Welcome back to The Canyon Echo, your weekly recap of foothills area news and a few fresh tidbits, either in development or so short ‘n sweet we call them mini-stories.

This week’s edition focuses on a broad range of news, from the deep community wound and still-unanswered questions surrounding the untimely loss of Michael Longfellow, to the timely adoption of new county wildfire codes and a new approach to funding from Evergreen Fire, as well as the start of a massive and long-anticipated remodel of Conifer’s Beaver Ranch Park.

One thing that surprised me while reporting this week: This was less a “surprise” than a lovely affirmation: The community has Evergreen Fire/Rescue’s back — and vice versa.

While fire districts are vital everywhere, they’re central to life in a community ranked highest in the country for wildfire risk. But in unincorporated communities, groups like fire agencies loom even larger as a source of community. And EFR has built that reputation over decades, through not only its basic services but what appears to be careful hiring, a strong community education arm and its growing and treasured ECARES program, among other factors.

A recent survey shows Evergreen residents notice and appreciate it: 83% of those surveyed said they approve of EFR’s performance, and 56% of those “strongly approve.”

We’ll be taking a closer look at the survey in an upcoming story. Meanwhile, hats (or helmets if you got ‘em) off to you, EFR.

What we know: We promised you an exclusive in this newsletter, and here it is. While Morrison has been having repeated exclusive sessions about an annexation for weeks, it lifted the curtain only yesterday (March 25). Fifty-nine acres of land, including The Fort and property surrounding it, intended as a future residential development, are proposed for annexation.

Revesco Properties and City Street Investors closed on the land about two months ago, saying the restaurant will remain largely unchanged as it explores “a long-term vision for the adjacent land.” Revesco Properties is a large-scale developer while City Street Investors is a development and restaurant group.

Add this to the coming development east of the hogback, and changes on Morrison’s main street The Red Hotel will likely usher in, and Morrison — known for the mottos “The Nearest Faraway Place” and “Keep Morrison Morrison” — may have to brainstorm a new slogan.

What’s happening next: Morrison will host a community meeting on the project at 5:30 p.m. April 9 at Red Rocks Baptist Church, 14711 W. Morrison Road.

Why it matters: Beaver Ranch has a 165-year history as a community gathering place. A bit tucked away but worth the effort to find, it’s one of Conifer’s most beloved assets.

What’s happening: Now the county is giving it some love, too — $9 million worth, money that includes grants, matches and fundraisers by the Beaver Ranch Community, Inc. Six years in the making, the project kicks off in May.

What to know: Evergreen native Michael Longfellow, born with schizophrenia and a happy nature, was struck by a hit-and-run driver on March 14 and found dead 19 hours later. His huge family of friends is waiting for answers as they plan a memorial service

Next step: The state patrol continues its investigation and has asked for patience. Meanwhile, many are demanding changes at the Highway 74 intersection where Michael died.

A comment from the county’s school superintendent has put an effort to pass a ballot measure in a precarious position: Read the story here

The tension between the fight for equality and recognition, and the trials still ahead is at the heart of “Domestic Bliss,” the latest art installation and the Center for Colorado Women’s History: Read the story here

Gail Riley, who owns the Highland Haven Creekside Inn with her husband Tom, has a creative need that rarely rests. She used her eye for design to transform a room off the Dailey Cabin into the Champagne Room, covering the walls with William Morris wallpaper, displaying a collection of antique champagne flutes, and painting a multi-media moth mural.

It’s a step back in time, and a room designed for couples to share a few moments of private romance.

While Gail wasn’t there when we stopped by, we got a tour of this beautiful room from Kit Winfrey, a 2020 EHS grad who was not just knowledgeable about the inn and its history, but super engaging and fun.

The backstory: Earlier this year, a tagger got very industrious in Evergreen. He vandalized “the Tunnel of Love” mural under Highway 74, which prompted its maker to offer him or her the opportunity to partner on the tunnel’s upcoming second phase.

Unfortunately, the graffitist didn’t accept that offer to slow the pace of his/her work. Evergreen Parks staff spent hours cleaning up fields, walls, tunnels and overpasses, and finally offered $500 for information leading to the person’s arrest.

Today: The tagger remains unknown, with $500 still offered for their apprehension, and the invitation to collaborate artistically still posted at the Tunnel of Love’s entrance. The pace of the tagging has slowed considerably, said EPRD executive director Cory Vander Veen, and for that at least, he’s grateful.

Friday:

Saturday:

Thursday, April 2:

Friday, April 3:

EPRD’s annual Easter Egg Hunt — 4 to 6 p.m., Buchanan Recreation Center. evergreenrecreation.com

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