A former Cedaredge resident was shot multiple times Sunday night during what appears to be a drug deal gone bad. Justin Coslett, 19, was initially treated at Delta County Memorial Hospital and was later airlifted to St. Mary's Hospital in Grand Junction.

Photo by Randy Sunderland Biggest float yet The 14th annual river awareness float, sponsored by the Conservation Center in Paonia, attracted 209 to float from the Gunnison River Pleasure Park to Gunnison River Farms near Austin. With a flotilla of some 40 rafts, paddleboards and kayaks, the group saw firsthand how much safer the river is for recreational users thanks to the Relief Ditch Diversion dam project which removed a major obstacle in the Gunnison River. They also were treated to witnessing an archeaological dig in progress being conducted by the BLM along a bluff above the river valley. Watch for more on this river trip in the next issue of the Delta County Independent.

Vaughn and LaKen Duckworth prepare a cup of their signature salty caramel white mocha for a customer.Vaughn and LaKen Duckworth are the owners of a new business that just opened on Main Street in Cedaredge. The Dream Weaver Books and Coffee offers customers a cup of premium coffee in an atmosphere of relaxed browsing through a collection of new and used books that are also for sale.

Photo by Kathy Browning The Town of Paonia has contacted the Paonia Masonic Lodge concerning repairs. Daniel Gannon of the Masons said he has applied for a building permit so the repairs can be made.Recent strong winds have dislodged some bricks near the top of the Paonia Masonic Lodge. Citizen Jason Ross notified the Town of Paonia and attended the April 23 council meeting to receive an update.