New Years Holiday Schedule

City Offices will be closed for the New Year's Holiday on Tuesday, January 1, 2013.   Police, Fire, and Communications Emergency Personnel will be on duty for the safety of Gunnison's citizens and visitors. 

There will be NO City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 1st.  The next City Council meeting will be on Tuesday, January 8th at 7pm. 

Refuse Service:  If your garbage is normally picked up on Tuesday, it will be picked up on Wendesday, January 2nd.  If you have questions, call 641-8020 during business hours. 

Holiday hours at the Gunnison Comunity Center will be from 6am to 6pm on New Year's Eve, December 31, 2012,  and the Building and Offices will be CLOSED on New Year's Day, Tuesday, January 1, 2013.

Happy New Year to Everyone! 

PLAY 60 PROGRAM!

Based on the NFL's Play 60 Campaign, the Gunnison Recreation Department is offering a Play 60 Program on Tuesday and Thursdays, starting on January 8th,  after school from 4 to 5pm at the Community Center.

Play 60 has the goal of getting kids to exercise 60 minutes a day while having fun at the same time!  There will be a variety of games such as basketbball, wallball, dodgeball, football, soccer and other fun activities.  The program is for boys and girls in 3rd thru 6th grades.  The cost is $25 for both Tuesdays and Thursdays, and $15 for just one day a week. 

To sign up or to get more information, call the Recreation Department at 641-8060 or stop by the Community Center at 200 East Spencer Avenue in Gunnison.  Get up and move! 

What's your health & fitness Resolution?

The Gunnison Recreation Department will help you acheive your health and fitness New Year's Resolution.  Come join in the ADULT SWIM PROGRAM!  Swimming can burn calories, boost metabolism and firm muscles without stressing your joints.  It's a great workout for all ages and abilities.

The adult swim program meets once per month starting on Wednesday, January 2nd at 5:15pm at the Gunnison Community Center.  It is for beginner and intermediate swimmers who want to build confidence and endurance in their swim workouts. 

The program is FREE for Community Center members.  No need to sign up - just show up!  For more information call 970-641-8425.  See you in the pool! 

Taking Down the Tree

If you're ready for the holidays to be over and are thinking about taking down the tree - you have a "green" option for your real tree. 

Once all of the ornaments and tinsel are removed...set your tree in the alley behind your residence near but not blocking where your trash is picked up and the City's street & alley crew will come by in the next couple of weeks and pick it up.  (this does NOT include artificial trees :-)  Be patient, the crews are also plowing and removing the much-needed snow.  Once they have a couple of non-plowing minutes, they will pick up trees in the alleys.

If you would like, you can also take your undecorated tree to the gate at the City's summertime tree/grass/leaves dump.  This is located on County Road 51 just north of Gunnison.  If you get to County Road 10 (the Cranor Hill Road) you've gone too far!  Place the tree to the north side of the entrance road by the locked gate.  Please DO NOT block the gate.  The crews will pick up the trees from the side of the road and then take them on up into the tree dump.

The trees will be recycled and chipped into landscaping and Gunnison Gold compost-making mulch this coming summer!  What a deal!  If you have any questions, please call 641-8020 dueing business hours. 

City of Gunnson Christmas Holiday Schedule

City of Gunnison offices and services will be CLOSED on Monday, December 24th and Tuesday, December 25th so that City employees may celebrate the holiday with their families.

Police, Emergency Dispatch and Fire Services will still be on duty to ensure the safety and well being of our citizens and visitors. 
Happy Holidays from everyone at the City! 

Christmas Holiday Refuse Schedule

The Christmas Holiday is rapidly approaching and the refuse/recycling crews will NOT be working on Monday, December 24th and Tuesday, December 25th.

If your trash is normally picked up on a Monday route, next week it will be picked up on Wednesday, December 26th.

If your trash is normally picked up on Tuesday, next week it will be picked up on Thursday, December 27th. 

If you have any questions, call 641-8020.  Happy Holidays!

New City Councilor

With the resignation of City Councilor/Mayor Jonathan Houck due to his election to the Gunnison County Board of Commissioners, the Gunnison City Council, on Tuesday, December 11, 2012, appointed Sharon Cave to fill the term of City Councilor from January 1, 2013, through May 20, 2013. 

Sharon is a married, long-time resident of the City of Gunnison and works in retail at a downtown business.  She has assisted with Municipal Elections as a Counting Judge for many years.  City Council and City Staff look forward to working with Sharon on the Council.  Welcome Sharon!

Rudolph Roundup is Coming

The Rudolph Roundup is rapidly approaching!  See the blog post below for details.  Hint - there will be reindeer games!

Winter Program Offerings Available

The City of Gunnison Winter Recreation Program Offerings are now available!  And there lots of ways to take a look at what's being offered! 

You can pick up a printed brochure at the Gunnison Community Center, 200 East Spencer Avenue; at City Hall, 201 W. Virginia Avenue; or at the Ice Rink located in Jorgensen Park at 500 East Tomichi Avenue. 

You can also go online at    www.gunnisonrec.com    The brochure can also be visited at www.tinyurl.com/2013winterbrochure  

Registration begins on Monday, December 10th - sorry hurry to reserve your spot. 

Rudolph Roundup

Indoor Soccer Program

The air is cold and the grass in the parks is crunchy.  But, you can still practice soccer!  Training during the winter months is crucial for the development of youth soccer players.  They can use the off-season to work on their individual skills and increase their tactical understanding of the game. 

The indoor soccer training program will give players an opportunity to learn new skills and practice existing skills in a warm and productive environment.  The program is coached by Jason Lain.

Who:   Boys and girls ages 8 to 11 years old
When:  Mondays and Wednesdays from 4pm to 5:15pm starting December 3rd to January 28th
Where:  Gunnison Community Center gym; 200 East Spencer Avenue
How Much:  $38 for members of the Gunnison Community Center and $40 for non-members

Call 641-8060 for more information or stop by the Gunnison Community Center to register for this program. 

Turkey Bowl Time

YES, it's TURKEY BOWL TIME once again.  If you're looking for something for the family and friends to do on Thsanksgiving Day from 10am to 12:30pm, before gorging on turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie, call the Recreation Department at 641-8060 and sign up your team for the 18th Annual Turkey Bowl.  It is a FREE and fun flag football mini tournament. 

Thanksgiving Happenings

Happy Thanksgiving to all Gunnison residents and visitors alike!  We hope you have a peaceful, happy and safe holiday. 

Refuse Schedule for the Thanksgiving Holiday...
If your refuse and recycling is normally picked up on Thursday, it will be picked up this week on Wednesday, November 21st. 
If your refuse and recycling is normally picked up on a Friday, it will be picked up this week on Monday, November 26th.  Please call 641-8020 if you have any questions. 

City Offices will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 22nd and 23rd, so that City employees can enjoy the Thanksgiving Holiday with their families and friends.  Police, Fire and Dispatch/Communication Personnel will be on duty to ensure public safety.  Call 911 if you have an emergency (emergencies only!) 

The Gunnison Community/Aquatics Center will be closed all day on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 22nd.  The Center will be open on Friday, November 23rd from 8am to 8pm.  There will be NO 6am early morning lap swimming on Friday, November 23rd.  The climbing wall will open at 12 Noon on Friday.  Call 641-8060 for more information. 

Veterans Day Closures

The City of Gunnison will be observing Veterans Day this Monday, November 12th.  Most City Officers will be closed on Monday.  Police Department, Communications/Dispath, and Fire Department Personnel will be on duty for public safety.  The Parks & Recreation Offices will be CLOSED as well. 

The Gunnison Community/Aquatics Center will have modified hours on Monday, November 12th.  The building will be OPEN from 8am to 9pm.  The Climbing Wall will be OPEN from 3:45pm to 7pm.  The Leisure and Lap Swimming Pools will be OPEN from 8am to 8:45pm.  There will be NO early morning lap swimming. 

All Parks and Recreation Programs will take place at their scheduled times.  If you have questions, call 641-8060. 

First swim then skate

After swimming at the City Aquatics Center, try Ice Skating at the Jorgensen Ice Rink!

Jorgesen Ice Rink

Youth ice skating lessons will be starting this Monday, November 12th.  Ages 5 to 13 years old can participate in Level 1 or Level 2 and 3 lessons.  Lessons are on Mondays from November 12th through December 17th and on one Wednesday - December 19th. 
The fee is $30 for members of the Gunnison Community Center and $32 for non-members. 
Levels 2 and 3 will start at 4:15pm and end at 4:45pm and Level 1 will start at 4:45pm and go to 5:15pm.  All lessons are at the indoor Jorgensen Ice Rink.
Dress warmly and a helmet is STRONGLY recommended.  Bring your own skates if you have them.  No double runner skates. Rental skates are included for the lesson if you don't have them - but only for the lesson. 
For more information  on these and other lessons offered by the Gunnison Recreation Department, call 641-8060 or go to www.gunnisonrec.com  You can also stop by the Gunnison Community Center at 200 East Spencer Avenue. 

WOW - FREE swim lessons!

That's right.  Adult Swim Lessons are FREE for holders of a current Gunnison Community Center facility membership.
These one-hour small group lessons offer a safe and non-threatening opportunity to learn the fundamentals of swimming for safety, fitness and enjoyment.  The highly qualified swimming instructors will work with you to overcome anxiety and apprehension about swimming.  Progress at your own pace.  Focus on the swim strokes you want to learn.  The program offers participants to opportunity to meet with instructors monthly while working on and practicing their swimming skills in their own time.
The FREE adult swim lessons are the first Wednesday of each month on November 7th and December 5th, from 5:15pm to 6:15 pm. 
For more information call 641-8425 or stop by the Community Center at 200 East Spencer Avenue in Gunnison. 

New Winter Hours

The daylight is getting shorter and winter is on its way. (do a snow dance everyone!)

So, starting Monday, November 5th, the Gunnison Community and Aquatics Center will have new winter hours. 
The facility hours are as follows:
Monday - Thursday  6am to 9pm
Friday  6am to 8pm
Saturday  10am to 8pm
Sunday 12 Noon to 8pm
The swimming pools will close 15 minutes before the building closes.  There's still plenty of time to enjoy all of the recreational opportunities available at the Center.  Try it out!

A FUN time was had by all

The City of Gunnison had two fun events in the past few days!

Downtown Halloween Crowd

The Downtown Halloween Event on the afternoon of October 31st, was a successful and fun time.  The City blocked off the first 3 blocks of North Main Street and the little ghosts and goblins had a great time trick or treating at the participating businesses downtown.  There were even zombies dancing in the middle of the street!  The streets were cleared and the Main Street thoroughfare was reopened in time for the after work traffic to proceed home to their own trick or treaters!

Downtown Zombies!



Downtown Trick or Treater

BIG THANKS to the Chamber of Commerce for sponsoring the event, the VERY generous and fun-loving downtown merchants who participated in the event, the City Public Works crew for providing the barricades and the Gunnison Police Department for ensuring everyone's safety. 

The second amazing event was the dedication of the City's new Jorgensen Skatepark.  The 
City received a GOCO grant to fund the project, and the contractor "Team Pain" was fantastic in their design, construction and expertise in completing the fabulous bowls. 
A crowd gathered on Saturday morning, November 3rd for the dedication.  Many local service organizations, individuals and businesses contributed to the project.  The Parks crew was instrumental in the success of the project.  As the skatepark was completed, local skaters and bikers lined up for their chance to try out the new concrete! 

Catching Air

If you haven't seen the skatepark - head over to the south side of Jorgensen Park (next to the BMX track) and Check It Out!

It's GNAR...
 

In the bowl

Downtown Trick or Treat Event

The Gunnison Chamber of Commerce-sponsored Downtown Trick or Treat Event is taking place this Halloween afternoon, October 31st, from 3:30 to 5:00 P.M.

Trick or Treat

The first three blocks of North Main Street will be closed to vehicular traffic!  All drivers are asked to be aware of all of the costumed children and adults out and about this afternoon and tonight!

Have a safe and fun Happy Halloween!

It's FRIGHT NIGHT!

All Gunnison ghosts and goblins are invited to the Gunnison Community Center TODAY Friday, October 26th starting at 4pm until 7pm for FRIGHT NIGHT! 

There will be a Pumpkin Patch in the Pool....Haunted House and Bounce House...Caramel Apple Decorating...Haunted Swamp...Spooktacular Dance Party and Costume Contest...and PUMPKIN CHUNKIN at 5pm! 
There is a suggested $5.00 donation per family with all proceeds going to the Recreaetion Youth Scholarship Fund.

Fright Night is brought to you by the following Monster Sponsors:  Gene Taylors Sporting Goods, Harman Brothers, The Gunnison Bank, Wilderson Lock & Hill, LLC  and the Gunnison Kiwanis Club! 

Rick Miller

Rick Miller Sculpture

City Council and Staff are saddened by the tragic and untimely passing of former City Councilor and Mayor, Rick Miller.  Rick, a Gunnison native, long-time Gunnison businessman, musician and artist, served on the City Planning and Zoning Commission, was elected to City Council in 1995 and served as Mayor from 1997 to 1999.  Rick served a second term on City Council from 2005 to 2011. 


Rick Miller Sculture

Rick represented the interests of local businesses and the senior citizens.  We all send our deepest condolences to his family.  We also wish a speedy and complete recovery to Rick's wife Tracey and son Miah.  Rick will be fondly  remembered. 

Kidville

The 2nd Grade Classes at the Gunnison Elementary School have been working on and learning about "Community".  Part of their program included adopting several public buildings in Gunnison.  The Gunnison Municipal Building (or City Hall) was one of the buildings selected.   


2nd Grade Kidville - at City Hall

Stop by the east entrance lobby of City Hall, 201 W. Virginia Avenue, and take a look at "Kidville".  This is a town that was created by Mrs. Westbay's class.  The students learned about what is important in a community and then included those items in their own town.  They even included the laws they feel are important to be followed in a community.

There will be other displays throughout the school year.  Stop by and take a look! 

Election Time

By all of the political advertisements in your mailbox and on television, you might know that it's ELECTION time. 

It's too late to register to vote for the November 6th National, State and Local Election.  If you are registered to vote, you have several options.  If you have designated yourself to be a permanent mailballot voter, you should have received your ballot in the mail.  Again, you will only receive your ballot by mail if you have requested that option.  If you haven't received your mail ballot, contact the County Election office at 641-7927.

If you would like to vote early, you can visit the County Election Office in the Blackstock Government Building, 221 N. Wisconsin Street in Gunnison, (directly west across the street from the Post Office) to obtain your ballot, and then vote. 

You can also vote at your designated polling place from 7am to 7pm on Election Day, Tuesday, November 6, 2012.  You should have already received your voter registration information card in the mail that lists your precinct and where to vote.  You can find polling place location information on the County Clerk's website as well. 

To check all of your voter registration information, IT'S EASY.
Go to www.GoVoteColorado.com  
Another helpful voter site is www.gunnisoncounty.org/elections.html 

"Tis Autumn

The leaves are a'changin and the winds are definitly blustery!  The irrigation ditches are off, and the the river water level is "way low".  It must be Autumn in the Gunnison High Country!  And...there is still plenty to do in the Valley. 

This Saturday, October 20th, is the final Gunnison Farmers' Market of the 2012 Season.  There are apples, potatoes, fall root vegetables, leeks and other nutritious fruits and vegetables available at the Market.  Due to the cooler temperatures, the Market has moved indoors to the Fred Field Western Heritage Center at the Gunnison County Fairgounds, 275 S. Spruce Street (south of Safeway).  The Market opens at 9:30am.   

Gunnison Valley Observatroy

Also finishing out the 2012 season, is the Gunnison Valley Observatory. The facility's last public viewing session of the season will be this Saturday, October 20th starting at 7:30pm.  There will be NO astronomy lecture, just viewing through the GVO's silver dome-housed, 30 inch telesceope.  Other amateur telescopes are also available for viewing.  The crisp, clear, autumn skies make for fabulous night sky viewing.  Remember to dress warmly!  It's chilly in the dome. 

Hartman Rocks Scenery

The Observatory is located 2.1 miles south of Highway 50 on County Road 38 - Gold Basin Road.  (located east across from Hartman Rocks Recreation Area).  The parking lot is on the left (east) side of the County Road. 
And speaking of Hartman Rocks, the multitude of trails are still open for hiking, mountain biking, or motorcycling.  The views of the Gunnison Valley are spectacular from the top of Hartmans!  
If you don't like the cooler weather outside, head indoors to the Gunnison Community Center for climbing, a game of pool, or a dip in the leisure swimming pool.  You can enjoy the many pool slides and water play features or swim laps in the 6-lane lap pool. 

Jorgensen Ice Rink and Event Center

If you're becoming a-tuned to the upcoming winter sports, check out the indoor ice rink at the Jorgensen Ice Rink.  You can play hockey, take a figure skating lesson or just enjoy the ice during public skating.  Both the Community Center and Ice Rink schedules can be found at www.gunnisonrec.com  

COLUMBUS DAY SCHEDULE

The City of Gunnison is observing the Columbus Day Federal Holiday on Monday, October 8th.  Listed below are the associated scheduling changes for our customers and visitors. 

REFUSE:  if your trash and recyclables are usually picked up on Monday, they will be picked up on Tuesday, October 9th.  If you have any questions, contact the Public Works Department at 641-8020. 

COMMUNITY/AQUATICS CENTER:  There will be modified hours on Monday, October 8th.  The building and pools will open at 8am and close at 8pm.  There will be NO early morning swim on Monday.  The climbing wall will be open from 2pm to 7pm.  The Lesiure and Lap Pools will be open from 8am to 7:45pm with OPEN Swim, including the slides and sprays, from 12 Noon to 7:45pm. 

The Parks & Recreation Offices will be CLOSED on Monday, October 8th.

JORGENSEN INDOOR ICE RINK:  The indoor rink will be in use for the Wooden Nickel Hockey Clinics - a private scheduled clinic - from 8am to 11:45am and again from 1:15pm to 5pm.  Public skating will take place from 12 noon to 1pm.  The full schedule of other uses can be found at www.gunnisonrec.com 

OTHER CITY OFFICES:  Most City offices will be closed on Monday, October 8th.  Utility bills can be deposited in the drop-box located in the alley by the stop sign behind (to the west) of City Hall or through the drop slot in the West Virginia Avenue door of City Hall. 

EMERGENCY SERVICES:  Police, Communications and the Fire Department - will be available for emergencies. Police Records will NOT be open on Monday, October 8th. 

RE1J Schools will also be closed on Monday, October 8th.  Be sure and watch for the kids out and about around he City.  Have a great autumn weekend everyone! 

The Rink is OPEN

Jorgesen Event Center

That's right, the Jorgensen Event Center Indoor Ice Rink is open for the season!  So sharpen those skates and get on over to the rink. 
If you're a hockey fan, games and practices will be starting soon.  There is also lots of open time for Public Skating, when hockey is not allowed on the ice.  To view the Ice Rink Schedule go to www.gunnisonrec.com and click on the Jorgensen Event Center Rink Link near the top of the page. 
Entry fees are included on that site.  The outdoor rink and PacMan Pond will be available for skating as the temperatures allow. 

10 Things to "Fall" Into in Gunnison

Fall is in the air and there are lots of things to choose from to "Fall Into".  Here are 10 ideas..

Mountain Biking at Hartman Rocks

10 - Fall into biking?  That doesn't sound good but it's sure a lot of fun! Grab your trusty mountain bike or motorcycle and head south of Gunnison to the Hartman Rocks Recreation Area.  There are miles and miles of hiking, single-track and motorcycle trails to challenge all skill levels - even the kids.  There's vehicle parking, restrooms and picnic tables at the base area.  For more information and trail maps for Hartman Rocks go to http://www.gunnisoncrestedbutte.com/hartman-rocks 


Locomotive #268


9 - Fall into history at the Gunnison Pioneer Society's Museum located at the east end of Gunnsion on Highway 50 across from Legion Park. The museum has some of the most comprehensive displays in the State of Colorado on everything from military history to clothing to railroading.  You can even ring the bell in the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad Locomotive 268.  For more information go to www.gunnisonpioneermuseum.com 

8 - Fall into fitness by power walking the historic VanTuyl Ranch Trails.  The City-owned ranch, located in the northwest corner of town off North 11th Street, offers several miles of flat, packed-gravel trails, perfect for walking or biking.  The trails pass through the historic VanTuyl Ranch, a working sustainable-centered ranching operation.  When you walk the trails with your dog - remember - they must be on a leash!  There are also stunning views of the Palisades formation over the Gunnison  River to the west. 

Golden Gunnison Aspens

7 - Fall into gold - golden aspens that is - all around the Gunnison Valley.  Check out the blog post below for scenic leaf-peeping trips you can take.  The trees are only golden for a few precious weeks, so get out and enjoy their grandeur. 

6 - Fall into your rubber waders and Fly Fish the Gunnison River.  There are several excellent fly shops in Gunnison and even though the water level is low, they can advise you on the best techniques for catching that wiley trout or kokanee salmon.  Head to the west end of Tomichi Avenue (Highway 50) and access the river at the City's Gunnison Riverway.  There's parking, restrooms and a covered picnic pavillion plus easy access to fly-fishing. 

5 - Fall into the clear, starry, night sky at the Gunnison Valley Observatory.  After a long day of hiking, fishing and enjoying the Gunnison Valley, stop by the Observatory on Saturday evenings through October 20th, look through the 30" dome-housed telescope or the other smaller scopes on hand, and see celestial objects you've never seen before.  Check it out at  www.gunnisonobservatory.org 

Climbing Wall and Swimming Pools at the
Gunnison Community Center

4 - Fall with a splash into the leisure or lap pools at the Gunnison Community Center.  The two pools located at the Gunnison Recreation Center offer something for everyone.  You can swim laps, slide down the twirly or drop slide, try out on the rope swing, shoot water hoops or soothe those aching muscles against the water jets.  There's a special section just for the little ones with a frog slide and water jets.  Go to www.cityofgunnison-co.gov/parks_and_rec/index.html for information of entry fees and the schedule. 

3 - Fall into the foam on a pint of locally-brewed beer at the local brewpub.  Or try out the wide variety of gastronic offerings at Gunnison's great cafes, bistros, restaurants, bars, pubs, and patios.  You can find just about every type of cuisine you might have a hankering for. 

 2 - Fall into some bargains at the ecletic retail shops in Gunnison.  You can surround yourself with the latest in fall fashions, decorate the house with unique art or home decor, start your holiday shopping early for the kids or just seek out those rare and interesting items that tickle your fancy.  Gunnison offers a tremendous variety of shops, galleries, and stores.  There is even a selection of "toy" stores for day with everything from tools to sporting goods.


Climbing at Hartman Rocks


And, #1 - Fall into your climbing harness and try out the pitches.  You can start at the climbing wall in the Gunnison Community Center.  Learn climbing and rapelling techniques in a safe, indoor setting.  Once you've mastered how to safely get up and more importantly down the climbing wall, try out your new found skills on the granite rock walls of Hartman Rocks Recreation Area or in Taylor Canyon north of town.  Check out the links provided above for more information on the climbing opportunities. 

Enjoy yout FALL in Gunnison! 

Base Camp to GOLD

Gunnison has been the Base Camp to the Rocky Mountains for hundreds of years.  And for over the past 130 years, Gunnison has been Base Camp to GOLD,  first, as the supply towns for the gold-seeking miners and rowdy gold mining camps of the Valley, now for the golden aspen seekers.
The large aspen groves in the mountains surrounding Gunnison, are starting to turn golden in the warm autumn sun.  Aspen trees - also known as quakies - shed their green leaf cholorphyll as the temperatures drop and the resulting golden diplay is awe-inspiring! 
Use the City of Gunnison as your Base Camp for your gold-seeking adventures.  Start the day off with a hearty breakfast at one of the local cafes or restaurants, fill up the gas tank or pump up your bike tires, put together a picnic lunch and then head for the hills. Remember to bring the camera.  Try out a couple of these routes that should satisfy your "lust for gold":



Golden Aspen on Kebler Pass

 Head north of Gunnison on Highway 135 and take a left on Ohio Creek Road.  You will pass by local historic working-ranches on your journey up the valley.  About 12 miles up the valley you will see "The Castles".  These eroded rock pinnacles are remnants of volcanic debtris from the long-extinct West Elk Volcano.  The Castles are surrounded by stands of golden aspen trees, making this a spectaular photographic opportunity.  Continue on the Ohio Creek Road, with spectacular views of the Anthracite Range, until it continues to the top of Ohio Pass.  You will see golden aspens at nearly every turn.  Over the top of Ohio Pass, near the top of Kebler Pass, turn right onto the Kebler Pass Road and head down into the Town of Crested Butte, with its quaint National Historic District.  Return to Gunnison south via Colorado Highway 135 while you view the golden aspens along the East River Valley into the Gunnison Valley at Almont.  Take your time and make it a day-long trip. 

The "Golden" Castles
photo copyright protected

Another spectacular day-long golden aspen trip is the West Elk By-way.  This is a day-long 204-mile route.  Start in Gunnison, head west on US Highway 50 to Highway 92 (Black Mesa Road) that crosses Blue Mesa Dam.  Drive over Black Mesa with it's stunning views of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison and the often-snow capped San Juan Mountains coated with golden aspens to the south.  Continue onto the quaint towns of Crawford to Hotchkiss where you will turn right onto Highway 133.  Drive through Hotchkiss and then Paonia (stop at some of the local fruit stands and wineries), and connect up with the Kebler Pass Road (Highway 133) near Paonia Reservoir.  On Kebler Pass, you will be back in the thick of the aspen forest groves.  You will pass by one of the largest known organisms on the entire planet, an inter-connected aspen grove near the top of Kebler Pass.  You'll want to pull off the road at nearly every turn to take spectacular phtographs.  Dropping over Kebler Pass, you will once again make it to the Town Crested Butte as described above.  There are several side trips out of Crested Butte where you can enjoy more golden aspen.  

Anthracite Range
photo copyright protected


A couple of other Golden Aspen Tours out of your Base Camp Gunnison include the Parlin to Pitkin to Cumberland Pass to historic mining town Tincup into Taylor Park.  The golden aspen trees and mountains reflected in Taylor Park Reservoir are not to be missed.  Keep your eyes peeled out for meandering moose on this trip.  A gold seeking trip south of Gunnison, is east on Hwy 50 to Highway 114 then onto good gravel roads through the old Los Pinos Ute Indian Agency and onto Los Pinos Pass.  The Pass was the original route by the early gold and silver-seeking miners into the rugged San Juan Mountains to the south.  You will travel onto the Cebolla Creek Valley and into Powderhorn.  You will return to Gunnison via Highway 149 and drive past Blue Mesa Reservoir, the largest man-made body of water in Colorado.  Visit the Gunnison Chamber of Commerce, located in Legion Park in Gunnison or the US Forest Service Office on North Colorado Street in Gunnison to pick up more route information for each of these adventures.
Remember to get out of your vehicle or off your bike, walk off the road into the golden aspen groves and lie or sit down on the forest floor.  It is a truely memorable site to look up into the sky through the golden trees while the leaves float gently down around you - coating you with golden sunshine. 

Ana's Pledge Bike Safety Rodeo

Bring the kids out to Ana's Pledge Bike Safety Rodeo on Saturday morning, starting at 9am , at Lake School in Gunnison.  Each child must have a bike helmet.   A wonderful group of volunteers, funded by generous donations from many community organizations and churches, will be instructing the children of the Gunnison Valley on how to ride their bicycles safely.  This is very important now that school is back in session and the kids are riding their bikes to and from school and home and to their after school activities. 

The Bike Safety Rodeo is being held in memory of and to honor Ana Mendez.  Bring your children out for a fun and educational event! 

Late Summer Weekend

The air is getting crisp and there is a feel of fall in the air.  But...there is still a lot to do outside this weekend!

Tonight, Friday, September 7th is the First Friday Gallery Crawl, starting at 5pm in downtown Gunnison.  Stroll the sidewalks and check out the fabulous and thought-provoking art at the numerous galleries and venues.  Enjoy some music and light refreshments before heading to one of the great restaurants in Gunnison.  There's everything from chinese to italian to mexican to BBQ to vegetarian to fusion to good old american cuisine offered at a good variety of establishments.  Check one out!
As the sun sets, drive south of town to the Gunnison Valley Observatory.  Tonight and Saturday night's public viewing through the 30" telescope will be started off with a classroom talk on "Stellar Evolution".  Find out how stars are "born" and how they evolve through their lifetimes.  It's fascinating!  You can then see the rings of Saturn or perhaps the "Ring Nebula".  Check out Western State's own constellation - the "W" shaped "Cassiopeia" constellation! 

Saturday morning, ride your townie to the Gunnison Farmers' Market on the 100 block of East Virginia downtown.  The fall harvest is coming in and you can select from a plethora of fresh produce, baked goods, organic beef and meats, wonderful arts and crafts, and wines.  You can also select lunch from a variety of food vendors on hand. 

After picking up your healthy fruits and veggies, get out side and enjoy some of the great outdoor adventures to be had in the Valley!  After all - Gunnison is the Base Camp to the Rocky Mountains!  You can't go wrong with a bike ride, trail hike, fishing, boating or admiring the changing autumn leaves!  Have a safe and fun weekend!

No Excuses!

There are NO excuses if you or your children can't find something to do!  The Gunnison Parks & Recreation Fall Programs are now starting. 
Listed below are some of the classes or programs and their start dates:

Intro into Aerial Arts - ages 6 and up; starts Friday, August 31st
Pre-K to 8th Grade Cheerleading - starts on Friday, August 31st
U6, U8, U10 Soccer - starts on Wednesday, September 5th
Rock Climbing Classes for all Ages - the majority of classes start the week of September 3rd
Youth Tennis ages 5 to 13 yrs - starts Tuesday, September 4th
Hula Hoop - starts Tuesday, September 4th
Tae-Kwon-Do - starts Monday, September 10th
Gymnastics - the majority of classes start the week of September 3rd
Diving Classes - start Monday, September 10th
Kingston Swim Club - starts Wednesday, September 5th
After School Swim Lessons - start Tuesday, September 4th
Saturday Swim Lessons - start Saturday, September 8th
Morning Swim Lessons - start Monday, September 10th
Evening Swim Lessons - start Tuesday, September 11th

Call 641-8060 or stop by the Community Center at 200 East Spencer Avenue for more information or to register.

Happy Labor Day

Happy Labor Day from all City Council and employees.  Most City offices will be closed on Monday, September 3rd.  Police, Fire and Dispatch Services will be working to ensure everyone's safety. 

If your refuse and recycling is normally collected on Monday, it will be collected on Tuesday, September 4th.  Just place it in the normal pickup spot on Tuesday morning rather than Monday. 

The Gunnison Community/Aquatics Center will have limited hours on Labor Day, Monday, September 3rd.  The building will be open from 8am to 8pm.  The swimming pools will be open from 8am to 7:45pm.  There will be NO early morning swim on Monday.  Open swim and slides/sprays will start at 12pm. 

The climbing wall will be open from 1:30pm to 7pm.

Have a safe and enjoyable Holiday. 

Community Center Closures

The Gunnison Community Center and Aquatics Facility will be closed for Annual Cleaning and Maintenance this week.  The entire building will be closed from Monday, August 27th through Wednesday, August 29th.  Please note that the FUNducation program, and the Level 3, 4, and 5 gymnastics classes will still be having classes even though the facility is closed.  You can also still come to the front desk to register for fall programs. 

The swimming pools/aquatics facility will be closed from Sunday, August 26th through Friday, August 31st.  The pools and slides will re-open in time for the Labor Day holiday weekend on Satuday, September 1st.  For more information, call the Community Center at 641-8060.  Thanks for your patience.  It'll be clean and shiny when the facility reopens. 

The Race is a Memory

USAPCC Race Volunteers - Sonja Parmeter and Councilor Bob Drexel

Bike Fan Tucker getting an autograph

The 2nd USA Pro Challenge - "America's Race" is now an exciting memory.  The race ended in Denver yesterday, Sunday, August 26th, with 36 year old, Christian VandeVelde, of the Garmin-Sharp-Barracuda team, winning the coveted yellow jersey.  A HUGE amount of thanks goes out to all of the dedicated Local Organizing Committee and volunteers who helped make this year's Stage 2 Pass-Through and the Day 3 - Queen Stage Start a rousing success here in Gunnison!


Race Volunteers ready to serve -
Andie, Svea, Dan, and Shannon



USAPCC Race Start on Main Street Gunnison

The race is over but there's more excitement taking place in Gunnison!  WELCOME BACK Western State Colorado University students!  We're glad you're here. You've returned to new apartments, the freshly paved, pothole free, Escalante Drive and a NEW NAME! Awesome.
If you have any questions about City services - just give us a call at 641-8080 or go to the City's website at www.cityofgunnison-co.gov. 

Quen Gunnison II

Today, Wednesday, August 22nd, marks the second USA Pro Challenge "Queen Stage" Start in Gunnison. 


2011 USAPCC Gunnison Start

The Queen's Court Start Festival and Kids Fun Zone gets underway at 9:00am at the IOOF Park and the 100 Block of East Virginia Avenue.  Autograph Alley, where you get autographs from many of the professional cyclists participating in today's grueling race over Cottonwood and Independence Passes, starts at 9:00am downtown.
And Finally....at 10:00am, the Queen Stage Starts!  After the presentation of the colors by the local color guard and the singing of the national anthem, the starting gun will fire at 10:10am and the racers will ride north on Main Street towards Almont and beyond! 
The Queen Stage is the most difficult stage of the race!  The Stage covers 130.6 miles with a total of 9,623 feet climbed during the Stage.  The riders will crest the highest point in the entire 6 day race - Cottonwood Pass at 12,128 feet above sea level and then will also cross Independence Pass at 12,095 feet before dropping into Aspen. 

2011 Gunnison "Queen Stage Start"

After the riders leave town, there will be a Strider Bike Race for children and auldts at the start line on Main Street.  Registration is at the Kids Zone Bike Booth. 
The Queen's Court Festival will continue until early afternoon.  Be sure and pick up your 2012 Bike Race souveniers before they're all gone!  You can watch the entire progress of the race until the racers finish in downtown Aspen on the Jumbotron right here in Gunnison!  Cheer on your favorite racer!

Stage 2 Race Day Finally Here

Today, Tuesday, August 21st, marks the start of Stage 2 of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge Race - and they're racing through Gunnison!
Stage 2 of "America's Race" starts at 11:25am, a short 76 miles west down the road in Montrose. Stage 2 will end in Mt. Crested Butte.  And Gunnison lies in the middle of that route!  Todays race totals 99.2 miles with a total elevation climb of 8,049 feet.  The racers are expected to come through Gunnison around 1:30 to 2:00 pm. 

Prior to the peleton racing through downtown, the "Queen's Court Cycling Festival" will open at 11:00am at the IOOF Park and on the 100 Block of East Virginia Avenue downtown.  The Queen's Court offers fun, food and entertainment.  Visitors can follow the progress of the racers on the huge jumbotron screen.  Food vendors will be set up as well as other product and service vendors.  You can a wide variety of race souveniers.  And - the kids can enjoy bouncey houses, a bike booth and much more. 
At 11:30am - watch the "IRON WRENCH" competition.  The best bike mechanics in Gunnison will compete to build a rolling bike - out of boxes of parts and a frame - all within two hours!  Come see what they come up with!
The racers will "scream" by on Main Street atound 1:30pm. 
At 4:30pm - enhjoy the live music of "Chris Daniels and the Kings". This nationally-known band out of Denver is known for their horn-based, rhythm and blues, funk, and rock'n' roll music.  And rockin' to their music is free!
At 7:00 pm - the Crested Butte Film Festival presents "Cycling Under the Stars".  Biking films, including the feature film "Chasing Legends" will be screened on the jumbotron. 
Come out and enjoy this epic race! 

Citizens Crit

A citizen's what??  Its the Citizen's Criterium Race & Fun Lap, presented by Western State Colorado University.  Local cycling legends have revived the circuit format for one of this week's cycling events.  

Gunnison Citizen Night Biking


Starting tonight at 5pm at the top of Escalante Drive Hill (behind the Escalante Fitness Center below the City's water tanks), there will be women's and Men's Open categories with different age groups.  The race will follow the same hill course of the USA Pro Challenge Racers!  They're probably a tad bit faster than most of the criterium participants! 
The women will ride 30 minutes plus one timed lap, the men will ride 45 minutes plus 1 timed lap.  Each field is limited to 50 riders and registeration is at www.bikereg.com 
Get out and try your biking skills against the challenging course.

It's STARTED

683 Miles...
100 Riders...
24 Countries...
16 Teams...
12 Cities...
6 Days...

USAPCC 2011 Racing onto Main Street

The 2012 USA Pro Cycling Challenge has started.  Minutes ago, riders in the 16 teams participating in this year's race left the starting line in Durango.  These 100 plus riders, representing 24 different countires, will race across Colorado, through the 12 hosting cities, over the next 6 days, in their search for glory on the winners podium in the shadow of the Colorado State Capitol in Denver.

And we'll see all this action in person, starting TOMORROW, Tuesday, August 21st - as the racers start in Montrose, traverse Highway 50, and pass through Gunnison.  They will enter the City from the west on Main Street, make the turn north past the Gunnison Volunteer Fire Department's large American Flag, onto Main Street, then race the three short blocks to the turn onto Georgia Avenue.  The riders will then sprint up the Escalante Drive Hill around our beautiful Western State Colorado University Campus before they head downhill,to Colorado Street, past the Gunnison Community Center, back to Main Street/Highway 135.  They end their challenging day by climbing the steep grade from Crested Butte into Mt. Crested Butte.  Get out and cheer on the riders!

We're Wheelin'

The next few days in Gunnison should be a "wheelin' good time!
Starting today, ride your townie, 10-speed, or cruise your vintage coupe over to Legion Park and watch the talented artists "Carvin' Up Colorado".  A variety of chainsaw-carving, cottonwood-changing, artists are creating whimsical and magnificent wood carvings out of cottonwood and pine tree trunks.  They will work on their creations until 5pm on Saturday when the winning sculptures will be selected.
Classic "wheels" can be seen starting this evening, Friday, August 17th, starting at 5:00pm in downtown Gunnison.  The Gunnison Car Club's 25th Annual Car Show will start with their traditional Cruise-In.  Unique, classic and vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles, will be on display for everyone to view and dream over.  Fun and lively Rockabilly music will be provided by the "Atomic Drifters" starting at 6pm on Main Street in front of GS&L.  The Car Show wheels over to Jorgensen Park on East Tomichi Avenue on Saturday morning.  You can spend an enjoyable morning strolling on the easy-on-your-feet grass while you view the cool wheels!  Car show participants will finish out their weekend event on Sunday morning with a breakfast cruise to Crested Butte.
Once you're done looking at the vehicle comets, novas, and galaxies at the car show, head south of Gunnison to the Gunnison Valley Observatory and see some real galaxies, novas and maybe a comet.  The facility gates open for public viewing on Friday and Saturday evenings at 7:30pm.  Admission is by $5 per person donation and no reservations are required.  Following a short astronomy lecture, viewing takes place (when the skies allow) through the observatory dome-house 30" telescope and other smaller scopes.   The observatory is located at 2804 County Road 38 across from the Hartman Rocks Recreation Area.  The facility is located on the left/east side of the road, 2.1 miles (no more!!!!) south of where you turn off Hwy 50.  
Saturday morning, starting at 9:30am, you can wheel back downtown for the weekly Gunnison Farmers' Market.  Western Slope produce is getting fine!  Pick up some juicy, sweet peaches or some salad-ready veggies.  There are also delectable bakery goods to choose from, locally produced fruit wines, and beautiful arts and crafts featured at the weekly market.
Back down at the Parks on East Tomichi, the Annual High Octane Arts and Crafts Festival will be taking place under the shady cottonwood trees of Legion Park.  Talented artists will be displaying and selling their wares.  It's not too early to start your holiday shopping!
Back on two wheels, the Annual 24 Hrs. in the Sage Race gets underway at noon south of Gunnison at the Hosting KOA Campground. Bikers hit the trails at Hartman Rocks Recreation Area and those bikers dedicated or crazy enough - end the race on Sunday at noon!  Riders can participate on their own, in coed- duo teams, or in other rider combinations.  Each lap consists of over 13 miles of terrain at Hartmans.  For more information go to www.24hoursinthesage.com  
And - the "Wheelin" isn't over yet!  Monday is the start of the 2nd Annual USA Pro Cycling Challenge Bike Race.  The riders start in Durango and race to Telluride.  Tuesday morning, they start Stage 2 in Montrose, climb up in elevation via US Hwy 50 and pass through Gunnison on Tuesday afternoon.  The riders climb the WSCU hill as they navigate the campus.  The beautiful campus will  be shown internationally as the racers climb the hill and race down Escalante Hill to make that sharp corner at Colorado Street.  Tuesday's Stage ends high up in Mt. Crested Butte.  The Queen Stage - starts in Gunnison on Wednesday morning!  The racers will head north up Main Street toward Cottonwood Pass at about 10am.  For more information go to www.usapccinfo,com
In between all of the "wheelin" fun - enjoy delectable meals in any of Gunnison's fine restaurants and cafes, sip a cool one in a Gunnison brew pub, tavern or wine bar, or visit one or many of Gunnison's eclectic retail stores.  You can find just about anything your heart desires! 

Get Ready to Ride

As the riders in the 16 professional cycling teams are gearing up to race in next week's USA Pro Cycling Challenge Race, you too can get ready for the race by participating in the Philadelphia Insurance Companies "Queen State Pre-Ride" on Sunday, August 19th.
The Pre-Ride will follow some of the same race route the professionals will ride.  Starting at 9am on Sunday at Gunnison's IOOF Park (at the corner of Virginia Avenue and Main Street in downtown Gunnison), riders will group ride up lower Taylor Canyon, then travel over the Jack's Cabin cut-off dirt road to Highway 135, then back to Gunnison.  All riders will share in a Post-Ride Party at Garlic Mike's Restaurant starting at 1pm.
To register for Sunday's rides, go to www.bikereg.com and click on Queen Stage.  The $45 registration fee covers the post-ride party and a "biker's goodie bag". 

Find Out More

If you want to find out more information on next week's USA Pro Challenge Race and how it is going to impact you and the community...there will be informational open houses this week.
Tuesday, August 14th from noon to 1pm in the Gunnison Community Center lobby, 200 East Spencer Avenue.  (Bring your own lunch);   or
Wednesday, August 15th from 5:30 to 6:30pm at the Gunnison Brewery, 138 N. Main Street in Gunnison;   or
Thursday, August 16th from 7 to 8am at The Bean, 120 N. Main Street in Gunnison.  There'll be $1 coffee if you bring your own cup. 
Come to one of these informational meetings and learn the details of this Internationally-broadcast event! 

8 Days and Counting

The 2nd Annual USA Pro Cycling Challenge Race is rapidly approaching and hundreds of volunteers are gearing up participate in the Tuesday, August 21st Pass-Through Gunnison Day and for the 10:10am Main Street start of the Queen Stage on Wednesday morning, August 22nd.  


2011 USA Pro Cycling Challenge - Downtown Gunnison

There are still opportunities to get involved!  As a course marshall you'll have a front row viewing spot as the bikers flash by.  Contact Dan Vollendorf at 641-8422 or email DVollendorf@cityofgunnison-co.gov  to get more information and sign up. 

YES, it's still summer

It's definitly cooler in the mornings but it is still summer!  On that note, registration for Fall Recreation Programs gets underway on Monday, August 13th.  It's not too early to be thinking about what you or the kids want to participate in this fall!

You can register for programs here!

Fall program brochures are available at the Community Center, 200 East Spencer Avenue or at City Hall, 201 West Virginia Avenue.  A virtual brochure is also available at http://tinyurl.com/2012fallprograms
You can register for any program through the virtual brochure, or by going to the recreation website at www.gunnisonrec.com, or by calling 641-8060 or by stopping by the Community Center front desk.  There are so many ways you can register!  Just don't wait until the last minute or you might find the program is filled.  Have a great summer while you're thinking about fall!

CityFest is here!

Join City Council and Staff on Wednesday, August 8th, from 11:30am to 1:30pm for the Annual CityFest Event.  City residents and business owners are invited to meet with Council and Staff and give them your opinions on City services and the proposed 2013 capital projects and budget.  Each City department will have displays and information. 

A free, barbeque sandwich lunch, prepared by F Bar Catering, and sponsored by Mountain West Insurance & Financial Services will be served.

The celebration of the City will be held at Jorgensen Covered Ice Rink, at 500 East Tomichi Avenue in Gunnison.  See you there!

FREE Swim Lessons

Thanks to a generous grant from Gunnison Energy Coroporation, the Gunnison Parks and Recreation Department is offering the final swim lessons of the season FREE! 


Swim Lessons

Lessons will be based on Red Cross instruction with an emphasis on local community water safety.  Swim instructors will focus on our local bodies of water:  ditches, rivers, lakes and our local pools; and teach swimming skills and safety. 
WHO:  swimmers of all levels - Ages 3+
WHEN:  Monday, August 13 thru Thursday, August 23rd;  Monday - Thursday classes with no class on August 22nd; from 9am to 11am at the Gunnison Community Center Aquatics Facility.
HOW:  Space is limited!  To register call 970-641-8060 or stop by the Community Center at 200 East Spencer Avenue in Gunnison.