ClarionThe Western Congress VOLUME 37 NUMBER 1 SPRING 2017 Members and staff participated in this year’s People’s Lobby Trip to in late February. Left: WCC members enjoyed their time on the House floor as guests of Rep. and Rep. Millie Hamner. Pictured from left to right: Tyler McDermott, Kierra Havens, Donnamarie, Rep. Mitsch Bush, Rebecca Mashburn, Jay Mashburn, Carson Anderson, Cazz Davis, McKayla Anderson. Below: WCC’s legislative liaison Sol Malick suppresses a laugh during a meeting between Rep. Barbara McLachlan (D-59) and WCC members. Photos by Jeriel Brammeier.

Up close and personal with the state legislature

By Emily Hornback, Organizer to lend support and training, and A recurring theme was economic We also discussed energy efficiency Sol Malick, our legislative liaison development on the Western Slope for low-income households. A record number of WCC in Denver, is on hand to make – specifically, how we can support A special thanks to Kathleen and members participated in our introductions and provide current traditional industries like farming Xenti Colucci for supporting the trip People’s Lobby Trip to Denver at information. and ranching (via bills promoting by offering us a place to spend our the end of February – which was a Because our team was so large, industrial hemp) and new business two nights in Denver. Much better triumph by many measures! While we split into two groups in order to opportunities (via broadband bills). than a motel! some of the 19 participants were meet with as many legislators as experienced citizen lobbyists, 10 possible. In the morning, one group were first-timers from Mesa County. went on the Senate floor at the WCC sponsors the annual invitation of Sen. (D- excursion not only to advocate for 2017 legislative priorities 5), and the other went to the House specific bills, but also to shed light floor as the guests of Reps. Millie on the legislative process and help Hamner (D-61) and Diane Mitsch WCC has identified some WCC is continuing to work folks understand the important role Bush (D-26). top priorities for the 2017 state with legislative sponsors they can play in government. WCC’s We also had individual legislative session – here are the on another bill that would community organizers are there meetings with Western Slope highlights: better protect our children Representatives Mitsch Bush, from drilling and fracking Our time spent on the Dan Thurlow (R-55), Gasfield justice operations near schools. We House floor demystified (R-58), Barbara McLachlan (D-59) Local Government Liable have played a leading role in and Millie Hamner (D-61), as well as Fracking Ban Oil and Gas developing this common-sense the entire political process Senator (R-6). Moratorium (HB 1124): WCC health and safety measure, which for me. It was eye-opening Leslie Robinson and Rodger opposed this bill at the start would close a disturbing loophole Steen, members of WCC’s Oil & Gas of the session so we’re happy in state regulations. Once the bill that our elected officials Committee, also met with the Air to report it’s dead! HB 1124 is introduced in the House, it will are just people who can be Quality Control Division to discuss would have penalized any local get an official title and number. influenced by us. the implementation of the new 2013 government that banned or WCC supports this bill as this air quality regulations for oil and enacted a moratorium of oil and year’s top legislative priority. gas development in Colorado. gas development by holding it –Cazz Davis, Our lobbyists spoke at length liable for the value of the mineral Continued on page 4 People’s Lobby Trip participant with legislators about the bills rights. detailed in the sidebar at right.

WESTERN COLORADO CONGRESS NON-PROFIT ORG. Inside PO BOX 1931 U.S. POSTAGE PAID GRAND JUNCTION CO 81502 GRAND JUNCTION, CO New methane rule at risk ...... 2 Retooling the “multi-tool” ...... 5 PERMIT NO. 134 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED Smile and say “Organize”...... 2 Picking up the PACE ...... 6 Proposed wastewater injection well Jeriel back on staff as community reined in ...... 3 organizer ...... 7

Build power for a civic solstice.....3 Community center raised as election issue ...... 7 Colorado State House and Senate directories ...... 4 WCC supports Days of Action ....8 US Congress threatens to overturn methane rule

By Rodger Steen, WCC bring this bill to a vote any day. Board member To vote against the BLM If you haven't already called to urge your Senators to support the Right now, a rule that WCC methane rule is to vote against BLM’s Methane Waste Prevention and other citizen organizations Western Slope interests. This rule is Rule, please do so today! across the country have spent years a modest, practical and effective way working to pass is in jeopardy. The to limit the amount of methane gas • Sen. at (303) Bureau of Land Management’s wasted during public and tribal oil 391-5777 or (202) 224-5941 Methane Waste Prevention Rule and gas production. If the new rule limits the amount of methane gas is repealed, oil and gas leasing could • Sen. at (303) from public and tribal oil and gas again be managed by 37-year-old, 455-7600 or (202) 224-5852 wells that can be wasted through outdated rules. venting, flaring and leaks. The wasted gas is owned by Congress is attacking this rule the citizens of this country and is $330 million worth of natural gas is using an obscure tool called the managed by the BLM for the public wasted each year.” Congressional Review Act (CRA), good. When it is wasted, the oil and Reducing the amount of methane which would unilaterally roll back gas companies pay no royalties on it gas released into the atmosphere this updated regulation on fossil fuel and our country receives no revenue would also result in cleaner air and corporations. from it. WCC and its allies collected decrease the industry’s contribution In early January, the House the endorsement of 61 small to global warming. voted to use the CRA to repeal the business owners from the Western Everything is wrong about The Western Organization of Resource BLM methane rule, disregarding Slope who were opposed to rolling wasting this natural resource; it Councils hosted a fly-in to Washington years of public process and input back the methane rule. could be efficiently captured and DC in early February. WCC member from both citizen groups and the “The BLM’s methane rule makes sold and the royalties could be Karen Sjoberg of Grand Junction was industry. Colorado’s Rep. Scott good business sense,” states a letter returned to the citizens. Nothing is part of the team that met with nine Tipton joined the stampede. from these small business owners right about wasting it. senators in two days. Their aim was to WCC has worked with the to Senators Cory Gardner and The fate of this rule now rests build opposition to the effort to roll back the BLM’s new methane waste rules Western Organization of Resource Michael Bennet. “We recognize that in the hands of the Senate. We call using the Congressional Review Act. Councils (WORC) network for years the BLM’s oil and gas program is on Sens. Gardner and Bennet to to finalize this updated methane an important economic contributor make a decision that will protect our Photo by Sara Kendall, WORC’s rule. Now the fate of the rule to our national economy…[but] publicly owned resources and our air Washington Office Director. rests in the Senate, which could without the BLM’s rule, more than quality. Smile for the camera and say “Organize!”

In the photo at right, WCC member Deb Allerton took a turn in front of the TV camera during a session at the Principles of Community Organizing (POCO) training held in Grand Junction in mid-February. Brandon Thompson, a reporter with KREX-TV, added more than a touch of realism to the role-playing exercise. POCO covers the basics of leadership, fundraising, organizational development, and community organizing. This hands-on training is the cornerstone of the Western Organization of Resource Council’s curriculum for grassroots leadership development. “This is one of the best trainings I’ve been to in a long, long time!” said WCC member Elizabeth Howard. WORC offers POCO twice a year. To learn more about the next training to be held in July in Billings, MT, visit www.worc.org.

WCC Board of Directors Western Colorado Congress Grand Junction Office 134 N. 6th St., (970) 256-7650 is a grassroots, democratic Officers Dave Reed, Executive Director organization dedicated to challenging Steve Allerton President, Grand Junction Emily Hornback, Organizer Community group directors injustice by organizing people to Reed Kelley, Vice President, Meeker Roxanne Dennis, Organizer Grand Valley Citizens Alliance increase their power over decisions Dudley Case, Treasurer, Ridgway Jeriel Brammeier, Organizer Betsy Leonard, Battlement Mesa that affect their lives. Shari VanderVelde, Secretary, Grand Jct Stephani Soto, Office & Membership Ridgway-Ouray Community Council At-large directors WCC’s community groups and Al Lowande, Ridgway members work together to create Montrose Office Bob Arrington, Battlement Mesa 12 S. Cascade Ave., #103 healthy, sustainable communities, social Ricardo Perez, Montrose Uncompahgre Valley Association Brenda Bafus-Williams, and economic justice, environmental Rodger Steen, Steamboat Springs Marv Ballantyne, Montrose Communications stewardship and a truly democratic Monica Wiitanen, Paonia WCC of Mesa County society. www.wccongress.org Director Emeritus Andreya Krieves, Grand Junction Peggy Rawlins, Grand Junction

2 - Western Colorado Congress Clarion • Spring 2017 Proposed wastewater injection well reined in

By Emily Hornback, WCC Organizer The proposal must now be heard have a voice in decisions that could run roughshod over basic land-use before the Garfield Board of County threaten their communities. planning and public process. After years of battling with oil Commissioners for final approval. WCC will continue to work WCC’s Gasfield Justice program and gas companies, Battlement with Battlement Mesa and other is been made possible by grants Concerned Citizens (BCC) were It's still one well too many impacted communities across the from the Frack Fund, the 11th Hour encouraged in early February BCC a committee of WCC’s state to ensure the industry cannot Project. when Battlement Mesa Company community group Grand Valley withdrew its proposal to create a Citizens Alliance (GVCA), has made wastewater injection well zone in it clear in its comments to Garfield the community. FracTracker: because a map County that the group will not As originally proposed to the accept injection wells anywhere Garfield County Planning & in the PUD boundaries and are is worth 1,000 words Zoning Commission, this new zone prepared to defend that position would have cleared the way for before the BOCC. A new mapping project oilfield waste disposal facilities, and Ursa Resources, which has been “Even people in support of recently released by the Western radioactive solid waste facilities. developing 53 natural gas wells natural gas development know that Organization of Resource Councils The series of interactive maps inside the community, to build injection wells and wastewater reveals the impacts of oil and gas increases public awareness of these an injection well within several disposal are dangerous,” said Leslie waste in the Rocky Mountain region, activities and helps communities hundred feet of the community’s Robinson, chair of the GVCA. “A including Colorado. more easily monitor them. drinking water supply. line must be drawn somewhere and Created by the FracTracker The mapping project supplements Alliance, the WORC Oil and Gas No Time to Waste, WORC’s 2015 “A line must be drawn toxic wastewater injection wells don’t belong in neighborhoods. It Waste Mapping Project uses state report that compares federal and somewhere, and toxic was clear Ursa had crossed that line agency data to plot wastewater state safeguards related to oil and wastewater injection when they tried to put it so close to spills, injection wells, commercial gas waste. the drinking water supply.” wells don’t belong in Although we were able to protect Battlement Mesa’s drinking neighborhoods.” MOFFAT water, the issue of oil and gas COUNTY — Leslie Robinson, GVCA wastewater remains an issue across the Western Slope. As with oil and gas drilling and production, Under mounting resistance many activities associated with spearheaded by BCC, the applicants wastewater handling and disposal feared a complete rejection of the are considered a “use by right,” proposal. In early February, they subject to little or no land use RIO BLANCO asked the planning commission planning review. There are currently COUNTY for a continuance of its meeting so hundreds of wastewater storage pits they could make adjustments to the and injection wells across Northwest proposal and resubmit it for future Colorado. (See article at right.) discussion. This is problematic because The revised application, which wastewater disposal is not an GARFIELD the planning commission considered issue of mineral property rights COUNTY at it's March 8 meeting, cut the and should not be treated with zone area in half and completely the same deference as oil and removed the water intake area from gas wells. It is a huge public consideration. health risk, as wastewater from The commission approved oil and gas development is highly the proposal on a 5-2 vote with toxic — full of fracking chemicals, several conditions. In addition, new low level radioactive material, and language stipulates the zone will petrochemicals. Injection disposal wells Brine spills only contain one injection well on The struggle in Battlement Mesa Class II injection wells Wastewater pits one state-approved natural gas pad is representative of the struggle Wastewater disposal facilities within the new zoning area. many Colorado communities face when dealing with the oil and gas The WORC Oil and Gas Waste Mapping Project can be accessed by visiting industry. Residents deserve to www.worc.org/worc-oil-gas-waste-mapping-project/.

Building power for a civic solstice by Steve Allerton, WCC President Grand Junction. (See related article on our present and future leaders. Our granddaughter Iris was born on page 8.) Just as our granddaughter brought Dec. 21, the darkest night of the year. Western Colorado Congress played light into our family, we too can be a The winter solstice for many is that mo- its part in this historic march. Staff and light for each other. Thank you to WCC ment when things begin to turn around members also worked together with staff and members who generously – light born out of darkness. many others, planning, organizing, and share their time, expertise, and finan- On the day Iris reached one month spreading the word while encouraging cial support. of age – Jan. 21 – the Women’s March participation in numerous other local Here’s to a 2017 that brings us manifested itself in the form of mil- events. WCC is poised to continue its together sharing one voice, finding lions of people around the world that tradition of building strength and power common purpose, and reveling in the stood together saying proudly “we care from the grassroots. Citizens are hun- opportunity to impact change on the is- for each other”. My wife, Deb, and I gry for meaningful action and WCC is sues we care about. marched among thousands in downtown here to support our members as well as Steve Allerton

Spring 2017 • Western Colorado Congress Clarion - 3 WCC’s 2017 legislative priorities Continued from page 1 Citizens make the difference, and we’re helping Western Slope water rights to cultivate. A similar voices shape state policy and legislation. Please bolster our bill (SB 109) has been introduced that would recognize hemp as a Meanwhile, we’re awaiting the collective voice and effectiveness! introduction of at least two other viable animal feed. WCC supports oil and gas bills that we’ll likely Visit www.wccongress.org to make a donation today! these bills to give more tools and support, one that would increase options to Western Slope family local governments’ control over land Public lands the Gold King Mine wastewater spill farms and ranches. to happen near Silverton in 2015. use and another that would improve Equal Protection from We can’t discuss the particulars of Social justice air quality monitoring. Federal Employee Personal this bill until it has been introduced, Wage Theft Transparency Act Attack (HB 1141): WCC was Clean energy but WCC will support it. (HB 1021): In 2014 WCC joined strongly opposed to this bill so with allied organizations across the Electric Utility Distribution again we’re happy to report the Food and agriculture state to pass the Wage Protection Grid Resource Acquisition Plan death of a bill! HB 1141 would Act, which created legal channels for (SB 145): WCC supported this bill have made federal employees Recognize Industrial Hemp workers suffering from wage theft. which unfortunately has died. This vulnerable to a felony charge for Agricultural Product For This bill clarifies that businesses bill would have pushed Colorado’s managing grazing on public lands. Agricultural Water Right (SB electric utilities to move faster in 117): WCC has long supported the must be transparent about any wage incorporating distributed energy Hardrock mining growth and creation of hemp as a theft claims they are facing. WCC viable crop in Western Colorado. supports this bill. resources (i.e., anything other than WCC is working with Western centralized power plants) into the This bill affirms that industrial Slope allies on a bill to reform For more details or to get power grid. hemp is a recognized agricultural some of the state’s outdated involved, contact Emily@ product that people can use their mining regulations that allowed wccongress.org. 2017 Colorado House: Western Slope Districts

Speaker of the House: Crisanta Duran (D-5) — Majority Leader: KC Becker (D-13) — Minority Leader: (R-16) Toll-free number outside Denver, Jan-May: 1-800-811-7647 — Capitol mailing address for all: 200 E. Colfax, Denver 80203

Moffat Jackson Routt Representative’s name is followed by Barbara McLachlan (D-59) Dan Thurlow (R-55) 57 13 party (Dem/Rep) and district (see map). (303) 866-2914 (303) 866-3068 [email protected] [email protected] Grand Rio Blanco KC Becker (D-13) Committees: Committees: (303) 866-2348 26 Summit Education Business Affairs and Labor [email protected] Garfield Eagle Transportation & Energy Finance Committees: Local Government Legislative Council Diane Mitsch Bush (D-26) Mesa Pitkin Lake 55 Executive Committee of the (303) 866-2923 (D-62) 61 Legislative Council [email protected] (303) 866-2916 Delta Committees: [email protected] 54 Marc Catlin (R-58) Montrose Gunnison Agriculture, Livestock & Natural Committees: 58 (303) 866-2955 Resources (Vice-Chair) Agriculture, Livestock & Natural Ouray [email protected] Transportaion & Energy (Chair) Resources Saguache San Miguel Hinsdale Committees: Local Government Finance (R-57) Dolores San Mineral Public Health Care & Human Serv. (303) 866-2949 Yeulin Willett (R-54) Juan [email protected] (303) 866-2583 Montezuma 62 59 Millie Hamner (D-61) Committees: [email protected] (303) 866-2952 Appropriations Committees: La Plata Archuleta [email protected] Joint Budget Committee Agriculture, Livestock & Natural Committees: Resources Appropriations (Vice-Chair) Legal Services Joint Budget Committee Judiciary 2017 : Western Slope Districts

Pres. of the Senate: (R-2) — Majority Leader: (R-30) — Minority Leader: Lucia Guzman (D-34) Toll-free number outside Denver, Jan-May: 1-888-473-8136 — Capitol mailing address for all: 200 E. Colfax, Denver 80203 Moffat Jackson Senator’s name is followed by party Larry Crowder (R-35) Ray Scott (R-7) Routt (Dem/Rep) and district (see map). (303) 866-4875 (303) 866-3077 Grand [email protected] [email protected] Rio Blanco 8 (R-8) Committees: Committees: (303) 866-5292 Health & Human Services State, Veterans & Military Affairs [email protected] Local Government (Chair) Garfield Eagle Summit Committees: Agriculture, Natural Resources & Agriculture, Natural Resources & Kerry Donovan (D-5) Energy Mesa Pitkin Lake Energy (Vice-Chair) (303) 866-4871 Legislative Council Capital Development Gunnison [email protected] Transportation 7 Delta Chaffee Transportation (Chair) Committees: 5 Agriculture, Natural Resources & Gov. (D) Montrose Don Coram (R-6) Energy (303) 866-4884 136 State Capitol Ouray Legislative Audit Saguache San Miguel Hinsdale [email protected] Local Government Denver, CO 80203-1792 Committees: Dolores San @GovofCO Mineral 35 Agriculture, Natural Resources & Juan Energy www.colorado.gov/governor 6 Judiciary (303) 866-2471 Front Desk Montezuma La Plata Archuleta (303) 866-2885 Consituent Services Visit www.leg.colorado.gov for more information including the status of bills.

4 - Western Colorado Congress Clarion • Spring 2017 Retooling the “multi-tool” organization Members are invited to help sharpen WCC through a surge of community outreach

By Dave Reed, Executive Director Washington state, to lead us in this effort. A community and political We like to describe Western Get Involved! organizer with three decades of Colorado Congress as a sort of experience, Teresa specializes in Want to do “field work” for WCC? We’re looking for members in each organizational multi-tool. Our helping mostly rural, state-based of our communities to help WCC identify the issues and campaigns it members are trained to work organizations like ours with just this should be working on. on a variety of issues – we can sort of strategic process. do anything! The community We’re going to launch the process in the first week of April with a But to be clear, we’ve hired organizing model is supremely series of local presentations by Teresa Purcell, who’s leading the effort. Teresa to design and manage the versatile. Later in April, Teresa and WCC staff will lead trainings for those who are process, and to provide the training. But just because you can do interested in conducting interviews with key community members. We – WCC staff and especially anything doesn’t mean you can do the members – must be the ones There will also be other ways to help out, from developing the online everything. Given limited resources to carry it out. If you’ve ever been survey to organizing a local focus group. We invite you to get involved at – and given the new political involved in any of WCC’s campaigns, whatever level feels right for you. landscape – how can WCC be as you’ll know that staff provide the strategic as possible in the issues Interested? Contact your community organizer or the office (see page organizing support, but it’s the and campaigns it takes on? 2) for more info. members who are out in front This is an exciting time to be on leading the effort. the front lines of change. There is WCC is owned by its members, so danger, but also great opportunity. the members decide what it works People are engaged like they wanted to do for a long time, but at WCC’s annual conference on and how to carry out the mission. haven’t been for a very long time, have never had the staff time to do. (tentatively set for Aug. 26). Then, But they – you – we! – need data to and they’re looking for ways to get We believe it will bring our current for the remainder of the year, Teresa make such decisions. involved. Many old assumptions members into deeper contact with will lead us in developing a long- about the people’s relationship to their communities and with a new term strategic plan to guide WCC government now seem to be in play. A surge of outreach generation. That alone should make in growing membership, increasing Meanwhile, there’s renewed So here’s the plan. WCC more welcoming and attractive funding, building political power, interest in good old-fashioned From April to June, we’ll fan out to new members. expanding staff and possibly grassroots community organizing. and conduct a series of structured geographic scope – in other words, a National funders are suddenly one-on-one interviews with Knowledge is power plan to retool WCC into the powerful excited to support groups like people who can speak for key sectors More to the point, this surge force that the people of the Western WCC – provided they’ve got clear of our communities – young people, will provide us with much better Slope need it to be! strategies for building power and professionals, farmers and ranchers, information for prioritizing the Again, this is a time when more engaging their communities. people of color, faith communities, issues and campaigns that WCC is going to be required of us, but low-income people, and so on. works on going forward. That also when we potentially have Some of these people will be WCC knowledge is power – what we do more people-power and resources members, but most will not with it will be up to us, but we to draw on. It behooves us, as an be. Some of them will be definitely want to know if there are organization, to reach out beyond traditional allies, some will things WCC can be doing differently our usual circles and listen to our be folks we don’t typically to attract more members and future members, and hear their hang out with, and a few funding. concerns and tell them about what will be those who actively The results will be presented WCC has to offer. oppose us on some issues. We’ll be identifying concerns that are broadly shared and strongly felt, and that fall within our mission of challenging IN GRAND JUNCTION social, economic and environmental injustice. We’ll also be seeking to map the invisible power structures across a wide swath of Western Colorado – because if we want to make real, lasting change, we need We need data to understand where the power This spring and summer, we have levers are and how to shift them. an unprecedented opportunity In addition to interviews, we’ll to go out into our communities hold small-group sessions in each of and learn from them how to increase our main communities to facilitate WCC’s impact. We’ve received conversations about the issues WCC partial funding from the Manaus could and should be working on, Fund (and we’re seeking more) to and the role WCC and its affiliates carry out an in-depth “organizing should play in each community. And assessment” of our core counties, finally, we’ll solicit the views of as Help us bring Telluride Mountainfilm on Tour to Grand and then to feed the information we many people as possible – members gather into an organization-wide as well as “members we haven’t met” Junction this fall! We need volunteers to watch and select strategic plan. – via an online survey. films, plan the event logistics, and engage the community. We’ve contracted with Teresa It’s going to be the kind of surge For more information, contact Stephani Soto at Purcell, a consultant based in of community outreach that we’ve (970) 256-7650 or [email protected].

Spring 2017 • Western Colorado Congress Clarion - 5 Picking up the PACE on clean energy

With contributions from Richard our region’s economic transition established contact in 2016 – to Clean Energy Committee and San Hyland (Grand Junction) and Rein away from dependence on fossil support her effort to persuade Miguel Power Association recently van West (Ridgway) fuel extraction. Mesa County Commissioners to worked together to submit a grant The catch is that before C-PACE reconsider C-PACE. application to the Colorado Energy WCC members are ramping becomes available in a given county, A week later, two of the Office to fund an Electric Vehicle up outreach to build support from the county commissioners must three commissioners appeared Charging Station. Ridgway town business owners and community approve it. WCC members, who to be supportive, with the third officials should know by this leaders for an innovative state know a thing or two about working requesting more information summer if the request will be program that finances clean and with county commissioners, saw from Scharfenberger, who had funded. More information can be renewable energy improvements. this as a perfect opportunity to get participated in the meeting via found at: https://www.colorado.gov/ Colorado’s C-PACE involved. teleconference. pacific/energyoffice/charge-ahead- (Commercial Property Assessed In mid-November, WCC asked In light of these developments, colorado. Clean Energy) program offers Paul Scharfenberger from the our Mesa County team has This past year saw a ROCC special loans to owners of Colorado Energy Office to lead two accelerated efforts to get local stakeholder team working with commercial/industrial/agricultural C-PACE trainings for members of property owners interested in and Ridgway’s local school district to property to improve a property’s WCC's local groups in Montrose, supportive of C-PACE approval. replace most of the two schools’ energy and water efficiency. The Ouray and Mesa counties. Armed Mesa County team members send fluorescent lighting with LEDs. loans are highly competitive, with with that information, they are now out thanks to Kevin Williams with A little more than four months after out-of-pocket costs substantially building support among community WORC for leading them through a installation, results show an average offset by reduced expenditures on leaders and property owners. campaign planning session in early savings of $1200 per month on energy and water for the property. Uncompahgre Valley Association January. electrical bills that have successfully The loans could also help fuel members hope to approach the offset the district’s investment. Montrose County Commissioners for Ouray County Other financial support for the support of C-PACE in April. In addition to building local LEDs was generously contributed support for C-PACE, members of the by ROCC and San Miguel Power Mesa County Ridgway-Ouray Community Council Association. On February 14, Mesa County are also responding to the increasing WCC’s clean energy program members met with Kristi Pollard, prevalence of electric vehicles has been made possible by a grant head of the Grand Junction among both local residents and from the Harris and Frances Block Learn more about C-PACE at Economic Partnership (GJEP) tourists to the area. Foundation as well as individual copace.com. – with whom they had already The Town of Ridgway, ROCC’s members and supporters.

Western Colorado Congress wishes to thank the following generous people and An enormous foundations who have made donations since our previous newsletter. We couldn’t do it without you! New members are highlighted with an asterisk (*). This issue’s THANK YOU! list also includes our monthly donors, acknowledging their annual total gift. $5000 and up *Steve Reimer Tom & Joy Baird Andreya & Michael Krieves $56-$99 Sid & Ruth Lindauer Arches Foundation Dana & Lindsey Thomas Jim Bedford & Luci Reeve Paula Lehr & Art Mears Jane Anderson Mark Lipsey FarmAid Jack Wilke Scott Beilfuss Richard & Linda Levine Hope & Mike Cook Ann & Daniel Longsworth Orr R.B. & Cass Galloway Kevin & Eugenia Bone Sid & Ruth Lindauer Dr Philip Incao Al Lowande & Roze Evans Foundation $200-$499 *George Brewster Mark Lipsey J.J. Kopf *Cecil Lucas Laffey-McHugh Foundation Marv & Nancy Ballantyne Joyce & Terre Bucknam Ann & Daniel Longsworth Orr Matt King *Virginia McAfee Manaus Fund Charles & Robbie Breaux *Franci Caudlin Al Lowande & Roze Evans Olivia Emery Tom & Martha Ann McKenney WORC Education Project Brad & Danielle Carre Burritt Community First Foundation *Cecil Lucas Russell & Heather Evans David B Miller Duane & Arleta Carr Kevin & Kjersten Davis *Virginia McAfee Betty Fulton Marjory Musgrave & Frank $1000-$4999 Dudley & Sharon Case Matthew & Angela Deeths Tom & Martha Ann McKenney Sandra & Peter Johnson Peters Alpenglow Foundation John Clark & Mallory Clarke Kate Denning David B Miller Mike Kobrin Austin & Carolyn Ray Ben & Jerry’s Foundation Karen Combs Mary Ellen Denomy Tamera Minnick Joan Matranga *Cheryl & Ronald Robacker Barbara Gallisath & Chris Ralph D’Alessandro Ellie & Steve Dooley Marjory Musgrave & Frank Monica Solawetz Phoebe Sophocles Seidman Dee Dee & Peter Decker Carol Duell Peters Chris Woodling & Jim Tambling John Stickney & Lee Beck Mark Harvey Gayle Embrey Dan Elsner Eleanor & Bill Nelson Bonnie Neumann Steele John Toolen & Diane Smith Heather Hopton Memorial John Groo Jan & Jerry Fedrizzi Gretchen & Robin Nicholoff Gary Dawes Linda Vidal Fund Ann Harvey & Mike Campbel Scott Fetchenhier *Daniel Oppenheimer Kirby Hughes Elizabeth Jane Wallace Ted & Linda Koeman Stan McNeese & Sherri Helms John Fielder Karen Ortiz Kate Kellogg Deborah Wheeler John Metcalf Jane Hendricks Jim Finch Austin & Carolyn Ray Richard & Jennifer Purdy Andy Wiessner & Patsy Randy & Jen Parker Elizabeth & Monte High Linda Gann *Cheryl & Ronald Robacker Jim Bedford & Luci Reeve Batchelder *Rob Pew Randy Martin Connie Giles Leslie Robinson & James Kevin & Eugenia Bone Jim Winzenburg *Suzanne Foster Porter Amy McBride Wayne Goin & Linda Wood Bradford John Woodling & Rand Porter *George Brewster *Red Mountain Inn Ellie Goldstein & John Moore Karen Sjoberg & Joel *Franci Caudlin Toni Zurcher Aron Ralston Prudhomme Jim Riddell Sean & Maeve Goodbody Mary Ellen Denomy Peggy Rawlins Phoebe Sophocles Up to $55 Elizabeth Robinson Kathy Green Carol Duell Eric Rechel John Stickney & Lee Beck Tom & Diana Acker Andrea Robinsong Joanie Griff Scott Fetchenhier Laura & Steve Rossetter Ben & Adrienne Stroock David Akers Don Rogers & Paula James Peter Hackett & Ruth Higdon John Fielder Denny & Joy Swanson Mary Thom & Ken Scissors Bob Albrecht & Jan Kubek Kent Snowbarger Bill Haggerty Jim Finch Mary Beth & Jonathan Tukman Peggy & Tod Tibbetts *Carson Anderson Melissa & James Sullivan Paula & Steven Harper Connie Giles Rein & Jan van West John Toolen & Diane Smith Sky Baldwin Geoff Tischbein & Gail Jensen Stephen & Leslie Hatch Wayne Goin Ross Worley Betty & William Walters Dick Vernimen Rooster Barnhart & Missy Doris Helfter Ellie Goldstein & John Moore Rogers Lynda Walters Linda Vidal $500-$999 Noble & Natalie Heller Joanie Griff *Marina Beadleston Michael & Patrice Whistler Elizabeth Jane Wallace Deb & Steve Allerton *Kristen Henry Peter Hackett & Ruth Higdon Keith Berryhill & Diane Lidz Marshall Whiting Deborah Wheeler Herb & Laura May Bacon Janey Hines & John Broderick Bill Haggerty Andy Wiessner & Patsy Susann Beug Monica & Wayne Wiitanen Ann Hopkinson Paula & Steven Harper Bruce Berger Batchelder Marcia K. Bilbao Kevin & Brenda Bafus Williams Stephen Hornback Noble & Natalie Heller Ron Binz & Mary Donahue Jim Winzenburg *NIna Black Scott & Sheelagh Williams Sarah Hutchinson & Steve *Kristen Henry Liza Clarke John Woodling *Barrie Bloom Charles Wrye Maxwell R Carlos and Pam Hyde Nakai Michael & Lainie Conley Neville Woodruff & Leslie *Kate Boehnke Lavinia Ycas R Carlos and Pam Hyde Nakai Dickerson Keating Family Schiller Sandra Jackson *Deborah Bradford Sandra Jackson Ann Johnson Andrew & Audrey Franklin $100-$199 Rachel Zatterstrom *Jeriel Brammeier Peter Looram Ann Johnson Andreya & Michael Krieves Arlene & Gene Albers Toni Zurcher Continued on next page Ken & Emily Ransford Matt King Richard & Linda Levine

6 - Western Colorado Congress Clarion • Spring 2017 Jeriel back on staff team as GJ community center community organizer raised as election issue By Hannah Bou-Matar, Grand signatures we've gathered, the By Jeriel Brammeier, Organizer Junction many letters to the editor that have been published in support There's a lot of buzz in In 2016 I had the opportunity of a community center, as well as the Grand Valley right now to work for Western Colorado results from our survey. about needing a community Congress in its successful effort We will also ask for the center. PLACE (People for to raise the minimum wage in council’s support in applying Local Activities & Community our state. Now, I am honored for a matching grant from the Enrichment) is working to make to join the WCC staff and serve Department of Local Affairs and that buzz part of the upcoming with our dedicated and growing seek the city’s support for getting spring elections. membership on the front lines of the feasibility study conducted. PLACE is contacting all positive change and community Want to get involved? current Grand Junction City action. There are many ways! Like Council members and candidates Although originally from us on Facebook at facebook.com/ to ask them for their stance on Carmel Valley, California, I’ve GJCommunityCenter, and please building a community center. We called Grand Junction and the challenge the status quo, and share our posts and encourage also plan to raise this issue at Western Slope home for 16 years. effect positive change in our your friends to follow us. the League of Women Voters’ I experimented with a brief communities. Contact city council members candidate forum on March 23 move to Denver in 2013, and Once I became educated about and let them know you support a at 7 pm at the City Auditorium. quickly returned with a greater the social, environmental, and community center. Please plan to join us! appreciation for our beautiful economic issues we confront on the Write letters to the editor. Get PLACE, a committee of WCC wilderness just outside my door Western Slope, I was drawn to help one of our Signatures of Support of Mesa County, is in the process and the close-knit communities make positive change by testifying sheets and collect signatures. of raising money for a feasibility living in it. Living here allows at the capital, organizing local Attend one of our meetings or study for the proposed center. me the opportunity to enjoy the trainings, marching and rallying, community information sessions. We've received a $5,000 grant outdoors and run, hike, and bike. and working for numerous causes. Our next meeting will be from the Rocky Mountain Health But even on those mild winter I’ve worked with engaged citizens Friday, March 17, at the Foundation and are currently days, I prefer to stay inside and up and down the Slope and across Unitarian Universalist Church applying for a grant from the craft with my daughter. Colorado on issues ranging from (536 Ouray Ave., Grand Junction) Colorado Health Foundation. I had my daughter, Emma, veteran’s affairs, healthcare, and from 9:30 to 11 am. We have been gathering when I was 17 years old, and she women’s rights issues. You can always get in touch signatures of support to bring has been my sidekick ever since. with us by emailing us at Editor’s Note: Stop by the Grand to the city council and now have Determined to provide the best gjcommunitycenter@wccongress. Junction WCC office at 134 N. 6th over 1,600 signatures! We hope life for her, I learned the value org. Street and welcome our newest to have a workshop with the city of organizing and the processes Thank you for your support! required to start conversations, community organizer to the team! council after the April election, at which time we can show the

Up to $55 (continued) Tom Ela *Corey Hinman *Cuck & Dannette Logan *David Olivero & Margaret Linda Smith William Erven John Hollrah & Kay Lair Katherine Lower Emerson *Natalie Snyders Dean Bressler *Douglas Estes *Don & Cyndi Holman *Daniel Mackin Lynn Padgett & Jeff Litteral Donald Solawetz Tom & Sue Ann Buick Rosemary Esty Kate & Josh Holmes *Paula Marlatt *Claudia Parker *Glenn Sommer *Cyndi & Fred Burdick Garry Evenson *Elizabeth Howard Michael & Heidi Marquardt Carol & Jim Parker *Tamara Spano Rob Burnett *Raymond Fallon Barbara Hughes Nick Massaro Jim & Janet Petersen Alan Staehle Wendy Burrell Dede Fay Richard & Jan Hyland Mary Jane & David Masters Bonita Pfeiffer Harriet Stephens *Dara Burwell Debbie Ferris Curtis Imrie Steve McCall *Amelia Potvin Jeanne Stewart & Ian Bald Oni Butterfly Keith Fife & Kathy Portner Tanya Ishikawa *Alice & Dennis McCary *Greg Rajnowski *Christi Strickland Lynn Carretta Dean & Elizabeth Filiss Jock Jacober Marilyn & Mark McCaulley Olaf Rasmussen Sharon Sullivan Robyn Cascade & Katie *Brenda Ratcliff Kemper Yvonne Finch Bill & Jane Janke *Marjorie McKenna *Anne Swanson Barbara Reid & David Hyman Beth Cashdan William & Jane Findlay Paul Janzen Linda McLean Don & Sally Swartz Jacob Richards Michael Cassidy & Barbara Ann FitzSimmons & John Gould Greg & Sean Jeung Michael & Blakely Mechau Pat Sweeney & Teresa Erickson Seelye *Ann Marie Fleming *Linda Johnson John Mercer Rachel Richards Carol Temple Barbara Chamberlin Nori Francis & Ralph Tingey Ken Jones Jack Miller Robert Ricketts & Donna Nancy Terrill Schultz Susan & Alan Chandler-Reed Bruce Gabow & Deborah *Don Jones *Megan Miller Noalani Terry *Elizabeth Riggs Janet Chapman Murphy David Jones & Judi Chamberlin Glen Miller *Susan Thiele Ken & Donna Riley *Patricia Chew Danny & Sherrie Galloway *Erin Keller *Diane Miller Diane Thompson & Lonnie David & Blanche Roberts William H Chipley Colleen Gardner Deb Kennard & Josh McDaniel Bob Millette & Maggie Pedersen White Rita Robinson Carole Chowen Demi Garner Scotty Kenton *Bill Milliken *Frances Tisdel *Tate Rogers Carol Connolly Martha Gearty Virginia Kile & Fred Wetlaufer Sandy Mochary *James & Carol Touvelle Charles Roy Mary Coombs *Avery Glassman Jon Kirkpatrick Dean Moffatt Carl & Ruth Townsend *Diego Rubalcava-Alvarez *Jamie & Rebekah Coulter *Lou Ann Goff Lee Kirsch Ellen Moore Tanya Travis Herad Sanders Pat & Cliff Crader *Stephanie Goode Lenna Kitterman Arlan Moore Gene Ulrich Evelyn Schaller William Crowther Kathy & Mick Graff Brad Klafehn Kathleen Morrison Lyle & Beverly Van Dover Sherry Schenk Keith Daly *Jeanette Hackney Charlotte Koebel Bill & Kathy Moser Devon Van Dusen & George Mark Schofield & Michelle Hall *David Dancy Susan Hall *Stephen Kolarik *Robert & Juanita Moston Burkhart Lynn Vrany *Pete Davis Peggy Hanks Beverly Kolkman Lindsay Murdoch James & Carol Schott Gigi Walker Roger Davis *Woody Harmeyer *John Krestinger Kathryn Mutz Mary & Clee Sealing Gayle Wells Douglas DeNio *Philip & Carol Harrold Sharon & Dick Kreutzen Cindi & Jim Myers Jack Sebesta *Deborah Westervelt *Ann Dettmer Peter Hart *Gary Lake Mike & Heidi Nadiak Dave Segal Garland & Anne White Dave & Linda Devanney *Gerry Harvey Kimberly Langston Kent Nelson Jon Sering & Pamela Hartsen Karen Winkel Elizabeth & Eric Dickerson Wendell & Charlotte Hatfield Elmar Lawaczeck MD *DJ Nephew Butch & Peggy Shaw *Mary & Alannah Wister David Dirks Richard Herrmann *Barbara Lee Dick Neville Marikay Shellman William Wuerthele *Kayla Dodson Penny & Enno Heuscher Betsy & Dale Leonard Ann & David Nicholson *Karen & John Sinclair Lillian Wyant Ken & Martha Dolezal Nina Hiatt & Paul Heiman Steve Liguore David & Molly Niven Diane Sipe *Judith & William Yeo *Donnamarie *Steven Hilbert Linda Lindsey & Steve Wolcott *Patricia Nolen *James Smith Annemarie & Samuel Yoder *Shane Duckworth Deanna Hines *Matthew Lisenby Tom Oken & Janie Lowe

Spring 2017 • Western Colorado Congress Clarion - 7 Above: The crowd at Grand Junction’s Women’s March on January 21 clogged Main Street and the plaza in front of Two Rivers Convention Center. Photo by Dave Reed. Right: Priscilla Mangnall proclaimed her resolve at the Women’s March as she steadied herself with a hot pink cane. Photo by Jennifer Hancock. WCC supports Days of Action

By Roxanne Dennis and Dave Reed, it all together, women’s rights. Action, a coalition of more than WCC staff Clever, heartfelt, sometimes heart- 20 organizations, including WCC. wrenching, the signs carried by the Scores of volunteers helped mount “This is incredible!” Scott women, children, men and dogs who a series of events coinciding with Beilfuss, a WCC member and one walked the parade route spoke of Martin Luther King Day and of the coordinators of the Women’s unity, honor, love and fortitude. the presidential inauguration, March for Grand Junction, The tone had been set six weeks and hundreds of people attended was shaking his head in awe as earlier, when Deb Allerton, another presentations on such topics as he watched the throngs gather on WCC member and an active member immigrant stories and reproductive and economic justice in our Jan. 21. By the time the marchers of the Koinonia congregation, posted rights. The Women’s March was the communities.” reached the final rally in front of the an invitation to a planning session icing on the cake. Two Rivers Convention Center, they on social media: A strategic investment were close to 3,000 strong. Let’s inspire a radical The power of organizing In many ways, Days of Action is The peaceful, affirmative quality inclusiveness and a just transition to “The success of the march and the perfect complement to Western of the march was as astonishing as a sustainable future. the other events held during the Colorado Congress. While it’s the quantity of marchers. It wasn’t a Let’s come together and plan how Days of Action can be attributed providing opportunities for people protest. Like similar events around to be voices for human and Earth to the power of organizing,” said to take action and get involved the state and nation, it was a show justice. Beilfuss. “Most of the people who in relatively short-turnaround of solidarity and a celebration of Let’s continue to build a showed up at that first meeting on activities, WCC is organizing for what the participants were for democracy with “liberty and justice Dec. 7 had experience organizing change over the long term. Days of – democracy, diversity, freedom for ALL”. groups of people. Koinonia and the Action recruits newcomers and puts of religion, immigrant rights, a Out of that meeting emerged Universal Unitarian churches were them right to work; WCC teaches healthy environment, and tying Western Colorado Days of hugely instrumental in making them how to be campaigners, leaders events possible by throwing open and future decision-makers. their doors – just having a place to That’s why we’re making a hold an event is such an interesting strategic investment in Days of What the world needs and essential component in Action. It’s not a total coincidence organizing.” that our newest organizer, Jeriel now is allyship Richard Hyland, another WCC Brammeier, has been part of the by Dave Reed, Executive Director of unlearning and re-evaluating, member and coordinator of other coalition’s leadership since the start. in which a person of privilege Days of Action events, added, “The We’re committing a significant Now more than ever, we all seeks to operate in solidarity with march made me proud…and it portion of Jeriel’s time to supporting have to support each other. In a marginalized group of people.” changed my perspective on Grand Days of Action going forward, and particular, WCC would like to The bottom line: If we’ve Junction.” to connecting DOA with other urge its members and friends to got privilege, by virtue of our In the wake of the successful emerging groups in Montrose, join in solidarity with the groups citizenship or our skin color or January series, Days of Action is Garfield and adjacent counties. that are dealing with the harshest other status, we can use it to now planning more events and A number of Days of Action impacts of the current political support groups that don't. If we’ve presentations throughout the year, members attended the Principles environment, such as immigrants, got a voice, we can use it to speak with several set for the week of of Community Organizing training minorities and the LGBTQ up for those who are voiceless Earth Day (April 22). For details that WCC hosted in February community. or marginalized. If we’ve got and to help out, look up the Western (see page 2), and we plan to offer The Colorado Immigrant influence or a skill, we can apply Colorado Days of Action page on additional specific trainings as Rights Coalition is currently it to help our allies. Facebook. needed. hosting a series of presentations But it all starts with Local movements are springing At this historic time for our around the state called recognizing the elephant in up like this all around the country, nation, it seems extra important “Immigration 101 for Allies.” the room, which is privilege. as record numbers of people seek to link arms with other groups and Besides covering the basics of “I tell people that we have to to get involved in the political form a solid defense of the basic the U.S. immigration system acknowledge privilege – that’s a system, many for the first time. values of democracy and justice and the new executive orders on big thing,” says Jon Williams, the Some of them are outspoken in that we all hold dear. Western immigration, the talk includes an founder of Black Lives Matter in their opposition to the current Colorado Days of Action is serving enlightening section on how to be Grand Junction. Administration, but Days of Action, as an important hub for this coming- an ally, or “allyship.” WCC and CIRC will co-host a like WCC, maintains a nonpartisan together. WCC is poised to support What is allyship? CIRC session of “Immigration 101 for stance based on values. Its mission and organize the groundswell of quotes the Anti-Oppression Allies” in Grand Junction in the is “to coordinate, organize and people-power that’s emerging. Let’s Network’s definition: “an active, coming months – stay tuned for promote positive action that bring on the action! consistent, and difficult practice details. achieves social, environmental

8 - Western Colorado Congress Clarion • Spring 2017