2011 Grand Valley Echo December

Volume 4 Number 3 FREE Mid-December 2011/Mid-January 2012

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

INSIDE

Wood stovespage 5

Pickleballpage 10

Around the Valley

page 22

CAREpage 3

Our Schoolspages 17-19

• Serving the Grand Valley since 2008 •

The Living Nativity held on Dec. 2 in Beasley Park in downtown Parachute reflected the meaning of the season with feelings of peace on Earth, good willto men. See story, page 20. Photo courtesy of Charlie Hornick

By David Boyd, Public AffairsSpecialist, Bureau of LandManagement

SILT – The Bureau of Land Management(BLM) is extending the public commentperiod on its Draft Colorado River ValleyResource Management Plan (RMP) untilJan. 17.

The plan will provide a frameworkto guide subsequent management deci-sions on 505,000 surface acres and707,000 acres of subsurface mineralestate administered by the BLM FieldOffice in Eagle, Garfield, Mesa, Pitkin,Rio Blanco and Routt counties for thenext several decades.

The Draft RMP for the Colorado RiverValley Field Office was released for a 90-daypublic comment period on Sept. 15. Thiscomment period was set to end Dec. 15.

BLM opted to extend the deadline until Jan.17 to give the public additional time toreview the detailed, complex draft.

The Draft RMP analyzes four alternativescovering all aspects of BLM land and miner-al management within the Colorado RiverValley Field Office boundaries, including

recreation, travel management, energydevelopment, resource protection, wildlifehabitat, special designations, grazing, andrealty actions.

“Our goal from the beginning of thiscomment period has been to get specific,detailed comments from the public aboutour draft alternatives,” said Acting ColoradoRiver Valley Field Manager Karl Mendonca.“Several agencies and organizations hadrequested additional time in order to thor-

oughly review the draft and providespecific comments.”

BLM will use public comments tohelp develop a Proposed RMP/FinalEIS for each of these field offices,which are scheduled for release in2012.

For additional information includ-ing how to provide comments orobtain a copy of the either Draft

RMP, visit http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/BLM_Programs/land_use_plan-ning/rmp/kfo-gsfo.html.

BLM extends comment period for Draft ColoradoRiver Valley Resource Management Plan

Season’s Greetings

“Our goal from the beginning of thiscomment period has been to get

specific, detailed comments from thepublic about our draft alternatives.”

- Karl Mendonca

, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

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 $35 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:

David Boyd, Charlie Hornick, Barbara Pavlin,

Carrie Godes, Garfield County, Debra Trujillo,

Doug Straw, M.E. Denomy, Jack Elsea,

Anne Huber, Dick Ciprich, Mary Anderson,

John Michaelis, Vina Klahn, Betsy Leonard,

Rob Ferguson, Kathy Germano, Annick Pruett,

Dr. Carol Lybrook, Sarah Hunter,

Martha Fredendall, Roberta McGowan,

Mitzi Burkhart, Keith Lammey, David Walck,

Ken Haptonstall, Tarianna Lawrence,

Areemio Baltazar, Ceara Friel, Dustin Weist,

Jazmin McFarland, Rebecca Ruland,

Brian Berg, Veronica Duran, Jeanne Miles

Send us a letter. Got something on your mind? We’ve expanded our word-count limit to 500 words or less forLetters to the Echo to give you plenty of space to express yourselves. The Echo welcomes your input, opinions, thanksand whatever else you’d like to share with our readers, provided it’s written in a respectful, civil way. (Please, nounsubstantiated attacks, etc.) The Echo reserves the right to edit and proofread letters. Send your words to The GrandValley Echo, [email protected], or 274 Redstone Blvd., Redstone, CO 81623. Please be sure to includeyour name, title if necessary, and where you live. Thanks.

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

echonewspapers.com

Shommy’s Restaurant285-9711Inside Phillip’s 66 in Parachute

ZACH KELLY

"Zach is an 8th grade student at the GrandValley Middle School. He was chosen Studentof the Month for Music as Zach is playing histuba at a 10th grade level. He also participatesin football, basketball and track. Zach exhibitsgreat effort in all phases of his life. He is a greatmodel for others in terms of work ethic, goalsetting, and respectful attitude.Congratulations Zach."

Jory Sorensen, Principal Grand Valley Middle School

Proud to sponsor the STUDENT OF THE MONTH

Whoa on park

Dear Echo:

This letter concerns a park that’s being proposed tobe built next to the Grand Valley Middle School.

Why the rush toward a new park facility inBattlement? The parks and other open spaceswe have are under used. How this expensiveventure is going to be fully funded and main-tained has not been fully disclosed.

Property owners are well within their rightsto ask, "Why now in this economy?"Assessments to homeowners will surely comedown the road when donations run out.

We think it makes more sense to pull backand enhance what we already have. TheBattlement Mesa Activity Center has plenty ofsurrounding space for added features. Many res-idents would prefer to see the heating systemfor the swimming pool upgraded first. Thewater temperature is not comfortable anddraws few people.

This park (put on paper without a lot of pub-lic input) is not necessary. As for rocks, there isalso a large pile next to Kum ‘n’ Go. What arethe Battlement Mesa Company and CommonGround proposing for the eyesore? Rocks do

seem to be rather natural to Colorado, and wecan think of worse things to look at.

Carol Abbott, Dave G. Devanney, GarryEvenson, Joanne H. Mayo

Parachute and Battlement Mesa

Thank you for all the help at the Craft Fair

Dear Echo:

Wow, what a great day of shopping! Onbehalf of the 29th annual Craft Fair, thank youto all the locals who came out to support thisannual event. Thank you to the Grand ValleyHigh School for use of the two gyms, hallwaysand lobby area. Thank you to the Kiwanis Clubof Grand Valley/Parachute for their assistance inparking all the vehicles. And a huge thanks tothe Grand Valley Wrestling Team and CoachRick for their participation in helping the ven-dors load and unload their precious wares.

Mary AndersonExecutive Director

Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District

Parachute

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012,

N O N P R O F I T S

243 E. First StreetParachute, CO 81635

Animal care and sup-port offered locally

By Carrie Click, Echo editor

Colorado Animal Rescue(CARE) is one of severalregional pet shelters thatextend support and care toabandoned and owned ani-mals. Now, the organization isoffering ways for the pet-own-ing public to receive help fromCARE in Battlement Mesa.

Beginning this January,CARE is adding BattlementMesa to its CARE Food Bankdistribution schedule. Eachmonth, winter road conditionspermitting, CARE will distrib-ute dog and cat food if you arehaving difficulty providingadequate food to your animalsdue to economic challenges.

And for those who’d like tohelp financially or through vol-unteer support, opportunitiesare available, too.

“Volunteers are needed!” saidLeslie Rockey, CARE director.“Please call CARE if you have

even an hour or two a month tohelp with the Pet Food Bank.”

Distribution times are from8:30-8:45 a.m. in the Kum ‘n’Go parking lot, at the corner ofTamarisk Trail and StoneQuarry Road on the followingdays: Jan. 7, Feb. 4, March 3,April 14, May 5, June 2, July 7,Aug. 4, Sept. 8, Oct. 6, Nov. 3,

and Dec. 1.The CARE Pet Food Bank

was started in 2011 to assistpet owners in Garfield Countyand nearby communities in theRoaring Fork, Colorado River,and Crystal River valleys.

Besides assisting with nutri-tional needs, CARE strives toprovide pet owners with infor-mation about obtaining afford-able medical and spay/neuterassistance.

“Our goals are to preventanimals from being surren-dered to local shelters becauseof economic reasons, to keeppets with their owners, and tokeep our pets healthy and wellfed,” said Leslie.

The Pet Food Bank is entire-ly dependent on volunteers,donations of unopened con-tainers of pet food (CARE alsoaccepts kitty litter), and on thefinancial support of the com-munity for purchasing pet food.

Sponsorship opportunitiesare available and all donationsare tax deductible. ContactCARE at 947-9173 and col-oradoanimalrescue.org.

Mt. Callahan CommunityFund awards grantsBy Barbara Pavlin, Co-Chair, Mt. Callahan Community Fund

The Mt. Callahan Community Fund held its annual GrantPresentation Ceremony on Dec. 6 at the Battlement MesaActivity Center.

Grants were awarded to the following local nonprofit organ-izations:

• Advocate Safehouse Project• The Grand Valley Education Foundation• The Grand Valley Historical Society• K-SUN Community Radio• LIFT-UP• Roaring Fork Valley Early Learning Fund• YouthZone

The funds were derived from earnings from the Mt. CallahanFund Endowment Fund, which included a grant from the Town ofParachute and a generous donation from Wells Fargo Bank this year.

Co-chairs Sara McCurdy and Barbara Pavlin presented checksto the grant recipients. Representatives of the receiving nonprof-it organizations discussed their organizations and how theawarded funds will be used to benefit our community.

The Mt. Callahan Community Fund is a fund of the WesternColorado Community Foundation located in Grand Junctionwith assets of close to $30 million.

Since 2002, the Mt. Callahan Community Fund has been rais-ing money through donations from individuals, businesses, andfrom various fundraising events for the purpose of awardinggrants to deserving nonprofit organizations in Parachute andBattlement Mesa. All the funds raised stay in our community andare awarded to support all age groups from tots to seniors, help-ing to make our community a better place to live, work and play.

CARE offering ways to give andreceive in Battlement Mesa

Maggie was adopted from CARElast year and is now enjoying ahappy life and a full stomach withher new family.

Photo by Carrie Click

Mt. Callahan Community Fundgrant award recipients includedfront row, from left, Judi Haywardof the Grand Valley HistoricalSociety and Betty Jo Lindauer ofthe Grand Valley EducationFoundation; back row, AnneHuber of KSUN Radio, RobinTobin of YouthZone, Rick Blauveltof the Roaring Fork Valley EarlyLearning Fund, Mike Powell ofLIFT-UP and Julie Olson of theAdvocate Safehouse Project.

Photo by Jennifer Richardson

Craft Fair helpersThe Grand Valley High School Wrestling Team with Coach Rick Gallegoshelped load and unload vendors' wares at the 29th annual 2011 Craft Fair atthe high school on Nov. 19. More than 130 booths displayed holiday giftitems to the hundreds of people who attended the fair. Proceeds benefit theParachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District's programs.

Photo courtesy of Mary Anderson


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. 20: 12-2 p.m. Ladies Who Do Lunch Bunch feature“Redbird Christmas” by Fannie Flagg at the ParachuteBranch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 20: Santa visits Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residencein Parachute. 285-1844.

• Dec. 21: 2:20-4 p.m. Anime Club for middle and highschool students at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 22: No Bilingual Story Time is being held today atthe Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 23: 11 a.m. Ready to Read Story Time at theParachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 24: Christmas Eve.

• Dec. 24: 2 p.m. The Parachute Branch Library closes at 2p.m. in observance of Christmas Eve.

• Dec. 25: Merry Christmas!

• Dec. 25-26: The Parachute Branch Library is closed forthe Christmas holiday.

• Dec. 27: 2-3:30 p.m. “Techie” Tuesday for grades 5-8at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 28: 10 a.m. Toddler Story Time is at the ParachuteBranch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 29: No Bilingual Story Time is being held today atthe Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 30: 11 a.m. Ready to Read Story Time at theParachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 31: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Vaccination clinic sponsored byDivide Creek Animal Hospital and the Garfield CountySheriff’s Department is at the animal hospital, 0471County Rd. 311 in Silt for dogs and cats. $5/each vaccine;$25/each microchip. Call 945-0453 or 665-0200 for moreinformation.

• Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve.

• Jan. 1: Happy New Year!

• Jan. 3: 10 a.m. An information session on how to volun-teer with Literacy Outreach is being held at the ParachuteBranch Library. Volunteers do not need to speak Spanish;just an ability to teach basic, fourth grade level literacyskills to adults. 945-5282.

• Jan. 4: 10 a.m. Toddler Story Time is at the ParachuteBranch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 4: At lunchtime, BKS2U is at the Grand Valley HighSchool. 285-9870.

• Jan. 5: 10 a.m. Bilingual Story Time is being held todayat the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 6: 11 a.m. Ready to Read Story Time at theParachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 7: 8:30-8:45 a.m. CARE Pet Food Bank distributesfood to those needing help feeding their dogs and cats, atthe Kum ‘n’ Go parking lot at Tamarisk Trail and StoneQuarry Road in Battlement Mesa. 947-9173.

• Jan. 9: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Make it Monday at the ParachuteBranch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 9: 10:30 a.m. Learn the art of tatting with DianneDayhoff sponsored by Mesa Vista Assisted Living inParachute. $10 plus supplies. 250-5548 to register.

• Jan. 10: 10 a.m. “Tips, Topics and Talks on Tuesday” is atthe Grand Valley Fire Protection District Fire Station #1 onStone Quarry Rd. Learn how to use a fire extinguisher,learn about the “Vial of Life” program and tour the fire sta-tion. 0124 Stone Quarry Rd, Battlement Mesa. 285-9119.

• Jan. 10: 7 p.m. The Page Turners Book Club features“The Women” by T.C. Boyle at the Parachute BranchLibrary. Call Nancy Scott at 285-6159.

• Jan.11: 10 a.m. Toddler Story Time is at the ParachuteBranch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 12: 10 a.m. Bilingual Story Time is being held todayat the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 12: 6 p.m. Learn the art of tatting with DianneDayhoff sponsored by Mesa Vista Assisted Living inParachute. $10 plus supplies. 250-5548 to register.

• Jan. 13: 11 a.m. Ready to Read Story Time at theParachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 13: 6-10 p.m. Reel Readers featuring “Memoirs of aGeisha” at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 14: 2-3 p.m. A computer class is being held throughthe Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

ONGOING• Starting in the new year, the Battlement MesaCompany’s Community Coffee Talks will take place on aquarterly basis. The next gathering will be in March of2012. Happy Holidays from the Battlement MesaCompany!

• The Battlement Mesa Activity Center has a variety ofexercise classes for preschoolers to seniors. Call Anne, 285-9480.

• Every Monday from 12:45-4 p.m., Party Bridge is held atthe Battlement Mesa Activity Center. All levels welcome.

• The fourth Monday of every month, the Grand ValleySew and Sew Quilters meet at 9:30 a.m. at the BattlementMesa Schoolhouse. Call Ann Arrington at 285- 9757 orMary Galterio at 285-0243 for more info.

• The last Monday of the month, an Alzheimer’s caregiversupport group meets from 10-11 a.m. at the Grand ValleyUnited Methodist Church, 132 N. Parachute Ave., 800-272-3900, 987-3184.

• The first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., the GrandValley Citizens Alliance meets at the Rifle Branch Librarycommunity room. Leslie, 618-0890.

• Every Tuesday at 7 a.m., the Kiwanis Club of GrandValley/Parachute meets at the Community Room of theParachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley Way, inParachute. Coffee is at 7 a.m., program begins at 7:30a.m.

• Seniors age 60 and older and disabled of any age mayride The Traveler, a wheelchair-accessible van with door-to-door service from Parachute to Glenwood Springs andto various towns and locations in between in GarfieldCounty. Suggested donation is $8 round trip. The Traveleralso travels from Parachute to Grand Junction the secondThursday of the month. Donation is $20 round trip. Call48 hours in advance for reservations and information at625-1366.

• The second Tuesday of every month at 3:30 p.m. theBattlement Mesa Service Association’s Oil and GasCommittee meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center.

• The second Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m.-12p.m., Tips, Topics, Talks on Tuesday is at the ParachuteValley Senior Center; men and women of all ages wel-come. 540 N. Parachute, Parachute.

• Grand Mesa Chorus rehearses every Tuesday from 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the Redlands United Methodist Church, 527Village Way, Grand Junction. All women age 16 and olderare welcome to audition. Call Shirley at 255-9419,grandmesachorus.org.

• Neighborhood Watch meets the second Tuesday of themonth at 7 p.m. at Parachute Town Hall, 222 Grand ValleyWay, Parachute. 285-7630.

• The Glenwood Springs Chapter of HEARTBEAT – Supportfor Survivors After Suicide – is open to anyone who has suf-fered the loss of a loved one through suicide – no matterhow long ago. This peer group meets the second Tuesdayof each month at 6:30 p.m. at the First United MethodistChurch in Glenwood Springs. Use the Bethel Chapelentrance of the church, 824 Cooper Street. Call PamSzedelyi, 945-1398, e-mail [email protected].

• The second Tuesday or Wednesday of every month at6:30 p.m., the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park andRecreation District Board of Directors meets at the recre-ation district office, 259 Cardinal Way, Parachute, 285-0388, parachutebattlementparkandrecreation.org.

• The third Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m., theBattlement Mesa Service Association meets at theBattlement Mesa Activity Center.

• Every Wednesday at 11 a.m. is Toddler Time, and everyFriday at 11 a.m. is Story Time at the Parachute Library.Both open to young children. Call Michelle at 285-9870.

• Every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., the Parachute ValleySenior Center hosts a luncheon prepared by the RifleSenior 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 month at 3 p.m.,the Battlement Mesa Architectural Committee meets atthe Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Open to the public.285-9432.

• Every last Wednesday of the month from 5-6 p.m., anAlzheimer’s caregiver support group meets at AlpineHospice, 1517 Blake Ave., Suite 100B in Glenwood.Andrea, 303-704-6377.

• Every Monday from 12-1 p.m. the Grand Valley UnitedMethodist Church serves a {B} free soup lunch {EB} at thechurch at 132 Parachute Ave.

• Battlement Concerned Citizens meet the second andfourth Wednesdays of every month at 1:30 p.m. at theBattlement Mesa Activity Center to discuss issues of con-cern to the Battlement Mesa community. Open to thepublic. Dave, 285-2263 or Ron, 285-3085.

• Every Thursday at 10 a.m. (except the first Thursday ofthe month), the Prayer Shawl Ministry meets at the GrandValley United Methodist Church, 132 N. Parachute,Parachute. Call Sharon, 285-2318, or the church, 285-9892, to join in.

• Every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m. “CommunityConnections” hosts interviews with community memberson KSUN 103.9 FM.

• Every Saturday at 7 p.m., the Parachute Valley SeniorCenter hosts Bingo Night with cash prizes. Free hot dogsevery third Saturday. 540 N. Parachute Ave., 285-1353.

UPCOMING • Jan. 24: 7-9 p.m. Battlement Concerned Citizens openforum at the Parachute Branch Library. Contact DaveDevanney, 285-2263.

• Feb. 4: 8:30-8:45 a.m. CARE Pet Food Bank distributesfood to those needing help feeding their dogs and cats, atthe Kum ‘n’ Go parking lot at Tamarisk Trail and StoneQuarry Road in Battlement Mesa. 947-9173.


E N E R G Y

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970-243-6455225 Callahan Avenue • Parachute, Colorado

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Affordable monthly plans availableMost Insurance and credit cardsaccepted

PARACHUTE RIFLE970-285-9697 970-625-17057 days a week • 5 am - 12 pm Tues-Sat. • 5:30 am - 12 pm124 E. 1st St., Parachute 112 W. 3rd St., Rifle

Come chat with us over Coffee, Donuts or one of our breakfast items!

All Homemade!Donuts including:

Cake and Raised, Fritters,Cinnamon Rolls and Twists.

Cooked to order breakfast including:

Pancakes, Omelets

and French Toast

Homestyle Cateringalso available!

By Carrie Godes, Garfield County

Changing out one old wood stove with a newer,cleaner wood-burning stove reduces emissions by anaverage of 70 percent. That is equivalent to removingseven old diesel buses off the road.

That is just one of the reasons that GarfieldCounty Public Health is piloting a wood stoveexchange program for Garfield County residents.Public Health is exchanging old inefficient woodstoves and replacing them with new EPA-certifiedefficient stoves, at no cost, to qualified participants.

Public Health has already begun to swap out sever-al stoves in Garfield County, but they are looking formore participants.

“We are looking for low-income homeowners whouse old wood stoves or fireplaces to heat their home,”says Paul Reaser, environmental health specialist forGarfield County. “The entire process is relatively quickand easy. As the cold weather sets in, we really hope wecan give some people a better way to heat their homes.”

“The process was wonderful,” said Eugene Diaz ofSilt. Eugene and his wife Eva have lived in their Silthome for 61 years. “We already had a wood stovefrom years ago, but they came in and put in the newone according to code. They waived all the permit andinspection fees and we made out like a couple of ban-dits! The installation didn’t take more than an hour.”

The health department received funds to run thewood stove exchange program through Colorado

Department of Public Health and Environment settle-ment and enforcement actions. The funding comesfrom fines received from violations of environmentallaws and regulations.

“There are a number of wood stove exchange pro-grams running throughout the United States,” saidPaul. “We know that wood smoke contains a numberof pollutants that can be harmful to health. Thesmoke from stoves and fireplaces pollute the air, con-tributing to smog, and related health problems.”

Wood smoke is a mixture of gases and fine parti-cles. The particles can aggravate existing diseases,such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, asthmaor chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The gases con-tain harmful pollutants such as polycyclic aromatichydrocarbons, benzene, and dioxin.

No matter what type of wood stove used, Reasersuggests a few guidelines.

“If people do heat their homes with wood they canalso minimize their risks by using dry, clean wood thathas been seasoned for six months,” he said. “Keep thearea well ventilated when starting a fire, and close thedampers when the wood is well charred. It will pro-duce more heat and use less wood. Also use smallerpieces of wood and never put anything else like mag-azines or garbage in a stove. Make sure you have a car-bon monoxide detector set up in your home.”

EPA studies show that an estimated 70 percent ofsmoke from chimneys can actually re-enter the homeand other neighborhood dwellings. New stoves are

more air tight than older models helping to keepinside air cleaner. They also burn an estimated thirdless wood than older stoves and produce less buildupreducing the risk of house fires.

“I’ve noticed that the new stove burns less wood.I’ve noticed how fast it heats up the place, very quick-ly,” said Eugene. “Eva likes it because I don’t have togo up on the roof to clean it as much because thereisn’t as much creosote in the chimney.”

The Public Health Department has funding toexchange 35 stoves. Participants must meet incomeguidelines, live in Garfield County, and be the home-owner. People interested in more information orapplications for the program can contact Paul Reaserwith Garfield County Public Health at 665-6381.

Garfield County exchanges old woodstoves with new high efficiency stoves

Eugene Diaz of Silt recently received a new efficient woodstove through a Garfield County program.

Photo courtesy of Carrie Godes


Obituary

Joe TrujilloDec. 4, 1925 – Nov. 18, 2011

Joe Trujillo, former resident of Rifle and Battlement Mesa,passed away at the Joni Fair Hospice House in Pueblo on Nov. 18with his loving wife Joan, grandson, and granddaughter at hisside. He was 85.

Joe was born in Delta, Colo. to Nestor and Eleanor Trujillo Sr.On Sept. 14, 1947, Joe married Joan E. Audin in Paonia, Colo.They were married for 64 wonderful years.

Joe was in the Marine Corps and served overseas duringWorld War II. From 1961-1981, Joe was employed by CityMarket. After a 20-year retirement, Joe went back to work forBattlement Mesa from 1988-2008. He was a member of theGrand Valley United Methodist Church, Rifle Masons, and theShriners.

His hobbies included woodworking and spending precioustimes with his three great grandchildren who were the apples ofhis eyes.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, son Kevin Trujillo,daughter Shayne Trujillo (Boggs), brothers Monte and PeteTrujillo, and sister Florence McClaughy.

Survivors include his wife Joan, son Bryan (Tina) Trujillo,daughter Debra Trujillo, and grandsons Darren (Myra) and Jamie(Heather) Trujillo, along with three great grandchildren Adam,Andrew, and Dru, sister June Booth and brother Nestor TrujilloJr., and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorial services will be held on Jan. 14 at Grand ValleyUnited Methodist Church with Pastor Robert Toll presiding. Inlieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sangre De CristoHospice, Joni Fair Hospice House, 1107 Pueblo Blvd. Way,Pueblo, CO 81005.

Battlement Concerned Citizens (BCC)

Invitation To A Community Open Forum

BCC invites all Battlement Mesa residents to an open forum on January24th to discuss the status of actions taken by BCC to protect our healthand well being.

BCC realizes that America needs the energy and all associated jobs, anddesires to work together with all citizens, committees, and governingentities of Battlement Mesa, Garfield County, and Colorado to ensurethat citizens, health, safety, property values, and quality of life are pro-tected and sustained.

When it was announced that Antero Resources would be drilling naturalgas wells within the Battlement Mesa Planned Unit Development (PUD)many citizens became concerned about the impact to their health andsafety, their homes, and their beautiful community. BCC was formedby citizens to investigate potential impacts if Antero were to drill withinthe PUD and what could be done to mitigate those impacts.

BCC submitted a petition requesting a Health Impact Assessment (HIA)be conducted concerning the health implications of Antero’s drillingintentions. Garfield County contracted with the Colorado School ofPublic Health to conduct the assessment. First phases of the impactassessment were conducted and produced a draft document listingapproximately seventy recommendations that should be implementedbefore and during any drilling activity.

As stated above, BCC’s primary objective is to work with all concernedcitizens, committees, and government entities to do everything feasible topreserve our wonderful quality of life here on Battlement Mesa. To fur-ther this objective BCC will hold a “Community Open Forum” for citizensto meet, discuss, and join them in this objective. Date and time follows:

DATE: TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012TIME: 7:00 - 9:00 PMPLACE: PARACHUTE BRANCH LIBRARY

Refreshments will be provided, so skip dessert!

Presentations and discussions will include:• Some of the important recommendations of the Health

Impact Assessment• The process of Antero obtaining a “special use permit”

(SUP) from Garfield County• The process of Antero obtaining approval of their

“comprehensive drilling plan” (CDP) from the ColoradoOil and Gas Conservation Commission

• Developments in legal representation

Each and every resident of Battlement Mesa is invited!

For more information, please contactDave Devanney • 285-2263

GIVE THEGIFT OF

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Living green starts from the ground up. Make sure the air inyour home is healthy for your family to breathe. Test yourhome for Radon.

Pick up your free radon test kit at Garfield County PublicHealth next to Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs,next to City Market in Rife, or by calling 970-625-5200.

Visit www.garfield-county.com or epa.gov/radon


O I L & G A S

Fracking chemicals must bedisclosed in ColoradoEcho Staff Report

In an unprecedented ruling on Dec. 13, Colorado will now require that energy com-panies disclose the concentrations of chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing processwhen extracting natural gas underground.

The new rules go into effect this coming April. Drillers also will have to make pub-lic some information about chemicals considered trade secrets, and give 48 hours' noticebefore pumping the chemicals into the ground.

There is a fear that these chemicals – kept secret since companies did not want todivulge what chemicals they use to other competitors in the industry – might be pollut-ing and contaminating groundwater and harming air quality. It’s been reported that somefracking fluids might contain petroleum chemicals, alcohols, hydrochloric acid, dieselfuel, benzene and other chemicals commonly found in gasoline, among other substances.

Colorado regulators unanimously approved the new rules Dec. 13. The rules are similar to those in a first-in-the-nation law that Texas regulators imple-

mented Tuesday, but Colorado's go further by requiring the concentrations of chemicalsto be disclosed.

A story published Dec. 13 in the Glenwood Springs Post Independent, stated thatHalliburton Co. and other drilling companies had opposed the rules, saying the chemi-cals were proprietary. But Jep Seman, an attorney for the Colorado PetroleumAssociation, said that the rules are good for the state and “workable” for the industry.

The Post Independent story reported that the Environmental Protection Agency lastweek found a possible link between groundwater pollution and hydraulic fracturingbeneath Pavillion, Wyo. The EPA found compounds likely associated with frackingchemicals in the groundwater beneath the small central Wyoming community where res-idents complain their well water smells like chemicals. Health officials last year advisedresidents not to drink their well water after the EPA found low levels of hydrocarbons.

Companies have been fracking for decades, but as drilling expands to more populatedareas, residents near wells are concerned about the effects on their health and drinking water.

For more information on the new rules, go to fracfocus.org.

BLM seeks public comment on local natural gas pipeline

SILT – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seekingpublic comments on a natural gas pipeline proposal that willgo from an area south of Rifle to processing facilities inParachute. Comments should be received by Jan. 20.

Bargath LLC is proposing to construct the Kokopelli Phase IIPipeline that would be a buried 16-inch pipeline that wouldcross 22.3 miles from the Dry Hollow Compressor south of Siltto the Rulison Compressor near Anvil Points. Approximately 7.6miles would be installed on BLM-managed lands, 0.9 miles onUS Forest Service-managed lands, and 13.8 miles on privateproperty. The pipeline would be bored under the ColoradoRiver to avoid impacts to the riverbed, aquatic wildlife and theadjacent riparian ecosystem.

Additionally, Williams Production RMT Company LLC is pro-posing to install two six-inch water lines along a 4.1 mile sectionof the proposed Kokopelli trench and an additional 0.6 miles ofprivate land outside the trench. The water lines would providewater delivery and collection capabilities to gas fields in this areaand reduce water truck traffic.

The proposal and map are available on-line:http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/crvfo/GSFO_MasterPlansOfDevelopment.html. Written comments and questions shouldbe directed to Colorado River Valley Field Office at 2300 RiverFrontage Road, Silt, CO 81652. Electronic comments may besubmitted to [email protected]. Pleasebe aware that your comments, including your name andaddress, may be made public at any time.

– David Boyd, BLM


PARACHUTE RADIO SHACK 316 E 1st street next to Napa Auto Parts

M-F 9 am – 6 pm and Sat 9am -4 pm

970-285-2111

MARY LEE MOHRLANGCell (970) [email protected]

The Colorado Heritage Group73 Sipprelle Drive Suite J-1Battlement Mesa ,CO 81635

BRANDY SWANSONCell (970) 319-3574

[email protected]

Shop locally and support your local chamber businesses!

More giving planned for December’s holidays

By Doug Straw, LIFT-UP

LIFT-UP distributed Thanksgiving meal assistance to more than 1,500 localfamilies during the Thanksgiving holiday this year, a 30 percent increase over2010. More than 6,000 people sat down to Thanksgiving dinner this year – rough-ly 10 percent of the population for the communities in which LIFT-UP operates –thanks to the generosity of the community.

Registration figures included 135 families in Parachute. In addition, 403 fami-lies in Rifle received meals, along with 360 families in Glenwood Springs, 190families in Basalt, 185 families in Carbondale, 100 families in New Castle, 59 fam-ilies in Silt, and 52 families in Aspen.

"About half of the food distributed was donated by the community from fooddrives and items brought into the food pantries,” said Jeffrene Fowler, LIFT-UP'sservices manager, “and half was purchased by LIFT-UP at Food Bank of theRockies or at local grocery stores."

The holiday meal assistance included traditional Thanksgiving menu items like

stuffing, potatoes, corn and green beans, and a $10 meat voucher that wasredeemable at local City Markets and Clark's Market in Battlement Mesa.

"I'm amazed and grateful to see how our community responds to the needs inour region, and I'm happy that LIFT-UP can serve as a channel of assistance tobrighten the holiday season for neighbors in need," said LIFT-UP ExecutiveDirector Mike Powell. “It’s been a rough year for many of these folks. I want tothank all of the supporters and volunteers that help make this tremendous out-reach possible."

LIFT-UP is also distributing holiday meals in December in time for Christmas.The special holiday meal assistance is provided in addition to the regular servicesprovided from LIFT-UP's seven area food pantries, which are serving an averageof more than 2,000 people per month, and The Extended Table Soup Kitchen inGlenwood Springs that serves more than 1,100 meals per month.

To donate or find out more about LIFT-UP, contact 625-4496, liftup.org, or [email protected].

LIFT-UP provided Thanksgiving dinner for morethan 1,500 local families

G O O D D E E D S

To donate or find out more aboutLIFT-UP, contact 625-4496,

liftup.org, or [email protected].


O I L & G A S

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

O Christmas Tree

The temperatures are sure cold around here and I worry a little about the folks whohave to work on the wellsites. Carhartts only go so far.

At least they have a Christmas tree on the wellsites to “enjoy.” Actually an oil and gaswell Christmas tree is the configuration of valves that are used to turn on and off the pro-duction. The shape of the valves looks a little like a Christmas tree, thus the name that itwas given.

There are so many other parts of the sites that are necessary for the production of theoil and gas. There is the dehydrator that takes the water out of the gas stream so that itdoes not freeze in the lines. There is a separator that splits the oil, water and gas andsends them in various ways. The water goes to one tank, usually underground. The oilgoes to another tank, usually above ground. The gas goes through a pipeline on its wayto be used to warm us up after being out in these cold times.

There are pieces of equipment that look like big fans called compressors. These com-pressors increase the pressure of the gas, so that it can fit and travel better in the pipelines.The sites have meters, usually in their own little housing units and many have solar pan-els to run the equipment. Imagine, we use new technology to help produce oil and gas.

There are also tanks on many of the sites with glycol in them. This chemical helps tokeep the water from freezing the equipment and boy, do we need that now.

This list of equipment is some of what is put on a wellsite after the well is producing.There are numerous different pieces of equipment that are used during the drilling of the well.

So, Merry Christmas to all of you and crank up the heat. Thank goodness we have it.

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 Ellenis the immediate past president of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the National Association ofRoyalty Owners. If you have questions, contact her at the naro-us.org website or through TheGrand Valley Echo.

Northwest Colorado BLMlands proposed forupcoming oil and gas leasesales available for reviewBy David Boyd, BLM

GRAND JUNCTION – Bureau of Land Management(BLM) has posted information for public review and com-ment about lands in northwestern Colorado proposed forseveral upcoming oil and gas lease sales.

As part of recent reforms to the federal oil and gas leas-ing process, BLM now conducts additional reviews ofparcels proposed for quarterly oil and gas lease sales andprovides the public with multiple opportunities to reviewand comment on the proposals.

Before beginning the Environmental Assessment for theAug. 9 lease sale, the Grand Junction Field Office is accept-ing initial public comments. One parcel is being evaluatedfor this sale five miles southeast of Collbran. The environ-mental assessment of this parcel will also be available forpublic review once it is drafted.

Environmental reviews for parcels proposed for theMay 10 lease sale are now available for review and com-ment.

The Little Snake Field Office in Craig is evaluating sixparcels in Moffat County and one in Rio Blanco County.The environmental review and a map of these proposedparcels are online: www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/lsfo.html

The White River Field Office in Meeker is evaluating 33parcels in Rio Blanco County. The environmental reviewand a map of these proposed parcels are online:http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/wrfo/index.html

Specific information about how to comment is availableat the specific websites listed above. Comments will bemost helpful if received by Jan. 4.

The next quarterly oil and gas lease sale in Colorado isscheduled for Feb. 9 . Six parcels within the Little SnakeField Office (three in Moffat County and three in RouttCounty) are being offered, as well as two geothermalparcels in Gunnison County. The deadline for submittingprotests for this lease sale is 4 p.m., Dec. 12. All protestsmust be received by the BLM Colorado State Office,located at 2850 Youngfield St., Lakewood, CO 80215.

Additional lease sale information can be obtained onlineat: www.blm.gov/co/st/en/BLM_Programs/oilandgas/leas-ing.html, or one of the bureau’s field offices, or the BLMColorado State Office Public Room in Lakewood (addressabove).

103.9 FM

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Syndicated Radio Programs • Local Programming

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ksun christmas galafundraiser

december 3, 20117 – 10 p.m. at the Activity Center

$30 Donation in Advance/$35 Donation at Door

Tickets available at the following locations:

Alpine Bank • Battlement Mesa Activity CenterWells Fargo Bank • Old Mountain Gift and Jewelry

We would love to have you support our station!

KSUN COMMUNITY RADIO398 Arroyo Drive, Battlement Mesa • 285-2246

www.ksunradio.org**Not valid on Valentine’s Day

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Happy New Year


S P O R T S & R E C

Linda & Dave Devanney support The Grand Valley Echo

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BMAC member profile: Michael SwartzBy Anne Huber, Battlement Mesa Activity Center

Michael Swartz, 19, made a surprise visit to theBattlement Mesa Activity Center (BMAC) this week afterbeing absent for about eight months. It was a surprisebecause he wasn’t immediately recognized by staff whoused to see him nearly every day for most of his life.Michael, at 5’ 8”, had dropped 55 pounds from 225 to 169.

Michael graduated from Grand Valley High School in 2011.He said that during his school years he was in denial about hisweight, ate a lot of junk food and wasn’t very active. In the fallof 2010, he talked to an Army recruiter who told him that heneeded to lose weight to join. Michael took this directive toheart and in December 2010, he began a program of diet andexercise that would help him achieve his goal of joining. Hecredits a friend and former member of the activity center withhelping him know how to work out and eat.

His regimen is fairly simple: tuna, salads, apples, bananas and other fruit. I asked him about veg-etables; this caused him to make a face and he confessed to eating just the raw ones in his salads.

He works out in a gym and runs two miles every other day. The running was hard at first. Now that he has met his weight loss goal, he allows himself two of his former favorite foods once

every couple of weeks – a cheeseburger and a cookie or two from McDonalds – but still no softdrinks. He drank only water during the weight loss phase but drinks some coffee and iced tea now.

Michael’s transformation is impressive. He walks and talks with confidence and is positive abouthis future. He feels that joining the Army will put him on a path to his ultimate career goal of becom-ing a policeman.

His Army job will be Petroleum Supply Specialist. He reports to Fort Jackson, S.C. in March for10 weeks of boot camp.

The staff at BMAC wish Michael all the best and congratulate him on his successful program tofitness!

The BMAC is looking for other fitness-related stories. If you would like to share a successful programfor fitness, please contact Anne Huber at 285-9480.

Tin Cup Indoor Golf Club Update

Make sure you get your Tin Cup Golf Club information inby Jan. 1 for your free membership to the Battlement MesaActivity Center’s (BMAC) Tin Cup Indoor Golf Club. You canleave your completed club sheets at BMAC's front desk.

More than 75 golfers attended our series of demo daysin November. All were amazed at the technology and infogiven by the software to help your game. The netting hasarrived and has been installed.

For further information or tee times call 250-5154.

– Dick Ciprich

Boomer-generation game is sweeping the country – and Battlement Mesa

By Jack Elsea, Echo contributor

Pickleball is the fastest growing game in the U.S. and is being played at the Battlement MesaActivity Center. Almost every day, at least during the fall and winter, a group of seniors – mostlymen – square off for daily battle. Teams are arranged, and the net positioned. The ball is procured,and play commences.

The game arrived here locally, thanks to the efforts of Wayne and Kathy Morris. While visitingtheir daughter in Virginia, the Morrises had the opportunity to experience the game. Upon hisreturn, Wayne then purchased the necessary equipment and started lining up potential players.Over a three-year period, the group has steadily increased in numbers.

Pickleball is a net game, combining badminton, tennis and table tennis. The ball resembles a wif-fle ball and the paddle looks like a ping-pong paddle on steroids. The court and the speed of thegame is about a third that of tennis, but still you get plenty of exercise. The game has become therage of the boomer generation.

The origin of pickleball dates back to 1965 in Washington state where the originator, JoelPritchard, a representative of the U.S. House, devised the game. So the story goes, Prichard had afamily dog, a Cocker Spaniel named Pickles, who was quite inept in fetching errant shots, but wasquite good at hiding the ball. Thus the game had a name.

Last summer, at the Western Colorado Senior Games held in Grand Junction, three BattlementMesa players vied for the gold medal. John Santos, a former tennis teaching pro and yours trulycompeted in the open division of doubles and came away with the silver medal. We lost our veryfirst match, then battled our way back through the losers bracket to play for the championship. The

You play pickleball?

The championship match with, left, John Santos and, right, Jack Elsea inforeground. Photos courtesy of Jack Elsea

next day, Kathy Morris and I took gold in the mixed divisionwithout ever dropping a game.

It is an easy game to learn; kind of a simpler form of tennisand fun for everyone. If you are interested in participating orwould like to see how the game is played, contact me, Jack Elsea,at 285-1200 for information and times.


S P O R T S & R E C

Sponsored byParachute/Battlement Mesa Park & Recreation District

285-0388 • Where the Fun Begins"

www.bmac-co.org970-285-9480

Beginning Ballroom, Fox Trot, Cha Cha and Jitterbug, Wednesdays, 7:15 p.m.Intermediate Ballroom, Review and add steps, Wednesdays, 8:00 p.m.5Classes start January 4, 2012 • Sign up early to reserve your spot.

Indoor Cycling is back! Mondays at 9 a.m. - Sign up in advance to reserve a bicycle

Ladies Night Out, Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012A pinochle group is forming. Call BMAC for more information.

Get your art work ready for “Anything Goes” Art Show, February 2012

Drop in for:Zumba, Total Body Fitness, Advanced Step, Morning and Evening Water Aerobics,

Taekwon Do, Kung Fu, Ballroom Dance (January), Belly Dance and Yoga

Call for more information on these events and fitness classes at BMAC

Check out BATTLEMENT MESA METROPOLITAN DISTRICT'S

new website for valuable information about water &wastewater operations, district management,

documents, employment & association management.

www.bmmetrodistrict.com

970-285-9050

Office Hours: Monday - Friday

8 am - 5 pm

Thank You for your Support

Steve and Sherry Keinath and the Keinath Ranch

from the Grand Valley Park Association

Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District - “Where The Fun Begins”

Happy Holidays to all who helpwith Park and Rec programsBy Mary Anderson, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District executive director

Happy Holidays to every volunteer, coach and sponsor that has helped with theParachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District’s programs!

Adult Coed Volleyball: Eight teams are playing against each other each Tuesday night at theBattlement Mesa Activity Center. Games are held at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., and there is fun for every-one. There will be another league of adult coed volleyball beginning in January. Sign your team upsoon for the winter session. Thank you to the senior class members who are babysitting during theadult volleyball games as a fundraising activity. You are appreciated.

Youth Girls Volleyball: Third through eighth graders are welcome. Practices will be held onMondays and Tuesdays at St John Elementary beginning on Jan. 9. Fee to participate is $55. Thegames will be held on Saturdays in February. Marilyn Bulger will be the head coach.

Youth Basketball for Boys: Boys basketball will be held beginning in January and runningthrough early March for third through sixth graders. Fee to play is $55 plus a $35 refundable uni-form fee. The boys will play with other area towns. Practices will be held twice a week with gameson Saturdays. Pre-register your child by Jan. 4. Coaches are needed.

Youth Wrestling: Kindergartners through sixth graders are welcome March through May.Wrestling is open to both boys and girls. Tony Serna will be the head coach. The fee to participateis $100, which includes fees into six league tournaments.

Youth Spring Soccer: Registration for spring soccer is due by Jan. 19, and practices begin inMarch. Fees are $65. This is a competitive league and is for youth ages 8-13. Early registration isrequired due to the large number of teams to be scheduled throughout the league.

Parachute/Battlement Mesa Parks and Recreation is at 259 Cardinal Way, Parachute, 285-0388,parachutebattlementparkandrecreation.org. Check out the website; it’s updated frequently.

Battlement Mesa Activity Center Tennis Association News

Tennis Club: Fun on and off the court

By Vina Klahn, Battlement Mesa Tennis Association

The DesOrmeau home was a grand setting for theTennis Club's annual Christmas party! Bill's and Mary'sbeautiful decorations made the atmosphere festive andtheir hospitality was thoroughly enjoyed by the 17members in attendance.

Libations and ham were provided by the club,accompanied by tasty side dishes brought by club mem-bers. The white elephant gift exchange provided lots oflaughs and some anguish. Ann Chance was sorely disap-pointed when Anne Madeen claimed the bottle of finewine, leaving her with a plaque of bathroom rulesinstead.

The club presented the DesOrmeaus with a gorgeousplant in appreciation for hosting the party, as well asBill's diligent work in getting lighting repaired orreplaced at the courts.

The weather has made it possible to play most regularly scheduled days, even though the attireoften includes long johns and gloves. Ladies play on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday beginning at10 a.m. Gentlemen still have claim to the courts on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday; however,they are having some difficulty rounding up enough players.

No social events are planned for the immediate future, but invitations to join the club are alwaysopen. Our dues, unlike many other fees, haven't changed in years. Singles may purchase a year'smembership for $10 and couples for $18. Current members are reminded that time for 2012 duesis approaching and can be paid at the activity center.

Community members who have an interest in joining or have questions may contact JoyKemper at 285-6545 or Vina Klahn at 285-6718.

At the Battlement Mesa’s Tennis ClubChristmas party Dec. 1, from left, seated, DonChance, Bud Madeen, Anne Madeen, HopePerrine, Suzanne Michaelis; standing, PetePerrine, Bill DesOrmeau, Vina Klahn, MaryDesOrmeau, Susan Smith, Lee Smith, DonBarr, Joy Kemper, Sherrill Barr, Ann Chance,and John Shepherd. Not pictured: the pho-tographer, John Michaelis.

Photo by John Michaelis


Mt. Callahan Community Fund

The charitable gift . . .that keeps on giving,keeps on growingBy Barbara Pavlin, Co-Chair, Mt. Callahan Community Fund

The joy of Christmas flourishes in the holiday season as we open our hearts to the joy of giv-ing gifts. We give gifts to our friends and loved ones, and some make donations to causes theyfeel are important.

At the Mt. Callahan Community Fund, we feel it's important to have our very own endow-ment fund in Parachute and Battlement Mesa.

What is a community endowment ?An endowment is a permanent charitable gift that will help our community now and for gener-

ations to come. Funds in our endowment are invested and carefully managed by the WesternColorado Community Foundation to grow over time and to generate earnings. These earnings areavailable for projects and programs such as caring for people and families in need, educating ouryoung people, supporting our seniors, and providing cultural and recreational opportunities of all ofus to enjoy. We provide financial support for local nonprofit charitable organizations (see story in thismonth’s Echo) that provide all these services, thereby making our community a better place to live.

The special appeal of an endowment is that your gift will not be used or spent right away.Instead, your gift will increase in value over time and will provide funds for many years to be usedfor important local nonprofit programs. In the future, both the endowment fund and theamount available annually to provide grants will increase, thereby providing more funds toimprove our local community.

Since our inception in 2002, we have been fortunate to build our endowment fund to approx-imately $100,000. The goal of the Mt. Callahan Community Fund is to grant at least $10,000every year. To accomplish this without a need for an additional fundraiser every year, the endowedfund needs to be $200,000 (assuming a 5 percent payout). This amount would assure that ourgoals of helping our community could be met every year, permanently into the future.

The Power of Endowment . . . .A charitable endowment in the amount of $200,000

After Year will have a Market will make average will have madevalue of: Annual Pay-Out of total pay-Out of:

1 $200,000 $10,000 $10,0005 225,102 11,255 53,09110 260,955 13,048 114,63925 406,559 20,328 364,59350 851,244 42,562 1,127,969

Estimates based on an 8 percent net return on investment (ROI), 5 percent payout (for illustration purposes only).

Doubling your donationDid you know that many companies encourage their employees to make donations to wor-

thy charities by making matching donations, usually dollar for dollar? For example, if you writea check for $100 to a charity, your company would issue a check for S100 also, thereby doublingyour gift. To find out if your company has a program of this kind, check your company's websitewhere you should find a form to complete, or contact your community resource person.

An investment of love We invite you to make an investment in the community you love that you call home. To make

a donation to the Mt. Callahan Community Fund Endowment Fund with a tax-deductable gift,checks should be made payable to: WCCF/Mt. Callahan Community Fund and mailed to: Mt.Callahan Community Fund, P.O. Box 104, Parachute, CO 81635.

In this column in future issues of the Echo, we plan to highlight thelocal nonprofit organizations that we have provided grants to so youcan get to know these remarkable organizations and how they benefitParachute and Battlement Mesa.

Happy Holidays to all.

NEW LISTINGIMMACULATE,

EASY CARE RANCH Transom windows add sunlight and

views, xeriscape landscaping, cozy denoffice, eat in kitchen.

Battlement Mesa - $175,000

RETREAT/ VACATION/ FULL TIME

A great townhome- compact floor-plan, well kept, private deck, easymaintenance, quiet and private. Battlement Mesa - $115,000

LOW PRICE - HIGH QUALITY Walk to the golf course - park like

setting. High end stucco ranch withall the bells and whistles.


THIS IS A "HOME RUN PROPERTY" Impeccable stucco ranch with a

finished garden level. Three car garage,full deck and open views.


LOTS OF "TLC" GIVEN TO THIS MF HOME

Fenced yard, storage building, oversized garage. Living, dining and

eat-in kitchen, cul-de-sac lot. Battlement Mesa - $120,000

YOUR HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Extra parking, covered front porch.Appliances include washer and dryer.

Vinyl siding, easy care. Rifle - $149,900

ENJOY THE COZY FIREPLACE An array of windows, sunlit views, oakcabinetry, move in condition, fenced

RV area and outbuilding. Battlement Mesa - $170,000

MANICURED LANDSCAPINGAggregate patio and walkways, large fireplace surrounded by river rock.

Oversized bedrooms and vaulted ceilings. Battlement Mesa- $248,000

ENJOY LIVING IN THIS HOMEIncredible custom ranch on the golf

course. Gorgeous landscaping, courtyard entry, mission tile roof.


COUNTRY FEEL CLOSE TOTOWN

Upgrades galore- MF Home in quietsubdivision. Natural gas fireplace, textured drywall, walk-in closets.

Rifle- 149,900

OWNING YOUR OWN HOME -WOW!

Fresh paint and new carpet in thisupdated MF home. Attached two car

garage and patio.Battlement Mesa - $119,000

NEW CARPET/ APPLIANCESINCLUDED

Nice MF Home on corner leased lot. Split floorplan, large eat-in

kitchen, great views. Battlement Mesa - $29,900

MOUNTAIN AND VALLEY VIEWSSpacious townhome with all the

upgrades. Tile countertops, hardwoodfloors, laundry room, lots of storage.


OLD TIME AMBIANCE Located close to downtown Rifle.

Basement for expanded square footage . Spacious kitchen with

lots of counter space. Rifle - $139,000

ELEGANT STYLE AND SETTTING

Unique custom home. River rock fireplace, master on main, loft, library,

gourmet's kitchen. Battlement Mesa - $390,000

LAND:

BUILD A HOME ON THERANGE

Domestic well in place, utilities toproperty line and 1500 sq ft. all

purpose shop completed. Battlement Mesa - $249,900

160 ACRES WITH WIDE OPEN VIEWS

Unimproved 160 acres overlookingDeBeque. Zoned single family /

agricultural. Partially fenced, borderssome BLM.

DeBeque - $215,000

THE GREAT ESCAPE! Two parcels bordering BLM nestled in the Grand Hogbacks. Fabulousviews. A true wilderness get away.

Currently landlocked. Silt - $25,000 and $45,000

A COLORADO DREAM SITELevel building lot, tap fees paid. Shortwalk to Battlement Plaza. Invest now

in building your dream home. Battlement Mesa - $79,000

PLAN FOR YOUR FUTURECovenant protected community.

Design and build your future home.Impact fees paid, utilities on site.

Owner financing available. Battlement Mesa - Starting at

$72,500

THREE BUILDING SITES TOCHOOSE FROM

Tap fees have been paid. Floor plansavailable. Covenant protected commu-

nity with great views. Battlement Mesa - Starting at

$69,000

NEVER MISS YOUR TEE TIMEThis level building lot overlooks the17th green and offers unobstructed

views of the Battlement Peaks. Battlement Mesa - $74,900

Mary Lee Mohrlang, CRS, GRI 970-216-5058Brandy Swanson, 970-319-3574

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

Virtual Tours www.MohrlangJones.com

mohrlang • swansonThe NAMES that mean EXCELLENCE in Real Estate…

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McCurdy

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Sponsored by:Jennifer

Richardson


What! We don’t live in a desert?

Ever since global explorations began, biologists and explorers have recognized there arehuge areas of land that share the same average temperature and amount of precipitation.Each biogeographic realm is actually a mosaic created by variations in climate, topography,and the composition of regional soils.

So, these broad, vegetative subdivisions, together with the animals and other organismsliving there, are known as biomes. Biomes include many different types of organization,such as desert, tundra, grasslands, forests, and scrublands. The biome is the largest categoryscientists use to classify ecosystems.

Some people think that Battlement Mesa and Parachute are in the desert. They are not.In fact, Battlement Mesa and Parachute are located in the semidesert shrublands biome. Wehave changed the vegetation where we live because we have added water; but look out intothe natural areas. Low, greenish-gray expanses of shrubs in arid lowlands mark the appear-ance of semidesert shrublands. The height and density of the shrubs varies, and the plantsare usually short and uncrowded, interspersed with a few grasses and forbs because a dryclimate and poor soils place serve limitations on plant growth.

The climate of semidesert shrublands is typified by hot summers and cold winters, withtemperatures in January and February often below freezing. Annual precipitation averagesless than 10 inches, occurring in the critical spring and winter periods. During the summer,high daytime temperatures and low humidity conspire to produce high rates of evaporation.

Soils developing on shales such as the widespread Mancos Formation are typically highin clay and silt. Water from brief thunderstorms does not easily penetrate these soils, sothere tends to be significant runoff. High evaporation rates during the hot, dry summersleads to a concentration of salts. You may notice a white crust on the surface of the soil inlow places. Sandy soils are very well drained and quickly absorb falling rain.

It is known, I’m sure, that we live on the Colorado Plateau, not in the Rocky Mountains.Some of the common plants include greasewood, saltbush, rabbitbrush, winterfat, foxtailbarley, Indian ricegrass, and big sagebrush.

Semidesert shrublands are used for cattle grazing and some acreage has been convertedto agricultural production. Recovery of the range is slow due to low annual precipitation.Because of the accumulation of salts, some plant species may become toxic to livestock.Poisoning and death of hungry animals may occur if they have had little or nothing to eat.

For a quick contrast, a desert has a hot, dry climate also, but the soils are different thana shrubland. When rain does fall, it falls in heavy, brief pulses. The unprotected soils eroderapidly during violent thunderstorms and windstorms. The vegetational cover is minimal.Because of the low humidity, sunlight penetration through the atmosphere is high and theground heats up rapidly. At night, the heat quickly radiates back into the air. Althoughthere is some similarity to the desert, we live in a totally different biome, the semidesertshrubland.

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

Nature at Home and AfieldBy Betsy Leonard

We have 3 bays open for auto repair & a 4th bay coming soon!We do brakes, exhaust, struts, shocks, front end

& rear end work. We offer fleet management.

New ASEMechanicGuntherBoldt

“We willtreat your

vehicle likeit’s our

own… withyour safety in mind.”

– Owners, Bonnie &

BobbyHancock

Hours: Mon. - Fri.,

8 am to 6 pm

Sat. byappt.


Grand Valley Fire Protection DistrictBy Grand Valley Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson

Grand Valley Fire Protection District covers a wide area ofresidential, commercial and some very remote areas with firesuppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention,public education and training in cardiac pulmonary resuscita-tion (CPR). The district covers roughly 321 square miles. This

is I-70 from mile marker 66.4 to mile marker 82.5, then all the way north to Rio Blanco Countyand south to Mesa County, including three-quarters of a square mile of Mesa County.

If you should have any questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to contactDeputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson at 285-9119 or by e-mail at [email protected].

For the month of November 2011, the fire district responded to 41 calls for service:7 fire incidents2 structure fires4 fire alarms1 brush fires21 emergency medical calls4 public assists9 motor vehicle crashes

Want to know more about the fire district? Visit our website at grandvalleyfire.org. Here youwill find all the minutes for board meetings and financial statements. The fire district will also behaving an election in 2012 for board member positions that will be vacated in May 2012.

Want info from around Garfield County? Visit garcopublicinfo.org.

Carefully decorating Christmas trees can help make your holidays safer.• When decorating Christmas trees, always use safe tree lights. (Some lights are designed

only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.) Larger tree lights should also have some typeof reflector rather than a bare bulb and all lights should be listed by a testing laboratory.Never use electric lights on a metal tree.

• Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to use tree lights. Any string of lightswith worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulb connections should not be used.

• Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to sleep.• Never use lit candles to decorate a tree, and place them well away from tree branches.• Try to keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water daily. Do not

purchase a tree that is dry or dropping needles.• Choose a sturdy tree stand designed not to tip over.• When purchasing an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant.• Children are fascinated with Christmas trees. Keep a watchful eye on them when

around the tree and do not let them play with the wiring or lights.• Store matches and lighters up out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.• Make sure the tree is at least three feet (one meter) away from any heat source and try

to position it near an outlet so that cords are not running long distances. Do not place thetree where it may block exits.

• Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are highlyflammable and should not be left in a house or garage, or placed against the house.

Have a great holiday and be SAFE!

If you shouldhave an

emergency, please call

911 as soonas possible!

Mesa Vista NewsUla and her accordionentertain during theholidaysBy Kathy Germano, Mesa Vista AssistedLiving Residence activity director

Season’s Greetings from Mesa Vista! We had a very successful bake and craft sale last month and

we want to thank all who participated, from your purchases toyour donations, that benefited our activity fund. Thank you!

The month of December is a busy one indeed. We attendedthe Live Nativity scene on Dec. 2 at Beasley Park. Youth groupsfrom St Johns Elementary School and Grace Bible Church arecaroling for us. The preschool children from the library’s StoryTime hour are joining us for stories and songs.

Our annual Holiday Party, with entertainment by Ula withher accordion, is Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. Santa is visiting our residentson Dec. 20. Our welcoming committee is hosting a luncheon atMesa Vista for seniors from the Rifle Senior Center. We hope tocontinue this affair through next year.

Mesa Vista is sponsoring a tatting class in January. DianneDayhoff will be teaching the art of tatting on Jan. 9 a.m. at 10:30a.m. and again on Jan. 12 at 6 p.m. The cost is $10 plus suppliesand the public is invited. The class is limited to 10 people so ifyou have an interest in learning this lost art form, please contactDianne at 250-5548 to reserve your place.

Celebrating December birthdays are Muriel Stewart on Dec.9, Linda Gray on Dec. 20 and Mary Bushong on Dec. 28. HappyBirthday!

Our doors are always open. If you would like to join us for anactivity or a tour, just give us a call.

Until next month, have a safe and happy holiday!

Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence in Parachute/BattlementMesa is part of the Senior Housing Options network of residencesand apartments providing housing for older adults in Colorado.

We are offering the building for single event rent. The building consists of two rooms, parking, a complete kitchenand rest room plus 10 tables and 150 chairs. Complete serving ofchina, silverware, glass ware available for nice parties. Great dance floor, too. Capacity 75

For organization meetings & meals, holiday/birthday/anniversary parties,

neighborhood gatherings and family reunions.

For more information contact: Judith at 285-9696 or Michelle at 285-7828

FOR RENT Battlement School House owned by Grand Valley Historical Society.

Grand River Student Health Centerin Parachute receives donation fordental services

The Grand River Hospital District (GRHD) VolunteerAssociation recently presented a $10,000 check to Grand RiverHospital District to support a children’s dental program inParachute.

The money is being directed to provide preventative dentalcare for children in the Garfield School District No. 16 and willgo to establishing dental care at the Parachute Student HealthCenter. The center opened in November 2010.

GRHD CEO Jim Coombs and Lois Kame, clinical director ofthe Parachute Student Health Center received the funds frommoneys raised at GRHD Volunteer Association’s fundraiser, theGrand Wine Affair, held in Rifle this fall.

“There is such a huge need for basic dental care services forchildren in this community,” said Lois. “So many health-relatedissues can be prevented with a simple thing like good qualitydental care at an early age.”

GRHD Volunteer Association President Larry Sweeney explainedhow Parachute was selected to receive this year’s donation.

“Each year we select different types of projects around thedistrict,” he said. “When we heard about the need for dentalservices at the Grand River Student Health Center in Parachute,we all immediately agreed that this was a great project to sup-port with our fundraiser this year.”

The new dental program in Parachute is scheduled to beginoffering low cost and no cost services in January. The $10,000will be used to provide varnishes and cleanings as well as oralhygiene education.

– Annick Pruett, Grand River Hospital District

Training hours per crew:Green Crew: 19 hrsBlack crew: 31.5 hrsRed Crew: 48.5 hrs


H E A L T H

All I want for Christmasare my two front teeth

By Carol Lybrook, DDS

Since 1946, every holiday season sur-rounds us with the words and lyrics of asong written by Don Gardner called, “AllI Want for Christmas Is My Two FrontTeeth.” This special holiday song is pop-ular with children but true for some

adults as well. Crowns and conventional bridges or dentures maynot be the only options when replacing missing teeth. For somepeople, dental implants offer a smile that looks and feels very nat-ural. But, do implants work if you have diabetes?

According to the American Dental Association, the idea ofcombining dental implants and diabetes has long been thoughtfoolish, in particular in the case of uncontrolled diabetics.Uncontrolled diabetics are far greater risk of oral infections thatweaken their jaw bone tissue, making the successful fusion of thejawbone and the titanium implant rod very difficult. Dentalimplants and diabetes have a much better chance of being com-patible in people who have their diabetes under control.

Difficulties for diabetic patients in dental implantsBecause the life expectancy of individuals continues to

increase, dentists providing dental implant treatment canexpect to see an increasing number of patients with diabetesmellitus. Today, there are little data available concerning theclinical outcomes involving the use of implant treatment forpatients with diabetes mellitus. There are three types of dia-betes mellitus: Type 1 (insulin dependent), Type 2 (non-insulindependent), and gestational.

Individuals suffering from diabetes, especially uncontrolleddiabetics, have a higher risk of developing bacterial infectionsof the mouth. These infections may impair your ability toprocess insulin, resulting in greater difficulty with controllingyour diabetes. Periodontal diseases will be more severe thanthose of a non-diabetic and treatment more difficult. However,well-controlled diabetics have a lower incidence of decay andperiodontitis. Implant procedures and periodontal surgery areroutinely successful on well-controlled diabetics.

Diabetic people not far away from dental implantsIt has become increasingly common for controlled diabetic

patients to be considered as candidates for dental implants.Screening for diabetes and trying to ensure that implant can-didates are in metabolic control are recommended to increasethe chances of successful Osseo integration. Antibiotic protec-tion and avoidance of smoking also should be considered.Diabetes mellitus is no longer considered to be a contraindica-tion for implant-supported prostheses, provided that thepatient's blood sugar is under control, and that there is moti-vation for oral hygiene procedures.

Are you a candidate for dental implants?The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general

and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to sup-port the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gumtissues that are free of periodontal disease. Dental implants areintimately connected with the gum tissues and underlyingbone in the mouth. Since periodontists are the dental expertswho specialize in precisely these areas, they are ideal membersof your dental implant team. Not only do periodontists haveexperience working with other dental professionals, they alsohave the special knowledge, training and facilities that youneed to have teeth that look and feel just like your own.

If you feel you are a candidate, talk to your dentist becausethere is an option with dental implants. And, you will not haveto experience another holiday season singing ... “All I want forChristmas is my two front teeth.” Happy Holidays from all ofus here at Lybrook Dental Center. See you in 2012.

Dr. Carol Lybrook and her husband, Dr. Scott Lybrook, oper-ate Lybrook Dental Center in the Southgate Plaza in Parachute.

The Tooth of the Matter

By Sarah Hunter

Heartburn is nasty. It can keep you up at night,make you avoid the food you love, and cause you tofeel downright miserable.

Common heartburn symptoms include a burn-ing feeling in the chest, usually after eating, a hot, sour, acidic, or salty tasting fluid atthe back of the throat, difficulty swallowing, a feeling that what you just ate is sticking inyour chest or throat, and sometimes chronic cough, sore throat, or hoarseness.

If you have these symptoms and suffer from heartburn, you aren’t alone. About one in 18 people have heart-burn.

There are lifestyle changes you can make to help ease your pain, though. Some require a little foresight, but youwon’t miss the heartburn after.

Try to eat small meals frequently. When you stuff yourself full, heartburn is more likely to happen, so try to keepyourself satisfied with smaller meals more often. Avoid eating these meals too close to bedtime though.

Avoid the foods that make it happen. This list includes spicy food, red meat, fried foods, citrus, onion, toma-toes, butter and oils, peppermint, chocolate and caffeine, especially fizzy sodas. Monitor yourself and take note ofwhat you eat that causes your heartburn symptoms.

There’s another reason not to drink too much alcohol. Lots of alcohol or alcohol too often is a bad recipe forthose suffering from heartburn.

Lose that extra weight. A 2003 study found a strong link between heartburn symptoms and body mass index.Obese people were three times more likely than people of a healthy weight range to have heartburn and acid reflux.

Don’t squeeze into the skinny jeans. Clothing that’s too tight around the middle can force acid from your stom-ach into your esophagus, causing more discomfort than those ill-fitting pants.

If lifestyle and diet changes aren’t enough to halt your heartburn, see your doctor. He or she can talk with youabout prescription options that may help. Grand River Hospital and Medical Center in Rifle offers EsophyX TIF,which is a minimally invasive surgery that rebuilds the valve that plays a role in chronic heartburn and acid reflux.Patients have reported a significant improvement in quality of life and a fast recovery time. If your symptoms areinterrupting your life, this may be an option to discuss with your family doctor.

Get a handle on heartburn


Echo BriefsLiteracy Outreach needs volunteers

Literacy Outreach needs your help teaching basic literacy skills toadults including basic reading, writing and math to native Englishspeakers and oral English skills to non-native speakers.

Volunteers do not need to speak Spanish or have prior teachingexperience, just a desire to help, the ability to read and speak English,and three hours of time per week to work with an adult.

Literacy Outreach will provide interested volunteers with more infor-mation regarding the requirements and rewards at a volunteer informa-tional session on Jan. 3 at the Parachute Branch Library at 10 a.m.

Literacy Outreach is a local nonprofit providing individual tutoringfor adults with literacy skills below the fourth grade level. Please call945-5282 for more information.

– Martha Fredendall

Salvation Army bell ringers: Money donated here stays here

Volunteer bell ringers for the annual Salvation Army Red KettleCampaign are accepting donations during this holiday season at loca-tions throughout the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys, fromAspen to Parachute. Funds go to help individuals and families in need.Money donated here stays here.

For more information, call 945-6976 or The Salvation Army, P.O.Box 2964, Glenwood Springs, CO 81602.

– Roberta McGowan, Salvation Army

“Tips, Topics and Talks on Tuesday” features Grand Valley Fire District

January's “Tips, Topics and Talks on Tuesday” will be held at theGrand Valley Fire Protection District Fire Station #1 at 0124 StoneQuarry Rd., Battlement Mesa, on Jan. 10 at 10 a.m. The public is invit-ed and will be welcomed by Grand Valley Fire Chief David Blair.

The highlight of the event will be a demonstration of the correct useof home and car fire extinguishers. Utilizing a fire contained in a fire pan,the on-duty crew will have each person attending come forward in turnso they can pull the extinguisher pin and learn how to douse a fire.

Next, the group will learn how to use the "Vial of Life" program toalert an ambulance crew of health and personal information in anemergency. Everyone will take home a brochure explaining how andwhere to display this information.

Light refreshments and tour the two-year-old facility will round outa morning packed with vital information. Mark your calendar.

– Mitzi Burkhart

BLM winter closures in effect in Colorado River Valley

SILT, Colo. – Annual winter closures to motorized vehicles on certainlands managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) ColoradoRiver Valley Field Office went into effect on Dec. 1 to protect critical biggame winter range and prevent road damage.

These seasonal gate closures occur annually from Dec. 1-April 30 atseveral points in the Castle Peak area in Eagle County, East Elk Creek inGarfield County, and on Light Hill and the Crown in Pitkin County.

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

The lower gate at Transfer Trail above Glenwood Springs will also beclosed Dec. 1 to maintain snow conditions for snowmobiling.

“We appreciate the public’s cooperation in helping us protectwildlife and public lands,” said Karl Mendonca, acting field managerfor the Colorado River Valley Field Office.

BLM’s Wolcott and Gypsum campgrounds in Eagle County areclosed for the winter and will reopen this spring when conditions allow.

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

– David Boyd, BLM

The Battlement Mesa Service AssociationBMSA: Battlement Mesa onlineBy Keith Lammey, President, Battlement Mesa Service Association

Battlement Mesa has had an online presence for several years, so most residentsare familiar with battlementmesacolorado.com. Many of you are regular visitors tothe site, and if you haven’t visited the site recently, you should. The website addresshasn’t changed but the website has a brand new look, a plethora of new informa-tion, and many new features.

When you view the new site, you will notice that the old “Battlement Mesa, TheColorado Dream” logo has been replaced by our new logo. You’ve probably alreadyseen the new logo on some of our community signage, on Battlement Mesa corre-spondence, or at the new Battlement Mesa “city government” office at 401 Arroyo Dr.

You will also notice that this is Battlement Mesa, Colorado’s website rather thana Battlement Mesa Service Association (BMSA) site. We think that you will like thecomprehensiveness of the new site and its ease of navigation. The site has five majorinformation groups:

• Explore Battlement Mesa• Government Services• Community Services• Businesses and News• Activities and Events

As the title suggests, under “Explore Battlement Mesa” you will find generalinformation about our community including:

• History• Location• Climate/Weather• Lifestyle,• Planned Community• Real Estate• Visitor Information• Education• Photo Gallery• Videos and Slide Shows

Under Government Services, you can access information about the BMSA, theGrand Valley Fire Department, the BMMD, the GarCo Sheriff’s Office, as well asinformation on each of our village associations.

The Community Services section includes information about the BMAC, clubsand organizations, churches, area hospitals, radio, TV and media, Mesa Vista, seniorcitizen services, and transportation.

The Businesses group includes a complete business listing, pages on keyBattlement Mesa businesses and a classified advertisement section.

The last section, News, Activities and Events, expands on the News andUpcoming Events section that appears on the home page and highlights our golfcourse, parks and recreation, outdoor adventures and performing arts activities thatare available in the area.

Yes, that’s correct, we have a Video page. As you would expect, the content is thinbut stay tuned and you’ll soon find more. And, in case you missed it, there is a six-minute video on the home page. To view it, click on the arrow that is in the middleof the small Battlement Mesa waterfall photo on the right side of the home page.

Other new features include a new digital newsletter which you can sign up for(from the home page), a link to the Battlement Mesa Facebook page, (yes we areon Facebook), a new RSS feed that enables you to be notified when selected newinformation is added to the website, four new event calendars, several online webforms, the ability to live stream (i.e. listen to) KSUN radio on your computer, andthe ability to read the online version of The Grand Valley Echo from our site.

And, just in case you need information that isn’t obvious in the menu hierarchy,a “Search By Keyword” feature is provided at the top right on the home page. Inaddition, you can view the sitemap of the entire website by clicking on “Sitemap”in the lower section of any page.

The best part is, we are working on and hope to add additional features includ-ing a MLS listing capability (called a RETS feed), the ability to conduct communitysurveys, and the ability to generate podcasts.

We’ve attempted to unveil our community’s secret clubs and organizations butwe must admit that some of them have eluded even our best efforts. We know thatyou’re out there somewhere and we’re eager to help spread the word about yourclub or organization (no political groups, please). Please contact us if your organi-zation isn’t listed or if the information about your club or organization is incorrecton the website.

We encourage you to sign up for the newsletter, tell us what you like and don’tlike about the site, to visit often and to spread the word about our new website.

Welcome aboard, Battlement Mesa!


O U R S C H O O L S

From District No.16

Getting up to dateBy Ken Haptonstall, Ph.D., GarfieldSchool District 16 superintendent

In an effort to increase our communicationwith the local community, the school districthas been making some changes to our web-site, as well as enlisting the help of external“helpers.”

The school district has added more infor-mation about district goals, both short-termand long-term, under the communicationstab, information directly from the superin-tendent under the administration tab, andinformation about each school, including cur-rent maintenance projects, costs for utilities,and efforts to reduce energy costs.

There is a bi-weekly newsletter, under thecommunications tab, that will give you insightto news from around the district. You can alsofind our district budget by clicking on thebusiness services tab, under administration.

Coming in January, the district will start anew Facebook page, as well as look to othersocial media technologies to better meet theinformation needs of the local and broadercommunity that the school district serves. Allof this work is being done through the kindwork of locals who are donating their time toensure the most up-to-date information wehave is transmitted to our public.

From Grand Valley High SchoolExtra-curricular activities have positive impacts on studentsBy David Walck, Grand Valley High School Assistant Principal and Activities Director

Grand Valley High School is fortunate to offer a variety of activities to help enhance the classroom experience and pro-vide opportunities so that students can excel outside the classroom. Research shows that involvement in extra-curricularactivities has a positive impact on the academic success of the participants. Academic and behavior expectations help pushthese participants to a high level of success.

At Grand Valley High School (GVHS), 82 percent of the student body is involved in one of the 13 activities and 14 ath-letic programs at the school and are required to maintain academic eligibility in order to participate. This is an outstandingparticipation rate compared to other schools similar in size.

This fall, the activity participants had a lot to celebrate. Here are a few of the notables: • Senior David Witt was selected as Colorado IBM Hero of the Week for his outstanding academic performance while

maintaining strong involvement in activities. His name was mentioned at a Broncos game and on Denver television/radiostations as one of the few Western Slope recipients for 2011.

• Sophomores Kayla Epperson and Erin Schuckers were selected to perform in the District 8 Honor Band in Aspen and atthe Best of the West showcase in Grand Junction.

• Junior Brenden Neulieb was one of handful of students invited back to the second round of the University of NorthernColorado Math Contest. He will compete this January for final placing. He is a member of the GVHS Math Club.

• Sophomore Kyler Quinn and Junior Michael Schmitt were recognized at the state and national level for their perform-ance on technology-based assessment through the Technical Students of America Club.

• Junior Isaiah Martinez represented Grand Valley at the state cross-country meet. • Senior Emily Marbas was selected to play in the All-State softball games. • The “Think Pink” night for breast cancer awareness raised several thousand dollars by the efforts of our community

members and students. • The GVHS Theatre Department showcased their talent by having three outstanding performances of “Steel Magnolias.” The winter and spring seasons look to be filled with even more successes.We obviously have a lot to be thankful for at GVHS. Our activity sponsors and coaches are at the heart of this success.

Every high school teacher sponsors or coaches at least one of our extra-curricular programs. Many of these individuals giveof their time and expertise for little or no stipend.

In addition, the tremendous support from our booster club and private donors only help sustain these great activity programs.You will either see or hear about new equipment, facility upgrades, and field trips that have only been made possible through dona-tions from private and anonymous donations. The school district has not spent any district funds on these new improvements.

The mission of the activities department is to provide a wide variety of opportunities for students to experience successwhile gaining experience and skills that will last the participant a lifetime.

Together, the educators, community members and private sponsors, are making an impact at Grand Valley High School.If you have any questions or concerns with the activities department, please feel free to contact Assistant Principal andActivities Director David Walck at 285-5705 or [email protected].


THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

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

O U R S C H O O L S

Most Improved Student at GVHS

By Tarianna Lawrence, GVHSAt Grand Valley High

School, the student chosenas most improved for themonth of November wasSara Sirotek. To receive thetitle of Most ImprovedStudent, you have to striveto improve as a student andimprove accountabilityamong the students atGrand Valley High School.

Sara said that she earnedMost Improved Student

because she studied more, and she came to schoolmore and got to all of her classes. She also said thather grades improved dramatically.

Sara is involved in cheerleading, F.C.C.L.A, drama,math club, and she also has a job at Sonic.

Sara is very excited to graduate and stated, “Yeah,I am definitely excited to graduate, because I will bethe first in my family to leave and go do somethingwith my life.”

Sara is enjoying her senior year, and she says theonly downfall is it has gone by so fast. She plans ongoing to a veterinarian school for six to eight years,to become a surgeon.

Way to go Sara, and good luck with your futureendeavors!

Grand Valley High School News

We are proud of youDavid!

By Artemio Baltazar,GVHS

David Witt was selectedby Colorado High SchoolActivities Association as theIBM Hero of the Week forthe state of Colorado, on theweek of Nov, 28- Dec. 2. IBM stands for InternationalBusiness Machines, and it is a major sponsor forCHSAA.

David is a senior at Grand Valley High School,and has participated in many CHSAA activities sincehis freshman year; for example, wrestling and foot-ball. His dedication and hard work has allowed himto go to state for wrestling his freshman, sophomore,and junior year.

Mr. Walck nominated Witt for this award, and asa result he has been mentioned in The Denver Postand during the Denver Broncos game.

"I worked really hard to get where I am at and itis nice to see it pay off a little bit," said Witt.

Witt was recognized for his community involvement,leadership, citizenship, classroom success, and participa-tion in CHSAA activities. He has always done his bestwork in the community and at a local level, and for thisreason CHSAA has nominated him at the state level.

The recognition of the IBM comes with greatresponsibility and honor that Witt will rememberforever. Great job David and keep up the good work

An adventure for Grand Valley students

By Ceara Friel, GVHSThis year the GVHS music department made a trip to see “The

Lion King” at the Buell Theatre in Denver. Hundreds of peoplecame to the event filled with excitement. The play handed outlaughter, song, and emotions. The event was so colorful that it feltas if you were watching the movie live.

“I thought it was fantastic, and was amazed by the actors andactresses, the lights, the singing, the costumes, and everything else.I had the time of my life on that trip,” stated student Kaitlyn Brooks.

The details in the play were so realistic and breathtaking. Thelight had the tendency to trick the audience in some scenes, andthe sculptures that were made were fantastic. The music per-formed during the show was perfect, and the singing was veryimpressive. The band was under the stage to create a more natu-ral setting and create a more real-life feeling for the show.

After the event ended, actor Ben Lipitz, who played the care-free warthog Pumba, made a speech about their fundraiser. Afterit was mentioned, hundreds of visitors donated as each actorwalked around the Buell Theatre with buckets full of money. Itwas mentioned earlier that the money not only went to the per-formance, but it also went to 50,000 Colorado students each year.The money also went to education programs and other programsthat support theater arts.

Not only did the show give a wonderful and phenomenal per-formance, but it was also a great experience for the students and staffat GVHS to be a part of. Anyone who has the opportunity to see theprogram should do so because it really is the opportunity of a lifetime

Striver of the Month

By Dustin Weist, GVHSSophomore Cara Young showed aca-

demic and athletic excellence by beingnamed Striver of the Month forNovember. She was recognized for hergreat grades and extracurricular activi-ties in Drama and Band. Young is also apart of Art Club, Knowledge Bowl andcheerleading. With these accomplish-ments, she became the Striver of the Month.

When asked how she felt about being Striver of the Month,Cara said, “It feels really good that the students are being recog-nized for their hard work in class.”

Not only does Cara demonstrate her excellence in the class-room, but outside the classroom as well. She continuously goesabove and beyond the “normal” student duties by helping herpeers and her community as well.

Congratulations Cara for your accomplishments!

A well-earned Student of the Month

By Jazmin McFarland, GVHS There is no surprise that senior Emily

Marbas wastitled Student ofthe Month forNovember atGrand ValleyHigh School.Emily has beenable to demon-strate a strongwork ethic andother great qual-ities and charac-teristics through her school work, schoolinvolvement, and her service to the com-munity.

Emily played softball at Grand ValleyHigh School for both her junior and senioryear, and she will be playing golf in thespring. Emily is president of the GrandValley Key Club, and has been working onmany projects to get high school studentsinvolved in their community.

She is also involved in Fellowship ofChristian Athletes, Knowledge Bowl, andNational Honor Society.

Hoping that all of her hard work anddedication to her schoolwork and involve-ment within the community will pay off,Emily has been striving towards becominga student at CU Boulder.

When asked what Emily has beendoing in order to accomplish her goals ofattending CU and working towardsbecoming a doctor Emily says, “I workhard in my classes and I have been apply-ing for scholarships.” Out of 1,300 appli-cants, Emily is a semi-finalist in for theBoettcher Scholarship. In order to receivethe Boettcher Scholarship students musthave scored at least a 27 on the ACT andbe within the top 5 percent of their class.If Emily is to receive this it would be agreat honor as she will be granted a full-ride scholarship to any school inColorado.

“I’m excited about being a finalist, butI’m also nervous at the same time,” Emilyexplains as she talked about the opportu-nity she has been blessed with.

Emily Marbas is a well-earned Studentof the Month, and has demonstrated thathard work pays off. Thank you Emily foryour contributions to Grand Valley HighSchool and to the community. We wishthe best for you and hope you are able toreceive this scholarship as well as accom-plish your goal of attending CU Boulder.


THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

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

Terrific Kids for NovemberThe Parachute/Battlement Mesa Kiwanis Club sponsors Bea Underwood and St

John elementary schools’ Terrific Kids. The program promotes character develop-ment and self-esteem. “TERRIFIC” is an acronym meaning Thoughtful, Enthusiastic,Respectful, Inclusive, Friendly, Inquisitive and Capable.

Bea Underwood Elementary SchoolNovember’s Terrific Kids from Bea Underwood are, from left, first row,Bill Coelho (Kiwanis representative), Stephanie Gonzalez, Emma Jewell, Andrea

Clegg, Chase Caudill, Alexa Dunahoo, Brian Berg (principal); second row, TabithaCall, Janae Bond, Carlos Ortiz, Ellie Gardner, and Jenna Wood.

St John Elementary SchoolNovember’s Terrific Kids from St John’s are, from left, first row, Levi Williamson,

Ismael Pantaleon, Cheryl Wilkie, terrific girl whose name was missing (let us knowwho you are), Ethan Langstaff; second row, Bill Coelho (Kiwanis representative),Anahi Ruiz, Catrina Mayes, Kylie Miller, Shaya Chenoweth, Chase Dooley, BrandonMillius, and Kathy Keeling (principal).

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

Your greatest contribution to your child’s education

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

Thomas Friedman, accomplished author of such books as “The World is Flat,”published an article in the Nov. 19 issue of {I} The New York Times {EI} about aparent’s role in education. While he affirms the need for high quality teachers andinstruction, he also cites research about parent partnerships. Of the many ways aparent can support their child’s learning and success, what has the most impact?

He reviewed a study from the Organization for Economic Cooperation andDevelopment that looked at the world’s leading industrialized nations such asSingapore, Finland and Shanghai and their 15-year-olds. The students were testedon their reading comprehension and their ability to use what they have learned inmath and science to solve real problems.

When they interviewed the parents of students who scored well on these tests,they discovered that 15-year-old students whose parents often read books withthem during their first year of primary school showed markedly higher scoresthan students whose parents read with them infrequently or not at all regardlessof socioeconomic backgrounds.

For some parents, limited time, language barriers or other factors/perceptions mayprevent the daily routine of reading with/to children, even though this is the mostinexpensive and powerful investment a parent can make in their child’s success.

To support parents in this endeavor, beginning in January, our school will be col-laborating with the Raising a Reader program to offer a three-class series called,

Preparing Your Child for Reading Success. The cur-riculum is based on a four-year study from theUniversity of Texas and teaches methods for build-ing language and vocabulary, comprehension, aswell as the ability to ask questions. This will requirea three-night commitment spread over severalmonths. We will have a bilingual facilitator, dinnerand child care. Certificates of completion will alsobe provided. This series promises to be new,thought-provoking and useful. Please join us!

Grand Valley Center for Family Learning islocated at 100 E.Second St.,Parachute,

285-5702.

From Bea Underwood Elementary SchoolBy Principal Brian Berg

Happy Holidays! The staff and I at Bea Underwood Elementary appreciateyour wonderful children and we wish you the best for the coming year. At BeaUnderwood we pride ourselves in always improving. Your ideas, suggestionsand feedback have been vital to our improvement plan.

Education is about involving the whole community. Now the school districtneeds your input as we move towards a future of more state funding cutbacks.

To some people, the future looks bleak. However, I look to the future as anopportunity to work together to create a new plan for education in Garfield 16.

Preschool teachers,with the help of parents, hosted aThanksgiving feast fitfor kings. This eventwas enjoyed bynearly 200 people.

Photo courtesy ofGVCFL


F A I T H

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Living Nativity turns Parachuteinto BethlehemBy Charlie Hornick, Echo contributor

The town of Parachute looked a little like Bethlehem, at leastat Beasley Park on Dec. 2. Several from area churches workedhard to share the Christmas story in readings, Christmas carols,and drama. The gazebo was turned into a stable and 28 in cos-tume provided a setting for the fourth annual Living Nativity.

One-month-old Micah Paul Farmer performed as the star of theprogram, playing baby Jesus. He had practiced for the program bydoing lots of sleeping so when the time came for him to do hispart, he gave a stellar performance. His mother, Kim, held him bythe manger as his father, Jasson, played Joseph and looked on.

The program, consisting of Scripture readings and carols, wasput together by Father E.J. Rivet of the All Saints EpiscopalChurch. Lois Smith was the stage manager and assisted all inplaying their parts in the program. Bob Toll, pastor of GrandValley United Methodist Church led the caroling and, along withthe people from his church, welcomed all into their fellowshiphall for a time of hot chocolate, hot cider and cookies.

The cast for the beautiful angels included Faith Humphrey,Raeanna Humphrey, Deisy Bernabe, Melissa Kingen, MichaelaPuga and Rylie Sackett, as they were led by the lead angels,Krista Humphrey and Celina Sackett.

Those who filled the role of the shepherds who watched theirflocks by night and came to witness the sign of the baby in themanger were Kaleb Farmer, Noah Farmer, Preston Johnston,Kade Sackett, and Kyson Sackett. They were led by the chiefshepherds, Amy Hamilton and Leif Sackett.

Joe Worline, with a crown and toga, played the part of Herod.The wise men who inquired of Herod were Joseph Johnston,Steven Puga, and Benjamin Smith. Nathan Humphrey did anamazing job making the evening fun as the head wise guy.

Desiree Smith was Elizabeth, the pregnant cousin of Mary,and the Roman guards were Andrew Kingen, Anthony Smith,Jonathan Smith, and Conner Sproles.

The Scripture readers were Pastor Rich Counts of the GrandValley Christian Church, Pastor Bob McNew of the LighthouseAssembly of God, Jane Rivet, Trish Wilkerson, and LisaJohnston. The choir that inspired all who came to join in the car-oling consisted of Joe Casun, Deb Trujillo, Anita Elliott, LindaElliott, and Bob Toll, with accompanist BJ Lindauer.

Alice Smith worked hard at putting the cast together and wasthe costume designer and outfitter. Teri Richards worked hard atseeing that the whole event came together as somewhat of a pro-ducer, and assisted with advertising the event. Larry Sacca madethe Bethlehem Star. Ron Miller and Pastor Jed Johnston coordi-nated the sound. And I assisted in the planning and preparation.

The donkey, Newman, that was a big hit again this year, wasprovided by Valerie Cox. Kyle and Megan Zapel transported himto the event. Caley Gredig provided the goats, Pepper and CreamPuff, as well as two newborn kids that were a major attraction.

The town of Parachute assisted again in allowing Beasley Parkto be the appropriate scene for this year’s event and the ParachutePolice Department blocked off part of Parachute Avenue for thepeople and animals to have an easier and safer access.

The Living Nativity again this year gave all who attended anopportunity to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and pro-vided precious moments together of “peace on earth, goodwilltoward men.”

HappyHolidays


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

[email protected] e-mail:

[email protected]

Sunday 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 BaptistChurch101 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 & YouthGroups)

Small groups meet throughout theweek ... Visit our website for moreinformation.

Come -- Experience God's Power for life & living

Know -- Christ through a loving family for fellowship

Grow -- In Christ through a foundation of discipleship

Go -- With Christ in a ministry of service with a focus for evangelism

• • •

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, PastorJed Johnston, Family Life PastorChastity McGillivray, GBC

Child Care Missionary Intern, Amy Hamilton

SUNDAYBlessing Up for Church Broadcast

8 a.m. - 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.Boy Scouts – Call for

days/timesAwana: Tuesdays 6:30pm (Sept.– April)

High School Youth: Sundays5:00-7:00 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: 256-4693

• • •

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.

• • •

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]

• • •

The Lighthouse(Assembly of God)1833 S. Battlement ParkwayBattlement Mesa285-7236 or 379-5947

(Pastor's cell)Pastor: Dr. Robert C. McNew

SERVICESSunday school:

Sunday, 9:30 a.m.Worship service:

Sunday, 10:30 a.m.(Children's Church & Nursery)

Ladies’ Bible study and luncheon:

Tuesday, 12-2 p.m.

• • •

Shepherd of the Mesa(WELS)Website: shepherdofthemesa.orgBill Cornelius, Pastor 987-3093Youth Directors: Kristy and RoryRoder, Brandon Downing

WORSHIP:Sunday at 10 a.m.Bible Information Class:Monday at 7 p.m.Family Bible Study:Wednesday at 7 p.m.Location: Historic BattlementMesa Schoolhouse on CountyRoad 300

Lutheran Catechism:Wednesday at 3 p.m.

Women’s Bible Study Group:Monday at 9:30 a.m.

Location: 12 Rosewood Way

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

• • •

Wellspring of Life Churchat Grand Valley Middle School

0364 Sipprelle DriveParachute

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.

As I See ItKeeping Christ in XmasBy Pastor Charlie Hornick, Grace Bible Church

Some of my fellow Christians have shared their concernabout seeing the word “Xmas” on billboards and store win-dows. Without understanding the meaning of the “X,” somehave concluded that using “Xmas” is an attempt to nudgeChrist out of Christmas.

However, the letter “X” in “Xmas” is the Greek letter “chi” andhas for centuries been a symbol for Christ. Not only does the Greekword “Christos” start with “chi” but also the symbol reminds us ofthe cross that was at the center of Christ’s mission to Earth.

Some trace the “X” as a symbol of Christ back to the firstcentury when it had widespread use in the time of Constantinein the fourth century. We do know that it was used in earlyEnglish in the 13th century and that “Xmas” and “Xianity”were common in early printed materials.

The inventor of the printing press, Johannes Gutenberg,used “X” as a symbol for Christ quite often. Our Webster’sDictionary acknowledges “Xmas” as “Christmas.”

I am sure that there are some who write “Xmas” becausethey are too lazy or too hurried to write out the word.Advertisers may use it to save ink and space. No doubt there areprobably some who want to “X” out the one who split historydown the middle and made the greatest impact on the worldthan any other.

I seldom use “Xmas” because of those who are misinformedabout its meaning and I do not enjoy dealing with the hype andhysteria of a few unapprised zealots. Still these factors cannottake away the Christian origin of “Xmas.”

The issue of taking Christ out of Christmas is not so muchhow we spell the word as it is in how we live its meaning. Thereare many ways we crowd out Christ. Commercialism, material-ism, bad attitudes, impatience, and angry tempers declare wehave lost what Christmas is supposed to be. The news of peo-ple hurting each other in the mad rush to buy Black Friday spe-cials was a far cry from “Peace on Earth, Good will to men.”

I heard of a 5-year-old who offered her own version of theLord’s Prayer. “Forgive us our Christmases as we forgive thosewho Christmas against us.” Perhaps it’s time to add her wordsto the liturgy.

But I have seen the true spirit of Christmas demonstrated inmany ways in our Parachute/Battlement Mesa communityalready this year. Many are demonstrating the spirit of giving toothers, displaying kindness and generosity, and focusing onthings that matter.

It was great to see the Living Nativity this year at BeasleyPark for the fourth year in a row. It was a joy being togetherwith those from different churches and backgrounds to readthe Christmas story, sing Christmas carols, and reflect on theamazing gift of God.

Our local LIFT-UP and area churches delivered manyThanksgiving baskets and will also deliver many Christmas bas-kets – all in a spirit of goodwill and caring.

Our youth with Grand Valley Givers are doing a tremendousjob along with the help of others in the community with theChristmas Giving Tree. Many families are having their seasonbrightened by the thoughtful gifts of a warm item of clothingand a special gift for each child.

Some of our area churches also were involved in giving wellover 100 boxes for Samaritan’s Purse Operation ChristmasChild. Children throughout the world in poverty-stricken areaswill receive a wrapped, shoe size box with such things as atoothbrush, pen, pencil, crayons, toys, and knick-knacks.

What really keeps Christ in Christmas is what is in the heart,not what is under the tree. And the spirit of Christmas needs tobe all year round, not just on one day of the year.

Mother Theresa said it well. “It is Christmas every time youlet God love others through you. Yes, it is every time you smileat your brother and offer him your hand.”

That’s the way to keep Christ in Xmas throughout the year!

F A I T H


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

By Carrie Click, Echo editor

The weather outside is certain-ly cold, but it’s not exactly a whiteChristmas in the Grand Valley – atleast at press time. We’re hopingthings will change – who doesn’tlove a fresh blanket of the whitestuff on Christmas morning? –but in the meantime, if you wantto get a blast of Old Man Winter,you might want to head up theCrystal Valley to Redstone.

Redstone is only about anhour away from Parachute andBattlement, but since it’s severalthousand feet higher and inanother ecosystem, the snowsticks. You can walk around thevillage, or throw snowballs at

each other in Redstone Park. If you want to take it easy,

take a sleigh ride (or a carriageride if the snow is skimpy) up anddown Redstone Boulevard – oreven a winter horseback ridewith Avalanche Outfitters.

And if you travel upvalley onthe weekends, you can take a tourof the Redstone Castle, which isall decorated for the holidays.

Just getting to Redstone is apleasant experience. Redstone islocated on Highway 133, 18 milessouth of Carbondale. Take I-70 toGlenwood Springs and Highway82 to the junction of Highway133 at Carbondale. Think snow,happy holidays and hope to seeyou in Redstone!

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Tickets available at Tiffany of Redstone, the Redstone General Store

and Crystal Club Cafe.

CASH OR CHECK ONLY

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redstonecolorado.com

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Bells will be ringing…Members of the Kiwanis Club of Parachute/Grand Valley

are busy ringing the bell for the Salvation Army's Red KettleCampaign in front of Clark's Market in Battlement Mesa.They are, from left, Bob Prendergast, Steve Randol, who'sthe Kiwanis Red Kettle volunteer coordinator, and DanChance, all of Battlement Mesa.

Photo by Roberta McGowan

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2011 Grand Valley Echo December

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