Well, it does. No excuses. I am asking all 4000-ish registered voters who live in Town limits to make sure to vote by whatever method works for you. Election Day is April 7, 2026.
We have real people on the ballot this time! It’s an important election. The media does a fine job of letting you know who’s running and giving them opportunities to write articles about their backgrounds and philosophies.
The “candidates” page on the Town website has each candidate’s contact info and bio.
didates as much as you can, talk to them, ask others about them.
Two of the candidates are incumbents. You have plenty of past information about their opinions and votes. For all the candidates, when you communicate with them, do they look you in the eye? Do they listen well?
Do they say, “I don’t know” when they don’t know the answer? Or do they try to improvise an answer? Do they give a straight answer, or do they speak in vague generalities or use “corporate speak”?
and documents related to strategic planning and budgeting. And there’s the Development Code, the Downtown Development Plan, the Transportation Master Plan, the Comprehensive Plan, etc. There’s committee or liaison assignments that require additional reading and attendance.
The candidate forums are very helpful. You can hear the candidates speak, assess their communication skills and knowledge of town issues, and see if they inspire trust for you. You can get a sense of how they might govern. The League of Women Voters will hold their candidate forum on March 12, 5:30 – 7 p.m., in the Town Board Room. Preserve Estes Park has a forum called Meet the Candidates on March 23, from 6 – 8 p.m., at the American Legion. And there may be more opportunities to get acquainted; watch the news media; email the candidates yourself.
As mayor, I don’t endorse candidates. I’ll do my own private voting and let you do yours. It’s more important to me that we get a good turnout. And remember, one vote can make the difference.
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When I was in business and hiring people, I used to say that “you never know until you know” how a certain person will perform until they’re on the job. But you can have a pretty good idea if you gather all the info you can. The best approach is to study the can-
Do they get back to you in reasonable time (or at all) when they say, “I’ll get back to you on that” or “I’ll have to look into that”? Do they answer your email queries?
Do they feel real and connected? Do they seem honest? Do they talk too much – or too little?
Why are they running? Do they have an agenda or is there primary purpose to serve all?
It’s up to us to assess how we think they’ll operate when we give them the keys to the dais. It’s not just how they respond to various issues, but also how you think they’ll interact in a civil and functional fashion with the other trustees, with Town staff, with citizens and residents who agree with them, and with the citizens and residents who disagree with them.
We know we won’t agree on everything, so the ability to work together is critical, on all issues, especially tough issues.
For trustees, there’s a lot of reading. There are the big packets for the regular board meetings and study sessions
Thanks to all candidates for offering to serve. Being a trustee is not easy. They must listen to everyone and make decisions on highly contested issues. Trustees may receive both high heat and positive reinforcement on the same topic from different constituents. Sometimes the heat is turned up to 11 and insults and unfounded allegations of backroom deals or inappropriate actions are made.
A trustee must let those comments run off, but they must hear it all, good, bad, ugly. They need to maintain noble behavior. And by “noble”, I don’t mean aristocratic. I mean respectful, civil, balanced. Even under fire, the trustees must rely on knowledge, experience, patience, and listening.
The Park School District’s most recent election had the same number of candidates as openings on the board, and they just slotted the candidates in. I much prefer an election over being elected by “acclamation”; the latter doesn’t give the voters an opportunity to provide a true stamp of approval. Here, you have a chance to give a true stamp of approval. And so it goes. You are the people who make this important decision. Every two years, you get this big chance to shape the future by shaping the Town Board. Shape it up!
April 7 Municipal Election & Town Hall 24-Hour Ballot Drop Off Box
Ballots will be mailed to all active voters who live within town limits the week of March 16 and voters can anticipate to receive ballots on Thursday, March 20. Voters who will not be home to receive a ballot may receive a ballot at a location other than the registered address by completing an application for an absent voter mail ballot, available at estespark.colorado.gov/elections. By law, ballots cannot be forwarded with other forwarded mail.
Citizens can return voted ballots by mail (postage required), in person at the Clerk’s office or through the 24-hour ballot drop off box located at Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Ave, adjacent to Bond Park. Voters are reminded to complete the self-affirmation on the ballot envelope including voter name, physical address (no P.O. boxes) and signature. Town Hall will be the only 24-hour ballot drop off
box used during the election.
Important dates:
March 16 – March 21: – Ballots mailed to all active registered voters.
March 16: Last day for eligible electors to establish residency in the State of Colorado. Register to vote at govotecolorado.com, County Clerk office or Town Clerk’s office up to the day of the election.
April 3: Last day to request an absentee mail ballot to be mailed.
April 7: Election Day –Town Hall polls open 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Ballots must be received by 7 p.m. to be counted.
April 28: Swearing-in of newly elected Trustees at the Town Board Meeting.
For more election information, please visit estespark.colorado.gov/elections, or contact the Town Clerk’s office at 970-577-4777 or by email at townclerk@estes.org.
Learn About The Town's Water Master Plan At Upcoming Informational Sessions
Town staff recently completed an update to the Water Master Plan. This plan provides a comprehensive, longterm strategy to ensure the delivery of safe, reliable, and resilient drinking water throughout the 2025–2045 planning horizon. Building upon the 2015 Water Master Plan, this update incorporates the latest system data, population and demand projections, new regulatory requirements, asset condition assessments, and critical lessons learned from recent natural disasters. The primary objective is to guide capital investment and operational planning to meet current and future water demands while maintaining a high level of service for all residents, businesses, and visitors. The master plan was formally presented in a study session to the Town Board on February 10, and we anticipate bringing it to the Town Board for formal adoption in late
On March 2, police served a felony arrest warrant to a 37-year-old female at 170 MacGregor Avenue. She was transported to Larimer County Jail.
On March 3, police served a misde-
Spring.
We invite you to attend informational sessions on the following dates:
March 19, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Water Shop, 1360 Brook Drive
March 24, 2026, from 7 to 8:30 a.m. at Town Hall, 170 MacGregor Avenue
The Water Master Plan is available for review at the Estes Valley Library, 135 East Elkhorn Ave., on the second floor as well as estespark.colorado.gov/watermasterplan. We encourage our customers to review this important roadmap to our Water system’s future, and provide your thoughts and questions to our staff:
Jacqueline Wesley, Capital Projects Manager: jwesley@estes.org
Jason Fredricks, Water Superintendent: jfredricks@estes.org
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 March 1, 2026, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District
meanor traffic arrest warrant to a 44-year-old male at 601 Birch Avenue.
The charge(s) are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
(EVFPD) responded to 17 calls for service. This included:
• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 8
• MVA (Motor Vehicle Accident): 5
• Illegal Burn: 1
• Alarm Activation: 3 estesvalleyfire.org
Rooftop Rodeo Royalty Applications Available
The Rooftop Rodeo is seeking cowgirls and cowboys wishing to join the fun as members of Rooftop Royalty. The Rooftop Royalty program is a youth development program for boys and girls, ages 9 to 25, to preserve rodeo and the western way of life in Estes Park. The royalty program provides a unique opportunity to cultivate an atmosphere for youth development while representing organizations such as the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA), the Rooftop Rodeo, and the Town of Estes Park. Girls and boys involved in the program work behind the scenes to promote the rodeo, all while developing communication skills, speech and interview skills, and other valuable skills that will aid them through school and beyond. Royalty will promote western heritage throughout Estes Park during rodeo
week and throughout the year.
The competition for Rooftop Royalty Queen, Attendant, Princess, and Wrangler will take place on June 27 and 28 at the Estes Park Events Center. A free information clinic is being offered on May 30. For more information about the royalty program or to submit an application visit rooftoprodeo.com. The deadline to submit applications is June 14, 2026.
The Rooftop Rodeo, one of the top rodeos in the United States, will take place July 6 - 11, 2026. Gates open each night at 5 p.m. The pre-show begins at 6:45 p.m., and the rodeo starts at 7 p.m. For more information about the Rooftop Rodeo or to purchase tickets, visit rooftoprodeo.com. Inquiries about tickets may be made by contacting the Town of Estes Park Events Office at 970-5773900, or events@estes.org.
Larimer Co. Boards & Commissions Openings, Apply By March 22
Boards and Commissions are vital to making recommendations to the Board of Larimer County Commissioners on a variety of important topics affecting our community and help shape the direction of many matters.
It’s also a great way to be involved with Larimer County and to serve it. Sound interesting? You might be the person we’re looking for to serve on one of our many boards and commissions.
Apply online and learn more about each board, term limits, and other information by visiting larimer.gov/boards. You can also pick
up an application at the Larimer County Commissioners’ Office, Second Floor, Larimer County Administrative Services, 200 W. Oak St., Fort Collins. The application period is open now through March 22, 2026.
Current boards accepting applications include the Board of Adjustment, Board of Appeals, Board of Health, Community Advisory Board, Community Corrections Advisory Board, Environmental and Science Advisory Board, Extension Advisory Committee, Flood Review Board, Land Stewardship Advisory Board, Planning Commission, and Workforce Development Board.
Town Of Estes Park Secures Federal Transit Grant To Expand Estes Transit (The Peak) Service
The Town of Estes Park has received a combined Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Section 5311 Rural Area
Formula Grant award totaling $449,995 to support the administration and continued operation of Estes Transit, known locally as The Peak. The grant agreement, an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the Town and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), is expected to be formally approved by the Estes Park Town Board of Trustees in the coming weeks.
The FTA Section 5311 program provides funding to rural communities with populations under 50,000 that operate fixed-route or demand-response public transit services. The total award is structured as follows: an administrative portion of $49,995 with a $9,999 local match, and an operating portion of $400,000 with a $200,000 local match, for a total local match of $209,999. The local match has been budgeted within the Town’s existing transportation funds.
Funds from this grant will supplement the Town’s General Fund allocation for The Peak and are expected to allow for expanded operating hours and additional days of service, making the transit system more accessible and
useful for residents and visitors alike.
“This grant is a tremendous win for our community and for everyone who depends on or chooses The Peak for getting around Estes Park,” said Dana Klein, CPP, CCTM, Parking & Transit Manager for the Town of Estes Park.
“Federal 5311 funding is one of our most reliable tools for sustaining and growing rural transit, and having both the 2025 expansion and 2026 baseline dollars combined into a single award allows us to hit the ground running.
We’re excited about what this means for expanded service hours and days providing more options for our residents, workers, and guests.”
This grant award directly supports the Town Board’s Strategic Plan Key Outcome Area for Transportation and aligns with several multi-year goals related to mobility, accessibility, and quality of life in Estes Park.
The Peak provides public transit services in and around Estes Park, Colorado, connecting residents, employees, and visitors to key destinations in the Town. The service is managed by the Town of Estes Park Public Works Department. For more information about Estes Transit (The Peak), visit estespark.colorado.gov/transit.
The Peak Transit Service 2026 Sponsorships Available
The Town’s Parking & Transit Division is now inviting new sponsors for The Peak’s 2026 transit season. Transit sponsorship allows nonprofits and businesses to market their products or services in a highly visible manner while also supporting the Town’s free seasonal transit service.
The Peak’s sponsorship levels can accommodate budgets of all sizes, with ad options starting at $400 for the entire summer season. Sponsorships are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Some opportunities sell out quickly. Access the 2026 sponsorship application and instructions at estespark.colorado.gov/transit, or request a copy via email by contacting Tia Cummins, Public Works Administrative Assistant, at tcummins@estes.org or Dana Klein, Parking & Transit Manager, at dklein@estes.org. Applications must be received no later than Friday, March 27.
The Peak’s vehicles are each equipped with a wheelchair lift and some with bicycle racks. Summer and fall routes for the 2026 transit season include:
Red Route (Downtown Trolley): Continuous loop serving stops along Elkhorn Avenue
Blue Route: Serving Big Thompson Avenue / U.S. 34, Dry Gulch Road and Lower Stanley Village Brown Route: Serving portions of downtown, including East Riverside
Drive, Marys Lake Road, Spur 66 past Elk Meadow Lodge and RV Park to the YMCA of the Rockies campus
Gold Route: Serving The Stanley Hotel campus and Fall River Road corridor to Rocky Mountain Gateway
Silver Route: A loop serving the State Highway 7 corridor, a portion of Fish Creek Road near the Estes Park School District campus, and Lake Estes
The Red Route (Downtown Trolley) runs every day of the paid parking season, from May 22 through October 18.
The 2026 route times are still being finalized. However, the trolley typically runs continuously from 9 a.m to 9 p.m. daily, with a second trolley added on the weekend (Saturday and Sunday only) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All other routes (Blue, Brown, Gold, and Silver) typically run 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily from July 1 through September 1 (Labor Day), and then transition to weekend-only service through October 18.
The Town’s free transit service is funded through federal and state grants, the Town’s paid parking program, and the Town general fund. Sponsorship investments will help fund the program’s annual operating costs and ensure continuation of this free service for Estes Valley guests and residents. For more information about The Peak transit program, visit estespark.colorado.gov/transit.
Visit Estes Park Strengthens Local Partnerships To Support Businesses & Grow Sustainable Tourism
Visit Estes Park (VEP), the official destination marketing and management organization for the Estes Park Local Marketing District, has announced two strategic partnerships designed to support local businesses, enhance the visitor experience, and keep tourism dollars circulating within the Estes Valley. By aligning with the Estes Arts District and the Estes Park Wedding Association, VEP is reinforcing its commitment to collaborative destination stewardship — ensuring tourism growth directly benefits the community it represents.
“Strong destinations are built through strong partnerships,” said Sarah Leonard, CEO of Visit Estes Park. “When we collaborate with local organizations, we amplify our collective impact. These partnerships help us support entrepreneurs, creatives and small businesses while ensuring visitor spending stays local. That’s how we strengthen both our economy and our community for the long term.”
Partnership with Estes Arts District VEP and the Estes Arts District (EAD) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly fund and support a shared Program Director position focused on arts, culture and creative economy initiatives.
The shared role will strengthen coordination between community arts programming and visitor engagement, integrating arts and culture more intentionally into the Estes Park experience. The one-year, renewable agreement includes shared financial investment, collaborative grant writing and coordinated outreach efforts.
“This partnership represents a shared commitment to elevating and advancing the arts in Estes Park,” said Lars Sage, co-chair of the Estes Arts District. “By working together, we can expand opportunities for artists, enrich the cultural experience for residents and visitors, and strengthen the creative vitality of our community.”
Partnership with Estes Park Wedding Association
VEP has also formalized a partnership
with the Estes Park Wedding Association to further position Estes Park as a premier mountain wedding destination.
Through a Memorandum of Understanding, the organizations will share approved image and video assets, utilize a shared digital asset platform, and coordinate promotional efforts at industry events and trade shows.
Together, these partnerships reflect VEP’s strategic focus on growing tourism in ways that elevate local businesses, diversify the visitor economy, and sustain the character of the Estes Valley.
“Estes Park is one of the most inspiring wedding destinations in the country, and this partnership allows us to showcase that story with greater clarity and impact,” said Thomas Pemberton, president of the Estes Park Wedding Association. “By aligning with Visit Estes Park, we can elevate our local wedding professionals while driving meaningful economic benefit for the community.”
As the leading economic driver in the Estes Park Local Marketing District, tourism provides substantial benefits that are funded by visitors, not residents. In 2024, visitors generated $510.8 million in direct travel spending, $29 million in local tax revenue (2.4% increase over 2023), supported 3,419 local jobs, and contributed to 82% of the Town’s sales tax revenue. Without tourism, each resident household would pay an extra $5,110 annually to sustain public services and support workforce housing and childcare solutions. Every day, visitors inject $1.4 million into the local economy and generate $79,452 in local tax revenue, helping to sustain the quality of life and amenities that make Estes Park such a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
For more information about Visit Estes Park and the Estes Valley, check out VisitEstesPark.com and @VisitEstesPark on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Larimer County 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.
Informational Meetings For Water Master Plan
The Town of Estes Park is hosting two drop-in information sessions showcasing our updated Water Master Plan.
The primary objective of the Water Master Plan is to guide capital investment and operational planning to meet current and future water demands while maintaining a high level of service for all residents, businesses, and visitors.
To learn more about the Water Master Plan and our proposed water future, please stop by anytime during the following drop-in sessions. Staff with water expertise will be available to answer questions and share information. For online information, please visit estespark.colorado.gov/water-master-plan.
March 19, 2026 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Water Department Shop – 1360 Brook Drive
March 24, 2026 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at the Town Board Room - 170 MacGregor Avenue
Emerald Lake Chamber Players Concert: Friday, March 13
The Emerald Lake Chamber Players with guest soprano, Robin Howard, will present a varied program of original flute and string trio works and arrangements on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 7 p.m. in the Beaver Meadow Visitor Center Auditorium.
The concert was rescheduled from Friday, March 6 due to inclement weather.
Featured works will include Selections from Handel’s Water Music, Haydn’s London Trio in C Major, MacDowell’s, To a Wild Rose and two
movements from Franz Danzi’s, Trio in G major.
Quartet pieces will include arrangements of Debussy’s Cakewalk, Milhaud’s Corcovado from Saudades do Brasil, Beauty and the Beast and The Skye Boat Song, known as the theme song for the hit television series, Outlander.
All of the musicians, have strong connections to Rocky Mountain National Park.
The concert is free and open to the public.
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 attendance. The program will take place from 10 – 11:30 a.m. in the Museum Meeting Room. This pro gram 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 970-5773762 or mfundaun@estes.org.
During the Civil War, Robert E. Lee was attributed with saying, “I don't believe we can have an army without music.” Whether it was Lee or someone else who said it doesn’t matter. I think we can all appreciate the message.
After a long day of battle, beleaguered troops gathered around campfires scattered across fields and hillsides to find comfort, nurse wounds, eat some victuals, grieve, and rest their exhausted bodies. Imagine a soldier pulling out his fiddle, another his banjo, a third, perhaps a fife, and together working up a tune. (How they managed to keep instruments while at war, I cannot fathom.) One weary man might have quietly hummed along, another may have joined him, and gradually the band of men, so very tired of the war, started to feel the healing affects of music on the soul.
Drummers also played a crucial role throughout the Civil War. Drummer boys, some as young as 12 years old (illegally enlisted at that age), were essential to communicate orders, issue alarms, and boost morale. The sound of the drum carried far and wide where voice commands could not, so drum signals were used for wake-up calls (reveille), for orders such as “Ready… Fire!” and to rally the troops and maintaining rhythm on marches.
The days of communicating war commands via drum beats are in the past. (If only war itself were bygone!) But from those days evolved today’s marching bands, most often organized at high schools and colleges across the country.
Marching band was one of my favorite high school activities. In the fall, before the morning school bell rang, we musicians assembled on the field in front of our school to practice for the football game halftime shows. Shivering, with blue lips, chattering teeth and fingers stiff with cold, we practiced our step (when the knee came up high, the toe pointed perpendicular to the ground), worked the formations, and playing the music by memory. It was both mentally and physically challenging.
Performing on Friday nights was thrilling! We wore a royal blue, doublebreasted band uniform with brass buttons, white shoes and a white hat that looked like the cotton end of a giant Qtip with a strap under the chin. We marched sharp and straight along the white lines on the green field, making crisp turns and about-faces. The bright lights reflected off shiny brass instruments. The piccolo pierced the air and the boom of the bass drum and rapid cadence of the snares echoed back at us from the bleachers full of our peers and parents cheering us on. Many spectators paid the band no heed but those who did were rewarded.
I wish there were marching bands for adults.
Thunker reader Robert H. offered an interesting observation about marching bands:
“I have often lamented a sad transformation in band performance objectives
that began sometime in the ’50s. Before that time, a high school band would learn new music for each home game and there were no letters or varsity jackets.
Then two changes took place:
• Band members received team jackets and earned letters to sew onto them.
• Regular band competitions became principal objectives for measuring the worth of a school's music program. Trophies and banners were awarded as proof of ‘success.’
This meant that marching bands now learned one and only one set of music with which it competed several times a season in festivals.
Why on earth should art be dedicated to such a narrow and materialistic purpose?”
Although I appreciate Robert’s point, it wasn’t like that for me. I was very proud to letter in band all three years of high school. My school recognized that a student didn’t have to be a jock to deserve a letter. (However, I also lettered in track so I had all options covered.) We did learn new music and formations for home game halftime shows, but we also competed (with the Star Wars theme my senior year) and we won. Granted, this was nearly 50 years ago. Obviously things have changed.
Robert continued:
“You mentioned your respect for dance. When I was conductor of the Belleville Philharmonic in Illinois, the highlight of the year was presenting Nutcracker Ballet in the late fall. The local Belleville School of Ballet was a training ground for young dancers whose roles would advance with their skills and age. Lead dancers, with incredible skill and artistry were flown in from the American Ballet Theatre in New York.
This was music heaven to me because there was nothing to win and everything to share and the music and dance challenged us to constantly elevate what we do.
This brings me to the reason this column of yours has become my favorite. It is its final paragraph which I would like to quote back to you with gratitude.
‘Give me kind friends who see the good in others; people who strive to make the world a better place, not to destroy it. Find me folks who are honest, respectful, forgiving and fun, They're the people I want on my team. They are the gold medal winners in this game of life.’”
Thank you, Robert, for your gold medal contributions to the betterment of society, from your poetry, to your flute playing, your music compositions and conducting, and your participation with the Emerald Lake Chamber Players. Your music has a healing affect on the soul.
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
What better way to celebrate International Women's Day than with some of the amazing women who have impacted our community? On March 3, the Estes Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 4th annual Women of Impact Honorees in tandem with International Women’s Day.
The day began with the Ready, Set, Grow women’s conference, hosted by Harriette Woodard, Bank of Colorado
Mortgage Division and Julie Abel, Signature Home Team / KW Top of the Rockies - Estes Park with additional support from Visit Estes Park. After a full day of learning and leadership, the Women of Impact were awarded to two women whose influence strengthens our community, uplifts others, and helps shape a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable future.
The 2026 Women of Impact are: Victoria Endsley of Whimsadoodle and
Bear & Bee, and Ruby Bode of the Estes Park School District.
“Women of Impact connect, encourage, engage, and enable positive change by inspiring actions that move our community forward,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale.
“In Estes Park, these women lead not only through formal roles or visible projects, but also through the way they
live their lives—with passion, purpose, resilience, and a willingness to embrace change and innovation for the future,” she added.
The Women of Impact was made possible by the generous support of Bank of Colorado and The Barrel.
“We believe Women of Impact connect, encourage, engage, and enable positive change by inspiring actions that move our community forward, not only when they are actively engaged in a project or event, but also through living their lives with passion and purpose and embracing changes that innovate us for the future, and these two women truly embody that sentiment,” said Colleen DePasquale, Executive Director, Estes Chamber of Commerce.
Nominees included:
Alexandrea Crain of Redrum Tattoo
Kris Hazelton of Estes Park News
Marissa Reid of the Estes Park School District
Brittany Wild of WayFinder Cleaning Services
Becky Robbins of Estes Valley Board of REALTORS
Diana Brown of Estes Valley Crisis Center
Victoria Endsley of Whimsadoodle, inc
Alice Reuman of Community Recycling Committee
Velina Davidson of Aspen & Evergreen
Ruby Bode of Estes Park School District
Kristine Poppitz of Preserve Estes Park
Ingrid Drouin of Estes Park Health Foundation
Patti Brown of Estes Valley Voice
Pamela Leitner of Rooftop Rodeo Womens Club
Claire Mollé of The Rocky Mountain Channel
Toni Brese of Estes Park Elementary School & Estes Park Education Foundation
2026 Women of Impact Nominees. Photo by Marcos R. Quintana Imagery
Honorees Victoria Endsley & Ruby Bode. Photo by Marcos R. Quintana Imagery
Kirby Nelson-Hazelton, Candidate For Town Board Of Trustees
It has been a privilege to serve as your Trustee for the past four years. I have often said that this is the hardest and best job I've ever had, and it's certainly one I don't take lightly.
The Town Board’s role is to think strategically and provide long-term vision for the community. As such, my priorities in a second term would include 1) acquiring and/or maintaining balance between our developed valley and the wild spaces around and among us, and 2) securing responsible economic and social vitality for generations to come.
Associated action steps include seeing the Development Code updates come to fruition alongside strong consideration of public input acquired throughout the process; continuing to pursue, encourage, and incentivize opportunities for redevelopment; reviewing and evaluating potential implementation of the forthcoming Wildlife Habitat Assessment from Estes Valley Watershed Coalition; thinking critically and creatively about significant infrastructure projects like a new police facility and the Water Master Plan; remaining fiscally disciplined in balancing our budget and protecting our assets and reserves; among others. I believe that my personal, professional, and volunteer experience have helped me understand the depth and complexity of issues facing the Estes Valley. I am long-time resident (over 14 years) married to an even longertime resident (over 26 years). I am a member of the workforce and have been employed by local taxing districts, small businesses, and myself, as an entrepreneur (sometimes all at the same time!).
I am proud of my diverse background of civic engagement in the Estes Valley. I have volunteered with business organizations and local nonprofits, as both a “worker bee” and as a board member, which has given me perspectives about these important sectors of our community. My employment with government districts (including Visit Estes Park, Estes Valley Library, Park R-3 School District) has helped me learn and understand issues facing different generations of our local residents (and guests!). And I have a varied history of engaging with the Town of Estes Park: as a resident on the Parks Advisory Board, as a participant in the Community Information Academy, and most recently as a member of the Board of Trustees.
I am grateful to have a wide background – and, a wide “sounding board” – that help me to see through the lens of many, including employers and employees, volunteers, local and regional partners, students and retirees and many in between. Well-rounded engagement would continue to shape my approach to being a Trustee. My platform has never been issuebased. While I will always truthfully share where I stand on hot topics, I believe the chances of us agreeing 100% of the time are slim! My hope is that you will choose me to be your representative because of my commitment to do the work, listen to all viewpoints, think strategically, and maintain balanced vision for our community.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve in this role, and I hope to earn another four years as your Trustee.
Kirby Nelson-Hazelton, kirby.hazelton@gmail.com
Hello, I am Ronni Howell, I have proudly served as the Assisted Living Administrator with the Good Samaritan Society Estes Park Village for the past two years. Our community offers a wonderful independent living option for adults 55 and older, featuring 48 independent townhomes and 34 independent one- and two-bedroom apartments, and 24 one-bedroom assisted living apartments Each apartment has an open floor plan, great views, and amenities designed to make life easy, comfortable, and enjoyable.
Our Assisted Living community provides support when daily tasks begin to feel more difficult, such as preparing meals or managing household responsibilities. Residents enjoy three well-balanced meals each day, along with assistance with housekeeping, laundry, and medication management. We also work closely with physicians to ensure each resident receives the best possible care. We would love to invite you to visit our community and take a tour. Even if you’re not ready to make a move, it’s always a good idea to have a plan for the future!
USDA Rural Development Colorado Backs Producers With Funding For Value-Added Agriculture
USDA Rural Development State Director for Colorado Sallie Clark joined representatives from Miraflora Wagyu LLC in Longmont on February 27, 2026 to announce the awarding of $280,470 to three agricultural producers in Colorado through the USDA Value Added Producer Grant (VAPG) Program. Entities can utilize these grant funds to develop value added agricultural products, conduct market research, and implement business and marketing strategies.
“The grants awarded today demonstrate USDA’s continued commitment to strengthening Colorado’s agricultural economy,” said Clark. “By supporting producers as they develop new products, expand markets and increase the value of what they grow and raise, we’re helping to create new revenue opportunities and longterm economic resilience in rural communities across Colorado.” Miraflora Wagyu LLC will use working capital grant funding to expand their customer base and agricultural production of meat stick and jerky products. Miraflora farm has been family-owned since its inception and is USDA-certified as an organic farm in Boulder County. The funding will assist with processing, packaging, shipping, and marketing of the meat stick and jerky products, while creating and preserv-
ing jobs in the county.
USDA Rural Development also announced the following projects that received VAPG funding:
• Rocky Mountain Mugolio, LLC located in Estes Park, Colorado will use working capital funding for marketing, purchasing supplies, product processing, and hired labor expenses related to making their pinecone syrups. This product expansion will bring growth to this family operation, as well as additional jobs to Larimer County.
• Mountain View Feeders, Inc., a family farm operation in Fort Collins, Colorado will utilize working capital funds to assist with marketing, transportation, shipping costs, and supply purchases to assist in the processing of a variety of new shelf stable beef snack products. This product expansion will allow for the creation of additional jobs in Larimer County.
Applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 VAPG program are currently being accepted through 1 p.m. Eastern Time (ET), April 22, 2026. To begin an application in Colorado, contact Bill Chester, william.chester@usda.gov or Robert McElroy, robert.mcelroy@usda.gov or visit rd.usda.gov/programs-services/business-programs/value-added-producergrants.
Next “Learn With The League” On Wednesday, March 18
The League of Women Voters of Estes Park and Larimer County Solid Waste Department present the next Learn with the League, “‘Getting rid of waste in the Estes Valley.” Learn about:
• How materials are managed
• How to reduce contamination in single-stream recycling
• Current and future solid waste projects
• Upcoming household hazardous waste collection events in Estes Park
The event will take place on Wednesday, March 18 at 10 a.m. at the American Legion Post 119.
Abby Kotecki Environmental Educator
Alex Studee Business Project Manager
Braden Eidem Household Hazardous Waste Technician
By: Scott Applegate, President
& CEO, Bank of Estes Park
March is “Women’s History Month,” which always results in some great events around town including the Women’s Day Fair and several other smaller events too. Estes Park has such a strong history of women making a tremendous difference, formally dating all the way back to 1912 and the Estes Park Woman’s Club, which focused on making this little town a better community. If you don’t know names such as Isabella Bird (wrote “A Lady’s Life in the Rocky Mountains), Esther Burnell Mills (the first certified nature guide in Rocky Mountain National Park and owner of Long’s Peak Inn), Anna Wolfrom Dove (famous local entrepreneur), Margaret Fuller Boos (first female ranger-naturalist in Rocky Mountain National Park), Josie Hupp (owned 44 hotels, managed a café, and was the town’s postmistress), Muriel MacGregor (one of the first female lawyers in Colorado, and helped preserve MacGregor Ranch), and Wendy Koenig (two-time Olympian, business owner, and former Mayor), then I would highly encourage you to dig into the female history of this town!
Bank of Estes Park is unique in town in that it is the only local bank— founded right here in 1965—and also uniquely female. 50% of our Senior Executive Management is female, and 60% of our Officer Management Team
Banking On Women In Estes Park
is female. The bank doesn’t have any kind of affirmative action program— we simply hire that very best, have the strongest, highest performing bank team around, and they just happen to be women! Many of them have been honored and recognized by the Chamber at the local Women of Impact event over the years. One of our Officers—Jean Tasker—was actually named BizWest’s Woman of Distinction in the field of Finance for all of Northern Colorado. When you look at the businesses, non-profits, or other activities around town, you will see the impact of the beyond-amazing women of Bank of Estes Park. And another one, Niki Gassmann won the Golden Antler Award for outstanding community and philanthropic work in town. At the recent Philanthropy Night, the bank’s women lined the stage, over and over, representing the bank, as well as their various other non-profit activities in town—to my knowledge, no other entity in town had as many women nominated as the bank did this year under all of the various categories of awards.
For that reason, we wanted to make a special mark on the Chamber’s Women of Impact event this year. They had decided to name a “winner” for the first time, rather than simply recognizing all nominees. And we thought that would be the perfect opportunity to help recognize the Women of Impact by creating a Bank of Estes Park
Women of Impact Grant in the amount of $2,500—allowing the winner to select a local non-profit of her choice for us to award the grant to in her name (obviously also ensuring that our own women would not be nominated/selected, etc., so as to not inadvertently “award ourselves” a grant).
The Chamber selected Ruby Bode and Victoria Endsley as co-winners rather than selecting just one winner, so Bank of Estes Park simply split the grant into two. Ruby selected The Learning Place as the recipient of her $1,250 grant from the bank, which we were beyond excited about, as we already fund its Bank of Estes Park Bright Futures GED Program. At the
time of this writing, we are still waiting on Victoria’s selection, but will very quickly fund whichever local nonprofit she selects as well. Bank of Estes Park congratulates the winners, as well as all of the nominees for the Women of Impact Award, as it is always humbling to attend that event and witness the greatness in the room.
Where you bank matters—and when you bank with Bank of Estes Park, be aware that you are banking with a team that doesn’t just pay lip service to the amazing women of Estes Park—our leadership team from the Holding Company down through the Bank (both located right here!) is composed of them!
Pictured: Scott Applegate, Victoria Endsley, Ruby Bode, and Colleen DePasquale
Photo credit: Marcos Quintana
Starting from scratch
BENEFIT CONCERT
Estes Arts District To Strengthen Colorado Creative District Certification In Estes Park
Help the edwards by donating today
Bands TAHOSA THE COLDIES Time 3PM -7PM MAR 14TH For Betty & Joe edwards Let’s help out!
The Estes Arts District is excited to announce a new strategic partnership with Visit Estes Park aimed at strengthening the local creative economy, supporting small businesses, and enhancing the cultural experience for both residents and visitors in the Estes Valley.
Tavern open 3-8pm
suggested donation for cover charge $10
Tavern at the legion 850 N. St. Vrain ave who lost everything in a house fire
Through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding, the Estes Arts District and Visit Estes Park will jointly fund and support a shared Arts & Culture Program Director position dedicated to advancing arts, culture, and creative economy initiatives in Estes Park.
The role is designed to strengthen connections between community arts programming and visitor engagement, integrating arts and culture more intentionally into the Estes Park experience.
“The Estes Arts District designation through the Colorado Creative Industries program reflects years of collaboration across our arts community,” said Lars Sage, co-chair of the Estes Arts District. “This partnership with Visit Estes Park helps us build on that foundation and strengthen support for local artists.”
The Estes Arts District also serves as the governing body for the state-desig-
nated Estes Park Creative District, part of the statewide Colorado Creative Industries program. Achieving this designation was the result of many years of dedication from board members, staff, artists, community partners, and supporters who worked collaboratively to build recognition for the area’s creative sector. It was truly a collective effort, no single person can take credit for the work that made the Creative District designation possible.
As the organization continues to grow, the Estes Arts District is also working toward becoming an umbrella organization that connects and supports the many arts, culture, and creative groups across the Estes Valley. The goal is to provide coordination, shared resources, and collective advocacy for artists, nonprofits, creative businesses, and cultural organizations. By bringing these voices together under a collaborative framework, the Estes Arts District aims to strengthen the creative economy, expand opportunities for artists, and ensure arts and culture remain a vibrant and visible part of the Estes Park community. To learn more about the position or to apply, visit: estesartsdistrict.org/board-members.
Estes Park Quota Club Supports School Upgrades
Quota Club’s Speech and Hearing Committee donated $1,000 to the Estes Park School’s Speech and Language programs to support local students. Thanks to participants and sponsors of Estes Park Quota Club's Taste of Estes, Festival of Trees and donations to the Loan Closet, Quota Club is able to pitch in to help with community needs.
In their Facebook post, the School District commented, “We’re thrilled to share that we have a new touchscreen computer, made possible by generous funding from the Estes Park Quota Club—thank you!
“This upgrade allows all students,
even our preschoolers, to actively participate in speech activities with greater independence. Instead of just watching, students can now interact, make selections, and stay fully engaged in their learning.
We’re so grateful for this support and the difference it’s making for our students!”
Pictured are Linda Schakenbach (Quotarian), Sundee Pietsch (Estes Park School District Director of Student Services), Janeen Buss (Estes Park School District Speech Language Pathologist) and Kathy Brazelton (Quotarian).
Estes Park Woman's Club News
It has been a wonderful week to remember what winter is like! The Woman's Day Fair at the Estes Valley Community Center on March 7 was a great way to become aware of all the women owned businesses. What a well attended event and excellent showcase of what is available right here in Estes Park. The Estes Park Woman's Club had a booth that showcased many of our recent and past events. Woman's Club continues to enhance the lives of citizens in the Estes Valley through scholarships, conservation and civic improvement projects.
Our March Luncheon and Program
was March 11, 2026 at the American Legion. Bob Leavitt provided a very informative presentation about “A History of the Southern Estes Valley,” with special emphasis on Carriage Hills. We hope you will join us for future luncheons, remember that advance reservations are needed to attend, and can be made at epwcreservations@gmail.com. Also, it is time to buy Duck Race ducks to support the EPWC. You can buy them directly at meetings for your convenience, or online at epduckrace.org.
Estes Park Woman's Club is the town's longest, continuous force for community betterment.
Project Hail Mary Book vs. Movie Night Featuring Book Discussion, Activities, & Book Sales
Macdonald Book Shop will host a Book vs. Movie night for fans of science fiction and space adventures on March 27, 2026 at 5 p.m. We will celebrate Andy Weir's Project Hail Mary and its film adaptation with an interactive event. Attendees are encouraged to read and watch the book before coming to our event so they can discuss favorite moments, examine book themes, and compare the book to the film. Historic Park Theatre has showings starting March 20, 2026.
Guests are encouraged to participate in an inspired spacethemed survival game.
The evening will also include:
• Themed swag
• Books available for purchase, including copies of Project Hail Mary
• Discussion with fellow sci-fi fans
• Space-themed fun
The event is open to all. Hope to see you there!
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
HOURS
MondaysThursdays, 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 16, 10:15 - 11:45 a.m., Hondius Room
Calling all writers, aspiring writers, and anyone interested in writing! Share your writing, enjoy others’ work, receive & provide feedback. All genres & forms are welcome.
ALL AGES
Pi(e) Day Clay Crafts
Saturday, March 14, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Makerspace
Celebrate National Pi Day by crafting tiny pie accessories with polymer clay. Make a necklace, bracelet, or even a pie keychain to show your love for pi(e) in all its forms.
Spring Break Craft: Scrap Fabric Stickers
Thursday, March 19, 1:30 - 3 p.m., Makerspace
Join us for a drop-in craft session to
make fabric stickers from leftover scraps as a fun way to add a handmade touch to notebooks, pictures, water bottles, or bags.
Spring Break Family
LEGO Building Fun
Thursday, March 19, 3 - 6 p.m., Hondius Room
Builders of all ages are invited to design & create their own LEGO masterpieces.
ADULTS
Meet Karall Heimann, the Eisenhower Tunnel’s Woman Welder
Monday, March 15, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Celebrate Maker March by learning about the construction of the Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel from the only woman welder on the project. She’ll share how she went from making metal sculptures as a hobby to using her skills to help create a modern engineering marvel.
A Trail of Two Peaks
Friday, March 13, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Join James Relton as he discusses the making of the East Longs Peak Trail & contrasts the experience of ascending Longs Peak with that of ascending Mount Meeker.
TEENS & TWEENS
Young Adult Dungeons & Dragons: Make a Dice Tray
Sunday, March 15, 1 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Celebrate Maker March by joining us to make a dice tray to test with one of the dungeons that was created during one of the previous sessions this month.
Young Dragon Slayers: Spring Break Craft & Game
Wednesday, March 18, 12:30 - 5:30 p.m., Hondius Room
In this fun-filled craft session, we will make a dice tray to test with one of the dungeons we made earlier this month.
Teen Anime Club: The Apothecary Diaries
Wednesday, March 18, 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.
Make a Rube Goldberg Machine
Thursday, March 19, 12 - 1:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Celebrate Maker 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.
Friday Kids Club: Straw Roller Coaster & Mazes
Friday, March 13, 10 - 11 a.m. or 4 - 5 p.m., Hondius Room
Join us to complete this STEM challenge: build a roller coaster or maze for a ping-pong ball using everyday household materials.
Storybook Explorers: Rainbow Fish Saturday, March 14, 11:15 a.m. - 11:45 a.m., Hondius Room
Join us to read Rainbow Fish, followed by a craft to make our own colorful fish inspired by the story using aluminum, cardboard, string, & markers.
Pie on Pi Day
Saturday, March 14, 12:15 - 1:15 p.m., Hondius Room
Children and tweens are invited to celebrate National Pi Day with us by making a mini pie to take home & bake.
Read to Therapy Dog Bo Thursday, March 19, 11 - 11:30 a.m., Children’s Room
Beginning readers are invited to practice their skills. Come to the Children’s Room, pick out a book & read to Bo. Friday Kids Club:
Crayon Suncatchers
Friday, March 20, 10 - 11 a.m. or 2 - 3 p.m. Hondius Room
We will be making suncatchers using crayons, glitter, & cookie cutters. Perfect for rainy days & sunny windows.
MAKERSPACE & TECHNOLOGY
Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County
Build digital skills like using your smartphone, accessing websites & accounts online, improving online communications, & more. Appointments required.
Community Seed Exchange
Thursday, March 19, 4 - 6 p.m., Makerspace
Celebrate Maker March with one of the oldest forms of making: gardening. By saving & sharing seeds, you aren’t just growing a garden, you’re participating in a collaborative community project that spans generations.
Makerspace March: Laser-cut Flower Press
Friday, March 13, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
Prepare for spring by building your own flower press to capture the season, & explore the dos & don’ts of botanical preservation.
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.
Stream Thousands Of Films Free With Your Library Card
Care for free access to on-demand videos with thousands of high-quality films, documentaries, and television programs? Then, good news! With Kanopy, the Library’s new streaming service, patrons can enjoy a wide range of engaging content anytime and anywhere—now included with your library card.
Kanopy is available on a variety of platforms, including Apple TV, Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, mobile devices, tablets, and web browsers, making it easy to watch at home or on the go.
The platform features a diverse and carefully curated collection from respected distributors such as BBC, The Criterion Collection, HISTORY, A&E, The Great Courses, IFC Films, and many more. With more than 31,000 titles —and 100 to 200 new titles added
each month—there is always something new to discover.
Kanopy also includes Kanopy Kids, a collection designed specifically for younger viewers, featuring ad-free, educational, and age-appropriate programming, including animated stories, early-learning videos, STEM content, and adaptations of beloved children’s literature.
Kanopy enables patrons to stream numerous titles each month by using a simple ticketing system. Movies and television programs are available at different ‘ticket’ levels, helping viewers manage their monthly selections.
Getting started is easy. All you need is your library card and an internet connection to begin exploring Kanopy’s extensive collection of films and educational programming. Check it out
today at estesvalleylibrary.kanopy.com. This newest addition to the Library’s collection is made possible thanks to the support of the Friends of the Library Foundation.
March News From The Art Center Of Estes Park
Currently on exhibit: “Mentor/Student Show” closing March 16
It’s the final days to enjoy the display of the artwork by the elementary school students under the direction of their mentors. In addition the artwork by last year’s class instructors and their students, there is also a special display of artwork done by the high school students in the sunroom.
The Art Center is on “winter hours” and we’re open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays through Mondays. Special showings can be arranged on other weekdays by contacting gallery manager, Lars Sage at 970-586-5882.
Upcoming Exhibit: “Reflections on Light and Color” featuring Artist Member Cheryl Gratias, Watercolor.
Reflection: the return of light from a surface without being absorbed; careful consideration of some subject matter or idea.
Reflection is at the heart of watercolor painting from start to finish. My pieces begin in personal reflections on an idea with thoughts about how to best express that in a painting.
Watercolor has been my chosen medium for over 15 years.
Visually, I love the transparency created by light reflected off the paper and coming back to the viewer through multiple layers of color. Creatively, I love the challenge of working in a medium where water and color actively dance and mix on the page creating patterns for me to reflect on, react to, and enhance. For me, this interaction with the artist is the “gift” of watercolor that keeps it fresh and interesting. With this exhibit, “Reflections on Light and Color,” I invite you to view some of my reflections on life’s bright energy and see where your own reflections take you.
Opening weekend door prize: “The Sunflower and the Bee” donated by Cheryl Gratias. The public is invited to enter their name for the door prize beginning 11 a.m. on March 20 to 5 p.m. on March 23, at which time a name will be drawn and the winner notified.
Calling all Plein Air Artists! Estes Valley Plein Air, a National Juried Show, will be ac-
Opening reception is March 20, 5 – 7 p.m. Refreshments provided.
cepting applications through Online Juried Shows (OnlineJuriedShows.com) for our 2026 season through April 5. Open to any artist using oil, watercolor, acrylic, pastel or gouache. Participating artists must paint from life, on location. Studio work is not allowed. To be considered for participation in this event, artists must submit three images (required) representative of their best plein air work and pay a non-refund-
Upcoming art class: Why does color get all the glory when value is often ignored? with Cathy Goodale, March 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost for Art Center Members: $72; cost for Non Members: $80.
Look at a group of flowers. Are you drawn to the subject because of color or the lighting? Can a value study improve your painting? Maybe a black and white study? Value can be the power and a great way to get color changes from the color in the light as it changes in the shadows.
To register: Go online to artcenterofestes.com under “Classes,” or contact the gallery at 970-586-5882, Friday –Monday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
able $60 jury fee by the entry deadline. Estes Valley Plein Air will begin August 18 with registration. Highlights of activities include Quick Paint on August 22 at Riverside Plaza, a 90minute paint out with an auction to follow. August 25 will be a group paintout at MacGregor Ranch. A Gala Opening and Awards Ceremony will take place on August 28 with the Exhibit running through September 28. For further information, contact Lars Sage at the Art Center 970-586-5882 or email pleinair@artcenterofestes.com.
First Friday Art Groove: The Art Center is will open 5 – 7 p.m. to participate in the Art Groove.
Satellite Exhibits: Art Center Artists are on display at five satellite locations: Bank of Estes Park, US Bank, VERT, Snowy Peaks Winery and Estes Park Health. All five exhibits have been refreshed with new art and the public is invited to view them.
Visit our social media outlets – Instagram: artcenterofep; Facebook: ArtCenter-of-Estes-Park
Visit our website at artcenterofestes.com.
By: EVICS Family Resource Center
On a recent Wednesday morning in Estes Park, a young mother walked into Park Fellowship Church carrying a small infant in her arms. She had heard from a friend about a place where families could find clothing and baby essentials without stress or judgment. As she stepped inside, volunteers greeted her warmly and invited her to browse. Within minutes, she found tiny outfits, a warm jacket, and a few books for her baby. What she left with that day was more than clothing—it was reassurance that her community cared.
Stories like this unfold every week at the Kids Closet, a program developed by EVICS Family Resource Center and made possible through the support of Park Fellowship Church and a dedicated team of community volunteers.
Originally created to help local families access essential items for their children, the Kids Closet has grown into a well-organized community closet serving families with young children and expecting mothers throughout the Estes Valley.
The program operates out of Park Fellowship Church, located at 340 S. St. Vrain Ave. in Estes Park, and is open twice each week:
• Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
A Warm Welcome At The Kids Closet
• Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m.
Families are welcomed into a space where they can select clothing, shoes, and baby essentials in a supportive and respectful environment. The closet includes a wide range of items such as
maternity clothing, breast pumps, postpartum care supplies, preemie clothing, books, jackets, and larger items including baby gates, pack ‘n plays, walkers, and tummy-time equipment.
The impact of the Kids Closet can be seen in moments when families face unexpected hardship. Recently, after a local family lost their home in a fire, volunteers quickly gathered clothing and essential supplies in the correct sizes for their children. Within hours,
the family had what they needed during a very difficult time.
Volunteers are the heart of the Kids Closet. They help organize donations, assist families as they shop, and ensure that every visitor feels welcomed and supported. Donations of gently used items are accepted when available, and families are invited to make a small contribution for the items they select. This approach helps sustain the program while maintaining dignity and community ownership.
EVICS Family Resource Center is especially grateful to Park Fellowship Church, which generously provides the space for the Kids Closet at no cost. Their partnership allows this important resource to remain available to families in the Estes Valley.
Programs like the Kids Closet reflect the mission of EVICS Family Resource Center: strengthening families, connecting them to resources, and supporting the healthy development of children. By recycling gently used clothing, reducing waste, and creating opportunities for neighbors to help one another, the program builds a stronger community for everyone.
For those who would like to volunteer or learn more about the Kids Closet, please contact Cassie Bartlett at EVICS Family Resource Center at cassie@evics.org or call 970-586-3055. Families leave not only with clothing and essential supplies, but with something equally meaningful—a reminder that in Estes Park, neighbors still take care of one another.
First Kent Smith Civic Engagement Award To Be Presented March 16
On March 16, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., in the Town Hall Board Room, the first presentation of the Kent Smith Civic Engagement Award will take place. This award was conceived by Judi Smith and her family after Kent's passing in 2025. Kent was a highly engaged member of the community, who brought a gentle and civil approach to all of his dealings. He had a great sense of humor and a long track record of interaction with Town affairs.
In Greeley, where he lived and
worked for over 40 years, he served as Chairman of the We CAN Committee and was a founder of the Independence Stampede Troupe, a community theatre organization. Over the years, he also was an active member of the Colorado Historical Society, the Lions Club, and the National Railway Historical Society. He was President of the Rocky Mountain Sign Association and of the Southwest Sign Council, both affiliated with the International Sign Association where he was Chair of the Government Affairs Committee.
He began participation in Estes with the Mountain Strong Committee in 2013. He served as a Board member for the Estes Chamber of Commerce where he also, until recently, served on the Executive Committee. He was also a past Board member of the Economic Development Corporation. Always a supporter of innovative education, he sat on the Long Range Planning Committee to explore the future of the Estes Schools.
The public is welcome to attend and celebrate Kent's life and ongoing legacy.
Catch The Celtic Spirit At The Senior Center At Noon On St Paddy’s Day!
Everyone is invited to enjoy a free midday concert by local favorite Celtic Spirit on Tuesday, March 17, from 12 to 1:30 p.m. at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC), located at 1760 Olympian Lane. Light refreshments will be provided, and guests are welcome to bring their own lunch or pre-order a hot meal (see details below). Donations of appreciation for the musicians are always welcome. Celtic Spirit, led by Nancy Maple and Nan Lederer, fills the room with lively music from Northumbria, Scotland, and Ireland. Both Nan and Nancy play the fiddle, and Nancy also plays the bodhran, a traditional Irish drum, adding rhythm and texture to the group’s sound. Rounding out the group are Joe Stewart on guitar, Rick Vincent on bass, and Rex Armstrong, who brings the Celtic flavor with concertina, Irish flute, and penny whistle. “Our music is just like what you might hear in an Irish pub,” says Nancy, inviting listeners into the spirited and joyful atmosphere the band creates.
The group is well known around Estes Park and can often be found performing at local spots. You can catch them in the summer on Monday mornings at 10:30 a.m. at Mountain Berry Café along the Riverwalk, and on Wednesday afternoons at 1 p.m. at Raven’s Roast Coffee Shop. They also appear regularly at Snowy Peaks Winery, Tahosa Coffee House in Allenspark, and private events. To book Celtic Spirit for a gathering or celebration, contact Nancy Maple at 970-4432415 or nancymaple467@gmail.com.
For those who would like to enjoy lunch during the concert, Tuesday’s meal will be a special St. Paddy’s Day meal of Corned Beef and Cabbage. Meals must be ordered by 1 p.m. on Monday, March 16. Cost is $12 for EPSCC members and $14 for nonmembers. Membership at EPSCC is $35 per year and includes access to discounted meals, programs, and a wide range of activities. To order a meal or get more information, call the Senior Center at 970-581-2195.
Sunrise Rotary Community Grants
The Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary (EVSR) invites proposals from charitable organizations in the Estes Valley for grants to support programs and projects (Programs) to benefit the Estes Valley community.
To apply for funding, complete and submit the grant application (accessible by scanning the QR code) no later than March 31, 2026, and email to estessunriserotary@gmail.com.
March 16 – 20
Monday, March 16 Denver Omelette (ham, mushrooms, onions & green peppers) w/ Hashbrowns & fruit
Tuesday, March 17 Corn Beef & Cabbage
Wednesday, March 18 Southwest Chicken Wrap (in flour tortilla w/ salsa on the side) & coleslaw
Thursday, March 19 Beef Stroganoff over Egg Noodles, garlic bread & side salad
Friday, March 20 Creamy Tuscan Shrimp (w/ sun-dried tomatoes & spinach) w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad
March 23 – 27
Monday, March 23 Quiche (w/ spinach, bacon & onions), Hashbrowns & fruit
Tuesday, March 24 BBQ Platter – Pulled Pork & Beef Brisket w/ Mac ‘n Cheese & Baked Beans
Thursday, March 26 Chicken Primavera w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad
Friday, March 27 Salmon (6 oz) w/ Rice Pilaf & 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 16th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Mar 13th. 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
Tickets Available For Little Shop Of Horrors
Rehearsals for The Fine Arts Guld’s production of Little Shop of Horrors are underway. Director Alex Amery, in collaboration with music director
Tristan Andersen, is working with the eight actors to bring this charmingly tongue-incheek comedy to life for your theatrical pleasure. The musical takes place on Skid Row in Mr. Mushnik’s floral shop. The meek floral assistant Seymour Krelborn
stumbles across a new breed of plant he names "Audrey II" — after his coworker crush. The plant, a foulmouthed, R&B-singing carnivore, promises unending fame and fortune to the down and out Krelborn as long as he keeps feeding it blood. Over time, though, Seymour discovers II's out of this world origins and intent towards global domination.
Cast members include Cade Heaton –Seymour, Michelle Allen – Seymour’s coworker Audrey, David Czapp – Mr. Mushnik, Ian McCance – the sadistic dentist and Audrey’s boyfriend, Steven Siefers – voice of Audrey II, Bridget Rago – Crystal, Brianna Gress – Chif-
fon, and Casey Walsh, Ronnette, three street urchins, and the only ones who really know what’s going on. Local artist, Michael Young has designed the set and is creating the four puppets required to depict Audrey II, Tim Phillips is building the set, and Alana Linley is choreographing the show.
Performances are March 20, 21, 27 and 28 at 7 p.m. and March 22 at 2 p.m. at the Estes Park High School Auditorium. Tickets are available at Macdonald Book Shop, online at fineartsguild.org, and at the door. Adults $20, Seniors $18, ages 6-18 $12, and ages 5 and under free.
Molly & Dixie Need Loving, Forever Families
These two beautiful pups are looking for their forever homes. Please make their wish come true!
Molly is a little over four months old and, according to her foster, “truly is a remarkable puppy.” She uses the doggie door and enjoys playing outside. Molly gets along with everyone and is cuddly, sweet, smart, and has a gentle soul. Dixie is a six-year-old pup that loves to go on nice, long walks. She should be the only pet and would not do well with children. She is a great and friendly companion for an adult household!
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 Molly or Dixie!
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.
Molly
Dixie
Donor-Advised Funds — A Smart Way To Give
You can find several ways to make charitable gifts — but if you’re looking for a method that can provide multiple tax benefits, along with an efficient platform for giving year after year, you might want to consider a donor-advised fund.
Once you open a donor-advised fund (DAF), you can contribute many types of assets, including cash, publicly traded stocks, bonds, CDs or non-cash items such as closely held business interests, art or collectibles. You can then decide how to invest the money, possibly following a strategy suggested by the DAF sponsor organization you’ve selected. The next step involves choosing which charities to support, how often to provide support (such as once a year) and how much to give each time. You’re essentially free to direct the money to any charities you like, provided they’re IRS-approved charitable organizations.
Now, let’s look at the possible tax advantages offered by a DAF:
• Immediate tax deduction – A few years ago, changes in tax laws resulted in a vastly increased standard deduction, which, in turn, led to far fewer people itemizing on their tax returns and having less incentive, at least from a tax standpoint, to contribute to charities. But if you don’t typically give enough each year to itemize deductions, you could combine several years’ worth of giving into one contribution to a DAF and take a larger deduction in that tax year. And you can claim that deduction, even though the DAF may distribute funds to charities over several years.
• Tax-free growth of earnings – Once you contribute an asset to a DAF, any earnings growth is not taxable to you, the DAF or the charitable groups that receive grants from the DAF.
• Avoidance of capital gains taxes –When you donate appreciated stocks or other investments — or for that matter, virtually any appreciated asset — to a DAF, you can avoid paying the capital gains taxes that would otherwise be due if you were to simply sell the asset and then donate the proceeds to charitable organizations. Plus, by receiving the appreciated asset, rather than the proceeds from a sale, the charitable groups can gain more from your contribution. And you can also take a tax deduction for your donation.
While these potential tax benefits can certainly make a DAF an attractive method of charitable giving, you should be aware of some potential tradeoffs. Once you contribute assets to a DAF, that gift is irrevocable, and you can’t access the money for any reason other than charitable giving. Also, your investment options are limited to what’s available in the DAF program you’ve chosen. And DAFs can incur administrative costs in addition to the fees charged on the underlying investments.
You may want to consult with your financial professional about other potential benefits and tradeoffs of DAFs and whether a DAF can help you with your charitable giving goals. Also, different DAF sponsors offer different features, so you will want to do some comparisons. And because DAFs can have such significant implications for your tax situation, you should consult with your tax professional before taking action.
If a DAF is appropriate for your situation, though, consider it carefully — it might be a good way to support your charitable giving efforts for years to come.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by our local Edward Jones Financial Advisors. Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Elevate Partners Fundraising Dinner: Thank You!
Partners would like to thank all who attended our Elevate Partners Fundraising Dinner on Thursday, March 5, 2026 at Mama Rose's Restaurant! Your support of our youth mentoring programs helps us continue to provide services to the youth, families, and volunteers in our Este Park programs. Special thanks to Rob and Julie Pieper and their great staff for hosting this event for 24 years. We would also like to thank Heather Vesgaard, Marty Grojean, and Damian for being our speakers for the evening. Thank you to Mark Igel at The Taffy Shop for providing our table favors again this year. Thanks to our volunteer mentors, activity volunteers, and advisory council members for all their time and dedica-
tion. Also, thanks to Karlie DeBerard, Alani Casiano, Kathy Grant, Dave Trump and Michael Moran for their support during this event. If you were unable to attend and would still like to donate to Elevate Partners 2026 you can do so online at: poweredbypartners.org/donate. Under “What type of donation would you like to make?”, click on Event Donation and under Notes, type in Elevate Partners 2025.
Send a check payable to Partners, 600 S. Saint Vrain Ave, Unit 2, Estes Park, CO 80517 or 530 S. College Ave. Unit 1, Fort Collins, CO 80524 and write "Elevate Partners 2026" on the memo line. All donations will benefit our program in Estes Park!
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.
Good Neighbor Thrift: Coming This May
By: Brian Shaffer
Village Thrift Shop has officially closed their doors as of Saturday, February 28. It was a very memorable day for many in the community to go through the thrift shop one last time. After closing time, a group of volun-
cause it just seems to reflect well what our intentions are as we begin this new chapter. We want to be a good neighbor as the operator of this new venture, and we feel this will involve collaborating with our neighbors in a variety of ways to accomplish the most good.
teers who have served together for many years, enjoyed a sweet time of fellowship filled with love for one another and wonderful conversations. It’s truly amazing to consider all the good work that this mighty group of volunteers has accomplished over the past 10 years through the generous giving of their time, talent, and treasure. Village Thrift Shop has been such a big part of the community, and we want them to know how grateful we are for the many lives they have touched in such a meaningful way. We will celebrate their legacy for years to come as an organization that has inspired and encouraged nonprofits throughout the Estes Valley with their generous support.
As one chapter closes, another one begins with Crossroads taking over operations of the newly named, Good Neighbor Thrift. We are anticipating a grand opening to take place in early May. We are excited to introduce to you our new name and logo for Good Neighbor Thrift. We decided to go with the Good Neighbor theme, be-
Our mission for Crossroads Assistance Ministry is centered around the provision of basic human services to Estes Valley residents in need, and we believe taking on the thrift store will help strengthen our relationship with collaborative partners to ensure all neighbors who find themselves in a challenging season in life are taken care of. We want to leverage the combined strength of those willing to join arms with us to enhance our service offerings to neighbors in need. We’re at our best when we’re connected. By pooling our resources and ideas, we can create a stronger community for everyone. As things develop over the next few months, we will communicate how nonprofits across the Estes Valley can apply for grant funding from the net profits generated through the Good Neighbor Thrift. If you’d like to learn more about how you can serve as a volunteer, or partner with us in our mission, then please send an email to our Executive Director, Brian Schaffer at brian@crossroadsep.org.
New Concepts In Weight Loss: Drug, Bugs, & Surgery
Dr. Michael Roller, with UCHealth Bariatric Center of the Rockies, will discuss the physiology of weight loss, how our modern society has affected
genetics and that impact on metabolism and why these changes have limited the success of typical diets. We will also discuss new concepts in weight loss and how they are being converted to therapies, as well as new drug and surgery options for weight loss.
This program will take place on Friday, March 20 from 12 - 1:30 p.m. at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center, 1760 Olympian Lane. Registration is required by calling 970-495-8565.
Please Don’t Shoot Me, I’m Already Wounded!
Midweek Lenten Services At Mount Calvary Lutheran Church
We are nearly halfway through the Lenten season, traditionally a time of the year to grow in repentance — contrition over and confession of our sins, and the joy of God's salvation, His gracious forgiveness and mercy! In our final two mid-week services we will consider the ministry of Jesus our Savior from the perspective of a man who was born blind, but was healed by Jesus, both with physical sight and the enlightenment of knowing Jesus as Savior and Lord, and lastly from the perspective of the prophet Ezekiel who was granted the wondrous vision of the spiritual resurrection of all believers in Jesus, and the physical resurrection of all people on the Last Day. We look forward to the celebration of Easter, the resurrection of Jesus, Who is the "firstfruits" of God's resurrection of all mankind, coming on the Last Day.
Easter Sunday focuses on God's victory of life over death, giving us eternal life, and a new life of hope and joy even in this earthly life!
Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 6 p.m.
"A Blind Man"
Wednesday, March 25, 2026, 6 p.m. "Ezekiel"
Holy Week Services:
Maundy Thursday Worship - April 2, 2026, 6 p.m.
Good Friday Worship - April 3, 2026, Noon Meditation on the Passion Account in the Gospel of John
Good Friday Worship - April 3, 2026, 6 p.m. The Tenebrae Service
Easter Sunday Worship - April 5, 2026, 9 a.m., Easter Brunch at 10:30 a.m.
Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 950 N. Saint Vrain Ave., Estes Park, CO
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.
Dinner will be served from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Guests may choose between cottage pie—gluten-free and made with 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.
By: Larry Strong
A couple years ago we had a horse at the ranch who had a neurological issue that impacted its balance. At first, it kind of came and went but gradually got worse. It wasn’t one of those deals that could be treated, and toward the end, the horse would stand in the barnyard and whirl around in circles trying to stay upright. It broke our hearts watching him fight to stay on all fours. Finally, it got to the point where we knew what had to be done. Man, putting a horse down that is loyal and served well is super tough. Anybody who’s had a beloved pet knows too well what I’m talking about.
That’s why I wonder why so many folks are quick to “shoot the wounded?” We would have done anything within reason to save that horse. He was cared for, loved and sup ported till the end. He was handled with as much dignity and respect that we could muster. He wasn’t abandoned, punished, judged, ostracized or discarded. Unfortunately, that’s what seems to happen by some to those who are struggling, have made bad decisions, moral failures or fallen out of favor. What does it say that we’re sometimes more willing to treat an animal with more love and respect than a fellow human being? Too often, this happens in the church and we need to do better.
really bad choice resulting in moral failure or worse. They’re drowning in shame, guilt, and remorse. They’re trying to put their life and maybe even marriage back together. They’re in crisis. They’re deeply wounded. Often, they’re hanging on by a thread. What happens? Too often, they get shot. Not literally, but the “bullet” can have devastating results.
Is accountability and discipline necessary? You betcha. Church leaders have a spiritual obligation to protect and shepherd the flock. But nobody has a free pass to “shoot our wounded” unless you’re reading a different bible than this writer is. Clearly, the Bible commands that we not judge others but that doesn’t mean all actions are permissible, equally moral or truth is relative. Right after Jesus says, “Don’t judge,” he says, “Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs.” Yes, bad decisions come with consequences. But here’s the deal. If we’re gonna “shoot our wounded,” let’s hand out ammunition and form a circular firing squad. Can we at least try to give our brothers and sisters as much due as Fluffy and Fido?
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.
Place: St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church; 880 MacGregor Avenue, Estes Park, Colorado 80517 stbartsepiscopalchurch.org
A brother or sister makes a mistake— even a super bad one—and they get publicly shamed. People distance themselves to protect their reputation. Wrath and judgement comes with a vengeance. Gossip and innuendo run rampant and pointed fingers wag.
Someone confesses, admits and repents of a struggle with sin, doubt, or a
Men on Fire meets every Saturday, 8 a.m., 850 N. St. Vrain (American Legion). Breakfast burritos, coffee and donuts are on hand as well as a ton of inspiration, encouragement and men building up other men in the Lord. In case you’re wondering, we’re all wounded. Regardless of where you’re at in your life or faith journey, you’ll be accepted and welcomed. Come check us out. I won’t make any promises if we’re a good fit for you but I can promise you this…if you’re wounded, you won’t get shot.
Support For Eshelman For Trustee
To the Editor:
I am pleased to offer my strong support for Chris Eshelman as a candidate for Estes Park Town Trustee.
Raised in Estes Park Chris brings extensive knowledge of the Estes Park community, having built and operated two successful businesses here while also raising his family locally. His longstanding personal and professional investment in Estes Park gives him a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our town. Throughout his career, Chris has demonstrated outstanding personal character. He is thoughtful, respectful, hardworking, and guided by integrity. He treats individuals with dignity and respect. We may not agree on all issues, but he will communicate with stakeholders and listen carefully before making decisions-qualities that are essential for effective and responsible
public service.
As the Water Department Superintendent, Chris worked toward the improvement and upgrading of Estes Park’s water system. His foresight, technical knowledge, and commitment to long-term planning will be a significant asset to the Board of Trustees.
Chris is not afraid to ask hard questions of staff when necessary, always with the goal of developing sound policy that benefits the Estes Park community over the long term. He approaches governance with a fiscally responsible mindset, ensuring that decisions are both practical today and sustainable in the future.
For his experience, leadership, and dedication to Estes Park, I wholeheartedly support Chris Eshelman for Town Trustee and encourage others to do the same.
Sue Doylen, Estes Park
Robert Burger
Father Robert Franz Burger passed away on January 24, 2026 at his home in Glen Haven, Colorado.
Bob was born on April 5, 1929, the eldest of seven children, to Joseph and Eleanor Burger. He grew up in Webster Groves, Missouri, which he truly considered home for the remainder of his life. Bob grew up in a musical household and played the piano for enjoyment. As a youth he went to summer camp at Cheley Camp in Estes Park and gained a love of the mountains. He also attended many St. Louis Cardinals (and Browns) games at old Sportsman’s Park. He followed the Cardinals closely and loved to regale ev-
eryone with stories of their 1942 World Series Championship team.
In the late 1940s the family relocated to Southern California. Bob attended the University of Southern California (USC) majoring in German, in which he became fluent. Following graduation Bob discerned a call to ordained Ministry in the Episcopal Church. Following his ordination he served as a Parish priest in Port Townsend, Washington, Ridgecrest, California and culminated his career in Torrington, Wyoming.
After retirement Bob relocated to the Estes Park area. He volunteered at Rocky Mountain National Park as a way of giving back. He also became deeply involved in the church community at Saint Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, where he was a beloved member of the congregation.
Bob loved to travel, and especially loved photography, particularly mountain scenery. He was also a voracious reader, and was well known as a regular patron of the Estes Valley Library. He also enjoyed the company of his longtime friend Bonnie Fulford-Stewart.
Bob is survived by his sisters Margery Burger, Carolyn (Lynnie) Long, and brother John as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Eleanor, as well as siblings Joesph (Josie), Dorothy, and Father Charles Burger, who also served as a priest in the Episcopal Church. Robert will be interred at St Bartholomew’s. A memorial service will be held at St Bartholomew’s on Saturday, June 13, 2026.
José A. Gómez Domenech
José A. Gómez Domenech, 73, passed away peacefully in his sleep on March 1 in Estes Park, Colorado. José was born and raised in Spain and spent the latter part of his life in Estes Park.
He studied at Wheaton College, where he earned a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies, and at Conti-
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
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 4-6 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 3:30pm -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.
nental Theological Seminary Sint-Pieters Leeuw, Belgium, where he earned a BA in Theology. Much of his career was devoted to education in a variety of roles.
Time in nature, especially in the mountains of Colorado, brought José peace and inspiration for his writing and art. He also loved playing Spanish guitar and used it to express his faith.
José is survived by his three daughters: Sarah (Gómez Domenech) DuVall, Rachel (Gómez Domenech) Gómez-Orlioglu, and Anna Gómez Domenech. He is also survived by his brother Miguel and extended family, who carry his memory in their hearts.
Arrangements are being held with loved ones in Spain.
Come work at the Historic Hallett House.
4 day work week/3day weekends. Front Desk/Optical. On the job training available. Have fun while you help the community see better - all with competitive pay!
Drop off resume at 1861 Marys Lake Rd or Email to eyedocbusche@gmail.com - see our website www.aspen-eyecare.com for more details.
Now Hiring: House Cleaners
$800–$1,000+ per week doing rewarding work with a team that values you.
Weekly Pay
$22–$25 per hour - potential to earn $30+ hourly with tips & benefits
Supportive, Team-Oriented Environment
Equipment and training provided No experience needed - just a great attitude and a strong work ethic! Apply Today! wayfindercleaning.com/join-our-team/ Call or text 970-585-8587.
Part-Time Creative & Event Assistant
Longs Peak Scottish Irish Highland Festival –Estes Park
Seeking detail-oriented creative professional for on-site support ongoing promotional and design needs. Responsibilities include creating posters, programs, ads, newsletters, and distributing promotional materials. Must be proficient in Adobe Creative Suite, have strong design and writing skills, meet deadlines, and manage peak-season workload. Valid driver’s license required. Part-time: one day/week in winter; expanded schedule beginning May; significant hours in Aug.–Sept. Full commitment required from Tuesday after Labor Day through the Monday following the Festival (long days/evenings). Call 970-586-6308 and ask for Peggy.
Sales Associate
Moose Creek Western is seeking applications for sales associate. Full time/part time, seasonal and year round positions are available for motivated people. Please apply in person, or email resumes to peter@plumcreekshoes.com
JOIN OUR TEAM! Full details on employment opportunities and the application can be found at estes.org/jobs.
Regular /Full-time
• Emergency Services Dispatcher I/II/III
• Police Officer I/II/III
Seasonal
• Community Service Officer
• Parks Maintenance Worker
• Parking & Transit Technician
The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
We are Hiring! Several Positions available: Front Desk, Night Audit, Housekeeping, Maintenance, etc. Full or part-time.
Stop by to fill out an application: 1700 Colorado Peaks Drive
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
Condos
Month to Month lease
March thru May
Furnished Mary’s Lake Condo. 2 bed 2 bath. No Pets.
$1400 plus electric and security deposit.
Call/Text 970-624-7191
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.
Office Space for Rent
1050 sq. ft., $2,000.00/mo. + utilities, Unit 2B, upper level 1692 Big Thompson Avenue. Use of separate kitchen, bathrooms and conference room (700 sf additional space). Ample parking, spacious, natural light with great views. Contact 970-214-7318
Storage Units
Manford Plaza storage unit for rent. 970-586-3828
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
Wanted To Buy
Questions about the value of your antiques and Art ?
30+ years of experience specializing in American antiques, Art and Native American cultures. Lone Tree Antiques and Fine Art. 970-301-0248. Email lonetreeantiques @AOL.com web: lonetreeantiques.com
REAL ESTATE
Commercial
Commercial Spaces for sale and lease. Call Eric. INTEMPUS Realty, 970-586-2950
BUSINESS
Supplies
Local home builder is selling out all tools & hardware for home construction, need to sell it all, fair prices . Call Bob Taylor at 970-481-6452
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.
Misc.
ESTES PARK ACADEMY OF HOSPITLITY (EPAH)
Are you interested in learning all about Hotel Hospitality?
Are you interested in How a Hotel Works?
Do you have the ability to be kind and be of service to others? Then the Estes Park Academy of Hospitality might be just for you. The best part is all of our training is FREE. Estes Park is severely shorthanded for Hospitality Workers.
We will teach you everything about Hospitality Front Desk Operations Housekeeping Laundry Services
We will train the first 20 applicants for free during a 90 day program. Graduation and a Bonus Check of $500.00 will be awarded to the Top Student For more information
Please contact: EPAH.Academy@ gmail.com
Garage Sales
MOVING SALE
Sat 9 to ?
401 Noble Lane
Lots of tools, Camping gear, Propane stoves-still in box, Miscellaneous, Propane tanks (all sizes). Yard Tools, 50 lb weights, Bricks, Locks and Keys, Cast Iron Cookware, Yard Tools.
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
Estate
Sales
Alice Schwartz Estate Sale Fri 9-1, Sat 9-2
Follow Judi’s Signs to: 1631 High Dr., Estes Park Collectibles, Crystal, Waterford, Lladro, Books, Hand Carved Chest, Baskets, Whale Collection, Jewelry, Games, Framed Clothing, Hat Collections, Kitchen Aide Mixer, Patio Furniture, Yard Art, Electronics, Tools, Shelving, Plastic Containers, Fans, Ladders, Trash Containers, School Locker and MORE. Follow the signs directing where to park.
