Estes Park News, August 22, 2025 by Estes Park News, Inc

Tiny Terror In The Rocks

This long-tailed weasel paused just long enough for a stare-down. Known for their lightning-fast moves and bold hunting style, they’re as fascinating as they are photogenic.

Photo by Christopher Barnard

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Mayor’s Message: Redemption

“Redemption,” in a secular sense, means different things to different people. I see it as a good conclusion after a troubled situation.

In literature, movies, and theater, there are tales in which redemption plays a key part of the storyline. One of Shakespeare’s more obscure plays, “Pericles,” and his “The Winter’s Tale,” both have climactic reunification/redemption scenes. Even King Lear learns (too late) which daughter was true and honest at the very end of the play.

In Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath,” the ending is one of the greatest moments of redemption in all of literature. After all the pain and horror that the Joad family has come through, there’s an amazing final scene of humanity and sharing. Huckleberry Finn finds understanding in the course of his long odyssey. Even Harold Hill in “The Music Man” redeems himself by fulfilling his shyster’s false promises and avoids being run out of River City on a rail.

Public government officials make decisions about a wide variety of topics. Hopefully, those servants of the citizens become educated on those issues, listen to the various insights and opinions and legalities, and check their inner compass before hitting that “vote” button. In public government, consideration of redemption isn’t part of the formula. We try to envision what the results of our decisions will be in the future, while also looking at the short-term effects, but we can’t think in terms of personal redemption.

And then we move on and support the

board’s democratic decision. The results are the full board’s responsibility. There are many factors that might influence a partisan politician’s decision: their social agenda, emotion, party affiliations, their family ties, their trading of political poker chips, and other forces –and they may genuinely believe that their decision is the best direction for the county, state, country, world.

In our municipal, nonpartisan world, we can’t live in just one of the two opposing camps on a divisive issue. We must consider all the pros and cons, and you often hear the trustees state that support or dissent. “I really see the X, but for these other Y reasons, I’ll have to vote this way.” Yes, the citizens are at the top of the org chart, but often half of the citizens are saying to vote X and half are saying Y. Which do you listen to? “All” is the correct answer – and then the elected official has to make their call.

We must think of the short and longterm ramifications for Estes, for the health of the community and residents. Perhaps those decisions will be redeemed in the future if things turn out well. Perhaps those decisions will be pilloried in the future if they take us down the wrong road.

I’m often told of the dire consequences of deciding “yea” or “nay” on an issue. And I listen. There are many factors that shape my thinking. I always want to be able to explain my vote to myself and others.

I enjoy seeing a business find commercial and creative redemption by succeeding after they started with just a vision.

CDOT Sign Replacement Project Along Highway 36

US 36 from Estes Park to Boulder

The Colorado Department of Transportation, in partnership with Work Zone Traffic Control, recently started a sign replacement project along US Highway 36 from Estes Park near the US 34/US 36 intersection, Mile Point 0, to Boulder near Jay Road, MP 34. Crews will remove approximately 660 signs and install approximately 900 new signs and sign posts. The new signs will have better reflectivity at night to help motorist navigate the highway safely. The new signs will consist of speed limit, directional, street, mile point, guide, regulatory, and warning signs.

• The project began August 18th

• Work is expected to be completed at the end of November

• Daytime work hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Nighttime work hours are Sunday night through Friday morning from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.

• There will be shoulder closures, single lane closures, and one-lane alternating traffic

• 10-minute delays

CDOT's Project Hotline: 719-924-5052

Project Email: signplacementproject@gmail.com

Someone who likes animals started the Estes Paw; the Boba Tea at the River Walk Café draws me in; Pines & Cones sounds like pure fun; the Hive at the Brewery has created a buzz; the new Blue Spoon (from the owners of the Deli) is a “yum” (I have to try their “honey cake”), and so on. Not all entrepreneurial adventures succeed, but the human spirit keeps on keepin’ on. Many individuals wander a while in their personal wilderness before they find a redemptive path, a road to productivity and practicality and care of their family and self. Some wander for a long time; some go through mighty thickets along the way. An addict leaves the deadly habit behind. A person finishes their degree long after the original planned date. Prodigal children later realize how smart their parents really were.

So, what’s the punchline here? Humans came into this valley a long time ago, and the settlers arrived in the middle of the nineteenth century. Every one of us occupies some square footage of this beautiful spot. Most of us love it here and we want to keep it nice and not let it be overrun. But we can’t slam the door on this bit of paradise – if we really want to do that, we should all leave. We need to be wise and resourceful in protecting this resource in perpetuity. Each generation must redeem itself and allow the water to sparkle and flow, keep the air pristine, keep the green embedded, stay safe, and be humane to our neighbors and visitors.

Community members are invited to join Mayor Pro Tem Marie Cenac and Trustee Bill Brown for a Trustee Talk Thursday, August 28th at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Board Room, 170 MacGregor Ave. This is an opportunity for community members to discuss local issues with members of the board in an informal setting.

Climber Incident On Petit Grepon In Rocky Mountain National Park

On the morning of August 17th, park rangers were notified that a 26-year-old male climber had taken a roped fall on the South Face of Petit Grepon in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP), resulting in lower leg injuries. With the help of his partner, the climber was able to rappel to the base of the route where a hasty team of park rangers provided medical care. Meanwhile, a RMNP Search and Rescue litter team carried equipment to the base

of Timberline Falls for a possible guiding line operation. At 3 p.m. park rangers were assisted by a Colorado Army National Guard helicopter from Buckley Space Force Base to extricate the man via a hoist operation. Colorado Hoist Rescue Team assisted with helicopter hoist operations. The man was taken to further medical care from Upper Beaver Meadows. No further information is available at this time.

Recovery Efforts Completed For Man Missing In Rocky Mountain National Park

On Wednesday, August 13th, a body believed to be that of Blake Kieckhafer, 23, of Omaha, Nebraska, was recovered above Emerald Lake. Rocky Mountain National Park rangers completed an on-scene investigation and recovery operations took place by helicopter. His body was flown to a landing zone in Rocky Mountain National Park and transferred to the Larimer County Coroner’s Office.

Kieckhafer was reported missing to park rangers by family on Monday, August 11th He was last seen in the Upper Beaver Meadows area of Rocky Mountain National Park on Thursday, August 7th around 5:20

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 August 10th, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 18 calls for service. This included:

• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 3

p.m. when he was dropped off by a ride share service.

Investigations lead to search efforts being focused in the Emerald Lake area on Wednesday. Over 80 people were involved in the search efforts. Several agencies and organizations assisted Rocky Mountain National Park Search and Rescue Team members with efforts including Larimer County Search and Rescue Dog Teams, Arapaho Rescue Patrol and a contracted helicopter with Trans Aero.

The Larimer County Coroner’s office will confirm positive identification of the individual and release additional information.

• Alarm Activation: 4

• Possible Illegal Burn: 2

• Smoke Investigation: 1

• Odor Investigation: 1

• Service Call: 2

• Mutual Aid: 1

• Search and Rescue: 1

• Assist: 1

• Wildland Fire: 1

• Wires Down/Arching: 1

Kris Hazelton

Town’s Electric System Adjusted To Reduce Wildfire Risk

Safeguards that reduce sparking can result in more frequent power outages

In response to heightened wildfire danger, the Town of Estes Park took proactive measures to safeguard the communities it serves with electricity. As part of its wildfire mitigation plan, Estes Park Power and Communications has reconfigured electrical equipment on all lines throughout its service area to reduce the risk of sparking and igniting wildfires.

Reclosers are safety devices that automatically interrupt and then attempt to restore power flow when a temporary fault, such as a lightning strike or animal contact, occurs on the line. Usually the reclosers attempt to restore power flow three times, to correct an outage. Currently, the reclosers are configured with the one-shot setting. After the first interruption, the recloser will not attempt to restore power and will remain de-energized. This is a time-consuming process that is implemented when Red Flag conditions are occurring or expected.

While this change reduces fire risk, it also increases the likelihood of power outages. Power and Communications

crews receive instant outage notifications through the smart grid system, which allows them to respond quickly. Once the crew arrives at an outage area, they locate the source of the outage and patrol the lines nearby to ensure it is safe for them to restore power.

At the same time, the Town’s Water Division is closely managing water storage tanks to maintain levels around 90 percent capacity to support firefighting needs. This ensures that if a fire does occur, firefighters have immediate access to a robust water supply.

Power outages can be disruptive and inconvenient. However, community safety and protecting natural resources remain the Town's top priorities. Customer patience is appreciated.

Customers are encouraged to sign up for automated outage alerts at estes.org/utilitynotifier. Visit estes.org/wildfiremitigation to learn about wildfire mitigation efforts. For more information, contact Advanced Metering Infrastructure Coordinator Sarah Clark at sclark@estes.org or 970577-3627, or Line Superintendent Joe Lockhart at jlockhart@estes.org or970577-3613.

Twin Owls Fire In RMNP Contained & Mopped Up

On Sunday, August 17th Rocky Mountain National Park fire crews, along with crews and resources from the Estes Valley Fire Protection District, responded to the Lumpy Ridge area of the park for a small fire. Dubbed the Twin Owls Fire and lightning-caused, it grew to approximately 3/10 acre in size, with smoke visible from Estes Park.

Just a few hours later, fire crews had a containment line around the fire and began conducting mop up operations, including extinguishing any remaining heat or burning material near the fire

perimeter.

On Monday, August 18th, Rocky Mountain National Park fire crews continued mop up operations. Fire managers worked with a Douglas County Type 2 helicopter to transport water bags for park fire crews to extinguish the remainder of any duff. Helicopter operations were visible on Monday morning in this area.

Thank you to all emergency personnel for your quick and effective response! You have our gratitude.

EP NEWS/ Kirby Hazelton

Last Day Of The 2025 Summer Season At The Historic Fall River Hydroplant

Join the Estes Park Museum for the last open day for the 2025 season at the Historic Fall River Hydroplant. Located at 1754 Fish Hatchery Road in Estes Park, this plant was constructed in 1909 to produce electricity for the Stanley Hotel and surrounding areas. Operating as an interpretive site since 2002, the Historic Fall River Hydroplant will be open on August 22nd, from 12 – 4 p.m. Guided tours will be given at 12, 1, 2, and 3 p.m., no reservations are required, and admission is free.

Beginning in 1909, this hydroelectric plant produced electricity for The Stanley Hotel and surrounding areas. Eventually, F.O. Stanley sold the plant to the Public Service Company of Colorado and by 1945, the Town of Estes Park purchased and maintained the facility. The site produced electricity until it was severely damaged in 1982 by the Lawn Lake Flood. Discover the power of early hydroelectricity, the growth and changes of Estes Park, and the devastating disaster that took this plant offline.

2025 National Community Survey

Please take a few minutes to respond to the Town's 2025 National Community Survey. This is a chance for you to share your thoughts on life in our community and help shape the future of our local government.

The survey is designed to gather feedback from residents like you about key topics such as public services, community priorities, and overall quality of life. Your input will help local leaders make informed decisions and identify opportunities to improve programs, policies, and services in Estes Park.

Responses are confidential and will be used to guide planning and community en-

gagement efforts moving forward. English version: polco.us/ep25

Spanish version: polco.us/ep25s

The survey is open through September 1st, 2025. We encourage you to participate and also help spread the word! You can:

• Share the survey link with friends, neighbors, and family

• Follow and share our posts on social media

• Mention the survey at any meetings or community gatherings you attend

Thank you for helping us build a stronger, more connected Estes Park. Your voice matters!

Chamber Cup Crowns A Winner

By: Estes Chamber of Commerce

This year’s Chamber Cup Golf Tournament was unlike any other. “With an 8 a.m. start, we were able to introduce some new challenges, like the opportunities to add a double bogey to an opposing team, which brought laughs and friendly competition to the course,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale.

There were a total of 22 teams competing for the Chamber Cup this year and ten local businesses participated at hole sponsors. At the end of the regular tournament play, the team of Scott Schweitzer, John Powell, Nick Umholtz, and Hunter Miller became victorious with a score of 53.

“The morning start, which we plan to do

again next year, also enabled us to expand the event into the afternoon with local businesses including The Bull Pin, Lumpy Ridge Brewing, and Avant Garde Aleworks, hosting post-tournament specials and games with additional opportunities to win prizes,” she added.

Additionally, the Chamber's Foundation auction raised almost $1,500 for business education and the participants successfully massed additional donations to fill the Crossroads pantry and help locals in need. The Chamber Cup is made possible by title sponsor Derek Vinge – Edward Jones, and supporting sponsors Bank of Estes Park, Bank of Colorado, Aldrich Builders, Colorado First Realty, Visit Estes Park, and Platte River Power Authority.

Bank of Estes Park Invites Community To Celebrate The Big 60!

Bank of Estes Park, founded right here in town in 1965, is officially 60 years old, making it the longest standing and only local bank in town! We invite you to come celebrate with us at a ribbon cutting at our headquarters across from Bond Park. Details:

• September 12th, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.

• Ribbon cutting, 60 Year Bank Anniversary celebration—the oldest standing and only local bank in town is celebrating 60 years of serving its hometown!

• Food and drinks will be served, as well as awesome T-Shirts for the first 60 guests to arrive after 4:30 p.m.

• Two Golden Antler Awards will be given to local philanthropists, along with the $5,000 in grants to local non-profits that accompany these awards.

• Come check out our new “Bank of Estes Park Then and Now” Conference & Community Room (thus the ribbon cutting).

• Cowboy Brad will entertain us from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with music related to all things local.

• Stay for the whole event, or just swing by to say hello—we’d sure love to see you and thank you for being part of the amazing local success story that is Bank of Estes Park. It is only by serving our clients and our community that we have gotten to where we are! And we’ve only just begun!

As part of the run up to the event, we are publishing the official history of the bank, as follows.

History of Bank of Estes Park

While Bank of Estes Park was founded in 1965, the fact is that it actually began long before that as a dream for several young men and women in the years immediately before and during World War II. These were young college students working summers in various lodges and summer businesses, and even younger students spending a summer at Cheley camp. In most cases, they did not meet each other in those early years, but they fell in love with the same things that we still do today—the Rocky Mountains captured their hearts, the trails and natural scenery called back to them over the years like a melody on the wind as they grew older. The war years and college kept many of these people away from Estes Park for a long time, but these things eventually drew them back to our magical valley, the same as they always have and always will. By the late 1950s, many of them had returned to Estes Park, and they wanted to create a local bank that could help their mountain home prosper and grow.

First National Bank of Estes Park was held on December 28th, 1964, and the bank officially opened its doors on January 5th, 1965 on East Elkhorn Avenue.

The bank later purchased the old schoolhouse, and built its new headquarters on the site, with care taken to ensure that the style and design would match and enhance the appearance of

the town buildings nearby, including being reminiscent of the old school. At the time, there was only one other bank in town, so the fact that the new building would be the first in town with a drivethrough created quite a bit of excitement in the community. The new building opened in 1969 as an example of growth and prosperity within the community of Estes Park.

1994 we opened up a location in Niwot. Then, as downtown roads grew increasingly busier with tourism in the summer, the bank added a location on South Saint Vrain to ensure that residents would not need to navigate tourist traffic in order to do their banking—and we’re still the only bank with multiple locations in town! The bank decided to switch regulators from the OCC to the FDIC in 2012 by switching to a state charter, but state chartered banks aren’t allowed to have the word “national” in their name. So at that point we changed our name from First National Bank of Estes Park to our current name, Bank of Estes Park—a slightly different name, but the same local ownership, the same community, the same mission, the same bank…

In 1963, a small group of locals filed the application for a national bank charter, and began pounding the pavement to raise money to meet the required capital requirements. The first organizational meeting of

In 1978, the bank underwent another major remodel to move the drive-through away from the west side of the building to where it is now on the north side, with many interior upgrades as well. And every several years since, the bank has made smaller upgrades in various parts of the building. At one point we were growing so fast that we needed more deposits, so we looked for another small town nearby where we could open a branch, and in

When you bank with Bank of Estes Park, you are banking with the only local bank in town and supporting your local community in the process—your deposits, loans, and community dollars all stay here. From our very first day until now our mission has remained unchanged—to serve our clients, our community, our employees, and our shareholders. We were formed by locals to help Estes Park prosper and grow, and through floods, pandemics, fires, good times and bad, this is still our dream and what we come into the bank to accomplish every day! From our largest (local!) shareholder, Tom Olson, to our newest teller, we are here to help our little mountain home of Estes Park prosper and grow!

Learn more at bankofestespark.com.

Explore The Beaver Meadow Restoration

Join the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition and Larimer Conservation District for an on-the-ground tour exploring the current restoration efforts in the Estes Valley.

Learn how the targeted restoration efforts are improving riparian habitats and reconnecting natural floodplains in the Estes Valley.

Guests will see how monitoring, adaptive management and community collaboration are shaping the long-term outcomes of these conservation efforts.

The featured tour sites will include:

• MacGregor Ranch: Discover how restoration efforts on the ranch are revitalizing riparian habitats and reconnecting floodplains. You’ll also get a firsthand look at the work in action.

• Middle Fish Creek: Explore the site of a former flood restoration project and its ongoing role in broader riparian recovery ef-

forts along Fish Creek. See how monitoring data is being used to inform future conservation strategies.

• Upper Fish Creek: Observe an active beaver site and learn how natural activity, in coordination with restoration work, is influencing the shape and function of the creek channel.

This event will take place on Thursday, August 28th, 2025 from 1-5 p.m. We will meet at the Estes Park Riverwalk Parking Garage, 691 N Saint Vrain Avenue, Estes Park, CO.

Carpooling will be provided from the Estes Park Riverwalk Parking Garage to the tour sites.

The event is free! Donations are being accepted.

Please register online at zeffy.com/enUS/ticketing/beaver-meadow-restorationfield-trip.

It has taken some effort, but I have (mostly) succeeded in making my phone less distracting than it once was. I’ve gotten better at silencing it and putting it away so I don’t become preoccupied every time it makes a sound or vibrates in my pocket. When I’m sitting around a table with others and someone starts a sentence with “I wonder…” it’s not me who automatically picks up my phone to get the answer.

I no longer enter into conversations with the words: “Hey Siri…”

I don’t have to be the reporter when someone within earshot ponders the upcoming weather. If they want to know, they can seek the answer themselves.

This choice has been freeing. Sometimes I catch myself grabbing my phone to find an explanation or a solution for someone else. When that happens I stop, put it back where it was and reengage with my friends. I don’t have to scratch that itch.

Still, there are times when I am glad I have immediate access to information that comes to me via my phone—usually by way of a text. I like it when I get a reminder that I’m supposed to be at work in an hour. If a storm is brewing at the time a group has planned an outing, it’s nice when the organizer can send one text to everyone saying, “Plans have changed, we’re moving indoors.”

But…that pleasant little text can morph into a multi-tentacled monster in no time flat when somebody—or worse yet, everybody—responds to all. For example, a former supervisor of mine planned a small reunion of her coworkers. She invited 19 of her previous employees via a friendly text and for the next hour or so a flurry of responses sent my phone into a tizzy. Rather than to respond just to Lysa, 18 people responded to all. Some replied to others’ replies. Round and round they went.

“Sounds fun!”

Dancing baby gif.

“I’ll be out of town.”

Sad face emoji.

“I’ll be late.”

“Can I bring my daughter?”

“I can be there Tuesday but not Thursday.”

“Count me in.”

Thumb up emoji.

“Can’t wait to see everybody.” Sent with graffiti bursting across the screen.

“When was the last time we did this?”

Flashing question mark gif.

“Is that you, Rosy?”

Etc.

Many of the invitees were people who worked with Lysa before or after I did. I’ve never met most of them. They appeared as mystery phone numbers on my screen when they replied. I’m sure they’re all very amiable folks but I didn’t need to see every yay or nay for Lysa’s gathering. Lysa was the only one who needed an RSVP. The rest of us would find out who was going when we got there. My poor phone was exhausted.

~oOo~

For those of you who appreciated the puns from last week’s Thunker column, I have just a few more which readers sent this week:

• From Moe C.: Here’s an oldie for oldies like me…Roy Rogers had just bought a new pair of fancy boots. He left them outside his tent that night and a mountain lion chewed them up. Roy hunted down the mountain lion, shot it and dragged it back to camp. He was met by the Sons of the Pioneers who sang, "Pardon me Roy, is that the cat that chewed your new shoes?”

Marshall R. replied to Moe: This has been one of my favorites ever since I read it in a Bennett Cerf joke book. Trouble is fewer and fewer people catch the reference. Thank you for the chuckle.

• Me, responding to Moe and Marshall: Roy who? (I was kidding. I know Mr. Roy Rogers was the guy who put on slippers and a cardigan while singing “Won’t you be my neighbor?” at the beginning of his kids show.)

• From Audrey S.: Life starts when you step out of your comfort scone!

• From Paul G.: I suspect you've heard of the dyslexic agnostic with insomnia? He was up all night wondering if there was a dog.

• From Craig L.: The Dali Llama walks into a pizza joint. “Make me one with everything.”

A three-legged dog limps into a saloon. “I’m looking for the man who shot my paw.”

And th-th-th-that’s all, folks!

(Quiz: Who made the above end-ofshow phrase famous? I challenge you to come up with the answer without asking Siri!)

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

Handmade In Colorado Expo In Estes Park

August 22nd, 23rd, & 24th

Friday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Saturday, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Bond Park

(MacGregor Ave & Elkhorn Ave)

Free admission

Join us August 22nd-24th for the Handmade in Colorado Expo, the only juried art show in the State that is exclusive to Colorado made visual art and handcrafted products!

The Handmade in Colorado Expo is proud to support the creative economy of our state. All merchandise displayed at this show is handmade in Colorado and sold directly by both local emerging and experienced artisans, showcasing some of Colorado's best fine art and contemporary craft.

This annual event is a celebration of creativity, where local artists from various disciplines come together to showcase

their imaginative works. The expo will take place in Bond Park which is in the center of downtown in the heart of one of Colorado’s most scenic mountain locations. Beautiful Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, and is a world-class destination surrounded by beautiful mountains, countless recreational activities, outstanding shops, restaurants and hotels.

This event is designed for art enthusiasts and locavores, as attendees will only find Colorado made items being displayed while offering the unique opportunity to meet the exhibiting artists. The event has free admission and features great live music and over 100 of Colorado’s finest vendors. Come support local artists and craftspeople in their pursuit of creativity and experience what Colorado has to offer.

Find more details at www.coloradoevents.org/ handmadeincoloradoexpo

249 West Elkhorn Ave. • Near The Water Wheel

Estes Park Health Thanks The Community For A Fantastic Summer

Estes Park Health would like to thank the Estes Valley community for a fun, enthusiastic and memorable summer 2025.

Estes Park Health sponsored three

get bumped, flipped, bounced, dropped and stepped on by the bulls, horses and cows during the annual event.

summer concerts hosted by Estes Valley Recreation and Park District at Lake Estes Marina with large, energetic crowds at each show.

The hospital celebrated its 50th anniversary at the Boots and Boutonnieres Benefit Gala, hosted by the Estes Park Health Foundation on May 17th, and raised more than $326,000 in the process for the new diagnostic imaging suite at the hospital.

Estes Park Health team members supported Rooftop Rodeo riders by providing emergency care as well as much needed orthopedic, nursing and physical therapy after participants

Also at the Rooftop Rodeo, nine ladies, including two Estes Park Health employees – Jenn Hardin and Iryna Irkliienko as well as Kayla Lynott, the wife of EPH employee Kyle Lynott – raised a record-breaking $139,915 in the Estes Park Health Foundation Crowns for the Care fundraising campaign. The money will be used to provide free mammograms for those who cannot afford the im-

portant screening, a program that will begin in the fall.

Thank you for your support of Estes Park Health and Estes Park Health Foundation. The kindness and care from locals demonstrate more reasons why Estes Valley is a wonderful place to live and work.

Although signs of summer winding down are all around – kids heading back to school, the earliest fall colors appearing, chokecherries

ripening and the elk rut starting to kick up – Estes Park Health and the Urgent Care Center are here for you year round.

For more information about Estes Park Health and the Urgent Care Center, visit eph.org.

August Is Make-A-Will Month: Give The Gift Of Preparedness

By: Karen McPherson Jackson, Estes Nonprofit Network

August is Make-A-Will Month. This is perhaps less desirable than National Donut Day, but it is a great reminder to take care of business. The gift of preparation is one I have benefited from, and I encourage others to consider the fact that a) we are not immortal and b) when we pass, others are grieving. Be nice. Help them understand what to do with your stuff and how you want to leave a legacy.

Fewer than 50% of Americans have a will. Common misconceptions are that you have to be rich, that you have to pay a lawyer, and that you have to have kids. In reality, if you tick any of these boxes, it’s a good idea to make a will: real estate of any value that is not titled in joint tenant (you co-own with a spouse, for example), have kids, have assets worth more than–well, it actually doesn’t really matter how much you have in assets. The two greatest benefits of a will are deciding guardianship of children and appointing a personal representative.

A will is where individuals can spell out who gets what: the boat, the maple syrup pitcher everyone loves from Sunday brunches, grandma’s diamond ring, the house, etc. And some of these assets have to be specified in the will itself (like real property, aka real estate), and some things can be constantly

changed on a memorandum outside the will (the diamond ring you thought you wanted to gift to your nephew, but you now want to give to your BFF). And if you don’t create a will, the state of Colorado determines all of this for you.

Local attorney Alix Wengert warns, “Dying without a will in Larimer County means your assets will be distributed according to Colorado's intestate succession laws, which may not reflect your preferences and can lead to a lengthy and potentially complex (and expensive) probate process. If they can't find any heirs, then your assets ‘escheat’ to the State, meaning the State of Colorado takes them. We all love Colorado, but it's not named in my will.”

A will is also an opportunity to consider charitable donations. This is one place where you can bequest gifts of cash, real estate, that diamond ring, and more. 90% of legacy gifts are made through bequests in a will and beneficiaries named in investments. You can’t take your money with you, and whether you have been a big donor or a regular volunteer during

SOLD OUT!

your life, a bequest is an opportunity to support the missions you find valuable.

One hurdle to making a will can be access to a lawyer or the expense often associated with legal counsel. If you have complicated assets to distribute, are anxious about family challenging your wishes, have the hundreds (or thousands) to pay for the lawyer, or just prefer to use one, then do! It can be a great experience.

However, free online platforms bring estate planning “to the masses”. Think of this as TurboTax vs Accountants. Some tools have existed for years and debunked the claims about their legal validity. And while these tools might be questioned by skeptics (and lawyers), a free online tool is better than no will at all, since at least there is something in writing that a personal representative, probate court, etc. can point to when determining what the person wanted to happen. You can

search for "Free Will" or check with a company you trust that provides product reviews.

And while you are considering your will, consider other “good to have in place” documents: medical power of attorney, living will, and other medical directives. Our local Estes Valley Library has a kit prepared to help guide you through these called “Advance Directives: “What’s Your PLAN, Estes Park?”.”

And here’s a pro tip: tell the people whom you have elected to be your personal representatives, the nonprofits you have left gifts to, and the person who will decide if you get resuscitated, that they are part of your plans.

Don’t be scared; this could be a fun project! Think of all you have worked for. The little empire you have built, whatever form that takes, can be gifted to the people and missions you care deeply for.

Quota Club provides scholarships primarily to women for career development or a return to school later in life. If you are a local resident interested in receiving scholarship monies email: akasper45@yahoo.com with questions or for an application.

Visit: estesparkquota.com

A Mammogram Could Save Your Life! Your Community Is Ready to Help

This October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Estes Park Health Foundation is launching its Fall Campaign to fund a new Cancer Screening Fund, starting with free mammograms for those who need them most and, after October, expanding to cover other types of life-saving screenings, including colon, lung, and prostate cancers.

Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park to break down those barriers.

This campaign aims to ensure early detection of multiple forms of cancer, saving lives across the Estes Valley.

Early detection saves lives, yet too many in our community skip screenings due to cost, lack of transportation, or fear of facing a diagnosis alone.

That’s why the Foundation is teaming up with The Bridge of Estes and

If a cancer diagnosis is found, patients will have immediate access to emotional support, financial assistance, transportation, and holistic care, from counseling and massage therapy to gas vouchers and help with daily tasks.

“Everyone in Estes Valley should have access to life-saving screenings and the support they need to face whatever comes next,” says Dr. Max Salfinger of the Estes Park Health Foundation.

“With this fund, no one will have to walk this path alone.”

Mammogram applications will open in October, with services available for under- or uninsured residents of the Estes Valley. The Cancer Screening Fund will then expand to include colon, lung, and prostate cancer screenings, making help available for residents who need it most.

What you can do:

• Give today to ensure cost is never a reason to miss a screening.

• Spread the word so neighbors in need know help is here.

• Apply in October if you or someone you love needs a mammogram.

To donate, visit givebutter.com/cancerscreeningfund.

The Estes Park Health Foundation increases community awareness of Estes Park Health, and develops, manages, and distributes funds to assist EPH in fulfilling its mission. To learn more about their initiatives, volunteer or give, please contact them at GiveToEPH.org/donate, or 970-577-4370.

EVICS Celebrates Partnership With Estes Valley Library

EVICS Family Resource Center is celebrating a unique and impactful partnership between Early Childhood Advocate Jessica Campagnola and the Estes Valley Library. This collaboration began when Campagnola completed volunteer training to assist Melanie, the library’s children’s librarian. The process included background checks, online coursework, and orientation—ensuring she was well-prepared to support the library’s popular children’s programming.

This past summer, Campagnola joined “Library Explorers” story time, helping to bring books and activities to life for young attendees. Together with Melanie, she has been part of memorable events such as outdoor story

time at MacGregor Ranch and Stanley Park, and creative boat crafts at Performance Park.

“Supporting the library means supporting early literacy and community connection,” Campagnola shared. “It’s a joy to work alongside Melanie and see families engage together.”

In her role at EVICS, Campagnola leads early childhood programming, plans family-friendly events, and provides parent education on child development. She coordinates the organization’s playgroup and facilitates Mom Café, a weekly mothers’ group. Each year, the group reads and discusses a parenting book—this year’s selection is Gist: The Essence of Raising LifeReady Kids. Mom Café resumes on

September 15th at 10 a.m. at the EVICS office, and free childcare is provided for participants.

It’s been a wonderful summer partnering with the Estes Valley Library, and EVICS is excited for the future— looking forward to seeing how this collaboration will continue to grow and benefit families in our community.

This partnership between EVICS and the Estes Valley Library reflects the or-

ganization’s commitment to working hand-in-hand with community partners to support children and families.

“We are blessed to have Jessica representing EVICS in this way,” said the EVICS team. “Her dedication strengthens both our programs and our community.”

Want to connect with Jessica? Reach out to her at jessica@evics.org. It takes a village! Estes Park Health Staff Request Public Meeting With Park Hospital District Board Of Directors

On Thursday, August 21st from 8 to 9:30 a.m., Estes Park Health staff, physicians and leadership will meet with the Park Hospital District Board of Directors to share their support for the pending affiliation with UCHealth. Estes Park Health employees requested the meeting so that the board can hear directly from those working at the hospital and serving the needs of patients about the importance of this affiliation. Those requesting the meeting have also asked to have an opportunity to share their concerns about the anxiety that has recently been created because of commentary by board members and local media regarding a delay in finalizing the partnership. The meeting will be open to the public so other community members can also hear comments from the employ-

ees, physicians, and leadership team members.

In addition to the feedback provided by EPH staff and providers, David Snow, attorney at EPH’s legal firm Hall Render, will be at the meeting to give a summary of the decision-making process that led to this affiliation agreement.

This timeline of information will span from 2022 when discussions started about creating a ballot initiative to seek approval to identify a non-profit health care partner for Estes Park Health to the current status of the process as of August 2025.

Participants can attend the meeting online. Visit eph.org/about-us/boardof-directors/meeting-information-revised/ to register for the online viewing.

Philanthropy Nominations

Now Open: Recognize Locals Who Give Back

Every year, the community shines a light on philanthropists who impact the Estes Valley. So many people give of their time, talent, and treasure to make Estes Valley a healthy place to live, work, and play. They deserve to be celebrated. National Philanthropy Day in Estes Park returns to the YMCA of the Rockies on November 20th. This event is an opportunity to recognize philanthropists in front of 300 volunteers, nonprofits, donors, and neighbors.

Community members are encouraged to nominate a philanthropist in any of the following categories: Youth, Business, Enduring Service, Katie Speer Individual Philanthropist of the Year, and the Shavlik Nonprofit of the Year. It’s easy to nominate: submit information through epnonprofit.org. Nominations close Friday, October 3rd. Award winners are chosen by an independent volunteer committee of community members. The Estes Park Nonprofit Network staff and board do not serve on the awards committee.

It’s a joy to share information about the nominees and the winner in each of the five categories. Nominations remind the Network—and the community-at-large—of the force of philanthropy in the Estes Valley.

Thanks in advance to everyone who nominates. Visit epnonprofit.org or bit.ly/npd-nominate to get started.

What The Mountains Give

By: Brad Manard

I had a birthday last week. A lot of years have gone by. That birthday morning, I was up at 5 a.m., took care of the dogs and opened a birthday card from my wife. Lovingly, it said something about being so old my first wildlife photo was of a dinosaur. With a chuckle, I headed out into RMNP looking for less prehistoric animals. As I drove, I reflected on so many

was irritated that I couldn't stay home and play baseball, but he insisted. Afterward, we went backstage, and he introduced me to several of the musicians including his friend, Louie Armstrong. I remember he was a nice guy with a deep voice and kind of sweaty.

When I was around twelve, during Dad’s vacation we went to Las Vegas where he had a gig. On the way, we stopped in Colorado and spent the night in a quaint little mom and pop motel. The next morning, I stepped out to see the bright sun rising over the mountains highlighting dynamic, snowcapped peaks.

It was the most beautiful scene I had ever seen. Standing in awe, I didn’t hear my dad the first time he called. Then he

years and the influences through that time. When I was a kid living in a Mississippi River town, my dad’s passion was playing piano, jazz piano. He was darn good too and a connector. I believe I was in third grade when he took me to a jazz concert. I remember because I

When I was fifteen, I attended camp at the

Park. That same feeling, being mesmerized and wanting to stay forever, dominated my emotions. There was a mountain there, one I kept looking at. EP mountaineers know what I was thinking…so I climbed the mountain. A small mountain, but for a flatlander, it was my first mountain. I sat on top, looked down at Moraine Park and watched the water of the Big Thompson River meander like the edges of puzzle pieces through the valley.

Years later at twenty-four years old, I found myself caught in a confusing time of my life. Darkness seemed to dominate, and I was searching for the light. In an effort to find brightness, I hitchhiked from Nebraska through RMNP and over to Steamboat. There, with a pack on my back, I wandered into the deep, dark forest looking for light. After a week I emerged smelly, dirty, tired, and lonely. My perspective had changed. I had quit focusing on what I didn’t have. The mountains had helped me realize how much I did have — family, friends, and the wonderful people I worked with. I’d realized, my world was truly full of joy. Since that time, the bright light of an optimistic perspective has always guided my life.

From that point on, Estes Park became my go-to vacation spot. There were hikes to Sky Pond, Ouzel Falls, the three lakes, and on and on. Always a walk into the light. Elk rut was amazing, to capture photos on my Canon Rebel that Andre Agassi had convinced me to buy. In the mid-1980s there was my first moose, a big-antlered bull who confronted me on the Green Mountain Trail.

Over the years, I’d spent nights in Lonigans dancing to Dick Orlean’s magical acoustic music. Dinner on the balcony at Mary’s Lake Lodge. Beers in outdoor seating with the sun rained down on us. Pizza at Bob and Tony’s where I’d written my name on a brick following my senior year in high school. And I’ve enjoyed Cowboy Brad Fitch singing in the park. Life during those visits motivated more dreams to be here.

One day, we visited an open house at a new vacation housing complex. Beautiful homes, I looked at the price sheet, and sighed. I knew living there would only be in my dreams. Yet five years ago, I retired, left the flatlands, and moved into an Estes Park home in that very same complex. Through hard work and determination, my dream had become a reality shared with my wife, Carolyn. So now, nearly every day, I load my

camera gear into my SUV and drive into RMNP. Last week on my birthday morning, I drove with the same sense of awe and wonder I’d experienced as a boy standing outside that little motel. The mountains surrounding me were my home. The valleys filled with wildlife, my photographic canvas.

As I arrived at my first stop, I was greeted by a throng of like-minded photographers. Two moose wandered the meadow to the lake, friends chatted while looking through viewfinders, and then one person wished me happy birthday. It was followed by more wishes, hugs, and congratulations for living longer than a dinosaur. I was surrounded by good friends, good people, and talented photographers.

I stepped back looking up at the same mountain view I had absorbed time and again. I could have stood there forever — and plan to do so.

yelled, “Hey Brad. Let’s go. We’ve got to get to Vegas.” He was as excited about going to Vegas as I was overwhelmed by the vision of mountain beauty.

could have stood there forever.

YMCA of the Rockies here in Estes

Brad & Carolyn Manard

Happy 80th Anniversary To The Wheel Bar!

The Wheel Bar in Estes Park Colorado is celebrating its 80th anniversary. We would like to invite you to join us for the festivities, which will be hosted at The Wheel Bar on August 30th from 4 to 8 p.m. Food, drinks, friends and fun! Please wear your vintage Wheel Bar apparel to take part in the drink specials!

Four Estes Park Health Educational Videos Receive Telly Awards

Four Estes Park Health educational videos produced by Estes Park resident Wendy Rigby have received silver Telly Awards. The videos include:

• “Estes Park Health offers surgical repair for hernias” featuring Dr. Chrstine Bogardus

• “Through the Looking Glass: MRI provides incredible images of the body” featuring Dr. John Knudtson

• “Estes Park Health offers low dose CT scans for lung cancer” featuring Dr. John Knudtson

• “New mural at Estes Park Health brings Colorado splendor inside” featuring local Estes Park muralist Michael Young Announced in May 2025, the Telly Awards honor excellence in video and television across all screens. These four videos were recognized in the non-broadcast General: Fitness, Health and Wellness category.

Rigby, who held the position of Marketing Communications Specialist at EPH until her retirement in February 2025, recently brought her trophies to the hospital. Juggling the four large and heavy awards proved to be a pleasant challenge.

“I’m so happy that my background as a television news reporter who specialized in

medical and bioscience stories paid off for EPH in my role at the hospital,” said Rigby. “Video is an excellent medium for educating patients. It was a joy to produce them.”

These are not Rigby’s first Telly Awards for Estes Park Health. She also received a bronze Telly in 2024 for her video about colonoscopies. The video, which featured Dr. Jennifer McLellan, showcased the process of colonoscopies and the benefit of having this quality cancer screening available in Estes Park.

Since retiring from her marketing position at Estes Park Health, Rigby has enjoyed volunteering for her church, Estes Park United Methodist Church, and serving on the board of Crossroads Ministry.

“My favorite part about retirement is being able to hike on a random weekday,” Rigby emphasized. “I also enjoy book club, Bible study, and taking classes at the Art Center of Estes Park. My husband is happy to have me around more.”

Estes Park Health misses Rigby’s enthusiasm and production skills but her work continues to be shared with patients at the hospital. You can watch Rigby’s videos on screens in the first and second floor lobbies of EPH, on the EPH YouTube channel and on eph.org.

Thank You For Celebrating Tom Atkins’ 90th Birthday!

By: Tammi McClure, daughter of Tom Atkins

I would like to thank Kimi and all the baristas at Kind Coffee for their excellent service on August 12th for the 90th birthday celebration of my dad, Tom Atkins. Also, I would like to thank all those who took time to stop in and share a memory in a cup of coffee with my dad — it was great to see you all!

Also, a very special thank you to Jo and Nancy. The two of you are awesome and I couldn’t have pulled it off without your help. Bless all of you Estes Park people. You certainly have blessed us.

Estes Park resident Wendy Rigby holds her four Telly Awards for producing videos for Estes Park Health.

Tom on a three-wheel motorcycle before taking a ride.

Merry Marthas Meeting On Friday, August 22nd

Do you sew, knit, weave, or crochet and enjoy visiting with other ladies with similar interests? You’re invited to attend the next meeting of the Merry Marthas on Friday, August 22nd at 9:30 a.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies at 1700 Brodie Avenue. This group meets monthly to share what we have made, and then we donate our finished projects to local charities.

New members are always welcome whether you’re a beginner or an expert. For more information, please call the church office at 970-586-4404.

EVRPD To Host First Food Truck Rally On August 26th

Estes Valley Recreation & Park District’s first Food Truck Rally is set for Tuesday, August 26th from 5-9 p.m. at Stanley Park, and it promises something for everyone.

Guests can enjoy live music from Dr. Higgins McJay, inflatables to keep the kids entertained, and a diverse lineup of ten food trucks serving up delicious dining options.

The Estes Park High School Auto Shop students and the local Car Club will be on hand, along with the families and students from Bobcat Back-to-School Night. It’s a celebration of food, fun, and community you won’t want to miss!

Marsha Hobert

A Safety Net For Horses, Not Far From Estes

By: Cindy Yeast

What is a horse rescue? I hear that question almost every time I tell someone that I volunteer for a horse rescue. While most people generally understand the concept, they often tell me they don’t understand what a horse rescue actually does or why it’s needed. Many people can’t imagine that many horses need rescuing, believing horses are valued and cared for throughout their lives. However, that is often not the case.

The rescue where I volunteer, Colorado Horse Rescue (CHR), is located just under 30 miles from Estes, and a few miles east of Highway 36. Founded in 1986, it is the longest-standing horse rescue in Colorado. “Imagine a world where no horses fall through the cracks,” is CHR’s mission statement, and the rescue does this by providing a safety net for all types of at-risk horses. CHR is located on 50 acres and is currently at capacity with 60 horses. The herd ranges in age from under one year old to horses in their 20s and includes a wide range of breeds. The need for their services is great, and CHR has a waitlist of about 30 horses needing a safety net.

These at-risk horses come from a va-

forcement due to neglect or cruelty. CHR’s primary goal: adoption of these horses

Another question I receive is whether CHR is the final destination for these horses. No, it is not a “refuge or retirement home” for horses. The staff at CHR works tirelessly and continuously to match these horses with a forever home. In 2024, CHR placed 65 horses into loving homes.

The process once a horse arrives When horses first arrive, they are placed under quarantine as a safety measure in case they’re carrying a disease transmissible to the other horses. Once the horses are released from quarantine, they are thoroughly evaluated by CHR’s veterinarian and Equine Services team. This evaluation will help determine if a horse requires treatment for any medical conditions. This evaluation will also determine if a horse can be adopted as a riding horse or as a non-rideable, companion-only horse.

Companion Connection

riety of backgrounds:

• From private owners who can no longer care for them due to financial hardships, illness, moving, death, and other reasons.

• Dude ranch horses who can no longer work long days on the ranch but still have lots of love to give.

• Livestock auction rescues where they were in danger of landing in unsafe hands or even being sent to slaughter in countries where horsemeat is legal for human consumption.

• Horses that have been seized or impounded by animal control or law en-

Unfortunately, the reality for most horses in America is that when they are no longer rideable, they are viewed as less valuable than their riding counterparts. One of CHR’s education priorities is to help people understand the value of these companion horses. CHR’s Companion Connection program was formed to find solutions to the challenges facing non-riding horses. Using a standardized non-riding assessment, individualized training plans are developed for each horse in the program. After going through an assessment and matching process, I am one of the volunteers who work with these non-riding horses as part of the Companion Connection program. Last year, a record 52% of the horses placed in loving homes were companion horses. Saddle up!

If a new horse is determined to be rideable, it will be evaluated so that a

training program can be individualized for that horse. From an experienced horse to one that is unstarted, each will be worked through a regimen developed for that particular horse by CHR’s skilled team of equine trainers. In midJuly of this year, several of these horses were showcased at CHR’s Performance Equine Adoption Kickstart (PEAK) Training Challenge. Each of these unstarted or lightly handled horses was paired with a Colorado trainer for 100 days. This year’s 1st place winner, April, came to CHR from a livestock auction as an unstarted, two-year-old Appaloosa, and the 2nd place winner, Dynamo, a four-year-old pony gelding, also came to CHR unstarted from a

livestock auction. At the time of this article, both of these incredible horses are available for adoption.

How you can help

• Adopt or foster a horse

• Become a monthly sponsor to help with the cost of horse care

• Volunteer at the ranch

• Donate: CHR offers multiple ways to support its mission

• Buy tickets for Mane Event at the Ranch, CHR’s annual fundraising gala at the ranch on September 20th, 2025

For more information about CHR or about these giving and support options, please visit chr.org, send an email to info@chr.org, or call 720-4941414.

CHR trainers working with rescued horses Megan Goheen

My Companion Connection horse Sonora. Photo credit: Megan Goheen

Rescued from an auction, April won 1st place at the CHR PEAK Training Challenge.

Triumph & Tragedy in Ice: Kurtis Kelly Recounts 1925 Longs Peak Tale

In a riveting tale of triumph and tragedy, storyteller Kurtis Kelly will present a retelling of the legendary 1925 winter quest by Agnes Vaille and Walter Kiener to summit Longs Peak’s elusive East Face. The free program takes place Monday, September 1st at 7 p.m. at the Hyde Chapel, next to the Maude Jellison Library of the YMCA of the Rockies, as part of this summer’s program series.

On a golden sun-flooded afternoon in September

1924, both Vaille and Kiener gazed from today’s Mount Blue Sky, looking toward Longs Peak. They seemed to say to one another: “Are you thinking what I’m thinking?” Four months later, they found themselves on a harrowing climb: the first-ever wintertime East Face summit of Longs.

After over 18 grueling hours, they would achieve their goal. But weather and fatigue took their toll on the descent, where Agnes gave her life. Who was driving whom toward this inexorable quest? And how are Agnes and Walter threaded into the vast arc of history embodied by Longs Peak? Storyteller Kurtis Kelly recounts these events, providing context for this dramatic tale.

This year marks the 100th anniversary of this historic mountaineering milestone, forming one of the most enduring tales of Longs Peak’s fabled history. In the aftermath, lessons emerged that have shaped our understanding of the great peak to this day. Over three decades, storyteller Kurtis Kelly has been bringing history to life, frequently performing as such figures as Enos Mills, F.O. Stanley, and Abner Sprague.

“Cowboy

All are invited to this September 1st event, hosted by the Maude Jellison Library at the YMCA of the Rockies. No registration is required.

Brad” Fitch Thanks Organizations, Sponsors, & Friends

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, friends and neighbors, buckaroos and buckarettes, saddle pals from near and far — the summer, 2025 Cowboy Singalong series in Bond Park has come to an end. The series was attended by large audiences and featured numerous unexpected elk walk-throughs.

I thank the following organizations, sponsors and friends who made this year’s series possible:

Aspen Winds on Fall River

Awesome Shirtworks

Bank of Colorado

Bank of Estes Park

Bruce Benbrook and the businesses at Benbrook Plaza

Bob and Evelyn Bangarter

Brownfield’s Souvenir and Outdoor Gear

Colorado Homestead

Creativity Cabin

Estes Park News

Gerald Mayo and Estes Park Team Realty

Hyk

Jazzercise of Estes Park

Kathryn and Abner Perney

Richard and Linda Klapper

Moose Creek Western Wear

Mountain Home Café

Mountain Valley Fitness

Oldtimers’ Breakfast Group/Sybil Barnes

Plum Creek Shoe Station

Raven’s Roast Coffee Lounge

The Taffy Shop

Wear Me Out T’s Whispering Woods

As ever, I thank Ann and Steve Taylor of Colorado Homestead for organizing the sponsorships and for providing the souvenir chocolate bars and cowboy hats each evening. And Steve organized the kids’ chocolate bar wrapper drawings this summer, which was a fun, new addition to the programs.

Thanks also to Gary and Kris Hazelton and the Estes Park News for their weekly ads and promotion of this tradition in Bond Park. And to Hobert Office Services for their assistance in printing materials for the shows.

I thank Mark Rashid, Melinda Morris, Tracy Dalton and the Honorable Gary Hall, Mayor of Estes Park, the musicians who sat in with me during some of the performances this year. And thanks to the photographers and videographers who helped to document the programs this summer.

Last but not least, thanks the many people from not only Estes Park, but from throughout the country and the world, who stopped by Bond Park to listen. I hope I have helped to create some fun memories for you this summer.

Happy trails to you, until we meet again,

“Cowboy” Brad Fitch cowboybrad.com

SUMMER HOURS

What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library

Mondays - Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Fridays & Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.

Special hours

Closed on Monday, September 1 in observance of Labor Day.

Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to secure your spot.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Mindset By Carol S. Dweck: A Book Discussion

Thursday, August 28, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Wasson Room

Join Chazz Glaze to discuss the book that introduced the world to the idea of “fixed” vs. “growth” mindsets. Presented in partnership with the Estes Park Salud Foundation.

How to Thrive in a World of Constant Chaos

Thursday, August 28, 12 - 1 p.m., online

Learn how to master the daily grind & become shatterproof in a tumultuous world with key insights by Dr. Tasha Eurich as she talks about her newest book, Shatterproof, & why resilience alone isn’t enough.

The Martians: An Evening with David Baron

Saturday, August 30, 7 - 8 p.m., Estes Park High School Auditorium

Boulder author David Baron will take us on a journey through his new book, The Martians: The True Story of an Alien Craze That Captured Turn-ofthe-Century America. Through images & video, learn how we believed there was life on Mars, which launched us on a path of space exploration & the science fiction genre was born.

Soil: An Evening with Camille T. Dungy

Friday, September 5, 7 - 8 p.m., Hondius Room

Fort-Collins-based writer & CSU Professor will discuss her book, Soil: The Story of a Black Mother’s Garden, the seven-year odyssey to diversify her garden against homogenous policies that limited the possibilities.

Book Club for Mortals: The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning

Thursday, September 11, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Wasson Room & online

Discuss end-of-life issues & our shared mortality. This month we’ll explore the original, best-selling guide to Swedish death cleaning — a charming, practical, & unsentimental approach to putting a home in order while reflecting on the joys that make up a long life.

ALL AGES

Woodland Welcome

Thursday, August 28, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Makerspace

Learn to paint & assemble a laser-cut, woodland-themed shelf sitter featuring a rustic wood slice & welcome sign — choose between a bear or raccoon. A School of Life event.

Book vs. Movie Club: Harry Potter & the Sorcerer’s Stone

Saturday, August 30, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Historic Park Theatre

We’ll discuss the book, then watch the movie adaptation. Concessions available for purchase.

ADULTS

Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County

Mondays & Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Tuesdays, 1 - 6:30 p.m.; Dream Study Room

Build digital skills like using your smartphone, accessing websites & accounts online, improving online communications, & more. Appointments required.

Makerspace Monthly Meetup

Monday, August 25, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace

Experienced artists & curious beginners are invited to this creative gathering as time to connect with fellow makers, explore various crafting techniques, & work on a project of your choice.

The Artist’s Way: A 12-Week Journey to a More Creative Life

Wednesday, August 27, 5:15 - 6:15 p.m., Quiet Room; Final Session

This 12-week workshop, facilitated by local mindset & movement coach Chazz Glaze, will help you discover (or recover) your creative self by using The Artist’s Way, the classic tool for anyone interested in living more creatively.

Election Information with the League of Women Voters of Estes Park

Thursday, September 4, 12 - 2 p.m., Library Atrium

The League of Women Voters of Estes Park will be on hand to help with voter registration, important election dates, & other information about voting in local, regional, & national elections.

Wilderness Survival Skills for Women

Sunday, September 7, 1:30 - 3 p.m., Hondius Room

Sharon Saternus, founder of Femme Trek, is back to lead a wilderness survival basics workshop designed for female day hikers. Topics will include staying calm to think clearly, shelter building, & fire, water, signaling, & navigation basics.

Monthly Writing Group

Monday, September 8, 6:15 - 7:45 p.m., Wasson Room

Calling all writers, aspiring writers, & anyone interested in writing! Join us on the first Monday evening of every month to share your writing, enjoy others’ work, receive & provide feedback. All genres & forms are welcome.

The Artist’s Way: A 12-Week Journey to a More Creative Life

Tuesday, September 9, 5:15 - 6:15 p.m., Quiet Room; Session 1 of 12

This 12-week workshop, facilitated by

local executive transformational coach & mindset strategist Julie Abel, will help you discover (or recover) your creative self by using The Artist’s Way, the classic tool for anyone interested in living more creatively.

TEENS & KIDS

Lego Club: Make a Classroom

Saturday, August 23, 3 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room

Explore different building & engineering challenges with Legos. This month, create a classroom. A School of Life event.

Young Dragon Slayers

Wednesday, August 27, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Interested in learning how to play Dungeons & Dragons? Want to think strategically & make new friends? Join other teens & tweens for this classic fantasy-world game.

KIDS & FAMILIES

Library Storytimes

Baby Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.

Preschool Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.

Read to Therapy Dog Annie: Sat., September 6 at 11 a.m.

Friday Kids Club: Model Magic Bugs

Friday, September 5, 10 - 11 a.m. or 4 - 5 p.m., Hondius Room

Craft a one-of-a-kind dragon fly, beetle, or bee with your choice of colored Model Magic modeling clay, wings, & legs.

Friday Kids Club: Marble Run Friday, September 12, 10 - 11 a.m. or 4 - 5 p.m., Hondius Room

Design a working marble run out of cardboard, tubes, cups, craft foam, tape, & low temperature hot glue guns. All creations will go home with their makers.

MAKERSPACE CLASSES

Learn the 3D Printer

Monday, September 8, 10 - 11:30 a.m. or 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace For ages 10 & up (participants under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult).

LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Regular Meeting

Monday, August 25, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room

View meeting agenda & packet materials at estesvalleylibrary.org/board. Study Session

Thursday, September 11, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room

Learn more about the Board of Trustees & meeting topics at estesvalleylibrary.org/board.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION

Cliffhanger Used Books

Cliffhanger Used Books, located next to the Post Office, is operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, & music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Two Major Upcoming Plein Air Events From The Art Center Of Estes Park

Estes Valley Plein Air Quick Paint & Auction

The public is invited to observe artists from across the country transform a blank canvas into a work of art in 90 minutes, after which the art work will be on display for 30 minutes, then either watch or participate in the auction. This event will be held at Riverside/Hix Plaza on Saturday, August 23rd beginning at 8:30 a.m. with the auction beginning at 10:30 a.m. While on display, the artwork will be judged and the top three pieces will be announced.

Estes Valley Plein Air Gala Opening & Awards

Ceremony

The public is invited to attend the Gala Opening for the Estes Valley Plein Air event, featuring the artwork of 34 artists from across the country in a main exhibit and a special exhibit of nocturne and miniature paintings. The reception is from 5–7 p.m. on Friday, August 29th. Refreshments will be provided. At 6 p.m., the awards ceremony will begin. Awards will be given for the Nocturne and Miniatures, the Mayor’s Award, and the Art Center Board Award as well as Third, Second and Best of Show awards. Artists will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite artwork and an award will be given for the winner piece during the ceremony.

The public will also be given the op-

portunity to vote for their favorite painting and this will be open throughout the exhibit which will close September 28th at which time the winner will be announce and an award given. We would like to make special recognition and expression of appreciation for our sponsors of this event, and those who have given in-kind sponsorships.

An Out Of This World Author Talk

Over a century before NASA and SpaceX embarked on ambitious missions to send humans to one of our closest celestial neighbors, astronomers were speculating about the presence of intelligent life on Mars. At the end of the month, the Estes Valley community will have a unique opportunity to hear from Boulder’s award-winning author, avid eclipse chaser, journalist, public speaker, and educator David Baron, as he shares his research on how influential Bostonian Percival Lowell transformed public perceptions of the red planet in 1892, igniting what became the Mars boom over the following decade.

Through captivating images and videos, Baron will guide us on a journey through his new book, The Martians: The True Story of an Alien Craze that Captured Turn-of-the-Century America. Together, we will explore how this frenzy captivated not just the public but also some of the era's most re-

Until 1909, when the planet came particularly close to Earth, scientists learned that much of what the public believed about Mars was based on illusions. Nevertheless, the fascination with extraterrestrial life had become ingrained in the collective imagination and fueled human curiosity, leading to the development of the science fiction genre and eventually paving the way for the Space Age.

Don’t miss this extraordinary event as we celebrate the launch of Baron's new book on Saturday, August 30th, 2025, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Estes Park High School Auditorium. Our partner, Macdonald Bookshop, will be on-site offering copies of the newly released book for purchase, with the opportunity to have them signed by the author during a post-program meet and greet. Save your seat to explore the unknown at estesvalleylibrary.org/events.

Special Overlays Available For Author Mark Danielewski’s New Book

With so many local readers of House of Leaves, Macdonald Book Shop is happy to announce our participation in author Mark Danielewski's pre-order promotion of Tom's Crossing (pub date October 28th, 2025). Mr. Danielewski announced this week that a special art overlay pack for customers who pre-order his new book. Select Indie Bookstores will receive a limited number of the packs and MacDonald Book Shop is among the lucky stores. Given the limited quantity of art overlays we will receive, it is paramount readers reach out quickly to secure their special item. Be sure to call the store at 970-586-3450 and pre-order your copy today. You can also reach out to nicole@macdonaldbookshop.com. Don’t forget to mention the pre-order

promotion when you call or email to ensure you get your special pack of art overlays.

nowned scientists, including Alexander Graham Bell and Nikola Tesla.

Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Builds New Playground For Crisis Advocates

The Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club recently received a District 5440 grant of $3,500, designated under Maternal and Child Health, to replace an unsafe play set with a brand-new play structure at the Estes Valley Crisis Advocates (EVCA). The club also contributed an additional $2,554 in cash, bringing the total project funding to $6,054. Over four weekends this summer, Rotarians de molished the old structure, cleared the site, installed French drains, laid landscape fabric, assembled the new play set, and finished the area with rubber mulch for safety. A Rotary plaque and emblem were added to mark the club’s contrib ution.

vided 908 shelter nights. "Play is such an important part of childhood and healing," said Anna Jones, Client Resource Manager at Estes Valley Crisis Advocates.

"Thanks to the Sunrise Rotary Club, the children we serve now have a safe, welcoming space where they can simply be kids, even during difficult times."

Through this project, Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary has not only enhanced the safety and well-being of children at EVCA but also strengthened the club’s commitment to supporting vulnerable families in the Estes Valley commu-

August 25 – 29

Monday, Aug 25 Breakfast Croissant (scrambled eggs w/cheese topped w/ sausage patty), Hashbrowns & fruit

Tuesday, Aug 26 BBQ Platter – Pulled Pork & Beef Brisket w/ Baked Beans & coleslaw

Wednesday, Aug 27 Grilled Chicken Breast Sandwich (topped w/ swiss cheese & mushrooms) w/ 3-Bean Salad

Thursday, Aug 28 Hot Roast Beef Sandwich w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables

Friday, Aug 29 Creamy Tuscan Shrimp (w/ sun-dried tomatoes & spinach) w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad

Monday, Sept 1 CLOSED

September

1 – 5

Tuesday, Sept 2 Roasted Herb (1/2) Chicken w/ Roasted Potatoes & vegetables

Wednesday, Sept 3 Guacamole Cheddar Bacon Burger w/ Tomato Salad

Thursday, Sept 4 Meat Lasagna w/ garlic bread & side salad

Friday, Sept 5 Fish & Homemade Chips w/ soup of the day

Individual Meals are $9 for current 2025 EP Senior Citizens Center members and are by reservation only. (Or 3 meals for $25; use pre-paid meal tickets.) Exact cash or check payment required. Reservations must be made by 1:00 PM at least one business day in advance. Note, if you want to reserve a meal for Monday, Aug 25th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Aug 22nd. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.

The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 -- 1 TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM Circuit Balance Monday 1-1:45 PM

Mahjong Tuesday 10 – 2 Tai Ji Class Tuesday 10:15 – 11:15 AM

Pound Unplugged + 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursday 10:15-11:15 AM Chair Yoga 2nd & 4th Thursday 10:15-11:15 AM Live Music & Presentations Tuesday @ 12:00 – 1:30 (TBA)

Aspen Club Blood Pressure Check 4th Wednesday 10:00 – 1:00 Aspen Club Presentations 2nd Wednesday 12:00 – 1:30

Bridge Group Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM with lessons in the morning Canasta, Euchre & Pinochle 1st, 3rd & 5th Wednesday 1:00-4:30

Reserved Meals-to-Go delivered to your vehicle or EAT at the Senior Citizens Center Check out our website: estesparkseniors.org or call for the latest information

EVCA is a nonprofit serving survivors of crime and trauma in Estes Park and surrounding areas, offering safe housing, counseling, and community education. In 2024, the organization supported 466 clients and pro-

For more information about Estes Valley Crisis Advocates, visit crisisadvocates.org. To learn more about Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary and its community projects, visit portal.clubrunner.ca/5242.

Special Guest Speaker Matt McCracken Presents Wealth Seminar

Interested in learning about the concept of free-riding, the daily scheme to confiscate wealth from mutual funds, insurance contracts, and other pooled accounts? What about reverse lotteries, the Wall Street Wrecking Ball that caused crashes like in 1987 and 2008, — can they happen again?

Join Matt McCracken, Chief Investment Officer at A Sling & A Stone, for

a free seminar titled, “How Wall Street Wrecks Your Portfolio” on Tuesday, August 26th. The workshop will take place in the Hondius Room at the Estes Valley Library from 3-5 p.m. and attendees will learn about how to keep Wall Street out of your wallet, participate in markets while protecting your capital, and increase account longevity by reducing volatility.

Trace Bundy Free Performances At YMCA Of The Rockies

On Sunday, August 31st, Trace Bundy will be the guest musician for the 10 a.m. worship in Hyde Chapel. He will also perform a concert at 7 p.m. in Hyde Chapel. The concert is free and open to the public.

From Boulder, Colorado, Bundy is a world-renowned acoustic guitar player known for his phenomenal performances and creative musical style. Internationally acclaimed guitar virtuoso Trace Bundy must be seen, not just heard. His music is poetry in motion, using harmonics, looping, multiple capos, and his unique banter and stage presence to deliver an unforgettable live concert experience. Listening to his intricate arrangements is one thing, but seeing the fan-dubbed “Acoustic Ninja” play live confounds even the most accomplished music lovers as to how one person can do all that with just two hands and ten fingers. Bundy’s unique career has brought him across the world, with sold-out concerts in 28 countries and counting – from high-tech performance halls in South Korea and Italy, to remote villages in Zimbabwe and Guatemala. He has independently sold over 130,000 albums on his record label, Honest Ninja Music. His video clips circulate

virally at astonishing speed, with over 40 million YouTube views to date.

In 2008 Bundy earned the title of “Most Promising New Talent” by Acoustic Guitar Magazine, and came in third in the same magazine's "Best Fingerstyle Guitarist of the Year" category. Audiocast Magazine from Austin, Texas, claims, “Bundy's live show is without a doubt an event that needs to be witnessed rather than told about.”

Over the past couple of years, Trace has shared the stage with Knopfie (Dire Straits), Bill Nershi (String Cheese), Brandi Carlile, Olivia Newton-John, Judy Collins, and Chris Hillman (the Bryds) among others. He has sold over 90,000 album copies, and he has toured throughout the U.S. and 23 other countries. Bundy’s music has been recognized online, with over 29 million views on YouTube.

To learn more about Trace Bundy and his music, visit tracebundy.com.

This Sunday night concert is a part of the Chapel Ministry’s 2025 Summer Worship program. Learn more about the YMCA Chapel Ministry and 2025 Summer Worship activities at ymcarockies.org/Activities, and follow the link to the latest Activity Schedule.

BASE 2.0 is a locally-driven business accelerator program produced by the Estes Chamber of Commerce and its Economic Development & Workforce Council. The program is focused on helping Estes Park entrepreneurs build stronger, more sustainable businesses.

“This program is hands-on, in-person, and designed to produce practical outcomes—including an Operating Plan, goals and a community presentation,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale.

The 2005/2026 program will be facilitated by Kevin Benes, a graduate of the original BASE program. Kevin brings a practical, entrepreneurial, and Estesfocused approach to BASE 2.0. His goal is to help local businesses set clear goals, build meaningful relationships, and tackle the unique challenges of running a business in a seasonal mountain town.

“We’re continuing to refine the program so it can be run by future facilitators; allowing each to add their own touch and personality, and we are especially excited to have a Kevin bringing his experience and knowledge to guide this year’s cohort,” DePasquale added.

“After working in government and large corporations, I found my passion for entrepreneurship,” Benes said.

“Over the past 15 years, I have started businesses, acquired existing ones, sold a couple, and consulted for mountain entrepreneurs across Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah,” Benes continued.

“His background in mergers, business sales, and startups, along with his BASE experience, will be a tremendous benefit to those who participate in the BASE 2.0 program this year,” said DePasquale. “Once applications are received, Kevin will conduct a one-hour intake interview with each applicant to understand their goals, challenges, wants and needs, so we can tailor the program to ensure we meet the needs of our participants and assess whether the application needs to take a Business Financials pre-requisite course ahead of the BASE 2.0,” she concluded.

BASE 2.0 is a ten-session commitment. Each session begins with a morning Community Coffee Roundtable followed by a strategic working period and guest presentations. The afternoon portion of each session includes working time to build Operating Plan components, work through issues, run thought experiments as a group, and discuss best practices and learnings.

Over the ten sessions, participants will deep-dive into topics including: Focus, Tools & Time; Mission, Vision & Exit strategy; Goals, Deadlines & Milestones; Core Activities & Key People; Financial Foundations; Marketing that Matters; Local Ecosystem & Strategic Connections; Finance II –Forecasting & Capital Planning; and Strategy & Growth Planning. The last session will pull all of this together to finalize an Operating Plan and Pitch Presentation, held in May.

To apply for BASE 2.0, please visit esteschamber.org/58394-2.

Estes Chamber Seeks Board Of Directors Candidates

By: Estes Chamber of Commerce

Are you looking to develop your leadership skills? Is networking top-ofmind, to get to know other business owners in town? Are you passionate about making a meaningful impact on the Estes Valley?

If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, you might be the ideal candidate for the Estes Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

“Serving on a board of directors offers so many professional and personal benefits,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. “For some, it’s about expanding their network and gaining experience in organizational governance, and for others it’s about contributing to the strategic direction of our local business community. We offer all of this, and more, to our Board members, who are intimately involved in directing the future of the Chamber and our program-

ming.”

The Estes Chamber has two seats on the Board that are opening, due to term limit expiration. Board applications will open on August 1st and be accepted through the 29th, when they begin a rigorous review process led by the Nominating Committee and then the Chamber Executive Committee. Once reviewed, the applications will go the board for approval. Approved applications will be voted on by the Chamber membership by the end of October, with winning candidates notified after the November 5th board meeting. The new board members will be sworn in on December 3rd, at the State of Estes Park event, and begin serving threeyear terms starting on January 1st Those interested in applying for the Chamber Board should review the requirements and complete an application at business.esteschamber.org/ form/view/37052.

Pet Association Offers 50% Discount On Pet Sterilizations This Fall

The Pet Association of Estes Park will once again offer a 50% discount on all pet sterilizations during September, October, and November. The annual clinic now bears the name Crystal

Wille Memorial Spay/Neuter Clinic. We’d like to thank the Village Thrift Store for awarding the Pet Association a grant to help support this effort. Please schedule your pet’s spay/neuter and receive a 50% discount.

Smokey Needs A New, Loving, Forever Family

Smokey just came up for adoption and he is a real sweetheart. He’s about two years old and just wants to please. Smokey is a medium sized dog, about 50 pounds and is crate trained and quiet. This happy guy has plenty of energy to go hiking and on long walks. Smokey needs some basic training but he is learning very quickly. He is looking for his forever home. Please make his wish come true.

Pets shown in the EP News are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a non-profit organization that is the Estes Valley’s only humane society. Call (970) 286-1652 if you’d like to meet or foster any special pets. To donate or learn more, visit the website at petassociationestespark.com or you can make a tax-deductible donation to the Pet Association by sending your check to P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517.

THE GOMEZ TEAM

Save The Date: Step Out & Care Walk/Run On September 14th

Introducing the first Step Out and Care Walk/Run for people of all ages who want to support the creation of Estes Dementia Day Center, helping our neighbors in need!

Young and older, this will be a fun afternoon (you can dress up if you like) and you will be helping your Estes Valley neighbors. Wagons, wheelchairs and strollers welcome.

We need you, your family, your team to help us raise funds for the Center which will support those in our Estes Valley who have dementia with safe, stimulating, and engaging activities while their caregivers have time to

maintain their own health and wellbeing. One in ten adults over 65 will be diagnosed with some form of dementia.

Please visit the website estesdementiadaycenter.org or scan the QR code below to learn more, register for the walk, create your own campaign goal, set up a team, buy a t-shirt, or become a sponsor. Goodie bags will be available when you finish!

Show everyone that you Step Out and Care. Sign up soon!

For more information contact Jane at jhsstuart@gmail.com.

Addressing The Need For Affordable Memory Care Services In Estes Park

This adorable 4 bedroom, 2 bath home known as “Bluebird Cabin”is available for sale. Nestled in a prime location with breathtaking views of the Continental Divide, this cozy yet spacious retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Also rare is the 1700 square feet of garage/workshop space, allowing for countless possibilities. Current transferable STR in place

By: Rene Moquin

I appreciate the opportunity to speak to the issue of dementia and the growing need for affordable services, both in our community and countrywide.

Several of us from the Journey’s Class have also come together to address the countless need for affordable dementia/memory care services in Estes Park and throughout our country. Our monthly memory café and the development of a Dementia Adult Day Care Center in Estes Park are efforts currently underway.

One local physician states that 32% of her patients suffer cognitive decline. Timberline Medical, now called UC Health Primary Care, report 339 patients with cognitive decline in 2024. Over seven million Americans are living with this disease. It is likely if you don’t know someone in your family with dementia, you probably know someone in your circle of friends and neighbors who does.

Our concern speaks to home care, non-medical and custodial care. These services, although welcomed, are not obtainable and are cost prohibitive to those on Medicaid and others. Greater access and lower costs for home care would allow dementia clients to stay in their home longer and avoid the heavy costs of assisted and/or nursing home care.

We are asking members of the Journey’s Class and others to call Senator Bennet and other public officials in ad-

vocating for this legislation on behalf of those who need access to home care services, especially for those on Medicaid, and are asking the Senator and other public officials for their leadership in creating legislation that supports a variety of accessible and affordable home services. The Senator has been on record in addressing this matter.

On a personal note, my wife, Joanne, is facing dementia challenges. We will need home care services but many folks in our community will not be able to afford these services. Since home care is no longer available through Estes Park Health, private pay for assistance is the only option, which can be very costly. I think we would all agree that dementia clients being able to stay in one’s home is preferable and less expensive than other forms of care.

We are asking each of us to 1) make one call by contacting Senator Bennet’s office and 2) encourage your friends to do likewise. A few calls will not help; many calls will. Senators receiving telephone calls are the most effective means for bringing about change. Recently I visited with Sophia in Senator Bennet’s office. She is excited about our efforts.

In Colorado, Senator Benefit’s office can be reached at 303-455-7600. We need to convey that we need his support and the support of his colleagues for appropriate home care legislation that assures accessible and affordable care to all of those in need.

EP Rotary Club Friendship Card Saves Money For Tourists & Locals

Rotary hopes you will save money when you purchase anything from groceries to souvenirs from our merchants in the Estes Valley. Discounts are given at more than 70 participating Estes

The Rotary Club of Estes Park uses sales of the Friendship Card as a fundraiser for club projects and community grants. The Rotary Club has provided

Park merchants to anyone showing their 2025 Friendship Card. Hint: It’s not too soon to start your Christmas shopping, and the 2025 card is good through December 31st

Cards are sold for only $10 at the following locations in town: Cabintique, Country Market, Estes Park Visitor Center, Macdonald Book Shop, Mad Moose, Quality Inn, Safeway Guest Services, and Wynbrier Home & Wynbrier Ltd.

grants to Crossroads Ministries, area volunteer Fire Departments, Bright Christmas, Blue Santa, Estes Valley Investment in Childhood Success, Community Corner Café, Polio Plus, Amaro Tan school in Albania, and other worthwhile causes.

For a list of merchants that give a Friendship Card discount, visit bit.ly/4lgRuct.

YMCA Of The Rockies Dedicates New Center For Well-Being At Estes Park Center

YMCA of the Rockies’s Estes Park Center celebrated the dedication of its new Center for Well-Being yesterday, marking the opening of a purposebuilt facility designed to nurture spirit, mind, and body in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. The ceremony

rest, renewal, and peace — a refuge for weary bodies and souls, along with a wellspring of strength.”

Susan Taylor, Program Director, spoke about how the Center for WellBeing addresses the growing demand for more year-round wellness programming. “Guests and staff often ask, ‘Where’s the gym?’

brought together donors, staff, guests, and community members to honor a project years in the making.

The event began with a welcome from Shannon Jones, Estes Park Center General Manager, who reflected on the journey from the 2024 groundbreaking to today’s ribbon-cutting. He described the new center, which features two massage therapy rooms and a movement classroom for yoga, Pilates, and other mindful practices, as “a place of

Our answer has usually been, ‘Get outside and go for a hike.’

But movement requires more than hiking — it includes practices like yoga, Pilates, and meditation.

This building will not only meet those needs, it will also build community — one of the pillars of what we do at the Y.”

Julie Watkins, President/CEO, connected the donor-funded project to YMCA of the Rockies’ strategic vision.

“Even here in the mountains, things can get hectic. This will be a place of peace and relaxation. The Center for Well-Being and the yoga deck are symbols of our commitment to priorities in our strategic plan--inspiring creativity and spiritual well-being, leading in en-

vironmental responsibility, and providing transformational hospitality,” Watkins said.

The 2,000-square-foot facility is accompanied by a nearby outdoor yoga platform with panoramic mountain views. Sustainability features for the building include solar panels, an electric heat pump, enhanced insulation, and the first Level 3 EV charger at Estes Park Center — funded in part by a Charge Ahead Colorado grant.

The project was made possible by the generosity of lead donors, Steve and

Bette Goldmann and nine additional donor families. “Bette and I are pleased and honored to help make this beautiful addition to the Y’s programs possible,” said Steve Goldmann.

“People often ask why we come back to the YMCA of the Rockies when there are so many other places to see. I tell them it restores my soul.”

The Center for Well-Being is poised to serve thousands of guests each year, advancing YMCA of the Rockies’ mission to build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

Ewell Family To Perform At YMCA Of The Rockies

On Sunday, August 24th, Bob and June Ewell, and their son, David Ewell will be the guest performers for the 7 p.m. piano concert in Hyde Chapel. This performance is free and open to the public.

Bob and June have been making music together since they met over the piano at a Christian summer camp when they were 12. All three are classically trained, all played for their respective college choirs. David accompanied the famed University Choir and Orchestra from Azusa Pacific University and was featured in two professional shows in Atlanta: Forever Plaid and Beyond the Rainbow. All three have done most of their playing in churches. David accompanies the choir and orchestra of First Baptist Church in Cumming. Bob has released three

CDs. June has been teaching piano since 2002 and performs classical music regularly with a group of peers.

The August 24th program will feature a mix of classical and sacred music along with a few “surprises.” Join us!

We Wouldn’t Dare Waste A Crisis

By: Brian Schaffer

“Never let a good crisis go to waste.”

—Sir Winston Churchill

People who are in the middle of a crisis are more likely to consider a new solution, entertain a complex strategy, remove barriers to secure more resources that were not accessible prior to the crisis, and ultimately overcome one’s resistance to change. These are just a few opportunities that open up during a crisis situation.

On more than one occasion, it’s taken a crisis for me to confront my perceived limitations to discover what resources were available outside the comfort zone. Division Chief Jason Dillingham says, “Your comfort zone is the enemy of your potential.”Experienced firefighters like Jason know firsthand what’s involved in responding to a crisis situation, because it’s a daily occurrence every time the tones go off. When first responders arrive on scene, their sense of urgency allows them to adapt quickly to save life, property, and the environment. We are very fortunate to have a dedicated team of highly trained firefighters that serve as members of the Estes Valley Fire Protection District. I should know; I’m the Fire Chaplain!

A crisis comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. At Crossroads, we’ve had our share of crisis situations, and I’m happy to say, we didn’t waste a single oppor-

tunity to serve Estes Valley residents.

In 2013, the Board of Directors for Crossroads didn’t predict the flood, and didn’t have a large amount of money budgeted for disaster relief, but when the crisis came, they adapted quickly and became the recovery center to assist victims impacted by the damaging waters.

In 2020, the Board didn’t predict a COVID epidemic, or that the East Troublesome wildfire would result in the entire town being evacuated. However, when we returned from the evacuation, we rolled up our sleeves and got to work helping people who were devastated by this natural disaster.

And, as you already know, the new normal that emerged out of COVID continued into 2022 for Crossroads. We innovated how we would operate all of our services without clients coming inside to meet with staff. We decided to set up like a drive-in restaurant. We asked our neighbors to pull into a parking stall, and then we would come to their vehicle to receive their order for grocery items, or whatever service they were needing.

In 2024, the Alexander Mountain fire wasn’t in our strategic plan, so without a moment to waste, our friends at the Bank of Estes created a funding mechanism to get donations to Crossroads, and this allowed us to assist families

within a matter of days. When it was all said and done, we helped 29 families with over $47,000 worth of assistance.

Doing More in 2024 was our motto, and we knocked it out of the park. Staying Alive in 2025 has been our motto this year, but I had no idea what was coming down the pike on the first day of January when we kicked off the new year. The various changes that we’ve experienced this year have put us as well as the people we serve in a state of crisis, but what I’m learning is that something positive is going to come out of it, because we’re not going to dare waste a crisis.

So far, we have made some modifications in the way we do things, and it’s brought us to the realization that we can’t do anything by ourselves. We need each other! And, even though, we didn’t like some of the moments when the crisis was most intense, we were determined to do whatever we needed to do to keep things going.

I recently shared with a group of leaders that during a widespread crisis, we must come to the realization that… We didn’t cause it, We can’t control it, and We can’t cure it. But, we can do what we do best at Crossroads, and that’s to love our neighbors by providing basic human services to Estes Valley residents in need.

CrossroadsEP.org

Allenspark Community Church Dementia Symposium

By: Pastor Ralph Patrick

The Allenspark Community Church is hosting the second annual Dementia Symposium — “Come to the Summit” — on Saturday, September 6th from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The church is located at 16 Washington Street in downtown Allenspark.

This year we are fortunate to have as our featured speakers Dr. Lotta Granholm-Bentley, researcher at CU Anschutz, and Dr. Rebecca Chopp, Chancellor Emeritus at DU and author of the book “Still Me.” In addition, presentations will feature Leah Quiller, music therapist, and Ralph Patrick, dementia consultant. A special dementia friendly “GLOW” concert will be performed by a string quartet of the Boulder Symphony.

Dr. Lotta Granholm-Bentley is a tenured professor in the Department of Neurosurgery at CU Anschutz Medical Campus. She was born in Sweden and received her PhD from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm. In 1985, she came to the University of Colorado as a Postdoctoral fellow and fell in love with this state and its people. Dr. Granholm-Bentley has written close to 200 peer-reviewed articles; most of them about healthy aging and neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. She was the inaugural executive director for the Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging (KIHA) at the University of

Denver and is currently the leader for a biobank consortium focused on brain donations from persons with DS throughout the lifespan, with eleven sites in the USA, India, and Europe. Dr. Rebecca Chopp is co-chair of the Board of Voices of Alzheimer’s and serves on the board of “Us Against Alzheimer’s.” She has served on both the national and state board of the Alzheimer’s Association. A former university president and a scholar of religion, Rebecca uses her skills and experience to educate people about early detection and living well with dementia, including Alzheimer’s. Rebecca lives in the mountains of Colorado where she paints, hikes, is active in community groups, and works on projects to help caregivers and those living with dementia thrive.

Ralph Patrick has over 30 years working professionally with people experiencing brain changes. His dementia journey became deeply personal when his mother, Jean, was diagnosed in 2001. His experience with his mother resulted in his desire to serve those living with cognitive challenges and their care companions. Ralph became a volunteer, and then a Regional Director in the Colorado Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. Currently Ralph is a dementia consultant and coach through “Cardinal Crossroads” which he started in honor of his mother. Serving as the pastor of Allen-

spark Community Church, Ralph enjoys mountain life and is very busy with his grown daughters and three grandchildren.

Leah Quiller is a music therapist who is completing her PhD in music therapy at CSU.

After lunch, there will be a Dementia Friendly “GLOW” Concert featuring the Boulder Symphony String Quartet. A “GLOW” Concert draws on research-based knowledge of how music interacts with memory and emotion, and is crafted to spark recognition, connection and meaningful moments between attendees and their loved ones.

The String Quartet will be conducted by Artistic Director Devin Patrick Hughes alongside board-certified music therapist Leah Quiller. This event is sponsored by: Allenspark Community Church Harmony Senior Referrals—Senior Placement Service with a Personal Touch. Britt and Walt Roberson Kapsak/Estes Law Firm—Dan Kapsak and John Estes, Elder Law Attorneys, Longmont

Cardinal Crossroads: Providing Dementia Consulting and Coaching, Ralph Patrick

All are welcome to attend. A donation will be taken to help provide funding for future programming. Please RSVP to apcconline@gmail.com.

Estes Valley Residents: We Need Your Help!

As some may know, a small local group is on a mission to establish a Dementia Day Center in Estes. This center would offer a stimulating day program for local adults with dementia, also giving much needed respite for caregivers. Members of our group include Mary Mesropian, Jane Stuart, Carl Robicheaux, Madison Casey, LoAnne Forschmiedt and Pete Sinnott.

However we are discovering that many in Estes are unaware of this initiative. We have the expressed support of the Town, the Medical Community, The Rotary Club of Estes Park and St. Bart’s Church.

We have partnered with the Colorado Nonprofit Development Center to act as Fiscal Sponsor and submitted our 501(c)(3) application.

To insure sustainability we have established a fundraising goal of $500,000 prior to opening the facility in early 2026. To date, 49 generous folks and organizations have pledged or donated $247,000 and so we need your help to bring this much needed service to Estes.

To find out more about us, go to our website: estesdementiadaycenter.org

To donate: Make your check payable to Rotary Club of Estes Park Foundation, EDDC on the memo line, P.O. Box 1365, Estes Park Co. 80517. This donation is tax deductible.

To make a pledge that will be processed upon receipt of our 501(c)(3) status, contact Pete Sinnott at psinnott22@gmail.com.

Register Now For Run Like The Wind 5K & Dog Jog in Allenspark

For 12 years hundreds of runners have flocked to Allenspark to compete in the Run Like The Wind 5K And Dog Jog, known as one of the most picturesque high-altitude runs in the state.

“The Old Gallery is thrilled to host the 13th Run Like The Wind 5K and

“Runners come from all over the Front Range and Denver enjoy this high altitude run,” said Street. “It’s a gorgeous course and a great way to enjoy a mountain morning."

Registration begins at 7-8:30 a.m. at The Old Gallery in Allenspark. There

Dog Jog,” said Race Director John Street. At an elevation of 8,504 feet, the 5K takes place on dirt roads that wind through wildflowers and pine forests, boasting views of high mountain peaks.

There is also a 2K non-competitive walk, dog jog and dog show, with prizes for the Waggiest Tail, Best Trick, Best Rescue Story, Best Stay and other categories.

will be refreshments, awards and prizes for the top three finishers in age categories for male/female/non-binary runners. There will also be top three overall winners.

Runners and walkers and their dogs can also register at GetMeRegistered.com, event ID 141140. All participants will receive a commemorative runner’s cap, bib number, pins, official timing/awards

and door prize raffle ticket.

The 5K begins at 9 a.m. in front of the Allenspark Post Office. The non-competitive 2K begins at 9:10 a.m. The awards ceremony takes place at 10 a.m.

At 11 a.m. there will be a whimsical

their works at The Old Gallery from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. that day. “The Old Gallery is home to a wide variety of regional and nationally-acclaimed artists, photographers and jewelry designers,” said The Old Gallery Events Coordinator Brittni Hamilton. “We also have a

dog show.

The family friendly event also features door prizes, including a twonight stay at the YMCA of the Rockies, goodies from Patagonia and more.

Registration for the 5K/Walk is $40, with an additional $5 entry fee for the Dog Show. There is a $20 registration fee for the 2K non-competitive event and an additional $5 fee for the Dog Show.

The event is sponsored by Tree Huggers, Lyons Physical Therapy, Trailblazer and Rob Lewis of KI Realty.

More than 25 artists will be displaying

Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Store here. It’s a great center for community, the arts and visitors.”

Allenspark is an unspoiled mountain town with gorgeous views and friendly people, just 20 minutes from Estes Park and 25 minutes from Lyons.

For more details about the race, printable registration forms and to register online visit theoldgallery.org. You’ll also find information about other special events, concerts, classes and more.

The Old Gallery is located at 14863 Highway 7, 20 minutes south of Estes Park. It is a nonprofit center for community, the arts and visitors.

Kids Welcome At Wild Turkey Festival (Adults, Too!)

Here is your chance to talk like a turkey, walk like a turkey, dress like a turkey! You know you want to!

Display your talents at the Allenspark Wild Turkey Fest on Saturday, September 13th, from 1-2:30 p.m. It's a free community celebration in the mountains.

The contest sign-up will open at noon at the Wild Turkey Fest Headquarters in downtown Allenspark, right off of Highway 7.

At 1 p.m. the Turkey Calling Competition will open. Practice your best Turkey Talk. Gobble! Yelp! Cluck! Cackle! During the live music intermission, step up to the mic and demonstrate your turkey vocal talents.

At 2 p.m. the Costume Contest will

open. Don your colorful wings, tail feathers, three-toed feet, red neck wattle! Get creative! Wear any costume you like, but the winners will likely be

dressed as turkeys!

At 2:15 p.m. the Turkey Strut will take place. Here’s your chance to puff out your feathers, flap your wings, and bob

your head all at the same time. The two-block strut will start at the Wild Turkey Festival headquarters, turn at Allenspark Lodge and strut back to the start. Hint: Secret judges will be posted along the route, so pace yourself and display all the way.

Prizes will be awarded to the top kid (under 14) and top adult (14+) in each competition. Those who enter all three competitions will be entered into a special prize drawing.

Be sure to check out all the action at the Allenspark Wild Turkey Festival, which begins at 9 a.m. and includes a community pancake breakfast, booths, vendors, scavenger hunt, live music, farmers' market, games, food (turkey legs!) and drink (Wild Turkey!).

EP News/Kris Hazelton

St. Bart’s Prepping Pasties For October Autumn Market

Although it’s still summer in Estes Park there are signs that autumn is on its way.

The nights are cooler, “Back to School” is in all the ads, and members of St. Bart’s Episcopal Church located the aprons they put away last year, put on their cooking gloves, and began making pasties.

Pasties are little Cornish/Welsh meat and vegetable pies. For more than 25 years, St. Bart’s parishioners have made and sold pasties in the fall to fund gifts to charities. Pastie fans in Estes have already begun calling to make sure they’ll be available this year. And they will.

Church volunteers gathered in St. Bart’s kitchen on August 17th to make the first batch and will meet once a week until 480 pasties are baked, frozen, and put in bags of six. There will also be 120 gluten-free pasties (20 bags) and apple raisin chutney for sale. Regular

pasties are $26 a bag, gluten-free are $28, and the chutney is $10 a pint. You can order and prepay online at stbartsepiscopal.org, any time until they’re sold out.

Orders can then be picked up at the church’s Autumn Market on October 18th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

AA & Al-Anon Meetings

Al-Anon (a 12-step program for family and friends of Alcoholics)

Thursdays from noon-1:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave.in the upstairs lounge, Estes Park.

AA of Glen Haven

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

Early Worms

Monday thru Saturday at 7:00 a.m.

(Monday through Saturday hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839 PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave.

Early Worms Women's Meeting

12 p.m. Mondays

St. Bartholomew, 880 MacGregor Ave.

Mixed Nuts Al-Anon Group

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

One Day at a Time

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

Tuesday at Noon Open discussion

Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Open discussion Saturday at 5:30 p.m.

Meetings are in the lounge on the main floor by the front entrance to the church. Park upstairs by the main entrance of the church.

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

Current Schedule as of 6/17/2025

Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings

Mon.-12 p.m.-In person and Zoom-O, D

Monday-7 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, BB

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sun.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, ABSI

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

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

*** Contribute via VENMO @FallRiverGroupAA

Other 12 Step Meetings Held at Fall River Group

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

**O=open to all D=discussion

BB=Big Book

Zoom Meetings-Everyday at noon

Zoom #999 829 166 (no password needed).

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

Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Zoom #999 829

166

Online AA and NA Meetings at www.intherooms.com

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

Ghost Town Legends: From Boom Town To Ghost Town

By: Ethan Knightchilde

This summer in the Estes Park News, I shared some of the legends of Old West ghost towns that helped drive the creation of the Best Documentary Award-winning film, Ghosts of the West: The End of the Bonanza Trail and its companion book, Ghosts of the West: Tales and Legends from the Bonanza Trail. But what actually is a “ghost town”? And how did all those “[city] streets, crowded and rife with business,” in the words of Mark Twain, fall into utter silence?

According to Merriam-Webster, a ghost town is technically “a onceflourishing town wholly or nearly deserted usually as a result of the exhaustion of some natural resource.”

However, enthusiasts often broaden that definition to include locations that are still populated but are mere shadows of what they once were, as well as those that have utterly vanished.

in and shipping ore out plagued the remote settlement for years. Some miners chose to stick close to their claims throughout the brutal winters; but when the federal government demonetized silver during the Panic of ‘93, Carson came to an end.

In 1896, the discovery of gold nearby revived the district, and another camp formed at a lower elevation on the Pacific side of the Divide. The new Carson thrived for a few years, then mining activity began its inevitable decline; people left for richer grounds; and in

The result is a grayscale of historic sites ranging from an empty field like Buckskin Joe to a thriving tourist town like Creede.

The mineral extraction that created the towns generated a staggering amount of wealth. For example, gold taken from gulches around Helena, Montana, amounted to more than twice what the U.S. had paid France for the entire Louisiana Territory. But unless there was some other reason for the settlement’s existence (such as commerce or holding the county seat without a nearby rival), most of the population left once the ore played out, and the town died.

Sometimes, a camp got a second or third lease on life, but it was usually as short-lived as the first. In 1882, a year after Christopher Carson staked out the Bonanza King mine, a camp bearing his name formed in the wilderness on the Atlantic side of Colorado’s Continental Divide. Situated high above timberline, access for bringing supplies

1903, the post office finally closed.

Every town has its own story, and Ghosts of the West depicts many with historical images and current-day footage and photos. I invite you to come to a show at the movie house where it began its journey: the Historic Park Theatre, built when the film’s events were still in living memory. Catch a screening at 2 p.m. on August 28th and September 11th

As the film’s writer-director, I will be on hand whenever possible to answer questions about the entire project after each program.

Visit HistoricParkTheatre.com for information and tickets. Visit KnightSkyPictures.com, the production company’s official website, to view the film’s trailer, gallery, and production info.

Portions of this article originally appeared in the screenplay for Ghosts of the West and the companion book, Ghosts of the West: Tales and Legends from the Bonanza Trail, by E. S. Knightchilde.

Estes Park Women’s Golf Association Results For August 19th, 2025

Estes Park Women’s Golf Association had a great round of play on August 19th. The game was Odd/Even as calculated by Golf Genius and the winners are as follows:

1st Place - Kristy Pak

2nd Place - Linda Bowie

3rd Place - Carrie Logan

Tied for 4th - Kay Boyle, Cindy Minier, Marilyn Soby

5th Place - Jan Alderman

Tied for 6th - Jennifer Gergen, Pam Vendegna, Bonnie Rumsey

Congrats to the winners!!

And — Amy Klein shot an Eagle on Hole #18 (pictured).

Join us! We have fun! If you’d like more information about EPWGA, please contact Diane Butler at dibutler04@gmail.com.

Kay Boyle Wins Overall Low Net In Colorado Golf Association Tournament

A lively group of players came out to participate in the 2025 Colorado Golf Association Women’s Hickory Tournament at South Suburban Golf Course in Centennial, CO on Thursday, August 14th. In this format, players with handicaps ranging from 18-36 compete in 18 holes of individual stroke play – all competitors are preflighted by Playing Handicap with awards going to Overall Low Gross and Low Net winners.

Kay Boyle, an Estes Park resident and member of the Estes Park Women’s Golf Association, was the tournament’s Overall Low Net winner. She upgraded from her finish in the 2024 Hickory Tournament as gross Fourth Flight winner and secured her win as this year’s Overall Net winner with a score of 62 (10).

“The win was because I had the best net score versus all the golfers competing in

the tournament, regardless of flight,” commented Kay.

The tournament also awards two closest two the hole, one of which was won by Kay! She bested the field on hole 8, another 130-yard par 3, with a shot landing 26 inches from the hole.

Congrats, Kay!

Estes Park Quota Club Empowers The Future Through Student Grant Support

Members of the Estes Park Quota Club proudly stand with their student grant recipient, Kendra Vancil, a shining example of the bright futures made possible through generosity and community support. Kendra is enrolled in the Healthcare Administration Program at Regis University. She is currently the manager at Estes Park Health Rehab and Urgent Care.

The Quota Club continues to make a meaningful difference by awarding grants to those in need, investing in both education and hope. Quota Club is always happy to help those wishing to further their education to benefit our community! A big thank you to Quota for all you do!

Shown above are Quotarians Peggy Lynch, Linda Polland, and Ann Kasper, and Student Grant recipient Kendra Vancil.

Estes Park

Club Wants

Quota

To Help! EspañolEstes Park Quota Club quiere ayudar!"

True or False: Hearing loss only happens in your senior years. FALSE! Hearing loss can happen at any age. Use of earbuds or headphones at a high volume can result in hearing loss caused by noise at any age. Learn more about Quota Club's Hearing and Speech work in Estes Park at https://estesparkquota.com/contact-info

Verdadero o falso: la pérdida de audición solo ocurre en los últimos años. ¡FALSO! La pérdida de audición puede ocurrir a cualquier edad. El uso de auriculares o audífonos a un volumen alto puede provocar pérdida de audición causada por el ruido a cualquier edad. Obtenga más información sobre el trabajo de audición y habla de Quota Club en Estes Park en https://estesparkquota.com/contact-info

Amy Klein

Duane G. "Shorty" Lankford (1932 - 2025)

As a Wall-Street Investment Banker, a global Adventure Travel Guide, a college athlete, a chef, and a longtime Rocky Mountain National Park Volunteer Ranger, Duane G. “Shorty” Lankford lived a life filled to overflowing with adventures and accomplishments across more than eight decades on five continents.

The eldest son of two young college students, Duane was born near the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins, Colorado in 1932. His father, William Oliver Lankford, was a celebrated Colorado state-champion athlete who went on to work as both a professional baseball player and a college football and basketball

coach at CSU Alamosa. In 1927 he married an IrishAmerican girl, Mary Martha Lago, from the Colorado mining district of Cripple Creek, Colorado. The couple soon moved to the CSU Greeley campus to complete Mary’s education degree, and then settled down in Longmont. Following her husband’s untimely death, Duane’s mother Mary Martha moved with her two young sons to the outskirts of Lowry Airforce Base in Denver, where she worked as a WWII era Jeep driver for visiting military VIPs, and then for four decades afterward as a beloved public school teacher in Jefferson County, Colorado — finally, passing away at the age of 102 under her son Duane’s care in Estes Park in 2009. As teenagers Duane and his younger brother Larry both attended Denver’s East High School where Duane graduated as a senior in 1950. Both boys were award winning-athletes and distinguished scholars, and even worked side by side as professional cowboys during summers for the Geneva Glen Camp in Indian Hills high above Denver. With help from a scholarship at the University of Denver, Duane put himself through school by working nights

Dressed In Velvet

as a cook at Denver’s Stapleton Airport, and summers up at Central City’s famous Teller House Hotel restaurant — where he was rigorously trained to prepare classical French cuisine by a celebrated European master chef.

In 1955, Duane married his East High School sweetheart Eleanor “Polly” Scott in her family’s home in Denver. Their growing family soon included his eldest son Scott, born in 1957; his second son Kurt, born in 1959; and their youngest child Becky, born in 1963. Working for Bache and Company in downtown Denver, Duane soon built a nationwide reputation as an investment banker in the Municipal Bond industry — eventually earning senior positions in Beverly Hills, on Wall Street, and in San Francisco prior to founding his own firm here in Colorado, Duane G. Lankford and Company. Throughout his long career, he financed municipal and regional water infrastructure projects in dozens of large and small towns across the Intermountain West, including foundational infrastructure projects in both Aspen and Breckenridge.

Having mastered mountaineering and cross-country skiing, Duane cofounded an early adventure-travel company named The Wilderness Institute in 1972, both leading and participating in dozens of treks and expeditions from the Himalayas to Africa to Alaska and Mexico for the next twenty years.

After his first marriage ended, Duane met and married Jariyaporn “Kartoon” Lankford in 1991. Following their honeymoon in her native Thailand — and a trek to Mount Everest in Nepal! — the couple soon settled down in their forever-home in Estes Park, proudly serving together as Volunteer Rangers in Rocky Mountain National Park for

decades.

Hiking and skiing well into his 80s — often with an oxygen tank strapped to his belt! — Duane passed away peacefully from emphysema with his family by his side at the age 93 inside the same Poudre Valley Hospital in Fort Collins where he was born in 1932 . He is survived by his wife Jariyaporn Lankford, his eldest son Scott Lankford, his daughter Becky Wayland, and his Thai step-son Kittisak Philachai. No memorial service date has been announced.

On his last full day on earth, he surprised us all by singing a few favorite songs (on key, and by heart!) for family members gathered at his bedside. The very last song he sang for us that day — an old cowboy ballad about a renegade stallion named “Skyball Paint,” harking back to his own teenage years as a Wrangler at Geneva Glen Camp — captures Shorty’s own adventurous and rebellious spirit perfectly:

Skyball Paint was a devil’s saint

And his eyes were fiery red.

Good men have tried that horse to ride

And all of them are dead.

Well I won’t brag, but I rode that nag

‘Till his blood began to boil.

When I came down I ate three pounds

Of good old Texas soil.

The next morning, listening to Luciano Pavarotti hit the high C in the final notes of his favorite opera aria, “Recondita armonia” from Puccini’s “Tosca,” Duane drew his own final breath in peace.

Gunter Angermayr

Gunter Angermayr entered this world on November 8th, 1957, in Braunau am Inn, Austria and left us on August 8th, 2025, in Denver Colorado.

Born and raised in the mountains of Austria, Günter carried the spirit of the Alps with him wherever he went. It’s no surprise he made his home in Colorado; those peaks reminded him of where it all began. As a young man he drove for the Red Cross through winding alpine roads, always guided by a deep sense of purpose and service and in retirement in Estes Park where he drove tourists over the mountain to go rafting guided by a sense of adventure and love for his mountains.

A man of many passions, Günter’s heartbeat to the rhythm of jazz, folk, and bluegrass, music that told stories as richly as he could. He volunteered for many years at Swallow Hill Music and enjoyed over 20 Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festivals in Winfield, KS. He loved the crack of a bat on a

summer afternoon and could talk baseball, soccer and hockey with the best of them.

But it was political history that truly lit up his mind; he read it deeply, spoke it sharply, and understood it like few could. Hands down, he was the smartest person in the room—but he never made you feel smaller for it. Just lucky to be there. Gunter held several degrees from Southwestern College, Winfield, KS and University of Denver.

Preceded in death by his parents Franz Angermayr and Maria Angermayr, Wife Janis Angermayr, Fatherin-law Charles James (Jim) Matthews, Sister-in-law Joni Davis and Brotherin-law Bruce Miller.

Survived by his son Matthew John Angermayr of Fort Lupton, CO, his brother Robert (Elisabeth) Angermayr of Linz Austria, Sister-in-law Jalynn (Jerre) Nolte of Lawerence, KS, SisterIn-Law Jill Miller of Wichita, KS, and Brother-In-Law Charles Davis of El Dorado, KS, Exchange Siblings, and many nieces and nephews.

The elk still has velvet on his antlers and will begin shedding the velvet soon, in preparation for the fall elk rut.

Photo by Steve Pulfer

Charles William “Bill” Herzog

Charles William (Bill) Herzog, a devoted husband, father and grandfather as well as an exceptional son and brother, left us on Sunday, August 3rd, 2025, at the age of 88 due to declining health.

Bill was born in Denver, CO on May 1st, 1937, to Doris and Charles Herzog. Five years later his cherished sister, Dianne, was born. The family moved to Estes Park, CO when Bill was eight. In third grade he met Roburta Brodie, his sweetheart for life.

After high school and with a Boettcher scholarship in hand, he attended CU pledging Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and majoring in Chemical Engineering. He was a member of ROTC and Scabbard & Blade military honor society. Upon graduation, Bill enlisted in the army and headed to Alabama soon after marrying Roburta.

Missing Colorado, the newlyweds returned to CU where Bill attended Law School. He participated in the prestigious Moot Court national team competition, winning for the first time in CU history. He was a member of the Order of the COIF, a law school honor society and scored highest on the Colorado Bar Exam that year.

After graduation, Bill began his professional career with the Denver law firm Dawson, Nagel, Sherman & Howard under their top estate attorney’s leadership. A short time later he accepted an invitation from good friend and fellow CU Buff, David Wood, to join his Fort Collins firm that eventually became Wood, Herzog, Osborn and Bloom. For decades, Bill also practiced law in Estes Park and served on the Estes Park Bank Board. He was heavily involved in

Rotary International, Larimer County Bar Association, Cherry Hills Sanitation District and Griffin Foundation Scholarship Committee. There was a lighter side to Bill. He thoroughly enjoyed music, singing and playing the piano, clarinet, saxophone, and ukulele. He had a keen wit and dry sense of humor while being kind and gentle-hearted. In their leisure time, Bill and Roburta could be found with their friends and family on the tennis court, golf course, bowling alley, bridge table, at parties, Century Club functions or traveling worldwide.

Bill is survived by his sister Dianne Sanford of Loveland, CO; daughters Kelly (Dave) Fochtman of Arvada, CO and Teresa Herzog of Windsor, CO; grandchildren Nicholas (Anita) Walts of Brooklyn, NY, Kayla Fochtman of Arvada, CO, Niki Fochtman of Vancouver, WA and Hayley (Sam) Noyes of Brighton, CO; niece Tammy Brough of Helena, MT; nephews Brett (Leisa) Brough of Tulsa, OK and Mike (Audrey) Seybold of Broomfield, CO; along with several great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Roburta, niece Marci Seybold, brother-in-law James Seybold, brother-in-law James Sanford, sisterin-law and brother-in-law Betty and Gene Brough.

A memorial service will be held on September 12th, 2025, at 2 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Fort Collins. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Vessey Funeral Service for The Rotary Foundation or directly to the Alzheimer’s Association (in memory of Roburta Herzog). Please visit vesseyfuneralservice.com to share condolences or memories with the family.

John J. Schaps

John Joseph Schaps passed away in Northglenn, Colorado on July 8th, 2025 after a long illness. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 42 years, Kathy (Hanson) Schaps. Both were long-time residents of Estes Park, Colorado.

John was born in St. Paul, MN to Joseph and Rosemary (Hughes) Schaps, and moved to Denver when his father was stationed at Lowry Air Force Base during WWII. A graduate of Regis High School (1963) and the University of Colorado (1968), he was drafted into the US Army during the Vietnam Conflict. Stationed in Stuttgart, Germany, he was a Military Policeman (MP), later promoted to Company Clerk, then honorably discharged in 1971.

John worked in real estate and retired as an Investment Advisor for

TIAA. He and his wife, Kathy, owned a Hologram store and The Homespun Shop in Estes Park, Colorado. An avid sports fan, John was an expert downhill skier and tennis player. He is survived by son, Jeremiah Schaps; daughter, Emily Schaps; brother, Steve Schaps; sister, Teri Deane; grandson, Jackson Schaps; nephew, Michael Schaps; nephew, Matthew Schaps; niece, Katrina Whitehead; niece, Simone Deane LaBella; nephew, Alex Deane; nephew Michael Deane and several cousins, grand-nephews and grand-nieces. A memorial aervice will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, September 16th, 2025, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Parish, 11385 Grant Dr., Northglenn, CO 80233. Donations to your local food bank are appreciated.

Steven Jungbauer

Steven Herbert Jungbauer, age 81, of New Brighton, MN passed away on August 16th, 2025.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Helen Jungbauer; wife, Patricia Jungbauer; sister, Suzanne Grill; son in law, David Kline; and granddaughter, Jayden Kline.

He is survived by children, Jennifer Kline, Gary Jungbauer, Michelle Jungbauer; grandsons, Tristan Kline (Helen) and Brandon Kline (Perla); several in-laws and many nieces and nephews.

Steve led a very active life which included in his younger years playing fast pitch softball, and hiking, especially in the Rocky Mountains. He was a fantastic photographer with so many incredible pictures of the Rockies from the large mountains to the smallest fauna.

He and his mom loved to garden

both vegetables and flowers. He loved to spend time building complex train displays over the years. He spent many hours playing cards including bridge, cribbage and solitaire (or helping mom play). He loved to help out people whenever he could whether it was cleaning up a snowstorm or helping build something — he could be counted on to help.

Steve was a member of the Minnesota National Guard for six years as a Medic SP-5. He had many careers from being an accountant, working with computer systems with his final position being a senior system analyst for HR system installations.

Memorial service will take place at 10 a.m. on Friday, August 22nd at Mueller-Bies Funeral Home-Roseville, 2130 N. Dale St., County Rd. B, Roseville, MN. Visitation will take place from 9-10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alexandra House.

Support For UCHealth Partnership

The upcoming partnership with UCHealth is an exciting chapter in Estes Park Health’s 50 year history.

Eighty percent of taxpayers who voted in a special election in May of 2023 were in favor of allowing the EPH Board to include tax money in any negotiations with a larger health system. These voters understood then, and they understand now, that affiliation with UCHealth will ensure excellent and sustainable medical care for decades to come.

Why certain members of the Estes Valley community are trying to derail this development is beyond me. A small group of detractors led by disgruntled former employees and a blog with questionable motives should not be allowed to throw up a roadblock to much needed progress.

Red-tailed hawk

Any resident or visitor who has used the emergency room, the clinic, the surgery center, the infusion center, rehabilitation, diagnostic imaging, or urgent care knows how crucial local medical care is to this community. For a few people who want to make noise or line the pockets of lawyers to impede this process is utterly ridiculous.

I sincerely hope the Attorney General approves this deal and our local hospital becomes UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center this fall.

I also hope these small town, small minded naysayers will move on to some other issue to fill their desire to stir the pot, as I am sure they will.

Wendy Rigby Estes Park resident

Patron Experience LibrarianChildren

40 hours/week, Non-exempt Pay range: $22.10 - $30.94/hr depending on experience Excellent benefits package: includes medical, dental, vision, retirement (PERA), 401(k) options, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), & more

Summary: The Patron Experience Librarian - Children curates our Children's collection, provides robust programming based on early learning principles, collaborates with community partners, and creates a welcoming environment for children & families from all walks of life. Fluent English/Spanish bilingual candidates highly desired, pay differential included Closing Date: Open until filled

PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATION:

Review full job description and apply at estesvalleylibrary.org/jobs Only complete applications with cover letter and resume will be considered.

$300

YMCA of the Rockies Lifeguards will explain safety rules to patrons, warn them about unsafe situations, and enforce policies on showers and proper attire. Lifeguards ensure the safety of patrons in the facility by preventing and responding to emergencies. You will play an instrumental role in maintaining facility cleanliness by inspecting swimming pool areas, locker rooms and restrooms. Lifeguards must maintain test-ready CPR/Lifeguarding/First Aid skills and will be required to attend regular trainings.

Payrate: $17.81/hr

This position supports the work of YMCA of the Rockies, which operates mission-based family and group conference and retreat centers, and a residential camp, serving more than 225,000 guests in two locations in Colorado, the Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch. The Association Risk and Compliance Manager is primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the risk management and compliance initiatives at YMCA of the Rockies. This role involves overseeing the development, implementation, and monitoring of risk management and compliance functions, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements, and fostering a culture of proactive risk management. The Association Risk and Compliance Manager will collaborate with departments and leadership teams across the organization to support the Association’s mission and goals. Additionally, this position includes responsibilities for workplace safety, transportation compliance, emergency planning, youth protection, contract review, and insurance claims management.

Salary Range: $70000-$80000/yr

es . or g assocIatIo n rIsK a nd coMP l Ia n ce Ma n a g er

Be nn ett Preschoo l to ddl er teacher

Bennett Toddler Teacher is responsible for collaborating with co-teachers and the Preschool Director in teaching preschool age children using nature-based curriculum. Payrate: $20 - $23/hr

Now

Hiring

Shuttle Drivers: $20/hr to start. $4.00 early morning and late night shift differential.

Local Ride Drivers: $20.00-$22.00 an hour based on experience. 30-35 hours a week.

Tour Guides: $20/hr plus tip.

Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle - 551 South Saint Vrain Ave

Photo by Jim Ward

Now Hiring

CDL Drivers

Year round Part-time CDL drivers with passenger endorsment starting at $32.00 an hour plus tips.

Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle 551 South Saint Vrain Ave

JOIN OUR TEAM! Full details on employment opportunities and the application can be found at estes.org/jobs.

Regular Full-time

• Police Officer I - III

• Street Equipment Specialist I/II/III

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

Commercial Rentals

OFFICE SPACE For Rent

Private Parking, 2 offices, each w/ separate entrances, shared bathroom. Rent 1 or both. $400 ea. 970-290-4488

Charming Private Office in Historic Downtown Estes Park 166 Virginia, Suite 1, Looking for a professional office in the heart of Estes Park? This beautifully renovated one-person office is located in a historic building right downtown, just steps from Bond Park, local banks, and the business district.

Features & Amenities:

• Prime downtown location with signage on Virginia Drive

• All utilities included (except internet)

• Wired for Fiber Optics & High-Speed Internet via Trailblazer

• Access to a separate conference room with a large TV for Zoom meetings

• Shared kitchen with coffee setup

• Copy machine available for your business needs

Ideal for remote professionals, entrepreneurs, or anyone seeking a quiet, professional workspace in a vibrant setting. $500 per month. Call Thom at 970-586-2448 to schedule a tour!

Commercial Rentals

6 RIVERFRONT OFFICES FOR RENT

Incls: Private Parking, Utilities, WiFi, A/C, Alarm System, Kitchenette Upscaled Log Building $3,000 mo. 460 Prospect Village Dr., EP

Call Bret Freedman 970-215-2494

Apartments

Discover your mountain haven in Estes Park. Modern living, breathtaking views and endless outdoor adventure awaits. Live where nature meets home. Call now to tour! 970-488-3626 Open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm Storage Units

Manford Plaza storage unit for rent. 970-586-3828

HOUSEHOLD Tools

Retired Builder Tool and Hardware Sale Power tools, Skil saws, extension cords, drill and drill bits,grinders, table saw, planer, ladders, nail guns and nails, Compressor and hoses. Various hardware. Call Bob 970-481-6452

You've just found it!

Fun family business

Outdoor World and Rocky Mountain Connection retail clothing and equipment year round stores need you. Starting at $18 per hour. Retail selling, merchandising. You must be cheerful and like people. Choose your hours. Ages 15 to 80. Call Ernie 24 hours a day Mon - Sun. 970 232 8290.

We’re hiring for all positions starting at $22.61/hr.:

To apply visit www.albertsonscompanies.com select Careers then search for Estes Park, CO to locate jobs After your application has been completed, please call 970.586.4447.

2017 Nissan NV S 32,0000 miles, one owner, V6, rear wheel drive. $26,000 970-214-8844

Trailers/Campers

2003 Coleman Pop-Up Camper Little used. Hail Damage on Lid. $500. Located in Estes. Call 970-646-1906

SERVICES

Landscaping

Expert Landscaping – 20 Years Experience From garden makeovers to custom outdoor spaces, I’ll bring your vision to life with quality and care. (970) 213-3102Orkin43@gmail.com

Sewing/Alterations

Remixed Custom Sewing Services. Small Furniture, Restoration, Outdoor and RV Cushions, and Commercial Upholstery. Call for appointment 970-492-5446

The Housekeeping Department is responsible for having assigned cabins and lodge rooms cleaned by check-in time and to meet the expectations of the supervisors and guests. Within the Housekeeping Department, there are two types of positions; Housekeeping - Staff and Laundry Attendants. Housekeeping - Staff are responsible for cleaning cabins, lodge rooms, lobbies, and public areas. Laundry Attendants are responsible for sorting, folding, shrink-wrapping, and stacking laundry. Laundry Attendants also load and empty washers and driers. Laundry Attendants must be able to drive to transport laundry to guest accommodations. In your application, please state whether you prefer Housekeeping, Laundry Attendant, or No Preference. This role will pay $14.81/hour and may work for a total of up to 8 months, with flexible work agreements available.

Piano Tuning

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

HOUSEHOLD

Furniture

Solid wood King bedframe and large headboard. High quality. Need it gone! Mattress also avail. FREE if you haul it away! 970-215-9346

REAL ESTATE Homes

Estes Park Cabin with Short Term Rental Permit! 2BR 1BA on 1/2 acre+ treed lot, hot tub, wraparound deck, garage/storage shed, hardwood floors. Successful vacation rental. $625k. Buyers with loan pre-approval and Buyer Agents welcome. Showings by appointment only (970) 227-8491

FOR LEASE 1,400 sq ft - commercial space. Perfect for small business. 521 S. St. Vrain (Hwy 7). Long term lease. Call Anderson Realty & Management 970-586-2950

Garage Sales

Community YARD Sale & Pancake Breakfast Saturday, August 30“Weather Permitting” 8 A.M. until Noon Masonic Lodge 1820 S. St. Vrain Ave. Spaces available for rent $20.00 (includes 1 banquet table & 2 chairs) For Details call: Mike at: 970-577-8585.

COMMUNITY GIVE AWAY In preparation for our move we must rid ourselves of lots of clothes, quilts, games, small tools, books, and canned goods. All must go! Most will be given away. Stop by, say “Hi”, and take what you can use, with my thanks. 2151 Larkspur Ave. Sat 8/23: 8:30am - 4pm

1700 Prospect Est Dr Off Peak View Dr 7-12A - Sat Aug 23 970-215-9665

Estate Sales

ESTATE/MOVING SALE