Estes Park News, December 18, 2020

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Living Life On The Edge

Bighorn sheep seem to have no fear of steep ledges. This bighorn ewe stood on a ledge in the Big Thompson Canyon and watched the world go by.

Photograph by Dawn Wilson www.dawnwilsonphotography.com

December 18, 2020

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US 34 Reopens On West Side Of Rocky Mountain National Park Additional Areas On East Side Reopen

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Additional Areas On East Side Reopen West Side of Rocky Mountain National Park On Thursday, December 10, US Highway 34 from the Grand Lake Entrance to the Colorado River Trailhead reopened in Rocky Mountain National Park. Trail Ridge Road is closed at the Colorado River Trailhead for the winter. Park visitors should not stop or park along the roadside from the Grand Lake Entrance to the Onahu Trail, due to hazard trees along the road from the East Troublesome Fire. There is no access to trails, picnic areas or parking areas along that section of the road including the Harbison Picnic Area, the Green Mountain Trail and the Onahu Trail. The area from the Coyote Valley Trailhead to the north was not impacted by the fire and is accessible.

The Bowen-Baker Trail is open inside the park and is closed at the US Forest Service boundary. The Colorado River Trail has reopened to the park boundary.

The Timber Lake Trail has reopened.

The North Inlet Trail and Sun Valley Trail remain closed.

The Kawuneeche Visitor Center will remain closed until December 19, however restroom facilities are open and park staff will be providing information outside of the visitor center when weather and staffing allow.

East Side of Rocky Mountain National Park The Moraine Park Campground has reopened and is first-come, first-served during the winter. The Moraine Park Road is open to the campground but is closed beyond that point.

Upper Beaver Meadows Road has reopened to pedestrians, and leashed pets and is closed to vehicles for the winter.

The Beaver Meadow Trail at the end of the road remains closed.

The Upper Hidden Valley area has reopened.

In the Bear Lake area, access has reopened from the junction of Flattop Trail to Lake Helene. The trail past Lake Helene to Odessa Lake remains closed.

The Flattop Trail is open to the summit of Flattop Mountain but is closed past this point to the west of the Continental Divide.

Trails that remain closed in the Bear Lake area include the Fern Lake Trail, Cub Lake Trail, the Mill Creek Basin, Hollowell Park, and Bierstadt Trail.

Additional areas that will remain temporarily closed to park visitors on the east side of the park include the North Boundary Trail, the North Fork Trail, and Mummy Pass, Stormy Pass, Commanche Peak and Mirror Lake Trails.

Park staff will continue to assess closed areas on both sides of the park for fire impacts, safety and downed trees, being mindful of high winds that occur this time of year causing more trees to fall.

Fire Ban Lifted The complete fire ban that was put in place in Rocky Mountain National Park on August 14, 2020, has been lifted due to current conditions. Rocky Mountain National Park always has Stage 1 fire restrictions in place, where campfires are prohibited in the park, except within designated campfire rings in picnic areas and front-country campgrounds.

The use of disposable or portable charcoal grills, wood fuel camp stoves and gas grills is allowed. Fireworks are always prohibited within the park. Park visitors are urged to use caution and

vigilance regarding the use of fire in authorized locations.

On Wednesday, October 21, the East Troublesome Fire ran approximately 18 miles before it moved into the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park, and then spotted approximately 1.5 miles from the head of Tonahutu Creek on the west side of the Continental Divide to the head of Spruce Creek on the east side of the Continental Divide.

Rapid evacuations took place in Grand Lake on October 21.

Evacuations for the majority of the Estes Valley were implemented on October 22, as weather predictions forecast major winds on the night of October 23 through October 24 pushing the fire further to the east. Firefighting actions and favorable weather on October 24 and 25, helped halt the major movement of the East Troublesome and Cameron Peak Fires.

Approximately 30,000 acres or 9 percent of Rocky Mountain National Park has been impacted by the East Troublesome and Cameron Peak Fires.

Rocky Mountain National Park’s nonprofit partner, The Rocky Mountain Conservancy, is accepting donations to support the park’s future restoration efforts from this season’s fires rmconservancy.org/join-or-give/donate.

The East Troublesome Fire and the Cameron Peak Fire have both been declared 100% contained. Pockets of isolated heat may still exist but are not expected to threaten containment lines.

For information on the East Troublesome Fire visit: inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/7242.

For information on the Cameron Peak Fire visit: inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6964.

For further information about Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit www.nps.gov/romo or contact the park’s Information Office at 970-586-1206.

www.nps.gov/romo

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Burned Area Emergency Response Team - East Troublesome Fire At Rocky Mountain National Park A National Park Service Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) Team was deployed in November to assess post fire impacts associated with the East Troublesome Fire within Rocky Mountain National Park. The team evaluated threats from flooding and debris flows as well as impacts to vegetation and wildlife, historic properties and recreation infrastructure.

The East Troublesome Fire was 100% contained at the end of November and burned 193,812 acres on US Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service and private land.

22,668 acres burned within Rocky Mountain National Park on both sides of the Continental Divide with the East Troublesome Fire.

The BAER team focused on the potential for dangerous flood events, debris

flows resulting from vegetation loss and fire altered soils.

The BAER team is made up of specialists in hydrology, soil science, archeology, wildlife biology, botany, roads and trails and hydrologic modeling.

The team collected data during their burned area surveys and have presented their findings and recommended emergency stabilization treatments or actions in a BAER assessment report. When the BAER report is final, it will be shared with interagency cooperators who work to identify and prepare for potential post-fire flooding and debris flow impacts. This is one step toward recovery.

For more information about Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit www.nps.gov/romo or call the park’s Information Office at (970) 586-1206.

Downtown Estes Loop Construction Schedule Update At the quarterly Downtown Estes Loop update to the Town Board at its study session Dec. 8, the Central Federal Lands Highway Division announced that the funding for the Downtown Estes Loop has been moved to fiscal year 2022, from 2021, due to delays related to floodplain map revisions and right-ofway acquisitions. CFLHD expects to begin construction that does not require closures of US 36 in approximately June of 2022, with work requiring highway

closures to begin in October of 2022.

The project is expected to be complete in late 2023.

Watch the Downtown Estes Loop quarterly update during the Dec. 8 Town Board study session via www.estes.org/videos.

Downtown Estes Loop project information is available at: highways.dot.gov/federal-lands/ projects/co/estes.

Town Of Estes Park Christmas And New Year's Closures The Town of Estes Park will be closed Thursday, Dec. 24, and Friday, Dec. 25, for the Christmas holiday. Staff will resume normal operating hours Monday, Dec. 28. The Town of Estes Park will also

be closed Thursday, Dec. 31 and Friday, Jan. 1 for the New Year's Day holiday, resuming normal operating hours Monday, Jan. 4.

Shop Local, Shop Estes Park Photo by Paul J. Marcotte 2018 www.PaulJMarcottePhotography.com

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Dear Santa: The People Of Estes Have Been Very Good This Year Dear Santa, Between board meetings and constituent calls, I’m busily preparing for your annual visit to Roger and my house. Shopping is done. Decorations are up and most presents are wrapped.

The only outstanding issue for me involves you and the few things you’ll want to know before traveling from the North Pole to Estes Park.

Since your previous visit, the townspeople have faced much adversity. First, COVID-19 found its way here early, stayed, then escalated, disrupting nearly every aspect of life here. Second, if COVID-19 wasn’t enough, our lovely, little mountain town, neighboring communities and Rocky Mountain National Park were, for five months surrounded by four—yes four— wildfires.

At one point, things became so bad everyone was evacuated. The day of the evacuation smoke and ash were thick enough that even Rudolph would’ve had trouble guiding your sleigh through town. Thankfully, no lives were lost.

Somehow, some way people made it through and to safer locations.

As your elves prepare you to slide down the chimneys here, I have a few special requests for you. Would you please deliver health, safety, and prosperity to the people of Estes who, true to form, do what they must to deal with wildfires and the pandemic. This includes wearing masks, avoiding crowds, and washing their hands. To the children of Estes, whose social and educational worlds are topsy- turvy, please deliver a bright and meaningful future.

For businesses and workers, please bring along extra-large doses of stamina and resilience for dealing with the everchanging economy, government restrictions and ebb and flow of tourism. As for the employees of the Town, Santa, please let them know their efforts are greatly appreciated by all who live, work, and

visit here. I ask you deliver the same gift to terrific teams at the Estes Valley Library, Fire, and Park and Recreation Districts whose contributions greatly enrich our lives.

Santa, please give the gift of quality time with family and friends to the firefighters, who took time away from their families and friends to come protect us here.

Please give the same to the doctors, nurses, providers, first responders and others who keep us healthy and care for us when we’re ill and to RMNP Superintendent Darla Sidles, PEO Kyle Patterson and their park service colleagues for supporting the Town and including it in pandemic and fire mitigation planning.

Well Santa, although my requests are many, please know that all are worthy...and I’m not yet done. Will you please bring the gift of peace and joy to all who selflessly serve, you know their names and deeds, they include the townspeople who provide food relief.

Dave Thomas for translating this and other documents for local Spanish speakers, Cathy Ochs and John Meissner for researching various topics, Pastor Ann Lantz, Father Seth Richmond, Pastor Jonathan Schultz, and others for meeting our spiritual needs. And don’t forget, Jeff and Irene Klintberg for their weekly phone calls of support.

Last, but certainly not least, Santa please give the gifts of financial security and community appreciation to the staff of the Trail Gazette and Estes Park News. They tirelessly keep us informed (and post my weekly report outs).

Thanks in advance Santa, for the special consideration you’ll be giving us as you fly around town and slide down our chimneys on Christmas Eve. Sincerely, Mayor Wendy PS – Cookies and cocoa will be waiting.

Estes Chamber Board Response In response to a recent personal interview involving Donna Carlson, Executive Director of the Estes Chamber of Commerce, the Board of Directors of the Chamber issues the following statement: Many of us, many of our membership, their employees, family members, loved ones and those who cherish Estes Park have known someone affected by a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. This virus is a serious concern for physical and mental health as well as the economic well-be-

ing of our community. We absolutely remain committed to following all COVID-19 guidelines issued by local, regional, and national health professionals. We will continue to support our businesses, their employees, and their families as best we can during this challenging time.

To view the Estes Chamber of Commerce Board (and learn more about the organization), please visit https://esteschamber.org/board-of-directors/.

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Community And Family Advisory Board Seeks Community Input At their last meeting, the Estes Park Town Board of Trustees approved a recommendation from the Family Advisory Board to change the name of the group to the "Community and Family Advisory Board." This change was made in recognition of the advisory board's interests in broadening their focus to include issues of importance to all members of the community and not just people with children, which "family" is often understood to mean. Additionally, many issues impacting families are those that impact the broader community as well. The Community and Family Advisory Board's hope is to provide information and recommendations to the Town Board that will help inform their policy and decision-making by highlighting the interests and needs of families in the

community and of the community as a whole.

Along with the new name and broader scope comes the need to determine what interests, needs, and resource gaps currently exist in the community. As the Community and Family Advisory Board prepares to establish its new Focus Areas for 2021, the board would like to better understand the needs and challenges of the community. Feedback is encouraged by filling out the brief, three-question survey at surveymonkey.com/r/W6Q8NG2 in Spanish or surveymonkey.com/r/SRSZ8Y8 in English. The survey will be open through Jan. 6, 2021. Learn more about the Community and Family Advisory Board at www.estes.org/familyadvisory.

La Junta Asesora de la Comunidad y la Familia Busca la Opinión de la Comunidad En su última reunión, el Concejo de Estes Park Town aprobó una recomendación de la Junta Asesora de Familias para cambiar el nombre del grupo a "Junta Asesora de la Comunidad y la Familia". Este cambio se hizo en reconocimiento de los intereses de la junta asesora en ampliar su enfoque para incluir temas de importancia para todos los miembros de la comunidad y no solo para las personas con niños, que a menudo se entiende que significa "familia". Además, muchos problemas que afectan a las familias son los que también afectan a la comunidad en general.

El objetivo de la Junta Asesora de la Comunidad y la Familia es proporcionar información y recomendaciones a la Junta del Pueblo que ayuden a informar su política y toma de decisiones al resaltar los intereses y necesidades de las familias en la comunidad y de la comu-

nidad en su conjunto.

Junto con el nuevo nombre y el alcance más amplio, surge la necesidad de determinar qué intereses, necesidades y brechas de recursos existen actualmente en la comunidad. Mientras la Junta Asesora de la Comunidad y la Familia se prepara para establecer sus nuevas Áreas de Enfoque para 2021, a la junta le gustaría comprender mejor las necesidades y los desafíos de la comunidad. Les animamos a darnos sus opiniones y comentarios completando la breve encuesta de tres preguntas en www.surveymonkey.com/r/W6Q8NG2 en español o www.surveymonkey.com/r/SRSZ8Y8 en inglés. La encuesta estará abierta a través de 6 de enero de 2021. Obtenga más información sobre la Junta Asesora de la Comunidad y la Familia en www.estes.org/familyadvisory.

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Town Awards $5,000 Grant To Mountaintop Childcare The Town of Estes Park is pleased to announce a grant award in the amount of $5,000 to Mountaintop Childcare, the first recipient of funds granted through the Town's new Childcare Funding program. The grant award will be used to help offset costs associated with the construction of new spaces and furnishings/equipment within the existing Mountaintop Childcare location at the YMCA of the Rockies. The new spaces will accommodate up to 10 children between the ages of 1-2 and also add sev-

eral spaces for children aged 2-3. There have been very limited offerings in the community for childcare for these age groups, and we are thrilled that Town funds will be leveraged to assist with this longstanding need!

While funds are now exhausted for 2020, an additional allotment of $10,000 will be available in the 2021 budget. Additional information on the program is available on the Town's Community Initiative Funding webpage.

Christmas Holiday Closure

THE TAVERN AND DINING AREA ARE CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE The Legion will be closed Christmas Day

Larimer County Offices, and District Attorney are closed Dec. 24 and 25, 2020, for the Christmas holiday.

On December 24th, the Larimer County

Landfill closes at 2:30 p.m. and is closed on Dec. 25, 2020.

Critical services at Larimer County are not disrupted by closures.

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

On November 30 at 4:31 a.m. police were called to a motor vehicle accident in the 1200 block of Big Thompson Ave. On scene they issued a citation to a 53 year old female from Loveland, CO for unsafe backing.

On December 9 at 12:32 a.m. police were called to Elkhorn Ave. at Moraine Ave. after a motor vehicle accident. They arrested an 18 year old male from Greeley, CO and charged him with felony criminal impersonation, attempted to elude a police officer, failure to notify police of an accident, left scene without providing information after an accident,

reckless driving, speeding >20 mph over the limit, driving when license revoked, warrant (misdemeanor, Denver PD, traffic offenses), warrant (felony, CO Division of Youth Services, escape and other charges), warrant (misdemeanor, Weld County SO, failed to appear on traffic offenses). He was transported to the Larimer County Jail.

On December 13 at 2:08 p.m. police were called to the 500 block of Heinz Parkway where they arrested a 20 year old female from Thornton, CO and charged her with harassment and domestic violence. She was transported to the Larimer County Jail.

NOURISHING NETWORK “NEXT NODE” CARRYOUT MEALS Every day but Friday The Legion is continuing to offer free Heat‐and‐Eat meals Saturday through Thursday. Family meals will be available for pickup at the Legion from 4‐6 p.m.

Anyone who would like to contribute to help keep the program going are invited to send a check to AL Post 119, or go to the Legion’s donate button at www.esteslegion.org. BE SURE to reference the Nourishing Network since the Legion is currently involved in several initiatives.

FRIDAY NIGHT DINNERS

The American Legion is a great takeout option for dinner on Friday nights!

5:30‐7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18 Fish & Chips with coleslaw, banana chocolate cheesecake, and a bottle of white wine. It’s dinner for two for $25—$15 without wine. Carryout only.

Friday, Dec. 25 Closed.

5:30‐7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 1 Grilled pork chop with apple & walnut dress‐ ing, sautéed green beans, and bread pudding $20 per person. Add a bottle of white wine for $15. Carryout only.

Preorders for Friday night meals are appreciated.

Call 970‐586‐6118 to place an order.

VETERANS SERVICES

Veterans Assistance For information, call Terry Rizzuti at 970‐599‐0850.

All onsite meetings and activities have been suspended until further notice.

Masks and social distancing are required at the Legion, and all Larimer County Health Department COVID‐19 rules will be observed.

Marsha Hobert photos

Thanks For A Successful Fundraiser As a member of the Glen Haven Fire Auxiliary and a long-time resident of Glen Haven, I would like to express my heart felt appreciation and gratitude to all the individuals who supported Brownfield’s rummage sale fundraiser for our Glen Haven Area Volunteer Fire Department.

We know how difficult times are right now, but so many people and businesses have come forward to donate to our small, but mighty all volunteer fire department. Your donations will go a long way to repair equipment and purchase new equipment needed to continue fighting fires in the future.

Thank you again Brownfield’s for your amazing $20,000 donation!

Marsha Hobert

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Despite The Wildfires, The Estes Valley's Water Supply Is Secure

This month Town Administrator Travis Machalek welcomes a guest columnist -Utilities Director Reuben Bergsten.

By: Utilities Director Reuben Bergsten Since the East Troublesome and Cameron Peak Fires burned vast areas near the Estes Valley, some may wonder if they affected our water Reuben Bergsten supply. Wildfires destroy the vegetation that filters snowmelt and rainwater. This can threaten our ability to treat source water and deliver drinking water. As the Estes Valley was evacuating October 22, the Town's Water Division essential staff watched as the East Troublesome Fire progressed toward the Glacier Creek Water Treatment Plant. The Adams Tunnel, which delivers water from the western slope, was already shut down for fall maintenance. This left the Glacier Creek Plant as the Estes Valley's only source for municipal drinking water. I made a hasty request to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to reopen the Adams Tunnel as Superintendent Chris Eshelman and his staff brought the Marys Lake Water Treatment Plant back online.

We have two water sources, one entering each treatment plant. Neither treatment plant can operate year-round, and we are working to change that. We were fortunate the East Troublesome Fire just missed the Glacier Creek watershed. On the western slope, it also spared the water supply that enters the Adams Tunnel – at least in the near term. The long-term

effects that follow wildfires on the landscape are still unknown. However, the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District manages the western slope water and is already contacting stakeholders to develop plans and funding to accelerate revegetation on the western slope to protect source water.

For many years, the Town's Water Division has successfully managed the seasonal interruptions to our water supply, but we are no match against extreme wildfire seasons. The 2015 Comprehensive Water Master Plan identified the need to supply the Glacier Treatment Plant with two separate water sources. We've already started working toward that goal. We have secured new water rights and the necessary real estate. We're seeking grants to support the construction costs, and we anticipate the new source water will be available to our plant within the next five to seven years.

Continuous sampling and laboratory testing provide us with the assurance that our drinking water is safe, and as high-quality as ever. The future addition of a second source of water to the Glacier Treatment Plant will help support the Estes Valley's water security for decades to come. For more information about the Town's Water Division, please visit www.estes.org/water.

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Donate Now To The Non-Profit Estes Park Women’s Monument Project What a great way to honor our past while contributing to a brighter future.

It’s kind of dark now, but Estes Park will have a new positive light by way of this new downtown monument. Think of the future when you can visit the awesome monument that honors the historical Women of Estes Park. Visitors will learn from it, young men and women will be inspired by it and you will be proud that you helped to make it happen. Now is the time for you to make a tax deductible donation and be part of this project. Basic project information and a link to a donation form can be found online at www.earthwoodgalleries.com/ estes-park-womens-monument-project.

Let’s rally around the Historical

Women of Estes Park project and get the fundraising done in a timely manner.

The goal is to have this monument completed and installed in 2021. There are currently two competing teams and three nationally known sculptors working on their specific ideas for the monument. Let us be a part of the future by honoring our past, donate now and get the Estes Park Women’s Monument built in our community. You can email me, info@earthwoodgallery.com anytime to ask questions and discuss the project in more detail.

Thank You, Ron Wilcocks, Chair of Estes Park Women’s Monument project

Enjoy The Yuletide Lights Driving Tour In Estes Park This Holiday Season!

Visit festively decorated Estes Park local businesses and residential houses on a self-guided driving tour! Grab some hot chocolate from a local coffee shop and hop in the car to enjoy this tour of Estes Park community members who want to share their holiday spirit with you!

Check out the tour map at www.visitestespark.com/ holiday-lights.

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Christmas is a week out, for whatever that’s worth. For me and mine, the holiday won’t be much different than every other day since last March 13th.

We’ll stay home. Read the paper. Go for a walk. Visit my mom and touch palm to palm, with a plate of window glass between us. We won’t be with family and won’t be Zooming with friends.

I say the day will be ordinary, uneventful, routine even, but the more I think about it, the more I’ve decided to make the day unique. It will be our one and only COVID Christmas after all.

We might sit in front of the toasty fire and listen to Handel’s Messiah. The whole thing. We’ll slowly and deliberately open our two gifts each. (Who needs more? “Not I,” said the woman trying to prevent the accumulation of stuff in her house.) We’ll have a nontraditional meal—maybe scallops— and set a table, not in the dining room but in front of the tree, twinkling with lights and bearing ornaments that go back decades. We may break custom and turn on the TV to watch the Hallmarkesque Call the Midwife Christmas special (filmed with COVID protocols in place. How do they do that?). We will make the day lovely.

Speaking of COVID (we can’t escape it. It’s gotten to the point where I’ve lost family and friends to the virus, so how can I not talk about it?), here is a poem that addresses this COVID Christmas: T’was a Week Before Christmas 2020

by Shawna Hickling, with a couple of changes to make it more timely. (here’s her note: I NEVER use the word ain’t but isn’t had too many syllables for the poem!)

T’was a week before Christmas, And all through the town, People wore masks, That covered their frown.

The frown had begun Way back in the Spring, When a global pandemic Changed everything.

They called it corona, But unlike the beer, It didn’t bring good times, It didn’t bring cheer.

Contagious and deadly, This virus spread fast, Like a wildfire that starts When fueled by gas.

Airplanes were grounded, Travel was banned.

Borders were closed Across air, sea and land.

As the world entered lockdown

To flatten the curve, The economy halted, And folks lost their verve.

From March to July We rode the first wave, People stayed home, They tried to behave.

When summer emerged The lockdown was lifted.

But away from caution, Many folks drifted.

Now it’s December And cases are spiking, Wave two has arrived, Much to our disliking.

Frontline workers, Doctors and nurses, Try to save people, From riding in hearses.

This virus is awful, This COVID-19.

There isn’t a cure.

(But a promised vaccine.)

It’s true that this year Has had sadness a plenty, We’ll never forget The year 2020.

And just ‘round the corner — The holiday season, But why be merry?

Is there even one reason?

To decorate the house And put up the tree, When no one will see it, No-one but me.

But outside my window The snow gently falls, And I think to myself, Let’s deck the halls!

So, I gather the ribbon, The garland and bows, As I play those old carols, My happiness grows.

Christmas ain’t cancelled And neither is hope.

If we lean on each other, I know we can cope.

May your Christmas be decorated with happiness and garnished with hope.

You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com. © 2020 Sarah Donohoe

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Dog Training will Resume January 4th 2 Sessions for $60 4 Sessions for $100 30 Minutes Per Session Training at your home or in Estes Park Mask and Social Distance

HOME SWEET HOME DOG TRAINER Call or Text Judy Wood at 970.699.1856

Beautiful sunset photo by www.PauljMarcottephotography.com

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Upper Thompson Sanitation District Plans For The Future

Federal Regulations and Aging Infrastructure Mandate New Facility Upper Thompson Sanitation District (UTSD) was established almost 50 years ago. Since then, they have been silently supporting and growing to meet the increasing water treatment needs of Estes Park. From humble beginnings, the UTSD service operation has expanded to over 4,300 households and 96 miles of collection system infrastructure in the Estes Valley.

When the plant was built in 1976, it employed some of the most innovative technologies available and provided the highest level of treatment for sensitive waterways. This technology, coupled with unwavering commitment, has enabled UTSD to continue service even through moments of crisis, from fire to flood.

Although excellent care has been

taken of the decades-old wastewater treatment facility (WWTF), the effects of age, changing building codes, and outdated equipment mean it is nearing capacity to treat wastewater to the high standards that Estes Valley’s sensitive environment requires. In addition, upcoming stringent regulatory treatment requirements related to nutrients, metals and temperature will be impossible to meet with the current facility. District Manager, Chris Bieker states, “The cost of maintaining our current infrastructure is not worth the investment because it will be obsolete nearly as quickly as it’s repaired. We also have the additional challenge of meeting treatment demand during the large fluctuations of peak visitation season in the summer. We are nearing the limits of processing ability now and need to prepare for tomorrow.” To

face these challenges, UTSD has been laying the groundwork to relocate and expand the WWTF to a site near the current plant. This new facility will be able to handle community and visitor growth as well as the more stringent regulatory requirements now and well into the future.

With the large-scale improvements necessary to continue safe and efficient water treatment, additional funding is needed to finance the project.

The UTSD sewer rate increase has been assessed at 11% each year over the next three years; 2021-2023, and diminishing increases for subsequent years. In 2021 this translates into an extra $5.33/month for most customers in the District. This fee will vary from customer to customer assessed as a flat rate fee or calculated on metered water use.

“As residents ourselves, we share this

cost and are committed to use the resources we have available as responsibly and efficiently as possible” Bieker said. When completed, the new WWTF will meet upcoming strict water quality standards. The new WWTF will also serve future customer and community demands while continuing to preserve the clean water that preserves wildlife and the natural habitat.

“It means we will be able to continue to be good stewards of our environment, continue to protect the headwaters, and ensure our quality of life,” states Bieker.

“Most people don’t think about the work we do at UTSD, but it is critical to maintaining our most precious resource, our water” says Bieker. “This is our home and we want to treat it right.”

If you have questions about the upcoming changes please visit UTSD’s website at utsd.colorado.gov.

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In Estes Park Economic Development Corporation (Estes Park EDC) A Year in Review

Thank You Santa!

2020 has proven to be one of the most challenging years in recent history, creating the need to call upon our community’s most notable strength: resiliency.

Our community has not only endured business closures, health risks and social restrictions due to COVID-19, but we have survived two of the largest wildfires in Colorado recorded history. In light of these events, the Estes Park EDC joined the newly created Estes Valley Resiliency Committee (EVRC) made up of public, private and nonprofit partners who are working on economic resiliency and overall community health in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The EVRC is focused on sharing resources with each other and the community, and on strategizing specific, actionable ways to support a more robust economic recovery.

The Estes Park EDC worked closely with the town to develop the Embrace the Views program which resulted in businesses expanding their outdoor patio services, allowing for increased overall occupancy levels due to COVID-19.

With cold winter months upon us, focus has shifted to the Embrace the Seasons program which supports winterization efforts to address limitations and restrictions placed on indoor dining. Recently, the Town of Estes Park received $50,000 to support outdoor winterization efforts.

The Colorado Restaurant Foundation is still accepting applications for their Colorado Outdoor Winter Dining Grant with awards up to $10,000 to assist with winterization efforts as well.

On December 7th, the Colorado General Assembly adjourned the 2020 special session. Seven key policy issues were the focus of the Governor’s call of the special session: small business relief; child care support; housing and direct rental assistance; increasing broadband access for P-12; food insecurity; utilities assistance; and public health response.

The bills that were adopted are shown below.

• HB20B-1001 — Grants to Improve Internet Access in P-12 Education — The bill creates the Colorado Students Grant Program to provide $20M in grants to local education providers to use in providing broadband services and other technology for increased access for students, educators and other staff.

• HB20B-1002 — Emergency Relief for Child Care Sector — The bill creates two grant programs to support child care in the state and appropriates $45M for these programs.

• HB20B-1003 — Food Pantry Assistance Grant Program — The bill makes changes to the Food Pantry Assistance Grant Program and appropriates $5M for the program.

• HB20B-1004 — Qualified Retailer Retain Sales Tax For Assistance — The bill allows qualifying retailers to temporarily deduct up to $70,000 in net taxable sales from their monthly state sales tax return and retain the resulting sales

tax revenue for sales made in November and December 2020 and in January and February 2021. Applies to retailers in the alcoholic beverage, restaurant, and the mobile food services industries.

• HB20B-1005 — Local Authority to Impose Food Delivery Fee Restrictions — The bill allows municipalities and counties to limit the fee that a thirdparty food delivery service may charge to a retail food establishment and place other restrictions on delivery services.

• HB20B-1006 — Insurance Premium Tax Payments and Credits — The bill makes changes to how insurance premium estimated taxes are paid, including adjusting how calendar quarter estimates are calculated and allowing each calendar quarterly estimate payment to include adjustments for any previous calendar quarter estimates of taxes including tax credits.

• SB20B-001 — COVID-19 Relief Small and Minority Business Arts Organizations — The bill provides relief to small businesses, arts and cultural organizations, and minority-owned businesses. It appropriates $57.1M for these purposes.

• SB20B-002 — Housing and Direct COVID Emergency Assistance — The bill creates the Emergency Direct Assistance Grant Program in DOLA to support housing assistance programs. It transfers $60M from the General Fund for these purposes.

• SB20B-003 — Money for Energy Utility Bill Payment Assistance — The bill transfers $5M from the General Fund to the Energy Outreach Colorado Low-Income Energy Assistance Fund to provide direct energy bill payment assistance to low-income households.

• SB20B-004 — Transfer to Make Money Available for COVID-19 Emergency — The bill transfers $100M from the General Fund to the Controlled Maintenance Trust Fund and allows the The Entrepreneurial Center (E-Center) is currently in the midst of its 2020 B. A.S. E program. At the halfway stage of the program, the businesses have taken part in three trainings covering Business Models, Value Propositions, Purpose Statements and much more. The education sessions have been world class and participating businesses are attributing a 30% increase in revenue (2020 over 2019) which given the country's economic status is a wonderful testimonial for the program. Outside of this, the ECenter is involved in the EVRC Winter Task Force and County Level-Up program. The E-Center’s purpose remains simple: to passionately help any business in the Estes Valley, who needs assistance to maximize their learning, understanding and business outputs, to succeed in their objectives.

The Estes Park EDC also welcomed new Board Chair Jim McGibney in January 2020. McGibney spoke with the continued on next page

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Trail Gazette about his positive views on the economic future of Estes Park.

Overall, the Estes Park EDC worked tirelessly to support business and community leaders in 2020, serving 400 businesses with 800 employees. With help from the Estes Park EDC, five new businesses, two business pivots, two new product lines and two new non-profits

were created. They assisted in raising $35 million dollars in PPP funds in Estes Valley businesses. In addition, the Estes Park EDC, in cooperation with the Estes park Chamber of Commerce, helped to distribute $300,000 in business relief funds to small businesses in the Estes Valley.

For further information on Estes Park EDC activities, visit www.estesparkedc.com/blog/2020.

A Few Important Reminders As We Approach The Holiday Season

The COVID-19 vaccine distribution has started in Colorado. Visit covid19.colorado.gov/vaccine to stay up-to-date on the latest news. With almost 1 in 40 Coloradans contagious with the virus, we are still in our most dangerous phase of the pandemic yet.

This holiday season we need to do three things: • Only interact in-person with people from your household (defined as those who normally live and sleep under the same roof).

• Refrain from traveling. Celebrate virtually with the people who don’t live with you.

• Avoid crowded stores. Shop for gifts

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.

During the week of December 6, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to four calls for service. This included: • MVC: 1 • Possible Illegal Burn: 2 • Mutual Aid: 1 Estes Valley Fire www.estesvalleyfire.org

online and have them delivered or pick them up curbside. Find local Colorado businesses to support via the #ShopLocalColorado campaign. Wear a mask and keep your distance whenever you do leave your home.

Have a safe and happy holiday!

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Nourishing Network: Phase 2

The Nourishing Network has been an opportunity to connect the community with social service organizations. At every food pickup, there have been nonprofit representatives to help refer community members to local services, using food access as a gateway to conversations. It has also been an opportunity for nonprofits to “meet people where they are.” This image shows a delivery of food to the Dollar General Store. Nick Cassatt, “the Trolley Guy” from Estes Park Trolleys, provided transportation for the program. He is shown here with a representative from the Northern Colorado Health Alliance. One of their programs is CO-SLAW, Colorado Opioid Synergy for Larimer and Weld counties, a network of clinics that offer medication-assisted treatment and counseling services.

By: Estes Park Nonprofit Resource Center

The Estes Park Nonprofit Resource Center saw an opportunity with the Safeway Foundation to build an outreach program that connects community to food and social services. This program was fully funded via a $100,000 Nourishing Neighbors grant from the Safeway Foundation. During this exceptionally challenging time, we were fortunate to receive such a generous gift on behalf of our community to help meet the increased (an ongoing) demand for food assistance.

This program was scheduled to end this week (December 16). However, the American Legion is able to extend parts of the program. They have the kitchen, the chef, the community service mindset, and the central location to continue the program. The American Legion will continue to offer graband-go meals every day of the week from 4-6 p.m. (except Fridays) through January. Any contributions to the American Legion (earmarked for

the Nourishing Network) will help extend this program even further.

EPRNC is honored to have originated this program. The fact that it can so seamlessly be turned over to the American Legion is a testament to strong partners and thoughtful collaboration.

The EPNRC is grateful to its board of directors, nonprofit partners, restaurants and food trucks, and the community at large for supporting this program. We have served thousands of breakfasts, lunches, and dinners to neighbors, friends and—often times— community members who may feel, for the first time in their lives, that they could use a leg up. EPNRC has a variety of resources listed online at epnonprofit.org, and resource fliers will continue to be available through the American Legion to help folks find services they—or someone they know—may need.

Please email Karen@epnonprofit.org or go to @EPNonprofit on Facebook for updates about this program and other initiatives.

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Drawing For Quota Festival Of Trees This Friday, December 18 By: Kris Hazelton

Members of the Quota Club of Estes Park invite you to your last chance to view the display of beautifully decorated trees for their 2020 Festival of Trees in the lobbies of The Estes Park Resort and The Dunraven Inn. You need to arrive soon, the last chance to browse the tables of trees and purchase tickets to enter the drawing to win your favorite tree is this Thursday and Friday, December 17 and 18.

Thirty-four wonderful creations decorated by many local businesses, nonprofit organizations and individuals are set up for you to see. Stop by and see these beautifully decorated themed trees, many with gift certificates and goodies attached.

Chances for winning these trees will be sold at the hotel front desk. Ticket prices are: 1 ticket for $1.00 6 tickets for $5.00 13 tickets for $10.00.

Purchase your tickets and put your full name and phone number on the back of the ticket for your chance to win. Drop your tickets in the box next to your favorite tree on display for a chance to win the tree! The drawing for winners of the trees will be held this Friday, December 18 and the event will be in a virtual

video format from the lobby of the Estes Park Resort at 3:00 p.m. It will be live on the Estes Park Quota Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TasteOfEstes.

Please note, if you win a tree, you will be responsible for picking it up. If you are not present, you will receive a phone call to arrange for pick-up of your tree.

Quota cannot ship trees.

Quota Club would like the thank The Estes Park Resort and The Dunraven Inn for decorating their own trees as well as displaying all of the trees in their lobbies and helping with this fund-raising project. Why not plan an outing to go view these special trees and afterwards, have a meal or a beverage at The Dunraven Inn, or make a weekend of it and book a stay at the Estes Park Resort!

Proceeds from the Festival of Trees go to the many community projects of Quota, most recently donations to the Estes Valley Fire Protection Dist. and Glen Haven Area Volunteer Fire Department and our hero firefighters. It will also support the Loan Closet, Ambulance Fund, student grants, service to seniors, service to youth, help for disadvantaged women and children and much more! In this time of Covid and the difficulty of fund-raising, come support Quota and see these wonderful trees which are sure to get you into the holiday spirit.

Winter Wonderland

Estes Park offers a warm winter welcome! The gorgeous snowstorm created a winter wonderland. The downtown Christmas lights add charm and a festive atmosphere. The natural beauty of the alpenglow light brushing the mountaintops echoes the city's charm. Photo by Richard H. Hahn, November 27, 2019. www.hahndigitalarts.com

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Free YMCA Day Passes In January

Calling all Estes Park area residents.

YMCA of the Rockies – Estes Park Center is offering free day passes for locals of the Estes Park area throughout the month of January. Local residents must bring their ID to the Sweet Memorial Program Building front desk in order to receive their day pass wristbands.

A day pass at YMCA of the Rockies – Estes Park Center includes ice skating and rental, snowshoeing, sledding, mini golf, entry to the museum, hiking and library programs, disc golf, and all family programs. Some activities including mountain bike rentals, climbing wall, escape room and Craft and Design Center, will still have their

normal fees. Please visit ymcarockies.org to inquire about booking adventure activity sessions.

Already a member of YMCA of the Rockies? All month long, local members will receive 50% off paid activities, including archery, escape room and climbing wall.

Don’t miss out on an opportunity for free family fun this winter. This is our way of saying thank you to the residents of Estes Park for their continued support over the past 100 years. We appreciate you and hope you join us in celebrating the Estes Park community this January. Questions can be directed to 970-586-3341 ext. 1104.

Estes Park Archives Program This Saturday, December 19

Now through December 31, 2020 receive up to a $50 VISA gift card with the purchase of a membership for yourself, or for a friend of family member, as a gift. Call Amy at 720-237-5959 to take advantage of this limited time holiday promotion!

eter lifestyle and quality time with their young children led them to acquire ranch land in Arizona, with both husband and wife taking a "semi-retirement" from active medical practice in 1971.

Dr. Martin passed away earlier this year, so it was crucial for Estes Park's history to locate Dr. Luce, to preserve information and record first-hand stories that might otherwise be lost. Although Dr. Luce's life-saving on-site surgical repair of a skull fracture suffered by climber Dick Kezlan, who tumbled down Lambs Slide in January 1968, is well-documented, other aspects of this pioneering medical duo's Estes Park sojourn are at risk of drifting into obscurity.

Join the Estes Park Archives this Saturday, December 19, in the meeting room at 240 Moraine Avenue any time between 1:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. for Dr. Sam Luce in 2017. the continuing free series of programs Courtesy Arizona Highways on Estes Park's early physicians. The After serving a one-year internship in pandemic-modified format restricts Greeley, Dr. Sam Arden Luce joined a entry to small groups of related family medical practice in Estes Park in 1958, members wearing masks, with lectures in the Gaslight Square complex that repeated at the top and bottom of each currently serves as the home for "Ten hour. At this time of year, reservations Letters" and the Estes Park Archives. are not required, but you can get direcHis wife, Dr. Julia Martin, joined him tions or more information by calling at this location soon after, following 586-4889. All are welcome, and you completion of a residency in pediatrics don't need to be a member, or know in Boulder. They moved their clinic anything about Estes Park history, to further out on Moraine Avenue a few participate. years later, before the desire for a qui-

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Holiday Wreaths!

HOSA Future Health Professionals Help support HOSA Club at Estes Park HS!! We are selling Christmas wreaths in two sizes, small (~14”) and large (~20”).

Small wreaths can have hypoallergenic synthetic materials if requested. Contact Cynda Basch at the email below for any special requests. The suggested prices are $30 for a small wreath and $45 for a large, or any donation of your choice!

We are taking orders until Dec. 20th.

You can pay at the link or in-person at the Estes Park High School office.

Cynda Baschcynthia_basch@psdr3.k12.co.us 970-586-5321 x3321

MySchoolBucks Linkhttps://www.myschoolbucks.com/ver2/prdembd? ref=ZZJJYL9H0T0VRZ2_ZZ9X7MFZ4XLOFJ2

Cooking On High Correction In last week’s Cooking on High column, the milk was inadvertantly omitted from the ingredient list. Here is the complete list of ingredients.

Easy, Easy Peach Cobbler 375 degree oven ½ cup melted butter 1 cup flour 1 cup milk 1 cup sugar- minus 1 Tbs. ½ tsp. baking powder, scant 1-15 oz. can slice peaches Pour butter into 8” baking dish Mix dry ingredients and milk to combine. Carefully put mix over butter, do not stir. Place peaches over batter. Bake 25-35 minutes until golden-brown.

Check at 25 minutes.

My email is esther.cenac@gmail.com Bon Appétit.

1700 Brodie Avenue

unday

970-586-4404

pccrusa.org

orship ervices at

n-person services temporarily suspended ervices provided virtually ee pccrusa or for details and lin s

All are welcome

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This list represents all Estes Park restaurants. It does not indicate which ones are open for inside or patio dining, take out service, curb side or delivery.

Those listed above are regular advertisers in Estes Park News. Call or check each restauants’s individual information as needed for dining options, hours and restrictions.

Restaurant Antonio’s NY Pizza Avant Garde Ale Baldpate Inn Big Horn Restaurant Bird and Jim Bob & Tony’s Pizza Boss Burgers Gyros Cafe de Pho-Thai Casa Grande Mex. Cascades at Stanley Chelitos Mexican China Garden Cinnamon’s Bakery Claire’s on the Park Coffee on the Rocks Cousin Pat’s Pub Dairy Queen Domino’s Pizza Dunraven Inn Ed’s Cantina Egg of Estes El Mex-Kal Elkins Whisky Estes Park Brewery Estes Park Pie Shop Fresh Burger Stop Grubsteak Rest.

Himalayan Curry Hunters Chophouse Inkwell & Brew Kind Coffee Latitude 105 Ale La Cabana Mexican La Cocina De Mama Local’s Grill Lonigans Grill

Address 1560 Big Thompson 920 Dunraven St. 4900 S. CO-7 401 W Elkhorn Ave. 915 Moraine Ave. 124 W. Elkhorn Ave. 861 Moraine Ave. 225 W. Riverside Dr. 220 E. Elkhorn Ave. 333 Wonderview 145 E. Elkhorn Ave. 460 W. Riverside Dr. 920 W. Elkhorn Ave. 225 Park Lane 510 Moraine Ave. 451 S. St. Vrain Ave. 218 E. Elkhorn Ave. 457 E. Wonderview 1700 Big Thompson 390 E. Elkhorn Ave. 393 E. Elkhorn Ave. 160 First St. 1825 N. Lake Ave. 470 Prospect Village 509 Big Thompson 860 Moraine Ave. 134 W. elkhorn Ave. 101 W. Elkhorn Ave. 1690 Big Thompson 150 E. Elkhorn Ave. 470 E. Elkhorn Ave. 101 So. St. Vrain 165 Virginia Dr. 361 S. St. Vrain Ave. 153 E. Elkhorn Ave. 110 E. Elkhorn Ave.

Phone 970 586-7275 970 591-2700 970 586-5397 970 586-2792 970 586-9832 970 586-2044 970 586-3137 970 577-0682 970 577-0799 970 577-4001 970 586-0886 970 586-2488 970 480-1501 970 586-9564 970 586-5182 970 586-7287 970 586-4939 970 586-8181 970 586-6409 970 586-2919 970 586-1173 970 586-4377 970 480-1848 970 586-5421 970 577-7437 970 480-1492 970 586-8838 970 586-6226 970 586-6962 970 342-1297 970 586-5206 970 586-1156 970 586-9001 970 586-6900 970 586-4346

Website estesparkpizza.com avantgardealeworks.com baldpateinn.com estesparkbighorn.com birdandjim.com cafedephothai.squarespace.com casagrandemexicana.com stanleyhotel.com chelitos-restaurant.com chinagardenestespark.com cinnamonestespark.com clairesrestaurantandbar.com cousinpatspubandgrill.com dairyqueen.com dominos.com dunravenepresort.com edscantina.com eggofestes.com elmex-kal.com elkinswhisky.com epbrewery.com youneedpie.com grubsteakestespark.com himalayancurryandkebob.com hunterschophouse.com inkwellbrew.com kindcoffee.com ridegelinehotel.com/latitude-105 lacocinadmama.com lonigans.com

Lumpy Ridge Brew 531 S. St. Vrain Ave. McDonalds Rest.

501 Big Thompson Mama Rose’s Rest. 338 E. Elkhorn Ave. Mile High Coffee 356 E. Elkhorn Ave. MollyB Rest.

200 Moraine Ave. Mountain Home Cafe 457 E. Wonderview Napal’s Cafe 184 E. Elkhorn Ave. National Park Village 900 Moraine Ave. Nickys Steakhouse 1350 Fall River Rd. Notchtop Bakery 459 E. Wonderview Oppa Asian Bistro 183 W. Riverside Dr. Penelope’s Burgers 229 W. Elkhorn Ave. Pepper Mexican Grill 401 E. Elkhorn Ave. Poppy’s Pizza & Grill 338 E. Elkhorn Ave. Raven’s Roast Coffee 157 W. Elkhorn Ave. Rock Cut Brewery 390 W. Riverside Dr. Rock Inn Mtn. Tavern 1675 CO-66 Rocky Mtn. Deli 541 Big Thompson Scratch Deli 911 Moraine Ave. Seasoned Bistro 205 Park Ln. Shakes Alive 513 Big Thompson Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ 820 Moraine Ave. Snowy Peaks Winery 292 Moraine Ave. Starbucks Coffee 537 Big Thompson Subway 517 Big Thompson Sweet Basilico 430 Prospect Village Thai Kitchen 401 S. St. Vrain Ave. The Barrel 251 Moraine Ave. The Village Pizza 543 Big Thompson Trailhead Rest.

3450 Fall River Rd. Twin Owls Steak 800 MacGregor Ave. Vinu Giu 207 Park Ln. Wapiti Colorado Pub 247 W. Elkhorn Ave WayFinder 900 Moraine Ave. Wild Rose Est. 157 W. Elkhorn Ave Ziggi’s Coffee 519 S. St. Vrain Ave.

970 235-1752

lumpyridgebrewing.com

970 586-3330 970 586-2222 970 586-2766 970 586-6624 970 577-7035 970 586-2776 970 586-5376 970 586-0272 970 577-8888 970 586-2277 970 577-0032 970 586-8282 970 586-4326 970 586-7300 970 586-4116 970 586-4791 970 586-8383 970 586-9000 970 577-7007 970 577-7427 970 586-2099 970 586-1600 970 577-7744 970 586-3899 970 577-7112 970 616-2090 970 577-1300 970 577-0043 970 586-9344 970 591-2528 970 586-5056 970 586-3098 970 586-2806 970 591-2532

mamarosesrestaurant.com mollybestespark.com mountainhomecafe.com nationalparkvillage.com nickyssteakhouse.com thenotchtop.com penelopesburgers.com peppersmex.com estesdining.com rockcutbrewing.com rockinnestes.com rockymountain deli.com seasonedbistro.com shakesalive.com smokindavesq.com snowypeakswinery.com sweetbasilico.com thaikitchenonline.com thebarrel.beer thevillagepizza.com rockymountaingateway.net twinowls.net (reopening soon) vinogiu.com the wapitipub.com wayfindercolorado.com wildroserestaurant.com ziggiscoffee.com

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What Brings You Joy? For the first semester project of Estes Park High School’s Key Club, we decided on an art contest with the prompt “What Brings You Joy?” In such a tumultuous year, we wanted students from the elementary, middle, and high schools to be able to express themselves artistically with how they

made it through 2020! With winners from numerous grades all over the schools, there ended up being outstanding pieces of art submitted. We would like to thank all of the competitors and congratulate the winners as well!

Our Key Club hopes all of you can find a little joy in something this season.

Artwork by Sam Honda

Created by Andrew

Artwork by Jade Ertl Wreath by Cynda Basch

Artwork by Kaitlyn Nattrass

Artwork by Rozlynne

Artwork by Quincey Pauls

Artwork by Penelope Zukowski

Artwork by Khyley McGrath

Created by Kayla Johnson

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Artwork by Korrina Connour

Artwork by Emmalee Lopez

Rotary Friendship Card For Local Discounts Now On Sale Estes Park’s new and popular $10 local make everyone happy. discount card is available for purchase at “Friendship Cards make great stocking Cabintique, Country Market, Macdonstuffers and are valid for the entire year," ald Book Shop, Mad Moose, Nicky’s Thompson added.

Steak and Seafood House, Quality Inn, The FriendSafeway ship Card is a Guest Servfundraising ices, Rocky project of The Mountain Rotary Club of Gateway, Estes Park.

Wynbrier Net proceeds Home and from the sale Wynbrier Ltd. of the card “We are will be used pleased to to support have addithe club’s many charitable projects, intional locations selling the card, to make cluding scholarships and community it easier for people to purchase one,” said grants.

Karen Thompson, Rotary Club of “The Rotary Club of Estes Estes Park Fund DevelopPark would like to ment Director. “Due to thank the many pandemic restricparticipating tions, the Visitor merchants, as Center will not be this fundraising selling the card project would this year, but not be possible with the addiwithout each one tional locations, of them,” everyone wantThompson said. ing a card should The 2021 card be able to get one." sports a photo taken The Friendship Card by photo contest winis accepted at more than ner Scott Dor70 local busiFriendship Card front image, decal displayed in man. Hobert nesses, which merchant locations.

Office Services offer discounts handled design on food and drink, shopping, entertainand printing of the card. ment and services. Friendship Card “I would like to thank Anil Singh for holders will need to show their cards at his help in designing this year's card and the businesses in order to receive disalso am grateful to Scott Dorman for counts. Certain restrictions may apply. submitting the winning photo,” ThompParticipating merchants and their disson added. count offers are listed on the Friendship For additional information on the Card’s Facebook page – Friendship Card, contact Thompson by facebook.com/EP Friendship Card. email at epfriendshipcard@gmail.com Brochures also are available at locations selling the card. Look for the Friendship or phone (970) 590-9942. She also welCard window decal to find participating comes support from individuals who live outside of Estes Park and will merchants. The 2021 card is valid arrange for the card to be mailed to purthrough December 31, 2021. chasers.

The discount card makes a great lastminute holiday gift that is guaranteed to

Artwork by Olivia

Wildfire Homes LLC Breaks Ground For New Housing

Row one: Brian Schaffer - Crossroads Executive Director, Scott Applegate - Crossroads Board Member, Mark Westover, Melissa Westover -co-owners, Wildfire Homes, Mayor Wendy Koenig, Rick Allnutt, Susan Allnutt-co-owners, Wildfire Homes, Colleen Logan - Designer, Valerie Dascoli - Designer Second Row: Barbara McAlpine - Town Board Member, Gene Whannel - ReMax Realtor, Jeff Woeber - Community Development, Steve Lane - Basis Architecture Lonnie Sheldon - Van Horn Engineering, Cory Berg - Van Horn Engineering, Frank Roberts- Van Horn Engineering, Jason Walker- Van Horn Engineering, Kevin Marquart - Project Manager.

Following a two year process, Wildfire Homes, LLC has broken ground. The project is owned and operated by Rick and Susan Allnutt and Mark and Melissa Westover. “I know many people were wondering if this project was going to happen,” commented Melissa Westover, “There were times when we wondered too. Who could ever anticipate the challenges we all have faced over the last year? Yet, here we are, ready to build our first building, it’s a bit surreal.”

The first structures built will be workforce housing units, eventually there will be 88 total workforce units. “We have heard for years that the need for workforce housing is huge,” said Rick Allnutt. “ We plan to deliver on that need!”

Workforce housing is restricted to at least one person in the household that works a minimum of 30 hours per week in the Estes Valley. Occupancy and ownership of workforce units are not income based, nor are the units subsidized in any way. In addition to the 88 workforce units, the development includes 26 townhomes and 14 single family lots. “ There are no deed restrictions on those properties,” said Mark Westover, “However, we have written into the covenants that there will be no vacation rentals. We want the development to feel like a neighborhood, where people know and

look out for each other,” he said.

One very bright spot in the development of Wildfire Homes, is the benefit to Crossroads Ministries. “When we looked at the initial plans, it made sense to offer our current Westover Construction building to Crossroads in exchange for their property,” said Melissa, “the property Crossroads now sits on, will allow for more workforce units and provide continuity to the development. In exchange, Crossroads receives a newer, updated building that better meets their needs,” she said, “To us, that was like the icing on the cake!”

Wildfire Development, Inc. will be building the project. “We wanted to separate this project from Westover Construction,” Mark commented, “However, those purchasing properties in this development can expect the same high quality we’ve built our reputation on,” he said. “Westover Construction will still be going strong, doing high quality custom home building, we have no desire to let go of the business we’ve worked so hard to build.”

The Wildfire project, located across from 1789 Wildfire Road, is expected to take 3-5 years to build. Those interested in more information can contact www.wildfirecolorado.com or call 970-480-1823.

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WHICH SCROOGE ARE WE? On December 19th, 1843, Chapman and Hall publishers in London released A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. 31-year old Dickens had already published a number of books, including Oliver Twist, but A Christmas Carol had uniquely consumed him during the meager six-weeks it took him to write it. Released six days before Christmas, all 6,000 copies of the first printing were sold by Christmas Eve. Since then, the book has never been out of print. It has been adapted for stage, for screen, for radio plays and operas, cartoons, and other media. In fact, eight stage adaptations were in production within two months of the book’s release, and currently there are at least 28 film versions of the story.

But what explains the popularity of Dicken’s rapidly written novel? Perhaps you, like I do, look forward to seeing the various presentations of this story every Christmas season. I look forward to seeing Jim Carrey’s ‘Grinch’, Bill Murray’s ‘Scrooged’, Jim Carrey’s ‘A Christmas Carol’, and even the cartoon versions of Dickens famous story. Why is that? It’s obviously not because we like to see the crusty, bitter and greedy old man, depicted at the beginning of the story. It has to be because of the change that’s wrought in the characters as they, usually because of the acceptance and love shown to them by someone who values the true spirit of Christmas, begin to realize what Christmas is all about…that Christmas is not about ‘presents’ only, but that the spirit of the season is so much more than that. We like to witness the events that make the Grinch’s heart ‘triple in size’ as he returns the gifts to the ‘Who’ villagers, or Scrooge’s heart change as he witnesses the true needs of many and becomes the example of a generous giver to those in need.

It’s a beautiful story and so appropriate for this time of year. It is no wonder that we receive so many appeals from organizations and efforts that are addressing the needs of the truly hurting people of our time…hospitalized children, needing families, jobless, and even homeless, people who, during much of the year are forgotten, or ignored. And, not only do we see the appeals, we witness and react with a greater outpouring of caring and help in response to those appeals. And why is that? Why do those of us who might tend to be like that ‘crusty, stingy’ old man during much of the year, open our hearts during this season of the year? We know the reason, don’t we?

It’s because this season is about ‘Him’. Although historians do not know exactly the day of the year that ‘He’ was born, this is the season that began as people thought of ‘Him’ and the precious ‘gift’ that came to all mankind with His arrival. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son!” And because of that great ‘gift’ we like to follow that pattern.

The wise men presented unto Him ‘gifts’ of gold, frankincense and myrrh, and while we aren’t in a place where we can present such gifts readily to Him, we honor Him as we use this , and every season, as seasons of giving to others. Jesus once said: “When you do it unto them, you do it unto Me.” And His principle, “Freely you have received, freely give” should rule in the hearts of all of us…during this season and throughout the year.

Sadly, there will still be many ‘crusty, bitter, and greedy’ persons that have their eyes glued to the television, listening to the glowing advertisements that remind them of what they ‘should want’ and ‘deserve to have’ in order to be happy and enjoy life to the fullest.

However, I hope we are more ‘Grinch-like’ in that our heart ‘swells’ at this time of year, and sacrifices so that those who are truly in need, can enjoy their season even more. In the meantime, I invite you to continue to watch the presentations of Dicken’s work and figure out where you are in the story. Let’s give generously, like God has.

Bob Lewis

Estes Park Senior Citizens Center Menu Monday, Dec 21

December 21 – 25

Vegetarian Burger (topped w/ mushrooms, swiss cheese & avocado) w/ vegetarian soup Tuesday, Dec 22 Beef Pot Roast w/ gravy over Rice & vegetable Wed., Dec 23 Hot Open-faced Turkey Sandwich w/ mashed potatoes, gravy & vegetables Thursday, Dec 24 Ham Dinner w/ Candied Yams & vegetables Friday, Dec 25 CLOSED >> Merry Christmas<<

December 28 – January 1 Monday, Dec 28

Trio Signature Salad (topped w/ Chicken Salad, Tuna Salad & 3-Bean Salad) w/ ranch dressing Tuesday, Dec 29 Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich (topped w/ avocado, bacon & cheddar cheese) w/ Pasta Salad Wed., Dec 30 Pork Loin w/ apple sauce, Sweet Potato & vegetable Thursday, Dec 31 Chicken Cordon Bleu w/ Roasted Potatoes & vegetable Friday, Jan 1 Shrimp Platter (4 grilled & 4 fried) w/ Rice Pilaf & soup All noon meals are $5 for current EP Senior Citizens Center members and are by reservation only. 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, Dec 21st, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Dec 18th.

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 and at estesparkseniors.org The Center is still closed; no activities. Now is the time to Join/Renew Membership for 2021! Meals-to-Go will be delivered to your vehicle at the Senior Citizens Center! Pick up times 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.

Check out our website: estesparkseniors.org

Plant A Book, Grow A Child Program Provides Books To Elementary Students

I am not sure if you heard, but there is apparently a pandemic happening. That makes it hard to have school, let alone a book fair. So we had to take drastic measures with our Plant a Book, Grow a Child program, with no book fair happening. It was just one of those “time to go big” kind of moments, with kids (not to mention teachers and parents) struggling in so many ways.

So we pulled out all of the stops, and committed to spending every penny we had, to put books into the hands of our local elementary school kiddos.

There were roadblocks, fits, starts, changes, and lots of adapting along the way, but it was all worth it, as 1,297 books were distributed to 388 Estes Park Elementary School students in a smooth, socially distanced, drivethrough process at the school, including the remote learning students.

Scholastic stepped up too—they took an additional 25% off our order, with the sales representative moved to tears at what we were trying to do for our local kiddos. But my favorite story from the whole thing was the girl who handed us 38 cents (a picture of her money now sits, framed on my desk at work)—her life savings, I am sure—to help make sure “we could get books for more kids next year, too.”

To her, and to all of the donors and supporters we have had over the five years of this program, our promise is the same—100% of your donation always goes to buy books. All expenses, including the 2% administrative fee the Estes Park Education Foundation has charged us to warehouse the funds we raise each year, have been paid out

of our own pocket—not out of your donations.

Every penny you have given to this program, has gone to buy books for local elementary school students—no exceptions.

With heartfelt thanks to our donors who made this possible—Bank of Estes Park, Estes Park Quota, Village Thrift, Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary, Ascent Title, and so many individuals—including one whose last-minute check (unknowingly) bridged the gap between what we had committed to and what we actually had funds for. And to Debbie Holmes, the boots on the ground at the school, there are simply no words to express how grateful we are—she made this program work this year, despite insurmountable challenges. And with gratitude to the Estes Park Education Foundation which held the funds we raised, thereby allowing them to be tax deductible for our donors. Thank you!

In five years, Plant a Book, Grow a Child has provided nearly 3,000 books to our local elementary school students. We have depleted our funds, and spent our reserve to make this year happen, and would appreciate your support. Please send donations to our new non-profit host—Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club Foundation, payable to: “EVSRCF—Plant a Book” PO Box 376 Estes Park, CO 80517 Thank you so much to all of those who have helped make this program possible.

Scott Applegate

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 23

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The Story Of Yaye Kato By: Jean McGuire

Yaye Kato was born in Okayma, Japan on May 10, 1902. At the age of ten she came to the United States and spent her childhood in San Francisco. She married Ryoji Kato in Denver in 1922. Yaye, along with her husband, Ryoji, ran Kato’s Art Shop, later known as Kato’s Gift Shop in Estes Park starting in approximately 1925. The shop is described as having a beautiful display of Chinese and Japanese artware.

Their daughter, June, was born in 1929, the first Japanese American to be born in Estes Park. Her Godfather was the Estes Park author and poet, Clem Yore, who picked the name of June after the Greek goddess, Juno.

In 1931, Yaye opened the Oriental Tea

Garden in Tuxedo Park on Bear Lake Road. Mr. Kato designed and built the gateway for the entrance. The Oriental Tea Garden was formally opened June 17th, when Yaye held a birthday party in honor of her daughter, June, who turned two years old.

The Oriental Tea Garden was the first shop of its kind to be opened in Estes Park and was the only one serving Japanese food at the time. It was said, “No doubt the Oriental Tea Garden will be one of the most popular places in Rocky Mountain National Park and will enjoy a large tourist trade.”

Unfortunately, Yaye was admitted to the Boulder Hospital in April of 1932 with a severe case of bronchitis and died of complications on June 3. Ryoji remarried in 1934 and closed the business in

1943.

The Story Of Addie Alexander

By: Jean McGuire

In 1871, Addie Alexander became the first white woman to stand on the summit of Longs Peak. As with many women, history reveals little about her.

She is only mentioned briefly in an August 26, 1871, issue of the Boulder County News as part of an article describing a successful ascent led by “Al Dunbar” from Estes Park.

As evidence of her successful climb, Alexander’s name was written on a pa-

per left in a rock cairn on the summit.

Another woman with Alexander on the climb, Henrietta Goss, “gave up in despair a few hundred feet from the summit.”

While the Boulder County News reported that Alexander and Goss were from St. Louis, it is believed they were from the newly formed St. LouisWestern Colony near Greeley, Colorado, rather than from St. Louis, Missouri.

Congratulations to Corwin Laird, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for December 18, 2020.

School activities Corwin enjoys are being a part of the Knowledge Bowl team, and a member of Student Council and Youth in Action. He placed 4th in the Geography Bee in eighth grade and maintained a 4.00 GPA almost all of his freshman year.

In his spare time he likes to read and study various topics like history, economics, geopolitics and city planning.

His favorite president of the United States is Theodore Roosevelt.

10th Corwin’s favorite quote is, “What is the use of living, if it be not to strive for noble causes and to make this muddled world a better place for those who will live in it after we are gone?”

He said, “This quote appeals to me because I want to change this world

Corwin Laird Grade

for the better. I want to make this world a better place for all.”

After high school Corwin plans to join the Navy to pay for college, then he would like to become a history teacher.

Bank of Estes Park Student Legacy Award: In addition to being awarded the Student of the Week, each winner will be given the opportunity to nominate the school program of their choice for the chance to win $500. At the end of the school year, one such nomination will be randomly selected, and that school program will be awarded the $500 Bank of Estes Park Student Legacy Award, in that student's name.

The Story Of Gail Albers

By: Pat Hammond

In the late 1930s, Gail Albers' grandparents bought a summer cabin in Estes Park, across the road from the YMCA, on what locals called “Holy Hill.”

Thus began a multi-generational tradition of traveling from the Chicago area to spend summers in Estes Park and attend Cheley Camps. Gail worked seasonally at YMCA of the Rockies while in college, and after earning her MS degree at UNC in Greeley, began working full time in the Program Department at the YMCA. She retired from her Program Director position in 2012, after 37 years of YMCA employment.

Besides her valued contributions while working at the YMCA and Cheley Camps, Gail has also positively impacted the community with her numerous volunteer leadership roles in local, state, and international boards and committees for P.E.O., Quota Club, Loving Spirit, American Camping Association, and Estes Valley Land Trust

(to name a few).

In 2018, Gail was presented the Katie Speer Philanthropist of the Year award for her fundraising and leadership work. Gail is very proud that the summer log home and land of her grandparents is now in a land trust conservation easement, and continues to be loved and enjoyed by friends, siblings, nieces, nephews, and their children.

The Albers name is well known in the greater Estes community and Gail continues to share her talents with worthwhile causes she believes in. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, when we were attending events and eating in restaurants, we often teased her about “working the room” to greet and catch up with many she knew.

Gail's contributions will continue to be felt by those she has led, mentored, coached, and encouraged for many years.

Congratulations to Meah Weaver, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for December 18, 2020.

School activities Meah enjoys are playing sports and being a member of the golf and swimming clubs. She is a member of Student Council, HOSA (Future Health Professionals), Youth in Action and Key Club and maintains a 3.8 GPA. In her spare time she likes to spend time with her friends and go hiking.

Meah Weaver Meah’s favorite quote is, 10th Grade "Be someone who makes everybody feel like a somebody."

After high school Meah plans to attend medical school and travel.

Bank of Estes Park Student Legacy Award: In addition to being awarded the Student of the Week, each winner will be given the opportunity to nominate the school program of their choice for the chance to win $500. At the end of the school year, one such nomination will be randomly selected, and that school program will be awarded the $500 Bank of Estes Park Student Legacy Award, in that student's name.

24 » Friday, December 18, 2020

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Alpenstrong Physical Therapy Set To Open In January, 2021 Dec 9 - Dec 15, 2020 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

57º 55º 34º 20º n/a 35º 36º

34º 29º 13º 5º 7º 5º 6º

0 tr .7 .7 2 tr tr

Dec 30 Full Moon

Alisyn Hummelberg, PT, DPT and Robert Scrivner, PT, DPT are pleased to announce the opening of their new business, Alpenstrong Physical Therapy in January, 2021.

When asked about their new business, Robert said, “We teamed up to open Alpenstrong PT due to our passion for Physical Therapy (PT), outdoor recreation, and serving the residents of our beloved Estes Park community. We saw a need for modern, high quality PT services in the area and feel that our evidence-based, hands-on practice styles will meet those needs for everyone from athletes to geriatrics. We have been working in insurance-based PT clinics for years, it’s time to break that mold!”

Robert graduated from the University of Colorado DPT program in 2018 and has been practicing in an outpatient setting in Estes Park.

Alisyn graduated from the University of St. Augustine in 2018 and has been practicing in a private, outpatient setting in Boulder. She said, “We have been blessed with awesome clinical internship opportunities and mentorship and get to work with people of all physical abilities on a daily basis. After a few years of being in the field, we felt it was right to start our own clinic in a place that we love!”

When asked what sets their practice apart from others Alisyn said, “We are young, enthusiastic entrepreneurs, 27 and 28 years old, who have a fresh perspective and hands-on treatment style for the people of the Estes Valley. We care deeply about our profession, and are always striving for the best clinical outcomes. Our ‘hybrid’ business model breaks the typical PT mold as we are a private pay-based clinic that also accepts Medicare. Private pay allows us to treat unrestricted from insurance limitations.

This grants us more time, autonomy and ability to work with patients on any physical ailment they may have. We

want to inform the community about direct access, meaning that our patients do not need a referral to come to PT, as we are Doctors of Physical Therapy.

There is a need for skilled providers that serve higher level athletes in Estes, which we have identified through our outdoor recreation communities. Both Rob and I are former collegiate athletes who run, ski, rock climb and are passionate about treating athletes of all sports and skill levels.”

Both Alisyn and Robert hope to spread the word about direct access and break away from the trending insurance pattern. They say most people are not familiar with direct access benefits for PT in Colorado, which creates a barrier to patients receiving care. PT under insurance based clinic models, unfortunately reduces the time, quality and number of visits a patient is allowed which ultimately affects patient outcomes. Through the combination of direct access and their private pay, Medicare hybrid model, they hope to reach members of the Estes Valley community by reducing barriers to receiving excellent PT care and get them feeling better.

Robert said, “Our ultimate goals through Alpenstrong PT are to help people recover from injury, keep playing their sport, exercising and enjoying their life to the fullest.”

Alpenstrong Physical Therapy will be open for business in January 2021. Alisyn commented, “Physical therapy is considered an essential healthcare service, meaning we will be open for treatments throughout the pandemic. Our appointments are on one-on-one, sixty minute appointments which patients may sign up for at www.alpenstrong.com .We follow strict COVID screening protocalls and also will offer telehealth visits.”

Their office is located at 166 S. St. Vrain Avenue. For more information, please call (970) 672-4302 or visit info@alpenstrong.com.

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 25

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48 APPLEBY DR. LYONS

$55,000

0 BULWARK RIDGE DRIVE

Electricity at Corner

Serene Mountain Views

BEAUTIFUL HEAVILY TREED lot with rock out-cropping. Fantastic

views of the valley.

2131 EAGLE CLIFF RD.

$599,900

615 COMMUNITY DRIVE

3 BEDROOM, 2 BATH, detached garage, plus cabin. .87 acre.

1820 FALL RIVER ROAD

$435,000

$979,000

1086 PINE KNOLL DR.

EXCLUSIVE UPLANDS at Fish Creek Executive Home situated on

BEAUTIFUL, income-generating business opportunity, 3.2 acres in the heart of Estes Park.

VARIETY OF FLOOR PLANS

$1,198,000

New Listing

Broker/Owner

970-231-0495 Mary Murphy

Broker Assoc

970-214-6350

ESTESPARKREALESTATE.COM

Maggie Cotreau

Broker Assoc

303-478-3477 Wayne Newsom

Broker Assoc

970-586-4425

Starting at $3,000

Enjoy a Rocky Mtn Getaway

STUNNING MOUNTAIN HOME, 4400 sqft, 3 bed/5 bath that combines mountain elegance with rustic comfort Mike & Marie Edwards

$2,500,000

On The River

RANCH STYLE HOME, convenient location, open floor plan. 3 Bed/ 2 Bath with garage. New furnace and radon mitigation system.

Text 912790 to 970-237-4137 1.24-acre corner lot.

BEAUTIFUL CUSTOM HOME w/ spectacular panoramic views.

Open floor plan is great for entertaining.

Text 911680 to 970-237-4137

Zoned A1.

$919,000

Text 930033 to 970-237-4137

GREAT PRICING 2.87 acres in The Retreat w/rough driveway & electricity nearby.

Mountain Views

2165 GOVERNORS LANE

201 CURRY DR.

$63,000

WHY BUY A SECOND HOME? Choose a timeshare for your vacations.

Vicky Holler

Broker Assoc.

970-222-6692 Linda Schneider Broker Assoc.

970-227-0998

Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated

Molly McGee

Broker Assoc.

970-308-3217 Scott Thompson Broker Assoc

970-590-9941

Sarah Metz

Broker Assoc

352-424-1000 Darya Valkavets

Broker Assoc.

720-400-0787

970-586-4425

“Where the EstesValley has been coming for real estate solutions since 1985!”

26 » Friday, December 18, 2020

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The Mountains Are Calling...

We'll Guide You Home – RE/MAX

Mountain Brokers

1200 Graves Avenue, Estes Park Office: 970-586-5324

www.WelcomeHomeInEstes.com $871,450

www.BedAndBreakfastEstesPark.com $849,000

Call Kirk or Peggy

Call Kirk or Peggy

Homes are Selling!

Will you be next? www.GlacierLodgeForSale.com $5,000,000

www.CabinInEstes.com $355,000

Call Kirk or Peggy

Under Contract

Call Heidi today 970-691-7083

2231 Pine Meadow Dr $609,000

Call Kirk or Peggy

Call Maria or Javier

Under Contract

52 Buff Court $74,000

519 Palisade Mountain Dr $339,000

Call Maria or Javier

Call Maria or Javier

Kirk Fisher

Peggy Lynch

Broker Owner CRS, CMAS, CLHMS

CRS, GRI, CDPE, ABR, SRES, QSC, CLHMS

970-586-1000

970-586-1000

1624 Prospect Mountain Dr $595,000

April Allen Broker

970-219-0907

Dave Kiser

Dave Lasota

Kim Lemirande

Cindy Miller

Broker

Broker

Broker, SRS, CMAS, GRI

970-231-2989

970-412-7283

970-481-1880

Broker, ASP, ABR, CDPE

970-888-1654

2470 Highway 66 Call Dave Kiser

Call Cindy

Javier Gomez

Maria Gomez

Renee Hodgden

Broker, CRS, CMAS

Broker

Broker, SRES

970-213-8692

970-213-9479

970-232-6231

Heidi Riedesel Broker, GRI, CMAS

970-691-7083

Carla Spreng Webb Broker 480-695-9293

Gene Whannel Broker

970-481-7002

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 27

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Holiday Wishes From The Estes Park Pet Association Hello, Friends and Neighbors. We send best wishes to you and your furry and feathered companions.

What a year it has been, eh? We have missed the usual opportunities to connect with you, specifically at our huge yard sale, and at the Duck Race, and more recently, at Picture Your Pets With Santa. We missed the personal contact that those events provide throughout the year, along with the monthly meet and greet with our adoptable dogs at Raven's Roast.

Nevertheless, the Duck Race, in all its virtual glory, was a big success. This fine community supported its local nonprofits again, showing what a small town with a big heart can do.

Throughout these tumultuous months, the Pet Association has fostered and adopted out numerous pets in need. We rescued a dog and found out she was pregnant. We had her placed in a loving foster home and she had 5 puppies. We

placed a total of 13 puppies this year!

We cared lovingly for adult dogs who were surrendered.

We also found furever homes for many kitties as well. When Estes evacuated, we had adoptable animals to evacuate too. Thank you to the foster families who came forward to help!

We have all, as a community, had our sharedbutseparate stories during these troubled times. We look forward to connecting with all of you again when it is safe, when we can once again meet face to face, and heal by gathering and sharing.

Thank you for being partners with us.

We appreciate every adoption, donation, and act of kindness toward our furry friends and toward each other.

The Pet Association of Estes Park is a 5013c.

Donations can be made at our PayPal at petassociationep@gmail.com or by mail at P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517

201 Curry Drive New Listing

Text 930033 to 970-237-4137 Over 3000 square foot, 3 bedroom, 4 bath custom home with spectacular panoramic mountain views. One acre lot has amazing rock outcroppings. Quality abounds with an open floor plan, main floor master, loft study, finished walk-out lower level. Large deck for wildlife viewing and stargazing. Oversized dream garage complete with sealed floor. This could be your forever home! $919,000

970-590-9941

MYESTESPARKREALESTATE.COM

320 East Elkhorn Avenue

2760 FALL RIVER RD #239 Enjoy the sights & sounds of the Fall Under Contract In 2 Days!

River in this two bedroom main level living condo. Open floor plan offers kitchen with pantry & breakfast bar, dining room & living room with electric fireplace. Walk out to large deck overlooking the river. Large bedrooms with spacious closets plus large storage room. Fish just out your back door.

RMNPark entrance 1/4 mile away. Enjoy biking, hiking, fishing & relaxing as the river goes by. Seasonal swimming pool. Full time living or vacation rent for income.

Offered fully furnished for only $320K! Call Mike

We’re all staying

” s y a d i l o h e h t r o f e “hom this year.

The holidays feel different this year because they are different this year. But we can keep our families close to us in our hearts and thoughts.

Merry Christmas from the Rich Flanery team, your local lender.

Rich Flanery, Loan Officer – NMLS# 256117 (970) 577-9200 | 501 Saint Vrain Lane, Suite 101 Estes Park, CO 80517 rockymountainlender.com

Equal Housing Lender ©2020 Mortgage Solutions of Colorado, LLC, dba Mortgage Solutions Financial NMLS #61602, headquartered at 5455 N Union Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, 719-447-0325. AR 104413; AZ BK-0928346; CO Mortgage Co. Registration; FL MLD902; MT Lender & Servicer Licenses 61602; TX-SML Mortgage Banker Registration & Residential Mortgage Loan Servicer Registration; WY MBL1022. RIch Flanery NMLS #256117.

MSFR_11-10-2020

28 » Friday, December 18, 2020

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Help And Hope For The Holidays By: Brian Schaffer

Real Estate Sales V Property Management V Vacation Accommodations LOTS IN GREY FOX ESTATES, GOING FAST! These wonderful lots are going fast. Building envelope for increased privacy and to ensure quality construction in this subdivision. Your choice from an open meadow to the wooded more secluded lot to build your primary home and guest house.

300 Green Pine Ct ~ $149,000 345 Green Pine Ct ~ $159,000

Judy Anderson

Eric Blackhurst

Abbey Pontius

GRI, MRE, ABR, Broker

Broker Associate

Broker Associate

970.586.2950

www.KeyToEstesPark.com

866.586.2950

170 S. St. Vrain, P. O. Box 656, Estes Park, CO 80517

R

970-586-2345 300 E. Elkhorn Avenue ANGE EALTY, LTD. The Oldest Real Estate Company In Estes Park

950 Big Thompson Avenue #1142 Nice 2 Bedroom Condo - Easy Access to Lake & Downtown

Bright Christmas took place last week as wonderful volunteers from our community loaded up 125 families with gifts and a generous portion of food to feed their family this Christmas season. This gift giving program is quite an undertaking and relies heavily on the generosity of many people. Volunteers help organize and distribute the gifts and food on the actual day, but there are many others who do prep work and then there are the sponsors who provide the goods so that everyone can experience a Bright Christmas. I talked with Nancy Gregg and she commented how there were so many of the families who expressed deep levels of appreciation for their gifts. Kids were overwhelmed to receive the gifts that they had asked for and tears of joy poured down their cheeks just because that’s what happens when your heart is full. And, of course, their tears were contagious as many of the volunteers loading up the gifts felt a sense of connection that’s found in the process of giving and receiving. You’ve heard it said and it’s still very true today that it’s more blessed to give than receive. It’s in Acts 20:35 where we you will find the origin of this powerful statement, “And I have been a constant example of how you can help those in need by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Let’s ALL strive to be living examples of this and experience the true joy of Christmas.

We received a very touching letter from a neighbor who had never been to Crossroads before, but finally came out of desperation and was overcome with

emotions from what she received.

“A huge thanks goes out to you for the tremendous help that you’ve given me during this holiday season. While I do have a great job as a teacher, Covid has still affected me and my children greatly.

I have lost my two part-time jobs that I would normally work to help support my family in Estes Park. We all know it’s not easy to be a single mom here. And because I have a full-time job, I don’t qualify for unemployment. In addition, due to the hold up at the IRS; I have yet to get my tax return or my stimulus check which most others got long ago. I own my own home, and had a pretty good savings built up in case of an emergency. But, without those part-time jobs, I have slowly worked through all of my savings and now no longer have enough to pay my mortgage and living expenses on a monthly basis. Crossroads not only helped to pay my December mortgage, but has given me food to share with my family during Thanksgiving as well as provide some gift cards for my children for Christmas! (due to Bright Christmas) We are so blessed to have this support in town. I feel awful needing to ask for help, and especially during the holidays, but I’m so, so grateful and appreciative. Thank you so much for supporting my family.”

We have many other families coming in for assistance, so please consider sponsoring a family this Christmas and throughout the year. You can make an online donation securely through our website or send in a check to PO Box 3616, Estes Park, CO 80517. Thank you for helping us love our neighbors!

Burrito Drive Thru Fundraiser: A Big Success $270,000 Ann Racine

Mike Tracy

(970) 215-3883

(303) 817-5709

Broker/Owner, GRI, CRS

www.RangeRealty.com

Broker

Toll Free 1-888-319-2345

Lifelong Learning of Estes Valley Preschool (LLEV) wants to express thanks for all the support received on our Burrito Drive Thru Fundraiser, sponsored by Cinnamon’s Bakery. The special event was a big success, with funds totaling over $3,000 raised to support the ongoing mission at the 501(c)3 nonprofit preschool.

A big thank you to Cinnamon’s Bakery for sponsoring the event and donating all the food, drinks, and supplies, as well as providing the kitchen and staff for preparation of the burritos. Also we want to thank the LLEV Board of Directors who gave tirelessly of their time and talents to plan, organize, sell, and clean up after the event, as well as the wonderful support we received from the Estes Park News for promoting the event on short notice.

Equally important, is the great support we received from the community and all the preschool families, including many alumni families, who came out in freezing weather to pick up the nearly 400 burritos sold. Thank you all.

We greatly appreciate the funds raised for preschool operations. Lifelong Learning of Estes Valley Preschool (LLEV), a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, has operated for 20 years serving the Estes Valley and surrounding communities with a quality Christian-based preschool program. The LLEV mission is to enhance the love of learning by stimulating curiosity and providing the necessary skills to make learning a lifelong pursuit.

Funds from this event will help support all programs, including the LLEV Tuition Assistance Program for low income families.

Nancy Johnson, Executive DirectorLifelong Learning of Estes Valley Preschool

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 29

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Bright Christmas Thanks The Community For Its Generous Support In a year marked by challenges and changes, Bright Christmas set out to make the Christmas of 2020 as normal as possible for families in need in our community (our 36th year of helping families).

A host of generous givers of time, money, gifts, and support exceeded our expectations once again. We are grateful for our long time donors, sponsors and community business partners, and extend a welcome and thank you to new folks who joined the “team” this year. The efforts of many made this Christmas program a most successful one. Sometimes numbers do tell a story.

This year…

• 125 families will have a Christmas made bright by our many partners and sponsors.

• 313 children will smile a bit brighter on Christmas morning.

• 242 new pairs of shoes or boots will be available for those who need them (Plum Creek Shoes).

• 3700 cans, bags, boxes, bottles, jars, etc., of food, paper goods and more, as well as 55 gift cards were purchased from the Country Supermarket, and 75 gift cards were purchased from La Mexicana Market for the families.

• 375 # of rice have been donated and

distributed (Claire’s on the Park).

• 70 turkey breasts were donated by Crossroads and distributed.

• 125 boxes of taffy were donated by Mark Igel at The Taffy Store.

• 300 boxes of tissues were donated by Mama Rose’s for the families.

• 267 rolls of TP came to us from Poppy’s, and they fed us pizzas as well.

• 10 boxes of wonderful gifts and clothing were donated to us by the Chrysallis Gift store.

• Countless hours, supplies and a distribution location were given by our partners who, year after year, continue to show the character of the folks in Estes Park... Crossroads, 18 Hole Golf Course staff and facilities (Estes Valley Recreation & Park District), Estes Rent All, Waste Management, MedX, Ace Hardware, and Between Friends Consignment store.

• Countless hours have been spent by our board members and covid-conscious group of volunteers shopping, wrapping, sorting, boxing food, carrying sponsor gifts in from cars, loading family gifts and food back into the family’s cars…all the while done with minimal contact.

• To the 14 local businesses that gave

The Spark Campaign Is Partners’ Annual Giving Campaign!

We invite you to Spark Hope, Spark Confidence, and Spark Generosity with local youth this holiday season by supporting The Spark Campaign with a financial gift.

The Spark Campaign (formerly called Christmas for Kids) is our biggest fundraiser of the year and we aim to raise $100,000 by December 31st. We created a big goal so that we can continue to make a big impact on our local community.

Our kids need connection and support more than ever. 2020 has brought challenges that threaten their mental health and wellness. As an organization, we have worked to find the best ways to support local youth and families.

Your support is critical to helping us continue supporting youth. Thank you for donating to further our mission!

Ways to make a tax deductible donation: Visit: poweredbypartners.org/ events/spark Then scroll down for your choices to donate: • “Donate to The Spark Campaign”

• “Become A Corporate Sponsor” • “Our Spark Champions” if you want to support a Spark Champion’s campaign • “Sign Up to Be a Spark Champion” if you want to become a Spark Champion to help raise money for this campaign You can send a check payable to Partners to: Partners, 530 S. College Ave. Unit 1, Fort Collins, CO 80524. Be sure to write The Spark Campaign in the Memo line on your check. If you are donating to a specific champion’s page be sure to put their name in the memo line also.

Does your workplace match your charitable gifts? Please check with your employer for a matching gifts form.

Thank you for your support!

generous discounts to the shoppers for Bright Christmas gifts, thank you.

• To the many families, individuals, service clubs, businesses, churches and others who sponsored families by gift giving, we thank you for your generosity.

As we close out this year, we are grateful for the opportunity to care for our neighbors in need in such a special way. It does take a “village to make Christmas brighter” for so many.

Happy New Year from all of us to you and yours.

Jean & Nancy - Bright Christmas of Estes Park

30 » Friday, December 18, 2020

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Five Fun Facts About… The White-tailed Deer By: Dawn Wilson

This week’s featured animal is the white-tailed deer. You will not typically see white-tailed deer in Estes Valley or Rocky Mountain National Park. The deer in this area are mule deer. Whitetailed deer, however, do live in Colorado, including as close as Fort Collins, Denver and Granby, so I thought it would be insightful to talk about some of the differences and how to identify them when you do see them down the hill.

1. White-tailed deer are the smallest member of the deer family in North America, ranging in size from 150 to 310 pounds for bucks and 90 to 210 pounds for does.

2. The antlers of white-tailed bucks have a single main beam that grows outward and forward from the base and tines branching off its sides. Occasionally palmated antlers might be observed on these bucks. Mule deer bucks, on the other hand, have antlers that grow outward and up with forked branches.

White-tailed deer can be differentiated from mule deer by their distinct wide tail with a white underside, which rises up when running.

Mule deer bucks (left) have forked tines on their antlers. White-tailed bucks (right) have tines that branch off from a single beam.

3. The identifying feature of whitetailed deer is their broad, white tail, especially visible when the tail stands up as the deer runs. Mule deer tails feature a black tip and appear more like a thick rope.

4. Whitetails have dichromatic vision, meaning they only see in two colors—blue and yellow— and are up to 25 times more sensitive to seeing blue than humans.

They do not see reds and oranges.

White-tail bucks on occasion can present with palmated antlers.

American Legion To Continue Nourishing Network American Legion Post 119 is excited to announce that it is continuing to provide Heat-and-Eat meals to the Estes Park community through a new phase of the Nourishing Network. While the Monday soup and salad lunch and Saturday morning burritos will no longer be offered, free carryout dinner meals may be picked up from 4-6 p.m. every day of the week but Friday.

The Estes Park Nonprofit Resource Center established the food program this fall after receiving a $100,000 Nourishing Neighbors grant from the Safeway Foundation. EPNRC’s contract ended December 16th, however, the Legion eagerly offered to extend the meal portion of the project. Plans are to provide Heatand-Eat meals through the month of January and longer if funding remains available. In these difficult times there continues to be both a need and demand for food assistance within the community. The nutritious meals will be prepared by Chef Rich in the Legion’s com-

mercial kitchen and packaged to make it easy for residents to pick them up for reheating at home.

If you would like to contribute to the program, you are invited to send a check to American Legion Post 119 at P.O. Box 127, Estes Park, CO 80517. You can also make a donation by clicking on the “Donate” button on the Post’s website at www.esteslegion.org. In either case, please indicate your contribution is for the Nourishing Network.

The Legion will continue to work closely with the EPNRC by providing fliers including contact information for the many social service resources available through the organization’s members. A complete list of those resources can be found on the EPNRC’s website at epnonprofit.org.

If you have questions about this latest phase of the Nourishing Network, feel free to call the Legion at 970-576-6118 or send an email to epal@esteslegion.org.

White-tailed deer are not typically seen in the Estes Valley, but they don't live far, with populations in places like Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge east of Denver.

5. Olfactory cells are a specialized sensory cell stimulated by odors (it detects smell). Humans have about five million.

Dogs have approximately 220 million.

Whitetails have an unbelievable 297 million, making them extremely sensitive to smells.

Dawn Wilson is a professional and award-winning nature photographer who lives in Estes Park year-round. You can see more of her work, join one of her Rocky tours, and purchase prints and calendars at DawnWilsonPhotography.com or follow her on Instagram: @dawnwilsonphoto.

Mona, Izzy and Annie Are Looking For New, Loving Homes For The Holidays Mona is looking for her forever family.

She is a sweet, charming, loving and a very well behaved kitty. She enjoys lying in the sun, getting brushed and watching tv with her people. Mona is 10 years old. She does not do well with other kitties.

Izzy is about 12 years old. He is friendly and easy going, good with dogs, cats and kids. He is a gorgeous flame point Siamese.

Annie is a black domestic short haired kitty. She has lived with dogs and is a bit shy but very affectionate.

All of these sweet pets are currently being cared for by members of the Pet Association of Estes Park. Call (970) 286-1652 to meet any of these sweet cats.

All pets are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a non-profit organization that is your local humane society. You can make a tax-deductible donation to the Pet Association by sending your check to P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517. For more information, please call 970-286-1652.

Annie

Izzy

Mona

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 31

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What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library HOURS & SERVICES Holiday Hours The library will be closed all day on Thursday and Friday, December 24 and 25, re-opening on December 26 at 10 a.m. The library will close at 2 p.m. on Thursday, December 31, and remain closed on January 1, re-opening January 2 at 10 a.m.

Current Open Hours: Mondays - Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

During the current Level Red status in Larimer County, indoor library access is limited. The collections are open, but seating is limited to a few public computers. The second floor and all meeting and study rooms are closed for now. Curbside pick-up service and use of outdoor Wi-Fi are recommended. Full details at estesvalleylibrary.org.

Curbside Service by Appointment Place holds in the catalog, then watch for an email notice, and schedule a convenient pick-up time. Full details at estesvalleylibrary.org.

HOLIDAY READING & MORE Now is a great time to stock up on holiday reading, listening and viewing.

Physical collections feature holiday crafts and cookbooks, Christmasthemed novels, holiday music on CD, and movies on DVD. The digital col-

lections include thousands more titles—including bestselling novels, kids’ books, and downloadable music and movies. Physical items can be placed on hold and picked up curbside, and digital items can be downloaded 24/7. Full details at estesvalleylibrary.org.

KIDS & FAMILY Preschool and Baby Storytimes Online New each week on YouTube.

Children ages 0 to 6 and their families can enjoy stories, songs, puppets and activities, online each week with new themes. See the upcoming roster at estesvalleylibrary.org and watch previous recordings on the library’s YouTube channel.

Spanish Read-Aloud with Gretel Weekly on Library’s YouTube channel.

Enjoy Spanish-language storybooks read aloud by Outreach Librarian Gretel Bock.

Early Childhood Music Workshops On the library’s YouTube channel.

Music is a great stimulus for children’s cognitive development. Join local music therapist Nancy Bell for learning inspired through songs, especially for kids ages 0 to 6. Now online.

BOOK-A-LIBRARIAN College Planning One-on-One December appointments available.

College planning—from choosing a school to financial aid—is made easier by a one-on-one telephone visit with Kaye Orten, retired Vice Chancellor for Student Financial Services at CUBoulder. Visit the “Book-a-Librarian” link at estesvalleylibrary.org to learn more and schedule an appointment.

ONE BOOK ONE VALLEY “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” The 2021 One Book One Valley title is “The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek” by Kim Michele Richardson, as chosen by the readers of the Estes Valley. Visit the library to check out a copy, or schedule an appointment for curbside pick-up. Other formats include large print, audiobook, and digital eBook. A month of programs and discussions are planned for January.

More details at estesvalleylibrary.org.

FRIENDS & FOUNDATION Cliffhanger Used Books Cliffhanger Used Books, operated by the Library Friends & Foundation, is open Mondays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Wednesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays). The store is located at 191 W. Riverside Drive. The history, biography and memoir sections are on sale in December: $2 hardcover, and $1 paperback, plus tax.

32 » Friday, December 18, 2020

Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary To Participate In The Fourteener’s Project Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary (EVSR) has been pleased to partner with ShelterBox USA, a global organization dedicated to the vision of a world where no family is without shelter af-

are aware that these mountains rank as some of the tallest and most challenging in North America.

This year, Brittney “Bert” Woodrum made it her mission to summit all 58 peaks with the Mark Holdt & Karen Nicholson iconic ShelterBox in tow in order to raise awareness of, and funding for, ShelterBox. Following a presentation to Sunrise Rotary, the club’s International Committee and membership as well as member Mark Holdt and Thrivent, sponsored two of the fourteenEstes Valley Sunrise Rotary is pleased to partner with ShelterBox USA in support of the Fourteeners Project. Through a generous do- ers peaks, nation from Mark Holdt and Thrivent, as well as EVSR’s International Longs Peak and Maroon Peak, Committee and member donations, Sunrise Rotary has co-sponsored Longs Peak and sponsored Maroon Peak. ShelterBox proin support of vides emergency shelter to people in need around the world.

ShelterBox. EVSR membership and committees ter disaster, since 2018. Through Sun- have several priority areas of focus rise Rotary annual donations as well as and fundraising, including Estes Park ShelterBox USA presence at Autumn community-based Community ServGold in 2018 and 2019, this partnerice and Youth Services as well as our ship has been a focus for Sunrise Roannual fundraisers, Labor Day Arts tary’s membership as well as the EVSR and Crafts Festival and Autumn Gold International Committee.

Festival, both historically held in SepThis fall brought EVSR the opportu- tember. This partnership highlights nity to participate in the Fourteener’s our International Committee work in Project, termed ‘Bert Woodrum’s mis- supporting those in need across the sion to climb 58 mountain peaks for globe.

ShelterBox USA’ and ‘58 Peaks for For more information about ShelterCharity.’ While climbing our state’s 58 Box USA, please visit ‘fourteeners’ is a rite of passage for as- ShelterBoxUSA.org. piring mountaineers, we Coloradans

Sunrise Rotary Donates To Blue Santa

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1917 Book Club to Take Place January 20, 2021 On Wednesday, January 20, 2021 from 10 - 11:30 a.m., the 1917 Book Club hosted by the Estes Park Museum returns virtually with local title, Weaving Mountain Memories: Recollections of the Allenspark Area by Lorna Knowlton and second edition edited and expanded by Edie DeWeese. The book explores stories and tales from the Allenspark area. This program is free and open to the public and will take place over Zoom. Book Club attendees will have access to their camera and microphones during the program to better participate in the discussion. It is strongly encouraged that participants read each book prior to the program to take part in the discussion.

No registration is required. Use the following link to participate: zoom.us/j/99728000422.

Joining 5-10 minutes early is encouraged to make sure participant audio and video is working correctly. Questions about Zoom? Visit the Zoom support page beforehand to better understand this platform as staff will not be able to troubleshoot technological questions during the program.

Weaving Mountain Memories chronicles the tales, characters, and histories of Allenspark. “The story of Allenspark is one of get-rich quick schemes, fly-by-night schemers, and generations of quirky mountain folk who found their niche and couldn't leave. In Rocky Mountain National Park's backyard, Allenspark is a place of unsurpassed beauty and its stories are as entrancing and appealing as its geography.” Museum staff will facilitate a lively discussion about the title.

winter months of the year (January through April). For any questions regarding this event or other Museum programming, please email Curator of Interpretation, Mikaela Fundaun, at mfundaun@estes.org.

The mission of the Estes Park Museum is to conduct activities that preserve, share, and respect the unique history of Estes Park. For more information, call the Estes Park Museum at 970-586-6256 or visit the Museum's website.

Give The Gift Of Mentoring Partners has youth waiting for their special mentor. At this time we have two male youth waiting for their special mentor! Are you an adult male 21 or older who is very active and interested in working with younger male mentees?

One male youth loves video games and

Dr. Aaron Florence (left) presenting, on behalf of the Sunrise Rotary Club, a check to Corey Pass of the Estes Park Police Department, in support of their Blue Santa project.

This project brings a little “extra cheer” to those community members who could use a little “boost” during the holiday season.

The 1917 Book Club features publications that center on local topics and authors. Participants are encouraged to propose and vote on future books.

The Club meets annually during the

You Tube. Another male youth loves soccer and being very active. One youth is in our Community-based Mentoring Program, and the other in our Schoolbased mentoring program.

Other volunteer positions include: female mentors, activity volunteers, and advisory council members.

Contact kwhitacre@poweredbypartners.org or go to our website www.poweredbypart www.poweredbypartners.org for more information!

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 33

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EPHS Future Health Professional Students Selling Handmade Wreaths Happy Holidays EPSD! HOSA Future Health Professionals wants to brighten up your holidays with our beautiful handmade holiday wreaths!

Estes Park High School students have been creating them as fast as they can, to dress up your home and the homes of your loved ones. They are working to stay ahead of orders from their friends and families, but they want to offer you a chance to get your own. We have small and large, evergreen and synthetic wreaths. Suggested prices are $30 or $45, but recognizing everyone is in a different situation, they are taking whatever donation you would like to make for these treasures.

Email Cynthia at cynthia_basch@psdr3.k12.co.us to place an order, and you may pay online at myschoolbucks.com or send payment to the high school bookkeeper, Julie Fisher.

We are taking orders through December 20th.

Students are raising money to pay for their registrations at the State Leadership Conference in February, and possible entry into the International Leadership Conference in Orlando in June, so feel free to support them as much as you can. ;) Thank you, and Happy Holidays!

Partners Thanks For 2020!

Partners would like to thank our Mission Partner Sponsors for 2020: * Bank of Colorado * Bank of Estes Park * Estes Park Mountain Shop Partners would also like to thank those who made In-Kind donations to Partners in 2020: * Poppy's Pizza and Grill * Estes Park Rent All * Mama Roses * Ride-A-Kart * Laura Trump

* Estes Park News * Estes Park Trail Gazette Your support means so much to the youth we serve in our programs!

Winter Is Here – Please Be Responsible As You Enjoy The Outdoors Now is a great time to get out and enjoy the winter snow, but with the new season comes challenges and safety considerations to take into account.

We want everyone to be able to enjoy this incredible time of year safely.

Travel conditions can vary greatly from the time you leave your home until you reach your destination, especially in mountain passes and at higher elevations. It’s important to check road conditions before heading out and make sure you have the right gear in your car in case you run into delays.

Winter weather can change quickly.

Tire chains may be required. Remember to slow down when driving in winter conditions and use extra care while driving and parking.

Choose your destination wisely. Have a backup plan in place in case you arrive to find a crowded trailhead or unsafe conditions. Be certain that you have the proper safety gear for your winter adventure, including extra layers, a shovel, a probe, and an avalanche beacon, depending on the nature of your trip. Consider your vehicle as part of your winter emergency gear. Be sure that your tires are ready for the

snow and carry extra clothing, food, water, and a sleeping bag in case you get stuck.

Avalanches can strike even the most prepared winter recreationists. Check conditions with your local avalanche center or the National Avalanche Center online before venturing out. Remember that avalanche equipment is only as helpful as your corresponding training and decision-making in avalanche terrain. Know how to use your gear and respect your physical limitations. Let people know where you are going. Get avalanche educated or hire a guide before you visit the backcountry.

Finally, be sure to practice Winter Wellness. Be respectful of others.

Cover your nose and mouth when you can’t maintain six feet from others or when you are indoors. When possible, eat and rest outside. If you feel sick stay home.

Enjoy your national forests, and please exercise good judgement as you visit them this winter. More information can be found at www.recreateresponsibly.org/.

Drop Off Christmas Trees Dec. 28 - Jan. 22 At The Fairgrounds The Town of Estes Park's free Christmas tree drop-off site will be open to local residents 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, Dec. 28 through Jan. 22, except Dec 31 and Jan. 1 when the Town is closed for observation of the New Year's holiday. The dropoff will be located at the east entrance of the Fairgrounds off Community Drive; follow the signs to the fenced drop-off location.

Trees must be stripped of ornaments,

tinsel and other decorations. No wreaths, garland, artificial trees or tree stands will be accepted. Trees must be dropped during the specified hours in the identified area. Dropping trees after hours or in other locations at the Fairgrounds will be considered illegal dumping and may be subject to a fine.

This service is free of charge to local residents.

For more information, please contact the Town of Estes Park Public Works Department at 970-577-3587.

Photo by Jim Ward

34 » Friday, December 18, 2020

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Christmas Services At Local Churches Christmas Eve at the YMCA Load the family into the station wagon and join the fun as the Chapel Ministry presents, "Home For Christmas," a drive-in family friendly and socially distanced celebration of the birth of Jesus.

This event will be held on December 24th, and will occur every 20 minutes from 5:008:00 p.m.

Experience holiday lights and music, and listen to Grandpa B tell the story of Christmas, all from the warmth of your car through the FM receiver on your radio! Space is limited, and reservations are required.

Specific instructions will be sent once reservation is complete. To reserve a spot, please call Sweet Memorial Building, 970-586-3341 ext. 1104 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

Presbyterian Community Church Blue Christmas Service-Monday, December 21. Please join us virtually via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. on December 21st -- the Winter Solstice and the longest night of the year. Here’s the link: Join Zoom meeting us02web.zoom.us/j/85462868459 Meeting ID: 854 6286 8459 / Passcode: 80517 Dial in: 1 346 248 7799 / 1 253 215 8782 / 1 312 626 6799 We hope to see you there.

Christian Church of Estes Park The Christian Church of Estes Park invites you, along with your family, friends, and neighbors, to join us this Christmas Eve for a very special Candlelight Service of Blessings and Carols.

Through Scripture, skits, and traditional carols, we will celebrate the Good News!

Christmas is really all about.

Services will be held at 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. and will also be livestreamed to our website www.FunChurch.com, Facebook and Youtube.

To accommodate safe social distancing, attendees must pre-register for this event. Tickets are free, but space is limited. We look forward to having you join us this Christmas Eve for an unforgettable celebration.

To register or to learn more, please visit www.FunChurch.com.

St. Francis Anglican Church, 3480 St. Francis Way (off Little Valley Rd.), Estes Park. 970-577-0601.

Christmas Eve Service 5:30 p.m.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 11:00 p.m. (wear mask)

The churches on this page emailed us their Christmas services as requested in last week’s EP News.

Meeting Notices Estes Park Healing Rooms Tuesdays 5:30-8:00 p.m. at Park Fellowship Church, 340 South St. Vrain Avenue. Prayers for physical, spiritual and emotional healing. For more info, please call 515-490-3475.

Early Worms AA Meetings Early Worms AA meets at 7 a.m. every morning except Sunday in the basement of Saint Bartholomew’s Church at 880 MacGregor Ave. For more info, please call 970-586-1090 or 970-443-3538.

Women’s AA Group Tuesdays at 6 p.m. St. Bart’s Church.

880 MacGregor Avenue. 11 step prayer and meditation meeting, every last Tuesday of the month.

Estes Park Al-Anon Al-Anon Group in Estes Park meets from 7-8 p.m. every Friday via Zoom.

Call 586-4268 for Zoom information/link/password for meeting.

Fall River Group of AA The Fall River Group of Alcoholics Anonymous meets daily at noon.

Also: Sunday morning-7 a.m.

Sunday- 7:00 p.m.-open Monday-5:30 p.m.-Women’s Study & 7:00 p.m.-open Wednesday 7 p.m.-open Friday 7 p.m.-open Meeting location is 453 W. Elkhorn Ave. We welcome friends and visitors to attend these open meetings.

Park Al-Anon Park Al-Anon meets Wednesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. at St Bartholomew's Episcopal Church, 880 MacGregor Ave., Estes Park.

New Horizons Group of Narcotics Anonymous Thursdays at 7 p.m. - Open meeting.

453 W. Elkhorn.

Glen Haven Meeting There is an Alcoholic Anonymous meeting in Glen Haven on Monday nights at Glen Haven Town Hall, 6:30 p.m.

Presbyterian Community Church Christmas Service An Invitation from the Presbyterian Community Church Blue Christmas Service-Monday, December 21, 5:00 p.m.

As the Christmas season approaches, we are reminded daily of the joy of the season through music, decorations, and TV commercials. Yet during this season of joy, there are many people who struggle to either maintain a façade of seasonal joy or retreat from the world. With so much turmoil and unknowns in our lives, many are stressed. Joy for some is lost, is buried in feelings of sadness, aloneness, and grief.

Our Blue Christmas Service is a time to acknowledge that Christmas isn’t always festive and joyful for some. Our worship and reflection are centered around the lighting of the Advent Candles with a slightly different focus. This is a time that we gather in worship and be present with each other and the Holy. It’s a time to share our love and support for one another. It’s a time to surround ourselves with our sisters and brothers.

Loss comes in many forms. If you are

experiencing grief from the loss of a loved one, a job, a hope or a dream, or are struggling with all the mayhem that is happening in our lives and the world, or maybe you just have the Christmas doldrums, this service is designed for you. It is a meaningful and beautiful reminder that we are not alone.

Please join us virtually via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. on December 21st -- the Winter Solstice and the longest night of the year. Here’s the link: Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8546286845 9 Meeting ID: 854 6286 8459 / Passcode: 80517 Dial in: 1 346 248 7799 / 1 253 215 8782 / 1 312 626 6799 We hope to see you there.

Estes Park United Methodist Church Offering Longest Night Service A Service for those who are struggling this Holiday Season.

Christmas can be a painful time. This year has been particularly difficult for all of us with many, many losses and much to grieve. Most of our holiday traditions have been put on hold or changed this year.

For many it will be the first Christmas without traditional family gatherings. It will be the first Christmas for many of us without attending a worship service in person. For others it may be the first Christmas without a loved family member who has recently died; it may be a time that has always been difficult. We need the space and time to acknowledge our sadness and concern; we need to know that we are not alone.

To help in this time, Estes Park United Methodist Church is offering a special “Longest Night” service on December 21, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. on Zoom

- email Pastor Ann for the link at pastor@epumc.org.

A recorded service will also be available via our website beginning the evening of 12/20/2020 at epumc.org/blog.

Everyone, regardless of church background (or lack of it) is welcome. We are a church that believes that no matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey—you are welcome. For more information about EPUMC, email us at www.epumc.org.

Church Services At The Christian Church Of Estes Park This Christmas Eve, celebrate the Good News! of Christmas with us!

The Christian Church of Estes Park invites you, along with your family, friends, and neighbors, to join us this Christmas Eve for a very special Candlelight Service of Blessings and Carols.

Through Scripture, skits, and traditional carols, we will celebrate the Good News!

Christmas is really all about. Services will be held at 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.

and will also be live-streamed to our website www.FunChurch.com, Facebook and Youtube.

To accommodate safe social distancing, attendees must pre-register for this event. Tickets are free, but space is limited. We look forward to having you join us this Christmas Eve for an unforgettable celebration.

To register or to learn more, please visit www.FunChurch.com.

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EMPLOYMENT » Place and View Ads at EPNews.com « EMPLOYMENT

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 35

Patron Services Substitute

Salary: $13.00/hr Closing Date: 5 pm, Tuesday, January 5, 2021 SUMMARY: This position provides exceptional customer service at the first and second floor desks. This is a fast-paced, multitasking team environment, requiring attention to detail, with the skills to learn computer systems. Bilingual a plus. Must be able to work days, evenings, and weekends when regularly scheduled staff are away.

PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATION: Review full job description and apply at www.estesvalleylibrary.org. Only online applications with cover letter and resume will be accepted. EEO.

NOW HIRING!

Hot Tub Servicing and Maintenance

Apply at, mail or email resume to: Fawn Valley Inn, 2760 Fall River Road, Estes Park, CO 80517 Email: patrickt@rockymtnresorts.com

Help Wanted--BookkeeperShepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church.

Congregation seeking a qualified, detail oriented individual to perform bill paying, bank reconciliations, financial filing, reporting and documentation. Includes learning and using church software program.

Hours estimated at 10/week at $15.50/hr. Contact; ron.bockhaus@smlcestes.org.

Murphy's Hotels are looking for a person with excellent customer service skills and flexible hours.

Call Loretta 1-970-480-2955 for interview.

Rams Horn Village Resort has year round full time and part time positions available in our Guest Services/Housekeeping Department: Competitive pay based on experience, plus benefits package for full time employees. Great working environment in Estes Park’s only Gold Crown Resort.

Our business stays busy year round and 40 hours per week are available through the winter. 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

Now hiring for Pharmacy Technician and Front End Clerk Please call or stop by for an application 970-586-5577

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Full details on open positions can be found at estes.org/jobs.

The Town of Estes Park is accepting applications for:

We’re gearing up for the winter season and hiring for the following positions starting at $13.80/hr.: • Drive-up & Go Service Helpers • Checker • Courtesy Clerk • Day-Stocker • Overnight Stocker • Bakery Clerk • Deli Clerk • Produce Clerk • Seafood Clerk • Cake Decorator • Meat Cutter Get your application at: www.albertsoncompanies.com/careers After your application has been completed, please call our hiring manager Ann at 970.586.4447.

ESTES PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT R-3 Job Posting MIDDLE SCHOOL SECRETARY/REGISTRAR TO APPLY: Interested applicants must apply online with Appli-Track: http://www.applitrack.com/ estesschools/onlineapp/. Only online applications are accepted. Salary range is $15.02 - $16.99 per hour, with single benefits.

205 days per year. Up to five year’s credit for similar previous work experience may be granted for initial salary placement. FLSA nonexempt. See full posting at www.estesschools.org Estes Park School District R-3 Is An Equal Opportunity Employer

Help us Help Others Become a CAREGiver Starting at $16 per hour No Medical Background required Flexible Schedule Training and Local Support provided Rewarding & Meaningful Job! Apply online at HomeInstead.com/northerncolorado or call for more information 970‐494‐0289

IT Support Specialist I/II Close Date: Open until filled first review December 18, 2020 Seasonal Positions Community Service Officer Close Date: March 8, 2021 Volunteer/Committee Board Positions Community & Family Advisory Board (4 positions open) Close Date: January 8, 2021 Local Marketing District Board Close Date: January 8, 2021 Parks Advisory Board Close Date: Open until filled Transportation Advisory Board (3 positions open) Close Date: January 8, 2021 (Committee application required)

Join Our Team!

PERSONAL BANKER Full time, year round position

Ideal candidates will have prior cash handling, customer service and banking experience.

Additional requirements include attention to detail, strong computer and problem solving skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced team oriented environment.

Excellent benefits including medical, dental, 401(K) and paid time off.

Applications are available at: Town Hall 170 MacGregor Ave. Room 130 (Mon-Fri 8 am – 5 pm) or www.estes.org/ jobs Return Application to: Town of Estes Park, Attn: HR; by mail to PO Box 1200, Estes Park, CO 80517; or via Email to HR@Estes.org or via Fax to (970) 577-4770.

The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Please apply at : www.bankofcolorado.com Member FDIC

Now Hiring!

Part-time Admin Assistant

• Flexible Hours • Rewarding Work • Make a Lasting Difference!

• $15-17 an hour • Bookkeeping Experience Required • See evlandtrust.org/jobs for more detail • Application Deadline January 8, 2021 • Email resume and cover letter to jeffrey.boring@evlandtrust.org

36 » Friday, December 18, 2020

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RENTALS

RENTALS

SERVICES

SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

SALES

Homes

Commercial Rentals

Sewing/Alterations

Piano Tuning

Commercial

Estate Sales

Private office with its own entrance, front door parking, includes all utilities, high speed internet, use of a conference room and kitchen, handicapped bathrooms. $650 a month all inclusive. Call Peggy at 970-232-5588.

Remixed Custom Sewing Services and Industrial Repair Cushions, benches, leather, campers and outdoor furniture.

Local - call Beth 970-492-5446

Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt.

577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com

Storage Units

Other-Misc

Condos/Townhomes

Heated Storage Unit Downtown, 450 sq. ft.

970-290-4488 3BD 1BA 1400 sft home on river 2decks. fully furnished. 1 Car garage. $2000 plus utilities, vault.

Includes water cable internet and phone. Mature dog w/dep. Single fam, no sublet. call 720 276-6830

Cabins 1 bdrm $950/mo $950 deposit + utls.

No pets. Year lease 970586-4624

FOR SALE BY OWNER 3BD,3BA,2 CAR GARAGE,ALL APPLIANCES,GAS FIREPLACE AT “VISTA RIDGE CONDOS” OFF DRY GULCH. CALL 970-980-9887 $410,000

TRANSPORTATION Misc.

2016 Meyer Drive Pro Plow. Very good cond. $2,700. 970-692-4237

REAL ESTATE

Commercial Spaces for sale and lease.

Call Eric.

Anderson Realty.

586-2950

Need Help Around The House? I do household chores, yard work, housekeeping, run errands, auto detailing & yes... I do windows! I am a long time resident having now lived in Estes Park for 38 yrs!

Plenty of references!

Call Janice at 970-215-6612.

Let me help you!

RECREATION

ESTATE/GARAGE SALE; Need to have one, but seems overwhelming.

We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL NOW 970-215-5548

NOTICES Legal Notices

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Donald McEndaffer, Deceased.

Case Number 20PR162.

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Larimer, County, Colorado on or before 04/16/2021, or the claims may be forever Burley Child Bike Trailer barred.

- less than a year old - like Michael McEndaffer 1861 Raven Avenue #C6 new. $250.00 Estes Park, Colorado 682-582-6985 80517

Bicycles

SALES

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER ACCOUNTING Tax Minimization

ATTORNEYS

CARPET CLEANING

QuickBooks Support

CLOUD@CCOUNTING

MuellerPyeCPA.com

970.667.1070

AUDIO

APPLIANCE REPAIR

CHIMNEY SWEEP

CAMERAS ARCHITECTURE

CLEANING SERVICES

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PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER

CLEANING SERVICES cont.

DECK BUILDING/REPAIR

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 37

ENGINEERING

DRYWALL CONTRACTOR EYEWARE/GLASSES

EXCAVATION

ELECTRICIANS COMPUTER SERVICES

FLOORING

SERVING ESTES PARK FOR 20 YEARS (970)-577-9855 parkflooring.com

Synergy Electrical Solutions LLC Quality Electrical work at an affordable price.

Call for free estimate today.

Licensed and Insured (970) 652‐8450

GENERAL CONTRACTOR

38 » Friday, December 18, 2020

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER

GENERAL CONTRACTOR cont.

GLASS - NEW / REPLACEMENT

CELEBRATING

25 YEARS 1993-2018

Design | Build | Remodel

General Contractors | Timber Frame & Log Homes Serving the Colorado Northwest Mountains since 1993

970-586-7711 | www.ldwatkins.com

970-586-1685 Custom Homes, Additions, Kitchens, Baths, Historic Renovations, Remodels and Design Work

Charles Santagati 1191 Graves Ave glaciercreekinc.com Full service general contracting since 1998

02817$,1 9,(: &216758&7,21 ,1&

HEARING & TINNITUS CARE Cory D. Workman, Au.D. Phone: 970-586-5255 â&#x20AC;¢ Hearing Aids / New & Repair â&#x20AC;¢ Hearing Evaluations â&#x20AC;¢ Hearing Protection â&#x20AC;¢ Ear Care / Wax Removal â&#x20AC;¢ Dizziness / Balance

1186 Graves Ave., Ste. B Estes Park, CO 80517 Fax: 970-577-7260 drcory@estesparkaudiology.com www.estesparkaudiology.com

HOT TUBS & POOL SERVICES

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720.438.1088 jharris@sevenwest.build â&#x20AC;¢ EXCAVATION AND SEPTIC INSTALLS â&#x20AC;¢ INTERIOR TRIM â&#x20AC;¢ STRUCTURAL FRAMING â&#x20AC;¢ COMPLETE HOME RENOVATIONS â&#x20AC;¢ WE PROVIDE SUB-CONTRACTING SERVICES TO GENERAL CONTRACTORS Licensed and insured. NAWT certified, Boulder County Public Health license number A-082-16. General Contractor License Number CON-16-0212

LINEN SUPPLY -LAUNDRY SERVICE

MAINTENANCE/REPAIR SERVICES

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MAINTENANCE/REPAIR SERVICES

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PAINTING

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER

Friday, December 18, 2020 « 39

PLUMBING AND HEATING

ROOFING

POWER GENERATION

SECURITY HOME WATCH

Call us for all of your painting or staining needs!

• Residential/Commercial • Log Homes/Decks • Free Estimates • 4 Year Warranty

• Interior/Exterior • Power Washing • Local References • Licensed & Insured

Tim Stolz, Owner • 970-518-4001• 26 Years Experience e-mail: testolz@hotmail.com • www.bestway-painting.com

PRINTING

TREE SERVICE PROPANE

WINDOW CLEANING PEST CONTROL

RENTAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

40 » Friday, December 18, 2020

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4075 Little Valley Rd

$795,000 1572 Moss Rock Dr

1489 Dry Gulch Rd~11.62 Acres

$1,100,000 1010 S Saint Vrain~E1

$789,000 986 Fox Creek Rd

$418,000 1120 Griffith Cr~3 Homes!

$269,000 1010 S Saint Vrain~A5

$479,000

2396 Highway 34

$1,250,000 1400 David Dr~#12

$218,900

Call us to use our FREE Moving Truck.

$279,000