Estes Park News, December 19, 2025

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Seeking Snow Skiers & hikers traipse across Dream Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park, with the stunning view of Hallet Peak rising up behind.

Photo by Marsha Hobert

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Friday, December 19, 2025

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2 » Friday, December 19, 2025

Mayor Message: Circling Back In the holiday season, it’s common to remember holidays of the past: family gatherings, events, or places that you recall. But it’s not just at holiday time.

“Circling back” is a way for us to return (in person or in thoughts) to places, people, things that resonate in our memory and shaped us.

When I think of an old friend, I contact them again, never knowing when the last opportunity will be. I’ve not always done that at the right time. I wrote a song called “Say Goodbye While You Still Can” to remind myself how important it is to do so.

Circling back helps us analyze: “How did we get from there to here? What was the path? What choices did we make and what happened by chance?

What mistakes did we make? What lessons can we learn?”

How does this apply to being mayor?

Because I also frequently reflect on the twenty months of my political career, analyze what steps I’ve taken, weigh missteps, try to figure out how to be better and try to increase my little store of wisdom. For example, running board meetings is my responsibility.

While perfection by human beings can be a holy grail (are you there yet?), I aim to be the best I can be.

Music involves intense repetition to achieve high accuracy on an instrument. I used to put albums on a turntable and let them cycle over and over repeatedly so that I could rehearse tunes with the experts.

How does this relate to my job at Town Hall? Because one must learn consistency through practice and study. One must make the commitment to accuracy in music and to proper adherence to policy and law and ordinance in Town government.

You keep pressing forward even if you play the wrong note from time to time, even if you make a procedural error, even if health issue force you off-track, even in the face of negativity and virtual rotten tomatoes. Keep on playing, keep on governing, pick up the pieces, and keep learning and communicating.

My musical mother, in the latter part of her life, once said to me, “I don’t feel it anymore.” That was a deep shock to me, though it was also a valuable life lesson, I circle back to that moment to remember to keep stoking that musical fire, don’t let the feeling fade, find that drive and beat that drum.

How does this apply to being mayor?

Circling back as mayor helps me fan the flames and keep my drive to serve

through the great, the good, the rough, the really rough patches of this position.

I receive (and give) so much communication. Keeping track of it all requires a disciplined system and regular, planned trips around the communication cycle. With all the emails, texts, calls, and appointments, I comb back through my reminders and pending files to make sure I haven’t missed a commitment or a proper reply or at least an acknowledgment.

I learned “rounding” as a manager a long time ago. It was reinforced in my years at Estes Park Health. In the hospital business, and any business, that’s an especially important part of a doctor’s or a nurse’s or a leader’s day, critical to seeing and hearing what’s working well and what’s not working well.

So, if you see me circling around town, I’m rounding for information, communication, to touch base with as many as I can, to see what’s working well and what’s not.

I will likely circle back on this idea again.

Drop Off Christmas Trees At The Fairgrounds December 29 - January 16

5,100 copies were printed this week, and distributed FREE to hundreds of Estes Valley locations including Allenspark, Glen Haven, & Lyons.

A National Online Audience With Loyal Local Readership Ph: (970) 586•5800 Fax: (970) 692•2611 Opinions of our columnists are not necessarily the opinions of this newspaper.

Owners/Publishers: Gary & Kris Hazelton Editors: Kris Hazelton & Kirby Hazelton Office Manager: Tim Buck office@epnews.com Offsite Operations: Andrew Donaldson ads@estesparknews.com Advertising: Jordan Hazelton jordan@estesparknews.com Press releases: kirby@estesparknews.com All editorial, photo content & graphic design is copyright of Estes Park News, Inc. & can not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of Estes Park News, Inc. ©2025

IMPORTANT DEADLINES Reserve space: Monday by 4 pm Final submissions: Tuesday by Noon Classifieds: Wednesday by Noon

Town Of Estes Park Holiday Closures Town of Estes Park local government offices will be closed Wednesday, December 24th through Friday, December 26th for the Christmas holiday. Staff will resume normal operating hours Monday, December 29th. Town offices will also be closed Thursday, January 1st for New Year’s Day, resuming normal operating hours Friday, January 2nd. Essential services are not affected by office closures.

The Town of Estes Park's free Christmas tree drop-off site will be open Mondays through Fridays beginning December 29th, from 8 a.m. until 3:30 p.m.

The site will be open through January 16th.

Please note the dropoff site will be closed New Year’s Day. The drop-off will be located at the Community Drive entrance to the Estes Park Events Complex/Fairgrounds; follow the signs to the fenced drop-off location. Trees must be stripped of ornaments, tinsel, and other decorations. No wreaths, garland, artificial trees, or tree stands will be accepted.

Trees must be dropped during the

specified hours in the identified area.

Dropping trees after hours or in other locations will be considered illegal dumping and may be subject to a fine.

The Town offers this free service as a convenience and cost-saving measure for residents, with the added benefit of keeping discarded trees/slash out of the landscape. The trees are chipped and discarded in the Larimer County landfill.

The high acidity of the chipped product makes it unsuitable for mulch or compost. For more information, please contact the Town of Estes Park Public Works Department at 970-5773587.

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Save The Date: Giddy Up Gala By: Estes Chamber of Commerce

Dust off your boots and join local business leaders for the Estes Chamber’s sixth annual gala, hosted at Twin Owls Steakhouse on February 19th from 5 to 7 p.m. “The entire community is invited to participate in an evening of rodeo-style fun to celebrate local businesses and kick off the new year,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale.

“Everyone knows I am a big fan of rodeo and all the great offerings that come with living in the mountains, so let us celebrate what makes us unique with a western-themed event that brings business and community together to start the year with clear intention and fun,” said Keith Pearson.

“We are flipping the script on the gala this year, making it a new year’s kickoff event on February 19th,” said Chamber Chair Breeyan Edwards. “We are ringing in 2026 with a Coloradochic gathering that will include heavy appetizers, dancing, spirited conversation, and engaging activities where our business community can network and enjoy an evening together,” she added.

This year’s event will feature line danc-

ing, a silent auction benefiting business education and Chamber operations, and a hat bar offering a selection of cowboy hats that guests can purchase and decorate for the evening.

“We closed out 2025 honoring the hard work of our local businesses this past season at our State of Estes Park event,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. “Now, the gala will be the official start of the new year and the moment we put our plans into motion as a collective business and community dedicated to making 2026 a strong and successful year." she added.

Mark your calendars and shine your boots. Tickets are $75 for members and $95 for nonmembers. Tickets include generous heavy appetizers from Sandra & Thad's amazing team at Twin Owls Steakhouse. Sponsorship packages are available by contacting the Chamber directly at info@esteschamber.org or by phone at 970-480-7552.

Park Hospital Board Shares New Contact Information The Park Hospital District Board, independent of UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center, would like to update constituents with new contact information: Website: ParkHospitalDistrict.org

Address: 1230 Big Thompson Ave. Box 112 Estes Park CO 80517 Phone: 970-982-0212 Email: info@parkhospitaldistrict.org

EVFPD firefighters generally respond to medical calls in their personal vehicles, allowing for a faster response. On other incidents, firefighters respond to a fire station to respond in department apparatus with specialized equipment.

During the week of December 7th, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 16 calls for service. This included:

• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 5 • Alarm Activation: 4 • Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA): 1 • Assist: 2 • Gas Leak:2 • Odor Investigation: 1 • Wires down/arcing: 1 estesvalleyfire.org

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Rocky Mountain National Park Announces Opening Of 2026 Artist-in-Residence & Scholar-inResidence Program Applications Rocky Mountain National Park and the Rocky Mountain Conservancy are pleased to announce that the summer 2026 Artist-In-Residence and Scholarin-Residence Programs began accepting applications on Monday, December 15th, 2025.

RMNP’s Artist-in-Residence program is open to artists of all creative disciplines and genres. Interested artists are invited to apply. Selected artists will serve in a two-week residency within Rocky Mountain National Park during the summer season. During their residency, selected artists will reside in a rustic cabin located inside RMNP where the artists can gain inspiration and create artistic works. Participating artists will also host and facilitate two public programs for audiences of all ages.

For all details on application requirements and how to apply, visit Rocky Mountain National Park’s Artist-inResidence webpage at go.nps.gov/romo/air.

Applications will be reviewed by a panel of judges. The panel will select up to six artists to participate in the 2026 Artist-in-Residence program. Selected artists will be notified in April, and upon selection, the artist will be able to choose a time block for their two-week residency from a list of available options.

Selected artists will stay at the William Allen White Cabin, a rustic, historic cabin located near Moraine Park.

During their residency, artists will have the opportunity to explore the park, gain inspiration, share their art with the public, and create new works. At the completion of their residency, the artists will donate a fully furnished piece of work representative of their stay to the Rocky Mountain Conservancy. Rocky Mountain Conservancy

will hold the rights to the piece of work and the National Park Service will have the right to share the donated works with the public.

Recognizing the important role that art has played in the history of our national parks, Rocky Mountain National Park was among the first national parks to offer an Artist-In-Residence Program. Since 1984, Rocky Mountain National Park has hosted over 200 artists through this program. Participants have included authors, composers, jewelry makers, musicians, painters, photographers, poets, quilters, sculptors, textile artists, and more.

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of over 50 National Park Service sites that currently host an Artist-InResidence program.

For those with scholarly inspiration, consider applying for the Scholar-inResidence program. This program follows the tradition of connecting scholars, historians, scientists, writers, and other professionals to the community and educational programming in Rocky Mountain National Park. Proposals for the Scholar-In-Residence program should be specific to the natural and cultural resources of Rocky Mountain National Park, but could include projects from across fields, including social science, history, natural science, or communication. For details on Scholar-In-Residence application requirements and how to apply, please visit rmconservancy.org/work-withus/employment.

The Artist-in-Residence and Scholarin-Residence programs are both generously supported by the Rocky Mountain Conservancy. For more information on Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit nps.gov/romo or call the park Information Office at 970-586-1206.

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The First Peoples Festival Friendship Powwow will return to Estes Park on January 17th and 18th, 2026, welcoming the community to the Pavilion at the Estes Park Events Complex for a weekend of cultural celebration and connection. Now in its third year, the powwow is free and open to the public.

The event will feature Grand Entry on Saturday at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and on Sunday at 12 p.m., showcasing dancers of all ages in traditional, grass, jingle, and fancy dance styles. Drum groups and singers will provide the heartbeat of the powwow, creating an atmosphere that is both energetic and deeply rooted in tradition.

The Friendship Powwow is part of the larger First Peoples Festival weekend, which also includes a Native art market, film symposium, Indigenous-inspired dinner, and fashion show. Together, these events highlight the diversity, creativity, and living cultures of Indigenous peoples.

The Powwow is made possible with generous support from sponsors Bird & Jim and Mary Murphy with First Colorado Realty.

Set against the winter landscape of the Rocky Mountains, the powwow offers residents and visitors alike an opportunity to learn, reflect, and gather in a spirit of respect and friendship.

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NEW WINTER TAVERN HOURS

Mon-Fri 3-8pm Sat 11-8pm Sun 11-6pm

Post 119

Everyone welcome!

850 N Saint Vrain Ave Estes Park, CO 80517 970-586-6118 | www.esteslegion.org

MONDAY

TUESDAY

MARGARITAS $6/PINT. TACOS $4/EA.

Bingo 6PM. Fish & Chips Special $14.

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

Cheeseburger & any draft beer $12.

hAPPY HOUR ON STARTERS.

Come see our RMNP Souvenirs For Current Hours Call: and Great Book 520-325-6357 Selection!

Stunning Rugs!

Gorgeous Vintage Native American Hand Made Jewelry, Pottery and Rugs 249 West Elkhorn Ave. • Near the Water Wheel

FRIDAY

queen of hearts Raffle 6-7pm.

SATURDAY

25% off wings SUNDAY

HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY

OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE 12-6PM CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY

today’s free show Greg Miles 6-8pm

We will be open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 11am to 4pm

FREE CONCERT

Weekly Happenings

TAVERN MUSIC LINE UP Free shows!

89 Years in Downtown Estes Park!

QUEEN OF HEARTS JACKPOT THIS WEEK

$8,917

Veterans Assistance Fri 2-5pm Legal Assistance 1st Thurs/mo 5-7pm

Dec 26th Share the road 6-8pm Jan 2nd Flying a’s 6-8pm

CHECK OUT OUR 2025 LINE UP ON OUR WEBSITE OR SCAN THE QR CODE

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‘Goodnight Estes Park’ Children’s Book Arrives At Local Retailers A new children’s book is giving families a fresh way to experience Estes Park, whether they live here year-round or are visiting for the first time.

Goodnight Estes Park, written by locals Patrick and Andria Martchink and illustrated by Andria, is a colorful board book that highlights the town’s most beloved sights and experiences. From scenic trails and iconic landmarks to friendly wildlife and the cozy charm of downtown, the book paints a whimsical picture of what makes Estes Park special.

As parents of three young children, the Martchinks wanted to create something special that reflects the place they call home while encouraging families to spend quality time together. “Our hope is that Goodnight Estes Park will be cherished by locals and visitors for generations to come,” said Patrick.

A simple yet elegant story, Goodnight

Estes Park serves both as a reflection on the day’s adventures and as inspiration for future trips. The vividly illustrated board book is designed for young readers, but it’s already drawing attention from adults who see it as a perfect keepsake or gift. With its mix of local charm and imaginative artwork, it offers something for anyone who loves Estes Park.

Goodnight Estes Park is currently available for purchase at select retailers throughout the Estes Valley, including: Bird’s Nest, Coffee on the Rocks, The Country Market, Estes Park Mountain Shop, These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things, The Grey House, Macdonald Book Shop, Peaks Hallmark, Quality Inn, Rocky Mountain Conservancy, The Stanley Chocolate Factory, and The Taffy Shop. For up-to-date retail locations, visit lynnewikgordon.com.

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The Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race Will Go All The Way Through Town On May 2nd, 2026 Performance Park will be the start line for the Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race on May 2nd, 2026. Plans are well underway for another successful Duck Adoption spring season. More than 70 nonprofit organizations in the Estes Valley are expected to participate.

The race course is longer this year.

It begins at Performance Park and ends at the Visitor Center. Merchants upstream from last year’s starting point at the Post Office should see increased foot traffic from this new starting point.

Right now is the time to sign up to be a sponsor for the Duck Race.

Your sponsorship will support the success of the many great nonprofit organizations serving our community.

Please visit our website: epduckrace.org/2025/10/24/whatsnew-for-26-sponsorship-opportunities.

For 2026, The Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race is offering several sponsorship opportunities: Associate Sponsor ($100+) — Offered to anyone who wishes to support the work of the duck race.

Associate Sponsors will be identified as a group within select event publicity and promotion (race week press release and social media post).

Major Sponsor ($500+) — Offered to households and organizations that wish to support the work of the duck race in a bigger way, and with a higher level of

Chuck Bonza: Duck Race Layout

visibility than the Associate Sponsorship level.

Major Sponsors will be publicized individually on social media and in raceday advertising.

Event Sponsor ($1,000+) — Available to select local businesses or organizations that desire prominent co-branding exposure within a portion of the venue or associated with a specific event feature, such as an entertainment act or an activity.

Premier Sponsor ($5000+) — Premier Sponsorship opportunities are available to those who desire branding exposure

throughout the entire event and who donate $5,000 or more to The Great Estes Park Rotary Duck Race.

All Major and higher-level Sponsors may advertise at a display table in the Visitor Center finish line area.

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Window snow art by Gary Hazelton

Preparations for Christmas are underway—with me, anyway, but not with Joe, my UF. For Joe, it’s another story. (UF is a new acronym in my world: Ultimate Favorite, taken from a delightful Korean television series called “Crash Landing on You.”) During the days leading up to Christmas, when Joe is home, he sits in a wingback chair in the room we call the nook, writing Christmas cards and sipping eggnog, or he goes downstairs and practices carols on the piano. The thought of shopping doesn’t enter his noggin until Christmas Eve, and then he disappears for hours. When he arrives back home, his shopping is done. Just like that. The remarkable thing is that he does a really good job selecting the right gift for the right person. I don’t know how he does it.

Meanwhile, I’m baking, crafting, shopping, wrapping and delivering gifts that I’ve considered, researched, analyzed and pondered for months before I’ve finally settled on what may or may not be the right gift for the right person. I enjoy every moment of the process. I would go mad if I waited until the last minute like Joe does, and he would rather be sent to Siberia than to spend more than one afternoon shopping.

We’re different that way. Adding to our dissimilarity is our thoughts about making a List.

I believe in The List. Growing up, I spent hours poring over the Sears and Montgomery Ward Christmas catalogs,

circling pictures of the toys I wanted; making a list and checking it twice for Santa. I knew I wouldn’t get most of what was on my list but it was fun to dream. How would Santa know what I wanted if I didn’t tell him—or my parents, for that matter? The list was key to a successful Christmas around the tree.

Still today I would make a list—which would include a Dyson vacuum cleaner—except that my Santa doesn’t believe in lists. His Ghost of Christmas Presents tells him practical gifts aren’t gifts at all. (i.e., why would he give me a gift that is designed for housecleaning?

That is not a gift, that’s a chore!)

Some people think that if they receive a gift from a list, it’s the same as giving that gift to oneself. But in my view, a list doesn’t limit, it assists. Let’s say I need a new pair of slippers. Imagine there are holes in the toes of my current slippers and all the shearling has worn away on the inside. I would put slippers on my list. I wouldn’t go so far as to say exactly what brand, color and style of slippers, I would simply write slippers. That way some consideration would go into the selection by the slipper giver—in this case, UF Joe. Then, because Joe picked them out, every time I put on my new slippers I would think of him. They might not be the type of slippers I would have gotten myself, but I would like the slippers because Joe selected them with me in mind. (As I said, Joe is an intuitive gifter so I know he’d do a great job selecting slippers. Even if he were clueless,

I’d grow to adore the slippers he picked out for me because he picked them out. But he won’t get me slippers if I put them on a list so pretend I never said anything about slippers.)

Often the best gift is one we receive that we don’t know we want or need. Joe gave me a hand mixer one year. I had a stand mixer but now that I have a hand mixer, I get it out often for little mixings.

I really do think of him every time I use it. (Clarification: It was a utilitarian gift but baking is a hobby for me so that made it ok. Housecleaning doesn’t even come close to being a hobby so no Dyson vacuum cleaner for me. That’s ok.

I’ll just get on my hands and knees and pick up crumbs by hand. I don’t really need a Dyson vacuum. Really, it’s ok.)

My dilemma is whether I should adhere to Joe’s ixnay of practical gifts. If I save him from having to shop for a new _________ , aren’t I giving a double gift to a guy who hates to shop? (I can’t say out loud what it is because he reads my column and will know what I got him, but it’s something sensible that he needs.)

(No, it is not a Dyson vacuum cleaner.

But now that you mention it…)

You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com. © 2025 Sarah Donohoe

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Larimer County Department Of Health & Environment Launches New Respiratory Viruses Dashboard As respiratory illnesses rise across Colorado ahead of the holiday season, the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment (LCDHE) is launching a new Respiratory Virus Data Dashboard to help residents stay informed about influenza, RSV, and COVID19. The dashboard offers clear, reliable, and timely information about the respiratory viruses currently circulating in Larimer County.

By centralizing local information in one place, the dashboard helps residents, healthcare providers, and community organizations make informed decisions to protect themselves and others. Access to timely data allows people to adjust plans, understand when respiratory viruses are most active, and take precautions that protect loved ones who may be more vulnerable. Healthcare partners may also use the dashboard to track trends that can help with planning, resource needs, and enhance patient education.

“We know families and community partners are looking for trustworthy, local data, especially during the busy winter months when influenza, RSV, and COVID-19 become more prevalent,” said Tom Gonzales, Larimer County Public Health Director. “This dashboard is part of our commitment to providing accessible data to help our community stay healthy, safe, and prepared.”

LCDHE encourages residents to take simple, proactive steps to stay healthy this season, including: Getting recommended vaccinations Staying home when sick Washing hands frequently Taking added precautions if you are at higher risk for severe illness To view the dashboard and explore the latest local respiratory virus data, visit larimer.gov/illness-trends. To learn more about respiratory viruses and how to protect yourself, visit larimer.gov/stayhealthy.

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Window snow art by Gary Hazelton

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Friday, December 19, 2025 « 11

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Giving In Estes Park: Join The Many Helping Hands This Holiday Season

As the year winds down and the holiday spirit settles into the mountains, Estes Park shines brightest through something more powerful than twinkling lights: generosity. Here, giving isn’t just a tradition — it’s a way of life shared by residents, nonprofits, faith communities, service clubs, local businesses, and the Town of Estes Park itself. Whether you’ve called Estes home for decades or you’re just discovering its magic, there’s a meaningful way for you to make a difference this season.

Why Giving Matters in Estes Park Estes Park is filled with organizations that quietly and consistently lift up the community. From the nonprofits connected through the Estes Nonprofit Network, to our many faith organizations, to the service clubs that support people year-round, the spirit of generosity radiates throughout the valley.

The Town of Estes Park also plays an important role during the giving season. Town departments partner with community groups to support holiday programs such as the Quota Club Festival of Trees, the Estes Park Police Department’s Blue Santa Program — ensuring local children and families experience a brighter Christmas — and the beloved Helping Hands ornament, which helps provide scholarships and assistance to high school seniors and community members in need through Crossroads. With Trailblazer Broadband being part of the Town of Estes Park, we are proud to be woven into a community that shows up so strongly

for its residents.

This collective responsibility — nonprofits, businesses, churches, civic groups, and Town programs working side by side — is what makes Estes Park uniquely connected and uniquely kind.

One example of that shared effort is the Giving Guest program, where participating local businesses invite visitors to “round up” or donate at checkout. Small gestures add up quickly, and those funds directly support more than 40 nonprofits serving the Estes Valley.

Many area Churches also host seasonal giving trees, food baskets, community meals, and benevolence programs, while service clubs such as Rotary, Quota Club, Lions Club, and Kiwanis run coat drives, scholarships, and hands-on volunteer projects that strengthen the community year after year.

Incredible Ways to Give Back Here are some of the many ways you can join the effort this giving season and make an impact all through 2026: 1. Volunteer with Crossroads Assistance Ministry Crossroads relies on more than 85 weekly volunteers to serve local families. Opportunities include: • Driving for Meals on Wheels • Guiding guests in “The Market” food pantry • Assisting with food pickups • Coaching individuals through their “Helping Hub” 2. Support Estes Valley Crisis Advocates Your donations help sustain emergency safehousing, traumainformed advocacy, and crucial support services for people in crisis.

3. Care for Nature with the Estes

Valley Watershed Coalition Volunteers help protect the valley by removing invasive weeds, planting native species, cleaning creeks and trails, and supporting wildlife education.

4. Participate in the Giving Guest Program Many local businesses partner in this program, making it easy for both residents and visitors to support dozens of nonprofits simply by rounding up at checkout.

5. Support Faith Communities, Service Clubs & Local Drives Churches, Rotary, Quota Club, Lions Club, Kiwanis, and many local businesses host food drives, gift programs, coat collections, fundraising events, community grants, and scholarship initiatives.

6. Donate Directly to Local Nonprofits Monetary and in-kind giving fuels organizations like Crossroads, Crisis Advocates, environmental groups, churches, and civic clubs — all working on behalf of local families, seniors,

youth, and the broader Estes Valley.

The Joy of Giving & Belonging Giving in Estes Park isn’t just about helping others — it creates a deeper sense of belonging. It connects you to your neighbors, strengthens the organizations that hold our community together, and brings warmth and hope to people who may be experiencing the hardest months of the year.

From volunteering at a food pantry, to attending a church giving event, to supporting a Town program like Blue Santa or Helping Hands, to rounding up at checkout, every act of giving builds a stronger Estes Park — one that Trailblazer Broadband is proud to support as part of the Town family.

Closing Thought This giving season, let’s celebrate what makes Estes Park truly special — not just the scenic beauty of our mountain valley, but the people, organizations, and Town programs that work together to care for one another. When we give, we strengthen the place we call home.

Together, we make Estes Park a community where everyone feels supported, valued, and connected.

Police Department’s Blue Santa Program Serves Over 100 Estes Valley Residents This past Saturday, the Estes Park Police Department’s Blue Santa program served over 100 recipients in the Estes Valley. We can't thank our Police Auxiliary Unit enough for their extraordinary dedication and commitment to this program. More than 40 Auxiliary and staff assisted with the deliveries to bring cheer to our community.

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Attention Local Students: Enter The Estes Park Signage Contest Brought to you by the Estes Park Middle School Environmental Resilience Team The Environmental Resilience Team (ERT), in collaboration with the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition and the Estes Valley Recreation and Parks District, is launching a contest open to all students. Your challenge: design educational signage around town. These signs will be installed around Lake Estes, the Visitor Center, Wapiti Park, Fish Creek, and Mrs. Walsh’s Garden!

The signs will feature studentcreated drawings and writing that showcase the important flora, fauna, and abiotic features of our community. Writing can take the form of a poem, story, or informational text. Your work will provide meaningful and engaging information for both tourists and community members. We hope this project inspires you to find your voice, share your ideas, and connect with your environment in a creative, lasting way.

Categories: One winner selected from each category, except Native Wildlife – there will be two winners: • Locaal Native Flowers (Mrs. Walsh‘s Garden) • Bird Sanctuary (near Lake Estes) • Lake Estes & Hydroelectric Dam • Big Thompson River • Types of Native Fish (encourage catch & release)

• Beavers (Fish Creek, near Camp Cheley) • Local Wildlife: Bobcat, Elk, Black Bear, Mountain Lion, Coyotes Requirements: • Student-created. *No tracing or you will be disqualified • Digital drawings accepted as long as it is your original artwork • Must include an illustration and typed information, poem, and/or a creatively written piece describing the illustration. No plagiarism; must be your own writing.

• Information must be accurate • Must be submitted on 24” x 18” landscape paper (or document size if digital), with a 1” margin. 24” x 18” paper is supplied by Mrs. Davis!

• Email digital drawing to ravi_davis@psdr3.k12.co.us • Turn in paper copies in to Mrs. Davis, Room 140 • Submissions due to Mrs. Davis no later than Friday, February 13th, 2025 Layout Suggestions: • You may susbmit a side by side design, a full illustration with text typed over the picture, or any other layout not to exceed 24” x 18” with a 1” margin.

• If you are submitting a paper, the text must be typed in a separate document and submitted along with the drawing. Other than your signature, do not write informational text on your drawing!

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Estes Park Health Foundation Receives New $5,000 Matching Gift To Support Cancer Screenings Previous $4,500 Match Fully Met, Thanks to You! Following an overwhelming response from the Estes Valley that fully met the Foundation’s recent $4,500 matching challenge, the Estes Park Health Foundation is proud to announce a new $5,000 matching gift to support the Cancer Screening Fund.

The match is generously provided in honor of Gary Nelson, a longtime champion of community health and philanthropy.

This new match means that every donation up to $5,000 will be doubled, allowing the Foundation to expand access to life-saving screenings for breast, colon, prostate, and lung cancers.

These screenings are often unaffordable for the uninsured or underinsured residents of the Estes Valley, yet early detection remains one of the most effective tools for improving outcomes.

The Estes Park Health Foundation is deeply grateful to the donors stepping forward with this generous gift, and honored that it recognizes Gary Nelson’s enduring commitment to this community.

The Cancer Screening Fund has already begun changing lives. Recently, local resident H. received her first mammogram through the program after losing her insurance after a small wage increase despite remaining below

the poverty line. With a strong family history of cancer, she feared both the cost and the possibility of a difficult diagnosis.

Instead, she experienced compassionate care at Estes Valley Medical Center and received clear results that same evening.

“I was given the gift of ‘no worry,’” she shared.

“This program changed my trajectory.”

The Foundation is seeking community support to fully meet this new $5,000 challenge and continue expanding access to screenings for those who need them most.

Donors are encouraged to give now so their contribution can be doubled while matching funds remain available.

“One screening. One life saved. It starts with you.”

Residents can help fund screenings or apply for one themselves by scanning the QR codes on the Foundation’s fall campaign materials or visiting 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 970-5774370.

ENN’s Karen Jackson Joins Leadership Northern Colorado’s Class Of 2026 Congratulations to Estes Nonprofit Network’s Outreach Director Karen Jackson on her invitation to join the Leadership Northern Colorado's Class of 2026!

"I'm excited to learn about issues affecting the region, and how our little mountain town fits into (or is separate from) regional issues,” she commented.

“Specifically, how nonprofits play (or might play a role) in solutions. I am looking forward to meeting leaders in government, public works, medicine, real estate...all walks and talks. I'll bring some sass and curiosity to the table."

This six-month collaborative program brings together leaders from across the region to deepen understanding of the issues, opportunities, and forces shaping Northern Colorado’s future. It was created by the Fort Collins, Greeley, and Loveland Chambers of Commerce, along with the Community Foundations of Northern Colorado and Greeley-Weld to support local leaders in working together to strengthen the long-term vitality of our region.

This group meets one day a month for the next six months. Go, Karen!

Learn more about ENN at epnonprofit.org.

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Unique Gifts Can Be Found At The 6th Annual Holiday Shoppe In Allenspark and visitors.

The Old Gallery provides art, entertainment, education and social services to area residents and visitors, including the Community Cupboard Food Bank, Community Closet, art and yoga classes, concerts, potlucks and more.

“The Old Gallery really captures the spirit of this mountain community. It’s a beautiful place for our artists to dis-

play and sell their work and a unique spot to find one-of-akind holiday gifts,” said Artists’ Coop Communication Coordinator and Ceramic Artist Julie Neri.

It’s the 6th Annual Holiday Shoppe at The Old Gallery in Allenspark, where you’ll find one-of-a-kind, memorable and handmade gifts. But there are only two weekends left to shop! Head to Allenspark Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. through December 22nd.

These unique holiday-themed gifts have been created by 13 local artists.

You’ll find handmade glass, ceramics, paintings, jewelry, soap, textiles, candles and more. In addition, art created by 27 local and regional artisans can be found throughout the gallery and are available for purchase.

Textile Artist Annie Muelener creates gnomes and purses and is one of the featured artists at The Holiday Shoppe.

She said, “I live in the mountains, and autumn is my favorite time of the year.

My tapestry purses reflect the beautiful subdued colors of the season. My whimsical gnomes are so much fun to make! I start early in the year to find unique ways to display them. Perhaps in a forest or on a sleigh ride? Each gnome has its own personality, which comes out in the small details. I hope they will bring as much joy to you as they do to me as I create them.”

Celia Garrett creates pottery and said, “When creating for the Old Gallery's Holiday Shoppe, I think about who might be using my functional pottery pieces. I hope that they will feel the care and joy that went into creating each one.”

Located at 14863 Highway 7 at the entrance to Allenspark, The Old Gallery is a short, picturesque 20-minute drive south of Estes Park and 20 minutes from Lyons. It’s a beautifully renovated 1940s log structure that is a nonprofit center for community, art

YOUR LOCAL CONNECTION 100% Fiber | Community Owned | Locally Supported

TrailblazerBroadband.com | 970- 577-3770

16 » Friday, December 19, 2025

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The Estes Park Woman’s Club Makes The Holidays Bright For Others

Once again, the Estes Park Woman’s Club is helping to make the holidays bright for others.

Under Marlene Borneman’s leadership, the women of EPWC raised enough money to sponsor three families in the Estes Valley who could use a “leg up” during this holiday

season. Almost $3,000 was raised through the generosity of the members and then Pam Leitner, Marlene Borneman, Debbie Renner, Diane Palmer and a host of wrappers decorated the gifts most beautifully for delivery to the families. Generosity abounds in this organization and

the Estes Park Woman’s Club has once again served our mountain community during the holiday season.

Additionally, on Monday, December 15th, the ladies of Estes Park Woman’s Club delivered platters of Christmas cookies to the teachers and staff at Estes Park Elementary School. Under the guidance of Stacey Harding, eight bakers came together to bake and deliver Christmas platters of cookies for no other reason other than to recognize our educators in the Estes Valley who work so hard to give our kids a great education. Last fall, the ladies served dinner to the Middle School Staff and the High School Staff prior to their teacher/parent meetings and the organization wanted to make sure the elementary teachers and staff had some holiday happiness as well.

The Woman’s Club is hoping the town of Estes Park will help them continue their philanthropy asnd Scholarship Program by buying tickets for “The Estes Park Woman’s Club Presents….Brad Fitch in Concert, Songwriters of the Seventies,” on Saturday, January 10th, at the high school auditorium. Doors open at 6 p.m. for ticket holders to shop and browse baked goods and crafts avail-

able for donation. The concert begins at 7 p.m. Attendees can browse again during intermission and after the concert. All proceeds from the concert itself go to the organization's Scholarship Fund and all proceeds from the baked goods and crafts will help the organization continue their philanthropy that has been alive in Estes Park since 1912. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased from any Woman’s Club member, at Macdonald Book Shop and at the performance if tickets remain. Come hear Brad Fitch sing songs by The Eagles, Gordon Lightfoot, James Taylor, Willie Nelson and others. This particular concert has not taken place for some time and Brad Fitch and the ladies of Estes Park Woman’s Club hope you will share the evening with them.

We all enjoyed a wonderful holiday luncheon together catered by the Big Horn on December 10th at the Estes Valley Community Center. There was festive decor from Pam Leitner and special entertainment from the talented group Simpatica. Our club is most fortunate to induct three new members as well. Welcome Cathy Creagh, Anne Chandou, and Carol Smith! The next meeting and luncheon will be January 14th, 2026. We hope you will join us!

Hermann Groicher’s 90th Birthday Surprise: A Card Shower!

Mieke & Hermann Groicher, Allenspark Wind archives, 2014

If you remember the Fawn Brook Inn, Allenspark's five-star restaurant, you will definitely remember our dear friend Hermann Groicher, master chef, owner, and icon, who will turn 90 on January 20th, 2026. His daughter is organiz-

ing a card shower to surprise him; to participate, please use the address below: Adrieke Osmun 499 Hyder Loop Crossville, TN 38571

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December 23rd Christmas Concert With The Mountain Music Makers December 22 – 26 Monday, Dec 22 Tuesday, Dec 23

Quiche (w/ spinach, bacon & onion) w/ Hashbrowns & fruit Chicken Piccata Milanese (lightly breaded pan-fried chicken breast in white sauce) w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad Wednesday, Dec 24 Ham Dinner (topped w/ pineapple), Sweet Potatoes, vegetables & Dessert Thursday, Dec 25 CLOSED Friday, Dec 26 CLOSED

December 29 – January 2 Monday, Dec 29

Breakfast Casserole (hashbrowns, bacon & vegetables), Biscuit & fruit

Tuesday, Dec 30

Cedar-plank Salmon (6 oz) over Rice Pilaf & vegetables

Wednesday, Dec 31 London Broil Steak (6 oz) w/ Twice-baked Potato & side salad

Photo by Trudy Hewitt

Bring on the holiday cheer! The Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC) welcomes back the always-popular Mountain Music Makers for a festive, free Christmas concert on Tuesday, December 23rd, from 12 to 1 p.m. at the Senior Center, 1760 Olympian Lane.

Come ready to sing, clap, and enjoy a heartwarming mix of traditional holiday favorites and original tunes. Light refreshments will be provided, and contributions to support the band are appreciated.

The Mountain Music Makers are a talented group of local musicians: Dana Burke (fiddle, mandolin), Ed Ellingson (harmonica), Diane Weyl and Millie Miller (vocals, guitars), Mary Powers (xylophone, vocals), Sonja McTeague (cajón and vocals), Ruth Mutschler (vo-

cals), and Trudy Hewitt (keyboard, vocals). Their music is joyful, toe-tapping, and full of hometown spirit, perfect for celebrating the season together.

Guests are welcome to enjoy lunch during the concert. Bring your own meal or pre-order the hot lunch. Tuesday’s meal is Chicken Piccata Milanese with pasta, garlic bread, and a side salad. Meals are $9 for EPSCC members and $12 for non-members.

To reserve lunch, please place your order by 1 p.m. on Monday, December 22nd. For meal orders or more information about the EPSCC, call 970-5812195.

Want to book the Mountain Music Makers for an event? Contact Ed Ellingson at edellingson@ellingsonep.com.

Thursday, Jan 1

CLOSED

Friday, Jan 2

CLOSED

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, Dec 22nd, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Dec 19th. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.

The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 -- 1 TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM Circuit Balance 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 Fluid Movement & Balance 2nd & 4th Thursday 10:30-11:15 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

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18 » Friday, December 19, 2025

Join The Village: Volunteer At The EVICS Kids Closet

puddle a personal invitation and believes gravity is optional for snacks. But between the pure, blinding love and the occasional moment of existential dread, there is the laundry.

The Great Sock Conspiracy of Estes Park VOLUNTEERS TRAINING You know how If you’d like to become a volunteer for the kid’s closet, people ask, "Why please join us for a training day! did you drive down the valley?"

Tasks Include: Accepting donations It’s usually beChecking out shoppers cause you sudOrganizing new inventory denly need a new Doing laundry wardrobe because your child Park Fellowship Church Wednesday, January 7th sprouted three 340 S. St. Vrain avenue Training #1 - 9:30am Side Door Entrance Training #2 - 12:00pm inches overnight, or you’re completely out of By: Chong Thao, Program Director socks. But even my years of resource a.k.a. Toddler Wrangler planning couldn't solve the most perThe most important thing I learned sistent parenting mystery: where do all from twenty years in leadership? Noththe socks go? ing prepares you for a two-year-old.

I recently bought two full packs of the And you know what? That’s the greatsame socks, thinking I was ahead of est, most beautiful truth of all. the game. Now, days later, I have I wanted this. I really did. I prayed to twenty-two individual socks and prebe a boy mom, and the universe delivcisely zero matching pairs. It’s a sock ered the most gloriously, perfectly boyblack hole, a crisis unique to the todish boy—the kind who considers a dirt dler years. And don’t even get me

Kid’s Closet

started on the washer. As a single mom, I manage the house, the job, and the child all on my own, but somehow, my tiny human’s clothes manage to take up the entire washing machine.

My own clothes are often left sadly piled on top, awaiting a day when the Boy Mom Laundry Vortex gives me a turn.

This constant, messy turnover—the dirt-magnet changes, the fashion-critic refusals, and the blowout that always, always happens five minutes after you put on the freshest diaper and cutest outfit—is the unspoken truth of new parenthood. It's ridiculous, it's exhausting, and it is expensive.

The Six-Month Clothing Contract and How to Win It I grew up with the cultural mantra, "You must save that! You never know when you might need it for the next one." But even I have to surrender to the impossible speed of childhood growth. My son has clothes that look brand-new—seriously, they still have the stiffness of a freshly printed dollar bill—but haven't fit him since the last time the leaves changed color. It’s like they come with a secret, six-month expiration date printed on the tag!

This rapid growth is where the logic of The Family Resource Center’s Kids Closet truly shines. Think of this as your chance to participate in the ultimate parenting win-win: Clean out the clothes your kids have rapidly outgrown and make space for the new ones they desperately need.

We want you to easily and ethically drop off those beautiful, gentlyused items that no longer fit, and in return, shop for your child's next size—all while keeping the whole exchange free and local.

This isn't just about saving money; it’s about saving time and sanity, which, as a parent of a two-year-old, I know is priceless.

An Invitation: Come Join the Village!

Running a resource like this is a true testament to the saying, "It takes a village." The Kids Closet is housed through the amazing generosity of Park Fellowship, and it is entirely stocked by the love and donations of our Estes Park community.

We need your help to keep the doors open! If you are a stay-at-home parent, a grandparent, or anyone with a few spare hours a week, we need your help managing the donations and keeping the shelves organized. It’s a chance to connect with other adults—a true lifesaver when you’ve been talking to a two-year-old all day—and ensure that every family who needs affordable clothes and resources can get them.

We are here for the families that need it, and for the kids that are growing!

Stop by the Kids Closet at Park Fellowship on January 7th between 9a.m. 1 p.m. to shop and/or donate.

To volunteer: Contact Jessica Campagnola, Family Advocate to find out how you can help. We will be hosting a training day January 7th, one at 9 a.m. and one at noon.

Learn more about EVICS at evics.org.

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20» Friday, December 19, 2025

What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library WINTER HOURS Mondays - Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

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

Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.

Special hours Closed on Wednesday, December 24, and Thursday, December 25, in observance of Christmas.

Early closure at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, December 31, in observance of New Year’s Eve. Closed on Thursday, January 1, in observance of New Year’s Day. Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to secure your spot.

BOOKS & AUTHORS From Dragon Fire to Garden Flowers: Cozy Fantasy with Z.S. Diamanti Sunday, December 21, 3 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room Join Colorado’s award-winning fantasy author Z.S. Diamanti for an enchanting talk on “The Guard in the Garden”, where he pulls back the leaves & shines a lantern-light on the story’s gentle heroism, rich world-building, & the quiet magic that lives in ordinary moments.

When the Park Was Young: An Evening with Jim Pickering Tuesday, January 6, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., Hondius Room In partnership with Rocky Mountain Conservancy, we are excited to host Estes Park Historian Laureate & author

Jim Pickering to discuss his latest work, “When the Park Was Young: Chapters in the Early History of Rocky Mountain National Park”.

Book Club for Mortals: Mayo Clinic on Healthy Aging Thursday, January 8, 10:15 - 11:45 a.m., Quiet Room Join us for a discussion on this easy & comprehensive guide to keeping your body young, your mind sharp, & your spirit fulfilled.

ADULTS Saturday Social: Cards & Board Games Saturday, December 20, 2 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room Play board games including classics like Clue & Candyland, or newer games like Blank Slate & Bologna.

Bring your family, friends, & neighbors. Refreshments provided.

TEENS & TWEENS Dragon Slayers: Tween Campaign Saturday, December 20, 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m., Quiet Room Interested in learning how to play Dungeons & Dragons? Want to think strategically & make new friends? Join other tweens for this classic fantasyworld game. This campaign is designed for ages 10-13.

Solstice Winter Reading Program Party Sunday, December 21, 12 - 1:30 p.m., Hondius Room Celebrate the winter solstice & check in on how the Winter Reading program is going so far. We’ll play video games & decorate glass candle jars while enjoying pizza, snacks, & beverages.

Young Dragon Slayers: New Year’s Eve Battle Wednesday, December 31, 11:30 a.m.

- 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room Spend New Year’s Eve with your dragon slaying squad for a full day Dungeons & Dragons campaign featuring epic battles & creative crafts.

End of Winter Reading Program Party Saturday, January 3, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Hondius Room We’re wrapping up the Winter Reading Program with a party to celebrate all your reading over the holiday season. Play video games & make buttons & magnets while enjoying pizza, snacks, & beverages.

Young Adult Dungeons & Dragons: Surviving the Rockies Sunday, January 4, 1 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room Young adults & teens who want to learn to play Dungeons & Dragons are invited to make friends, explore your imaginations, build cooperation, & strengthen problem solving skills. In this campaign, adventurers embark on a journey to survive in the Colorado Rockies.

Young Colorado Aviators Sunday, January 4, 5 - 6 p.m., Hondius Room Prepare to take off as we learn about young people who contributed to Colorado’s aviation history & build paper & balsa wood planes to learn how a wing glides through the air.

Young Dragon Slayers Wednesday, January 7, 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 tweens for this classic fantasyworld game.

Teen Anime Club Wednesday, January 7, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Hondius Room Calling all fans of anime & manga!

Join us to celebrate all our favorite shows, movies, & stories. We’ll watch 1-2 episodes of a featured series or a full-length anime movie while enjoying snacks & an anime-themed craft.

Young Chautauqua Club Thursday, January 8, 4 - 5:15 p.m., Hondius Room Teacher & facilitator Katherine Dumont will lead participants through research about jumping into the skin of a fictional character & culminates in live, costumed performances in February 2026.

KIDS & FAMILIES Library Storytimes Baby Storytime: Thurs. & Sat. at 10 a.m.

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

Friday Kids Club: Pom Pom Holiday Garland Friday, December 19, 10 - 11 a.m. & 4 - 5 p.m., Hondius Room Create a festive holiday garland using multicolored pom pom balls, brightly colored beads, & metallic accents. Designed for children ages 6-12.

Storybook Explorers Saturday, December 20, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m., Hondius Room Join us as we read “The Three Little Mittens” & engage in early learning activities like playing with pom poms & decorating felt

mittens.

Friday Kids Club: Lego Santa Sleigh STEM Challenge Friday, December 26, 10 - 11 a.m., Hondius Room Are you up for the challenge? Build Santa’s sleigh with a gift box out of Legos & see if you can launch the gift from a catapult. Design for children ages 6-11.

Storytime Friends Block Party Saturday, December 27, 10 - 11 a.m., Hondius Room Storytime friends are invited to explore stations with different types of blocks to see what fun creations we can build together. Recommended for ages 0-5.

Friday Kids Club: Gamers Play & Challenge Friday, January 2, 10 - 11 a.m., Hondius Room Join us for board games, card play, and puzzle challenges like Uno, Go Fish, & Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, and more. Designed for children ages 6-12.

MAKERSPACE & TECHNOLOGY 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.

Ornamania Friday, December 19, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Makerspace Repeated Saturday, December 20, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Makerspace Join us for open-crafting to create festive, handmade ornaments, perfect for gifts or decorations. The Makerspace will be fully stocked with materials for a variety of ornament-making projects.

3D Printer Training Class Monday, January 5, 10 - 11 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 Study Session: Board Orientation Thursday, January 8, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Wasson Board Room Learn 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. - 4 p.m. Closed December 25, in observance of Christmas.

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Estes Park Jazz Big Band To Present Christmas Concert Saturday, Dec. 21st

The Estes Park Jazz Big Band will present a Christmas concert on Sunday, December 21st, starting at 7 p.m.

The free concert will be held at Hyde Chapel, YMCA of the Rockies. This concert will continue the celebration of the Christmas season at the chapel.

This concert will feature all Christmas music.

Chuck Varilek will direct the local jazz band which is in its 34th year of providing music for Estes Park residents and visitors.

Featured vocalists will be Jan McCown and Cory Workman.

McCown will sing “White Christmas” and “All I Want For Christmas Is You” while Workman will sing “Frosty The Bluesman.”

Audience members will be encouraged to sing along to any or all of the songs if they wish.

The Jazz Big Band will perform several other Christmas selections in big band style including “Here Comes Santa Claus,” “The First Noel,” “Good King Wenceslas,” “Away In A Manger,” and “Joy To The World.” Several members of the band will be featured as soloists throughout the concert.

The Estes Park Village Band and Jazz Big Band are community bands made up of adult and school age musicians from the Estes Park area as well as from surrounding communities. New members are always welcome to perform with the bands.

The Estes Park Village Band and Jazz Big Band is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Please see our website at estesparkvillageband.com for our latest news.

For more information about the band or the concert, please contact Chuck Varilek at 970-227-8704.

Bright Christmas: It Takes A Village To Make The Magic Work Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of our Estes Valley neighbors, Bright Christmas is thrilled to share that all 112 local families in our holiday sponsorship program were matched with caring sponsors. This remarkable milestone reflects the deep compassion that defines our mountain community.

Saturday, December 13th was our gift distribution day. We are celebrating that 2025 was another great year! Thank you so much to our amazing sponsors—we could not do this without your generosity. We also loved assisting and seeing all these beautiful families!

During this season of giving thanks, Bright Christmas also extends heartfelt gratitude to the generous and caring community members who stepped for-

ward to support their neighbors.

Your kindness ensures that every family in our valley has something to be joyous about this holiday season.

While sponsorship and distribution is complete, Bright Christmas continues to seek monetary donations to help cover the rising costs of food, shoes, winter essentials, and other critical support provided to local families. Donations can be made by visiting estesparkbrightchristmas.org and clicking on “Donate Now,” or mailing a check made out to Estes Park Bright Christmas to P.O. Box 2981, Estes Park, CO 80517.

Every contribution—large or small— directly impacts children and parents right here at home. For those still wish-

Travel From The Comfort Of Your Home Many people will travel to see family and friends during the holidays, but some of us enjoy staying cozy in our mountain homes to make the most of the season. If you like to keep things low-key and local, consider booking a seat in your favorite side chair with a cup of cocoa and exploring new places from the comfort of your home with the Library!

Wish you were somewhere warmer?

Our Digital Collections can help.

Listen to reggae rhythms with Freegal Music+ and imagine an island escape.

Use Libby to find travel guides for your next road trip. Explore vibrant cultures and exotic cuisine with CloudLibrary.

Live vicariously through others and watch travel shows on your smart TV with Hoopla. And of course, the power of a good book can transport you anywhere in time and space. Read on your favorite device, whether it's iOS, Android, or Kindle.

If you can’t travel to us, we will gladly bring the Library to you with our House Calls program. Estes Valley residents who are unable to visit the Library due to a short- or long-term illness, physical challenges, visual limitations, non-driver status, newparent status, or caregiver status can call us at 970-586-8116 x827 to have books, DVDs, audiobooks, magazines, and more delivered to your doorstep.

Deliveries occur twice a month, and you are relieved of worrying about renewals with a dedicated staff member who actively monitors your account.

After you’ve gone through your top choices, we’ll even curate selections based on your reading and viewing preferences.

Let the Library help you explore your dream destination this winter. Visit our Digital Collections or sign up for House Calls to enjoy books, music, and more from home at estesvalleylibrary.org.

ing to get involved, it’s not too late— your contributions continue to make a meaningful difference.

Bright Christmas...helping families in need for 40 years!

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22 » Friday, December 19, 2025

Deena Sveinsson’s Moose Photograph Wins First Place

Local conservation and wildlife photographer Deena Sveinsson had her photograph, “The Fast and the Furriest,” selected as the first place winner in the 2025 National Wildlife Photo Contest in the Mammals category.

The annual contest, now in its 54th year, received nearly 30,000 submissions from more than 3,200 photographers across the United Sataes and around the world. The winning images highlight the diversity and majesty of wildlife, plants and landscapes from across the globe.

“I am so excited that the judges picked my favorite moose photograph to place in this prestigious photography contest," says Deena. “This photograph really shows the dynamics of our beloved moose.”

Deena’s other awards and accolades also include The Wildlife Photogra-

pher of the Year People’s Choice Top 25, Audubon Photography Awards Top 100, Nature’s Best Photography International Photography Awards, Nature’s Best Photography National Parks Contest, Smithsonian Magazine Photography Contest, BigPicture Natural World Photography Competition, North American Nature Photography Showcase 2026, and more.

Deena has lived in Estes Park for over 20 years. An airline pilot turned award-winning photographer, Deena can be seen almost daily trying to find unique ways of photographing the wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park and in the many mountainous areas of Colorado.

More of Deena’s photography can be seen on her website, deenasveinssonphotography.com.

Movies & Showtimes Dec 19th-Dec 25th 2025

www.historicparktheatre.com

(970)-586-8904

Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Team Delivers Safe Water Deep In The Ecuadorian Amazon A team from the Estes Valley water,” said Rotarian John Sunrise Rotary Club has Minier. “This system returned from the Ecchanges that story. It uadorian Amazon brings dignity, health, after successfully inand opportunity.” stalling a state-ofBringing the Gift the-art WallSpring of Sight Safe Water System In addition to safe for the Achuar water, the team decommunity of Kutlivered another sutkao. This project transformative remarks the first time source to the commuresidents of this remote nity: the gift of sight. rainforest village have had Working in collaboration with access to a reliable source of RestoringVision (restoringvisafe, clean, potable water. sion.org), the Rotary team The project was part of a Rotary Inbrought 300 pairs of reader eyeglasses ternational Global Grant initiative supand 100 pairs of sunglasses to distribported by four Rotary Clubs in the ute through a pop-up eye clinic.

United States and one in Puyo, EcuaFor many Achuar villagers, this was dor, working alongside Innovative the first opportunity to receive vision Water Technologies™, Inc. (IWT), Funcare. The reading glasses will help the dación Mente, and Maketai. The instaladults with close-up tasks such as lation team included local Rotarians reading, sewing, cooking, and craftJean Rissmiller, Paul and Teresa manship, and perform daily tasks with Mueller, and John Minier, who traveled clarity. The sunglasses offered essential with Jack Barker, founder and CEO of protection from the intense equatorial IWT and inventor of the WallSpring sun, especially for those who spend system. long hours on the river or in open forLifesaving Advancement est areas. in Water Technology “The smiles were unforgettable,” said The WallSpring unit now operating in Rotarian Teresa Mueller. “A simple pair Kutsutkao is a solar powered, microof glasses allowed people to see clearly biological water purification system cafor the first time in years. It was deeply pable of producing up to 13,680 galmoving.” lons of safe water every day, A Journey Deep into the Rainforest transforming river water—once a The team began source of watertheir journey in borne disease— Quito before travinto clean drinkeling by road to ing water.

Puyo, Ecuador, At the heart of where they met the system is a members of the two-stage purifiRotary Club of cation process: Puyo. From there, Pre-filtration: A they boarded two durable 100-mismall Cessna 180 cron stainlessaircraft for an steel filter rehour-long flight moves larger over dense rainforparticles before est into Achuar water enters the territory—an area membrane accessible only by chamber. air or river.

Membrane Upon arrival in Ultra-Filtration: Kutsutkao, the A highly specialgroup was welized 0.02-micron comed with a tramembrane, manditional Achuar ufactured by GE Local woman trades her dirty container ceremony. Over the exclusively for for clean, safe water. next few days, they IWT, creates a worked alongside physical barrier against turbidity, baccommunity members to install the teria, viruses, and cysts. The memWallSpring system, followed by two brane auto-backwashes up to 1–24 additional days of technical training times per day, maintaining efficiency for four Achuar residents who will and prolonging system life. serve as the village’s long-term water Designed for sustainability in harsh operators. environments, the WallSpring is engi“The Achuar were eager to learn and neered to operate for 10+ years, with deeply invested in caring for the sysonly periodic replacement of the staintem,” Paul Mueller said. “Their leaderless-steel pre-filter and membrane. ship ensures this clean-water solution “The Achuar have struggled for genwill last for years to come.” erations with serious gastrointestinal illnesses caused by contaminated river

Continued on next page

Friday, December 19, 2025 « 23

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Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary team honored during an Achuar ceremony of gratitude (left to right: Paul Mueller, Teresa Mueller, Jack Barker, Jean Rissmiller, John Minier)

Continued from previous page A Lasting Impact on Community Health With the new WallSpring system in place—and with access to vision support through the eye clinic—families in Kutsutkao now have tools that significantly improve their daily lives. Clean water reduces the risk of disease, while improved eyesight enhances productivity, safety, and overall well-being.

“This project reflects what Rotary does best—uniting partners across borders to create sustainable, life-changing solutions,” said Jean Rissmiller.

The Rotary team hopes to expand this work to additional Achuar villages in the future, continuing their mission to bring clean water, improved health, and greater opportunity to remote areas of the Amazon.

Top photo: The WallSpring System delivers clean water to the Bottle Buddy 3-tiered sink where water containers are sanitized, rinsed and filled.

Eye clinic for the Achuar community.

Achuar woman carrying fresh water from the WallSping system.

Achuar men take charge and learn how to maintain the WallSpring system.

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24 » Friday, December 19, 2025

CARRI Had A Great 2025 By: Scott Rashid

Members of CARRI or The Colorado Avian Research and Rehabilitation Institute, a nonprofit based in Estes Park had a great year both researching and rehabilitating birds. Rehabilitation consists of taking care of injured birds and raising young birds.

As for the rehabilitation efforts, we helped an injured American Kestrel that was found at the YMCA of the

Rockies during a rainstorm. The smallest of North American Falcons was unable to fly due to being drenched and having an injured wing. After a few weeks of rest and exercise, the bird was released and will hopefully spend the winter someplace warm.

Another unusual patient was a White-throated Swift that was found on ground at the Stanley Hotel. This bird was a bit challenging to care for as swifts are aero plankton feeders, which means that they feed on insects that they capture in flight. Therefore, to feed the bird, it had to be hand fed live mealworms.

It was seemingly only happy when it

was on our director Scott, clinging to his sweater or sweatshirt. The swift loved to hide under the hood of Scott’s sweatshirt, until it wanted to be fed.

When it was ready to be released it had to be thrown high into the air so it could get enough lift to stay aloft and fly south. There were several other birds taken care of and successfully released back into the wild, including a Sharp-shinned hawk and a Western Tanager.

than 180 boxes placed from the Wyoming border in the north to Walsenburg in southern Colorado.

Once the boxes are in place, members of CARRI monitor the boxes for nesting activity. American Kestrels nest in cavities or nest boxes placed in the proper habitat. Over the years, kestrels have been declining due to a variety of issues, so by building and hanging nest boxes for them, they have been steadily increasing their numbers.

2023 as adults. This was exciting as it was the first recaptures we have ever had. Members of CARRI are the only organization capturing small owls within the park, making the recaptures that much more exciting.

These recaptures prove that Boreal Owls remain within the park yearround, which is one of the questions that we were trying to answer about the owls.

We also have been continuing our American Barn Owl Project both here in Colorado and Texas, banding 64 individual owls. We have 35 nest boxes for the owls in Colorado and 10 in Texas, with the intent to have the birds increase their numbers in safe environments. American Barn Owls are the most beneficial birds in the country, as they can consume more then 800 small mammals in three months when raising a family, and more than 1000 small mammals in a Photos by Scott Rashid year.

Our director conThis year was tinued banding Ospreys with members our director of the city of Loveland to learn about th Scott’s 26 year the movements and longevity of these banding birds at fish hawks.

This consists of being the YMCA of the raised to the nest in a lift truck to band Rockies. Hunthe nestlings before they leave their dreds of birds nests to migrate to South American were captured and until they are two years old. banded. An extremely rare species was Our annual fall owl research consists captured at the banding site. This rare of trapping and banding both Northspecies was the Rivoli’s Hummingbird. ern Saw-whet Owls and Boreal Owls These birds are one of the largest within RMNP. In most years we capspecies of hummingbirds that nest in ture more than two dozen owls each North America. They are normally season.

However, due to the governfound in Southeastern Arizona, and ment shutdown our research was cut rare in Colorado and even more rare in short by a month as we were unable to Estes Park, as it was the first ever doctrap in RMNP. We did find a spot outumented in Estes. side of the park to trap, but it was not Members of CARRI continued to as rewarding as we had expected. grow their American Kestrel Nest Box Therefore, we ended the season, capProject and banded a record 315 indituring fewer owls than expected. viduals this past year. Much of the We recaptured two Boreal Owls that project consists of constructing and we had previously banded in the park. placing nest boxes for the birds Both owls were originally banded in throughout the state. We have more

Our hummingbird research took us to Arizona again to work with other banders in Sedona on a hummingbird project. We also band hummingbirds in Colorado and in fact captured a record number of hummingbirds in 2025, including a record number of Calliope Hummingbirds. These smallest of nesting North American birds migrate through the state each fall. This year they were in larger numbers than ever before, as we ended the year banding more than 50 individuals.

In most years we capture and band only a few individuals, but this year the birds were here in such large numbers, that these tiny birds were even seen scaring off the larger Broad-tailed and Rufous Hummingbirds from feeders.

We also found several territories of the diminutive Northern Pygmy-Owls in the park. Scott and his team have been studying these owls beginning in 1998. Since that time, the members of CARRI have documented 18 active nests both inside and outside of the park.

These two-ounce owls frequently capture, kill and carry off birds and animals larger than themselves. Their primary prey items include voles, chipmunks, small birds, lizards and insects. They nest in abandoned Northern Flicker cavities and raise, on average two to three young.

The most amazing thing that happened this year was our director Scott winning the Champion of Owls Award from the International Owl Center in Houston, Minnesota. Scott was flown to Minnesota to spend the weekend discussing their owl research to the hundreds of attendees.

If you would like to learn more about CARRI’s research and rehabilitation or donate to help the help birds in and around Estes Park and RMNP, check out our website at carriep.org.

Friday, December 19, 2025 « 25

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Stanley Home & Education Center Hosts Yuletide Open House The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center welcomed families and visitors from across the Estes Valley and beyond, including those from out of state, to its annual Yuletide Open House last weekend. The event offered a festive and educational celebration of holiday traditions from around the world.

Guests traveled through nine themed rooms, each highlighting the unique customs of a different country. Interpretive displays provided historical and cultural context, inviting visitors of all ages to explore how holidays are celebrated across cultures.

Children enjoyed hands-on activities throughout the house. In Ireland’s room, young visitors searched for a hidden wren inspired by the traditional “Wren Boys” procession. Mexico featured poinsettia coloring pages and take-home luminarias, while Germany offered an Advent calendar treat and introduced the popular “pickle” tradition. Norway invited children to decorate a Christmas tree, and Poland showcased an upside-down tree that visitors could em-

bellish with ornaments.

Following the tour, families gathered for a visit with Santa Claus, along with cookies, cocoa, cider, and a small toy for each child. This event was sponsored by the Thompson Group, Simply Christmas, and Bank of Estes Park.

A variety of new and exciting programming will be introduced in 2026.

Check out stanleyhome.org/events.org in early January for all the exciting upcoming opportunities.

26 » Friday, December 19, 2025

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Friday, December 19, 2025 « 27

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Find Your Happy Place At Jazzercise Estes Park By: Dr. Sharol Little

Looking for a fun, energizing way to get moving? Jazzercise in Estes Park has something just for you! With over 2,000 locations in 16 countries, Jazzercise has brought its unique blend of dance, cardio, and strength training to our own mountain community — and it’s helping people of all ages feel stronger, healthier, and happier.

Located at 600 South St. Vrain, Unit 1, the Jazzercise Gym offers affordable classes taught by four talented instructors: Dr. Patti Aldridge – Medical doctor, owner, and instructor since 1988 Dr. Rev. Christine Dempsey – Pastor of First Presbyterian Church and longtime instructor Ms. Bree Smith – Elementary school teacher and instructor for two years Ms. Anastacia Galloway Reed – Owner of Macdonald Book Shop and Inkwell & Brew, and instructor Jazzercise also offers personalized support through health consultants and educational programs. As new information emerges about weight-loss medications and the understanding of overweight as a medical condition, Jazzercise provides a space to build healthy habits in a supportive commu-

nity. Health counselor Dr. Sharol Little is available to help individuals set goals and connect movement with wellness strategies.

Nutrition plays a major role in fitness success, and Jazzercise makes it easier with Simply Plated, a patented nutrition program offering recipes, tips, and FitPro guidance to fuel workouts and support healthy living.

Celebrating Gratitude Through Movement

This month, Jazzercise is highlighting the power of gratitude. When we appreciate what our bodies can do, every class becomes more than a workout—it becomes a celebration of strength, resilience, and joy.

Three ways to add gratitude to your daily movement: Shift from “I have to” to “I get to.”

Movement is a privilege, and each step is worth celebrating.

Celebrate progress, not perfection.

Small improvements—in strength, form, or consistency—matter.

Feel the mind-body connection.

Mindful movement has been shown to reduce stress and increase long-term happiness.

A Local Perspective Many in the community have discovered Jazzercise for the first time and are seeing real results. One class member combined Jazzercise with morning walks and lost over 30 inches and 30 pounds in just a few months.

The music is upbeat, the routines are adaptable, and classes include options for both low and high intensity.

Physician Erika Norris appreciates Jazzercise for its physical therapy principles, safe coaching, and welcoming atmosphere for all body types and ages.

Former physical therapist Dona Cooper values the focus on balance, posture, stretching, and cardiovascular health—all wrapped into a fun, dancebased workout.

Why Try Jazzercise?

• Affordable pricing • A full-body workout that includes cardio, strength training, and stretching • A supportive, encouraging community • Morning and afternoon classes • Plenty of parking and a convenient location across from O’Reilly Auto Parts Jazzercise has mastered the art of fun fitness. No matter where life takes you, Jazzercise empowers your health and brings joy to every step.

Try your first class FREE! Email patti@createinestes.com or call 512-415-3886 to learn more.

Find your happy place — at Jazzercise Estes Park.

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28 » Friday, December 19, 2025

Mountain Brokers 1200 Graves Avenue, Estes Park

Office: 970-586-5324

The Jolliest Agents in Town! www.WeSellEstesPark.com

Seller Offering Up to $15,000 in Buyer Concessions

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557 Grand Estates $1,350,000 Perfectly Situated Near Estes Lake Over 5000 Sq Ft of Living Spacee Call Ryan

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Kirk Fisher

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Carla Spreng Brandon Bianca Bismark Dave Kiser Elizabeth Ryan Leahy Kim Lemirande Cindy Miller Kim Nichols Javier Gomez Maria Gomez Renee Hodgden Dave Lasota Broker, SRS, CMAS, GRI Broker, ASP, ABR, CDPE Broker Webb Broker Albrecht Broker Lanning Broker Broker Broker, CRS, CMAS Broker Broker, SRES, ABR Broker Broker Broker 907-290-6709 970-586-1000 970-213-8692 970-213-9479 970-232-6231 970-231-2989 970-412-1235 970-412-7283 970-556-0205 970-481-1880 970-888-1654 970-599-5200 480-695-9293

Friday, December 19, 2025 « 29

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Ballet Renaissance Presents The Nutcracker: Saturday, Dec. 20th Ballet Renaissance will present The Nutcracker on Saturday, December 20th at 6 p.m. at the Estes Park High School Auditorium.

The performance will feature local students along with several adult professionals including Sharon Wehner, former long-time principal dancer with Colorado Ballet, as the Sugar Plum Fairy. Thanks to support from local businesses, community partners and philanthropists, this year’s per-

formance (like last year) is admissionfree. Sponsors to date include: Aldrich Builders, Bank of Colorado, Egg of Estes, Estes Arts District, Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies, Ryan Leahy, Inc. and The Original Taffy Store. In order to give others the opportunity to support, this year’s sponsorship deadline has been extended through Monday December 15th. For further information, or to support this year’s production, contact: balletren@balletren.org.

Sharon Wehner as The Sugar Plum Fairy; Ballet Renaissance Nutcracker 2024 Photo by Brianna R. Furnish

435 Moccasin Circle Dr. $639,500

Estes Park Jazz Big Band To Perform At YMCA Of The Rockies On Sunday, December 21st, the Estes Park Jazz Big Band will perform a concert “Home for the Holidays” at 7 p.m. in Hyde Chapel. This concert is a part of the Chapel Ministry’s 2025 “Holiday in Hyde” Advent Celebration. The con-

a couple from neighboring communities, the 20-piece big band provides musical entertainment and also provides a venue for musicians to express themselves by performing on their instruments. Concert selections include

1180 Coyote Run $2,195,000

407 Stanley Ave. $1,295,000 STR/Commercial Zoned cert is free and open to the public, with a love offering collected to support the band.

The Estes Park Jazz Big Band has been entertaining the Estes Park community and its visitors for over 30 years. Made up of local musicians, and

hits from the Big Band Era, with some newer selections for big band included.

The band perform concerts throughout the year, with summer concerts usually at Performance Park and winter concerts at Estes Park High School.

CHRISTIAN COLLINET FIRSTCOLORADOREALTY.COM

CALL/TEXT 970-231-8570 523 SAINT VRAIN LANE, ESTES PARK

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30» Friday, December 19, 2025

TH E G O M EZ TEA M

Javier Gomez Broker 970 213-8692

By: Susan Fernbach, Board Member, Estes Park Salud Foundation

estesparkproperties@gmail.com

Maria Gomez Broker

Mountain Brokers

970 213-9479

maria@estesparkproperties.realestate

1200 Graves Avenue, Estes Park

UNDER CONTRACT

321 Big Horn E4 $450,000

831 Larkspur $590,000

Land approx 2.4 ac

PRICED REDUCED

84 Copper Hill Rd $215,000

131 Willowstone Ct. $815,000

All I Want For Christmas Is A Condo In The Mountains 950 Big Thompson Ave 1152 $250,000

1050 S St Vrain Ave G1 $340,000

Mike Richardson Broker/Owner

GRI, CNE, ABR, NAR Green Designation

Mike@EstesPK.com

(970) 215-2722

Mindy Stone Broker Associate CMAS

mindystone99 @gmail.com

(970) 449-2645

Safe Toys For Children

Vlad Volk Broker Associate

volk.vlad0031 @gmail.com

(720) 296-4544

The holidays are coming and you may have questions about choosing safe toys for a child. The best toys are those that are unbreakable, easily cleaned, made from non-toxic materials and fun! In general, avoid toys with sharp edges or points, parts that could cause pinching of small fingers, small parts that can cause choking, and balloons or latex or vinyl gloves that could be inhaled. The labels on toys can help you find an age-appropriate and safe toy for a child. Avoid toys that are loud or shrill as some emit sound at a high decibel level. If toys are stored in a toy chest, it is best if it does not have a lid.

Babies love to look at faces and are curious about moving their own hands and feet. Toys with rattles, large rings, teething toys, and board books for reading to infants are all great choices.

For toys that hang in cribs or playpens, avoid those with strings longer than seven inches that could be a strangle hazard. Remove crib mobiles when a baby begins to push up on their hands and knees or by 4-5 months of age.

Older babies may enjoy playing with large balls, push and pull toys, soft blocks, nesting bowls, measuring cups to rattle, upside down boxes or pots and pans to bang on. Babies like to chew on everything and make sure toys are larger than their windpipe, or at least 1 1/4” in diameter and 2 1/4” in length. Be extremely careful with a toy that has button battery, a lithium battery or anything with a magnet they could swallow. For toys with a battery, the battery case should be contained with screws and be inaccessible to the child, as batteries are serious risk to a young child.

Toddlers may like wood puzzles, and blocks that snap together, child-sized furniture, washable crayons and markers, large paint brushes and finger paint, large paper for drawing, pounding and hammering toys, picture books, transportation type toys. Art materials such as crayons and paints should indicate non-toxic and “Conforms to ASTM D-4236” on the package.

Toys for 3-6 year olds may include blocks for building structures, construction sets, dress-up clothes, simple puppet theaters, etc. Toys can be as

simple as large cardboard boxes, where a child’s imagination guides their creativity. Washable crayons and markers can be put to good use while decorating a box.

Hand-me-down toys may have great sentimental value; however, it is important to check them carefully as they may not have undergone safety testing and toys made before 1978 may have lead paint. Avoid giving infants and children items such as keychain toys, carnival toys or stuffed animals, or vending machine toys, as they are not required to have safety testing and may easily break into small pieces or the toy itself may be a choking hazard.

There is now great concern about plastics in toys and specifically, phthalates, the synthetic chemicals that makes plastics soft. Phthalates are endocrine disrupters and can impact male and female hormone development. In 2008, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act, restricted phthalates in children’s toys and childcare articles for children under three years of age. This includes pacifiers, bottle nipples, teethers, rattlers, toothbrushes, and plastic books.

In 2018, additional bans included five more phthalates in toys for children ages 12 years and under as well as care articles for children under three years old. Toys and childcare articles are now labeled “phthalate-free” and please look for this label when buying them.

To reduce exposure from children’s plastic toys, you may want to consider toys made out of wood or other materials instead of plastic. Avoid handme-down plastic toys bought before 2018 and especially those made before 2010.

The U.S. Consumer Project Safety Commission has set the safety regulations for toys made for children age 12 and under. All toys must have third party testing and certification to ensure they comply. To check if a toy has been recalled, go to cpsc.gov and if interested, you can get on their email list for new recalls.

Play and toys are important for children of all ages and with a little bit of care, you can find great toys that are safe, fun and highly enjoyable by children and their families. Happy Holidays!

Friday, December 19, 2025 « 31

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First Peoples Festival Returns To Estes Park January 16-18, 2026 Experience an exceptional celebration of Indigenous culture featuring art, music, food, storytelling, and community connection in Estes Park. The First People's Festival features a premier art market, cultural demonstrations, live music, a gourmet meal sourced from Indigenous farms, an Indigenous film screening, a competition Pow Wow, and an Indigenous-produced First Peoples Fashion Show— plus additional immersive experiences.

Vendor Market All vendors at the First Peoples Festival come exclusively from Federally Recognized Tribes, ensuring an authentic and meaningful celebration of living Indigenous culture. Since the festival began, we’ve welcomed artists and makers from over 30 tribal affili-

ations across several states, even as far as Alaska. Each booth offers an opportunity to see generations of tradition, creativity, and story carried forward through art and craftsmanship. When you shop with us, you support sovereign Nations, honor enduring heritage, and take home something created with purpose and history.

The marketplace is special, genuine, and truly one of a kind.

Cultural Performances & Workshops Be captivated by live music performances, vibrant traditional dances, soulstirring drumming, and powerful singing as Indigenous artists from around the nation showcase their talents. Experience the profound connection between Indigenous peoples and the land through special programming that highlights their relationship to Estes Valley and Rocky Mountain National Park. Engage with cultural demonstrations and a weekend you will never forget.

First Peoples Fashion Show This privately funded experience is produced by two Indigenous women, Otakwan and Shoshoni.

Otakwan is a grounded and powerful Métisse woman, carrying the legacy of the Métis Nation (Otipemisiwak), Saskatchewan, wherever she goes. Her journey into fashion, once a far-off dream for a girl from a small Northern village, has blossomed into a powerful purpose. As a co-producer, runway director, and model, Otakwan amplifies Indigenous voices, boosts representation, and highlights the strength and beauty of diversity. She’s passionate about nurturing an environment where

creativity flourishes responsibly, balancing innovation with profound respect for heritage and human connection. Her mission is clear: to help steer an industry that continues to inspire, provoke thought, and ultimately, celebrate the endlessly rich tapestry of human experience through the art of style. Otakwan has been in numerous high-level productions from coast to coast and is a regular at prominent fashion weeks internationally. She is also featured in several European museum galleries representing her people, including being one of 40 chosen for the Shane Balkowitsch Northern Plains Native Americans Vol 2: A Modern Wet Plate Perspective book.

Growing up within Shoshoni Hostler’s tribal community immersed her in Yurok traditions, particularly the art of regalia creation.

This deep connection to ceremonial attire ignited a passion within her to bring Indigenous fashion to the forefront. She ventured into the realm of fashion, driven by a desire to merge traditional Indigenous elements with contemporary design.

“It’s about crafting something entirely new, it’s neither strictly ceremonial nor purely contemporary,” she said.

“Rather, it’s intended to be worn as an adornment, infused with the same energy, purpose, intent, and meticulous process as ceremonial items and what’s truly fulfilling is that I have the freedom to pour my heart and spirit into it.” Her designs have since graced the pages of magazines and the red carpet, worn by esteemed figures like Tantoo Cardinal and Tori McConnell. As she continues to grow as an artist, her mission remains rooted in honoring and celebrating Indigenous culture through innovative fashion.

“Our mission is to empower Indigenous artisans through high fashion. As an all-Indigenous collective of artists and storytellers, we bring together creators from across the continent to build communities through cultural collaboration. We are committed to Indigenous representation and redefining luxury with a powerful, authentic voice,” commented the First Peoples Fashion Show Board.

Event Schedule January 16, 2026 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Exclusive Vendor Sneak Peek for guests with dinner tickets.

January 16, 2026 | 5 – 9 p.m.

Ticketed Indigenous-Inspired Dinner & Cultural Program featuring Special Guest Mariah Gladstone. Please note: This event is sold out.

January 17–18, 2026 | 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Indigenous Art Market Native Art Vendors, Educational Demonstrations January 17 & 18, 2026 | Friendship

Powwow Saturday, January 17: Grand Entry at 1 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Sunday, January 18: Grand Entry at 12 p.m.

January 17 & 18, 2026 | Indigenous Film Symposium: “Remaining Native,” “Salmon People: Preserving a Way of

Life,” “Untold Valor” Located at the Estes Valley Community Center, 660 Community Drive.

January 17, 2026 | 6 p.m. First Peoples Fashion Show: A privately funded and Indigenous produced showcase.

Learn more at eventsinestes.org and at visitestespark.com.

LISTED BY TOM THOMAS

850 North Lane $1,745,000

1401 High Drive $1,199,000

435 Columbine Ave $525,000

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32» Friday, December 19, 2025

Rocky Mountain Meditation Group Celebrates Seven Years In Service To Our Community December 3rd is the official date of opening the Meditation Group seven years ago, just a couple months after moving into Estes Park. As Gosia couldn't find any group that provides regular meditation gatherings, she decided to start one herself with the help of her husband Scott. She had the required training and passion for sharing with like minded individuals. From just one meeting a month to over 10 now, and from few friends to now over 350 people on the email list, the group is still growing and providing our townies with a variety of ways to explore and practice mindfulness.

Being located on the private serene property with trails for walking meditations, and just a couple miles outside of business of town, especially during seasons months, we provide the peaceful and undisturbed environment to gather on regular basis.

In collaboration with other local practitioners like Jody and Emerald, in addition to free meditation meetings, we offer by donation: weekly breath-

work, sound baths (healing sound journeys), ceremonies, and workshops.

We also welcome guest presenters for specific offerings.

On December 21st from 3-5 p.m. we

will be having an open house and potluck to celebrate our 7th Anniversary.

After that, from 5-7 p.m., we will have a Winter Solstice Ceremony.

If anyone is interested in our offerings and who is not yet on our email list, please contact Gosia at gosiap3333@gmail.com to be added to our group and receive more information about our schedule.

With a heart full of gratitude to our community and our beautiful town, Gosia Pisowicz Stewart

Is Everlasting Really Everlasting?

By: Larry Strong

“Higher than the mountains that I face. Stronger than the power of the grave. Constant in the trial and the change. One thing remains. Your love never fails, it never gives up, never runs out on me.” (One Thing Remains, Bethel Music) I’m confident somebody reading this might need to be reminded or maybe even hear for the first time in a long time that you are loved. The Creator of creation, God, Heavenly Father loves you. Yes, you.

And not only does He love you, His love for you never fails, never gives up and never runs out on you.

It’s everlasting. What does everlasting mean? It means lasting forever, never ending, continuing indefinitely. Eternal. Whoa! In a finite, throw-away world can we really believe there is ANYTHING that lasts forever? If you believe in and celebrate Christmas, the answer to that question can only be yes.

As we find ourselves on the cusp of Christmas, the Advent focus is love.

John 3:16 says, “For this is how God loved the world. He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.” There’s that word eternal.

Everlasting. Life forever. Living for eternity is a big deal. And it took big love by a big God in order to make that happen.

In the season of giving gifts, let’s remember or perhaps ponder for the first

time what kind of a gift eternal love and eternal life is. God brought Jesus into this world as a baby, the Christ child Who is the Savior of the world.

He lived, died on a cross for our sins and overcame the grave by the resurrection power of God. For those who call on the name of the Lord, believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord, was raised from the dead and confess with your mouth that Jesus is your Lord, you will be saved.

Everlasting means everlasting. God’s love is everlasting. And you can have eternal, everlasting life through Jesus Christ. Why in the world would anyone refuse a gift like this? If you haven’t asked Jesus to come into your life yet, how about giving yourself the most important gift you will ever receive? It’s yours for the asking—just the way you are—no clean up necessary.

Every Saturday Men on Fire (MOF) meets at the American Legion for “Breakfast with a Purpose.”

We gather at 8 a.m. to share breakfast, fellowship, and encouragement in our journey of faith. We’re very average guys navigating life and following Jesus the best we can. It’s not easy, but easier with the help and encouragement of other men. We come together to grow in our personal relationship with Jesus, all the while thanking God for His amazing grace and His amazing love for us.

Join us this Saturday at 8 a.m. at the American Legion. Bring a buddy or make one pretty quick at MOF. We remind ourselves every Saturday that, “One thing remains. His love never fails. It’s everlasting.”

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Enjoy Your People, In Good Times & In Bad By: Brian Schaffer th

On Saturday, December 17 , 2022, I climbed up a ladder to the roof of our house to change out a chimney cap.

While coming down the ladder, it began to slide, and my immediate thought was to grab the gutter and hang on for dear life. Well, it didn’t work out as planned, and I don’t actually remember the 10 foot fall to the ground. When I woke up, I was laying on my stomach halfway under our deck, because I had landed on our cement steps and rolled down to the bottom. Although, I can remember my wife talking with a 911 operator, and telling me to not get up. I was in and out of consciousness from the ambulance ride to the ER, and then down the hill to MCR, with my last stop being in ICU at Good Samaritan’s hospital in Lafayette. Long story short, I had damage to multiple vertebrae in my back, tailbone, sacrum, pelvic, and deep tissue damage. I did hit my head on the landing, but thank the Lord I had no signs of head trauma. Five days later, I came home with a turtle shell back brace, and was greeted by 20+ first responders and friends who were on scene the day of my accident. They had transformed our house into a rehab center where my wife would nurse me back to health over the next couple months.

So, here I am, three years later. I can honestly say that I do not feel any back pain, and I’m completely healed.

In fact, some of the back pain I was going to a chiropractor for prior to the accident, has gone away. I wouldn’t recommend a 10 foot drop off a roof in place of a chiropractic adjustment, but it seemed to work for me. I know angels were watching over me, and helped me live to tell the story. Below is something I wrote a few weeks after my accident, and it

truly demonstrates the type of generosity we have in our community.

“Last week I shared a little bit about an accident I had prior to Christmas.

It wasn't the way I wanted to end the year, but it's my current reality and I'm making the best of it. One of the things that has brought tears to my eyes on more than one occasion is the overwhelming feeling that comes with receiving the tangible demonstration of people loving on me in my time of need. Multiple people have said, "Let me know if you need anything or if I can do something for you and Deborah." These words were not hollow words with good intentions, but just the opposite. Their words were solid to the core that overflowed with acts of love, kindness, grace, mercy and hospitality. We have received food, drink, supplies, equipment, gift cards, text messages, get well cards, and on top of this people have hauled off our trash bags, moved firewood inside our house, taken down our Christmas lights, finished projects that I had pending, purchased a recliner, helped with physical therapy, provided companionship when Deborah needed to run errands, and so much more. It's been such a blessing to experience the unity within our community! Thank you to everyone who has been praying for me and thinking about us in our time of need. As I've been reflecting on my experience since the fall I have written down a few lessons I've learned. I'll leave you with one: I’ve fallen in love, and now I’ve fallen off a ladder. I would choose love over the ladder any day.”

Enjoy the people who are with you in the good times and the bad. You never know when you might need someone to hold your ladder, or come to your bedside to help you on the road to recovery.

Celebrate Christmas Eve At The Christian Church Of Estes Park The Christian Church of Estes Park invites the community to join them for their annual Christmas Eve Candlelight Services on Wednesday, December 24th, with two service times offered at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. All are welcome: local families, visitors, and

ful opportunity to pause, worship, and remember the hope we have in Jesus.”

Both Christmas Eve services will be held at the Christian Church of Estes Park, located at 4655 US Highway 36, Estes Park, Colorado. All are invited to attend.

anyone seeking a meaningful way to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

Rooted in the gospel and committed to serving the Estes Valley, the Christian Church of Estes Park offers a warm and inviting environment for worship. The services will include traditional Christmas music, Scripture readings, and a Christ-centered message from Pastor Aaron. Each gathering will conclude with the beloved candlelight singing of Silent Night.

“We love sharing Christmas Eve with our community,” said Pastor Aaron Dorman. “These services are a beauti-

Christian Church of Estes Park (CCEP) is a non-denominational church committed to making generational, transformational disciples of Jesus. Rooted in the good news of Christ, they seek to love and serve the Estes Valley through authentic worship, meaningful community, and practical outreach. They invite all to encounter Jesus with them and join in His mission to bring hope and renewal to our town.

For more information, please contact the Christian Church of Estes Park at office@ccep.life or visit their website at ccep.life.

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34» Friday, December 19, 2025

When Times Got Tough, The Toughness Of Our Community Showed Up At Crossroads, as we wrap up 2025, our numbers are showing us that we’ve delivered more services than we had budgeted for to meet the needs of our neighbors. We weren’t planning for a strike at Safeway, government shut-

as he contemplated decisions for the betterment of our nation: “There are risks and costs to a program of action.

But they are far less than the longrange risks and costs of comfortable inaction.”

A couple employees from Ferrell Gas

down, or SNAP benefits to be delayed, but when times got tough, the toughness of our community showed up in force to make sure our neighbors weren’t roughed up too much due to the unexpected hardship they experienced.

We can’t shield everyone from the storms of life, but we can walk beside them with an umbrella to lessen the number of raindrops that fall on them.

In a way, the moments of crisis proved once again to me that there are sufficient resources in our community to meet the needs of our neighbors. I’m grateful we can serve as a strategic connector to maximize resources to meet the greatest needs in the Estes Valley.

We’re committed to our mission, and we want to mobilize resources and services as quickly as possible to make sure needs are being met in a timely manner. I’m mindful today of what President John F. Kennedy had to say

stopped by a few weeks ago with a donation of groceries that totaled over 240 pounds. They have committed to do this on a quarterly basis in 2026 as a way of locking arms with us to feed the community. We are extremely thankful for the many businesses, organizations, and residents who are contributing to our food inventory. This ensures that we’re fully prepared to feed the community.

This Christmas, your generosity can help families choose hope over hardship. Let’s make sure no one must sacrifice their health, housing, or other essentials just to eat. We have a $100,000 matching program going on until December 31st, so please consider making a year-end gift to help us as we feed the community. You can make a secure online donation at crossroadsep.org or you can mail a check to 1753 Wildfire Rd, Estes Park, CO 80517.

By: Brian Schaffer

Christmas At Presbyterian Community Church Of The Rockies Once again, this year the Presbyterian Community Church will be holding their Blue Christmas service on Sunday, December 21st at 5 p.m., the longest night of the year. We are sometimes overcome by the cold, and loneliness of an anxious world. Even with the coming of Christmas, the bleak winter seems to win out. If you are in this space, come and worship with us where you can warm your heart as you anticipate the coming of the Christ child who came for the poor in spirit, for those who mourn, for the meek and

for all seeking hope for the new year.

This season of joy comes to full fruition with our Christmas Eve service on December 24th at 5 p.m. Experience a candlelight service filled with joyful music provided by the Chancel Choir, combined Bell Choirs, Larry Gillum at the organ, and the Highland Brass Quintet. The service will celebrate families and friends, and the place Christ holds in those relationships through the scriptures as told in the New Testament.

Friday, December 19, 2025 «35

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"O Come Let Us Adore Him" St. Francis Of Assisi Anglican Church John, Apostle & Evangelist. He was a martyr in spirit, but the enemies of Christmas is one of those days that we Christ just couldn't seem to kill him. spend a lot of time in great preparation. There are the presents to buy, The Fourth day reminds us of the wrap and label. There is the marketing Holy Innocents. These were the chiland stocking up on the food and treats dren King Herod had slaughtered which will be served on the table on "from two years old or under." King Christmas Day. (Will it be a ham, or Herod was not satisfied with killing the goose or rack of lamb?) Is the tree decbabies of Bethlehem; he had his solorated? Have we stocked up on beverdiers slaughter all the infants in the ages... adult and otherwise? towns from Bethlehem to the Mediterranean Sea. I would like to suggest that Christmas is more than just one day. It is a SeaAt St. Francis, we honor all of these son, a special Season of the year. Dedays in the Season of Christmastide. cember 25th, the first day of The Twelve Following is our schedule for the Days of Christmas, is not just a song Christmas Season, and we hope you will be able to come to this "Little Church in the Woods" in Little Valley for any or all of these chances to worship Jesus Christ in this very special time. Bring the family and join us to share in this Christmas Season.

Wednesday, December 24th: 5:30 p.m. - Christmas Candlelight Service with Holy Communion and Christmas Carols; Fellowship and refreshments follow the service in Wells Hall. (We celebrate Christmas Eve at this early evening time, because, according to the Hebrew custom, the Kayley Elizabeth Ray’s baptism last Christmas at St. Francis. new day begins She is the sweet great-grand-daughter and grand-daughter of after the setting of parishioners, Wayne & Betty Huff and Mike & Debbie Huff, re- the sun. This has spectively. been the custom at Saint Francis for about a "partridge in a pear tree." several years.)

It is a Holy Season to celebrate the Thursday, December 25th: 10 a.m. Birth of Jesus Christ. Christmastide is a Christmas Day - Holy Communion for time to reflect on something which is, those who could not attend on Christin all truth, beyond our understanding. mas Eve. God gave His only begotten Son to be Friday, December 26th: 10 a.m. - The born of a Virgin and sacrificed, risen Feast of Saint Stephen, The First Chrisfrom the dead, to ascend to the Father tian Martyr - Holy Communion. in Heaven.

Saturday. December 27th: 10 a.m. Some say all that is just a myth. But The Feast of Saint John, Apostle and these Twelve Days of Christmas were Evangelist - Holy Communion given to the Church, the Body of Sunday, December 28th: 9:30 a.m. Christ, to remind and instruct the folThe Feast of the Holy Innocents - Holy lowers of Christ. (By the way, this has Communion, preceded by Morning nothing to do with the song, "The Prayer at 9 a.m.

Twelve Days of Christmas." That song We are located in the midst of the first appeared in the mid-1700's.) pines and aspens in Little Valley at The Twelve Days begin on Christmas 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park 80517.

Day and end the day before the Feast Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little th of the Epiphany, January 6 , in our Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. modern-day calendar.

Francis Anglican Church. If you have The Second day of Christmas is in any questions or comments, please call honor of the first Christian martyr, Bishop Williams at 970-577-0601, and Saint Stephen the Deacon. The Third see our website at day of Christmas is dedicated to St. stfrancisestespark.com.

By: Bishop Owen Williams

Partners: Ways To Give The Gift Of Mentoring & Spark Holiday Joy! Youth are searching for meaningful connections as our world is increasingly disconnected and fractured. We know that youth thrive when they have positive adult role models, useful coping tools, and empowering skills to help support them through challenges in their lives. That’s where Partners comes in. We have never stopped working to provide an ever-growing number of northern Colorado youth (including in the Estes Valley) with the support they deserve. Participants in our high-quality mentoring and prevention education programs experience a significant improvement in their mental health, gaining confidence, trust, and hope.

Yes, one person can make a difference! Here's how YOU can help!

Become a Community-Based Mentor in the Estes Valley and make a difference in the life a local youth! Partners

has four youth patiently waiting for four adults to volunteer and become a mentor for them. Must enjoy spending time with a youth, be 21 or older, have a reliable vehicle for transportation, and complete our screening process (includes training). Visit poweredbypartners.org/mentoring/#beamentor.

Donate to Partners 2025 Spark Campaign! This year-end fundraiser is es-

sential for Partners to continue serving youth in Northern Colorado (including the Estes Valley). We need to raise $160,000 by December 31st to sustain our programs in 2026. With confirmed and potential cuts in funding from a variety of sources, we are relying on community support more than ever before.

Give the gift of empowering local youth today as a donor, as a sponsor or as corporate sponsor at poweredbypartners.org/spark.

Share this information with your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and networks.

Call the Estes Park Office at 970-5779348, text: 970-235-0165, or email: kwhitacre@poweredbypartners.org.

Thank you in advance for your support!

36» Friday, December 19, 2025

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EMPLOYMENT » Place and View Ads at EPNews.com «

Chamber Hosts ‘Un’ Book Club Join us for a truly special and unique gathering of our ‘Un’ Book Club, where meaningful conversation takes center stage. This session will be led by Shannon Jones, General Manager of YMCA of the Rockies, whose leadership journey powerfully embodies the principles of Red Shoes Living. His perspective and real-world experience will set this discussion apart and offer valuable insight for our local business community.

The ‘Un’ Book Club meets quarterly and is designed to bring business owners together to explore pivotal topics impacting Estes Valley businesses. The goal is to learn from one another’s experiences, openly share challenges and successes, and support each other in grow-

ing stronger, more resilient businesses faster.

For Quarter 1, our reading selection is Red Shoes Living by Lonnie Mayne.

This winter, we are diving into the core ideas of the book and how they translate into leadership, culture, and accountability in real-life organizations.

Do not worry if you have not read the book. A summary will be provided, and the conversation focuses more on the themes and takeaways than the pages themselves. That is what makes it an ‘Un’ Book Club.

Come ready to connect, reflect, and engage in thoughtful discussion guided by a leader who brings the principles of Red Shoes Living to life every day.

ESTES PARK RESORT URGENT NEED:

Park Hospital District Board Coordinator

BASIC MAINTENANCE WORKER: - Must speak English, and have basic knowledge of, plumbing, electrical, and Yard Maintenance.

Youthful Worker please. Must be energetic and able to accomplish daily task unsupervised.

PHD is seeking a professional, autonomous contractor to provide administrative support directly to the Board of Directors. This role is essential in managing documentation, statutory compliance, public communications and governance processes.

RESORT HOUSEKEEPER - Must have Experience in a hotel housekeeper role. No beginners please.

FRONT DESK CLERK WITH KNOWLEDGE OF COMPUTER RESERVATION SYSTEM: RESNEXUS PMS SYSTEM: IMMEDIATE HIRE: Call 818-388-0206.

EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED!

AA & Al-Anon Meetings AA of Glen Haven Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall Early Worms Monday through Saturday at 7 a.m. (hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839 PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave. Early Worms Women's Meeting Mondays at 12 p.m.

St. Bartholomew, 880 MacGregor Ave. Mixed Nuts Al-Anon Group Fridays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. (hybrid meetings with Zoom #285 426 3644 PW:serenity) at St. Bartholomew Church One Day At A Time AA Meetings Tuesdays at noon: Open discussion Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.: Open discussion Saturdays at 5:30 p.m.

Location: Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave. 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 Current Schedule as of 6/17/2025 Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings Mondays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D Mondays at 7 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, BB Women’s Meeting, Tuesdays at 12 p.m.

— O, D Wednesdays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D

Wednesdays at 7 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D Thursdays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D Fridays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D Saturdays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D Sundays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, ABSI Last Monday of each month is birthday night; potluck at 6 p.m., speaker at 7 p.m.

Location: 453 West Elkhorn Ave. ***Contribute via Venmo, @FallRiverGroupAA Other 12 Step Meetings Held at Fall River Group Narcotics Anonymous “New Horizons” Group, Thursdays at 7 p.m., in person and Zoom (705 555 930) — O, D **O=Open to all D=Discussion BB=Big Book Zoom Meetings Every day at noon, Zoom #999 829 166 (no password needed) Zoom Big Book Study, Mondays 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 intherooms.com.

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

This position will initially be 10-15 hours per week but projected to change over time and has the potential to work off-site or on-site depending on project requirements.

Full job description will be posted on the District’s website: parkhospitaldistrict.org.

Please submit a resume to jzeschin@parkhospitaldistrict.org.

Questions? Call 970.982.0212.

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EMPLOYMENT » Place and View Ads at EPNews.com «

Friday, December 19, 2025 « 37 JOIN OUR TEAM!

You've discovered the perfect fit!

Thriving family adventure

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

Outdoor World and Rocky Mountain Connection year-round retail stores for clothing and gear are hiring. $18/hour. Stocking shelves, engaging customers.

Bring your upbeat vibe and people skills. Flexible shifts on your terms. Ages 15 to 80 welcome.

Reach Ernie anytime, day or night, every day of the week.

970 232 8290.

Kingswood Homes and Kingswood Home Services seeking Residential Project Manager for remodels, decks, or new homes.

From initial meet to job completion.

Solid carpentry background preferred.

Duties include ….  estimating  scheduling of trades and materials.  manage site activities  contract management  people skills w/both vendors and client  cost management Send resume to mike@homesbykingswood.com.

RENTALS

RENTALS

RENTALS

Condos

Apartments

Commercial Rentals

2 Bedroom, 1 Bath · Ideal for a couple or 2 room mates · 1 year lease · $1,600.00 per month · $1,600.00 refundable deposit · Tenant pays for electric, internet, landlord covers trash and water. · Walking distance to Downtown Estes Park on a quiet street · 2 parking spaces in shared lot No pets, No smoking Please call 970-379-7578

Business Office for rent at Manford Plaza.

970-586-3828

Ponderosa Realty has several rental units open immediately!

We have a large variety from single bedrooms for rent up to a 3 bedroom home that allows for horses/livestock and several options in between. With Price ranges from $750/M to $2600/M we can fit into most budgets.

Call us at 970-586-6500 for details on your next home!

2 Mary’s Lake condos available from Dec 1 thru May 31.

Furnished 2 bedroom, 2 bath. Both have W/D. One has a handicap ramp the other has a hot tub.

Call/Text 970-624-7191

Apartments Small Studio Downtown for Jan.1 Single Occ; NS/NP; 1-year lease; Ref & Credit Req. $725+/mo Call (970) 480-5269 Perfect winter rental near Lake Estes! $1300/Month - all utilities are included. Available October 26 through Memorial Day. Fully furnished. 1 bed lodge room. Stunning lake and mountain views. A perfect seasonal rental in a peaceful, scenic location Contact us at 970-779-7455

Cabins Winter rental at Colorado Cottages! $1300/Month all utilities included.

Available October 26 through Memorial Day. Fully furnished. 1 bedroom. Cozy fireplace.

Prime location close to downtown, trails and RMNP. Contact us at 970-779-7455 1 and 2 bedroom cabins starting at $1,200 per month and RV sites starting at $900 per month.

Please call 970-577-5151 for more information.

Commercial Rentals One office space with private parking: $425/mo. plus utilities.

Two offices connected with bathroom: $800/mo.

970-290-4488

Downtown Studio on Elkhorn Ave. Enjoy high visibility and foot traffic. $1,200+++/mo, 3-Year Lease.

Call 425-818-4158.

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

Storage Units

Regular Full-time • Events Maintenance Worker I • Events Operation Supervisor • Police Officer I - III • Records Technician I - III

Full-time Benefited positions at Estes Valley Recreation and Park District Facility Maintenance Manager Plan, coordinate, and supervise the maintenance and repair of the Community Center and pools as well as manager our facility team. Minimum 4 years’ experience in facility and pool maintenance.

Assistant Manager Marina Work 8-months out of the year with full-time benefits. Assist the Marina Manager in the seasonal operation of the Lake Estes Marina. Minimum of 2 years working in retail sales, marina operations, or hospitality and at least 1 year of supervisory experience

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

Recreation CoordinatorYouth and Adults Plan, organize and implement youth and adult sports and activity programs.

Minimum 1 year of experience instructing and implementing recreation programs.

Parks and Trails Maintenance Technician Perform general maintenance on parks and trails, ball fields, and irrigation.

Maintain shelter areas for the Lake Estes Trail and Stanley Park. Prefer some experience in landscaping or park maintenance and will train the right person.

Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance long term disability and vacation, sick and holiday pay.

For more information about these positions and to apply online, please visit the employment page on our website evrpd.com Estes Valley Recreation and Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Manford Plaza storage unit for rent.

970-586-3828 For rent : 15’x 13’ x 10‘ tall storage unit. Some built in shelves. $225 / month.

Outdoor vehicle storage also available. Call Mike 970-214-8844

SERVICES

SERVICES

REAL ESTATE

Other-Misc

Sewing/Alterations

Commercial

Remixed Custom Sewing Services.

Small Furniture, Restoration, Outdoor and RV Cushions, and Commercial Upholstery.

Call for appointment 970-492-5446

Commercial Spaces for sale and lease.

Call Eric.

Anderson Realty.

586-2950

SERVICES Piano Tuning Susan Novy, local piano tuner.

Call for appt.

577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com

Business Related GRAND OPENING ESTES ASIAN MASSAGE 521 S ST VRAIN AVE ESTES PARK CO 80517 970-888-0869 ONLINE BOOKING AVAILABLE AT WWW. ESTESASIANMASSAGE .COM OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9AM TO 9 PM WALK IN WELCOME

Rocket IT Solutions – Business & Residential IT Support Reliable IT services for offices and homes.

We provide computer troubleshooting, network support, Wi-Fi setup, cybersecurity, and ongoing maintenance.

Whether you’re a growing business or a busy household, we keep your technology running smoothly.

Call or Text (970) 627-7189

HOUSEHOLD SALES Appliances Free appliances, all white all work.

Under counter micro, electric stove, fridge and dishwasher.

1510 Raven Ct., Unit G Estes Park 970-308-0312

Estate Sales ESTATE/MOVING SALE Need to have one, but seems overwhelming.

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

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38 » Friday, December 19, 2025

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER APPLIANCES

970-586-4315

rglibby@msn.com Estes Park, CO

ATTORNEYS

ELECTRICAL

ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS INC.

GENERAL CONTRACTOR cont.

Over 50 Years Experienced

• Service • Residential • Small Commerical • Generator Systems • Mini-Split Systems • Electric Car Chargers Matthew P. Heffernan 880 Dunraven Ste B heffwesi@live.com Estes Park, CO 80517 970-480-5403

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

Charles Santagati 1191 Graves Ave

glaciercreekinc.com Full service general contracting since 1998

FLOORING

BARBER SHOP Gale Baniak - Owner/Barber Racheal Giroux - Barber

HEARING & TINNITUS CARE

970-586-2000 • 415 W. Elkhorn Ave. 100 feet North of the Bighorn Restaurant

Cory D. Workman, Au.D.

No Appointment Necessary (for straight razor shaves only)

Phone: 970-586-5255 • Hearing Aids / New & Repair • Hearing Evaluations • Hearing Protection • Ear Care / Wax Removal • Dizziness / Balance

CARPET CLEANING

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

GENERAL CONTRACTOR Developing Dreams New Construction, Renovations, and Additions with Harmonious Problem Solving

Get in touch for a FREE estimate 970-689-9453 www.aldrichbuilders.com

CHIMNEY SWEEP HOME HEALTH CARE New Construction & Remodeling

CLEANING SERVICES If the dust is piling up let us come sweep you away with our quality

cleaning services!

10% OFF YOUR FIRST CLEAN

Professionally Trained, Reliable %DFNJURXQG &KHFNHG 7HDP Licensed. Bonded & Insured

(970) 585- wayfindercleaning.com

Specializing in Decks, Windows, Siding, Kitchen/Bath Remodels, and Exterior Painting Long time local serving the Estes area.

970-581-2670 • cornellhico@gmail.com cornellhomeimprovement.com

COWLES CUSTOM CARPENTRY Electric, Plumbing, Drywall, Roofing, Siding, Doors, Floors, Windows, Tile, Fencing, Decks, Honey Do List & Much More Locally owned and operated in Estes Park

303-532-6775 estesparkccc@gmail.com

Peak to Peak Nursing Kathleen Theriault, RN, BSN Independent services offering in home End Of Life consultation and care.

Long time Estes Valley resident, 10 years experience with Hospice. References available.

(303) 748-8657

Friday, December 19, 2025 « 39

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PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER HOT TUBS & POOL SERVICES

MAINTENANCE/REPAIR SERVICES

PROPANE

From New Builds to Repairs Quality You Can Trust Professional Handyman Services, Custom Homes, Remodel, Windows and Doors Locally Owned & Operated • Over 30 Years Experience Licensed & Insured • Class A General Contractor

720-251-6758 • joseph@elkintonconstruction.com

LOG RAILINGS & ACCENTS

PAINTING

SECURITY HOME WATCH

Estes Park Service Company Home checks Don’t Leave Your Home Alone, Call Us

MAINTENANCE/REPAIR SERVICES PEST CONTROL

970-556-9699 www.Estesparkservicecompany.com *Trusted *Reliable *Insured

STORAGE

NOW !

ABLE AVAIL PLUMBING • Unit Sizes: 800-1600 sq. ft.

• Boat & RV Storage • Fire Suppression System • Utilities Available

970.481.9807 Colexcav@gmail.com

TREE SERVICE

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40» Friday, December 19, 2025

1155 S. Saint Vrain Ave 1-3

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725 Upper Larkspur Ln.

384 Prospect Estates Ct.

$899,000

1420 Mary's Lake Rd.

$996,000

$499,900

1102 Miller Fork Rd.

$751,500

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1810 Moss Rock Dr.

1252 Giant Track Rd.

507 Fall River Ln. A

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658 Cedar Ridge Cir.

Timeshares

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11982 Peak to Peak Dr.

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850 North Ln.

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Call us to use our FREE Moving Truck.

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