20250116

Swearing in

Former Colorado State Senator Perry Will was sworn in as Garfield County’s District Two commissioner on Tuesday, Jan. 14, by Judge John Neiley. Will has big shoes to fill, following in the footsteps of Commission Chairman John Martin who held the seat for more than a quarter of a century. Commissioner Mike Samson was sworn in for his fifth term, which he said will be his last, to represent District Three.

Illustration by Larry Day

Storied lives

When my congregation talked about the power of stories last Sunday, I remembered this one. By the time I was 3, it was difficult for my mother to make me behave, so she used drastic measures. She told me she would have to send me to Reform School if I misbehaved.

Confronted by my willfulness, she picked up the telephone and pretended to talk with someone at the “school.” Then she said, “The truck is coming!”

I didn’t know what a Reform School was, but when she said “truck,” I immediately pictured the large van that had recently transported our furniture from Queens to Manhattan. Being forced into its dark interior sans mommy was frightening enough to break through my childish willfulness. I cried and screamed and begged for one more chance. “Please! One more chance. Pleeeeeze.” I would be good forever.

Mom picked up the phone again. “Okay, they’ll recall the truck, but this is your only chance. If I ever call again, that’s it.” Still sobbing hysterically, I promised to obey her forever.

exaggerated story without questioning it, reinforcing that I had been severely victimized. None of them tried reframing my story by pointing to Mom’s better qualities or the difficulties she faced. Challenging someone’s cherished story is impolite. The stories we live in are rooted in culture as well as personal experience. Today, many right-leaning voters live in a story about Liberals hating their country and even plotting to destroy it, while on the left, the story says that MAGA Republicans want to put an end to democracy. People living in varying versions of these stories are as sure about their beliefs as I was about my mother’s repeated cruelty and don’t usually care that I can trace these stories to The Founders.

Editor Raleigh Burleigh 970-510-3003

news@soprissun.com

Contributing & Digital Editor

James Steindler

I meant it when I sobbed it, but I was 3. Soon enough, I disobeyed again, and once again, the truck was on its way. So it went for the next few years. The truck that never quite arrived continued to terrify me as Mom used it to try and bend me to her will. This persistent experience colored my early childhood, and I hated her for that for a long time. I was still telling this story to my therapist (and to anyone else willing to listen) well into my 30s. With the passing years, I matured a bit, and eventually, I could have occasional meaningful conversations with Mom. I told her about those years of being terrified by her cruel and persistent threat. She acknowledged it with surprising candor and explained. She never wanted children but had me to please my father. She didn’t know how to manage me even though everyone told her she had to.

OPINION MATURE CONTENT

By Ron Kokish

As a new immigrant who spoke little English, she lacked trusted experts to advise her, so she consulted Aunt Rosa. As a piano teacher, she figured Rosa understood children, and Rosa recommended the Reform School threat. “But I only did it once,” she said. “I saw how terrified you were, and I couldn’t scare you that badly a second time.” Wow! I saw instantly that Mom was telling the truth. Once was enough to generate an exaggerated story powerful enough to color my intimate relationships for the next 30 years.

Stories have immense power, even when they defy logic. My wife, friends, family, and even my therapist believed my

LETTERS

CORRECTION: Contributing Editor James Steindler added a contextual paragraph to last week’s guest column, “Questioning housing capacity in RFV,” regarding the South Bridge project. The paragraph has been removed online at the author’s request.

Helping LA

I’ve spent this last week haunted by desperate thoughts for those who are suffering in the wake of the catastrophic and heartbreaking wildfires in the Los Angeles area. My family and I called Altadena home before we moved to Carbondale. I’ve been mired in a fog of concern for the friends I know, and the thousands I don’t, whose lives have been destroyed or upended.

I also understand how far away this can feel. Even as the home where my daughter was born is reduced to ashes, even as I field texts from friends who are waiting to see what may remain of their former lives, I find myself turning to watch the light change on Sopris, to feel safe here, to be here — because here is where I am.

But I can’t get loose from it for long. The history is too close, the people too dear and the reality of the following thought I’ve seen floating around too present: “The climate crisis will manifest as a series of disasters viewed through phones, with

Witness Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton’s differences about how to run the country, and the personal animosities that followed. Our two-party system grew from those differences and animosities. I can further trace Jefferson and Hamilton’s differences to the English Revolution of the 1640s when Levellers and Diggers unsuccessfully tried pushing Parliamentarians (who were fighting Royalists) toward policies we would now call Communism. Better historians than I can likely trace these themes to the cradles of civilization.

Seen in this light, the current struggle between Liberal Democrats and MAGA Republicans is rooted in competing stories that are nearly timeless. Such stories should not be taken lightly.

It would be nice to tell you that once I understood my personal story in broader terms, Mom and I developed a loving relationship, but we didn’t. I still didn’t like her, and she continued being disappointed in what she considered my undue lack of attending to her. But we learned to talk about these differences instead of holding silent grudges; visiting became less of a trial for me, and I could at least meet my obligations without resenting them or her. Understanding didn’t lead to a “happily ever after,” but it helped us get along.

So, listen up, Trump and Biden haters. Our argument is thousands of years old. Do you think your team will finally win? Are you enjoying the fight? If you answered “no” to these questions, maybe it’s time to ask Mom her version of the story. You don’t have to agree with everything she says, but understanding her point of view might lower your blood pressure.

Mature Content is a monthly feature from Age-Friendly Carbondale.

footage that gets closer and closer to where you live, until you’re the one filming it.”

I urge everyone to please do what they can to contribute toward the aid of the too many thousands of people who have suffered incredible loss in the wake of these fires. Please consider donating to the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund, American Red Cross or the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. If you’re like me and you’d rather donate directly to specific individuals or families, consider GoFundMe, which has set up a dedicated page where you can donate to fire victims, first responders and others through their separate fundraising accounts.

Your contributions are real and essential in helping people begin to rebuild their lives from the ground up. With a sincere and aching heart, I hope that your generous effort is one you never need returned.

Clay Allen Carbondale

Be a Buddy

I have been a Big Buddy with the Buddy Program for almost one year. During that time, my Little Buddy, Kevin, turned 13 and entered the last year of middle school. At the same time, I retired after working for 30 years as a civil engineer. Although I started the program thinking I could make

a positive difference in a young person’s life, I have come to realize that I am reaping the benefits too.

For example, we have taken on a number of activities that I never would have done on my own. Over the summer, we panned for gold on the Colorado River. We didn’t get rich, but it made for a memorable experience that will stick with both of us for a long time. In the fall, we were able to raft through Glenwood Canyon, thanks to the generosity of Glenwood Adventure Company, which donated space on the raft. Glenwood Adventure is one of several local organizations that partner with the Buddy Program, giving Kevin and me the chance to try new things and meet new people in our community.

Being a Big Buddy has brought meaning to my life at a time when I might otherwise have felt adrift. Kevin has taught me to be open to almost any activity with the enthusiasm of a teenager. Simultaneously, I take my responsibilities as a mentor seriously. I always follow through on my commitments to my Little Buddy, and I set an example for how to be a conscientious and caring person.

I highly recommend the Buddy Program to adults who want the opportunity to positively influence a young person. In return, your own life will grow in unexpected and exciting ways.

Sol del Valle Editora Bianca Godina bianca@soprissun.com

Lead Editorial Designer Terri Ritchie

Advertising Designer Emily Blong

Delivery

Frederic Kischbaum

Hank van Berlo

Proofreaders

Lee Beck

Tracy Kallassy

Ken Pletcher

Hank van Berlo

Executive Director

Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246

adsales@soprissun.com

Board Members / Mesa Directiva board@soprissun.com

Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke

Donna Dayton • Eric Smith

Roger Berliner • Elizabeth Phillips

Jessi Rochel • Andrew Travers

Anna Huntington • Loren Jenkins

The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6pm on second Thursdays at the Third Street Center.

The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with a mission to inform, inspire and build community by fostering diverse and independent journalism. Donations are fully tax deductible.

Sincerest thanks to our Honorary Publishers for their annual commitment of $1,000+

Lee Beck & John Stickney

Kay Brunnier

Frances Dudley

Michelle & Ed Buchman

Sue Edelstein & Bill Spence

Deborah & Shane Evans

Greg & Kathy Feinsinger

Gary & Jill Knaus

Eric Smith

Peter and Mike Gilbert

Patti & George Stranahan

Elizabeth Wysong

Alpine Bank

Emily & George Bohmfalk

Kathy & Carter Barger

Sandy & Paul Chamberlin

Karen & Roger Berliner

Donna & Ken Riley

Gayle & Dick Wells

Legacy Givers for including us in their final wishes. Mary Lilly

Donate by mail or online: P.O. Box 399 Carbondale, CO 81623

520 S. Third Street #26-B 970-510-3003 soprissun.com/Donate

The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a proud member of the Carbondale Creative District

ASPEN VALLEY HOSPITAL

SCUTTLEBUTT

Justice Dinner

The Roaring Fork United Methodists Justice Ministries Team is hosting a Justice Dinner and panel discussion at 6pm on Friday, Jan. 17, in the Glenwood Springs Library Community Room (second floor). Invited panelists include representatives from Voces Unidas, Cook Inclusive, Planned Parenthood, PFLAG, Gay For Good and the Garfield County Public Libraries District, addressing looming challenges to the populations they serve and how allies can support those who are impacted. Food will be served at 6pm, and the discussion will begin at 6:30pm.

History leads?

The Carbondale and Rural Fire Protection District (CRFPD) sent a crew of its staffed firefighters and Engine 84 to help battle the devastating Palisades Fire in Los Angeles County. This is part of a larger state-wide effort to assist California’s emergency response with Colorado having dispatched nine strike teams. CRFPD is part of Strike Team 4. According to the local fire department, the district will be reimbursed for all of the associated expenses, including the extra hours staff at home are taking on while their colleagues fight the California blaze. Strike Team 4 staging area, photo courtesy of CRFPD OUR UNDERWRITERS AND NONPROFIT PARTNERS!

FirstBank Alpine Bank

Colorado Mountain College

Nordic Gardens

Hilary Porterfield

Basalt Library

NONPROFIT PARTNERS

Two Rivers

Carbondale Arts

Carbondale Rotary Club

Colorado Animal Rescue

Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner? Email Todd@soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866

In preparation for an upcoming local history column, Sue Gray is soliciting insight from the community regarding the book “Stranger in Angel Town” by Nancy Lester. Anyone who attended Carbondale Union High School, where Lester taught, or knew Lester is encouraged to reach out to Gray to share their knowledge regarding “Angel Town,” aka Carbondale in the ‘50s. Anyone who owns a copy of the book can donate it to the Carbondale Library or Carbondale Historical Society for preservation and public use, as each of those entities have a single copy. Reach out to Gray at g.suzanne@rocketmail.com or by calling 970-618-1849.

MLK coat drive

To commemorate the life of Martin Luther King Jr., Colorado Mountain College’s Aspen and Carbondale campuses are collecting food and clothing to donate to Lift-Up and Food Bank of the Rockies for people in need. From Jan. 13 to 31, people can donate non-perishable food items and gently worn coats, boots and warm winter wear at the two locations, where boxes to receive goods are positioned in the alcoves. Call 970-236-0412 with questions.

Latino Dems

The Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus met with Governor Jared Polis on Monday to discuss the upcoming legislative session and elevate community concerns. Their four policy pillars for the year are: 1. Protecting air, land and water, 2. Safer jobs and higher wages, 3. Addressing the cost of living, and 4. Defending our communities. Additionally, the caucus raised concern regarding the conflation between criminality and immigration, stating “there is no statistical evidence to show that recent arrivals are committing crimes at higher rates than other groups” and “overall immigrants commit crimes at much lower rates than U.S. citizens.”

Food tax refund

Aspen residents who lived within city limits for the entirety of 2024 and have been registered to vote since Jan. 1, 2024 or before are eligible to apply for a $132 food tax refund. The City of Aspen created this refund to encourage voters to support a sales tax referendum. It is intended to reimburse voters for the approximate amount of sales tax they would pay annually on groceries due to the tax. Learn more and apply by April 15 at www.aspen.

gov/382/Food-Sales-Tax-Refunds

Valley Visual

Carbondale Arts presents the 46th Annual Valley Visual Art Show (VVAS) with an opening reception this Friday, Jan. 17, from 5 to 7pm at The Launchpad. Since 1980, VVAS has provided an opportunity for local artists (anyone living within an 816 zip code prefix) to showcase their artwork. This year’s show features two and three-dimensional pieces of various mediums by 60 artists and the exhibit will remain on display through Feb. 20. Gallery visitors are encouraged to vote for their favorite piece for the People’s Choice award.

BLM fees

As part of its Business Plan for Upper Colorado River Special Recreation Management Areas, the Bureau of Land Management announced new fees for sites managed by the Colorado River Valley and Kremmling Field Offices. Fees include $5 for day-use sights for individuals ($10 per vehicle and $20 for high-capacity vehicles), $25 for single campsites, $75 for group campsites and $5 per night at 36 designated float-in campsites. The fees

will take effect on July 7 this year. For more information, visit www.tinyurl.com/BLMfees

Notice something different?

After careful deliberation, The Sopris Sun board of directors elected on Jan. 9 to transition from high-bright paper to standard newsprint with our faithful press, Colorado Mountain News Media in Gypsum. This will equate to an average savings of $300 per week, or $15,600 for the year, and represents our commitment to substance over surface.

Guns and drugs

Special Problem Enforcement and Response (SPEAR), assisted by the Garfield County Sheriff’s Department and Rifle Police Department, conducted a high-risk traffic stop outside of Rifle on Jan. 8 resulting in the arrest of two men with outstanding warrants. Law enforcement also discovered four firearms, one of which was confirmed as stolen, a bullet-proof vest and a small amount of suspected methamphetamine and fentanyl pills.

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Johann Aberger, Kimberlie Chenowith and Drew Walters (Jan. 16); Brenda Buchanan, Katrina Byars, Ron Kokish, Roy Rickus and Tanner Rollyson (Jan. 17); Patrick Anderson, Joe Flores, Tarie Lahet, Katie Woltjer and Shannon Pelland (Jan. 19); Bryan Alvarez-Terrazas, Brooke Bockelman, Olivia Emery and Lewis Cooper (Jan. 20); Maisa Metcalf (Jan. 21); Joshua Adamson, Melissa Missy Elzey, Peter Green, Taylor Wagner and Abriah Wofford (Jan. 22).

Representing You with 16 Years of Experience

‘Squatter’s rights’ versus tenants rights, and knowing the difference

Colorado’s adverse possession laws, more commonly known as “squatter’s rights,” allow people to claim ownership of a property they’ve occupied without permission, once specific criteria is met. These laws — designed to settle disputes over land use — have become increasingly contentious in a modern context, raising questions about their impact on property owners in the context of a broadening housing crisis.

Under Colorado law, adverse possession requires continuous, open, exclusive and hostile use (without the owner’s permission or consent) of a property for at least 18 years. That period can drop to seven years if the squatter has been paying property taxes and holds “color of title,” a document that appears to grant ownership, even if it’s legally defective.

For landlords, squatters present financial, logistical and emotional challenges. Colorado law prohibits property owners from forcibly removing squatters. Rather, they are tasked with a lengthy legal process that can take years to complete. This uphill battle begins with a Verified Motion for Order to Remove Unauthorized Persons. This can take weeks or months, and during that time, the squatter is free to stay on the property.

Legal fees, property damage and lost rental income are common outcomes. Squatters are commonly cited as a cause for why landlords can be picky during the vetting process of new tenants before signing a lease agreement.

Tenants rights

It is far more common, however, according to an attorney in Carbondale, for folks to get tenants rights and squatter’s rights confused. The two terms mean entirely different things.

The legal process required for landlords to remove tenants is also lengthy, but this doesn’t necessarily make them squatters. Additionally, a tenant is anyone who has a rental agreement with a landlord, the attorney explained, but this agreement does not have to be a written contract that states the respective tenant pays rent on a specific date every month. In fact, it can be as lax as a verbal agreement between distant relatives.

In recent years, the attorney continued, the eviction process has become a lengthier legal pursuit for landlords, because they must first give tenants what is essentially a “heads-up” as to what rule they’re breaking and then a period of time to fix the problem. But once again, this applies to tenants, not squatters.

As with many issues, there are extremes, and those are the cases that get the most attention.

In October 2024, a case in Colorado Springs made national headlines. A 76-year-old man with dementia allowed a homeless woman into his home while under the impression she was there to help him do household chores, according to his adult children. Once inside, the woman essentially moved in, and, over a period of several weeks, moved two family members in, and a pet, and allegedly started a mushroom-growing operation. When asked to leave, she refused.

“You

Local police, however, explained that legally they couldn’t intervene because the man had invited the woman in himself. The story went viral, starting a social media debate over squatter’s rights, although technically, it wasn’t actually a case of squatting, in the legal sense.

Soaring housing costs have left many families in dire situations. Some individuals turn to vacant properties as a last resort for shelter, while others misunderstand property boundaries or genuinely believe they have a right to occupy unclaimed land.

Squatter’s rights laws have their origins in an era when property boundaries were often unclear, and unused land was plentiful. Adverse possession ensured land was put to productive use and allowed individuals who had maintained property for years to formalize ownership. However, critics

argue these laws are outdated, particularly in urban areas where housing is scarce and property values are high.

Efforts to prevent squatting often cite the importance of early intervention. Squatting is more likely to occur when a landlord lives far away from their property and doesn’t visit or inspect it often, giving squatters a window of opportunity.

For housing advocates, stories of individuals or families turning to squatting due to desperation are emblematic of systemic failures. Affordable housing advocates argue that rising cost of living and rent prices force many into impossible situations. Activists view squatting less as a legal violation and more as a survival mechanism driven by an unjust society, with some going as far as to say they’re the modern-day Robin Hoods of housing.

continued on page 15

My priority is keeping patients healthy by offering the tools to live their fullest, most active lives. By utilizing minimally-invasive techniques, my patients have quicker recoveries and reduced downtime after surgery.

Robotic-Assisted Surgery

So You Can Get Back to What Matters Most

Trust our expert team and the advanced da Vinci Xi robot for precision surgery at Aspen Valley Hospital. Minimally-invasive, robotic-assisted procedures promote less soft tissue trauma, pain and scarring, plus fewer complications and quicker recovery. Ask your doctor if it’s right for you.

Alexandra Kovar, MD Trauma and General Surgeon

Get to know da Vinci.

snooze, you lose.”

Health insurance mismanagement creates long-term financial headache for Roaring Fork School District

TUCKER D. FARRIS Sopris Sun Correspondent

In the year following the departure of former Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) Superintendent Dr. Jesus Rodriguez, shadows of the controversies that surrounded his appointment, compensation

In realizing their mistake too late, Dr. Cole and district administration made the decision midway through an academic year to revert back to the original plan due to the skyrocketing costs. This left teachers and other school district employees having to re-en

costs for special education, transportation, contract employees and custodial staff.

In the leaked video, Dr. Cole relayed three strategies to mitigate the loss: the district has asked the board to allocate $1.5 million in budgetary surplus from their

was” and also that they stepped forward specifically to highlight the financial mismanagement that has led to the district being in a position where layoffs and stagnant wages are a real concern. According to the whistleblower, Angie Davlyn, former RFSD HR director under Dr. Rodriguez, had begun a process to research new health insurance plans for the district but was fired before the process could begin around the time that questions about Dr.

plan, seemingly assuming that it had been the final choice of the former HR director rather than one of several plans to be researched. Dr. Cole substantiated these reports in the video by sharing three reasons for these mistakes on the part of the district. First, staff turnover in the district office in the past few years led to a “loss of institutional knowledge.” Second, the “cadence and tempo” of the previous administration’s budget processes caused delays in the

AVLT, Eagle County and Pitkin County partner on open space acquisition

WILL BUZZERD

Sopris Sun Correspondent

On Jan. 3, Aspen Valley Land Trust (AVLT), Eagle County and Pitkin County announced a massive joint acquisition project, wherein the three parties plan to pull together $27.7 million to conserve a property measuring more than 4,000 acres in Missouri Heights. The property, Three Meadows Ranch, is currently the largest contiguous property in the Roaring Fork Valley, and if purchased would become protected habitat secured from future development.

In order to complete the purchase, Pitkin County would contribute $7.7 million, Eagle County $12.5 million, and a private donor $7.5 million through AVLT.

Pitkin County staff presented its funding request to the Board of County Commissioners on Jan. 8 and received unanimous approval. Through AVLT, the Wexner family made its generous donation in hopes of making a significant contribution to a local conservation project, matching the contribution made by Pitkin County.

As for Eagle County, after a positive funding recommendation from the Eagle County Citizens Open Space Advisory Committee, Eagle County staff will present a funding request to its Board of County Commissioners later this month.

Located along Cottonwood Pass, Three Meadows Ranch possesses a wide variety of

ecosystems, including sagebrush, wetlands and aspen forests, forming critical high-priority habitat identified by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Additionally, meadows on the property support a resident elk herd of over 300. The property also includes plenty of water — multiple ponds, springs and water rights from Cottonwood Creek.

AVLT’s involvement with Three Meadows Ranch began in 2018, when the organization attempted to establish a conservation easement on the property. During that process, AVLT Executive Director Suzanne Stephens said that AVLT became familiar with the area’s outstanding conservation value. Disappointingly for AVLT, the property changed owners and the easement was unsuccessful.

After the property foreclosed in the hands of its next owner, First Western Trust Bank acquired Three Meadows Ranch, and only after several years of foreclosure proceedings did the property enter the market last year. The opportunity gained the attention of the presently involved partnership in October of 2024.

“Once we saw the ranch back on the market, we collectively all leapt,” Stephens explained.

Shortly after, representatives of Eagle and Pitkin counties surveyed the property from above with Aspen-based nonprofit Ecoflight to gather more information about the area’s habitat and ecological value. After joint discussion, the group decided that the opportunity was too good to pass up.

Working quickly, AVLT submitted its $27.7 million offer on Dec. 19. Though multiple offers had already been placed on the property, First Western Trust Bank granted grace to AVLT in recognition of the public good the purchase would serve, accepting the offer the next day. Since then, the partnership has been working quickly to organize the funds to complete the purchase.

According to Stephens, should Three Meadows Ranch have entered another owner’s hands, the property could have been cut into over 30 different subdivisions and developed for massive profit. Though plans for how the property — and its water rights — will be operated have yet to be finalized, should the purchase be successful, the habitat is guaranteed to be protected. As of right now, organizing the purchase is the number one priority.

Though the entirety of the property is located in Eagle County, according to Dale Will, acquisitions and projects director for

Pitkin County Open Space & Trails, Pitkin County has good reason to be invested in a conservation project far outside its county lines, as both counties share the same watershed. Additionally, Will argued, were the parcel to be subdivided and developed, additional stress would be placed on infrastructure in Pitkin County — especially in terms of traffic.

The Pitkin County Commissioners agreed. “The entrance to Aspen is the Grand Avenue Bridge in Glenwood Springs,” said Commissioner Steve Child. “We’re all in this together in our watershed, and it’s so important that we all work together regardless of the political boundaries.”

After over 25 years working with Open Space & Trails, Will is impressed by the scale of this acquisition. “I honestly never thought we’d do another deal over 4,000 acres … to have the opportunity to protect so much land in the Roaring Fork Watershed in the year 2024, it’s very exciting.”

CARE. PRIMARY REGION’S LARGEST NETWORK OF

In addition to over 4,000 acres of wildlife habitat, Three Meadows Ranch also offers outstanding views of the Elk Mountain Range, pending preservation in perpetuity. Photo by Michael Brands

Gray wolf reintroduction continues despite resistance

AMY HADDEN MARSH Sopris Sun Correspondent

Things are happening fast in Colorado’s reintroduced wolf world. In just the first two weeks of 2025, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced a conflict management plan and denied a petition to delay further wolf reintroduction. The agency is now moving ahead with bringing Canadian wolves into the state for the second round of reintroduction with reports suggesting the animals are already here. CPW neither confirmed nor denied those reports to The Sopris Sun. Colorado Republican Congress members, including Lauren Boebert (CD-4) and Jeff Hurd (CD-3), are up in arms. “After years of slighting or outright ignoring Colorado farmers and ranchers with politically appointed anti-agricultural activists and ‘meat-free days,’ bureaucrats in Colorado have rushed through the importation of Canadian gray wolves and have set them loose in our state despite numerous protests and questions about the legality of this dysfunctional and chaotic approach,” they said in a Jan. 13 joint statement.

This recent uproar began on Jan. 8, when the CPW Commission discussed a petition, submitted last fall by the Middle

Park Cattlemen’s Association on behalf of 25 organizations across the Western Slope, to pause wolf reintroduction until seven conditions are met. Those included adopting a definition of chronic depredation and implementing site assessment, range riding and carcass management programs.

Cattlemen also asked CPW to put together a rapid response team to examine livestock depredations and to communicate with livestock producers in advance of any wolf introduction.

In a Dec. 21 letter to the commission, Jeff Davis, CPW director, wrote that halting wolf reintroduction would violate the law and the will of Colorado voters who approved wolf reintroduction in 2020. He added that it is contrary to the Colorado Wolf Management and Restoration Plan as well as the biological principles guiding the plan.

More wolves on the ground could reduce livestock predation.

“The science guiding wolf reintroduction indicates that individual wolves who have not formed into packs move unpredictably, range across a greater geographical footprint and may be more likely to resort to livestock as a food source,” said Davis. He added that packs and breeding pairs are more predictable, hunt as groups instead of individually and are more likely

to go after elk and deer. He recommended denial of the petition.

Davis defended his position at the Jan. 8 meeting, stating that work on the conflict management plan did not start with the petition. “We started working on this six months before the [Proposition 114] vote,” he said.

But non-lethal conflict management was not made a requirement for livestock predation reimbursement in the final wolf management plan, which was approved in May 2023. Ecologist Delia Malone, president of ColoradoWild, told The Sopris Sun that the original plan included the requirement. “But it was taken out of the final plan,” she said.

Still, CPW has been playing catch-up since April, 2024 when the first collared wolf depredations were reported. At the January meeting, Commissioner Eden Vardy said the conditions-based petition was helpful. “It gave the agency a concrete opportunity to respond to very specific and addressable concerns.”

Livestock growers have been clamoring for direction from the agency, particularly with non-lethal conflict minimization methods, like fladry (flags along a fence line), noise deterrents, range riders, a definition of chronic depredation and for

lethal control of the wolves. Due to their federal and state endangered species status, it’s illegal to kill a gray wolf in Colorado unless it is threatening human life or when authorized by the state. The Colorado Republican Congressional delegation wants to take care of that, too. “With wolf numbers surging across the country, we stand united in support of legislation like H.R. 130 to delist the gray wolf from the Endangered Species Act,” they said.

Ranchers have also requested more transparency from the agency. “We as producers have no idea if wolves are being released in our area or even within the region,” said Tom Harrington, president of the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association in a statement to The Sopris Sun. “The ability of a wolf to travel far in a short time implies to me that many producers should be alerted to releases and wolf activity anywhere in their region with more than a few hours notice.”

CPW remains firm about not telling anyone where or when wolves are being released. “CPW will not be sharing wolf release details while the operation is underway,” said Rachael Gonzales, Northwest Region public information officer, in an email to The Sopris Sun. “We will issue a press release and hold a press

conference with our experts to answer all media questions when the operation is complete and when our experts are available.”

CPW says the conflict management plan presented at the Jan. 8 meeting addresses the petition’s conditions. But Harrington disagrees, stating, among other things, that the range rider program will not be ready until April, the site assessment program is incomplete and the definition of chronic depredation is lacking. “Tell a producer that losing 20 lambs or calves in one night doesn’t qualify for lethal removal of a problem wolf or pack and try explaining that logic,” he said.

The commission voted 10-1 to deny the petition with Commissioner Marie Haskett casting the sole dissenting vote. “If we don’t go forward with this project, in my opinion, we’ve trashed it,” said Commissioner James Jay Tutchton. “I’m very concerned that a lot of the folks that are in my constituency will view that as a breach of trust.”

You can find CPW’s Conflict Minimization Guide at www. tinyurl.com/WolfGuideCO Applications for the range rider program are available at www. tinyurl.com/RangeRiderCO More information and meeting links are on CPW’s website.

Psychedelic rock release debut album

The Dirty Turkeys, an up-andcoming psychedelic rock band based out of Boulder, are set to release their debut album, “Cowboy Caravan,” on Feb. 21. The sound of this band is fresh, unique and maintains that originality while also paying homage to those they draw inspiration from.

Made up of Ty Tullar, who grew up in Aspen and is now playing drums for the band, brothers Brad and Justin Hansen, with Brad lending his vocal talents and Justin on the guitar, and Samuel Baker on the bass, the group has created their own sound which they have dubbed acid-cow punk — due to the mash-up of western, blues, funk and punk influ ences they have tied in with the psychedelic sound.

“The main thing that comes to mind that I feel separates us from other bands is our ability to not conform to one genre,” Tullar told The Sopris Sun, “and always

TRTC opens two new series in one weekend

MYKI JONES

Arts Correspondent

Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC) doesn’t keep its ghostlight on for too long and has a lot coming up. On Friday, Jan. 24, TRTC along with its newest collaborator, El Dorado, will launch an immersive concert series, “Pink to Black.” The cosmic Los Angeles-based psychedelic rock group, the Triptides, is the first headliner. Then, on Saturday, Jan. 25, the theater’s “Thunderchat” keynote speaker series commences, which Executive Artistic Director Missy Moore said is the result of some thing she’s been ruminating on for about two years.

“I think it is death to a theater if the doors remain closed,” Missy told The Sopris Sun. “Like, we should be producing over and over and over again. And it doesn’t always have to be a play. There are so many strengths that a theater can be utilized for.”

‘Pink to Black’

This concert series was named after the “Pink to Black” river run between Carbondale and Westbank. When speaking with Mike Arnold, the owner of El Dorado, he said that naming the project something that paid homage to the area was important.

“It was important for us to have a name that [gave a] tip of the cap to Carbondale and the locality, but also in a subtle way,” Arnold stated.

When discussing what audiences can

expect, Moore said they are in for an “elevated experience,” and with the full activation of TRTC’s black box space.

For roughly six months, Arnold, Moore and Chris Rullet, a fellow visionary at El Dorado, collaborated to come up with this project. The concert series will not only see the black box fully transformed to fit the themes of each performer, but also feature specialty craft cocktails from El Dorado.

When discussing the collaboration, Rullet praised the team, which also included Aly Sanguily and Emily Henley, for their creative inputs and drive to bring something like this to the community.

“Everybody we work with is so creative. Nobody has any ego, and we’re all just trying to make the community better. Everybody brings this wealth of knowledge. Once you scratch the surface on this whole thing, it’s incredible,” said Rullet.

IN A NUTSHELL

What: The premier “Pink to Black” concert, featuring Triptides, is on Jan. 24 — doors open at 6pm. The first “Thunderchat,” featuring Mandy Moore, is on Saturday, Jan. 25 at 7:30pm.

Where: Thunder River Theater, 67 Promenade, Carbondale Tickets: www.thunderrivertheatre.com

The concert series is said to have something for everyone, in part thanks to Rullet’s long-time work in the Los Angeles’s music industry with Capitol Records. Having also been the playlist guru for El Dorado and helping facilitate DJ sets there, it was a given he’d help find performers for the series.

“What we’re really trying to do is try to find unique, up-and-coming bands that fit Carbondale — and it isn’t easy,” Rullet conceded.

DJ Pinto opens for the Triptides at 7pm on Jan. 24 and the doors open at 6pm. The audience is in for a fun night of relaxing sounds, good drinks and some of the best vibes.

‘Thunderchat’

The first “Thunderchat” keynote speaker, world-renowned choreographer, producer, director and, most importantly, Missy’s sister, Mandy Moore, has received three Emmy Awards and an additional 13 nominations. She is probably best known for her work on projects like “Dancing With the Stars” and “La La Land,” plus Taylor Swift’s recent “Eras Tour.”

“She’s had a hell of a career. I think quite a lot of people don’t know what it is that she’s done and achieved, and she’s got some awesome stories,” Missy explained. “The first half is going to be a TED Talk kind of thing, with Mandy talking about what she’s done, and … the second half will be a Q&A.”

The Q&A will be moderated by Hattison Rensberry. While the rest of the “Thunderchat” lineup is yet to be determined, Moore is open to hosting various voices from within the performance arts scene and beyond.

“There’re so many wonderful people in this world who have such compelling stories,” she stated. “It doesn’t always need to be like a theater related artist or anything. I’m open to authors or poets or anyone.”

CALENDAR

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16

MYSTERY CRAFT

Basalt Library presents “a combination of mystery, intrigue, art and challenge” for ages 6-12, available to pick up at the front desk while supplies last.

WOMEN’S HEALTH

STAR POWER

Patrick Keleher, a Carbondale local, will present his premier in the television series “The Rookie” at the Crystal Theatre tonight at 7pm. The party will then mosey over to Bonfire for a Q&A and cocktails.

‘OCEAN SOUL’

Valley View University presents a women’s health Zoom webinar series on Thursdays this month and next from noon to 1pm. Today’s topic is weight loss, and next week’s is bladder issues and treatment. Learn more at VVH.org/womenshealthseries

BANNED BOOKS CLUB

The Banned Books Club discusses “Maus: A Survivor’s Tale” by Art Spiegelman at the Basalt Library from 4 to 5pm.

YOUTHZONE

Have a drink on YouthZone at Phat Tai from 5 to 7pm and meet its team.

CRYSTAL THEATRE

Catch “A Complete Unknown” at the Crystal Theatre today, Saturday and Jan. 22-23 at 7pm. This Sunday’s show at 5pm is captioned. “Sing Sing” will open on Jan. 24.

LOUNGE SESSION

HeadQuarters invites you to journal in a social setting inspired by literature selected by the group from 6 to 7:30pm at 23400 Two Rivers Road.

WINTER FISHING

Swing by The Tipsy Trout for an informal gathering of anglers talking about winter fishing from 6 to 7:30pm.

COMEDY NIGHT

Steve’s Guitars presents “Comedy Night” with Beth Brandon, Miller Ford, Don Chaney and Landon Bates at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

GREAT DECISIONS

The Aspen Institute kicks off an eightweek series inviting participants to engage in meaningful discussions regarding foreign policy every Thursday through March 6 from 6 to 8pm at the Aspen Institute. More info at www.aspeninstitute.org/series/ great-decisions-series

SMOKIN’ & ROCKIN’

Smokin’ Joe Kelly and Rockin’ Randall perform at Heather’s in Basalt at 6:30pm.

VERY DELTA

AspenOut and Aspen Gay Ski Week present “Very Delta Live: With Mariam T and Friends” at the Wheeler Opera House at 9pm. This show is 21 and up. Tickets at www.wheeleroperahouse.com

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17

UPHILL SOCIAL

The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies invites uphill skiers to its Buttermilk Uphill Social starting at 8am followed by breakfast at the Cliffhouse. Participants must have an uphill pass. Register at www.aspennature.org

VALLEY VISUAL

Carbondale Arts hosts an opening reception for the 46th Annual Valley Visual Art Show, featuring dozens of works by local artists, at the Launchpad from 5 to 7pm. The exhibit will remain on display through Feb. 20.

SOUND JOURNEY

Danielle Klein guides a sound journey at True Nature at 6pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

‘RILEY’

Aspen Film partners with Aspen Gay Ski Week to present “Riley” at 6:30pm at the AF Isis Theatre.

The 2025 Changemaker Speaker Series kicks off with “Brian Skerry: Ocean Soul” at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm. Skerry is an award winning photographer who has explored the earth’s oceans for four decades. Tickets at www.wheeleroperahouse.com

LATE NIGHT RADIO

TACAW invites you to dance, dance, dance with Late Night Radio at 8pm. Dale Birch and pheel. will perform the warm-up acts.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18

UPLIFT

Join HeadQuarters and Roaring Fork CrossFit for a morning of mental and physical fitness from 9 to 10:15am. Register for free at headq.org/support/events

REVOLUTIONARY 2025

True Nature hosts a half-day immersion designed for creative female leaders, artists and entrepreneurs who want to map out a transformative 2025 from 1 to 5pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

PEOPLE’S MARCH

Pitkin County Democrats organize a People’s March in Aspen with the slogan “we won’t go back.” Demonstrators will gather at Durant and Hunter at noon then march to Paepcke Park for a Women’s Speaker Event at 1pm. This local event is part of a national feminist-led action. For more information, visit www.peoplesmarch.com

TEEN NIGHT

Teen Night, a series of arts and culture events exclusively for ages 13-18, premieres at TACAW with live music performed by local teens: Fotostatic, Lana Greengrass, Tristan Trincado and Jazz Aspen Streethorns. Doors open at 6pm and the show starts at 7pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19

SELF CARE

A Spiritual Center welcomes Akaljeet Khalsa, an end-of-life doula, for an inspiring talk about self care and personal healing from 10 to 11:30am at the Third Street Center, Room #31.

ASTRAL PROJECTION

Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist presents “Astral Projection and Interdimensional Travel for the Resolutely Earthbound,” building on the idea that we can work with the stories that bind us in order to experience more freedom and possibility in our daily lives, at the Third Street Center from 10am to noon.

‘GODDESS EMPOWERMENT’

Explore the wisdom, creativity and energy of the feminine with Mindy Arbuckle at True Nature from 10am to 1pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

‘BLISS YOUR HIPS’

Cari Eisenson guides a “Bliss Your Hips” yoga session at Kula Yoga on Main from 5:30 to 7pm. More info at www.kulayogaonmain.com

BREATHWORK

True Nature Healing Arts, in partnership with Pathfinders, invites folks to an evening of guided breathwork led by Allison Alexander at 6pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

Carbondalian Patrick Keleher has made it to the big time! The Roaring Fork graduate made his television debut in season seven, episode one of the popular ABC series “The Rookie.” The Crystal Theatre will screen the episode at 7pm on Jan. 17. Keleher himself will be in the audience and hang around for a Q&A after the screening, followed by cocktails and conversation at Bonfire. To RSVP, visit www.tinyurl.com/KeleherattheCrystal. Courtesy photo

ECSTATIC DANCE

Thirteen Moons Ranch hosts an ecstatic dance session, guided by Alya Howe and DJ ChaiBaba, from 6 to 8pm. Email alyahowe@me.com with inquiries.

VALLEY JOURNAL

The Carbondale Historical Society presents “Pages of the Past,” featuring a handful of former Valley Journal (Carbondale’s longest-standing newspaper) employees who will fill the audience in on the untold stories of those storytellers. It starts at 6:30pm in the Calaway Room at the Third Street Center.

MONDAY, JANUARY 20

AYURVEDIC YOGA

Basalt Library presents “Yoga is Medicine,” a free community class by Laura Post from 10:15 to 11:15am.

MLK DAY

Colorado Mountain College presents “A Legacy of Courage,” a virtual event honoring Martin Luther King Jr. with esteemed Judge Gary M. Jackson, from 11am to 12:30pm. Register for free at coloradomtn.edu/event/mlk-day-2025

NEW YEAR, NEW HOBBY

Basalt Library welcomes middle and high schoolers to explore a new hobby each week this January. Today’s session is all about terrarium building from 4 to 5pm. Registration is required at www.basaltlibrary.org/ events-calendar

TUESDAY, JANUARY 21

PAWS TO READ

The Carbondale Library welcomes children to practice reading with a therapy dog in 15-minute intervals beginning at 3:30pm. To RSVP, call 970-963-2889.

GAME NIGHT

Basalt Library presents Tabletop Game Night for Teens from 4 to 6pm.

MOVIE NIGHT

The Glenwood Springs Library screens movies suitable for children 10-15 from 5 to 8pm. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. For more info, call 970-945-5958.

ONGOING EVENTS

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

The Meeting Place in Carbondale (981 Cowen Drive) offers “Hole in the Donut AA,” Monday through Saturday at 6:45am, plus “Daily Reprieve” at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Find a full schedule at www.meetingplacecarbondale.org

AIKIDO

Crystal River Aikikai offers aikido training at 13 Moons Ranch for adults and teens on Mondays from 5:30 to 6:30pm and Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30pm. Kids classes are on Mondays from 4 to 5pm and Wednesdays from 4 to 5pm. Get your first class for free with an RSVP at www.crystalriveraikikai.com

ENGLISH IN ACTION

Volunteer English tutors and developing learners meet for informal conversational practice at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 6:30pm. Interested in becoming a tutor? Email angela@englishinaction.org or call 970-963-9200.

MONDAY MEDITATION

Roaring Fork Insight guides a weekly meditation group meeting at the Third Street Center (Room 31) from 7 to 8:30pm.

CRIBBAGE

MIDDLE SCHOOL BRIDGE

Waldorf School on the Roaring Fork offers a window into their middle school programs and curriculum for prospective students and their families from 6:15 to 7pm.

DRAWING CLUB

After a brief holidays hiatus, the Roaring Fork Drawing Club is back, gathering the “sketchiest” peeps around for informal art-making time at rotating locations throughout the Valley. This week, Drawing Club meets at Botany Houseplant Shop in Carbondale beginning at 6:30pm.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22

ART OPENING

Basalt Library hosts an opening reception for landscape painter Michael Kinsley from 5 to 7pm. Kinsley’s art will remain on display at the library through the winter.

BOOK TALK

Mary Fox facilitates a discussion of “Restless” by William Boyd at the Basalt Library from 5:30 to 6:30pm. Copies of the book are available at the circulation desk while supplies last.

NATURALIST NIGHT

The Naturalist Nights series continues with “Beavers are for Birds” by Delia Malone, detailing what beavers do to help declining bird populations, at the Third Street Center at 6pm. Register at www.wildernessworkshop.org/events

‘HOW MONEY WORKS’

Shawn Stevenson from Primerica Financial Services teaches a “How Money Works” seminar at the Carbondale Library at 6pm. For more info, call 970-963-2889.

SCIENCE ON SCREEN

Aspen Film shows 2022 Shortfest favorite, “The Diamond,” paired with 1963 classic “The Pink Panther” as part of its Science on Screen series at the AF Isis Theatre at 6:30pm. The evening will include a presentation by Alex Tarika, education manager at the Aspen Science Center.

MENDEZ & JOHNSON

Catch Josefina Mendez and Mark Johnson performing at Heather’s in Basalt from 6:30 to 9:30pm.

TAI CHI

Garfield County Human Services is offering Tai Chi for Arthritis at the Carbondale Library, Tuesdays from 1 to 2pm and Thursdays from noon to 1pm. For more info, call 970-963-2889.

BIKE PROJECT

The Carbondale Bike Project Shop helps people repair their bicycles on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 6pm and Sundays from noon to 6pm on the east side of Third Street Center.

SENIOR LUNCH

Every Wednesday at noon, Garfield County Senior Programs provides a nutritious meal for seniors at The Orchard. To reserve a place at the table, call 970-665-0041.

COSECHA TEXTILES

Textile enthusiasts are invited to a monthly workshop at Cosecha Textiles (95 Red Dog Road) every first Wednesday from 4 to 9pm. Register at www.cosechatextiles.com

UNDER THE SUN

Join Sopris Sun correspondents and guests for “Everything Under The Sun,” airing every Thursday on KDNK at 4pm.

GROUP RUN

Whether you’ve played for years or are looking to learn, stop by the Carbondale Rec Center from 4 to 5pm Tuesday nights. Bring snacks or non-alcoholic drinks to share! Visit www.carbondalerec.com for more info.

YARN GROUP

Basalt Library hosts a weekly yarn group on Tuesdays at 5pm. All are welcome.

Independence Run & Hike leads a weekly group run on Thursdays departing from the store’s location, next to the Carbondale City Market, at 6:30pm.

COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR

Carbondale Mayor Ben Bohmfalk posts up at Bonfire every Friday from 8 to 9am, and everyone is welcome to stop by to chat.

NATURALIST NIGHTS

FREE WINTER SPEAKER SERIES

Rams basketball teams open 3A league slate strong, girls still undefeated

JOHN STROUD

Sopris Sun Correspondent

A good start for the Roaring Fork High School’s boys and girls basketball teams to begin the 3A Western Slope League schedule promises to get more challenging in the weeks to come.

The Rams swept the first weekend of league competition on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 10 and 11 — the girls winning by scores of 68-34 over North Fork at home and then 54-31 at Grand Valley, and boys winning 53-45 and 63-51 in their games against the same opponents.

The girls led from the opening minutes in both of their contests, allowing some of the bench players to get quality time on the court.

Senior Carley Crownhart had 17 and 22 points (including three 3-pointers) in the respective games, while sophomore Riley Bevington had 16 and 14. Senior Erica Crownhart had 12 against North Fork, and junior Nikki Tardif had 10 against Grand Valley.

The girls remained undefeated at 10-0 and carried a state 3A ranking of fifth into the week, with a big one coming up at home against Cedaredge this Friday, Jan. 17.

“Friday night presents a big challenge against an undefeated Cedaredge team (8-0), but I know the girls will be up for the challenge,” head coach Mike Vidakovich said.

The boys had to work a little harder to earn their two wins, allowing North Fork to keep it close for most of the game before pulling away in the fourth, and then rallying from eight points down at halftime on Saturday to outscore Grand Valley 40-20 in the second half to earn the win.

Junior Kiko Pena had 15 and 20 points and 12 and 20 rebounds, respectively. Junior Lucas Carballeira had 22 points in the Grand Valley game.

“The Western Slope league will keep us on our toes,”

head coach Jason Kreiling said. “The two wins this weekend were a great start to our league play, but it was also a reminder that regardless of playing at home or away, each game is going to be tough.”

Both Rams teams host Cedaredge this Friday, and are on the road at Olathe on Saturday. Friday varsity games times are 5:30pm and 7pm at the RFHS gymnasium.

“As long as we play with confidence and as a team we will be competitive,” Kreiling said. “Our plan is to win league, and that hasn’t been done since 2013.”

The Roaring Fork boys were ranked 18th among 3A teams in the state, per the Jan. 13 combined CHSAA rankings.

Girls swimming

A few Carbondale/Roaring Fork athletes are competing this season for the Glenwood Springs High School girls swim team: senior Izzy Moon, junior Caroline Cole and freshmen Isla Friel, Sophia Warner and Avery Watson.

The Demons hosted Aspen and Grand Junction on Saturday, Jan. 11 at the Glenwood Community Center pool. Moon took third in the 100 backstroke, fourth in the 500 free, and was part of the winning 400 free relay; Friel was second in the 100 breaststroke, third in the 200 individual medley, and was part of the second-place 200 medley relay; Watson was seventh in the 500 free and was part of the third-place 400 free relay.

Wrestling

The combined Basalt/Roaring Fork boys and girls wrestling teams hosted the five-team Longhorn Invitational on Saturday, Jan. 11.

In the boys competition, Basalt wins came from Roaney Requeno at 126 pounds, Luca Del Cid at 150

pounds and Herberth Requeno at 175 pounds. Secondplace went to Bronze Urfrig at 144 pounds and Waylon Applegate at 138 pounds.

In the three-team girls competition, Basalt’s Emely Mejia-Garcia won her 105-pound class and Roselynne Bernal-Rodriguez was third at 155.

cost-effective way to receive the compassionate care you deserve without a visit to the ER.

No appointment necessary, walk-ins welcome! Weekdays: 2-10 pm | Weekends: 8 am-5 pm 234

Rams senior Maddie Anderson uses her hops to high-five a group of her teammates at Friday’s game against North Fork.

Photo by Isaac Sterling, youth correspondent

Trustees look back at 2024 multimodal achievements

Sopris Sun Editor

All Carbondale trustees were present at their first regular meeting of the year. It began with quick approval of the consent agenda, including renewals of marijuana, restaurant and liquor licenses, appointment of Julie Little to the Public Arts Commission (and reappointment of Michael Stout and Kris Elice), a contract for Downtowner services in 2025 and accounts payable.

The sole public comment came from Sue Zislis and concerned the Downtowner. Zislis advocated for the service but stated occasionally “unmanageable” wait times have made it somewhat unreliable in certain contexts, like arriving to an appointment. Zislis suggested a third vehicle during peak times may resolve the issue and she suggested reallocating funds from the Circulator bus to help afford it.

During trustee comments, Erica Sparhawk stated the Parks and Rec Department will begin working on their next parks master plan this year; Jess Robison said Garfield Clean Energy is now knocking on doors at trailer parks to grow participation in energy saving programs; Christina Montemayor stated the Third Street Center will have a capital campaign this year and the Latino Advisory Board is advancing; Ross Kribbs suggested “a bit of paint or very small roundabout[s]” to address speeding in neighborhoods; Colin Laird announced that the regional housing coalition’s Good Deeds program is closing on a 10th home in February; Mayor Ben Bohmfalk invited other trustees to join him for coffee at Bonfire on Friday mornings at 8am to meet with the public.

The first big agenda item of the night was an “alley vacation discussion” spurred by preliminary plans by the United Methodist Church to redevelop its property. Essentially, the Town owns a 25-foot wide alley running from 3rd Street toward 2nd Street which dead ends into private property. A ditch and a shed are currently located within that alley parcel. Opinions were mixed as to whether the Town should consider vacating this property.

Public Works Director Kevin Schorzman said, “I really don’t see that being used as a public alley” and it’s not an asset that can be sold. Kribbs said, “I’m leaning toward reserving our alleys as much as possible.” Sparhawk said she’d like to know more about how the neighbors could be impacted, if they need access to a future ADU, for example. Laird considered the public benefit that would come from exchanging the unused alley for a pedestrian access easement that connects 3rd Street to 2nd Street. As Trustee Chris Hassig pointed out, “it’s been used that way,” with a trail already beaten through. Mayor Bohmfalk moved the meeting along stating, “I don’t see any real downside to the Town of doing this [vacating the alley].”

Next, approval documents for the new Highway 133 restaurant across from Dolores Way returned for a final vote and received unanimous approval. The applicant, Chester White, then turned

a question on the trustees, asking “as a developer and investor” how to get early input from trustees without jeopardizing a project by setting up expectations or causing officials to have to recuse themselves from the vote. Attorney Mark Hamilton explained that discussing ideas before submitting an application is the best way, and even requesting to present concepts at a work session. Laird mentioned that some communities have a sketch plan as part of their development approval process which could be implemented for specific projects, like those requiring a zoning change.

Lastly, trustees heard updates from WE-cycle after 17 months of bike-share service and the Downtowner after six months. Mirte Mallory, co-founder and executive director of WE-cycle, stated that 4,628 distinct riders have taken 98,561 total trips since August of 2023 in Carbondale, and one-third of those riders also used WE-cycle in other systems in the Valley. The most popular weekend was Mountain Fair with over 1,000 trips in three days. Although electric bikes make up half the fleet, 72% of all rides have been on e-bikes. Mallory explained that the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) is supporting regional indirect operating costs for WE-cycle, including core infrastructure and replacement and the maintenance of equipment. Thanks to RFTA’s First-Last Mile Mobility grant program, 50% of the direct costs to Carbondale have been offset, however this is the final year Carbondale is eligible for those funds. Beginning next year, unless RFTA shores up additional assistance, the Town faces a cost of nearly $300,000 to continue the service.

Travis Gleason, Downtowner co-founder, then updated trustees on that rideshare program, stating 34,000 passengers have used the service since July with a “really fast uptick.” December was the top month for ridership with 7,600 passengers compared to 1,800 in the first month. The average wait time is 11 minutes, and the busiest time is 3 to 6pm. In 2025, the service will cost Carbondale $673,425.

Mayor Bohmfalk brought the conversation to priorities, considering Glenwood Springs is discussing a paid version of the Downtowner service. Gleason replied that hybrid options are possible, with free rides to and from the park and ride, for example, and others requiring payment by passengers to offset the cost to the Town.

Gleason said he “wouldn’t recommend making too many changes in the short-term” but stated they have a third vehicle in rotation and a third driver could be contracted for those peak hours with more funding. Based on feedback from public comments, Gleason said he would look into adding the option for people to rate their experience even when they cancel a ride. Another consideration was to add the high school to the service area. Students are currently walking to the fire station to receive rides. Trustees suggested allowing the Downtowner to service the high school after 4pm to avoid peak hours

BASALT REPORT

BACH provides update on upcoming affordable housing

WILL BUZZERD

Sopris Sun Correspondent

This week, the Town of Basalt kicked off its first Town Council meeting of the year with an annual report from Basalt Affordable Community Housing (BACH), providing both a review of last year’s work and a preview of affordable housing projects coming to Basalt this year.

Currently, BACH is at work on four different projects. The first is the construction of a duplex on a town-owned parcel of land at Stott’s Mill, located adjacent to Basalt High School. The duplex, consisting of two three-bedroom units, is anticipated to be completed this coming summer, and is intended to help recruit and retain town employees.

The Town of Basalt approved a design-build contract with construction firm RA Nelson and planning firm Caddis in October of 2024. The Stott’s Mill duplex will cost an estimated $2.05 million to construct.

Moving onto Willits, BACH is currently working through a sketch plan approval process for a 14-unit development on a half-acre parcel of land adjacent to the rugby field on East Valley Road.

The design team for this project is led by Z-Group Architecture and Connect One Design. Z-Group’s other local projects include the River Lofts beside Basalt River Park, and Connect One’s most well known project is Basalt River Park itself. Habitat for Humanity is also supporting the design team, providing its expertise in affordable housing development.

Currently, all 14 units are planned to be deed-restricted, 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom and roughly 950 square feet. Income categories for the unit have yet to be finalized.

Due to the graded nature of the parcel and how height regulations are measured in Basalt, BACH and the design team opted to have two fewer units on the second floor than the first to remain within building standards. However, in the meeting, Councilor Ryan Slack urged the team to maximize the number of possible units.

“This is our chance to do it and not skimp,” Slack argued.

Councilor Angela Anderson expressed reservations about being more lenient on building regulations based on the development type. “It does matter how it looks to the neighborhood if we say yes to the Town for a height variance, but push back on other developments about something similar,” she said.

Mayor David Knight closed the discussion by stating he shared the sentiment that space should be maximized, and that it would be best to see an alternate design. “There is a public benefit and that’s generally what we provide variances for … but we always know that [the two-less unit plan] is in the back pocket for whatever reason,” said Knight.

The project is still in its early planning phases and, should the sketch plan be approved this spring, development of the final construction plan — as well as that plan’s approval process — would continue through the end of 2025.

Just up the street in Willits, BACH is in the public outreach phase for the design of a housing and community space on a 2.3 acre parcel across from TACAW. In 2023, BACH received direction from the Town Council to consider a community space on the site. While the parcel is too small for a full recreation center, BACH is in the early stages of reaching out to youth and student focus groups to see what local teens want out of a more limited space. Planning director Michelle Thibeault highlighted that one of the top responses from their focus groups was a space for homework and tutoring.

BACH continues to gather input on community needs for the project, which once compiled will inform a conceptual site plan. The planning process for this space will also continue through 2025.

BACH’s fourth project this year will be the implementation of new affordable housing strategies. BACH recently closed a request for proposals for a possible contractor to assist in policy development and is in the midst of a selection process. The contractor would primarily assist in the development of a deed restriction incentive program, and BACH hopes to use this program for buydowns this spring and summer.

RALEIGH BURLEIGH

BACH’s duplex at Stott’s Mill is its furthest along construction project, and anticipates framing this spring for completion in the summer. Courtesy photo

Glenwood-born entrepreneur aims to revolutionize mountain training with new product

ANNALISE GRUETER

Sopris Sun Correspondent

Though Carson Wilde calls Missoula, Montana home these days, growing up in Glenwood Springs instilled in him a deep love for the outdoors and adventure. He spent his early years trying out all kinds of activities, from rafting to biking, and developed a passion for climbing.

Rock climbing introduced him to people and places, including his business partner, Walt Hailes. This past autumn, Wilde and Hailes launched a fundraising campaign for the Summit Seeker, a training product for backpackers, climbers and trekkers to wear weighted packs with less physical discomfort and strain. The Sopris Sun connected with Wilde via email to learn more about the Summit Seeker backstory and vision.

How did you and Hailes meet?

Walt and I met back in 2011. He had just opened a small climbing gym in Missoula and I was a dirtbag climber in need of a job and a place to train. Fortunately for me, he was desperate for help and had to take what he could get. Our relationship evolved over the years … to us becoming

partners in other ventures such as the Summit Seeker.

What are some of your past business endeavors?

Walt and I are old hands at all the pains associated with business. He owns Freestone Climbing in Missoula which has now grown into a much larger operation with over 40 employees. I myself have a few companies. Graphite Thread Works is my soft goods design and development business of the past 14 years. I am also a partner in Lolo Hardware which is a young company that produces all of its products in-house in Montana; it started mostly with technical hoodies and headwear for the outdoors and now is starting to expand into bags.

What inspired the Summit Seeker product?

The idea for the Summit Seeker was Walt’s brainchild. When he’s not busy guiding climbers on summits around the world, he works as a research scientist in the field of physiology. A lot of the work he does centers around load carriage. He needed a way to easily and securely load a wide variety of

backpacks with drastically different amounts and types of weights. He then approached me with his problem. After the first few quick prototypes it started to become clear to us that this product had more potential and uses beyond just research.

Who do you anticipate using the Summit Seeker?

The potential customer base for the Summit Seeker is really broad, essentially

anyone looking to add a little more general fitness and strength would benefit from walking with a little weight in a backpack. Narrowing it down for the initial launch, we are really focusing on people looking to train for activities like backpacking, alpinism, ski touring, climbing, thru-hiking, trail running … We also have a few people using it as part of their physical therapy protocol, like trail runner Adam Peterman.

‘Your Diet Sucks’ — The podcast that challenges diet culture

KATE PHILLIPS

Sopris Sun Correspondent

New year, new mindset. It’s time to “un-[expletive] your food” with “Your Diet Sucks” (YDS), the podcast that isn’t afraid to overhaul toxic diet culture.

Cohosted by Carbondale locals Kylee Van Horn and Zoë Rom, YDS brings a refreshing perspective to the health and wellness community that is often plagued by confusing and potentially harmful content. Coupling data-driven research and historical context, Van Horn and Rom use their platform to brilliantly debunk common nutrition myths while exploring the cultural narratives that have dictated our connection to food.

“In the society we live in, food, fitness and nutrition are complicated, which can drive people to become ‘f*cked’ when they try to make a decision about how they should approach health and wellness,” said Van Horn, a registered dietician nutritionist. “We try to help people dig through the noise so they can make their own informed decisions.”

Launched in July 2024, the bimonthly podcast has already released 15 episodes that cover a breadth of topics. Most recently, YDS has unpacked orthorexia (an obsession with healthy eating), the vitamin and supplement industry, common and uncommon causes for gastrointestinal distress, the reality of superfoods

and the rise and impact of social media health influencers. Despite the gravity of some themes, original artwork by Clio Rom vibrantly depicts each episode’s topic to create a playful and approachable tone for the podcast.

This approachable energy continues as each conversation showcases Van Horn and Rom’s relatable and humorous friendship that shines as they break down the topics using their extensive expertise. Van Horn, founder and chief executive of Fly Nutrition, a sports nutrition coaching business, decodes the complicated nutritional science research; while Rom, an award-winning journalist, offers rich, in-depth historical and cultural details alongside witty quips that keep the stories engaging.

“YDS strikes a unique balance between scientific rigor and friendly, approachable banter,” said Rom. “We make the evidence accessible without dumbing it down, creating a space where listeners can engage with serious topics in a way that feels relatable. What really sets us apart is how we weave culture and history into the conversation.”

With this multifaceted approach, invigorating conversations emerge as the duo investigates popular nutritional advice and the “why” behind toxic diet culture trends. Specifically, YDS delves into the biochemical impact of sugar,

and why its cultural role as a “villain” might not be true; they examine fasting’s historical roots based in religious practice and how that narrative appears in current wellness trends; and how systemic modern issues, like marketing, policy and societal norms, have influenced personal choice.

In episode nine, “The Dangers of Social Media and Influencers,” YDS investigates the possibility that an expensive healthcare system might sway individuals toward online influencers practicing pseudoscience. Crash diets, outdated science and overpriced, unproven supplements lurk in these corners which, according to Van Horn, can become dangerous for people both physically and mentally.

Recognizing that many of these episodes feature sensitive topics, Rom said relevant trigger warnings are included as needed to help create a “psychologically safe place.” She added that these stories, while drawn from personal experience, are “grounded in journalistic research” so that evidence-based truths can come to light to stop the toxic narrative put forth by diet culture — narratives that tie one’s worth to size and debilitating body control. With this approach, listeners can potentially move through their discomforts to make decisions about their health free of guilt and shame.

“I hope listeners walk away from every episode feeling both challenged and empowered,” said Rom. “Our goal is to give people the tools they need to interrogate the cultural narratives that surround food, fueling and health.”

Since November, YDS has seen a significant increase in listeners, and currently has an overall fivestar rating on various platforms. For Van Horn and Rom, this incredible response motivates them to continue advocating for a more positive and inclusive health and wellness community. By reshaping the cultural food narratives, the pair hopes listeners across the fitness spectrum can slow down, enjoy their food and ultimately feel more confident and connected to the stories and meals that bind us together.

“If we can help even one person break free from harmful narratives and embrace a healthier relationship with food, their body and their goals, then we’ve done something meaningful,” said Rom. “Because at the end of the day, the most radical thing you can do is accept yourself as you are and focus on what truly lights you up.”

Sponsored by Microcosm Coaching, Fly Nutrition and Janji, “Your Diet Sucks” airs bimonthly on all podcast platforms. To keep up with the latest details, check out @yourdietsuckspod on Instagram.

Kylee Van Horn and Zoë Rom shine as podcast co-hosts thanks to their enduring friendship. Courtesy photo

A model demonstrates a 25lb weighted pack without and with the Summit Seeker product. Photos by Anastasia Wilde

Your libraries in 2024

I like statistics. It matters to me how well we do and looking over the numbers helps me stay on top of change. This month, I’d like to take a look back at Garfield County Libraries use in 2024. Thanks to Jenn Cook, our technical services director, for pulling all this together.

The main trend: we continue to see a sharp rise in the use of digital content. Some 75% of that use is downloadable/streaming services. Overdrive (or Libby app users) and Hoopla led the pack, coming in at a 26% increase over 2023 for the former, and 25% for the latter.

Particularly interesting to me is the jump in newspaper use. NewsBank saw a 372% increase over the previous year. The Wall Street Journal jumped by 83% over 2023. (Incidentally, a personal subscription is about $500 a year. A library card is a heck of a savings!) Use of the New York Times grew by 32%.

can’t get, or can’t afford, these services on their own.

But there were a few areas where library use dipped. Public computer use fell by 2% — maybe because despite our rise in laptop checkouts, more people have their own computers or rely on their phones. Wireless internet use fell by a surprising 9%. Maybe more folks hang out in coffee shops or are using their phone connection.

LITERATE LIFE

Other digital services include things like our Learning Express resource. This provides career preparation data, high school equivalency info, college admissions test preparation, educator resources, adult core skills, and more. These days, it’s getting easier to “go to school” without getting out of your pajamas. Many people lean into libraries for learning.

By Jamie LaRue Garfield County Public Library District

There were other growth areas for the library. We did a push to sign up library card users, and saw a jump both in new patrons and activity by existing patrons. More people are using study rooms, not only for personal use, but for business. While we never seem to get much interest in computer classes, we’re seeing a bump in one-on-one tech assistance.

Our programming and events continue to climb, as in our recent Posada Navideña, which all by itself reached some 250 people. And we managed to about double the number of Spanish materials in our collection.

The library lends internet hotspots and laptops. That grew by 34% over last year. Clearly, there are still folks who

We’re seeing sharp drops in use of DVDs and CD audiobooks. That’s part of the shift to streaming media. It may mean that we’ll start phasing out some of those materials. We’re also seeing a general slight decline in checkouts of physical materials, offset by increased use of ebooks. But hardback books still account for about a quarter of a million checkouts per year, which isn’t bad for a population of 65,000 or so.

Taken together, use of electronic databases rose 13% over last year. But a few of our offerings fell sharply, among them Creativebug and Code Combat (down over 60% from last year), Brainfuse HelpNow (down 79%) and VetNow (down 69%).

What does it all mean?

First, the two biggest numbers we track are physical and website visits, (up 14% over last year). Together, that’s over 610,000 people. The library is both a physical and virtual destination. I suppose it shouldn’t be a surprise that our community, like the rest of society, continues to move toward digital interaction.

Second, all the aspects of library use that depend on physical presence — browsing for materials, chatting with other moms at storytimes, meeting to talk about books or community issues — are still significant. Our collective choices are richer than they used to be.

Many thanks to all of our patrons who continue to point the way to the development of library services.

Valley View University : Women’s Health Series

January 16, 12 p.m.

Women’s Health and Weight Loss

Dr. Katie Mang-Smith, OB/GYN Valley View Women’s Health

Learn about the impacts of obesity and the benefits of weight loss on a woman’s overall health throughout the stages of her life.

January 23, 12 p.m.

Taking Control: Bladder Issues & Treatment for Women

Dr. Jamie Lowe, Urologist

Valley View Rocky Mountain Urology

Learn about female urology including bladder control issues, UTIs and treatment options.

Community nonprofit organizations have raised the issue of extreme weather conditions causing homeless shelters to quickly fill up, giving these folks no other choice but to utilize vacant properties.

Housing attorneys also emphasize that adverse possession is not a “free pass for squatters,” as it is much more complicated than just claiming adverse possession and calling it a day. Colorado’s laws require a high threshold of proof, and courts carefully scrutinize claims to ensure they meet all legal criteria.

RFSD from

page 5

As it stands, RFSD has a deficit of nearly $6 million in both the 2024/2025 and 2025/2026 school years. This accounts for between 6% and 8% of their total operating budget each year.

In the wake of these mistakes, they are faced with draining reserve funds and surplus teacher housing funds to cover these costs before turning toward potential budget cuts.

In a column penned to the community by Dr. Cole, published by the Glenwood Springs Post Independent in December, she stated, “Over the coming months, the district will share updates and provide details about the choices that will need to be made. There will be opportunities for students, families, and the community to share their concerns so that we can understand what matters most to them while addressing the budget shortfall.”

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

Classic and Skate style lessons for beginner and intermediate skiers at Spring Gulch.

Classic Style: 1/24 & 1/31

Skate Style: 1/25

SOMATIC YOGA

A gentle practice to heal pain, release tension and anxiety, and facilitate ease of movement. Mondays, 9-10am, 1/20-2/24

SPANISH - START FROM THE BEGINNING

An intro class to develop listening and speaking with ease while you build confidence with introductory conversations. Thursdays, 5-7pm, 1/30-3/20

STORY OF CHOCOLATE

Learn about the history, varieties, regions, and cultivation of chocolate. Includes tasting. Thurs, 5-7pm, 1/30

DYNAMIC WORKOUT

A full body workout with cardio, sculpting, and floor exercises. Tues/Thurs, 11-11:50am, 2/11-4/17

SKETCHBOOK WORKSHOP

Learn fun ways to use your sketchbook with watercolors and pencils and get your creativity flowing. Tues., 1:30-4:30pm, 2/11-2/18

PHOTOGRAPHY 101

Learn to capture and process dynamic photographs using rules of design, camera controls and Adobe editing software. Tuesdays, 6-8:30pm, 2/11-3/4

KIDS Classes on Wednesday Afternoons:

CUPCAKES FOR VALENTINES AGES 8-16

Decorate cupcakes with the Pastry Chef Lab. Cupcakes and decorating supplies provided. Instructor is bilingual. Parent participation is welcome. Wednesday, 3-4pm, 2/12

SKETCHING AND DRAWING AGES 10-17

Learn to sketch and draw characters starting with the basics. Instructor Kurt Nestman learned to draw from a Disney artist and illustrates children’s books. Wednesday, 3-4pm, 2/19-3/12

To register for Community Classes...

Live Zoom webinars, Thursdays, 12 – 1 p.m. with Q&A following.

Mi Chola

Aspen

The Aspen Store Box on Hyman Avenue

BASALT

Basalt Quick Lube

Basalt Regional Library

The Basalt Store

Alpine Bank Basalt Timbos

7/11

Jalisco Grill

Big O Tires

CC

City Market

Alpine Bank Box at La Perla Box at “Main St.” Recreation Center

Carbondale Library

CMC in Carbondale 3rd St. Center Valley Meats La Roca LiftUp

7/11

Jalisco Grill

Mi Lindo Nayarit La Fogata

Gloria’s Boutique

GLENWOOD SPRINGS

7/11 West Glenwood Post Office

Hospital Valley View Recreation Center

Mountain Family Health Welcome Center

GWS Library

Sal Mex

La Michoacana

Coin Laundromat

Tony’s Market/Bakery Tequila’s Frida’s El Yaqui

Kum & Go

Comfort Dental

Impuestos Seguros

NEW CASTLE

Tapatio’s Post Office

Taquerina Elias

New Castle Library

City Market

SILT

Silt Library

Silt Laundromat

Kum & Go (Main St.)

Silt Roundabout La Placita 2

RIFLE Tapatio’s Kum & Go

Taugenbaugh

Jalisco Grill

Box at City Hall

Rifle Library

Box at E 12 St.

El Patron

El Rincon

Spyderwash

Moma’s

Remington Square

Mercado San Jose

Carniceria San Jose

Nachos Mexican Dining

Paleteria la Korita

ProMex Bakery

Tutty Frutti

Full edition is available every Friday afternoon on newstands and at businesses from Rifle to Aspen Look for stories like this in this week’s Sol del

Kings’ Wreath Pastry and the future

Early in the morning, on Jan. 6, the “Three Wise Men” arrive in Mexico with presents for the children. Then, at night, people cut what I’m calling “Kings’ Wreath Pastry,” a decorated ring bread — Rosca de Reyes — containing a tiny porcelain or plastic baby doll. My grandmother’s oldest cookbook says you must hide the tiny “baby doll, the thimble, the ring, and other surprise trinkets” in the dough. I do not know the meaning of each, but nowadays we know that whoever finds the baby doll must make tamales on Feb. 2. Children love to get the baby doll, but of course they don’t make tamales.

On the same date, in Spain, there’s a “Roscón de Reyes,” a big ring pastry containing a fava bean and a tiny doll also. The one who finds the doll is the king of the night, and the one who gets the fava bean pays for the bread. The “Galette des rois,” meaning a king’s pancake or cookie in France, is a big round sweet bread with a hidden fava bean. The one who finds the bean is the king of the night, is crowned, and he chooses his queen. In Italy, there’s a ring sweet bread, “focaccia de la befana,” and in Portugal there’s a similar party.

The Three Wise Men, or “Three Kings,” come from the religious celebration based on the traditional narrative about the Wise Men from the East, following the star, who went to see baby Jesus.

The traditional tiny baby doll, or the fava, reminds me of a course for teachers where we were asked to train students to follow sequences, because, apparently, many people lack this skill. As we can imagine, this weakness is serious, because such a person cannot see there are consequences for actions, or realize what

cause-and-effect is. Finding the baby doll creates the effect of making a plan in the future. Many of us make New Year’s resolutions also, meaning more plans for the future.

One of my New Year’s resolutions is not to believe news if there’s no proof of what is being said, or if it comes from someone who is accustomed to telling lies. It is a good idea to look into Snopes to verify statements. It is going to be more difficult now that Meta has announced that it will be allowing false people on Facebook made by artificial intelligence, or AI, with the capacity to make comments, friendships, posts, images, etc.

During his first term, President Donald Trump added $8.4 trillion to the national debt, while President Joe Biden added $4.3 trillion during this last term, according to The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget and other sources. This year, 2025, Trump might use the excuse of inflation to spend a lot more, especially now when Congress, through its Republican majority, and the Supreme Court justices he chose, are likely to support him. That is, the three branches of government — Executive, Legislative and Judicial — will all have a Republican majority this term.

OPINION

This year we will see many more consequences from our election. Many people have not considered that it is corporations and companies who establish prices, and not the government.

While many were blaming Biden for inflation, corporations were laughing and raising their prices. The reason for that was they wanted to fatten their coffers even more. Corporations

pleased Trump, who in his first administration lowered their taxes significantly. They took advantage of the fact that many people think the price of gas and diesel is the president’s choice, and if that idea damaged Biden, it benefited Trump, but we paid for that.

We could not tell the oil companies to lower the price of gas, or the stores to lower groceries and food prices, and their profit grew like never before. Inflation was created by large corporations, not by Biden. He instead wanted to charge them the taxes they are not paying.

We will see what corporations offer Trump and all his followers. For now, we must think about the consequences of having chosen someone who is more on the erroneous side of justice and honor.

These problems aside, La Cultura al Sol wishes you and yours the best for this 2025.

Follow Leonardo Occhipinti’s “Nuevo Mundo” in Sol del Valle every week in Spanish.

Somewhere within the scrumptious Rosca de Reyes pastry resides a little baby Jesus. Courtesy photo

CULTURA AL SOL Por María Esperanza Cuthbert

Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com

Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores. Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com

Winter Walk Knit (Not)

By Deborah Holt Williams

For winter walks there’s nothing better Than a cozy handknit sweater.

Can I knit? I cannot.

All my sweaters? Thrift store bought.

But if I could … I’d cast on stitches, Grey like clouds and winter witches.

I’d knit a row of sparkling snow, Purl some purple shade, just so.

Embroider brown and broken leaves, Crochet red berries on the sleeves.

Will I walk? I will not.

I’ll fire up my coffee pot.

Wear my sweater, watch the storm, Then read inside, all safe and warm.

Contact the Buddy Program today through their website, www.buddyprogram.org, or by email at contactus@ buddyprogram.org to see how you can get

SpaceX in DeBeque

I am writing to say how much I appreciate the written contributions by A.O. Forbes published on a regular basis in The Sopris Sun. I particularly enjoyed his most recent opinion piece. Please continue printing this fine, thought

On Jan. 16, the Mesa County Planning Commissioners are holding a hearing for the proposed development of a communication facility with ground-based antennas at 1995 45 ½ Road, DeBeque, Colorado 81630, parcel # 2671-102-00-036. As concerned property owners in the area, we believe this facility would negatively affect the surrounding homes, families and the DeBeque community as a whole.

The MAGA ship of state sets sail at noon on Jan. 20, 2025 from Washington, D.C. With a reckless hand at the helm and danger looming in the uncharted dark-

In response to the approaching threat, the deck chairs are being rearranged as per executive order. “Full speed ahead!”

Glenwood Springs

CARBONDALE REPORT

and Robison requested the app require people to reveal their age so that data can be collected, too.

Asked again to consider allocating Circulator funds, Laird elucidated that the Carbondale Circulator is seeing around 10,000 riders per month and has only declined in usage by 2% since last year. “If the Circulator has 10,000 rides per month, we’ve basically added 10,000 rides per month of unmet demand with WE-cycle and the Downtowner,” he stated. “I’m excited about

SUMMIT SEEKERS

Our primary concern is that the development will drastically reduce property values in the surrounding area. We have chosen to build our homes here for the beauty and tranquility of the location, and we wish to maintain that environment. We understand that the facility would bring nuisances such as lights, vibrations, and noise — disturbances we specifically sought to avoid by living in this peaceful area. Additionally, with the land currently zoned as AFT (Agricultural, Forestry, Transitional) we are also worried about the potential environmental damage, which could harm local wildlife and destroy natural habitats.

My neighbors and myself are trying to ensure our voices are heard for the future health and growth of our families and community.

We appreciate your attention to this matter. Jill Been DeBeque

from page 13

how it’s blossomed and hopefully we can find resources to keep it going.”

With that, the meeting adjourned at exactly 8:40pm, per the agenda. “Put that in the minutes,” quipped Sparhawk.

On Jan. 28, the trustees will review the final MAP (Mobility & Access Plan) Carbondale document. All comments received by 5pm on Jan. 22 will be included in the packet. Find details at carbondaleconnect.org/map-carbondale

from page 14

What do you find exciting about the product?

The thing that gets me excited about the Summit Seeker is the potential it has to really change people’s training and fitness for the outdoors. The only real way to train for carrying a backpack with weight in it is to do it. There are other “rucking” products in the market but the Summit Seeker lets you use your existing gear.

You can take the bag that you already own and plan on using for your backcountry trek or adventure and use whatever you can get your hands on for the weights. You don’t need to purchase a special backpack and then also a special weight to go in that special backpack to only use for the sole purpose of training.

This is where the design nerd in me gets amped. I have designed and developed countless numbers of technical backpacks and frames and every single one feels and carries differently — especially when you are out in the real world. The Summit Seeker lets you train with the gear you plan on using, so when it comes time for you to lace up your boots for the big trip you know exactly how your bag is going to feel and move with you.

Has the lack of Kickstarter engagement shifted your timeline?

Walt and I have a few talents but marketing is not one of them. We set off with the intention that we would just make the product and bring it to market, then we looked into Kickstarter. More than anything, it seemed like a simple way to get more eyes on the Summit Seeker. It was successful in that we ended up getting a good amount of engagement and interested parties. But people wanted to purchase the product directly without having to go through all the steps that Kickstarter requires when you try and back a product. We still plan on bringing the product to market hopefully by the end of this year. We are currently in the process of reviewing samples from our factories and making the final tweaks before entering full production.

You can learn more about Wilde and Hails’ Summit Seeker product on Youtube at www. youtube.com/@SummitSeekerCo or Instagram at www.instagram.com/summitseeker.co

Former Garfield County Commission Chairman John Martin was celebrated for his 52 years of public service — 28 as a commissioner and 24 with the Glenwood Springs Police Department — surrounded by friends and family at the Hotel Colorado on Friday, Jan. 10. When it came time for Martin to address the cheerful crowd, he pointed out individuals in the room from across the social spectrum — from veterans to ranchers to public officials — demonstrating his close relationships across the county. When he pulled up former State House Representative Russ George, also a fourth generation Rifle resident, to share a few unplanned words, George said, “Thank you for being the best public servant that God ever made.”

In a newspaper ad for an early campaign, Martin’s slogan read, “Vote your conscience with a touch of your heart.” And that sentiment hasn’t changed, as he encouraged all present on Friday to “Carry on and do good.”

Town of Carbondale is

Mountain Paws Vet

WE OFFER:

House calls from Aspen to Rifle and Carbondale to Marble

Dental cleanings, dental xray, surgical extractions

own of Carbondale is updating the building codes!

updating the building codes!

We want to hear from you!

Routine surgery

Wellness and sick patient care

Town of Carbondale is updating the building codes!

Share your feedback, ideas, and thoughts with us. Deadline to submit your comments is February 3rd.

Share your feedback, ideas, and thoughts with us. Deadline to submit your comments is February 3rd.

We want to hear from you!

Email your input to building@carbondaleco.net or visit www.CarbondaleConnect.org for more information.

Share your feedback, ideas, and thoughts with us. Deadline to submit your comments is ebruar 3rd. building@carbondaleco.net or visit www.CarbondaleConnect.org for more information.

Urgent Care

Acupuncture, chiropractic and cold laser

Email your input to building@carbondaleco.net or visit www.CarbondaleConnect.org for more information.

Share your feedback, ideas, and thoughts with us. Deadline to submit your comments is February 3rd.

Scan QR code to go to Carbondale

Email your input to building@carbondaleco.net or visit www.CarbondaleConnect.org for more information.

Connect

Scan QR code to go to Carbondale

Scan QR code to go to Carbondale Connect

go to Carbondale

Connect

Located in Carbondale across from the rodeo grounds.

Book online or call for appointments

Open M-F 8-6 and Saturday 9-3

Oneal Bogan DVM Lindsey Brooks DVM

Parting Shots cutline

Photos courtesy of Garfield County Communications

CABIN WINETASTINFEVERG

Thursday Feb 20th 5-8pm

16th Birthday Celebration