Estes Park News, February 27, 2026

Estes Park Police Department Awarded State Grant To Strengthen Search Efforts For Vulnerable Individuals

The Estes Park Police Department has been awarded an $8,897 grant from the Colorado Bureau of Investigation through the State’s Persons Who Wander program. The funding supports the department’s Estes Park Persons Who Wander Drone Project and will be used to enhance search capabilities for individuals who become lost due to cognitive or medical conditions.

mental or neurological disorders that may cause them to wander.

“When someone with a cognitive or medical condition goes missing, time is everything,” said Police Chief Ian Stewart. “This grant helps us expand our drone capability so we can cover more terrain faster, improve our odds of finding people safely, and bring families peace of mind.”

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The Persons Who Wander program, authorized under Colorado law, provides grants to local governments to assist in locating individuals with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, autism, brain injury, and other develop-

The department currently operates one DJI Mavic 4T thermal drone, one interior drone, and maintains four certified drone pilots. Through this award, the department will purchase a DJI Matrice 4T thermal drone and provide training and certification for two additional patrol officers. This expansion will allow each patrol squad to have a dedicated drone and strengthen staffing so that a certified pilot is more consistently available when a high-risk missing person call is received. The added aircraft enhances the department’s ability to search efficiently in low light, dense terrain, and challenging mountain conditions.

Estes Park presents unique search challenges. The town sits at more than 7,500 feet in elevation and features mountainous terrain and rapidly changing weather. It also serves as a

major gateway to outdoor recreation and welcomes millions of visitors each year, many of whom are unfamiliar with the area. These factors can quickly turn a missing person case into a time critical emergency.

The department will integrate the drone into existing missing person response protocols and continue close coordination with regional partners to ensure rapid and effective deployment.

“This is about protecting some of our most vulnerable residents and visitors,” said Commander Jeremiah Polucha. “By pairing advanced technology with trained personnel and strong regional partnerships, we are better positioned to respond when families need us most.”

The grant does not require any local matching funds.

For more information, please contact Commander Polucha at 970-577-3861.

Sister Cities Partnership Agreement Hung In Town Hall

Hall and his counterparts from Monteverde, was recently framed and prepared for public display by the board of directors of the Estes Park Sister Cities Association (EPSCA). Monteverde’s Mayor Yeudy Ramírez Brenes and Vice-Mayor María Isabel González Corrales signed the agreement at EPSCA’s annual membership meeting on October 3, 2025, at the Estes Park Museum. The signed and framed Sister Cities agreement was presented to Mayor Hall by EPSCA board president Dave Thomas.

beings across cultures and across the world to connect and live together in peace. Like the First Peoples Festival in January, our Sister City agreement is important to realizing the connectedness of us all and the ever-present need for us to stay connected to help move the human race in the best, most noble, positive directions.”

The official Sister Cities partnership agreement between the Town of Estes Park and the municipality of Monteverde, Costa Rica, will now be hung on the wall outside the mayor’s office at Town Hall.

The document, signed by Mayor Gary

Mayor Hall says, “The Sister City relationship with Monteverde is one of the very important cultural touchpoints for the Town of Estes Park. While very personal for those who are active in the agreement (both from Estes and from Costa Rica), it is also broadly symbolic of the ability of human

Community Drive Trail Construction To Begin March 2

As part of the Town of Estes Park’s ongoing efforts to improve its trail network, crews will begin constructing a new 10-foot-wide concrete trail along the east side of Community Drive. The construction of the Community Drive Trail is scheduled to begin on March 2. This project will be carried out in phases and is expected to be finished this spring, though the exact timing is subject to weather and the concrete pouring schedule.

This trail segment will be located between Manford Avenue and North St. Vrain Avenue (US 36), connecting the existing sidewalks on Manford Avenue to the Stanley Park trails near the dog park. Concrete segments of the trail will be poured when weather conditions allow, and could be phased over

several weeks. Most of the work will take place outside of the travelled roadway with minimal traffic impacts anticipated. Lane closures and flagging operations may be required for short durations along Community Drive near the baseball fields.

This project is supported by the 2024 voter-approved Ballot Issue 1A sales tax. A portion of this 1% sales tax is dedicated to the expansion of trails within Estes Park town limits. To learn more about this project and find updates throughout the project, please estes.org/communitydrive.

For more information, please contact Jamin Rucker, Public Works Department Civil Engineer, at 970-577-3736 or jrucker@estes.org.

Whiskey Warm Up Returns To Estes Park March 7

Winter in Estes Park is about to get a whole lot warmer! Colorado’s hottest winter whiskey festival is back! Estes Park’s beloved Whiskey Warm Up Festival, presented by Elkins Distilling Co., returns Saturday, March 7, 2026, from 1 - 4 p.m. downtown at George Hix Riverside Plaza. This year’s event promises to be bigger, bolder, and more spirited than ever. Even though

purchase bottles from participating distilleries to take home and keep the warmth going long after the festival ends.

Tasting Tickets are sold out, the venue is open to the public to enjoy other aspects of the festival.

Whiskey Warm Up is a spirited celebration of Colorado craftsmanship, featuring 35+ of the state’s finest distilleries pouring their best creations. From smooth small-batch bourbons to bold mountain-made blends, live music from Cowboy Brad and Step Mother Nature will keep the park buzzing all afternoon. Festivalgoers can explore local vendors, indulge in delicious food truck pairings, and even

EVFPD firefighters generally respond to medical calls in their personal vehicles, allowing for a faster response. On other incidents, firefighters respond to a fire station to respond in department apparatus with specialized equipment.

During the week of February 15, 2026, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 18 calls for service.

New this year, Whiskey Warm Up welcomes The Village Barber to the experience, where the one and only Gale will be offering onsite haircuts and beard trims. This service is perfectly paired with the event — creating

an old-style tavern barbershop moment that blends mountain grit, classic tradition, and spirited camaraderie.

Whiskey Warm Up is a Town of Estes Park signature event. The Town will provide free shuttle service between the event and participating lodging partners. For more information, visit EPWhiskeyWarmUp.com. The Town’s lodging partners – Quality Inn near Rocky Mountain National Park, Holiday Inn Estes Park, and The Black Canyon Inn – generously support this spirited celebration.

This included:

• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 7

• Alarm Activation: 4

• MVA (Motor Vehicle Accident): 3

• Gas Leak: 2

• Elevator Rescue: 1

• Illegal Burn: 1 estesvalleyfire.org

Volunteer With The Estes Park Museum

Volunteering at the Estes Park Museum is a great way to give back and get involved. The Museum has nearly 30 volunteers that support its various daily operations all year long. It is evident that the Museum could not function without these individuals donating over 1,000 hours toward its mission by serving thousands of guests annually. Join a vibrant team of those who are interested and passionate about Estes Park and the history of this unique mountain community.

Now is a great time to join the Museum team as a gallery host. Hosts welcome and interact with guests from all over the world by serving as the frontline representative for the Museum gallery experience. Hosts greet guests, orient visitors to the gallery, and answer general questions. Volunteers also conduct sales in the Museum shop

using the Square point of sale system to ensure accurate and successful sales. All necessary training is provided, and knowledge of local history is not necessary.

Volunteer shifts take place from 10 a.m.1 p.m. or 1 - 4 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. There are a variety of opportunities to get involved with a typical three-hour shift once a week, every other week, once a month, or as a substitute. There are particular needs for volunteers to serve on Wednesday afternoons and as substitutes.

If you would like to contribute to the success of the Museum, have fun, and share local history, please visit estes.org/volunteering to fill out an easy online form or call 970-577-3766. The Estes Park Museum is open Wednesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

March Meeting Of The 1917 Book Club

On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the 1917 Book Club, hosted by the Estes Park Museum, will explore local title, A Most Peculiar Lady: The Life and Legacy of Flora J.R.T. Stanely of Newton, MA and Estes Park, CO by Nancy P. Thomas, Ph.D., who will be in atten dance. The program will take place from 10 – 11:30 a.m. in the Museum Meeting Room. This program is free and open to the public. It is strongly encouraged that participants read each book prior to the program to take part in the discussion.

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the club will explore this often overlooked yet influential Estes Park

leading figure. As stated on the book jacket, “Flora Jane Record Tileston Stanley was never meant to be a footnote. Though long overshadowed by her famous husband, Freelan Oscar Stanley—the inventor and entrepreneur behind the Stanley Steamer and namesake of Estes Park’s iconic hotel—Flora was a visionary in her own right. A teacher, diarist, community leader, and architectural tastemaker, she helped shape both the cultural life of early New England and the pioneering spirit of the Colorado Rockies.”

For any questions regarding the event, please call or email Curator of Interpretation Mikaela Fundaun at 970-577-3762 or mfundaun@estes.org.

Reservations For All Summer Wilderness Overnight Backpacking Permits Open On March 1

Reservations for all summer wilderness overnight backpacking permits in Rocky Mountain National Park will open on March 1 at 8 a.m. MST.

Tips for reserving a wilderness overnight backpacking permit:

Plan and prepare!

Take time to meet with your group and plan out 3-4 different trip itineraries.This includes choosing alternate dates and campsites.

Select your desired dates, enter the number of people in your group, and build your trip itinerary by selecting a 'Starting Area.'

If you don't have one yet, set up a Recreation.gov account. You can visit recreation.gov, use the Recreation.gov Mobile App, or call the Recreation.gov Call Center at 1-877-444-6777.

You must be logged into your Recreation.gov account prior to attempting to make a reservation for a wilderness overnight backpacking trip.

Search "Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness Permits" in the Recreation.gov search engine.

Click "Check Availability" on the right hand side of the page.

NOTE: This trip itinerary is NOT held until the "Book Now" button is selected.

Once you are ready to book, click "Book Now." The inventory you've selected is now held and you have 15 minutes to complete the remaining order details and pay for the reservation. Have specific questions about a wilderness backcountry campsite or route? Call RMNP's Wilderness Office at 970-586-1242 and park staff will be happy to assist you!

Explore Park Science & Stewardship At RMNP’s Biennial Research Conference

Mountain National Park

invites you to explore research, monitoring, and management during the Biennial Research Conference “Park Stewardship: From Discovery to Decision” on March 4-5 at The Holiday Inn in Estes Park. Scientific research is an integral part of science-informed decision making and adaptive management at RMNP. The park utilizes a collaborative process in which park staff and research partners work together to conduct research to address management questions.

The Biennial Research Conference is presented by the Rocky Mountain Conservancy. It is free and open to all who are interested in attending. No pre-registration is required.

Erin Huddle recently joined our team at Good Samaritan Estes Park Village and is excited to show you everything our 55+ community has to offer. From well-appointed one- and two-bedroom apartments with amenities and social opportunities just steps from your door, to our charming Twinhomes featuring comfortable open oor plans, added privacy, and incredible views— there’s a home here to fit your lifestyle.

Good Samaritan Estes Park is an excellent choice for those seeking a 55+ community where many services are included. Housekeeping? We’ve got you covered. Meals? The best! Events and wellness activities? You bet! And if you’re ready to say goodbye to yard work, home maintenance, changing lightbulbs, and the many responsibilities of homeownership, this may be the perfect next step.

We invite you to come see what life can look like with fewer worries and more time to enjoy what matters most. Schedule an appointment with Erin to explore this alternate lifestyle and learn about our current incentives designed to make Good Samaritan your vision of retirement. Double incentives are available for a limited time, so don’t wait—make time to visit with Erin soon!

Conference highlights include 27 oral presentations by research partners and park staff, a poster session highlighting over 20 research and public engagement activities in the park, an Alpine Ecosystem Question and Answer Panel with park staff and partners, and a Conversation Café in which members of the public can engage in structured, small-group discussions about vital wetland ecosystems in the park.

Oral presentations are organized into sessions covering related subjects. Sessions will focus on forestry and wildfire, park histories and cultural resources, research conducted by Rocky Mountain Conservancy fellows, wildlife studies, long term monitoring projects and management applications, and alpine ecosystem research and stewardship.

Oral presentations in the al-

pine ecosystem session and following subject expert panel will also be available to attend virtually.

New to this year will be an in-person screening of the Alpine Ecosystem oral session and panel held at the Kawuneeche Visitor Center in Grand Lake. This event is free and open to the public to provide an opportunity for engagement with the conference for the Grand Lake community and will include opening remarks from park staff. The screening will take place in the Auditorium of the Kawuneeche Visitor Center, located at 16018 US Highway 34, Grand Lake, CO.

Conference events begin at 8 a.m. each day and conclude at 5 p.m. on March 4 and 4:30 pm on March 5. For a complete schedule of events, to access the wetland ecosystems session virtually, and other accessibility information, visit: go.nps.gov/RMNPConference2026.

The conference will take place in the Ballroom of The Holiday Inn Estes Park, located at 101 S Saint Vrain Avenue, Estes Park, CO. For more information about Rocky Mountain National Park please visit nps.gov/romo or call the park Information Office at 970-586-1206.

Highlands Camp & Retreat Center

Welcomes Rocky Mountain Raptor Program On March 4

Highlands Camp & Retreat Center is hosting a Winter Speaker Series. Talks will be given throughout the winter at Highlands on select Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. These talks are free and open to the community.

On Wednesday, March 4 we welcome the Rocky Mountain Raptor Program for a presentation featuring live raptors! Learn what defines a raptor and discover their adaptations, or tools, for survival. Come and meet these amazing birds.

The RMRP is part of a northern Colorado coalition of EE Providers, focused on increasing environmental education access in the region.

Highlands Camp & Retreat Center is located at 1306 State Highway 7 Business Route Allenspark, CO. Please contact Anna Judy with questions at ajudy@highlandscamp.net.

Office Of Emergency Management

Collecting 1976 Big Thompson Flood Stories

This year, we will be commemorating the 50th anniversary of the 1976 Big Thompson Flood that impacted Larimer County. At the Larimer County Office of Emergency Management, we are looking for people who were in Larimer County during the 1976 Big Thompson Flood who may be willing to tell their stories.

If you know of anyone who was in Larimer County during the 1976 Flood, please feel free to share this

form below with them, as we would love to get in contact with them and share their stories at the 50-Year Commemoration Event this summer.

1976 Big Thompson Flood Story Collection Form can be found at bit.ly/1976floodstory.

Save the date for a county event for the 1976 Big Thompson Flood 50th Anniversary: Friday, July 31, 2026; time & location: TBD.

Are You Ready? 7th Annual Community Fuel Reduction Event

By: Estes Valley Watershed Coalition

The Estes Valley and surrounding communities know all too well the threat that wildfires bring. While fire is a natural and essential part of the ecosystem, living here means we need to take extra steps to stay prepared. After a dry winter filled with warmer days and gusty winds, now is the perfect time to ask yourself: Is your home ready?

To help, the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition (EVWC) is once again offering free 30-yard containers to make it easy for you to clear away slash, bagged pinecones, and pine needles. This is our

dumpsters available, so applications will be reviewed and awarded based on how much impact they’ll have on reducing risk in our community.

Here’s the timeline:

First round of applications: Opens March 1 and closes March 21.

Second round of applications: Opens May 4 and closes May 24.

To check out the application guidelines and restrictions, visit evwatershed.org/forest-projects. Got questions? Feel free to reach out via email at EVWatershed@EVWatershed.org.

seventh year working together with Waste Management (WM) and the Estes Valley Fire Protection District to help reduce wildfire risks in the community, and we’d love for you to join in! You can fill out a quick application at evwatershed.org or scan the QR code with the image.

Whether you are a part of a group of homeowners, a Property Owners Association (POA), Condominium Owners Association (COA), or Homeowners Association (HOA), you’re welcome to apply. There are a limited number of

Clearing the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) areas isn't a guarantee you’ll avoid wildfires, but it can make your home more resilient. So, what can you do right now? Take a good look around your home and clear out or move anything flammable within a 10-foot perimeter (like trees, pine needles, pinecones, leaves, and woodpiles).

Want to read more? The Estes Valley Fire Protection District has helpful checklists and resources on improving your Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) at estesvalleyfire.org/wildfire.

One of the games we played in the neighborhood when I was a kid was Red Light/Green Light. The person who was “It” (the traffic cop) stood at one end of the yard with her back to the rest of the players lined up along the hedge at the other end of the yard. When It called out, “Green light!” the players rushed across the yard toward her. When she said, “Red Light!” and turned around, everyone froze. If the traffic cop caught someone moving after the red light was called, that player had to go back to the hedge and start over while everyone else continued their advance. The first person to reach It won the game.

I loved Red Light/Green Light. It didn’t make my arms hurt like Red Rover did, and because I was fast, I had a real chance at winning, unlike Bombardment (aka Dodge Ball), since I couldn’t throw a ball past the end of my toes. How did the approach-with-caution yellow light fit in with Red Light/Green Light? It didn’t. Players were either in the proverbial pedal-to-the-metal mode to reach It, or slam-on-the-brakes mode so as not to get caught in motion. It was a lot like driving in California.

Joan S. spends half the year in southern California. “I stop at yellow lights,” she said. “It puts me at risk of being rear-ended.”

There is some truth to that. The type of driving they do in California can be described in one simple word: fast From the second the light turns green, California drivers race to get to the next light just as it turns red. There is no gentle acceleration nor deceleration. It’s either full stop or all-out-go traffic.”

Jim T. took a hit, not in California but in his home country of Canada. “I got rear-ended a few years ago, when I DID stop for a yellow light and the guy behind me didn’t. Then he gave me hell when I starting taking down license numbers, etc. Fortunately, insurance held him 100% at fault. But it was unnerving, upsetting, and disturbing.” (Legally, rear-end accidents are always the second car’s fault.)

In last week’s Thunker column I wrote about choosing to stop at yellow lights rather than speeding up to make it through before the light turns red. Stopping at yellows is my small way of being in control, slowing my world down a tad, and re-establishing a calm I used to have, BT. (Not BC or AD, but BT. You know what I mean.)

After Janis P. read the column he said, “It’s a judgement call. I hate slamming on the brakes.”

“What is it about using your brakes that you detest?” I asked.

“Just surprises you and stuff goes flying around.”

Hmmm. It sounds like one of two things. Either Janis is driving in space, where there is a lot of “stuff flying around,” or he needs to spend a couple of hours on a Saturday afternoon cleaning out the back seat of his vehicle. (I’m not one to talk. Every fabric grocery bag I own lives in my back seat, although I’ve never seen any of them “fly around.” This is probably because I slow down to

stop at yellow lights.)

Joan has a theory about people behind the wheel today:

“I think part of the reason for bad drivers is the lack of having Driver’s Ed in high school. It taught us how to follow rules of the road and basic auto courtesy.”

Ah yes! Remember Driver’s Ed? In Lincoln, NE we took it our sophomore year in high school. Our male teachers, who were obviously hired because our sports teams needed coaches, taught Driver’s Ed as their side gig. We had simulators in the classroom and when we mastered those machines, we hit the real road with the teacher/coach in the passenger seat.

For Joan it was different. “We didn't have simulators!” she said. “We had to drive a real car with Mr. Harkins, who EVERY person in school knew. I think he had a second set of brakes, but no steering wheel. Brave soul. He wore baggy pants that he held up with suspenders, about to his armpits. I think now about how many people he must have taught how to drive! We had a school of around 3,000 kids.”

There are no Mr. Harkinses anymore. Where Driver’s Ed was part of our public school curriculum, today’s youth get private lessons at private lesson prices. Craig L. got his private lesson from his high school classmate, Martin F.: “Back in our youth we’d be drinking beer at 2:00 a.m., driving the backroads around Loomis (Nebraska). Martin would slowly approach a stop sign—a stop sign that most farmers would blow through in the middle of the day. After a complete stop, he’d look left, look right and left again. It didn’t matter that we were on terrain as flat as a pool table and you could see a mile down the road in either direction. He’d then slowly ease through the intersection.

“His reasoning for being so cautious? ‘Craig, you start running stop signs, then you start cheating on your taxes, the next thing you know you’re *bleep*ing the governor's wife.’”

One last comment, from my cousin Anne, the one who told me to click my heels and follow the “Yellow Light Road.”

“While reading today's column, before I reached MY NAME, I was thinking back to a conversation Meagan [Anne’s daughter] and I had recently about speed weavers. I expressed my extreme displeasure with this type of driving behavior, which I encounter all too frequently on Chicago area expressways. Meg sees plenty of this on L.A. freeways, but she has found a way to not be so perturbed. She credits this unsafe, crazy driving to the driver’s urgent need to find a bathroom. And so she is able to absolve them. Then, if she catches up to them caught in the traffic jam, she can feel sorry for that driver, who has now probably messed his pants. Try it, it helps!”

You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.

© 2026 Sarah Donohoe

Get Involved With Visit Estes Park

Get involved with Visit Estes Park and our partners! Visit visitestespark.com/partners/get-involved to learn about all the ways to partner with VEP and community initiatives.

Frozen Dead Guy Days | March 27–29, 2026

Submit lodging packages and special offers, register for the Coffin Race or Polar Plunge, or participate in satellite events like the Bar Crawl and Bands & Bloody’s Brunch. See the full list of how to get involved at visitestespark.com/partners/get-involved. New in 2026: Colorado celebrates 150 years of statehood alongside

America’s 250th anniversary — making Colorado the only state celebrating both anniversaries in 2026. As a part of this milestone anniversary, the Colorado Tourism Office (CTO) is spearheading celebrations around the state, including sponsoring a series of drone shows. FDGD will feature a CTO–sponsored drone show on Saturday evening. Questions? Email community@visitestespark.com.

Dark Sky Measurement Volunteer Opportunity

Help preserve Estes Park’s incredible night skies by volunteering for the upcoming Dark Sky Measurement event on

April 13. Volunteers will collect light pollution data using a simple handheld device — no experience necessary. Training and equipment are provided. This community effort supports awareness and long-term dark sky preservation initiatives. Sign up at tinyurl.com/3bvv739u.

New Marketing Advisory Committee (Apply by February 27)

There is still time to apply for the VEP Marketing Advisory Committee (MAC). This group will provide strategic, community-based guidance on VEP initiatives. Applications will be reviewed in March, with the first meeting in April.

There are several banks to choose from in Estes Park.

Questions? Email Sarah Leonard at sarah@visitestespark.com.

Submit Sundance Film Festival Hotel Partnership Information With the Sundance Film Festival moving to Boulder in 2027, regional lodging demand is already building. As a result, our partners at Visit Boulder are moving quickly to position area hotels for inclusion on the official Sundance website and booking platform. To express interest, hotels must complete the form to be considered for participation. Submit hotel interest form. Questions? Email Sarah at sarah@visitestespark.com.

Randy Welch, Candidate For Trustee

Some places just get into your heart. Estes Park has been that place for my wife and I since our first visit in 1990 with our kids. We never imagined how much it would mean to us. We kept returning. We put down roots in the region, bought a place here in 2013, and finally moved here full-time two years ago. It felt like coming home.

When we moved to Estes Park, I didn’t want to just live here; I wanted to be part of the community. I found connections by joining the Estes Park Chorale and the Oratorio Society, so you may have seen me singing with the choirs or enjoying the incredible musical talent this town offers! I’ve also had the privilege of volunteering with the Listening at the Legion series. As my relationships here deepened, so has my understanding of the challenges our community face together.

There are three areas that I believe that we, as a community, need to address. None of them is easy, but they are challenges we can take on together.

1) Workforce Challenges. Workforce realities, especially during peak season, are among the most pressing issues. We rely heavily on people who work in Estes Park but don’t live in the Estes Valley. I firmly believe we need a workforce that not only works here but also lives here, plays here, and builds a life here. We need to find real, practical ways to make it possible for the people who serve our community to call it home. I’ve spoken with folks “down the hill” who would have loved to come

here to work and live, but simply couldn’t afford it. This issue reaches beyond jobs and housing. It affects our schools as well. We need families here to support and grow the schools. A community with declining school enrollment is not growing.

2) Transportation and Parking. We’ve all experienced what tourist peak season brings to Estes Park- busy streets, full parking lots, and the frustration of getting around town. While many visitors are just trying to get to the park, others are looking for a place to park so they can shop, dine, and enjoy our local businesses and festivities. For our town to remain welcoming and livable, we need thoughtful solutions to improve parking for residents and visitors alike. At the same time, we must create a community where walking and biking are safe, convenient, and enjoyable for everyone.

3) Economic Development. While Estes is strongly tourism-focused, it’s essential to attract and support local businesses that strengthen the community's economic engine beyond tourism alone. Doing so requires us to consider responsible development that encourages business growth while also supporting opportunities for residents to thrive.

These issues are interconnected, and it is imperative that we consider how one issue affects the others. I believe our best days are ahead if we are willing to listen to each other, think creatively and holistically, and take on these shared challenges with honesty and collaboration. I’m running for the Board of Trustees position because I want Estes Park to be a place where people can work, live, raise families, and feel connected for generations to come. I would be honored to earn your trust, your support, and the opportunity to serve this community we call home.

Randy Welch, randywelch4estes@gmail.com

Preserve Estes Park Will Host Trustee Candidate Forum On March 23

Save the date! Preserve Estes Park (PEP) is hosting a “Meet the Candidates” community event on Monday, March 23, 2026. Please join us in the Hall at the American Legion Post 119, from 6-8 p.m., for time with the candidates for the Town of Estes Park Board of Trustees.

This event is open to all and free for the public to attend. Each can-

didate will have time to speak about themselves and their platform, and time will be allowed for attendees to ask questions of all the candidates.

The municipal election will take place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 and will include four seats for trustee. Don’t miss this opportunity to get to know your representative candidates!

Colorado Saw An Increase In Human-Bear Conflicts In 2025

Colorado Parks and Wildlife received 5,299 reports of sightings and conflicts with bears in 2025, which is 15% higher than the previous six years. Trash continues to be the number one source of conflicts between humans and bears.

Of the 5,299 reports CPW received in 2025, 2,448 resulted in property damage to a shed, garage, home, vehicle, fence, etc. Over 57% were linked to trash, 18% to livestock, chickens and beehives, and 16% to bird seed, pet food, barbeque grills, coolers and refrigerators.

CPW bear reporting system

In 2019, CPW launched a bear reporting system to help wildlife managers track and quantify bear activity and conflicts across the state. The data collected is used to see overall trends and identify sources of conflict on a localized, regional and statewide level. Since its implementation in April 2019, CPW has recorded 32,212 reports of sightings and conflicts with bears.

The data from the annual bear cycle informs CPW’s wildlife managers where bears are at and what they are up to, helping CPW identify sources of conflict and make educated management decisions. If you see a bear causing trouble in an urban area, call CPW to report it. Recapping bear reports from 2025 There are an estimated 17,000 to 20,000 bears in Colorado and every year the majority of incident reports involve

bears trying to access human food sources. 2025 was no different with trash continuing to be the number one source of conflicts. Other constant sources of conflict included birdfeeders, livestock and bears accessing open garages and other human-originated items that are left unsecured. These conflicts could all easily be reduced if the public takes some simple steps around their homes and properties to prevent bears from accessing them.

Nature and human behavior play a role in the amount of bear activity that we see annually. Drought conditions and other factors that may influence the availability of natural food crops for bears, such as a late freeze, vary across the state, as does the behavior of people when it relates to humanbear interactions.

areas, leading to property damage and vehicle collisions. Trash management remains a leading factor in human-bear interactions, with unsecured garbage, bird feeders, and improperly stored food continuing to attract bears. While educational initiatives and community efforts have helped mitigate some issues, the need for improved coexistence practices, including securing attractants and reinforcing bear-proofing measures, remains critical.

Report bear sightings and conflicts to CPW

In 2025, Colorado experienced varying levels of human-bear conflicts, with some areas seeing increases while others saw declines. Natural food conditions were inconsistent across the state, influenced by localized droughts, late frosts, and variable precipitation. Some regions, particularly those with poor acorn and berry production, reported increased bear activity in residential

One concern CPW is aware of from the public is a reluctance to report bear activity over a belief it will lead to the bear being put down. Data shows that of the 5,229 reports wildlife managers received on bears in 2025, only 1.47% led to euthanization. The vast majority led to wildlife officers getting involved early enough to prevent the need to euthanize a bear.

When CPW is made aware, especially when conflicts first begin, wildlife officers can educate the community, make site visits to homes to help them secure attractants and can haze bears in an attempt to reinforce their natural fear of humans. In some circumstances, wildlife officers can attempt to relocate bears out of conflict areas to alleviate safety concerns or before that animal's behavior escalates to a dangerous level which may require euthanization. However, wildlife officers stress relocation is not a fix-all solution as there is no way to unteach a bear once it learns that homes, garages or vehicles might contain food.

Below is the number of reports and bears euthanized and relocated by CPW annually since 2022:

2025: 5,299 reports, 52 relocated, 78 euthanized

2024: 5,022 reports, 68 relocated, 98 euthanized

2023: 3,528 reports, 33 relocated, 63 euthanized

2022: 4,293 reports, 59 relocated, 94 euthanized

Live BearWise®. Keep bears wild. As a member of BearWise, CPW encourages everyone to share BearWise information with their neighbors and communities to help prevent conflicts with bears. CPW asks all residents and visitors to help save Colorado’s bears by being actively bear prepared throughout the year. Human-bear conflicts are most often traced back to human behavior. Living BearWise is the most effective way to prevent human-caused conflicts with bears.

Six At-Home BearWise Basics

Never Feed or Approach Bears - Intentionally feeding bears or allowing them to find anything that smells or tastes like food teaches bears to approach homes and people looking for more. Bears will defend themselves if a person gets too close, so don’t risk your safety and theirs!

Secure Food, Garbage and RecyclingFood and food odors attract bears, so don’t reward them with easily available food, liquids or garbage.

Remove Bird Feeders When Bears Are Active - Birdseed and grains have lots of calories, so they’re very attractive to bears. Removing feeders is the best way to avoid creating conflicts with bears.

Never Leave Pet Food OutdoorsFeed pets indoors when possible. If you must feed pets outside, feed in single portions and remove food and bowls after feeding. Store pet food where bears can’t see or smell it.

Clean & Store Grills - Clean grills after each use and make sure that all grease, fat and food particles are removed. Store clean grills and smokers in a secure area that keeps bears out.

Alert Neighbors to Bear Activity - See bears in the area or evidence of bear activity? Tell your neighbors and share information on how to prevent conflicts with bears. Bears have adapted to living near people; now it’s up to us to adapt to living near bears.

For more information on bears in Colorado, visit cpw.state.co.us/livingbears. If you have questions or need to report bear problems, call your nearest CPW office.

Your Voice, Your Community: Estes Valley Republican Caucus Set For March 3

Registered Republican voters in the Estes Valley are invited to participate directly in the democratic process at the upcoming precinct caucuses on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

The meeting will serve all precincts in District 2—specifically precincts 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, and 111. This local, grassroots gathering will take place at the Estes Park Holiday Inn (101 St. Vrain Ave), with proceedings running from 7 to 9 p.m.

What is a Political Caucus? A caucus is a community-based meeting held in even-numbered years where neighbors gather to discuss the issues that matter most to their families and their town. Unlike a primary election, a caucus allows for face-to-face interaction and direct participation in the party’s organization.

“Participating in a caucus is both a privilege and a responsibility,” said Sandy Aste, Chairperson of the Larimer County Republican Party. “It gives voters a direct voice in how our community and government are represented at the highest levels.”

Why attend? Attendees at the Estes Valley caucus will have the opportunity to:

• Discuss Key Issues: Voice concerns and priorities that should shape the party platform.

• Elect Local Leadership: Choose precinct committee persons to represent their neighborhood.

• Hear Candidate Presentations:

Three minute presentations by candidates or their representatives

• Select Delegates: Elect representatives to attend the Larimer County and State assemblies. These delegates play a critical role in selecting the Republican candidates who will ultimately appear on the public office ballots.

Eligibility and Requirements: To participate in the caucus, individuals must be:

• A resident of their specific precinct for at least 22 days.

• Registered to vote no later than 22 days before the caucus.

• Affiliated with the Republican Party for at least 22 days prior

• Voters who are 17 years old but will be 18 by the time of the General Election (November 3, 2026) are also encouraged to attend and participate.

Event Details At-a-Glance:

Who: Registered Republicans in Precincts 106–111

When: Tuesday, March 3, 2026

Time: 7 – 9 p.m. (Credentialing typically begins at 6:30 p.m.)

Where: Estes Park Holiday Inn, 101 St. Vrain Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517

For more information on precinct numbers or to verify voter registration, residents can visit LarimerGOP.org, the Larimer County Republican Party website.

Flu Cases Continue To Remain Low In Estes Park

Local children, however, have seen a higher rate of flu-like symptoms this season

Despite cases of influenza remaining high across Colorado, UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center has seen a relatively low infection and hospitalization rate of adults this flu season.

Since November 1, Estes Valley Medical Center has had six patients hospitalized for the flu. Across Colorado, nearly 800 patients were hospitalized for the flu in one week alone at the end of December.

“Much of the problem with the rise in flu cases is because the overall vaccination rate is low,” said Justina Altier, infection prevention associate for Estes Valley Medical Center. “The new subclade “k” virus, which is a version of influenza A, is the one we are seeing the most and unfortunately the vaccine isn’t a good match to the variation. However, the vaccine still helps reduce severity and symptoms to avoid the most serious cases and hospitalizations.”

According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), 30.3% of Colorado residents have received a flu immunization as of mid-February. In Larimer County, where Estes Park is located, 34.0% of residents have received a flu vaccine in the same timeframe. This year’s data, however, is slightly lower than the midseason rate for 2024-2025, which reflected a 31.0% vaccination rate across Colorado for the same timeframe.

Although the end of winter is in sight, influenza can still impact people into the spring.

“Influenza B strains usually start in late winter or early spring, so we will

probably be seeing more of this flu version in the coming months,” said Altier. “People should still be encouraged to get their flu shot.”

Estes Park children, however, have gone through a different pattern of flu cases, with Dr. Megan Ross, pediatrician and medical director of the physician’s clinic at Estes Valley Medical Center, stating that she is seeing cases in children as young as three months old.

“My experience with the flu season has been very different,” said Ross. “Before and around the holidays, I saw dozens of children with flu-like symptoms.”

Both Altier and Ross remind people to stay home if they are sick to prevent the spread of the virus.

“Unfortunately, babies are the most at risk. Those less than six months old are not yet eligible for their flu vaccination, so it is even more important for our community to vaccinate in order to protect our youngest members as much as we can,” said Ross.

Experts encourage everyone to get protected from the impacts of the flu with a flu vaccine. An annual flu vaccine has been shown to help reduce the severity of the uncomfortable symptoms of the flu, including a fever, cough, muscle aches, vomiting, diarrhea, runny nose or sore throat. Vaccinations can also help reduce the prevalence of influenza in a community.

“Stay home if you are sick,” said Altier. “Wear a mask if you have symptoms or if others in your family are sick.”

To schedule a flu vaccine appointment or if you have questions, call clinic registration at 970-586-2200.

EVMC Radiology Hours Expanded To Include Weekends

Appointments can be made for MRIs and ultrasound tests

starting March 1

Starting March 1, patients can schedule appointments for Saturdays and Sundays for MRI and ultrasound tests at UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center.

Whether you are local to Estes Park or a resident of a lower valley, schedule an appointment and then enjoy some time in Estes Park or Rocky Mountain National Park. Results will be ready within 24 hours, which could be

sooner than you return home from a weekend in the mountains.

“Having this expanded availability in Estes Park will add convenience for those working during the week or an excuse to visit the mountains for those living farther away,” said Jennifer Hardin, manager of radiology at Estes Valley Medical Center. “Although we currently do not have plans to add DEXA or mammograms, we will be adding CT and x-ray tests in the future.”

Estes Valley Medical Center offers state-of-the-art MRI equipment. In-

Photos courtesy of Dawn Wilson/UCHealth Estes Valley Medical Center

stalled in 2022, the machine has a wide bore opening and lights in the tube to help reduce the feeling of claustrophobia. It also scans faster than other regional machines, with most studies taking 20 to 25 minutes within a one-hour appointment window.

Installed in 2024, the ultrasound machine creates high-quality diagnostic images for the thyroid, abdomen, pelvis and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) exams.

Weekend appointments will be handled as an outpatient visit through the

emergency department. Emergency department staff will register the patient and escort them to the diagnostic imaging department. Patients should continue to visit the main lobby for weekday appointments.

Tests must be authorized by insurance and scheduled prior to the appointment; no walk-in appointments will be accepted. To schedule an appointment, visit UCHealth patient portal app (UCH Connect), online at UCHealth My Health Connection or by calling 970-586-2317.

Understanding The Enterprise Zone Program & Opportunities For Local Businesses

By: Estes Chamber of Commerce

The Enterprise Zone (EZ) Program was developed with a singular purpose: to help businesses in designated areas to save money and grow. The Colorado legislature sought to encourage development in economically distressed areas of the state that had high unemployment rates, low per capita income, or slow population growth, giving companies that invest in enterprise zones the ability to earn valuable state tax credits for creating jobs, making capital investments, providing job training, and more.

Last year, the Estes Economic Development & Workforce Council (EDWC) worked with Larimer County’s Economic Development office to ensure that all eligible zones in Estes Park were included in the state- approved Enterprise Zones. Those zones were confirmed in October of 2025 by OEDIT and will stand for the next 10 years.

In the designated enterprise zones:

• Businesses are eligible for state income tax credits and sales and use tax exemptions for specific business investments.

• Local governments and nonprofits can set up contribution projects to achieve economic development goals.

• Taxpayers who contribute to enterprise zone projects may earn income tax credits.

Each income tax year, a business in an EZ must apply for pre-certification before starting any activity to quality for business tax credits. At the end of the year, the business must certify the activities were completed.

“Since we are still in the first quarter of the year, it’s a good time for local businesses that are considering investing in the Estes Valley to start the precertification process to ensure their investment will be considered and accepted for any associated tax credits they may seek at the end of the year,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. “We want to ensure all eligible investments in our community are counted and that all businesses are aware of the process that needs to be followed so they can successfully help our local area to grow,” she added. Here are the steps each business must take for pre-certification:

1) Confirm that your business address is in the Enterprise Zone (EZ) for Estes Park: oedit.colorado.gov/enterprise-zone-program.

2) There is a map in the middle of the page — enter your business address in the box at the top right corner of the map. This gives you a clear answer if your business is in the EZ.

3) If your address is confirmed, the next step is to pre-certify with OEDIT.

You will need a logon and password for OEDIT. Use the “Apply for Tax Credit” button to start this process. Please note it will take a few days to receive your password back from OEDIT.

4) It is very important that you complete the pre-certification step before proceeding with any project that you may want to use for the EZ tax credits.

Here are the latest Enterprise Zone Tax Credit options businesses can consider:

Enterprise Zone Contribution Tax Credit: 12.5% of an in-kind donation and 25% of a cash donation

The Enterprise Zone Contribution Tax Credit provides a tax credit to Colorado taxpayers that contribute to targeted enterprise zone projects. When taxpayers make a certified contribution, they can claim, 25% of a cash donation as a state income tax credit and 12.5% of an in-kind donation as a state income tax credit. The amount of this tax credit is capped at $100,000 per taxpayer per tax year. If you cannot use all of your credits in a given tax year, you can carry forward the balance up to five years.

Enterprise Zone Job Training Tax Credit: 12% of eligible training costs

Businesses can earn a state income tax credit for 12% of eligible job-training costs for employees working within the enterprise zone. This tax credit helps develop a skilled workforce in distressed communities. Even if the business leaves the community, the skilled workforce typically remains an asset to the local economy.

Enterprise Zone New Employee Tax Credit: $1,100 or more per net new employee

Businesses can earn a state income tax credit of $1,100 per net new employee. Businesses can earn more tax credits if the business is an agricultural processor or is in an enhanced rural enterprise zone. This tax credit encourages businesses to hire and expand employment opportunities, thus reducing unemployment rates. State and local governments benefit from income and sales tax revenue generated from these employees.

Enterprise Zone Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance Tax Credit: $1,000 per net new employee

For the first two years that a business is in an enterprise zone, the business can earn $1,000 per net new employee insured under a qualified health plan for which the employer pays at least 50% of the cost. This tax credit encourages businesses to provide a qualified health insurance plan to employees, potentially improving community health, and reducing public health costs.

Enterprise Zone Research and Development Tax Credit: 3% of an increase in research and development expenses

Businesses can earn a 3% tax credit for an increase in annual research and development expenses compared to what they spent the prior two years. Investment in research and experimentation supports an innovative economy. A research and development focused business that sells products, services, or intellectual property will bring outside dollars to the local economy.

Enterprise Zone Vacant Commercial Building Rehabilitation Tax Credit: 25% of rehabilitation costs (up to $50,000 in credits on $200,000 or more in costs)

If a business rehabilitates a commercial building that is at least 20 years old and has been vacant for at least two years, the business can earn a state income tax credit for 25% of rehabilitation costs (up to $50,000 in credits on $200,000 or more on costs). This tax credit encourages the revitalization of dilapidated buildings and blighted areas, bringing new businesses and employees to the community. State and local governments gain tax revenue from new economic activity.

Enterprise Zone Commercial Vehicle Investment Tax Credit: 1.5% of purchase price

A taxpayer can earn a state income tax credit for 1.5% of the price of new commercial trucks, truck tractors, tractors, semi-trailers, and associated parts registered in Colorado and used in an enterprise zone. This tax credit encourages businesses to register new commercial vehicles in Colorado and pay Colorado licensing and registration fees.

Enterprise Zone Investment Tax Credit: 3% of business personal property investment

Businesses can earn a state income tax credit for 3% of an investment in business personal property. New business personal property increases a company’s capacity. The taxes a business pays on these purchases far exceed all tax credits under the enterprise zone program.

Enterprise Zone Sales and Use Tax Exemption for Manufacturing and Mining: Sales and use tax exemption

The statewide sales and use tax exemption for purchases of manufacturing equipment is expanded to include non-capitalized equipment and parts if the business is located within a zone. The enterprise zone statutes also expand manufacturing to include mining.

If you have additional questions, you may contact Colleen DePasquale at the Estes Chamber.

Conservancy Board Of Directors Welcomes Amy Crossland

The Rocky Mountain Conservancy is pleased to welcome Amy Crossland as the newest member of its Board of Directors. Crossland brings an enduring connection to Rocky Mountain National Park, deep ties to the Grand Lake community, and an extensive record of nonprofit service.

“Amy brings both heart and perspective to the board,” said Walt Borneman, Board President. “Her personal connection to the west side of the park, her family’s involvement with our conservation corps, and her lifelong commitment to service make her a tremendous addition to the Conservancy’s leadership.”

Crossland’s connection to Rocky Mountain National Park began in the mid-1980s when she first visited the Kawuneeche Valley. Although she has spent decades returning to the area, a recent tour of the exclosure at Beaver Creek helped her fully understand the scale of wetland degradation taking place in the Valley and the critical importance of restoration efforts Rocky Mountain Conservancy supports through the Kawuneeche Valley Restoration Collaborative.

“Seeing the impacts on the wetlands

and wildlife was eye-opening,” Crossland said. “It’s such a vital landscape, not just for the park, but for everything downstream. The work happening there feels incredibly important.”

Originally drawn to Colorado as a college student, Crossland worked at Grand Lake Lodge and later transferred to Colorado State University, where she completed her degree. She recalls arriving in Grand Lake at age 19—after applying for the job by mail and with little idea of what to expect—and instantly falling in love with the landscape.

family purchased a condo there when their children were toddlers, and Grand Lake has remained a central part of their lives ever since.

“That summer changed my life,” she said. “I found the place where I wanted to plant my roots.”

Crossland and her husband later raised their three sons in the Denver area but made a conscious decision to give their children the freedom to explore and connect with nature in Grand Lake. The

One of Crossland’s sons, Blake, participated in the Rocky Mountain Conservancy Conservation Corps Program, an experience she describes as transformative.

Blake went on to serve as a crew leader, gaining leadership skills, technical experience, and a deep respect for the land—skills that later supported his work with Rocky Mountain National Park and continue to serve him in his current role at Winter Park Resort.

Crossland spends most of her time on the west side of the park and names Rock Cut as her favorite place inside park boundaries, particularly when changing weather reveals dynamic views of the peaks. She is especially inspired by the tundra ecosystem and the resilience

of its tiny alpine plants.

She has devoted much of her professional life to volunteer service. Her experience includes mentoring first-time mothers, supporting patients through the American Red Cross, volunteering with Ronald McDonald House, assisting with equine-assisted therapy programs for children with disabilities, and supporting free dental clinics for underserved communities.

“I’ve always looked for ways to connect with people and contribute in meaningful ways,” Crossland said. “Serving on the Conservancy board feels like a natural extension of that.”

As a board member, Crossland looks forward to supporting the Conservancy’s work in the park to help ensure that future generations experience the same senses of wonder and belonging in wild spaces that have shaped her own life.

Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s Board of Directors provides strategic leadership, fundraising support, and organizational oversight for the nonprofit, which was established in 1931 and serves as the official partner of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Bee Hollow Treasure Hunt: Save The Date For March 29

Mark your calendars and plan to join the Bee Hollow Treasure Hunt, a fundraiser for the Estes Valley Recreation & Parks District Permaculture Program:

• Sunday, March 29, 1 p.m. start

• 18-Hole Golf Course

• Six teams of six participants

• $100/team or $20/pp — sign up by March 20

• 6.5 km distance criss-crossing Bee Hollow

• Approximately 3-4 hours

• Prizes are jars of honey!

• Email Kim Slininger for additional info and to register: kims@evrpd.com

The Tale

This story spans millennia and centers on transformation—and the search for unity among the inhabitants of a land called Bee Hollow. At its heart is a treasure hunt designed to teach participants about the Hollow and its most ancient residents: the Bees.

The characters represent forces that shaped the land: the Ravens (developers), the Beavers and Badgers (architects and builders), the Elk, and the Bees.

The Transformation of Bee Hollow Bee Hollow began as a landscape of rolling ridges, pine forests, and open meadows. The Ravens came first to frolic—but soon wanted more. They imagined a Hollow reshaped for greater play.

With ambition and cooperation, they enlisted the Beavers and Badgers. Water was redirected. Broad pathways—Raven Runs—were carved across the land for soaring, kiting, and gathering. Over centuries, the Hollow evolved into a vast Raven playground, though it continued

to support Elk and others.

As the Ravens’ influence grew, six Clans formed—each a variation of the same shared lineage, though with different dominant traits.

The Six Clans

Each Clan reflects a blend of three traits: prosperity (Raven), earthmoving (Badger), and water-moving (Beaver).

1) RaBaBe Clan, Red – Triangle. Prosperity-minded, with earthmoving as a strong secondary trait.

2) RaBeBa Clan, Orange – Pentagon. Focused on progress, guided secondarily by water movement.

3) BeRaBa Clan, Purple – Diamond. Builders at heart, em phasizing water in their development efforts.

4) BaRaBe Clan, Yellow – Oval. Grounded in earthmoving, with prosperity shaping their journey.

5) BaBeRa Clan, Green – Hexagon. Earth-focused, then water, with prosperity less dominant.

way to development, plant and animal diversity declined. The final offense? Numbered assignments for places. The Bees needed no numbers to navigate their home.

As development continued—launch pads for soaring, landing decks for frolicking (which the Elk cleverly claimed for dancing)—the Bees raised their concerns. At a gathering of inhabitants, they proposed a new idea: a hunt.

The hunt would educate the Clans on restoring wildlands while preserving room for play. Numbers would guide participants—but in a natural, simple system based on tens, not rigid control.

The Setting of the Hunt

Bee Hollow is now bordered by fences, roads, and structures—an island within development. The hunt takes place within these bounds:

• East: the centerline of the Mighty Fish

• West: the 90/270 axis

• North: the Highlands drainage on the 0/180 axis

drainage and lowest in elevation. Expanding wildlands, wide meadows, ponderosa glades, wetlands, and a clear confluence with the Mighty Fish.

Pinus Divide: The shortest drainage, beginning near the first Raven Run launching pad. It includes Divide Knoll, an overlook above Bee Draw with distant mountain views.

Clan Basin: Heavily developed. Its natural flow now runs underground before meeting the Mighty Fish.

Thumb Draw: Flowing from the southwest past the Frolic Net, partially diverted underground before daylighting near a fence and continuing to the river. Shares the Highland Plateau headland.

Longview Draw: Originating high in the southwest, it offers the best downstream view toward the Mighty Fish. A southern tributary marks the highest elevation in Bee Hollow before draining across a broad southern basin.

The Purpose

6) BeBaRa Clan, Blue – Round. Governed by water, then earth, with prosperity last.

Those Who Did Not Colonize

The Elk kept to themselves. The Hollow’s transformation left them with abundant grazing and gathering grounds.

The Bees also resisted colonization— but fared less well. As wildlands gave

• Many edges marked by fences Clan-built features range from over a century old (“Historic Clan – H”) to recent additions (“Modern Clan – M”).

Yet one thing the Clans could not change was the lay of the land. Nature still governs water flow, wind, and elevation. Five distinct drainages remain, all flowing generally from 270° (uphill) to 90° (downhill), emptying into the Mighty Fish.

The Five Drainages Bee Draw (North): The most diverse

Today, a hunt is underway—not of speed or sport, but of understanding. Participants traverse the Hollow seeking knowledge and hidden tokens. The reward is symbolic: the concentrated sweetness of life created by the Bees. These treasures require effort, observation, critical thinking—and yes, attention to numbers.

This is a story of balance between built and natural worlds. A vision of a Hollow where all inhabitants work together for shared prosperity. You will cross the land. You will search for clues.

And perhaps—just perhaps—you will find both treasure and renewal.

Local Love Pours Into Moms Café at EVICS Family Resource Center

On Monday morning, while much of Estes Park was easing into the week, something special was happening inside EVICS Family Resource Center.

The smell of fresh coffee filled the room. Pastries were passed from hand to hand. A baby fussed for a moment before settling into sleep. A few toddlers giggled from the playroom down the hall. And around a simple circle of chairs, a group of mothers leaned in — listening, sharing, encouraging one another.

It may have looked like an ordinary gathering. But it was something much deeper.

For many of us who have lived here for decades, we remember when neighbors stopped by without calling first. When coffee was poured at kitchen tables. When raising children was something a whole community quietly helped with. In today’s world, many young families do not have grandparents nearby. Some are new to town. Others are carrying burdens they do not always speak about.

Moms Café was created to bring back that sense of neighborly care.

Each Monday from 10:30–11:30 a.m., mothers in every stage — from newborn days to school-age transitions —

gather in a judgmentfree space to breathe, to laugh, sometimes to cry, and most importantly, to know they are not alone.

One of the most meaningful parts of the morning happens just down the hall. In EVICS’ dedicated playroom, children are cared for in a safe and nurturing environment while their mothers enjoy an hour of adult conversation. For many moms, that single hour is the only quiet, supported time they receive all week.

This week felt especially joyful thanks to the generous support of Kind Coffee. Their donation of fresh coffee and pastries reminded everyone in the room that local businesses still believe in uplifting local families. It was a simple gesture — but it carried a powerful message: You matter.

The program is led by Cassie Bartlett, EVICS’ Program Manager and a mother of two young children herself. Having recently moved to Estes Park, she understands what it feels like to search for connection in a new place.

“Becoming a mom changed everything for me,” Cassie shares. “Moms Café has become one of my biggest passions. Motherhood has its chal-

lenges, but having other moms to walk alongside you — and the support of EVICS — makes such a difference.”

And there is more ahead. On March 30, EVICS will host a special empowerment event at Vert Gym featuring a self-defense class for mothers, led by certified Dangerously Cute Krav Maga instructor Ellen Benes. Free childcare will be provided, because EVICS understands that support must be practical to be meaningful.

But here is the part that matters most for our community:

Programs like Moms Café do not happen by accident.

They happen because people who love Estes Park choose to invest in its families.

Many of the mothers who attend are raising the next generation of teachers, firefighters, small business owners, nurses, and volunteers. When we strengthen parents, we strengthen the future of this valley.

For those who remember what it meant to have neighbors who showed up — this is your opportunity to be that neighbor again.

Your gift to EVICS can help sustain programs like Moms Café and can also be earmarked toward EVICS’ future permanent facility — a place where families will continue to gather, learn, and grow for decades to come.

In a world that often feels rushed and disconnected, something beautiful is happening on Monday mornings in Estes Park.

It looks like coffee. It sounds like laughter. It feels like community. And it is only the beginning.

Music In The Glen Returns To Glen Haven Town Hall

The

and

will host the first "Music

Open Mic night of 2026 on Saturday, February 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. Performers are asked to check in by 5:30 to ensure they get on the list. PA, microphones and some backline equipment will be provided, but bring your

instrument and whatever you need to perform.

BYO food and drinks. Free to the public, we're excited to bring this popular event back to the area! We've been fortunate to have some great musicians participate in the past, so don't miss it!

What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library

Hondius Room

HOURS

Mondays - Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Fridays & Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.

Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to secure your spot.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Monthly Writing Group

Monday, March 2, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Wasson Room

Calling all writers, aspiring writers, & anyone interested in writing! On the first Monday evening each month share your writing, enjoy others’ work, receive & provide feedback. All genres & forms are welcome.

Humor, Heart, & Reflective Rural Stories

Wednesday, March 4, 12 - 1 p.m., Online

Join the conversation with bestselling author and humorist Michael Perry, whose collection of genre-spanning works encapsulates the experiences, & magic, of rural town communities and the everyday people who reside in them.

Brilliant Pages: A Writing Workshop for Serious Writing

Sunday, March 8, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., Wasson Room

Celebrate Makerspace March by joining us for this hands-on workshop to make something vivid, honest, & alive on the page - no matter your experience level or genre.

ALL AGES

Young Chautauqua Performances

Saturday, February 28, 4 - 6 p.m., Hondius Room

Repeated Sunday, March 1, 2 - 4 p.m.,

Join our Young Chautauquans as they bring fictional characters to life with their performances.

Puzzle Exchange

Saturday, March 7, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Hondius Room

It’s time again for our biannual puzzle exchange. Drop in to browse the wide variety of puzzles we have to choose from. Bring a puzzle to swap or just stop by to get one that’s new-to-you.

ADULTS

Booklover’s Ball: A Regency Romance

Friday, February 27, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.,

The Stanley Hotel Pavilion

Adults, teens, & tweens are invited to step into an evening of elegance, imagination, & literary charm to celebrate our shared love of books & Regencyinspired themes. Participants will enjoy a night of dancing, crafts, & interactive experiences. Dress in your best themed attire or modern finest.

Election Information

Thursday, March 5, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Library Atrium

The League of Women Voters of Estes Park will be onsite to help with voter registration, important election dates, & information about voting in local, regional, & national elections.

Renovation Presentation

Thursday, March 5, 5 - 6 p.m., Quiet Room

Learn about our upcoming renovation, see the plans, ask questions, & be entered into a drawing to win a Library swag bag, including a Kindle Paperwhite.

Coffee Chat with Claudine

Saturday, March 7, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m, Atrium

Drop by to get your questions answered about our upcoming renovation by Director Perrault & Operations Manager Curnutt over coffee & light snacks.

TEENS & TWEENS

Young Dragon Slayers

Wednesday, March 4, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Interested in learning how to play Dungeons & Dragons? Want to think strategically & make new

friends? Join other tweens for this classic fantasy-world game.

Teen Anime Club

Wednesday, March 4, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Calling all fans of anime & manga! Join us to celebrate all our favorite shows, movies, & stories. We’ll watch 1-2 episodes of a featured series or a full-length anime movie while enjoying snacks & an anime themed craft.

Young Chautauqua: Living Scavenger Hunt

Thursday, March 5, 4 - 5:15 p.m., Library-wide

Our Young Chautauquans will be hiding throughout the Library. When you find one, they will treat you to a short speech.

Teen Advisory Council

Thursday, March 5, 6 - 7 p.m., Hondius Room

Teens & tweens are invited to recommend ideas for Library programming, collection purchases, & help design our future teen space.

Dragon Slayers: Tween Campaign Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Quiet Room

Tweens & kids are invited to this youth-led D&D event. Make new friends, explore your imagination, build cooperation, & strengthen problem-solving skills.

Young Adult Dungeons & Dragons: Make a Dungeon

Sunday, March 8, 1 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Celebrate Makerspace March by joining us to make a dungeon for a different D&D campaign, down to the traps, riddles, & monsters it hides.

Make a Rube Goldberg Machine Sunday, March 8, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Celebrate Makerspace March by joining us to use everyday household items to create an overly complicated contraption that will use movement & motion to complete a very simple task.

KIDS & FAMILIES

Library Storytimes

Baby Storytime: Thurs. & Sat. at 10 a.m.

Preschool Storytime: Thurs. & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.

Super Science Saturday: Airplanes & the Power of Air Saturday, February 28, 1 - 2:15 p.m., Hondius Room

Kids & tweens are invited to create & test a variety of airplanes by flying them through Hula hoops & targets. Mad Scientist Mark will demonstrate the study of airflow & physics behind how an airplane wing works.

Friday Kids Club: Watercolor & Embroidery Art

Friday, March 6, 10 - 11 a.m., Hondius Room

We will be using watercolors, paper, & embroidery thread to create an interesting, textured piece of abstract art.

Suess City Construction & Landscape Art

Saturday, March 7, 11:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Makerspace

In honor of Dr. Suess’ birthday, we are making a Suess City by creating painted truffula trees, whimsical hills, & Suessical houses from The Lorax. MAKERSPACE & TECHNOLOGY Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County

Mondays, Tuesday, & Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Dream Study Room

Build digital skills like using your smartphone, accessing websites & accounts online, improving online communications, & more. Appointments required.

Embroidery Machine Training Class

Monday, March 2, 10 - 11:30 a.m. or 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace

Learn the basics of the Brother embroidery machine to add graphics or text to cloth.

3D Printer Training Class

Tuesday, March 3, 10 - 11:30 a.m. or 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace

Learn to use the Prusa 3D printers to make just about anything you can imagine from plastic filament. For ages 10 & up (participants under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult).

Make a Little Stained Glass Bird

Wednesday, March 4, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace

Celebrate Makerspace March by exploring the art of stained glass in this hands-on program. Learn the basics including cutting, foiling, & assembling glass, while crafting a charming stained glass bird to take home.

Paper Snowflakes & Book Blooms

Thursday, March 5, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace

In this program, you will turn everyday materials into something extraordinary by transforming simple paper lunch bags or repurposed book pages into stunning snowflakes or floral designs.

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION

Cliffhanger Used Books

Operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, & music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Peak To Peak Concert Series Presents Estes Valley Student Recitals

The Peak to Peak Concert Series spotlights musicians living in the Estes Valley. The Student Recitals concert on Saturday, March 7 features students of music teachers Melinda Workman, Rachel Wilke, and Jeff Van Devender. Students of many age groups and ability levels from beginner through advanced will be represented. They will be performing piano, vocal, violin and flute pieces. The concert will be held at 2 p.m. at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail. A reception follows the concert to meet and greet the musicians.

The recital will feature 25 students, performing on piano, flute, violin and as vocalists. Melinda Workman’s students are Grace Aldridge, Everett Buckingham, Jude Buckingham, Aspyn Hartzog, Hadley Hartzog, Weston Hartzog, Gwen Pawson, and Natalie Workman. Rachel Wilke’s students are Grace Bergman, Abram Gunderson, Adelaide Gunderson, Summer Gurung , Isaiah Hoskins, Lillian Layton, Letha Leaming, Arabella Shrestha, Raleigh Waters, Ransome Waters. Jeff Van Devender’s students are Leah Morales,

March Murder Madness Event At Macdonald Book Shop

Come for the fun, but beware the puzzle! Macdonald Book Shop will host a Mystery Night on Friday, March 6, 2026. The evening includes puzzles to solve, a book discussion, and mocktails. One lucky winner will earn a prize. This is a free event from 5 to 7 p.m., and requires RSVPs via our website, macdonaldbookshop.com. The first ten people to sign up will receive a swag item.

The book shop is working to create multiple events throughout the year, each with different themes and activities to make the off-season more en-

tertaining for book lovers. Our staff look forward to seeing customers for these free events. The shop is hosting an evening with Thaine to discuss George Macdonald books and a Project Hail Mary Book to Movie Event in March.

Macdonald Book Shop collaborated on a very successful Silent Book Reading Event on Friday, February 20, 2026. Check the website for another one of these events coming soon. Some highlights for the rest of the year include a special Winnie the Pooh birthday party, another mystery night, and more Book to Movie Events.

Garrick Richardson, Isabella Richardson, Amelia Schwenk, Gabrielle Weatherwax, and Luna Youtz.

Pictured below are some of the students that will be performing: Aspyn Hartzog, Hadley Hartzog and Weston Hartzog, students of Melinda Workman; Abram Gunderson, Adelaide Gunderson and Lillian Layton, students of Rachel Wilke; and Leah Morales and Amelia Schwenk, students of Jeff Van Devender.

It is wonderful to see such a strong next generation of music students in our community.

Please join us to enjoy an afternoon concert and support these fine musicians!

Fine Arts Guild Of The Rockies Youth Theater Camp Auditions Announced

The Youth Theater production of Singing in the Rain last summer found fifty students tap dancing onstage at the high school. It was great fun and they all did a terrific job, but that’s a lot of kids, 3rd through 12th grade! The program has grown and we’re thrilled, but to better meet the needs of all students this summer, there will be two camps, dividing the students by grade level. Camp for students currently in 6th through 12th grade will be held June 1 – 12, with public performances on June 13 and 14. For students currently in 2nd through 5th grade, camp will take place June 15 – 26 with performances June 27 and 28. Both camps run Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. with performances on Saturday and Sunday.

The older students will learn and practice acting skills, choreography, and vocals as they relate to Disney’s

Mary Poppins and for the younger students, Once Upon a Mattress. Auditions for both camps will be held March 28, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Estes Park High School auditorium. These are no-cut auditions, so everyone will be cast, but because the directors don’t necessarily know the students, will allow them to better cast the shows based on talents demonstrated by the students. Use the QR codes to sign up for an audition.

There will also be a tech camp during the first camp, June 1 – 12 for the same grade levels. Students will help build and paint sets and props, help plan the light plot and run the lights for both productions. Students interested in tech camp don’t have to audition but need to sign up by May 15 at tinyurl.com/4d26u32w. Have questions? Email fineartsguildep@gmail.com.

YMCA International Dinner

Enjoy signature dishes from eight different countries, prepared by our incredible exchange visitors. Experience a global culinary journey while meeting and interacting with the exchange visitors who prepared the dishes! This first-come, first-served sit-down dinner has been hosted for over 15 years. Come celebrate diversity, cultural exchange, and of course, delicious food.

Tuesday, March 10, 2026 5:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Assembly Hall, YMCA of the Rockies- Estes Park Center

2515 Tunnel Rd, Estes Park, CO

Purchase tickets at the door

Adults: $12

Children 3-10: $10

Children 2 and under: Free

Estes Valley Foreign Policy Association March Lecture: US-China Relations In The New Trump Era

Staying well-informed and up-todate on the prevailing American issues of our time has never been more difficult and complicated than it is right now. Understanding facts and learning unbiased information directly affecting you, your children, and your grandchildren has never been more important. Where can you find that kind of critical information in Estes Park? The New York Times? The BBC? CNN or Fox?

taxpayers. Diversity of ideas is heartily welcomed and embraced by all during our discussion.

March 2 – 6

Monday, March 2 Breakfast Croissant (scrambled eggs w/ cheese topped w/ ham), Hashbrowns & fruit

Tuesday, March 3 Fried Chicken (3 pc) w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables

Wednesday, March 4 Avocado Bacon Cheddar Burger w/ Homemade Chips

The Answer: The Great Decisions Forum at the Estes Valley Library.

Each month, the forum meets to discuss key social, economic, and security issues to understand fully how government policies and events affect us and shape our immediate future. The forum moderator (a local Estes Park neighbor of yours) leads the group through a short, high-quality video lecture. Each video features up-to-date information developed by a nationally recognized subject matter expert. Forum attendees then freely discuss the topic, exchanging ideas and personal experiences. The Forum is apolitical and focuses on building an understanding that we need to be educated, voters and wise

On Thursday, March 12, we will discuss US-China Relations in the new Trump Era. This discussion will explore the contours of the U.S. foreign policy debate as it plays out the world. Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on rare earth minerals be effective? What are America’s strategic options?

The mission and purpose of the Estes Valley Foreign Policy Association, a non-political, nonprofit organization, is to educate citizens on the critical national issues of our time. Attendance is free. Presentations are conducted by leaders and executives from diverse fields, complemented by active involvement from local citizens. This meeting is held on Thursday, March 12 in the Wasson Room at our fabulous Estes Valley Library from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Be the best-informed citizen you can be in 2026 and participate in these free educational sessions.

Village Thrift Shop Grant Applications –The Last Call

On February 28, 2026, after nearly 10 years of meritorious service with the support of and for the greater Estes Valley community, the Village Thrift Shop, Inc. (VTS) declares mission accomplished as the doors are locked and the premier thrift shop on Manford Avenue in Estes Park passes from reality to memory. And for the tenth time, this is the last call. Also on February 28, applications for the 2026 VTS grant funding cycle will be available for charitable organizations providing services to the Estes Valley community. Nonprofits determined by the Internal Revenue Service to operate as a 501(c)(3) and registered in good standing with the Colorado Secretary of State are encouraged to complete and submit a request to the Village Thrift Shop for funding by March 31, 2026. After review by the VTS Board of Directors, grant funds will be distributed in early April. Grant applications and guidelines are posted for download at the VTS website, epvillagethrift.org/grant-application. The guidelines should be reviewed and the completed application package should be returned via mail or

e-mail and received on or before March 31 to be considered.

The Village Thrift Shop is a nonprofit corporation that generates revenue through the resale of donated goods. Generous donors, considerate business partners, a dedicated all-volunteer staff, and loyal patrons support VTS profit sharing. Over the past nine years, $1,498,737 has been distributed to qualified nonprofits providing critical services and beneficial programs in the Estes Valley. The final 2026 allocation will be the largest annual grant total exceeding $250,000. Every year for the past decade, the all-volunteer staff at Village Thrift Shop freely gave over 9,000 hours of personal time in order to process a bounty of donated, sellable goods from residents and visitors alike. These goods were made available and subsequently purchased by first time and regular customers from near and far. And all net revenue was shared with nonprofits in and around Estes Park.

Thank you, donors, volunteers and patrons! Donations to dollars by and for community. And now, it’s time to rest – hard earned and well deserved.

Thursday, March 5 Chicken Alfredo w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad

Friday, March 6 Trout (4 oz) w/ Baked Potato & soup of the day

March 9 – 13

Monday, March 9 Country Fried Chicken w/ sausage gravy on the side, Scrambled Eggs, Hashbrowns & Biscuit

Tuesday, March 10 BBQ Pork Ribs (4) w/ Baked Beans & coleslaw

Wednesday, March 11 Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich on sourdough bread w/ Tomato Salad

Thursday, March 12 Mexican Platter (beef taco in corn shell, bean burrito topped w/ pork green chili & cheesy quesadilla) w/ refried beans

Friday, March 13 Fish & Homemade Chips w/ soup of the day

Starting March 1, Individual Meals are $12 for current 2026 EP Senior Citizens Center members and are by reservation only. (Non-members $14; reservation only). Exact cash or check payment required. Reservations must be made by 1:00 PM at least one business day in advance. Note, if you want to reserve a meal for Monday, Mar 2nd, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Feb 27th. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane. The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 -- 1 TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM Circuit Balance Monday 1-1:45 PM Mahjong Tuesday 10 – 2 Tai Ji Class Tuesday 10:15 – 11:15 AM Joyful Movement 1st, 3rd & 5th Thursday 10:15-11:15 AM Fluid Movement & Balance 2nd & 4th Thursday 10:30-11:15 AM

Live Music & Presentations Tuesday @ 12:00 – 1:30 (TBA)

Aspen Club Blood Pressure Check 4th Wednesday 10:00 – 1:00 Aspen Club Presentations 2nd Wednesday 12:00 – 1:30 Bridge Group Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM with lessons in the morning Canasta, Euchre & Pinochle 1st, 3rd & 5th Wednesday 1:00-4:30

Reserved Meals-to-Go delivered to your vehicle or EAT at the Senior Citizens Center Check out our website: estesparkseniors.org or call for the latest information

Local Teen Beats Utah Record Again

“I love to ride my bike, it’s my favorite thing ever.”

Exhausted and thirsty after the effort, Kostadinov posted on Strava: “White Rim in a Day— Holy Crikey! Didn’t bring enough food, so that was good fun…crazy ride, saw so many different things so quickly. It’s all a blur!”

Kostadinov got her start in mountain bike racing with the Estes Park Mountain Bike Team, coached by Dana and Josh Cramer and Chloe and Phil Bogardus. She

16-year-old Estes Park high school student Ellie Kostadinov has beaten the fastest women in the “Under 19” Category for mountain biking Utah’s iconic White Rim Trail for the second year in a row. Kostadinov beat her own record from 2024, which was challenged, but not bested, by other riders in the category during 2025. Kostadinov set the new record on October 25, 2025 with a time of 7 hours, 55 minutes and 36 seconds.

The 100-mile course, located in scenic Canyonlands National Park, is an athletic test-piece for mountain bike enthusiasts. Completing the challenge “in a day,” is a popular contest, with worldclass professional riders flocking to the region each spring and fall to try to gain the fastest known time. Overall winners are Keegan Swenson, who clocked a blazing time of 5:28:17 in March of 2021 when he was 27 years old, and Hanna Otto, who set a record of 6:36:51 in May of 2025 at the age of 29.

Kostadinov plans to attempt the ride in the autumn of 2026 when she will be 17 years old to lower her time even more. “If I can complete the White Rim in under seven hours this fall, I will be happy,” the teenager said. This lofty goal would place her among the top three women who have been able to complete the course in under seven hours, and would put her within 30 minutes of Otto’s all-time women’s record.

The scenic course traverses a layer of White Rim Sandstone in a loop that gains almost 8,000 feet of elevation and showcases grand views of the Colorado and Green Rivers, as well as the famous arches and sandstone towers that dot the landscape. Hairpin turns, deep and loose dirt and sand, steep grades, intense wind patterns and the punishing desert sun make the ride extremely challenging.

The White Rim is also a popular 4WD vehicle test, with most private and commercial trips taking two to three days to complete.

The Canyonlands National Park website states, “The steep, exposed sections of the Shafer Trail, Lathrop Canyon

The Strava Leaderboard showing 16year-old Ellie Kostadinov at the top of the Under 19 Age Group for the White Rim Trail Mountain Bike Challenge 2025

Road, Murphy Hogback, Hardscrabble Hill, and the Mineral Bottom switchbacks make the White Rim loop a challenging mountain bike ride, and require extreme caution for both vehicles and bikes during periods of inclement weather.”

The White Rim Cycling Challenge is distinct from a traditional race in that the competitors participate independently at a time that suits them instead of at a pre-set race time where they compete against each other on the same day. The computer App Strava compiles and stores the data from athletes who share their performance on the platform.

The website cyclingfkt.com lists the Fastest Known Times (FKT’s) for the White Rim Cycling Challenge. The categories are broken down by age groups (including the under 19 age group that Kostadinov won two years in a row) and overall winners.

All participants must start and end in the same place, and adhere to strict rules, which are peer-enforced and largely rely on the honor system. For Kostadinov’s category, riders must be self-supported and not accept any outside help, must carry their own gear,

food and water, and must record their ride on Strava.

Athletes commonly have pacing partners—companions who help set and maintain the pace of the ride—but these fellow riders can’t physically aid the athletes in any way, not even for a mechanical issue like a flat tire, broken chain or bent rim.

Kostadniov’s father, Alex, accompanied her for the first 40 miles of the ride before the younger Kostadinov outpaced him. “I just couldn’t hold on,” he said, laughing. “She’s just too fast.”

At 16, riding the remaining 60 miles through an unforgiving environment alone was a mental challenge. “It was interesting being out there on my own,” Kostadinov admitted. “I knew I didn’t have enough food and water, so I had to conserve. Logically I knew it was possible that if I got in trouble, I may come across someone in a 4WD vehicle who could help, but there was no guarantee. For so many miles it was just me and the landscape. It was kind of intimidating, but I believed in myself and kept my thoughts focused on the ride. If I would have asked for help, then my ride wouldn’t have counted. So, I just kept pushing and believing in myself,” she said.

has raced in the Colorado High School Cycling League for three seasons and placed 9th in the State Championship in Glenwood Springs at the end of last year. She is currently racing as a Junior Pro on the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) circuit. Her first 2026 race is in Puerto Rico at the end of February. Kostadinov plans to continue mountain bike racing into her college years and potentially beyond. “I love to ride my bike,” she said. “It’s my favorite thing ever.”

Community Square Dance & St. Patrick’s Concert To Be Held At Stanley Home Museum This March

The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center is welcoming spring with two lively and distinctly different community events this March — an OldTime Community Square Dance and an intimate St. Patrick’s concert at the historic Stanley Home.

The festivities begin on March 7 with an Old-Time Community Square Dance at the Estes Valley Community Center. This family-friendly evening invites dancers of all ages and experience levels to enjoy traditional music, spirited calling, and plenty of laughter. No partner or prior experience is necessary — just bring your enthusiasm

Shanna In A Dress

and comfortable shoes.

The event takes place at the Estes Valley Community Center from 7 – 9 p.m., doors open at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults and $10 per child, and pre-registration is encouraged. The evening will include pie, popcorn, and lemonade for all to enjoy. The event is designed to bring neighbors together in a warm, welcoming atmosphere that celebrates community traditions and simple fun. This event is proudly sponsored by YMCA of the Rockies, The Post, and You Need Pie.

On March 14, the celebration continues with a special St. Patrick’s music

At Listening At The Legion: Thursday, March 5

Shanna in a Dress brings her "quirky folk pop from a clever millennial who sucks at dating" to American Legion Post 119 (850 N St. Vrain Avenue) on Thursday, March 5 at 6:30 p.m. The Listening at the Legion show kicks off Shanna's Colorado Tour as the former Boulder res ident revisits some of her old haunts and new venues. Concert info and tickets can be found at legion listen.com.

Shanna in a Dress started her career at the University of Virginia, biked across the country and fell in love with Colorado where she resided for eight years, and she now keeps the music flowing out of St. Louis. You can’t get the same Shanna in a Dress show twice with her spontaneous banter and playful stage presence. She manages to teeter the line masterfully of taking on complex subject matters with smart accessible lyrics. Her songs are laden with clever wordplay and delight audiences of all ages.

In 2020 alone, Shanna was a winner in the Kerrville New Folk competition, named a Grassy Hill Emerging Artist at the Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, and won the Great River Folk Fest Song

concert featuring the Molly Higgins Band, a traditional Celtic music band, hosted inside the historic Stanley Home. This intimate performance offers a unique opportunity to experience live music in one of Estes Park’s most treasured historic settings. The experience is as timeless as the Celtic music itself. Seating is limited to 30 people to preserve the close, salon-style atmosphere.

Tickets for the Molly Higgins Band concert are $30 per person, and reservations are required. The evening includes light appetizers and drinks, creating a festive and relaxed St. Patrick’s gathering.

“These events reflect our mission to create meaningful cultural experiences while honoring the legacy of F.O. and Flora Stanley,” said Executive Director Lisa O’Sullivan Carroll. “We love bringing the community together through music, history, and shared celebration.” Tickets for both events are available at stanleyhome.org. Early purchase is encouraged, as space is limited for the March 14 concert.

For more information, visit the website or follow the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center on social media for updates and additional programming announcements.

tour “Shanna in a Dress on a Bike” totaled 61 shows in 20 states (not to mention 2000+ miles of biking) during the summer of 2021. Shanna's crowdfunding campaign for her debut album "Robot” (released in 2022 and produced by Denver music mainstay and fellow Kerrville New Folk winner Megan Burtt) ended up raising over twice the goal amount. Shanna has most recently been seen gracing the stages of the Kerrville Folk Festival, the Rocky Mountain Folks Fest, and the Philadelphia Folk Festival. Her new album "Sweet Spot" will be released later this year.

For additional bio, videos, tour dates, etc., see shannainadress.com.

SUNDAY 3-8-2026

12PM-4:45PM 1600 MANFORD AVE.

Sunrise Rotary Enjoys Inspiring Evening At Art Center Of Estes Park

Members of the Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club gathered Tuesday evening at the Art Center of Estes Park for a special social event celebrating the Center’s newest ex hibition.

Sunrise Rotarians were especially impressed by the creativity and talent showcased by young artists from Estes Park Schools. Their submissions reflected not only artistic skill, but also imagination and dedication that left attendees inspired and encouraged about the future of the Estes

Valley’s arts community.

The evening provided an opportunity for fellowship, conversation, and appreciation of the vibrant arts culture that makes Estes Park such a special place to live and serve.

Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary welcomes community members who are interested in service, fellowship, and making a positive local impact. Visitors are always invited to attend a meeting and learn more about joining the Club at tinyurl.com/29jaycuc.

Save The Date For The Stanley Home Museum Gala Celebration

Stanley Home Museum and Education Center announces a new venue and date for the Stanley Home Museum Gala Celebration. Mark your calendars! This year's event, Peaks of Celebration, will occur at the YMCA of the Rockies - Assembly Hall on June 13, 2026. We have a lot to celebrate as this marks five years of the Stanley

Estes Park High School Blood Drive

Donors can visit Vitalant.org and use blood drive code 10055793 OR- scan the QR code to sign up today!

For more information visit us at vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825. Because of you, life doesn't stop.

Home Gala and 10 years for the Stanley Home Museum Board.

The Celebration will include a live band and dancing, silent and live auctions, as well as prizes throughout the evening. Join the celebration this year, where milestones shimmer and thankfulness takes center stage. Stay tuned for more details.

Natalie Apodaca Luna Represents EP At American Legion State Oratorical Contest

On February 7, Natalie Apodaca Luna proudly represented Estes Park High School at the American Legion State Oratorical Contest in Golden. Competing against seasoned speech and debate students from across Colorado, she more than held her own, demonstrating poise, confidence, and a deep understanding of the U.S. Constitution. The American Legion Oratorical Contest, established in 1938, challenges high school students to develop a deeper knowledge and appreciation of the Constitution while building leadership skills, clear and effec tive communication, and an understanding of the

rights and responsibilities of American citizenship. We are incredibly proud of Natalie's dedication and performance, and we know she’s already thinking ahead to next year’s speech!

March Offerings From Rocky Mountain Meditation Group

As Estes Park experiences an unusual winter pattern, mixing even more so the four seasons so far, we continue meaningful gathering inward. We're honoring this time's gentle wisdom while sensing the first subtle turn toward returning light. March serves as a beautiful bridge: inviting release of what no longer serves, deep listening to the Earth's heartbeat through breath and drum, and preparing hearts and hands for sacred renewal ahead. It's perfect timing for crafting ceremonial tools, celebrating courageous new beginnings, and nurturing body, heart, and spirit together in our peaceful mountain sanctuary.

We offer free weekly meditations, as well as free monthly zoom and walking meditations.

We offer weekly Tuesday night Breathwork and Sound Journeys highlighting this month’s celestial events of Full Moon in Virgo, New Moon in

Pisces and Full Moon in Libra.

This month we have many Special Events including: Yin Yoga session including self-myofascial release, Acupressure and Acudetox with Rachel (March 7), The Soul's Compass Workshop series with Elizabeth Jameson (starting March 9), Sacred Drum-making with Jody (March 14), Vibroacoustic Bed Therapy with Chazz (March 18), Spring Equinox Celebration (March 19) and Sound Journey (March 27).

Whether breathing weekly, walking the trails, diving into the magical sounds and celestial experiences, crafting drums, or learning basic astrology, March invites gentle release, deep healing, and renewed flow.

Your presence makes our circle shine—thank you for joining us!

Explore the full calendar, register, and learn more at rockymountainmeditationgroup.com.

Hearing Loss: Silence Isn’t Golden, It’s Lonely!

Board-Certified Audiologist, Cory Workman, will address hearing loss, and concerns for cognitive decline related to hearing loss and outline the benefits of diagnostic hearing evaluations to pinpoint treatment options.

Join the Aspen Club in Estes Park on Wednesday, March 11, from noon-1:30 p.m. at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (1760 Olympian Lane). Registration is required by calling the Aspen Club at 970-496-8560.

Estes Park Aviation Club To Host March Meeting Featuring AI Presentation

The Estes Park Aviation Club will hold its March meeting at 6:30 p.m. on March 11 at the American Legion Hall Post 119, 850 N. St. Vrain Ave., Estes Park. The public is invited to attend. The featured speaker will be Estes Park resident Hays Hutton, a Distinguished Software Engineer with Palo Alto Networks. Hutton studies the history of computing not out of nostalgia, but to identify patterns that help shape future innovation. His presentation will focus on artificial intelligence and the OODA Loop — a decision-making

framework developed in the early 1970s by U.S. Air Force Col. John Boyd. Originally applied to military combat operations, the ObserveOrient-Decide-Act model is now influencing how modern AI systems process information and make decisions. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., with food and drinks available for purchase through the American Legion. The gathering is open to anyone interested in aviation, space, or connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

Meet & Greet For Lisa Chollet, Candidate for Larimer County Commissioner, February 27

Lisa Chollet, 2026 Democratic Candidate for Larimer County Commissioner, will be in Estes Park on Friday, February 27, for a Meet & Greet in the Hondius Room at the Estes Valley Library from 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Lisa is eager to meet Estes Valley voters, hear your concerns, and answer your questions. She has a long background of solving problems, managing tight budgets, and working collaboratively with diverse groups.

Besides working professionally in construction and project management, her community leadership in Larimer County is extensive. Lisa’s service includes Chair of the Larimer County Planning Commission, Wellington Planning Commissioner, and serving

on the Wellington Water Advisory Board.

She also works with families and those in need through her positions as Board Member of SummitStone Health Partners and Executive Director of “Safe Routes to School,” plus serving on the Poudre School District Budget Advisory Board. In her “spare” time, she has enjoyed being a volunteer with the American Legion.

Lisa believes that it is important to bring the attributes of discipline, transparency, and practical understanding to the County Commissioner’s Office. So please come to meet Lisa in person on February 27! Open to the public. (See also: LisaforLarimer.com)

Estes Park Quota Loan Closet Moves To New Location

To the Editor:

Estes Park Quota Loan Closet moved into our new location on February 13, 2026: 1140 Manford Avenue, #C, Estes Park, CO 80517. This new location has street access parking and convenient loading areas.

When our plight went out to the Estes Park community, stating the desperate and immediate need for a new site, this community’s response was incredible: prayers, advice, offers of short-term sites, businesses offering manpower and vehicles for the move. We really

are blessed to live in such a generous community.

Thanks to these efforts, we were able to lease this space and move in one week’s time! We are open for business and look forward to helping you with your medical equipment needs. Our phone numbers have not changed and the most current call schedule is available at estesparkquota.com.

We sincerely thank you, Estes Park!

Linda Polland

Estes Park Quota, Loan Closet

Russ, Edison, Aiden, & Yeti Need Loving, Forever Families

These beautiful pets are looking for their forever homes. Please make their wish come true!

Russ is a 10-month-old shepherd mix who has a heart of gold. He is dogfriendly and as sweet as pie to everyone he meets.

Edison is an adorable two-year-old pointer lab mix. Look at that face! He is also dog-friendly and would love to

romp down the trails, then cuddle up at home with you.

Aiden is a 9- to 10-month-old boy looking for a home preferably with a friendly dog so he can build his confidence. He loves to play and has been learning how to walk on leash. He travels very well in the car.

Handsome Yeti is a four-year-old neutered male cat with tan and cream

coloring. He is very outgoing and sociable!

Adoptable pets are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a nonprofit organization that is the Estes Valley’s only humane society.

To donate or learn more, visit their website at petassociationestespark.com, or you can make a tax-deductible donation to the Pet Association by sending your check to PO Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517.

Please consider giving one of these special pets a cozy, loving home. Call 970-286-1652 if you’d like to meet Russ, Edison, Aiden, or Yeti!

THE GOMEZ TEAM

Financial Focus®: New Tax Laws For 2026 That You Should Know

The new year brings more than resolutions and fresh starts; it also ushers in several tax changes that could affect your wallet. Whether you're saving for retirement, funding your child's education or supporting your favorite charity, here's are a few things you need to know about the tax landscape in 2026. More room to save for retirement and healthcare. There's good news for savers: Contribution limits for retirement accounts are going up. If you're under 50, you can now contribute up to $7,500 to an IRA, which is up from $7,000 in 2025. Those 50 and older can contribute an additional $1,100, for a total of $8,600.

The limits for 401(k), 403(b) and governmental 457(b) plans are also increasing, with workers younger than 50 able to defer up to $24,500. Visit IRS.gov and search "401k limit increases" for an article outlining the details.

Health savings account limits are rising too. In 2026, individual coverage increased to $4,400 and family coverage to $8,750. If you are age 55 or older and are not enrolled in Medicare, you can contribute an additional $1,000 as a catch-up contribution.

The start of the year is an ideal time to review your contributions and consider increasing them, even by small amounts which can add up over time.

A catch-up rule for high earners. If you're 50 or older and earned more than $150,000 last year, there's a new wrinkle in your retirement planning. You can still make catch-up contributions to your workplace retirement plan, but they must now be Roth contributions rather than traditional pretax contributions. This includes 401(k), 403(b) and 457(b) plans.

While you won't get an immediate tax break, Roth contributions offer tax-free income in retirement and can provide a tax-free legacy for your heirs.

Expanded benefits for 529 education plans. Families using 529 plans to cover K-12 expenses will see the annual federal distribution limit double from $10,000 to $20,000 per student. The definition of qualifying expenses has also expanded to include curriculum, books, certain tutoring expenses and testing fees.

This change provides more flexibility for families with overfunded plans and increases options for managing education costs across multiple children or beneficiaries.

New charitable giving provisions. The rules around charitable deductions are shifting in two directions. Taxpayers who take the standard deduction can now deduct up to $1,000 in cash donations ($2,000 for joint filers) to qualified organizations.

However, those who itemize deductions face a new threshold: only charitable contributions exceeding 0.5% of adjusted gross income are now deductible. Donors may want to consider bunching strategies or using donor-advised funds to maximize their tax benefits.

Getting help. Navigating these tax changes can be challenging, but you don't have to go it them alone. A qualified financial advisor and tax professional can help you understand how these and other changes affect your specific situation. Together, you can develop strategies to make the most of new opportunities while minimizing your tax burden.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by our local Edward Jones Financial Advisors. Edward Jones, Member SIPC.

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Welcome Women Golfers!

We are about two months away from the May 1 opening day at Estes Park Golf Course! We invite women golfers to join the Estes Park Golf Women’s Golf Association. We play on Tuesday mornings from early May until the end of September. We have players on the red tees, the yellow tees, and a combination of red and yellow tees, to ac-

commodate differing skill levels. We are a fun group of women who enjoy each other’s company and the game of golf. Handicaps are required to play, but if you don’t have a handicap, we can help you get one. Applications are due by March 30. For an application, email estesparkwomensgolf@gmail.com.

An Abundance Of Smiles: National Children’s Dental Health Month

By: Susan Fernbach, Estes Park Salud Foundation Board Member

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month and the Estes Park Salud Foundation is excited to celebrate it! Dental health is important for our teeth, gums, as well as our overall health. Dental health is also important for a child’s performance and success in school. Dental decay is the most common cause of chronic disease in children and results in a large number of missed days in school. Children with poor oral health are three times more likely to miss school due to dental pain. The good news, it is totally preventable!

What causes dental decay? Bacteria in the mouth can form plaque that sticks to the teeth, leading to cavities or small holes in the teeth. Most of the bacteria forming plaque is harmless but some can cause disease in other parts of the body, so good oral health can mean good overall health. Bacteria feed on sugars found in food and drinks, which is why toothbrushing is so critical. Dentists recommend children brush their teeth twice a day using a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste. Brushing allows us to sweep the bacteria away from our teeth, gums and tongue. There is an old saying “Only brush the teeth you want to keep” so

yes, this means all of them! Children can get cavities in their primary teeth, so brushing with a tiny amount of toothpaste from the time a baby has their first tooth is recommended, as well as seeing a dentist by one year of age.

The American Dental Association (ADA) website, mouthhealthy.org, has many ideas to make toothbrushing fun. You want your child to have a positive experience, so giving them choices can

make them take interest in toothbrushing. Examples include letting them choose their own toothbrush as well as the flavor of toothpaste, letting the child choose if they want to brush their teeth first or want you to brush them. Children love to imitate their parents, so you may want to brush your teeth with your child or with older siblings. Create a story where the child is the toothbrushing hero. Parents can play their child’s favorite song and have

Calling The Class Of 2039: It’s Kindergarten Round Up Time!

Save the date: Monday, April 6, 2026

We are excited to welcome our newest class of kindergarteners to Estes Park Elementary School!

Children who are five years old on or before October 1 are eligible for kindergarten at Estes Park School District.

If your child is new to EPES, sign up for kindergarten by completing the pre-registration form on the Estes Park School District website, estesschools.org.

At Round Up, families will have the opportunity to:

• Meet the principal, teachers, and staff

• Tour the Elementary School and kindergarten classrooms

• Participate in a kindergarten readiness assessment

• Receive information about transportation, nutrition, and health services at EPES

• Meet other students and families

Schedule your Round Up appointment today! Appointments last approximately 45 minutes.

If your child is currently

enrolled in Park Place Preschool at EPES email or call the main office at 970-586-7406 to schedule your appointment.

If your child is new to Estes Park Elementary School, please complete the pre-registration at estesschools.org and the school will contact you to schedule your Round Up appointment.

We can't wait to meet our future kindergarteners!

Thank you to the Estes Park Woman's Club for their generous donations in support of Round Up.

their child brush to the beat, or dance as a reward afterwards. Stay with your child while they are brushing and don’t let them walk or run with their toothbrush in their mouth. Some children do not like cold water on their teeth, so letting them choose the temperature can set them up for success. Lukewarm water is usually the optimal temperature. The biggest reward is a sparkling, clean tooth smile.

The Estes Park Salud Foundation has long recognized the importance of good oral health for school-age children and for this reason supports free dental care for all children up to 20 years of age at the Salud Center. We want to see beautiful teeth and smiles on all children in Estes Park. In addition to free dental care to children, the Estes Park Salud Clinic provides medical, dental, pharmacy, and behavioral health care to all ages: newborns, children, teens, adults, and seniors! Salud accepts Medicaid, Medicare, CHP+, and most private insurance plans. Insurance enrollment assistance is available. For patients not covered by insurance, care is provided on a sliding fee basis.

For more information and to support our work through a donation, please visit saludclinic.org.

To the Editor:

The Rubber Meets The Road On Ballot Question 300

On January 27, almost three months after Ballot Question 300 was passed, voters got their first glimpse of how this new Ordinance 11-25 will transform land use decisions.

Ballot question 300 asked whether “all applications, motions or requests for rezonings and/or all planned unit developments (PUDs) will not be approved without written approval by the record owner(s) of the subject property/properties and two-thirds (2/3) of the record owner(s) of all properties five hundred feet (500 feet) or less from the outermost boundaries of the subject property/properties.”

At the Town Board meeting on January 27, the first three land-use decisions under Ordinance 11-25 were up for consideration; two rezonings and an annexation-associated zoning.

The rezoning at 440 Valley Rd. was to correct past bureaucratic mistakes, to bring their zoning in line with long-established use.

The rezoning at 179 Stanley Circle would have allowed ~10 townhouses at the edge of a single-family neighborhood across Stanley Avenue from the Holiday Inn parking lot. The plan was to build low-cost housing for Town employees; a likely win for the community, though nearby property owners were concerned about higher density creeping into their neighborhood.

The last zoning was for Elkhorn Lodge Phase II, a plan to build two 110-room hotels + ~80 additional units on a remote 40 acre parcel atop Deer Ridge. To facilitate this, the developer

asked for annexation into the Town, followed by “A-accommodations/highway corridor” zoning. This proposal was highly controversial with objections boiling down to “preserve our wildlands,” “out of context/out of scale,” “housing, not hotels,” and contrary to the community vision laid out in the Comprehensive Plan.

The Planning Commission recommended approving the first two rezonings, if that were permissible under 300, and denying the Elkhorn Lodge Phase II “A” zoning.

The Town Board determined that 300 applied to the two rezonings, but not the annexation-associated zoning. They denied the two rezoning applications because neither had obtained consent from 2/3 of nearby property owners as required by 300. The Board members were very clear that they wanted to approve these rezonings, but they could not because 300 tied their hands. They then approved the Elkhorn Lodge Phase II “A” zoning. Most reasons for approval were not clearly stated. However, Trustee Brown did express concern that unless this zoning were approved, Estes Park would get a reputation as a locale that blocked all development. The Mayor echoed this with, “change is inevitable.”

From where I sat watching these proceedings, it looked like 300 has made land-use decisions worse, not better. Two “deserving” rezonings were denied. Then frustration with those forced denials tipped the balance towards approval of a questionable zoning.

Is this what voters wanted when they

passed 300?

From my perspective, the votes for 300 and against 301 make sense in the larger context of the Community Conversations held last fall on the Development Code update. It’s not that most citizens oppose low-income housing or re-development. It’s that citizens are not feeling heard in our land use decisions; they feel that their voices do not receive the same weight as pro-development voices.

300 was an attempt to rebalance the influence of neighborhood concerns in land-use decisions. Unfortunately, 300 as written presents several problems.

1) The language is ambiguous. When properties have multiple owners, does the 2/3 consent mean consent of at least one owner for 2/3 of properties? Or does it mean consent of 2/3 of the aggregate of all property owners?

2) 2/3 consent is a very high bar, especially given that many properties in Estes are owned by Trusts, LLCs and/or have out-of-town owners.

3) Placing land-use decision in the hands of a few private citizens almost certainly violates the due process clause of the 14th Amendment. “Standardless delegation of authority” to those who are not constrained to act in “legitimate public interest” opens the door to decisions based on “selfish and arbitrary reasons” that have nothing to do with the public good.

Where to from here?

While it stands, 300 will effectively halt all rezonings and PUDs. Property owners like those at 440 Valley Drive will be denied justice. There will be lit-

Larimer County Democratic Caucus & Assembly Scheduled

Larimer County Democrats invite all registered Democrats in the County to take part in the 2026 Democratic Caucus on Thursday, March 5. The Caucus will be held virtually starting at 5:30 p.m. on the March 5. Delegates elected at Caucus will then attend the virtual Larimer County Democratic Assembly on Saturday, March 7, starting at 9:30 a.m.

Why is this important? Democrats attending the County Caucus and Assembly will help determine the candidates who appear on Democratic primary ballots in June 2026. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of the Democratic Party in Larimer County and for the State of Colorado.

This Caucus and Assembly process is open to Larimer County residents who are registered as Democrats by February 11. To confirm your registration and Precinct number, check GoVoteColorado.gov.

Your registration is on the “Voter Details” tab.

For March 5 & 7

Your Precinct number is on the “County & Districts” tab. Your specific Precinct number is the last three digits of the 10-digit Precinct code.

This Caucus includes all Precincts in Larimer County. At Caucus, each Precinct will elect two Precinct Organizers, and an assigned number of Delegates. Estes Valley includes six Precincts and has an overall total of 23 Delegates for County Assembly assigned by specific Precincts. Please plan to attend Caucus so that each of our Precincts will be represented by its assigned number of Delegates. Because the Caucus will be virtual (via Zoom), pre-registration to obtain your personal Zoom connection is planned to begin on February 15 (the link to connect will be on larimer-

dems.org). Pre-registration will be open up to the date of Caucus and is strongly encouraged.

For additional explanation, the Colorado Democratic Party has launched a new statewide “Caucus & Assembly” website at coloradodems.org/caucus. That site explains the process, key dates, and ways to be involved at the County and State levels.

Please note that participating in Caucus is the first step to becoming a Delegate to County Assembly. Delegates to County Assembly can then apply to be Delegates to Congressional Districts, Legislative Districts, and to the Colorado State Assembly.

For more information, contact Larimer Dems Chair, Tim Kubik, via larimerdems.org.

tle new housing; Estes has already built most of what could be built under existing zonings. Housing prices will continue to spiral and the housing shortage will get worse. New development will be driven outside of Town limits, paving over rugged terrain and wildlands at the edges of the valley, This is not a good scenario.

The odds are good that 300 will be challenged in court by someone denied a rezoning, and then it will be struck down as unconstitutional. That will cost taxpayer dollars and leave voters with little beyond bitterness that they are being shut down. This is not a good scenario.

What about writing a replacement for 300 that clarifies ambiguities and does not violate the 14th Amendment? Let’s hold serious community conversations about how to amplify neighborhood voices in community-wide decisions. Is there a reasonable bar for consent-forapproval? Or should it be objectionfor-disapproval? Let’s reach for a compromise where everybody gives a little and nobody loses everything. This could be a winning scenario.

Imagine if the community, from the Town Board to EPHA to neighborhoods and resident associations, could come together on a new & improved 300 that protects property rights, amplifies voices of neighbors and leaves room for changes that provide substantial community benefits. Imagine Trustee Brown and Preserve Estes Park co-leading an effort to pass a new version of 300 that works for all parties. What a wonderful world it would be!

Joan Hooper

St. Bart’s Episcopal Church To Host St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Supporting Local Nonprofits

St. Bart’s will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, with an evening of food, music, and community fellowship, all in support of local nonprofit organizations.

The celebration honors St. Patrick (c. 390–460), the 5th-century Christian missionary and bishop known as the patron saint and “Apostle of Ireland.” Captured by Irish pirates as a teenager, Patrick spent six years in slavery before escaping. He later returned to Ireland as a bishop to share the Christian faith. He is traditionally associated with using the shamrock to explain the Holy Trinity and with the legend of driving snakes from Ireland. In the Episcopal Church, St. Patrick is commemorated annually on March 17.

ground beef—or traditional corned beef and cabbage. Both entrées will be accompanied by Irish soda bread, potatoes, carrots, minty peas, and pearl onions. Celtic music will be provided by Restless Spirit throughout the evening.

Tickets are $25 per person, and space is limited. All proceeds from the event will benefit local nonprofits. Organizers encourage community members to reserve tickets early and join in an evening that blends celebration, tradition, and generosity.

Date: Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Time: Dinner served from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Give Your LIFE Away & See What Happens

By: Brian Schaffer

Is it possible for people who have grown up under difficult circumstances to experience a breakthrough in their life? I would say it is possible, but it’s not a quick fix. It can happen gradually, and suddenly. A generational curse can be passed down to family members, and this is unfortunate, because children don’t choose to inherit this, but sadly there are many who do. At some point in a person’s life, they may discover that there is a different way to live, and they desire it so much that they’re willing to do whatever it takes to break free from the chains that have held them back. Life is not always fair, and no one person has the exact same opportunity to choose a different path in life, but I still believe it is possible for people to Reverse the Curse. It will take others in our lives to help us succeed.

I know this from personal experience, because my family tree had a few knots and crooked branches that I no longer wanted to see continue through my immediate family members. This is why I am so passionate about the work that Crossroads is doing in our community. Crossroads is in a wonderful position to help people find a way out, and support them in their desire to break free. Each week, we have new stories of transformation taking place in the lives of our neighbors. We feel fortunate to play a small part in the success journey of people who are actively reversing the curse, and finding help to live into a future filled with hope, redemption, and restoration.

action to ensure what these guys desired could actually become a reality. An interesting piece to this success story is how a mobile mechanic intervened to get their RV operational, so they could move on the final day of their time at the RV park. I found out later that the wiring under the hood was the problem. Once the mechanic was able to reconnect the wiring according to the original factory specifications, the vehicle’s functionality was restored, and they were able to get to their desired destination. I’m guessing this is somewhat how it works in our lives. At times, we need to have someone reconnect the wiring that has been short-circuiting our lives. Popping the hood of our lives, and doing the deeper work isn’t easy; nor is it a quick fix. However, it is the only thing that will restore the inner workings of our lives so we can run at full capacity.

We have some great people who serve as Life Coaches for Crossroads, and they are making a difference in the lives of our neighbors across the Estes Valley. Our staff is so appreciative of what they are doing. They’re giving their life away, so that others can experience a better life.

Dinner will be served from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Guests may choose between cottage pie—gluten-free and made with

Place: St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church; 880 MacGregor Avenue, Estes Park, Colorado 80517 stbartsepiscopalchurch.org

A few weeks ago, I mentioned that we had assisted a couple guys living in an RV find their way into affordable housing through a partnership with the Estes Park Housing Authority. All the pieces to this puzzle didn’t come together overnight. There were many months of people surrounding these guys in prayer, and putting love into

Giving your LIFE away to the things that matter most is a great way to leave a lasting legacy. An acronym that I have found to be helpful in describing what this looks like is in the word LIFE: Labor—Influence—Finances— Expertise. When you’re giving these things away on a consistent basis, the return on investment has an incredible potential for personal transformation. Not only in your life, but in the lives of those you are investing in. I’d challenge you to give your LIFE away on a daily basis, and see what happens. In the end, I think you will be glad you did. As Randy Travis says, “it's not what you take when you leave this world behind you, it's what you leave behind you when you go.”

Support The Estes Dementia Day Program By Volunteering

Estes Dementia Day Center (EDDC) will provide enriching activities, emotional support, and a safe environment for individuals living with any form of dementia, starting in April. Volunteers will play a vital role in enhancing the quality of life for participants through meaningful interactions and companionship. Volunteers will work closely with the Program Manager during their four (or more) hour commitment and all training is free to volunteers. If you are interested in learning more about or becoming a Volunteer Caregiver in this program, please contact Jane at jhsstuart@gmail.com or 970430-8105.

Stay tuned for more updates on EDDC or go to the website at estesdementiadaycenter.org. Thank you!

Triumph

Of The Heart Screening On Sunday, March 8

Join us for an exclusive screening of Triumph of the Heart, the moving true story of St. Maximilian Kolbe, the Franciscan priest who offered his life in exchange for another prisoner at Auschwitz during World War II.

When: Sunday March 8 at 1:30 p.m.

Where: Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church

Lower Level (enter through the doors around the back of the church)

Come and be inspired by this powerful witness of faith, courage, and sacri-

ficial love. This movie is open to anyone ages 13 and up. May not be suitable for sensitive viewers.

Admission: Free will offering to cover the licensing fee

Popcorn and drinks will be provided.

RSVP to pastoralassistant@olmestes.org.

Join us for this unique opportunity to encounter the heroic story of St. Maximilian Kolbe! See the trailer at youtube.com/watch?v=Y29VTf8LHhs.

Reminder: RSVP For Partners' Elevate Partners Fundraising Dinner By March 2

Join us on March 5 at 5:30 p.m. for our 2026 Elevate Partners Dinner, supporting youth mentoring programs in Estes Park.

Enjoy an evening with great community, inspiring speakers, and an elegant dinner, generously provided by Mama Rose's Restaurant. We ask guests to make a financial gift to ensure we can serve new youth in 2026. We rely on community investment to sustain our programs and appreciate your support! As always, our top priority is to offer high-quality services and support to the youth, families, and volunteers in

our program. Registration is free of charge and is required by March 2. You can register online at poweredbypartners.org/elevate, or contact Kathy Whitacre at 970-577-9348 as needed.

Can't attend and want to support?

Send a check to our local office, Partners, 600 S. Saint Vrain Ave Unit 2, Estes Park, CO 80517 or to our main office, 530 S. College Ave Unit 1, Fort Collins, CO 80525, or donate online at poweredbypartners.org and make a note that it is for Elevate Partners 2026.

Do You Believe In The Power Of Mentoring? Become A Mentor With Partners!

We are always in need of positive adult role models to volunteer as mentors. Our kids are ages 7 to 17 years old with diverse interests and needs. We create partnerships based on shared interests, common values, and logistical preferences. Partners provides volunteers with training and support, as well as inclusion in a caring and active community.

These are the roles we have available: Community-Based Mentors, SchoolBased Mentors, and Nexus Activity Volunteers.

To learn more visit poweredbypartners.org/mentoring/#beamentor or email kwhitacre@poweredbypartners.org, or call 970-577-9348.

Community Garden: Let’s Grow In 2026!

The Estes Valley Community Garden is still resting for the winter but things are stirring underneath now that the new seed catalogues are starting to come out. We can start dreaming about our plans for this season’s garden.

Gardeners who want to renew their plots for 2026 were invited to send in their applications on February 1, 2026. We will receive the renewals through the month of February and then new gardeners can begin to apply March 1, 2026.

Our website has been refreshed and improved and applications can be found at evcg.org, under Get a Plot.

We will be having a meeting at the library on Saturday, April 18 at 1 p.m. in the Hondius Room to introduce the Community Garden to new people and reacquaint familiar gardeners to some best practices for garden planning, seed starting and the many things you can dream about and anticipate for your

plot this year. We will have experienced gardeners offering a power point and answering questions.

There are several new directions stirring in the Garden for this season. We are planning for an extended Children’s Area and a family friendly arrangement of garden plots. There will be an expansion of water accessibility through the addition of more hose bibs. We are designing a water fountain feature with increased seating where folks can meditate or watch the children play in the fountain.

Our orientation to this year’s crop of gardeners to the Community Garden will be Saturday, May 16, 2026 at the garden where the equipment will be demonstrated and the Garden rules reviewed.

We welcome volunteers who want to contribute time and labor to repair and refresh the garden for Spring.

See you there!

AA & Al-Anon Meetings

AA of Glen Haven

Mondays at 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall

Early Worms

Monday through Saturday at 7 a.m. (hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839 PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave.

Early Worms Women's Meeting

Mondays at 12 p.m.

St. Bartholomew, 880 MacGregor Ave. Mixed Nuts Al-Anon Group

Fridays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. (hybrid meetings with Zoom #285 426 3644 PW:serenity) at St. Bartholomew Church

One Day At A Time AA Meetings

Tuesdays at noon: Open discussion

Thursdays at 6:30 p.m.: Open discussion

Saturdays at 5:30 p.m.

Location: Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave. Meetings are in the lounge on the main floor by the front entrance to the church. Park upstairs by the main entrance of the church.

Alcoholics Anonymous Fall River Group

Current Schedule as of 6/17/2025

Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings

Mondays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D

Mondays at 7 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, BB

Women’s Meeting, Tuesdays at 12 p.m. — O, D

Wednesdays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D

Wednesdays at 7 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D

Thursdays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D

Fridays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D

Saturdays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, D

Sundays at 12 p.m., in person and Zoom — O, ABSI

Last Monday of each month is birthday night; potluck at 6 p.m., speaker at 7 p.m.

Location: 453 West Elkhorn Ave.

***Contribute via Venmo, @FallRiverGroupAA

Other 12 Step Meetings Held at Fall River Group

Narcotics Anonymous “New Horizons” Group, Thursdays at 7 p.m., in person and Zoom (705 555 930) — O, D

**O=Open to all D=Discussion

BB=Big Book

Zoom Meetings

Every day at noon, Zoom #999 829 166 (no password needed)

Zoom Big Book Study, Mondays at 7 p.m. #654 598 884 (no password needed).

Wednesdays at 7 p.m., Zoom #999 829 166

Online AA and NA Meetings at intherooms.com.

There are 70 AA meetings and 30 NA meetings a week.

Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church

We are seeking someone with a compassionate heart and organizational skills to fill the part-time Pastoral Assistant position. This position requires knowledge of the Catholic faith, computer skills, record keeping, and the sensitivity to tend to parishioners’ needs. If a fun, interesting and faith-filled office environment suits you, please contact the office for more information.

Businessmanager@olmestes.org (970) 586-8111

Apartments

Perfect winter rental near Lake Estes!

$1300/Month - all utilities are included. Available October 26 through Memorial Day. Fully furnished. 1 bed lodge room. Stunning lake and mountain views. A perfect seasonal rental in a peaceful, scenic location Contact us at 970-779-7455 Cabins

Winter rental at Colorado Cottages! $1300/Monthall utilities included. Available October 26 through Memorial Day. Fully furnished. 1 bedroom. Cozy fireplace. Prime location close to downtown, trails and RMNP. Contact us at 970-779-7455

Commercial Rentals

One office space with private parking: $425/mo. plus utilities. Two offices connected with bathroom: $800/mo. 970-290-4488

Office Space for Rent, 1,021 sq. ft., $1,700/mo., Suite 204, upper level 255 Park Lane. The office space is available 01/01/26. Electrical, natural gas, water, trash removal included. Telephone and communication service shall be at expense of Lessee. space is available starting 2/1/26. Inquiries, please contact Michael Grigsby Bank of Estes Park, 970-577-1234.

Office Space for Rent, 535 sq. ft., $892/mo., Suite 205, upper level 255 Park Lane. The office space is available 02/01/26. Electrical, natural gas, water, trash removal included. Telephone and communication service shall be at expense of Lessee. Inquiries, please contact Michael Grigsby Bank of Estes Park, 970-577-1234.

Business Office for rent at Manford Plaza. 970-586-3828

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Full details on employment opportunities and the application can be found at estes.org/jobs.

Seasonal

• Parks Maintenance Worker

• Community Service Officer

The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Storage Units

Manford Plaza storage unit for rent. 970-586-3828

SERVICES

Home Repair/Service

Ascend Remodeling & Handy Services 720-731-4915

Sewing/Alterations

Remixed Custom Sewing Services. Small Furniture, Restoration, Outdoor and RV Cushions, and Commercial Upholstery. Call for appointment 970-492-5446

Piano Tuning

Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com

Other-Misc

Rocket IT Solutions –Business & Residential IT Support

Reliable IT services for offices and homes. We provide computer troubleshooting, network support, Wi-Fi setup, cybersecurity, and ongoing maintenance. Whether you’re a growing business or a busy household, we keep your technology running smoothly. Call or Text (970) 627-7189

Rams Horn Village Resort is seeking a skilled, dependable Maintenance Technician to join our year-round Maintenance team: $22-25 hour (DOE), benefits package for full-time employees, and a wage review after 90 days based on demonstrated skills. Responsibilities include ability to perform physical labor and general maintenance, manage work orders, maintain pool & hot tubs, paint, perform basic carpentry, and maintain grounds. Must have strong customer service skills and be able to participate in after-hours on-call rotation. Fill out an application at Rams Horn Village Resort, 1565 Colo. Hwy 66. EEOE

Commercial

Commercial Spaces for sale and lease.

Call Eric. INTEMPUS Realty, 970-586-2950

RECREATION

Winter Sports

4-Pack Loveland ski tickets. No restrictions and good till the end of the season. $150.00. 303-585-0980

SALES

Estate Sales

ESTATE/MOVING SALE

Need to have one, but seems overwhelming. We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL JUDI 970-215-5548

Kingswood Homes and Kingswood Home Services seeking Residential Project Manager for remodels, decks, or new homes. From initial meet to job completion. Solid carpentry background preferred. Duties include ….

 estimating

 scheduling of trades and materials.

 manage site activities

 contract management

 people skills w/both vendors and client

 cost management

Send resume to mike@homesbykingswood.com.

Social Media Marketing Specialist

This part-time position will support the marketing department by using graphics, AI communication tools, and social media platforms to promote district programs and services. Looking for someone with experience posting on social media platforms using videos, graphics, and AI generated content. We offer competitive pay, paid time off and employee discounts, including a free Recreation Center membership.

Cubz Den Attendant

This part time position will supervise children between the ages of 1-8 years old in our Cubz Den play area at the Recreation Center. Activities include, supervising the indoor play structure and play stations, leading art projects, and reading to the children. This after school program runs Monday – Friday from 3:00pm -5:00pm.

To review the positions description and apply visit our website at evrpd.com.

Estes Valley Recreation and Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Estes Valley Fire Protection District is hiring for a full-time Executive Assistant to the Fire Chief. Salary Range: $86,445 to $101,129, depending on qualifications, plus a full benefit package. For more details, please see the job description and posting at: www.estesvalleyfire.org/apply

The YMCA of the Rockies Chapel Ministry in Estes Park, CO, seeks a part-time worship leader for a weekly Sunday morning service and occasional special/holiday evening services. Candidates should be proficient in piano, with strong sight-reading and vocal skills, and acquainted with traditional and contemporary worship music. Competitive pay. No benefits. Please submit application letter and music samples to Rev. Greg Bunton at gbunton@ymcarockies.org.

Church Administrator –Full-Time

Christian Church of Estes Park seeks an organized, systems-oriented leader to oversee church operations, volunteer scheduling, facilities, and financial coordination. Sunday presence required. Details and application: ccep.life/jobs

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER