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Visit the Western Slope
Cool Days Ahead, but Seasonal Events Are Just Warming Up
The Slope Scoop
September 19, 2025
Photo of the Week
Submitted by Rick Kieffer
Please continue submitting photos of yourself/ the Western Slope. I have gotten so much good feedback about this section. Let’s see those beautiful Fall pics!
In this edition:
Homeowner Tip of the Week - Tree Trimming!
Tax Lien Sale
Fire Recoevery Efforts
Community News, Sports, and Events!
Housing
🌳 Homeowner Tip of the Week: Trim Back Trees & Shrubs
Before the real cold sets in, it’s smart to cut back any tree branches or shrubs that are brushing against your house. Overhanging limbs can scrape roofs and siding in fall winds, and thick bushes against the foundation hold in moisture that attracts pests.
Quick checklist:
Trim branches at least 1-2 feet away from the roofline.
Thin out shrubs so air can circulate around your siding.
Clear plants away from AC units and vents for good airflow.
Collect clippings now for easy disposal before leaf season piles up.
A little pruning this week protects your roof, siding, and yard while keeping your home looking sharp.
Market Stats
Average Sales Price:
T12 (last 12 months): $469,000 (+$1k from last week)
YTD (since Jan 1st 2025): $472,000 (+$1k from last week)
Median Sales Price:
T12 (last 12 months): $408,000 (no change from last week)
YTD (since Jan 1st 2025): $408,000 (no change from last week)
Inventory Levels:
Number of New Listings: 70 (-15 from last week)
Average Days on Market: 81 (+1 from last week)
Total Active Listings: 811 (-1 from last week)
Source: Skyler Kraai with Coldwell Banker Distinctive Properties
NewsLocal News
Mesa County Tax Lien Sale approaches
On September 22, Mesa County’s annual Tax Lien Auction Sale will open online and end on Wednesday, October 22. A process which helps the county collect unpaid property taxes, but it doesn’t mean people immediately lose their homes.
Each January, Mesa County sends out property tax bills. Owners can pay in full by April or in two installments during the year. However, if taxes go unpaid the property is placed in the county’s Tax Lien Auction.
“If they don’t pay those taxes, then in July we send out a delinquent notice to say your taxes aren’t paid. Then if they don’t pay by the end of August, then we prepare for publication,” said Jackie Campbell, Acting Treasurer and Public Trustee for Mesa County.
Last year’s sale had 983 total properties advertised with 694 properties sold.
VanWinkle Ranch recovers after the Turner Gulch Fire
After two months, the Turner Gulch Fire is 100% contained. As Janie Vanwinkle, ERC Fellow for the AgriWest Initiative, and owner of VanWinkle Ranch, looks back on the last 70 days, she recalls the fear that consumed her family.
“The impact from an emotional standpoint is tremendous,” said VanWinkle.
The VanWinkle family worked with fire crews for 47 days. During that time, the fire affected around 60% of their grazing permit. According to VanWinkle, they relocated their cattle 10 miles south, which posed a challenge.
“Cows are not familiar with where they’re at, so they don’t know where the water is. They don’t know exactly where the best feed is, and they’re kind of lost,” said VanWinkle.
Business Highlight
Harrys Home Service Team
I'm a young entrepreneur who loves to clean windows and give everyone the crystal clear view they deserve! Harry Cummings, the visionary behind Harry’s Window Cleaning Services, is a dedicated entrepreneur who believes in the power of attention to detail. With a mission to brighten homes and lives, Harry’s meticulous approach ensures every window sparkles and every customer leaves with a smile. His commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is the cornerstone of our business.
Based out of Hotchkiss Serving the entire Western Slope
Local Community
Colorado Mesa University Announces Departure of Athletic Director Joan McDermott Amidst Controversy
Colorado Mesa University has announced that Athletic Director Joan McDermott will be stepping away from her position.
McDermott, originally brought on as interim Athletic Director in 2023, faced pushback from the start. Her appointment drew protests from student-athletes and skepticism from segments of the CMU community who questioned the process behind her hire.
Almost immediately after taking the role, McDermott made sweeping changes within the athletics department. She dismissed entire coaching staffs and replaced them with individuals brought in from out of state, a move that sparked significant backlash from players, alumni, and local supporters who felt long-standing programs and traditions were being upended.
I write this now as a former student athlete of CMU. This hire was a significant setback in the athletics department in my opinion and I hope CMU has learned from her tenure and the road ahead is successful.
Western Slope Sports!
Cimarron Athletic Field and Track opens in Ridgway
A $4 million project has opened behind Ridgway Secondary School, which the City of Ouray said is “a huge step forward for athletics, health and youth opportunities.”
The Cimarron Athletic Field and Track was a collaboration between multiple school districts and municipalities.
According to the City of Ouray, the track is within a five-county area and serves sudents in Ridgway, Ouray and the greater community.
Farmer’s Markets!
Farmer’s markets are wrapping up! Last few chances to get end of season fruits and veggies.
101 South 3rd Street, Suite 100 Grand Junction, CO 81501
Thursdays beginning July 10 through September 25 from 6:00-9:00 pm
Main and E 3rd St Palisade, CO 81526
Every Sunday from 09:00 am to 01:00 pm from June 1 through October 5, 2025
325 East Aspen Avenue, Fruita, CO, 81521
Saturdays 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Centennial Plaza, Montrose, CO, United States, Colorado
Saturdays 9 am - 1 pm
Cross Orchards Farmers Market 3073 Patterson RoadGrand Junction
Saturdays 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Seasonal Events!
BOO fun run/walk
October 25th at WestCo Brewing
Costume up and bring your family and friends, we will haunt the town on our 5k route along the river while taking in the beautiful fall colors followed by a big costume contest, seasonal brews, hot chocolate and fun fitness games. Kids 12 and under run for free and dogs are welcome at all events. https://grandvalleybrewruns.com/kannah-creek-brewing-company/
Mustache fun run/walk
November 22nd at Handlebar Tap House
Join a Movember themed 5k run/walk to support men’s cancer awareness! Grow or wear your best stache for the post run contest and enjoy seasonal brews, hot chocolate, axe throwing, fun fitness games, music, and more fall fun! Learn more and sign up now HERE.
Ugly Sweater fun run/walk
December 13th at Copper ClubWear your most festive or ugliest holiday gear and get ready for some magical winter fun!
After a social 5k fun run enjoy seasonal brews, hot chocolate, music and a big ugly sweater contest benefiting Girls on the Run Western Colorado. Learn more and register now HERE.
Family Fun!!
Fruita United Methodist Church, 405 East Aspen
Navajo Taco Dinner (Dinner, dessert, and drink for $15)
November 8, 11 am – 2 pm and 4 pm to 6 pm - Take out available
AND - Bazaar and Cookie Walk - 11 am to 6:00 pmCatholic Outreach has its annual Empty Bowls this Month, October 11
Yoga in the Park
310 N. 7th St.Grand Junction, CO 81501
Price: $22
Time: 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM
Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Thursday
Local Vocals
48338 Powderhorn Rd.Mesa, CO 81643
Price: FREE
Time: 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Recurrence: Recurring weekly on Sunday
Thank you so much for your support!
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