Nestled among the wildflowers of Rocky Mountain National Park, this pint-sized pika isn’t just posing—it’s prepping! These mountain dwellers don't hibernate; instead, they spend summer stockpiling wildflowers and grasses into secret haypiles to survive the harsh alpine winter.
Photo by Deena Sveinsson deenasveinssonphotography.com
5,600 copies were printed this week, and distributed FREE to hundreds of Estes Valley locations including Allenspark, Glen Haven & Lyons. A National Online Audience With Loyal Local Readership
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And Economic Development & Workforce Council Book Club
By: Estes Chamber of Commerce
“We received great feedback from our participants last quarter and we are hoping for more folks to join us – whether or not they are Chamber members,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale.
“We can all learn from the experiences of others and share our own trials and successes to help Estes Valley businesses thrive,” she added.
This quarter, the Chamber and EDWC will read The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek, a highly praised view of long-term business thinking.
Two book club meetings will be held to discuss:
Coffee + Books at Inwell + Brew on Au-
gust 14th from 8:30 a.m. –10:00 a.m.
Books + Brews at Lumpy Ridge Publick House on August 20th from 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Book Club participants may purchase the seleted reading at a 15% discount through Macdonald Book Shop https://macdonaldbookshop.com/event/p reorder/ or participants may pick-up a copy of the book at the Estes Valley Library, with a valid library card. Grab your copy of The Infinite Game
Town Of Estes Park Seeks Feedback Through Community Survey
This summer, the Town of Estes Park is seeking community input using the National Community Survey. Over the next few weeks, questionnaires will be sent to a random sample of approximately 1,700 Estes Park households, asking for feedback on quality of life, town services, and other important community topics. This fall, the results will be available to the public and used by Town officials for community planning and resource allocation, program improvement, policy-making and tracking changes in residents’ opinions about government performance.
Public Information Officer Kate Miller noted the importance of participating.
“This is an opportunity for everyone in the community to share their thoughts and shape the future of Estes Park,” Miller said. “We hope everyone who receives the survey will take a few minutes to participate.” Miller noted that the Town will announce a community-wide survey in a few weeks, inviting everyone to participate. The National Community Survey: Is endorsed by the International City/County Management Association Is used by more than 500 local government agencies around the country Is completely anonymous Offers benchmark database comparisons to other communities
Uses a questionnaire developed by survey researchers and local government experts
Is designed to provide comprehensive feedback about the community’s quality of life and quality of local government services
Allows Estes Park to track historical trends across 10 key facets of livability and hundreds of individual questions
Has been used in Estes Park since 2011 and is typically conducted biennially. Past results are available at estes.org/communitysurvey.
For more information please contact Public Information Officer Kate Miller at 970-577-3701 or kmiller@estes.org
and get ready to learn and grow! Future book selections for 2025 book club events will include Dare to Lead by Brene' Brown, and Essentialism by Greg McKeown.
Town To Launch New Childcare Tuition Assistance Program For Middle-Income Families This Fall
Middle-income families in the Estes Valley will soon have access to affordable childcare, thanks to a new tuition assistance program set to launch this fall. The program is designed to support working families who do not typically qualify for income-restricted subsidies, yet face challenges paying full tuition for childcare.
On June 10, the Estes Park Town Board approved an agreement with the Early Childhood Council of Larimer County (ECCLC) to administer the program. The approval comes after a year-long effort to create a robust, data-driven assistance system tailored to the unique needs of the Estes Valley community while setting a foundation for the anticipated growth in childcare capacity with new providers and centers opening.
“This program fills a critical gap for middle-income families and reflects the community’s commitment to building a strong foundation for our children, our workforce, and our future,” said Housing and Childcare Manager Carlie Bangs, “We’re proud to introduce a program that is both responsive and sustainable.”
The development of this program has been shaped by:
Direction from the Town Board to direct 6E Lodging Tax funds to support middle-income working families in the Estes Valley.
The utilization of the Buell Foundation Local Financing for Early Childhood grant, awarded to the Town in July 2024, to conduct cost modeling and program development.
Recommendation from the Estes Valley Childcare Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan, which identified the need for blended and layered funding structures that maximize local resources and integrate with existing state and federal assistance programs.
Stakeholder feedback emphasizing the importance of a tuition assistance program that provides an efficient, userfriendly application process for families and providers.
To meet the objective, Town staff inventoried available resources and tools to maximize the use of the Buell grant and took into consideration how the Town fits within long-term strategies for the region. By collaborating with ECCLC to build a local “bucket” within the Larimer Child Care Fund (LCCF), the Town ensures that 6E Lodging Tax revenue is allocated to the program and reserved exclusively for Estes Park families. By using ECCLC’s established online platform,
BridgeCare, the Town is able to administer highly sophisticated and accountable assistance at a fraction of the cost it would take to build a system from scratch.
“We are honored to partner with the Town of Estes Park to launch this important tuition assistance program for middle-income families,” said Christina Taylor, CEO of the Early Childhood Council of Larimer County. “For 28 years, ECCLC has worked to strengthen the early childhood system across Larimer County—including targeted support in the Estes Valley—and this initiative represents a meaningful step forward. By building on our existing infrastructure, we’re able to deliver a responsive, data-informed solution that directly benefits working families, supports local providers, and helps ensure every child has access to quality early care and education.”
The program is expected to: Support middle-income families through a sliding-scale system requiring a parent copay based on monthly income.
Layer with existing assistance programs such as Universal Preschool (UPK).
Maintain high accountability through complex data tracking and coordination with regional partners. Prioritize currently enrolled families during the first phase of implementation.
While the Town Board considered a counterproposal from EVICS Family Resource Center, the Town staff’s recommendation- developed in response to board directives and community priorities- was designed specifically to meet the complex requirements of a blended funding model and ensure long-term sustainability for families and childcare providers. EVICS will continue to be an integral partner as the new program is rolled out.
More information, including eligibility requirements and how to apply, will be released in the coming weeks. Applications open in early fall, with tuition assistance distributed between August 2025 and July 2026. For more information about the Town’s workforce housing and childcare initiatives, please visit estes.org/workforcehousingandchildcare or contact Housing and Childcare Manager Carlie Bangs at 970-577-3894 or cbangs@estes.org.
EVFPD firefighters generally respond to medical calls in their personal vehicles, allowing for a faster response. On other incidents, firefighters respond to a fire station to respond in department apparatus with specialized equipment.
During the week of June 29th, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 30 calls for service. This included:
• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 5
• Alarm Activation: 9
• Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA): 3
• Assist: 5
• Smoke Investigation: 1
• Mutual Aid: 1
• Illegal Burn: 1
• Water Rescue: 1
• Odor Investigation: 1
• Structure Fire: 1
• Wildland Fire: 1
• Mutual Aid: 1 estesvalleyfire.org
Wild Basin Road Will Be Closed To All Uses For Road
Maintenance Tuesday, July 15 through Friday, July 18
Beginning Tuesday, July 15, through Friday, July 18, the Wild Basin Road in Rocky Mountain National Park will be closed to all uses, including vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians for road maintenance. This closure will occur at the Wild Basin Entrance Station and will include the entire two-mile section of the road to the Wild Basin Trailhead.
The park’s roads crew will be spreading gravel and grading this narrow road to ad-
dress ruts, potholes and help with drainage. Due to the road being closed to all uses from July 15 through July 18, visitors should avoid this area of Rocky Mountain National Park during this time.
The trailhead parking area for the Sandbeach Lake Trail will not be impacted by this closure.
For further information about Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit www.nps.gov/romo or call the park Information Office at (970) 586-1206.
Recovery Efforts Near Chasm Lake In
Rocky Mountain National Park
Recovery efforts took place July 2 for a 66-year-old female from Fort Collins, Colorado who suffered an apparent fall near Chasm Lake.
On Tuesday night, July 1, park rangers were notified of an overdue hiker. The individual was planning a day hike to Chasm Lake and had not returned as planned. The woman’s body was discovered early morning, July 2, on the south side of Chasm Lake in a scree slope.
Rocky Mountain National Park Search and Rescue team members were aided by Mesa Verde Interagency Helitak crew for recovery efforts.
The woman’s body was flown via a long line operation to the Upper Beaver Meadows helipad where she was transferred to the Boulder County Coroner’s office. The woman’s name will be released by the Boulder County Coroner’s office after next of kin are notified.
Wild Basin Road with ruts. Photo courtesy RMNP
Lighting Strike Tree Causes Small Fire In Rocky Mountain National Park
At approximately 6 p.m. on the evening of Wednesday, July 2, 2025, park rangers in Rocky Mountain National Park received reports from visitors that smoke was visible from Timber Creek Campground and the Baker Gulch areas of the park. RMNP park staff began to investigate for a potential fire start.
RMNP fire management staff confirmed that the smoke was coming from a lightning strike within the park. NPS and Grand Lake Firefighters were on scene last night. No values are at risk. The Baker Gulch Fire is currently 0.10 acres and is located north and west of the Holzwarth Historic Site along the east side of the Grand Ditch. It is contained and controlled.
Rocky Mountain National Park always has Stage 1 fire restrictions in place, which means that campfires are prohibited except within designated campfire rings inside picnic areas and drive-in campgrounds. The use of portable charcoal grills, wood fuel camp stoves, and propane/butane-fueled gas stoves is allowed.
Fireworks are always prohibited within Rocky Mountain National Park. Use caution and vigilance when having a fire. Never leave a campfire unattended. When done with a fire, use the drown and stir method to put it out. Pour water on the fire, use a shovel or stick to stir the coals, add more water and repeat until the coals are cool to touch.
Moraine Park Campground Reopens
With Initial Release Of Campsite Reservations From July 9-July 22
Moraine Park Campground in Rocky Mountain National Park will be reopening with an initial limited release of dates over a two-week period. Beginning on Tuesday, July 8 at 8 a.m. Mountain Time, reservations became available for Wednesday, July 9 through Tuesday, July 22. Reservations will be available through www.recreation.gov. Before additional dates are released, out of an abundance of caution, park staff and contractors will be testing the new water and wastewater systems to ensure they are working properly to keep up with expected demand.
The Moraine Park Campground and Utility Rehabilitation Project is a critical infrastructure project that is improving water, wastewater and electrical distribution systems that serve not only Moraine Park Campground, but also Beaver Meadows Visitor Center and Rocky Mountain National Park’s headquarters area and many other critical park facilities.
For more information about Rocky Mountain National Park, visit www.nps.gov/romo or call the park Information Office at (970) 586-1206.
Lightning strike tree causes fire west of Holzwarth Historic Site in RMNP July 2, 2025. Photo courtesy RMNP
Estes Park Quota Club Wants To Help! EspañolEstes Park Quota Club quiere ayudar!"
Wear headphones often? Be certain your volume is below 85 dB - anything higher can damage the fragile structures in your ear and cause hearing loss. Keep your streaming tunes to less than 60% of your device's maximum volume. Learn more about Quota Club's Hearing and Speech work in Estes Park at https://estesparkquota.com/contact-info
¿Usa auriculares con frecuencia?
Asegúrese de que el volumen sea inferior a 85 dB; cualquier volumen superior puede dañar las frágiles estructuras de su oído y provocar pérdida de audición. Mantenga la reproducción de música a menos del 60 % del volumen máximo de su dispositivo. Obtenga más información sobre el trabajo de audición y habla de Quota Club en Estes Park en https://estesparkquota.com/contact-info
Historic Fall River Hydroplant Opens For The 2025 Summer Season
The Historic Fall River Hydroplant will open its doors for select dates for this summer season. Located at 1754 Fish Hatchery Road in Estes Park, this plant is a unique site for all visitors. Operating as an interpretive site since 2002, the Historic Fall River Hydroplant will be open every other Friday throughout the summer, July 11 and 25, and August 8 and 22, from 12:00 – 4:00 p.m. Guided tours will be given at 12:00, 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 p.m., no reservations are required, and admission is free. Beginning in 1909, this hydroelectric
plant produced electricity for The Stanley Hotel and surrounding areas. Eventually, F.O. Stanley sold the plant to the Public Service Company of Colorado and by 1945, the Town of Estes Park purchased and maintained the facility. The site produced electricity until it was severely damaged in 1982 by the Lawn Lake Flood. Discover the power of early hydroelectricity, the growth and changes of Estes Park, and the devastating disaster that took this plant offline.
Winner Of June’s Estes Valley Photo Club Contest Is Lena MQ Heilmann
Congratulations to Lena MQ Heilmann!
Her wonderful photograph of a baby moose calf eating a flower has won the June Estes Valley Photo Club Contest!
Here is what Lena said about the photograph: “I lost my sister Danielle to suicide in 2012, and now I work in suicide prevention. My days can be hard and heavy. But seeing moose in RMNP, which feels like home to me, brings me so much joy.
“In late spring, when baby moose are born
and start to explore their surroundings, they remind me how tender, magical, and playful our natural world is. This little moose in the photo is one of a recent twin pair in the Park, and seeing sibling moose interact is healing for me.
“Here, this calf is smelling a wildflower, which I interpret as a poignant reminder that we should remember to stop and smell the(wild)flowers, because there is so much joy around us, if we stop to appreciate it.”
Join the Estes Valley Photo Club for your chance to have your photograph appear in an issue of EP News!
Please find us on Facebook under Groups and then select Estes Valley Photo Club. You do not need to be a resident of the Estes Valley to join. We welcome all members!
All members have the opportunity to enter our monthly photo contest. We are now accepting submissions for July. Here are the rules:
1. You must post your photograph on the Estes Valley Photo Club Facebook page.
2. The photographs must be taken in Colorado. Please state general location. DO NOT include specific locations.
3. You may enter any subject.
4. No watermarks or logos.
Please forward any questions to Deena Sveinsson at deena@ deenasveinssonphotography.com.
Photo by Lena MQ Heilmann
When I was showering the other day I felt something unnatural in my bellybutton. I looked to see what was in there and discovered that indeed, something out of the ordinary was going on in that little cavity nested in the middle of my tummy. A tick had been contemplating my navel as a dinner venue. She liked the menu option (A-positive) and had begun to dig in.
I hurried out of the shower, got the special tick-removing tweezers, and managed to extract the hungry bug before it did any damage to my blessed umbilicus.
This story has a happy ending for me and my innie—no blood lost. The outcome wasn’t as rosy for the now-deceased tick.
I’d forgotten all about my run-in with that stealth creepy crawly until I was at one of those device repair shops with an impaired cell phone. I’ll explain:
We live in an area where we are surrounded by many mighty trees. The gentle giants are beautiful to look at, they produce shade, give us wind protection, and provide safe harbor for birds, squirrels and other critters vital to a healthy ecosystem.
But we aren’t the only ones who find great pleasure in our forest friends. So do the beavers. While we love the trees when they are standing noble and magnanimous, the industrious toothy critters value the same trees when they have gnawed them down to the nub.
Therein lies the problem. The busy beavers are destroying our trees. We don’t want the keystone species to disappear (i.e., die by trap), we just want them to leave our trees alone. I researched solutions online, spoke with Fish and Wildlife and contacted the Beaver Believers in Boulder. It sounded like the best solution was to paint living trees with latex house paint with sand mixed in. This preventive act would not hurt the trees nor the beavers. It would simply deter the beavers because they don’t like the grit from the sand in their mouths. Hopefully, after a few unappetizing tree encounters, they would move on to a different, sand-free forest.
As soon as my affiliate Joe and I saw the first hint of beaver damage at the base of a tree, we put on our paint clothes, mixed up a measure of sand in some paint (selecting a color was challenging. There are many shades of tree trunks), armed ourselves with a paint can opener, hammer, stirrer, brushes, gloves and rags, and set to painting the damaged tree and the trees nearby. We estimate we painted and saved about 135 trees.
One time we were painting a tree near the lake’s edge. I was balancing on rocks while stooping low to reach around and paint the base of the
trunk. A rock shifted, I lost my grip and splat, I tumbled into the lake backside first, up to my neck. I sputtered and splashed, trying to gain my footing, and managed to scramble back onto dry ground. I immediately pulled my phone from my back pocket and threw it into the open hatchback, then stood still in the cold air, watching water pour off my clinging clothes.
Phones don’t like to go swimming any more than I do! When we got home, I set up a fan to aim the blowing air directly into the phone’s charging port and crossed my fingers. To my surprise and relief, the next day my dry phone seemed to work perfectly. No harm done.
At first, that was true. But over time it became gradually more difficult to charge my phone. I had to jiggle the charger plug in its port until I saw the little lightning bolt in the upper corner of the screen and then hold it there. If I loosened my grip on the charger cord, the lightning bolt disappeared. It took forever to charge my phone.
Which takes us back to the beginning of this story. I finally decided I needed to face the cold, wet truth that I may need to get a new phone. But first I took it to a device repair shop and asked if it were possible to replace a port which may have been damaged by water. It was a long shot, but worth an ask. The bearded, tattooed guy behind the counter didn’t say much, but turned and went into the back room. My heart sank. He came back with a set of long, very thin tweezers. He stuck the tool into the port and pulled out a ball of fuzz the size of a large tick! He did that a few more times, tapped the phone on the counter to shake out the last wee bits of port lint, and was done. My phone was good as new. I paid the $35 fee and walked out of there feeling like a million bucks.
While I watched the device repair guy work his tweezer magic, I realized my phone’s port is like a bellybutton—the place where our lifeline connects us to our life source. Sometimes our daily charger gets clogged and we become sluggish, unproductive and difficult to be with. We lose energy because of lint, a tick, or more broadly, boxes of old photos stored in the basement or an unhealthy relationship. When our lightning bolt disappears it is time to declutter. We will find it easier to recharge if we clear out the junk that’s weighing us down. It’s easier said than done, but we can start small—with the lint in our port.
All this from one wayward tick. You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
Estes Valley Photo Club Speaker Series Presents Telling Nature’s Story Through Photography With Wendy Shattil
Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:30–10:30 a.m.
Good Samaritan Society –Estes Park Village 1902 Ptarmigan Trail Estes Park, CO
The Estes Valley Photo Club will be meeting on Thursday, July 17 at 6:00 p.m. in the Hondius Room of the Estes Valley Library, 335 E. Elkhorn Avenue. The presentation that evening will be Telling Nature’s Story Through Photography by Wendy Shattil.
In a world flooded with images, how do we create photographs that truly make a difference? In this inspiring presentation, acclaimed wildlife photographer Wendy Shattil goes beyond capturing glorious images to explore the deeper role of storytelling in conservation photography. Her work reveals how compelling visual narratives not only celebrate the beauty of wildlife and wild places, but also drive conservation efforts, preserve history or illuminate science.
Grand Prize as the first woman was a groundbreaking accomplishment. Additionally, receiving NANPA's Lifetime Achievement Award reflects her significant contributions to the field of nature photography. Wendy’s partnership with the late Bob Rozinski was a powerful collaboration, resulting in an impressive collection of over 300,000 stock images and fifteen books—a remarkable legacy in wildlife photography.
The speaker series is a free event sponsored by the Estes Valley Photo Club.
You do not have to be a member of the Estes Valley Photo Club to attend. The public is welcome.
Wendy Shattil stands out as a fulltime professional wildlife and conservation photographer, a rare and remarkable career path. Winning the Wildlife Photographer of the Year
Please forward any questions to Deena Sveinsson at deena@deenasveinssonphotography.com. Join us to discover how photography can be a powerful voice for nature.
Wendy Shattil
Estes Park Museum Program: History Of The Rooftop Rodeo
On Saturday, July 12th at 1:00 p.m., join the Estes Park Museum and Dr. Howell F. Wright, Col. USMC (Ret.) as he presents the history of the Rooftop Rodeo. Dr. Wright is nearing the completion of his upcoming book with a tentative title, The History of the Rooftop Rodeo. This program is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided.
in Vietnam as an officer in the Marines. Reassigned to Camp Pendleton, California, he joined the Camp Pendleton rodeo team and picked up his interest in fighting bulls and entertaining audiences as a rodeo clown.
Dr. Wright has a long history with rodeo starting back when he was a senior in high school and wanted to author a book on American rodeo. He started riding bareback broncs and Brahman bulls to get material for his book. He did rodeo for the next five years while attending the University of Arkansas. After realizing he had no talent for bull riding, he became a bull fighter and rodeo clown. After graduation he did two tours
For the next 40 years, the Marine Corps and other life pursuits took him in directions other than rodeo. However, he returned to rodeo in 2005 when he joined the Estes Park Rooftop Rodeo Committee.
Two years later he was honored to become the president of the committee. Howell lives in Estes Park with his wife J’Ann Wright, Ed. D., and their two-year-old standard Schnauzer, Gillie.
For any questions regarding the event, please call or email Curator of Interpretation Mikaela Fundaun at 970-577-3762 or mfundaun@estes.org.
Dr. Howell F. Wright
249 West Elkhorn Ave. • Near the Water Wheel
Estes Park Health Announces New Community Resource Line
Hospital adds new video about the experience and care during end of life to website
Estes Park Health announced today the launch of the Estes Valley Resource Line, a free, non-urgent phone line that can help with vital information and assistance for resources available in Estes Valley and Larimer County.
In the wake of limiting home health care and hospice services, Estes Park Health recognizes the need for information and connections for families, loved ones, and friends helping others during difficult times. This non-urgent, confidential number is a direct connection to the social work and case management teams at Estes Park Health. They will reach out with the information people need to provide resources like caregiver support, information about aging, guidance for end-of-life care as well as resources for housing, food, and transportation.
Although this number will not serve as a crisis hotline or a method of reaching a physician, it will fill the void of obtaining information about where to go for help and assistance when loved ones are facing their
end of life or a change in their lifestyle due to medical needs.
The number will be checked Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Callers can leave a voicemail, and an Estes Park Health social worker will return the call within 48 business hours.
To leave a voicemail, call 970-235-3088.
In addition to adding the new community resource line, Estes Park Health has also added to their website an informative and insightful video about the end-of-life process.
“Facing Your Fears: Straight Talk About the Dying Process” is a 48-minute program delivered by Tani Bahti, RN, CT, CHPN, that covers a wide range of topics related to this difficult and emotional stage of life, such as encouraging people to hold their loved ones in the final hours of life – and the benefits it provides, what changes are happening during the active dying stage, and information to help understand what your loved one is feeling during the process of leaving this world.
This free video is available at eph.org/our-services/social-services
Nebraska Picnic This Sunday
“Nebraska, it’s not for everyone!” But if you have ties to Nebraska, past or current, resident or non, this event may be for you!
Join us for the 6th annual Nebraska Picnic in Estes Park. We are serving the famous Big Red hot dogs, and Kool Aid (invented in Hastings, NE, you know!) and providing plates, napkins, cups, utensils and condiments.
Door prizes will be given away as well. We ask that you bring a potluck item, either savory or sweet, to share (you’re from Nebraska so you know what this means). We will have seating both inside and outside so bring a lawn chair if you wish to sit outside. And a jacket, because
it’s Colorado! You may also bring your own non-alcoholic beverage.
Date: Sunday, July 13
Time: 4 p.m. registration, food starts at 4:30 p.m.
Location: Presbyterian Community Church Fellowship Hall, 1700 Brodie Ave. (across from the high school football field) parking in church lot.
RSVP: Estesfornebraska@gmail.com
There is no charge for this event and donation jars will be available for any contributions to help defray the costs. We hope you’ll plan to be there, wearing Nebraska gear and ready to sing the Husker fight song!!
The new non-urgent resource line from Estes Park Health offers a connection to the social work and case management teams at the hospital. Photo credit: Nani Chavez/Unsplash
Community Appreciation Lunch
Presented By American Legion Auxiliary 119
Unit 119 of the American Legion Auxiliary would like to show its appreciation to the Estes Valley community for its ongoing support with an afternoon of free food, fun, and games from noon to 3 p.m. on Sunday, July 13th
All the festivities will take place on the American Legion grounds located at 850 N. Saint Vrain Ave.
The lunch fare will include hot dogs, hamburgers, and condiments. Adding to the fun will be flowerpot painting followed by planting flowers in the finished works of art. For the competitive, there will be a myriad of activities to try your hand at including cornhole, board games, Jenga, and more.
While participating in the appreciation, guests can also take the opportunity to check out the newly renovated facilities at the Legion. The Auxiliary’s members hope to see you there!
Annual Weed Roundup Next Saturday, July 19th
Noxious weeds are once again having a banner year, so keep removing and bagging these invaders. Removing and bagging flowers and seed heads will help curtail your weed population next year. Time and persistence will give native plants a better chance! The 17th Annual Weed Roundup will be held July 19th from 9:00 to noon at 380 Community Drive (north of the Skate Park). No early birds or illegal drop-offs; follow the signs. Do not block traffic on Community Drive. Estes Land Stewardship Association (ELSA) volunteers will be on hand to answer weed questions and direct traffic flow. Educational displays and information will be available from Estes Land Stewardship Association (ELSA), Larimer County Natural Resources, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Bring in your weeds – no slash, pine needles, cones, dirt, trash – in paper yard bags for free disposal. Please remove/shake off dirt from plant roots. Excessive weight of wet weeds and dirt is a safety hazard for our volunteers. Only bag flowers and seed heads rather than entire plants. Read our weekly Estes Valley’s Weed Alert articles (published April through September in the EP News) to help identify invasive plants and manage seed producing plant parts for disposal. Weeds and trash can be disposed of year-around at Waste Management for a fee. Bags of non-weed materials or native plants will not be accepted at this event. Paper yard bags are available for purchase at local hardware stores.
If you want ELSA to continue to sponsor these events, please adhere to the guidelines. Owning property in the Estes Valley can be challenging and different! Bagging mature weeds this time of year is not ideal weed management and not how you want to spend your time. Be proactive – learn your native plants and manage the invasive plants in a timely manner with a weed management specialist if you don’t have the time, energy or expertise to manage your property. A list of weed management specialists who can help is available at: larimer.org/naturalresources/weeds/applicators Also refer to the information and Helpful Documents at estes.org/weeds
Other Monitored Weed Drop-offs are scheduled for August 16th and September 20th. These events are being made possible with the support from Estes Land Stewardship Association, the Town of Estes Park, Larimer County Natural Resources, Estes Valley Land Trust, and donations. Twenty Ob-Noxious Weeds in the Estes Valley weed booklets are available year around at the Estes Valley Library, Ace Hardware, and www.estes.org/weeds. Estes Land Stewardship Association (ELSA) meets the first Thursday of the month (February, March, April & November) at 9:30 a.m. in the George Hix Room at US Bank. The next meeting is November 6th. For more information about ELSA contact elsa.weeds@gmail.com
July Meeting of Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
The next meeting of the Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will be held Tuesday, July 15th in the Hondius Room at the Estes Valley Library from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m..
Monthly meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month. All affected by this progressive neurological disease are welcome to attend to bring their own experiences, strength and hope and come together for the good of the group.
Join us for a special afternoon as we come together to recognize and support our community’s first responders and veterans. We invite everyone — families, neighbors, and friends — to share in this time of gratitude and fellowship.
When: Saturday, July 12th, 2025 at 12:00 p.m.
Where: Cornerstone Church Fellowship Hall
Address: 2200 Mall Road, Estes Park, CO
Cornerstone Church is pleased and honored to host this event. As a church family, we hold the deepest respect for those who willingly serve, putting the safety and well-being of others ahead of their own. This lunch is just a small way to say thank you for the sacrifices and dedication shown by our veterans
and first responders every day.
We’re also honored to welcome Army MP Veteran and Boulder County Sheriff Deputy Kirk Watson as our special guest speaker. Deputy Watson will share from his years of experience and service, reminding us of the courage and commitment these men and women bring to our communities. This will be a fun and meaningful lunch filled with community spirit and heartfelt thanks. Brats and burgers will be served hot off the grill — come hungry and ready to connect!
Questions? Contact JR Tapia at Sfcftapia@outlook.com or by phone at 970-420-2677.
Let’s come together to show our gratitude and support for the heroes among us. We look forward to seeing you there!
The Unique Rocky Mountain Arsenal
By: Brad Manard
I’m working on a photo project of Colorado animals. It requires images of whitetail deer. I have whitetail deer pictures from Iowa and Nebraska, probably some other states too, and a whole bunch of beautiful mule deer from Colorado and RMNP. But I had to go in search of Colorado whitetail deer.
On a Monday morning, I drove down the canyon to Lyons, catching the Denver traffic just past Boulder. After ago-
images I sought.
The deer cooperated, even from the middle of a field, Their heads up while standing among the wildflowers, their antlers were covered in velvet, half grown, and their coats had a beautiful reddish glow. My camera was in action, and I was excited to capture images of the handsome bucks knowing I could check them off my list. Just as the sun peaked over Denver International Airport, my whitetail deer mission was already accomplished.
nizing stop-and-go traffic, even at 5:30 a.m., I made it to the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. Just northeast of downtown, for free you can drive the 11-mile wildlife loop seeing the native animals that call the refuge home.
Excited about the images, I headed onto the wildlife loop drive, passing Lower Derby Lake where I had captured bald eagle images this past winter. Just beyond it swallows darted about in a random, scattered pattern when suddenly a black-crowned night heron flew from under a bridge. My camera was set for “bird speed,” and I captured a few shots as the heron floated into a tree, disappearing among the green leaves.
calves sleeping by their mothers. Nicknamed for their reddish-brown coat, in another two months they would grow and transition into the dark, adult brown coat. Watching the herd, older and more dominant bulls wandered solitarily in the distance, a natural consequence of their social structure and competitive nature.
As I photographed the bison, I heard the song of birds, dickcissels and meadow-
stranger taking pictures from his car.
Along a fence, a mule deer doe grazed, and a newborn fawn was sleeping peacefully in the grass. I watched her, waiting for the fawn to wake, but she was deep in sleep, protected by her mother.
With that last moment of wildlife serenity, I found my own peace. I lifted my camera to my eye, scrolling through the images I’d captured. A variety of mammals and birds ran across the screen, and I was happy with the many unique images. I was most happy with the whitetail deer bucks.
Beautiful animals with summer coats and velvet antlers, I now had captured an image of a Colorado whitetail deer. My project was moving forward.
Around the next bend was my first spotting of black-tailed prairie dogs. As I put the window down, my camera extended out, the repetitious prairie dog barks started. They warned of a stranger with a camera. Gathering around their dens, the basic family unit or coterie included an adult female and her young offspring. Cute little varmints, the mothers would sit up all “adorable-like” and watch me while their young ones peeked from their den opening.
larks. Dickcissels are a grassland bird with a distinctive song. Its yellow breast with a black "V" on the throat adds to its beauty. Similarly, the western meadowlarks with their bright yellow breasts made them distinctive in the grasslands. In the spring, they perched singing on soapweed yuccas, invasive mulleins, or fence posts. I was having photography fun, capturing them singing and taking flight.
Turning south near mile marker eight, the prairie dogs were up-close and personal. Even from my car, I was able to capture images of the young dogs running, playing, and tackling each other as they rolled among the buffalo grass. Adults sat up eating sprigs while watching the
The sun was barely up, when my first animal sighting was a small group of deer. I examined the tail with a white underside raised like an alarm and antlers growing from a single main beam. Yahoo! I celebrated. Six whitetail bucks. I angled my SUV to the side of the road, sun behind me, and began capturing the www.rmnphotographer.com
In the distance, a lone bison stood among acres of green and yellow grassland brightened by the golden hour sun. With waves of a blue sky and colorful grassland, the deep brown animal symbolized strength, resilience, and abundance from a time long past in the old west. I kept spotting prairie dogs, most too far away to capture the image I hoped for, when I saw a bird hovering. Wings flapping but staying in one place in the sky, I watched as the burrowing owl, on the hunt, looked down upon the young prairie dogs. As its wings flapped and the owl held steady in the sky, my camera was in action. Then the owl swooped down, flying low at the level of the prairie sunflowers, and the warning barks of the prairie dogs yelped loud. With the alert signal, the mammals dove for cover into their underground dens. Further down the loop, a herd of a hundred or so bison were scattering in rest on the meadow. Among the dark adults were the red dogs, month old
Brad Manard
Bright Christmas School Supply Distribution Day
With the support and love of our community, Bright Christmas has been helping families in Estes Park since 1984. In addition to providing Holiday support, to help ease the burden for families in need, Bright Christmas also sponsors an annual School-Supply Distribution for students of all grade levels. This year, there are some new and exciting changes! Eligible families are invited to pick up free school supplies on July 30, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at the Middle School Commons.
The Bright Christmas Board is requesting donations from the community to help with the purchase of supplies. Please consider making a tax-exempt donation of any amount, and help ensure that every Estes Park child starts school with the supplies they need for success in the classroom!
Donations may be mailed to: Bright Christmas, PO Box 2981, Estes Park, CO 80517
Families who participated in Bright Christmas 2024, are invited to attend the July 30 Distribution. No registration is required. New families who have a need and wish to participate may email: brightchristmas.ep@gmail.com
The Bright Christmas Board appreciates our community’s support and the phenomenal families we serve!
Día de distribución de útiles escolares de Navidad brillante
Con el apoyo y el cariño de nuestra comunidad, Bright Christmas ha estado ayudando a las familias de Estes Park desde 1984. Además de brindar apoyo
durante las fiestas, para aliviar la carga de las familias necesitadas, Bright Christmas también patrocina una distribución anual de útiles escolares para estudiantes de todos los niveles escolares.
¡Este año hay algunos cambios nuevos y emocionantes!
Las familias elegibles están invitadas a recoger útiles escolares gratuitos el 30 de julio, de 10:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m., en el área común de la Escuela Intermedia (Middle School Commons).
La Junta de Bright Christmas está solicitando donaciones de la comunidad para ayudar con la compra de útiles. Por favor, considere hacer una donación deducible de impuestos, de cualquier monto, y ayude a garantizar que cada niño de Estes Park comience el año escolar con los materiales necesarios para tener éxito en el aula.
Para donar, los cheques pueden enviarse por correo a: Bright Christmas, PO Box 2981, Estes Park, CO 80517
Las familias que participaron en Bright Christmas 2024 están invitadas a asistir a la distribución del 30 de julio. No se requiere registro.
Las nuevas familias que tengan necesidad y deseen participar pueden enviar un correo electrónico a: brightchristmas.ep@gmail.com
¡La Junta de Bright Christmas agradece el apoyo de nuestra comunidad y a las familias extraordinarias a las que servimos!
Tickets On Sale For The 10th Annual Estes Park Wine Festival Sat.-Sun. August 9th-10th
It’s almost time to sip great wines, enjoy live music, savor delicious food, and soak in the festive vibe—all in one unforgettable experience at the 10th Annual Estes Park Wine Festival. The fun will take place Saturday and Sunday, August 9th and 10th, in beautiful Bond Park in downtown Estes Park. The festival will be open from 11:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Saturday and 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. on Sunday. The Estes Park Wine Festival is a 21 and over event. Ticket includes a wine glass, wine tote and unlimited tastings, along with live music, retail vendors, artisans and food vendors. Non-drinker and designated driver tickets are available at the gate for $10.00. There is no re-entry, feel free to bring your own snacks, chairs, wagons and blankets. There will also be a wine-check so you don't have to carry around your purchased wine! VIP Tickets also include VIP Tent, wine bar and catered food from Claire's Restaurant. Tickets are on sale at estesparkwinefestival.com.
Don’t miss your chance to attend this popular event. Tickets will sell out, so get yours soon!
Morgan Starner
Wendy Woo ICONIX
Billy Bower
Nick Critchlow
Rusty 44
9th Annual Estes Park Artist Studio Tour Returns August 2–3
Step Into the Studios.
Watch Art Come to Life!
The 9th Annual Estes Park Artist Studio Tour is back and better than ever, inviting art lovers, curious minds, and local explorers to go behind the scenes with some of Estes Park’s most talented artists. On Saturday and Sunday, August 2–3, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., ten local studios will open their doors to the public for a free, self-guided tour filled with creativity, conversation, and inspiration.
This year’s tour features ten professional local artists along with three guest artists, working in a variety of disciplines including woodturning, sculpture, ceramics, oil painting, mixed media, and more. Visitors can observe demonstrations, ask questions, and experience firsthand the tools, techniques, and processes that bring original works of art to life.
“We open our doors not just to sell our work, but to share our process, our space, and our passion,” said artist Vic-
cial about seeing where the creative process happens.”
What to Expect:
• Diverse Art Forms: From handcrafted wooden bowls to expressive oils on canvas, the Tour offers something
for every art enthusiast, collector, or curious passerby.
• Affordably Priced Art: Handmade pieces start at just $10, making it easy to take home a piece of the experience.
• Authentic Studio Access: Get a rare peek into real working studios—some just off the highway, others tucked up a scenic dirt road.
How to “Do the Tour”:
• Pick up a paper map at Bear & Bee Makers’ Studio & Boutique, located in the Stanley Village Shopping Center.
• Or visit www.EPStudioTour.com to access an interactive map, studio descriptions, and artist bios.
• Choose your route and pace—visit one studio or all ten. Bring a friend, your questions, and a sense of adventure.
Now in its ninth year, the Estes Park Artist Studio Tour was created by local artists as a way to connect more deeply with the community. It’s about sharing the heart of the creative process, building bridges between artists and art lovers, and offering a space where curiosity and creativity meet.
“The Tour brings us all together—it sparks discussion, collaboration, and a deeper appreciation for the arts in our mountain town.”
Don’t miss this once-a-year opportunity to meet the artists, explore their spaces, and find the perfect piece of local art. For more information, artist details, and the interactive map, visit www.EPStudioTour.com or follow along on Social Media @epstudiotour.
Reliance Fire Company Museum
Open House This Sunday, July 13
The Reliance Fire Company Museum is pleased to announce our Annual Open House.
Date: this Sunday, July 13
Time: Noon to 3:00 p.m.
Place: 460 Elm Road, Estes Park, CO 80517
Cost: free
Please join us to see notable pieces of antique fire apparatus in the museum
collection, ranging from a 1901 HorseDrawn Waterous Steam-Powered Pumper, to a 1958 Pirsch Tillered Aerial Ladder Truck from Beverly Hills, CA. Multiple trucks manufactured by Ahrens-Fox and American LaFrance are also on display.
Doug Klink, Museum Director and noted fire truck restorer, will be on hand to give tours and answer questions.
Now Announcing: Winners Of The Crowns For The Care Campaign
The tiaras have been placed, and the numbers are in!
Thanks to the incredible generosity of you, the people of the Estes Valley, this year’s Crowns for the Care campaign raised an amazing $133,497.36, a new Crowns for the Care record, to help fund cancer screenings for under- and uninsured residents of the Estes Valley. The women competing for the title of Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo weren’t just in it for the crown, they were fighting for early detection, access to care, and the health of our neighbors. And wow, did they deliver!
From bake sales and bowling nights to lemonade stands and bunco and live concerts, the fundraising creativity was as dazzling as the sequins on a rodeo sash. The theme, "We Choose Detection in 2025," was carried through every fundraiser, every dollar given, and every conversation sparked about the importance of catching cancer early.
Congratulations to our candidates Pam Dickinson, Niki Gassmann, Kayla Lynott, Jennifer Beck, Jenn Hardin, Alaina Smith, Pam Leitner, Kelly Kessler, and Iryna Irkliienko!
This year’s crowned champion, Pam Leitner, brought in an outstanding $23,030.11! Close on her heels were Alaina Smith with $22,859.00, and Niki
Gassmann with $22,686.20. What a close campaign! All
for the Care fundraising.
Estes Park businesses certainly showed up in style for the annual Paint Estes Pink decorating contest! A huge thank you to all who participated in painting the town pink
ribbons, lights, and signs.
This year’s winners are:
Park
Small Business Winner: Stuffed
Most Creative: Inspired Artisan Market Theme: Colorado Homestead
Impact: Cabin Fever
Overall Winner: Stuffed
Over the years, Crowns for the Care has helped purchase vital equipment like 3D mammography and needle-guided ultrasound. This year marked a shift in focus: instead of buying machines, the candidates raised money to eliminate financial barriers to screening.
Whether you donated, decorated, dressed in pink, or cheered on your favorite candidate, thank you for standing with Estes Park Health Foundation in the fight for early detection and equitable access to care.
The Estes Park Health Foundation thanks every donor, volunteer, and supporter who made this campaign a record-breaking success. Because of you, more people in our community will have access to the life-saving power of early diagnosis.
The Estes Park Health Foundation increases community awareness of Estes Park Health, and develops, manages, and distributes funds to assist EPH in fulfilling its mission. To learn more about their initiatives, volunteer or give, please contact them at GiveToEPH.org/donate, or by calling 970-577-4370.
three ladies broke the previous record for individual Crowns
with
Large Business Winner: Bank of Estes
Visual
All photos by Kris Hazelton/EP NEWS
Cheryl and Doug Klink
Pam Leitner
SUMMER HOURS
Mondays - Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Fridays & Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.
Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to secure your spot.
BOOKS & AUTHORS
Discerning the Truth with Marie Lu (9th-12th Grade)
Thursday, July 17, 2 - 3 p.m., online
Explore the work of Legend with the author as she encourages readers to look beyond the surface & reveal hidden secrets. Presented with the Library
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
Speakers Consortium.
Illuminating Hope & Grace in the Face of Hardship with Rex Ogle (5th - 8th Grade)
Wednesday, July 23, 2 - 3 p.m., online
Award-winning author Rex Ogle will talk to viewers about his struggles navigating sixth grade as written about in his book Free Lunch. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
ALL AGES
Book vs. Movie Club: The Wild Robot
Saturday, July 12, 10 - 11:45 a.m., Historic Park Theatre
We’ll discuss the book, then watch the movie adaptation. Concessions will be available for purchase. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
Create a Wizarding Alley Book
Nook: A Six-Week Makerspace Series
Thursday, July 17 & 24, 5 - 7 p.m., Makerspace; Sessions 4 & 5 of 6
Step into a world of magic during this six-week program in which participants will use a laser cutter to create a miniature diorama. Recommended for adults & teens.
Game Night
Saturday, July 19, 2 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room
Play board games including classics like Clue & Candyland, or new games like Blank Slate & Bologna. All ages welcome –bring your family, friends, & neighbors. Refreshments provided.
Fabric Batik
Monday, July 21, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m., & Tuesday, July 22, 5:306:30 p.m., Makerspace
Explore the art of batik & learn about the beauty & cultural heritage of this fabric dyeing technique – from pattern creation to the resist-dyeing process – in this two-day workshop. Recommended for adults, teens, & tweens. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
Book vs. Movie Club: Pride & Prejudice
Saturday, July 26, 10 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., Historic Park Theatre
We’ll discuss the book, then watch the movie adaptation. Concessions will be available for purchase. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
Lego Club: Lego Rainbow
Saturday, July 26, 3 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room
Explore different building & engineering challenges with Legos. This month, create a rainbow. It’s more challenging than you think! A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
ADULTS
Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County
Build digital skills like using your smartphone, accessing websites & accounts online, improving online communications, & more. Appointments required.
Travel Planning Online: A Tech Workshop
Monday, July 14, 1 - 2 p.m., Makerspace
Repeated Thursday, July 17, 10 - 11 a.m., Makerspace
Join us to explore popular travel planning tools & websites. Learn to search for flights, compare hotel rooms, read reviews, & find activities while building basic computer skills.
Tech Cafe: Tech Help with Makerspace Guides
Monday, July 14, 4 - 7:30 p.m., Makerspace
Bring your device & questions to get tech help during a 15 minute, one-onone session. No appointment required.
The Artist’s Way: A 12-Week Journey to a More Creative Life
Wednesday, July 16 & 23, 5:15 - 6:15 p.m., Quiet Room; Sessions 6 & 7 of 12
This 12-week workshop, facilitated by local mindset & movement coach Chazz Glaze, will help you discover (or recover) your creative self by using The Artist’s Way, the classic tool for anyone interested in living more creatively.
TEENS & KIDS
Mario Day!
Saturday, July 12, 3 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Let’s celebrate the iconic Super Mario World by racing cardboard go-karts, wearing mustaches, making themed crafts & more!
Paper Book Covers
Tuesday, July 22, 1- 2 p.m., Makerspace
Personalize & protect your favorite books using paper, glue & your creativity to design colorful book covers. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club
Wednesday, July 23, 2 - 5 p.m., Hon-
dius Room
Interested in learning how to play Dungeons & Dragons? Want to think strategically & make new friends? Join other teens for this classic fantasyworld game.
Skittle Art
Thursday, July 24, 2:30 - 3 p.m., Hondius Room
Make edible art with Skittles that is colorful & delicious. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
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: Thurs., July 24 at 11 a.m.
Summer Foam Party
Tuesday, July 15, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m., Stanley Park Playground
Experience outdoor, bubbly fun with family-friendly music & Entertainer Ann Lincoln. Dress to get wet & don’t forget the sunscreen!
Outdoor Storytime Adventure at the Knoll-Willows
Wednesday, July 16, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Knoll-Willows
Take a trek with us as we learn to follow a map to check points. Recommended for ages 5 & younger with their caregivers. Older siblings are welcome.
Outdoor Storytime Adventure at MacGregor Ranch Museum
Wednesday, July 23, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., MacGregor Ranch
Let’s get outside & learn about bees! We’ll meet at the museum for books, songs, rhymes, & a learning activity. Recommended for ages 5 & younger with their caregivers. Older siblings are welcome. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event. Storybook Explorers
Friday, July 25, 11:15 - 11:45 a.m., Hondius Room
We'll read Happy in Our Skin & engage in early learning activities inspired by the story, including dressing paperdolls of all skin shades.
MAKERSPACE CLASSES
Introduction to Sublimation
Tuesday, July 15, 10 - 11:30 a.m. or 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Learn the basics of sublimation printing using our heat press & mug press to create personalized items. For ages 13 & up (participants under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult).
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION
Cliffhanger Used Books
Cliffhanger Used Books, located next to the Post Office, is operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, & music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
An Evening of One Acts With The Fine Arts
Guild Of The Rockies
The Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies will present An Evening of One Acts on July 18, 19, and 20. The first of the two plays, “You, the Jury” by Anne Coulter Martens, has unusual audience appeal in that members of the audience are summoned as jurors and their verdict actually does determine the outcome of the trial.
The second, The Zoo Story by Ed-
ward Albee is a conversation between two men who meet on a park bench. Performances will be at the Estes Park High School Auditorium, 7:00 p.m. on July 18 & 19, 2:00 p.m. on July 20. Tickets are available at Macdonald Book Shop, online at fineartsguild.org, and at the door. Adults are $20, Seniors are $18, kids ages 6-18 years old are $12. Please note: the Zoo Story has adult content.
Defunkl- ‘Soul Jazz’, Latin, Funk Group At Performance Park
Defunkl, a five piece ‘Soul Jazz’, Latin, Funk group that plays once a month every month at Avogadro’s Number in Fort Collins will be on hand at Performance Park, July 12, for a free concert guaranteed to get your toes tapping and maybe even temp you to get on your feet to execute a few dance steps.
Defunkl is a contemporary ensemble of seasoned professional musicians from along the Front Range and Northern Colorado. The group has evolved over several years to currently include Doug Carmichael on saxophones/woodwinds, Daniel Kapit on keyboards/piano, Dave Nielsen on
electric and upright bass, Matthew Floyd on saxophones/woodwinds, and Oscar DeZoto on drums/percussion. Every member of the group is actively involved in solo and group recording sessions, along with a busy performance schedule in other working bands. They came together to form this ensemble to both challenge the players and entertain each and every audience playing the music they truly enjoy.
Brought to you by the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies, the music starts at 7:00 p.m. Bring a chair, blanket, maybe a picnic, and your friends, and enjoy an evening of fun music at the “Red Rocks of Northern Colorado.”
Sponsorships Now Open For National Philanthropy Day In Estes Park
By: Karen McPherson Jackson, Estes Nonprofit Network
Imagine yourself in a room of 300 dogooders gathered to celebrate volunteerism, those who have set an example of enduring service, businesses that give back, and nonprofits hard at work. Imagine the youth that are witnessing the coming together of a town that values and celebrates taking care of each other. Phenomenal, really.
Now, imagine that you, your organization, your family, or your business contribute to this celebration of philanthropy. Wouldn’t you be proud to see your name on the screen!? This is a message to your community that you stand with the tireless good work that makes Estes so special.
Now is your chance to be part of this celebration. Sponsorships are officially open, including a brand-new $100 Community Giving level. Community Giver Karen Wirrig, who is herself a volunteer and regularly attends National Philanthropy Day is “happy to support such an important community event.”
The YMCA of the Rockies once again generously partners with The Estes Nonprofit Network to host this celebration of those who give their time, talent, or treasure. However, this event
could not happen without additional support from the community. Sponsorships start at $100 and go up to a new $2500 Award Sponsor level. These sponsors will present an award at the event to the category of their choosing (first come, first served–only two slots left as of press time).
There is no “ask” at National Philanthropy Day in Estes Park. Everyone is welcome at this FREE event to celebrate generosity, care, and connection. Volunteer hours for local nonprofits in this town are valued at $8.2M, so that sheds some light on the depth of our collective giving. One attendee remarks, “Especially in this political climate, it feels good to know how many people volunteer and care.”
One volunteer and donor in town just called in to support this event in honor of her favorite nonprofit. She wants them to be seen in this room, to be associated with our town’s philanthropic powerhouse. What a wonderful way to support your favorite organization!
The deadline to sponsor National Philanthropy Day is July 21. Now is the time to say YES! to this celebration. Secure your sponsorship at bit.ly/npd-sponsor and we will see you at the event!
When Lloyd Douglas, author of The Robe, attended college, he lived in a boarding house. A retired, wheelchair-bound music professor lived on the first floor. Each morning Douglas would stick his head in the door of the teacher’s apartment and ask the same question, “Well, Sir, what’s the good news?” The old man would pick up his tuning fork, tap it on the side of his wheelchair, and say: “That’s ‘middle C’; It was ‘middle C’ yesterday; It will be ‘middle C’ tomorrow; it will be ‘middle C’ a thousand years from now. The tenor upstairs sings flat. The piano across the hall is out of tune, but, that, my friend, is ‘middle C’!”
We all need ‘Middle C’! Relationships change. Health changes. Circumstances change. But, our ‘middle C’ does not change. For all of us two things do not change. God does not change. “With Whom there is no variableness, neither shadow cast by turning.” (Jas. 1:17) And, Jesus does not change. “He is the same today, yesterday, and forever.” (Heb. 13:8)
That confidence in our ‘Middle C’ is hard when looking at our world situation. I know a man who works for a federal agency coping with sexual abuse of children. He told me: “I have a hard time believing in God sometimes. Why would He let things like this happen to children?” Today, as we look at bombed-out places in war-torn areas of the world or lines of famished and starving people in Gaza, we could struggle with a tendency to share similar doubts. It is also difficult when dealing with our own challenging situations. When major things happen, we might wonder, ‘Where’s our Middle C’? A young couple I know went through some tough times. He lost his job at a large company he had served for many years. Shortly thereafter a large growth was found in the abdomen of his 7-year-old son…a tumor the size of a grapefruit. A young couple, hammered so in such a short time, how would they handle it? Honoring his ‘Middle C’, the father said: “It was a good thing I lost my job so I could be with my son in the hospital when he was operated on!” Still the job didn’t come….month after month. Finances ran low. His response, when I asked him how he was doing, “God must have something better for me down the road.” And He did. His ‘Middle C’ was faithful, as always. Rob has an even better job now and Michael has done exceedingly well several years later. But, it doesn’t take major things to remind us to remember our ‘Middle C’, does it? I needed it yesterday when my car stalled in Lyons, then started, then stalled, then started smoking. How easy it is for me…a forever mechanically-challenged man…to lose it, concerned about the welfare of my wife, ‘how will we get home?’ etc. As I stewed about “How am I going to ‘fix’ this and get us home, my Father, my ‘Middle C’, was taking care of things. How about that? My stalling car came to rest 20 yards from an automotive repair shop that has well served friends of mine, the kind shop owner provided a loaner car so I can get my wife safely home, and my car will get the kind of care that it needs for the long run. The loving…but chiding… words of Jesus to His disciples came to mind: “Where is your faith? Why did you doubt?”
Author George MacDonald described the challenge faced by each of us when we are tempted to make decisions based on our own judgments, rather than looking to our ‘Middle C’ for leadership, guidance, and a confident acceptance of the future. “I said, ‘Let me walk in the fields.’ He said: ‘No, walk in the town.’ “I said, ‘There are no flowers there.’ He said, ‘No flowers, but a crown.’ I said: ‘But the skies are black, there’s nothing but noise and din.’ But He wept as he sent me back: “There’s more’, He said, “’There is sin.’ I said: ‘But the air is thick, and fogs are veiling the sun.’ He answered: ‘Yet souls are sick, and souls in the dark undone.’ I said: ‘I shall miss the light, and friends will miss me, they say.’ He said: ‘Choose tonight if I am to miss you, or they.’ I pleaded for time to be given.’ He said: ‘My child, Is it hard to decide? It will not seem so hard in heaven, to have followed the steps of your Guide.’ I cast one look at the fields, then set my face to the town. He said: “My child, do you yield? Will you leave the flowers for a crown?’ Then into His hand went mine; and into my heart came He; and I walk in a light divine, the path I had feared to see.’” May we ‘trust and obey’ and, thus, live life victoriously. Bob Lewis
You’re Invited To Celebrate Dick Barlow’s 90th Birthday
On July 9th, 1935, a special man was born. This year we celebrate Richard (Dick) Barlow’s 90th birthday. His quiet strength, kindness, wisdom, and love have touched his family’s lives, but also many in Estes Park.
He married the love of his life, Ann Paglia Barlow, on February 11th, 1954. Drafted on January 20th, 1958, he served at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. Eventually, he bought Tony’s Restaurant in Salina, KS where he raised his three children Steve Barlow, Mondy Hegwood, and Richard Barlow, alongside his wife. Taking his lifelong knowledge of the restaurant business, he created Tony’s frozen pizza still found in grocery stores today. He sold the business to Schwann’s in 1970. He turned his entrepreneurial spirit towards co-founding Rema Bakeware in 1983, manufacturing and selling Cushionair, Airbake, Crispi Crust, and Perfect Crust bakeware. He was honored as the Kansas Small Business Person of the Year in 1988. Later he was first runner-up to the U.S. Small Business Person of the Year and met President Bush at the White House.
tional recipes passed down from Italy), Poppy’s, Annie’s Gourmet kitchen shop, Bobo’s ice cream, and Rags to Riches clothing store.
Later, he turned Mama Rose’s and Poppy’s over to his sons. Both businesses are currently owned by Rob and Julie Pieper. After completing this new adventure, he turned his abilities to constructing Grey Fox subdivision off of Hwy. 34. They sold these properties and moved to Loveland after Ann battled some health issues. She went to be with her Lord and Savior in December 2018.
But his greatest accomplishments were and are his service to the Estes Park community and missionaries worldwide. He has blessed many of you and you won’t know it. He gives all the glory to God, who has taught him to be loving and kind. Now living in Loveland, CO, you will still find him on Mondays and Fridays delivering Bibles to local Estes shops.
After “retiring” from those businesses, Dick and Ann were encouraged by Tony Paglia, who opened Bob and Tony’s on Main Street, to come to Estes Park, a place of potential. Here they invested in building Barlow Plaza which opened in 1989 (now Benbrook Plaza), which included Mama Rose’s (named after Ann’s mother using her tradi-
We, his family, three children, seven grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren, are blessed to have him as an example of a well-lived life. He loves us unconditionally, gives us guidance, and encourages us to become the best we can be. Together we will celebrate his 90th birthday with an open house on Saturday, July 13th, 2025. If you would like to send a birthday card, please mail it to 1328 Crabapple Dr., Loveland, CO 80538.
EPUMC Hosts “Graceful Aging” Class Aug. 6th
In the last decade many writers and speakers have promoted the adoption of more positive views of aging. But how do we as individuals begin to reimagine aging for ourselves? This class will focus on these positive perspectives, ways we can change our perceptions and ideas for discovering our passions and finding meaning, purpose, and enjoyment in our later years.
The class is put on by UCHealth Aspen Club Senior Services. The “Graceful Aging” program takes place on Wednesday, Aug. 6, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Estes Park United Methodist Church located at 1509 Fish Hatchery Road in Estes Park. Registration is required. Call the Aspen Club at (970) 496-8565. All are welcome!
Guitarist And Instrumental Composer Richard Geppinger In Concert Tuesday, July 15
The Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC) is thrilled to welcome back one of our community’s most gifted musicians, Richard Geppinger! Join us for a special live performance on Tuesday, July 15 at 12:00 p.m. at 1760 Olympian Lane. Admission is free, and light refreshments will be available. All are welcome—don’t miss this wonderful afternoon of music and community!
Discover the musical magic of Richard Geppinger, an accomplished composer and performer with an eclectic discography spanning four CDs and one DVD. From enchanting Celtic tunes to captivating classical pieces and dynamic progressive rock, Richard's music promises to enthrall. Richard has been performing professionally since 1997 and plays all the instruments on his recordings, with electric guitar being his focus. His music has been featured in TV commercials and across numerous websites. Richard was celebrated as CD Baby's Featured Artist of the Month. Derek Sivers, president of CD Baby & Hostbaby, raves, "We get about 100 new albums a DAY coming in here now, and Rich-
is one of the best I've ever heard." Don't miss this opportunity to experience the mesmerizing soundscapes of Richard Geppinger live!
Richard will soon be performing his 34th concert at Children’s Hospital in Denver, which is his passion. You can find Richard online at www.facebook.com/richard.geppinger, and if you are interested in having Richard perform for your public or private events, you can contact him at geppinger95@gmail.com.
Attendees are welcome to enjoy lunch during the concert—feel free to bring your own meal or pre-purchase one through the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center. Tuesday’s meal will include ham, sweet potatoes, and vegetables. The cost is $9 for EPSCC members and $12 for non-members. Meals must be ordered by 1:00 p.m. on Monday, July 14. Not a member yet? You can join for just $35 per year and enjoy lunch discounts along with access to a variety of great programs and activities. To order a meal or learn more about the EPSCC, please call (970) 581-2195.
Celtic /Indian Flute & Violin Performance At The YMCA
Come and enjoy a free concert by classically trained violinist Arvel Bird whose confluence of styles are informed by his extraordinary love of diversity—from traditional Celtic tunes and bluegrass standards to his original Native American folk and Celtic rock orchestrations. It will take place Monday, July 14 at 7 p.m. at the Maude Jellison Library on the campus of the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center. This amazing show which will
Estes Park Senior Citizens Center Menu
July 14 – 18
Monday, July 14 Breakfast Burrito (eggs, cheese, refried beans & potatoes in flour tortilla) w/ green chili on the side
Tuesday, July 15 Ham Dinner (topped w/ pineapple), Sweet Potatoes & vegetables
Wednesday, July 16 Bleu Cheese Bacon Burger w/ Cucumber Salad
Thursday, July 17 Country Fried Chicken w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables
Friday, July 18 Shrimp Basket (8 fried) w/ Homemade Chips & soup of the day
July 21 – 25
Monday, July 21 Breakfast Quesadilla (tortilla w/ cheese, scrambled eggs, bacon & vegetables) w/ fruit & salsa on the side
Wednesday, July 23 Patty Melt Sandwich w/ Tomato Salad
Thursday, July 24 Chicken Alfredo w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad
Friday, July 25 Salmon (6 oz) w/ Rice Pilaf & soup of the day
Individual Meals are $9 for current 2025 EP Senior Citizens Center members and are by reservation only. (Or 3 meals for $25; use pre-paid meal tickets.) Exact cash or check payment required. Reservations must be made by 1:00 PM at least one business day in advance. Note, if you want to reserve a meal for Monday, July 14th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, July 11th. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.
The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 -- 1 TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM Circuit Balance Monday 1-1:45 PM
Mahjong Tuesday 10 – 2 Tai Ji Class Tuesday 10:15 – 11:15 AM
Pound Unplugged + 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursday 10:15-11:15 AM Chair Yoga 2nd & 4th Thursday 10:15-11:15 AM Live Music & Presentations Tuesday @ 12:00 – 1:30 (TBA)
Aspen Club Blood Pressure Check 4th Wednesday 10:00 – 1:00 Aspen Club Presentations 2nd Wednesday 12:00 – 1:30
Bridge Group Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM with lessons in the morning Canasta, Euchre & Pinochle 1st & 3rd Wednesday 1:00 – 4:30
Reserved Meals-to-Go delivered to your vehicle or EAT at the Senior Citizens Center Check out our website: estesparkseniors.org or call for the latest information
feature Arvel Bird playing violin and Native American flute. Free and open to the public.
Directions to the YMCA library: Upon entering the YMCA off of Spur 66, take the second left and then the first right into the parking lot of Hyde Memorial Chapel where you may park and easily access the Maude Jellison Library which is directly behind the chapel. Call library at 970-586-3341 extension 1133 with any questions.
ard's 'World of Colors' CD
Theater For The Thirsty To Perform At YMCA Of The Rockies
On Sunday, July 13, Theater for the Thirsty will be the guest performers for the 10:00 a.m. worship in Hyde Chapel. Their performance on Sunday evening begins at 7:00 p.m. in Hyde Chapel. This performance is free and open to the public.
Theater for the Thirsty is a twoperson theater company specializing in entertaining, music-infused, funny, thoughtprovoking, redemptive, soul stirring and imaginative theater.
Jeremiah and Vanessa Gamble have been involved in professional theater in the Twin Cities, both on camera and on stage, for over fifteen years. Their passion is creating and performing original works together through their theater company, Theater for the Thirsty. They portray over 100 different characters in their ten original shows–ranging from tone-deaf angels to cud-chewing cows.
performs redemptive theater that is entertaining and imaginative. Their recipe is simple: incorporate wellcrafted stories, a heavy dose of quality comedy, dynamic music, memorable characters and simple props. Jeremiah and Vanessa believe that people are hungry and thirsty for more than what much of this life offers.
During the service on Sunday morning, they will perform “Ester.” The Sunday evening performance will feature a totally new show that evening titled “Step into the Story.”
To learn more about Theater for the Thirsty and their ministry, visit www.theaterforthethirsty.com
This Sunday night concert is a part of the Chapel Ministry’s 2025 Summer Worship program. Learn more about the YMCA Chapel Ministry and 2025 Summer Worship activities at ymcarockies.org/Activities, and follow the link to the latest Activity Schedule.
Theater for the Thirsty creates and
Cook Up Fun And Connection This August with “Side-By-Side Cooking”
At The Estes Valley Community Center
Did you know that kids who learn to cook alongside caregivers not only gain lifelong skills but are also more likely to make healthier food choices and form strong family connections around the dinner table? The Estes Valley Community Center, in partnership with the Estes Park Salud Foundation, is offering a brand-new, hands-on cooking series designed just for caregivers and kids to do exactly that: Side-by-Side Cooking.
confidence in the kitchen, make healthier food choices, and develop lifelong skills,” says program facilitator Chazz Glaze. “It’s also a great way to strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.” The class is free for community center members and available for the daily drop-in rate for non-members. All materials and ingredients are provided. Space is limited, and advanced registration is required.
This free, four-week class runs Tuesdays, August 5–26, 5:30–7:30 p.m., and is open to parents, grandparents, guardians, and children ages 6–13. Together, participants will explore basic culinary skills, learn to prepare healthy meals, and—most importantly—share the joy of cooking as a team.
“Cooking together helps kids build
Register at tinyurl.com/aasasbdx. Whether your child is brand new to cooking or already a budding chef, this class offers something for every skill level. And with school just around the corner, it’s the perfect opportunity to hit pause, connect, and cook up some fun as the fall routine begins.
Don’t wait—spots are filling fast!
Stanley Home To Host Inspiration And Invention Gala
The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center is hosting their annual fundraising gala on July 24. This year’s gala will focus on F.O. Stanley’s fellow inventors. The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center celebrates F.O. and Flora Stanley daily and their contribution to Estes Park and our nation. This year’s fundraising gala highlights not only F.O. Stanley, but other inventors of the Art Nouveau (1890-1914) period as well.
Each gala table will feature a different Art Nouveau period inventor. These inventors include Clarence Birdseye, George Eastman, John Harvey Kellogg, John Thompson Dorrance, Judy Reed, Mary Phelps Jacob, and so many more. Each gala table will be decorated elegantly with examples of the invention and a bio of the inventor. Learn more about Mary Phelps Jacob and other inventors of the period. Mary Phelps Jacob earned a patent for the first modern backless bralette. She was a patron of the arts, a publisher and the woman Time Magazine called “the literary godmother to the Lost Generation of expatriate writers in Paris.”
Similarly, Judy Reed, was believed to be the first African American woman to receive a US Patent for her cooking related invention. She and her husband were believed to be illiterate, as her patent application is signed with
an “X.” Intrigued by what she invented? Join us at the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center’s 4th annual gala.
The annual Stanley Home Museum and Education Center Fundraising Gala is an elegant, one-of-a-kind, affair. Tickets can be purchased at www.stanleyhome.org and are $150.00 per person. Tables of eight can also be purchased by calling 970-235-0062. Reservations must be made prior to July 14. Enjoy being transported back to the inspiration of the decorative arts and nature of the Art Nouveau period. Guests are encouraged to wear period or black-tie attire. The Gala will feature 50 silent and 10 live auction items. Some of the exciting auction items include exclusive seating at professional sports games, staycation trips in Fort Collins, artwork, and so many other unique packages and items.
The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center is a private 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on preserving, and protecting “Rockside,” the summer home, built in 1904, of F.O. and Flora Stanley. The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center provides docent led tours of the home, as well as regular cultural and educational programming.
For more information contact, Lisa O’Sullivan Carroll, director@stanleyhome.org
EVRPD Announces Rec Swim Team For Young Athletes
Remember the glory days of Estes Park High School swimming? Our athletes not only made it to the state championships—they stood proudly on the podium. That level of success started early, thanks to the Otters Swim Club, which trained young swimmers as soon as they could swim the length of the pool.
But when the Otters disbanded a few years ago, that vital training ground disappeared—along with the opportunity for local kids to grow into competitive swimmers.
Now, the Estes Valley Recreation District is bringing that opportunity back. We’re excited to introduce the Rec
Swim Team—a new program designed to ignite a love for swimming in young athletes ready to take the next step beyond swim lessons.
The Rec Swim Team will open doors to future opportunities in middle and high school swim programs, as well as lifeguarding and beyond.
Let’s bring the spirit of Estes Park aquatics back—one lap at a time. Registration is open for the monthly sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. starting in August. Open to grades 12 and under. Sign up online with the QR code or e-mail swim@evrpd.com for all the info!
How Strong Is Your Emergency Fund?
You can’t predict financial emergencies — but you can prepare for them.
To do that, you can build an emergency fund to pay for unexpected expenses, some of which may be sizable. Without one, you might be forced to dip into your investments, possibly including your retirement accounts, such as your IRA or 401(k). If this happens, you might have to pay taxes and penalties, and you’d be withdrawing dollars that could otherwise be growing over time to help pay for your retirement. In thinking about such a fund, consider these questions:
• How much should I save? The size of your emergency fund should be based on several factors, including your income, your spouse’s income and your cost of living. However, for most people in their working years, three to six months of total expenses is adequate. Once you’re retired, though, you may want to keep up to a year’s worth of expenses in your emergency fund — because you don’t want to be forced to cash out investments when their price may be down, and you may not be replenishing these accounts any longer.
• How can I build an emergency fund? Given all your normal expenses — mortgage, utilities, food, transportation and others — you might find it challenging to set aside some extra money in an emergency fund. But you do have opportunities. If you’re working, you could set up a direct deposit so that part of your paycheck goes directly into your emergency fund. You could also save a portion of any extra income you receive, such as bonuses and tax refunds.
• Where should I keep the money? An emergency fund has two key requirements: You need to be able to access the money immediately and you
need to count on a certain amount being available. So, it’s a good idea to keep your emergency fund in a liquid, low-risk account that offers protection of principal. For this fund, you’re less interested in growth than you are in stability. But because interest rates have recently changed, you may be able to get a reasonable return without sacrificing liquidity or safety.
• What types of emergencies should I prepare for? Your emergency fund could be needed for any number of events: a job loss or early retirement, housing or auto repairs, unreimbursed medical bills, unexpected travel, and so on. But this fund may also be needed to help you cope with other threats. Consider this: In 2023, the U.S. saw a record 28 weather and climate disasters, each of which resulted in at least $1 billion in damages — and often many times this amount — according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Depending on where you live, your home or business may be susceptible to tornadoes, floods, wildfires, hurricanes and extreme heat and cold waves. These events can, and do, result in property repair and relocation costs, higher insurance premiums and even price increases for basic goods, such as groceries and prescription medications.
One final word about an emergency fund: It takes discipline to maintain it and to avoid tapping into it for everyday expenses or impulse purchases. The name says it all — this is a fund that should only be used for emergencies. By keeping it intact until it’s truly needed, you can help yourself weather many of the storms that may come your way.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by our local Edward Jones Financial Advisors.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Keg & Cream Day At Park Fellowship Church
Keg & Cream Day offers fun in the sun at Park Fellowship Church parking lot this Saturday, July 12th from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Free root beer/ice cream floats and food for sale with games and jumpy house. The church is located at 340 S. St. Vrain Ave.
I’ve mentioned this before: we’ve all been touched by dementia or will be. Someone you know, whether a family member, friend, co-worker, or someone you encounter at the grocery store, is dealing with it right now. It is difficult for them and for those who care for them.
Two of my dearest friends, whom I’ll call Ann and Rich, visited us in June. We were very excited because we hadn’t seen them in over a year since our trip to their home in New Mexico. I looked forward to hiking, enjoying delicious meals, and engaging in plenty of good conversation. Scott and Rich would enjoy craft beers, and Ann and I would share a bottle of wine. Unfortunately, our focus shifted to the recent news they received. Rich had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Just last month, I shared stories about my two mothers-in-law's experiences with dementia in this newspaper, the Estes Park News. But this was different. This wasn’t about two dear, elderly women who had long, happy lives. This was about a contemporary, a good friend, who is just a little older than Scott and me. We felt concerned for our friends and the road they faced ahead. As seniors in our 70s, we couldn’t help but think about how close the unknown was. What will the future hold for us?
The dementia journey can be overwhelming for both the person living with dementia and their caregivers. I am very thankful that, through my work with the Caregivers’ Support Group and the upcoming Estes Dementia Day Center (EDDC), which we are actively working to establish, I was able to support Ann and give her plenty of information to take home. We will likely be texting, emailing, and talking on the phone more often than before. I feel sad and wish we lived much closer to our friends. I also know it’s in the early stages for Rich; he still has many wonderful days and adventures ahead, and there should be plenty of time for us to visit back and forth. I believe many people have faced a similar experience right here in Estes Park.
The caregiver support group remains stable as new caregivers join and others leave due to changes in their situations. It will be a year in August that I started facilitating this group, and I continue to learn something new at every meeting. While reviewing my notes and mi-
nutes from the Dementia Day Center team recently, I realized that our first meeting was this past September. That means we’ve been working on this project for ten months. Fortunately, we have made significant progress and are crossing our fingers to open at the beginning of the new year. We now have a website, www.estesdementiadaycenter.org, which was developed after numerous meetings with Cassie Lasson at FrontDesk, Inc. It is worth a visit now and will be essential in the future when people are looking for our program and information.
Since fundraising is so essential to opening the day center, Jane, one of the team members, is working diligently on our first event. The Step Out and Care fundraising walk/run will take place on Sunday afternoon, September 14th. We will be walking or running on the paved path around Lake Estes from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. The registration and sponsor forms will be on the website in mid-late July. People can participate individually, as a pair, or as a team sponsored by family and friends. Come share and care with us in benefiting Estes Dementia Day Center!
Our federal application has been submitted, and we are waiting for our 501(c)(3) designation. We have a financial partner at the Colorado Nonprofit Development Center who is helping us in many ways. We have a site selected and a list of tasks that need to be completed, primarily focusing on safety and security. We have written staff job descriptions, bylaws, and articles of incorporation. I’m currently working on Policies and Procedures. There will be a lot of these. Grants are ready to be completed once we obtain our 501(c)(3) status. Most importantly, we have a great team of new volunteers helping with the Step Out and Care fundraiser.
The difference between dreams and reality is action. We’ve already dreamed it, and the action is happening now. The only question is how soon we’ll be able to open our doors.
Mary facilitates Estes Park Caregivers’ Support Group for People with Dementia and is working with a team to create the Estes Dementia Day Center. Contact: Maryruthdancer@yahoo.com.
In a world where we now feel a daily overload of bad news, we focus on the good in life, even during tough times.
Photo by Robert Burns
Childbirth Classes Offer Support And Confidence To Expectant Parents
Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of life’s most exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — journeys. To help families feel prepared and supported, the EVICS Family Resource Center is now offering comprehensive childbirth classes designed to educate, empower, and connect expectant parents.
Led by experienced professionals, these classes provide vital information about the stages of labor, pain management options, and what to expect during delivery. Parents will also learn about breastfeeding, newborn care, and postpartum recovery, helping them feel more confident and equipped for their transition into parenthood.
Instructors include Kendra Vancil, PTA and DONA-trained doula, and Lesta Johnson, RN, MSN, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Their combined expertise ensures a supportive and informative environment for all participants.
Classes are held at the EVICS Family Resource Center, located at 1182 Graves Avenue, Unit A. Sign-ups are necessary — scan the QR code to let us know you're coming. For more information, call 970-586-3055.
Whether it’s your first child or your fourth, these classes offer knowledge, reassurance, and a sense of community as families prepare to welcome their newest members."
St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church Summer Schedule
Holy Eucharist - Sundays at 9:00 a.m. with coffee hour following the service
Weekday Holy Eucharist - Wednesdays at 1:00 p.m. beginning June 18.
AA Early Worms - 7:00 a.m. Monday-Saturday
Al-Anon - 6:30 p.m. on Fridays
St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church is located a 880 MacGregor Av.
Ghost Towns And The Siren Call Of The Old West
By: Ethan Knightchilde
When I was a nine-year-old living on the east coast, a juvenile mystery novel gathering dust on a classroom bookshelf captured my attention. I long since have forgotten its title and details, but the setting of an old west ghost town and a lost mine hidden in the hills beyond has remained undimmed in my imagination.
Decades later, I was living in Colorado. While out of town for a wedding, a conversation with friends turned to the subject of ghost towns and an abandoned silver camp nearby. It is my only memory of that evening, and I will never forget my visit the following day—of how I stood before a weathered old building with its open doors and vacant windows and felt that it somehow stared back at me.
I embarked on a few road trip vacations, visiting every ghost town I could find and capturing many of them on black-and-white motion picture film. Though cutting together a unique vacation home movie was my original goal, the passing years saw the road trips grow in scope; and the amount of footage I accumulated became less the material for a three-minute film and more a testament to my chronic illness as a “ghost town junkie.”
That initial feeling that the buildings somehow stared back still haunted me, and I eventually felt compelled to speak for that which has no voice. More than a decade after that first visit,
test screenings were held at the Historic Park Theatre for the feature documentary Ghosts of the West: The End of the Bonanza Trail.
Beginning on that crisp, early autumn day, the ghost town project gradually took on a life of its own. The movie first received positive reviews from audiences, then critical acclaim, and theatres showing it began to sell out. The project then expanded into a series of lectures, two books, and a follow-up feature in development. The siren call of those abandoned places has only grown stronger over time, and it has driven me to explore some of the most remote and lonely settings in the West since the turn of this century.
This summer, the documentary that started it all returns to the movie house where it began its journey: the Historic Park Theatre, built when the film’s events were still in living memory. Catch a screening at 2 p.m. on July 17 & 31, August 14 & 28, and September 11. As the film’s writer-director, I will be on hand whenever possible to answer questions about the entire project after each program. It is my sincere wish that the Ghosts of the West will step out from amongst the shadows of history and folklore for you and, as they have done for me since reading that mystery novel as a child, stand undimmed in your imagination. Visit www.HistoricParkTheatre.com for information and tickets. Visit KnightSkyPictures.com, the production company’s official website, to view the film’s trailer, gallery, and production info. [Portions of this article originally appeared in opening night programs and the book Ghosts of the West: Tales and Legends from the Bonanza Trail by E. S. Knightchilde.]
EVRPD Employee Spotlight On Tanner Hawkins Leonard
Tanner Hawkins Leonard, a native of Estes Park, has been a valued member of the Community Center Custodial Team for nearly three years. Recently, he transitioned from a part-time role to a full-time, benefitted position—a move he describes as transformative.
“I evolved from just a simple parttime dude working six-hour days, four
days a week, to being a full-time employee learning important things every single day,” Tanner said. “I didn’t realize at the time what a big deal that was, but I found out very quickly—it is a big deal.”
Tanner has grown into his full-time role at the Rec Center. He commented, “I’ve learned from my boss, Zach, not to come to him with problems, but with solutions. That’s really taught me to keep a level head and not lose my composure in stressful situations. He inspires me to do a good job, and I love it when he tells me I’m doing great.”
Tanner takes particular pride in coming in early—sometimes as early as 5 a.m.—to shovel snow and ensure the safety of the facility. “I’m proud of what I do to make the Rec Center safe. I’m so happy I decided to work here—everyone does their job and a little bit more. That’s why people are happy to be here!”
We are thrilled that Tanner is on the Community Center team and congratulate him on a job well done!
Members Of Christian Church Of Estes Park Take Pride In Our Community
After the 4th of July festivities drew to a close in Estes Park, a group of dedicated Christian Church of Estes Park members—adults and children alike— came together to clean up around Lake Estes, where crowds had gathered to enjoy the fireworks. Armed with gloves, trash bags, and a deep sense of community pride, the volunteers worked tirelessly to restore the natural beauty of the area. Laughter and encouragement echoed as little hands
reached for bottle caps and wrappers, while adults hauled heavier debris from around the shoreline, picnic areas and parking lots. Their efforts were not just about cleaning up trash—they were about caring for creation, teaching younger generations the value of stewardship, and showing that small acts of kindness can leave a big impact.
Church member and volunteer Jamie Palmesano said, “ I wish everyone could have seen the enthusiasm of the children - running toward every piece of trash and holding it up like a prize. It was precious.”
She added, “We love our town and the incredible people who work so hard to make Estes Park a beautiful place to live and visit. It’s a joy to give back, bless our community, and reflect God’s love in practical ways. Thank you to everyone who came out - you’re making a real difference!”
Estes
Recycles Day Collects Documents To Shred, Electronics, & Much More
The League of Women Voters Community Recycling Committee will host its annual Estes Recycles Day on Saturday, August 9th, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Events Complex Main Parking. The event is open to residents and small businesses.
As usual, Rotary will provide onsite shredding of documents. The fee is $15 per 30 lb. box. One hundred percent of shredding proceeds go to EPHS scholarships. The shredded paper is transported and pulped and turned into other paper products, such as paper towels. (Documents shredded at home by individuals must go in trash to the landfill.)
This year the Estes Park Rotary Clubs (Noon and Sunrise) are also accepting walkers, crutches and wheelchairs for their Crutches for Africa project. For more information specific to this project visit www.crutches4africa.org or email c4a@crutches4africa.org.
Electronics, computers and monitors will be accepted for $5; TVs for $10$20, depending on size; and smoke detectors for $5. Large electronics will be limited to five per vehicle.
Most smaller electronic items such as
phones, cameras, blenders, hair dryers, and similar will be accepted for recycling without charge.
Recycling at the Scrap Metal station includes microwaves (remove the glass plate). Metal items must be 50% metal or more by weight and contain no refrigerants. Large items will be limited to five per vehicle. No major appliances can be accepted.
Bike tires and tubes will also be collected at the event. Eco-Cycle will be on site to load the accepted materials and transport them to its Boulder facility.
Generous funding from Village Thrift Shop, Premier Members Credit Union of Estes Park and Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club, along with a Community Initiative Grant from the Town, offsets the significant costs associated with running this popular event and allows us to offer you much lower fees for electronics recycling.
We need more volunteers! If you can help at the event, please email Lisa at EstesRecyclesDay2025@gmail.com as soon as possible.
Additional information is available at lwv-estespark.org.
News From The Art Center Of Estes Park
CLOSING JULY 12: FACE of Fiber and Creative Sisters. Last chance to view this unique and special exhibit, which will close at 5 p.m. Saturday.
NEW EXHIBIT OPENING: Lens and Brush: Art In Harmony featuring Sally Richmond, oil and Laura Davis, photographic collage. Opening reception July 18.
Sally Richmond was born in Montreal, Quebec. Sally developed a love for art at a young age. She spent much of her free time visiting museums and galleries in the city and poring over any art books she could find. After high school, she attended John Abbott College (CEGEP), where she attained a Fine Arts Certificate after two years. She continued her studies at Mount Alison University, in New Brunswick, and graduated with her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from the University of Wisconsin. She was able to study for a year at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.
She has lived with her family in Wisconsin and Maine. She lived in proximity to Acadia National Park in Maine. There, she had her watercolors represented at the Blue Heron Studio in Bar Harbor. She now maintains her studio in Estes Park, where she lives with her family. She and her husband, Seth, have two children, Ivan and Sasha. While Sally has worked in watercolors for years, she now uses oils as well. Oils are her preferred medium for landscape painting. The beauty of the places she has lived and have made a strong impact on her work. She is drawn to the shapes and spaces found in nature. She strives to capture the light and colors of wh at she sees at different times of the day and during the seasons of the year. Her work is influenced by the Impressionist painters. She has a deep affection for this part of the world and can often be found hiking the trails seeking inspiration for her work.
Laura Davis - “Beauty is hidden in plain sight. My work is a joyful interpretation of the divine details which surround us. Reflections in dewdrops, peeling paint, beetle paths, wood grain, and patterns in natural or human-
made structures are captured and highlighted by my lens.”
In her visual art Laura notices details, often overlooked by others. She sees the abstraction which surrounds us, in exquisite compositions, with symmetrical or asymmetrical balance, fractal patterns, spirals, flower petals following Fibonacci sequence.
Early in her art-making pursuits, she earned a BFA from the Sculpture Department of the Kansas City Art Institute. The program afforded her the flexibility to explore a wide variety of 2-D, 3-D, and time-based media. Some of the projects explored shadow, movement, and image projection interacting with fabric in site-specific installations.
In the Art Media Studies program in the School of Art, College of Visual and Performing Arts, Syracuse University, she earned an MFA.
Upon her return to her home state of Colorado, she began to explore photography, especially macro close-up imagery capturing the color, texture and pattern of Mother Nature's palette. Her “straight” photographs capture details, textures, and pattern from our surroundings, directing our attention to, and celebrating, the patterns that surround us in the natural world.
Her portfolio of large scale painted works on paper from North Carolina was included as part of her application to Decorate Utility Boxes (DUB) in Estes Park, Colorado, in 2018. She was one of the five artists, 100% women, chosen to paint the boxes in 2018. Her two boxes are behind Kirk’ s Fly Shop on the Riverwalk, just east of the Women’s Monument.
She has shown her work at The Art Center of Estes Park since 2018. In 2024 two large prints on metal, Lichen & Leaf Mandala and Black Canyon Mandala, were commissioned for display at The Hoot restaurant in Northport, Maine. That same year a large 60” wide metal print of her Sunset Portal image was commissioned by an Estes Park local. After three years of participating in the Estes Park Art Studio Tour she is taking a sabbatical from the event in 2025. The public is welcome to contact her to visit her studio by ap-
pointment. In addition to the framed wall art, many of the images are also available printed in various formats including wearables, jigsaw puzzles and yoga mats.
www.lauradavisartstudio.com
UPCOMING ART CLASSES: Floral Shawl with Cari Cook, July 21-9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Art Center members: $67.50, non-members: $75. In this class you will make a lightweight, beautiful, one-of-a-kind shawl. Students will spend the day learning the basics of nuno felting. This class is suitable for teens and adults. Your kit fee of $35 (payable directly to Cari on the day of the class) will include the supplies you’ll need. Contact Cari at caricolleencook@gmail.com (preferably at least week in advance) to talk about what colors you would like to work with. Cari notes: If you have any questions or want to sign up at the last minute, email me and we can talk about what colors I have available at that time. There is a sample of this shawl in the gallery. Come and try it on and see what you will be creating. No materials list necessary. Teacher provides all supplies for $35.
Creating Playful Art Cards with Sandy Fritz,-July 25, 1 to 3:30 p.m. Art Center members: $49.50, nonmembers: $55. Ever wonder how to make fun whimsical artwork? You will do some prompts that will get your creative juices flowing. Then you'll learn some mark making techniques to tie it all together. Sandy will guide you thru her art process and you will have several small artful pieces on paper that will be made into notecards. All supplies are included! Join us for a class of exploring art in a fun way. Great for any artistic level, and absolutely no experience is required. Kids 12 and up are welcome. "You are creative-you just don't know it yet.' (Note: no materials list. All supplies are included.)
Garden Flowers with a Border and a Banner with Deb Coombs-July 27 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Art Center members: $36.00, non-members: $40.00. We will be creating a Zentangle® with a delicate bouquet of flowers and a banner across the front giving you the opportunity to write a name, season or words of your choice. The flowers are bordered by coffered fragments of different Zentangle® patterns. You do not need to be able to draw - if you can write your name, you can Zentangle®! Come experience the joy of Zentangling and its unique meditative and mindful prac-
tice. Materials provided by teacher as part of class fee.
Deb will provide a 5” x 7” piece of cold press paper and a handout with step outs for the featured tangles.
Students will provide: Micron Pen 01, graphite pencil, white charcoal pencil, tortillons – number appropriate to colors you may be blending, fine tip markers in two shades of a similar color, pastel pencils in two shades of a similar color, fine tip marker or colored pencil, in a not too dark matching color for background stripes. Please read handout on color mediums.
If you want to purchase a basic supply bag available for $8.00 to be paid directly to the instructor on the day of class, that will contain: a Micron Pen 01, a graphite pencil, white charcoal pencil, 2 tortillons, 2 white Zentangle® tiles, and a bookmark with the eight Zentangle® steps listed.
To register online and for more information on these classes, go to artcenterofestes.com under classes or call 970586-5882.
SATELLITE EXHIBITS: Art Center artists are on display at five satellite locations: Bank of Estes Park, US Bank, VERT, Snowy Peaks Winery and Estes Park Health. All five exhibits have been refreshed with new art and the public is invited to view them.
SOCIAL MEDIA: Visit our social media outlets – Instagram: artcenterofep, Facebook: Art-Center-of-EstesPark or visit our website: artcenterofestes.com
The Art Center, 517 Big Thompson Ave. is open daily 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Glen Haven Volunteer Fire Department Pancake Breakfast On July 19th
SAVE the DATE for the annual Glen Haven Volunteer Fire Department
Pancake Breakfast on July 19th! The Glen Haven Fire Department is funded solely through donations. Along with the Duck Race, our Pancake Breakfast is our main source of income.
The Glen Haven Area Volunteer Fire Department is a critical part of the emergency response community throughout southern Larimer County. The Department works closely with the Colorado State Patrol, Larimer County Sheriff's Department, Larimer County Emergency Services, the U.S. Forest Service, Rocky Mountain National Park, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District, Loveland Rural Fire Protection District, Estes Park Ambulance Service and other agencies to continue to provide emergency response to the Glen Haven community and the entire Estes Valley.
As you are aware, fire danger is not just seasonal, but a year-round con-
cern. Our all-volunteer fire department continues throughout the year to train for such disasters as we have had in the recent past, and with this, comes many needs for the Department, such as:
• Wildland training shelters
• New hoses/fittings
• PPE (personal protective equipment)
• Materials to build new training props
If you would like to be a sponsor, your business name will be included on our posters, tent cards, and articles in the Estes Park News. Our silent auction is a large part of our fundraising efforts, so please consider donating to the auction if you are unable to be a sponsor.
The Community of Glen Haven thanks you for your continued support of our Glen Haven Volunteer Fire Department.
Contact Marsha Hobert at hoberthaven@aol.com or call 970/744-8014.
Estes Park United Women In Faith Hosts Soul Care Retreat
The Estes Park United Women in Faith organization is holding a Soul Care Retreat for those in our community who identify as female. Join Pastor Susan as we explore together how we care for ourselves no matter what is happening around us. Our lives may be bursting and overflowing with so much that we feel overwhelmed or we may feel empty and isolated. No matter where we find ourselves in life, God is here, working in
all circumstances. Come and learn new practices to care for your deepest self. The retreat will be held on August 30, 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Estes Park United Methodist Church,1509 Fish Hatchery Rd. Cost is $15 and includes a light breakfast, lunch, and all activities. All are welcome but please let us know by August 17 that you'll be attending by emailing uwfaith@epumc.org. We look forward to caring for our souls together.
Allenspark's Hilltop Guild Bazaar August 2
The first Saturday in August belongs to the Hilltop Guild's annual Bazaar in Allenspark. Mark your calendar for this year's bazaar on Aug. 2 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and enjoy homemade arts, food, and crafts. The Bazaar is free and there's plenty of parking.
Returning for the second year will be several tables full of costume jewelry ready to go to new homes.
If the weather is fine, you will be able to stroll from food tables to vendors, from the jelly hut to the White Elephant, while enjoying live music by Three Moose Morning.
Inside the Kelley House, Guild members will showcase their handicrafts. The loom room will feature woven items from shoelaces to rugs. Several handmade quilts will be for sale. The ever-popular "scrubbies" for kitchen tasks also will be available. Handmade knitted washcloths and embroidered tea towels always sell quickly. And if you need a haircut, Hair on Wheels will be glad to help you out.
The White Elephant offers a wide selection of gently used household items at bargain prices. The book hut has been moved into the White Elephant.
More than a dozen vendors will sell jewelry and art work. Come early to stock-up on the Guild's homemade candy and varieties of jellies.
The historic Bunce School and Museum will be open on Aug. 2. The one-room school house is a short walk from the Kelley House.
The Guild is located at 18729 Highway 7 between Lyons and Allenspark. Bright outdoor flags will mark the location. Proceeds from the Bazaar will be used to fund local scholarships.
Three Moose Morning, Allenspark's own all-female band, will play at the Hilltop Guild's annual Bazaar on Aug. 2 from 1 to 2 p.m.
Love John Denver’s Music? Fill Your Soul With Great Songs At The Brad Fitch 20th Anniversary
John Denver Tribute Concert Aug. 23
The Rotary Club of Estes Park Foundation is thrilled to present the 20th anniversary Estes Park John Denver Tribute Concert, performed by Brad Fitch and the TropiCowboy Band.
This year’s concert will have you humming along from 5 - 9 p.m. on Saturday, August 23. Note: that is the Saturday before Labor Day.
The concert will be held in the Ruesch Auditorium of the YMCA of the Rockies, 2515 Tunnel Road in Estes Park. Doors open at 4 p.m.
ise to thrill us with this year’s selections, chosen from the nearly 200 songs John Denver wrote.
Locals are proud that Brad graduated from our local high school.
Among the band members, you will see Melissa, Brad’s sister, also an Estes Park High School graduate, who was among the first to receive a Rotary scholarship.
Queen City Jazz Band Performing At The YMCA Of The Rockies July 17
Colorado’s Queen City Jazz Band is performing a free concert at Ruesch Auditorium at the YMCA of the Rockies on July 17 at 7:30 p.m.
Local favorite bluegrass/folk duo SnowBelt Bluegrass, featuring Max and Ann, will open the evening at 5 p.m. with their blend of bluegrass, old-time, and folk music. Their sound features original songs, fiddle-tune standards, and creative exploration.
At 6:30 p.m., Cowboy Brad and the TropiCowboy Band take the stage. Their beautifully blended voices prom-
Tickets are available now! Preferred, General, and Accessible tickets can be reserved at: https://www.eventbrite.com/.../johndenver-tribute...
General admission tickets will also be available at the door the night of the concert.
The Rotary Club of Estes Park sponsors this crowd-pleasing event. The proceeds of the concert provide scholarships to local high school students each year.
From their modest beginnings in 1958 at little roadhouse in Lakewood, Colorado the QCJB has performed in Europe and throughout the USA and Canada. The New Orleans style band brings to life the music of the Jazz Age when Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Bessie Smith made their first recordings.
The Queen City Jazz Band features Denver's finest traditional jazz musicians on trumpet, trombone, clarinet, saxophone, piano, banjo, drum kit, and tuba. Our featured vocalist is Wende Harston, revered locally and nationally for preserving the music of great blues singers including Bessie Smith, Ida Cox, Ma Rainey and Billie Holiday.
Honored by Colorado Governors, the Colorado State Legislature and the Denver City Council the Queen City
Jazz Band has delighted audiences since 1958. The current band excels in entertaining listeners of all ages with the music of the early master of blues jazz like Bessie Smith and Louis Armstrong along with the great sounds of the “Second Line” straight from Bourbon Street. Ballroom dancers love the QCJB’s mix of the 1930s and 40s standards from Cab Calloway to Duke Ellington. Swing dancers fill the floor to toss and twirl to the music of Louis Jordan and Nellie Lutcher. Concerts always end with a standing ovation. The QCJB’s Gospel music featuring our great vocalist Wende Harston has inspired Denver area Christians for many years is and is featured at traditional jazz festivals across the USA. The Queen City Jazz Foundation has sponsored almost 100 clinics and visitations for school children whose young ears are often treated for the first time to America’s own musical treasure—jazz.
Emerald Lake Chamber Players Concert At Beaver Meadows VC July 11
The Emerald Lake Chamber Players will present a concert of bright spirited pieces on Friday, July 11th at 7:00 p.m. at the Beaver Meadows Visitor Center Auditorium in Estes Park. Admission is free.
The concert will include Haydn’s sunny Flute Quartet No. 5 in D Major, Gordon Jacob’s Four Fancies, Jacques Casterede’s Ombres et Clartes, Robert Howard’s Small Blue Planet and Sylvia Hazlerig’s A Voice Crying in the Wilderness for solo viola.
All of the members of the quartet share a deep love of the outdoors and of Rocky Mountain National Park. Violinist, Jonquil Thoms first fell in love with the Rockies while attending the Aspen Music Festival back in the 70s. Hiking at Maroon Bells and driving over Independence Pass are fond memories for her. Now in Estes Park, she feels lucky to have RMNP a few minutes away and enjoys working at the Rocky Mountain Conservancy stores which support RMNP.
Cellist Rich Woessner and his wife are avid hikers. Rich has climbed several of
RMNP’s mountains and has ascended Long’s Peak four times. Rich’s wife, Kelly donates her time working in the RMNP volunteer Office. Rich recently commissioned renowned cello maker, Christopher Dungey to build a new instrument for him.
Violist Chase Jordan often works as a wilderness trail guide with his father Ryan and has spent many hours hiking the trails in Rocky. His adventures have led him to the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California, the Uinta Mountains in Utah, the Wind River Range in Wyoming, and on a 100-mile circumnavigation of Montana’s Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex. In a few weeks Chase will be heading to Iceland to pursue graduate studies in viola and composition.
Flutist, Robert Charles Howard works with his wife Robin as a desk docent at Beaver Meadows and Fall River Visitor Centers. Robin and Robert also volunteer with field watering for the park. In 2015, Robert Composed a cantata Wilderness Reflections, that was premiered by the Oratorio Society of Estes
Park. Mr. Howard has recently retired from conducting the Oratorio Society of Estes Park. Robert has recently re-
ciety of Estes Park after leading the ensembles there since 2017.
Four Recognized At 2025 Environmental Stewardship Awards
Commissioner John Kefalas; Commissioner Kristin Stephens; Jamie Blanchard-Poling (Compost Queen); Scott James (NOCO Sawyers); Shelley Bayard de Volo (ESAB Lead); Amy Wolf (YMCA of the Rockies); Commissioner Jody Shadduck-McNally.
The Board of Larimer County Commissioners recognized four groups for their dedication to environmental stewardship in Larimer County at the 2025 Environmental Stewardship Awards.
The awards mark the 30th year the commissioners have presented the awards to businesses, organizations, and residents to honor their work and stewardship in protecting our environment and climate. This year’s awards bring the total awards given out to 113.
Larimer County’s Environmental and Science Advisory Board reviews nominations submitted for the awards and recommends that the commissioners select the award winners.
Scott James – Leading the NOCO Sawyers in restoring Loveland’s native ecosystems
Scott James’ leadership for the Northern Colorado Sawyers has resulted in more than 600 volunteer hours removing thousands of invasive species like Russian Olive trees. “I am a big fan of removing invasive species,” said Larimer County Commissioner Jody Shadduck-McNally, “especially Russian Olive trees, they’re so bad for our water resources.” NOCO Sawyers have actively been working on the removal of various invasive species over the last five years in the City of Loveland's open spaces.
Larimer County Commissioner Kristin Stephens cited the value of this work, adding, “Having helped on a trail once, I know this is hard physical work and how valuable it is to have people able to do this work, and making sure our native species can grow to protect our watersheds and forests.”
Amy Wolf – Leading the YMCA of the Rockies toward sustainability and waste reduction
Amy has led YMCA of the Rockies’ Sustainability efforts as their Environmental Sustainability Director since 2021. Accomplishments beyond her daily routine include reducing waste sent to landfills and promoting recycling and reuse through the Waste
Audit and Activity Handbook. “You’re impacting a lot of people who come up there every year, especially the youth who go up there and stay to help them understand environmental responsibility of stewardship,” said Larimer County Commissioner Jody ShadduckMcNally.
Jamie Blanchard-Poling – Reducing the organic waste stream in Larimer County
Jamie Blanchard-Poling has established the Compost Queen composting services, diverting over 25,000 pounds of food per month from the landfill by working with local restaurants, businesses, and residents. “I know from the county perspective we’re committed to figuring out the next phase of projects for the transfer station at the landfill and minimizing organic waste that goes into the ground,” said Larimer County Commissioner John Kefalas. “It’s much better if we compost it and put it back on the soil.”
Composting can also reduce waste sent to landfills by 40%, thus reducing pollution from our landfill. “While we haven’t figured out how to do this on a larger commercial scale, this work that’s being done is really vital to see that it can be done on a larger scale,” said Larimer County Commissioner Kristin Stephens.
Shelley Bayard de Volo – Leading the Environmental and Science Advisory Board 2017 to 2025
Shelley Bayard de Volo has been Larimer County’s staff liaison to the Environmental and Science Advisory Board for 8 years from 2017 to 2025. Shelley fostered the development of Larimer County’s Climate, Environmental Stewardship, and Sustainability Policy in 2019.
Larimer County Commissioner Kristin Stephens: “Often, we honor people outside our organization, but this is a way to show the remarkable work our staff does. The work on sustainability is work we’ve needed to do for a really long time, and you’ve brought that to the forefront as a community that cares about these issues.”
Estes Park Men's Golf Association Results For July 7, 2025
Congratulations goes Scott Logan with a close second to Tandy Brown and all the other winners. It was a beautiful day to play golf.
Results for July 7
Estes Park Women’s Golf Association Results For July 8, 2025
The Estes Park Women’s Golf Association had a great day on the course on Tuesday, July 8. We played a mystery game, which turned out to count all the par 4 holes.
Here is the leaderboard: 1st place - Marianne Casey 2nd place - Ursula Geiger 3rd place - Cindy Minier 4th place - Kristy Pak (welcome new member!)
Tied for 5th place - Pam Vendegna, Dot Dorman
Tied for 6th place - Kay Boyle, Ellen Doiron
Tied for 7th place - Carrie Logan, Ruth Moser, Carla Spreng-Webb Congrats to the winners! If you’d like more information about EPWGA, please contact Diane Butler at dibutler04@gmail.com.
P.E.O. Summer Friendship BreakfastsNext Event This Friday, July 11
The P.E.O. Summer Group invites visiting P.E.O.s to join us the second Friday of the months June through October at Ember Restaurant on Lake
Estes for a Friendship Breakfast. The dates are: July 11, August 8, September 12 and October 10. We meet at 9:00 a.m. Hope to see you there.
By: Brian Schaffer
Crossroads Needs
Since last week, we have experienced an outpouring of support from the community with food donations.
People have dropped off extra food items that they had picked up on a Costco run, or purchased from another grocery store. We even had someone make an online order from Sam Club’s, and had it shipped directly to our building. For us to receive this type of support has been incredibly encouraging, so thank you for your help. Making sure no one goes hungry in the Estes Valley requires us to keep The Market at Crossroads stocked with groceries. If you would like to join others in the food collection for Crossroads, then please do whatever you can. Food can be dropped off on Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., or Friday from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. In addition to food donations, we received a couple financial donations to help us purchase food. We sure do appreciate the generosity we’re feeling right now.
Most people in the Estes Valley know a little bit about the work we do through Crossroads, but only a few know everything we do, so I’d like to
share a comprehensive list of the services we are currenting offering to our neighbors who find themselves in a season of need.
The Market at Crossroads supplies groceries
Rental & Mortgage assistance
Utilities assistance
Case management with wraparound services
Helping Hub—transportation, nonmedical services in the home
Non-medical care and support for cancer patients
Life Coaching—job placement/assistance, money management, general assistance
Jr. Outreach to support special requests for students
Coordination of donated items for clients—bulletin board postings
ate is that we can maximize resources through in-kind donations, financial gifts, partnerships, and negotiated pricing through select vendors who
reach and distribution of resources
Easter Blessing food distribution
Medical assistance
Prescription assistance
Snacks for schools
Disaster Response
Workforce Rental Assistance Program
Coat Drive and Distribution
Educational opportunities—classes and workshops
Firewood collection and distribution
Relocation assistance—bus and/or airfare expenses and fuel cards
Each one of these services require a certain amount of funding, time from paid staff and volunteers, equipment, supplies, and a place for it to happen. There’s a cost to doing business, even when it’s done through a non-profit. The great thing about the way we oper-
always trying to stretch our dollars as far as they will go so that we can meet more needs in the community. Our services and programs originated from a desire to meet specific needs among our neighbors, and we’ve been offering some of them since our inception in 1982. Take a look at the list of services that we’re currently offering to see if any of them align with what you feel is most important. If any of these touch your heart in such a way that you’d like to become more involved as volunteer or as a financial supporter, then please let us know. We would love to get you connected to the impact we’re making among our neighbors. It’s worth every minute invested in the relationships, and every dollar leveraged to ensure families are fed and housed. We offer help for today, and hope for tomorrow. www.CrossroadsEP.org
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.
It’s Anglican Not ‘Angelican’
By: Bishop Owen Williams, St. Francis Anglican Church
It seems that each summer, the question arises, “St. Francis “Angelican” Church -- what kind of church is that?” And yes, I have also been asked, “Do you worship angels?” The answer to the second question is an emphatic NO! If we recall from either Exodos, chapter 20, verse five, “You shall not bow down to them nor worship them!”
The next question, “Well, what is an Anglican then?” The very short answer is Christianity came to the British Isles during the Roman Occupation. There are many wonderful stories of how Christ’s Church was planted and grew despite many obstacles “both foreign and domestic.” The Germanic Angles and the Celtic Picts were thought to have been converted, first by Saint Aristobulus, and other Christian Missionaries. Aristobulus is recorded to have been made a Bishop by Saint Paul. So, the early Anglican Christians were around a long time before, let’s say, Henry the Eighth and his political separation of Great Britain from the Church of Rome.
Holy Communion at 9:30 a.m., preceded by Morning Prayer at 9 a.m.
During the week, visitors can stroll around the grounds and spend some time with the kids in the play area or a prayerful walking “The Way Of the Cross.” And Tuesdays at 2 p.m. we offer a Bible Study; currently, we’re exploring the Book of Judges.
Happenings
On Sunday, July 20th the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of the columbarium following the morning worship service which is at 10:00 a.m. This will also be a time of remembrance of those who have found their final resting place there. The colum-
At PCCR In July
nesday July 30th at 5:00 p.m. Where?
The outdoor chapel at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies; 1700 Brodie Ave., Estes Park. For years the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies was known simply as the Community Church and for good reason. It was, and still is, a
Our Sunday Service is based on the early Church where the Supper of the Lord is the focal point of worship. Jesus Christ said that He would be with us in this Holy Communion. We sing hymns of praise, a brief sermon or homily and the receiving of Christ’s Body and Blood for those who desire and are prepared. Join us every Sunday for
We are located in the midst of the pines and aspens in Little Valley at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park 80517. Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis Traditional Anglican Church.
If you have any questions or comments, please call Bishop Williams at (970) 577-0601. And see our website at stfrancisestespark.com.
YMCA Chapel Ministry To Host 24 hour Christian Service
Please join us at the YMCA of the Rockies on Saturday, July 12th for a 24 hour Christian worship service! We will be located in Hyde Chapel at the YMCA and will have worship music, testimonies, and prayer stations
that will create a sacred space for anyone and everyone to experience. We will start at 8 a.m. on Saturday and have the doors open until 8 a.m. on Sunday morning, please come and go at your own convenience. We hope to see you there!
barium is a place where loved ones can come, meditate and celebrate the lives of those who have passed, and what setting can be more tranquil than one nestled in a wooded area surrounded by our beautiful mountains. Faith, Fellowship and Fun on Wednesday afternoon is something new at PCCR. We are pleased to invite the community to attend a very informal time of gathering, sing “campfire hymns” led by Kent Meyer and Dot Rohrbaugh on guitars and hear a brief meditation by Pastor Christine Dempsey. Come as you are! Not a Presbyterian? No matter! This gathering is for all faiths and all ages. When? Wednesday July 23rd and Wed-
place of worship, fellowship and a music center for the entire Estes valley. The Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies is known for its music and traditional worship. Come join us Sunday mornings at 10:00 a.m. and stay after worship for our fellowship time in Fellowship Hall. The church is located at 1700 Brodie Ave. in Estes Park. Hope to see you there.
Estes Park Quota Club Wants To Help! EspañolEstes Park Quota Club quiere ayudar!"
True or False: Hearing loss only happens in your senior years. FALSE! Hearing loss can happen at any age. Use of earbuds or headphones at a high volume can result in hearing loss caused by noise at any age. Learn more about Quota Club's Hearing and Speech work in Estes Park at https://estesparkquota.com/contact-info
Verdadero o falso: la pérdida de audición solo ocurre en los últimos años. ¡FALSO! La pérdida de audición puede ocurrir a cualquier edad. El uso de auriculares o audífonos a un volumen alto puede provocar pérdida de audición causada por el ruido a cualquier edad. Obtenga más información sobre el trabajo de audición y habla de Quota Club en Estes Park en https://estesparkquota.com/contact-info
Volunteer
Our mission is to empower youth and community members to achieve their full potential through mentoring, prevention education, and strategic partnership.
Mentor Roles
Work with one youth for an average of three hours per week for a minimum of a year
Build a one-to-one friendship and engage in group activities with other partnerships
Stay in regular contact with a Program Coordinator from Partners for training and support
Must be 21+, pass a background check, and have reliable transportation for self and youth
Work with one youth for an average of one hour per week for an entire school year
Build a one-to-one friendship and offer support in the school setting
Stay in regular contact with a Program Coordinator from Partners for training and support
Must be 18+, pass a background check, and have reliable transportation to youth's school
Support regular group mentoring activities by transporting youth to planned activities and helping our program staff facilitate the activity
Commit to attending at least six activities each year
Must be 21+, pass a background check, and have reliable transportation for self and youth
Our Programs
Our kids are ages 7-18, with diverse interests and needs. We focus on providing services to youth who are facing challenges and need extra support.
We match youth with mentors based on shared interests, common values, and logistical preferences. Partners provides volunteers with training and support, to help every mentor succeed.
Our program has impressive results, and the local youth who participate gain social skills, improved confidence, better decision-making abilities, and hope for the future.
Partners currently has mentoring programs and volunteer opportunities in all of Larimer County and northern Weld County.
Sign Up at www.poweredbypartners.org
AA & Al-Anon Meetings
Al-Anon (a 12-step program for family and friends of Alcoholics)
Thursdays from noon-1:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave.in the upstairs lounge, Estes Park. AA of Glen Haven
Every Monday night at the Town Hall at 6:30 p.m.
Early Worms
Monday thru Saturday at 7:00 a.m. (Monday through Saturday hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839 PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave.
Early Worms Women's Meeting 12 p.m. Mondays
St. Bartholomew, 880 MacGregor Ave. Mixed Nuts Al-Anon Group
We meet Friday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St. Bartholomew Church. The meeting is hybrid with Zoom #285 426 3644 PW: serenity.
One Day at a Time
Location: Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave., Estes Park
Tuesday at Noon Open discussion Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Open discussion
Saturday at 5:30 p.m.
Meetings are in the lounge on the main floor by the front entrance to the church.
Park upstairs by the main entrance of the church.
Alcoholics Anonymous Fall River Group, 453 West Elkhorn, Estes Park. Current Schedule as of 6/17/2025
By: Judi Smith
The Vitality Of Estes
One of the factors that makes a community sustainable is new residents. New brings change and change destroys stagnation. When my husband and I chose a “forever" town in 2010, we evaluated the schools, the library, the local non-profits, and the business community. We checked out the development code and we attended town board meetings – for multiple towns. We wanted a place that would allow us to realize our dreams, for ourselves and for the property we purchased.
True, there are things about Estes that I would never change, mostly the feeling of being a village. People here truly care about one another. Yet, unlike many small communities, we welcome newcomers who want to stay. It's this cohesive community that make Estes unique. We wish everyone (from infant to elderly) success.
The school district we have now is even better than what existed back then. It goes well beyond teaching facts and figures. The old method of encouraging memorization and repetition does not suffice in today's world. To succeed today, students must know how to think creatively, form opinions, and defend their position – while still keeping an open mind and treating those who disagree with respect.
variety is limited on underwear and swimsuits, but there are some. I, personally, would love to have office supplies, especially the everyday things like computer paper, (preferably by the case), file folders, LED lightbulbs (again, in quantity) and pencil lead for mechanical pencils.
When buying locally, it saves the $68 a trip down to “the valley.” This estimate is figured by the IRS rate for business based upon the average cost including replacement for a 100 mile round trip. Shopping locally also keeps your money circulating within the community, improving the local economy. Estes has a variety of lawyers, accountants, and medical personnel (many of whom do not live here) – but repair professionals (vehicle, plumbing, electrical, computer, fire mitigation, sewing machines, landscape artists, etc.) are more difficult to find and often have long wait-lists. If you offer something I missed herein, please let me know.
Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings
Mon.-12 p.m.-In person and Zoom-O, D
Monday-7 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, BB
Tuesday-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Weds.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Weds.-7 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Thurs.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Friday-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Sat.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D Sun.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, ABSI
Sunday-7 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D
Last Monday of each month is birthday night; 6 p.m. Potluck, 7 p.m. Speaker.
*** Contribute via VENMO @FallRiverGroupAA
Other 12 Step Meetings Held at Fall River Group
Thursday-7 p.m. Narcotics Anonymous “New Horizons” Group-O, D In Person and Zoom 705 555 830
**O=open to all D=discussion
BB=Big Book
Zoom Meetings-Everyday at noon
Zoom #999 829 166 (no password needed).
Monday Zoom Big Book study at 7 p.m. #654 598 884 (no password needed).
Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Zoom #999 829 166
Online AA and NA Meetings at www.intherooms.com
There are 70 AA Meetings and 30 NA Meetings a week.
The public library here strives to offer a varied program with activities for all ages: preschool, elementary, tweens, teens, young adults, parents, empty nesters, retirees and “the elderly.” This results in a varied program. When I was a kid, libraries only offered books. Then they added music and movies. Today, our library offers meeting space, book clubs, take home “kits," computer classes, and the Maker Space. This is an incomplete list. Anyone with enough time to invest can find something appealing.
The most unique thing about Estes non-profits is the collaborative spirit. This is due in large part to the efforts of the Estes Non-profit Network (ENN) -originally conceived as Estes Park Nonprofit Resource Center (EPNRC). Our extensive array of non-profits provide a diversion for the newly retired, allowing them to do some of the things they wish they had time to pursue during their career.
Our business community offers important staples locally. In Estes Park, my own household has recently purchased groceries, hardware, a microwave, several fans, crafting gloves. We realize the
Lower population numbers tend to discourage franchise shops and big box stores from entering the market. This is okay with me. I prefer the smaller, more creative, entrepreneurial shops. But smaller populations also drive up the cost of roads and utilities and other services we have come to expect. Less services discourages population growth but less people results in less services. This is not the road to sustainability. It takes the average couple in Estes at least 60 hours a week of employment to cover the expense of living here. More for families with children. This leaves most parents and many other individuals without the time to enjoy our library or the many festivals that Estes offers. Even hiking takes time, although just living in our nature oriented atmosphere is a pleasure. Due to a combination of cost-of-living and a “lack of recreational activity" for the young adults, we seem to be losing this age group in our population.
Perhaps due largely to cost, we are also losing children (and parents). Less employees means longer wait times, for now, and disappearing services / products in the future. What can be done to encourage a broader age-range and a stable population? How can we control rising expenses? Or … do we want to become a retirement community and simply settle for mail order or trips down to the valley … and what then happens when we become “elderly?" Agree? Disagree? Questions? Opinions? judi@signsandwishes.com
Immediate opening for seasonal kitchen help.
Wed-Sun from 2:30-9:00. Duties include food prep, some cooking during service, clean up. Call 970-586-4696 if interested. YMca of the RocKieS 2515 tunn
Drivers
Year round Part-time CDL drivers with passenger endorsment starting at $32.00 an hour plus tips.
Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle 551 South Saint Vrain Ave
of the RocKieS
tech n icia n – Staff ho u Si ng Specia l iSt This position supports the work of the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center, which operates a mission-based family and group conference and retreat center, serving more than 150,000 guests annually. The Building Maintenance Tech – Staff Housing Specialist is primarily responsible for the maintenance and repair of all aspects of Estes Park Center’s staff housing, with a special emphasis on Glacier Lodge, the year-round staff housing neighborhood. The majority of the work will be ongoing building and grounds maintenance and repair as requested by the Buildings Maintenance Supervisor. Additional maintenance and repair work will also occur in all buildings at Estes Park Center. This position pays $20.50$23/hour with great benefits including on-site housing, health, dental, and life insurance, discounted childcare, generous PTO/vacation, ski passes, and participation in the YMCA Retirement Fund.
, 80511
ho u SeKeepi ng cRew l ea
This position is primarily responsible for successfully leading a housekeeping crew out of YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center while cleaning cabins and lodges, with an emphasis on quality, accountability, efficiency and timeliness in preparing guest accommodations according to association housekeeping standards. The ideal candidate must be highly motivated and effective to lead others. This position pays $19.63$22.21/hour with great benefits including discounted childcare, on-site childcare, medical benefits, participation in YMCA retirement fund, and generous PTO/vacation.
Rocky Mountain Conservancy Retail Clerks
Seeking team players to work at our Nature Stores within the Rocky Mountain National Park Full- me/Part- me/Seasonal 8 – 40 hours per week ast ace hi h olu e en iron ent
Glacier Creek Construction is seeking a full-time experienced Carpenter to join our team.
We're looking for a dependable, skilled professional who takes pride in quality craftsmanship. Pay is based on experience Must have your own tools and reliable transportation Please send resumes to admin@glaciercreekinc.com
Seeking a team player to work with the Conservancy’s retail team in warehouse opera ons in RMNP.
Seasonal osition ; $ – $ 0/hr
Assists with warehouse opera ons, pricing and product delivery
Receives and stocks merchandise, large boxes and pallets, and displays
Knowledge of inventory quality control a plus
See full posi on descrip on on our website before applying Call 970-586-0121 for applica on informa on & ques ons; to apply, e-mail: Opportunity@RMConservancy.org RMConservancy.org
PERMIT TECHNICIAN –ADMINSTRATIVE ASSISTANT
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Interfacing with all customers to service their building department related needs.
• Issuing and/or tracking permits through the permitting process, beginning with application acceptance, plan review, inspections and permit closure.
• Establishing and maintaining systems to ensure that all files, letters, reference manuals, field inspection reports, permit files, blueprints, drawings, and other data or material is maintained in an organized fashion.
• Assisting with public record requests and record conversion.
Primarily responsible for oversight of the leadership responsible for the cleanliness of and timeliness in preparing lodge rooms and cabins for guest occupancy. The Housekeeping Manager must effectively use forecasting techniques, scheduling and proper work assignments to successfully achieve this goal. The Housekeeping Manager will recognize and address productivity issues on a daily basis in coordination with the Director of Operations. This position pays $20.50 - $23.00/hour with medical benefits, participation in the YMCA retirement fund, discounted childcare, family membership, generous PTO/vacation, and many more employee perks.
Apply in person: 1260 Big Thompson Ave. or email resume: info@estesresort.com Silver Saddle Inn
foo d SeRvice office Ma n a g eR
This position reports to the Association’s Food Service Director. The primary responsibility of the Food Service Office Manager is to support the Director with the administrative needs of the Food Service Department. Duties include but are not limited to: scheduling, payroll, staffing, departmental calendars, as well as liaison between Food Service and other EPC and EXO departments. This is a full-time, year-round position paying $20.00 - $23.00/hour, DOE, with full benefit packages for health, dental, and life insurance, generous PTO/ Vacation, participation in YMCA Retirement Fund, YMCA of the Rockies membership, discounted childcare, and the Colorado Gold ski pass.
j o bs.ym ca r oc k ie s. o rg
We’re hiring for all positions starting at $22.61/hr.:
To apply visit www.albertsonscompanies.com select Careers then search for Estes Park, CO to locate jobs After your application has been completed, please call 970.586.4447.
You've just found it! Fun family business
Outdoor World and Rocky Mountain Connection retail clothing and equipment year round stores need you. Starting at $18 per hour. Retail selling, merchandising. You must be cheerful and like people. Choose your hours. Ages 15 to 80. Call Ernie 24 hours a day Mon - Sun. 970 232 8290.
Homes
Serene perch at edge of forest, 5 mins to Estes center. Rare opening July 1. 3.5 bedrooms, 1.5 baths. $2500/mo. + utils, 1-yr. lease. Monthly option for $+. No pets. brevy@yahoo.com
3 bedroom, 2 bath with laundry and hook up for a hot tub, attached finished garage on a 1/2 acre lot. Great neighborhood and close to town. Rent is $3,000/mo. Pets are negotiable. Available August 1st. Contact admin@ glaciercreekinc.com
Commercial Rentals
OFFICE SPACE For Rent
Private Parking, 2 offices, each w/ separate entrances, shared bathroom. Rent 1 or both. $400 ea. 970-290-4488
Boutique Retail Space across from Bond Park in Downtown Estes Park
Available July 1. $1,226 / month, 3-Year Lease. Please call (425) 818-4158 to inquire.
6 RIVERFRONT OFFICES FOR RENT
Incls: Private Parking, Utilities, WiFi, A/C, Alarm System, Kitchenette Upscaled Log Building $3,000 mo. 460 Prospect V illage Dr., EP
Call Bret Freedman 970-215-2494
“A clean home is a happy home” Book us for your next cleaning!
Ford Econoline 150, 1996 only two owners with ONLY 93K miles, truly excellent condition, electric folding double bed. Comes with storage cover, locally serviced, $10,800. A must see! 303-995-8130.
Expert Landscaping – 20 Years Experience From garden makeovers to custom outdoor spaces, I’ll bring your vision to life with quality and care. (970) 213-3102Orkin43@gmail.com
Sewing/Alterations
Remixed Custom Sewing Services. Small Furniture, Restoration, Outdoor and RV Cushions, and Commercial Upholstery. Call for appointment 970-492-5446
Double axel flat-bed trailer $750 or best offer 970-391-3676
Free to a good home: Upright piano, CableNelson 1951, very good condition. Free, must be able to load and move piano yourself 972-998-3942
Garage Sales
Neighborhood Garage Sale. 631 Chapin Lane Saturday only 8-1 30 years of stuff! 2 oak tables, carpet cleaner, 2 sets of china, decor ceramics and much much more!
Estate Sales
ESTATE/MOVING SALE
Need to have one, but seems overwhelming. We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL JUDI 970-215-5548
Misc. Sales
Desert Edge Farm is back with Palisade peaches Saturdays starting July 12, at EP Mountain Shop. Contact Info: DesertEdgeFarms@ gmail.com or 720-202-4676
Notice of Sale Notice is given pursuant to the Title 38 article 21.5103 of the Colorado Revised Statutes, as amended, a public sale to be held 7/26/2025 at 8am at Northend Self Storage 1775 Wildfire Rd, Estes Park, Co. 80517. For the sale of items in unit 674 belonging to Jake Bausman. Last known address 1310 Manford Unit G6, Estes Park, Co. 80517.
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER
Gale Baniak - Owner/Barber Racheal Giroux - Barber
970-586-2000 • 415 W. Elkhorn Ave. 100 feet North of the Bighorn Restaurant No Appointment Necessary (for straight razor shaves only)
