20240208

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Volume 15, Number 53 | February 8-15, 2024

C O M G N M I UN T C E I TI N E N

S

CO

4-5 ~ S. Bridge 8-9 ~ Calendar 11-13 ~ Español 15-16 ~ Gov't 17-21 ~ Arts

FOR 15 YEARS

The Sopris Sun printed its first issue on Feb. 12, 2009 and — as stated above — has been connecting communities ever since. The Sun rose like a phoenix from the ashes of The Valley Journal, which served as the midvalley’s newspaper since the ‘70s, but was folded in 2008 by its parent company at the time, Swift Communications.

What was unique about the rise of The Sun, at the time, was that it was developed as a nonprofit. The nonprofit model has since caught on in the news industry, as traditional newspapers continue to fold across the country and news deserts spread. So long as the community sees a need for our newspaper, we hope they’ll continue to support it. It’s the responsibility of the paper, in turn, to earn trust and maintain it.

In recent years, The Sopris Sun has striven to reach more readers, particularly monolingual Spanish speakers with limited access to local news.

The first insert of el Sol del Valle was printed in March 2021.

Art by Sofie Koski

Three years later, it has evolved into a historic collaboration with eight local media outlets contributing content and other support. Our thanks to Aspen Daily News, Aspen Journalism, Aspen Public Radio, KDNK, Post Independent, La Tricolor and The Aspen Times.

The Sun’s youth journalism program, meanwhile, has instilled an appreciation for print news among our Gen Z students and their peers. Having reporters based in the high schools also gives students a sense of access to share the stories that matter to them with the broader community.

From its inception and through today, community is at the center of what makes our Sun shine. From those writing the articles, to each subject, it’s a give-and-take endeavor — a cyclical relationship. Reporters count on the community for stories, and the community counts on the paper to tell them.

Thank you for being a part of it for the past 15 years.

Here’s to 15 more and beyond!

OPINION

Voices Radio Hour

By Diane Kenney

I am in love. And, I am single, although I have never identified myself as such. Like everybody, I am a lot of things, and now I am in danger of defining myself by what I used to have, or do or be. Words like “single” or “widow” describe what I am missing.

Yet, I am one of the lucky ones on this earth who by chance, or by grace, crossed paths with my soulmate and lived the gift of almost 40 years together.

Now, I am in a new life chapter.

I shouldn’t be surprised because even in the best marriages, one or the other lives the last chapter alone. It is really different and hard. I never took a class on how to do it.

You’re it!

You’re on your own. Whether for mundane chores like taking out the trash, or answering the routine question on a medical form: Who is your emergency contact? That got my attention like never before.

Not to mention those scary, middle of the night existential misgivings and worries with no one there to talk to.

But, wait! I said I was in love, and I am. At the risk of corniness, I can

LETTERS

Small town, big talent

Singledom honestly say that I often feel myself to be part of an ocean of love. I am still learning what this means. I am a student of life. So, what am I learning?

I can visualize these three words, in skywriting: UNLOCK YOUR HEART. I mean, what do I have to protect or lose?

For me, “singledom” is not something I chose, but I do have the power to choose to embrace it. I am learning what this means.

It starts every morning by putting my feet on the floor and going from there.

It means bravely saying “yes” to ideas and invitations and showing up at art openings and more. I always come away with a full heart.

It is my job to be proactive on my own behalf; to connect with both family and friends, old and — to my surprise — new! I actually have made some new friends and some of them are even my age!

My job has been to unlock my heart … leaving room for the unimaginable.

Just as Mary Oliver advised, “Keep some space in your heart for the unimaginable.”

My neighborhood has become almost transformed, for me. We care about each other, so many of us.

I am expanding my vision. I look around and I see what many call “little old ladies” in the grocery store, bravely fending for themselves. Every one of them, of us, has an amazing story, if only we can see and listen.

And, by the way, let’s stop calling them “little old ladies.”

Opening my heart means trying to listen and see others, and letting them see me. It can mean simply sending a text or an email expressing care for them, or picking up the phone and connecting with another soul.

Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC), in our little mountain town of Carbondale, has once again been recognized as having some of the best theatrical talent in the State of Colorado.

OnStage Colorado just awarded three first-place prizes and one fourth place prize for TRTC’s 2023 production of “You Can’t Take It With You.” In addition to winning OnStage Colorado’s awards, TRTC won a Henry Award in 2023 and received six nominations in a variety of categories for two of that year’s productions.

The Henry Awards are Colorado’s equivalent of Tony Awards, presented by the Colorado Theatre Guild. A panel, composed of judges who have attended performances around the state, selects one winner in each category of acting and theater production.

It is quite an honor to receive a Henry, as the Colorado Theatre Guild has more than 90 member organizations.

Whether you enjoy thought-provoking drama or easygoing comedy, consider attending one of the upcoming productions at TRTC. Located in the center of Carbondale, in a theater built specially for TRTC, each play is staged on multiple dates over a three week period. “Endgame,” by Samuel Beckett, starts Feb. 16 with 11 performances, and “POTUS”, a searingly funny Broadway hit, opens on June 14.

Treat yourself to an evening or afternoon performance. Profits will help support professional quality theater in our valley.

Dori Libson Carbondale

A reunion needn’t be lofty, perhaps dinner around a table, deepening loving connections in golden and sometimes riotous conversation.

I feel so much love so often, just in being with others. Can I say that’s being in love?

Yet, I walk alone (literally). I go for long, slow walks outside in almost any weather with my dog, Raven. But, I am never lonely outside. Trees are good company. We remember and know each other.

And yes, I am in love with trees, with the changing light, with the vision of Mount Sopris on my drive home — my reward for going to the store.

I am learning JOY. I actually have discovered in recent years an increased capacity for sheer, unadulterated delight and joy. I am learning that I can choose to feel that delight in the simplest things, casual conversations or more — especially when I can support others.

I have allowed myself to experience so much goodness from neighbors, family and friends. Is this being in love? I am going to say yes.

I live in pursuit of beauty. At the risk of corniness, again, I confess that I have felt something close to ecstasy, actively absorbing music and art.

Does beauty inspire love, or is it love made visible? Does it matter?

Maybe love is the unimaginable gift in the space in my heart left by my beloved.

Maybe a broken heart is an open heart. In any case, I just can’t get over “The Power of Love.”

VOICES Radio Hour February episode, featuring “Singlehood” and “Community Family,” will air on KDNK Community Access Radio on Friday, Feb. 9 from 6-7pm. You can listen to past episodes of VOICES Radio Hour at voicesrfv.org/voices-radio-hour

Democrat forum

The Eagle, Garfield and Pitkin County Democratic parties invite the public to attend a Democratic Candidate Forum on Feb. 12. This forum will include candidates for races that will be seen on the ballots for each of these counties.

Here's an updated list of candidates planning to join us in person: Congressional District 3 candidate Adam Frisch, State Senate District 5 candidates Cole Buerger and Mayor Barbara Bynum and CU Regent At Large Candidates Elliot Hood and Charles Johnson. State House District 57 candidate Rep. Elizabeth Velasco will appear virtually.

Please join us at the Basalt Regional Library, 14 Midland Avenue in Basalt on Monday, Feb. 12 from 5:30 to 7pm.

Debbie Bruell, Chair Garfield County Democrats Betty Wallach, Chair Pitkin County Democrats Donna Grauer, Treasurer Eagle County Democrats

CCC Legacy

Last time I was in Aspen, I went to Carl’s [Pharmacy] and upon entering I found the pocket bookstore. And then, at eye-level, was a book about the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC): “The Tree Army,” by Stan Cohen (1980), in its 18th printing (2020). It’s a picture and story book of CCC from 1933 to 1942.

CCC Legacy is based in Edinburg, Virginia with a phone number. I called and Joan Sharpe answered, the volunteer president. A great conversation was had, as she patiently listened to my story of our plight with the United States Forest Service (USFS) here in Carbondale.

2 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

continued on page 22

Editor Raleigh Burleigh 970-510-3003 news@soprissun.com Contributing & Digital Editor James Steindler Editorial Designer Hattie Rensberry Advertising Designer Emily Blong Delivery Frederic Kischbaum Hank van Berlo Bartlett 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 Lee Beck • Donna Dayton Eric Smith • Roger Berliner Elizabeth Phillips • Jessi Rochel Andrew Travers • Anna Huntington

The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6:30 p.m. 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 Carly & Frosty Merriott James Noyes • Megan Tackett Patti & George Stranahan Anne Sullivan & John Colson Elizabeth Wysong • Alpine Bank Emily & George Bohmfalk Kathy & Carter Barger Sandy & Paul Chamberlin Karen & Roger Berliner Gretchen Greenwood & Lee Mulcahy 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

SCUTTLEBUTT

What's the word on the street? Let us know at news@soprissun.com

Dirt not mud

Our Underwriters and Nonprofit Partners!

An early thaw has led to muddy conditions on local trails. If you are leaving a footprint in the mud, it’s best to turn back and return in the early morning or evening when trails are frozen and less prone to damage.

Medicaid

During the pandemic, one in four Coloradans were covered by Colorado Medicaid, known as Health First Colorado.

Membership grew from 1.2 million to 1.7 million Coloradans, a 37% increase.

Because the pandemic was declared a Public Health Emergency, Medicaid members did not have to verify their eligibility for three years. Now, the federal government is requiring all states to resume their annual eligibility reviews, including for people with Health First Colorado and Child Health Plan Plus. Those who moved during the pandemic and did not update their address may not receive the renewal paperwork. For more information, visit www.healthfirstcolorado.com/renewals

GarCo property tax

RJ Paddywacks Cool Bricks Studio White River Books Alpine Animal Hospital Nonprofit Partners Basalt Library Colorado Animal Rescue Carbondale Arts Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner in 2024? Email Todd@ soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866

Garfield County property tax notices were mailed on Jan. 30. Approximately 34,000 account notices were mailed for expected tax collections of $232.8 million — up from $187.1 million last year. Collections for 2024 will be distributed to kindergarten through 12th grade schools (37.71%), special districts (32.36%), local college districts (4.68%) and local municipalities (2.67%). The remaining 22.57% will be retained by the county. Property owners may pay taxes in halves or all at once. The deadlines for half payments are Feb. 29 and June 15. The deadline for a full payment is April 30. Property owners can make payments online at www.garfield-county. com/treasurer/tax-payments or by calling 970-945-6382.

Smart state

Colorado is the top state in the union in terms of postsecondary educational attainment, according to a new report by the Lumina Foundation. Nearly 63% of the state’s population, ages 25 to 64, has some form of postsecondary credential.

Meanwhile, a Georgetown University report predicts that by 2031, Colorado will also be the top state in terms of the percentage of jobs that require a bachelor’s degree.

Roaring Fork High School's Speech and Debate team "completely slayed" at the state championships this past weekend, according to a recent Facebook post by their proud coach, Denise Wright. The Rams contestants, (left to right) Sim Perutkova-Rand (placed fifth in Poetry Interpretation), Lucy Silcox and Maddy Lucks (tied for third in the Lincoln Douglas Debate), Nicola Stringham, Jane Taylor (placed second in Original Oratory), Gus Richardson and Coach Denise Wright, commemorated the occasion with a group photo. Go Rams! Courtesy photo

BPAC

The Basalt Public Arts Commission has $12,000 in grants available to local artists and organizations with a focus on public art and cultural opportunities. The deadline to apply is Feb. 23. Learn more at www.basalt.net/bpac

Heart Month

The American Red Cross of Western Colorado is celebrating American Heart Month by challenging all Coloradans to have at least one person in their homes who knows CPR. “CPR can double or triple the chances of survival after cardiac arrest,” Regional Disaster Preparedness Manager Paula Deegan stated in a press release. To request a Hands-Only CPR class for your community, email preparecolorado@redcross.org

Driving high

Gen Z is the first generation of Coloradans who have grown up in a state where recreational cannabis is legal. According to a Colorado Department of Transportation survey of 1,000 randomly selected drivers in 2023, 18 to 24-year-olds consume

cannabis more than twice as often as the average driver (seven vs. three times per month). Gen Z was also more than twice as likely to report driving high in the past 30 days (20% compared with 7% of older adults) and more confident in their ability to drive high (37% of Gen Z cannabis consumers, compared with 17% of users ages 25 to 34). For information on the dangers of cannabis-impaired driving, visit www.DriveHighDUI.com

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Michael Kinsley and Amanda Villalobos (Feb. 8); Charley Hill and Ellen O’Gorman (Feb. 9); Diego Gonzales, Sara McAllister and Pam Rosenthal (Feb. 10); Georgia Chamberlain, Linda Criswell, Anne Goldberg, Thomas Mack, Sydney Courier McBrayer and Hamilton Pevec (Feb. 11); The Sopris Sun, Roger Berliner, Raleigh Burleigh, Sam Hayes, Anna Hutchinson, Ciara Low, Faith Magill, Sarah and Laura Nelson, Jamie Ramge and Gene Schilling (Feb. 12); Amy Rota (Feb. 13); Camille Backman, Winnie CramptonSteindler, Deatra Glock, Gabriela Mejia and Andrea Stewart (Feb. 14).

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 3

Glenwood’s South Bridge route closer than ever with federal grant, but still short of full funding

By John Stroud Sopris Sun Correspondent

A long-envisioned roadway project to the south of Glenwood Springs that dates back to the 2002 Coal Seam Fire got a huge boost in December when a nearly $50 million federal grant was awarded to move things forward.

The South Bridge Project would connect South Glenwood near the municipal airport west of the Roaring Fork River to Colorado Highway 82 next to the Holy Cross Energy headquarters.

The project has been in discussions as a necessary evacuation route — and more generally as a traffic pressure relief valve — since the 12,000acre wildfire that burned 29 homes in West Glenwood nearly forced the evacuation of the entire Four Mile corridor south of town when the fire threatened to jump the ridge over Red Mountain.

Soon after, then-Congressman and Glenwood Springs native Scott McInnis was instrumental in securing a $5 million federal earmark to study the South Bridge route.

But the project has been stalled for more than 20 years over jurisdictional wrangling, design logistics to preserve the airport, politics over growth, traffic and environmental concerns, and ever-escalating costs.

With a $100 million price tag to build the project, based on a design that grew out of an environmental analysis, including a rather expensive road underpass of the airport runway, the objective now is to try to whittle away at some of those costs.

The City of Glenwood Springs hired SGM Engineers to prepare a peer review study of the design plans and to offer cost-cutting suggestions.

“We've been able to recognize, at least on paper,

a good chunk of savings somewhere in the $20 million range, and depending on how aggressive we can get, we can push that number a little bit higher,” City Engineer Ryan Gordon said.

Among the potential cost savings would be to change the bridge type and alignment and changes in the roadway design to skirt around the south end of the runway, instead of going underneath it.

That not only would trim project costs, but would also avoid a projected 12- to 18-month closure of the airport to build the underpass, which would have other economic impacts, Gordon said.

“We’re trying to see where we can get with these cost savings, with the understanding that we don't want to start a brand new process and environmental document, and have to start from square one,” he said.

The $49.68 million grant was awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation on Dec. 12, 2023 and is one of 18 projects funded nationally through the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program.

The grant, to be administered by the Colorado Department of Transportation, calls for construction to start by September 2026. It does not, however, have a deadline for lining up the rest of the funding.

Beyond the grant, the city has some matching funds set aside, plus some additional federal earmarks and a portion of the funding that was approved by Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) voters in 2018 as part of a new property tax to fund long-term transit needs.

The South Bridge design includes a tunnel under the new roadway for RFTA’s Rio Grande Trail, where it parallels Highway 82, so that a new atgrade intersection with the highway can be created.

4 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

The anticipated route for the planned new South Bridge route looking west across the Roaring Fork River toward the Glenwood Springs Municipal Airport from Colorado Highway 82 near Red Canyon Road.

Photo by John Stroud

That intersection would also incorporate the Red Canyon Road access to the highway.

Still at 90% of design, there’s about six months to a year of work to get to final design and to secure the additional funding, Gordon said.

One entity that will still need to be approached about becoming a funding partner is Garfield County.

County commissioners have been generally supportive of the project as a way to give the estimated 4,000 residents living in South Glenwood and up the Four Mile Corridor toward Sunlight Mountain Resort a way to get to Highway 82 without having to travel back along Midland Avenue into town. continued on page 5

S. Bridge

from page 4

However, high costs, the need for right-of-way procurement from private property owners and the route’s potential to fuel new development has been a sticking point.

The city plans trafficcalming features along the route, like additional roundabouts and lower speed limits, to serve as a disincentive for it to become a bypass of Highway 82/ Grand Avenue through Glenwood Springs.

“We will still have local access to all of those neighborhoods, and it goes right by Sopris Elementary School, where there are lots of families and kids,” Gordon said. “So it’s really considered as a local collector road and not a high-speed bypass.”

The route and the bridge itself will also have pedestrian and bike features, as well as the opportunity for the city’s Ride Glenwood bus service to extend to the area, he said.

City staff and other project officials are updating Glenwood City Council on new developments twice a month, with specific decision points expected by late February or early March, Gordon said.

Former C’dale resident perplexed by Waste Management bills

By Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editor

“I think I can kiss a couple thousand dollars goodbye,” Nicolette Toussaint told The Sopris Sun over the phone on Monday.

Toussaint, a former resident of Carbondale, moved to Longmont last spring. She found it peculiar that trash service bills arrived at her new address for the house they had sold in Carbondale. Even stranger, Waste Management no longer provided residential trash pick-up services in Carbondale town limits.

In October 2019, following a years-long process, Carbondale trustees chose Mountain Waste & Recycling for a single-hauler trash service model. Previously, Mountain Waste was one of three other companies offering residential trash pick-up in town.

Since then, residents are billed by the Town, like other utilities. The choice was made to reduce traffic, noise and wear on public streets; to improve waste diversion; and to reduce bear interactions through a more systematic

and less haphazard approach to securing trash containers.

Until recently, Mason Ingram, Toussaint’s now 93-year-old husband, paid the bills. “When a person is aging, you want them to be as independent as they can be, for as long as you can,” she explained.

It appears, however, that Ingram didn’t notice the Town of Carbondale utilities bill including trash services beginning October 2019.

According to Toussaint, the couple was paying Mountain Waste an additional bill — about

$200 every third month — for a non-existent service.

After struggling to get in touch with the company and rectify the situation, Toussaint filed a complaint with the Colorado Attorney General. She was told that because the company is headquartered in California, “they won't do anything.”

A media request sent by The Sopris Sun to Waste Management yielded an email response in less than an hour. It was confirmed that Waste Management does not provide residential services inside town limits.

We were told the company would do some research and provide a solution.

On Wednesday, they told The Sopris Sun “we are crediting this account and it will have a zero balance. We are very sorry for this error. It appears it was a technical glitch in our system and we don’t have reason to believe anyone else is affected. However, if any current or former customer has a concern, we encourage them to call our Customer Service (800-7969696) or chat online with a representative at wm.com “I’d be surprised if we’re the only ones,” Toussaint told The Sopris Sun. However, we have not identified anyone else who has experienced this same issue since Carbondale’s switch to a single-hauler model, more than four years ago.

Toussaint encourages everyone to check their bills carefully, especially if they’re set up on autopay.

If you or someone you know has experienced suspicious billing, we encourage you to reach out to news@soprissun.com

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 5

Hunter Creek preservation project chugs along

By London Lyle Sopris Sun Intern Nestled just a hop and a skip from Aspen lies Hunter Creek Valley, a 60-acre site rich with history.

Although its history had been deteriorating over several decades, locals, along with some help from the state and a national nonprofit, have changed that tune.

In 2021, Roaring Fork Valley locals founded the Hunter Creek Historical Foundation (HCHF) with a mission to restore and preserve the Hunter Creek settlement. HCHF has partnered with HistoriCorps, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving historic structures on public lands across the country. HistoriCorps employs trained field staff, as well as volunteers with various skill sets, to complete projects.

There are two to three field staff members and one crew member from HistoriCorps responsible for overseeing six to eight volunteers working on the Hunter Creek project.

Historical evidence indicates that Hunter Creek Valley hosted one of the first prospector settlements in the Aspen area that made it through a winter season. Typically, Independence would have been the last stop for miners and prospectors from Leadville that time of year.

That is until 1879, when a group of 13 miners decided to hold out until

970.989.4203

The Roadhouse structure at Hunter Creek got some attention in the fall of 2023.

The preservation team hopes to complete restoration of the Roadhouse by the end of the year. Photo courtesy of Jason Whitehead , HistoriCorps

the spring of 1880 — eight in Ute City (Aspen) and five in the Hunter Creek Valley.

Suffice to say, Hunter Creek holds a lot of historical significance when it comes to Aspen's past. William Koch’s homestead and the Adelaide Ranch, which dates back to 1893, still stand today. Although the historic barn on the Adelaide Ranch has deteriorated.

Most of the deterioration can be attributed to water movement over the years causing rapid erosion.

During Koch’s time, multiple ditches were formed, and blockage thereof has caused diversions, which continue to flow toward the buildings, contributing to the problem. Colorado’s Historic Preservation Office underwent a Section 106 process for the site, which has since been approved and allows HistoriCorps to hire contractors to do remediation. The goal is to clear the higher elevation ditches of blockage and to build

protective barriers around the buildings to redirect any water still coming down the hillside.

The first phase of the restoration effort was the stabilization and preservation of the old blacksmith shop, likely constructed once Koch arrived. This phase was completed in October 2022. The second phase is the stabilization and preservation of the roadhouse, which is expected to be completed later this year. There is at least one additional phase planned for 2025 that will focus on another cabin, which sits just northwest of the shop, and is currently surrounded by aspen trees.

“The cabin will probably be a reconstruction project. That’s how we’re scoping it right now,” explained Mardita Murphy, a regional program manager with HistoriCorps. “It may be one of the initial cabins that was constructed by those prospectors in 1879. So, it could potentially be the oldest standing structure in Aspen. Our hope is to fill out some of that history this year in preparation for the 2025 phase.”

"We're not just fixing buildings; we're keeping a legacy going," Murphy concluded.

For more information on the Hunter Creek historical preservation project, visit www. huntercreekhistoricalfoundation.org

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The Animal is approaching ...

Animal Writes report The Sopris Sun is excited to announce that a once-familiar animal is about to emerge from a lengthy hibernation. This animal was thought to be extinct but, much to animallovers’ delight, it has surprised experts with its remarkable capacity to evolve and resurrect itself.

It was last seen roaming the streets of the Roaring Fork Valley in 2019, when it found shelter at small businesses and inside newspaper boxes — especially around Carbondale. It hasn’t been seen nor heard of since …

But, with the care and encouragement of its creators/handlers, the animal is slowly awakening as it acclimates to its new environment near the base of Mount Sopris in The Sun. Okay, the jig is up, the “animal” is actually the organism’s pet name, according to its creators, Jane Bachrach and Alyssa Ohnmacht.

“Its proper name is ‘Animal Writes,’ and we are thrilled to team up with The Sopris Sun to bring it back,” the duo agreed. “We believe this unique, one-of-a-kind life form has a greater opportunity to thrive and

flourish in a more expansive territory, from Aspen the to the Colorado River Valley.”

Animal Writes will resurface on March 21, the first day of Spring, and will live safely nestled within the pages of that Sopris Sun issue. By that time, Animal Writes should have adapted to its new digs and its handlers are confident that it will get plenty of attention from passersby from within its once familiar surroundings: a newspaper box, a waiting room or your kitchen table.

If humans love Animal Writes and buy ads so that it can continue to thrive, it will metamorphosize into a quarterly publication — sort of like how a tadpole becomes a frog.

It’s the same, but different.

Animal Writes is fun, quirky, picturesque (your pictures and ours), informative and honors our pets and animals. Best of all, it's local and we’ll encourage community involvement, including contests!

Stay tuned…

Editor’s note: Animal Writes is a collaborative effort with The Sopris Sun. The intent is to print it quarterly within the paper to highlight animals in the Valley. For more information, email AnimalWrites@ SoprisSun.com

Goat: "Here's lookin' at you." Dog: "Mmmm ... pizza bones."

Kittens: "Zzzzzz. ..." Photos by Jane Bachrach

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)

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Accepting new patients.

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CARBONDALEAH@GMAIL.COM

Offering: Dentistry Surgery Wellness Geriatric Care Chiropractic Acupuncture Cold Laser

Town Of Carbondale

Parks & Recreation Department North Face Park Pickleball Court Project Town of Carbondale is seeking two simultaneous proposals: RFP #1 Excavation and site prep for 3 pickleball courts at the North Face Park RFP #2 Ground-up, post tensioned concrete construction by pickleball court builder.

Interested firms who would like to receive a copy of either RFP should contact: Parks & Recreation Director, Eric Brendlinger, at (970) 510-1277 (OR) ebrendlinger@carbondaleco.net.

A copy of the RFP is also available for download at www.carbondalegov.org

RFP bid packets must be received by February 22, 2024.

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 7

CALENDAR THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 8

LEGAL CLINIC Free legal advice offered at the Basalt Library from 2 to 5pm.

Call 970-927-4311 or email info@ basaltlibrary.org to sign up for a 15-minute appointment.

CODING CLUB The Aspen Science Center teaches coding for kids at the Carbondale Library at 3:45pm.

BANNED BOOK The Banned Book Club convenes to discuss “All Boys Aren’t Blue” by journalist George M. Johnson at 5pm at the Basalt Library. A limited number of free copies are at the circulation desk.

SOPRIS SUN PARTY The Sopris Sun’s Cabin Fever Wine Tasting, the paper’s 15th birthday celebration, kicks off at the RVR Barn at 5pm with small bites from local restaurants, fine wines and a silent auction. Purchase tickets at www.soprissun.com NATURALIST NIGHT The Naturalist Nights series continues with “The IdentiFlight Technology: Protecting Sensitive Bird Species from Wind Turbine Collisions” tonight at Hallam Lake at 6pm.

More info at www.aspennature.org CRYSTAL THEATRE “Ferrari” screens tonight at 7pm and on Saturday at 4:15pm.

“American Fiction” opens tomorrow (Friday) at 7pm and continues at 7pm on Saturday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

IMMIGRANT VOICES English In Action brings back its signature storytelling experience, Immigrant Voices, with six community members sharing their stories tonight at TACAW at 7:30pm. This event is sold out.

STEVE’S May Erlewine performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Find tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 9

BIKE TO WORK People across Colorado observe Winter Bike to Work Day by braving the cold and biking to their destinations.

SEED PEACE Seed Peace at Sunfire Ranch seeks volunteers to help prep the greenhouse from 9am to noon.

Contact heatherfroelicher@ gmail.com for more info.

COCOA LOVE The Cocoa Club hosts three evenings of chocolate fondue dipping and Valentine vibes, tonight, tomorrow and, of course, Valentine’s Day, at 6pm. Visit www.pollinatorchocolate. com for more info and to RSVP. MARTIN SEXTON Martin Sexton performs at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 10

WINTER YOGA Kate Mulheron guides “Nourishing Your Winter's Water: An Earth Ways Yoga Experience” at True Nature at 4pm. More info at www. truenaturehealingarts.com

8 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

SO FLY Roaring Fork Conservancy and Roaring Fork Valley Fly Fishing Club host the Eighth Annual Iron Fly Competition at The Tipsy Trout in Basalt. Competitors are provided with “secret and funky

Visit soprissun.com to submit events

materials” to use in each fly. The youth division (16 and under) starts at 5:30pm. Adults compete beginning at 7pm. For additional details, visit www.roaringfork.org/events SONGCIRCLE Sweet Root hosts a community song circle at the Third Street Center at 6pm. Everyone can participate – elders and youth; wise and spirited; native and immigrant; community and culture. “Let us honor each other through the songs we sing. Let the land hear songs intended to honor it! No singing talent is needed!”

To RSVP, email info@tcfhf.org DJ ROMINA El Dorado hosts Dj Romina for “a blend of warm, eclectic, intimate and nostalgic sounds” from 7 to 10pm.

CONTRA DANCE Grab your partner and swing! The Wooden Nickel String Band performs live music for an all-ages barn dance at the Carbondale Community School from 7:30 to 10pm. No experience is necessary; a caller will teach the basics at the start.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 11

CARBONDALE HISTORY Sue Gray of the Carbondale Historical Society tells the story of entrepreneur William Dinkel at the Carbondale Library at 6pm.

KDNK AT EL DORADO KDNK DJs spin a variety of jam band and bluegrass tunes at El Dorado from 3 to 6pm.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 12

IN STITCHES The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library at 1:30pm.

MOVEMENT Alexandra Jerkunica leads ballet exercises at the Carbondale Library at 4pm. This event is free for adults and teens, 12 and up.

CANDIDATE FORUM The Basalt Library hosts a forum from 5:30 to 7pm with Democratic candidates for Congressional District 3, State Senate District 5 and State House District 57.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 INTERNET STORAGE Basalt Library teaches about securely storing sensitive data from 1:30 to 2:30pm.

MEMORY CARE Sopris Lodge hosts a support group at 3pm on the second Tuesday of every month for families, partners and other caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

To RSVP, call 970-456-6771 or visit www.soprislodge.com/events GIRLS WHO CODE Basalt Library partners with Girls Who Code to teach students of all genders the basics of coding at 3:45pm.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 SENIOR SOCIAL Basalt Library hosts a Valentine’s Day Senior Social for ages 60+ with live music, sweet treats and more from 1 to 3pm. Singles and couples alike, all are invited.

SPARK Students are invited to “build, create, explore, concoct and invent” at the Carbondale Library at 2pm.

CABIN FEVER WINETASTING 15th Birthday Celebration Thursday Feb 8th 5-8pm Thompson Barn at RVR SPONSORED BY:

Downtown Liquors on Main Street FOOD PROVIDED BY: The Glenwood Springs Community Concert Association (GSCCA) brings the Divas 3, “an amazing group with powerhouse voices who will sing the biggest hits by the greatest divas in music history,” to the stage of the Mountain View Church on Thursday, Feb. 15 at 7pm. Contact Nancy at 303-517-9800 for ticket info, or visit the www.gsconcertassn.org to learn more about GSCCA, “the Valley’s best kept secret,” and its upcoming shows. Courtesy photo

WHATLOW? Children ages 7 and up are welcome to create a special Valentine art project at the Basalt Library from 2:30 to 3:30pm.

POTBELLY PERSPECTIVES Aspen Center for Environmental Studies continues its Potbelly Perspectives series with “Loving Aspen: Stories from Sandy and Mary Lynn Munro,” two longtime locals, at Hallam Lake at 6pm.

More info at www.aspennature.org SKI FILM “Groove Requiem: In the Key of Ski,” a Greg Stump film, screens at the Isis Theatre at 7:30pm.

VALENTINE LAUGHS Comedians Casey James Salengo and Courtney Maginnis perform at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 15

BOOK CLUB The Third Thursday Book Club meets at the Carbondale Library at 2pm.

This month’s book is “The Personal Librarian” by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray.

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT Basalt Library hosts a family movie night at 5pm with sweet treats and warm drinks for the whole family. For more info, visit www.basaltlibrary.org THE CONTENDERS Steve’s Guitars presents The Contenders performing at 8pm.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 16

MURDER MYSTERY Basalt Library hosts a Valentine’s Day-themed murder mystery party at 5pm. “Filled with similes, metaphors and word pictures … this mystery will appeal to bibliophiles and musiclovers alike.” Adults and teens are welcome. The doors close at 5:10pm.

AZYEP MOVIE NIGHT The Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program hosts a movie night for kids ages 6 to 12 at the Third Street Center at 5:30pm. To register, visit: www.bit.ly/AZYEPFeb16

DATE NIGHT The Carbondale Clay Center hosts a Valentine’s Date Night for couples to “get dirty on the potter’s wheel” from 6 to 8:30pm. Details at www.carbondaleclay.org LOVING SOUNDS Danielle Klein guides “Unconditional Self Love Sound Journey” at True Nature at 6pm. Register at www. truenaturehealingarts.com ‘ENDGAME’ Thunder River Theatre Company presents Samuel Beckett’s “Endgame,” opening tonight at 7:30pm. The show continues through March 3 with Thursday, Friday and Saturday night showings at 7:30pm and Sunday matinees at 2pm. Tickets at www.thunderrivertheatre.com ‘LIMITLESS’ DanceAspen presents “Limitless” tonight and tomorrow night at 7:30pm at the Wheeler Opera House.

Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com HEY NOW! “Able to mesmerize audiences all the way to Redstone,” Hey Now! makes its public debut at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17

The Hope of

Kinship

by Guest Speaker Aaron Brown

While walking in South Dakota, Aaron had an opportunity to re-examine one of his deepest wounds and oldest relationships.

What he learned challenged some of his fundamental assumptions, but also offered hope in how to heal.

Live in-person service. Live music by Jimmy Byrne. at Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist Community Room @ Third Street Center in Carbondale or via Zoom (scan QR code)

CHOCOLOVE Basalt Library teaches about chocolate, cocoa and the environment from 10:30am to 12:30pm with art and a chocolate tasting — of course.

MARCHFOURTH MarchFourth, a 15-piece, circus-inspired brass band, performs at TACAW at 8pm.

Tickets at www.tacaw.org

Enjoy fine wines, great food from local chefs, live music, a silent auction and birthday cake!

Reserve tickets at soprissun.com

Sunday, February 11th, 10am

HUA SHAN QIGONG Kearns Kelly teaches “Introduction to Hua Shan Taoist Qigong” at True Nature at 10am. Register at www. truenaturehealingarts.com

DANCE WORKSHOP Kevin Yu of Foco Flava teaches the foundations of breakdancing at the Launchpad at 1:15pm.

No registration required.

Allegria, Honey Butter, Plosky’s Deli, Peppinos, Itzy Bitz, El Dorado Garcia’s Market, and City Market Bakery

Join Zoom Meeting - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82605258305 Meeting ID: 826 0525 8305 - Passcode: chalice

On the second and third Sundays of each month, Aaron Brown will be speaking in-person at Third Street Center. Aaron truu.org Brown received his Master’s in Theological Studies from Iliff School of Theology.

He develops coaching and leadership programs for a global consulting firm and has spoken intermittently over the last 12 years at TRUU. He is the father of two teenagers, one who recently started college, the other in 10th grade. He is delighted and honored to be joining the congregation this year as a guest speaker.

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 9

Karlynn Fulmer leads The Meeting Place, a community recovery hub

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

Karlynn Fulmer’s enthusiasm shines as she talks about The Meeting Place (TMP). The recently hired executive director attended her first support meeting at TMP two years ago as she embarked on her journey to sobriety.

Founded in 2010 as a literal meeting place for individuals in recovery, TMP became a nonprofit organization in 2015. Although TMP maintains no affiliation with specific fellowships or 12-step groups, it provides a welcoming space for recovery groups to hold meetings and events.

Located at 981 Cowen Drive in Carbondale, TMP is nestled downstairs from Mountain Temp Services.

With 24 in-person recovery meetings each week, it's a busy place. Fulmer estimates that 480 individuals attend meetings each week. Her hiring as a paid staff member marks a significant milestone for TMP and represents the next stage of growth for the organization.

Fulmer grew up in rural South Carolina and, in 2014, graduated from the University of South Carolina, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in psychology and a minor in counseling.

In 2016, she moved to the Denver area where, after six months, she realized, “It was too much of a city for me.”

Having done some skiing back East, she decided, “It was time for me to go to

Karlynn Fulmer, executive director of The Meeting Place. Photo by Jeanne Souldern

the ski hills. So I went to Vail, and I loved it. I was running restaurants and the local bowling alley and had fun skiing and meeting people,” she recalled. “But, that's also when my addiction showed itself, because I thought, ‘Everybody is doing it, so it's fine,’ and then it became this thing that was out of control.”

Ski town culture, often synonymous with a party lifestyle, can lead to substance abuse issues, she said. “I think there’s this workingclass mentality about serving vacationers, that you become involved in the party lifestyle yourself.”

Fulmer said individuals face challenges in our community, including a high cost of living and rental crisis.

Life’s difficulties can impact mental health and, for some, create a tendency of turning to substances to cope.

“The party lifestyle can be geared toward substance abuse, but what we're trying to do with people is show them the light. Like, ‘Hey, there's so much to do if you're not hungover,' and when you have people that are supportive, then you will see it's all about perspective,” she stated. “You will see the opportunities to be active and enjoy this beautiful place to live.’”

After moving to Glenwood Springs, Fulmer called A Way Out, a Carbondale-based nonprofit organization that provides free addiction assessments, treatment solutions, peer recovery support, therapy and support groups for family members. A Way Out helped her with sober living and addiction treatment.

Building on a solid foundation

TMP has secured its lease until 2029, so “that adds to the stability and longevity that we already were planning on, by staying in the same place,” Fulmer shared.

Attendance has increased at meetings, which are scheduled throughout the day, making it convenient for individuals to incorporate them into their daily routines. With sessions at 6:45am for those heading to work and 7:30pm for those on their way home, participants receive support to stay sober.

“Adding those habits into your routine helps change your brain chemistry and its neural pathways,” Fulmer explained. “You're focusing on community and the good message of recovery.”

TMP collaborates with local groups to host events, including a recent New Year's Eve party which was a fundraiser for the Colorado Conference of Young People in Alcoholics Anonymous (CCYPAA).

TMP will also provide space for a CCYPAA-hosted Valentine’s Day mingle on Feb. 10 from 5 to 7pm.

“Moving forward, we're looking to prioritize the time that we do have [the space] available,” continued Fulmer, “and see what more we can do to work with other organizations to collaborate on different types of events.”

Another topic of discussion is the potential introduction of Spanishspeaking meetings.

In her role, Fulmer envisions engaging the community in ongoing conversations to prioritize and address evolving needs.

“I came to the Valley to get sober, and now I want to support this sober community because that's who got me sober and supported me,” Fulmer concluded.

For more information about TMP programming and meetings, visit www.meetingplacecarbondale. org or email info@ meetingplacecarbondale.org

WELLNESS WORKING

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Theatre Aspen Education’s High School production

THE WOMEN OF LOCKERBIE Feb 15 - 17 at 7pm Feb 18 at 2 pm Black Box Theatre

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WWW.HEADQ.ORG 10 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

More info at TheatreAspen.org

Sol del el

Conectando comunidades desde 2021

Valle

Volumen 2, Número 50 | 8-14 de febrero de 2024

De izquierda a derecha, Colin Laird, Alan Muñoz Valenciano, Jose Saez, Wendee Schoon Fisher y Rob Stein participan en una mesa redonda en Glenwood Springs sobre el alojamiento de los inmigrantes recientes procedentes de Latinoamérica el 29 de enero. Los panelistas y sus respectivas agencias esperan crear una infraestructura más permanente para proporcionar vivienda de transición y refugio a todos. Foto de Caroline Llanes/Aspen Public Radio

Recién llegados agudizan la lucha por el acceso a vivienda en el valle Por Caroline Llanes y Eleanor Bennett Aspen Public Radio Traducción por Global Language Services

Más de 170 personas, muchas de ellas procedentes de Venezuela, han llegado al valle Roaring Fork en los últimos tres meses, pero la mayoría de ellas, como tantas otras personas de la comunidad, no han logrado encontrar vivienda estable.

The Valley Alliance to End Homelessness organizó un panel en Glenwood Springs el 29 de enero para debatir los retos a los que se enfrentan los grupos locales a la hora de encontrar vivienda para los inmigrantes recientes.

Los panelistas de Voces Unidas, Recovery Resources, la ciudad de Carbondale y otras agencias coincidieron en que los gobiernos y grupos locales ya estaban luchando con la capacidad de proporcionar servicios a las personas sin vivienda, y que con el gran grupo de recién llegados sólo se acentuaba el problema.

Wendee Schoon Fisher es la directora del programa Unsheltered Outreach de Recovery Resources. "Ésa ha sido nuestra lucha durante los inviernos", dijo. "Tenemos esta población de personas que no tiene vivienda. En este caso se ha acentuado, con los recién llegados, porque ahora se trata de una cifra mucho mayor. Pero la verdad es que cada invierno es un pánico encontrar lugares para que nuestra población actual de personas sin hogar encuentre

abrigo y seguridad para el invierno. Es simplemente lo que caracteriza al valle".

Jose Saez es un navegador de vivienda de West Mountain Regional Health Alliance. Estuvo de acuerdo con la opinión de Schoon Fisher.

"Esto es realmente, en mi opinión, una bendición disfrazada, porque esto abre muchos ojos", dijo.

"Dice: 'no tenemos esto' o 'no tenemos aquello' o 'no tenemos la infraestructura'. Quizá tengamos que empezar a construir alguna".

Saez también comentó que es una experiencia solitaria llegar a un nuevo país donde tu estado migratorio no es seguro, y que es realmente necesaria la ayuda de personas con conocimientos bilingües y biculturales.

"No hablan el idioma, no tienen identificación, no tienen forma de hacer nada", dijo. "¿Y cómo se navega por eso al intentar ayudarles y no hacerles sentir que no pertenecen?".

Alan Muñoz Valenciano trabaja en el grupo de defensa de los derechos de los latinos Voces Unidas.

Dijo que antes de que llegara lo peor del invierno, los gobiernos y las agencias locales estaban en modo crisis y no podían pensar realmente a largo plazo.

"Pero ahora, creo que estamos en un lugar en el que tenemos que empezar a crear estas soluciones de colaboración, con los condados de Eagle, Pitkin y Garfield, cualquier organización sin fines de lucro que preste servicios, y la comunidad en general", dijo. "

Proponer estas soluciones, para llegar a una solución sostenible y a largo plazo".

Dijo que gran parte de la creación de una infraestructura más sostenible es contar con personas con conocimientos bilingües y biculturales en puestos en los que puedan ayudar.

"Los recién llegados, primero es que no tienen vivienda, esa es una barrera con la que tienen que lidiar, y luego está la parte de inmigración, ¿verdad?", dijo. "Podemos adaptarlo a las necesidades que tienen con estar sin vivienda, pero también adaptarlo al tema de inmigración. Y ahí es donde podemos diferenciar cuáles son las necesidades, y quién puede asumir ese papel en esa función de abordar dichas soluciones".

Colin Laird forma parte del consejo municipal de Carbondale y dirige la organización sin fines de lucro Third Street Center, que abrió sus puertas a los recién llegados mientras la ciudad trabajaba para poner en marcha sus propios refugios.

Laird dijo que no quiere que la gente sienta que tiene que abandonar el valle, ni que se sienta expulsada.

Tampoco quiere dejar de prestar servicios como medida disuasoria para mantener alejados a otros.

"Estamos intentando hacer lo mejor que podemos para alojarlos, mantenerlos a salvo y ganar tiempo hasta que puedan pasar por el sistema para que puedan obtener sus documentos", dijo. continúa en la página 12

Vivienda

continúa de la página 11

El ex superintendente de las escuelas Roaring Fork, Rob Stein, que está coordinando la respuesta a los inmigrantes de la ciudad de Carbondale, dijo en otra entrevista con la Aspen Public Radio, que de las casi 170 personas que han llegado al valle desde noviembre, sólo han podido quedarse unos 50 individuos y entre seis y ocho familias.

Durante el panel, dijo que algunos residentes de Carbondale con los que había hablado estaban inicialmente preocupados por el hecho de que un montón de nuevos inmigrantes se refugiaran en su barrio. Pero dijo que cuando les preguntó al respecto más tarde, sus respuestas cambiaron. "'Sorprendentemente bien. Esos tipos son súper amables'", dijo Stein que le dijo un residente sobre sus nuevos vecinos. "Y creo que esa sería toda nuestra experiencia... de alguna manera tenemos que normalizar, no sólo acostumbrarnos, sino normalizar estas relaciones y poner más caras humanas, es decir, más historias".

Laird también señaló que muchos de los recién llegados tienen muchas aptitudes que los empleadores del valle necesitan con urgencia.

"Quieren trabajar muy duro, pero no pueden hacerlo legalmente", dijo. "Pero necesitamos viviendas. Y toda nuestra infraestructura de vivienda, como todos ustedes saben, es un desastre".

La lucha de una familia

Libia, que viajó a EE.UU. desde Venezuela el año pasado, conoció a su compañera Ana, que es de Honduras, mientras se alojaba en un hacinado refugio para inmigrantes en Denver. (Aspen Public Radio sólo utiliza sus nombres de pila para proteger su privacidad).

Libia, Ana y los tres hijos de Ana llegaron por primera vez al valle Roaring Fork el pasado otoño en busca de más oportunidades y mejores condiciones de vida.

Libia pasó a formar parte de un comité, organizado por Voces Unidas, de inmigrantes recién llegados que habían estado viviendo bajo el puente en Carbondale y ayudó a representar al grupo en reuniones con grupos de servicios sociales y líderes gubernamentales.

Y luego la familia recibió dinero para ayudar a pagar cinco semanas de alquiler en Aspen de la organización local sin fines de lucro Response, que trabaja con supervivientes de la violencia doméstica, porque Ana sufrió malos tratos en su relación anterior.

En una entrevista con Aspen Public Radio, Libia y Ana hablaron en español a través de la intérprete Claudia Pawl de Convey Language Solutions.

"Más que todo, Aspen me ha ayudado mucho a olvidar lo que yo he vivido, que es mucho maltrato", dijo Ana. "Mi expareja, él tiene una orden de restricción porque él me agredía mucho al frente de mis hijos".

Durante los últimos meses, Libia y Ana pudieron encontrar algún trabajo limpiando casas e inscribieron a la hija mayor de Ana en la escuela de Aspen, pero finalmente se impuso la realidad de que no podrían permitirse quedarse.

"Sí, estamos todavía contentos del tiempo que duramos aquí viviendo en Aspen: Perfecto, chévere", dijo Libia. "Lo que pasa es que aquí en Aspen no hay lugar para vivir. O sea, no hay vivienda, no hay un apartamento. Es costoso también. ¿Me entiendes?

Estamos tristes porque nos amó Aspen”.

Response ayudó a la familia a encontrar vivienda en Denver y pagará un mes más de alquiler mientras se estabilizan, pero como muchos de los clientes de la organización sin fines de lucro, Ana y Libia corren el riesgo de ser deportados si trabajan debido a su situación migratoria.

Como Libia es de Venezuela, puede optar al Estatus de Protección Temporal, que le concedería un permiso de trabajo, y Ana también puede optar a ciertas protecciones de visado para supervivientes de violencia doméstica, pero el proceso de solicitud puede ser complicado y caro.

Tiffaney Bledsaw, que gestiona el programa

de vivienda de Response desde 2019, dijo que ha visto a muchos de sus clientes enfrentarse a retos similares a lo largo de los años.

"Response es capaz de ayudar con los honorarios de los abogados de inmigración, como al menos una pequeña parte para tratar de conseguir que entren para empezar a ayudarles con ese proceso", dijo. "Pero es una lucha que he visto desde que empecé".

Según Bledsaw, la financiación limitada y el alquiler caro son dos de los mayores obstáculos a los que se enfrenta la organización sin fines de lucro para ayudar a corto y largo plazo a las supervivientes de violencia doméstica, incluidas las inmigrantes.

"Muchas de mis clientas tienen que abandonar el valle para vivir por su cuenta, es decir, no tienen adónde ir", dijo. "Ojalá se hiciera más por la vivienda asequible y la falta de vivienda".

En la actualidad, Response aloja a sus clientes durante un máximo de tres meses en tres apartamentos de su propiedad o alquilados por todo el valle, y el modelo no ha podido satisfacer la creciente necesidad.

El año pasado, la organización sin fines de lucro tuvo que rechazar a 22 personas que buscaban refugio porque no tenían espacio para ellas, pero Bledsaw tiene la esperanza de que el nuevo refugio que la organización está construyendo en Basalt ayude.

Response inauguró el refugio en noviembre y espera abrir sus puertas en enero de 2025.

En las próximas semanas, la organización sin fines de lucro espera conectar a Ana y a su familia con otra organización contra la violencia doméstica en Denver, con la esperanza de que puedan seguir recibiendo apoyo mientras solicitan permisos de trabajo.

Aunque Ana y Libia saben que el futuro es incierto, sobre todo volviendo a una ciudad que ha visto más de 40,000 nuevos migrantes en el último año, planean trabajar duro para quedarse allí.

"No quiero irme de Denver tampoco", dijo Libia. "Ni me pienso ir de los Estados Unidos, ni quiero volver a mi país, ni quiero volver a ningún país del mundo. Me quiero quedar aquí porque este es el país donde, el poco tiempo corto que tengo acá, me he sentido más seguro".

es.efirstbank.com 970.947.0300 Miembro FDIC

¡FirstBank abrirá un Centro Bancario con servicio en español en Glenwood Springs!

Acompáñenos a celebrar la inauguración el 16 de febrero de 4pm-6pm.

2014 Grand Ave Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 Para más información y para confirmar su asistencia, visite: efirstbankblog.com/espglenwoodspringsbc/

banking for good 12 • el Sol del Valle • soprissun.com/espanol/ • 8-14 de febrero de 2024

OPINIÓN

VOICES Radio Hour Por Flor Paz Pastrana

Ser soltera/soltero a veces lo ven como a alguien que no está completa/o.

Ser uno mismo No estoy en contra de tener una pareja, pero por el momento esto no es parte de mi vida.

Eso no quiere decir que no pueda tener una vida completa personal y social. En mi caso, he tenido suerte de tener a mi familia cerca y encontrar amistades que han perdurado desde la escuela (middle school) y otras que he conocido por medio de mi trabajo.

También he encontrado

CHISME DEL PUEBLO Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro

Mes del Corazon

La Cruz Roja Americana del oeste de Colorado celebra el Mes del Corazón Americano y desafía a los residentes de Colorado a tener al menos una persona en su casa que sepa RCP. “RCP puede duplicar o triplicar las posibilidades de supervivencia después de un paro cardíaco”, declaró la administradora de Regional Disaster Preparedness, Paula Deegan. Para solicitar una clase de RCP, envíe un correo electrónico a preparecolorado@redcross.org

BPAC

Basalt Public Arts Commission tiene $12,000 en subvenciones disponibles para artistas locales y organizaciones con un enfoque en el arte público y oportunidades culturales. La fecha límite para inscribirse es el 23 de febrero. Para más, visite www.basalt.net/bpac

Medicaid

Durante la pandemia, uno en cada cuatro residentes de Colorado estaban cubiertos por Medicaid de Colorado, también conocido como Health First Colorado. La membresía creció de 1.2 millones a 1.7 millones de residentes de Colorado, un 37% de incremento.

Debido a que la pandemia fue declarada una emergencia de salud pública, los miembros de Medicaid no tuvieron que verificar su elegibilidad por tres años. Ahora, el gobierno federal está requiriendo que todos los estados continúen sus revisiones anuales de elegibilidad, incluyendo para las personas con Healthfirst Colorado y Child Health Plan Plus. Es posible que aquellos que se hayan mudado durante la pandemia y no actualizaron su dirección no recibieron el formulario de renovación.

Para más información, visite www.healthfirstcolorado.com/ renewals

actividades en la comunidad que me han interesado y he continuado participando.

Por ejemplo, por medio de VOICES, donde he conocido muy lindas personas.

No necesariamente tiene uno que participar en las organizaciones que este valle ofrece para mantener una vida social. Cada quien tiene que encontrar cosas que le interesan. A mí, siempre me ha gustado hacer cosas al aire

este valle ofrece muchas libre como hiking, esquiar/ oportunidades. snowboarding, acampar, etc.

No importa si estás soltera Por medio de estas o no, no dejes de ser actividades, he "NO IMPORTA quien eres. encontrado SI ESTÁS SOLTERA amistades en VOICES Radio la comunidad.

O NO, NO DEJES Hour es una Un ejemplo de DE SER QUIEN ERES." programa esto es, gracias a radial de KDNK. mi hermoso perro Este 9 de febrero, (Diego), he creado un el tema es “Estar Soltero y grupo de amistades que ahora Comunidad como Familia,” nos juntamos para hacer estrenando de las 6 a 7pm.

Doggy hikes.

Capitulos pasados estan Yo creo que es importante disponible en www.voicesrfv. hacer lo que amas y si org/voices-radio-hour estás dispuesto a explorar,

Tierra no lodo

Un deshielo temprano causó condiciones lodosas en los senderos locales. Si uno está dejando una huella en el lodo, es mejor darse vuelta y regresar la mañana o tarde siguiente cuando los senderos están congelados y menos propensos al daño.

Estado inteligente

Colorado es el mejor estado de la unión en términos de logros educativos postsecundarios, según un nuevo reporte de Lumina Foundation. Casi el 63% de la población del estado, entre las edades de 25 y 64, tienen alguna forma de credencial post-secundaria.

Mientras tanto, un reporte de la universidad de Georgetown predice que para el 2031, Colorado también será el estado con mayor porcentaje de trabajos que requieren una licenciatura.

Subvenciones FAB

La Junta de Asesoría Financiera (FAB por sus siglas en inglés) de la ciudad de Glenwood Springs está aceptando solicitudes de subvenciones para servicios humanos, eventos especiales, promoción de turismo y otros propósitos públicos.

Las solicitudes deben ser entregadas antes del 10 de abril.

Para saber más, visite www.bit. ly/FABgrant

Destrucción masiva

La congresista Lauren Boebert presentó nuevamente una legislación que clasifica el fentanilo como un arma de destrucción masiva. Esto permitiría al Departamento de Justicia, el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional, la Agencia Antidrogas y el Departamento de Defensa a coordinar esfuerzos y abordar agresivamente el tráfico de fentanilo. Según el comunicado de prensa, la Protección Aduanera Fronteriza confiscó 27,293 libras de fentanilo en el 2023 , suficiente para matar a 6 billones de personas.

"Sincronías" parte 61, por Leonardo Occhipinti

Impuestos de propiedad

Los avisos de impuestos de propiedad del condado de Garfield fueron enviados el 30 de enero. Aproximadamente 34,000 avisos fueron enviados para colecciones esperadas de $232.8 millones — comparado con los $187.1 millones del año

pasado. Las colecciones del 2024 serán distribuidas a las escuelas desde el jardín de infancia hasta el doceavo grado (37.71%), distritos especiales (32.36%), distritos locales de universidad (4.68%) y municipalidades locales (2.67%). El 22.57% restante será retenido por el condado. Los dueños de propiedades deben pagar

los impuestos en dos partes o una sola transacción. Las fechas límites para hacer dos pagos son el 29 de febrero y el 15 de junio. La fecha límite para una sola transacción es el 30 de abril. Los dueños de propiedades pueden hacer los pagos en línea en www.garfield-county.com/ treasurer/tax-payments o llamando al 970-945-6382.

el Sol del Valle • Conector de comunidad • 8-14 de febrero de 2024 • 13

Lady Rams stay in hoops league hunt, boys fall off pace with two losses

By John Stroud Sopris Sun Correspondent

The Roaring Fork High School girls basketball team has played its way into third place in the 3A Western Slope League standings with three straight wins over Cedaredge (62-45), Meeker (64-48) and Aspen (49-30), with two crucial games coming up this weekend.

Meanwhile, the Rams boys suffered two losses over the weekend to Cedaredge (46-58) and Meeker (55-71), knocking them into fourth place; but still with a shot at the postseason as the regular season comes to a close next week.

Against Aspen on Tuesday night, the girls team dominated over the Skiers, who are winless in league play. But it came at a cost, as junior Lexi Sanchez and freshman Riley Bevington both suffered injuries, according to head coach Mike Vidakovich.

That means the team could be a bit short-handed this weekend when Roaring Fork (7-3 in league, 10-5 overall) plays host to Olathe (8-3, 10-5) on Friday, and Gunnison (3-8, 5-10) on Saturday.

Sophomore Carly Crownhart had 14 points in the Aspen win, and twin sister Erica had 11 points, with senior Lelaney Gardesani contributing 10 points and leading the team with eight rebounds.

Friday’s win over Cedaredge was a thriller, as the Rams and Bruins played a close one through halftime, before Roaring Fork took control of the game with tough defensive pressure that produced 22 steals, led by Carly Crownhart’s 10 swipes.

Bevington had 23 points and sophomore Nikki Tardif had 15, with Carly Crownhart knocking home 13 and Erica Crownhart 11.

Roaring Fork then got a key win over Meeker,

which had bested the Rams in their first meeting of the season, as Carly Crownhart poured in 29 points, Tardif 12 and Bevington 11. Bevington and Tardif also had double figures in rebounding.

Boys look to rebound

The Roaring Fork boys were positioned to win it heading into the final quarter of play against Cedaredge on Friday, but couldn’t quite overcome the hot hand of Bruins senior Logan Tullis who scored four from beyond the 3-point arc. Cedaredge as a team had seven 3-pointers, and the Rams failed to convert on several layups and second-chance shots, contributing to the loss.

On a positive note, the team had balanced scoring against both Cedaredge and Meeker when the ball did fall through the cylinder. Sophomore Logan Carballeira led the way Friday with 15, senior Noel Richardson had 14 and sophomore Kiko Pena had 15.

In the loss against league-leading Meeker (9-0, 141), Richardson had 14, Pena 10 and Carballeira nine.

Roaring Fork (5-4, 6-10) will need wins this weekend against Olathe (1-9, 3-13) and Gunnison (2-6, 2-12) to remain in the top 32 teams for state playoff consideration.

Varsity game times Friday are 5:30pm for the girls and 7pm for the boys, and on Saturday are 12:30pm for the girls and 2pm for the boys.

Both Rams teams close out the regular season at home on Friday, Feb. 16 against Grand Valley.

Girls state swimming preview

Colorado Rocky Mountain School senior Amelie Ogilby leads a group of Glenwood Springs High School swimmers to the 3A State Swimming and

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14 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

Erica Crownhart goes for a layup during the Feb. 2 match against Cedaredge. Photo by Sue Rollyson

Diving Championships this weekend, where she looks to defend her state title in the 500 Freestyle event and is the top qualifier in the 200 Individual Medley.

The Demons as a team defended their league championship in Grand Junction last weekend, with Ogilby winning the 500 Free and 200 IM, and contributing to team relay wins in the 200 Medley and 400 Freestyle. Both relay teams are headed to state, along with the 200 Freestyle team and numerous individual qualifiers for the Demons swim team. Among them are two other CRMS students, sophomore Rowan Wolfson in the 50 Free and 100 Butterfly, and freshman Laia Ogilby in the 100 Backstroke.

Carbondale resident filing complaint alleging Forest Service fence blocks public right-of-way

By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun correspondent

Longtime Carbondale resident and former trustee Pam Zentmyer filed a complaint with the Town of Carbondale Wednesday, citing Town Clerk Jessica Markham and Carbondale Police Chief Kirk Wilson as recipients, regarding the fence surrounding the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District construction zone near the corner of Main Street and Weant Boulevard.

Dare-Case Contracting Services LLC erected the fence in early January.

In a Jan. 2 press release, AspenSopris District Ranger Kevin Warner stated, “With construction activity beginning, the public should stay out of the fenced area for their safety.

Crews will be following the standard procedures for abating potential hazardous materials such as asbestos when removing older buildings.”

But, instead of protecting the public from abatement hazards, according to Zentmyer, the fence is creating a public safety hazard. And, it may be in violation of state and municipal codes.

The fence is four to five feet high and covered by an opaque mesh tarp.

It extends along Main Street from the east side of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) buildings to the western edge of the USFS property. The fence squeezes between the Community Tree and the main building, and runs south along Weant Boulevard to the edge of USFS property.

The main hazard, according to the complaint, is that the fence completely blocks portions of the sidewalks along Main and Weant and, despite a few signs telling the public “sidewalk closed, use other side,” forces pedestrians and cyclists into the street.

“The fence came first, then some cones, then some signs, and now we have what feels like a smattering of thoughtlessly placed signs that aren't

This photo, taken in late January, shows footprints in the ice between the fence and vehicles using Main Street’s eastbound lane. Photo by Amy Hadden Marsh

really communicating a clear route for pedestrians and bicyclists,” said Zentmyer in an email to The Sopris Sun. Photos taken by The Sopris Sun in late January show footprints in the ice between the fence and vehicles using Main Street’s eastbound lane, which is also the main RFTA bus route through town. It is apparent that people have been walking in the street alongside the blocked sidewalk.

No permit for the fence

Results of a recent request to the Town, under the Colorado Open Records Act (CORA), for permits and applications related to the fence obstructing a public right-of-way, were shared with The Sopris Sun. An April 21, 2020 email thread emerged between Mike Ross of the USFS, Mark O’Meara, then-town utilities director, and Kevin Schorzman, the town’s public works director.

Ross asked O’Meara, “Does the Town have a policy or guidelines for contractors working in the Town right-of-way [ROW], and if so can you forward that to us?” O’Meara forwarded that question to Schorzman who

GARFIELD COUNTY REPORT

replied, “The only ROW stuff would be that they need to be licensed with the Town, will need a street cut permit (including a traffic control plan) when working in the ROW and they will need to repair any damage in the ROW.” But, Town Clerk Jessica Markham in an email included in the recent records request said, “There is no permit application or permit.”

In her complaint, Zentmyer stated, “To obstruct a sidewalk or road requires a prior permit application be made to the Town, and granted.

To plan any excavation of our streets has a series of permitting and public safety requirements. None of the actions of the USFS in erecting a solid covered fence over the parking spots and sidewalk on Main Street and on Went [sic] Boulevard has conformed to the Town code.”

Carbondale-based attorney Kathy Goudy told The Sopris Sun that, because there is no permit allowing the fence to block the sidewalk, it could be considered a Fifth Amendment taking of property by the federal government.

“It's a taking because it's public land no longer available for public use,”

she said. “[The USFS has] taken it for their own use, they have not provided compensation for it and they have not provided a public reason why to do it.”

Zentmyer’s complaint states “Carbondale’s municipal ordinances deal directly with the unlawful taking of its sidewalks, roads and parking spots.” The complaint also cites possible violations of Colorado state statute CRS 42-4-703, in that the “totally covered fence violates state code for legal turns from Weant onto Main Street.” It adds “The fencing does not conform to either the Town’s step-down requirements for fences that obscure visibility for traffic at the corner, and no permit was sought to allow this unlawful fence.”

The complaint requests that the Town take several steps, including discussion about municipal ordinances related to the obstruction and hold public hearings for any future applications for right-of-way permits for this project. Zentmyer also requests that those who “unilaterally determined to block the streets and sidewalks'' be summonsed for criminal obstruction of a public right-of-way and that the USFS “be required to consult with a traffic safety specialist” about the best way to sign and direct pedestrian, bicycle and vehicular traffic along streets and sidewalks disrupted during construction.

Zentmyer said that the right-ofway issue might have been better addressed had the project undergone a more thorough public process.

Nonetheless, she wants to see it done right. “A government-owned project ought to be interested in being as low impact on its community as it possibly can be,” she told The Sopris Sun. “What we see today is not neighborly; it's ugly, it's in our face and it compromises safety. I want to help take a few steps back and get this better set up for the long duration we will be asked to circulate around it.”

Rifle airport hangups, and managing the Carbondale Rodeo

By James Steindler and Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editors

To kick off the Monday, Feb. 5 Garfield County commissioner meeting, Dan Guggenheim and Jeff Parrington of GarCo Premier Hangars, along with Evan Radler, who plans to purchase two of the new hangars at the Rifle Garfield County Airport, expressed some efficiency concerns.

“I’ve had the unique privilege of watching this project evolve since 2021, when I first talked to Dan and he engaged with you to build this project,”

Radler expressed to the commissioners. “I’m going to be buying the first two hangars in the Alpha building which are now complete and got a certificate of occupancy on Jan. 4.”

But, Radler said, they’re at an “inflection point,” and the parties “need to figure out ways to enhance efficiencies and work together to drive this project to completion.”

“We’ve done everything that’s been asked of us — everything,” added Guggenheim. “Then, it goes to crickets.” He added that they remain “excited” about the project, and that their goal has never changed.

Airport Director Brian Condie was present and stated that over his 22 years in that position, the last two have seen exponential efforts toward development; noting that there are 12 project items this year. “The first 20 years, we would do one construction project every three years … Our system wasn’t designed to handle this workload.”

He acknowledged that Guggenheim has done everything he’s been asked.

“Yes, we have a successful airport, but we are overwhelmed with all of the work that this success has brought,” continued Condie.

“We’re doing everything we can — we’re working weekends. We can’t give them the answers, because we’re stretched thin.”

Commissioner Mike Samson referred to the airport as a “golden egg” for the county and said that when he became a commissioner 15 years ago, one of his top priorities was “getting that airport up to snuff.” By the same token, he recalled when he was a kid and the airport had a dirt runway. Echoing Condie, he said that, compared to years past, plans for the airport are moving at “warp speed.”

Radler said that communication was key, so the developers know what to expect. The county’s attorney, Heather Beattie, replied that the developers need to manage expectations but agreed to communicate directly with their attorney going forward.

While no decision was made, the commissioners agreed that Condie needs increased support.

Funding

The Sheriff’s Department was granted $128,000 to update its fire alarm system. continued on page 16

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 15

GarCo Report

continued from page 15

Additionally, $95,000 of revenue that initially came by way of a Peace Officers Mental Health Grant was reallocated to the Sheriff’s Department for mental health services for law enforcement.

The commissioners approved several nonprofit general funding requests: Colorado River BOCES Association was granted $110,000; The county's animal shelters, Colorado Animal Rescue and Journey Home, were each granted $253,000; Garfield County Clean Energy was granted $350,000 which, as noted by Jankovsky, comes from the county’s energy reserve fund.

Rodeo update

During a work session on Tuesday, Feb. 6, commissioners visited the topic of Carbondale’s Gus Darien Arena. Although the rodeo grounds is a venue owned and operated by the Town of Carbondale, impacts from large events — specifically the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo on 12 Thursdays during the summer — have spilled into unincorporated Garfield County land and become untenable for neighbors.

Last year, the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo implemented new measures including a complimentary shuttle service to and from The Orchard parking lot, a $10 fee for parking onsite, a parking prohibition on County Road 100 and limited parking on neighborhood roads that surround the arena.

However, the number of people ignoring “no parking” signs on County Road 100 quickly undermined their effect. “Once that started, it was almost impossible to stop,” said Eric Brendlinger, Carbondale’s parks and rec director. Because the county road is outside Carbondale’s jurisdiction, enforcement depends on the sheriff's office.

Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario then addressed the commissioners. He explained that, fully staffed, he has seven people covering 3,000 square miles. “My priority is providing services across Garfield County,” he said. “Although it’s important to these folks and their isolated issue [referring to rodeo neighbors], I have to look at the bigger picture.”

Vallario explained that his office responds to calls

at the rodeo like any other across the county, and he won’t deputize Carbondale police officers because “if one of them under my color of authority were to do something — offend somebody, put their hands on somebody, wind up in a lawsuit — that’s on me; it’s no longer on Carbondale.”

Moreover, he explained the practical challenges of

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enforcing parking, especially with so many simultaneous infringements.

Carbondale Police Chief Kirk Wilson, sporting a tyedye cap, thanked the rodeo organizers for their mitigation efforts and said, “We’ve kind of run out of ideas.”

Carbondale Town Manager Lauren Gister reiterated a request to set an example with a strong

presence and ticketing during the first couple of rodeos, at least.

“I’m willing to commit some extra resources to those first ones to do that,” said Vallario. “I don’t know how successful it will be.”

Rodeo fans who want to help keep the peace are encouraged to park at The Orchard and ride the free shuttle bus.

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16 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

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Roll tape! Filmmaking duo steadily at work in Carbondale

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

In a recent conversation with The Sopris Sun, filmmaking collaborators Stefano Da Frè (director) and Carbondale resident and Emmy-Award-winning editor Krysia Carter-Giez discussed the recent release of a crime docudrama and the editing process of another upcoming feature-length film.

The 46-minute docudrama, “Stolen Dough,” chronicles Anthony Mongiello’s $1 billion patent infringement suit — the largest ever in the restaurant industry — against Pizza Hut, the American multinational pizza chain and international franchise.

Funding for the film came from Disney and Anthony and Joe Russo, known in the film industry as the Russo brothers, who directed four films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including “Captain America: The Winter Soldier.”

The film had its world premiere in April 2023 at WorldFest-Houston International Film Festival, an Oscar-qualifying film festival, where the film received the Gold Remi Award. Its California premiere was on Feb. 3 at the Santa Monica Film Festival.

Da Frè explained that when Bob Iger returned to Disney as chief executive officer, a decision was made in January 2022 that Disney would no longer produce or distribute content geared toward adults. The company would instead primarily focus on family-friendly entertainment across its various platforms.

“Disney had told us that we would be on a shelf and that they were going to wait for a while before they were going to release it,” Da Frè said.

Da Frè was an actor on season two of HBO’s sketch comedy series, “That Damn Michael Che,” when one of the show’s producers, during a lunch break, mentioned that Da Frè was directing a film. Da Frè responded that the film was completed, “But, I don’t have anywhere to distribute it.”

Stefano Da Frè (in white jacket) directing a scene from "Stolen Dough." The crime docudrama had its TV premiere on Apple TV last month. Courtesy photo

They suggested Da Frè meet with an Apple TV executive, which led them to distribute the film domestically and internationally. The film has been exclusively available on Apple TV since January.

Current film project

Da Frè and Carter-Giez are currently busy working in Carbondale, editing their latest film project which is due to release later this year.

The film, titled “A Dream Beyond the Dark,” directed

by Da Frè, also has him acting in the leading role as Daniel Lacroix. Clara McGregor, daughter of Scottish actor Ewan McGregor, plays LaCroix’s girlfriend who owns an art studio in New York City. Based on the true story of a Belgian painter who lost his eyesight due to choroideremia, a rare degenerative eye disease that inevitably leads to blindness, Da Frè’s setting has the

painter, born in Montreal, who later moves to New York City to pursue his dream of becoming an artist.

The film has been about eight years in the making, as film projects like “Stolen Dough” and others have garnered the precious time and attention needed to bring them to fruition. Filming over several years creates its own challenges, Da Frè said.

“You need that time to pass to see if it holds up or it’s really as bad as you thought it was. It's never as brilliant as you think it is in the moment. It's also never as bad as you think, so you're working with those two artistic biases,” Da Frè explained.

Da Frè’s filmmaking partner and co-owner in Rosso Films International (RFI), Laura Pellegrini, is listed as an executive director, writer and director of the film. With dreams bigger than their network, the RFI founders envisioned their debut feature from the outset.

“When Laura and I started the company, the film was always intended to be our first feature. We didn't see any opportunities because, at the time, we had no connections in Hollywood for anyone to give us a shot at our first feature,” he said.

The duo observed that their backgrounds — with Da Frè as an actor and a screenwriter focusing on narrative-style writing and a director with a cinematic eye, and Carter-Giez as a solidly credentialed awardwinning documentarian — led to this venture of making a feature film.

“What's interesting is that there's this sort of blend that's evolved out of the work that we do together, which is not just one thing or the other; it really is kind of both that sort of meld together. It's an interesting way to put a film together,” Carter-Giez observed.

As the two continue their partnership, Da Frè and Carter-Giez are looking to take the show on the road, so to speak, for next year’s film festival circuit.

“Stolen Dough” is currently available on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 17

Sopris Theatre Company tackles unconscious bias in ‘Native Gardens’

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

Sopris Theatre Company (STC), the hybrid studentcommunity theater company at Colorado Mountain College’s (CMC) Spring Valley campus, is gearing up to premiere its third show of the season, “Native Gardens,” a comedy by award-winning playwright Karen Zacarías.

This 90-minute play tells the story of two couples.

Pablo del Valle, a young hotshot working for a big law firm, and his doctoral candidate wife, Tania, move into a historic Washington, D.C. neighborhood where they become acquainted with Frank and Virginia Butely, a well-established couple with an award-winning home garden. The neighboring couples find themselves in a dispute over a fence line, which ultimately surfaces cultural differences between the two households.

“It explores challenges around race, class, equity, the expectation around

ownership, how the law addresses issues in a different way than how people live it and how nice people can get caught up in challenging experiences which they create,” stated Heather Exby, who plays Virginia.

Exby formerly served as the vice president of CMC’s Spring Valley campus.

There were times when she got to work with the college’s theater operations manager, and the director of this upcoming show, Brad Moore. When she did, she advocated that the theater host shows relevant to the conversation around diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

“I'm super excited about this play,” continued Exby. “It explores bias and unconscious bias, which I think is just so powerful.”

Audiences are in for a production that brings attention to preconceived notions people often have, whether conscious of them or not, in a satirical manner that will also provoke some serious thought.

Ricky Perez, who recently appeared in Thunder River Theater Company’s (TRTC) production of “Rabbit Hole,” plays Pablo del Valle.

Gabriela Alvarez Espinoza plays Tania del Valle and Willey Mosley, an STC regular, plays Frank Butely.

Mosely described Butley as a seemingly ordinary guy who can be an emotional wreck.

He added that a challenge for him has been breathing believability into the character, but despite that, he is having a lot of fun.

“I think it's much more valuable to make him relatable — a real person that you would expect to meet in your daily life,” Mosley said of his character.

“He should be likable, but he also has aspects which, you know, are not likable.”

Perez touched on what he sees as an underlying theme of the show: privilege. He argued that it is manifested within each character to some degree.

When discussing the reason for choosing “Native Gardens” for the season, Moore expressed his commitment to

Ricky Perez (left) and Willie Moseley rehearse for "Native Gardens."

Courtesy photo

helping further the college’s DEI mission.

“When reading through shows, I'm trying to think of productions that would further the mission of the theater and the college and give our students and our community members something rich and powerful to enjoy,” he stated. “It takes a long time to build partnerships and relationships, and I'm hoping that “Native Gardens” is the beginning of something that will ultimately help guide the company's future. Ultimately, I would love to see actors,

directors, designers and technicians from diverse populations. Since CMC is a Hispanic-serving institution, I'd love to think this is a good starting place.”

Stereotypes will be unraveled and deconstructed on both sides of the fence in this production. Espinoza added that people’s presumptions of others are hardly, if ever, reliable.

To purchase tickets for "Native Gardens," visit svticketsales@ coloradomtn.edu or call 970-947-8177

REQUEST FOR BIDS 2024 CHIP SEAL PROGRAM The Town of Carbondale is accepting bids from local qualified contractors to perform work on the 2024 Chip Seal program.

Sealed bids will be received until 11:00 am February 27, 2024, by the Town of Carbondale, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, Colorado 81623, at which time the bids will be opened and read aloud. Specifications and contract documents can be found on the Town of Carbondale website, or at Town Hall.

Work on this project cannot begin prior to May 13, 2024, and must be complete by June 30, 2024. No chip seal work will be allowed on residential roads Tuesdays as Tuesdays are residential trash and recycling collection days. The Chip Seal Program consists of applying asphaltic binder and aggregate meeting CDOT No. 8 specifications on approximately 37,005 square yards of street surface. All work shall meet, at a minimum, the Town of Carbondale Chip Seal Surfacing Specifications. A map and a list of the streets scheduled to be chip sealed are included in the specifications and contract documents.

The Town has a limited budget for the 2024 Chip Seal program and therefore reserves the right to adjust the quantities to fit within the financial limits of the program based on the bids received. The listed square yard measurements are estimates for bidding purposes only and the final square yardage will be determined at the end of the project. The successful bidder will be expected to enter into an Agreement for Professional Services with the Town. Bids shall be submitted on the bid form attached to the request for bids.

18 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

Comedy makes itself at home in the Valley

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

Stand-up comedy: some love it, some hate it. Some have been told that it would be their perfect career.

Luckily for folks in the Roaring Fork Valley, there are more opportunities than ever to break onto the scene. Two live performance spaces stand out for fostering events for comedians: TACAW and The Collective at Snowmass Base Village.

TACAW has famously been a comedy venue since its inception and has tried to program humor-driven shows monthly due to how well they are received by audiences. On Feb. 14, TACAW will host comedian couple Casey James Salengo and Courtney Maginnis, and on March 1, Liz Miele performs. Both acts have found national success. Additionally, the Valley’s own Consensual Improv will be back in April.

Speaking with TACAW Executive Director Ryan Honey and Director of Programming Kendall Smith, they expressed gratitude for hosting local and big-name acts.

“Now that we’re in this new space, we have a terrific room for comedy. People want to get together and laugh, and I think that is more important than ever,” Honey stated. “We also try to support the growing local comedy scene, so you’ll see everything from local showcases to major national comics hit our stage.”

Bobcat Goldthwait performed at TACAW last year. Courtesy photo

Smith added that the Roaring Fork Valley is building a pleasant ecosystem for comedy with open mic events. He also shared that TACAW is committed to diversity, regardless of a comic's notoriety.

“As far as booking in the future, I am committed to having diversity on our stage and having a wide variety of voices,” Smith said.

Expanding on opportunities for hopeful comics, Honey discussed Consensual Improv, which he is a member of, and how the troupe hosts workshops regularly. While he encourages folks to sign up for the newsletter and attend a workshop, he

also suggests that aspiring comedians attend an open mic night.

“The best thing is to start going to the open mics around the Valley. It's a pretty small scene, so we all know each other. If you go to those open mics, you’ll probably get asked to jump on stage and open for one of the ticketed shows around town,” Honey said.

One comic who has graced TACAW’s stage several times, and agrees that open mics are a good place to start, is Adam Cayton-Holland. He grew up in Denver and got his foot in the proverbial door by attending open mic nights there.

Since then, he has appeared on Comedy Central and has been named one of Esquire Magazine’s “25 Comics to Watch.” Additionally, his newest comedy special, “Wallpaper,” premiered online at www.800poundgorillamedia. com on Jan.18.

“I tell aspiring comics to go to an open mic. You'll see good comedy, but mostly, you'll see really bad comedy. That kind of pierces the mystique,” CaytonHolland stated.

Open mics can be found in Snowmass Village and have been on the rise since the inception of the Snowmass Live Comedy Series. The Collective is gearing up for its inaugural Comedy WKND! taking place over Presidents Day, featuring Jeff Wright of NBC’s “Late Night with Seth Meyers” and rising comedian Joey Avery on Feb.16, Natasha Leggero and her husband,

Moshe Kasher, on Feb. 17, and concluding with Drag Queen Bingo with Kendra Matic and DJ Romy Ancona.

The Collective Comedy Series, according to Sarah Sanders, director of plaza venue and events, all starts locally. She cited the Winter Comedy Competition hosted every season, where competitors from throughout the Valley and all over the state show off their knack for making people laugh.

“The top performers get to open for our headliner comedians,” Sanders explained. “We pair them with the headliners that would be the best fit for them. And, based on their style, we partner with local leaders in Snowmass to be on the judges' panel for it.”

Remaining events for The Collective Comedy Series include an evening of comedy with Langston Kerman on March 6 and the Valley Comedy Showcase on March 13. Despite the 2023-24 season closely approaching its close, Sanders encourages those looking to break in to reach out to The Collective.

“Even if we don't have anything going on, we can certainly point you in the right direction,” Sanders said.

For more info on how to get involved with comedy in the Valley, contact TACAW at programming@tacaw.org, info@tacaw.org or call 970-510-5365; for The Collective at Snowmass Base, email info@thecollectivesnowmass.com or call 970-924-6054.

at the Aspen Chapel Gallery in partnership with The Sopris Sun Carbondale, Colorado

A juried exhibition open to all artists from Rifle to Aspen Juried by: Lissa Ballinger and Andrew Travers Exhibition runs through March 2, 2024 at the Aspen , Chapel Open daily 10-5 at the roundabout Season Sponsors: Susan and Larry Marx TKC Foundation and Arches Foundation This exhibition is made possible in part by a grant from the Thrift Shop of Aspen & the Wheeler Opera House (City of Aspen) Arts Grant Program Visit our new website at: www.aspenchapelgallery.org Like us on Facebook • Follow us on Twitter @ A_ChapelGallery The Aspen Chapel Gallery at the Aspen Chapel 0077 Meadowood Drive Aspen, Colorado 81611

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 19

20 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

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

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

Snowmass Falls Ranch

By Charlotte Perry Glenwood Springs

Well, Bob and Ditty , they started their ranch “Mount Sopris Hereford Ranch“ they called it They had cattle and horses and seven kids in all Sixty-five years was their ranching legacy so grand

Senior Sweeties

It was the year 1918 That Robert Perry Burst on scene .

Oh he started out a city kid from Denver You all might remember

Their holdings increased As time flew by A cow camp was added In the mountains so high

TWO AGING THRIVERS,

With his gun , horse , rope, hat and boots He knew the city would not be his roots His family lived not far from a girl so pretty, her name was Ruth But all knew her as Ditty

Snowmass Falls Ranch it was called, But, family knew it as “cow camp “

GRATEFUL WE FINALLY MET.

Summers were spent in that high country Leading cows up to high pasture, Branding the newcomers

WE SHARE ALL OUR ILLS,

Lots of work irrigating with a shovel, Fixing fences and more Oh the memories Of our beloved cow camp galore!

HAPPY TOGETHER? YOU BET!

Well, this is goodbye To a place well loved To a place that will never change in our hearts, forever This is goodbye to the greatest cow camp ever!

WE'LL BE MOBILE AND STRONG.

And now it passes on To its new journey.

VALENTINES DAY

Well, they grew fast and fine, skiing and riding and sometimes school Now, Bob , he didn’t take to higher education But he had a dream As he was no fool A year of Dartmouth And that was enough He went to Aspen to be a ski racer He was that tough But, alas He fell in love with his fair Ditty And, they chose to settle down In this here Carbondale city Well, it wasn’t much back then, you see A dirt Main Street and a small grocery, run by a family named Foley A handful of ranchers and minors making their living And no fancy diners!

By Deborah Holt Williams Glenwood Springs

CANCER SURVIVORS,

AND COUNT OUT OUR PILLS,

WHO KNOWS HOW LONG

In this little piece of history, I say goodbye, And hold the mystery and the magic of Snowmass Falls Ranch.

WE WON'T WASTE A SINGLE MINUTE.

IS A GOOD TIME TO SAY LIFE IS WONDERFUL, NOW THAT YOU'RE IN IT!

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 21

LETTERS

She, after listening, told me that similar situations have been coming to her attention for a while now. We lamented together about the disregard and destruction by the current USFS … I hesitate to use “leadership.”

So, “our” 86-year-old “historic” Forest Service property is being wiped away and replaced by a building incongruent with our historic downtown. Why? Oh, I know, more office and conference space at a time when fewer people are accessing the physical office and going online for information and permits. Oh yeah, I know the proverbial dead horse. How did the horse die?

Richard Vottero Carbondale

Chortling Republicans

Republicans should stop chortling over the president's precarious political polling predicament. Gleefully, they point out that three-quarters of the country thinks he's too old, while the cackling communication contortionist, Kamala, is less popular than her competently compromised commander.

The Democrat bench doesn't inspire confidence to say the least.

But, lose the smugness, GOP. I see

LEGAL

Biden dropping out before Chicago and there's one person who could pop the GOP optimism balloon.

How can Dems rid themselves of a Black female political liability which defines Kamala? With another Black female with high popularity and instant name recognition. No, not Oprah!

Michele Obama would be the perfect last minute savior for Dems.

Even though her candidacy would be a transparent front for Barack's third term, the liberal media would gush support and any opposition would be branded racist.

So, GOP, take care and run on solutions to the Dem policies that are ruining our country. And, stop chortling.

Bruno Kirchenwitz Rifle Letters policy: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor.

Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome. Please cite your facts and include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Carbondale Board of Trustees for the purpose of considering a Petition for Annexation submitted by Richard Camp, Kathryn D. Camp and Terrance McGuire. The address is 111 Main Stret (Parcel #2393344400026). It is the 0.040 acre (1,731 square feet) parcel along the north side of Main Street at the east end of the 100 block.

a Personal Representative’s Deed recorded on December 19, 2012 in the Office of the Garfield County Clerk & Recorder at Reception No. 828735:

Project Description: The property is legally described as follows: The following property conveyed by that certain quit claim deed recorded as Reception No. 817870 in the Garfield County Clerk & Recorder’s office: That portion of the railroad right-of-way conveyed by Ludocia Moore to the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad Company (D&RGW) by deed recorded at Book 35 at Page 403, and also acquired by the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA), as successor to the Roaring Fork Railroad Holding Authority in that correction bargain and sale deed recorded 09/09/08 at Reception No. 755399 in said record of Garfield County, as shown on a railroad right-of-way survey prepared by Farnsworth Group, 6 recorded at Reception No. 789, Located in Section 34, Township 7 South, Range 88 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, State of Colorado, described as follows:

Commencing at the Southwest corner of that parcel of land described in Book 1571 at Page 494, a rebar and cap LS No. 14111 in place; thence along the Northerly right-of-way line of Main Street S88°53’34”E 47.00 feet to the true point of beginning; thence continuing along said right-of-way S88°53’34”E 42.29 feet to a point on the Southerly right-of-way line of the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority Railroad (RFTA) right-of-way; thence departing said Northerly right-of-way along the arc of a curve to the left having a radius of 3769.63 feet, an arc length of 47.099 feet (chord bears N60°41’15”W 47.99 feet); thence S01°06’26”W 22.68 feet to the true point of beginning, said parcel of land containing 483 square feet more or less.

Beginning at the intersection of a line 14.15 feet Southwesterly at right angles from the centerline of the right-of-way of said D&RGW railroad with the West line of that parcel described in deed recorded in Book 35 at Page 403; thence Southeasterly along a line 14.15 feet Southwesterly at right angles from the centerline of the right-of-way of said railroad, to a point that is 18 feet Easterly from the Northeast corner of a wood shed, as shown on a railroad rightof-way survey prepared by Farnsworth Group, recorded at Reception No. 789; thence Southwesterly, along a line parallel with the West line of the East 17 feet of Lot 24, Block 1, of the Town of Carbondale, to the South right-of-way line of said RFTA railroad; thence Northwesterly, along the South right-of-way line of said RFTA railroad, to the West line of that parcel described in deed recorded in Book 35 at Page 403; thence Northeasterly, along said West line described in Book 35 at Page 403, to the point of beginning.

Said Public Hearing will be held at the Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO beginning at 6:00 p.m. on February 27, 2024.

The following property conveyed pursuant to

22 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • February 8-14, 2024

continued from page 2

A parcel of land situate in Section 34, Township 7 South, Range 88 West of the 6th Principal Meridian, Town of Carbondale, County of Garfield, said parcel of land being more particularly described as follows:

These two properties consist of a total area of approximately 1731 square feet and, together with adjacent Outlot B (Reception No. 817869), have a street address of 111 Main Street;

Copies of the Petition for Annexation, Annexation Plan and the proposed application are on file in the Planning Department office, Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO and may be examined during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The application may also be viewed on the Town’s website at: https://carbondalegov.org/departments/planning/current_land_use_applications.php If you would like to submit comments regarding this application please send them via email to jbarnes@carbondaleco.net by 5:00 pm on February 21, 2024. The comments will be entered into the record. If you have questions regarding the application, please contact Jared Barnes, Planning Director, at 970-510-1208.

PARTING SHOT

“The Heart of The Crystal” is a photo I took on a walk one autumn afternoon. It was a place we could walk by and see any day of the week. It was a beauty so common we took it for granted. And then, just like that, one day it was gone. It taught me a lot! To continually see the beauty before you and honor the loving Heart that’s in your presence with warmth. The beauty of being seen and seeing another is one the most amazing feelings. I hope we continue to see the beauty in the Earth and Each-Other! Photo and text by Mateo Sandate

Happy Valentine's Day!

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • February 8-14, 2024 • 23

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