendly competition for lap swimmers. The challenge, initiated by Aquatics
Michael Fallon, and EVRPD Board member and challenge participant commented, “Though several of us are for-
There’s still plenty of time to participate in this challenge if you’re just getting into town. Email Nani Couwenberg at swim@evrpd.com or visit tinyurl.com/RecDistrict-AquaticEvents to register online. Congratulations
mer competitive swimmers, it was Milosh’s steady determination that got him past the 100-mile mark the fastest. Upon finishing his final lap, the next closest
behind.”
Have you ever been inextricably drawn to the wild? Or did you have a moment where you just couldn’t resist something? What calls out to some wild part of your soul, and how did you rise up to answer that call? As part of Earth Week,
winner earns a gift certificate to Macdonald Book Shop and second-place earns a gift certificate to Inkwell and Brew—the perfect gifts for any lover of stories. Come wow us with your words and wit on this incredible night of story-
come prepared to answer the call of the wild, live on stage—or come to listen.
The Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies (FAGR) is inviting you to a Story Slam at 2 p.m. on April 28th at the Historic Park Theatre. A Story Slam needs no introduction if you are already an avid aficionado of The Moth, but if not, you are in for an extra special treat. Story Slams are live story-telling competitions where storytellers share personal vignettes— without notes—connected to a theme. Be prepared to be at the edge of your seats as story tellers share personal stories about their own brushes with the wild.
Come to share your own story or to discover how riveting live storytelling can be. Stories must be true, told without notes, and connected to the night’s theme. Volunteer audience members will help crown the night’s winner of the Story Slam. Besides bragging rights, the
telling—or just come to listen to a good yarn.
We are delighted to welcome back our host for the evening, Nick Ross. Ross has hosted story slams for The Moth for the last nine years in Denver. Ross is himself a passionate storyteller with a background in theatre and film; he performs regularly at Chaos Bloom Theatre and Rise Comedy—and for one memorable night, he’ll be right here in Estes Park for our own Story Slam sponsored by Visit Estes Park.
The Story Slam tickets are $22 for adults and $17 for youth under the age of 18 for advance tickets. You can buy your tickets at:
www.fineartsguild.org/story-slam. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for youth the night of the Story Slam. The Historic Park Theatre opens its doors for this event at 1:30, and the program starts promptly at 2:00.
Lady Psychiatrist's Booth, San Diego’s singer-songwriter/guitarist Ashley E. Norton and violinist/mandolinist/singer Stephanie Groot, will soon perform at Estes Park's American Legion Post 119 (850 North Saint Vrain Avenue). The concert will take place this Saturday, April 20 at 6:30 p.m. Advance tickets can be purchased at legionlisten.org.
After five years on non-stop tours with their band Whitherward, the duo has paired off for multiple dates throughout
the SouthWest alongside their first studio project featuring Laura Hall from the hit TV show "Whose Line Is It Anyway?" There is also a new album on the way with music that ranges from comedy, creepiness and all heart.
This event is part of "Listening at the Legion," a budget minded concert series that brings nationally acclaimed music creators and performers to our little town. Please visit legionlisten.org to learn more.
Passionate about helping people, Vlad brings a blend of professionalism and empathy to every transaction. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, Vlad's personalized service ensures a seamless experience tailored to your needs.
Off-duty, Vlad swaps his real estate hat for a hockey helmet, embodying teamwork and perseverance both on and off the ice.
With Vlad Volk, your journey to home ownership in Estes is not just a transaction – it's an adventure marked by expertise, care and success.
The office is located at 255 Park Lane, Suite 203, Estes Park, call (970) 4492645 for more information.
ROCCO is about three years old, fun-loving and good with other dogs.
is a really cool cat who loves everyone. He is very chill, sweet, loves to be loved on and is quiet. He is about seven years old and a very big guy (19 pounds). He is also good with dogs and other cats. He’s a really great all around kitty.
Please call (970) 286-1652 if you’d like to meet or foster any of these special pets.
All pets are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a non-profit organization that is your local humane society.
You can make a tax-deductible dona-
MAYA is about a year old, very sweet and good with other dogs.
tion to the Pet Association by sending your check to P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517.
For more information about the Pet Association, please visit petassociationestespark.com.
Sponsored by the Oratorio Society of Estes Park
The Peak to Peak concert series is pleased to present The Composer’s Craft: Featuring the Music of Estes Park Composers J. Richard Dixon, Robert Howard and Chase Jordan on April 20th
The concert will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail in Estes Park. There will be a reception following the performances to meet the composers and musicians. The Peak to Peak concert series is sponsored by the Oratorio Society of Estes Park. Concerts are free but donations are gratefully accepted .
Sonata for Flute and Piano, a world premiere of “The Mountains Call,” a Sonata for Violoncello and Piano, and “River Song,” a movement from the “Wilderness Reflections” cantata that was premiered for the Rocky Mountain National Park Centennial Celebration in 2015.
Richard Dixon brings to this community 60 years of musical experience as a choir and orchestra conductor as well as
Richard Dixon, Robert Howard, and Chase Jordan are all nationally known composers now residing in Estes Park. Talented local musicians, including Kathy Osborne (flute), Stan Osborne (piano), John Wolfe (piano), Michelle Gergen-Wisner (piano), Rich Woessner (cello), Robin Howard (soprano), Annette Dechant (clarinet), David Schwarm (percussion), Ann Mills (violin), Jonquil Thom (violin), and Steve Tice (bass) perform with the composers.
The program will include Richard’s instrumental work for solo piano, duet for piano and flute, and the premiere of his new work, “Elegy,” for flute and strings, featuring Robert Howard on flute. Three works of Chase Jordan’s will be performed – including two world premieres - an art song on a poem of Walt Whitman, a work for solo viola inspired by Rocky Mountain National Park’s Gem Lake, and a quartet for flute, viola, percussion and piano originally written with choreography in mind. Robert Howard’s compositions will be the
“Let
phony, the Chicago Symphony, the Milwaukee Symphony, and the Philadelphia Orchestra. His real passion is composition and theory. With over 200 works published for a wide range of ensembles from brass quintets to full concert band, string quartet to full orchestra, a choral mass and cantata to pieces for piano and organ, his music has been performed throughout the United States and thirteen countries around the world.
a professional singing career beginning at the age of 18 singing in the chorus of the Muny Opera in St. Louis Missouri. He has soloed with the St. Louis Sym-
Estes Valley Chamber Singers, under the direction of Richard Dixon, will be giving their annual spring concert on Sunday, May 5th at 2:00 p.m. in the sanctuary of the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies. This will be a very unusual and special concert as it features three major works; two of which are by Estes Park composers: Richard Dixon and Robert Howard, and the third by Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo. Robert Howard’s “Asian Sketches” is an earlier work of his and shows his mastery of beautiful choral writing. “Asian Sketches” is in four movements: Night in the Villa by the River for four-part choir, My Thoughts are With a Boat for men, The Still Pool for women, and My Love is Like the Grasses for four part
choir. The text of the pieces come from Chinese and Japanese poems.
Ola Gjeilo’s ”Dark Night of the Soul” is the most performed of his works, and is
Robert Howard received his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Michigan University in 1967 and a Master of Music Degree in composition from Michigan State University in 1970. He went on to Washington University to study composition with Robert Wykes and conducting with George Silfies. In 1999, Robert was a conducting fellow at the Conducting Institute of South Carolina. Mr. Howard retired as Associate Professor of Music at St. Louis Community College at Meramec in 2001 after 31 years of teaching music theory and conduction the Meramec Orchestra and Meramec Chorale. He conducted the Belleville Philharmonic Orchestra and Chorale from 1995 to 2015. Many area ensembles including the St. Louis Symphony, New Music Circle, and the Webster Symphony, Alton Symphony, and University Symphony Orchestras as well as the Oratorio Society of Estes Park and the Estes Park Village Band have performed Mr. Howard’s compositions.
Robert now resides in the town of Estes Park with his wife Robin and is the con-
written for SATB choir, piano and string quartet. This hauntingly beautiful piece draws its text from three stanzas of The Collected Works of St. John on the Cross. Richard Dixon’s “Elegy” received its world premiere on Saturday April
ductor of the Oratorio Society of Estes Park.
Recently arrived in the Estes Park community in 2023, Chase Jordan is a composer and violist who frequently collaborates with writers, visual artists, and choreographers in his artistic practice. His music, which has been described as an “engaging musical narrative” (Arcadia Winds, 2018) has been performed around the world, ranging from performances at YMCA of the Rockies to the Pärnu Contemporary Music Days in Estonia by performers such as the Wild Beautiful Orchestra, The Haven Trio, SHHH!!! Ensemble, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, and the Colorado Chamber Orchestra. As a violist, he has performed around the United States, including recitals with the New York Viola Society and the Philadelphia Viola Society as well as having premiered works by leading and upcoming American composers such as Daniel Bernard Romain, Hannah Rice, Caleb Walker and others. Chase holds a B.M. in Viola Performance from the University of Wyoming, and an M.M. in Viola Performance and Music Composition from the Hartt
20th at the Peak to Peak concert series. “Elegy” is for solo flute and strings, and features Robert Howard as the flutist.
The program opens with “Praise to the Lord” arranged by F. Melius Christiansen, the founder of the St. Olaf Choir. This is followed by Jake Runestad”s “Let My Love Be Heard.” This beautiful choral piece has become his most performed choral piece and depicts the depth of one’s love for another. The program concludes with Richard’s arrangement of “Shenandoah” for eight voiced choir, and “Soon-ah Will Be Done” by William Dawson. This concert is free, but donations are always welcome. Mark your calendars and come join us Sunday May 5th at 2:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies.
Everyone has value. Everyone is worthwhile. Everyone matters. Everyone needs to be valued and everyone has the potential to give something back.
Perhaps someone reading this may be feeling like you’re nobody, you offer no value to anyone, and you’re convinced your life doesn’t matter. If this is you, I encourage you to go back and read the first four sentences of this article. Read them again and again until you begin to embrace them as true. Read them and give yourself permission to let them sink into your head, heart and soul. If need be, get in front of a mirror and say, “I have value. My life matters. I have some thing to offer!”
Sound a tad crazy?
Sincerely friend, not as crazy as contin uing to believe the lie living inside your head. You mat ter. You are somebody and someone out there needs exactly what you have to offer.
dies gonna think? I’ll say it again, somehow many men find themselves stuck in a profile of toxic masculinity or have allowed themselves to be emasculated to the point of losing sight of what a real man is. This, of course, leads me to Men on Fire.
First, Men on Fire is not a bunch of guys who think we’ve got all our stuff together. We’re trying like heck to not pretend either. So far, we’ve been blessed to not have a guy show up convinced he was the smartest guy in the room. If that ever happens, we’ll lovingly take him out back of the American Legion and help him get “unconfused.” Gently of course.
But don’t take my word alone. You are valuable because of who you are. According to God’s Word, you have been made in God’s image. God doesn’t make junk. And a long time ago, even before God created you and before He created this universe, YOU were the focus of His love. God’s Word says, “He chose us in Him before the foundations of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.” That leads to you being valuable because of what you cost. You see, you are loved by God and have been chosen by Him to be adopted as a son or daughter. Your adoption came at a high price, the death of His Son Jesus on a cross. We all struggle with stuff and men aren’t exempt. We don’t necessarily like to talk about or share the “struggle” side of our personal journey. Frankly, we’re pretty good at stuffing, denying and putting on a good face. After all, if I expose my underbelly what are my runnin’ bud-
Men on Fire is a band of brothers dedicated to becoming better men. It that’s simple. Not that becoming a better man is simple—that takes work. But we find working out our life and faith journey with other guys not only helps, it can be downright hilarious at times. Yep, we don’t mind laughing at ourselves or even at one of our knucklehead buddies once in a while. Of course, it’s all done in love. Christ’s love that is. If we’ve figured anything out it’s that God has a better purpose and plan for us than we can concoct on our own. Frankly, we’ve tried it our way for long enough to know that an alternative option is worth consideration.
So, join us Saturday, 8:00 a.m. at the American Legion in Estes Park. No matter where you’re at on your life and faith journey you’ll fit in great. Heck, you may just find out you actually are the smartest guy in the room. We may not be the brightest bulbs around northern Colorado but we’re smart enough to know we don’t have all of life’s riddles answered. Come to think of it, that’s pretty brilliant. Saturday, American Legion, 8:00 a.m. We’ll have a seat at the table for you, good hot coffee and an awesome breakfast burrito to chew on. Bring a buddie and if you’re from out of town join us!
The public is invited to learn about Rocky Mountain Na tional Park’s ongoing commitment and efforts to share indigenous peoples’ role in the story of the park and surrounding area on April 19th, 6:15 p.m, at the Church of Christ, 1479 Fish Creek Road.
Kim Swift, the Park’sChief
of Interpretation and Education and Mikayla Costales,
Indigenous Connections coordinator for the park will be sharing the newest efforts to increase Indigenous perspectives into park interpretation and education. Mikayla is from Longmont and is working as an Ancestral Lands intern with the park. Light refreshments will be provided at the event, hosted by our local Kiwanis Club.
The Estes Park Chorale, under the artistic direction of Denise Stookesberry, is presenting their spring concert to celebrate the performance of the Chorale at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The Broadway review consists of sixteen widely varied numbers with large and small groups performing numbers from the oldest musical, “Old Man River” from “Showboat” (1927) to the newest one, “Sweet Caroline,” from “Neil Diamond - The Musical” (2022).
Join them on Saturday, April 27 at 7 p.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies. Tickets are $10.00, and are on sale from any Chorale members, at Macdonald Book Shop or at the door.
Director Stookesberry reports that the Chorale group has grown steadily over the past few years, and now features nineteen sopranos, seventeen altos, seven tenors and nine basses. The Chorale is made up of a wide range of singers of all ages and all walks of life, including nine music majors who are present or previous choir directors. “The singers are really enjoying the music of Broadway,” says Denise, “and hopefully the audience will enjoy the range and variety of the selections.” The concert opens with “Lullaby of Broadway/42nd Street” from “42nd Street,” which takes us back to 1932, with words by Al Dubin and music by Harry Warren. “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” from the musical by the same name, originally performed in 1929, keeps us contained within the Manhattan skyline, “just me and my radio.”
A touching duet by Sherri Punches and Bob Gunn, “All I Ask of You” from “Phantom of the Opera,” is followed by Patricia Arias’ solo “I Dreamed a Dream” from “Les Miserables.” Reflective and tender, we hope these two numbers will float the audience to places and times past.
Kristi Fjare, clarinet soloist, will accompany the Chorale for “Sunrise, Sunset/Sabbath Prayer,” from “Fiddler on the Roof.” We are all moved by the parents’ reflection upon the growing up of their children, “When did she get to be a beauty, when did he grow to be so tall?” Then the blessing of the community to “make you good husbands and wives” will fill the hearts of all.
The Chorale will kick it up several notches, with “A Musical,” from “Some-
thing Rotten,” words and music by Wayne and Karey Kirkpatrick, arranged by Roger Emerson. Set in Shakespeare’s time, it features Nick, a contemporary popstar who is trying to get a play produced that can compete with Shakespeare. Nostradamus, of course, can see the future, and he tells Nick, “If you wanna be great, then you gotta create a musical.” Randy Welch and Nelson Burke bring those characters to life, doing some of the song and dance that will ultimately be created in all the musicals in the future. So, “Oohs, aahs, and applause, with a standing ovation!” We hope.
A sextet of Chorale ladies will perform “She Used to be Mine” from “Waitress.” A more recent production, composed by Sarah Bareilles, this number features Sarah Clark, Kristi Fjare, Linda Hall, Ruth Mutschler, Deborah Webb and Julie Yaden.
Chris Wood’s special song, “Old Man River” from “Showboat” will bring to life this spiritual composed by Jerome Kern with lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II. This is the review of the first half of the concert. Watch for the next lineup in two weeks.
The Chorale’s performance at Carnegie Hall is a feature of Mid-America Productions and will be combined with several other choirs to sing John Rutter’s “Magnificat.” It’s a 38-minute creation of the British composer, sung in Latin in seven movements. In order to be able to join this concert presentation, the group must either submit an audition tape or be recommended by another choral director. Denise Stookesberry has taken two previous groups to this venue and she feels the Chorale has matured enough to make a good addition to this concert.
The Chorale would like to thank the Village Thrift Store for a grant to purchase the musical scores. The Town of Estes Park contributed funds to help provide some scholarship funds to singers and also to help represent Estes Park on the Big Stage. In addition, John Cullen and other donors are helping members offset the cost of the trip and provide financial support to the trip as a whole. More about this adventure in the next news release.
If you would like more information on the Chorale or to make a donation, visit our website: www.estesparkchorale.com
By: Brian Schaffer
Just last week I was telling a success story about one of our neighbors that we helped when he broke his ankle and needed a place to stay for six weeks
age each of you to take the survey and help us collect some important data.
“Last fall, a series of four community conversations took place at Allnutt's about the changes that were coming
while he was healing up. Our relationship with this neighbor began when he came in for services last year. He had been living in his car and needed some help with direction in life. We set him up with groceries and encouraged him to pursue a variety of housing options. In between searching for housing and a stable job, he went for a hike one Sunday afternoon and ended up in the ER to find out his ankle was broken. After EP Health fixed him up, the social worker gave us a call asking if we could provide temporary lodging for him while he was in recovery. We checked all our options to see if his Medicare plan would cover anything and it didn’t, so we made a deal with the Discovery Lodge and this became his short-term care facility. During his recovery, our caring staff members followed up with him weekly and provided him with supplemental food items. I’m happy to say that he is now walking and back on his adventurous journey. I’m glad we have the type of relationship that we do with EP Health where we can partner up to take good care of our neighbors. By the way, our Neighbors in Need Challenge is off to a good start, but we are still far short of reaching our goal of matching every dollar up to $100,000. Please consider making a donation today. You can donate online at www.CrossroadsEp.org or send in a check to PO Box 3616, Estes Park, CO 80517.
with in-home health care and in-home hospice as Estes Park Health prepared to end these services on December 31.
Two initiatives came out of conversations: 1) a community health care needs assessment should be conducted, and 2) some kind of volunteer support service needed to be developed to fill some of the gaps in services.
With the support and help of Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park, the Estes Nonprofit Network, and the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center, this needs assessment was developed. The survey is open through Friday, April 26. The answers will be collected into a report which will be developed in cooperation with Crossroads, the Estes Nonprofit Network and the EP Senior Center, and the report will be shared with the community as a point of continued dialogue. The anonymity of all individuals responding to the survey will be respected and protected.
In addition to this survey, Crossroads is working to develop the "Helping Hub," a coordinated neighbor-to-neighbor volunteer program aimed at filling some of the non-medical support services lost when EP Health closed its hospice program. More information about the Helping Hub should be coming next month.
It truly "takes a village" to create a community, and we all need to lean in, step up, and lend a hand. Thank you, and please share.”
Below is a communication from a local partner, Patti Brown, who really loves our neighbors in need. I’d like to encour-
Spring is here and it’s time for the first Community Yard Sale to be held on Saturday, April 27 - 8 a.m. until noon, "weather permitting." The sale will be held at the Masonic Lodge -1820 S. St. Vrain Ave. Spaces are available for rent for just $20.00.
For details call: 970-577-8585.
The Roman Empire was a representative democracy, but it was also a republic governed by those in power and held by military might. Those in power were religious leaders, military warriors, and the patricians (nobility). The fall of the Roman Empire was caused, in part, by extended growth that (before our new age communication) made it difficult to retain control. Corruption abounded as individual officials, even Senators, showed a preference for personal gain at the expense of national sustainability.
Dividing the country into regions came too late to regain control and moving the governmental center proved too much of a strain in 426 BC, although the eastern Byzantine Empire lasted for centuries, until 1453. Yes, big, influential countries can disappear.
Centuries ago, back in the early days of the second millennium, the Eurasian governments were based upon feudalism. In Europe the nobility had more power; in Asia, religion was stronger; yet the rulers were still autocratic. Feudalism gave the power to those who owned the land … and who also had the right to demand military power from those who served them. At the top of this ladder was the king (or emperor) who ruled by divine right. In Japan the samurai served the military shogun (nobility) appointed by the emperor. Like shoguns, Chinese nobility collected the taxes and provided the military. Indian nobility (called zamindars) held absolute power over their peasants.
Today, there are still some autocratic governments left. Governments under the control of a monarch or a dictator, or, in some cases, of a small group of elite politicians (an oligarchy). Governments where the governed have no say in the governing. Most governments today fall into two classes: democracy or communism. Democracies can be direct, where everyone may vote on every proposal, or representative, with elected officials. Most economies are either capitalistic or socialistic, although it is possible to be a hybrid of the two.
Communist countries are socialistic as well because private ownership negates the communist ideal. Under communism the government owns all property, wealth, and industry. Everyone rents from the government. Everyone works for the government. Usership replaces ownership. The government determines distribution (who gets what). There is only one political party.
Fascism is a political philosophy where the nation is considered superior to the individual, led by an autocratic dictator who is idolized without regard for his (or her) actions, similar to a cult. According to Webster, this results in a “severe economic and social regimentation.” There is no disagreement. It is not tolerated.
Under socialism, all people, sometimes with the exception of a very small oli-
garchy at the top, are determined to be equally important. All individuals are dependent upon the State and all receive food, shelter, medical, and necessary transportation in return for their contribution. The government providing the distribution can be communist, or democratic, direct or representative. The biggest difference between socialism and capitalism: In a Capitalist economy, there is private property – owned by individuals and only the public property (owned by the government) can be dispersed by the government.
Subject to certain controls determined by zoning, the use of private real estate in the capitalist USA is determined by the owner, not by the government, nor by the neighbors. However, neighbors are capable of trying, and of causing delays that undermine the project and delay the eventual completion. In 1973, when I moved into my first (owned, not rented) house, the realtor promised that when my three year old daughter was old enough to walk to the store, there would be one on the nearby (commercially zoned, privately owned) property. Due to constant objections and delays by neighbors, my granddaughter was two years old when it opened. We function under a representative government. We, the citizens, do not vote on every proposal. (If we did, we would not get anything else done.) We elect individuals to fulfill that role. We are a country governed by law. There are things we must do and there are things we must not do, dictated by laws, passed by the representatives we, as citizens, have chosen to determine the rules we live by. Changes to these laws take time for a reason. We want our citizenry to be aware and to communicate their individual thoughts to the elected officials in time for proper consideration. It is our job as citizens to keep our officials informed as to our preferences, but also to realize that each official takes into consideration not only the thoughts submitted by all of his/her constituents, but also past experience and knowledge obtained that we, the people, may not know.
As the country moves through disparate economic times, we find the divide between those who have and those who don’t is widening. We often feel the necessity to assist those who cannot earn enough. This socialistic layer overlays a capitalistic economy and includes not only the four essentials, but also education to pursue their dreams. We want qualified people to be able to improve their lot, to become an asset to the world around them. Perhaps raising the minimum wage, beyond the current (national) $7.25 would be a good way to address that. Perhaps, considering the variety of median income across the nation, our current system of helping those who fall short is the better option. Agree? Disagree? Questions? Comments? RRRcyc@signsandwishes.com
It’s always a good day when new members join any organization. But it was especially exciting to welcome Jeff Morris to our Rotary family.
President Jean Rissmiller welcomed Jeff Morris into the Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club at the 7a.m. meeting on Tuesday, March 19. She is also his sponsor.
Jeff is a highly driven, Finance Executive with Moloney Securities Company since 2012. Prior to that he spent 14 years with Eagle One Investments as a Founding Partner / Board of Directors / Registered Representative. Jeff has over 25 years of experience in Investment Strategies and focuses on serving as a financial guide and resource for those who are serious about and committed to reaching their investment goals.
Jeff has a passion for enabling clean, potable water to those in need and is especially looking forward to serving on
the International Clean Water project that Sunrise Rotary is undertaking this year in the Achuar Village, located in the Ecuadorian Rainforest.
Jeff is an advocate for the Rotary motto 'Service Above Self' which conveys a humanitarian spirit.
Welcome Jeff. We all look forward to the ideas on spirit of community that you bring to Rotary!
Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. For more than 110 years, Rotarians have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end. Join us! Learn more at: portal.clubrunner.ca/5242.
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/EstesValleySunriseRotary
Estes Park High School choirs will be performing the final concert of the school year Thursday, May 2, 7 p.m., in the EPHS Auditorium 1600 Manford Avenue. Choral ensembles scheduled to perform include the Treble Choir, Tenor/Bass Choir, Concert Choir, and Major13. The choirs are under the direction of Dr. Alan Denney. Pieces to be performed by the various ensembles include Virtual Insanity, Poison Ivy, Shadows On The Mountain, Meu Berimbau, Over The Rainbow, and many others.
ing them that he was going to commit suicide. Beethoven did not commit suicide as he died over a decade after the letter was penned by the composer.
In addition to the Beethoven tribute, the choral department’s accompanist and University of Northern Colorado doctoral piano student, Qingzhou Zhang, will perform the 1st movement of Beethoven piano sonata #30 in E Major, Opus 109.
Concert Choir will be performing Jake Runestad’s moving tribute to Ludwig Van Beethoven, A Silence Haunts Me. The work is based on what is referred to as the Heligenstadt Testament, a letter Beethoven wrote to his brothers inform-
To close this special evening, all graduating choir seniors will each perform a solo. The concert will conclude with the seniors performing a group selection. The concert is free and open to the public. Call (970)586-5321 more information.
Esther Alexander Cenac passed away April 11, 2024. Her ascension into heaven was sudden but peaceful and into the loving arms of her husband, Caliste C. Cenac Jr., who preceded her in death in 2009. She is survived by her four children and their families. They were her life, and she cherished the phone calls, dinners, travels and so much more that she was able to enjoy with them. Her family includes her son, Christopher C. Cenac, of Reno, NV, his wife Deirdre, children Kathleen Cenac Hafiz, her husband Jimmy and children Meadow and Marie, Bridgette Ventimilla, her husband, Victor and son Victor, Nicole Cenac, and Allison Cenac; daughter, Theresa Cenac Abels, of Missouri City, TX, her husband Edward, their children: Kristin A. Brockler, husband Kevin and sons Benjamin and William, Elizabeth Abels and her partner Rohan Joshi, Jacob Abels, his wife Morgan and their children Jacob Jr. and Sadie; son Gregory P. Cenac, of Ocean Springs, MS., his wife Cecelia, children: Gregory Cenac Jr., Annette Van Horn, her husband, Peter; and her daughter, Marie J. Cenac “Dr C.”, of Estes Park, CO and her children Nathan and Lexi Richardson.
Esther was born January 16, 1935, in New Orleans, LA. to Aubrey M. Alexander and Mary James Alexander, both of New Orleans. She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, her siblings: Aubrey M. Alexander, Jr of Alexandria LA; her sister, Juliette Daviet of LaRose, LA; her brother, Albert Alexander of Metairie, LA; and her mother-in-law, Louise Ragas Cenac Bienvenu of Estes Park, CO.
Esther graduated from Dominican High School in New Orleans and obtained her BS degree in Bacteriology from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA. Later obtaining her Masters in Theology from Loyola University in New Orleans. In 1954, she met Caliste at LSU. They married in 1958 and their life together took them across the country making their home
in Birmingham AL, Cincinnati OH, Denver CO, Houma LA, Houston TX, Metairie LA, and eventually retiring to Estes Park CO in 1994.
During their married life, Esther helped support their family as Religious Education Director at the Church of the Risen Christ Catholic Church in Denver, Religious Education Director at St. Dominics in New Orleans, and taught theology at Ursuline Academy High School in New Orleans. In addition to her devotion to sharing her religion she also loved history. She worked as a Certified Tour Guide for Greyline Tours in New Orleans and later served as docent for the Stanley Hotel Museum in Estes Park. She spent the last few years in New Orleans as an accomplished Realtor.
Upon retirement to Estes Park, she became an active member of the Estes Park community. In addition to being a docent, she was a greeter at the EP Visitor Center, an eucharistic minister at Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church and a speaker on the radio for Church of the Air. She enjoyed participating in Fine Arts Guild productions, later becoming a board member of the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies. She was a member of the Newcomers Club, EP Garden Club, and traveled/ hosted with Rotary exchange groups. She was an active member of the EP Woman’s Club and the Columbines, holding many officer positions including president of both.
In addition to her civic participation, Esther was a member of various social clubs, including Grace and Grub, poker and mahjong groups and numerous bridge groups with her many friends in town. She especially enjoyed playing competitive bridge with her “bridge buddy” Ann Dinsmoor. Esther was proud to have obtained the rank of Life Master in bridge.
Throughout her retirement years she traveled the world extensively. First with her husband and then later in life with her dear friend Lauren Wagner. She was very proud that she had been able to visit all 50 states and all 7 continents. Her other passion was cooking. She enjoyed sharing her recipes and family stories including those about her beloved dog, Sunshine, through her bi-weekly article “Cooking on High” in the EP News.
Her life will be celebrated with a mass on Monday April 29, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church in Estes Park Colorado. A small reception will be held immediately afterwards at the lower center of the church. Graveside services will be held in New Orleans, LA, on a later date.
Please visit allnuttestespark.com to leave condolences for the family.
Ellen Lindsay Dern, aged 93, passed away peacefully at her home in Fort Collins, Colorado on April 5th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on February 24th, 1931, in Decatur, Illinois, she was the daughter of Edward Emerson Lindsay and Ellen Voorhies Lindsay. Her parents preceded her in death as well as her sister, Ann Lindsay Gardner and her grandson, Adam Samuel Dern.
Ellen was a graduate of the Madeira School in 1949. She went on to attend Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois and Colorado College in Colorado Springs, Colorado. She was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority and studied medical illustration.
On June 10th, 1951 she married the love of her life, Robert R. Dern, in Decatur, Illinois. They spent their lifetime together raising five children while moving throughout the Rocky Mountains and finally retiring in their favorite place - Estes Park, Colorado.
Ellen devoted her days to service and volunteer work. She was an essential asset to the Children’s Hospital Burn Camp, at Cheley Colorado Camps. She worked tirelessly with physically disabled children and served those in hospice care. She also spent many years as a Girl Scout and Cub Scout leader. Ellen dedicated her time to the Red Cross, Stephen Ministry, the Caring Pregnancy Center and the Altar and Rosary Society. She was a friend to the friendless and a caring support to anyone who was alone. Her beautiful example of dedication to others will live on in the countless lives she
touched.
She was a lifelong artist, painting and sketching countless landscapes, animals and outdoor scenes. She passed on her love of the mountains, art and nature to her family, and she never stopped teaching those she loved.
Ellen’s Catholic faith was the center of her existence. She led her life with unwavering conviction which guided her days and contributed to every congregation where she was a member. She left an imprint on all who met her.
Ellen was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She leaves behind a legacy of love, survived by her husband of 72 years, Robert R. Dern, her children, Ann (Paul) Rudge, Jane Dern, Robert (Cathy) Dern Jr., Martha Moffitt, William (Deanna) Dern, brother in law John Gardner, her grandchildren, Jennifer (Kyle) Germer, Michael (Robyn) Rudge, Christine Dern, Marissa (Kevin) Foster, Daniel (Jessi) Moffitt, Lindsay (Rob) Naughton, Laresa Dern, Autumn (John) Matsutani, Emma Dern, and her greatgrandchildren, Hadley, Presley, Dylan, Ryan, Cole, Asher, Andrea, Nina, Morgan, Remy, Hazel, Easton and Baker. A private graveside service will be held at Estes Valley Memorial Gardens in Estes Park, Colorado. In honor of Ellen’s legacy of charity, the family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Building fund, the Dominican Sisters Charity in Denver (who run the home for retired priests, and care for the poor and elderly), or to your local food bank.
Please visit www.allnuttestespark.com to leave a message for the family.
The Community Prayer Quilters is an ecumenical gathering of women who enjoy sewing or quilting, and who appreciate the opportunity to provide people with a tangible sign that people are praying for them. A prayer quilt is a lap-sized quilt that is tied with yarn. The prayer quilters tie prayers into knots in the yarn for the recipient. A prayer quilt is appropriate for someone who is experiencing a physical, emotional, spiritual or other life crisis, and who feels he/she could benefit by being “covered in
prayer.” If you know someone who might appreciate one, please contact Johanna Gengler at jogengler@gmail.com. We are blessed with a good supply of quilts, and are eager to gift them to those who need prayer.
It is a daunting task to be charged with summarizing someone’s life to a few brief lines. However, I will attempt to encapsulate the highlights of a life well lived herein with the respect deserved to such a brave and joyous soul. Eola Marie Martin was born to Frank and Irene Manley on July 30, 1938, an only child. She was raised in and around the San Antonio area. She had fond memories of birthday picnics of homemade fried chicken with all the trimmings at Brackenridge and Landa Parks, and told us stories about her family outings to ride horses in the hill country that brought her so much joy. After graduating high school, she attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas. It was here that the trajectory of her life would be defined by a near death experience where she told God
she would dedicate her life to him. Leaving Baylor for San Antonio again, she took care of her mother after cancer surgery, she then attended Our Lady of the Lake College, and launched a brief career in being a dental assistant that would reach forward in time to allow her to do the same on two separate occasions in Haiti with the Episcopal Church.
Mother met daddy, Michael Martin, on a blind date set up by a friend. When he hung up the phone after talking with her the first time, he said he had met the woman he was going to marry. They did in fact marry that following July, only having known each other for six months. Their love letters to each other were reminiscent of the notebook, sweet, touching and heartfelt. They started their married life together in
Please join us for a Celebration of Life for Gerald Lyle Briggs on April 26th, 2024 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Cousin Pat's Pub and Grill, 451 S. St. Vrain Avenue, Estes Park, CO 80517.
Light snacks provided.
Texas and had three children. While living in Texas they would often vacation in the mountains of Colorado. After a few years the mountains beckoned them to stay and they moved the family to Estes Park where they lived from 19761993. Those were special years, raising children, being involved in the community especially St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church. The house was always open and the coffee pot on for anyone who would call. One of my mother's favorite things to do was to make breakfast in the park, either Sprague Lake or Endo Valley were her favorites. We all benefited from this love as we were instilled with the love of nature, solitude and God’s majestic creation. She loved to cook and entertain, try new foods and have adventures. She was a creative soul for certain. She was a pianist, enjoyed painting, drawing, writing and pottery.
Her parents, Irene and Frank Manley, had moved to Estes as well and after grandma passed away the call to adventure got louder. As a child watching news reels at the movies, she said she would see Gandhi and India and have a romantic tug at her heart about India and its people. It is there that the next phase of her life would begin. In 1995 she boarded the plane for India and took off an adventure that would change her forever. A trip planned for a few weeks was extended to four months. This would be the first of three trips that she would take returning each time to India in search of herself, God, and a deeper meaning to life and the spirit within. She was deeply affected by her experiences in India. She made many friends and made quite an impact in the literary world. On her second trip to India she was the guest of honor at a dinner in her name, Eola Martin, International Literary Poetess, USA, the invitations read. The event was broadcast on local television and she was interviewed by local papers afterwards as well. And so, she began her journey of writing her book to be published and called “Awakening to the Beloved.” Over the course of two decades she has filled endless journals, and books with her notes, poems, and amazing stories. In 1993, being empty
nesters and needing a change Mike and Eola moved to Tacoma, WA, to open Mamma Roses’ Espresso and Tea Shop. They created a wonderful atmosphere where, not unlike their living room, people felt welcome and the coffee/tea pot was always on. They would make dear friends in Tacoma also. The coffee shop became known as the black hole because of how you could get pulled in and never leave for hours of conversation over a cup of something warm. Mother would serve high tea, and hold spiritual groups after hours. The picnics and family occasions were moved beachside to Owen’s beach for birthdays and holidays but the food, fun and laughter continued. Mom and Dad retired to Mission, Texas. They were members at Peter and Paul Episcopal Church. She was a Daughter of the King and loved to help with the Vacation Bible School each year, usually dressed in costumes and had a puppet on her hand.She continued her love of speaking and did workshops on meditation, the labyrinth and much more. Upon the death of her husband she packed up and moved to Waco, to be nearer to family. Mother enjoyed her family, friends and neighbors and was known as a great storyteller. She always had a childlike innocence about her and was ready to have fun and enjoy life at a moment's notice. She fought cancer over the course of many years, surgeries, radiation and other treatments. Though her heart desired to finish her book (s), and go on tour to share her stories in person. That was not to be. On March 21, 2024 she passed away surrounded by loved ones in her home in Waco, Texas. Her last spoken words were “ I love you all.” She is survived by her children; Dana (Sandra); Michelle (Hase), preceding her in death her husband Michael and son Lee (Jennifer, living). Four of the many surviving grandchildren (and great-grand) have been commissioned to publish her book, Anthony, Isaac, James and Megan. Because we have hope in our risen Lord we know we will see you again. We love you too, Mom! Rest in His Peace.
Airport Drivers
Now hiring (Must live in Estes Park)
• Tour Drivers
• Office Reservationist
Non CDL Drivers
$18-20 an hour Plus tips, Fulltime/Partime
$4/hr shift differential pay for morning and nights.
Tour Guides/drivers for small groups.
Office Reservationist I
$18-20 an hour, One Fulltime Seasonal /One Partime Year-round
Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle 551 South Saint Vrain Ave
Starting Hourly $22.78 per hour approx. $54,000/yr
Applicant must be at least 18
Good physical condition work with weights of at least 50 pounds.
Minimum high school education.
Possess valid Colorado drivers license ability to obtain CDL.
Dependable transportation reside within 30 min of facility.
Ability to work overtime, weekends and holidays when required.
The position is entry level/trainee. Job involves the performance of skills relating to wastewater lines construction, maintenance and repair. It will also include learning skills associated with a wastewater treatment plant operator. Position includes health benefits and retirement eligibility. Great opportunity for an individual looking to build a career.
Applications can be picked up at and returned to the District office located at.
1201 Graves Ave. Estes Park, CO 80517 Contact the office at (970).586.2866 or email the District Manager at tdrees@estesparksanitation.org
The position will be opened until filled. Estes Park Sanitation is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Opening for YEAR-ROUND FRONT DESK AGENT
3 mornings and 2 afternoon shifts. $18 to $22 hour depending on experience.
Opening for SEASONAL FRONT DESK AGENT
May through October weekend work is necessary. $18 to $22 hour depending on experience.
Please apply in person 1450 Big Thompson Ave.
Compensation: $24.00 Hour
Construction laborers needed for project in the Rocky Mountain National Park. $24.00 hour. 40 hour work week through end of project.
Construction site or landscaping experience needed.
A Hire Power is a full service staffing agency.
Silver Saddle Inn
Flexible Hours, Full time $18/hr - $22/hr DOE
Must be non-smoker. Apply in person: 1260 Big Thompson Ave. or email resume: info@estesresort.com
Pay
Need to live in or around the Estes Park area and have a valid drivers license.
Must have steel toe work boots and gloves as well as gear to deal with the elements.
10 hour days possible so need to be able to work outside and on your feet, lift 50 pounds, take instructions and understand construction type projects.
Please contact Bob Peterson 303-779-3060 bob@ahirepower.com
The
(local housing option available)
Small family business seeking self-motivated, responsible person to clean vacation cabins part time.
Earn $20-$30/hr. Pay varies by project. Some flexible hrs allowed. Must be available weekends. Good transportation req. Email us at peregrineresortgroup@gmail.com.
We’re hiring for the following positions starting at $21.01/hr.:
• Drive-up & Go Service Helpers
Susan Fereday State Farm Insurance is looking to add an additional team member to our successful Insurance office in Estes Park If you are looking for a career, please give us a call at 970 586 9547 Training and licensing will be provided. Competitive Salary, 401 K and vacation and Holidays. No weekends.
Job Opportunity: Office Administrator for General Contractor's Office.
Are you organized, efficient, and thrive in a dynamic office environment? We're looking for a skilled Office Administrator to join our team at Glacier Creek Construction, General Contractor. Requirements: Proficiency in QuickBooks for managing accounts and financial transactions. Strong typing skills to handle administrative tasks efficiently. Excellent organizational abilities to maintain smooth office operations. Exceptional communication skills for interacting with clients, suppliers, and team members. Friendly demeanor to provide outstanding customer service and support. If you're ready to take on a pivotal role in a fast-paced construction office environment and contribute to our team's success, we want to hear from you! Apply now with your resume and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience. glaciercreekinc@gmail.com 970-214-3000
• Produce Clerk
• Seafood Clerk
• Cake Decorator
• Meat Cutter
Get your application at: www.albertsoncompanies.com
After your application has been completed, please call our hiring manager Ann at 970.586.4447.
Homes
Spacious 3 bedroom 2 bath single family with attached garage home in Estes Park. Washer & Dryer. Great quiet neighborhood, close to town, school, restaurants and shopping. Close to the bike path system. 1033 Tranquil Ln. $3200/ month plus utilities. Available April,1st. Pets Negotiable. Call 970-214-3000
Condos
1 BD, 3/4 BA, left unit of duplex. Common area has W/D. Tenant pays elec., water & gas. Avail. 3/25. First, last & security dep. $1500/mo., 970-481-5188
Cabins
We have several year around rental units available RIGHT NOW! With a wide range of prices from $850/month to $2600/month, we can accommodate most budgets. All units are in the Estes Valley and walking distance to downtown. Call us for details
970-586-6500 or stop by the office Mon-Fri.
Ft., Conference Room, 3 Private Offices, High Traffic Area with Great Exposure, Open Lobby Area, Printer Room. 351 Moraine Ave. Suite B 970-227-4865 nathan@kinleybuilt.com
Storage Units
Manford Plaza storage unit for rent. 970-586-3828 TRANSPORTATION SUVs/CUVs
2012 JEEP LIBERTY 148,000 mi
$7,700 (970) 593-2707
Motorcycles
2012 Harley Davidson Sportster XL 1200c, 13,500 miles $6000 John 970.227.2041
Cleaning
$FIRST CLEANING
FREE$ - Residential, commercial, vacation, and more! We clean it all! PLUS + RELIABLE Property management services! Local Estes Park business. Call Today 888-295-1575
Piano Tuning
Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755
www.estesparkpiano tuner.com
Other-Misc
Perpetual Wellness LLC
Massage, Cupping, Lymphatic, Face Rejuvenation and more!
