Estes Park News, May 10, 2024

Photo by David Kempkes

5,300 copies were printed this week, and distributed FREE to hundreds of Estes Valley locations including Allenspark, Glen Haven & Lyons. A National Online Audience With Loyal Local Readership

Ph: (970) 586-5800 Fax: (970) 692-2611

Opinions of our columnists are not necessarily the opinions of this newspaper. Owners/Publishers: Gary & Kris Hazelton

Editor: Kris Hazelton

Office Manager: Tim Buck office@epnews.com

Tech Operations: Andrew Donaldson ads@estesparknews.com

Advertising: Jordan Hazelton jordan@estesparknews.com

Press releases: kris@estesparknews.com

All editorial, photo content & graphic design is copyright of Estes Park News, Inc. & can not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of Estes Park News, Inc. ©2024 For subscription information contact us.

DEADLINES

Reserve space: Monday by 4:00 pm

Final submissions: Tuesday by

Classifieds: Deadline Wed. by

Community Invited To Meet Police Chief Candidates May 16

“Meet and greet” takes place at 5 p.m. May 16 at Town Hall

sity. He is an Army veteran who served with the 82nd Airborne Division.

Captain Jason Freedman serves as the Midtown District Captain of Police for the City of Madison, Wisconsin. Captain Freedman has 27 years of law enforcement experience. After four years in patrol, including

services for Rocky Mountain’s emergency responders, and assisted in the creation of a national program for mental health for first responders within the National Park Service.

Captain Ian Stewart of the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) serves as the Captain over the Operations Division and a member of the LCSO Command Staff, as well as serving as the Interim Chief of Police for the Estes Park Police Department from December, 2023 to the present. Captain Stewart has been a member of the LCSO since 1999, having served three years as the Commander of the Northern Colorado Drug Task Force, where he received the Rocky Mountain High

Community members are encouraged to attend a special “meet and greet” event as the Town of Estes Park introduces the four finalists for the Police Chief position. The event takes place at 5 p.m. Thursday, May 16 in the Town Board Room at Town Hall, located at 170 MacGregor Ave. There will be a short presentation by each candidate, followed by a brief question and answer period, and ending with an hour to visit with the candidates. Comment cards will be available for community members to offer feedback on the finalists. For those who cannot attend, the presentations will be available streamed and recorded at www.estes.org/videos. Comments may be emailed to HR@estes.org by May 17 at 5 p.m. All comments will be compiled and provided to the Town Administrator for consideration during the selection process.

The finalists are Ron Camacho, Jason Freedman, Jay Shields and Ian Stewart. Dr. Ron Camacho has 29 years of law enforcement experience, with 16 in managerial positions. He retired as the Operations Captain for the York City, PA Police Department and spent a year as the Patrol Commander for the Old Dominion University Police Department. For the last seven years, he has served as the Chief of Police for the Chambersburg, PA Police Department. Dr. Camacho graduated from the FBI National Academy, 239th session, and was honored as one of Police Magazine’s Innovated Law Enforcement Leaders in 2023. He holds a Doctorate in Criminal Justice from Penn West University and a Master’s in Criminal Justice from Liberty Univer-

serving as a collateral instructor for the last 20 years. He is a careerlong practitioner of community policing and was a founding member and instructor of Madison Police Department’s Community Academy in 2007. Captain Freedman holds a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and a Bachelor of Arts from University of Wisconsin - Madison with majors in History, International Relations, and Political Science. He is a graduate of the United States Marine Corps Officer Candidate School, the FBI National Academy, 279th session, and Leadership in Police Organizations.

Rocky Mountain National Park Chief Ranger Jay Shields has 26 years of law enforcement experience, having served in seven National Park units across the country. Over his career he has served as a law enforcement officer, search and rescuer, dispatcher, helicopter short haul technician, medic, wildland firefighter, incident commander, instructor, policy maker, and leader. Chief Ranger Shields has overseen emergency operations spanning multiple states, and was involved in the creation of the National Park Service Tactical EMS program, the initiation of the first-ever clinician

Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Drug Unit Commander of the year award. From 2016 to 2023, Stewart also served as the Commander of the Larimer County Regional SWAT Team and orchestrated the transformation of the team into the Larimer County AllHazards/Crisis Response Team. Captain Stewart holds a Bachelor of Science from Colorado State University, is a graduate of the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, the FEMA National Emergency Management Basic Academy and the Department of Homeland Security Leadership Academy.

For more information on each candidate, please visit the Hot Topics section at www.estes.org. The Town expects to hire and announce the new Police Chief in June. The Town Police Chief reports to the Town Administrator and is responsible for the day-today operations of the Police Department and other Town public safety activities in accordance with the Town Board’s Strategic Plan.

Dr. Ron Camacho Jason Freedman

Jay Shields Ian Stewart

Town Of Estes Park Offers Food Tax Refunds To Qualified Residents During May 2024

Each year, the Town of Estes Park offers refunds of sales tax paid on food items to qualified residents. Applicants must have lived within the boundaries of the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District during the entire 12 months of 2023. Applicants should be resident families with dependent children under the age of 18 in 2023; residents who are disabled and received disability income in 2023; or, residents who were at least 65 years of age in 2023. Income qualifications and complete details will be available at www.estes.org/finance.

Food tax refund applications will be available starting May 1, 2024, in the vestibule outside the Police Department entrance at Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Ave., from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and at www.estes.org/finance. Applications will be accepted through May 31, 2024. Along with the completed application, certain applicants must provide copies of proof of residency and income, and any other required documents. The requirements are explained in the application.

El Pueblo de Estes Park Ofrece Devolución de Impuestos Sobre Alimentos a Residentes Calificados Durante Mayo 2024

Cada año, el pueblo Estes Park ofrece a residentes calificados el reembolso del impuesto sobre las ventas pagado en alimentos. Los solicitantes deberán haber vivido dentro de los límites del Distrito de recreación y parques de Estes Valley durante los 12 meses completos del 2023. Los solicitantes deberán ser familiares residentes con hijos a cargo menores de 18 años en 2023, residentes discapacitados que recibieron ingresos por discapacidad en 2023 o residentes que tiene al menos 65 años en 2023. Las calificaciones de ingresos y detalles completos estarán disponibles en www.estes.org/finance.

The charge(s) are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

On 4/30/2024 at 10:04 p.m. police contacted a 43 year old Estes Park male at his hotel room in the 1600 block of Big Thompson for an outstanding warrant. The male was wanted on warrants for a misdemeanor and for a felony. The male refused to leave the premises and barricaded himself in his room for an hour, threatening to harm himself. The male eventually complied with police instructions, was arrested and transported to Larimer County Jail.

On 5/2/2024 at 7:21 p.m. police con-

Las solicitudes de devolución de impuesto sobre alimentos estarán disponibles a partir del 1 de mayo de 2024, en el vestíbulo fuera de la entrada del Departamento de Policía del Ayuntamiento ubicado en 170 MacGregor Ave, desde los 8 a.m. a 5 p.m., de lunes a viernes, y en www.estes.org/finance. Las solicitudes serán aceptadas hasta el 31 de mayo de 2024. Junto con la solicitud completa, ciertos solicitantes deben proporcionar copias de comprobantes de residencia, ingresos y cualquier otro tipo de documentación requerida. Los requisitos se explican en la solicitud.

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.

• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 1

tacted a 21 year old male from Estes Park in the 500 block of Aspen Ave. who was wanted on a warrant. The warrant was for a misdemeanor offense. He was arrested and later released on personal recognizance bond.

On 5/4/2024 at 10:55 p.m. police stopped a 43 year old driver in the 800 block of Dunraven due to the officer knowing the male had a suspended driver's license while driving. A consent search revealed brass knuckles, needles and fentanyl. The male was charged with possessing an illegal weapon, unlawful possession of fentanyl and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and transported to the Larimer County Jail.

• Alarm Activation: 2

• Gas Leak: 1

• Smoke Investigation: 4

• Assist: 1

• Elevator Rescue: 2 Estes Valley Fire www.estesvalleyfire.org

Town Public Service Recognition Week

This week marks the Town’s annual celebration of the nationwide Public Service Recognition Week (May 5 –11). Public Service Recognition Week is a time set aside to honor the people who serve our nation as federal, state, county, local and tribal government employees. The goals of this program are to:

• Connect and educate citizens nationwide to the work of their government;

• Improve the perception and morale of federal workers and other public servants; and

• Help inspire a new generation of public servants.

Town employees work hard every day to deliver the services and programs that our residents and visitors expect and rely upon. This dedication to excellence can be seen in the results of our 2023 National Community Survey in which 83% of respondents rated the overall customer service by Estes Park employees as “excellent” or “good.” The Town’s team includes approximately 170 employees.

I am grateful for the talented and committed individuals that have decided to enter public service and work for the Town government. Our employees are our single most important asset in providing high-quality service to all members of our community and achieving the objectives established by the Town Board. We are fortunate to have a strong team here at the Town, and I look forward to continuing to fill out our open positions with individuals that share our values and commitment to public service.

Each and every resident and visitor to Town can help us celebrate Public Service Recognition Week. When you have a positive interaction with a Town employee, let them know! The Town requires a wide variety of talents and skills to continue to provide the services valued by our residents and guests. If you know anyone who might be interested in exploring a new career with local government, please encourage them to contact us to discuss our current opportunities. Learn more and contact us at www.estes.org/jobs.

Lastly, I would like to thank the re-

markable commitment to public service exhibited by the following employees, all of whom will have worked for the Town for 10 or more years in 2024:

Monty Allen, Police

Phil Ball, Utilities

Peni Barnes, Police

Robert "Skip" Bauming, Public Works

Brian Berg, Public Works

Reuben Bergsten, Utilities

Shaun Bledsoe, Police

Tyler Boles, Utilities

Kelly Doherty, Police

Dale Duell, Utilities

Adam Edwards, Utilities

Mike Evanek, Utilities

Derek Fortini, Museum

Josh Hahn, Utilities

Deborah Holgorsen, Finance

Elaine Hunt-Downey, Events and Visitor Services

Justin Kearney, Public Works

Shane Krell, Utilities

Jason Lang, Utilities

Timothy Leonard, Utilities

Charlene Lepore, Events and Visitor Services

Rick Life, Police

Joe Lockhart, Utilities

Kate Miller, Town Administrator’s Office

Kevin McEachern, Public Works

Kim McEachern, Finance

Greg Muhonen, Public Works

Matthew O'Reilly, Public Works

Matthew Osentowski, Utilities

Jeremiah Polucha, Police

Emily Pugh, Police

Estelle Purvis, Police

Caleb Robertson, Police

Josh Roper, Public Works

Karen Shea, Events and Visitor Services

Jesse Shull, Utilities

Suzanna Simpson, Town Administrator’s Office

Jolene Svancara, Events & Visitor Services

Jerry Twigg, Police

Jackie Williamson, Town Clerk’s Office

Tonya Ziegler, Public Works

Town Hall Delayed Opening At 9:15 a.m. Thursday, May 16

Estes Park Town Hall will have a delayed opening at 9:15 a.m. Thursday, May 16, and tentatively Oct. 10. The delayed opening is to allow all Town employees to attend an All Employee Meeting at 8 a.m., which takes place two

times per year. Reminders about subsequent meeting dates will be posted on the Town’s social media channels, www.facebook.com/ TownofEstesParkCO and www.twitter.com/TownofEstesPark.

Memorial Weekend: Field Of Honor & Civil War Living History Camp

The Field Of Honor—500 American flags fly in formation—and a Civil War Living History Camp will be open to the public at no cost on Memorial Day weekend, May 24-27, at the south entrance of Spring Canyon Community Park, Fort Collins.

“Field Of Honor is a community celebration that honors our heroes—veterans, active military, first responders, medical workers, community leaders, teachers and personal he roes,” states Michele Mar quitz, president of the Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary that sponsors this event.

Jared Maddox with the C. CO. 6th U.S. Infantry Regiment Civil War, Sixth Infantry Reenactors Association. “Only a small fraction of any soldier’s time was spent in front line combat. Instead, the vast majority of his existence revolved around the routines of camp life, which presented its own set of struggles and hardships, and the public will get a firsthand look at that daily life during this re-enactment.”

“Field Of Honor is specifically designed so you can walk among the flags and read the medallions attached to the flags. Each medallion recognizes a specific hero and shares information about that hero.

“Field Of Honor provides an ideal place where we can educate future generations regarding the role real-life heroes play— or have played—in our lives.”

The Rotary-sponsored Civil War Living History Camp will bring the past to life, with knowledgeable Civil War historians demonstrating the tools, tactics and dayto-day camp life of Civil War soldiers.

“The Civil War was filled with heroes— the known and the unknown,” states

The public is also encouraged to read the short essays Poudre School District third and fourth graders penned about their heroes. The winning three essays will be highlighted near the Rotary booth, with all essays available to be read in binders. Individuals wishing to acknowledge a hero with a medallion on a flag in the Field Of Honor can do so at www.rotaryfcbreakfast.org. Funds raised through medallion sales, community supporters and donations go to Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Foundation to support local non-profits that provide services to veterans and first responders and benefit local and international service projects undertaken by Fort Collins Breakfast Rotary Foundation.

Come Meet & Greet

The Republican Candidates

Come meet and greet Steve FerranteHouse District 49 and Ben Aste-County Commissioner District 3 this Saturday, May 11 from 1:30-4:30 p.m. in the Hondius Room at the Estes Valley Library, 335 E. Elkhorn Ave.

community outreach dinner

WEDNESDAY, MAY 22ND 5-7 PM

Free event! We will be serving hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, potato salad and drinks.

1820 S. St. Vrain Ave., Estes Park (Masonic lodge)

Estes Park International Church invites you to its 1st:

Ben Aste Steve Ferrante

Estes Valley Land Trust Seeks Volunteers

Every year, the Estes Valley Land Trust monitors more than 170 properties across the Estes Valley that preserve our incredible scenery and critical wildlife habitat. This year, we are looking for 10 additional volunteers to hike, photograph and complete short reports, to ensure that these properties remain protected.

“Our conservation easement monitoring program is a fun opportunity to engage in land conservation,” said Alicia Rochambeau, the land trust’s Community Engagement Coordinator. “Volunteers are dispatched throughout the Estes Valley to do light field work and enjoy hiking in pristine pockets of conserved land.” If you love the outdoors and want to hike for a good cause, monitoring a conservation easement may be a great fit for you. No experience is needed!

Each property is different and the land trust will assign monitoring duties to new volunteers that meet their interest and ability. Some monitoring assignments are short and involve hiking on flat ground for less than an hour, while others are more strenuous and may in-

volve a few hours of hiking. “We will tell you about the property needs we have and hope to find a good match,” said Rochambeau.

Volunteer monitors partner with experienced co-monitors for safety purposes and ease in training. An outdoor picnic on Wednesday, June 5th is our official kick off for the monitoring season. This is a social event; a time for land trust staff and volunteers to mingle, receive monitor assignments, and enjoy a free lunch. There will be a virtual training session the following week on Monday, June 10th from 9 - 10 a.m. If you are not able to attend the virtual training don't worry, it will be recorded and emailed for you to view in your own time. For more information or to sign up and volunteer with the land trust, please contact Alicia Rochambeau at 970-5776837 or alicia@evlandtrust.org.

About the Estes Valley Land TrustFounded in 1987 by Estes Park residents, the Estes Valley Land Trust is a nationally recognized land conservation organization that has preserved over 10,000 acres of land in the Estes Valley. Please support land conservation by becoming a member of the land trust at www.evlandtrust.org/donate.

Tree Talk With Brian Berg At Garden Club Meeting

Estes Park Garden Club presents, “Tree Talk with Brian Berg” on May 13 from 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon at the Estes Valley Library, Hondius Room. Brian Berg will discuss caring for trees and bushes in the Estes Valley. He’ll start with some natives and what bugs them, how to plant a tree, watering, pruning and go into some non-natives that do pretty well here.

Brian Berg is the Parks Supervisor for the Town of Estes Park. He is an ISA Certified Arborist, RM-7552A. Brian graduated from Western State College, Gunnison, CO-BA in Environmental Science and Biology.

All are welcome to attend.

Conservation Easement Monitors hike through protected land.

Are You Ready? 5th Annual EVWC Community Fuel Reduction Event

By: Estes Valley Watershed Coalition

The Estes Valley and surrounding communities are no strangers to the threat of wildfires. Fire is a natural and necessary ecological process, but when we choose to live in that ecosystem, we need to do the best we can to prevent harm. It is hard to imagine, after all the snow that we received last week, that peak wildfire season is right around the corner: looking around your home, are you ready?

EVWC is now accepting applications for FREE dumpsters to collect and remove your slash, bagged pinecones, and pine needles. This will be our fifth year in assisting our community with fuel reduction efforts in collaboration with WM (Waste Management). Whether you are a group of homeowners, POA, COA, or HOA, we invite you to apply. We have a limited number of containers that can be distributed, therefore applications will be reviewed and

awarded based on how well they address current risk and overall impact on our community. Two rounds of applications will be open to the Estes Valley. The first round opened on April 1st and will be closing on May 15th. The second round will be open on June 1st and will close on June 30th. To view the application guidelines and restrictions, please scan the QR code in this article or visit forms.office.com/r/KnBqRrsqDA

You can also contact us via email at: EVWatershed@EVWatershed.org

Creating defensible space around your home may not stop wildfires, but it will help to slow the fire down, giving you time to retreat from the threat, and giving firefighters a chance to act. So, what can you do to be ready? Observe your surroundings and remove or relocate potential fuels near your home (especially within a 10-foot perimeter) including trees, pine needles, pinecones, leaves, woodpiles, etc. Checklists and other information about how you can improve your “Wildland-Urban Interface “(WUI) can be found at www.estesvalleyfire.org/living-in-the-wui.

Estes Chamber Foundation Crowns 2024 Coolest Dogs

By: Estes Chamber of Commerce

The Estes Chamber Foundation and The Pet Association of Estes Park kicked-off the 4th annual Coolest Dog Contest, on April 1st, to find the coolest floofy pups in town to grace the labels of a special edition Avant Garde beer and Snowy Peaks wine. Throughout the month, more than 20 pups were entered into the contest

“It’s wonderful to see how popular this event has become over the years,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. “This year, we crowned six winners across the two categories and raised more than $5,500 for local animal and education programming.”

The Barky Mountain Majesty winners are Cleats, Leia, and Boji Belle. You’ll be able to see their fuzzy faces on the special edition label of an Avant Garde beer

later this summer.

The Pawsh Wine winners are Stuart, Porsche, and Maevis. Their adorable fluffy photos will be on a special edition Snowy Peaks Winery label in the coming months.

“We could not have done this without the support of our sponsors, Avant Garde Aleworks, Snowy Peaks Winery, and Bank of Estes Park, and all the dog parents who nominated their fur-babies and promoted the voting. Thank you to all the participants who made it fun, joined us for yappy hours, and spread the word to earn such generous donations,” added DePasquale.

"The Chamber Foundation will focus their donations on local business education needs. The Pet Association will receive 10% of net proceeds to fuel their ongoing mission to serve the needs of the four-legged friends in our community," DePasquale continued.

CPR/AED & First Aid Classes To Be Offered By The Senior Center

Have you thought about taking a CPR/AED or First Aid class, but just weren’t sure if you would ever need these skills or where you might take these classes? Or, maybe, it has been quite a long time since you have taken these classes, and would like to refresh your skills.

For the first time, these classes will be offered by the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center. The First Aid course will be offered on Fri., June 7 from 1 to 3 p.m., and the CPR/AED class will be offered on Sat., June 8, from 10 a.m. to noon. And, if we have enough members register for the CPR/AED class, it will also be offered that Saturday afternoon from 1 to 3 p.m.

While we live in a small community with a fire department and hospital that provide excellent and fast emergency response, seconds can sometimes make the difference between life and death. Learning these skills can change you from being a helpless bystander to someone who can save a life.

The classes will be taught by Debbie Holmes, an American Heart Association certified instructor. Many members know Debbie through the Senior Center’s Tri-Fit classes, which she teaches. Debbie has taught CPR, AED, and First Aid classes for many years. Her career as an EMT with the Estes Park Health Am-

bulance Service has provided many opportunities to practice these skills in real life events, which gives her classes an added benefit for understanding and learning these basic lifesaving skills.

The classes will be offered separately, so you can take either or both of them. The cost of these classes for members will be $40 for one class or $60 for both. A member can also pay for and register a guest to take the same class(es) for which the member registers. The deadline for registration for these classes is June 1st. To register, please send a check to the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center, Attn: FA-CPR, 1760 Olympian Ln., Estes Park, CO 80517. Please include a note that indicates the class(es) for which you are registering, and if you are bringing a guest, please include the guest’s name. Checks should be made out to the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (or EPSCC).

The Senior Center staff or volunteers will not be able to help you with registration or answer questions about the classes.

Please respond to estesparkseniors@gmail.com with any questions you may have.

Class sizes will be limited, so register early!

Jena Griswold At

Next Learn

With The League May 15

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.

In June of 2008 I wrote a column about prepositions. I reread it the other day and saw that nothing about the little word-squirts has changed. They still cause grammatical problems. I’ve observed my Cuban sister-in-law trying to improve her English, struggle with prepositions because the rules surrounding them are very loosy-goosy at best, if they exist at all.

“A vase full of flowers” sounds fine, but Odalys might say “a vase full with flowers.” That’s not wrong, but it’s not exactly right either. Our English language is rife with these common mix-ups. For example, we talk about people. My sis-in-law might mistakenly say, “we talk on them.” How does a person clarify the difference? We say, “At night” but “in the morning.” I can’t explain why “at morning “ just doesn’t work. In the end we simply have to learn by rote which preposition is appropriate in each situation. There are about 150 preppos in the English language. Can you explain the different between over and above? Near and by? To and at?

Here is my thunking about the conundrum of prepositions from 2008: We all learned in grammar class that it is incorrect to finish a sentence with a preposition. For some, this is an easy rule to understand and apply. Others scratch their heads and ask, “What is a preposition anyway, and what else would we end a sentence with?” Even among the most adroit, those who can rattle off pi to its tenth decimal and apply it to determine the circumference of a circle without pencil and paper, some are confounded by the preposition.

Understanding prepositions, meager little words squeezed between bigger, more powerful verbs and nouns, is not that difficult. Of course, neither is figuring the circumference of a circle, but I can’t do it without hurting myself. The simplest way to describe a preposition is a locator in time and place. If you had been in my seventh grade English class, you would have had to memorize the 45 most commonly used prepositions: in, on, into, over, under, to, at, by, for, from… And if you’d been required to do so back when you were 12 years old, today, prepositions would tuck comfortably in your back pocket, ready and waiting for proper usage, like a hanky during the pollen-infested weeks of June. Even though I am a friend of prepositions, I don’t always use them correctly.

Often the grammatical rule makes conversation convoluted; ergo it is something I don’t necessarily agree with. (It is something with which I do not necessarily agree. See?) So my own rule is to use prepositions when they fit conversationally, but not use them where they don’t belong. For example, I know where Longs Peak is, not where the peak is at

Did you know the preposition between refers to two and among is used for three or more? We share the candy between the two of us and divide it among the three of us. (Well, usually I keep it all to myself. It’s easier that way because no prepositions come into play).

In the last few years I’ve noticed an odd trend in prepositional usage that puzzles me. People are substituting the correct word with an out-of-place preposition, and it sounds just plain goofy. Here are some examples:

It used to be, when a child finally finished high school, parents bragged about her. Today I’m noticing parents bragging on their kids, and dogs, and friends. I don’t know about you, but I talk on the phone and brag about my friends.

When a couple is spotted smooching on a bench by Lake Estes, the two romancers, usually young, may be hugging and kissing each other. These days, when someone describes the scene, they say the couple is loving on each other. But properly, they are sitting on the park bench, being affectionate with each other.

If I ask someone about growing corn in Africa (not a native plant to that continent) and he doesn’t know the answer, he may say, “I can’t speak to that.” But I didn’t ask him to speak to the corn. I had hoped he would speak to me. What I really wanted was to hear his thoughts about agriculture on the other side of the globe.

Being a word person, I spend a lot of time contemplating where words come from, how they sneak into our vocabulary, and if we have any control over their usage. Improper use of the preposition is getting out of hand, and in the words of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, “This is something up with which I shall not put.”

You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.

© 2024 Sarah Donohoe

We are excited to announce the Estes ParkRun! A free monthly 4.2 mile race around Lake Estes Saturdays at 7a.m.,

For more information, check out our website at www.runningwildevents.com/ estes-park-run. Join In The Fun

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.

Honoring A Hometown Hero

blanket of security that surround us the soldiers serving in the military provide. The news, and especially social media, portray war, riots, political bias, and petty bickering less we forget what it means to be the “United States” and more so of the division that we fall into. All our freedoms that seem to be taken for granted and misused were provided by those past soldiers that fought to provide their future those freedoms. There comes a price to becoming a soldier and a true warrior amongst us all; it is the sacrifice of time away from family, friends, and loved ones with a sense of duty to God and country.

By: American Legion Vice Commander

Scott Manning

I can remember the time I first made the decision to join the Army back in 1993. It was my 18th birthday and my Dad and I went out to eat and grab a movie, my Mom was working that evening, while waiting for the movie to start my Dad stopped in front of the recruitment offices. The pressure was on,

so I decided to choose my own path and join the Army since my Dad was Air Force, what a way to stick it to him, right? But this story and article is not about me, this is about a local young man by the name of Mark Brown and his decision to join the Army came with no pressure but determination and honor. Mark had to get the permission from his parents to sign enlistment pa-

pers because he not only is still attending Estes Park High School but was only 17 years old when he made his own decision to join the Army.

Often today we tend to forget the sacrifices that young men and women give so that we may remain safe in the warm

Mark Brown is no exception to this display of selfless-service and personal courage; he is an inspiration to us all and we honor him not just today but every day. On May 1st we had the chance to honor him at EPHS and give an honor cord that represents his future enrollment in the Army that he can wear at his upcoming graduation. It was my greatest pleasure to say to him for the first time, “thank you for your service,” because without young men and women like him joining and serving we would not have the freedoms we so love and cherish today.

Mark will be serving as a 19D Army Cavalry Scout, which is no surprise because he is leading the way to a better future. As I did, while serving this great nation, I know Mark will grow up and be a great leader someday. There is an acronym in the Army that is LDRSHIP which stands for Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Self-less service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal courage and I know Mark Brown holds all these traits already. I salute you and next time you see Mark around town, don’t forget to wish him the very best and thank him for his service.

Army Recruiter SFC Elias Sandoval, Mark Brown, Army Recruiter CPT Matthew Booker.

AL Vice Commander Scott Manning, Army Recruiter SFC Elias Sandoval, Mark Brown, Brayden Betts ,Officer Paul Mieszala. (Back Left)- AL Past Commander Jim Whiteneck, Army Recruiter CPT Matthew Booker, AL Rider President Mike Staudte.

Photographs by April Martinez of the EPHS Yearbook staff

EI-EI-O Leadership Training: Emotional Intelligence, Evolutionary Insights, And Optimizing People At Work

EI-EI-O will be held at the PCCR Fellowship Hall on Wednesday, May 15, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Registration closes May 10.

By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network

Let’s take the first EI of EI-EI-O: Emotional Intelligence. Increasing this skill is a game-changer in personal and professional settings. Research has shown time and again that it is the number one indicator of success. Working in any office comes with a range of emotions; learning how to recognize and manage them, and the way they impact the perceptions other people have, can dramatically shape how leaders guide their organizations now and into the future.

The second EI in this workshop is Evolutionary Insights. This science teaches us the benefits of moving forward with an intentional, responsive strategy rather than an erratic, reactive one. Consider how a teenager might respond to a situation vs. an adult, and from there to an elder. Just as we learn coping skills for life, organizations can create a productive balance by adopting new strategies

and retaining existing practices.

Last but not least is O, Optimizing People. You can’t be good at everything. Your zone of excellence may be different from that of your colleague. That’s great! Learn how people can contribute with maximum benefit.

This workshop is relevant to all organizations. Please join the Estes Nonprofit Network as we welcome Dr. Erika Michalski, Founder and Chief Encouragement Officer of Strategically Authentic (www.stratauth.com). Her certifications in talent development, performance consulting, and emotional intelligence supplement her bachelor's, master's, and doctoral work in education and leadership development. She is a small-teams, big-dreams kind of gal.

This workshop is part of the Estes Nonprofit Network’s 2024 education programs tailored specifically for local nonprofit staff and volunteers. *The cost is $50 for community members, government agencies, nonprofits not serving in Estes Park, and for-profits. Giddy up! Registration closes May 10.

The Network’s next program responds to nonprofit leaders’ most requested topic: organizational assessment. Jana Sanchez of Alchemy with Words will lead a three-part workshop on "Nonprofit Lifecycle Organizational Evaluation Tools." This will be held on June 5, 26, and July 17 from 9 a.m. - noon. All information and registration can be found on epnonprofit.org. Questions? email alison@epnonprofit.org

Fresh Snow And A New Moose Calf

By: Brad Manard, RMNPhotographer

I woke before the sun thinking of the newborn moose calf I’d seen a couple of days before. Today, she turned four days old. Peeking through the curtains, a fresh six inch blanket of spring snow had fallen. It was a perfect May morning in Rocky Mountain National Park.

I reached the meadow at the same time the morning sun did. Boots snug, I headed around the treeline hoping to get on the backside of the meadow. There, I could look across and maybe photograph the mother moose hidden on the opposite side at the edge of the willows.

Traversing the meadow, the stream was small, but my legs are older. Still, I jumped. Then, of course, I fell, held my camera high to save it, plopping into a fresh bed of snow. Recovering, I brushed the soft, white flakes from my pants, and continued on.

Excited, I saw her. On the backside of the meadow in the willows, the cow moose laid in the snow. Extending my 600 mm lens to its full length, I brought her into view. She was beautiful with a hint of red in her gray coat, a contrast to the snow. For ten minutes, I was able to capture images of this beautiful, awkward looking creature.

Then it happened. From the willows, her four day old calf emerged. Still a bit wobbly legged, she walked directly to her mother laying her nose on the cow’s. It was a loving greeting, mother and baby nuzzling together. My camera went into action, and I watched through the viewfinder. It was a precious moment on a blue sky mountain morning. As if curious, mother and cafe turned to look at the person across the meadow. Knowing I was at a distance not to be of concern, they went on about their morning. The baby continued to nuzzle her mother until finally her mother stood.

The four day old calf began to nurse

getting her morning feeding before her mother moved to nibble on the willows herself. Surrounding them was white as if a frame of purity, and I continued to capture images that I knew were special.

The Baby Nursed Between Playful Bouts in the Snow

For so long, I watched mother moose and her baby as they fed. The mother pulling fresh leaves from the willows, the baby nursing between playful bouts in the snow. She would run, dancing a little on young legs, her nose covered with bits of snow. Then she would return to mother, standing close, nursing as needed. All the while, my camera was active.

trees away from the mother and her baby. I trudged through the snow, and around the meadow toward the road. Jumping the stream once more, I was invigorated, feeling strong, and I did not fall. On the road, I walked back down past the willows toward my SUV in the pullout.

After forty-five minutes, my heart full and adrenaline settling, I backed into the

Then, I heard a sound from the willows. Stopping, I looked down to see the calf poking her head out in curiosity. My camera up again, she walked from the willows, and I captured more images. My breath held as I could see the remains of her umbilical cord still attached. For a moment, she stopped and watched me as I watched her. Then she turned, moving back into the willows and the safety of her mother. Standing, my camera hung at my side. So many moose I’d photographed, but never a young life in fresh snow at the moment of a new day. My morning had been special beyond expectation.

Fulfilled, I whispered a thank you to the mother moose for sharing her calf and this experience with me. It had been a morning a photographer dreams of.

Allenspark Run Like The Wind August 31

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.

Registration is available online at GetMeRegistered.com at: tinyurl.com/mrx2nwz2.

Race day registration will open at 7:00 a.m. at the Old Gallery. Race packet in-

cludes 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.

Visit The May 2024 Safety Fair For Family Fun And Education

Kids and adults are invited to the annual Estes Park Public Safety Fair Saturday, May 11, sponsored by the Estes Park Police Department. This fun, family event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Estes Park Event Center Complex located at 1125 Rooftop Way. Estes Park Police Officers will serve free hamburgers, hot dogs, snacks and beverages, donated by local businesses, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for all attendees.

More than 20 regional public safety agencies will converge on Estes Park for the Safety Fair, bringing equipment and apparatus ranging from SWAT vehicles, to medical evacuation helicopters, to dive rescue apparatus and more. Agency representatives will be on hand for demonstrations and to answer any questions attendees may have. Other local agencies currently signed up to partici-

pate include the Estes Valley Fire Protection District, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Rocky Mountain National Park and the Larimer County Sheriff's Office. Local businesses have generously donated door prizes, including movie tickets and bowling games. Families can enter to win free giveaways from the Estes Park Police Department. Children can register to win one of multiple bikes to be given away at 1 p.m.

Donations provided by Bank of Colorado, Bank of Estes Park, Loveland Walmart, Reel Mountain Theater, The Bull Pin Bowling and Sports Bar, Estes Park Rent All, Ice of Estes Park, Safeway, El Mex-Kal Family Mexican, Poppy’s and McDonald’s. For more information or to make a donation to the Safety Fair, please call Officer Paul Mieszala, event coordinator, at 970-577-3837.

Photo by Michael Berringer

Trail Ridge Quilters Donate “Welcome To Estes” Quilt To EPH

Photos by Wendy Rigby/Estes Park Health

With a design that includes a beautiful section of Front Range mountains from the valley and the iconic rock Estes Park sign, the new quilt hanging in the lobby of Estes Park Health is a tribute to the local community.

The new “Welcome to Estes” quilt was installed on Thursday, May 2. Estes Park Health approached the Trail Ridge Quilters in January about donating one of their wonderful works of art to decorate the hospital lobby. The group immediately said, “yes.”

The leader of the Trail Ridge Quilters for the past six years is Donna Bryson. The group used to be an interest group of the Newcomers Club. As of 2024, the quilters are part of the Estes Park Health Foundation.

“It’s fun and we get to continue to sew and make quilted items,” Bryson said. “It goes to a good cause. We’re doing a good thing for the hospital.”

Over the past 35 years, the Trail Ridge Quilters have raised more than $200,000 for Estes Park Health. They hold three public sales a year. All proceeds support EPH.

“I love quilting,” explained Jeanne Allen, a 14-year member of the Trail Ridge Quilters. “I used to own a quilt shop. I didn’t have time to sew then. But I accumulated a lot of fabric and projects I wanted to work on. Now it gives me a chance to make them. If I think it’s

done here and not have to drive to the valley. I have been pleased with the quality of service from EPH over the years. If it was something that couldn’t be handled here, I got very good referrals. And there is always a log of communication between the doctors I’m referred to and the doctors up here. So that’s great.”

something that no one in our family wants or no longer goes with our house, I know it’s something I can donate here and get the joy out of making it and maybe make some money for the hospital.”

Allen said raising money for the hospital means she benefits, too.

“I’m a patient here,” she commented.

“Recently I had many, many tests here. I was very happy that I could have them

come to Estes” project.

Gray Rueppel has been with Trail Ridge Quilters for two decades. She said she was happy to donate her time for the “Wel-

Rueppel, Tammy Carlson, Jeanne Allen, Kathy Bryson, Nancy Taylor, Joanie Jonell, and Donna Bryson

The next two Trail Ridge Quilters sales are on June 8th at Mountainview Bible Fellowship and on August 9th at Estes Park Health.

Besides quilts (baby to king sized), the group also makes and sells table runners, napkins, silverware holders, microwavable bowl holders, hot pads, carrying bags, cloth baby books, pillows, wall hangings, eyeglass cases, Christmas ornaments, and Christmas tree skirts.

“We see ourselves almost as part of the hospital,” Rueppel stressed. “It’s what all of us like to contribute to. I like the character of the fabric for the one we made for the EPH lobby. It makes it special for Estes Park.”

The women who helped sew the 77” by 85” quilt are Suzanne Wheatley, Gray

The EPH Foundation is happy to have the Trail Ridge Quilters as part of the organization. Estes Park Health has a more inviting and beautiful lobby. Look above the elevator the next time you come to EPH.

A plaque by the elevator recognizes this wonderful contribution. It says, “This "Welcome to Estes” quilt was lovingly stitched in March of 2024 by the Trail Ridge Quilters using Peak to Peak Stitching's exclusive Estes Park fabric collection by Northcott.”

The new quilt hanging in the lobby of Estes Park Health is called “Welcome to Estes.” The Trail Ridge Quilters made the wall hanging and donated it to EPH.

With a design that includes a beautiful section of Front Range mountains from the valley and the iconic rock Estes Park sign, the new quilt hanging in the lobby of Estes Park Health is a tribute to the local community.

Donna Bryson, Gray Rueppel and Jeanne Allen are three of the Trail Ridge Quilters who made the new quilt for Estes Park Health.

A plaque by the elevator recognizes the generous donation of the quilt.

Estes Valley Land Trust Hosts Trip To Visit Bison Conservation Herd

Less than a century ago, the America bison was headed towards extinction when the population, nearing 40 million in size, plummeted to about 1,000 animals after intensive hunting pressure in the late 1800s. Reintroduction efforts throughout the 20th Century helped increase the number of bison, but these efforts were complicated by brucellosis, a deadly disease that afflicts domestic cattle and American bison and the crossbreeding that occurred between these two species. In 2015, ten brucellosis-free and purebred plains bison were introduced to the shortgrass prairie at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area and Red Mountain Open Space. This herd is growing and offspring are relocated to repopulate their native range throughout the western US.

The land trust will host a trip and catered picnic lunch to the Bison Pasture at Soapstone Prairie Natural Area and Red Mountain Open Space, near the Wyoming border, on Wednesday, May 22nd. Buses depart from the Estes Park Visitor Center promptly at 9 a.m. and will return by approximately 3 p.m. Soapstone Prairie is located about two hours from Estes Park. Reservations are required and can be made at evlandtrust.org/RSVP. Space is limited. The cost to attend the event is $40 for land trust members or $60 for nonmembers (the $60 fee includes a oneyear land trust membership). This is a

rain or shine event and the weather can change quickly, so please plan accordingly to spend a few hours outdoors.

The picnic will take place at the Soapstone Prairie South Parking area that includes a large pavilion and vault toilet. The buses will also make a restroom

Valley Land Trust. “This area of northern Larimer County is stunning with sweeping views of rolling prairie juxtaposed with the red rock and limestone of the surrounding hills and mountains.” Bison freely roam across the large Bison Pasture and the land trust cannot guar-

stop between Estes Park and Soapstone Prairie and during the return trip to Estes.

“I’m thrilled for our members to see Soapstone Prairie and Red Mountain Open Space this spring,” said Jeffrey Boring, Executive Director of the Estes

Barfield, Assistant Professor in Reproductive Physiology and scientific lead for the Laramie Foothills Bison Conservation Herd. Mr. Cisneros will focus on the challenges of managing Soapstone and Red Mountain to safely accommodate hikers, bikers, hunters, cattle and a herd of bison. He will also highlight some of the other 130 species of birds and mammals that call this area home, including pronghorn, swift foxes and black-footed ferrets.

Dr. Barfield will focus on the use of assisted reproductive technology to combat the spread of brucellosis and ensure that the bison calves are healthy. Dr. Barfield was the reproductive physiologist responsible for the conception and birth of the first bison calf in the world using reproductive material from the Yellowstone National Park bison herd.

“This is going to be a fascinating educational program and will take place in a beautiful location – Colorado’s shortgrass prairie,” said Boring. “I can’t wait for our members to see it.”

antee that everyone will see bison from the lunch spot or nearby viewing zone. Attendees will also be treated to an educational program during the picnic, led by Casey Cisneros, Land Stewardship Manager, Larimer County Natural Resources Department and Dr. Jennifer

About the Estes Valley Land TrustFounded in 1987 by Estes Park residents, the Estes Valley Land Trust is a nationally recognized land conservation organization that has preserved over 10,000 acres of land in the Estes Valley. Please support land conservation by becoming a member of the land trust at www.evlandtrust.org/donate.

Dedicated Volunteers Make Estes Park Community Clean-Up Day A Success

Every year on the Saturday before the Estes Park Rotary Duck Race, dozens of community members pick up trash so that Estes Park will be clean and beautiful for the visitors who flock to town for the Duck Race on the first Saturday in May. But this year the annual town Spring Clean Up Day had to be postponed when 11 inches of snow fell on the morning of April 27, 2024. With less than a week left before the big event, sixteen volunteers came through and cleared trash from assigned routes across town on Wednesday, May 1.

Members of Summit Church, the Estes Park Police Auxiliary, and a group of students from the Estes Park High School Environmental Club led by EPHS Junior Jerilyn Fischer, along with several dedicated individual Estes Park residents, picked up their orange trash bags and made sure the job got done.

That same day, a few dedicated members of the Rotary Club of Estes Park waded through Fall River, clearing away tree limbs and other obstructions in the river in preparation for the 36th annual Duck Race on May 4.

A special “Thank You” goes to the groups and individuals who showed up to help, either before the snow fell or on May 1, as well as to the Platte River Power Authority, Town of Estes Park, Estes Valley Recreation and Park District, Rocky Mountain Dumpsters, and the Rotary Club of Estes Park for their support.

Deep appreciation goes to CDOT for supplying the orange trash bags, and to Visit Estes Park, Estes Park News, and the Trail Gazette for publicizing this event.

Everyone who assisted did a fabulous job – thank you!

Bunco At St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church May 15th

St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church is offering a fun filled late afternoon of Bunco! You don’t have to know how to play, and you do have to come prepared to laugh, meet new friends do and have fun! If you are interested in participating

Adventures With The Apostles

William Barclay wrote, in his commentary on the Acts of the Apostles, “It is the simple truth that if we did not possess the Book of Acts, we would have no information whatever of the early Church.” Paul, the Apostle “born out of time,” wrote his Epistles as a reaction to issues which agitated and threatened the newly born communities of the followers of Jesus Christ.

The Book of Acts is not history, in the usual sense. It is more a memorial of events which give us snapshots or portraits of those who risked all to spread the Good News. The Pax Romana, “the Roman Peace,” was the singular place in time for a handful of the followers of Christ to “go and teach all nations…” and to grow beyond the Roman Empire to the largest religion ( 2.3+ billion followers) in the world.

You are welcome to join us as we study and discuss the trials, tribulations, and successes of Christianity during the first century Anno Domine. We will be gathering at the Estes Valley Library for the month of May, on Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m. in the Hondius Community Room, May 14 & 21 and in the Wasson Board Room May 28.

To speak to Bishop Williams regarding this discussion group, please call St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church at (970) 577-0601.

call our church office and leave your name and the fact you want to play! Snacks will be provided, bring your own beverage. Meet at St. Barts, 880 MacGregor Ave. at 5:00 p.m. on May 15th

Boy Scout Spaghetti Dinner Rescheduled To May 20

Power outages caused by the heavy spring snows on April 27th forced Troop 8 to postpone its 2nd Annual Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser.After working diligently with the American Legion and other sponsors, Troop 8 is excited to announce that we have been able to rescheduled the Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser to Monday, May 20th, 2024, at 5:00 p.m.

We realize that those who already bought tickets may not be able to make this new date and time, and are offering to refund tickets if you are not able to

join us on the 20th. Please contact Troop 8 at estesparktroop8@gmail.com to initiate a refund. If you are unable to make it but would prefer your ticket cost go towards a donation then no action is needed.

Tickets can still be purchased online at estesparktroop8.square.site

The Boy Scouts of Troop 8 continue to be grateful for all the donations and support from the community, and look forward to seeing you on May 20th at the American Legion.

Thank you, Estes Park Troop 8

Zaqia Brown 11th Grade

Congratulations to Zaqia Brown, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for Friday, May 10, 2024.

Zaqia’s mother is Kristavina Brown. At school, Zaqia’s favorite class is young adult literature.

Outside of school, Zaqia’s hobbies are taking pictures, skating, writing poems and being outside. He likes to babysit, works at Starbucks, and also works part time in a restaurant.

A place he’d love to travel is Italy because of the culture and the pretty sights.

Zaqia’s favorite quote is “The darkest day, if you live til tomorrow, will have passed away.” Zaqia said, “That is my favorite quote because to me it’s saying I can get to the next day.”

The best advice he’s ever gotten is,

“If you keep looking behind you, then you’ll never look forward.”

After high school, Zaqia plans on going into the military then going to college for criminal justice or going to trade school.

Estes Park Jazz Big Band And Village Band To Perform First Summer Concert

The Estes Park Jazz Big Band and Village Band will perform the first concert of their summer season in a combined concert on Sunday, May 12. The free concert will begin at 3:00 p.m. in the Estes Park High School Theater.

march, “Great Out Of The Gate!” followed by Gustav Holst’s “First Suite in E Flat.”

The Jazz Big Band has been performing for the Estes Park community and its visitors for 32 years while the Village Band has been performing for 42 years.

Chuck Varilek will lead the Jazz Big Band. Conducting duties for the Village Band will be shared by Melinda Workman and Varilek.

The Jazz Big Band will kick off the concert with a mix of different styles, including Count Basie’s “Shiny Stockings” and Benny Goodman’s “Stealin’ Apples.”

This year the bands will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of Henry Mancini’s birth by featuring his music on each concert. The jazz band will play Mancini’s “Too Little Time,” an uncredited song from the movie “The Glenn Miller Story.” Denise Stookesberry will also be a featured vocalist on Gershwin’s “Summertime.”

After a short intermission to reset the stage, the Village Band will begin their portion of the concert with Varilek on the podium, beginning with a new

Workman will take over the conducting duties on “Candle Dragon,” a piece by Greeley composer Kirk Vogel, followed by a rousing rendition of “Albanian Dance.” Varilek will then lead the band on a beautiful chorale, “Tribute,” by Travis Cross, followed by “Satchmo!”, a tribute to Louis Armstrong. Music in the Armstrong medley includes “What A Wonderful World,” “When The Saints Go Marching In” and “Hello Dolly.”

The Estes Park Jazz Big Band and Estes Park Village Band are community bands made up of adult and high school musicians from the Estes Park area as well as from surrounding communities. New members are always welcome to perform with the band. Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings in the Estes Park High School bandroom.

The Village Band and Jazz Big Band now have a website (www.estesparkvillageband.com) which contains our summer calendar as well as photos from past performances. The bands are also a 501c3 tax exempt organization.

Contact Chuck Varilek at 970-2278704 for more information about the concert or the bands.

Everyone is welcome to our free knitting get-togethers!

We meet in the Hondius Community Room at the Estes Park Library.

Our 2024 meeting dates are:

Tuesday, May 14, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m. Friday, June 7, 2024, 3:00-5:00 p.m. (Wool Market!)

Tuesday, July 9, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, August 13, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Bring your woolly project, and let’s craft together.

If you’d like to learn to knit, we can teach you! It’s free.

Just show up! We’ll provide yarn and knitting needles for you to use during the meeting.

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Daley at email jenny@knittingjenny.com.

What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library

SPRING HOURS

Mondays - Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Fridays & Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.

Special Hours

Closed Monday, May 27 in observance of Memorial Day KEY

Ⓡ: Registration required. Visit estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Asian-American Representation in Literature: Author Talk with R.F. Kuang Ⓡ

Tuesday, May 21, 5 - 6 p.m., online

Hear from Rebecca F. Kuang, the author of the New York Times bestselling novel Yellowface, as she discusses the book’s themes: diversity, cultural appro-

priation, and the terrifying alienation of social media. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.

Spark by John Ratey:

The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise & the Brain Ⓡ

Wednesday, May 22, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Wasson Room & online

Wednesday, May 29, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Wasson Room & online

Did you know that you can fight memory loss and sharpen your intellect simply by breaking a sweat? Join us for this two-part book discussion about the transformative effects of exercise on the brain. Presented with author Dr. John Ratey and Salud Community Health Educator Chazz Glaze.

ALL AGES

Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County

Thursday, May 16, 1 - 7:30 p.m., Dream Study Room

Wednesday, May 22, 17:30 p.m., Dream Study Room

Thursday, May 23, 1 - 7:30 p.m., Dream Study Room

Build your digital skills, including using your smartphone, accessing websites and accounts online, improving online communications, and more. Service offered in Spanish on select days. Make an appointment or just drop in! Presented by

AmeriCorps service members. Game Night! Ⓡ

Saturday, May 18, 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.

Learn to Solve a Rubik's Cube Ⓡ

Tuesday, May 28, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace

Invented in 1974 by Hungarian sculptor and architecture professor Erno Rubik, the Rubik’s Cube is a 3D combination puzzle that takes just a little knowledge and practice to solve. We’ll provide the cube and the know-how! Recommended for adults & teens.

ADULTS

Looking Forward to the Singularity: AI, Robotics, & Bio-Engineering Ⓡ

Thursday, May 16, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Hondius Room

repeated Thursday, May 23, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Hondius Room

Technology is advancing at an ever-increasing pace. At some point, no human will be able to keep up, and this is called the “Singularity.” Join us to discuss what modern tech trends predict will be possible, what game theory predicts will be plausible, and what we can start doing now to navigate the future.

Maximizing Your Job Search with ChatGPT Ⓡ

Tuesday, May 21, 3 - 4 p.m., online

Calling all job seekers: Empower your search with the latest tools! Check out this free workshop about AI techniques that can help you land your dream job. Presented with JobNow.

Medicare: Terminology, Coverage, & Enrollment Basics Ⓡ

Tuesday, May 21, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Learn the essentials of Medicare in this straightforward and actionable course. You’ll master key terminology, understand various coverage options, and learn how to effectively navigate the enrollment process. Presented with Estes Park Health.

a contained and supervised environment. Recommended for ages 9 and up. End of School Bash Ⓡ Thursday, May 23, 1 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room

Celebrate the last day of school and kick off Adventure Begins At Your Library, our Summer Reading Program! Play Super Smash Bros., eat pizza, make terrariums, get free books, and much more. This event is geared toward sixth through eighth graders.

Book vs. Movie Club: A Series of Unfortunate Events Ⓡ Saturday, May 25, 1 - 3 p.m., Hondius Room

Book or movie—which did you like best? We’ll discuss the book, then watch the movie adaptation. Snacks and drinks provided.

Lego Club: Spark Joy Ⓡ Saturday, May 25, 3 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room

Explore different building and engineering challenges with Legos. This month, we’ll be creating structures and scenes that spark joy.

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 Annie: Thurs., May 16 & Thurs., May 23 at 11 a.m.

End of School Bash Ⓡ

Thursday, May 23, 1:30 - 4 p.m., Estes Valley Community Center

Celebrate the last day of school with swimming, inflatables, face painting, crafts, and more. We’ll also be kicking off Adventure Begins At Your Library, our Summer Reading Program! This event is geared toward kindergarten through fifth graders. Presented with the Estes Valley Recreation & Parks District, and generously sponsored by the Estes Park Woman’s Club.

MAKERSPACE CLASSES

Learn the 3D Printer Ⓡ

Monday, May 20, 5:30 - 7 p.m. For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult).

TEENS & KIDS

Makerspace Crafternoon: Carve a Stamp Ⓡ

Tuesday, May 14, 5 - 6 p.m., Makerspace

Practice the soothing art of carving. Learn how to carve rubber into a viable stamp, then decorate a tote bag with your custom design.

Smash Plate Mosaic Art Ⓡ

Wednesday, May 15, 4 - 6 p.m., Makerspace

Smash plates and pottery, then use the pieces to create a beautiful piece of mosaic artwork. This program will use hammers, broken glass, and other materials in

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES Regular Meeting

Monday, May 20, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room

View the agenda and packet materials 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.

Can Breaking A Sweat Improve Your Brain Function?

According to Dr. John Ratey, yes! Beat stress, lift your mood, fight memory loss, sharpen your intellect, and function better than ever… simply by elevating your heart rate. Dr. Ratey says the evidence is incontrovertible: Aerobic exercise physically remodels our brains for peak performance.

This is the premise for Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise & the Brain, Dr. Ratey’s journey into the mind-body connection. In the book, he presents startling research to prove that exercise is truly our best defense against everything from depression, to ADD, to addiction, to Alzheimer's, and more.

Spark is a groundbreaking and fascinating investigation into the transformative effects of exercise on the brain, and is filled with amazing case studies, such as the revolutionary fitness program in Naperville, IL that put their school district of 19,000 students first in the world of science test scores.

Later this month, readers are invited to join the Estes Valley Library and Salud Family Health for a two-part book discussion about Spark. We’ll be gathering on two occasions this May to review the book, share insights, and ask questions.

Attendees will be guided by two experts: Chazz Glaze, Salud’s Community Health Educator on May 22, and then on May 29, Dr. John Ratey himself, renowned psychiatrist and the book’s bestselling author. Participants can attend in person or via Zoom and copies of Spark are now available for checkout at the Library’s front desk.

This program is offered as part of our Mind, Body May series, where we’re connecting with ourselves via programs, resources, and collections that keep us feeling our best, both inside and out.

Visit estesvalleylibrary.org/calendar for more information about, and registration for, this program – and other great Mind, Body, May events.

End Of School Bash: Let’s Kick Off Summer Right!

School’s out for summer! The last day of school is approaching and we’re ready to help local students celebrate while easing into a summer of reading. On Thursday, May 23, students of all grades are invited to join us for a community-wide End of School Bash.

The parties will take place in two locations around town: the Community Center and the Estes Valley Library. Students graduating kindergarten through fifth grade will head to the Community Center, and the tweens and teens party will be at the Estes Valley Library. Elementary school students will enjoy an afternoon of swimming, inflatables, face painting, button- and jewelry-making, temporary tattoos and more at the Community Center. Kids can be dropped off and checked in to receive a wristband, then they’ll be free to roam between community rooms, the craft room, gym, and pool. Concessions will be available for purchase, including pizza, juice boxes, and Gatorade.

At the Library’s Hondius Community Room, tweens and teens can play Mario Su-

per Smash Bros on the Wii, make arts and crafts, get book giveaways, and keep their bellies full with free pizza, snacks, and drinks.

The End of School Bash will feature information and registration at both locations for “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program, so students can easily kick off their summer reading habits. We’ll help kids sign up onsite and in exchange, they’ll get free goodies to jumpstart their reading adventures.

Both events are free for kids to attend, but space is limited and registration is required.

K-5 students can sign up at evrpd.com and tweens and teens can register at estesvalleylibrary.org/calendar. Homeschoolers are welcome!

The End of School Bash is presented in partnership between the Estes Valley Library and the Estes Valley Recreation and Parks District, and is generously sponsored by the Estes Park Woman’s Club and the Friends of the Library Foundation. We hope to see all our students there!

Town Of Estes Park Introduces New Workforce Housing Option For Summer 2024

In an effort to address the housing challenges faced by the local workforce for the upcoming summer season, the Town of Estes Park has adopted a new pilot program to allow qualified employees to utilize RVs or similar vehicles as temporary dwelling units at their place of employment. The VBASE program (Vehicle-Based Accommodation for Seasonal Employees) offers members of the workforce an alternative to traditional housing and provides local businesses an additional tool to help meet staffing needs.

"This initiative reflects the Town’s commitment to supporting our local workforce and addressing their housing challenges," said

Paul Hornbeck, Senior Planner. "Through this one-year pilot program, we are offering a flexible solution that aligns with the needs of our community."

To balance the need for housing with the general health, safety, and welfare of the community, there are limitations on the program and a permit is required. This program is applicable within Town limits. Permit requirements include a limit of one VBASE unit per business, life-safety standards, and access to water, electricity, and restrooms.

Interested businesses can find more information and apply for a permit at Estes.org/vbase. General questions on the program can be sent to planning@estes.org.

Graves Avenue Sidewalk Project Begins May 22

On May 22 the Town’s contractor, Dietzler Construction Corporation, will begin sidewalk improvements along Graves Avenue between South Saint Vrain Avenue (SH 7) and Community Drive. This work is part of the Graves Avenue Safe Routes to School project.

Construction will be completed in two phases, with the sidewalk on the south side of Graves Avenue being completed first. The second phase (north sidewalk) should begin at the end of June. Graves Avenue will be under a one-way traffic configuration for the duration of this project, with traffic traveling eastbound only from South Saint Vrain Avenue to Community Drive.

Access to businesses and driveways will be maintained daily throughout both phases of the project, and detour routes will be signed. In order to complete the project prior to the beginning of the next school year, the project will begin just before school ends for the summer.

This project is federally funded through the National Safe Routes To School program grant awarded to the Town in 2019. For more information about this project, contact Trevor Wittwer, Project Manager, at 970-577-3724 or twittwer@estes.org. Information about current Public Works projects is available at www.estes.org/publicworksprojects.

You have probably thought about someone in your life who was the ‘wind beneath your wings’. Refresh in your memory the words written by Jeff Silbar and Larry Henley and sung by artists like Bette Midler and Roger Whittaker in the 1980s. (Verse one) “It must have been cold there in my shadow, to never have the sunlight on your face. You’ve always been content to see me shine. You’ve always walked a step behind.” (Verse two) “I was the one with all the glory while you were the one with all the strength. A beautiful face without a name. I never once heard you complain.” (Verse 3) “Did you ever know that you’re my hero? And everything I’d like to be? I can fly higher than an eagle, but you are the wind beneath my wings.” And later: “I would be nothing without you.”

I tear up at this song because, like many of you men, it is my tribute to my wife. Martha and I have had a wonderful life, serving God and wonderful people all over the U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska, Canada, and now here. In our 65 years together, I was the one who was privileged to ‘shine’ and ‘receive glory’…to the degree there was any of either. But all the time, the Lord…and she…were the ‘winds beneath my wings’. I would strongly urge any man reading this to ponder your similar blessing and express this during this Mothers’ Day. To be sure, this is not always the case in a family. There are many families where that role is reversed and the wife is the one who is more in the public eye, making a more noticed impact, and the husband may be the ‘wind’ holding up her wings. But, there also, she should be getting the honor and praise that she deserves, for her place of service and leadership in society. In Proverbs, Solomon describes ‘the worthy woman, whose price is far above rubies.’ She is seen accomplishing significant things on her own, but her husband seems to be the one more prominently known, as he sits with the ‘elders of the city’, making leadership decisions. She ‘doesn’t complain’ (remember the poem above) she simply carries on her meaningful, productive life. No wonder, then, “Her children will arise up and call her blessed, and her husband praises her.” (Proverbs 31:28) Our ‘worthy women’ deserve the same. But the song’s words apply also when it comes to the children in our families. Most mothers are devoted to their children. From the very outset of their lives, children are nourished, served, protected, and, to a large degree, taught, by their mothers, while fathers are busy ‘bringing home the bacon’. As a result, those mothers, especially, take pride in and rejoice in the successes that their children experience: academically, athletically, and economically. My wife is the ‘wind beneath my four children’s wings’. As they’ve excelled in education circles, in law enforcement, and in missions, they ‘rise up and call her blessed’ for her devotion to their careers, thus, being ‘the wind beneath their wings’. And it will be true in myriads of families everywhere. At a game a player may celebrate a great play by shouting “Hi, Mom!” And we fathers will rejoice in their unique achievement, and call our wives ‘blessed also’, and our children, very blest to have that ‘wind beneath their wings’. So, this coming Mothers’ Day, make sure that your blest children let their mother know how blessed and honored they feel to have her ‘holding them up’ and giving them the strength to ‘soar like an eagle’, because they have that ‘wind beneath their wings’.

Perhaps you…and, your children…could include a closing word in the card you present to ‘her’ this coming Sunday, using the words of Bette Midler’s song: “I fly so high, I almost touch the sky. Thank you! Thank you! I thank God for you, the wind beneath my wings.” Happy Mothers’ Day to all these special women.

Bob Lewis

Peak To Peak Concert Series Presents Local Vocals

On May 18th, the Peak to Peak Concert Series presents the popular “Local Vocals” concert, featuring performers living in the Estes Valley. The concert will be held at 2 p.m. at the Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail Drive. There will be a reception to meet and greet the musicians following the concert. The concert is free but donations are gratefully accepted and benefit the Oratorio Society of Estes Park. The concert will have solo performances by Patricia Arias, Nancy Bell, Valerie Dascoli, Bob Gunn, Denise Stookesberry and Melissa Westover. There will be duets with Denise Stookes-

berry, Miranda Bator, Patricia Arias, Nelson Burke, Valerie Dascoli and Melissa Westover. The Sympatica and Luciana quartets and a men’s quartet with Nelson Burke, Bob Gunn, Dave Stookesberry and Randy Welch will perform. Michael Brown, Cynthia Hunt and Michelle Gergen-Wisner are accompanying the performers on piano. All performers choose their own music, so it will be an eclectic mix of opera, jazz, sacred music, art songs and musical theater classics. There is something for everyone at this concert!

For more information, go to www.osep.info/peak-to-peak.

Visions Of Spring Concert This Friday

The Oratorio Society of Estes Park will perform a concert entitled, Visions of Spring this Friday, May 10th at 7:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies. The OSEP chorus and orchestra will be under the direction of Robert Charles Howard.

This concert will present four vivid and colorful works and feature many soloists from the society, including; sopranos, Karen Johnson, Deborah Webb and Robin Howard, altos, Jane Stuart and Carol Nussbaumer, tenors, Steve Pearson and Randy Welch, and basses, Jeff Lindberg, Bob Gunn, and Mike Willborn. Trumpeter, Neil Johnson will be the soloist in Copland’s An Outdoor Overture.

Aaron Copland composed his An Outdoor Overture in 1938 for the High School of Music and Art in New York City to which it is dedicated and Copland, himself, embraced a larger mission for it - “American Music for American Youth.” The music is unmistakably American and stamped with the composer’s signature style. It is filled with appealing melodies and colorful orchestrations as well as vivid dance rhythms from beginning to end.

Mozart composed his Mass in C, K 220 in about 1775 at the age of 20 for the Cathedral at Salzburg. It is known as the Sparrow Mass because of the grace notes in the Sanctus that resemble birdcalls.

The depth and harmonic sophistication of this youthful work signals the profound vision that would expand throughout his illustrious career.

Dumi Moi (My Thoughts) is an iconic Ukrainian choral work arranged by Evgena Kozaka set to the text of a poem by Taras Schevchenko. The English version we are singing today is a collaborative effort of Kyiv Opera chorusmaster, Anzhela Maslennikova, translator, Viacheslav Stelmakh and myself.

Ralph Vaughan Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem (Grant us Peace) was composed in 1936 juxtaposing the words of the Agnus Dei of the Latin mass with several Civil War poems by Walt Whitman, various Old Testament passages and part of a speech given by John Bright urging the end of the Crimean War. It is composed in six movements that are connected and performed without pause. It is scored for full orchestra, chorus and soprano and baritone solos. The first four movements are cries for deliverance while the final two movements look toward peace with longing and hope. The music language is vivid and strong that ranges from anguish to pathos to sincere hope and longing for relief from the scourge of wars that have curse “this soiled world” we live in throughout history.

The concert is free but donations are greatly appreciated.

Why Should You See A Financial Advisor?

The social distancing and stay-at-home orders necessitated by the coronavirus have led many of us to feel isolated. Still, we’ve fought back through social media, “virtual” gatherings and walks in the neighborhood, where we could greet friends and neighbors (from 6 feet away). But when you’re dealing with the financial effects of the virus and you’re investing alone, you could encounter some problems that may prove costly. Of course, with so much investmentrelated information available online, on television and in any number of periodicals, it’s not surprising that some people feel they can invest without any assistance. But the volatility of the financial markets over the past few months has also pointed to the dangers of going solo in the investment world. And you might find that a professional financial advisor can help you in several ways, including the following:

Taking emotions out of investing. During this period of market turbulence, many self-guided investors are letting their emotions drive their investment decisions. As a result, they sell investments when their price is down, “locking in” their losses. Furthermore, if they then stay out of the financial markets, they will miss out on the eventual recovery – and some of the biggest gains in market rallies usually occur right at the beginning. But if you work with a financial advisor who has helped you develop a personalized investment strategy based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon, you will be far less likely to react to extreme market conditions by making ill-advised decisions.

Maintaining perspective. When you’re putting away money for the future and you suddenly have a lot less of it, you

might start to wonder if that future is somehow in jeopardy. But if you’ve been working with a financial advisor and following your investment strategy, you’ll know that you don’t have to immediately cash out those investments that have lost value, and you may not need to liquidate them for decades if they were designed for a long-term goal, such as retirement. By the time you do need to sell them, their value may well have appreciated significantly. And if you’ve got a well-constructed portfolio, you’ll also own shorter-term, less volatile investments to help meet your current cash flow needs.

Understanding the history of investing. The recent market instability is unique in the sense that its cause – a worldwide pandemic – is so highly unusual, and it hopefully will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Typically, prolonged market downturns are triggered by explainable financial or economic factors, such as the bursting of the “dot-com” bubble in 2000. However, market drops of 20 percent or more – generally referred to as bear markets – are not at all unusual and have happened every few years over the past several decades. Financial advisors are well aware of this history and share it with their clients. And for many people, the knowledge that “we’ve been here before” is reassuring and makes it easier for them to continue following their investment strategies.

The road to your financial goals is a long one, with many twists and turns. So you might like to have some experienced company along the way.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by our local Edward Jones Financial Advisors. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Car Club To Host The Parade Of Years

The Estes Park Car Club is pleased to announce their 38th Annual classic autos Parade of the Years event to be held on May 18th

This year the event will have a different format as it will be a poker run. It will be a great opportunity to enjoy your classic car with other car enthusiasts. The event will begin at Estes Valley Cars and Coffee held at 660 Community Drive (the community center) from 9 a.m. to 11

a.m. Next, drivers will depart to Allenspark for lunch then drive back to Estes to various locations to collect cards along the way. The

winning hand will receive a prize. From 1-3 p.m. the classic cars will be on display at the US Bank parking lot. Space is limited to participate and there is no charge. For more information or to register contact Dewey Shanks at 806-6813612 or email Deweydawsonshanks@gmail.com. For more information on the car club, visit www.estesparkcarclub.org

13 – 17

Monday, May 13 Breakfast Croissant (scrambled eggs w/ cheese topped w/ sausage patty), Hashbrowns & fruit

Tuesday, May 14 BBQ Pork Ribs (4) w/ Baked Beans & coleslaw

Wednesday, May 15 Country Fried Chicken w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables

Thursday, May 16 Chicken Parmesan w/ Spaghetti, garlic bread & side salad

Friday, May 17 Trout (4 oz) w/ Baked Potato & soup of the day

Monday, May 20 Country Fried Steak w/ gravy, Scrambled eggs, Hashbrowns & biscuit

Tuesday, May 21 Fried Chicken (3 pc) w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables

Wednesday, May 22 Bleu Cheese Bacon Burger w/ Tomato Salad

Thursday, May 23 Roasted Herb Chicken (1/2) w/ Roasted Potatoes & vegetables

Friday, May 24 Creamy Tuscan Shrimp (w/ sun-dried tomatoes & spinach) w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad

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, May 13th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, May 10th. 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

•

•

OPEN HOUSE EVENT

Saturday, May 11

12pm–2pm

$925,000

4 BDR 3 BA 2,439 sq ft

$1,159,000

3 BDR 2 BA 2,557 sq ft

$515,000

2 BDR 2 BA 1,118 sq ft

Coming May 19: Spinphony Electric String Quartet

Presented by Twin Owls Steakhouse, Spinphony is a dazzling all-female electric string quartet known for their high-energy performances that blend classical, rock, and pop music. The group will perform at Estes Park's American Legion Post 119 (850 North Saint Vrain Avenue). The concert will take place on May 19 at 2:00 p.m. Budget friendly advance tickets can be purchased at https://legionlisten.org.

Spinphony creates unique arrangements that mash-up classic melodies with popular rock and pop hits. Imagine what "Bach in Black" and "Don't Stop Beethoven!" sound like. Their performances are more like rock concerts than traditional recitals. They often in-

corporate choreography, lighting effects, and even costumes. All four members are classically trained conservatory musicians.

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. The presenting sponsor, Twin Owls Steakhouse, has made it possible to offer this concert to the community at a generous discount. As it has for two decades, Twin Owls Steakhouse continues to provide the premiere dining experience in the Estes Valley. Please visit taharaa.com/twin-owls-steakhouse to learn more.

Jackson Emmer At American Legion Post 119 On June 10

Jackson Emmer is an award-winning songwriter whose work blends humor with heartache, and tradition with exploration. Emmer’s writing is often compared to that of John Prine and Guy Clark. He has toured the US since 2009, collaborated with Grammy-winners, and co-written 50+ songs with folk music legend, Tom Paxton.

Jackson will soon perform at Estes

Park's American Legion Post 119 (850 North Saint Vrain Avenue). The concert will take place on June 10 at 6:00 p.m. Advance tickets can be purchased at legionlisten.org.

This event is part of "Listening at the Legion,” a budget-minded concert series that brings nationally acclaimed music creators and performers to our town. Please visit legionlisten.org to learn more.

Renowned Musician To Perform At The LGBTQ+ Gathering On May 16

Alicia Jo Straka, an internationally acclaimed musician, will showcase her musical talents at this month’s LGBTQ+

Third Thursday gathering at the 217 Wine Bar in the Stanley Hotel. Her musical expertise includes being an accordionist, singer, pianist, and composer. With a captivating voice and accordion mastery, she has graced prestigious global venues and triumphed in International accordion competitions. Her versatile repertoire spans jazz, Parisienne café, pop, funk, and occasional opera.

Academically accomplished, Alicia holds degrees from Oregon State Univer-

sity and the University of Colorado Boulder. Currently, Alicia balances caring for her two young children with teaching, performing, and promoting her crowd-funded album “Doin’ Just Fine,” featuring original French jazz compositions. To learn more about Alicia, visit www.aliciajostraka.com.

The Estes Park LGBTQ+ group was formed in 2022, and has been meeting monthly at the Stanley Hotel’s 217 Wine Bar for the past year. We welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community to join us at 5:30 p.m., on Thursday, May 16.

Maya, Griffin And Rocco Seeking New, Loving Families

Maya is about a year old, weighs 46 pounds and is good with other dogs.

Griffin is a really cool cat, he loves everyone. He is very chill, sweet, loves to be loved on and quiet. He is about seven years old and a very big guy. He is also good with dogs and other cats. He’s a really great all around kitty. Rocco is about three years old and weighs 50 pounds. He is good with other dogs.

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 the Estes Valley’s only humane society.

Save the date! The Pet Association’s annual yard sale will be held on June 22. Watch this space for more details as the date approaches.

You can make a tax-deductible donation 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.

Discover The Secret To Effortless Mobility: Free Presentation On Balance & Body Mechanics Tailored For Seniors

Aches and pains talking louder to you? Lost the pep in your step? Is staying home easier than meeting up with friends? Don’t let your physical well-being stop you from leading a full life. Guest presenter at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC), Christine Schwartz, is introducing attendees to Balance & Body Mechanics. All are welcome – you don’t have to be a member to attend. Come to the EPSCC, 1760 Olympian Lane, on Tuesday, May 14 from 12:00-1:00.

Christine Schwartz is a local BoardCertified Physical Therapist Assistant. She has firsthand knowledge of what happens after surgery, a fall, or general weakness after an illness that causes a decline in one’s overall well-being. Common everyday actions such as standing up, sitting, walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of a vehicle can cause fear and anxiety. These are the most commonly re-taught activities seen in rehabilitation facilities. If just one of these becomes difficult, a person’s quality of life starts slowly descending as one withdraws from community, friends, family, and self.

Christine’s business, Straight Up Stability, serves to educate and encourage people on the how and why of physical activities. Proper body mechanics will conserve energy, improve balance, pre-

vent falls, and physically prepare one for surgery. Set the goal to live an active life that promotes a successful approach to aging.

If you would like to continue specific training after this presentation, Christine offers Balance & Body Mechanics interactive workshops. She will explain physical movement and activities that help maintain proper balance along with provided exercises to help regain what has been lost. The 6 workshops will be Wednesdays from 4-5 p.m. starting on May 15th at the Jazzercise Studio, 600 S St Vrain Ave Unit 1, Estes Park. Increase your muscle memory today for a more stable future. Visit www.StraightUpStability.com today.

For this introductory presentation on May 14 at the EPSCC, you are welcome to bring or pre-purchase a lunch. Place your order before 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 13. For this event, the Senior Center will be serving BBQ pork ribs with baked beans and coleslaw. The cost of the meal 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 presentation, please call the Senior Center at (970) 581-2195.

Griffin Rocco

Maya

EPUMC Awards Five Scholarships To Estes Park High School Seniors

Photo by Lois Scott/EPUMC

EPUMC

Travel Tips For Staying Healthy On The Go

Despite what recent weather may feel like, summer really is just around the corner. For most of us, that means not just an increase in temperature but also in travel. Whether it’s camping in RMNP, visiting family on a road trip, or river-cruising through Europe, taking time away is good for the soul—but being out of your normal environment can also be hard on the body and your health.

Having just come back from a month backpacking Europe, I know this all too well. But because I’ve been doing the long-term travel thing for years now, I’ve learned how to make the process easier on myself.

Here are my top tips to help you stay healthy and energized while traveling and avoid that “I need a vacation after my vacation” feeling:

1. Reframe your perspective.

Some people go on vacation and treat it like a permission slip to star in a Girls Gone Wild video. Metaphorically speaking of course. (Mostly.) But you know what I mean: You sleep in. Stop exercising. Eat ALL the fried food. Drink lots of alcohol. You indulge, indulge, indulge like you're Conor McGregor who just met weight are now chugging liquids through every orifice and IV dripping pizza into your veins.

But vacations are really about making memories. And yes, that sometimes relates to food. If you’re taking a pastamaking class in Italy, or on a vineyard tour in the south of France, part of the cultural experience is the food. But that doesn’t mean you have to go overboard. (All-inclusive packages especially trigger the “I want to get my money’s worth so I’m going to eat and drink until I’m stuffed and miserable and have to take a nap and sleep away my vacation” response. Don’t get sucked into this mindset.)

Think back to your last vacation. What’s your favorite memory? I’d be willing to bet it involves doing something with those you love, not eating something. Remember that next time you travel. Ask yourself: Do I want to go home with a few extra pounds or a wellrested, lighter, more joyful heart?

2. Strive to eat 5 different (naturally) colored foods per day.

Eat the Belgian waffles, gelato, and carbonara. Just make an effort to also "eat the rainbow" (not "taste the rainbow"— I'm not referring to Skittles). Different colored foods=different vitamins and

minerals, and when your body doesn't get the nutrients it needs, it will lead you to overeat unnecessarily.

3. Stay active.

As much as possible, maintain your exercise routine on the go. Visit the hotel gym, drop into a local yoga class, or go for a run. While you may need to modify your normal workout, do whatever you can to get in some heart-rate-raising, moderately challenging movement every day. Ten to 30 minutes isn’t going to take away from your vacation time and will actually leave you feeling more energized.

In addition, walk everywhere you can or rent a bike (or a gondola if you’re in Venice)—and always take the stairs. Not only is this good for your health, it gives you the chance to slow down, take in the architecture, really enjoy the new environment, and save money on transportation.

4. Make your own (healthy) meals whenever possible.

Whether that’s dinners in your AirBnB, bagged salads in the hotel mini fridge, or simply some fresh fruit for snacks as you bounce from museum to museum, “homemade” meals of simple, whole ingredients are almost always healthier than eating out. Save yourself on the excess oil, salt, sugar, and money and “eat in” (or on a picnic—it is vacation, after all!).

5. Maintain as much of a routine as possible.

Making decisions is taxing on the brain and nervous system (thus the phrase decision fatigue). The more you can limit the need to make decisions by defaulting to your normal (healthy) habits, the better. From what time you go to bed and wake up to how much alcohol you drink, what kind of food you eat, how much you meditate, and your exercise routine, try to keep it as “normal” as possible while still enjoying where you are. By doing so, you’ll not only have more energy for your vacation but also help stave off illness by supporting the immune system with less stress wreaking havoc on your body.

Which one of these are you going to keep in mind—and where are you headed—for your next trip? Email me at chazz@higherelevationscoaching.com. I love hearing from readers how these columns are landing (and also adding places to my bucket list). Happy, healthy travels!

Impressions On My Spiritual Journey

The spiritual impact of my international community development efforts

As I have expressed in other articles related to my international community development volunteer efforts, my spiritual journey has evolved. The stunting prevention program, the installation of water wells, the building of a children’s clinic in Africa, the teaching of English as a secondary language in several countries, and the interfacing with African villagers have all enhanced my spiritual journey.

Spirituality for me is a broad concept with room for many perspectives. It has to do with having a sense of peace and purpose and feeling connected to something bigger than ourselves. Being in these villages gave me meaning to life. My contact with over 250 remote African villagers have shaped my spiritual life. These experiences surpass all understanding to deepen my inner security and peace in the hopes that I can live a more inspired and meaningful life. As clean water emerged from the newly installed water wells, and the reaction from the villages (sense of joy and singing) to their sense that a miracle had taken place, left me speechless. For these villagers, God had intervened and brought them clean water.

In scripture, there is a reference to those pure of heart will see God. It was in these villages that I saw a concept of God; not a God in some away cosmic space, as suggested above, but in the eyes of the children and adults in these remote communities. Never have I experienced a greater acceptance, caring and sense of spirit.

I would suggest that these experiences, although difficult to explain, and not defined as religious, reflect godliness experiences for me and maybe for others. Maybe even just for a few moments, each of these experiences responds to

Tillich’s description of what constitutes a godly presence or as Sponge states “that is when we dare to be all that we can be, when we dare to live life fully and when we dare to love wastefully and abundantly.”

For me, my involvement in these programs was an effort to distinguish between being successful and being significant. Each of us attempts to find significance in our lives. We attempt to define success in terms of achievement, fame, recognition, material possessions and wealth. In other word: outcome. Significance guides us by a desire for something greater than just what is tangible. The spiritual atmosphere in these villages was reflected by their highest priority to be loving to themselves and others. As subsistent farmers, they care about each other, their animals and the planet. Their spirituality was also demonstrated by their sense of sharing. If there was a bicycle in the village, it belong to everyone.

The villagers’ sense of giving was also demonstrated by offering gifts of bananas and other fruits to our team for having brought clean water to their village. Not to forget, it was the villagers that did most of work; digging the hole for the new water well, making the bricks to line the well, and pouring the foundation for the well with cement provided by donors. This was their water well and they owned it.

The sheer poverty in these remote villages was more than off-stetted by their acceptance and welcoming. My thanks to the donors who have helped by providing the poorest among us clean water. It is significant. As I have expressed previously, none of us can save the world alone but each of us can do something. Find your something.

You may contact me at

Renemoquin66@gmail.com

Estes Park Health Gives A Shout Out To Nurses During Their Week

An entire healthcare celebration week is set aside to honor the contribution of nurses.

For this year’s National Nurses Week, May 6 – 12, the American Nurses Association chose the theme “Nurses Make the Difference.” At Estes Park Health,

our nurses are at the core of our services. From the ER to the OR, from the clinic to the infusion center, from the medical/surgical unit to Urgent Care, our nurses are on the front lines addressing our patients’ needs. Thanks for all you do!

Thayne Stacey, RN, helps infusion patient John Stucki at Estes Park Health. Photo by Wendy Rigby/Estes Park Health

Estes Park Health Offers Low Dose Lung CT Scans

Painless test screens high-risk patients for cancer

Estes Park resident Jän Rigby is getting ready for a quick, painless test at Estes Park Health that will yield a wealth of information about his lung health.

until the time the procedure was completed could not have been more than ten minutes. You spend more time getting dressed in the morning than this took.”

Dr. Knudtson is the professional who reads the scans.

low dose lung CT (computed tomography) scan can show radi-

A low dose lung CT (computed tomography) scan can show radiologists if there are any signs of lung cancer.

‘I’m getting a low dose CT scan of my lungs as ordered by my physician so that they can have a baseline for my lungs because I’m a heavy smoker and have been for years,” Rigby said.

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Jan qualifies for a low dose lung CT. He is between the ages of 50 and 77, shows no symptoms of lung cancer, has a tobacco smoking history of at least 20 pack years, is a current smoker or someone who has quit in the last 15 years, and has received an order for the test.

“We’re looking for any kind of nodule of mass,” he explained.

“Those are just spots or dots that you see within the lungs, the vast majority of which are benign. We’re looking for new nodules or masses and then masses that have suspicious features like irregular borders or especially any other secondary findings like maybe fluid in the lung or enlarged lymph nodes or anything else that might indicate that this isn’t just a typical benign module or mass. You don’t initially have any symptoms at all. You may have a large and advanced

“I’m trying to take better care of myself,” Rigby commented. “I’m about to turn 70 this month, and I’d like to live to be 100.”

Lung cancer is far more detectable and treatable than it used to be.

“We now know that it’s not a death sentence,” stated Dr. John Knudtson, Estes Park Health radiologist. “Lung cancer, just like other cancers, can be cured and treated when they’re found in the earliest stages when they’re the most treatable. The problem with lung cancer in the past is that there was no screening ability. And so, usually the cancer wasn’t discovered until the patient was very sick and symptomatic, at which point there really wasn’t much to offer.”

The low dose lung CT scan is fast and easy. No contrast is required, so patients don’t even have to have a needle stick. It’s as easy as lying on a table and following directions.

“It was absolutely painless,” Rigby stressed. “From the time I checked in

By: Brian Schaffer

It’s Time To Play Ball!

Our Neighbors in Need Challenge is going well. We’ve collected $65,000 with hopes up matching every dollar up to $100,000. If you’ve not sent something in yet, you’ve still got time. As Harry Caray would say, they’re rounding second base with the hope of crossing home plate by May 31st. I love baseball! I enjoyed playing it as a kid through college and then moved on to watching it as a spectator. As I’m thinking about baseball and the opportunity to make a double play, I would love it if you’d help us double our donations this month by sending in a few bucks to be matched. Base hits are the way to win games. We don’t need everyone to hit a home run as long as we have those base hits coming in. Thanks so much for being on our team! You can make a secure online donation at www.CrossroadsEP.org or send in a check to PO Box 3616, Estes Park, CO 80517.

For baseball fanatics, here’s a little history to share with friends and family as you’re at the ballpark this summer.

“Legend has it that Abner Doubleday invented the game of baseball in 1839 as a cadet at the United States Military Academy in West Point, N.Y. Although the claim has been debated for decades among baseball historians and fans, the popular myth remains. Doubleday is recognized at the National Baseball Hall of Fame & Museum in Cooperstown, N.Y., where it's said the first game was played. The historic baseball field at West Point is also named in Doubleday's honor. According to the Hall of Fame: "On April 2, 1908, the Mills Commis-

sion determined that Abner Doubleday originated the game of baseball. In its final report, the seven-man commission states that, "The first scheme for playing baseball, according to the best evidence obtainable to date, was devised by Abner Doubleday at Cooperstown, NY, in 1839."

Doubleday, baseball aside, is also known as a famed United States Army officer and Union general in the American Civil War. He fired the first shot of the war in defense of Fort Sumter, the opening battle of the war, and had a pivotal role in the early fighting at the Battle of Gettysburg. His father, Ulysses Doubleday, fought in the War of 1812 and later worked as a newspaper publisher, a book publisher, and represented Auburn for four years in the United States Congress. Abner spent his childhood in Auburn and later was sent to Cooperstown to live with his uncle and attend a private preparatory high school. Doubleday practiced as a surveyor and civil engineer for two years before entering the U.S. Military Academy in 1838, where he graduated in 1842, 24th in a class of 56 cadets, and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant. Doubleday's name has since been linked to baseball history. Doubleday Field, a ballpark named for Abner Doubleday, was built in Cooperstown, New York near the Baseball Hall of Fame. It hosted the annual Hall of Fame Game, an exhibition game between two Major League teams that was played from 1940 until 2008.”

Play ball!

cancer that you don’t even know about. You may have a very small, very curable cancer that you don’t know about.

There’s a tremendous amount of information and of course a huge screening benefit to try and find lung cancer early and prevent potentially having something get missed and have a bigger problem down the road.”

What makes this test “low dose” is that it exposes the patient to about five times less radiation. That’s important since many people come back multiple times for the screening.

“They can come back and should come back every single year until they reach the age limit,” Dr. Knudtson stated.

“Now that we know that we can find things, we’re moving on to the stage where the treatment of those things is getting better and better.”

For Rigby, the test yielded good news. No sign of cancer. He is glad Estes Park Health is now offering this important screening close to home.

“So, like anything that’s hospital-re-

What makes this test “low dose” is that it exposes the patient to about five times less radiation. That’s important since many people come back multiple times for the screening.

lated, if I can have a better experience here than having to drive down the hill, then I’m going to opt for that,” Rigby said. “Every experience that I’ve had here has been a positive one.”

Dr. Knudtson is happy to provide this important service for local patients.

“I think it’s fantastic,” he added. “As the medical provider for people here in Estes Park and the Estes Valley, we want to provide that kind of care here.”

If you think you may qualify for a low dose lung CT scan, talk to your primary

care doctor. For important, state-of-the-art cancer screenings, think Estes Park Health.

To watch a video about low dose CT lung scans at Estes Park Health, go to https://youtu.be/NZNSjeVZwM. About Estes Park Health

Estes Park Health is comprised of skilled, compassionate caregivers. We are a critical resource in our mountain community, providing the full spectrum of care for our friends, neighbors, and visitors, from pediatrics to geriatrics. With a persistent dedication to patient-focused care, we continue to score high on key measures in patient satisfaction surveys. Estes Park Health was founded in 1975 as the Elizabeth Knutsson Memorial Hospital per a tax subsidy voted on by the citizens of Estes Park. Today, more 18,000 patients—residents and visitors alike—see our healthcare teams for both outpatient and inpatient services.

Lung cancer is far more detectable and treatable than it used to be.

A

ologists if there are any signs of lung cancer.

Photos by Wendy Rigby/Estes Park Health.

By: Larry Strong

Scrap Metal

By: Judi Smith

The typical recycling yard, like our own Residential Recycling Center (RRC), is designed to accept common single-use products like corrugated cardboard; newspaper; glass bottles and jars; a limited assort ment of plastic jugs, jars, bottles, and tubs; steel food cans (like soups, fruits, and veg etables); aluminum bever age cans; and aluminum foil, wrapped neatly into the shape of a ball.

This confor mance to shape has been a direct result of the invention of the sorting machine, a simple conveyor belt system which sorts the various items that the public is invited to place into the single stream baskets. When it was first discovered that people couldn’t (or more to the point, wouldn’t) put sort accurately, and waste companies began single streaming the recycling, the sorting was done by humans, However, as inflation caused minimum wage increases, technology became involved. It was discovered that when the moving track crosses a wire mesh small, heavy items fall through between the wires, sorting by size, separating things considered, by the material recovery facility (MRF), to be “too small to recycle” like broken glass, foil balls smaller than two-inches, bits of paper smaller than a business card, or unattached lids. With the advent of automated intelligence (AI) and the use of cameras, the equipment is capable of sorting by shape and color as well, which allows the separation of cans from other containers, while separation of steel cans from aluminum cans is largely a matter of weight.

chase used (or new) metal leftovers from a construction or remodeling job, including structural steel, sheet steel, sheet aluminum, window frames (with or without glass). They also accept hand tools, including, but not limited to, electrical and battery operated, and you can redeem hardware (nails, screws, bolts but also hinges, hooks, handles, etc.) from a finished project. It is also a great place to buy such items. Every window in our house came from Uncle Benny’s.

All those other items made of metal, or, as defined by Eco-cycle’s rules, “greater than 50% metal,” can still be recycled, but not at the RRC because the single stream sorting material cannot process them (yet). There are several metal recyclers across the Front Range Loveland – Fort Collins – Greeley area. They buy metal items. All those other items made of metal, or, as defined by Eco-cycle’s rules, “greater than 50% metal, can still be recycled, but not at the RRC because the single stream sorting material cannot process them (yet). The metal is sorted by type of metal. Each recycler has their own rules (and their own rates of reimbursement). Generally, the payment is higher if you sort your own. We take ours to Andersen Sales and Salvage in Greeley. (It usually falls short of paying for the trip down. Eco-cycle in Boulder County also accepts these items – for free! And, August 10th, the League of Women Voters Community Recycling Committee will be accepting (all but the very heaviest) items at Estes Recycles Day.

Metal comes from the Earth, making it a finite resource, relatively expensive and sometimes dangerous to remove – and therefore quite valuable. Way back in history, blacksmiths would melt down used horseshoes to forge door handles, wagon wheel tires, hinges, cooking pots and other household items. Recyclable metal includes tin, steel, aluminum, iron, copper, brass, and bronze. Not everything made from these metals is shaped like a can which excludes them from single stream collection like the RRC. Mercury and zinc are also valuable metal resources and reuseable, but not traditionally recycled. And, of course, the precious metals: silver, gold, palladium, and platinum are nearly always recycled by jewelers due to their extreme value.

Not everything made from those metals is shaped like a can, which excludes them from single stream recycling. Please do not take metal items (except cans) to the RRC.

For things that are still useable: Uncle Benny’s, down in Johnstown will pur-

This “scrap metal” category includes: pots and pans; metal l drinking or travel cups; wheels; structural steel scraps (short pieces); fence posts; all types of wire; fencing and railing; brackets and hinges; nails screws, bolts, and other small hardware; saw blade, wrenches, and other small hand tools; lawn and garden equipment; metal (not plastic) costume jewelry (Remember save the precious metals for the jewelers.); and stainless tableware. (Real sterling or even silverplate? Ask a jeweler first.)

Most metal recyclers also take the big stuff: benches, prep tables, metal cabinets and counters, dishwashers, washers and dryers, stoves, furnaces, water heaters, vehicles. So, anything that is metal (51% or more) is of value to the world, because metal is finite. The metal itself is also of value to the individual disposing of the item, providing they can get it to a recycler. And there are free collections available if transportation is not an option. Never, never, NEVER put metal into the landfill.

Agree? Disagree? Questions? Comments? RRRcyc@signsandwishes.com.

Spare Some Change?

I was having a conversation with a buddy back east recently and he asked me if it was looking like spring in Estes Park. I said, “You betcha! Today there’s a good chance of sun, rain, snow, sleet, calm winds, gale force winds, and even a rainbow thrown in for good measure!” That got me thinking about change. Anyone reading this most likely didn’t wake up with a thought that went something like, “I sure hope I have the opportunity to embrace some really good changes in my life today! It’s been far too long since I’ve had the chance to be stretched out of my comfort zone and I’m long overdue.” For most of us, change is something like our spare tire. We’d prefer to never have to use it.

If your my age and want to provide a practical demonstration of how painful change can be, ask your nieces and nephews if they want to know what it was like growing up in the 60s. When they say yes, unplug the internet and take their cell phones away from them. Case closed.

You may be going through some tough changes so I want to offer up some good news that God has a plan for your life and that plan includes hope. My close friend Pastor Paul reminded me the other day that his life verse comes from Romans 15:13 which says, “Now may the God of hope fill you will all joy and

peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” The guys on the Men on Fire team aren’t gurus on change. We abhor it like the rest of us. But our life and faith journeys have brought us to a place where we can encourage you that God is walking this life journey with you—His presence is always with you, guiding you even when hard changes or uncertainty may have you feeling a tad bit out of control. It’s times like this we can use some encouragement from other men. And that brings me to Men on Fire. Men on Fire is a non-denominational brotherhood of a very diverse bunch of guys. We come from a wide range of faith perspectives and all of us have a desire to grow in our personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He has become the ultimate source of our hope, joy, comfort, rest and peace. Coming to a personal relationship with Jesus was the most radical and dangerous change we’ve ever made. If you’re looking to “spare some change” join us Saturday at the American Legion at 8:00 a.m. We gather together to encourage and support each other as men, navigating this whacky world we’re living in. We can’t offer any expert advice on change but we can promise no matter where you’re at in your life or faith journey you’ll be welcomed. We can also promise some good coffee, donuts and breakfast burritos too. Saturday, 8:00 a.m., American Legion. See ya’ there!

Estes Park Special Olympics Tuesday Bowling Fun

Estes Park Special Olympics organizers are hosting bowling fun at the Bull Pin, 555 S. St. Vrain Ave. on Tuesdays from 3:30-5 p.m. All ages are welcome to participate.

For more information, contact Audri Smith at 970-451-3762 or emailvepspecialolympics@yahoo.com.

Education First (EF) Exchange Host Families Needed!

Host a foreign exchange student

Become a host family and open your eyes to the world.

Host families can host for 5 or 10 months and may choose a student from one of 13 countries. The Education First (EF) team will help match students and families. It’s a great way to share cultures and community.

EF offers travel opportunities and programs all around the globe. Host families are eligible for discounts. Go to efexchangeyear.org for more information.

 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. Congratulations

Estes Park Sanitation District Wastewater Collection Operator

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

AA &

AA of Glen Haven

Al-Anon Meetings

Every Monday night at the Town Hall at 6:30 p.m.

Early Worms

Monday thru Saturday at 7:00 a.m.

(Monday through Saturday hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839 PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave. Early Worms Women's Meeting 12 p.m. Mondays

St. Bartholomew, 880 MacGregor Ave. Mixed Nuts Al-Anon Group

We meet Friday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St. Bartholomew Church. The meeting is hybrid with Zoom #285 426 3644 PW: serenity.

One Day at a Time

Location: Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies 1700 Brodie Ave, Estes Park

When: Tues and Thursday @ noon. Please park in back, Meetings are held downstairs in Room 6.

Alcoholics Anonymous Fall River Group, 453 West Elkhorn, Estes Park.

Current Schedule for 1/4/2024

Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings

Monday-12 p.m.-In Person-O, D Monday-7 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, BB

Zoom-O, D

Wednesday-7 p.m.-In Person and Zoom- O, D

Thursday -12 p.m. Zoom-O, D Friday-12 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, D

Saturday-12 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D

Sunday -12 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, D

Last Friday of each month is birthday night; 6 p.m. Potluck, 7 p.m. Speaker.

*** Contribute via VENMO @ EstesCowboy

Other 12 Step Meetings Held at Fall River Group

Thursday-7 p.m.-Narcotics Anonymous “New Horizons” Group O, D-In Person and Zoom 705 555 830

**O=open to all D=discussion

BB=Big Book

Zoom Meetings-Everyday at noon

Zoom #999 829 166 (no password needed).

Monday Zoom Big Book study at 7 p.m. #654 598 884 (no password needed).

Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Zoom #999 829 166

Online AA and NA Meetings at www.intherooms.com

586-2281

Tuesday-12 p.m.-Zoom-O, D Wednesday-12 p.m.-In Person and

There are 70 AA Meetings and 30 NA Meetings a week.

Now hiring

(Must live in Estes Park)

Airport Drivers • 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

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.

Rams Horn Village Resort has year round full time and part time positions available in our Guest Services/Housekeeping Department: $17-19/hour, plus tips, a summer bonus up to $1500, and benefits package for full time employees. We are looking for energetic, dependable people who are able to perform physical labor and who have strong customer service skills. Fridays and Saturdays are required. Fill out an application at Rams Horn Village Resort, 1565 Colo. Hwy 66. EEOE

Sky Run RMNP is hiring a FT or PT Accounting Clerk. Assist Accounting Manager with various accounting and Owner Statement processes. Weekday hours available, $19 - $20 per hour. We look forward to hearing from you.

Apply on line with resume https://app.joinhomebase.com/loc/ skyrun-rm/job/accounting-clerk

Join Our Team: Seasonal Parks and Trails Maintenance Technician Wanted!

Are you passionate about preserving the natural beauty of parks and trails? Do you thrive in hands-on work outdoors? We're searching for individuals to join our team as a Parks and Trails Maintenance Technician.

About Us:

At Estes Valley Recreation and Park District, we take pride in maintaining and enhancing our community's green spaces for everyone to enjoy. From pristine parks to winding trails, we're committed to ensuring these outdoor areas remain safe, beautiful, and accessible for all.

Job Responsibilities:

As a Parks and Trails Maintenance Technician, you'll play a vital role in keeping our outdoor spaces in top condition. Your responsibilities will include:

- Conducting regular inspections of parks and trails to identify maintenance needs.

- Performing routine maintenance tasks such as mowing, trimming, and weeding.

- Repairing and maintaining park amenities such as benches, playground equipment, and signage.

- Clearing debris and litter to keep parks and trails clean and welcoming.

- Assisting with special projects such as trail improvements or landscaping enhancements.

Qualifications:

We're looking for candidates who possess the following qualifications:

- Previous experience in landscaping, groundskeeping, or a related field preferred.

- Ability to operate landscaping equipment such as mowers, trimmers, and blowers.

- Strong attention to detail and a passion for outdoor work.

- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

- Willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

- Physical stamina to perform manual labor tasks. Why Join Us:

- Make a positive impact: Your work will directly contribute to the beauty and functionality of our community's outdoor spaces.

- Work-life balance: Enjoy a flexible schedule and the chance to spend your days outdoors.

- Join a supportive team: Work alongside passionate individuals who share your love for nature and the outdoors.

Ready to join our team? Please apply online at evrpd.com Join us in preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of our parks and trails. Apply now and be a part of something truly rewarding!

Estes Valley Recreation and Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Maintenance Site Manager

Pay $21 - $23

General Maintenance & Repairs including work orders, inspections, site cleanliness, hot tub service, plumbing, painting, inventory and guest services.

Please email resume to roxann@letsvoyago.com

Rocky Mountain Transit Management is now hiring for seasonal employment. We are looking for bus drivers, parking lot attendants, cleaners, and mechanics. Paid CDL training available. Give us a call 970-577-7477

Cook Wanted

$20/hr. Inquires can be sent to epal@esteslegion.org

Estes Valley Commercial Laundry (formerly Dad’s Laundry) is now hiring great people!

Morning / Afternoon Shifts Please call Heidi @ 970-581-1551

Now

Hiring CDL Drivers and Tour Office Reservationists

Year round Part-time CDL drivers with passenger endorsment starting at $29.00 an hour plus tips.

Office reservationists full-time/part-time seasonal May - October $18-20 an

Trailhead Restaurant

Is looking for Server Housing available Apply in person. 3450 Fall River Rd.

Hiring House Cleaners

Join our team and EARN $800-$1,000+ weekly ✨ Year-Round Permanent Position ✨ Paid Vacation ✨Matching 401k ✨ Great Tips ✨ No Experience Needed ✨ Supportive Team Environment Apply now at www.Wayfindercleaning.com or call 970-585-8587.

Tech FT Seasonal, PT Off-Season Possible $19 - $20/Hr 1885 Sketch Box Ln #7 Estes Park Basic carpentry, plumbing, electrical, drywall and painting Work orders, troubleshoot, vendor comm, snow shoveling, mowing Computer skills, lift 50+ lbs, English, Spanish a plus, valid DL Weekends, holidays, rotating on call a must

Please send resume and cover letter to: dawn@skyrun.com

Donor Services Manager

Help Wanted

Liquor Store Sales Associate

NOW HIRING!

Retail Clerks

UCHealth is hiring for a Medical Assistant Family Medicine position in Estes Park, CO! Learn more and apply online at careers.uchealth.org.

Guest Services Rep/Guest Reservationist/Special Projects/ Computer Skills/Answering phones/emails/Texts. Customer Service/Telephone skills/problem solving skills Written/oral communications skills required - Full Time Year Round Weekends required $20/$21 hr DOE

Apply on line with resume https://app.joinhomebase.com/loc/ skyrun-rm/job/guestservices.rep

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

Apartments

Clean Year-round 1 BD, 2 miles west of town. Great views. NS/NP. 970-586-6487 Duplexes

2 Bedroom 1 Bathroom Duplex for rent. Would prefer Year lease. Rent is $1500 per month. Call Susan at 801 230 9595 or email at S_fereday@outlook.com Commercial Rentals

Office Space for Rent 1377 Sq. 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

Sewing/Alterations

Remixed Custom Sewing Services. NEW LOCATION! Small Furniture, Restoration, Cushions and Industrial Repair. Call for appointment 970-492-5446

Piano Tuning

Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com

Other-Misc

Personal Chef Services offered, with Seasonal full time position sought. Over 40 years professional culinary experience, custom meal plans and preparation in client’s private residences my specialty. For complete bio, resume and info package email: personalchefmarc@ outlook.com

Other-Misc

Massage & Wellness Book Now!

Peak to Peak Plaza

343 S. Saint Vrain Ave. #2 Call or text Emerald 720-665-1623 Book Online saltandstonespas.com

Affordable Testosterone Replacement Therapy Fall River Wellness Local

Offered by NP Patty Keller (Estes Park resident for 7 years/NP for 14 years) Years of TRT experience

No pricey program fees Free initial consult with lab order Low cost labwork Signs of Testosterone deficiency include: Fatigue Brain fog Weight gain

Decreased sexual interest Erectile dysfunction

For personal consultation: Phone or text: 720-319-0864 email: fallriverwellness890 @gmail.com

Website: testosteronereplacementtherapyinestesparkco.com

Office: 890 W. Elkhorn Ave. Estes Park CO 80517

Other-Misc

Perpetual Wellness LLC

Massage, Cupping, Lymphatic, Face Rejuvenation and more! Call or Go Online to schedule an appointment now! (970) 397-6639

PerpetualWellnessLLC.com

REAL ESTATE

Homes

1255 Juniper Dr., Gorgeous Home, fully renovated. 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 2 car garage, on 1 acre. It is a must-see, with views from every room, all stainless steel appliances, and so much more.

FSBO - offering a buyer agent incentive. 602-819-2918

Sporting Goods

Brunswick Gold Crown 9 foot pool table, complete with cue rack, 3 triangles, brass bridge, brush & cover. $4500. please send a text message to 970-443-5613 if interested.

SALES

Estate Sales

ESTATE/MOVING SALE

Need to have one, but seems overwhelming. We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL JUDI 970-215-5548

Estate Sale for Robert Burch Fri 8-1, Sat 8-3

Follow Judi’s Signs to 683 Cedar Ridge Cr.

Antique Furniture, Artist Supplies, Framed Art, Carnival Glass, Collectibles from around the World, Bicycle, Gas Fireplace Insert, Truck Bed Tool Boxes, Back Packing Gear, Storage Bins, Knife Collection, Ammunition, Jewelry, Luggage, Display Cases, Painting Supplies, Heaters, Lawn Chairs, Grandfather Clock, Hats, Leather Coats & Jackets, New Shoes, Electric Keyboard, Area Rugs, Indian Rugs and MORE.

Dawn Shields 970-909-4789

DAWN.SHIELDS@DIGNITYMEMORIAL.COM

We at Allnutt-Estes Park Chapel have been serving families for over 35 years. As part of Dignity Memorial, we are committed to the highest standards at your time of need. We can also put a plan in place to emotionally and financially relieve your loved ones of burden. This can be the greatest gift that you can offer them. Show them how much you care by protecting them now!