GVE_12.10

Volume #3 Number 3 FREE Mid-December 2010 / Mid-January 2011

Providing a voice for community-based organizations and individuals that enrich the life of the Grand Valley

HappyHolidays

A yearofEchoesAs 2010 draws toa close, we lookback at some ofthe stories fromthe past year

See page 11

Scenes from 2010: clockwise from top left, ParachuteVisitors Cabin volunteer Fern Stone stands in front of thesolar flowers that sprouted up at the Parachute rest areathis summer; the Garfield County Sheriff’s Auxiliary freebike rally is always a big hit; Grand Valley High Schoolphotographers greeted spring with a colorful Echo covershot; Ron Bailey captured this Grand Valley winter scene;and gas drilling continued in the area even though itwasn’t as active as previous years.

Echo file photos

• Serving the Grand Valley since 2008 •

Page 2, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2010 / Mid-January 2011

FROM THE ECHO

MISSION STATEMENTTo provide a voice for local

schools, nonprofit groups and civicorganizations; to bring attention tothe individuals and local businesses

that are the fabric of the Grand Valley region; to contribute to

the vitality of our small town life.

The Grand Valley Echois published monthly, and is distributed

throughout Battlement Mesa and Parachute.Subscriptions are available

for a $25 annual fee.

PUBLISHER/DESIGNERALYSSA OHNMACHT

EDITORCARRIE CLICK

ADVERTISING SALESBARBARA PAVLIN

285-7634

DISTRIBUTION/CIRCULATIONSTEVE PAVLIN

Dawn Distribution • 963-0874

274 REDSTONE BLVD., REDSTONE, COLORADO 81623970-963-2373 • [email protected]

All copy submitted to The Grand Valley Echo will be edited and reviewed by our staff for style, grammar and content. The Grand Valley Echo reserves the right to refuse publication

of any submitted material that does not meet the publisher’s standard for a positive, informative, educational community newspaper.

Thank you to this month’s contributors:

Tanny McGinnis, Heidi Rice, Betsy Leonard,

Travis Sproles, BJ Lindaur, Barbara Barker, Dick Ciprich,

Sarah Tahvonen, Bruce Hoggan DDS, LIFT-UP,

Bureau of Land Management, Bill Cornelius,

Mary Anderson, Rebecca Ruland, Emily Hisel,

Parachute Branch Library, Jeanne Miles, Brian Berg,

Charlie Hornick, Vina Klahn, Dylan Walters,

Bubby Beecraft, Amber Greeson, Karsyn Valencia,

Matt Donello, Amanda Jablonsky, Lizbet Gonzalez,

Diana Connell, M.E. Denomy, Barbara Pavlin,

Veronica Duran, Kathy Germano, Keith Lammey,

Grand Valley High School, Ron Bailey, Ed Kosmicki,

DC Bureau, EPA, Dave Devanney, Mitzi Burkhart,

Battlement Mesa Company, Joline Gnatek,

Town of Parachute, Dianne Haynes

G . V . G R A T I T U D EAre you thankful – and you want everybody to know about it? Please try to keep your gratefulness

under 500 words and send to Grand Valley Gratitude, 274 Redstone Blvd., Redstone, CO 81623, or e-mail [email protected].

Grand Valley EducationalFoundation appreciates teachers,administrators and citizens

Dear Echo: Members of the Grand Valley Educational

Foundation sincerely appreciate the extra effortput forth by Garfield County District No. 16teachers and administrators in writing grantrequests to the foundation to support studentscholarships, teacher education enhancement,and funding for school programs.

The foundation continues to look forward toproviding learning opportunities that are notfunded in the district’s regular district budget.

The foundation appreciates the continuedsupport of the citizens of the Grand Valley area.

BJ LindaurGrand Valley Educational Foundation

Thanks for contributing to LIFT-UP

Dear Echo: Thanks to Kiwanis and all the residents of

Parachute and Battlement Mesa who participat-ed in the Oct. 30 LIFT-UP Food Drive.

As in previous years, all sections of the com-munity and people of all ages assisted the GrandValley Kiwanis’ efforts, including the Key Clubat Grand Valley High School, the Builders Clubat the Grand Valley Middle School, and the fac-ulty, students and staff at St John and BeaUnderwood elementary schools.

In spite of the population decline, collectionswere very close to 2007 levels when more thanthree tons of food were collected.

Everyone’s efforts and contributions willhelp many of our neighbors during the holidayseason and during much of the winter.

Doug SaxtonParachute

**Not valid for Holiday parties.

**

When doing your holidayshopping, remember tosupport the businessesthat support the Echo.

Happy Holidays!

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2010 / Mid-January 2011, Page 3

G R A N D V A L L E Y I T E S

Partnership between CMC,schools imparts technical skills

By CMC public information office

Hands-on experience that might help lead to aprofession is what attracted many Grand Valley HighSchool students to an early morning welding class.

Eleven students signed up for this fall’s class,offered through Colorado Mountain College(CMC) and Garfield County School District No. 16as part of a career and technical education partner-ship. The partnership helps to identify career path-ways and better equip high school graduates for theworkforce or college.

Career and technical education provides training inspecific skills. Most classes focus on job skills training,with limited general education courses. In addition towelding, students can learn skills in the culinary arts,or train for a career as a certified nurse’s aide or inearly childhood education. These particular concur-rent enrollment classes, in which students can earnboth high school and college credit, are part of a newpilot program through CMC that began in 2010.

Transfer-level courses popular for college andvocational education

Many Colorado residents are familiar with transfer-level, or academic, concurrent enrollment classes suchas English composition or psychology. Sometimes theclasses have been called dual-credit courses.

For years colleges in the state have offered thesetypes of classes, in partnership with local school dis-tricts. Through the state’s guaranteed transfer agree-ment, many of these transfer-level courses will trans-fer to any public college or university in Colorado, ifthe student earns a C or better.

But among recent changes in the state’s concurrentenrollment law, school districts such as GarfieldDistrict No. 16, this pilot program can now partnerwith colleges to offer career tech classes for studentswho want more of a vocational focus to their educa-tion. Though these can also be dual-credit courses,they’re not intended to transfer to universities.

Parachute welding students work towards certi-fication

Some of the students in adjunct instructor Jason

Shoup’s 6 a.m. class this fall enrolled for a secondtime, a requirement in order to take a welding cer-tification test all prospective welders must passbefore they can work in the field.

Dillon Aaron is an 18-year-old high school grad-uate now in his second year in the class. He said thehardest part is getting proficient in doing a weld soit happens in a pattern, a rhythm.

“It’s good practice,” Aaron said. “I think the bestexperience is by doing things hands-on.”

Oscar Diaz is a senior who took the class lastyear and is interested in making a living as a welderor an auto mechanic.

“It’s good money, good work,” he said. “It’s goodto have the hands-on training because it teachesyou better.”

Instructor Jason Shoup, a professional welderhimself, said he enjoys sharing his skills.

“Actually, an instructor at CMC taught me howto weld and how to teach,” he said.

“The goal of the class is to help students get pro-ficient enough to pass their certification test,” Jasonsaid. “If they do that, they can walk into any shop.If they pass their test, it’s a huge step towardsbeing hired.”

First-year students are also realizing the benefitsof learning and practicing welding. Pablo Espino, a senior, said he learned of the class

during a school assembly on college classes avail-able to high school students. “I like the classes,” hesaid. “You get to see something you accomplished.”

He said he may seek a job as a welder or a mechan-ic after he graduates.

Miguel Antillon , a junior, said he decided to enrollafter friends told him about it. “And I noticed whatthey pay. I like to work with metals and wanted tolearn how to weld.”

Welding experience gives students head start on work

Grand Valley High School students are learning welding in a classoffered through CMC and Garfield County School District No. 16.The course is part of a career and technical education partnership,which allows students to earn both high school and college credit.

Photo by Ed Kosmicki

HIA meeting cancelledAt press time, the Echo received word from the

Garfield County Public Health Department that theDec. 14 Battlement Mesa Health Impact Assessmentmeeting had been cancelled.

“This meeting will be rescheduled when the finalHIA report is complete,” read the notice. “The com-prehensive and complex nature of the commentsreceived on the Draft HIA has resulted in the need forfurther discussion between the Garfield CountyBoard of Commissioners and the Colorado School ofPublic Health (CSPH) Research Team.”

The CSPH team has been spearheading the study,preparing a draft version, and working with the GarfieldCounty Public Department to review public commentsince the draft HIA was release earlier this fall.

– Carrie Click, Echo

Garfield County high levels of contami-nated water near rigs

According to the publication DC Bureau, in NewYork state, resident Joe Todd recently had to surrenderhis property to the Denver-based AnschutzExploration Corporation because of a compulsoryintegration law in effect there.

Compulsory integration works similarly to emi-nent domain, which requires that property ownerssurrender their property for public highways andschools for a “fair” value.

Since Todd only owned his surface, but not hismineral, rights, Anshutz was allowed to construct

drilling operations on Todd’s property, in exchange formonetary compensation. However, during construc-tion of the drilling rig, Todd’s well water turned blackand is not usable.

In the same story, DC Bureau noted that“researchers for Garfield County in Colorado foundhigher numbers of contaminated water wells neardeep gas wells drilled in areas with extensive naturalfaults. In some cases, the molecular structure of thegas from tainted water wells matched that of thedeeply buried gas, suggesting migration to surfacewater supplies, according to a 2009 report inProPublica.”

– DC Bureau

Natural gas/water concerns in Ft. WorthIn early December, the Environmental Protection

Agency (EPA) issued an order to protect drinkingwater from nearby drilling operations conducted byRange Natural Gas Company near Ft. Worth, Texas.

Residents there have complained of flammable andbubbling drinking water coming out of their taps. EPAtesting has confirmed that extremely high levels ofmethane in their water pose an imminent and sub-stantial risk of explosion or fire. EPA has also foundother contaminants including benzene, which cancause cancer, in their drinking water.

EPA has asked the company to conduct a full-scaleinvestigation and to immediately sample soil gas aroundthe residences, develop a plan to remediate areas of theaquifer that have been contaminated; and to investigate

the structural integrity of its nearby natural gas well todetermine if it is the source of contamination.

The uncontrolled release of natural gas can be dan-gerous since it is odorless and flammable and itescapes facilities. Uncontrolled release of natural gasinside a building or home can cause a fire or explo-sion. Drinking water contaminated with natural gasimpurities such as benzene is unhealthy.

EPA believes that natural gas plays a key role in ournation’s clean energy future and the process known ashydraulic fracturing is one way of accessing that vitalresource. However, the EPA wants to make sure natu-ral gas development is safe. As we announced earlierthis year, we are in the process of conducting a com-prehensive study on the potential impact of hydraulicfracturing on drinking water.

– Environmental Protection Agency

Recent agenda items at BCC meetingThe Battlement Concerned Citizens (BCC) meet

the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month atthe Battlement Mesa Activity Center. At the lastmeeting, agenda items included: updates on recentGarfield County Commissioners’ meetings, an HIAupdate, Antero Pipeline safety issues, the Silt area welldensity issue, and updates on fire, air, water, soil,pipelines and animal risk assessment teams.

There is no meeting on Dec. 22; the next meetingis on Jan. 12 at 1:30 p.m.

– Dave Devanney

O I L A N D G A S U P D A T E


GO GRAND VALLEYYour calendar for goings on in and around Parachute and Battlement Mesa

Help our calendar grow; let us know. Send public event items to [email protected]. Be sure to include the five Ws (who, what, when, why and where), contact info, cost and anything else readers need to know.

• Dec. 17: 11 a.m. Story Time kids from theParachute Branch Library deliver their gifts toMesa Vista Assisted Living residents. Call 285-9870 for more info.

• Dec. 20: 11 a.m. Fourth through sixth gradersare invited to the Parachute library to creategross and disgusting items. Space is limitedto 20 and reservations are required. Call 285-9870.

• Dec. 21: 3-4 p.m. Kids under 10, drop in tothe Parachute library for craft making.No reservations required and parents areencouraged to attend. 285-9870.

• Dec. 22: No Battlement Concerned Citizensmeeting today. Meetings resume on Jan. 12.

• Dec. 22: 2-4 p.m. The Amine Club (middleand high school students) meets at theParachute Library. No reservations needed. 285-9870.

• Dec. 24: Christmas Eve. For information onChristmas Eve and Christmas Day church servic-es, please see page XX. Most governmentoffices are closed, including the Parachutelibrary.

• Dec. 25: Christmas Day. MerryChristmas.

• Dec. 30: 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Sixth and seventhgraders, get your game on at theParachute Library. This is a reservation-onlyevent as the Wii along with other games will beset up on the library’s big screen. Lunch is pro-vided. Call 285-9870.

• Jan. 1: Happy New Year. Government officesclosed.

• Jan. 4: Today through March on Tuesdays,Megan at the Parachute library will help com-puter rookies get familiar with the com-puter. Space is limited and reservations arerequired. Call the library at 285-9870 for moreinfo and to sign up.

• Jan. 4: 6-8 p.m. Geno “The Computer WhizKid” Duran gives personalized computer helpabout your home PC at the Parachute BranchLibrary. Free to the public. Drop in. Call 285-9870.

• Jan. 6: 4 p.m. The Mt. CallahanCommunity Fund presentation of thefund’s 2010 grant recipients is at the BattlementMesa Activity Center.

• Jan. 8: 9 a.m. Pat Jones from the GlenwoodSewing Center presents a workshop at theParachute Branch Library about makinglittle purses. Bring your sewing machine andscrap fabric. Cost is $10 and includes lunch anda purse pattern. Snow date is Jan. 15. Reserveyour spot; call 285-9870.

• Jan. 12: 1:30 p.m. Battlement ConcernedCitizens meet at the Battlement Mesa ActivityCenter.

• Jan. 13: Chamber meeting at ParachuteTown Hall with Parachute Town Manager BobKnight. Call 285-0388 for time and more info.

ONGOING

• The Battlement Mesa Activity Center haslots of classes and activities: swimming, danc-ing, personal training, water aerobics, yoga,kung fu, basketball, and more. Call 285-9480.

• Every Monday from 12-1 p.m. the GrandValley United Methodist Church serves a freesoup lunch at the church at 132 ParachuteAve.

• Every Monday from 12:45-4 p.m., PartyBridge is held at the Battlement Mesa ActivityCenter. All levels welcome.

• The first Tuesday of every month, at 7 p.m.the West Garfield Democrats meet at MesaVista Assisted Living, 285-7206.

• Every Tuesday at 7 a.m., the Kiwanis Club ofGrand Valley/Parachute meets at theCommunity Room of the ParachuteBranch Library 244 Grand Valley Way, inParachute. Coffee is at 7 a.m., program beginsat 7:30 a.m.

• The second Tuesday of every month at 6:30p.m., the Grand Valley Citizens Alliancemeets at the Mesa Vista Assisted LivingResidence. Call Paul, 285-7791.

• Neighborhood Watch meets the secondTuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at ParachuteTown Hall, 222 Grand Valley Way, Parachute.285-7630.

• HEARTBEAT, for those who have lost afriend or loved one through suicide, meetsthe second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m.at the First United Methodist Church inGlenwood Springs. Use the Bethel Chapelentrance of the church located at 824 CooperStreet.

• The second Tuesday or Wednesday of everymonth at 6:30 p.m., theParachute/Battlement Mesa Park andRecreation District Board of Directorsmeets at the recreation district office, 259Cardinal Way, Parachute, 285-0388, parachute-battlementparkandrecreation.org.

• The third Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m.,the Battlement Mesa Service Associationmeets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center.

• Every Wednesday at 11 a.m. is Toddler Time,and every Friday at 11 a.m. is Story Time at theParachute Library. Both open to young chil-dren. Call Michelle at 285-9870.

• Every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., theParachute Valley Senior Center hosts aluncheon prepared by the Rifle Senior Center.$2.50 for those over 60. Reservations takenMondays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; call 285-7216.

• The first and third Wednesday of every monthat 3 p.m., the Battlement MesaArchitectural Committee meets at theBattlement Mesa Activity Center. Open to thepublic. 285-9432.

• Battlement Concerned Citizens meet thesecond and fourth Wednesdays of every monthat 1:30 p.m. at the Battlement Mesa ActivityCenter to discuss issues of concern to theBattlement Mesa community. Open to the pub-lic. Dave, 285-2263 or Ron, 285-3085.

• Every Thursday at 10 a.m. (except the firstThursday of the month), the Prayer ShawlMinistry meets at the Grand Valley UnitedMethodist Church, 132 N. Parachute,Parachute. Call Sharon, 285-2318, or thechurch, 285-9892, to join in.

• Every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m. “CommunityConnections” interviews with communitymembers on KSUN 103.9 FM.

UPCOMING

• Jan. 20: 9 a.m. Community Coffee Talkwith Eric Schmela of the Battlement MesaCompany at the 35th Avenue Café. Comeshare, connect and discuss.


C O M M U N I T Y G I V I N G

By Sarah Tahvonen, Echo contributor

Meals on Wheels of Western Garfield County recentlyreceived $100 from the Meals On Wheels Association ofAmerica (MOWAA) and Subaru’s “Share the Love,” grantprogram – and the local nonprofit may be able to win more,with your help.

The western Garfield County Meals on Wheels recentlysubmitted a winning essay, which describes how volun-teers of the program brave winter conditions to delivermeals to local homes. (see breakout box).

The local program serves individuals in New Castle, Silt,Rifle, Parachute, and Battlement Mesa and drivers oftentravel in excess of 40 miles each day.

Meals on Wheels of Western Garfield County is nowentering the next phase of the holiday competition – whichrelies on getting the most Facebook users to “Like” thestory.

The Meals On Wheels program with the most “Likes”will win an additional $500. Those placing second through10th will receive an additional $250. To “Like” the localessay submitted for this Facebook contest, go tomowaablog.org, and search “Meals on Wheels of WesternGarfield County”.

The money comes at a critical time for western GarfieldCounty’s Meals On Wheels program, and the more than140 other grant winners nationwide. The country’s eco-nomic downturn has made it more difficult to raise moneyto continue feeding homebound and hungry seniors. Mealson Wheels of Western Garfield County will use the moneyto continue offering low-cost or free meals to seniors whocannot afford it.

Grand River Hospital District has operated and financial-ly supported Meals on Wheels of Western Garfield Countysince 1976. Program volunteers currently deliver 900 fresh,nutritious meals a month to senior, disabled, and recover-ing individuals in New Castle, Silt, Rifle, Parachute, andBattlement Mesa. If you would like to volunteer, get moreinformation, or enroll in the program, please call 625-6423.

About Meals On Wheels Association of AmericaThe Meals On Wheels Association of America

(MOWAA) is the oldest and largest national organization inthe United States representing those programs that providemeals to people in need. MOWAA’s mission is to end sen-ior hunger by 2020. To obtain more information aboutMOWAA or to locate a local Meals On Wheels program,visit the MOWAA website at mowaa.org.

Western Garfield County Meals on Wheels essaywins grant money to help local seniors in need

Meals on Wheels of Western Garfield CountyThe following essay, submitted to the national Meals on Wheels Association of America,

earned western Garfield County’s Meals on Wheels a $100 grant. To help the local Mealson Wheels receive more funds, go to mowaablog.org, and search “Meals on Wheels ofWestern Garfield County” and highlight the “Like” button with the story.

The holiday season is a time when most of us share the love with our family andfriends. Meals On Wheels shares the love with our local seniors who would otherwisebe all alone and hungry during the holidays. It’s only fitting that we are partneringwith our friends at Subaru for the third year in a row for their “Share the Love” eventto raise funds to support Meals On Wheels. This is just one story of how we share thelove here in our community.

Meals On Wheels of Western Garfield County serves 40 clients in a rural mountainarea of western Colorado. Our drivers travel over 100 miles a day, along three sepa-rate routes, to make sure the homebound get the nutrition and company they need.

Mac Burnett has been one of these Meals on Wheels drivers for the past five years. His ded-ication to Meals on Wheels shows in that he has been known to take breaks from his othervolunteering position at Habitat for Humanity, by delivering meals during his lunch hour.

One Christmas Eve, a typical Colorado winter storm came through, rendering manyvolunteers incapable of driving their normal routes. In our area, extreme weather maycome in at a moment’s notice leaving families stuck in their homes for days. Mac was calledupon as a back up driver to cover routes others couldn’t. He ended up spreading holidaycheer on two separate routes that day covering 90 miles over snowy, wintery roads.

Through rain, sleet, snow or whatever, Mac made sure that our clients receive theirChristmas meal with a big smile for each. That is Mac, our volunteer extraordinaire.

Battlement Mesa’s Adam Ford:Caring for those in need By Tanny McGinnis, Garfield County Sheriff’s Office

Adam Ford, a victim specialist from Battlement Mesa, received a top award at the 22nd annualColorado Organization for Victim Assistance Conference in Keystone, Colo. in November.

Adam works with the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office along with Vicki Jones of GlenwoodSprings. Both were recognized in front of 1,100 of their counterparts at one of the largest state con-ferences for victim services in the nation.

Out of six award categories, Adam and Vicki both received the top designation of OutstandingVictim Advocate Award in the Public Sector.

Colleagues from the sheriff’s office, Glenwood Springs police, the Garfield district attorney’soffice and associated nonprofits nominated the two for their selfless contributions.

Adam, who used to work at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center, now serves as the victim serv-ices coordinator for not only the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, but also for the county’s sixpolice departments. He oversees a team of 13 volunteers who are on call 24 hours a day seven daysa week to meet the needs of both children and adults who find themselves the victims of heinouscrimes, survivors of traffic accidents, families displaced due to structure fires, loved ones awaitingword on search and rescue efforts, and many other scenarios.

Vicki serves as the victim services community liaison. Her sensitivity and cultural competencein regional Latino communities has helped to address issues that otherwise would go unanswered.

Adam and Vicki support law enforcement officials and victims in dealing with the very worst of situ-ations, assist families in the healing process and help explain the often confusing and lengthy courtprocess to those unfamiliar with the system. They ensure each victim receives the level of care and atten-

tion that we all would want if itwere our family member at thecenter of the issue.

“Our volunteer services areonly as good as the volunteersbehind the program and thereare no more committed vol-unteers then what we see inour agency,” says Adam.

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Want more news?We have more news and contributions

that we’d like to share each month, but not enough room in the paper...

Please help by advertising your business!(The number of pages we can run is based on

the amount of paid advertising we have.)

Ad deadline is the first of each month.

Contact Barbara Pavlin for advertising [email protected]

www.communitycountscolorado.comThe Community Counts Hotline 1.866.442.9034

Wishing You Safe and WarmHolidays...

Send us a letter. Got something on your mind? We’ve expanded our word-count limit to 500 words or less for Letters to the Echo to give you plenty of space to express yourselves. The Echo wel-comes your input, opinions, thanks and whatever else you’d like to share with our readers, provided it’s written in a respectful, civil way. (Please, no unsubstantiated attacks, etc.) The Echo reservesthe right to edit and proofread letters. Send your words to The Grand Valley Echo, [email protected], or 274 Redstone Blvd., Redstone, CO 81623. Please be sure to include your name, titleif necessary, and where you live. Thanks.

L E T T E R T O T H E E C H O

Safeguarding Battlement’s citizens

Dear Echo: This letter was originally sent to the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission

(COGCC) and to the Garfield County Board of Commissioners. Bonnie Smeltzer is an 83-year-old lifetime resident of Garfield County.

I live approximately a half mile – as the crow flies – from the Antero gas well(the Watson site) on 303 Road.

On May 28, 2010, I began marking on my calendar whenever I noticed a defi-nite petroleum odor. These observations led to a log book with specific informa-tion about dates, times, wind direction, odors and how the odors affected me, i.e.headaches, and eye and throat irritations.

By Aug. 28, I had 18 entries in my log book, and during this time, I madenumerous phone calls to the oil and gas complaints numbers.

In July, after newspaper articles about Battlement Mesa residents’ complaintsabout fumes and odors, Antero made changes in their drilling operation that great-ly reduced the complaint calls. However, I have talked to Battlement Mesa resi-dents who still have lingering health complaints and I continue to have somethroat congestion.

The recent Health Impact Assessment study has concluded that air qualitycould seriously deteriorate for this community of 4,500-plus people during eachwell pad “history,” from construction to completion.

I believe that that the revised COGCC rules still fall short of protecting peoplefrom these impacts.

Dave Neslin of the COGCC has said that the state can impose specific drillingconditions to try to address neighborhood concerns, and minimize some of theeffects on these neighborhoods. Let’s hope this can be done!

I hope that Antero lives up to its claim to be a good corporate citizen and sup-port responsible development in Garfield County. It is encouraging that Anteroand the Garfield County Commissioners may be listening to the BattlementConcerned Citizens (BCC) and now, to the newly formed Rifle, Silt, Peach Valley,and New Castle groups.

Is the Antero Comprehensive Drilling Plan to be submitted in the near futuregoing to include:

1. a 1,000 setback from any dwelling2. a $10 million community safety bond3. voluntary adherence to the Federal Clean Drinking Water Act4. voluntary adherence to the Federal Clean Air Act5. voluntary adherence to Federal Pipeline Regulations6. voluntary disclosure of hydraulic fluid componentsThis is what the BCC wants – to insure safeguards for its citizens!

Very sincerely, Bonnie Smeltzer

Parachute



Bethlehem scene comes alive in Parachute againBy Charlie Hornick, Echo contributor

The nativity scene, which is a vital part ofthe Christmas celebration, came ‘alive’ againas Grand Valley area churches held their thirdannual Living Nativity at Beasley Park indowntown Parachute on the evening of Dec. 5More than 40 people participated directly inthe program with more than 200 watchingand singing Christmas carols.

Three-month-old Asher Lindaur performedas the star of the program, playing baby Jesus.His mother, Lyndsey, held him by the mangeras his father, Dylan, played Joseph and lookedon with affection.

The program, consisting of Scripture readingsand carols was put together by Father E.J. Rivetof the All Saints Episcopal Church. Bob Toll, pas-tor of Grand Valley United Methodist Churchassisted with the caroling and along with the people fromhis church welcomed all into their fellowship hall for atime of hot chocolate and hot cider and cookies.

The cast for the beautiful angels included FaithHumphrey, Raeanna Humphrey, Daisy Bernabe,Andimaria Bernabe, Allie Beasley, Terry Mahaney,and Wanda Wisler. Dominic Medoza, GabrielMendoza, Cayden Sproles, Omar Bernabe, DesireeSmith, Molly Mendoza, Kim Whelan, and YouthPastor Lance Easterling filled the role of the shepherdswho watched their flocks by night and came to wit-

ness the sign of the baby in the manger. BenjaminSmith played King Herod. Anthony Smith andConner Sproles were the soldiers. Anna Bernabe,Jonathan Smith, and Nathan Humphrey were theMagi who came from a far country to worship beforethe One Born King of the Jews. Elizabeth, the preg-nant cousin of Mary and mother of John the Baptist,was played by Krista Humphrey. Allie Beasley filled inas the angel who appeared to Mary. Beasley Park isnamed in honor of Allie’s grandfather, making it dou-bly an inspiration for her to be there and participate.

The Scripture readers were Dale Leonard, Gary

and Nancy Leonard, Lois Smith, CarolAbbott, and Pastor Charlie Hornick.

Teri Richards coordinated much of theprogram, assisted with advertising theevent, and along with Alice Smith, assistedthe cast with their costumes. Wanda Wisslerpassed out flyers and posters all over thearea to get the news of the Living Nativityout. Larry Sacca made the Bethlehem Star.Ron Miller coordinated the sound. PastorCharlie Hornick of Grace Bible Churchassisted in the planning and preparation andshared about the event on the Grand ValleyFaith Focus Radio Program. The donkeys,Newman and Tyrone, were provided byValerie Cox and Kevin and Kim Whelanprovided this year’s only goat.

The town of Parachute assisted again inallowing Beasley Park to be the appropriate

scene for this year’s event and the Parachute PoliceDepartment blocked off part of Parachute Avenue forthe people and animals to have an easier and saferaccess.

The live nativity was sponsored by area churcheswithin the Parachute Ministerial Alliance and receivedthe support of the community. Many will rememberwell this holiday season that in the little town ofParachute, in remembrance of Christ’s birthday, pre-cious moments were shared together of “peace onearth, goodwill toward men.”

Parachute restaurant is a family effort

By Heidi Rice, Special to The Grand Valley Echo

Roy Brubacher of Parachute, also known as"Handsome Ol' Roy" comes into Daylight Donuts inParachute at least four or five times a week for a plateof biscuits and sausage gravy.

But it's not only the food that attracts him to thesmall diner-type restaurant on East First Street. It'salso the company.

"You're treated like you're at home," Roy saidwhile having breakfast in one of the booths. "It'saccommodating and comfortable. The prices are rea-sonable and you're always treated like you're a longlost friend."

Daylight Donuts was opened in Parachute byEdward Andersen. Andersen, a Parachute residentialand commercial construction engineer by trade, saw adownturn in the construction industry during therecession.

Edward had originally sold the business, but thebuyers were not able to make a go of it and Andersenwas faced with the choice of either shutting it downor making it work himself, according to his mother,Charlotte Adams, who works at the restaurant.

The small but successful restaurant makes home-made donuts and breakfast, and has a slew of regularcustomers.

While Edward makes the freshly baked donutsfrom midnight to 5 a.m. his mother works in therestaurant during the day. She does it to help out herson, and she does it with a loving heart.

"It's a family business and labor intensive,"Charlotte said. "But families make sacrifices for eachother. Families don't take paychecks."

What makes the business so successful?

Charlotte pointed out that during the GreatDepression, certain things always sold – booze, candyand donuts.

"People are always drawn to things that comfortthem in bad times," she said with a shrug and a smile.

A lot of the regular customers at Daylight Donuts areworkers in the oil and gas industry who stop in between4 and 6 a.m. to get something to go. And then there arethe dozens of donuts ordered for company meetings.

"Donuts are really popular at safety meetings,"Charlotte said with a laugh.

Along with its loyal regular customers, DaylightDonuts also has dedicated employees who fill in forall the positions that are needed.

Joe Cason of Battlement Mesa, washes dishes andcooks.

"I do everything," he said proudly. "I wash thedishes, I cook the bacon and I make the meatloaf. Ilike to cook. I make the soup. I used to cook when Iwas in the Army."

Deb Trujillo of Battlement Mesa and Dawn Ruelasof Parachute also cook, make coffee, work the cashregister and wait tables.

Beside the donuts, the most popular items on themenu are the biscuits and gravy, the omelets and thebreakfast burritos.

"We're very community-oriented and very family-ori-ented," Charlotte said. "Everybody knows everybodyhere. And we take care of our seniors."

It's a family-run business where everybody knowsyour name.

As one customer put it, "It's like coming homeevery day."

Daylight Donuts is 'like coming home every day'

Left, Charlotte Adams, is themother of Daylight Donuts'owner Edward Andersen.Edward makes the donutsevery night, and Charlottehelps out at the family busi-ness every day. Upper right,Employees Charlotte Adams,Deb Trujillo, Joe Cason andDawn Ruelas relax for amoment at Daylight Donutsin Parachute. Right, EmployeeDawn Ruelas of Parachutemakes some breakfast burritos– a popular item in the morn-ing at Daylight Donuts.

Photos by Heidi Rice

Mary and Joseph and baby Jesus were played by Dylan and Lyndsey Lindauer andtheir 3-month-old son, Asher. Photo by Travis Sproles


G O V E R N M E N T

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The Battlement Mesa Service Association (BMSA)

The BMSA Board of Directors con-siders new architectural standardsBy Keith Lammey, president, Battlement Mesa Service Association

If you live anywhere in Battlement Mesa and have playground equipment, children’s playhous-es, or sports equipment on your property, you may be affected by a proposal that will be consid-ered at the BMSA’s Dec. 21 board of directors meeting. This proposed addition to the BMSA’s archi-tectural standards would impose restrictions on playground equipment, playhouses, and sportsequipment.

Under the proposed new standards, Architectural Review Committee (ARC) approval would berequired if playground or sports equipment is more than seven feet in height, and/or has a footprintof more than 100 square feet. In addition, playhouse approval would be required if the playhouseis more than six feet in height and /or has a footprint of more than 24 square feet. Only one play-house per lot would be permitted, regardless of the size of the playhouse.

Playground equipment and playhousesIf the current language in the proposal is adopted, the placement of playground equipment and

playhouses would be restricted to the net buildable area of each respective lot and could not be fur-ther to the front of the lot than the front corner of the house or garage.

When reviewing playground equipment and playhouse approval requests, the ARC would con-sider the impact that the equipment or playhouse would have upon adjacent properties and woulddeny installations that may create an undue disturbance or possibly cause damage to an adjacentproperty.

Further consideration would be given to the placement of equipment to minimize distant andclose-in view corridors of adjacent properties. As proposed, playground equipment or playhousescould not be attached to a deck, garage or the primary living structure.

Basketball backboards, sports goals and portable basketball goalsThe proposed standards, if adopted, would permit permanently installed, commercially manu-

factured backboards of standard design and color to be mounted on garages without committeeapproval. All freestanding, non-portable basketball backboards and sports goals (soccer and lacrossegoals, volleyball and tetherball stanchions, etc.) would require ARC approval.

Like playground equipment and playhouses, the placement of backboards and goals would berestricted to the net buildable area of each respective lot and could not be further to the front of thelot than the front corner of the house or garage. As with playground equipment and playhouses, inorder to be approved, backboards and goals must not create an undue disturbance to neighbors andthe possibility of damage to adjacent properties must be minimized. A maximum of one basketballbackboard or sports goal per lot would be allowed.

As proposed, portable basketball goals will not require ARC approval provided (a) they areinstalled on the side of the driveway at least half of the length of the driveway away from the streetand (b) the location would not impede or obstruct the use of the garage or driveway and the unitis adequately weighted to ensure that the goal is balanced, standing upright and resistant to tippingby high winds.

Under the proposed standards, portable basketball goals are defined as equipment that is com-mercially manufactured, with a large base for counter-balance, and/or wheels for mobility, andengineered for portability and storage. Further, under the proposed standards, playground equip-ment, sport goals and playhouses are considered personal property, and therefore, must beremoved when a property changes ownership or residents.

At this point, this is only a proposal but if it is approved by the board, it will become part of ourcommunity’s architectural standards and would impose new restrictions on these items. It isimportant to note that individual villages may impose more restrictive, but not less restrictive, ruleson these devices.

If you have strong feelings either in favor of or against this proposal, let your VillageDelegate/board member know your opinions. The BMSA Board of Directors meet at theBattlement Mesa Activity Center at 9 a.m. on the third Tuesday of each month.

Birth? Graduation? Engagement? Wedding?Anniversary? Obituary?

All of life’s passages are free to publish in the Echo.Contact us at 963-2373, [email protected]

or The Grand Valley Echo, 274 Redstone Blvd., Redstone, CO 81623.


O I L & G A S

Common scents

At this time of the year our homes are filled with the aroma of home baked cookies, gin-gerbread and Christmas trees. The grouping of valves at our gas wells is also called a Christmastree, but does not produce the same spruce smell that we find in our at-home Christmas trees.

The natural gas produced from our gas wells does not have an aroma at all. There is a smallamount of smell added to the gas that is used in our home. The chemical that is injected intothe gas to help us detect gas leaks is called t-butyl mercaptan and smells like rotten cabbage oreggs. So, if natural gas does not have an odor, what are those smells that we sometimes detectnear gas wells near our homes?

Often, the odor that we smell comes from the water used in the drilling of the wells. Thiswater is usually stored in a large pit and may stay in the pit for several months.

In addition to water, there are several chemicals that are used to help drill the well. Forinstance, barite may be used to stabilize pressure or formaldehydes to help kill bacteria.Chemicals with iron, zinc, aluminum and acrylics can be used to keep things from corrodingor suspending particles so they can be removed.

Occasionally, the pit water may contain some oil products that were brought up during thedrilling process. Oil products do have an aroma. Usually, it is the pit mixture that is broughtup from the drilling process that emanates the odors.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Christmas and enjoy those Christmas trees (inside andoutside of our homes)!

Mary Ellen Denomy, CPA, is a Battlement Mesa resident and an Accredited PetroleumAccountant She has been nationally recognized as an expert in oil and gas issues. Mary Ellen is theimmediate past president of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the National Association of RoyaltyOwners. If you have questions, contact her at the naro-us.org website or through The Grand ValleyEcho.

GRAND VALLEY ENERGYA monthly column by M.E. Denomy, CPA

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O B I T U A R Y

James DennisDrinkhouse

March 29, 1964 – Nov. 20, 2010

The beloved father of James, Sidney, Paige, Paytan, Savannah,Taylor, and Cole Drinkhouse passed away on Nov. 20 at his res-idence in Hotchkiss. He was 46.

He was born to Jim and Alfreda (Garcia) Drinkhouse onMarch 29, 1964 in Montrose. He spent his childhood in Rifle,and graduated high school there with the class of 1982. He fur-thered his education at Mesa State. James moved to theHotchkiss area one year ago coming from Battlement Mesa.

On May 19, 1990, James married the love of his life, TiaLoucks in Rifle. The couple celebrated their 20th weddinganniversary this year.

James was employed as a corrections officer for many years.He enjoyed coaching kids of all ages in wrestling, baseball andfootball. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing. More importantly,he loved and cherished his children. He was very proud of hisson winning a state championship in wrestling last year.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Tia Drinkhouse ofHotchkiss; his parents, Jim and Laura Drinkhouse of Sanger,Calif.; three sons: James Drinkhouse, Jr. of Hotchkiss, Taylor andCole Drinkhouse both of Battlement Mesa; and four daughters,Sidney, Paige, Paytan and Savannah Drinkhouse, all ofBattlement Mesa.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Dennis Drinkhouse.A celebration of James’s life was held at St. Mary Catholic

Church in Rifle on Dec. 4.You may sign the online guest registry at taylorfuneralser-

vice.com.



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A look back at some Grand ValleyEcho stories of 2010

By Carrie Click, Echo editor

Gas drilling concerns, solar flowers, and a greatlyimproved library – it all happened in 2010. Seniorsgraduated and first graders attended their first day ofschool. There were plenty of festivals and fun, and agood share of lively discussions too.

Contributors and advertisers are what make theEcho possible. Our columnists continued providingtheir insights and information to us:

Barbara Barker’s Take a HintKathy Germano and Scott Saunders’ Mesa

Vista NewsBetsy Leonard’s Nature at Home and AfieldSarah Tahvonen’s To Your HealthBill Cornelius, Charlie Hornick, Rich Counts

and Adam Lambrecht’s As I See ItCary Parmenter’s From the ChiefKeith Lammey’s Battlement Mesa Service

AssociationRob Ferguson and Diana Connell’s Grand

Valley Fire DistrictKen Haptonstall’s From District 16Kathy Keeling’ s From the Principal – St John

ElementaryBrian Berg’s From the Principal – Bea

Underwood ElementaryJory Sorenson’s From the Principal –

Grand Valley MiddleM.E. Denomy’s Grand Valley EnergyMary Anderson’s Park and Rec

updatesBob Knight’s Town of Parachute NewsDick Ciprich’s Let’s Go BowlingVina Klahn’s Tennis Association Newsplus the Grand Valley High School stu-

dents’ contributions and all the localswho give us story ideas and news briefs

The year 2010 started off with the swear-ing in of a new mayor, Judy Beasley, whoreplaced Roy McClung who returned to school atColorado State University.

Parachute's West Interchange projectreceived $8 million from the Department of LocalAffairs, and another $6 million from the ColoradoDepartment of Transportation. The project alsoreceived significant financial support from GarfieldCounty, Williams Production, EnCana Oil and Gasand the Colorado Department of Highways, eventhough visible construction wouldn’t begin in 2010.

Plans were approved and construction started onthe Parachute Branch Library’s remodel andexpansion project. The library made a massivemove from its original site to a temporary library next

to the Grand Valley Center for Family Learning indowntown Parachute while the renovation took place.

Battlement Concerned Citizens were wellunderway during the first part of 2010 on requesting ahealth study regarding the impacts of oil and gas pro-duction. Working with the Garfield CountyCommissioners and the Garfield County Public HealthDepartment, plans began pushing ahead during thefirst part of the year for the University of ColoradoSchool of Public Health to manage the study.

Clark’s Market held a public meeting in March toshare ideas about products and services with localshoppers. Clark’s replaced City Market in BattlementMesa during the summer of 2009.

A year of Echoes

Judy Beasley was sworn in as Parachute’s new mayor. Echo file photo

Continued on page 19


H E A L T H

S E N I O R S

Mesa Vista NewsHoliday greetings form Mesa Vista

By Kathy Germano, Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence activity director

In November, we had a wonderful Thanksgiving meal with all the trim-mings. Our residents enjoyed making turkeys out of cookies and had an ice cream social withGrand Valley Middle School’s honor society students.

We celebrated Veterans Day and honored our six resident veterans and maintenance supervisor.Each one received a red rose donated by Rhonda Dillon at The Flower Shop in the Battlement MesaPlaza.

Members of 4-H visited Mesa Vista on Dec. 5 to “Deck the Halls” for the holiday season. Theydid such a wonderful job setting up the trees and decorating throughout the facility.

After all the decorating was complete, we attended the live nativity sponsored by our localchurches. Our resident and family holiday party was on Dec. 10, where we had another wonder-ful meal planned and entertainment by Walt Smith. It was a great time for all.

On Dec. 15, Colorado Heritage Real Estate visited us with caroling and gifts for each of the res-idents. The pre-school kiddos visit our residents for cookies and stories Dec. 17.

We are so fortunate to belong to such a wonderful and generous community. Thank you all whohave shared and provided much joy for the Mesa Vista residents.

Happy holidays!

Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence in Parachute/Battlement Mesa is part of the Senior Housing Optionsnetwork of residences and apartments providing housing for older adults in Colorado.

A safe home for the holidays

The holidays are a bustling time of year. With family comingin and out, decorations going up, and the kitchen going 100miles an hour, it’s easy to forget about health and safety.

However, the holidays are also one of the most vulnerabletimes of year, with fires causing more than $990 million in dam-ages a year. Taking some time to remember how important safe-ty is can save you and your family money and heartbreak thisholiday season.

Holiday lighting and decorations are often the culprit of firesand injuries. Practice extreme care when hanging up lights, espe-cially in high places such as roofs and trees. Carefully inspectnew and previously used light strings and replace any damagedparts before plugging in.

Use only non-combustible and flame resistant materials totrim trees whenever possible. Never light candles near decora-tions and never use candles to decorate trees. Before hanging anydecorations or lights outside, be sure they are approved for out-door use.

When entertaining this holiday season, take precaution in thekitchen. Unattended cooking is the leading cause of home firesin the U.S. so make sure to keep an eye on the stovetop whencooking for a crowd.

If you have small children or pets at your house during theholidays, it’s important to be mindful of their safety. It’s a goodidea to avoid tinsel. It easily falls onto the floor and a curiouschild or pet may eat, which can be harmful. Also try to keep anyribbons on gifts and ornaments shorter than seven inches.Anything longer can wrap around a child or pet’s neck and chokethem.

The holidays are a fun time to get together with family andfriends. With a little planning, you can help make sure your hol-idays go smoothly, safely, and uninterrupted.

Sarah Tahvonen writes about health issues for the Echo fromRifle. If you have any comments or suggestions for a health-relatedtopic you’d like to see covered, e-mail [email protected].

Grand River Student Health Center now open

By Sarah Tahvonen, Grand River Hospital District

The Grand River Student Health Center of Parachute is now open at the Grand Valley Centerfor Family Learning.

The center, which opened on Nov 29, offers services to students and staff of Garfield CountySchool District No. 16 in Parachute, and is open five days a week. The center is staffed by Jean Lein,a licensed nurse practitioner, and Kevin Coleman, DO, who oversees the operation.

Services include physical exams, immunizations, routine lab tests and throat cultures, prescrip-tions and medications, care for acute injury and illness, management of chronic illnesses such asasthma, parent and student wellness education, and referrals to community providers and agencies.

Parents and guardians with students in District No. 16 schools are receiving consent forms tosign before a student can use the health center. Visits are confidential and information is not sharedunless permitted by the student and/or parent, except for life-threatening situations.

The center is providing services to any student, regardless of ability to pay. To help sustain thiscommunity service, private insurance, Medicaid, and Child Health Plan Plus are being billed, andany applicable co-payments and deductibles are being collected from families. Grand River haspartnered with Garfield County Human Services and is offering services to help eligible childrenget enrolled in Medicaid and Child Health Plan Plus.

In addition to Garfield County Human Services, Grand River has also partnered with other localorganizations to offer this service. District No. 16 is providing space and resources, Garfield CountyPublic Health is administering immunizations, and Colorado West Mental Health Services is offer-ing mental health services and counseling.

Across the nation, school-based health clinics have proven beneficial to parents, students andstaff. Statistics show that students miss less school, learn easier, and get the health care they needwhen school-based health care is offered. Parents also miss less work when an easy, inexpensiveoption for students’ health care is offered.

The opening of Grand River Student Health Center has been made possible through a grantreceived by the Colorado Health Foundation, which works to make Colorado the healthiest statein the nation by increasing the number of Coloradans with health insurance, ensuring they haveaccess to quality, coordinated care and encouraging healthy living.

Grand River Hospital District serves western Garfield County in efforts to improve the healthand well-being of local communities. For more information, visit grhd.org.

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Echo Briefs

Grand Valley Educational Foundation issues grants

The Grand Valley Educational Foundation has issued several grants toteachers in the Grand Valley District No. 16 School District in Parachute.

Teachers and administrators must apply for the grants, which are thenreviewed by the school’s principal and foundation members.

Projects have included an Interactive Solar System, DVDs for the HistoryLibrary, a Severe Needs Life Skills Project, Anatomy and Physiologyresources, Learning Tubs, and Current Events publications. Funds were alsoprovided for the Homework Cafe at Grand Valley High School, which hasbecome a valued part of the school as the students are given the opportu-nity to stay after school and receive one-on-one help from teachers.

Each project is evaluated in terms of its impact on student learning.Cheri Witt Brown is the chairperson for the grant program. She stated thatall of the projects have been beneficial for the students.

District 16 teachers and administrators may apply for the grants on-line,which helps to make the process accessible.

This information is then made available to contributors by visitinggvef.garcoschools.org.

– BJ Lindaur

Parachute Valley Senior Center offers noon meals

Where can seniors find a delicious full-course lunch with dessert and bev-erage for just $2.50?

This outstanding bargain can be enjoyed by seniors age 60 and overevery Wednesday at the Parachute Valley Senior Center, 540 N. ParachuteAve. Just call 285-7216 on Monday between 9 a.m. and noon to make areservation.

Everyone is welcome regardless of age. Those under 60 pay $6; caretak-ers of seniors and children under 12 pay $2.50 and must call Mondaymorning to make a reservation.

Come at 11:30 a.m. to hear announcements before picking up thenoon meal served hot at the serving counter. Those unable to stand in linewill be served at the table. Off-street parking is next to the building.

– Mitzi Burkhart

Full-time dental hygienist available at H-Dentistry

Dental hygienist Diane Wells, RDH, is available for appointments at H-Dentistry in Parachute.

Bruce Hoggan, DDS says he selected Diane “for a number of reasons,but most of all, it was due to her standing in the dental community, herresume, and her references from other doctors.”

Diane is certified to provide standard and deep cleanings along with theuse of anesthetic for patients’ comfort.

H-Dentistry is at 225 Callahan Ave., Parachute, 285-7748, hdentistry.com.

– H-Dentistry

LIFT-UP serves 5,000 people during Thanksgiving.

LIFT-UP distributed meal boxes for more than 1,150 local families, serv-ing about 5,000 people on Thanksgiving Day. Volunteers from each towndistributed the food to 19 families in Aspen, 276 families in Carbondale,280 families in Glenwood Springs, 115 families in New Castle, 42 familiesin Silt, 340 families in Rifle, and 81 families in Parachute.

The annual holiday meal distribution is conducted over and above theregular assistance provided at LIFT-UP’s six area food pantries, which arecurrently serving 500 to 600 families per week.

LIFT-UP is also distributing holiday meal boxes for Christmas, and dona-tions of non-perishable food items and financial contributions are still muchneeded and greatly appreciated.

“We wish to thank the many volunteers who sorted and distributedfood, the business and organizations that held food drives, and all whodonated food and funds to make this tremendous community effort possi-ble,” says LIFT-UP Executive Director Mike Powell.

More information is available at liftup.org. – LIFT-UP

BLM closes several roads this winter to motorized traffic

Several roads managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areclosed to motorized vehicles, now through April 30.

The BLM’s Colorado River Valley Field Office road closures protect criti-cal big game winter range and prevent road damage.

Two of the roads are in Eagle and Pitkin counties. The third is locatedcloser to Parachute and Battlement Mesa, at East Elk Creek in GarfieldCounty.

All of the areas continue to be open to non-motorized recreation oppor-tunities such as hiking, snowshoeing, horseback riding and skiing.

In addition, the lower gate at Transfer Trail above Glenwood Springs wasclosed last week to maintain snow conditions for snowmobiling.

“We appreciate the public’s cooperation in helping us protect wildlifeand public lands,” said Karl Mendonca, acting field manager for theColorado River Valley Field Office.

For additional information or to report violations in these areas call theBLM Colorado River Valley Field Office in Silt at 876-9000.

– Bureau of Land Management

New community coffee talk for new year

Eric Schmela of the Battlement Mesa Company invites community mem-bers to an informal gathering on Jan. 20 at 9 a.m. at the 35th Avenue Cafe.

Join your friends and neighbors for a free cup of joe and a great oppor-tunity to share, connect, and discuss. This is the first in a series of meetingsdedicated to bringing our community together to voice thoughts and ideasof all kinds.

Watch The Grand Valley Echo for future coffee talk dates.

– Battlement Mesa Company

Village Artists learn about art therapy

The November meeting of Village Artists at the Parachute library wasvery interesting. Jane Seglmen, a member of our art group, described to usher training and experiences as an art therapist. Jane is an art teacher anda wonderful painter.

At our Christmas meeting, we chose our officers, exchanged art giftsand enjoyed Christmas goodies together. Merry Christmas, everyone.

– Joline Gnatek

Parachute Planning and Zoning Commission member needed

The Town of Parachute is in need of an individual to serve as a memberof the Planning and Zoning Commission.

The commission meets once a month if there is business scheduled. Theregular meetings are set for the third Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m.

Those interested can go to the Town of Parachute website at parachute-colorado.com and click on “Contact Us,” stop by Parachute Town Hall, 222Grand Valley Way, Parachute, or call 285-7630.

– Town of Parachute

Sign up for Garco’s emergency notification system

The Garfield County Emergency Communications Authority has imple-mented a state-of-the-art emergency notification system to alert citizensabout emergencies and other important community news.

The emergency notification system, provided by Everbridge, enablespubic safety agencies within Garfield County to provide essential informa-tion quickly in a variety of situations, such as severe weather, fires, floods,unexpected road closures, or evacuation of buildings or neighborhoods.

The Town of Parachute recommends that citizens add a layer of protec-tion by registering for this free service. Go to parachutecolorado.com andclick on “Garfield County 911” or call 285-7630.

– Town of Parachute


S P O R T S A N D R E C R E A T I O NParachute/Battlement Mesa Park andRecreation District - “Where The FunBegins”

Winter volley-ball starts inJanuaryBy Mary Anderson, Parachute/BattlementMesa Park and Recreation District executivedirector

Adult Coed Volleyball: A winter leaguebegins on Jan. 4 at the Battlement Mesa ActivityCenter with games at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.Limited to eight teams. Sign up by Dec. 27.Babysitting is provided.

Boys Basketball: This program, for fourththrough sixth graders, starts in January. Pleaseget your child pre-registered by Jan. 4. The fee is$55 with a $35 refundable uniform deposit.There is also a developmental league for thirdand fourth graders, and a more competitiverecreation league for fifth and sixth graders.Games are held in Parachute and out of townwith practices in Parachute at the St JohnElementary School gym. Coaches are needed.

Spring Soccer: Yes, spring soccer. Please getyour youngsters signed up for Spring Soccer2011 by Jan. 28 for the U10, U12 and U14groups.

Youth Wrestling: The youth wrestling pro-gram begins in late February. Please have your K-sixth graders signed up by mid-February.Practices are held up to three times a week withtournaments held on Saturdays in differenttowns. Practices are held at Grand Valley HighSchool’s auxiliary gym. The fee is $100, whichincludes all league tournament fees, with a $75refundable uniform fee.

Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park andRecreation is at 259 Cardinal Way, Parachute,285-0388, parachutebattlementparkandrecre-ation.org. Check out the website; it’s updated fre-quently.

Battlement Mesa Activity Center Tennis Association News

Still playing tennis in the colder seasonBy Vina Klahn, BMAC Tennis Association

Nippy temperatures have kept players off thecourts the past few weeks, but there are some who arewiling to bundle up to serve and rally. For those whoprefer to toast their toes by the fire, we would like tohave a party between now and the end of January. JoyKemper is working on details and waiting to getresponses from members.

Branson, Mo. was the site for a reunion of presentand former Battlement Mesa residents earlier this fall.Ann Madeen, Nancy Slocum, and Marcella Ach trav-eled from Battlement where Chris Robinson joinedthem. Chris now resides in Pennsylvania, and is activeon a tennis team and competing in tournamentsaround the country.

The ladies enjoyed some tennis and Branson's fea-tured entertainers. A highlight was a visit with Mikeand Ann Youngs, who now live in Branson. Mike wasrecuperating from hip replacement surgery and mak-ing good progress.

Even though play is very irregular during the win-ter, we usually manage to get some doubles matchesin, so anyone interested in joining the club is welcomeany time of the year. Annual dues, unlike many fees, have not changed for years. Couples may join for $18 and sin-gles for $10, which also covers beverage and meat expenses for association parties. Questions may be addressed toJoy Kemper at 462-3608 or Vina Klahn at 285-6718.

Taekwon-Do students medal at Broomfield tournamentSix students from Battlement Mesa

Taekwon-Do brought home medals in spar-ring competition at the Sereff FallChampionship on Oct. 17 in Broomfield.The fall championship brings together stu-dents from all over the U.S. to compete insparring, patterns and breaking.

Yellow belts Teigan Hanson took thirdplace in the junior heavyweight division;Cayden Sproles took first place, and hisbrother Connor took second place in the jun-ior lightweight division.

Sheila Sproles won the women’s divisionwith a first place medal, and husband Travisbrought home second in the men’s division.White belt Seth Morrick took second place inthe junior boys’ division.

Senior Master Bob Haynes, 8th DegreeBlack Belt, is their instructor.

– Dianne Haynes

From left, Senior Master Bob Haynes, Travis Sproles, Cayden Sproles, TeiganHanson, Connor Sproles, Sheila Sproles, and Seth Morrick.

Photo courtesy of Dianne Haynes

From left, Mike Youngs, Marcella Ach, Ann Youngs, Ann Madeen,Chris Robinson, and Nancy Slocum. The photo is the only one offive that received unanimous approval for publication. We canonly say that what happens in Branson stays in Branson!

Photo courtesy of Vina Klahn


S P O R T S A N D R E C R E A T I O N

‘The swing is the thing’

This month, now that you have your equipment in order and have taken the time to work onyour approach, we can begin to tie these fundamentals into the arm swing and delivery.

The keyword for a good arm swing and delivery is RELAX the arm swing. Last month’s lessonon the approach covered when to move the ball (normally, when the right foot is moved forward,and the left foot for lefthanders).

Hold the ball waist high. We call this movement the push-away. It should happen at the exactmoment that your foot goes forward and the direction of the arm-swing is forward (not up ordown) to your target. The distance should be enough so that your arm is extended fully. Theweight of the ball will then take over and fully open the elbow. All you have to do is hold on tothe ball.

By relaxing, the ball will describe a smooth arc as you approach the foul line. The movementforward should NOT be quick. Smooth is the answer. The smoother the motion, the more you cankeep control of the swing. Remember, roll the ball, do not try to throw it hard! We like to say,“The swing is the thing.”

When the ball is coming through to the point of release, relax and let it happen. Muscles are notneeded here! If you try to power the ball, most often you will pull the ball and miss your target tothe left or inside.

The ball coming off your fingers at the exact time your slide stops generates power. We thinkpendulum. The shoulder is the fulcrum. Visualize a grandfather clock’s pendulum…always smooth.

The delivery should be 10 to 12 inches out over the foul line and toward your target. Manytimes, you see bowlers either lofting or dropping the ball. These problems result in inaccurate direc-tion that causes the ball to roll improperly.

Usually, the cause is that the bowler is not in a relaxed mode and tries to “help” the ball. A quickfix for this is to bend at the waist and knees, take a deep breath in, let half of it out, and begin yourapproach. This is placing your body in the most relaxed state. You’ll see the pros do this often inmost sports, especially in bowling and golf.

Once, during a Pro Bowlers Association (PBA) stop in Milwaukee, we were monitored for heart-beat rates. I was bowling with PBA champ and US Bowling Congress Hall of Famer Dick Ritgerwho was on his way to a 300 game. His heartbeat rate actually dropped by two on the last twoshots! Talk about being relaxed!

Stay under control and be smooth. Concentration on these fundamentals is necessary. You’llknow when you get it right, because you’ll be on balance after you let the ball go. When you areworking on these fundamentals, try not to have distractions and do not let scoring influence yourdecision to develop a solid swing and delivery. Remember, practice makes perfect. If you are stillhaving a problem, a quick lesson from a PBA pro can fix you up.

TIP OF THE MONTH: A smooth delivery requires practice. It will not happen overnight. Youcan practice it at home in front of a mirror. Do not use a ball, just keep going through the motions,and finish up keeping your sliding toe straight. Try to practice being smooth and relaxed severaldays in a row to develop the required muscle memory. Remember that all good bowlers have agood arm swing. Develop yours now. Roll the ball; do not heave it! Higher scores are the result.Drop over to you’re the nearest bowling center and LETS GO BOWLING!

Next issue: Practice tips from the pros!

Battlement Mesa resident Dick Ciprich is a longtime professional bowler and has won numerous titleson local, state, national and international levels. He has 29 – 300 games and 12 – 800 series and is amember of the Buffalo Bowling Association’s Hall of Fame, and The Greater Buffalo Sports Hall ofFame. He is a freelance consultant to the bowling industry and a private instructor. He can be reached [email protected].

A Great Place to Bowl!BURNING MOUNTAIN BOWL

880 Castle Valley Blvd. New Castle CO.970-984-2739

Let’s Go BowlingBy Dick Ciprich

S P O R T S A N D R E C R E A T I O N

A HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!Kitchen bar and breakfast nook.

Custom cabinetry in large laundry,quality tile and oak cabinetry.Battlement Mesa $199,900

TOWNHOME WITH AMBIANCEWindows welcome sunshine and

views. Finished walkout lower level, two decks, beautiful cherry

cabinetry throughout. Battlement Mesa $255,000

CONVENIENCE and COMFORTLarge open living/dining/kitchen,

full compliment of appliances updatedpaint and carpet, RV parking. Battlement Mesa $189,900

EASY DOES IT!Maintenance free-living new

condition, view filled windows, plush carpet, split bedroom plan –

immaculate.Battlement Mesa $156,900

COMFORTABLE COLORADO CLASSIC

High quality custom cedar ranch, eat-in kitchen and formal dining,

master tiled shower and jetted tub.Battlement Mesa $269,000

VERY AFFORDABLE HOME!Fruit trees, nice yard, storage shed,perfect starter home, neat & clean,

eat-in kitchen, nice views. NOW is the time to invest.Battlement Mesa $105,000

JUST ADD YOUR DREAM HOME!

Unique location on 17th fairway,unobstructed views, tap fees paid,exclusive golf course subdivision.

Battlement Mesa $89,900

PICTURE PERFECT LIVINGMaintenance-free patio home,den/office plus two bedrooms, laundry room with craft area,

backs to open space – move in condition.


SELLER CLOSING COST BONUS!Ranch style MF home-storage

unit - two car garage - sprinkler system – pellet stove –

split bedroom floorplan.Battlement Mesa $149,900

UPGRADED APPLIANCESThree bedrooms, walk-in closets, MF home, immaculate condition,

oak cabinetry, quiet cul-de-sac location with mountain views. Battlement Mesa $164,900

EXPERIENCE TOWNHOME LIVING

Two fireplaces/decks/living areas,updated tile and hardwood floors,

eat-in kitchen nook and dining area. Battlement Mesa $279,900

BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPEDGigantic deck, front courtyard,

expansive windows, sweeping views,stainless appliances, breakfast bar.


STOP RENTING – BECOME AN OWNER

Walking distance to elementaryschool, new upgraded kitchen appliances, extended patio –

nice MF home. Battlement Mesa $129,000

ROOMS FOR ALL YOUR HOBBIES

Large family room/office combo, flex room/hobby area/deck-patio,updated townhome – great buy!!


TOP OF THE LINE FINISHESExquisite master bath, garden tub,

spacious open living, dining kitchen,fine finishes – quality throughout

this home and yard!Battlement Mesa $329,900

DESIGNED with STYLE and CLASS

New full stucco ranch, cul-de-sac location -lower level, three

bedrooms, family room, oversized laundry/craft area,

media area.Battlement Mesa $379,900

Vacant LandNumerous lots available for your cus-tom dream home, some with owner

financing. Call Today!Starting at $69,000

Karen Jones, 970-379-1353Mary Lee Mohrlang, CRS, GRI 970-216-5058

73 Sipprelle Drive, Suite J-1, Batlement Mesa, CO 81635

Virtual Tours www.MohrlangJones.com

mohrlang • jonesThe NAMES that mean

EXCELLENCE in Real Estate…

The Colorado Heritage Group


Grand Valley FireProtection District

If you should have an emergency, please call 911 as soon as possible!

Third graders visit the fire station

By Diana Connell, Grand Valley Fire Protection District

Grand Valley Fire Protection District covers a wide areaof residential, commercial and some very remote areaswith fire suppression, emergency medical services, fireprevention, public education and training in cardiac pul-monary resuscitation (CPR). The district covers roughly321 square miles. This is I-70 from mile marker 66.4 tomile marker 82.5, then all the way north to Rio BlancoCounty and south to Mesa County, including three-quar-ters of a square mile of Mesa County.

Third graders from Bea Underwood ElementarySchool came to the fire station to learn a little about mapsand what they are used for in fire service and everydaylife. Fire station staff discussed what a GPS is and gave abrief demonstration of how a GPS system works. We cov-ered what is on a map, and how items can be found.

For the month of November, the fire district respond-ed to 67 calls for service:

1 fire incident55 emergency medical service2 hazardous conditions3 service5 good intent1 false call

Hiking among living and non-living organisms

By Betsy Leonard

Once again, I was out hiking with the Battlement Mesa hiking group. We hiked the spectacularRattlesnake Arches in the Black Ridge Canyons Wilderness. This outstanding trail winds aroundnumerous arches with endless canyon views.

We stopped for lunch in a particularly beautiful spot with red slick rock sandstone. As we scout-ed out good places to sit, we came across some knobby black soil-crusts. These are mature, livingcommunities of helpful micro-organisms.

The black crust is called cryptobiotic (Greek for “hidden life”) soil. These colonies enrich the soilwith nitrogen and help prevent erosion. Common on the Colorado Plateau, these tiny communi-ties form in response to adverse environmental conditions such as desiccation (drying), freezing,and oxygen deficiency.

The most prominent organ-ism in these communities iscyanobacteria, one of the oldestlife forms on Earth. As the bac-teria grow, it leaves behind asticky glue-like substance,forming an intricate web offibers that hold soil particlestogether. When wet, thesefibers store water and can swellup to 10 times their dry sizewith water, providing a benefitto the colony and also otherorganisms. Unfortunately, the fibers that give strength to these crusts are easily crushed by cattle,vehicles, and foot traffic. What can take decades to build, can easily be destroyed. Watch whereyou walk!

Don’t be put off by the term cryptobiotic, it is merely a subset of the term biotic, which meansliving things — all living parts of the environment. These biotic factors may be as large as a humanbeing or as small as a microbe too small to see. For instance, if you were camping, the list of livingthings might be relatively large including (but not limited to) plants, birds, mushrooms, insects, andbacteria.

All non-living parts of the environment are called abiotic factors. These include water, soil, air,temperature, wind, and sunlight. You may come across things in the environment that were oncealive, like a tree, but is no longer because it has been used to make a wooden chair. Because thewood is no longer alive, it cannot be a biotic factor.

The biotic potential – the rate at which a population would grow if it had unlimited resources– of any species can be great; however, limiting factors inhibit unlimited growth. For instance,without any controls on its population growth, the ancestors of a single female housefly could totalabout 5.6 trillion flies within 13 months; in a few years, there would be enough flies to cover theearth’s entire surface.

The limiting factors are the primary determinants of growth in an ecosystem. For example, inlakes and reservoirs, phosphorus is a limiting factor. Low levels of phosphorus hold populations ofalgae and other organisms in check. However, if phosphorous levels rise, such as with the intro-duction of sewage rich in phosphates from laundry detergents, algal populations may explode.

In most terrestrial ecosystems, rainfall is the limiting factor. It is the amount of rainfall thatdetermines whether the land is covered by forest, grassland, or desert. In fact, it is the limitingfactors of dryness, freezing, or oxygen depredation that create cryptobiotic soil. Be on the look-out for these communities of knobby black-encrusted soil. You will know that nature is assert-ing its limits.

Betsy Leonard is an environmental education specialist who lives in Parachute.

Nature at Home and Afieldby Betsy Leonard

Have a story idea? Contact the Echo

[email protected]

Echo BriefCommunity Counts encourages organization’s hotline use

Community Counts is a community-based programdesigned to offer residents a resource for open andrespectful dialogue when they have issues, concerns orquestions relating to the natural gas industry.

The Community Counts Hotline is a toll-free number,866-442-9034, that allows residents to reach local opera-tors with drilling activities in the area. The goal of the hot-line is for participants to hear about any negative impactsour neighbors experience such as dust, mud, noise, traf-fic and odors so that we can work to resolve complaintsquickly. The hotline also appreciate compliments.

For more information, go to communitycounts.com.

– Community Counts

When wet, these fibers storewater and can swell up to

10 times their dry size withwater, providing a benefit to

the colony and also otherorganisms.


G R A N D V A L L E Y N E W S

Mt. Callahan Community Fund awards grantsThe Mt. Callahan Community Fund has awarded grants to seven local organizations. Those

grants went to The Grand Valley Historical Society, K-SUN Community Radio, LIFT-UP,Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District, RVR Early Learning Fund, Valley SeniorCenter, and Youth Zone.

The funds were derived from earnings from theMt. Callahan Community Fund Endowment Fund,which included a grant from the Town of Parachute,and a generous donation from the Wells FargoFoundation.

The Mt. Callahan Community Fund is holding apresentation ceremony Jan. 6 at 4 p.m. at theBattlement Mesa Activity Center.

Grand recipientrepresentatives dis-cuss their organi-zations and how the awarded funds will be used to benefit theParachute and Battlement Mesa community. Checks will be pre-sented to them at that time. KSUN radio will be recording thepresentation for replay and refreshments will be served.Interested parties are invited to

attend this annual event.The Mt. Callahan Community Fund is a geographic-area fund

of the Western Colorado Community Foundation located inGrand Junction with assets of over $13 million.

Since 2002, the Mt. Callahan Community Fund has been rais-ing money through donations from individuals, businesses, andfrom various fund raising events, for the purpose of awardinggrants to deserving non-profit organizations in Parachute andBattlement Mesa..

– Barbara Pavlin,Mt. Callahan Community Fund co-chair

HEADLINES SALON

83 TAMARISK TRAILBATTLEMENT MESA, CO 81635

970.285.9279970.285.0395

Johna and Kem and the staff at Headlines Salon wish youall a Happy Holiday Season!! Thanks to our great clientsfor making 2010 such a wonderful year!! Come in for a great new hairstyle for the holidays, or maybe youcould use new jewelry and a new handbag to liven up yourholiday fashions!! Gift certificates available!!!

In salon Specials: Free eyebrow wax with any service! Tabitha is offering $10.00 off of a new set of acrylic nails. This is a great value so call her today and set up your appointment!!!


Take a HintHousehold How-to Hints

by Barbara Barker

Give your Christmas tree a second life – in your garden

By Barbara Barker

• Store candles in the refrigerator; they will burnlonger, drip less, and smoke less.

• With scraps cut from an old satin pillowcase andthe needles from your Christmas tree, you can makesmall, aromatic pillows. Put them in drawers, closets,or trunks to spread that sweet evergreen smell toclothes and musty places.

• Those stiff branches and sharp needles from yourChristmas tree can be helpful to your garden. A fewwell-placed branches can help defend your shrubsagainst winter freezes. And come springtime, thoseprickly needles make a great mulch that slugs willrefuse to crawl over.

• Shred colored tissue paper and use to wrap fragilegifts.

• When lengthening a hemline and you don’t wantthe old hemline to show, just gently sponge distilledwhite vinegar over the old crease on the undersideof the fabric. Fold the garment where you want thenew hemline to be, place a damp cloth over thefold, and press with a hot iron. The old hemline willdisappear and the new line will be nicely set.

• Use paper clips or spring-type clothespins whenpinning up a hem; no pricking of your fingers withclothespins.

• Hem jeans with duct tape; it is easy to do and willlast through many washings.

• Shoelaces will stay tied if you dampen thembefore tying.

• When tall boots are in the closet, slide an empty,clean and dry, one- or two-liter plastic bottle intoeach boot to keep them in shape.

• If you must do a load of laundry but don’t haveenough detergent, just add baking soda to make upthe difference. You may be so pleased with theresults, you’ll start doing every wash this way.

• In an emergency, when you must do a wash andhave no laundry detergent, use shampoo. About athird of a cup will do a full load.

• Do not use dishwashing liquid to do the laundry.The amount of liquid needed to launder clotheswould create enough suds to float the Titanic.

Barbara Barker of Battlement Mesa has lots more ofthese hints, which she’ll reveal in future issues of theEcho.

C H A M B E R N E W SMerry Christmas and Happy New Year from theParachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce

By Bill Cornelius, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce

Businesses of the Month

Daylight Donuts124 E. First St., Parachute, 285-9697Donuts, catering and a full breakfast menu! Check them out at their new location. See page 11 formore on Daylight Donuts.

Wells Fargo Bank0071 Sipprelle Drive, Unit 2, Parachute, 285-7848Full service banking including trust services, investment management, mortgage and insurance.Member FDIC

Upcoming EventsJan. 13 – Chamber membership meeting at Parachute Town Hall. With speaker Parachute Town

Manager Bob Knight. Bob will give updates on the Town of Parachute. Call 285-0388 for time andmore info.

The chamber is in the process of planning all our community events and meetings for theupcoming year. If you have any ideas, contact the chamber.

Chamber of Commerce Board of DirectorsMichelle Foster - PresidentMary Anderson - Vice PresidentMary Lee Mohrlang- SecretaryNancy Jay - TreasurerCyndie Penland - DirectorPaul Schultz - DirectorStephen Cyphers - DirectorAundrea Ownen - DirectorBill Cornelius - DirectorJason Fletcher - Past President

As always, the chamber is looking for businesses that would like to support our communities by becom-ing a member of the Chamber of Commerce. For more information contact one of the chamber directorsor call 285-0388.

IF YOU ENJOY READING THIS PAPER, PLEASE SUBSCRIBE!

The Echo is available at many valley locations for free pick up (see box on classified ad page)…

AND IS DELIVERED TO THE HOMES IN THE BATTLEMENT MESA AND PARACHUTE AREA FREE OF CHARGE

You can help support the paper by becoming a paid subscriber.Mailed paid subscriptions are available for readers outside our area.

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We appreciate your support!


P A R A C H U T E B R A N C H L I B R A R Y N E W SParts and pieces needed

Cleaning out after the holiday? The ParachuteBranch Library is in need of any spare Legos. Ideally,we would like the standard size Legos donated.Eventually we will host a Lego-building contest.Contact the library at 285-9870.

Story Time goes on the roadOn Dec. 17 at 11 a.m., the Parachute Branch

Library storytellers and listeners are meeting at theMesa Vista Assisted Living Center for a very specialtime. Call 285-9870 for more info.

Looking for something to do whileout of school?

Check out the activities at the library:On Dec. 20, grades 4-6 are invited to return for

another lesson in creating gross and downright dis-gusting items. Arrive at 11 a.m. and create fake vomit.Told you it was gross. Space is limited to 20 and reser-vations are required. Call 285-9870.

On Dec. 21, from 3-4 p.m., if you are under 10, joinus for drop-in craft making. No reservations requiredand parents are encouraged to attend.

On Dec. 22, the Amine Club (middle and highschool students) meet from 2-4 p.m. No reservationsneeded.

On Dec. 30, grades 6 and 7 only we invite sixthand seventh graders to get your game on from 11:30

a.m. to 2 p.m. This is a reservation-only event as theWii (played on our new giant screen) along with othergames will be set up. Lunch is on us so call now tohold your spot.

Holiday closures: The library will be closed Dec.24, Dec. 25 and Jan. 1.

Conquering mouse fearAre you afraid of the mouse? Don’t really under-

stand the computer? Need to get an e-mail? TheParachute library is offering a three- month coursegeared for those who are true rookies on the comput-er.

Beginning Jan. 4 and each Tuesday after, studentswill have the full attention of our very patient residentcomputer expert Megan. Course graduates will bemasters of the mouse. Space is limited and reserva-tions are required. This beginning computer courseruns from January thru March.

Need more information or want to make the com-mitment to conquer your mouse fear? Call the libraryat 285-9870.

The perfect “itty bitty” purseLadies: Ever wish you didn’t have to carry that

oversized purse around with you? Want to createsome very creative gifts? The Parachute BranchLibrary has the solution. On Jan. 8 at 9 a.m., bringyour sewing machine, and some scrap fabric, and youwill create the perfect tiny purse that allows you to

carry a credit card, ID and cash. A sample is availableat the library along with a supply list. Space is limitedand reservations are required. The cost of this class is$10, which includes a purse pattern and a “souper”lunch. Our guest instructor is Pat Jones from theGlenwood Sewing Center. For more information or toreserve your spot call the library at 285-9870. (Thealternative snow date is Jan. 15.

Computer Whiz Kid ready to helpGeno Duran, also known as The Computer Whiz

Kid, is giving personalized computer help at theParachute Branch Library on Jan. 4 from 6-8 p.m.During the session, Geno is available to answer gen-eral questions about your home PC. Free to the pub-lic. Drop in. For more information call 285-9870.

Beret’s Gadget ClinicsAre you purchasing an eBook reader or other hand-

held gadget for yourself or your family thisChristmas? Did you get a new Kobo, Kindle, SonyReader or Nook recently? Do you need some help get-ting started?

Schedule a free appointment with Beret at theParachute library in January and she will assist you infeeling more comfortable using your new device anddownloading free books from the Garfield CountyPublic Library District website (at gcpld.org).

Call the library at 285-9870 beginning Jan. 4 and con-tinuing through February as no drop-ins are allowed.

A year of Echoes from page 11

Battlement Mesa changed the name of its govern-mental entity responsible for its water and sewer sys-tems, and the Battlement Mesa Activity Center, fromConsolidated Metro District to the BattlementMesa Metro District. District Manager Steve Rippysaid the previous name was too vague.

As they do every year, the Kiwanis Club of GrandValley/Parachute took fourth grade students from StJohn Elementary on a winter ecology trip on theGrand Mesa.

During the spring, the Parachute/BattlementMesa Park and Recreation Department movedinto the historic Wasson-McKay House.

The White Buffalo restaurant and bar inBattlement Mesa closed its doors at the end of March.Owners Margaret Cooke and Dick Ciprich closed therestaurant after seven years in business.

Grand Valley High School Echo reporters wrotethat the school’s Key Club members attended theRocky Mountain District Key Club Conventionin Denver March 26-28. “It was one of the best timesof my senior year!” said senior Taylor Dillon, KeyClub member and the 2009-10 Grand Valley Key Clubpresident.

The Battlement Mesa Golf Club saw plenty ofplay with both men’s and women’s local leagues, andlots of tournaments, including the Battlement MesaOpen, the Alpine Bank Pro-Am, and the Sheriff’sAuxiliary Golf Tournament.

On June 19, the Parachute Visitors CenterCabin turned 25 with a big community party. TheParachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerceowns the cabin, and it sits on land owned by theColorado Department of Transportation. The Townof Parachute maintains the park and rest area facility.

Grand Valley Days, held July 30-31, featured apancake breakfast, bake sale, poker run, parade, pie

social, and street dance. The parade’s grand marshalswere Terry and Penny Satterfield.

A Comfort Inn began construction on the northside of Parachute on Aug. 23, as well as the construc-tion of a dentist office and the Berry Petroleum officesnearby.

Flower power came to Parachute in a big waywhen three 17-foot tall solar flowers were officiallyunveiled on Aug. 27 at the town’s rest area. Theflower arrays generate electricity for lighting andheating at the rest area. Parachute also installed solarpanels at the new library, town hall, and at the town’swater treatment facility, through a partnership withGarfield New Energy Communities Initiative.

It was musical chairs with Parachute’s princi-pals. When Scott Pankow left the Grand ValleyMiddle School to take another position out of town,Jory Sorenson moved from St John Elementary to themiddle school taking Scott’s place. After Brian Berg

Continued on page 21

Top, the Parachute Visitors Cabin turned 25; right,Battlement Golf Club had a busy season; far right, theParachute Branch Library reopened with a new look.

Echo file photos


All Saints' Episcopal Church150 Sipprelle Dr.Battlement Mesa285-7908Pastor's mobile: 985-5797The Reverend Edmond-Joseph Rivet, Priest-in-chargeWebsite: allsaintsepiscopal.infoChurch e-mail:

[email protected] e-mail:

[email protected]

SundaySunday Eucharist: 10:30 a.m.Choir: 9:30 a.m.Children's Godly Play: 10 a.m.

WOW: Worship On WednesdayContemplative Eucharist: 6 p.m.Soup Social: 6:30 p.m.

Episcopal Theology: 7 p.m.

Crown Peak Baptist Church101 W. Battlement ParkwayParachute285-7946crownpeakbaptist.com

Rick Van Vleet, Senior PastorDan LaRue, Associate PastorMatt Loftin, Youth PastorBrian Jarrett, Minister of Music

Sunday Morning Worship – 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Sunday Morning Bible Study for all ages – 9:45 a.m.

(Children's Church offered during 11 a.m. service)

Wed. Night Dinner 5:30 p.m.Wed. Night Programs 6:30 p.m.(Adult, Children & Youth Groups)

Small groups meet throughout the week ...Visit our website for more information.

Come -- Experience God's Power for life & livingKnow -- Christ through a loving family for fellowshipGrow -- In Christ through a foundation of discipleshipGo -- With Christ in a ministry of service with a focus for evangel-ism

Faith Baptist Church235 N. Railroad Ave.ParachuteJohn Yadloski, Pastor285-7424

SundaySunday School: 9:45 a.m.Morning Worship: 11 a.m.Children’s Church: 11:15 a.m.

WednesdayBible Study: 7 p.m.

Grace Bible Church755 Spencer Parkway P.O. Box 6248Battlement Mesa285-9862

Charlie Hornick, PastorLance Easterling, Youth PastorJosh Elliott, Pastoral InternPenni Nichols, GBC Child Care Director

SundayBlessing Up for Church Broadcast 103.9 FMSunday School: 9:30-10:15 a.m. Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m. Evening Service: 5:30 p.m.

Youth / Children’s ActivitiesGrace Bible Church Child Care: Mon – Fri.Awana: Tuesdays 7:00pm (Sept. – April)High School Youth: Sundays 5:00-7:00 p.m.Middle School Youth: Wed. 7:00-8:30 p.m.

*Bible Studies, Special Activities (Call for times and places)Website: grace-bible-church.com24-Hour Prayer Line: 384-7999

Grand Valley Christian ChurchSecond Street & Parachute AvenueParachute

Richard Counts, Pastor 285-7597, 260-1080

e-mail: [email protected] Church Office 285-7597

Sunday worship 10:00 a.m.

Daily Prayer Tuesday thru Friday 9:30 a.m.

Grand Valley United Methodist Church

132 N. Parachute Ave.Parachute

Dr. Bob Toll, Pastor

Sunday Worship Service: 10 a.m.

Contact Us

P.O. Box 125, Parachute, CO 81635285-9892

[email protected]

Shepherd of the Mesa Lutheran Church (WELS)Bill Cornelius, Pastor 987-3093Adam Lambrecht, Staff Minister 987-1992Sarah Lambrecht, Music Coordinator, 285-7255

Worship:Sunday at 10:00 a.m. Monday at 7:00 p.m.

Family Bible Study:Wednesday at 7:00 p.m.Location:Historical Society School House on County Rd 300

Women’s Bible Study Group:Monday at 9:30 a.m. Location: 12 Rosewood WayBabysitting available

In Home Bible Study throughout the week.Call for times and locations in your area.

“Come to me, all you who are weary and bur-dened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28

Wellspring of Life Churchat Grand Valley High School Cafeteria

800 Cardinal WayParachute

Pastor David Bartlett

Sunday Service Time: 10 a.m.Youth and Children’s Sunday School

210-5795210-5849

• The Echo Worship Directory •To be listed in The Echo Worship Directory, please contact [email protected] to set up an account.

There is a small monthly fee of $10 to help offset the cost of producing this page.

GRAND VALLEY SPELLBINDERSis looking for volunteers.

Call 285-7175 for more information.


As I See It

Forgive us our ChristmasesBy Pastor Charlie Hornick, Grace Bible Church

A 4-year-old girl noticed the rest of her family’s frustra-tion throughout one December day as they made prepa-rations for Christmas. She observed her mother’s sighwhen they received an unexpected present in the mailand heard her mother’s response.

“Now, we will have to go out and buy them somethingin return,”’ her mother said. “Where will be find the time?”

Her father was frustrated over all the mail, includingthe e-mail cards from semi-close friends.

A tradition of the family was to pray the Lord’s Prayereach night before bed. As little 4-year-olds often get theirwords mixed up, her words changed a little for thatevening’s prayer – unintentionally, of course, but yet soconvicting. Instead of “Forgive us our trespasses as weforgive those who trespass against us, and lead us notinto temptation, but deliver from evil,” she prayed,“Forgive us our Christmases as we forgive those whoChristmas against us, and lead us not into temptation,but deliver us from e-mail.”

The truth be known, asking God to forgive somethings about our Christmases and to deliver us from e-mail, may be very appropriate for the season. The ques-tion is: How do we celebrate our Christmases in such asway we would not need to ask for forgiveness?

Rather, we would embrace the true spirit of Christmas– a spirit in which we receive blessings through focusingon giving to others. Isn’t that what the true spirit ofChristmas is really all about?

On the back of one of our bulletins at church recentlywe had the following suggestions for gifts that show youcare, but do not cost much, if anything, financially. I wantto pass these on to you.

1. The gift of listening – Take time to really listen toothers without interruption or offering your own quickfixes. In so doing you can warm the heart of a friend on asnowy day.

2. The gift of affection – Let your eyes light up and givean appropriate hug to a family member or close friend,letting them know you care.

3. The gift of laughter – Tell a funny story or clean joke.Laughter is a good medicine.

4. The gift of a written note – Write words of encour-agement or appreciation to others. Such words in a cardor letter can bring a warm smile and lift the spirits ofanother.

5. The gift of a cheerful disposition – Cheerfulness thatstems from a caring and appreciative heart can outshineany other Christmas decorations for it shines into thehearts of others.

6. The gift of a compliment – Give sincere compli-ments to those who have blessed you. Watch their nosesand eyes light up like Rudolph the red nose reindeer.

7. The gift of doing a favor – Go out of your way tomake an afternoon or evening enjoyable for another.Babysit for a single mom or couple, take a meal to a shutin, or visit someone in assisted living.

8. The gift of solitude – Be creative in meeting a needfor someone you know to get away from it all.

We have many people in our community who give ofthemselves at Christmas time as well as throughout theyear. They know first-hand that it is more blessed to givethan receive. All of us have much more to give than wethink we have. Be sure to make this Christmas one youwon’t have to be forgiven for.

F A I T H

Dec. 24: 7 p.m.Shepherd of the Mesa Lutheran ChurchChristmas Eve Worship Service“The Simple Message of the Birth of ourSavior”Battlement Mesa SchoolhouseCounty Road 300

Dec. 24: 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight CommunionService at Grand Valley Christian Church116 W. Second St.Parachute, 285-7597

Faith BriefChristmas services

stepped in as interim principal at St John while simultaneously continuing his duties as principal atBea Underwood Elementary, Kathy Keeling moved into the principal position at St John, and BrianBerg stayed on as principal of Bea Underwood Elementary.

The new and improved Parachute Branch Library opened on Sept. 11. The building fea-tures an additional 4,500 square feet of space, top-notch sound and video technology, a 100-personmeeting room, and an additional 4,000 items available for public use.

The draft report, “Health ImpactAssessment for Battlement Mesa,” a157-page document prepared by morethan half a dozen physicians, faculty andstaff at the Colorado School of PublicHealth at the University of Denver inAurora, was completed this fall. Thereport outlines potential impacts ofAntero’s plans to drill for natural gas inBattlement’s planned unit development.An earlier deadline of Oct. 20 was extend-ed until November for public comment onthe document. A final version is being pre-pared as of press time.

Grand Valley High School celebrat-ed homecoming Sept. 27-Oct. 2,which featured an alumni volleyball andflag football tournament, as well as thehomecoming dance, bonfire, football game,and the ever-popular Mrs. GV contest.

Fall events included the historical society’s quilt show at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouseand the chamber’s Oktoberfest inCottonwood Park.

In October, Police Chief Cary Parmentarorganized a team of officers and cadets toremove the gang-type graffiti Parachute’spedestrian bridge that crosses Interstate 70.

KSUN Community Radio celebrated theholidays with its Christmas Gala on Dec.4 at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center.The event, which includes dinner and danc-ing, is a fundraiser for the station.

And area churches got together on Dec. 5to hold a live nativity at Beasley Park indowntown Parachute. The program includedreadings, carols, a full cast, donkeys, and agoat.

What’s in store for us in 2011?What will these pages be filled with in thecoming year? There’s no telling, but we’ll doour best to keep you connected.

Merry Christmas and Happy NewYear!

A year of Echoes from page 19

Left, grafitti removal; above, Grand Valley Days fun.Echo file photos


A R O U N D T H E V A L L E Y

More than 2,100 people visited the Grand Valley High School (GVHS) on Nov. 20 to attendthe 28th Annual Craft Fair. Organized by Mary Anderson, the Kiwanis Club of Grand Valleyhelped with parking; the GVHS wrestlers and Coach Rick Gallegos helped crafters haul theirwares in and out of the school; and Garfield School District No. 16 and Grand Valley HighSchool permitted the fair to be held at the high school. Photos courtesy of Mary Anderson

Jake Hemphill won a coloring contest at H-Dentistry’s open house in October. Jake won a toycar, crayons and two coloring books for his artistic efforts. Photo courtesy of H-Dentistry


THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16www.garcoschools.org

Terrific Kids for November 2010The Parachute/Battlement Mesa Kiwanis Club sponsors Bea Underwood and St John elemen-

tary schools’ Terrific Kids. The program promotes character development and self-esteem. “TER-RIFIC” is an acronym meaning Thoughtful, Enthusiastic, Respectful, Inclusive, Friendly, Inquisitiveand Capable.

Bea Underwood Elementary SchoolNovember’s Terrific Kids from Bea Underwood are, from left, first row, Opal Morganthaler

(Kiwanis representative), Kaylie Stark, Colby Scott, Alexa Dunahoo, Nicole Estrada, Principal BrianBerg; second row, Payton Buffington, Mallory Brinklow, Cameron Underhill, Rocio Roman; thirdrow, Maggie Rozell, Malachi Craine, Kirstin Medina, and Jordyn Pittman.

St John Elementary SchoolNovember’s Terrific Kids from St John are, from left, first row, Bill Coelho, Opal Morgenthaler

(Kiwanis representatives), Addyson Harper, Cassie Tigert, Dakota Parkhurst, Kathy Keeling (prin-cipal); second row, Danielle Call, Alejandra Renteria, Anthony Baeza, and Myckenzi Rice.

Congratulations to all of November’s Terrific Kids!

O U R S C H O O L SInvolving Parents and ChildrenGrand Valley Center for Family Learning

New health center, Encana-sponsoredkindergarten, and an eventfulThanksgiving

By Rebecca Ruland, principal, Grand Valley Center for Family Learning

In collaboration with Grand River Hospital and The ColoradoHealth Foundation, a school-based health center opened in Novemberat our school. Nurse practitioner Jean Lein is providing primary careservices such as physical exams, immunizations, routine lab tests,throat cultures, chronic illness management, wellness education andmore under the supervision of Dr. Kevin Coleman.

Services are intended for students and staff of Garfield No. 16 SchoolDistrict. Students wishing to access services must have their parentscomplete an enrollment form. Private insurance, Medicaid and CHP willbe billed; however, services are being provided to any student regard-less of their ability to pay if they are enrolled.

The Colorado Health Foundation works to make Colorado thehealthiest state in the nation by increasing the number of Coloradanswith health insurance, ensuring they have access to quality, coordinat-ed care and encouraging healthy living.

“The center will help take care of our community’s children and getthem the access to healthcare, health education and services they needat a low cost,” says Lois Kame, administrative director of clinic servicesfor Grand River Hospital and the director of Grand River Student HealthCenter.

Mental health services are included at the center with counselorTony Passariello. Families can also access Tony directly.

Due to the generosity of Encana, parents presently paying tuitionfor their child’s participation in full-day kindergarten will not receivebills after December. School-wide data shows that students who partic-ipate in full-day kindergarten can make greater gains in literacy andmath. The obvious reason for this is the time allowed for instructionand reflection on learning.

The state presently pays for half-day kindergarten classes. Districtswho desire to offer this alternative to their young students have had tolook for other avenues to supplement funding. Funding full-day kinder-garten is an excellent investment in our children’s long-term success inschool.

We held our annual Thanksgiving feast on Nov. 18. Fifteen turkeyswere cooked by staff and parents, and we served more than 400 people.Many thanks to Rifle City Market and Alpine Bank in Parachute fordonating money to buy turkeys. Thanks also to all the parents whobrought food to share. It was a wonderful event.

The Loya family The family of Andrea Clegg

Page 24, GRAND VALLEY ECHO •Mid-December 2010 / Mid-January 2011

O U R S C H O O L S

THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16www.garcoschools.org

Grand ValleyHigh School

Santa’s KenturkeyDerby…the race is on!By Lizbet Gonzalez, GVHS

This year the Student Leadership of Grand ValleyHigh School (GVHS) had a holiday food drive fromNov. 1–Dec. 8. All this food will go to families in needfor their holiday dinners.

There are a lot of families that this will benefit. Inorder to have a completed holiday basket there werespecific items that were asked to be brought in. Eachfood item had a specific point value. Stuffing mix,brownie mix, and cake mix were five points. Fruitcocktail and instant potatoes were four points.Canned yams and gravy mix was three points, whileJell-O mix and canned vegetables made up a total oftwo points. All other items were worth one point.

The students were supposed to bring their fooditems into their advisory teacher and the advisoryclass that earns the most points will win a pizza party.Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors were allcompeting against each other, but the winners are stillbeing determined. Although students have the pizzaparty as an incentive to bring in food, the real prize ofall of this is being able to help those in need.

Grand Valley Band andChoir made their bigdebutBy Amanda Jablonsky, GVHS

Since the beginning of the school year, the GrandValley High School Band and Choir have been prepar-ing for their winter concert. They performed on Dec.7, which is the first time they performed during the2010-11 school year.

Under new direction of conductor Barbara Carroll,the band and choir have grown in skill level sinceAugust.

Before the performance, Ms. Carroll was askedhow she felt about the upcoming concert.

“The concert is going to be amazing!,” she said. “Iam so excited for the community to see what thesestudents have been doing for the past four months.Both groups have grown immensely since the begin-ning of the year.”

The best of the westBy Matt Donello, GVHS

Grand Valley students are always striving to begreat students, but every month there is one studentthat shines brighter.

Caleb Lenard is November’s Student of the Monthand for all the right reasons. Student of the Month isa huge honor that is determined by the teachers.

There is no doubt that Caleb deserves this award.He continuously proves himself as a classroom gladi-ator and is always making the right choices.

“I didn’t really expect to be named Student of theMonth,” Caleb said with a grin on his face. “Am I arole model? No. But I think kids should look up tome.”

When asked how he got this award, he said, “Justdon’t be dumb, and do your homework.”

Caleb is extraordinary at balancing his on-the-fieldand off-the-field activities, as he is now participatingin Grand Valley boys basketball for the 2010-11 sea-son. There is no doubt that Caleb is a well accom-plished student, and he will continue to show his col-ors as the year goes on.

Grand Valley GiversBy Karsyn Valencia, GVHS

The Grand Valley Givers tree is back in businessagain at Grand Valley High School.

The Givers Tree is a Christmas tree that has tagswith names of girls and boys whose parents cannotafford to buy them Christmas presents. These littletags can have up to seven children that need presents.On each tag it tells you the gender of the child andwhat size he or she wears.

A variety of gifts are purchased during this eventand given to these children who are forever grateful.All gifts needed to be unwrapped, and turned in byDec. 15. These trees were located at every school andhad plenty of families that needed help.

Christmas around the worldBy Amber Greeson, GVHS

It’s the sound of a fireplace crackling, and carol-ers warming the hearts with Christmas tunes. It’sthe sight of Christmas lights on beautiful housesand the taste of warm hot chocolate. What is it? It’sChristmas and it’s right around the corner.

Everyone is buying gifts and rushing around try-ing to get the best turkey for dinner. Children aremaking cookies for Santa and helping decorate theChristmas tree.

Christmas is both a religious holiday and also aworldwide cultural and commercial phenomenon.

Christians celebrate Christmas Day as the birthof Jesus of Nazareth. Popular customs include giftexchange, decorating Christmas trees, attendingchurch, sharing meals with family and friends andof course waiting for Santa Claus.

“Joyeux Noel” means Merry Christmas in French.On Christmas Eve, children leave their shoes by thefireplace to be filled with gifts from Pere Noel. In themorning, they also find that sweets, fruit, nuts andsmall toys have been hung on the tree. Nearly everyFrench home at Christmastime displays a Nativityscene or crèche, which serves as the focus for theChristmas celebration. The crèche is often peoplewith little clay figures called santons or "little saints."In addition to the usual Holy Family, shepherds, andMagi, the craftsmen also produce figures in the formof local dignitaries and characters.

“Kala Christouyenna” is Greek for MerryChristmas. St. Nicholas is important in Greece as thepatron saint of sailors. According to Greek tradition,his clothes are drenched with brine, his beard dripswith seawater, and his face is covered with perspira-tion because he has been working hard against thewaves to reach sinking ships and rescue them fromthe angry sea. Greek ships never leave port withoutsome sort of St. Nicholas icon on board. OnChristmas Eve small boys, to the beating of drumsand the tinkling of triangles usually sing carols. Theygo from house to house and are given dried figs,almonds, walnuts, and lots of sweets or sometimessmall gifts.

Merry Christmas! The United States has madeChristmas a federal holiday since 1870. Santa Clauswas born in the US in the 1860s he was named this ashe had a white beard and a belly, so he was namedSanta Claus as this was the Dutch word for StNicholas, Sintaklaas. Although the Dutch had broughthim with them in the 17th century, he did not becomean important person at Christmas until the novelistWashington Irving put him in a novel that he wrote in1809. This first Santa Claus was still known as St.Nicholas, he did smoke a pipe, and fly around in awagon without any reindeer, but he did not have hisred suit or live at the North Pole. He did, however,bring presents to children every year.

Now Christmas celebrations vary greatly betweenregions of the United States, because of the variety ofnationalities that have settled in it. Whatever the reli-gion, whatever the practice, always remember thereason for the season and enjoy your holiday season!

Caleb Lenard


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New year new season for boys basketballBy Bubby Beecraft, GVHS

As the 2010-11 season comes to a start, the boys are doing everything ittakes to prepare physically and mentally. The Cardinals started the seasonwith a scrimmage in Grand Junction and Fruita and to the boys, this was areal eye opener.

It wasn’t the best game starting out against Fruita. Despite the knock-down the boys took, they persevered through it and took a stand to fightagainst Grand Junction. Then the boys now prepared for the next game ofthe season against Rifle on Dec. 7. With three boys on the Grand Valley teamas former members from Rifle, it made this game one of the biggest rivalriesof the season.

Next the boys needed to rest up for the Meeker Shootout on Dec. 9-11.This game was not only important to see how the boys could handle com-petition, but to find out the heart and stamina of the boys having to play fourgames in one week.

With the team ending the last season on a 12-11 record, they hope to riseabove that despite the loss of key players. Grand Valley doesn’t have thetallest of teams, but are quicker than most.

“This league is a tough league for us,” said Coach Higuera. “We kind ofhave a chip on our shoulder of being the smaller guys playing up. We knowit’s going to be a battle. We think, if we do the right things and give a tremen-dous amount of effort, we should be in lots of games.”

As said by Coach Higuera, it’s not about the height or the skill, it’s aboutthe heart and anyone can win on any given night.

Bea Underwood Elementary

From the PrincipalLooking at our successes

By Brian Berg

We are closing in on half a school year. Since August, many things have beenhappening here at Bea Underwood Elementary (BUE). Below is a list to keepyou updated and informed.• Open House Night on September 16, had 55 percent of BUE parents attend.Good!• At home reading minutes for September was 100,627. Amazing!• Family Math Night had 23 families attend. Fantastic!• Parent/Teacher Conferences had 95 percent of parents attend. Incredible!• Second grade music program had more than 200 family members proudlywatching their child. Awesome!• Halloween parade had almost all students in costumes with a 100-plus par-ents attending. Fun!• At home reading minutes for October was 90,427. Amazing again!• Family Game Night had 80 or more people attend. Terrific!• Thanksgiving Lunch brought in more than 70 adults to eat with their chil-dren and grandchildren. WOW!• Regular volunteers to date: 10. How sad! We can do better!

As you can see, we need help with recruiting volunteers to come in andread with students, help with students in completing their work, or help theteacher. By the end of the year, we want to have at least 50 regular adults whocan come in and help. So please help us with our goal! If you are interested,call the front office at BUE at 285-5703. The students would love to have youhelp.

Senior Matt Donello gave the crowd a preview of what he hopes will happen duringthe 2010-2011 basketball season.

Lady Cardinals look to start season strongBy Dylan Walters, GVHS

High school winter sports are soaring into action throughout the area this month.The Grand Valley Girls Basketball team is looking forward to the upcoming 2010-11season.

The girls started off their season with a tournament at the Meeker Shootout onDec. 2. If they play their hardest and win the season opener against Rangeley and thenext game on Dec. 3, they could end up in the championship on Dec. 4.

“We’ve got a few really good sophomores and four really good freshmen,” saidHead Coach Jonson said.

Other key players for the season include seniors Shawnee Young, Amelia Sudick,Jessica Bell, and Brandi Krieg. Unfortunately, the Cardinals started off the season shorthanded since senior Jessica Bell was gone and junior Jazmin McFarland might be outfor a while due to acurrent unknowninjury.

Coach Johnsonhas high hopes thatsenior Eryn Paskettand freshmen HaileyJohnson can fill thespots with the sameattitude and intensitythat the two startersbrought to the court.So come out andhelp support yourCardinals fightthroughout the sea-son.

Seniors Shawnee Young, Eryn Paskett, Audri Watson, Brandi Krieg, andAmelia Sudick spend some time together before their first competitionof their senior year. Photo courtesy of GVHS


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Where’s Redstone?PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Where’s Redstone – and why should you care? The Grand Valley Echo’s six-year old sister, The Crystal Valley Echo, is based in Redstone and is the monthly newspaper forthe Crystal Valley. Besides, Redstone is a perfect, quick getaway for Grand Valleyites. Get toknow your sister: Come visit.

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By Carrie Click, Echo editor

To celebrate the holidays this year, the village of Redstone is offering “The 12 Days ofChristmas.” The festivities begin on Dec. 19 and extend through Dec. 31. Each day features a spe-cial holiday activity. Why not pick a day and get away to the Crystal Valley for a snow-filled win-ter treat? Call the Redstone Inn at 963-2526 or visit redstonecolorado.com for more information.

Dec. 19: Caroling on Redstone BoulevardDec. 20: First annual Coal Days celebration, with dinner specials, trivia game and historic photos and clothing

displays from 5:30 p.m. on.Dec. 21: Wine tasting with Rick Dufon from Classic Wines at the Redstone Inn at 6 p.m.Dec. 22: Afternoon tea at the Redstone Inn with harp music and cowboy poetry, from 12-3 p.m.Dec. 23: Afternoon tea at the Redstone Inn with flute and harp music, and a special historic guest from

Redstone’s past, from 12-3 p.m.Dec. 24: Fireside storytelling at the Redstone Inn with hot chocolate, from 3-5 p.m. followed by Christmas Eve

services at the Church at Redstone at 6:30 p.m.Dec. 25: Traditional Christmas buffet at the Redstone Inn from 2-8 p.m.Dec. 26: Cross-country ski at the Redstone Stables’ new 5K groomed track and get a 50 percent off lunch at the

Redstone Inn Grill from 11 a.m-5 p.m.Dec. 27: Spa Day at the Redstone Inn with Pilates, manicures, pedicures, massages, and a low calorie/carb lunch.Dec. 28: Champagne and cordial tasting at the Redstone Inn at 6 p.m.Dec. 29: Afternoon tea at the Redstone Inn with harp music and cowboy poetry, from 12-3 p.m.Dec. 30: Afternoon tea at the Redstone Inn with flute and harp music, and a special historic guest from

Redstone’s past, from 12-3 p.m.Dec. 31: Dinner and dancing with the Strolling Scones at the Redstone Inn, from 9 p.m.-1 a.m.

Just getting to Redstone is a pleasant experience (though drive slowly and carefully as youmaneuver through the snow). Redstone is located on Highway 133, 18 miles south of Carbondale.Take I-70 to Glenwood Springs and Highway 82 to the junction of Highway 133 at Carbondale.Hope to see you in Redstone!

SUMMER MUSIC ON THE PATIO EVERY SUNDAY 3-5PM STARTING IN JUNE


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