October 2, 2020 | Winter Park Times

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Vol. 4, No. 7 October 2, 2020

We publish the First Friday of every month because local news means the world to us. FREE

The New Normal Stay safe and healthy, wear a mask and practice social distancing.

SPECIAL EDITION

Local Candidates Spotlight

Page 14

W EEKEND FORECAST PAGE 19

Mostly sunny all weekend. Friday, Saturday and Sunday will be beautiful.

Highs in the low to mid 60’s. Get out and enjoy your weekend!

Cover Photo by MICHAEL TURNER

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WinterParkTimes.com

October 2, 2020

Municipal Beat: Winter Park Town Council

t their regular meeting on September 15, Town Clerk Dani Jardee presented a new Mission Statement for council’s review.

Jardee explained, “The Town’s current mission statement: ‘To Actively Develop as a Quality Resort Community which Reflects the Beauty of Our Natural Surroundings’. Last year, Town Council directed Staff to create a new mission statement that better reflects the Town. The current mission statement (above) is outdated and states we are a ‘resort community.’” Jardee went on, saying, “Yes, we are considered a ‘resort community,’ however, Council felt we as a Town are more than that. Council wanted the statement to represent an inclusive, welcoming community. When the updated mission statement was presented at this year’s Council retreat, the new Council wanted to encompass the fact that we are also a year-round community. The mission statement presented for Council’s consideration today better represents the community we live in and also ties in with the four visions of our Imagine Winter Park plan; character and culture, global and local connectivity, world class outdoor recreation, and a healthy and thriving environment.”

Council approved the new Mission Statement: “Winter Park is a welcoming year-round community that values sustainable growth while preserving our heritage, adventurous soul and alpine environment” unanimously.

Town Council Handbook Clerk Jardee next presented a revised Town Council handbook for consideration. “At the September 1 workshop, Council and Staff went through the revisions to the Town Council Handbook,” said Jardee.

“The Handbook was introduced in 2009, and revised in 2012, and now revised again in 2020. The Handbook is meant to be a reference guide to help Council with identifying their roles and responsibilities, and proper procedures, protocols, etc. After the workshop discussion, a few items were added to better assist Council in conducting meetings, navigating electronic platforms as necessary, as well as processes for appointing people to boards, commissions, and committees.

The Town Council Handbook is a supplement to the Town Charter and Town Code in aiding Council members, especially new Council members. If Council accepts the revisions of the Handbook, Staff recommends Council

adopt the newly revised Town Council Handbook.” The revised handbook was approved unanimously.

Winter Transit Routes Transit Manager Michael Koch presented the Transit Advisory Committee’s recommended service for the 2020-2021 winter season. Most lines would operate the same as they did in the 2019-2020 winter season, with the exception of the Orange and Brown Lines.

Koch explained that the new alignments proposed are in response to feedback and new information that has been brought to the committee’s attention. The first event that impacts the routing of the Brown and Orange routes is the closing of the railroad crossing located on King’s Crossing Road in Winter Park. Both routes currently utilize that crossing to access US40 and Lion’s Gate Drive. The committee had also listened to riders of the Brown Line and the length of that route (as it is the second longest route behind the Granby Regional Line). Staff took this information into consideration when looking to increase efficiency in service to the west side of Winter Park.

Orange Line The proposed routing for the Orange Line would see significant changes in its route. Leaving Winter Park Resort, the Orange Line would make its way north through Downtown Winter Park, stopping at all stops through the downtown corridor before making a left turn on Grand Park Drive. The bus would travel up Grand Park Drive after making a stop at the Grand Park Recreation Center stop and turn south onto the new extension of King’s Crossing Road.

Following King’s Crossing Road, the bus would continue on to Forest Trail and service the Forest Trail and Tall Pines stops. It would continue on to King’s

Crossing Road and turn left to service the stops at Silverado I, Silverado II, Timber Ridge, and Wolf Park. A proposed new stop may be added across the tracks from the existing stop in front of the King’s Crossing Solar Townhomes. The bus would then continue back to Grand Park Drive, turning right, then turn right again on Old Victory Road which leads the bus right onto Lion’s Gate Drive. The route would continue down Lion’s Gate Drive, having the bus service the stops at Trestle Drive and Lion’s Gate Pines, then turn left onto Miller Road. The bus would then turn right onto Main Street and service the stops between Miller Road and Winter Park Resort. Total operating time for this route is estimated at 28 minutes.

Brown Line The proposed new routing for the Brown Line would have the line leaving Winter Park Resort heading north out of the main entrance, stopping at the Beaver Village Northbound stop. The bus would take a left on Vasquez Road and largely follow a similar route as it has previously. The new routing takes effect after the stop at Pine Cone Lane. The bus would leave this stop and continue to follow Forest Trail around back to Vasquez Road, where it would turn left and return to Main Street.

Total operating time for this route is approximately 28 minutes.

Koch added, “The proposed alternatives address the anticipated railroad closure at King’s Crossing Road and help bring more balance to the Brown and Orange Line schedules.

This also allows for greater access to the Rec Center stop. Currently the Emerald Line services the stop, but with the new routing, the Orange Line would have a stop at that location as well.”

The 2021 Operating Budget totals $2,420,792 and assumes receipt of a $205,640 CDOT operating grant and an HOA contribution of $122,696 to offset total expenses. After the offsets, the Town of Fraser’s portion would be $678,737; Winter Park $1,116,805; Grand County $232,663; and Granby $64,250.

The Winter Schedule would begin with the Weekday schedule starting November 16 and the Peak and Holiday schedule would kick in on Saturday, December 19. The schedule would switch to

by Casey Malon

Summer on Monday, April 26.

Council approved Resolution 1808, adopting the Transit Service Plan as presented.

Hideaway Junction Phase II Utilities Assistant Town Manager Alisha Janes presented council with a grant application to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) Energy and Mineral Assistance Fund for their consideration. If approved, the grant funding would be utilized to offset expenses for construction of infrastructure for Phase II of the Town’s Hideaway Junction affordable housing project.

Janes explained the current plans for future phases of Hideaway Junction includes 36 additional lots. Staff had divided those lots into two phases, with the next phase, including the utilities infrastructure for 20 lots on the north side of the development, and the final phase including 16 additional lots immediately south of the existing homes in Hideaway Junction Phase I. The total cost for the infrastructure for the 20 homes in Phase II is approximately $650,000 which includes sitework, the road base and pavement, water service lines, sanitary sewer lines, gas lines, and conduit for electric and broadband utilities. Road paving and sitework, while part of the overall project is not eligible for grant funding but can be considered as part of the local effort toward the project. The grant application will include a total project request of $600,000 with a local 50% match of $300,000.

Janes told council the application was due by October 1, 2020, and anticipated award announcements in February 2021.

Should the project be funded, Staff will issue an RFP for construction of the utilities infrastructure next summer. It is important to note that no housing units will be delivered during the summer of 2021. As the utilities infrastructure project moves forward, Staff would continue to work with Council to pursue the construction of the units in Phase I, with construction occurring no sooner than the summer of 2022.

Council approved Resolution 1809, directing Janes and Staff to move forward with the grant application.

The Winter Park Town Council meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 5:30 pm. The meetings are open to the public. To learn more, visit wpgov.com.

October 2, 2020

WinterParkTimes.com

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Outbreak at Cliffview Assisted Living Facilit y

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n September 30, 2020, Grand County Public Health (GCPH) and Middle Park Health (MPH) were made aware of multiple confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 among residents and staff of Cliffview Assisted Living Facility in Kremmling, CO. There are currently nine (9) confirmed positive cases with a few tests still pending.

This potentially devastating circumstance is considered an ‘outbreak’ in Grand County. An outbreak is reported to the state when two or more confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 are identified in a facility or (non-household) group with onset in a 14-day period. GCPH, MPH and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) will continue to monitor the outbreak, identify needs, and provide support as rapidly and sensitively as possible. MPH wants to assure our community we are taking action to ensure the safety of our team members, community and residents and prevent the spread of the virus.

Grand County Public Health has begun the case investigation process and will be in contact with anyone identified as a close contact with positive. To respect those involved, no additional information will be provided today.

“Public Health has prepared for the possibility of an outbreak happening in congregate care settings, and we have provided clear guidance for facilities in responding and controlling the spread of illness,” Grand County Public Health Di-

rector Brene Belew-LaDue said. “We are working closely with the facilities now to care for residents and staff.”

In order to prevent further cases or outbreaks of COVID-19, it is critical that all members of our community take the necessary precautions list below: • Wear face coverings in public areas • Limit gatherings to small groups, do not congregate • Anyone showing signs or symptoms of being sick must stay home • Employers conduct symptom screenings of all employees daily • Limit, where possible, all high and medium risk interactions • Practice good personal hygiene (wash hands frequently, cover coughs, do not touch your face) • Protect our vulnerable populations like the elderly and people with pre-existing conditions • Maintain 6-foot distancing from others • Increase ventilation as much as possible in all facilities • Frequent sanitation of high touch surfaces • Use cleaning and sanitizing products that meet EPA standards and CDC requirements It is important to remember that it is every individual’s personal and professional responsibility to make the right decisions and hold each other to the safest standards possible. Please continue to take preventative measures to protect yourself and others.

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Photo Bertrand Blay

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Microscopic photograph of the coronavirus in a labratory.

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MyMountainRealEstate.com Construction on the Granby Diversion Improvement Project started on October 1 and is expected to be completed by the end of November. During construction, the bridge across the Fraser River at Kabab Park will be closed.

Photo courtesy Town of Granby

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WinterParkTimes.com

October 2, 2020

USFS MASTER PLAN UPDATE COULD INCLUDE A LAND EXCHANGE A

proposed Grand County Ranchexchange parcel and es and USFS Land Exchange in the Roam developwould see 1500 to 2300 acres of ment should be proprivate forest land east of Devil’s vided during the planThumb Ranch traded for 543 acres of ning process to ensure development land, likely to become increased population part of the town of Winter Park. The can be adequately forest land to be traded on a fair served. Public trails market basis could become a mix of “close in” to residendispersed recreation facilities and tial neighborhoods wildlife refuges to help alleviate the will also help lessen impact of the new residents and vistraffic impacts as itors who will occupy the proposed residents leave to parnew development parcel. take in non-motorized In an ideal world for wildlife, the recreation from their Fraser Valley would have remained doorsteps instead of Devils Thumb Trailhead in Grand County.

Photo courtesy Go Hike Colorado unoccupied. It is our community’s driving to trailheads. heads, stressing the popular Idlewild responsibility to both preserve what Responsible planning trail network. Even at this late hour, we remains of our mountain environment for adequate infrastructure to serve the while also providing a high quality of life ran into 12 riders while riding 4 miles of residents of the 500 acres also needs the trails. for both visitors and residents. to look to two other recreation areas curAdmittedly current temporary trailIt is hard to predict how the present rently in the control of the proponents of head closures have partially caused this pandemic will change our valley. We the exchange. problem, but these closures have given have seen many second home owners The Devil’s Thumb Resort Trail system us a good picture of how even more valbecome permanent residents as remote constitutes about half of what is the largley residents and visitors will stress our working has become the new norm. est Nordic ski complex in North America. current trail system.

Many pundits, myself included, believe Our valley floor is uniquely positioned to Planners for the land exchange will this new reality will remain after the host this world-class complex of trails. guarantee in-development public trails virus challenge is finally overcome.

Our high altitude and the expansive area on the 500 acres. The parcel is east of More permanent residents will lead to between peaks gifts us with both advan(but does not included) the Idlewild a more vibrant community, but will also tageous geography and low temperatures challenge the capacity of our trail system campground – between the new Roam ensuring quality cross-country skiing. development and the Lakota neighborand recreation infrastructure. I rode the At least one individual was told during hood. Project proponents, led by Bob Idlewild trails late one recent weekday the proponents’ pre-application meetings Fanch, also are the Roam developers. evening, returning home at 9:15 p.m. . with key valley recreation planners there Specifics as to the mileage of pubCurrent maintenance projects and the have been discussions of closing the DTR lic trails to be dedicated on both the fire have closed many Winter Park Trailtrail system to the public, reserving it for lodge guests only. I was assured by Fanch and his planner Jeff Vogel during their time with me the complex would remain open to fee-based public use.

Although it may appear to be a reach to require the applicant to restrict planning options on a separate business, we must all recognize the overall impact of the development of 500 acres of land which will become part of the town of Winter Park. The uniqueness of our valley and our strong economy is based on our diverse recreation base. DTR is key to this and is key to the quality experience which is provided by having enough trail miles to spread out users. DTR trails remaining open to affordable fee based public use is key to a healthy local economy and to serve future residents of the new 500 acres of developable property.

The second increasingly impacted recreation front involves the valley’s “backcountry”. Our community has both been challenged by and gifted with the fact 71% of our county is comprised of tax-exempt public lands. Public revenue generated by these lands is relatively minimal from PILT (the federal payment in lieu of taxes program). The lion’s share of economic benefit is derived from recreation based on public lands, providing the heart of our tourist-based economy.

A large part of the discussion of this land exchange should include pre-planning for possible enhanced recreation infrastructure on the backcountry parcel to be exchanged. This discussion should, of course, be balanced with preserving portions of the lands for wildlife.

A large part of the key to preserving lands for wildlife is to “densify” recreation in planned areas. As noted

By Andy Miller

above, much of this should happen in or adjacent to communities. The Broome Hut has offered a lesson in an effective method of managing heavily impacted backcountry areas. The public day use room at the Broome last summer often saw over a hundred visitors per day on weekends (it is currently closed due to covid concerns). We have already added a third composting tank, it appears we may need to add a fourth. The human waste within these tanks would likely have been “deposited” in the surrounding landscape if GHA had not provided the public toilet.

Europe provides a vision of our future.

Switzerland hosts more than 800 public huts. These cabins do what the Broome does, localizing use to help preserve surrounding areas. The exchange parcel is bounded on the east by the Indian Peaks Wilderness, one of the most heavily used preserves in the US. On a summer day you may find yourself waiting in line to get to the top of Grand Huts is working to bring more huts to Grand County.

Our reservation management organization, The Tenth Mountain Hut System, built a hut on a parcel to be exchanged.

This hut is now on Federal land under a USFS special use permit (similar to the management agreement for the Broome Hut). The federal process permitting the Broome Hut stretched to 17 years.

Permitting a cabin on private lands prior to an exchange is a way to allow for effective and efficient public review during the exchange process.

Dispersed trail access should also be considered on the exchange parcel to help meet increased demand caused by population growth. Connectivity should be examined closely to allow for much-needed connections from the urban/valley trail systems to backcountry trails like the High Lonesome and Continental Divide Trails.

Other appropriate and creative dispersed recreation facilities can be discussed during the public process. One might be a downhill area to be utilized for backcountry non-motorized winter recreation. “Liftless” backcountry ski areas are being built in the northeast and in Canada, one just opened on private land north of Kremmling. Forest health (and fire resiliency) can be enhanced by thinning slopes which offer low impact winter recreation. I skied one area near Smithers, British Columbia in 2019 where I skinned up a complex featuring seven runs dropping 1,500 vertical meters.

This proposed exchange process will be part of the upcoming planned update to the Sulphur District Forest Master Plan.

It is common for other lands to be considered for exchange during the master planning process. The master planning effort should look for other opportunities to meet the USFS and community goals of improving management of public lands.

Like any good community planning effort, there are many interests to be considered. I very much appreciate the fact the applicants and the USFS have opened a process which will, I believe, lead to a better community for residents and wildlife alike.

October 2, 2020

WinterParkTimes.com

New Rendezvous Center opens its doors

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And all at once, summer collapsed into fall...

-Oscar Wilde

Offering the Best in Wine, Beer and Spirits from Around the Globe.

“Just look for the liquor sign”

The Town of Winter Park and Rendezvous Colorado ceremoniously cut the ribbon to the new Rendezvous Center last Thursday.

Photo courtesy of the Winter Park & Fraser Chamber

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n Thursday, September 24, the Town of Winter Park, the Winter Park & Fraser Chamber and Rendezvous Colorado, together with Koelbel and Company, celebrated the official grand opening of Rendezvous Center, a redevelopment on Winter Park’s Main Street.

The new building will house the Chamber of Commerce, a new Visitor Center as well the Rendezvous Center Residences, and the new Rendezvous Colorado Development and Sales Offices.

“This high-profile building is one of the first things people see when they arrive in town,” said Company President, Walter A. ‘Buz’ Koelbel. “As one of the first parcels to be redeveloped along Main Street, we’ve created a mountain

contemporary architectural design that reflects the new attitude of Winter Park but is incredibly welcoming at the same time.”

Hours: Sun - Thurs: 8am - 9pm | Fri + Sat: 8am - 10pm Located in

The half-acre site was purchased by Koelbel from the Town of Winter Park in 2017, as part of the purchase of the naming rights to the adjacent stage at Hideaway Park now known as “Rendezvous Event Center.”

46 Market Street, Fraser, CO 80442 970.726.4704 | IceboxLiquors.com

“Rendezvous Center is the perfect example of a project that will further enhance our community and begin the transformation of Main Street Winter Park,” said Winter Park Mayor Nick Kutrumbos. “We are excited about the future of this community.”

Fraser Rec District achieves significant savings by refinancing

Town of Fraser Clean Up Day Keep Fraser clean and tidy. The Town of Fraser will be providing disposal service for town residents. Please see below for restrictions. Limited space for disposal. Once we are full, we are done

Who: Fraser residents.

What:

T

he Fraser Valley Metropolitan Recreation District recently completed a refinancing of its outstanding general obligation bonds saving over $2.5 million for district taxpayers. Together with previous refinancing efforts completed in 2013 and 2015, the District has lowered its total bond payments by nearly $4.5 million.

“The District Board and staff made this refinancing a priority. The District was able to lock in an interest rate of 1.71% and shorten the final maturity of the

bonds by two years. The bonds will be completely paid off in 2035.” said Board President Roger Hedlund.

The District’s 2008 bonds were originally issued to finance the voter-approved FVMRD Community Enhancement Projects. These projects included the Grand Park Community Recreation Center, the addition of the IceBox ice rink, and a new irrigation system and clubhouse at Pole Creek Golf Club.

For more information, contact Scott Ledin at (970) 726-8968.

• • • • • • • • • • •

Proof of residency required

One truck load or medium trailer load limit per household Electronics. No appliances No construction materials or waste Car or smaller vehicle tires. No semi or tractor tires No hazardous waste or toxic waste No liquid waste No refrigerators or freezers No household chemicals No car batteries No petroleum products No contaminated soil

Where & When: The Drop

440 County Road 72, Fraser, CO 80442 October 3th 11am-4pm

Opinion

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Steve Skinner

tar Trek debuted in 1966, setting the bar impossibly high for space adventure programming but also displaying the best potential of man and mankind.

Starting from the very first pilot, Star Trek showed the potential of humanity while previewing the amazing technology that was coming, some of which has yet to be developed by mankind.

We almost never got to see Star Trek. The first pilot. “The Cage,” was finished in 1965 and was rejected

by NBC for being “too cerebral,” without enough action. The network sent writer Gene Roddenberry and director Robert Butler back to the drawing board. The second pilot, “Where No Man Has Gone Before,” was accepted and America was on the couch, boldly going where no man has gone before.

What followed was an original space series whose themes continue to resonate today. But more on that later. First, let’s look at the technology. The show gave us an advanced preview of some iconic, life-changing inventions, some of which have yet to be developed.

Perhaps the most cathartic invention that Star Trek previewed is the cell phone. “Communicators” allowed the captain and crew to talk to each other over great distances. Without wires.

Fascinating For perspective, when Star Trek debuted, typical American homes were equipped with rotary dial telephones, most of which weighed enough to set you bonkers should a family member wield one on your head in anger. Advanced telephone models hung on the wall and had long, coiled wires that attached the handheld part to connect to the rotary part.

Star Trek communicators were at the heart of every adventure. Some of the top brass had communicators sewn into their uniforms. They’d tap the emblem and be talking with Lieutenant Uhura.

And reception? Way better than we have now. Kirk could flip his communicator open (flip phone) and talk into it without dialing (voice recognition) and communicate clear as a bell to a crew member on the other side of the planet or the Starship Enterprise herself. He could do it at a whisper, when in danger of being discovered by a giant lizard known as a Gorn. (Of course the Gorn was listening in on his own device).

Our “civilization” is not quite that advanced yet. We can’t communicate on current “smartphones” between Tabernash and Winter Park even while wearing foil hats and standing very still on one foot while facing Devil’s Thumb.

The Star Trek communicator was light and clipped onto the belt, next to the phaser, which has yet to be developed. The phaser is a waterpistol-shaped can of whoop-ass that

can be adjusted to settings like, “stun,” “kill” or “shoosh!” It attaches almost invisibly and hovers by the hand, ready to draw in a nanosecond.

The Second Amendment pretty much ensures that all Americans will have access to phasers once they are developed. I will be an early adapter.

Because it’s only a matter of time before someone says, “The only way to stop a bad guy with a phaser is a good guy with a phaser.” I want to be that good guy.

Despite wholesome themes and deep, peaceful, cerebral mores, it’s never a doubt that Kirk will deploy the advanced weapons and tactics available when needed.

Other Star Trek inventions include space shuttles, tractor beams, elevators that go sideways, transporters, medical scanners, environment scanners (tricorders), talking computers, computer storage drives, iPads, Zoom meetings, warp drives, advanced imaging, global positioning, cloaking, tribbles and miniskirts that took viewers right to the edge while still leaving something to the imagination — but not much.

All of these scientific advances were deployed by a team of diverse, talented individuals that fit together to form a powerful collective, all on a mission to make the universe(s) a better place.

How diverse? Not only multiethnic but also multi-species.

Central casting cracked it out of the park when they teamed Captain

LET TER TO Editor: What Next?

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few weeks ago I put up several political signs in my front yard good location low down in the Highlands.

Exercising my right to Freedom of Speech.

All fine for less than a week when my Trump sign was stolen. No other signs were stolen. No doubt somebody with Trump Derangement Syndrome. Whoever did this is certainly sick. The signs were clearly on my property so he/she had to trespass to take it. This isn’t just theft and trespassing, it is a violation of my Constitutional First Amendment Right. For this person and those who think that it’s just a little prank, I have news for you - it is also a Federal Crime. There is ample good reason for this Constitutional right and federal law that protects both political party signs.

October 2, 2020

Well I replaced the little Trump sign with a bigger one. A 2’ by 4’ sheet of plywood painted black on white with “TRUMP D-ass Stole My 1st Sign”. Now some might think that the “D” stands for Democrat but it could stand for Dumb, Deranged, Developmentally Disabled, Diaper, Deplorable or all of the above! That sign was nailed to a landscape tie with 5 - 3 1/2 inch nails. A couple of weeks later, you guessed it, the Deranged, Diaper Ass struck again.

This prompted me to install a night vision camera and to make another, even bigger, TRUMP sign with appropriate comment. So what next? Your move D-Ass.

Frank Watts 970 887 9460 * Look out for Big Tech - they censor conservative views and push leftists.

Serving the Fraser Valley and Grand County “We live it. We get it. Let’s talk.”

Editor & Publisher/Michael Turner mturner@winterparktimes.com For Advertising contact us: sales@winterparktimes.com Editorial Board Chair/Drew Munro dmunro@winterparktimes.com Journalist & Reporter/ Casey Malon cmalon@winterparktimes.com

Kirk with an alien, non-emotional science officer (“Spock”); a hick Southern doctor (“McCoy” aka “Bones”); a drunken, Scottish first engineer (“Scottie”); a black, female communications chief (“Uhura”); an Asian helmsman (“Sulu”); and a Russian navigator (“Chekov”).

The crew was international and its captain even fooled around with exotic green and blue women from other planets.

One theme included a pandemic.

In the 1966 episode “Miri,” young people on a planet identical to earth contract a fatal disease upon entering puberty. The landing party ages fast while Bones and Spock work together to create a vaccine to save themselves and the future of all kids.

The landing team, in a race against time, develops a rushed vaccine that they must try — or they will die.

They gaze at the vial, which is being analyzed by artificial intelligence ...

Capt. Kirk asks: “This is the vaccine?”

Dr. McCoy answers: “That’s what the computers will tell us.”

Mr. Spock logically states: “Without them, it could be a beaker full of death.”

And that, my friends, is where we are today.

Steve Skinner likes green skin.

Reach him at nigel@sopris.net.

HUGE THANK YOU!

S

agebrush BBQ & Grill was honored to host the Mountain Family Centers, Taking Steps for Cancer Golf Tournament on September 12th at the Grand Lake Golf Course. The Sagebrush Western Classic was a fantastic event. We want to give a special thanks to Vicki Winterscheidt. Vicky played an essential role in organizing the fundraiser. She crossed all the T’s and dotted all the I’s. Without her, we would not have had such a great tournament. Vicky went above and beyond, and we cannot thank her enough.

The Committee leaders for Taking Steps for Cancer, Sam and Judy Eberly, have provided an enormous asset to Grand County. They have an outstandContributors

Steve Skinner, Columnist Felicia Muftic, Columnist John DiGirolamo, Right Stuff Jerry Nissen, Lifestyle Bruce Barwick, Man About Town Eric Sandstrom, Perspective Jeremy Krones, NPLD Andy Miller, View from Xerex

ing committee and provided over 50 volunteers to help this tournament.

They all deserve a huge pat on the back. These folks are an impressive and ambitious group of the very best savvy Grand Lake community members. This organization supports all of Grand County’s cancer patients. Please give a HUGE thank you to all those who helped and a pat on Vicky’s back for making it happen.

Thanks, Brenda Freeman Cell: 970-531-6841

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Letters may be emailed to: editor@ winterparktimes.com or submitted online under the “letters” link. Letters should be 600 words or less and include the author’s name, address and telephone number for verification purposes.

October 2, 2020

WinterParkTimes.com

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A Funny Thing Happened

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funny thing happened on Donald Trump’s way to November 3, election day. Ten months ago President Trump had everything under control, it appeared. “Everything” to him meant the stock market. The economy was good though the 4% GDP growth needed to pay back Trump’s tax cuts to the rich had hovered around the Obama term of 2.2%, while Trump paid $750 to 0 taxes in most years. Unemployment had dropped to below 4%. Then mother nature and inflamed civil unrest struck in unanticipated ways that affected health, safety, financial security, and sense of well being to some degree of most Americans and exposed his ineptitude to do the job. First came COVID-19, followed by urban unrest in reaction to police racial bias and brutality while Trump was overtly spouting white nationalism, supporting and praising violent actors. The third strike was the death of a Supreme Court Justice leaving a vacancy to be filled by an ultra-conservative nominee resulting in a lopsided ideologically tilted Court that would likely cripple or kill Roe v Wade and take away affordable health care from millions. The only antidote is to elect Joe Biden and senators who are pledged to follow the science, are sworn

The Right Stuff ...

I

t was only a few years ago that the occasional football player knelt down to protest the national anthem and the country. Now that disdain for America has permeated all major sports and many college and high school athletes. Players keep telling us that they are not protesting the country and the flag.

But that’s the event they choose to protest. If you knelt when a bride walked into the chapel you would be disrespecting the bride, groom and the entire wedding ceremony.

If they really wanted to make a statement, they’d kneel on every play during the game and give their paycheck to a jobs training program for inner city minorities.

Players who don’t kneel and pledge their undying support for Black Lives Matter are now in the minority. Sports was once a refuge from the daily pressures of life and an escape from politics. I remember when Hollywood was like that too. No more, as we now are lectured by pampered athletes living in a bubble. You have to wonder if these clueless jocks are just going along due to peer pressure, or do they really support the Marxist and destructive organization called Black Lives Matter? Let’s recap: BLM wants to dismantle the nuclear family, defund the police, impose reparations, encourage abortions, and push an aggressive LGBTQ agenda. They want to achieve these goals by burning down the system. I’ll say it out loud: BLM doesn’t care about black lives, as they riot, pull down statues and remind you to say the name of George Floyd. They want

to keep and expand the ACA, or will engineer a replacement to Obamacare if the Supreme Court votes to kill it.

With Biden’s plan, no private insurance is taken away and the public option is limited to lower-income people.

Except for the stock market, thanks to COVID the economy crashed, unemployment rose to depression-era statistics, and then fell back to 2008 great recession levels. Businesses closed doors, many permanently, and any rebound awaits enough people getting vaccinations with a limited start hopefully in December and fully instituted to reach the general population by next summer, with lots of pain and suffering in between.

Trump himself tried to keep public approval high for his response to COVID by lying to the public about down the danger of the virus and its effects. He knew better. Bob Woodward’s tapes and book RAGE exposed that he did understand how bad the coming plague would be, but he chose to call it just another flu, ridiculed wearing masks, blamed China, toyed with medical quackery and herd immunity theories, refused to institute the defense

production act to force production of PPE, and more highly effective masks for the general public. He then put unqualified political flunkeys in charge of screwing with data and scientific findings to sync with his words. The result: the US is among the top per capita countries in the world for the rate of death per hundred thousand. Only worse were Brazil, Spain, and three other South American countries. Now, COVID is spiking again in 24 states, the beginning of forecasts by scientists of a fall season wave.

Trump has attempted to handle unrest on the urban streets by “suppression and domination” by “federal agents” and to deal with the political backlash by suppressing voters, sabotaging the post office’s ability to process mail-in ballots which is the voting method favored

by Democrats in the time of COVID, and intimidating and inconveniencing minority voters who plan to vote in person. A second Trump term promises to be more of the same. The violence supporter is Trump. and calling parading neo-Nazis and long gun-toting militias “fine people” and “patriots”. In the First Debate, Tuesday, Trump refused to condemn them and called on a violent

organization, Proud Boys, identified by the FBI as such, to stand by, inferring they should be ready to strike if Trump lost. The FBI has also reported that Felicia Muftic the right-wing violent organizations were far more a threat than those on the left.

How about just treating people honestly and fairly regardless of their race or political loyalties. What a concept, but it is one of Biden’s years of public service has shown he has followed.

“Law and order Trump” refused to commit he would leave office peacefully if he lost the election, and he said there would only be a peaceful transition if he “got rid of the (mail-in) ballots” that citizens had not requested he claimed were fraud even before they were cast.

Since 2013 Colorado along with four other states have mailed unsolicited ballots to registered voters with no evidence of widespread fraud. The fraud is Trump’s claim. For sources and more, visit www.mufticforumblog.blogspot. com

no feelings left

to destroy things rather than improve lives. Does BLM care about David Dorn, a retired black police officer who was killed by rioters in St. Louis trying to defend a small business? Of course not. Are they saying his name? Are they having “peaceful protests” in his honor?

Don’t hold your breath.

Woke progressives command you to “Do the Work!” to get educated about racism. Are those who support BLM “Doing the Work” to learn about what BLM is really about? BLM perpetuates the myth of white privilege, and the lie that the country is fraught with systemic racism to disallow success for minorities. They reject the notion of personal responsibility in favor of the falsehood that outcomes are based on your race. But make no mistake, BLM is a powerful organization, just ask the owner of Palmetto Cheese after Costco pulled the brand from its shelves when the owner criticized BLM. Burgess Owens, a former NFL player and author said this about kneeling during the national anthem, “It is about the flag, period.

This country is the greatest country in the world. Don’t let your white guilt destroy my race.” Mr. Owens is black, and he speaks and writes about serious issues, which is more interesting than pointless and meaningless newspaper articles about a chooch dog, squirrels and the streaking phenomenon.

Alas, the results of legalizing pot.

Cleveland Browns star Baker Mayfield said that he wasn’t

concerned about losing John DiGirolamo fans and that he didn’t care what people think about him kneeling for the anthem. Perhaps I’ll start a new organization, ADM, “Athletes Don’t Matter” and he can be the poster boy. Jerry Glanville, former coach of the Atlanta Falcons once quipped to a referee, “this is the NFL, and that stands for ‘not for long’ when you make those kinds of calls.” NFL ratings are down, and I am not surprised as many Americans are sick and tired of sports being politicized. Fans are tuning out and I am a former fan that no longer cares about what happens on any given Sunday. I have a new acronym for the NFL that sums up what many are now experiencing: No Feelings Left.

WINTER PARK TIMES Coronavirus (Covid-19)

FIRST FRIDAY’S NEWSPAPER Our next publication is: November 6th, 2020 Thank you for your understanding.

We appreciate your donations and support.

Help protect your friends, family and community. Wear a mask and wash up.

Stay Safe and Stay Healthy!

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October 2, 2020

Valley Briefing Town Clean Up Day The Town of Fraser Clean-Up Day is this Saturday, October 3, from 11am-4 pm at The Drop, 440 CR 72. Allowable items include household trash (one truckload or medium trailer load per household). The event is open to residents of the Town of Fraser. Proof of residency required.

The Town of Hot Sulphur Springs Clean-Up Day is ALSO this Saturday, October 3, from 8 am-12 pm at Harms & Sons, 324 E Grand Ave. Allowable items include household trash (batteries, appliances & electronics) and yard waste.

Tires will be accepted at a fee of $8 each. The event is open to residents of the Town of Hot Sulphur Springs and/or within the fire protection district boundaries. Proof of residency required.

Winter Park Express to resume service in 2022 Winter Park Resort and Amtrak plan to resume Winter Park Express service in 2022. Amtrak and the resort will use the 2020-21 season to look for ways to make the Winter Park Express even better when it relaunches. Amtrak has been reducing the number of seats sold on each train to enable distancing, a best-practice that will likely continue into the upcoming winter season. Amtrak and Winter Park Resort evaluated seating options on the Winter Park Express and agreed that with social distancing requirements, it was not possible to operate the train successfully this season.

Mountain Parks Electric to return $1.65 million Virtual 2020 Candidate to its consumers In October and November, Mountain Forum

The Winter Park & Fraser Chamber of Commerce is hosting a virtual 2020 Candidate Forum on Wednesday, October 14, from 4:30-7:30 pm. This is a great opportunity to hear from local candidates and learn more about them during this free event. To register and receive the Zoom link, email cross@playwinterpark.com.

OHV Hearing postponed Due to the overwhelming public response, the Snowmobile/OHV public hearing by the Grand County BOCC, originally scheduled for October 6, has been postponed to October 20, 2020 from 2-5 pm to allow more time for public comment. The only roads being considered are: CR 72, CR 73, CR 50, CR 50S, CR 5, and CR 8 for the OHV route and CR 480 and CR 479 for the snowmobile routes. For more information, visit the Grand County Road and Bridge website: co.grand. co.us.

2021 Health Insurance Open Enrollment November 1, 2020 - January 15, 2021 is the open enrollment period for Colorado’s Health Care Exchange: Connect for Health Colorado.

Here are a few things you can do right now to make open enrollment easier: • Create or update your Connect for Health Colorado account: Online, at connectforhealthco.com, or, by phone, at: (855) 752-6749.

• Create or update your email address.

• Reset your password.

• Make sure your current contact information and mailing address is up-to-date.

For assistance (mask-to-mask or virtual), call Kim Long, Certified Health Coverage Guide and schedule an appointment: (970) 531-4769.

Parks Electric (MPE) will refund $1.65 million to its consumer-members. As a not-for-profit utility, a cooperative, MPE allocates margins (called capital credits) each year to consumers proportionate to their electric consumption. However, since MPE is debt financed, the money is refunded on a 20-plus-year retirement cycle. As such, the $1.65 million will be returned to those who purchased electricity from MPE in 1993 and 1998.

The average refund for active residential accounts is $68.02. Since its inception in 1946, MPE has returned more than $15 million in capital credits to its consumers.

“At Mountain Parks Electric, it pays to be an owner,” said MPE General Manager Mark Johnston. “The return of capital credits is just one benefit of being a consumer-member (owner) of an electric cooperative.”

Capital credit recipients will either receive an account credit (if their refund is between $10 and $50) or a check in the mail (if their refund is $50 or more).

Community Baby Shower On October 16th, 2020 Grand Beginnings will be hosting their 5th annual Community Baby Shower at the Middle Park High School Bus Loop. This event will provide information and resources for new and expecting families through vendors such as Grand County Library District, Grand County Public Health, Pregnancy Resource Connection, Mountain Family Center, and more.

The Community Baby Shower is an event for new and expecting parents to ask questions, get connected to community programs, and of course to learn about resources available in Grand County all in an enjoyable baby shower setting. Parents are invited to drive through and meet our vendors who will offer resources pertaining to maternal mental health, newborn health, and childcare programs and advice in a laid back setting. A small lunch is provided AND there will be opportunities for parents to take home free baby items such as clothing, diapers, formula, and baby boxes, as well as the information on how to use each item.

October 2, 2020

IN LOVING MEMORY

WinterParkTimes.com

Page 9

Frances “Fran” Slusser Finnigan

F

rances “Fran” Slusser Finnigan, wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, passed away peacefully on August 31, 2020 after suffering a severe injury in a fall. She was nearly 77 years old and leaves behind a heart-broken family, including her husband of 55 years, three daughters and sons-in-law, seven grandchildren, two sisters, a niece, two nephews and a grandniece.

Born in Brush, Colorado, Mrs. Finnigan spent her early life on her family’s farm. She graduated from high school at 16 and moved to Denver to live with her sister Rita and her baby nephew, Mark. On a summer night in a scene reminiscent of the movie “American Graffiti,” she met her husband Dennis, whom she married four years later. Together, they had three daughters, Patty, Stephanie and Lisa. She raised her children and worked for over 20 years in the Family Medicine department at Rose Hospital.

With her children grown and beginning to start families of their own, Mrs. Finnigan and her husband moved to Grand County, opening The Claddagh Inn, a bed and breakfast in Fraser, Colorado, which they ran for several years. Over the next 20 years, the Finnigans were innkeepers and later shopkeepers, opening Fraser Valley Photo, the Fraser Valley’s only retail photo lab and supplies shop.

1944-2020

Mrs. Finnigan was a devoted mother and grandmother. Her grandchildren visited her frequently from Boulder and Denver; two live in Tabernash. They all loved the outdoors and often skied at Winter Park, returning to the Finnigan’s home for warm winter meals and grandmotherly affection.

The family, in announcing Mrs. Finnigan’s passing, said “There is peace in knowing that Fran is in Paradise, dancing the “Irish jig” and watching down on her loved ones with her smiling Irish eyes,” and asked, “Please keep Fran’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Funeral services were held on September 12th at Christ the King Roman Catholic Church in Denver.

The family has also created a Go Fund Me page (https://rb.gy/hnbdpf) for donations in lieu of flowers. Donations will support Grand County, Colorado Emergency Medical Services.

Donations may also be made in her memory to the American Diabetes Association and www. diabetes.org/donate.

They also said, when the COVID-19 pandemic subsides, they are planning a Celebration of Life reception in Grand County.

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October 2, 2020

You Can’t Teach an Old Man New Tricks

In lieu of the 9th Annual

Taste of History,

By Eric Sandstrom

A

s we hiked through the woods around Fraser this evening, a slice of orange moon smiled down upon Ozzie and me.

the Grand County Historical Association invites you to participate in a Raffle of an original oil painting by nationally acclaimed artist, Karen Vance.

His tail wagged, happy to be outdoors with his scientifically-challenged owner.

Check out our lunar planet, I said. He was busy gnawing a deer antler we stumbled upon.

Raffle Tickets

$25 each -or5 for $100 -orSpecial Offer! 30 for $500 PLUS an autographed copy of GCHA Board President, Travis Wright’s book, Images of America: Rollins Pass

“That’s no planet,” Ozzie howled.

“That’s the moon, a harvest moon.”

The Trestle at Rollins Pass

Raffle Drawing

December 1st, 2020 at 6pm at Cozens Ranch Museum in Fraser

by Karen Vance

karenvanceart.com Framed Size: 36” x 27” Value: $15,000

Tickets Available at

“Horsefeathers,” Ozzie said.

If you don’t believe me, google it, I said. Here’s another tidbit you may be unaware of. Bob Woodward started our Williams Fork wildfire.

A tine of antler fell from his open jaws.

• Pioneer Village Museum (970) 725-3939 • Cozens Ranch Museum (970) 726-5488 Credit cards accepted.

Thank you for your support!

That’s what I meant to say, I said.

Resembles a slice of pumpkin pie up there, don’t you think? By the way, did you know Americans live 10 years longer than anybody else because we eat so much pumpkin pie?

“Cops haven’t said who’s responsible,” Ozzie said. “Where do you get your socalled facts?”

GrandCountyHistory.org

I told him to google it if he didn’t believe me. On second thought, I said, trust me.

“You’re saying Bob Woodward, the same guy whose newspaper stories about the Watergate burglary brought down President Nixon, is an arsonist?”

Ozzie said.

The canine continued, “He wrote a bestseller about Trump and Covid. And he started the Williams-Fork too?”

I reminded him of what Babe Ruth, the famous philosopher, once said. “Truth is stranger than lies.”

“Babe Ruth played baseball,” Ozzie said.

“He was no Aristotle.”

Ever since grade school, I explained, we’ve all been taught the moon is made of green cheese. We never questioned this fact because we trusted whichever expert told us.

Ozzie coughed on an antler chunk.

I told him about a research team at Ohio State University. I said they discovered the moon is not made of green cheese after all. They proved the moon is made of pumpkin pie filling.

When Ozzie asked about the team’s credentials, I informed him that when they’re not in the lab conducting experiments on cheese, they’re on the gridiron playing Big 10 football.

“You need to have your head examined,” Ozzie said. “To see if it’s empty.”

Ignoring his snide remark, I said researchers proved the moon’s nothing but

a big ball of pumpkin pie filling. Ozzie decided to relieve himself in the woods.

See those craters up there? I said. He was still busy.

Don’t they remind you of the pockmarked surface of a pumpkin pie?

“I prefer apple,” he said.

If the moon is actually a giant pumpkin pie in the sky, I continued, you probably wonder why NASA astronaut Ned Armstrong didn’t get pumpkin pie filling all over his boots when Apollo landed on the moon back in 1905.

“You mean Neil Armstrong,” he growled. “And the year was 1969.”

Whatever, I said. The answer is as simple as Einstein’s theory of electricity. Apollo never landed on the moon.

Armstrong made the whole thing up in order to get attention. He bribed NASA’s low-energy rocket scientists to fake the Apollo landing. Take my word for it.

Ozzie barked, “You’re crazy as a bluenosed gopher.”

Here’s more breaking news, I said. Starbucks sells pumpkin spiced lattes.

“You call that news?” Ozzie said. “Pass me the rest of that antler.”

Let me finish, I said. Inside that latte you’re drinking…

He interrupted, “Dogs don’t drink lattes.” … are enough opioids to keep you high for hours, I said.

“You’re telling me the pumpkin spiced lattes are addictive, like heroin?”

Ozzie’s teeth grabbed the antler out of my hand.

“Next you’re going to tell me these opioids are extracted from the small intestine of farm-raised wooly mammoths,” he howled.

You saw the story too? I said.

“Fox News,” Ozzie said.

The good news is that Ohio State University researchers are developing an antidote for the pumpkin spiced latte, I said. So we can all relax.

Ozzie watched an owl dive for a jackrabbit, which swiftly disappeared down a rabbit hole.

We’ll all go cold turkey before Thanksgiving, I said. If that sounds farfetched, trust me.

Ozzie wagged his tail.

“How about fetching me another antler.”

October 2, 2020

WinterParkTimes.com

Page 11

Business on the move

The Crooked Creek Saloon is getting a makeover. New owners Kaydee and Ted Fisher (Sharky’s) are renovating the local classic and rebranding it as Fisher’s Bar - a bar for the working class.

owner Sue Volk, who has opted for retirement. If you are interested in taking over this great space, call Mark Steinbach (303) 913-0214. We wish you all the best in your new adventures, Sue!

Debbie’s Drive-In in Granby is now serving fresh-baked donuts. We haven’t tried them yet, but rumor has it, they are delicious!

One Love Kitchen in Fraser closed over Labor Day weekend. Visit the One Love Rum Kitchen in Grand Lake for your Caribbean fix!

Mountain Grind Bistro in Cooper Creek Square has served its final cup under

You know something? Share your business moves. tips@winterparktimes.com

ELECT FRANK DELAY TREASURER QUALIFIED: Over 34 years banking and finance experience

Letter to the Editor

G

lobally humans are literally killing Earth. Nature is essential to human life and prosperity but all natural ecosystems worldwide are facing unprecedented pressure and destruction from human impacts. These impacts include human overpopulation; climate change largely from carbon emissions with stronger, more frequent storms, floods, wildfires and loss of ice and glaciers in mountainous and polar regions; deforestation; acceleration of animal and plant extinction (million species at risk) from climate change, illegal wildlife trade, poaching, unsustainable hunting, cultural practices and superstitions and habitat destruction; introduction of invasive species; unsustainable farming, ranching, fishing and mining practices; air, water and soil pollution; water waste; soil degradation and loss; ocean acidification and coral bleaching from climate change; garbage pollution; food waste; light pollution; chemical pollution and toxic wastes; pesticides; nuclear wastes; oil spills; plastic/micro-plastic pollution; uncontrolled urbanization and industrialization; paving; wetland and riparian area destruction; dams; ozone reduction; space junk and debris; resource greed; excessive consumerism; relentless uncontrolled pursuit of economic growth; incompetent and/or corrupt governments; war; mass human migration from war and climate change; gov-

FOCUSED:

ernment reductions in environmental protections; public ignorance and/or apathy about the environment; and rejection of science.

Trump is the most anti-environmental president in U.S. history. He filled his administration and federal agencies with enemies of the environment. Congressional republicans are equally bad. Trump has weakened or gutted landmark environmental laws including the Clean Air, Clean Water, Endangered Species, Migratory Bird and Environmental Protection Acts. He reduced the size of National Monuments to promote resource extraction. He has tried to push through environmentally destructive projects such as pipelines and his border wall. He has reduced or eliminated over 100 environmental protection regulations, mostly to benefit corporate and industrial operations and profits. Or his actions are to benefit his sons, who are trophy hunters, such as proposing to allow hunting in federal wildlife refuges. Fortunately most of these actions are being challenged in the courts.

The environment always loses under a republican administration. I know because I spent my career in federal natural resource management.

Vote democratic down the ballot because Earth’s survival depends on it.

Melinda McWilliams Fraser, CO

Improve Investments = Safety + Liquidity + Yield Collaborate with other County officials Increase Transparency THE RIGHT CHOICE for GRAND COUNTY’S BANKER Paid for by Frank DeLay

Grand County Board of Commissioners, District 2:

Grand County Treasurer:

Teri Tanton

Shanna Ganne Colorado State House:

Colorado State Senate:

Judy Amabile

Karl Hanlon

University of Colorado Regent:

Callie Rennison US House of Representatives:

Joe Neguse

President:

US Senate:

John Hickenlooper

Joe Biden Paid for by the Grand County Democratic Party, Susan Newcomer, registered agent. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee.

Learn more at www.grandcountydems.org

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER AND OUR ADVERTISERS.

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WinterParkTimes.com

October 2, 2020

Trout Unlimited Hosts Cleanup Day

By Jerry Nissen

Gary Key, a local musician and long-time TU supporter separates an assortment of bobbers recovered in the Photo by Jerry Nissen Fraser River cleanup day!

O

JUDY AMABILE Democrat for State House PROGRESSIVE PARENT BUSINESS PERSON

n a spectacularly beautiful Saturday, September 12, we hosted a river cleanup project on the Fraser River between County Road 8 and Rendezvous. River Clean Up volunteers showed up at the pavilion at the Lions Ponds near Safeway at 9AM. After a few minutes of socially-distant instructions to our masked volunteers, we broke into small groups and attacked the cleanup.

Our volunteers scoured both banks of the Fraser. We looked in the willows.

We waded in the river. We circled the Lions Ponds and found…much less than we expected! It’s been about three years since we last cleaned this particular stretch of river and we were delighted that we found less litter than anticipated.

We did discover some plywood, a

I

“I will take urgent action to address the issues that are impacting our mountain communities.

Read my plans at JudyAmabile.com.”

CLIMATE ACTION

HEALTH CARE

ECONOMIC JUSTICE

JUDY HAS BEEN ENDORSED BY US Representative Joe Neguse, Colorado Speaker of the House KC Becker, Senate Majority Leader Stephen Fenberg, House Majority Leader Alec Garnett, Representative Edie Hooton, Representative Jonathan Singer, Senator Jeanne Nicholson, Attorney General Phil Weiser, Clear Creek County Commissioners George Marlin and Randy Wheelock, Pitkin County Commissioner Greg Poschman, Hot Sulpher Springs Mayor Bob McVay, US Representatative David Skaggs, and many others!

Paid for by Elect Judy Amabile | Registered Agent Laura Sparks

WWW. JUDYAMABILE.COM

plastic chair (with all four legs), wire, pipe, cigarette butts, fishing line, and lots of bobbers. We also found lots of doggy-doo (some of which was in bags).

It’s bad enough that people don’t clean up after their dogs, but what’s up with bagging it and leaving it along the trail, people? Are you expecting the poop fairy to come by and pick it up???

Coors and Miller Lite cans seemed to be more popular this year, knocking Bud Light out of its favorite spot from our last cleanup.

TU provided lunch from Subway for all our volunteers (thanks to Dave for the great deal!) after the clean up was finished.

HUGE thanks to all our wonderful volunteers for helping us in our ongoing battle to Save The Fraser!

IKON Pass Winter 2020-2021

n anticipation of the upcoming winter season, Alterra Mountain Company recently announced their preliminary plans. In a statement, they said, “Most Ikon Pass destinations do not require reservations at this time for lift access to the 38 North American Ikon Pass destinations for winter 20/21. While these unprecedented times and rapidly evolving circumstances may cause plans to change without notice, currently most Ikon Pass destinations feel confident they can elevate the guest experience and eliminate the need for lift access reservations by addressing social distancing concerns through other operational changes.

In order to provide priority access to Ikon Pass holders, many destinations will temporarily regulate or eliminate a number of day ticket products in order to control resort visitation levels and

avoid overcrowding. Access at Ikon Pass destinations will vary. For more details, visit Ikon Pass.

Winter Park Resort PR and Communications Manager Jen Miller said, “As adventurers near and far continue to anticipate winter in Colorado, our plans at Winter Park Resort are coming into focus. Through a letter from our parent company, Alterra Mountain Company, we announced that we would prioritize pass holder access and suspend selling daily lift tickets for the time being. We’re still not sure exactly what the winter season will look like, but we do know we will have to more closely manage lift access during peak times to minimize potential overcrowding. The best way for us to do that right now is to limit daily ticket sales. We will continue to evaluate and evolve our plans, remaining nimble in uncertainty.”

Dry conditions keep Williams Fork Fire active

Smoke can been seen Thursday, October 1st southwest of Mt Nystrom on the flanks of the Fraser Valley. Picture taken from Coyote Creek in Tabernash, Colorado

Photo Jerry Nissen

T

he Williams Fork Fire, located seven miles southwest of Fraser, started near the Henderson Mill on August 14th and quickly grew due to high winds, steep slopes, and dense fuels.

Working with long term fire behavior analysts, foresters and other natural resource specialists, Williams Fork firefighters successfully contained the southwest flank along County Roads 3 and 30, and the Williams Fork River, preventing damage to the Henderson Mill.

On the north and east flanks, firefighters improved roads and other natural features to create defensive lines to protect the communities of Fraser, Tabernash, and Winter Park.

The fire grew by about 100 acres on Friday, September 25, as strong winds from the west pushed the fire east towards McQueary Lake and the Vasquez Peak Wilderness. Wind gusts up to 60 mph were recorded on Berthoud Pass.

Red Flag conditions returned Saturday with more extreme fire behavior causing around 300 acres of growth.

The fire was active again on Tuesday afternoon as red flag conditions returned to the area. The fire continued to grow in the McQueary Creek drainage near Jones Pass and the Richey Creek drainage near Keyser Ridge, with two plumes of smoke visible from Grand, Summit and Clear Creek counties. Two Type 1 helicopters worked the north flank of the fire to keep growth in check between the fire perimeter and Keyser Creek.

The weather outlook for the foreseeable future calls for continued extreme drought conditions with weather conducive to active fire behavior, including low relative humidity, temperatures 10-20 degrees warmer-than-normal, and 20 mph winds out of the west/northwest.

The fire is currently under command of a Type 3 team led by Incident Commander Ed Leblanc and a supporting team of 88 personnel. More resources arrived at the fire on Wednesday, including crews, engines, and aircraft. A Type 2 team has been ordered. The multi-mission aircraft has flown the fire and updated acreage.

Currently, the fire encompasses 13,247 acres and is 25% contained.

Due to steep rugged terrain and dead and dying trees caused by Bark Beetle, indirect fire line tactics are being utilized. Natural barriers such as avalanche chutes, rock screes, high elevation alpine tundra ridges, previous fuel treatment areas, recent burn scars, and wet drainages have been identified to slow the fires’ spread. Bottle Pass, Saint Louis

Pass, Fraser Experimental Forest (FEF) Headquarters and the Denver Water buildings located in the Bobtail drainage have been identified as areas of point zone protection. Fuels mitigation and placement of water handling equipment have been completed around the structures in both the FEF Headquarters.

Forest Closure Due to increased fire activity, the US Forest Service reinstated the larger closure area that includes roads, trails and campgrounds in the Keyser Creek, Crooked Creek and St Louis Creek areas.

Please visit www.fs.usda.gov/arp for details. Due to the weather outlook and fire behavior, the forest closure order is expected to remain in place, as is, through at least the middle of next week.

Grand County remains in Stage Two fire restrictions, which prohibits smoking outside and campfires except for propane-fueled stoves.

Safety Message: The entire area within 2 miles of the fire is a “No Drone Zone.”

If you fly, we can’t.

Information about air quality advisories and health concerns related to wildfire smoke can be found at fire.airnow.gov or colorado.gov/airquality/colo_advisory. aspx.

The fire is burning within Game Management Unit 28. Hunters holding licenses in game management units impacted by the fire may be able to request a refund and reinstatement of preference points used to draw the license. For updated hunting from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, visit cpw.state.co.us.

The Fire is under investigation Trained fire investigators have determined that the Williams Fork Fire started by human activity, but the specific cause is not yet known.

If the public has any information, images or video of the area that may be helpful to the investigation, please email them to SM.FS.usfsarp@usda.gov.

Information can also be shared by calling (307) 745-2392, selecting option 5, and leaving a name and phone number so law enforcement can return the call.

Investigating wildland fires is a legal process that requires the fire cause to remain confidential until the process is complete.

For official fire information, maps and photos, visit inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6971/ or call the Public Information Line: (970) 445-2910 (8-4:30; M-F).

October 2, 2020

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WinterParkTimes.com

October 2, 2020

Candidate Spotlight

lection Day, November 3, looks to be the date that could determine the direction our country is headed. On the national front, we will be making our choice for President, Senator and US House of Representatives. On the state front, we will choose our state Senate and House representation, as well as CU Regent. On the home front, 2 of the 3 Board of County Commissioners seats are up for grabs, as is the Treasurer’s seat.

Multiple candidates are vying for these local roles, so we asked the candidates to tell us more about themselves, share their ideas and describe why they are best suited to meet the needs of the citizens of Grand County.

Mail-in Ballots should be received soon and are due by November 3 at 7 pm. There are drop-off

locations in Fraser (Grand Park Community Rec Center); Granby (Town Hall); Grand Lake (Town Hall); Hot Sulphur Springs (County Admin Building); and, Kremmling (CSU Extension Hall).

If you opt to mail your ballot in, it will take additional postage and should be mailed by October 27 to ensure delivery by Election Day. The Winter Park & Fraser Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a virtual Candidate Forum, with state and local candidates, on October 14 from 4:30-7:30 pm.

The Winter Park Times will also host a series of “One on One” Candidate interviews on KFFR 88.3 FM - tune in and watch our website for more details.

Air Force assignment prevented me from finishing my PhD, I dove deep into Public Policy and I am prepared to understand the complex woven fabric of our society. I have used my Commissioner position at the state level to SIGNIFICANTLY lower health insurance costs in Grand County on the individual marketplace, as well as impacting legislation regarding short term rentals both for increased powers to control their effects, and protecting this economically vital component to Grand County tourism.

B

orn in 1971, I grew up in the small town of Raton New Mexico. I played football, basketball and baseball in school, but grades were my number one focus. I was admitted to the Air Force Academy in 1990. My first visit to Grand County was a 1991 squadron ski trip. While standing on a balcony in Meadow Ridge overlooking Winter Park, I told my classmates I would live here someday. I met Nicole Doucette of Hot Sulphur Springs in 1993 and we fell in love and got married in 1994 right after my Academy graduation.

I served over 20 years as an Intelligence Officer and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. Nicki and I moved 10 times through my many assignments. We have three children, two are Middle Park High graduates attending college in Colorado, and our youngest is a Junior at Middle Park High School.

My Air Force duties included reporting on enemy Air Forces, operating satellites, building global communication networks, and teaching at the National Intelligence University in Washington DC. I earned three college degrees during my career. In 2004 I deployed to the Middle East for U.S. Central Command delivering maps and Imagery to combat forces in Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, and the United Arab Emirates. I retired from the Military in 2015. I maintain the military core values of Integrity First and Service Before Self.

I ran for County Commissioner in 2016, and was blessed to be chosen to represent the people of Grand County.

What duties do you feel are most important in a commissioner’s role?

The most important duties are #1 earn and keep the public’s trust, #2 become an expert in public policy, and #3 use our Commissioner position to lobby State government to help Grand County.

To earn the public’s trust I am transparent and welcome public input, I include my personal cell phone and email on my postcards and they are (970) 531-8812 and richcimino@gmail.com. I explain all my votes. I listen. I analyse. I evaluate. I forecast the public policy outcomes. I am willing to change positions if the data support that. To become an expert in public policy, I earned one Bachelor’s Degree and 2 Master’s Degrees and I was admitted into the PhD Program for Public Policy at George Mason University. While an unexpected

What should the county commissioners be focusing on right now?

The Grand County Quality of Life! It includes many facets including water quality and quantity, affordable housing, intense focus on County Roads, first responders, improved internet, STRs, and property taxes. In Colorado, county government has many responsibilities. Counties are an arm of the state administering public health, human services, law enforcement and judicial services, water law and many many other things.

A singular focus is not a luxury County commissioners or our County employees have. There is always a wide breadth of mission areas and statutory responsibilities that we are responsible for. But in the end, it all comes down to quality of life and I will preserve our quality of life while we grow our population and economy.

Prioritize each of the following topics and explain your reasoning: Transportation, Attainable Housing, Economic Development, Growth and Infrastructure.

1. Growth and Infrastructure: Grand County has now been fully discovered, and while growth is inevitable, we can control it and drive growth towards our towns and invest in infrastructure like Red Dirt Hill and the Fraser Valley Parkway to help improve safety and reduce traffic backups. Infrastructure includes internet access, speed, and reliability. We should welcome distance workers. A variety of professionals, engineers, artists, and builders will be the future of the Grand County workforce.

2. Transportation: The four unavoidable big costs of living in Grand County are: 1. Housing, 2. Health Care, 3. Transportation, and 4. Quality of Life: including food, child care, entertainment, recreation, religion, charity, etc. Transportation is a major factor. Public Transportation with a public bus system might be the key to affordable living in Grand County. Every quality of life cost is related, so maybe with your savings on health insurance you can now afford the payments for a good 4x4 vehicle with snow tires. A regional housing authority willing to ask the voters for approval for revenue for affordable housing projects could improve the housing stock in Grand County. Transportation, like infrastructure, like health care, is a key component to overall Quality of Life in Grand County and I have increased funding for transportation since 2018. We provided County land to the Winter Park bus system for their new bus barn. we subsidized a portion of the first

year of the new Winter Park to Granby line. We did all this without raising taxes.

3. Attainable Housing: Grand County has reached a stage in growth where government subsidized and enforced affordable housing projects are absolutely necessary. A regional housing authority in cooperation with all Grand County incorporated towns is the best way to increase the amount of affordable housing in a sustainable way that meets the needs of the East and West ends of our county.

4. Economic Development: I prioritize this last not because it is not important, it is, but because economic growth is occurring just fine with out government interference. Government help could be focused on efforts to diversify our economy. Tourism is great and we will always be a tourism County, but diversification will make Grand County more resilient and more business friendly. The key is to welcome professionals who can work virtually. Improved internet is what we need.

I fought for two years to put a question to the voters if they will allow County funds to be used to improve internet speed and reliability. The voters overwhelmingly said YES. I will work for the next four years to help diversify our already growing economy!

What would you like Grand County to look like in 20 Years and what steps will you take to realize this vision?

Grand County in the year 2040 will have a workforce with a majority of virtual workers. Tourism will still be strong, but there will be a higher ratio of locals to tourists on the slopes, rivers and trails than there are today, because our full time population will grow. We will be energy neutral with a hydro power plant on Wolford Reservoir and lots of solar energy. We will be low light, making us the stargazing capital of the world. We will have regular airline flights and train stops. I will invest in the infrastructure and professional ecosystem and water resources of Grand County. Fast reliable internet will be ubiquitous. I am already helping to build an ecosystem of diversified professionals through Grand Innovators. I am investing in infrastructure to supply the backbone our future will be built upon. I realize no one person or county government or business or any town can lead this alone, we need to all work together.

I will continue to reach out and cooperate build relationships that can contribute to making this happen.

Why do you feel you are the best choice for county commissioner?

I have helped the BOCC improve County Roads, increase funds for transportation, and lower health insurance costs. The response to COVID-19 has been community wide, and I am thankful to Public Health, the towns and fire districts and all who helped with the See Candidate Spotlight, page 17

October 2, 2020

WinterParkTimes.com

Teri HONEST RELIABLE OVER 15 YEARS EXPERIENCE THE RIGHT CHOICE

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VOTE

TANTON Treasurer

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WinterParkTimes.com

October 2, 2020

Candidate Spotlight

IMT. The County invested $130,000 through the Grand Foundation for business relief and PPE supplies. We provided county land for a solar energy project in cooperation with Mountain Parks Electric. I will continue working on health care, roads, internet, transportation and affordable housing. I will constantly improve our water quality and quantity. I would like to take steps on becoming energy neutral. I have built relationships locally and across the state legislature and the governor’s cabinet. Simply put, I understand local government and I will keep improving public policy for Grand County.

M

I

have been involved in the community since I came here in 1980, coaching and officiating in the recreation league all the way to the high school level. I was elected to the FVMRD Board and during my tenure the Sports Complex was constructed and nine holes of golf were added to Pole Creek without a tax increase.

I was first elected to the Board of Commissioners in 1996, within six years the county was debt free. During my service we built a new maintenance shop in Fraser, upgraded the jail, constructed the Judicial Center and remodeled the Administration Building, upgraded the rodeo grounds in Granby and Kremmling, made major improvements to both airports, established a full time Veterans Service Office, expanded EMS to a high professional level, and supported the Sheriff’s Department, Search and Rescue and first responders all with no tax increase. I will again bring this same concern for the tax dollar to the budget. In addition, I was heavily involved in obtaining a permanent conservation easement on the land between Tabernash and Fraser.

What duties do you feel are most important in a commissioner’s role?

Managing resources to provide the health, safety, and welfare to the people of Grand County.

What should the county commissioners be focusing on right now?

Dealing with the issues created by COVID-19. Protecting citizens, employees, and guests while getting businesses back up to speed. The budget has obviously been impacted by COVID-19. Conservitive budgeting will be a key in being able to provide county services for the next few years.

Prioritize each of the following topics and explain your reasoning: Transportation, Attainable Housing, Economic Development, Growth and Infrastructure.

All of these topics are intertwined with a common factor, employee shortage. If we want people to live and work in Grand County, it is imperative that the County work together with the towns, special districts, Chamber of Commerces, and regional resources like Northwest Colorado Council of Governments.

What would you like Grand County to look like in 20 Years and what steps will you take to realize this vision?

It is my hope that the county will resemble what has been laid out in the Grand County Master Plan. Development would be in growth areas which in turn would allow us to preserve open space and view corridors throughout the county.

Why do you feel you are the best choice for county commissioner?

Experience and the ability to bring people together to do what is best for Grand County.

y name is Travis Wildeboer. My wife Alyssa and I moved to Grand County from Iowa 2 weeks after we got married in 2003. Our first years were spent gaining experience by working in every industry possible. From teaching snowboard lessons, driving the airport shuttle, tuning skis, to working in the local restaurants, we did it all. In 2005, we contended firsthand with the challenge of finding affordable property in Grand County. With fervent willpower and a strong desire to establish roots, we purchased a vacant lot in Winter Park and built our own home from the ground up. We eventually started our own small businesses, with myself building homes and Alyssa operating a small cleaning business.

With a higher calling to public service, in 2013 I went through the EMT program offered by Grand County EMS and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of working for and serving the county full-time for the past 7 years. Since then, our family has doubled in size with the arrival of our 2 children, Topher in 2015 and Tilly in 2017.

I enjoy skiing/snowboarding in the winter and competing in ultra-distance races in the summer. I find the greatest satisfaction in pushing myself through challenging circumstances, such as my time through-hiking the Appalachian Trail, climbing all of Colorado’s 14ers, and competing in organized long distance foot and mountain bike races. Mostly I enjoy spending time with my family and friends who are ultimately the real reason I call this place home.

What duties do you feel are most important in a commissioner’s role?

As the lead policy makers in our county our commissioners must have a complete understanding of all our local issues. From water rights to attainable housing, no voice can be left unheard. They are only able to do this if they genuinely listen to members from across our diverse communities. When this is done successfully, we as a county move forward with a clear vision.

Through ensuring we follow a balanced budget, and transparency at all levels of government; the county commissioners can help the county realize our highest aspirations and chart a steady course for the future.

What should the county commissioners be focusing on right now?

In the midst of this pandemic, our immediate focus needs to remain on keeping our community safe, our economy open and our businesses thriving. How we respond to the pandemic will affect the opportunities we have as a county going forward. We must do this by empowering our Public Health department and supporting or local businesses.

Prioritize each of the following topics and explain your reasoning: Transportation, Attainable Housing, Economic Development, Growth and Infrastructure.

Attainable Housing- Because the success of our local business is increasingly being limited by lack of local workers. Economic Development- Local business are what allow our community to sustain itself. Without them there would be no Grand County. Growth and Infrastructure- Prioritizing attainable housing, and economic development, helps us understand our infrastructure needs and plan for the future. TransportationAs a rural community our transportation needs and are ultimately driven by our approach to addressing the previous topics .

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What would you like Grand County to look like in 20 Years and what steps will you take to realize this vision?

Twenty years from now I envision a strong local work force enabled by countywide approach to attainable housing. I imagine our local business thriving from The County, towns, and chambers all focusing on economic development. Our trails, lakes and rivers are better protected, stemming from the stewardship our community has invested in. Lastly, I see my children having the same opportunity to call Grand County home that my wife Alyssa and I have had.

Why do you feel you are the best choice for county commissioner?

My success in life has always been a result of my unmatched work ethic. From being the 13th person in history to finish the 100-mile Barkley Marathons, to hand building my home in the midst of raising two babies all while working full time at Grand County EMS; it has been hard work and determination that allowed me to reach my goals. As your commissioner I will bring that same drive and determination to serving you and helping Grand County build a strong future.

I am running for District 1 County Commissioner so that I can help ensure that my children have the same opportunities to build healthy, productive lives here that my wife and I have had.

I am running as an unaffiliated candidate because my interests are in doing what is best for our community. I take pride in seeking out diverse viewpoints and educating myself on issues before making decisions. As your commissioner, I will be committed to addressing your concerns and will remain focused on the needs of our county. We need to invest in sustainable economic growth, preserving Grand County’s natural resources, and most importantly our people. It is critical that we attract and retain the brightest Teachers, First Responders, and Civil Servants while supporting and empowering them at the same time.

As your commissioner I will bring an unrelenting drive and passion to leading our county.

Many of you know me as a nonprofit leader, a community advocate, a horse woman, an artist, and a mother of two, but I would like to introduce myself as a Grand County Commissioner Candidate in District 2.

As a nonprofit leader, my greatest achievement to date is working with the Grand County Historical Association to preserve our community’s wealth of history and help our organization thrive. History is the soul of a community and is a common ground under which we can all find our roots and unity.

I have lived in Grand County for 16 years, finding a job at the Winter Park Resort switchboard upon moving to the Fraser Valley. From there I moved to the nonprofit world working for Northwest Rocky Mountain CASA, a local nonprofit that advocates for the best interest of children involved in the court system due to abuse and neglect.

As a single mother living in income-based housing, I worked my way through my masters in nonprofit management, met the man of my dreams, grew our family, andbought a house. Through this journey, I experienced the real Grand County. The Grand County of working families and of having a side gig (or two). The Grand County of soccer Saturdays and Friday family ski days.

The Grand County where you find community and lifelong friends.

October 2, 2020

WinterParkTimes.com

Candidate Spotlight

My journey to become a candidate for commissioner began upon recognizing that Grand County is experiencing change and that it is time for the BOCC to change with it. I will bring an open mind and heart that will hear the needs of Grand County. I promise to operate with transparency and thoughtfulness. I will bring the voice of the working people to our county government.

What duties do you feel are most important in a commissioner’s role?

I feel the most important role of commissioners is to set the tone for the community as leaders, and to engage that community in proactive, productive dialogue.

Commissioners should support our communities in their success and provide the support for those communities to reach success. In particular, prioritizing initiatives that support working families and the growth of a year-round economy that isn’t 100% tied to the ebbs and flows in our tourism-based economy.

What should the county commissioners be focusing on right now?

I believe commissioners should be focusing on bringing Grand County communities together to work collectively on addressing issues such as access to health and mental health care, community housing, transportation, fostering economic development, and supporting education.

Prioritize each of the following topics and explain your reasoning: Transportation, Attainable Housing, Economic Development, Growth and Infrastructure.

To me, each of these issues are connected. Not one is more important than the other. With investment in housing, affordable and attainable, we can retain quality workers.

Transportation in the form of a countywide bus system, will allow workers flexibility in where they live giving access to areas of affordable housing Investment in economic development will provide support for our businesses to survive the economic effects of COVID-19 and allow room for growth and increased income. Our community is growing and changing, we may allow this growth to happen to us, or we can take the reins and choose what our future looks like.

With investment in growth and infrastructure, we make informed decisions about our future. We choose what our community will look like and how it will grow.

What would you like Grand County to look like in 20 Years and what steps will you take to realize this vision?

In 20 years, I would like Grand County to have a year round economy that complements the existing tourist economy. I would like every family who wants to make Grand County their permanent home to be able to. I would like to see our public lands preserved and cared for. To make this vision a reality, we, as a community, must work collaboratively to take action now to support programs, fund initiatives, and enact policy that will make our vision a reality and protect our small-town way of life. We can no longer sit silently as change occurs in our community.

Why do you feel you are the best choice for county commissioner?

I am the best choice for Grand County as I have lived in Grand County, not on acres of land or in a million dollar home, but in income based housing working multiple jobs to make ends meet. I have worked in the nonprofit community to bring collaboration to address issues, hearing all voices. I have the personal and professional skills to facilitate productive, ethical and transparent communication and open dialogue with constituents and local agencies and governments. I believe in transparency in and accessibility to county government.

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ing problem. This all needs to be looked at holistically. There is

I

am a Grand County native and live near the place that my Great grandfather homesteaded in 1883.

Although I was gone for nearly two decades teaching, coaching, and working, I chose to come back to Grand County to raise my family, educate my kids, operate a business, and be involved in the community. I have a varied and diverse background, from being a teacher and coach for thirteen years, a 4H Leader, to being a district sales rep for the livestock feed division of a global corporation. I currently run a cattle and hay operation. I am a husband and father of three; all MPHS and University graduates. I am a Grandfather to one and an uncle to twelve.

What duties do you feel are most important in a commissioner’s role?

Ultimately, at a high level, commissioners are responsible for only two things; land use and the stewardship of taxpayer money. The details are where the work comes in. What conditions must apply to a new subdivision? What do we want Grand County to look in like in the future? To what level are we taking care of our county roads? What is the highest priority for taxpayer money to be spent on? What is the balance for these priorities? How can we effectively use citizen input for help in making these decisions?

What should the county commissioners be focusing on right now?

The commissioners deal with a myriad of tasks every day. Those include; fielding and addressing complaints about blight, potholes or dusty roads just to name a few. At a purely literal level, today and within the next couple of weeks, we are in budget season. We hear from all the departments, and with the collaboration of the county manager, ask for adjustments, explanations or support as is. This is really the most important function of a county commissioner in that it is the process where our goals and our mission are backed up by funding-putting our money where our mouth is.

Prioritize each of the following topics and explain your reasoning: Transportation, Attainable Housing, Economic Development, Growth and Infrastructure.

Everything is connected to everything. This is a mantra I learned and adopted over 25 years ago and I’ve preached it to every class I taught or anyone else that would listen. It’s come full circle as the topics listed are all interconnected and interdependent. Fixing one doesn’t work, all must be addressed holistically or we just create problems somewhere else. A booming economy is great; sales are up, tax revenues are rising, but our infrastructure doesn’t always handle it. Bumper to bumper traffic on two lane state highways is not most people’s idea of a great quality of life. The current seller’s market is great but it’s not really helping the attainable workforce hous-

always a balance, always tradeoffs, when we make decisions on these issues. Keeping all that in mind and not to dodge the question, I believe that Transportation is the number one issue in terms of what county government can and should do. We have to have roads that are safe and accessible. In addition, I support where practical, mass transportation such as the Lift. It moves people from “a” to “b” and in a lot of cases, can reduce congestion. Number two is economic development, but I can argue that all of these issues are economic drivers. Attainable workforce housing=good workers=successful businesses.

Steady growth=good paying jobs=economic development=money for roads and housing. Addressing these is a combination of things that involves community collaboration, partnerships and creative solutions.

What would you like Grand County to look like in 20 Years and what steps will you take to realize this vision?

We know growth is coming. What it looks like and managing it is the hard part. I’ve said many times that we’re two hours away from 5 million people. It’s easy to get here, it’s easy to commute, shop, or fly all over the world from here. The answer to that question is twofold. First, it’s critical that we hear from our residents about what they want Grand County to look like; what is important in terms of quality of life, raising our families, having opportunities for success, and safety of our citizens. We have 8 zip codes and 6 incorporated towns in Grand County.

Each of these places and towns has a diverse and unique character that I believe is important to recognize and preserve. Secondly, I would do everything in my power to support a steady, sustainable, diverse economy that provides opportunities for success for businesses and the hardworking people that own them, run them and work in them.

Why do you feel you are the best choice for county commissioner?

While I’m no fan of career politicians, I do feel that there is value to experience in leadership positions.

This experience consists of connections, knowledge of how the process works and how to get things done. I have that experience and background to make holistic, objective decisions that are fiscally responsible, sustainable, and based on community input and needs.

I have a diverse, professional background, have served for nearly 8 years, have a record of finding solutions, listening, and being an objective voice of reason.

Thank you for your support and I’m asking for your vote. Thank you, Winter Park Times for providing this special Candidates section.

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Candidate Spotlight This Grand County Treasurer election is a special two-year term to fill a vacancy.

Grand County’s Open Lands, Rivers and Trails funding benefits everyone

dation and Moffat Road Railroad Museum Association. I enjoy the recreational opportunities that Grand County provides including skiing, running, biking and hockey.

My wife, Kristie, and I have called Grand County home since 2003 when I helped start Grand Mountain Bank. We have 2 boys who have grown up in Grand County. Will attends Midland University in Fremont, Nebraska and Ethan attends Middle Park High School. My career background is banking related with over 34 years of experience. Upon graduation from CU-Boulder with a finance degree, I worked for the US Department of Treasury as a bank examiner. I then moved to Salida, Colorado as the Chief Financial Officer for a community bank prior to serving as President of Grand Mountain Bank. After the sale of Grand Mountain Bank earlier this year, I left banking and am now working with Kristie in her real estate brokerage, NextHome Choice. I also currently serve on the non-profit boards for the Colorado Headwaters Land Trust, Middle Park Medical Foun-

I

grew up in Lakewood, CO and moved to West Palm Beach, FL for a few years where I married my soulmate and both my children were born. In 1996 when my youngest was 2 months old my husband and I decided to move back home to Colorado to raise our children and picked Grand County for its small town family values. Both of our children attended the Kremmling Preschool where I also sat on the Preschool board as their Treasurer. Both kids are graduates of the West Grand School district.

I have sat on many boards during my time here in Grand County including: The West Grand School Board for 8 years, The West Grand Community Education Foundation for 6 years and was chair to the board 2 of those years.

I have also volunteered on many school related committees such as the DAC and PTA. I was the Treasurer for the Kremmling Cattle Kings Hockey League for 12 years as well.

When I first came to Kremmling, I worked for Rocky Mountain Realty Sur-

I am the best choice to be Grand County Treasurer because the skills and experience I bring to the job from day one will continue to build on the efficiency of this office for Grand County citizens. The Treasurer position is known as the “County’s Banker.” While my background fits this part of the position, that isn’t the whole story. The Treasurer invests the County’s funds and currently the income on those investments is 40% less than it was last year. With my banking background, I will bring a focus on improving investment income with an emphasis on safety, liquidity, and yield.

The Treasurer interacts with the other elected officials and department heads.

I will bring an unbiased approach to collaborate with these individuals for the betterment of the County. I also want to ensure that there is transparency from the Treasurer’s office in its operations and for everyone that it serves. veys as the office manager.

I was responsible for all aspects of accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll.

I have worked for Grand County for the past 18 years and 15 of those as the Deputy Treasurer and Chief Deputy Public Trustee. I have worked with all aspects of the Treasurer’s office and have a solid base and knowledge of all the statutes we are required to follow.

Why am I Running for Grand County Treasurer?

The Treasurer’s office is a very specialized office and is highly mandated by state statutes. It takes years to learn the complexity of the state statutes, and I have spent years learning them. There is not a lot of “wiggle room” on how we apply the laws that direct our office. In short it is not a political office.

I have a lot of pride in how the Treasurer’s office has run efficiently and honestly over the years I have worked here. Since the retirement of Christina Whitmer, I have been the appointed Treasurer and feel that it has been a very smooth transition. My goal is to maintain the high integrity our office runs on, to keep up on the automation we have implemented and to provide a high level of customer service to the citizens of Grand County.

“The future of this republic is in the hands of the American voter” ~ Dwight D Eisenhower

Two (2) Derecho events brought thousands of trees down this summer, and Headwaters Trails Alliance (HTA) received OLRT funds to cut the trees and clear the trails for safety.

Photo courtesy Headwaters Trails Alliance

G

rand County’s Open Lands, Rivers and Trails (OLRT) Fund has begun accepting applications for their sixth funding cycle of the program.

Passed by voters in November 2016, the funds are collected via a .03% county sales tax, generating millions of dollars in funding thus far. The OLRT fund has a ten-year sunset provision and will expire at the end of 2026, unless reinstated by Grand County voters.

The purpose of the OLRT Fund is threefold: Keeping water in the Colorado River and other rivers for agriculture, ranching and outdoor recreation.

To the protection, conservation, and acquisition of agricultural lands, natural areas, scenic open lands, wildlife habitat, wetlands, and river access.

To the maintenance of hiking and biking trails.

The Fall 2020 Grant Cycle opened on September 21, when applications were posted. Applications must be submitted

by October 23, 2020 to be considered in this grant cycle. The Open Lands, Rivers and Trails Advisory Committee (OLRTAC) will make their recommendations for funding to the Grand County Board of County Commissioners at their December 8, 2020 meeting.

Eligible applicants include: Grand County, incorporated municipalities located within Grand County, and

qualified nonprofit land conservation organizations as defined at 26 U.S.C §170(h)(3) or as accredited to hold conservation easements by the Land Trust Alliance Commission may submit grant applications requesting funding for the following: less than fee interests in real property, fee simple or water rights acquisition.

Grand County, incorporated municipalities located within Grand County, and nonprofit organizations may submit grant applications requesting funding for the maintenance of hiking and biking trails. Funding for trail maintenance purposes is capped at 15% of the funds available for grant awards.

Partnerships with municipalities or the County can also apply.

In the past 5 grant cycles, over $3 million in sales tax dollars have been awarded for open space, river preservation and trail maintenance projects.

As of the end of July 31, 2020, there is $170,978.43 in available funds for trails (15%) and $1,164,322.70 in the open lands/rivers portion of the OLRT fund.

The fund continues to grow as sales tax is collected and the OLRTAC’s oversight ensures every dollar spent benefits the residents and visitors of Grand County.

To learn more or apply, visit co.grand. co.us.

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KAREN VANCE DONATES A MASTERPIECE to GRAND COUNT Y HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION

R ol li ns Pa ss A rt

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he Grand County Historical Association (GCHA) is honored to receive continued support and creative talent from nationally renowned artist, Karen Vance. She recently shared her inspiration for her newest masterpiece, currently being raffled as a GCHA fundraiser: “I recall the first time I experienced the Rollins Pass trestle...

I had won, at the GCHA Auction, the high bid for a Jeep Tour for two, with then-President of GCHA, Bob Temple. Bob and his wife Jeanine were a wealth of local historical information and champions of the historical association. My husband and I rode up in a convertible “open air” Jeep with Bob and Jeanine as tour guides. We rounded the bend near the West portal of the railroad tunnel, and looked up to the trestle, in silhouette against the blue Colorado sky. Bob narrated the story of the railroad, the engineering, construction and perils of the weather and terrain the workers faced. It was an awesome experience to listen to its history while viewing the magnificence of this man-made vision and architecture linking the east and west of the Continental Divide, and bringing the American West into the 20th century. This initial awe was what I wanted to capture in this painting.

This is Karen Vance’s 20”x 36” taboret and studio palette, mineral spirits can, 30 or so “squirts” of oil color, brushes, palette knives, fork, dental tool, charcoal pencil, sandpaper, toothpicks, Q-tips, and mixed pools of the different greens used in her painting.

Photo Courtesy: Karen Vance

“Using my memories, sketches, and Travis Wright’s photography, I orchestrated my experience and heart-felt love of this area of Colorado where I’ve lived and painted for 35 years.

“This is the 4th original oil painting that I’ve donated to the GCHA for a raffle fund-raiser. The first was “October Morning”—a view of Byers Peak from the Norgren Ranch Meadow below. The raffle brought over $10,000, won by Jean and Dwight Miller, and helped to keep the Hot Sulphur museum open with a purchase of a new boiler. Later, the painting was on the cover of Art of the West’s Guidebook of American Western Art, and featured in the book “Colorado Landscapes Peaks and Plains” by Ann Scarlett Daley, Curator of the Denver Art Museum’s American Western Art Collection, and local resident of Rendezvous, in Fraser.

“My sincere hope is that through “The Trestle at Rollins Pass” my language of art will speak to your heart. Please buy some raffle tickets. Please help our Historical Association maintain, teach, promote, and inspire our hearts and our generations to come... and maybe, your ticket will be the winner too!” — Karen Vance Tickets are $25 each or 5 tickets for $100.

You may also purchase 30 tickets for $500 and receive an autographed copy of Images of America: Rollins Pass.

Tickets are available county-wide at Cozens Ranch Museum in Fraser, Pioneer Village Museum in Hot Sulphur Springs, and Heritage Park Museum in Kremmling.

“The Trestle at Rollins Pass” Courtesy: Karen Vance and GCHA

PLEASE SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MUSEUMS *********

Photo courtesy of B. Travis Wright

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October 2, 2020

The Library’s Online Catalog: A Love Story

By Polly GALLAGHER, GCLD

A

nna Szczepanski is an avid library user who also works with small rural libraries across Western Colorado as a consultant for the Colorado Consortium of Libraries (CLiC).

What would you do if I told you there is something new and wonderful that you can do “online?” You might want to plug your ears. Avert your eyes. Perhaps groan.

If so, I would understand. I am weary of Zoom meetings. I disabled my Facebook.

Microsoft Teams does not a team member make. Do not even get me started on webinars, online conferences, and virtual school.

But there is one thing I have grown to love even more in my screen-rich pandemic life than I did previously: the online library catalog. Oh no, you may think, she is one of those people who reads books on her phone. Nope. I like real pages that turn, are printed with ink, wrinkle if dampened. I love the heft of a book.

When the Grand County Library District (GCLD) had to switch to curbside service earlier this year, there was no way to browse the shelves. So as an avid library user, I pivoted too. I began to browse the online catalog instead. And what I discovered is magic.

GCLD is part of a consortium of 29 Colorado Libraries called “Marmot.” When you search the catalog (gcld.marmot. org), you have access to over 900,000 books, audiobooks, DVDs, and other items.

Online shopping is not my thing. However, online library book browsing is a habit I can really get behind. And the best thing about it? No creeping credit card bill. No books littering my shelves for years to come. I get to read, enjoy, and return.

So, here are my top three tips for making the most of this most excellent tool: Tip #1: Search for nothing.

Leave the search box empty and click “Go,” the result is ALL the books.

Everything out there in 29 libraries, to the tune of 912,228 results. That many results would be overwhelming, except there is a series of drop-down menus by which you can narrow your search. Just want audio books? Click on “Format”.

Only want books written at a preschool level? Click “Reading Level”. Only want the latest and greatest? Try “Added in the Last” (Day, Week, Month, etc.)

Tip #2: Check out the “Browse Categories” on the catalog home page.

When you walk into a GCLD library, the librarians have created fun displays that highlight certain book topics or genres, perhaps on hiking books or self-improvement. The browse category titles on the Online Catalog are the same thing: books highlighted to pique your interest.

Tip #3: Turn on your Reading History.

We’ve all been there: you’ve been waiting for a book, and you excitedly crack the cover and start reading. Something seems a little familiar about it. And then it dawns on you: you have read it before. Drat! Checking your reading history can make this a less likely experience.

Thankfully, the library stacks are now open again for traditional book browsing. I find treasures on the shelves that I may have missed in the online catalog. But I will not abandon my online catalog habit.

We are looking for your contributions! Photos, announcements, birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations, or other community news you would like to share! submit@winterparktimes.com or email: mturner@winterparktimes.com

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October 2, 2020

SUDOKU

“No snowflake in an avalanche ever feels responsible” Lucky Numbers 2,8, 11, 19, 24, 29

huMoR Mill ...

Hunting for Wabbits!

BY JEFF R. KING

MEME OF THE WEEK

October 2, 2020

enVirOnS Friday Saturday

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THe WeeK aHeaD in THe fraSer Valley

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Hi 66, Low 32

Hi 63 Low 31

Hi 67 Low 34

Hi 68 Low 32

Hi 660 Low 32

Hi 68, Low 34

Hi 70, Low 36

Sunrise: 7:02 Sunset: 6:42

Sunrise: 7:03 Sunset:6:41

Sunrise: 7:04 Sunset: 6:39

Sunrise: 7:05 Sunset: 6:37

Sunrise: 7:06 Sunset: 6:36

Sunrise: 7:07 Sunset: 6:34

Sunrise:7:08 Sunset: 6:33

Another successful NPLD despite COVID

By Jeremy D Krones

Photo of horses and loggers bringing logs down from Mary Jane Creek about 1907. The man in the checkered suit is the first Forest Ranger in that area. His name is Lee Cooper. A creek at Winter Park bears his name.

Submitted by: Serena Fanning, Pioneer Village Museum Grand County Historical Association Archives

PRC Walk for Life

W

e wanted to provide you with some information regarding the turnout and results for our 2020 Walk for Life event in Kremmling at the Middle Park Fairgrounds on September 5.

There were 126 of us wearing orange shirts walking around Kremmling proclaiming LIFE! That was 41 more participants than in 2019. An inspirational increase for our second year, especially in light of COVID-19 regulations.

We raised $10,350 from business, individual and church sponsorships.

The total goal for the Walk for Life was $20,000, but because of your belief in PRC and LIFE you helped us raise $26,546! This could not have been possible without your dedication to fundraising for PRC. Our hearts are truly humbled by the outpouring of support.

PRC has been serving Grand County for

38 years because of the generous support from people like you. Our mission is to support and educate all those who are affected by an unexpected pregnancy and related concerns. Our ministry encompasses support for women, men, mothers, fathers and children. PRC aims to communicate to all persons involved that they are loved, accepted and valued.

We are committed to communicating accurate, complete, and current information regarding parenting, adoption, abortion and issues related to these decisions. We are not here just for families in crisis, we are here also for any family that needs education, resources and support.

Pregnancy Resources Center, Granby

2020 National Public Lands Day Sherman Creek Crew after another successful project for te Grand County Trails System.

Photo Courtesy: Diana Lynn Rau

N

ational Public Lands Day (NPLD) in Grand County is one of the longest-running celebrations of NPLD in the country, with local gatherings dating back to 1995, a year after the national day was first established. NPLD is always the fourth Saturday of September: this year it was on Saturday, September 26. NPLD is now a signature event of the National Environmental Education Foundation, although each NPLD event found around the country is locally based and locally run.

This year’s event in Grand County was not advertised widely until September, in order to understand what effect COVID-19 restrictions might have on the event. The coordinating committee, which consists of Meara McQuain from Headwaters Trails Alliance (HTA), Law Thyne of Carver’s Bakery, and Jeremy D. Krones from Colorado Headwaters Land Trust, as well as representatives from each of the regionally-based public lands agencies, decided on some changes to the usual event in order to keep Grand County’s record strong.

This year there were four volunteer projects, as well as a BioBlitz hosted online at iNaturalist.org, and other promoted events online, such as a new documentary about public lands in the USA. The four projects were spaced around the county, with one in Rendezvous and the others in the vicinity of Tabernash, Grand Lake, and Kremmling.

The Rendezvous project was with Headwaters Trails Alliance and consisted of trail maintenance, corridor clearing, and drainage work. The Strawberry/Phases project, located just north of Tabernash along the Fraser River, was hosted by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and HTA, and was focused on constructing two new bridges on a new trail. The Sherman Creek project near Grand Lake was with the US Forest Service to build a new split rail fence at the trailhead.

The Colorado River Clean-up south of Kremmling, an annual event that usually draws over a hundred volunteers, was hosted as usual by the BLM. Over 40 volunteers registered through NPLD-GC across the four projects, but groups and teams from other organizations also showed up, including the High Country River Rafters and the Rocky Mountain Conservation Corps. Funding and support for the day came from private donations, USFS, BLM, Carver’s Bakery, HTA, Fraser Valley Distilling, and the Grand County Open Lands, Rivers, and Trails Fund.

If you would like to contribute to future NPLD events in Grand County, please contact Headwaters Trails Alliance: PO Box 946, Granby, CO 80446-0946 or visit headwaterstrails.org/.

We look forward to next year’s NPLDGC event, and hope to see you out on the land!

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WinterParkTimes.com

October 2, 2020

YOUR NEW MOUNTAIN HOME AWAITS ELK CREEK

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