A curious moose calf lounges in the sun-drenched grass of Allenspark, Colorado — proving that even the wildest places have their softest moments.
Glen Haven Area Volunteer Fire Department Pancake Breakfast This Saturday. See pages 20-21
Photo by Denise Motta
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It's summer and we just passed the 4th of July, so let's talk tourism.
There’s a wide variety of opinions on the topic of what factors impact tourism behavior and numbers. What levers do we change or adjust to keep our tourist trade healthy? As the Town Board considers all of its various business, we must weigh how our decision impact our tourism industry.
effective way to earn a living up here, Estes has found ways to house, entertain, and feed our visitors, and has offered goods and services to sell to those guests.
Well, we got the Loop done.
This was the topic when Jamie Palmesano (of Brownfield's store fame) spoke at our June 24th Town Board meeting. Jamie’s talk was a shining example of how public discourse should be approached. Her gentle and insightful presentation was powerful and helpful.
Ms. Palmesano spoke of the myriad factors that impact tourism numbers and behavior. She mentioned RMNP reservations, paid parking, the Loop, “outrageous lodging prices,” the economy, politics, Visit Estes Park, even “complaining locals.” There's probably others, like competition from other destinations, post-COVID societal changes and cost increases, and more.
Her point was that it's the sum of many factors that are affecting visitation patterns and tourist behavior. She then asked the Town Board members to use our positions to ensure that visitation remains stable and healthy.
Indeed, we should...
Jamie ended her talk with a quote from Trustee Mark Igel that stated that the decisions we make today can fundamentally change the nature and character of Estes. I agree. You've heard me mention the Iroquois philosophy of the “seventh generation:” What impact do our actions have on our descendants seven generations from now?
I met with Jamie to explore her statements. We certainly agree that tourism is essential to the success of Estes. Since the first settlers realized that tourism was an
We all benefit in some way from tourism. Even those of us not involved in the tourist trade rely on the Town services that are fed by the influx of tourism dollars.
Jamie's key concern is that we have “overwhelmingly fewer repeat visitors.” Obviously, the world changes and generational cycles move forward, but are our policies and programs causing those visitors to now stay home or go elsewhere?
She believes that there are noticeably fewer people in town. (I’ll be eager to see the June and July economic dashboard reports when they come out; May shows Park numbers up.) Jamie also contends that the atmosphere, vibe, energy, pulse, of the town has changed. Vibe and pulse are certainly subjective considerations. I've always felt, and still feel, a palpable vibrancy and strong pulse in Estes, in the shops, the arts, the dialogue. But I'm just one person.
I do believe that the pulse of America has changed in recent decades, and not all for the good, with lots of bad behavior in the public and online eye. (I will continue to advocate for all of us to avoid joining in that negative culture.) Jamie said that they hear from countless people that Estes is less welcoming and friendly. That should concern all of us. Certainly, a welcoming and friendly attitude is the single most powerful tool we have.
Wouldn't it be nice if “happy attitudes” solved all challenges? I'd love that, but we live in the real world. A cheery smile won’t address all of work on infrastructure, budgets, staff, policies, though it doesn’t hurt to maintain that cheery smile. So, which of the many factors are having what type of impact on visitation and guest behavior? Which dials do we turn to improve our tourism flow?
Timed entry definitely impacts tourist patterns, but is not in our direct control.
Should Visit Estes Park's primary mission be the winter season? Of course not. As Hippocrates said, first, do no harm, i.e., first, keep the summer “golden goose” season strong and try to make the “summer shoulder months” even better (May, June, September, October).
Jamie raised concerns about destination stewardship. She encouraged collaborative, adaptive, people-focused stewardship and sustainability, as opposed to having those goals be elitist, exclusionary, and inflexible. She's on target there. In my simplest view, much of stewardship is common sense. I think of the old anti-littering ads, with the Native American chief with a tear in his eye as he watches the litter blow by. Smokey the Bear reminds us of proper use of fire. There’s many elements of stewardship: Don't waste water; don't throw trash all about; don't step on the flowers; don't use the river as a toilet; etc. Stewardship is awareness. There’s a lot more to resource preservation and kindness to the environment, but it doesn’t have to be onerous. It should be woven into our consciousness by parents, teachers, peers, and all. Treat the planet with the golden rule like you should treat other people.
Thanks to Jamie for her thoughts, and to all of you who share your thoughts and opinions in civil fashion. In her letter, she invited me to a hypothetical dinner. While she created challenges and hurdles to that invitation that were analogous to the Estes challenges facing tourists, I do believe that we would have had great conversation at the table when I finally got there.
Man Arrested On Arson Charges After Illegal Campfire Causes Significant Damages
Estes Park Police arrested a man on suspicion of felony arson after an illegal campfire spread the evening of July 10. A 41 year old male from Wisconsin, allegedly started a campfire on the public right-of-way next to West Elkhorn Avenue near Valley Road in Estes Park. The fire escaped containment and quickly spread through the area damaging the surrounding landscape including many large trees.
Police officers and firefighters from the Estes Valley Fire Protection District were on scene within six minutes of the 911 call
at 8:27 p.m. Officers detoured West Elkhorn traffic and initiated an investigation while firefighters contained the fire. The fire was contained within 24 minutes of first responders arriving on scene and no evacuations were necessary. Firefighters confirmed that the fire was completely out the morning of July 11.
“Downtown Estes Park and nearby neighborhoods were spared from a disaster due to the quick response of our firefighters, law enforcement and dispatchers,” noted Estes Park Chief of Police Ian Stewart.
The male remained at the scene of the fire, where he was detained by officers. He was later arrested and transported to the Larimer County Jail on charges of Felony Arson, Misdemeanor Criminal Mischief, and Misdemeanor Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
The individual is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. No further information is available for release at this time.
Watch Out For Bears While Camping, Hiking, & Backpacking In Colorado Bear Country
Colorado is home to a large population of black bears–estimated at 17,000-20,000 animals–and the majority of them live in areas where humans camp, hike, and backpack. This summer, CPW is reminding the public to get wise about bears to avoid conflicts when enjoying our wonderful outdoors.
Most conflicts between people and bears can be traced to easily accessible trash, human food or other attractants with strong odors. A bear’s natural drive to eat can overcome its fear of humans. When bears become too comfortable around humans, they can destroy property or even threaten human safety.
As of July 11th, 2025, CPW has received 1,563 reports of bear activity across the state.
“Properly storing your food, using bear boxes and bear-resistant canisters when available, and locking your property can keep you safe and can save a bear’s life,” said CPW Area 15 Wildlife Manager Adrian Archuleta, who covers the Durango area.
“If you have even a sighting here in southwest Colorado, please report it to CPW so we can be aware and help educate campers and camp hosts on actions they can take to keep bears out of campsites. If a bear does come into camp, try to scare it away and don't let it feel welcome. Yell, bang pots and pans, or use your car horn, air horn or a whistle and make sure the bear has an escape route. Hazing a bear away can not only keep you safe but also the next camper who visits that site.
"When you are backpacking or camping in an undeveloped area, secure your food properly and avoid attracting bears. Of course, it's always smart practice to bring bear spray with you when recreating or camping in Colorado.”
CPW has prepared a variety of information to help you get bear wise and prevent bears from wandering into your campsites this summer. Some of that information is summarized below:
Keep animals away from your campsite When camping in bear country, the easiest way to avoid bears is to not have anything in your campsite that has a smell that will attract them.
• Stash your trash in bear-resistant containers when available or lock in your car or RV.
• Store food, beverages and other items safely in airtight containers in your trunk and never leave them where an animal can smell them, including your tent.
• Keep a safe cooking area and eat, cook
and prepare food at least 100 yards from your sleeping area.
• Keep a clean tent and don’t bring anything with an odor including food, beverages, scented toiletries, gum, sunscreen, candles and insect repellant.
• Lock RVs and vehicles before going to sleep or leaving your campsite.
What if a bear tries to enter a campsite?
Black bears are highly intelligent and respond uniquely to people and situations. Black bears seldom attack unless they feel threatened, cornered, or are provoked. If a bear comes near your campsite, do your best to safely chase it away. Yell, blow a whistle, clap your hands, and make other loud noises. But never approach a bear.
Backpacking & hiking
Understanding bear behaviors and your surroundings can help avoid unwanted encounters with wildlife on trails.
• Stay alert at all times. Avoid using headphones and be extra cautious at dawn and dusk.
• Keep dogs leashed at all times.
• NEVER feed or approach a bear.
• Double bag food and pack out all food waste (including apple cores or banana peels) to avoid encouraging bears to see trails as a food source.
• Respect forage areas. If your usual trail runs through berry patches, oak brush or other known food sources, be extra vigilant. Make extra noise by periodically clapping or calling out to alert bears to your presence. What if you surprise a bear on a trail?
Stay calm, stand still and speak to it in a firm tone of voice. The bear will most likely identify you and leave. Never run from a bear. If the bear does not leave, slowly wave your arms to make yourself look bigger. Continue facing the bear, slowly back away and keep slowly moving away until the bear is out of sight. If the bear gets within 40 feet, use bear spray.
If a bear attacks, do not play dead. Fight back with anything available, including trekking poles, small knives, or even your bare hands.
Sharing outdoor spaces with wildlife makes Colorado a wonderful place to live. Bear sightings from a safe distance can be a rare and wonderful experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Staying aware of your surroundings while on trails and camping helps keep bears wild and helps reduce humanbear conflicts.
For more resources and information on staying wise about bears, visit cpw.state.co.us/living-bears.
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 July 6th, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 29 calls for service. This included:
• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 4
• Alarm Activation: 8
• Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA): 2
• Assist: 2
• Smoke Investigation: 2
• Mutual Aid: 4
• Odor Investigation: 1
• Structure Fire – Unfounded: 1
• Wildland Fire: 2
• Elevator Rescue: 1
• HazMat Investigation: 1
• Service Call: 1 estesvalleyfire.org
Trunks, Treasures, & Timeless Deals At The Estes Park Woman’s Club Sale
Clear out your calendars and your car trunks! The Estes Park Woman’s Club is hosting its much-anticipated Trunk and Treasures Sale on Saturday, July 26th from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church, located at 920 Big Thompson Avenue. Whether you're on the hunt for kitchen gadgets, funky art, stylish clothing (for men and women!), kids’ toys, or just some good old-fashioned thrifting fun, this sale is your one-stop-shop for surprises and steals! You’ll find both new and gently used household items, all
priced to thrill and support a great cause.
Every penny raised benefits the Estes Park Woman’s Club, the town’s oldest philanthropic nonprofit. For decades the club has given back to our community. Now is your chance to give and go home with something fabulous!
Got treasures to donate? We’re still accepting items! Call Ingrid Drouin at 847-337-7126 to arrange your donation.
Don’t miss this treasure trove of a sale! Amazing deals await, and your support makes a difference!
This Weekend-An Evening Of One Acts With The Fine Arts Guild Of The Rockies
The Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies presents An Evening of One Acts July 18, 19, and 20. 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. Bill, a college student holding a number of part time jobs is accused of theft by one of his employers. He doesn’t deny that he had access the stolen property, but the witnesses called to testify are contradictory and what role will circumstantial evidence play? Directed by Lars Sage, the cast includes Elizabeth Lanning, David Czapp, Steven Siefers, Scott Manning, Henry Thomas, Jenn Bass, Kathy Littlejohn, Marc Williams, Bridget Rago, Craig Carrico, Rachel Ryan, Sherry Unruh, Greg Lanning, and Geneva Thomas.
Zoo Story, a quiet, orderly man’s peaceful moment is interrupted by an uninvited visitor with a story to tell. What begins as small talk soon spirals into a gripping, unpredictable encounter – one that grows darker, funnier, and more disturbing with every word. As secrets are unearthed and boundaries pushed, the line between the civilized and the savage begins to blur. Why did Jerry go to the Zoo? The answer may change everything. Directed by Jenn Bass, and featuring Kurtis Kelly and Tristan Andersen.
Performances will be at the Estes Park High School Auditorium, 7:00 p.m. on July 18 and 19, 2:00 p.m. July 20. Tickets are available at Macdonald Book Shop, on line at fineartsguild.org and at the door. Adults are $20, Seniors are $18 and youth 6-18 years old are $12.
A park bench. A sunny afternoon. And then – a stranger. In Edward Albee’s The
Please note The Zoo Story has adult content.
Estes Park’s Ellie Kostadinov Competes At USA Cycling Endurance Mountain Bike National Championships
The best endurance mountain bikers in the country are currently in Roanoke, Virginia for a week of high-end competition.
Estes Park’s Ellie Kostadinov, 16, is in attendance and is scheduled to race three events at the festival—the Cross Country Marathon (XCM), the Short Track (XCC) and the Cross Country (XCO).
The week kicked off strong with Kostadinov placing 6th in the Cross Country Marathon on Monday at Carvins Cove on the Hollins University campus.
The Cross-Country Marathon is the longest, most grueling format of the week. Riders tackle 40+ miles of rugged backcountry trails, racing for multiple hours over steep climbs and rocky singletrack. It’s all about endurance, pacing, and managing technical terrain deep in the woods.
Kostadinov raced the extremely competitive field as the contestants battled 95 degree temperatures and 90% humidity (it’s July in Virginia, after all). Kostadinov’s category is one of the strongest groups, with the young athletes beating the times of the two higher age groups by considerable margins. Kostadinov suffered a crash on the second lap of the course, causing her to narrowly miss securing a spot on the podium.
ished the race crashed,” she continued. “I got off the easiest with some scrapes and bruises, and my pinky finger is a bit unhappy,” Kostadinov laughed. “The other girls will be okay, but it’s a bummer to crash in a race.”
“It was a fun race and I tried hard. The course was tough and it was hot and humid, but I raced strong. Unfortunately, though, I crashed, which cost me a lot of time,” Kostadinov said.
“All three girls on my team who fin-
Kostadinov will race the Elite Short Track at Elmwood Park in downtown Roanoke on Thursday and the Elite Cross Country at Roanoke County’s Explore Park off the Blue Ridge Parkway on Sunday. Stay tuned for those results!
Estes Park Jazz Big Band To Present Concert On July 20th
The Estes Park Jazz Big Band will present an evening concert this Sunday, July 20th starting at 7:00 p.m. The free concert will be held at Hyde Chapel, YMCA of the Rockies.
Chuck Varilek will direct the local jazz band which is in its 34th year of providing music for Estes Park residents and visitors.
Featured vocalists for this concert will be Dr. Cory Workman, who will sing “Beyond The Sea,” and Nelson Burke, who will sing “You’ve Got A Friend In Me” from the movie “Toy Story.” The Big Band will perform big band era standards including “Bye Bye Blackbird,” “Pennsylvania 6-5000,” “Don’t Get Around
Much Anymore,” and “This Can’t Be Love.” The band will also perform several other songs in a variety of styles. Since the concert is just a couple weeks past July 4th, the Jazz Big Band will perform “Armed Forces Medley” to honor our veterans and active military. Any current or former members of the Armed Forces in attendance will be asked to stand during the playing of their service song.
The Estes Park Jazz Big Band is made up of musicians from Estes Park and surrounding communities. For more information about the band or the concert, please contact Chuck Varilek at 970-227-8704.
Ellie Kostadinov at the 2025 USA Cycling Endurance Mountain Bike National Championships in Roanoke, Virginia, July 2025
Get To Know The “Enterprise Zone” & How Your Business May Be Able To Earn Tax Credits
By: Estes Chamber Economic Development & Workforce Council
The Colorado legislature created the Enterprise Zone (EZ) Program to encourage development in economically distressed areas of the state. There are currently 16 designated enterprise zones, all defined by their high unemployment rates, low per capita income, or slow population growth. Larimer County’s Enterprise Zone covers a significant portion of the Estes Valley, including Estes Park, parts of Fort Collins, Loveland, Berthoud, and Wellington. Enterprise zone areas within rural counties that meet additional economic distress criteria, can earn additional tax credits when adding net new employees to their businesses.
“OEDIT is currently embarking on a two-year process to redesignate the enterprise zones,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. “The updated criteria could mean that several areas in Estes Park may no longer be eligible for enterprise zone tax credits based on improvement in one or more of the criteria. While Larimer County Economic Development is applying for the redesignation with the input from the Chamber’s Economic Development & Workforce Council (EDWC), we are encouraging businesses to get pre-certified and apply for their eligible benefits before any potential changes go into effect,” she added.
In designated enterprise zones, businesses may be eligible for tax credits, including:
• Investment Tax Credit (3% of equipment purchases)
• Job Training Tax Credit (12% of qualified training expenses)
• New Employee Tax Credit ($1,100 per new employee)
• Employer Sponsored Health Insurance Credit ($1,000 per covered employee for the first two years)
• Research and Development Tax Credit (3% of increased R&D expenditures)
• Vacant Building Rehabilitation Tax Credit (up to 25% of rehabilitation costs)
• Commercial Vehicle Investment Tax Credit (1.5% of purchase price)
• Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Manufacturing and Mining
eral laws, as businesses in certain industries (like marijuana) may not qualify for Enterprise Zone benefits. You should also review the specific requirements for each type of tax credit you are interested in (e.g., job training, investment, etc.), as there are specific criteria for each benefit. Please note that these zones can change and will be updated in January 2026.
Once you've confirmed your business location is in an Enterprise Zone, the next step is to pre-certify through the online application portal of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT). You’ll find zone maps, precertification details, and tax credit applications at oedit.colorado.gov/ enterprise-zone-program.
Here's the process for pre-certification:
• Access the OEDIT application portal: Visit the OEDIT website and navigate to the Enterprise Zone section to find the link to the application portal.
• Create an account or log in: If you're a new user, you'll need to create an account. Be aware that it may take a few days to activate your account for security reasons.
• Complete the pre-certification application: This application confirms your business's eligibility for Enterprise Zone tax credits.
• Pre-certify each business location: If your business has multiple locations within the zone, you'll need to pre-certify each one separately.
• Apply in advance of eligible activities: You must apply for pre-certification before undertaking activities that would qualify for the tax credit.
• Annual re-certification: Pre-certification is required annually. You can submit your application up to three months before the start of your business's tax year, or at any time during the tax year. However, credits can only be earned from the date of certification forward, not retroactively.
If you have an interest in taking advantage of these tax credits, you first need to pre-qualify for the Colorado Enterprise Zone program. Your business must be located within a designated Enterprise Zone. Your business must also operate in accordance with both state and fed-
Your application will be reviewed by the local Enterprise Zone Administrator. After your pre-certification is approved, you will proceed to the certification stage, usually at the end of your tax year, to claim the actual credits for activities performed during the pre-certification period. You'll need the Enterprise Zone Pre-Certification number from your approved application for the certification process.
“The Chamber and EDWC will continue to follow the re-designation discussions and bring forth resources to support local businesses, as they become available,” DePasquale concluded.
Not Quite Ready For Longs Peak? Neither Are We!
If you live in Estes Park, you’ve probably heard the legend of Longs Peak — the towering 14er that calls out to adventurous souls armed with crampons, climbing ropes, and lungs of steel. But let’s be honest… not all of us are quite ready for that kind of alpine ambition. Some of us are just looking for a good pair of shoes, a gentle trail, and maybe a wildflower or two along the way.
Sound familiar?
You’re not alone.
That’s why Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley started our Hiking Club — created for folks who love nature but prefer their ad ventures at a more re laxed pace. Whether you’re a seasoned trail walker or just lacing up your boots for the first time, you’re invited to join us for monthly hikes that celebrate the beauty of our backyard — without any pressure to summit more than a small hill.
things light with trivia, stories, and plenty of encouragement.
Here’s what you need to know:
• Next Hike: Monday, July 21st, 2025 — we’ll explore the Medicine Bow Trail in Rocky Mountain National Park.
• Meet at 8:00 a.m. in the parking lot at Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley, 2200 Mall Road, Estes Park, CO 80517.
• We’ll carpool to the trailhead and plan to return around 1:00 p.m.
These hikes are free and designed for all ability levels. No experience necessary — just bring your sense of adventure, comfortable shoes, and a water bottle.
Led by Don Stewart, a former Park Ranger with decades of experience and a nearly complete checklist of trails in Rocky Mountain National Park, our outings are part leisurely stroll, part nature class, and all-around good fun. Don’s deep knowledge of the land is only rivaled by his love for it — and he’ll keep
If you’ve ever felt like hiking in Estes is only for the elite few who’ve conquered Longs Peak, we get it. But this club is for the rest of us. We’re not trying to summit anything epic — we’re here to enjoy God’s creation, make new friends, and maybe learn a fun fact or two along the way.
Sign up or for questions, send an email to Don Stewart: dnestewart2@gmail.com.
Michael Dougherty, Attorney General Candidate, In Estes Park On July 27th
Michael Dougherty, candidate for Colorado Attorney General, will be in Estes Park for a meet-and-greet on Sunday, July 27th. This event is scheduled from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Estes Valley Library’s Hondius Room. This event is free and open to the public.
Michael is currently the District Attorney in Boulder County, an office he has held since his 2018 election. Michael has served as a prosecutor and public servant for 27 years, beginning his prosecutorial career in the Manhattan DA’s office in New York.
In 2010, Michael and his family moved to Colorado to work in the Colorado Attorney General’s office where he headed up the Criminal Justice Section. His experience of being part of leadership in the AG’s office has given him an appreciation of the essential role that our AG’s office plays in Colorado’s water rights, environmental issues, consumer protection, worker and public safety, and individual rights.
Since his election to the office of Boulder County District Attorney in 2018, Michael has worked to improve the justice system and community safety. He also has worked to establish problem-solving courts and diversion programs.
Michael’s additional focus on support for victims’ rights was an important aspect of his prosecution of the King Soopers mass murder trial in Boulder in September 2024. In that high-profile case, the team he led received broad acclaim for their work in supporting victims and their families.
In applying the law, Michael speaks of principles, not of politics.
Please come to meet Michael on July 27th and learn firsthand his commitment to making our justice system more effective and more fair.
For more information, see his website at MichaelforAG.com.
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Join The Next Trustee Talk July 24
Community members are invited to join Mayor Gary Hall and Trustee Kirby Hazelton for a Trustee Talk on Thursday, July 24 at 10 a.m. in the Town Board Room, 170 MacGregor Ave. This is an opportunity for community members to discuss local issues with members of the board in an informal setting.
Poet Teow Lim Goh To Speak At
YMCA
Come hear poet Teow Lim Goh read from and discuss her work Bitter Creek: An Epic Poem on Saturday, August 2 at 7 p.m. at the Maude Jellison Library on the campus of the YMCA of the Rockies. Through the eyes of the struggling railroad workers, their families, and the corporation working them to the bones, Teow Lim Goh creates an ode to buried history that blends epic tradition with modern composition and astonishing empathy to ask the question, “What turns ordinary people into monsters?”
Directions to the YMCA library: Upon entering the YMCA off of Spur Highway 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 Maude Jellison Library library at 970-586-3341 extension 1133 with any questions.
In the past couple of weeks, my affiliate Joe weeded through hundreds, if not thousands, of old family photos. He filled a garbage bag with discards and made carefully selected piles to send to each of his sisters and other relatives. (Photos—and other treasures—are easier to part with when we can unload them on someone else rather than throw them away.) His youngest sister told him she didn’t want the collection of photos he set aside for her. “Just throw them away,” she said on the phone.
You see, Pam and her husband are moving soon so they are trying to get rid of their own long-held and no-longerneeded household items, including photo albums full of memories. She doesn’t want more photos.
While downsizing, Pam set aside a few small family pieces she thought we’d like (see…give away rather than throw away). We loaded the heirlooms into the back of Joe’s vehicle: Aunt Blanche’s writing desk, his mom’s very small game table and a coffee table. But that’s it. When Pam got around to offering a variety of lamps, we suddenly remembered we had laundry to do at home. We hopped into the car and sped off before she could sneak one into the back. (Joe left that box of photos on her entryway table.)
Lamps are personal—like art—and say something about who we are. Bold and sassy, soft and curvy, ornate or understated. I loved the lamp my parents had in the family room, with the dark-olive base covered in brown-edged Victorianera dollar bills. It emanated nostalgia and set a warm, cabin-like mood but I didn’t want it in our home. Ditto the variety of table lamps Pam was trying to give away. They were nice, they just wouldn’t feng with our shui. Besides, we already have more lamps than we have space. Stored in the basement are “spare” lamps from both sets of parents’ houses and lights from both our pasts. We also have a very nice chandelier that came from Joe’s mom’s apart-
ment. It is a quality piece but we don’t have a place to hang it, nor is it our style. We’ve tried to sell it at a consignment shop but they won’t take it. Chandeliers aren’t currently hot sellers. So the lovely chandelier sits packed up in a box on the gift-wrapping table. I have threatened to hang it from the bare beams in the basement just to get it out of our way, but I’ve heard some protests, I think from Joe.
The room where I sit to write my column each week bears six lamps and six can lights, plus the piano lamp if that counts. We use every one. There is one at each end of the sofa (couch, davenport…you choose the name), one by each chair, and one by my desk. Decorator websites recommend two lamps per room. But the purpose of a lamp is to shed light in order to make us safe, functional beings. The more light the better, in my illuminated opinion.
The decorator website that recommends two lamps per room also suggests placing a lamp in the hallway. That is simply a prelude to a broken lamp. And a lamp in the kitchen sounds lovely but on our countertop, it would simply collect clutter. I keep two and only two appliances on my counter—the coffeemaker and the toaster. If I wanted to add more stuff to my kitchen’s flat surfaces, there are several appliances I can think of that would be far more useful than a lamp.
I could dive into the confusing world of bulbs, their lumens and watts, energy usage, whether they’re incandescent, halogen, LED, CFL or florescent, three way, soft white, warm white, cool white, horizon daylight, or just plain daylight, but I’m completely in the dark about all of it.
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
The Estes Park Museum 2025 Membership Drive has a goal of adding 30 individuals to its current membership base to total 250 members by September. After the successful revitalization of the program in 2024, the Museum hopes to expand the community of supporters who help cultivate a passion for Estes Park History through activities that preserve, share, and respect the unique history of Estes Park. This Membership Drive runs through July and August, and will culminate in a Member's Social on August 22th, followed by a Members-Exclusive Museum program on September 4th
The membership program is administered through the Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation, Inc. (EPMFF), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports the Museum through fundraising and advocacy. Through this pay-what-youcan program, individuals can become members by donating as little as $35 to the EPMFF, granting access to exclusive content, events, programs, and more. Additional benefits include:
• Invitation to the Annual Membership Appreciation Social
• Invitation for a staff-led tour of the permanent exhibit, Destination: Estes Park
• Access to Member-only events,
tours, exhibit openings, and programs
• Plus-one invitation for all Memberonly events
• Triannual Museum Pieces newsletter connecting Members to the Museum
• 20% off all merchandise and preorder access to select items in the Museum Shop
• Early sign-up for ticketed public events
• Discounts or free admission to paid public tours and programs
• Access to pre-order select Museum Friends Press publications
Help the Estes Park Museum reach its goal of 250 Members by September by giving what you can with the following suggestions: $35 Supporter (minimum), $55 Contributor, $125 Advocate, $300+ Patron.
For more information, or to join the Museum Members program today, please visit estes.org/museum. (Please designate online donations as “2025 Drive Campaign.”) You can also join by sending a check with “membership” in the memo to the EPMFF at 200 4th Street, Estes Park, CO 80517. All membership donations go to the General Fund.
Giving Of Time, Talent And Treasure To Those In Need
By: Brian Schaffer
What would you do if you heard someone screaming, “HELP! I’M DROWNING!?” Depending on your training, I’m sure you would do whatever you could to rescue the person. What about throwing in a life preserver?! It’s a great way to keep them afloat, but without a rope attached to it the person will drift endlessly. Over time a person can drift into dangerous waters, and even though they have a life preserver, they could still lose their life. The ideal action to save a drowning person is to throw them a life preserver with a rope, and then pull them to where you are located in a safe, secure, and stable environment. This will be a place where they can recover from their drowning experience, and determine their next steps. Each week we have a variety of people coming to Crossroads drowning in the circumstances of life, and we have the privilege of throwing them a life preserver to help them get to a better place. I’m grateful for our staff members and volunteers who genuinely care for the people who walk through our doors. Our neighbors in need might not remember everything we say, but they do remember how we made them feel. Loving our neighbors has been the most effective way we have found to transform our community.
pathy until we do something about the need. And then, it becomes an act of compassion; an appropriate response to the call for help. Justin Dillon describes it best: “A call is someone sharing their need. Sharing their oppression. A response is someone saying, I hear you, I get you, and here’s what I’m going to do.” I am extremely grateful for the countless community partners who are connected to Crossroads that are saying, “I hear you, I get you, and here’s what I’m going to do!”
In our world today, we often confuse the heart of compassion that requires a response with the feeling of sympathy that remains idle. Every day we hear about the needs of others, and we sympathize. Sympathy remains only sym-
When you partner with Crossroads Ministry, whether it be with your time, talent or treasure, you are giving to both measurable and immeasurable things. Your generous gift is providing food for the hungry, shelter for the homeless, care for the sick, and hope for the weary. Together, we are committed to lovingly journey with neighbors in need for as long as it takes to help them get to a better place; where they are able to reach their highest level of self-sufficiency. Your regular giving allows us to uphold our promise to the children, teenagers, young adults, seniors, and families we serve. Your willingness to help us financially ensures that Crossroads is sustainable for years to come. Your involvement as a volunteer allows for a personal touch as resources are delivered to meet a need. We can always do more together than a part, so hold on for dear life. Your dear life, and the dear life of others. You can find more ways to partner with us by visiting our website at: www. CrossroadsEP.org
Arena Record Broken By World Champion
By: Dr. Howell F. Wright
If you were at the Rooftop Rodeo on Sunday, July 6th, you witnessed a bit of history in the making. Stetson Dell Wright broke the arena record for bull riding that has stood for six years. Stetson put on a school session on how to ride bulls. He drew a Cervi Championship Rodeo bull named Dialed In. When the gate opened, you could tell Dialed In had no intension of letting the cowboy on his back stay there for the full eight seconds, but Stetson did! He tied the Rooftop Arena record, for bull riding, of 91 points. According to the Rooftop Rodeo Media Director, Ted Harbin, the 91-point record was originally set by Jarrod Ford in 2005 and later matched by Trey Benton in 2012.
So, it is no surprise that Stetson started competing in rodeos in the fourth grade!
What is surprising is that Stetson’s best event is bull riding and he is the only member of the Wright family to compete in that event.
He graduated from Milford (Utah) High School in 2018 with a class of thirty-five students and immediately started working on his permit so he could join the ranks of professional rodeo cowboys. To do this he needed to earn at least $1,000. Well, that first year he won $28,579 riding saddle broncs and $39,490 in bull riding. He did OK.
So, who is Stetson Wright? Right off you know that a rodeo cowboy who earns $3,331,190 is good at what he does. That is what Stetson won in his career through the end of the 2024 season. So far this year his performances are on track to add significantly to that total.
How Stetson became a rodeo cowboy is a family matter. He comes from a family of rodeo greats. His father Cody Wright, and brothers Rusty, Ryder, and Statler, are all rodeo champions. Their event is saddle bronc riding. Cody is a ProRodeo Hall of Famer and is a twotime world champion saddle bronc rider (2008, 2010). Ryder has also won two world titles (2017, 2020). Two of Stetson’s uncles are also world champion saddle bronc riders, Jesse Wright (2012) and Spencer Wright (2014); uncles Jake, Calvin and Alex Wright also compete in saddle bronc riding.
In 2019, his rookie year in the PRCA, he qualified for the National Finals rodeo in Las Vegas. Just to qualify for this rodeo is the dream of every rodeo contestant. For Stetson, he wanted more, and he got it in a sensational way. He won his first all-around world championship and thus became the first rookie to win the all-around title. Since then, his career has continued to skyrocket. He has won eight PRCA World Championships (All-Around, 2019-23; Bull Riding, 2020 and 2022; and Saddle Bronk Riding in 2022). He earned a lot of the money he needed to get to the National Finals in Estes Park at the Rooftop Rodeo. He won the all-around and the bull riding championships at the 2019 Rooftop. In 2023 he did the same thing again. This year he came back to do this hat trick for a third time.
Stetson Wright is a true cowboy and hopefully he will continue to set records for years in the future. With any luck you will be able to see him win his fourth all-around title at the Rooftop Rodeo during the week July 611, 2026. Mark your calendar and be set to see history in the making.
Stetson Dell Wright World Champion All Around Cowboy
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. Enjoy being transported back to the inspiration of the decorative arts and nature of the Art Nouveau period. Period and black-tie dress are encouraged. 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
Scouting Is Still Important For Our Future Leaders
When I joined the Estes Park Boy Scout Troop 8 in March of last year, I personally thought it would be weird and cheesy, but I was wrong. It’s actually fun–and you learn a lot of cool stuff.
To name a few things…you get tutorials on how to tie various knots in ropes, how to make and light fires, how to prepare food for your fellow scouts and leaders on camp outs and how to earn various merit badges.
I give credit to my Dad for me joining, since he was the one who asked me in the first place if I would consider looking into becoming a Boy Scout. The first thing that went in my mind was no way! However my
Dad told me that maybe I should just consider going to one of the meetings and see for myself. I took his advice and attended. When we got there, the Scout Master introduced me to the troop. Little did I know, I knew quite a few of the scouts already. I thought, “This won’t be so bad afterall.” When they got done with the “opening” of the meeting, one of the more experienced scouts there explained to me what Boy Scouts was all about. He told me about the many essential fundraisers they put on to help purchase food/supplies for year round camp outs and summer camping trips. He told me about all the scout ranks and merit badges you could earn. He also told me
about how it encourages scouts to become responsible, organized and prompt and the most exciting part is that they have many opportunities to learn about survival skills that will stay with you for your entire life.
Now that’s cool!
Before I knew it, I was on board with the whole idea of joining and excited for the day I could start! Since I’ve joined I am now a Second Class rank and I have earned eight merit badges so far. My favorite badge I’ve earned is the Pioneering badge (which involves knots.)
Joining the Estes Park Boy Scout Troop 8 is one of the best decisions I have ever made in my youth years, and I highly recommend it for boys around my age (11+), looking for fun and educational opportunities with action packed adventures that will change their lives in many ways.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
Theodore Romig
Wednesday July 23, 2025 9:30–10:30 a.m. Good Samaritan Society –Estes Park Village 1902 Ptarmigan Trail Estes Park, CO
Cook Up Fun And Connection This August with
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.
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 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.
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!
Theodore on a recent Boy Scout camping trip to Moab, UT.
Merry Marthas To Meet On July 25th
The next meeting of the Merry Marthas will be held on Friday, July 25th at 9:30 a.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies on Brodie Avenue.
Merry Marthas is a group of women who sew, knit, crochet, or weave and then donate their finished projects to local charities. New members are always welcome whether experienced or a beginner.
For more information, please call the church at 970-586-4404.
Local First, Value Always: Making The Most Of Your Internet Dollars
As Estes Park’s locally owned and operated broadband utility, Trailblazer is uniquely focused on serving the Estes Valley and nearby areas. Much like other local businesses, Trailblazer thrives with the support of the community it was created to serve. The company was founded to fill a gap in broadband access that larger providers hadn’t addressed, and it remains dedicated to its mission of “Connecting the Community.”
To date, Trailblazer has extended service—without the use of tax revenue—to over 80% of its planned coverage area, reaching Estes Park Power and Communications customers with reliable fiber internet. This same network is also laying the groundwork for future SmartGrid and sustainability initiatives.
But today’s focus is on something that matters to everyone: getting real value
from your internet service. Trailblazer aims to inspire trust by offering straightforward, transparent pricing— free from confusing bundles or surprise fees. What you see is what you get, with no long list of line-item addons. Whether you’re currently a Trailblazer customer or simply exploring your options, comparing providers is a smart way to ensure you’re getting the most for your money. The information below is designed to help you do just that—because making informed decisions benefits the whole community.
Why Comparing Internet Plans Matters
In today’s digital age, having reliable and fast internet is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. Whether you’re working from home, streaming your favorite shows, or staying connected with loved ones, a good internet connection is essential. However, navigating the
complex world of internet pricing can be daunting. In an industry notorious for confusing bills and hidden charges, transparent pricing is a real advantage. When you know exactly what you’ll pay each month—with no surprises—you can budget confidently and avoid the frustration of unexpected costs. According to industry research, customers value clear, easy-to-understand billing, and are more likely to trust and stick with providers who deliver it. Not all internet plans are created equal, and neither are their price tags. Providers often structure their pricing in ways that can make direct comparisons tricky. For example:
down internet speeds if the caps are exceeded.
• Taxes and surcharges: These can vary by location and provider, and they’re not always included in the advertised rate.
If you only look at the quoted monthly price, you might be surprised by your first bill. That’s why it’s a best practice to read the fine print, ask questions, and use comparison tools that break down all the costs—not just the headline rate.
How To Compare Internet Prices
Effectively
When comparing internet prices, consider the following steps:
• Promotional rates: Many ISPs offer low introductory prices that increase significantly after a few months.
• Equipment rental fees: It’s common for providers to charge $10–$15 per month to rent a modem or router— costs that add up quickly if you’re not paying attention.
• Installation and activation fees: Some providers tack on one-time charges that can range from $50 to $200.
• Data overage charges: Even with some “unlimited” data plans, providers will impose data caps and slow
FIBER NOW
1. Check the Fine Print: Look for any additional fees or taxes that might be added to your bill. Some providers charge extra for equipment rental or installation.
2. Evaluate Speed and Reliability: Faster speeds often come with higher prices, but not all providers offer the same level of reliability. A 100% fiberoptic connection, provides superior speed and reliability compared to traditional cable, DSL services and even hybrid coax cable + fiber options.
3. Consider Customer Service: Local providers often offer better customer support, which can be invaluable if you encounter issues with your service.
4. Look for Promotions and Discounts: Keep an eye out for special offers or discounts that can reduce your costs. However, be wary of introductory rates that may increase after a promotional period.
The Value Of Transparent Pricing
Before you sign up for a new internet plan, consider these best practices:
• Ask for a full breakdown of all costs, including equipment, installation, and taxes.
• Check how long promotional rates last and what your price will be after they expire.
• Look for providers that offer transparent, all-inclusive pricing—where the price you see is the price you pay.
• Read reviews and use comparison tools that highlight hidden fees and real customer experiences.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right internet provider is about more than just finding the cheapest option. It’s about getting the best value for your money while supporting businesses that care about your community. Trailblazer Broadband offers a unique combination of speed, reliability, and transparent pricing, making it an excellent choice for residents of Estes Park. By comparing prices carefully and considering the benefits of local support, you can ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck while contributing to the local economy.
Visit TrailblazerBroadband.com or call us today to learn more about the internet service that supports your community.
Flying Varmints
By: Brad Manard
You’ve heard of the Flying Wallendas, the high-wire family act performing since 1780. Originally known as the Great Wallendas, in 1940 after an accident in Akron, Ohio, where they fell from the wire but landed safely, a journalist reported they "fell so gracefully that it seemed as if they were flying." Thus, the Flying Wallendas.
The name has become a cliché and pops into my mind every time I see fly-
photograph varmints living on the tundra, among the rocks and in the wide open grassland where the trees won’t grow. To find them, I watch for the slight movements, try to focus my camera, and every now and then, I get lucky and capture one leaping as if taking off.
ing varmints. Quick and mousey, they scurry like a pinball over rocky terrain. Try photographing a varmint, those troublesome and mischievous rodentlike animals. Try holding a camera while keeping the pinball in the viewfinder. Every now and then you lock in for an instant and capture one of the critters in flight.
You’ve seen them scurrying in the brush and trees, pointing, “There’s one.” In the next instant, they’re gone. I like to
Least chipmunks and golden mantle ground squirrels, often confused for each other but having specific differences, scurry with their tails held high. It might seem as if this is done to keep their tails from being run over by the cars traveling the roads these varmints play on. In fact, it’s their agility and speed that helps them evade predators. They primarily run with their tails up to secure balance. The tails help them maintain stability while their limbs are rapidly moving like the proverbial squirrel on a treadmill.
Another rodent, Wyoming ground squirrels are bigger than a golden mantle but more like a small prairie dog. They are known for darting in and out of their underground burrows for safety, especially during the morning hours when they’re feeding. Comical creatures, their habit of lounging on rocks in the sun, sometimes with grass sticking out of their mouths, can be quite comical. Call them a tanned, fatcheeked Wallenda.
Prairie dogs, on the other hand, are rodents in the squirrel family. They are known for their complex burrow systems which they share with their family structure. Within that family structure, they are huggers. We might see them at the entrance mounds to their burrows acting all romantic. Hugging and kissing, their actions are actually a form of greeting reinforcing their social bonds with the basic family unit in a prairie dog town.
safety, the owl swept down only to be denied when the varmints disappeared into their underground home.
The yellow-bellied marmots, the largest rodent native to Colorado, is common on the tundra. There, they earned their nick-
name “whistle pig” for the quick, highpitched whistle sound that sends warnings from one to the other. When they run, leaping like superman, legs reaching outward as if to fly, they look more like a blimp then a Flying Wallenda. Running and jumping, chasing and scurrying, they bounce more than fly over the rocks, short legs stretched out as if they have “Goodyear” sign emblazoned on their bellies.
My favorite Flying Wallenda varmint is not actually a rodent. The pika’s actual biological classification places them closer to rabbits. Speedy little animals, capturing an image with your camera can be challenging and therefore special. This time of year
One morning on the Colorado prairie, I observed a female prairie dog watching over her four pups as one ran, leaped in the air, and reached out to tackle a sibling. It was a playful, tagteam adolescent wrestling match as they tumbled and rolled like those gracefully falling Wallendas. Then I heard their mother’s high pitched, distinctive call. Above them hovering in the slight breeze was a burrowing owl searching for breakfast. As all four pups ran for
they fill their dens with winter supplies of grasses and wildflowers. Pika will scurry from rock to rock, moving with impressive speed and agility to a patch of flowers. There they nibble the wildflower, filling their mouths with yellow and red blooms before running and leaping from rock to rock back to their den. Like the patriarch of the Great Wallendas circus troupe, Karl, their flyinglike talent is impressive.
As if they were the Wallenda in the circus, varmints entertain us with their animated actions and attempts to fly, but they never do reach great heights. With an extended stretch, their furry little front legs reach outward as their hind legs push powerfully from the rocks to, just for a moment, send them airborne.
Brad Manard
Nonprofit Employees And Volunteers: Build Systems That Prevent Repeat Bottlenecks
Tired of putting out the same fires over and over?
Join The Estes Nonprofit Network for Sip of Knowledge: Systems & Procedures with Dawn James—a powerhouse leader with 30+ years of experience and over $1 billion in optimization savings. She is a corporate wiz and works with individuals. Now, she is offering her insights to local nonprofits.
Participants can come with an issue or sticking point and learn to streamline workflows, identify and eliminate bottlenecks, and solve root causes, not just symptoms. Who doesn't want insights on how to build systems that prevent repeat problems?
Dawn brings her expertise from 8 years on the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition board and a proven track record of transforming organizational efficiency. Don't miss this chance to revolutionize how your nonprofit Solves Smarter. Registration is limited cause we will be at
Kind Coffee, where there are free treats and coffee to induce a "thinking state of mind."
Find more at epnonprofit.org/ education. Direct link to register: www.simpletix.com/.../ sips-of-knowledge-systems
Skydiving Accident Survivor To Speak At YMCA
Come and be inspired by the true story of skydiving accident survivor
Jason Dennen on Monday, July 24th at 2 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. at the Maude Jellison Library on the YMCA of the Rockies campus.
Following the accident Jason woke up from a coma that lasted eight days and required him to undergo multiple surgeries to repair four organs and 20 broken bones. His badly broken body required him to stay in the hospital for three-and-a-half months, undergo 11 months of rehabilitation and relearn to walk.
After being told by his doctor he may never be able to run again, he decided to sign up for a triathlon to test the doctor’s prognosis. Less than one year after the accident he completed a triathlon and proved the doctor wrong.
The long journey to recovery from the accident allowed him time to reassess the direction of his life and answer the question why was his life spared. This second chance at life revealed to him a new purpose in life. He promised himself that he would share his story and what he learned to help others that are going through difficult hardships in their own lives.
Directions to the YMCA library: Upon entering the YMCA off of Spur Highway 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, directly behind the chapel. Call the library at 970-5863341, ext. 1133 with any questions.
History Colorado State Historical Fund Awards The Stanley Home $248,086 For Historically Compatible
Roof And Front Porch Restoration
The Historic Stanley Home Foundation is very excited to have been awarded $248,086 from the History Colorado State Historical Fund. The award is for historically compatible restoration and preservation of the historic Stanley Home’s roof and front porch.
The total cost of this restoration project is $330,782, with 75% contributed by the State Historical Fund, and a required cash match of 25%, $83,695, provided by the Historic Stanley Home Foundation.
Sustaining Support Campaign.
The State Historical Fund grant can only be used for the roof and porch restoration project and cannot be used for Stanley Home Museum and Education Center operations expenses. Major funding for the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center operations comes from the annual Stanley Home Gala and the Annual
This State Historical Fund award represents a substantial investment in the Historic Stanley Home as one of Colorado’s irreplaceable historic and cultural resources. The award also represents significant support for the value of the local history education provided by the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center to the Estes Valley community and visitors. Local history education is accomplished by docentled tours with inspiring stories about the Stanleys and other local historical figures, programs with Estes Park students, outreach to regional senior centers, and special events like historical reenactments and seasonal open houses.
Because the historic Stanley Home has been included in the Colorado
State Register of Historic Properties, the historic restoration plan is very detailed and in compliance with the U.S. Secretary of the Interior's Standards and Guidelines for Historic Preservation. The restoration plan has also been approved by and will be monitored by History Colorado.
The roof and porch restoration represents the first phase of a plan to restore the historic Stanley Home to its original condition between 1904 and 1940 when it was the summer residence of F.O. and Flora Stanley. The roof restoration will use contemporary materials that have a historically compatible red shingle roofing visual look and shadow line, while also providing longevity, minimal maintenance costs, and a Class A fire resistant roof. The gutter and downspout system will be restored with historically compatible half-round 6” gutters and 3” round downspouts. The front porch will also be restored and preserved, with the original tongue and groove wood pieces labeled for reinstallation, then removed for cleaning and repair of any damage. Missing pieces will be replaced with historically compatible replicas. The upper and lower front porch handrails will also be restored.
most notable Colonial Revival style residence, and among the most notable examples of the style throughout northern Colorado.
In addition to being architecturally significant, the Historic Stanley Home is also important in local cultural history as a result of F.O. and Flora Stanley’s inspiring contributions to Estes Park’s development. F.O. Stanley’s contributions include, among others, building the Stanley Hotel and the Town’s first hydroelectric plant, donating land for an Estes Park school, facilitating development of the Town’s first water treatment plant, establishing the first local bank, and playing a major role in the establishment of Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Stanley Home is also significant in local women’s history as a result of Flora Stanley’s advocacy for universal suffrage, and the importance of the arts. She was an early member of the Estes Park Woman’s Club which built the first Estes Park Library, constructed trails, and advocated for the creation of Rocky Mountain National Park.
The Historic Stanley Home Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit formed in 2016 to purchase, renovate, preserve and operate the Flora and F.O. Stanley home as the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center, a cultural center for history education.
The historic Stanley Home is architecturally significant as Estes Park’s
To learn more, schedule a tour, or support the ongoing work of the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center, visit stanleyhome.org or call 970-235-0062.
64 Days Until Rails In The Rockies- A Great Model Railroad Show
Photo by John Thut
Glen Haven Volunteer Fire Department
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.
Glen Haven Area Volunteer Fire Department Pancake Breakfast This Saturday
Everyone is invited to the annual Glen Haven Pancake Breakfast and Silent Auction this coming Saturday, July 19th, from 7 -11 a.m. The cost for the pancake breakfast is $12/adults; $6.00 children 5-10; Children under five are free. Plan to get there early as the baked goods sell out quickly!
This year at the silent auction, we have some wonderful, unique items for all you antique lovers. Here is just a sampling of
what is in store for your bidding: Murano glass chessboard set with gold 32 carats; Dutch East Indies early 20th Century gramophone with records; Native American lance, bow and arrows, smudging feather; indigenous Australian Didgeridoo; antique 1866-1873 Springfield Model Breechloader Rifle. (Buffalo Bill made this type of rifle famous with his hunting of buffalo to feed the railroad crews) and hand-colored paintings.
We have wonderful donations from local businesses and residents, which will pique everyone’s interest. A big thank you to our sponsors: Bank of Colorado, Bank of Estes Park, Premium Members Credit Union, and US Bank, Media Sponsor Estes Park News, along with in-kind services/products: YMCA of the Rockies and Kind Coffee. Remember, all proceeds support the efforts of our wonderful volunteer fire department. Photos courtesy of Marsha Hobert
As you are aware, fire danger is not just seasonal, but a year-round concern. 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
The Community of Glen Haven thanks you for your continued support of our Glen Haven Volunteer Fire Department.
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
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. On the Strangeness & Wonder of Our Brains with Pria Anand
Thursday, July 31, 12 - 1 p.m., online Neurologist & author Pria Anand will discuss her new book, The Electric Mind: A Neurologist on the Strangeness & Wonder of Our Brains. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
Author Talk & Free Climb with Danielle Sarli
Saturday, August 2, 1 - 3 p.m., Estes Park Mountain Shop
Colorado's award-winning children's musician, Montessori Early Childhood teacher, avid rock climber, & author
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
Danielle Sarli will join us for a reading of her new book Little Climber & families are invited to test their skills for free at the climbing gym. Additional crafts, live music, snacks & drinks will be provided.
ALL AGES
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., Makerspace
repeated Tuesday, July 22, 5:30 - 6:30 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.
Create a Wizarding Alley Book Nook: A Six-Week Makerspace Series
Thursday, July 24 & 31, 5 - 7 p.m., Makerspace; Sessions 5 & 6 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.
Book vs. Movie Club: Pride & Prejudice
Saturday, July 26, 10 - 12:15 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.
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.
The Artist’s Way: A 12-Week Journey to a More Creative Life
Wednesday, July 23 & 30, 5:15 - 6:15 p.m., Quiet Room; Sessions 7 & 8 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.
Makerspace Monthly Meetup
Monday, July 28, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace
Experienced artists & curious beginners are invited to this creative gathering as time to connect with fellow makers, explore various crafting techniques, & work on a project of your choice.
Bring Your Own Book Club: Books & Boba
Tuesday, July 29, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Bring your favorite book that has a color in the title to show & tell. Each registered attendee will receive a free beverage from AlTEAtude. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
TEENS & KIDS 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 & 30, 1 - 4 p.m., Wasson Room
Join the Estes Park High School Teen Dungeons & Dragons Club, where silliness & adventure await! Registration is required & space is limited.
Dungeons & Dragons Club (Tweens/Teens)
Wednesday, July 23 & 30, 2 - 5 p.m., Hondius Room
Interested in learning how to play Dungeons & Dragons? Want to think strategically & make new friends? Join other tweens & teens for this classic fantasy-world game.
Skittle Art
Thursday, July 24, 2:30 - 3 p.m., Hondius Room
repeated July 30, 12:30 - 1:00 p.m., Hondius Room
Make edible art with Skittles that is colorful & delicious. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
Program event.
Color Science
Tuesday, July 29, 2 - 3 p.m., Hondius Room
Discover all the ways color & science mix by using food coloring, crystal prisms, lasers, & the power of light. A “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program event.
Harry Potter’s Birthday Craft Day
Thursday, July 31, 2:30 - 5 p.m., Hondius Room
Celebrate Harry Potter’s birthday with us making themed crafts, brewing “Butter Beer”, and making buttons. Costumes encouraged.
End of Summer Pool Party
Friday, August 1, 3 - 5 p.m., Estes Valley Community Center
End the “Color Our World” Summer Reading Program with a splash! Join us to enjoy pizza, beverages, swimming & the raffle for our summer reading program prizes.
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 & Sat., Aug 2 at 11 a.m.
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.
Outdoor Storytime Adventure at Performance Park
Wednesday, July 30, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Performance Park
Let’s get outside & make bark boats! We’ll meet at the amphitheatre to craft & decorate boats made of natural materials. Recommended for ages 5 & younger with their caregivers.
MAKERSPACE CLASSES
Learn the Embroidery Machine
Tuesday, July 29, 10 - 11:30 a.m. or 5:30 - 7:00 p.m., Hondius Room
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
Learn the basics of using the Makerspace's Brother embroidery machine to add graphics or text to cloth.
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.
9th Annual Estes Park Artist Studio Tour
Mark your calendars! On Saturday and Sunday, August 2nd and 3rd, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Estes Park Artist Studio Tour is back and bursting with inspiration. Step inside the creative spaces of ten local artists and three guest artists during this free, selfguided adventure through Estes Park. From scenic home studios to tuckedaway workshops, you’ll discover where the magic happens!
The Estes Park Studio Tour began as a grassroots effort by local artists inspired by similar events elsewhere.
From its first year, the Tour focused on showcasing high-quality art and offering both a sales opportunity and an educational experience.
For six years—excluding a COVID hiatus—the founding artists built the event, handling design, marketing, and production, and keeping it artist-led and community-supported. The artists involved form lasting friendships and support and inspire one another, and the Tour continues to grow as a cherished celebration of creativity in the Estes Valley. If you are interested in joining the tour, read the ‘About The Tour’ section of the website at EPStudioTour.com to learn about the guidelines and requirements.
The Estes Park Artist Studio Tour isn’t just about art—it’s about connection. It’s a chance to meet the makers, share stories, and experience the creative spark that fuels Estes Park’s vibrant arts scene.
“Meeting visitors face-to-face gives us a chance to share not just our work, but also the heart of the creative process. The studio tour allows us to connect with art enthusiasts and fellow artists on a deeper, more personal level. These interactions give us direct feedback on our work which can be instrumental as we work to refine our craft,” said artist Laura Hutton. “The conversations and connections are inspiring—for us and our visitors!”
What’s in store?
• Art in Action: Watch live demos, ask questions, and learn how artists transform wood, stone, metal, canvas, and more into stunning works of art.
• Something for Everyone: Explore a wide range of art forms—woodturning, sculpture, oil painting, mixed media, and beyond.
• Affordable Finds: Beautiful, handmade pieces start at just $30—perfect for art lovers and collectors alike.
• Authentic Studio Vibes: Peek behind the curtain into real working studios—some hidden gems off the beaten path!
Ready to Tour?
Visit EPStudioTour.com for an interactive map, artist bios, and studio info. OR grab a paper map at Bear & Bee Makers’ Studio & Boutique in the Stanley Village Shopping Center.
Chart your own course—visit a few studios or all ten! Bring a friend, your curiosity, and a love of art.
The train was filled with tired people. Most of them had spent the day traveling across the hot dusty plains. At last the evening had come and they all tried to settle down for a good sound sleep. However, at one end of the car a man was holding a tiny baby and as night came on, the baby became restless and started crying. The crying persisted, seemingly louder and louder. Unable to take it any longer, a large, very brawny man spoke for the rest of the group: “Why don’t you take that baby to its mother?” There was a moment’s pause and then came the reply. “I’m sorry. I’m doing my best…the baby’s mother is in a casket in the baggage car ahead.” There was an awful silence for a moment. But, quickly, the big man who had asked the cruel question was out of his seat and moved toward the man with the, now, motherless child. He apologized for his impatience and his unkind remark. He took the tiny baby in his arms and urged the exhausted father to try and get some sleep. Then, in loving patience, he cared for the tiny infant through the night. It’s that time of the year, isn’t it? And it’s the place for it, isn’t it? We live in Estes Park, gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s the summertime, when, it is projected that four million people will visit our little community. The lines of cars…and RVs…coming up the canyon will seem endless. The lines of shoppers in Safeway, now that the strike is over, will reach to the back wall. The lines of people trying to enter beautiful RMNP, and cars stopping to view the wildlife, etc. will test our patience. And, we will respond, won’t we? We’ll mutter under our breath, ‘why don’t you…?’ ‘Can’t you…?’ Perhaps we will get even louder than just muttering, voicing our displeasure like the brawny man on the train. Perhaps, we will carry it even farther. We are all well acquainted with ‘road rage’! We read about it in the news, quite often with dire results. What’s the answer?
Well, of course, we could begin by remembering those who have been patient with us. “Your God is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding with love. (Joel 2:13); “God is patient with you, not wishing that any should perish…” (II Pet.3:9) Our Lord Jesus was a picture of patience. “Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should walk in His steps…when they hurled insults at Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, He entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly.” (I Pet. 2:21-25) And, we might even want to stop and think about people who have been patient with us…and do likewise.
Second of all, we might want to stop and remember ‘who we are’? In Neil Anderson’s great book, ‘Living Free in Christ’ Neil reminds us that, if we are in Christ, we are all these things: “I am God’s child!”; “I have been justified!”; “I am a saint!”; “I am Christ’s friend!”; “I am complete in Christ!”; “I am united with Christ!”; “I am ‘adopted’, thus, a ‘son’!”; “I am a member of Christ’s Body (church)!”; “I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins!”; “I have access to God by the Holy Spirit!”. The question is: “If I am and have all of these things, how will I act when I am tempted to be impatient with people and situations?” (Incidentally, if you would like a laminated sheet listing these ‘Who am I?’ things, send me an email to: blepcoc@gmail.com, and I will gladly send you a copy.)
Third of all, perhaps if we run into a situation similar to the brawny man on the train, we could react in a similar way. Instead of criticizing and complaining, ask / see how we can help. Remember the three ‘friends’ of Job, in the Bible? At first they sympathized with Job in his struggles…loss of possessions, family members, and health…then began to criticize and judge. Finally, Job had enough: “Miserable comforters are you all!” (Job 16:1) Those words were applicable to the train riders and others through the ages, until they stop to see things as they really are, and look within and see ‘who they are’, and jump in to meet the need.
Bob Lewis
Unleash Your Inner Artist: SRP Enters Its Final Stretch
Each year, the Summer Reading Program is a highly anticipated event at the Estes Valley Library, offering exciting themed activities and reading challenges designed to keep minds of all ages active and engaged throughout the summer.
This year’s “Color Our World” theme has taken us on so many creative adventures - from string art, tie dye and origami to batik, yoga and the science of color. We have explored our inner artist in a variety of imaginative ways through nature, writing, language, movement, music, crafts, and reading activities. There’s still plenty of time to get involved in the artistic fun! Check
out the remaining SRP programs and events at bit.ly/SRP-Programs.
As we head into the final two weeks, we encourage you to log your reading and audiobook listening time through the end of July to be eligible for the specially selected prizes that are sure to help you continue exploring your creative side long after summer is over. Winners will be announced in August. Learn more about how easy it is to log your reading at estesvalleylibrary.org/SRP.
The annual Summer Reading Program is generously supported by donors of the Friends of the Library Foundation.
Crutches4Africa.org
Sunrise Rotary and Noon Rotary have been collaborating on a project titled Crutches4Africa. It is a 501(c)(3) organization and is the international project of Mountain Foothills Rotary Club in District 5450. David Talbot is a Rotarian and a polio survivor. He and his wife Candice, founded this organization after witnessing people in Africa struggling to move due to the effects of polio. Crutches4Africa is now a worldwide organization and every person participating in it is a volunteer. No one is paid. They do this out of the goodness of their heart to provide mobility devices to people stricken with polio. They are living Rotary’s motto: Service Above Self.
Bill Howell, President of Sunrise Rotary, offered his garage as a collection site for donated items. If you have an assistive device you no longer need or want, bring it to our Rotary meeting on the first four Thursdays of the month at the American Legion at 11: 30 AM. I will collect them and deliver them to Bill at his home.
We have been offered an empty RV to serve as a collection site, but I need a 16 foot site where I can park it. If you know of a place, please contact me at anneslack@aol.com.
“Mobility, Health, Dignity, Access: We toil together to enable those we may never see. Hobbled in life by some illness, accident or act of violence. Many are hopeless. The generous donations given to Crutches 4 Africa are the tools we use to help raise the hindered, to lift them from the dust, and help them on their way.”
To contact Crutches4Africa, phone: 303-877-2803 or email: c4a@crutches4africa.org; To view their website go to www.crutches4africa.org. Please help us with this very worthy cause.
Thank you, Annie Slack, 970-231-6697
Annual Weed Roundup
This 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 his Saturday, 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
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!
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
July 28 – Aug 1
Monday, July 28 Country Fried Chicken w/ sausage gravy on the side, Scrambled Eggs, Hashbrowns & Biscuit
Tuesday, July 29 BBQ Pork Ribs (4) w/ Mac ‘n Cheese & Baked Beans
Wednesday, July 30 Philly Chicken Sandwich (topped w/ mozzarella cheese, green peppers & onions) w/ Summer Corn Salad
Thursday, July 31 Meat Lasagna w/ garlic bread & side salad
Friday, Aug 1 Cod Croissant (topped w/ lettuce, tomatoes & coleslaw) w/ Homemade Chips & 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 21st, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, July 18th. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.
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
I Can’t Believe I Said That!
By: Larry Strong
It would take a book the size of “War and Peace” to hold all the stupid, boneheaded, immature, inappropriate and hurtful things I’ve said in my life. A dollar for each one would do wonders for my net worth. Growing up, the Strong family had no filters on what mom and dad said so it took me longer than normal to realize that one’s mouth didn’t need to actually be used as a lethal weapon. And that is the point of this message. Our words matter. Has anybody ever spoken damaging words that sank heavily into your heart and mind? Maybe you’ve struggled with your self-worth and self-es teem because of what a teacher said years ago. Perhaps it was that you’d never be successful because of what a superior at work said. Someone who is supposed to love you tell ing you you’re not worthy of being loved can be traumatic and cause lifelong issues.
let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Proverbs 15:4 says, “The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit.” God’s Word says a ton about this topic so it’s plain that God wants us to be wise relative to our words—both spoken and written.
But God’s Word is very clear. Matthew 15: 1-20 tells us that what comes out of our mouths proceeds from our hearts. If we’re honest, we need to admit the best way to keep from saying, “I can’t believe I said that!” is to continuously check our heart condition. And that requires intentionality doesn’t it?
Or, the opposite may be true. Maybe you’ve said some things that have caused serious damage to another person. Perhaps you speak in a way that puts others down instead of building them up. Our words can bind people up in lies that were never meant do define them. Our words are more powerful than we may think.
Fortunately, God’s Word offers guidance if we’re willing to take Godly counsel. Ephesians 4:29 says, “Do not
Being more aware of what we say and why we say it may seem like a small thing. But it looms large in the very fabric of what happens each Saturday at Men on Fire. We meet at the American Legion, Saturday’s at 8:00 a.m. for “Breakfast with a Purpose” and we’d love to have you hang out with us. We’re still learning how to use our words carefully so we do a little heart surgery each Saturday. Join us. Your first breakfast burrito, donut and coffee are on the house, and so is the genuine fellowship and encouragement. If you need more condemnation, judgement and hurtful “word speak” you’re free to go somewhere else. Gosh, I can’t believe I said that!
Hosted by Joy Basia
The 10th Annual SnowyGrass Music Festival returns to Estes Park, Colorado, offering an unforgettable weekend of world-class bluegrass music, workshops, and community connection.
Presented by Snowy Peaks Winery and Riverpointe Vacation Homes, with premier sponsorship from Estes Park Condos, Visit Estes Park, and KGNU Community Radio, this beloved festival promises a relaxed, family and dogfriendly atmosphere with breathtaking panoramic views next to Lake Estes at Stanley Park.
This year's festival features an incredible roster of bluegrass talent, including Tony Trischka & Bruce Molsky, Slocan Ramblers, Thunder & Rain, Blue Canyon Boys, Pete & Joan Wernick, Chain Station, The River Arkansas, Tonewood, Lost Penny, SnowBelt Bluegrass, GirlGrass, and Country Rhythm Outfit. Workshops
Enhance your festival experience with expert-led workshops:
• Harmony Workshop – Blue Canyon Boys (Saturday morning)
• Fiddle Workshop – Bruce Molsky (Saturday morning)
• Banjo Workshop – Tony Trischka (Sunday morning)
• Wernick Method Jam Class – Pete & Joan Wernick (Friday afternoon) Register at: wernickmethod.org/event/pw-202508-estespark
Kick-Off Event – Campy Hour
Start the festivities on Thursday with Campy Hour, hosted by Snowy Peaks Winery and featuring the Country Rhythm Outfit.
Tickets & More Information
• Kids 12 & under are FREE!
• Discounted tickets for ages 13-17.
• Easy access, no long lines, and a welcoming atmosphere.
• Limited camping on-site with nighttime jam sessions.
• Plenty of free parking nearby, with on-site parking for campers and vendors.
• Opportunities for volunteers and vendors.
• A dog-friendly atmosphere—bring your well-behaved pup!
• Lawn seating (bring your own lowback chairs or blankets).
• Rain or shine event, so come prepared for mountain weather.
Official Sponsors
We are proud to partner with amazing sponsors who help make SnowyGrass possible:
• Official Beer Sponsor: Oskar Blues Brewery
• Official Whiskey Sponsor: Abbott & Wallace Distillery
• Official Wine Sponsor: Snowy Peaks Winery
Look for a special appearance by Wildside 4x4 Tours at the festival.
We are also grateful for the support of our additional sponsors, whose contributions help make the festival possible. A full list of sponsors can be found on our website.
“We’re excited to celebrate 10 years of SnowyGrass, started by Candice Mohr of Snowy Peaks Winery in 2016. We have an incredible lineup and a welcoming community of music lovers,” said Nadine Sekerez, Festival Director.
“SnowyGrass is more than just a festival. It’s a gathering of friends who feel like family.”
Supporting SnowyGrass
There are opportunities to support SnowyGrass through sponsorship and donations, which are greatly appreciated and make the festival possible. Our fiscal sponsor is Chase the Music, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Join us for a weekend of world-class music, stunning scenery, and a vibrant bluegrass community!
For tickets and festival details, visit www.snowygrass.org.
Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation, Inc. Receives Village Thrift Shop Grant
The Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation, Inc. (EPMFF) has received $2,700 for supplies to further the Webbing Clothes Moth Mitigation Project. In December 2024, webbing clothes moths were discovered in the Estes Park Museum Gallery and subsequently in the Estes Park Museum Annex. The Museum staff, with the assistance of specially trained collections volunteers, has been performing mitigation efforts since that time, including creating isolation areas in collections storage spaces, examining and separating artifacts that were or could be affected, bagging artifacts in archival plastic, sending artifacts through freezing cycles to eradicate moths and larvae, individually cleaning artifacts of debris, and creating detailed condition reports for artifacts throughout this process. Through use of Village Thrift Shop
grant funds, the Museum purchased additional supplies necessary which exceeded the annual budgeted funding for conservation supplies. This includes archival grade plastic storage bags, rolls, and bins; a specialty HEPA filter vacuum to clean delicate materials; personal protective equipment for staff and volunteers; and tools specific to cleaning artifacts.
Grant funding from the Village Thrift Shop was vital to the ongoing success of mitigation work in the Museum Annex building, which will continue throughout the rest of this year.
The mission of the Estes Park Museum is to conduct activities that preserve, share, and respect the unique history of Estes Park. For more information, call the Estes Park Museum at 970586-6256 or visit the Museum's website. Museum gallery hours: Wednesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Thank You From Estes Park Salud Foundation
Estes Park Salud Foundation is so deeply grateful for the community's support during our ongoing fundraising efforts. We believe our community thrives with a rural health care center that offers healthcare to all, regardless of income.
Estes Park Salud Family Health Center offers healthcare to insured, uninsured, under-insured and
cussions to reach a more permanent solution to the ongoing financial dilemma rural health care clinics and hospitals are facing.
Medicaid/CHP clients as well as vouchers and sliding scale fees. In addition, under one roof, Salud provides dental care, behavioral health care and medical services to the greater Estes Valley. The dedication of Salud's staff is undeniably one of the components that has allowed Salud Clinic to thrive for the last 33 years.
Since the Foundation began its fundraising in earnest, we have seen how invested our community is in ensuring the ongoing operations at Salud. The Foundation is both thrilled and humbled to announce that we have raised enough in donations to continue full operation of all services through May 2026. There are active and ongoing dis-
Did you know...there are 14,000 rural community health clinics in the United States? Did you know that these 14,000 clinics serve over 32 million people a year?! That is a sobering statistic that speaks to the essential need of accessible health care outside
urban areas.
Estes Park Salud Foundation continues to raise both awareness and funds for Estes Park Salud Family Health Center and we thank you, our incredibly supportive community, for your ongoing assistance and advocacy for Salud. Donations may be made directly online at estesparksaludfoundation.org/donate.
We would be remiss if we did not thank Estes Park Salud Family Health Center's amazing employees for providing quality care in times of uncertainty. They have invested their time and their lives into our Health Center and without them, Salud could not and would not thrive.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Seasoned‐An American Bistro ~ $199,000 Seasoned, An American Bistro is one of Estes Park's finest restaurants, with a huge following of both locals and tourists to the RMNP. Fine dining for dinner service plus a Sunday Brunch, leaving a great upside by adding lunch service as well. Step into a successful restaurant and continue the tradition, adding your ideas to make it your own. Rare offering at $199k, includes inventory and training, new lease negotiable.
Ballet Renaissance: Dance Rebirth
Ballet Renaissance, translating literally from French as “Dance Rebirth,” is a publicly supported 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Established in June of 1997, in Detroit, MI, Ballet Renaissance originated when a group of college dance majors, and college dance graduates, began presenting community performances focused on inspiring, uplifting and uniting individuals through the transformative power and expression of dance. Comprised of both ballet and modern dancers, the
group held a belief that “like casting a pebble on still water,” dance sends out ripples of creativity, authenticity and generosity that can help heal and repair our world.
In Estes, Ballet Renaissance’s fall 2025 class and performance season begins the week of August 18th. For registration information, to support, or to become involved as a board member, advisor or volunteer, contact balletren@balletren.org
Tennis Anyone?
Residents and summer visitors are invited to join the Estes Park Tennis community. We play at the tennis courts in Stanley Park, near the high school. Men's and women's doubles on weekday mornings and mixed doubles on Sunday's late afternoon. We would love to see you on the courts. For more information call Sally at 970-577-9752.
Ballet Renaissance students in Estes Park perform “We are the World,” “Rescue” (dedicated to Dr. Jane Goodall), and “Down in the River to Pray” (May 2025)
Bright Christmas School Supply Distribution Day
With the support and generosity of our community, Bright Christmas has been helping families in Estes Park since 1984. In addition to spreading holiday cheer to families in need, Bright Christmas proudly sponsors an annual School Supply Distribution for students of all grade levels.
This year brings some exciting updates! Eligible families are invited to pick up free school supplies on July 30, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Middle School Commons.
To make this possible, the Bright Christmas Board is asking for help from our caring community. Please consider making a tax-exempt donation of any amount to help us purchase the supplies local students need. Together, we can ensure that every Estes Park child starts the school year confident and ready to succeed in the classroom!
Donations may be mailed to: Bright Christmas, PO Box 2981, Estes Park, CO 80517
Or scan the QR code to donate securely online:
Families who participated in Bright Christmas 2024 or are current clients of Crossroads are invited to attend the School Supply Distribution on July 30. No registration is required.
New families who have a need and would like to participate are welcome to email us at brightchristmas.ep@gmail.com for more information.
The Bright Christmas Board is deeply grateful for our community’s ongoing support and for the wonderful families we are honored to serve!
Día de distribución de útiles escolares de Navidad brillante Con el apoyo y la generosidad de nuestra comunidad, Bright Christmas ha estado ayudando a las familias de Estes Park desde 1984. Además de compartir la alegría de las fiestas con familias necesitadas, Bright Christmas patrocina con orgullo una Distribución
Anual de Útiles Escolares para estudiantes de todos los niveles escolares.
¡Este año trae algunas novedades emocionantes! Las familias que califiquen están invitadas a recoger útiles escolares gratuitos el 30 de julio, de 10 a.m. a 6 p.m., en el Middle School Commons.
Para hacerlo posible, la Junta de Bright Christmas pide la colaboración de nuestra comunidad solidaria. Por favor, considere hacer una donación deducible de impuestos de cualquier monto para ayudarnos a comprar los útiles que necesitan los estudiantes locales. Juntos podemos asegurarnos de que cada niño de Estes Park comience el año escolar con confianza y listo para tener éxito en el aula.
Las donaciones se pueden enviar por correo a:
Bright Christmas, PO Box 2981, Estes Park, CO 80517
O puede escanear el código QR para donar de forma segura en línea:
Las familias que participaron en Bright Christmas 2024 o que son clientes actuales de Crossroads están invitadas a asistir a la Distribución de Útiles Escolares el 30 de julio. No se requiere inscripción.
Las familias nuevas que tengan necesidad y deseen participar pueden escribirnos a brightchristmas.ep@gmail.com para más información.
¡La Junta de Bright Christmas agradece profundamente el apoyo continuo de nuestra comunidad y a las maravillosas familias a las que tenemos el honor de servir!
First time in years, this adorable 4 bedroom, 2 bath home known as “Bluebird Cabin”is available for sale. Nestled in a prime location with breathtaking views of the Continental Divide, this cozy yet spacious retreat offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Also rare is the 1700 square feet of garage/workshop space, allowing for countless possibilities. Current STR in place.
Some Things Change; Some Things Stay The Same
By: Scott Wilseck
I grew up in Chicago. Big difference from Estes Park. The first time I visited Estes Park, I was seven years old; it was 1955. My parents had reserved a cabin at Stony Knob Cottages on Highway 36 west of town. We had Cabin #17 which was about 30 feet from Big Thompson River. It was very close to a turn in the stream, so since we were on a “corner” of the river; we felt like we had more exposure to the stream. Our reservation was for something like two or three days and then we were planning to explore more of Colorado. We weren’t there even an hour and my father went back to the office and extended the reservation another three or four days. I remember falling asleep at night in the cabin to the sounds of Big Thompson. It was a lot different and louder than the Chicago River. It was the first of many years we came to Estes Park and stayed in Cabin #17, but after the early ’60s it would be a long time until I returned to the little town that bordered Rocky Mountain National Park.
Now I own a house here, and once in awhile I think about the changes in the area. Santa’s Summer Home is no longer on the east side of town.
The Gartner Haus, a German restaurant started by a Chicagoan, is no longer in existence. Our favorite miniature golf course, over by Tiny
Town
Cottages, is still around.
The grocery stores are different and are in different locations. You used to catch trout in tanks right on Elkhorn, about the place where Ed’s Cantina is now located; now the “trout catching” place is west of town. In the ’50s the Stanley Hotel stood alone on the hill, a white building lit up at night similar to the Wrigley Building in Chicago, but now it shares the landscape with several stores and businesses. The national park is still here, but you need a timed entry pass in the summer months to enter at certain times. The town looks a lot different; we now have the loop. Not the Loop like the Chicago Loop, named for the path of the el train, but a traffic loop. Obviously, I look a lot different in 2025 then I did 70 years ago, but my interest in playing ragtime and the songs of the early twentieth century is the same now as it was back then. Stony Knob Cottages have been replaced by condominiums.
been replaced with more comfortable padded seats. A few of the old seats remain in the front rows, in case you want to see how we “pioneers” of moviegoing felt as we sat through a film.
Entering the Historic Park Theatre is like walking into a time machine. You don’t go back in time to 1955 when I first attended the theatre; you go back to 1917 when the theatre was first built. For one week in July, not only can you see the old theatre as it was in the past, but you can see movies from the past; movies from the silent era. On three days, the theatre will be showing films from 1917, 1918 and 1929. We’ve selected three of the very best; in fact “The Adventurer” is my favorite Chaplin film. The other two films to be seen are “Big Business” starring Laurel and Hardy and “Out West” starring Buster Keaton and Fatty Arbuckle.
So step back into time. Listen to the piano tunes I will be playing to accompany the film, just like the piano players of the early 20th century did. If you arrive a half hour early, you’ll hear my favorite songs played on the piano which is over 100 years old. It’s an experience like no other in town.
There is one thing that is pretty much the same now as it was in 1955. The Historic Park Theatre still stands taller than every building in town. The “Tower of Love,” as it has been called looks the same as it did when I was a little kid. It even looks the same as it did back in the 1920s. Without television in the cabin, we spent many rainy afternoons in that theatre. It looks the same today inside, except the hard wooden seats have
The shows will take place Saturday, July 19 at 1 p.m.; Monday, July 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Thursday, July 24 at 1 p.m. at the Historic Park Theatre; the building with the giant tower close to the corner of Moraine and Elkhorn.
Admission is $15. Children 12 and under are free if they are accompanied by a paying theatergoer. Be sure to arrive a half hour early so
hear me
you can
play some of my favorite old time songs live on the oldtime piano. All three films will also be accompanied by live piano music.
Scott Wilseck
Allenspark's Hilltop Guild Bazaar Is Aug. 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.
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.
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.
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.
Community Explorers: Explore The Stars At Estes Park Observatory
Families and stargazers are invited to an unforgettable evening under the stars at the Estes Park Memorial Observatory, located at 1500 Manford Ave, on Thursday, July 24th from 7:30–9:30 p.m. This special event, part of the Community Explorers series, offers a fun and educational night filled with astronomy, hands-on activities, and the rare opportunity to look through a professional-grade telescope.
Participants will:
Learn about constellations and the night sky
Hear an engaging talk by observatory expert Mike Connolly
Enjoy astronaut ice cream
Create a glow-in-the-dark spacethemed craft
Tour the observatory and explore what it takes to become an astronaut
The highlight of the evening is a chance to gaze at the cosmos through the observatory’s giant 6-inch RitcheyChrétien f/8 telescope! This state-ofthe-art setup, mounted on a Paramount ME II and operated with SkyX Professional Edition software, provides a crystal-clear, awe-inspiring view of the stars, planets, and beyond.
Whether you're a budding astronomer or simply curious about the universe, this family-friendly event promises a unique and memorable experience for all ages.
Scan the QR code to sign up or email cerissa@evics.org with any questions. We can't wait to see you there!
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.
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
Our mission is to empower youth and community members to achieve their full potential through mentoring, prevention education, and strategic partnership.
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 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.
It was a beautiful, yet windy day on the course on Tuesday 7/15 for the EPWGA - Estes Park Women’s Golf Association. We played a game of TOE, counting certain holes as calculated by the Golf Genius app.
Here is the leaderboard:
Tied for 1st place - Ellen Doiron (new member this season!) and Linda Bowie
2nd place - Cindy Minier
Tied for 3rd place - Marianne Casey and Carrie Logan
Tied for 4th place - Johanna Gengler,
Estes Park Women’s Golf Association
Results For July 15, 2025
Congratulations goes Rod Unruh and David Van Wert for lowest scores of the day. Congratulations to our Fearless Leader Stan Osborne for his Ace on Hole 7. Good Job, Stan! It was a
Amy Klein, Diane Butler, Calle Russell and Stacey Harding
Tied for 5th place - Karen Hall, Carla Spreng-Webb, Jennifer Gergen and Claudia Irwin
Congratulations to Carla Spreng-Webb who made a hole-in-one on #7! (See photo)
Congrats to all the winners!
If you’d like more information about EPWGA, please contact Diane Butler at dibutler04@gmail.com.
Carla Spreng-Webb
The Presbyterian Community Church Of The Rockies Holds Their Annual Jazz Worship
Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies will have their yearly jazz service on Sunday, August 3rd at its regular time of 10:00 a.m. The Highland Brass Quintet will be the featured guests for this service and except for the choir’s anthem, “A Gospel Alleluia” by Pratt Greet and Joel Raney, all other music will be great arrangements of familiar hymns such as, “My Faith Looks Up to Thee,” “Take My Life and Let It Be,” and “Praise Him, Praise Him.” There is nothing like these old hymns to take us back to our youth.
The service will open with Verlene Thorp on piano and Darin Workman on sax playing “Amazing Grace.” The
Highland Brass will play “Down by the Riverside,” “Just a Closer Walk with Thee,” and will close the service with a wonderful arrangement of “Nearer My God to Thee.” Following the service, the brass will go into the Fellowship Hall where they will play while everyone in attendance enjoys fellowship.
This service is geared to all ages and all Christians regardless of their church affiliation. So, come join us on Sunday, August 3rd at 10:00 a.m. for a morning of joy and fellowship as we worship God through music and the spoken word. The Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies is located at 1700 Brodie Avenue in Estes Park.
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.
St. Francis Of Assisi Anglican Church Annual Potluck Picnic
By: Bishop Owen R. Williams
In 2018, I had visited a church in Casper, Wyoming as part of my duties as Bishop of the Diocese of the West.
This St. Francis Parish Church is one of those special places to pray and worship. A person also is treated with a sense of wonder at leaving through the
My wife, Marilyn and I then headed south with the hope of finding a place to stay in Estes Park on a Saturday night. We found lodging at the Saddle & Surrey…last room available. The next morning, we headed up Little Valley to worship at St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church. It had been about ten years since I had been to St. Francis.
It just happened that we arrived on the Sunday of their annual picnic. People were friendly, as always. It also happened that the parish was going to dedicate the “15th Station of the Cross.” This was to be the final station, which would complete the Way of the Cross Trail. Father Jack Ford invited me to give a Bishop’s blessing and dedicate “the empty cross of the Risen Christ,” which is the sure and certain hope of all Christians.
At that time, Marilyn and I never dreamed of returning to the Rocky Mountains, much less becoming the pastor of this beautiful church in Little Valley. When the call came, we discussed the matter (for about three seconds) and said, “Yes!” Since then, we count our blessings every day!
Alcoholics Anonymous Fall River Group, 453 West Elkhorn, Estes Park.
Current Schedule as of 6/17/2025
Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings
Mon.-12 p.m.-In person and Zoom-O, D Monday-7 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, BB Tuesday-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Weds.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Weds.-7 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Thurs.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Friday-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Sat.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, D
Sun.-12 p.m. In Person and Zoom-O, ABSI Sunday-7 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D
Last Monday of each month is birthday night; 6 p.m. Potluck, 7 p.m. Speaker.
*** Contribute via VENMO @FallRiverGroupAA
red front doors and seeing the beauty of God’s creation, its intricacies and scope.
On Sunday, July 27th, we are preparing for Bishop Patrick Fodor (our Diocesan Bishop from St. John’s Cathedral in Quincy, Illinois) to make his official Bishop’s Visit. This time, he’ll be accompanied by his wife, Crista, and we are excited about this visit. We look forward to Bishop Fodor’s Message, as he preaches and celebrates the Service of Holy Communion.
You are invited to join us on July 27th for worship, which begins at 9:30 a.m., with the picnic to follow. If you’d like to join us for the picnic, please RSVP 970-577-0601, so we’ll have enough burgers & brats for everyone. And bring a side dish or a bag of chips to share. We welcome everyone—come one, come all! Join us for church, fellowship, fun and good food.
St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church is located at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park, CO 80517. Check our website at stfrancisestespark.com. Turn onto Little Valley Rd. from Fish Creek Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis.
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.
Invitation To A Celebration Of Life For Kent H. Smith
We plan to have a community event to celebrate the life of Kent H. Smith on August 1, 2025 beginning at 2 p.m. at the O’Conner Pavilion, 1700 Fish Hatchery, Estes Park, Colorado.
Kent was a husband, a father, a grandfather and a great-grandfather. He was a teacher, a craftsman, a businessman, an artist, and a volunteer.
He was a champion of civic participation.
He believed that education was an open door to the future.
He was an engaged participant in the Letterheads, a sign industry movement.
He was an active member of Chambers of Commerce, first in Greeley & Evans, then in Estes. He will be missed by many people. We have therefore chosen a large property with a large pavilion. Nature abounds! (Think campsite.) So, wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a water bottle if possible.
The pavilion is a ways away from the parking area on uneven ground.
For those who cannot traverse uneven (or possibly muddy) ground, there is a drop-off space available at the historic Hydro Plant (no parking allowed.) The pavillion is just across the bridge.
Kent retired from life leaving two very young great-grandchildren who barely knew him.
Therefore, we are creating a “Book of Life,” a collection of written stories and remembrances to be retained for these young family members and those yet to come.
Please send stories to this address: Cassi@SignsAndWishes.com
We consider this celebration of his life to be a community event. Anyone wishing to contribute photographs, and other display items, music, food, extra chairs, written stories for the “Book of Life” or other creative contributions is welcome to do so.
To let us know your thoughts, email Kent@SmithSignStudio.com
Come celebrate with us, Judi, Audri, Cassi + Kevin, Kaesi, AJ + Bethany, Blake + Gillian, Messina, and Dante.
Douglas Paul Semeyn, longtime resident of Estes Park and a devoted 40-year employee of the YMCA of the Rockies, passed away unexpectedly of a heart attack on July 14, 2025, at the age of 70.
Douglas Paul Semeyn
Doug was born March 17, 1955, in Grand Rapids Michigan, where he grew up surrounded by the love of his parents, Thomas and Dorothy Semeyn, and his brother Steve. He fondly recalled childhood summer camping trips near lake Michigan, and later shared that love with his own children. A youthful fondness for swimming set a course to his future in Estes Park, where he first worked as a seasonal lifeguard for the YMCA of the Rockies in the summer of 1976. The YMCA and Estes Park captured his heart, and he continued to return to work there each summer until finishing graduate school, when he started his first year-round position. It was also here that Doug met his former wife, Kay, and shared the joy of raising their family in this special place.
During his years at the YMCA Doug made lifelong friends, with many growing to feel like family. He became a welcoming presence for international staff, taking them on adventures in Rocky Mountain National Park and to Rocky Church, and earning nicknames like “Papa Doug.” His kindness, optimism, and love for the YMCA of the Rockies were evident to everyone who knew him.
Doug was also an avid photographer who found joy in capturing the natural beauty of Estes Park, taking and sharing thousands (upon thousands!) of
pictures that showcase his deep love for the area and his family. Affectionately known as “Grandpops” to his grandchildren, he cherished spending time with his children and their families. In recent years he loved taking his daughter Ashley to music shows around Estes Park and at the YMCA during her summer visits, as well as beautiful drives through Rocky Mountain National Park. His other children, Lauren and David, along with their spouses and his three grandchildren, were fortunate to share many wonderful days with him in Estes Park shortly before his passing.
Doug’s absence will be deeply felt, and his legacy of kindness, generosity, and connection to others will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
A celebration of life service will be held in Hyde Chapel at the YMCA of the Rockies at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 23, with a casual YMCAstyle cookout reception at the Upper Cookout to follow. All are welcome to attend either or both events.
In lieu of flowers, his family requests donations to ACM (African Children’s Mission, where his son David serves as executive director, africanchildrensmission.org/) or the YMCA of the Rockies International Employee Fund (ymcarockies.org/annual-fund with “international programs” designation).
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.
Audrey Wallace Putney
Audrey Wallace Putney, beloved wife, mother, sister and aunt, valued friend, gifted educator and librarian, passed away in the Estes Park Hospital in Colorado on July 2, 2025, after a long illness. She was 88 when she died.
Audrey was a wonderful person. She was loving, loyal, intelligent, intellectually curious, open-minded, introspective, courageous, orderly and ethical, and she had a variety of hobbies. Among her favorite pastimes were travelling, reading, playing the piano, belonging to P.E.O., doing jigsaw puzzles, and engaging in outdoor activities.
Audrey excelled at building interpersonal relationships. She had a great marriage that lasted nearly 66 years, she bore two children (Clifford and Steven [now Spencer]), she kept in touch with relatives (especially her sister, Margo), she got along well with co-workers, and she made many good friends over the course of her life.
Born in Davenport, Iowa, on August 25, 1936, to Kenneth Wallace (an engineer) and Elva Reimers Wallace (a homemaker and piano teacher), Audrey was of Scots and German descent, and she mainly grew up in Rock Rapids, Iowa.
Audrey greatly valued education. She obtained undergraduate degrees from Cottey College and the Univer-
sity of Iowa, and she subsequently obtained master’s degrees from Ohio University and the University of Denver.
Audrey married Richard (Dick) Putney on August 20, 1959. To support themselves, the couple held down many different jobs over the years, with Dick working primarily as a U.C.C. minister and Audrey working mainly as an educator and librarian.
Over the course of their married lives, the Putneys lived in many different places, including Vermont, Ohio, Wyoming, Egypt, and Maine. Their primary residence, however, was Estes Park, where they lived off and on from 1977 until Audrey’s death.
Audrey worked as the circulation supervisor at the Estes Park Library from 1989 to 2003, and she gained prominence in the community both from that job and from her volunteer work for local organizations, such as R.M.N.P. and the Y.M.C.A.
To celebrate Audrey’s remarkable life, a memorial gathering will be held for her on August 20, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 at the Allnutt Chapel in Estes Park.
In lieu of flowers, friends and relatives of Audrey are encouraged to give money to the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, one of her favorite charities.
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
Thelma Knauke
Thelma Amelia Knauke, 90, of Estes Park, passed away on April 15, 2025. She was born in Pennsylvania on September 30, 1935, to Amelia and Hermann Knauke. Thelma had one brother. She lived in Estes Park for 40 years.
Thelma graduated from high school and went on to Northwestern College of Chiropractic and the Art College of Philadelphia. She enjoyed numerous professions: she was a successful fashion-designer in NYC, an English teacher to high school girls, an architectural draftsman, a chiropractor, and a salesgirl.
Thelma’s life revolved around her Christian faith. Obedience to God was her #1 priority. She was active in evangelism, politics, and following current events. She also loved outdoor activities: hiking, bicycling, and gardening. She was a world traveler, bicycling through Europe, Great Britain, Ireland, Germany, France, and living in Israel for three years. She was a member of Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley and involved with local and patriotic organizations. Thelma loved animals and had cats and dogs until she was too feeble
to take care of them.
Thelma never married and was proceeded in death by her parents Amelia and Hermann Knauke. She will be greatly missed by many friends who treasured her friendship.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donations made to Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley (2200 Mall Rd., Estes Park, Colorado 80517 US, https://www.ccestes.com/give) or Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park (1753 Wildfire Road, Estes Park, Colorado 80517 US, https://www.crossroadsep.org/donate). Please visit www.allnuttestespark.com to leave messages and to see the active links for donations in Thelma’s honor. Checks may be made to either organization and mailed to: Allnutt Funeral Service at 1302 Graves Avenue Estes Park, CO 80517 c/o Thelma Knauke.
A celebration of life for Thelma Knauke for Thelma will be held Tuesday, July 29, 2025 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Cornerstone Church, 2200 Mall Road, Estes Park, CO 80517. If possible, please RSVP to Allnutt funeral services 970-5863101.
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 activ-
ities. 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.
Now Hiring
CDL Drivers
Year round Part-time CDL drivers with passenger endorsment starting at $32.00 an hour plus tips.
Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle
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.
Rocky Mountain Conservancy Retail Clerks
Seeking team players to work at our Nature Stores within the Rocky Mountain National Park