Estes Valley Voice Podcast

Brett Wilson
  • 5.0 (3)
  • DAILY NEWS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Daily releases of the latest Estes Park news, commentary, interesting interviews, and stories for Estes Valley Voice readers and listeners.Produced by Brett Wilson for the Estes Valley Voice

  1. 16H AGO

    La Voz del Valle de Estes 25 de mayo

    The sound of rolling suitcases on sidewalks, long lines at local coffee shops, visitors stopping to photograph the mountains, and traffic slowly filling downtown streets can only mean one thing in Estes Park: summer season has officially begun. Memorial Day Weekend is not only one of the busiest weekends of the year for the community — it also marks the beginning of months filled with economic activity, events, art, music, and tourism throughout the Estes Valley. With thousands of visitors arriving from across Colorado and beyond, local officials have already begun implementing seasonal traffic and parking measures aimed at keeping the town moving during the busy months ahead. Paid parking has officially returned to downtown Estes Park, while conversations continue around transportation improvements, public transit options, and new technology designed to better manage traffic flow for both residents and visitors. One of the biggest seasonal milestones continues to be the opening of Trail Ridge Road inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Although recent snowfall has delayed portions of the opening process, many visitors are already anticipating the opportunity to drive one of the most iconic alpine roads in the United States. Meanwhile, downtown Estes Park is beginning to reclaim its familiar summer energy. Restaurants are filling up, local shops are preparing for increased foot traffic, and businesses across town are making final adjustments ahead of what many consider the most important economic season of the year. But beyond tourism numbers and packed streets, Memorial Day Weekend also reflects something deeper about Estes Park: the spirit of the community itself. Residents, seasonal workers, business owners, and local organizations once again come together to welcome travelers experiencing the mountains for the first time — and those who return year after year because Estes Park has become part of their story. And while the traffic, long waits, and fast pace of summer can sometimes create challenges, they also represent opportunity for hundreds of local families and small businesses that rely on the season to help sustain them throughout the rest of the year. This summer also arrives with a full calendar of community events, art markets, festivals, concerts, and new initiatives that continue strengthening Estes Park’s cultural and creative identity.

    4 min

  2. MAY 11

    La Voz del Valle de Estes 11 de Mayo 2026

    ESTES PARK — From thousands of yellow ducks floating down Fall River to residents gathering in Bond Park to pray for rain, this week reflected the strong sense of community that continues to define Estes Park. The 38th annual Great Estes Park Duck Race once again brought together volunteers, families, visitors, and local nonprofits for one of the valley’s most beloved traditions. More than 11,000 ducks filled the river during the Rotary Club event, helping raise funds for scholarships and community organizations across the region. Education also remained in focus this week as Jennifer Roberts was officially appointed to fill an opening on the Estes Park School Board. Roberts said she hopes to help guide the district during its transition toward a new superintendent while bringing a strong community perspective to the role. Meanwhile, local creativity continues to grow through a collaboration between two Estes Park business owners working to expand hands-on artistic experiences for residents and visitors. The partnership reflects the growing importance of arts and creative spaces within the local economy. The community also gathered this weekend for Rain on the Rockies, an event centered around prayer, music, and reflection during an especially dry spring season. The gathering highlighted ongoing concerns about drought and wildfire risks across Colorado. That message connects closely with continued efforts from fire officials and educators promoting wildfire preparedness through the “Living With Fire” campaign, encouraging residents to prepare homes, evacuation plans, and defensible spaces ahead of summer.

    4 min

  3. APR 27

    La Voz del Valle de Estes 27 De Abril 2026

    BIGFOOT DAYS REÚNE A MILES EN ESTES PARK Estes Park volvió a colocarse en el mapa nacional con la celebración de Bigfoot Days, considerado uno de los festivales de su tipo más grandes del país. Miles de asistentes llenaron Bond Park, el Historic Park Theatre y distintas sedes del pueblo para disfrutar de conferencias, actividades familiares, música, competencias y experiencias alrededor del fenómeno Bigfoot. El evento no solo atrajo visitantes de distintas partes del país, también generó movimiento económico para negocios locales y reafirmó el papel de los festivales temáticos como parte de la identidad turística de Estes Park. BANCA COMUNITARIA DESTACA SU IMPACTO LOCAL En temas económicos, esta semana destacó una reflexión sobre el papel de la banca comunitaria y su impacto en la economía local. La conversación subraya cómo instituciones financieras locales continúan siendo clave para apoyar pequeños negocios, proyectos comunitarios y crecimiento regional, en un momento en que el acceso a relaciones bancarias cercanas sigue siendo un valor importante para muchas comunidades rurales y de montaña. CONTINÚA DIÁLOGO SOBRE CERTIFICACIÓN DARKSKY Sigue avanzando la conversación sobre una posible certificación DarkSky para Estes Park. Residentes y autoridades continúan explorando lo que implicaría proteger los cielos nocturnos mediante estándares de iluminación responsables. La iniciativa ha despertado interés por sus posibles beneficios en conservación, calidad de vida, astronomía y turismo sostenible. RENUNCIA PRESIDENTE DE LA JUNTA DEL REC DISTRICT En noticias de gobernanza local, el presidente de la junta del Estes Valley Recreation and Park District presentó su renuncia. La salida representa un cambio importante para una organización que juega un papel central en instalaciones recreativas, programas y servicios comunitarios, y abre preguntas sobre liderazgo y prioridades futuras para el distrito. ROTARY CELEBRA 100 AÑOS DE SERVICIO EN ESTES PARK Esta semana también se celebró un importante aniversario: 100 años de Rotary en Estes Park. La conmemoración reconoció un siglo de servicio bajo el lema Service Above Self, destacando décadas de proyectos comunitarios, liderazgo cívico y apoyo a iniciativas locales e internacionales. La celebración también sirvió para reflexionar sobre el legado de una de las organizaciones de servicio más influyentes de la comunidad. CAMP ST. MALO RECIBIRÁ NUEVO SACERDOTE Y en noticias de comunidad y fe, Camp St. Malo dará la bienvenida a un nuevo sacerdote el próximo 4 de mayo. El nombramiento marca una nueva etapa para este emblemático sitio de retiro espiritual en la región, conocido por su historia y significado para muchas generaciones.

    3 min

  4. APR 20

    LA VOZ DEL VALLE DE ESTES 20 DE ABRIL 2026

    Estes Park, Colorado — This week in the Estes Valley highlighted key developments impacting the community, from honoring a local sports legend to ongoing discussions about housing policies and environmental initiatives. A Legacy Honored in Colorado Sports Former Estes Park mayor and Olympian Wendy Koenig has been inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing her outstanding achievements both in athletics and public service. Koenig represented the United States in the 1972 and 1976 Olympic Games, excelling in the 800-meter race. She made history as one of the first American women to break the two-minute barrier in the event. Beyond her athletic career, Koenig has played a significant role in the Estes Park community, serving on the Town Board and later as mayor. Housing Discussions Highlight Community Concerns At the April meeting of the Estes Park Housing Authority (EPHA), officials addressed ongoing concerns related to deed-restricted housing and its impact on homeowners. Residents voiced concerns about the current resale formula, stating that it may limit their ability to build long-term equity. The discussion reflects broader challenges in balancing affordability with financial opportunity for local residents. Additionally, an offer to purchase portions of the Fall River Village complex was considered and ultimately rejected, reinforcing the commitment to preserving workforce housing in Estes Park. EPHA officials indicated they will continue evaluating potential policy adjustments to improve transparency and fairness. Civil Rights Case Results in Corrective Measures In a separate development, the Estes Park Housing Authority received a preliminary ruling in a civil rights case tied to an administrative error. The issue involved housing availability information being mistakenly sent to individuals not on the official waiting list, leading to a discrimination complaint. As part of the ruling, EPHA must pay a $1,000 fine and implement corrective actions, including staff training and ongoing compliance reporting. The agency stated it will fully comply with the requirements and is actively reviewing its internal processes. Community Focus on Protecting the Night Sky On the environmental front, Estes Park hosted a dark sky measurement event, bringing together approximately 40 participants, including local leaders, experts, and community members. The initiative aims to preserve the quality of the night sky, an important natural resource that supports scientific research, wildlife conservation, and the region’s tourism experience.

    3 min

  5. APR 13

    La Voz del Valle de Estes

    Resumen semanal: Comunidad, economía y prevención marcan la agenda en Estes Park Estes Park, Colorado. — Esta semana, el Valle de Estes ha sido escenario de importantes conversaciones comunitarias, muestras de solidaridad y análisis sobre el presente y futuro de la región, destacando el papel del turismo y la preparación ante riesgos ambientales. Uno de los temas principales fue la reunión comunitaria realizada en el YMCA of the Rockies, donde empleadores, patrocinadores y líderes locales abordaron el impacto del programa de visas J-1. Durante el encuentro, se discutieron desafíos clave como la disponibilidad de vivienda, la coordinación entre organizaciones y la importancia de los trabajadores internacionales para sostener la industria turística local. Los participantes coincidieron en la necesidad de fortalecer la comunicación y mejorar los sistemas de apoyo. En el ámbito social, la comunidad volvió a demostrar su solidaridad a través de diversos eventos de recaudación de fondos. Este domingo, la kermés organizada en apoyo a Diego Salgado reunió a una gran cantidad de asistentes, reflejando el respaldo de la comunidad en momentos difíciles. Diego continúa recibiendo ayuda, mientras estos esfuerzos no solo buscan aliviar necesidades económicas, sino también fortalecer el sentido de unión entre los residentes. En materia económica, el más reciente reporte de impuestos sobre ventas correspondiente a enero confirma que el turismo sigue siendo un motor clave para Estes Park. Los sectores relacionados con visitantes mostraron un desempeño sólido, contribuyendo a mantener ingresos estables durante la temporada invernal, lo que resalta la relevancia del turismo durante todo el año. Por otro lado, autoridades y expertos han comenzado a advertir sobre el riesgo de incendios forestales de cara al verano. Las condiciones secas y factores ambientales podrían aumentar la probabilidad de siniestros en la región. Ante este panorama, se hace un llamado a residentes y visitantes a mantenerse informados y adoptar medidas preventivas. En conjunto, estos temas reflejan una comunidad activa, resiliente y consciente de los retos y oportunidades que enfrenta, reafirmando el compromiso colectivo por el bienestar del Valle de Estes.

    3 min

  6. APR 7

    La Voz del Valle de Estes - 30 De Marzo 2026

    Weekly News Recap from the Estes Valley This week in the Estes Valley, several events and initiatives highlight the strength, culture, and community spirit of the region. The Estes Park Chamber of Commerce recently honored 16 local women during the annual Women of Impact event. The recognition celebrates their leadership, dedication, and meaningful contributions to the community, reinforcing the important role women play in shaping the future of the Estes Valley. Looking ahead, the community will gather on March 21 for “An Elder A-Fair,” a symposium focused on healthy aging. The event will provide valuable resources, information, and support for older adults, addressing the needs of a growing senior population in the area. Meanwhile, the popular Dine Around event returns this March, featuring 39 local restaurants. Every Thursday evening, residents and visitors can enjoy $6 tasting plates, offering a unique opportunity to explore the diverse culinary scene while supporting local businesses during the slower season. In community faith news, Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church will host a film screening about St. Maximilian Kolbe, a priest remembered for his selfless sacrifice during World War II. The event aims to inspire reflection and highlight a powerful story of courage and faith. Additionally, Camp St. Malo and Annunciation Heights have officially unified under one Catholic shrine ministry. This transition is expected to strengthen spiritual programming and expand retreat opportunities in the region. These stories reflect the ongoing efforts to celebrate community, support local initiatives, and strengthen connections across the Estes Valley.

    3 min

  7. MAR 9

    La Voz del Valle de Estes -- 9 de marzo

    David Hernandez A recap of the week's top stories Women of Impact The Estes Park Chamber of Commerce recognized 16 local women during the Women of Impact event, honoring their leadership, community service, and contributions to the Estes Valley. Aging Well Symposium On March 21, the Estes Valley will host “An Elder A-Fair,” a community symposium focused on aging well, featuring resources, discussions, and services for older adults. Dine Around Returns Dine Around is back this March with 39 local restaurants offering $6 tasting plates every Thursday evening, encouraging residents and visitors to support local dining. Film on Maximilian Kolbe Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church will screen a film about St. Maximilian Kolbe, the priest who sacrificed his life to save another prisoner during World War II. St. Malo designated an archdiocesan shrine Camp St. Malo and Annunciation Heights have officially united under one Catholic shrine ministry to strengthen spiritual programs and retreat opportunities in the region.

    3 min

  8. MAR 2

    La Voz del Valle de Estes -- 2 de marzo

    David Hernandez Estes Valley Weekly News Roundup Estes Valley saw a week of growth, transition, and resilience across the community. The new Club House Fairway Tavern is set to open May 1 at the 18-hole golf course. Operated by Gaffner Hospitality Group, the restaurant will offer a casual yet modern dining experience, serving everything from quick bites between rounds to weekend prime rib dinners. Visit Estes Park announced a staff reorganization under CEO Sarah Leonard. The restructuring includes position changes and the creation of new roles focused on visitor experience and data science, signaling a strategic shift in how the destination approaches tourism marketing and analytics. At the Estes Valley Fire Protection District meeting, board members participated in a work session on the Colorado Open Records Act, reinforcing their commitment to transparency and public accountability. The district also continues its search for a new fire chief and is evaluating structural improvements to strengthen public safety services. In education news, School Board Vice President Ava Kendall resigned effective Feb. 24, citing family reasons. The board also discussed enrollment trends and long-term facilities planning during its recent session. Public safety crews responded to a second-alarm fire at the Expedition Lodge on Lake Avenue Friday night. Firefighters contained the blaze, safely evacuated occupants, and reported one injury. The cause remains under investigation.

    3 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Daily releases of the latest Estes Park news, commentary, interesting interviews, and stories for Estes Valley Voice readers and listeners.Produced by Brett Wilson for the Estes Valley Voice

Information

  • Creator
    Brett Wilson
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    164
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Estes Valley Voice Podcast
  • Show Website
    Estes Valley Voice Podcast