Bighorn sheep stay warm through the winter months due to a thick, double-layered coat that grows
Built Ram Tough
Photo by Deena Sveinsson deenasveinssonphotography.com
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Learn About Code Enforcement At The March 6 Coffee & Tea At The PD
The Estes Park Police Department will host its regular Coffee & Tea at the PD, Thursday, March 6, from 9 to 10 a.m. in the lobby of Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Avenue. Coffee, tea and snacks will be available at 9 a.m. Attendees will meet the Town’s Code Enforcement Officer and learn about the mission of the Code
Enforcement Unit.
Long-time residents and newcomers to the community can benefit from this interactive presentation about the Estes Park Municipal Code. It will cover topics such as the Wildlife Protection Ordinance, noxious weeds and animal control. Coffee & Tea at the PD is offered the
first Thursday of every month; odd months take place from 9 to 10 a.m. and even months take place from 4 to 5p.m. On April 3, the presentation topic will be community emergency preparedness.
For more information on the Estes Park Police Department, please visit estes.org/pd.
Zoom Coffee Program "Estes Park Salud Today" With Doug Frisbie, President Of Estes Park Salud Foundation
Join us for a Zoom Coffee on Saturday, March 15 from 10 - 11 a.m.
We will go behind the scenes with Doug Frisbie, President of Estes Park Salud Foundation, who will present a program which explains why Salud faces a financial crisis, why other health care providers could not replace Salud, and what is at stake for our community if Salud were to close. Registration is required for this “Estes Park Salud Today” program, go to
www.lwv-estespark.org for your Zoom invitation.
All are welcome to this free community program.
Doug Frisbie
Rocky Mountain Conservancy Is Accepting Applications For The 2025 Scholar-in-Residence Program
Rocky Mountain Conservancy is accepting applications for the 2025 Scholar-in-Residence Program. This program follows the tradition of connecting scholarly and scientific experts in their field to our national parks. The selected Scholar-in-Residence will work with staff in Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s Field Institute and the National Park Service Continental Divide Research Learning Center at Rocky Mountain National Park.
This program allows the selected candidate to live in Estes Park, Colorado and conduct research in their field of
The charge(s) are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
On 2/17/2025 at 12:05 a.m. police contacted a 22 year old female from Estes Park after a motor vehicle crash in the 300 block of E. Elkhorn Ave. During the investigation of the crash, it was discovered that the female had active warrants. She was charged and later released on cash bond.
On 2/21/2025 at 11:56 p.m. police contacted a 36 year old male in the 100 block
study. Scholars may include postdoctoral or postgrad students, professors, researchers, and writers/authors. Topics can vary. Any proposal that outlines a project that is intrinsically connected to Rocky Mountain National Park and fulfills the fellowship requirements will be welcome.
For a list of fellowship requirements and application details, visit rmconservancy.org/work-with-us/ employment.
Applications will be accepted through March 31, 2025.
of E. Elkhorn Ave. for breaking the glass of a door at The Wheel Bar. The male was charged with criminal mischief, booked and released with a summons.
On 2/22/2025 at 3:49 p.m. police were called to the 500 block of Columbine on a report of an assault. On scene they arrested a 29 year old male from Estes Park, charged him with 3rd degree assault and domestic violence and transported him to the Larimer County Jail.
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 February 16th, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 7 calls for serv-
The Past, Present, And Future Of Water In Estes Park
By Jacqui Wesley, Utilities Project Manager and Reuben Bergsten, Utilities Director
The start of the year is a great time to reflect on where we have been and where the Town of Estes Park’s Water Division is going as a water provider. Our thanks to the late Dale Hill, who was Estes Park’s Town Administrator from 1969 to 1988. Mr Hill researched and documented much of this important history.
The Estes Park Water Division has come a long way from its start back in January 1906 by F. O. Stanley. Back then, the water system consisted of about 3 miles of 2-inch water pipe serving the Stanley Hotel and Stanley’s residence west of the hotel on Wonderview Avenue/U.S. 34. The water provided to the hotel and they used the water pressure to operate the Hotel’s elevator.
Several citizens of the community decided the community needed a domestic water supply and subsequently the Estes Park Water Company was organized on October 7, 1908. The organizers of the water company were F.O. Stanley, J. Y. Munson, Donald MacGregor, H. E. James and C.H. Bond. The water company was capitalized for $20,000. The capital stock was later authorized up to an amount totaling $100,000 and, of this amount, $60,000 was eventually sold.
When the Estes Park Water Company was organized in 1908, it installed a 2 ½-inch water service line to town that paralleled the existing 2inch water line serving the Stanley residence and the Stanley Hotel. In 1923, a water line from Black Canyon to the town froze and the community was without water for almost the entire winter. This prompted the water company to replace the old line with a new 8-inch wood main, which was installed by about 40 men hand-digging
the entire length of the line. In 1922, some of the officers of the Estes Park Water Company unsuccessfully urged the Town of Estes Park to purchase the water company. In the late 1920s, Charles Salit tried to purchase controlling interest in the Estes Park Water Company, but key community members thought this purchase would result in exorbitant water rates. After once again encouraging the Town to purchase the water company, financial arrangements with the First National Bank of Denver were made for these key community members to borrow enough money to purchase the controlling interest of the Estes Park Water Company. Shortly after this, the Town of Estes Park held an election, and on June 10, 1929, purchased the Estes Park Water Company for $73,260.
What a long way we have come from those days – we have grown to provide water service to community members in Town and in areas adjacent to the Town limits. Our current water system consists of multiple water sources, two water treatment plants that meet or exceed Federal and State water treatment standards, over 3.5 million gallons of water storage, and over 100 miles of water distribution pipe. We don’t just provide drinking water –we provide the water that is critical for fire protection, with over 800 fire hydrants (and counting) and a bulk water fill station. Our highly trained water team consists of 14 licensed professionals in water treatment, water quality, and distribution.
The Town’s Water Division has several exciting projects planned for 2025 and beyond, including major improvements to our water treatment processes ensuring they continue to provide high-quality water. We are focused on improving our system’s reliability and resilience by optimizing our existing raw water rights, enhancing treatment through treatment plant infrastructure upgrades, and replacing old pipes while adding more interconnections within the water system so we can eliminate areas that are “dead ends,” dependent on old water lines.
Our water team recognizes that trust in the water system is critical to maintaining a thriving community. Over the next few years, we will be making changes to operations, infrastructure, and organization to benefit our customers and continue to earn your trust and confidence in the high-value water we provide.
Learn more about the Town of Estes Park Water Division at www.estes.org/water. For more information, please call us at 970-577-3619.
Removal of a 1920s-era wooden water main from downtown.
It's Time To Dine Around!
By: Estes Chamber of Commerce
There are so many wonderful aspects to Estes Park – our delicious restaurant scene is atop that list. If you want to taste all that our local chefs have to offer, Dine Around is your chance!
Every Thursday in March, local restaurants will be offering a $6 tasting plate from 4:30 p.m to 7:30 p.m. with a different menu every week. Some restaurants may also offer drink special or multiple tasting plates to choose from, all at $6.
"The Dine Around is a great local event where customers get a chance to try a number of restaurants in one
evening," said Val Thompson.
"Mark your calendar and gather your friends to try some great dishes this month," added Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. "And as you make your plans for Dine Around on March 6th, come start your evening celebrating the Women of Impact and International Women's Day at The Barrel, at 4 p.m., ahead of Dine Around."
“The best plan is to 'dine around' from place to place to place trying all of the different offerings. Hit up your old favorites or try something new,” Thompson said.
Sunrise Rotary Invites Charitable Organizations To Apply For Funding
The Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary (EVSR) invites proposals from charitable organizations, in the Estes Valley, for grants to support programs and projects that benefit the Estes Valley community. This year (2025) we will be focusing on the youth of Estes Valley. To apply for funding, go to portal.clubrunner.ca/5242 and locate the 2025 Community Grants application. Please print and fill out the application and then email the completed application, and all required backup documents, to estessunriserotary@gmail.com no later than March 31, 2025. You will be notified in May if you are a grant recipient. For more information please email: estessunriserotary@gmail.com.
Free Dental Program For Children And Young Adults In Our Community: A Lifesaving Initiative By
The Estes Park Salud Foundation
By: Susan Whiteneck
Registered Dental Hygienist at Salud Clinic in Estes Park
The Estes Park Salud Foundation has long been dedicated to improving health and wellness in the Estes Valley, and their commitment to young people’s health is evident in their focus on dental health. Without proper dental care, children and young adults may face a lifetime of challenges, including pain, difficulty eating, and even poor academic or work performance.
Through the free dental program, the Salud Foundation is addressing these issues head-on, providing families with the support they need to give their children and young adults a strong foundation for the future.
Thanks to a valuable community initiative, the free dental program for children and young adults offers every young person in the community access to the services they need for healthy teeth and gums.
Many families in Estes Park, like those in other rural communities, face challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare services. Dental care, in particular, is often a significant financial burden. According to recent studies, more than 13 million children in the U.S. lack dental insurance, and rural areas like Estes Park tend to experience greater difficulty in securing affordable care.
This issue is especially pronounced for families who lack private insurance or whose insurance doesn’t cover dental services. These children and young adults are often left without regular checkups, preventive care, and timely treatment for dental issues, putting their long-term oral health at risk.
The free dental program offered by the Estes Park Salud Foundation bridges this gap by providing professional dental care at no cost to families who may otherwise be unable to afford it. By offering preventive services like cleanings and checkups, as well as restorative care such as fillings and extractions when necessary, the program ensures that children and young adults receive comprehensive dental care, regardless of their family’s income.
Services Provided Through the Program
The free dental program includes a wide range of services designed to help children and young adults maintain optimal oral health:
1. Routine Checkups and Cleanings
2. Sealants and Fluoride Treatments
3. Fillings and Restorative Care
4. Dental Education
5. Emergency Dental Care
The free dental program for children and young adults in Estes Park, funded by the Estes Park Salud Foundation, represents a shining example of community-driven healthcare. It highlights the importance of accessible, preventive care and the significant difference that a caring foundation can make in the lives of local families and young people. By ensuring that children and young adults in Estes Park receive the dental care they need, the Salud Foundation is helping to build a healthier, brighter future for the entire community.
Part Three: The Magic Of Forest Health
By: The Estes Valley Watershed Coalition
Welcome back to our 4-part series on the fascinating dynamics of forests and fires in the Estes Valley!
In our first article, we highlighted why the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition (EVWC) invests in forest health, a key strategy to support our watersheds. But what’s the magic behind this connection? It turns out healthy forests provide an astonishing number of direct benefits for our water systems. As snowpack melts and flows into river basins, the benefits that forests offer to our communities and economies are extensive. Here are just a few:
• Soil stabilization, erosion prevention, and water flow regulation: Forests act as nature's engineers, keeping soil in place and ensuring a steady flow of water.
• Absorbing pollutants and filtering sediment: Like a natural filtration system, forests help keep our water clean.
• Storing water in the soil like a sponge: This helps recharge aquifers, maintaining groundwater levels.
• Slowing and dispersing rainfall under forest canopies: This reduces runoff and intercepts evaporation.
• Keeping water cooler: Cooler water temperatures benefit aquatic species and promote biodiversity.
Forest health treatments such as thinning and prescribed fire can actually modify fire behavior (Read more about this here: www.doi.org/10.2737/RMRS-GTR-120). Because there is less fuel, fires are low or
moderate intensity with less soil and tree damage. A forest that has experienced this type of fire is still largely intact with surviving trees and stable, water-repellent (“hydrophobic”) soil. An intact forest reduces erosion and degradation after a fire, allowing for rapid recovery. When forests aren’t managed with treatments, they burn hotter and are more destructive - killing more trees and destabilizing soil. With a large-scale and high-intensity fire, there is no remaining forest structure to prevent erosion, ash, and other chemicals running through streams and reservoirs resulting in fish die-offs, and contaminated drinking water.
We are incredibly grateful for the vital support of Northern Water (www.northernwater.org/), a water conservancy district that has a deep appreciation of the vital connection between healthy forests and water.
Created in 1937, Northern Water jointly operates and maintains the Colorado-Big Thompson (C-BT) Project along with the US Bureau of Reclamation. The C-BT project brings supplemental water from the west side of the Continental Divide to the east side, serving over a million residents in eight northeastern Colorado counties. Taking care of our forests by utilizing different treatment methods helps to keep our water safe and healthy for both people and wildlife.
Join Our Mission: Estes Valley Watershed Coalition (EVWC)
The mission of the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition (EVWC) is to bring together local, state, and federal partners to collabo-
rate on projects that support the water, forests, and wildlife of the Estes Valley. Visit us at evwatershed.org
Learn more about the incredible intersections of forest health and water management:
• Dundas Gordon, K. (2024, Oct 14). Healthy Watershed Need Active Forest Management. Colorado State Forest Service. www.csfs.colostate.edu/2024/10/14/health y-watersheds-need-active-forest-manage-
ment/
• Wildfire and Water Supplies, Northern Colorado Fireshed Collaborative. www.nocofireshed.org/wp-content/ uploads/2023/01/fact_sheet_wildfire_watersupplies_water_education_colo.pdf
• Forest Health and Wildfire Risk, Northern Colorado Fireshed Collaborative. www.nocofireshed.org/wpcontent/uploads/2023/01/fact_sheet_foresthealth_wildfirerisk_water_education_c ol.pdf
EV Watershed Coalition Presents: Weird & Wonderful Lichens
By Seth Raynor, CU Boulder
Lichens are organisms that result from the symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae. They are found in ecosystems all over the earth, including deserts, the arctic tundra, and our own Rocky Mountains.
Mary’s Lake from Rams Horn Mountain. Photo by W. Formeller
Photo credit: R. Ames
Spiders, liberal arts, mounting a horse from the right and golf balls. These are all topics I covered in just one column last week. I don’t know how I did it either, but I managed, and people read it. At least on Facebook they read it. There I can see a tally of how many hits my column gets.
One column pal who read it—I’ll call him Wiki Will—had something interesting to say about all four topics (in Hawaiian, wiki wiki means very quick.)
• “I don't know about spiders sneaking into people's mouths when they're sleeping, but I know we all got a big dose of Spider Sabich in the ’70s after he was shot and killed by his French movie star girlfriend. In Aspen. I got tired of hearing about it.”
Huh. I’ve never heard of Spider Sabich. Of course I looked him up to see what the hubbub was about and discovered quite a story. Spider Sabich was an Olympic skier who finished fifth in the slalom in the 1968 Olympics at age 22. He won the World Cup two months later. In all he had 18 top ten finishes in Olympic and World Cup competitions. In 1976 Sabich was living in Aspen with his girlfriend Claudine Longet, former wife of crooner Andy Williams. On March 21 of that year, Longet shot Sabich as he prepared to step into the shower. He died on the ambulance ride to the hospital. Longet claimed the gun accidentally discharged as he was showing her how it worked. He was 31 years old. Longet, 34, was arrested and charged with the shooting. The investigation was botched—there were several procedural errors (lack of warrants, mishandling of the weapon), and Sabich was shot almost six feet away from Longet, which made her testimony inconsistent with the physical layout of the scene.
Longet was convicted of negligent homicide and sentenced to pay a $250 fine and spend 30 days in jail. She got to choose when she would serve. She chose weekends—after she took a vacation in Mexico with her defense attorney, who was married. Later they wed and remain together today. The couple lives in Hawaii. In 2023 Longet put her Aspen mansion on the market for $59.5 million. It sold in October 2024 for a mere $26 million.
After the criminal trial, the Sabich family initiated civil proceedings to sue Longet. The case was resolved out of court, with the provision that Longet never discuss or write about the killing or the settlement. That’s probably why all these years later, I’d never heard this story.
All of this came from a one-off report in my column about people swallowing spiders in their sleep.
Wiki Will continued with his comments, this time about the definition of “liberal arts”:
• “Liberal Arts? A fancy term used to bamboozle and squeeze a few more pennies out of parents of college studiants.(OF).”
I had to ask him what the OF stood for. He answered right away:
“OF: old French. It's a citation used in dictionaries to cite a word's origin. In italics I used one of the roots for the word 'student.' I'm not trying to be affected. Growing up I was weaned on a steady diet of Mad Magazine and science fiction handed down from my brother. My teachers in my youth didn't know what to do with me. So they passed me to get rid of me. We went through the whole gamut of educational experiences, my brother, sister, and me. From attending a one-room school in Kansas, to the most modern school that could be built at the time (East High in Lincoln). If you thumb through the first few yearbooks of East you'll see me here and there.”
Lincoln East High is my alma mater. But I was there 10 years after it was built so I didn’t know Will back then. I learned several songs from Mad Magazine via my brother Pat, who was a big fan, but I’ll spare you the lyrics. They have a yuck-factor that pre-teen boys find highly entertaining.
Will provided interesting material about armored war on horses. I have no idea if what he says is true, but it makes for interesting reading:
• “In ‘ancient times,’ once those armored knights were on their horses and passing one another they would raise their helmet visors so each could see each other as friend or foe. Thus, we have the modern military salute. While passing each other, they kept their sword hand at the ready, and that's why the English drive on the left side of the road now. I call it the wrong side of the road. But they call it the left. And they would say ‘tickety-boo’ to that.”
•Lastly, Wiki Will said, “How did we measure hail before golf balls were invented? Ping pong balls! For reference see Captain Kangaroo. And that's tickety-boo, too.”
I hadn’t thought of Captain Kangaroo since he died in 2004. He entertained children on TV for 29 years with that hair! Those eyebrows! And the ping ping balls!
Thanks Will, for the entertaining column fodder.
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
Let’s celebrate women’s achievements! We are hosting a free Women’s Day Fair at the Community Center on International Women’s Day, which was founded in 1911 to promote equality through collective efforts worldwide.
There will be lots of free resources for you on topics ranging from fitness and wellness, to real estate and financial.
Julie Bunton, Adult Activities and Fitness Manager commented, “We hope you join us at the Rec for this event that is designed to empower women from all walks of life. The booths feature local vendors and women-owned businesses with goods and services specially tailored to meet your needs.”
nity Center. The event is free, and the first 40 people will receive door prizes from Mindy Stone of Richardson Team Realty and Niki Gassmann of the Bank of Estes Park!
The Women’s Day Fair will take place on Saturday, March 8 from 9 a.m.noon in the lower level of the Commu-
Visit evrpd.com's homepage for all the details and a list of vendors.
Fine Arts Guild Of The Rockies To Present “A Night On Broadway”
This Saturday
Experience an unforgettable evening of music and talent at “A Night on Broadway,” featuring performers from the Estes Park area singing hits from 25 beloved musicals, including Hamilton, West Side Story, Les Misérables, Hadestown, Beetlejuice, and more! Join us on Saturday, March 1st, at 7:00 p.m. in the Estes Park High School Auditorium.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, $12 for youth (ages 618), and free for children five and under.
Purchase tickets at Macdonald Book Shop, online at www.fineartsguild.org, or at the door. Don’t miss this magical celebration of Broadway’s best!
Some of the artists being featured:
Danielle Hermon has performed lead roles with regional opera companies in the U.S., Japan, and Singapore, and shared the stage with Sting in a SiriusXM concert. Since moving to Colorado, she has taught music, directed children’s theatre, and won a 2023 Henry Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in The Sound of Music. She also teaches voice and acting, adjudicates for Thescon, and serves as Director of Admissions and Advancement at Bixby School in Boulder.
Scott Anderson is the principal tenor soloist with the Estes Valley Chamber Singers, Oratorio Society of Estes Park, and the Estes Park Village Band, and has performed in numerous musicals with the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies. He studies voice with Dr. Derek Chester at the Univer-
sity of Northern Colorado and has also studied with Dr. Dennis Jackson and Roger Bergford.
Rachel Ryan, a lifelong resident of Estes Park, currently works at the local hospital. In her spare time, she enjoys weight training, roller skating, and writing. This marks her fifth performance with the Fine Arts Guild, with many more anticipated in the future.
Michelle Allen is excited to be part of A Night on Broadway with such a talented cast. Favorite past roles include Sister Robert Anne in Nuncrackers, Martha in The Secret Garden, and Lucy in You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. A conservatory graduate in musical theatre, she looks forward to continuing her theatrical journey. Samantha Workman (soprano) is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance at the University of Northern Colorado, where she recently debuted as Laurette in Le Docteur Miracle by Bizet. She has participated in numerous Fine Arts Guild productions, including summer youth theater musicals, one-acts, and as Pocahontas in Disenchanted. Samantha extends her gratitude to her professors, parents, and friends for their unwavering support and is excited to be a part of this concert.
One Hour with Jesus
Scott Anderson
Rachel Ryan
Michelle Allen
Samantha Workman
Danielle Hermon
American Legion Complimentary Spaghetti Dinner For Prospective Members
The Joseph J. Duncan Post 119 of the American Legion invites prospective members to a complimentary spaghetti dinner from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 8th at the Legion Hall.
Let’s take a step back in history. The American Legion was founded in March 1919 by members of the American Expeditionary Forces stationed in Europe following World War I and awaiting their return to the United States. Chartered by Congress that same year, it is the largest veteran organization in the United States. Estes Park’s Post 119 received its charter on Aug. 1,1920 and the Auxiliary was formed in 1921.
The early meetings of Post 119 were held in the IOOF (International Order of Odd Fellows) Hall. The Post purchased its present home from the Bureau of Reclamation and the formal dedication was held on November 11, 1954. The building was placed on the Colorado List of State Historic Buildings on June 10, 1998.
The first recorded minutes of Post 119 are dated May 10, 1920. Sixteen veterans attended the meeting called to order by Roland Reed. The proposed constitution
and by-laws were read and election of the first post officers followed. The results were: Commander–Roland Reed; Vice-Commander–Albert Hayden; Chaplain–Charles Anderson; Adjutant–Robert Lindley; Sergeant-at-Arms–Frank Bond; Finance Officer–Charles Hix; and Historian–Julian Hayden. Post 119 received its charter Aug. 1,1920 and the Auxiliary was formed in 1921.
Membership in the American Legion is open to all veterans with honorable service and discharge. The Sons of the American Legion is open to descendants of those servicemen and women, as is the Auxiliary. If you are a member of any of those three organizations, you are eligible for membership in the Legion Riders. Documentation is required and there will be volunteers present at the dinner to help potential members in providing what is required. You are also invited to become a Friend of the Legion if no one in your family has served. Reservations for the evening are required and may be made by emailing epalaux@gmail.com by March 2nd
Estes Valley Foreign Policy Association March Lecture: American Foreign Policy At A Crossroads
Staying well-informed and up-to-date on the prevailing American issues of our time has never been more difficult and complicated than it is right now. Understanding facts and learning unbiased information directly affecting you, your children, and your grandchildren has never been more important. Where can you find that kind of critical information in Estes Park? The New York Times? The BBC? CNN or Fox?
embraced by all during our discussion. Thursday, March 6th we will explore the contours of the U.S. foreign policy debate as it plays out in a world of multiple and escalating crises and domestic polarization.
Community Comes Together On 3rd Anniversary Of Invasion Of Ukraine
The Answer: The Great Decisions Forum at the Estes Valley Library. Each month, the forum meets to discuss key social, economic, and security issues to understand fully how government policies and events affect us and shape our immediate future. The forum moderator (a local Estes Park neighbor of yours) leads the group through a short, high-quality video lecture. Each video features up-to-date information developed by a nationally recognized subject matter expert. Forum attendees then freely discuss the topic, exchanging ideas and personal experiences. The Forum is apolitical and focuses on building an understanding that we need to be educated, voters and wise taxpayers. Diversity of ideas is heartily welcomed and
G. John Ikenberry wrote the chapter on this topic. It can be found in the Estes Valley Library in the book titled Great Decisions 2025. G. John Ikenberry is the Albert G. Milbank Professor of Politics and International Affairs at Princeton University in the Department of Politics and the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. In 2013-2014 Ikenberry was the 72nd Eastman Visiting Professor at Balliol College, Oxford. Ikenberry is a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. In a recent survey of international relations scholars, Ikenberry was ranked in the top 10 in scholars who have produced the best work in the field of IR in the past 20 years, and ranked in the top eight in scholars who have produced the most interesting work in the past five years.
His chapter will explore the contours of the U.S. foreign policy debate as it plays out in a world of multiple and escalating crises and domestic polarization.
The mission and purpose of the Estes Valley Foreign Policy Association, a non-political, non-profit organization, is to educate citizens on the critical national issues of our time. Attendance is free. Presentations are conducted by leaders and executives from diverse fields, complemented by active involvement from local citizens. This meeting is held on Thursday, Thursday, March 6th in the Wasson Room at our fabulous Estes Valley Library from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Be the best-informed citizen you can be in 2025 and participate in these free educational sessions.
Over 45 people gathered at the home of Steve and Carol Dresselly Thomas to remember those lost, and to support and honor the resilience of the Ukrainians on the 3rd anniversary of the invasion of their country. At least half of the group were local Ukrainians and were joined by members of Patriots For Peace, staff of the EVICS Legal Clinic, and friends. Following a potluck dinner, Mayor Gary Hall welcomed all. Tamara
Pleshkova, a former geography teacher in Ukraine, gave a talk followed by Larysa Daniuk, a former history teacher. Both gave background and information on the region, going as far back as the 14th century and up to the current situation. Iryna Irkliienko and Nataliya Pleshkova translated. A question and answer followed. The event concluded with a joint show of unity. Out of the darkness there is light.
Nataliya Pleshkova and Larysa Daniuk
Stanley Home To Host Traditional Irish Band, Once Upon A Tune, March 8th
The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center is hosting traditional Irish band, Once Upon a Tune, at the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center. The performance will be 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the Stanley Home. Limited seating is available. Tickets can be purchased at www.stanleyhome.org/events. These events tend to sell out quickly so purchase your tickets early.
Once Upon a Tune is a Celtic trio featuring fiddle, guitar, bodhran, and occasional vocals. They perform the lively and moving dance tunes and songs of Ireland, Scotland, and Cape Breton - all family friendly. Join this trio for an exciting {evening, afternoon, morning, day} and you will hardly be able to keep your feet still!
Born in 2017 from the solid bedrock of Fort Collins’ thriving Irish scene at Mulligan’s Pub, Once Upon a Tune is a lively, traditional, Celtic trio featuring the inspired, creative fiddle musings of Janel Vanderwarf,expressive guitar rhythms of Scott Steidley, and
primal bodhran accompaniment of Mary Ellen Watterson. Janel Vanderwarf picked up the fiddle at the age of sixteen and never looked back. Selftaught, Janel “found the soul” of her instrument at Alasdair Fraser’s world-renowned fiddle camp, Valley of the Moon. A consummate musician and beautiful vocalist, Janel is delightful to watch and will “dance her way” into your heart. Scott Steidley brings incredible talent to the group with his driving, rhythmic guitar, and melodic, syncopated whistle. Scott’s stylistic playing is reminiscent of some of the biggest names in Irish music today. Mary Ellen Watterson is a classically trained percussionist and has been playing percussion since she was a little girl. From kit to cajon, or djembe to bodhran, Mary rounds out the group with her contemporary take on voicing the bodhran.
Come learn about traditional Irish music and clap your hands to this exciting Celtic folk group, Once Upon a Tune!
Model Railroad Club Meeting
March 5th
The Estes Valley Model Railroad Club will be meeting on Wednesday March
5 at 6:00 p.m. at the Estes Valley Library Hondius room.
If you are interested in model railroading in general, have a layout you are working on, like to “talk trains” or just want to know who we are and what it might be like to join of club only for model railroading, please join us on Wednesday evening.
If you are unable to come to the meeting but are interested in knowing more about our Club, you can contact us at estesparktrainshow@gmail.com.
All aboard!
Get Your Tickets For Estes Park Nonprofit Network’s Circus Fundraiser
Tickets for Estes Nonprofit Network's Circus go on sale Saturday, March 1. This is an interactive, vivacious, 21+ fundraising extravaganza event. The first two hours of the evening will be circus games, performers, and the Dunk-Raiser, this year's peer-to-peer
fundraiser to benefit the Estes Nonprofit Network. The second half of the evening will be dancing. Costumes for this event are not required but are encouraged. I mean, really...aren't you living in a circus? Dress the part, go to town. Tickets and more information can be found at www.bit.ly/enn-circus.
Crutches4Africa.org
Sunrise Rotary and Noon Rotary have been collaborating on a project titled Crutches4Africa. It is a 501(c)(3) organization and is the international project of Mountain Foothills Rotary Club in District 5450. David Talbot is a Rotarian and a polio survivor. He and his wife Candice, founded this organization after witnessing people in Africa struggling to move due to the effects of polio. Crutches4Africa is now a worldwide organization and every person participating in it is a volunteer. No one is paid. They do this out of the goodness of their heart to provide mobility devices to people stricken with polio. They are living Rotary’s motto: Service Above Self.
Bill Howell, President of Sunrise Rotary, offered his garage as a collection site for donated items. If you have an assistive device you no longer need or want, bring it to our Rotary meeting on the first four Thursdays of the month at the American Legion at 11: 30 AM. I will collect them and deliver them to Bill at his home. We have been offered an empty RV to serve as a collection site, but I need a 16 foot site where I can park it. If you know of a place, please contact me at anneslack@aol.com.
“Mobility, Health, Dignity, Access: We toil together to enable those we may never see. Hobbled in life by some illness, accident or act of violence. Many are hopeless. The generous donations given to Crutches 4 Africa are the tools we use to help raise the hindered, to lift them from the dust, and help them on their way.”
To contact Crutches4Africa, phone: 303-877-2803 or email: c4a@crutches4africa.org; To view their website go to www.crutches4africa.org. Please help us with this very worthy cause. Thank you, Annie Slack, 970-231-6697
ESTES PARK MIDDLE
Wyatt Box 11th Grade
Congratulations to Wyatt Box, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for February 28, 2025.
Wyatt is the son of James Box. At EPHS, Wyatt enjoys Lifetime Sports in gym with Mrs. Wharton. He has done a great job in school and is proud that he gets good grades.
Outside of school he likes to walk, go fishing and biking, cook and play board games. He is hoping to get a job at The Dollar Store. Wyatt has one older brother and one younger brother.
Two of his favorite places to visit are in California and Colorado. He likes to go to the San Diego Zoo and Denver Zoo to see all the animals.
Wyatt’s favorite quote is, "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way" by Martin Luther King Jr.
The best advice he’s ever received
is, the best way to keep yourself warm in the snow, wear jacket, thick pants, gloves and a hat.
After graduation, Wyatt plans to attend college in Colorado.
Click, Learn, Conquer: How Digital Navigators Unlock The Internet
Picture having a patient, tech-savvy tutor helping you unlock the digital world. That’s the role of Larimer County’s Digital Navigators! They’re like tech teachers, guiding folks through the sometimes confusing world of computers, the internet, and smartphones. Thanks to support from the state, AmeriCorps, and companies like Comcast, these tutors are setting up shop in places like the Estes Valley Library. They’re dedicated to helping people facing hurdles in the digital realm gain the skills and access to thrive in our increasingly digital society!
Program Overview and Services
The program prioritizes flexibility, with assistance available in person, by phone, or online. Drop-in sessions and scheduled appointments ensure accessibility for diverse needs.
Estes Valley Library’s Role
As a host site since 2023, the Estes Valley Library in Estes Park serves as a hub for Digital Navigator services in the region. AmeriCorps members stationed here:
Digital Navigators provide one-on-one and small-group assistance to improve digital literacy, home connectivity, and device access. Key services include:
Skill-Building Sessions: Offering recurring appointments for skills like smartphone use, email management, file organization, and software training.
Community Outreach: Raising awareness about digital equity through partnerships with libraries, workforce centers, and housing communities.
Device and Internet Support: Helping individuals acquire affordable devices (e.g., laptops, Chromebooks) and navigate low-cost internet options.
Conduct personalized assessments to identify residents’ connectivity, device access, and skill gaps.
Develop tailored digital inclusion plans, such as guiding older adults through telehealth platforms or assisting job seekers with online applications.
Partner with local organizations to reach underserved groups, including rural populations and non-native English speakers.
The library’s central role reflects the broader recognition that public libraries are uniquely positioned to bridge the digital divide due to their community trust and existing infrastructure. Erik Rock, Technology Manager at Loveland Public Library (which oversees the Larimer County program), notes that demand for tech assistance has surged, with libraries becoming critical lifelines for digital skill
development.
Community Impact and Future Expansion
The program has already demonstrated tangible benefits. Participants gain confidence in using technology for daily tasks, employment, and education, while AmeriCorps members
like Chris Smith describe the work as “one of the most rewarding experiences” of their lives. Estes Park residents, particularly in rural areas, now have sustained access to resources that were previously out of reach.
Looking ahead, Larimer County plans to expand Digital Navigator services through:
• Recruitment: Adding more AmeriCorps members for the 2024–2025 term, with applications opening in early 2025.
• Enhanced Partnerships: Collaborating with workforce centers and housing communities to embed Navigators in high-need areas.
• Statewide Coordination: Participating in Colorado’s Digital Navigator Community of Practice to share strategies and resources with other regions.
By integrating localized support with state-level policy efforts, Larimer County’s Digital Navigators exemplify a scalable model for advancing digital equity. The Estes Valley Library’s involvement ensures that even remote mountain communities like Estes Park can thrive in an increasingly digital world. For more information, contact the Estes Valley Library about the next scheduled Digital Navigators session on March 20, 2025 or call Larimer County’s Digital Navigators directly at 970-962-3154.
Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to reserve your spot.
BOOKS & AUTHORS
Power of Reset & How to Change
What’s Not Working: Author Talk with Dan Heath
Wednesday, March 12, 12 - 1 p.m., online
Are you ready for a revolutionary guide to fixing what’s not working – in systems and processes, organizations and companies, and even in our daily lives? Learn the power of reset with bestselling author Dan Heath. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
Discuss end-of-life issues and our shared mortality. March’s featured title, How to Say Goodbye by Wendy MacNaughton, is a tenderly illustrated guide about finding mutual peace and understanding when it matters most. Presented with Mindy Rickard.
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
ALL AGES
Young Chautauqua Performances
Saturday, March 1, 4 - 6 p.m., Fireside Theater
Watch historical figures come to life!
This year’s theme is The American Frontier and the Wild West. Visit bit.ly/young-chautauqua-2025 to see the full schedule of performances.
Maker March: Book Boxes
Tuesday, March 4, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Tuesday, March 4, 2 - 4 p.m., Makerspace
Use the laser cutter (and your creativity) to craft a unique, custom book box. Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens.
Intro to Needle Felting
Wednesday, March 5, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Friday, March 14, 1 - 3 p.m., Makerspace
Learn the basics of needle felting, a technique that uses barbed needles to sculpt wool fibers into beautiful, intricate shapes. Recommended for adults and teens.
Maker March:
Sublimate a Zipper Pouch
Wednesday, March 5, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Thursday, March 6, 10 a.m.12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Friday, March 14, 10 a.m.12 p.m., Makerspace
Combine cutting-edge sublimation printing technology and a heat press to create a personalized zipper pouch. Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens.
Maker March: Suncatchers
Friday, March 7, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Thursday, March 13, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
Welcome spring sunshine with your own suncatcher! Design a unique insert with alcohol ink, then use the Cricut Maker to tie the piece together. Recommended for adults and teens.
Free Puzzle Day!
Saturday, March 8, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Exchange your “old” puzzles (ones that you’ve assembled before) for newto-you puzzles at this openhouse-style event. Puzzles for all ages and of all sizes are welcome as long as they are complete (all pieces, please!) and in good condition.
Maker March: Scrape Art
Painting
Tuesday, March 11, 1011 a.m., Makerspace
Create two unique paintings (a playful cat and an expressive ab-
stract), then use scrapers and acrylic paint to bring your artwork to life. All ages welcome.
Intro to Stained Glass
Wednesday, March 12, 1 - 3 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Wednesday, March 12, 5 - 7 p.m., Makerspace
In this beginner-friendly workshop, learn the fundamentals of how to cut glass, use copper foil, and solder pieces together to produce beautiful stained glass designs. Recommended for adults and teens.
Clay Pies for Pi(e) Day
Friday, March 14, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., Library Atrium
In celebration of Pi(e) Day, or 3.14, use polymer bake clay to craft tiny pies as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or keychains. All ages welcome.
ADULTS
Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County
Tuesday, March 4, 1 - 6:30 p.m., Dream Study Room
Thursday, March 6, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Dream Study Room
Monday, March 10, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Dream Study Room
Build your digital skills, including using your smartphone, accessing websites and accounts online, improving online communications, and more. Appointments required; sign up at calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org. Presented by AmeriCorps service members.
Election Information with the League of Women Voters of Estes Park
Thursday, March 6, 12 - 2 p.m., Library Atrium
The League of Women Voters of Estes Park will be on hand to help with voter registration, important election dates, and other information about voting in local, regional, and national elections.
Monthly Writing Group
Monday, March 17, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Wasson Room
Calling all writers, aspiring writers, and anyone interested in writing! Join us on the first Monday evening of every month to share your writing, enjoy others’ work, and receive and provide feedback. All genres and forms are welcome.
TEENS & KIDS
Maker March: Mini Bookcases
Saturday, March 8, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Thursday, March 13, 4 - 5:30 p.m., Makerspace
Upcycle mint tins into miniature bookcases, then use wood, stickers, paper, hot glue, and cute accessories to frame a selection of mini books.
Dungeons & Dragons
Sunday, March 9, 2 - 4:30 p.m., Makerspace
Fantasy, gaming, and role-playing fans: join us for the original Dungeons and Dragons. No experience, purchase, or previous knowledge required. Just bring your imagination!
Teen Advisory Council
Thursday, March 13, 6 - 7 p.m., Makerspace
Monthly meeting for tweens and teens (ages 11-18) who would like to recommend ideas for library programming, designs for future teen space, and collection purchases for their age group.
Maker March: Crepes
Friday, March 14, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Don your chef’s hat and make healthy, sweet, and savory crepes. Can’t make this event? Check out a crepe maker from the Library of Things. Bon appétit!
Maker March: Sew Pajama Pants
Sunday, March 16, 1:30 - 4:30 p.m., Makerspace
Learn how to read and use sewing patterns, measure and cut fabric, and stitch together cozy, comfy pj pants using a sewing machine. Recommend for ages 10 and up.
KIDS & FAMILIES
Library Storytimes
Baby Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.
Preschool Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Annie: Sat., March 1 at 11 a.m.
Dr. Seuss Day
Saturday, March 1, starting at 10:30 a.m., Estes Valley Library
We are celebrating Dr. Seuss’s birthday! Join us for a special themed storytime, crafts, coloring, and more. Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to view the full schedule of events; please note that registration may be required for some activities.
Storybook Explorers: What Do We Do With All This Stuff? Saturday, March 8, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m., Hondius Room
At this Maker March program, we’ll read a story and use leftover cardboard, yarn, and straws for crafts and play. Recommended for ages 6 and younger. MAKERSPACE TRAINING CLASSES
Learn the 3D Printer Monday, March 10, 10 - 11:30 a.m. repeated Monday, March 10, 5:30 - 7 p.m.
For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult).
LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES Study Session Thursday, March 13, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room
Learn more about the Board of Trustees at estesvalleylibrary.org/board. FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION
Cliffhanger Used Books
Cliffhanger Used Books, located next to the Post Office, is operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, and music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to reserve your spot.
Roll Up Your Sleeves: Maker March Is Here
March is known for St. Patrick’s Day, spring break, and weather that arrives like a lion and departs like a lamb (supposedly). Here at the public library, it’s also known as Maker March, a monthlong celebration of Estes Valley crafters and creators.
If you’re more of an independent worker, reserve Makerspace equipment and visit the Makerspace during library open hours. Often a Makerspace guide is available to assist if you’re taking on a new challenge or have a question about equipment. Each week, guide hours are posted on the Library’s web-
The library’s second floor Makerspace is a popular place. Patrons can access state-of-the-art equipment like 3D printers, laser cutters, an embroidery machine, a Cricut, and much more. Makers of all ages are often found working on individual projects or attending training classes and libraryhosted crafts. This month, join us for programs and collections that will help you discover your own maker spirit. Check out one of our “intro” classes in March to learn crafting skills, like our new Intro to Needle Felting class that will teach the basics of using barbed needles to sculpt wool fibers into beautiful, intricate shapes. Ready to let the spring sunshine in? Try Intro to Stained Glass, a beginnerfriendly workshop that will provide the fundamentals of cutting glass and soldering. Or, join a more easygoing craft: making suncatchers using the Cricut and alcohol ink.
site calendar so you can time your crafting accordingly.
While many Makerspace services attract the adult crowd, makers of all ages can take advantage of Maker March. Tweens and teens can assemble mini bookcases, sew pajama pants, or even cook up some crepes. The littlest makers can get involved by heading to this month’s Storybook Explorers. We’ll read What Do We Do With All This Stuff by Anna Bardaus, then use upcycled materials to craft and play.
While visiting the Makerspace, check out our maker-focused collection featured on the large display table in the first floor atrium. Browse the curated selection of books and Library of Things items that can support your own creative endeavors.
To learn more about Maker March and the Makerspace, and to sign up for these great programs, visit estesvalleylibrary.org.
HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT ‘SURPRISES’?
IT DEPENDS, DOESN’T IT?
With a question like this, in a political climate like ours right now, one might think we are going to address some of the ‘surprises’ our nation has been inundated with since the new administration has taken over…and there have been plenty. However, I want to talk about ‘surprises’ that are faced by many…surprises that, perhaps, we can do something about, to keep them from happening in our family relationships.
Imagine the ‘surprise’ faced by a friend of ours in a distant state. She had gone to her chemotherapy treatment, by herself. She returned to her house following treatment to find a note left by her husband, letting her know that he was ending their marriage. She was devastated when I talked to her on the phone. They had talked much about plans following retirement, which was imminent…selling their home and moving to another state to fulfill a life-long dream. However, it would not be…and, to her, it was totally unexpected. How would you have felt about such a ‘surprise’? Likely, devastated like my friend. So…How can we…and how could she…have seen this coming, and what could she/they have done to bring about a different outcome?
There are many signs of a dysfunctional relationship, so one can look for those ‘signs’ and deal with them to avoid an outcome…‘surprise’…like my friend has faced. Another friend sent me the following article about things that are often seen before such a ‘surprise’. It’s by Ruth Harmes Calkins, portraying a troubled marriage. It’s called ‘He said…She said’. She wrote: “Another marriage is shattered, Lord, the divorce will be final next week. He said it was the breakdown of communication and the subtle infiltration of boredom. She said it was an accumulation of things. He said she was unnecessarily preoccupied with home, children and activities. She said he stifled her dreams and ignored her achievements. He said he felt in prison, restricted; that night-after-night he got the old pushaway. She said he was harsh and brutal and often embarrassed her in public. He said her critical attitude contributed to his sense of inadequacy. She said she felt lonely and unappreciated with no claim to personal identity. He said she wallowed in self-pity and refused to acknowledge her benefits. She said he was irresponsible, even shiftless. He said she didn’t understand. She said he didn’t care.” Calkins closes with: “Lord, how tragic that through all the wasted years, neither of them asked what YOU’VE said!” I’ve shared this because it illustrates how often it’s only at the ‘end’ of a relationship, that these ‘He said…She said’ things are shared...to justify the breakup. How much better it is for a couple to take time to evaluate their relationship long before that ‘surprise’ occurs. As a Christian marriage / family counselor, I’ve always used a questionnaire before counseling with a couple, to help them evaluate their ‘level of happiness’ of 20+ different aspects of their marriage. Following the gathering of the filled-in questionnaires of both the husband and wife, and comparing them with each other, I then meet with them and we discuss each and see where the ‘level of happiness’ of each could be raised. Let me give you a few examples from the list: “Our affectionate interaction” 5% - 25% - 50% - 75% - 95%? – “Our communication” 5%, 25% et al? “My trust in my partner”; “My commitment to our marriage”, and 20 more. (You might want to practice with this short list here.) I will be happy to send you two copies of this list so that you and your spouse can do such an evaluation. Just send me a note and self-addressed envelope to my address: 2151 Larkspur Ave. Estes Park, CO. 80517, or email me at: blepcoc@gmail.com. After you fill yours out, I would happily go over yours with you, and help in any way that I can. We want to help people avoid ‘surprises! Bob Lewis
Next Knitting And Crocheting Get-Together March 10
You are invited to our (fun and free!) knitting and crocheting get–togethers in the Hondius Community Room at the Estes Valley Library on:
Monday, March 10, 5:00–7:30 p.m. Monday, April 7, 5:00–7:30 p.m. It’s fun and free! Just bring your knitting or crocheting projects, and let’s have fun together, talking and creating.
Tate, Elsa And Max Need New, Loving, Forever Families
Tate is a very sweet, two year old, male heeler. He is dog friendly and potty trained and would love to have a family to call his own. Tate just received transport to freedom from a really bad situation and was lucky and ended up here in Estes Park. Elsa she is an amazing girl. She weighs 60 pounds and is four years old. She loves to go for walks, is really easy on a leash and loves all humans. Elsa has so much love to give but we don’t think she’d be good with cats. Max is seven years old and great with other dogs. He loves walks and car rides and is a great protector. Max would not be a good fit with kids. All of these great dogs are looking for their forever homes. Please make their wishes come true.
Call (970) 286-1652 if you’d like to meet or foster any of these special pets.
All pets are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a nonprofit organization that is the Estes Valley’s only humane society. You can make a tax-deductible donation to the Pet Association by
If you need any help or advice with your project or pattern, we can help! No need to book or reserve a seat. Just show up! Come knit or crochet for a bit or all of it!
These get–togethers are hosted by Kim Snow.
Email: mtn.tribe@yahoo.com for more information.
sending your check to P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517.
For more information about the Pet Association, please visit petassociationestespark.com.
Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper
The Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies will host a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on Tuesday, March 4 at the church located at 1700 Brodie Ave. Pancakes, ham, and blueberries, will be served from 4:30 until 6:00 p.m.
There will be festive New Orleans music to accompany the supper. This event is free, but it is a fundraiser for Crossroads Ministry, so your contributions are welcomed.
Community members are welcome to join in the fun and fellowship as we anticipate the arrival of Lent.
Tate
Elsa
Max
Aging In Place And Home Care Services With Senior Helpers Of NoCo: An
Informational Presentation
On March 4, the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC) will host a presentation by Senior Helpers of Northern Colorado on home care services. This free community program is
directed at helping older adults and their families understand the benefits of in-home care services, including for those with Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s disease. Join us at the EPSCC, 1760 Olympian Ln, on Tuesday, March 4 from 12:00-1:00 p.m.
The presentation will cover essential topics, including how and why inhome care can be a vital support system for seniors, the benefits of professional caregivers, and the services offered by Senior Helpers, a trusted provider of non-medical home care. Gil Atanasoff, Owner and Executive Director, along with Co-Owner Chris Schneider, will lead the presentation and discussion. Atanasoff brings extensive leadership experience, having previously managed one of the largest Senior Helpers offices in the country in Wisconsin. Schneider, utilizing her hometown roots for community connections, focuses on building partnerships to enhance support for seniors and their families.
Senior Helpers has been serving Northern Colorado since 2017 and recently expanded its reach by acquiring Caring Hands, an Estes Park and Allenspark-based home care company. The organization specializes in overall
senior support, helping older adults remain in the comfort of their own homes. Senior Helpers provides a range of services, including companionship, personal care, transportation,
chronic condition management, and transitional care. Their mission is to offer compassionate, dependable care that improves the quality of life for clients and their families while promoting independent living.
Community members interested in learning more about aging in place and the resources available for senior care are encouraged to attend. The event will offer valuable insights into how professional caregivers can enhance well-being, reduce health system costs, and provide peace of mind for families. Senior Helpers can be reached at 970658-8228 and through their website at www.seniorhelpersNoCo.com.
Attendees are welcome to enjoy lunch while attending the presentation. Bring your own lunch or pre-purchase a hot meal. You must order your meal before 1:00 p.m. on Monday, March 3. The meal on Tuesday will be chicken marsala with pasta, garlic bread, and a side salad. The cost of a meal is $7 for EPSCC members and $12 for nonmembers. Become a member of the EPSCC for just $35 per year and take advantage of lunch discounts and all of the great activities.
For more information about the EPSCC or to order a meal for the presentation, call (970) 581-2195.
Merry Marthas Meeting
This Friday, February 28th
Do you sew, knit, weave, or crochet and enjoy visiting with other ladies with similar interests?
You’re invited to attend the next meeting of the Merry Marthas this Friday, February 28 at 9:30 a.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies at 1700 Brodie Avenue.
This group meets monthly to share what we have made, and then we donate our finished projects to local charities.
New members are always welcome whether you’re a beginner or an expert. For more information, please call the church office at 970-586-4404.
Tuesday, Mar 4 Chicken Marsala w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad
Wednesday, Mar 5 Texas Cheesesteak Sandwich (roast beef w/ onions, mushrooms & cheddar cheese) on TX toast w/ Potato Salad
Thursday, Mar 6 Garlic Parmesan Pork Chop w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables
Friday, Mar 7 Shrimp Basket (8 fried) w/ Homemade Chips & soup of the day
Mar 10 – 14
Monday, Mar 10 Quesadilla (ground beef & vegetables in grilled flour tortilla) & soup of the day
Tuesday, Mar 11 BBQ Platter – Pulled Pork & Beef Brisket w/ Mac ‘n Cheese & coleslaw
Wednesday, Mar 12 Country Fried Chicken w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables
Thursday, Mar 13 Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles, garlic bread & side salad
Friday, Mar 14 Trout (4 oz) w/ Baked Potato & soup of the day
Meals are $7 for current 2025 EP Senior Citizens Center members and are by reservation only. (Or 3 meals for $20; use pre-paid meal tickets.) Exact cash or check payment required. Reservations must be made by 1:00 PM at least one business day in advance. Note, if you want to reserve a meal for Monday, Mar 3rd, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Feb 28th. 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 Qi Gong Tuesday 10:15-11:15 AM
Bridge Group Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM with lessons in the morning Canasta, Euchre & Pinochle 1st & 3rd Wednesdays 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
Chris Schneider Gil Atanasoff
Opportunities To Support Partners
And The Youth, Families, And Volunteers We Serve!
Do you enjoy a cold brew, walking or running, or working with youth in our community? If so, here are a few more opportunities to support Partners and the youth, families, and volunteers we serve!
1. Rock Cut Brewing Company has designated Partners as the beneficiary for their first quarter Rock Cut Gives Back for 2025. For every Altruism beer sold in January through March 2025, $1.00 will be donated from Rock Cut to
Partners.
2. Sharin ‘O The Green 5K, on March 15th in Fort Collins to benefit Partners. Volunteers and runners/walkers are needed. Link to sign up to run/walk: runsignup.com/Race/CO/FortCollins/S harinOtheGreen5k
Link to the volunteer signup: www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4AA 9AE22A1F94-53513163-sharin#.
3. Become a volunteer with Partners! Call 970-577-9348, email: kwhitacre@poweredbypartners.org or visit our website: poweredbypartners.org/get%20involv ed/
Thank you for your support!
Next Rotary Club Of Estes Park Meeting On Thursday, March 6th
We meet at the American Legion and the public is invited to attend. The Noon Rotary starts at 12 p.m. If you would like to join us for lunch it starts at 11:30 a.m. and cost $20. Please RSVP to noonrotary@aol.com by 12 noon on Tuesday, March 4th if joining us for lunch.
AA & Al-Anon Meetings
Al-Anon (a 12-step program for family and friends of Alcoholics)
Thursdays from noon-1:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave.in the upstairs lounge, Estes Park.
AA of Glen Haven
Every Monday night at the Town Hall at 6:30 p.m.
Early Worms
Monday thru Saturday at 7:00 a.m. (Monday through Saturday hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839 PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave. Early Worms Women's Meeting 12 p.m. Mondays
St. Bartholomew, 880 MacGregor Ave. Mixed Nuts Al-Anon Group
We meet Friday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St. Bartholomew Church. The meeting is hybrid with Zoom #285 426 3644 PW: serenity.
One Day at a Time
Location: Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave., Estes Park
Tuesday at Noon Open discussion
Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Open discussion Meetings are in the lounge on the main floor by the front entrance to the church. Park upstairs by the main entrance of the church.
Alcoholics Anonymous Fall River Group, 453 West Elkhorn, Estes Park.
Current Schedule for 1/1/2025
Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings Monday-12 p.m.-In person and ZoomO, D
Monday-7 p.m.--In Person and Zoom -O, BB
RARE OPPORTUNITY…
Tuesday-12 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, D
Wednesday-12 p.m.- In Person and Zoom-O, D
Wednesday-7 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D
Thursday -12 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D
Friday-12 p.m.- In Person and ZoomO, D
Saturday-12 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D
Sunday 12 p.m.-In Person and Zoom O, ABSI
Last Monday of each month is birthday night; 6 p.m. Potluck, 7 p.m. Speaker.s *** Contribute via VENMO @EstesCowboy
Other 12 Step Meetings Held at Fall River Group
Thursday-7 p.m.-Narcotics Anonymous “New Horizons” Group O, D
In Person and Zoom 705 555 830 **O=open to all D=discussion
BB=Big Book
Zoom Meetings-Everyday at noon Zoom #999 829 166 (no password needed).
Monday Zoom Big Book study at 7 p.m. #654 598 884 (no password needed).
Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Zoom #999 829 166
Online AA and NA Meetings at www.intherooms.com
There are 70 AA Meetings and 30 NA Meetings a week.
First time in years, this adorable 4 bedroom, 2 bath home known as “Bluebird Cabin”is available for sale. Nestled in a prime location with breathtaking views of the Continental Divide, this cozy yet spacious retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Also rare is the 1700 square feet of garage/workshop space, allowing for countless possibilities.
The Rocky Mountain Channel Releases New Docu-Series Showcasing
New documentary series "Building Community" seeks to showcase the stories of the people that make up Estes Park’ s vital workforce, and why workforce housing and childcare is crucial.
the funds for workforce housing and childcare in the Estes Valley.
The Rocky Mountain Channel is proud to announce the launch of a new docu-series, "Building Community," in partnership with Visit Estes Park. This series will feature six short documentaries highlighting the personal stories of the essential workforce that drives the local economy in Estes Park, a destination that relies heavily on its tourism industry.
The Rocky Mountain Channel’s "Building Community" will showcase how critical new funding for workforce housing is making a real difference in the lives of the people who make Estes Park a thriving place to live and visit. The series kicks off with the inspiring story of Apelles Morales, a single mother who has lived and worked in Estes Park for nearly a decade.
In this emotional first episode, Morales reflects on the personal challenges she faced as rising housing costs nearly forced her to leave the community she calls home. “If we don't have workforce housing or places for people to raise families and build the next generation, towns like this will die out,” she shares. “You’ll never get to know your neighbors. You’ll never get to know your community.”
Morales’ journey highlights the support she has received from both the community and organizations like the Estes Park Housing Authority, allowing her to stay in Estes Park and continue contributing to its economy. “It’s amazing, and we’ve been given amazing opportunities,” she says. “I hope everyone reaches out to the Housing Authority to have the same opportunity.”
Episode 1 will premiere on Friday, February 28, on the Rocky Mountain Channel at 7 p.m., and will also be available for streaming on RockyMountainChannel.com.
For years, families in Estes Park have faced escalating challenges in securing affordable housing and childcare, threatening the lifeblood of Estes Park, its workforce. As other destinations in the state faced similar challenges, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed a bill in 2022 that would allow local lodging tax revenues to be expanded to support housing and childcare solutions for the workforce in tourism destinations like Estes Park. The lodging tax extension hit the ballots in Estes Park in 2022 and with support from the community, the ballot measure passed in November 2022. These additional lodging tax dollars are funneled through Visit Estes Park to the Town of Estes Park which distributes
The Rocky Mountain Channel has begun production on Episode 2, featuring the story of Mountain Top Preschool. The preschool's building was at risk of being sold for commercial use, but funding from the Lodging Tax Extension helped secure the property, keeping it a vital childcare facility for local families in Estes Park. Stay tuned for more stories of resilience and community support coming soon!
For more information about the lodging tax extension and how it supports our workforce visit taxyoudontpay.com.
Stanley Home Museum And Education Center Hosted First Square Dance Fundraiser At The Estes Valley Community Center February 22
The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center hosted its first Square Dance at the Estes Valley Community Center on February 22, 2025. 70 people attended, ranging from four years old to folks in their 80s.
The live caller, Bob Zuellig, and the Rocky J and Lumpy Ridge Ramblers, kept the participants moving and learning new patterns for two hours straight. Folks learned patterns
from Kentucky, Missouri and West Virginia. There were consistently 8-10 squares on the floor at any given time. The caller would visit each square individually prior to calling the dance to assist individuals in learning the patterns.
The unanimous feedback from participants was that they had a wonderful time, with many asking the museum to offer such an event again.
Band member, John Carr, said that the band thoroughly enjoyed the event as well, remarking that, “as soon as the music started, we (band members) can see the smiles light up the faces of all dancers.” The laughter throughout the community square dance was contagious and raucous. Young and
old alike danced their hearts out.
Pie and light refreshments were also served. At the close of the event Bob Zuellig and each band member were gifted the book, “Mr. Stanley of Estes Park” by James Pickering. The mission of The Historic Stanley Home Foundation is to renovate, preserve, and operate Rockside, the F.O. Stanley home as a cultural center for local history education. The home is an enduring reminder of the evolution and development of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park. FO and Flora Stanley loved music, poetry, and community events. The Square Dance was an effort to celebrate and continue their legacy in Estes Park.
This event was sponsored by You Need Pie, YMCA of the Rockies, Bank of Colorado and the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center.
Healthy Mind Platter For Healthy Brain Matter
Learn Dr. Daniel Siegel’s recommended daily diet for a healthy mind that includes the seven daily essential mental activities to optimize brain matter and create well-being. These includes focus, play, connecting, physical and sleep time as well as the importance of down time. Taught by Community Health Improvement Nurse, Julie Knighton.
• Estes Park: Noon-1:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 12, Estes Park Senior Citizen’s Center.
By: Judi Smith
Global Cooperation
When the world is faced with a worldwide problem, it is best addressed with a worldwide solution. After WWII we formed the United Nations to settle conflicts diplomatically instead of turning to another World War. Today, the UN pursues 17 Sustainable Development Goals, including the erasure of poverty and hunger, the availability of sustainable water and sanitation, the recognition and acceptance of all people, and several goals promoting and sustaining climate action.
In 2015, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in France initiated the Paris Agreement (ratified April 22, 2016) with the intention of controlling the temperature rise and the spread of greenhouse gases. Currently 196 countries participate, including the 55 industrialized nations who produce the greatest amount of emissions. (By the treaty, withdrawal takes a year.) However, in 2024, we, the world, surpassed our goal to limit the increase in average global temperature to 1.5◦ C (2.7◦ F). For now, the goal expands to remain under 2◦ rise. Nevertheless, because of this treaty, countries are cooperating in the endeavor to save the Earth. Together, we have made some progress in minimizing the risk.
And the risk is great! As the temperature rises, climate events increase, not so much in number, but the heightened intensity is more devastating. The Polar Vortex is weakening, causing a zigzag approach making the North warmer, and, in some cases, bringing the cold southward. As the glaciers melt, the ocean rises and beach front property (sometimes including buildings) collapses. (A non-dangerous side effect lies in the measurement of mountains. Mountains are measured by the height above sea level. Technically, our Colorado mountains are getting “shorter.”) These changes affect the stability of our world. There are seemingly constant hurricanes, fires, and floods. The drought is destroying crops, and the pursuant floods are devastating farmland. Our rivers and reservoirs are evaporating and the snowstorms in the southeast are affecting the national economy.
Worldometer.org offers a complete list of 206 countries and their emissions. (The numbers herein are from 2021.) We hear a lot, from many sources, about the emissions of China (12,667,428,430 tons of CO2), 32% of the world’s emissions, but, with a population of 1,425,179,569, the per capita emissions are 8.89 tons per person. The United States is the 2nd largest emitter with 4,853,780,240 for a population of 341,534,046 or a 14.21 tons per person. There are (or were) 13 countries on the list that exceed the per capita emissions of the United States: Canada (14.99), Australia (15.01), Gibraltar 17.65, New Caledonia (18.67), Saudi Arabia (18.89), Oman (19.38), Trinidad and Tobago (19.53), United Arab Emigrates (21.36), Kuwait (23.99), Bahrain (24.75), Qatar (35.48), and Palau (76.41).Palau, with 17,759 people, emits 1,357,050 tons of CO2. Under the Paris Agreement, each country set a Nationally determined Contribution, which must be updated at least every five years. Developed countries also pledged to donate to the Green Climate Fund, to assist developing countries with the cost of transition. These contributions are also nationally determined.
Each country pursues their goals in different ways. Norway has concentrated on hydro power and very high electric vehicle adoption rate. Residents of Austria rely on public transportation and a high recycling rate. With sufficient water and clear air, Finland is pursuing 50% renewable energy by 2030. Slovenia uses its reputation as a clean country to market eco-tourism. Iceland’s energy source is 65% geothermal and 20% hydropower, reducing the fossil fuel to 15%. All of Iceland’s electricity comes from renewable sources. These steps, and other creative endeavors, are changing the world. Countries, states, and municipalities are now writing regulations that set goals and sometimes requirements that encourage renewable energy for stationary (building) and transportation uses, regulate the waste disposal systems, and address the disappearing biodiversity.
February 3 through April 14, volunteers from the AARP Tax Aide program are once again offering free income tax preparation with electronic filing of federal and Colorado income tax returns. Appointments can be made through the Library in person, by calling 970-586-8116 or by visiting estesvalleylibrary.org. Some restrictions apply, such as no residential rental property income or out of state
returns. Full-year residents aged 18 and above must file a Colorado tax return before October 15, 2025 to claim your TABOR sales tax refund (the amount varies depending on your income level).
Elevate Partners Fundraising Dinner March 6 At Mama Rose’s
Join Partners on Thursday, March 6th at 5:30 p.m. for our 2025 Elevate Partners Dinner to support our mentoring programs in Estes Park. Enjoy an evening with great community, inspiring speakers, and a complimentary dinner, generously provided by Mama Rose's. All donations help us continue making an impact on youth in our community!
We suggest a minimum $35 donation per guest. If you can donate more, it is greatly appreciated. Because of the generous support of Rob and Julie Pieper, guests' entire donation is used to provide our mentoring programming to local youth. As always, our top priority is to offer high-quality services and support to the youth, families, and volunteers in our program.
Please register at: poweredbypartners.org/elevate/. Then
click on the registration button to fill in your information and submit. Please register as soon as possible so we can plan accordingly. Registration is open until March 4th
Support Partners
If you can't attend Elevate Partners Dinner this year, please consider supporting Partners by becoming a mentor or giving a financial gift. You can donate online at: poweredbypartners.org/ get-involved/#donate.
Please make a note that it's for Elevate Partners 2025. Or you can send a check to our main office, 530 S. College Ave. Unit 1, Fort Collins, CO 80524 and write on the memo line "Elevate Partners 2025." Thanks for your support!
If you have any questions, contact Kathy Whitacre at 970-577-9348 or email kwhitacre@poweredbypartners.org
Eastep’s Celebrate 45 Years!
We Are So Happy To Be Celebrating Our 45th Wedding Anniversary!
Our marriage has been and is an awesome gift from the Lord. It is a truly complete example of the scriptures in I Corinthians 13:4-8a. We have always loved each other with an agape love. We show honor and respect to each other. We have never had an argument of any kind - not one!
We met on a blind date through mutual Christian friends - married in 56 days - and now celebrate 45 years of the most wonderful, awesome, blessed gift of an anointed marriage - and ALL the glory goes to Godour Heavenly Father.
Jesus Christ is the Lord of our lives - our hearts - our marriage along with the presence of the Holy Spirit.
God smiled on us when He blessed us with each other and together we pray to be a blessing to others!
LISTED BY TOM THOMAS
1400 Raven Circle - $775,000
Peak To Peak Concert March 8th Presents Estes Valley Student Recitals
The Peak to Peak Concert Series spotlights musicians living in the Estes Valley. The Student Recitals concert on Saturday, March 8th features students of music teachers Annaka Hogelin, Denise Stookesberry, Rachel Wilke, and Melinda Workman. Students of many age groups and ability levels from beginner through advanced will be represented. They will be performing vocal, piano, violin and flute pieces. The concert will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail Drive. A reception follows the concert to meet and greet the musicians.
There are several students performing this year that were not at last year’s recital. Half of the “new” students are shown below and the remainder will be highlighted next week. Grace Aldridge (flute) and Everett Buckingham (piano) are students of Melinda Workman. Asher Alsum, Trevor Alsum, Gabriel Forbes, Isaiah Forbes, Jedidiah Forbes,Talia Forbes, Daisy O’Brien, and Teddy O’Brien are piano students of Rachel Wilke.
Altogether, the recital will feature 38
students. Returning performers and those not pictured in this article include Annaka Hogelin’s piano students Calvin Bishop, Katie Bishop, Casey Schmitt, Linnea Schmitt, and Luna Youtz. Lela Fortini, Kai Seaver and Natalie Workman, vocal students of Denise Stookesberry, will perform. Rachel Wilke’s other piano students are Grace Bergman, Summer Tian Gurung, Isaiah Hoskins, Lillian Layton, Isabella Richardson, Garrick Richardson, Sara Shakya, Arabella Shrestha, Raleigh Waters and Ransome Waters. Ransome Waters will also be playing violin. Melinda Workman’s piano students include Maya Brandewie, Lucy Franklin, Sam Franklin, Zelie Franklin, Aspyn Hartzog, Weston Hartzog, Gwen Pawson, Geneva Thomas, Hera Wharton, Amelia Watry, and Natalie Workman. Sam Franklin and Amelia Watry will perform on flute.
It is wonderful to see such a strong next generation of music students in our community.
Please join us to enjoy an afternoon concert and support these fine musicians!
Daisy O'Brien Everett Buckingham
Gabriel Forbes
Grace Aldridge
Isaiah Forbes
Jedidiah Forbes
Talia Forbes
Teddy O'Brien
Trevor Alsom
Asher Alsom
A
Night Of Joy, Community, And Creativity: Coming Together For Something Magical
It was a beautiful evening in Estes Park—a warm and sunny winter day that felt like a special gift. Families gathered, chatting about how perfect the weather was, setting the tone for a night that would be filled with connection, creativity, and a true sense of belonging.
The evening unfolded in a thoughtful rhythm, a carefully planned dance between two spaces—the Jazzercise building and the EVICS Family Resource Center—ensuring that everyone had time to experience both creativity and community over a shared meal.
ents, thoughtfully selecting hues that felt just right. The room was alive with laughter and joy, a beautiful symphony of creativity and connection, as families and friends embraced the simple yet profound magic of making something meaningful for someone they cared about.
Once their masterpieces were finished, it was time for dinner. The inviting aroma of a meal, generously sponsored by the Christian Church of Estes Park and prepared with care by You Need Pie and the Three Little Pigs Bakery, filled the air. Families gathered around the tables, sharing stories, meeting new friends, and savoring not just the delicious food, but the company around them.
The first group arrived at the Jazzercise building, excitement in their eyes as they carefully selected their ceramic pieces to paint. Some chose mugs, imagining cozy mornings sipping cocoa or tea. Others picked small figurines—cactus, cats, and hearts—carefully painting every detail with intention. Bright yellows and oranges reflected the joy of the night, while calming blues and greens flowed across the tables like peaceful waves. Many of the children weren’t just painting for themselves; they were creating gifts filled with love and care. Some whispered excitedly, “This is for my teacher!” as they carefully chose their colors, making sure every stroke reflected their appreciation. Others smiled as they painted special pieces for their parents, siblings, or grandpar-
There was a special kind of warmth in
the room—not just from the comforting meal, but from the unmistakable feeling of togetherness, a reminder that community is nourished in more ways than one.
As the first group wrapped up their meal, they left with full stomachs and even fuller hearts, sharing amazing feedback about the night.
“What a great evening!” one parent said.
“This was such a fun and happy space.”
The night was already a success, but it wasn’t over yet.
While the first group finished their evening, the second group was just beginning. At the EVICS building, another round of families enjoyed their dinner, coming together over conversations and shared gratitude. And when it was their turn, they made their way to the Jazzercise building to experience the magic of painting their own ceramics.
the art or the food—it was in the people who made it happen. Volunteers played a huge role in ensuring the evening was a success, from welcoming families with warm smiles to guiding little hands as they painted. Their kindness, patience, and enthusiasm made all the difference.
Their feedback spoke volumes:
ners join us.
We hope to create more magical moments where laughter, creativity, and connection fill the room. Because when we come together, amazing things happen.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible sponsors and partners: Brownfield's, Creativity Cabin, Jazzercise, and
“I’ve never seen so many children in one place!” one volunteer laughed.
Another said, “This is so fun. What an amazing community we have!”
And one message stuck out in particular: “Thank you so much, EVICS, for all you do for the community.”
Throughout the evening, one thing became clear—this was more than just an event. This was a beloved community in action. The heart of the night wasn’t just in
At EVICS Family Resource Center, we are incredibly grateful for the community partners who stand beside us, support us, and work together to create moments like this. This night was proof of what happens when we come together—not just as organizations, but as a true community—for the well-being and joy of families.
And as the night came to a close, there was only one thing left to say:
We hope to do this again.
We hope more part-
and
life!
the Christian Church of Estes Park Thank you for partnering with us to bring joy, creativity,
community to
Help Comes In Many Forms
By: Brian Schaffer
Throughout the year there are occasions when people walk into Crossroads who need more than a bag of groceries to feed their family. They come in searching for help to deal with the issues that keep them up at night due to uncontrollable stress levels, anxiety, or depression. In 2020, while working on a strategic plan with staff and board members, we discussed how mental health issues were coming up more often in conversations with neighbors we were working with. We were experiencing an increase in the number of people who were in a constant struggle to maintain employment, had irreparably damaged significant relationships, suffered from emotional trauma, and felt hopeless as to how they would ever overcome the insurmountable mental health issues that were keeping them from living the life they so desired. We knew how to resolve some of the external needs going on in their lives, but we weren’t equipped to help them in the areas related to their mental health. It was a conundrum for sure, so we decided to search for qualified professionals that we could begin referring people to for specialized services.
A really cool thing that came out of this planning session is that one of our board members decided to pursue a Masters degree in mental health counseling. She is now one of our two mental health therapists that we partner with in providing counseling to those who might not have otherwise sought it out if there wasn’t scholarships to make it affordable. Over the last two years, we have been a recipient of grant funding from Larimer County Behavior Health Services that is making it possible for us to provide this important resource to our neighbors at no cost. Now more than ever, there is a heightened sense of anxiety that is hovering over neighbors who are losing jobs, stressed out about what they see on the news, dealing with serious
health issues, and so much more. During these times, we need each other to lean on, and I’m hopeful you have a few people in your life for this. I am blessed to be a part of Men on Fire who meet on Saturday mornings, and I have a church family that is always there for me when I need a little pickme-up. If you’re not connected, or feel like you could use a stronger support system in your life, please reach out to us. I’d also like to offer you or anyone you know a couple counseling sessions with one of our therapists. That’s if you’d like to talk through a few things that are keeping you up at night. In 2024, we provided 582 hours of counseling for 94 Estes Valley residents. These individuals ranged from five years of age to 85 years old. It’s never too early or too late to ask for help. Here are a couple success stories of people who found help through the counseling sessions:
• A mother of three small children began counseling services due to an unhealthy marriage. After six sessions, she was at a stable place to invite her husband into the final two sessions where they were able to talk through their issues and come to a greater understanding of the condition of their mental health that each of them were struggling to manage. Several recommendations were given to this couple and they have since come to a working agreement of how they will live together. The stressful environment in the home had complicated how they both were living, so I'm glad they came in to get help.
• A man in the third quarter of life came in with symptoms of major depression, and was unable to keep employment due to his emotional instability. He met with one of our therapists for eight weeks in a row, and is now in a much better place in life. He began meeting consistently with a support group in town, and is now gainfully employed in a job that he loves.
Let Lent Begin…
By: Bishop Owen Williams, St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church
This time of year some people are beginning to get tired of winter. When I lived in Grand Lake, February was one of the best times to go snowmobiling or cross-country skiing, and some just liked to go snowshoeing. It doesn’t do much good to “grouse” about how long the winter is. Winter just is! It is also a time when we can get some of those small projects done. Maybe scrapbooking or deciding which books we might take down to the Library to free up some space for new acquisitions. If it is warm enough, maybe we will tackle the garage or sort screws or nails.
trying to explain to a 3rd grader what the “Pledge of Allegiance” means. Serious, spiritual work is to “put away childish things” and grapple with serious theological concepts. If we believe in the birth of Jesus Christ, which we celebrate at Christmas, we also need to accept that Christ came for a reason; “That God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them.” Gal. 5:19 (NIV)
This, among other things, is the purpose of having our Christian Calendar and these yearly milestones. It is a way that helps us remember, because it is something we should never forget.
In the ancient Church, of which the Anglican Church is an extension, it is a time to do some interior house cleaning. That is… the spiritual type. We have a pre-Lenten season, which are called the “Gesima” Sundays: Septuagesima, Sexagesima and Quinquagesima. It was a time to put away all the Christmas and Epiphany decorations, to tidy up the house and empty out the cupboards of food and treats which might either tempt us or spoil.
These preparation weeks are also a time to put away all of the things which might get in the way of serious spiritual work which is part of the Lenten Season.
What is meant by “serious spiritual, work?” Life is not all about “fun and games.” Most of us know that life is about hard work; not just of the physical type, but mental and spiritual work as well! It may be focusing with a practiced eye and hand to remove a tumor from a young girl’s brain. It might be up in a bucket truck swapping out an exploded transformer. Or it might be
"Take from us, O Lord, all pride and vanity, all boasting and self-assertion, and give us the true courage that shows itself by gentleness; the true wisdom that shows itself by simplicity; and the true power that shows itself by modesty."Edward B. Pusey
Please join us on Ash Wednesday, March 5th at 10 a.m. for the service of The Imposition of Ashes and Holy Communion. This is when the hard work begins. More on the Lenten Season, coming next week.
St. Francis Anglican Church is a Traditional, Apostolic and Evangelistic Christian church nestled in the midst of the pines and aspens in Little Valley. We invite you to join us Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for a Service of Holy Communion (Morning Prayer is offered at 9 a.m.). We are located at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park, CO 80517. Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis. If you have any questions or comments, please call Bishop Williams at (970) 577-0601. And see our Website at stfrancisestespark.com.
What Is The Quota Loan Closet
Estes Park Quota, as a service to our community, opened the Medical Equipment Loan Closet in 1952 with a walker, a cane and a wheelchair and the volunteers worked out of a member’s home. That first year the Loan Closet served 27 people. The Loan Closet now has over 624 pieces of medical equipment valued at almost $100,000.00, available for loan to all of Estes Valley and our visitors. Since the 1980s, the Quota Loan Closet has been housed on Estes Park Health property. Staffing for Loan Closet is done totally
through the volunteer efforts of 14 Quota members who are available to check out or accept returns of equipment seven days a week.
In 2023, 258 individuals checked out 475 pieces of equipment. Quota is a non-profit organization so the service is free with a refundable deposit and/or donation. The funds donated support the repairs and replacement of our equipment. For information on how to secure medical equipment from the Loan Closet, visit estesparkquota.com or call Linda Polland at 719-337-3318.
Lenten And Easter Church Services
Mount Calvary Lutheran Church
Schedule of Services For Lent, Holy Week, Easter at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, Estes Park, Colorado.
Transfiguration Sunday, March 2
Worship 9:00 a.m.
Ash Wednesday, March 5 – Soup Supper 5:00 p.m. Worship with imposition of ashes 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday, Lenten Midweek Worship Services
March 12 6:00
p.m.
March 19 6:00
p.m.
March 26 6:00
p.m.
April 2 6:00 p.m.
April 9 6:00 p.m.
Maundy Thursday Worship April 17, 6:00 p.m.
4:30-Holden Evening Prayer at 5:30
Wednesday, April 2-Soup supper at 4:40-Holden Evening Prayer at 5:30
Wednesday, April 9- Soup supper at 4:30-Holden Evening Prayer at 5:30
Maunday Thursday, April 17-Worship at 5:30
Please join us for any or all of these meaningful times together.
Good Friday Worship April 18, Noon, 6:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday Festival Worship Service April 20, 9:00
All are welcome to join us in this season of penitence and great joy in the salvation Christ has won for us on the cross and in His glorious resurrection, which guarantees that we too shall have eternal life!
Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church
Lent is a season for reflection, repentance and spiritual renewal leading up to the celebration of the resurrection of Christ. All are invited to spend time with us at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail, beginning on Ash Wednesday, March 5 at 5:30. Also, save the following dates;
Wednesday, March 12-Soup supper at 4:40-Holden Evening Prayer at 5:30
Wednesday, March 19-Soup supper at 4:40-Holden Evening Prayer at 5:30
Wednesday, March 26-Soup supper at
Please join us on Ash Wednesday, March 5th at 10 a.m. for the service of The Imposition of Ashes and Holy Communion.
St. Francis Anglican Church is a Traditional, Apostolic and Evangelistic Christian church nestled in the midst of the pines and aspens in Little Valley. We invite you to join us Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for a Service of Holy Communion (Morning Prayer is offered at 9 a.m.). We are located at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park, CO 80517. Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis. If you have any questions or comments, please call Bishop Williams at (970) 577-0601. And see our website at stfrancisestespark.com.
If you would like your church Easter church services published here, please email them to kris@estesparknews.com by Tuesday at noon for the next Friday publication.
Michael Roe, 63, Beloved Father, Musician And Mountain Man
Michael “Mike” Roe, 63, of Estes Park, passed away Monday, February 17th of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of music, kindness and adventure. A true mountain man, Mike made his home among the peaks, where he lived by his own rules, guided by the rhythm of the wind and the melody in his heart.
Born in the South, Mike found his true home in Estes Park in the 1980s, where he embraced the rugged beauty of the mountains and the
warmth of the community. He was a man who loved deeply—his children, Gabe, Sage and Mariah, were his greatest joy. He taught them the value of kindness, the power of laughter and the beauty of being yourself. His goofiness and empathy made him unforgettable, and his music was the soundtrack to the lives of so many who loved him.
Mike believed in “the freedom to be himself,” a mantra he lived by every day. He strummed his guitar with the same easy spirit that he walked through life—unapologetically, wholeheartedly and always with love. He filled the town with music, laughter and stories, never passing up the chance to make someone smile. His love for animals, the outdoors and a good conversation were just as much a part of him as the chords he played and the songs he sang.
He will be deeply missed by his children, grandchildren, family and friends, but his spirit lingers in the mountain air, the strum of a guitar and the echo of a good joke told at just the right moment. His was a life well-lived—wild, free and filled with love.
Rest easy, Mike. The mountains will carry your song forever.
EPUMC Offers Drive-Through Ashes For Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday begins the season of Lent, a time when many Christians prepare for Easter by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation, and spiritual discipline. Ashes on the forehead demonstrates an awareness of mortality and an intent to repent.
In observance of Ash Wednesday, Estes Park United Methodist Church will have drivethrough ashes available on Wednesday, March 5, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the church.. Join Pastor Ann Lantz in the driveway of Estes Park United Methodist Church at 1509 Fish Hatchery Road for this important day in our faith journey.
St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church
Photo by Brad Manard rmnphotographer.com
Michael Sullivan Harwood
Michael Sullivan Harwood passed away peacefully in Estes Park Medical Center on February 20, 2025. He was born in Philadelphia, PA on August 2, 1934. He lived in Baltimore, MD, and Washington, DC, for most of his early life with his father James Kemp Harwood II, his mother Marguerite Sullivan Harwood, and his older brother James Kemp Harwood III. At the end of World War II, his family moved to Westwood Village in West Los Angeles. All of his immediate family is deceased. He is survived by his cherished wife of 71 years Adele, son Michael James, daughters Marguerite Ann Besson and Mary Therese Harwood, sons Matthew David, Patrick Joseph, Peter Francis and his beloved late son Thomas Gregory (they are together again); grandchildren Camille Harwood Stephens, Gregory Brooks Harwood, David Harwood Besson, Alexander Andrew Grebb, Nicole Catherine Remedes, Jack Harwood Grebb, Joseph Blake Harwood, Justin Patrick Harwood, Grace Marie Farley, Andrew Tyler Harwood, Logan Michael Harwood, Josephine Anne Harwood; great grand-children Grace Mattie Stephens, Blair Michael Stephens, Landen James Farley, Emma Layne Farley, Copelin Thomas Harwood and Henry Ryusei Besson. Michael was a star basketball, football and track athlete at St. Monica High School in Santa Monica, CA. In 1956, he graduated from Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA, with a BS in Accounting. He was named one of the three Distinguished Military Graduates in the Army ROTC Program. In 1967, he graduated at the top of his class from Indiana University with an MBA. He served for three years in the US Army Artillery and 17 years in the US Army Finance Corps. He was stationed in Germany, South Korea, South Vietnam and military posts throughout the United States.
He served as Finance & Accounting Officer at Ft. Stewart, GA and as Comptroller at Ft. Carson, CO. He performed programming duties at the Pentagon with the J-5, Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He retired at the rank of lieutenant colonel from the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Financial Management at the Pentagon. He then worked as the Chief Financial Officer for 14 years at the National Association of Broadcasters in Washington, DC. He chaired a successful fund-raising drive to build the new Good Shepherd Catholic Church near George Washington’s estate in Mount Vernon.
At the age of 55, he retired. Adele and he moved to Wicomico Church in Northumberland County, VA, on June 1, 1991. For the next 30 years, he served his community in various capacities with the Northumberland Association for Progressive Stewardship; the Northumberland Lions Club; the public library; the Family YMCA; the Chesapeake Harbor Homeowners Association Board of Directors; and the St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. He mentored as a Reading Partner at the Northumberland Elementary School since the program’s inception in 1997. His family delighted in the hospitality of his Chesapeake Bay home and fishing off his boat, the Theresa Adele.
On St. Patrick’s Day 2022, Michael and Adele moved to Good Samaritan Society – Estes Park Village. They are parishioners of Our Lady of the Mountain Catholic Church. He is a member of the OLM Knights of Columbus, American Legion Post 119 in Estes Park, a delighted supporter of the Estes Park Boy Scout Troop 8 and a lifelong college and professional sports fan.
Throughout his long life, Michael served his God, family, community, and country with strength and courage as a faith-filled, servant/leader. He held a strong devotion to the Blessed Mother, praying the Rosary daily with Adele from his printed prayer list updated on his computer.
His funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 1 at Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church in Estes Park, followed by interment at the Estes Valley Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be sent to the Glen Haven Area Volunteer Fire Department at https://www.ghavfd.org. Please visit www.allnuttestespark.com to leave a message for the family.
Guest Services Rep Reservationist/Special Projects/ Computer Skills/Answering Phones/Emails/Texts. Customer Service/Telephone Skills/Problem Solving Skills Written/Oral Communications Skills Required - Full Time Year Round Weekends, Holidays, On Call Required. $20-$21/hr DOE
Apply on line with resume https://jobs.gusto.com/postings/ macman-llc-guest-services-repc64969b2-123c-4abe-b22f2b2bfa93aa11
Family Programs Director develops, coordinates and administers programs directed towards families of all ages, including but not limited to, Family Programs, recreation activities and specialty weekends. This position pays $20.97$24.90/hour with benefits and employee perks including medical benefits, participation in the YMCA retirement fund, generous PTO/vacation, discounted
passes, and free or discounted gear rentals.
2025 Spring Session Standings
Adele and Michael Harwood in Wicomico Church, VA 3/2022.
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The Adventure Activities Director is responsible for the Aerial Challenge Course, Climbing Wall Facilitation, the Gear Shop, and the Mountain Center Desk at the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center. This position hires, trains, and supervises staff in all aspects of Adventure Activities, while also facilitating and developing programs to benefit guests.
$21.00 - $25.00/hour with full benefits, generous PTO/vacation, YMCA membership, and many more employee perks. To learn more and apply, please visit
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Pro g rams Coor d I n ator
Responsible for managing and coordinating the Association's Exchange Visitor (EV) program in-country experience. Exchange Visitor (J) visas are nonimmigrant visas for individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States.
The YMCA of the Rockies hosts the following under the Exchange Visitor Program: Work and Travel, Camp Counselor Intern, and Trainee programs. This position pays $20.52 - $23.02/hour with benefits and employee perks including medical benefits, participation in the YMCA retirement fund, generous PTO/vacation, discounted childcare, ski passes, and free or discounted gear rentals.
g ro u P sa l es rePrese n tatIve
Responsible for researching, contacting, and booking new group and conference business, and negotiating terms of group contracts. This position requires the ability to work in a fastpaced, multi-tasking environment, while upholding the YMCA of the Rockies mission, policies, and programs. This position can be based out of the Estes Park or Granby location of YMCA of the Rockies. $21.00 - $23.00/hour with benefits and employee perks including medical benefits, participation in the YMCA retirement fund, generous PTO/vacation, discounted childcare, ski passes, and free or discounted gear rentals.
Homes
Long Term Rental
- Small and Cozy 2 Bedroom, 1 bath house for rent in the Olympus Heights area. Recently remodel from top to bottom, Must see to appreciate. $2000 per month, utilities not included, No pets... Call (303) 720-1211
House - Quiet and Trees Fireplace, Heated Garage, Decks, Move-in bonus.
$2500/mo. 720-635-3824
Condos
2 bedroom, 1.5 bathroom condo.
$2,200/ month plus tenant pays electric and wifi. Recently remodeled, easy walk to lake and downtown. 1 year lease, available April 1. Call or text 785-456-5521
Duplexes
Small and comfortable 1 bedroom apartment with gorgeous views of the mountains. This is a must see to appreciate. is located near town, $1,600 per month, and some utilities included. Call (303) 720-1211
Excellent for 1 person, small 1 bedroom duplex apartment located downstairs. No far from downtown, Some utilities included, must see, $600.00 per month... Call (303) 720-1211
Commercial Rentals
Office Space for Rent 1377 Sq. Ft., Conference Room, 3 Private Offices, High Traffic Area with Great Exposure, Open Lobby Area, Printer Room. 351 Moraine Ave. Suite B 970-227-4865 nathan@kinleybuilt.com
Commercial Rentals
Class A Office
2014 Construction, Full Service, Furnished office in Downtown location, Near Town Hall. $800 per month. All internet options including Fiber available. Includes Conference Room, Handicap Restrooms, Copy and Scanning Facility, Coffee Room.
Call Thom at Verus Commercial, Inc. 970-586-2448
Storage Units
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
Cleaning
“A clean home is a happy home” Book us for your next cleaning!
The Bull Pin is looking for an Assistant Manager! Please visit our website www.estesparkbowl.com for the full job description.
Now Hiring: House Cleaners
$800–$1,000+ per week doing rewarding work with a team that values you.
$21.50–$24 per hour + great tips
Supportive, Team-Oriented Environment ✨ Equipment and training provided No experience needed - just a great attitude and a strong work ethic! Apply Today! info@wayfindercleaning.com Call or text 970-585-8587.
Regular Full-time Police Officer I - III
Seasonal: Community Service Officer
The status of applications will
Sewing/Alterations
Remixed Custom Sewing Services. Small Furniture, Restoration, Cushions and Industrial Repair. Call for appointment 970-492-5446
Piano Tuning
Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com
Other-Misc
Get ready for the perfect nails this spring break! Book an appointment with Camry Brown and enjoy $15 OFF a gel mani-pedi or $5 OFF any nail service! Don’t miss out—this limited-time offer is only available until March 31st 2025. Book your appointment today!
Call/text (720)986-2461
Located at Classic Hair Designs: 178 S St Vrain Ave Estes Park
Tempur Pedic Mattress, Queen Size, Firm Free for Pick Up in Estes Call: 970-646-1906
For Sale: Solid pecan wook china hutch, $350.00 and pecan dining table with leafs for expansion, $100.00 (no chairs) 2 cherrywood and glass end tables, $25.00 ea, 2 entertainment cabinets $10.00 ea. Call (303) 378-0617.
REAL ESTATE
Commercial
Commercial Spaces for sale and lease.
Call Eric. Anderson Realty. 586-2950
Florence AZ Look at park website then email bradnolan627@aol.com for details
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 Furniture
