Twelve minutes of my drive to work takes me through the scenic north end of the Crystal Valley on Highway 133. It's an opportune time to get centered; to plan the day; to observe nature's beauty and the changing of the seasons; and, sometimes, to curse out the driver who just passed me going 70+ mph. I may have left the house intending to bask in awe at what God hath wrought, but I end up yelling at the empty road in front of me: "What the heck, dude? On a blind curve? Geez Louise!” Or, if I’m being honest, something more colorful.
My first curse word of the day usually erupts around mile marker 59. You know it — the straightaway where a car driving less than 60 mph is dismissed outright without even a "How do you do?" or "Thank you ma'am." An exuberant driver, typically, tails me as close as possible before passing at an extreme speed. That it might make me hit my brakes to avoid a car coming towards us — and, worse, set me spinning on a patch of ice — matters not. Because that driver is only looking out for number one.
Do I want to retaliate? Yep, I do. Do I go through with it? Nope. My parents raised me well and the culprit is out of sight by the time I conjure the best method of exacting revenge. At least devising various scenarios makes the rest of the drive entertaining. The speed limit on Highway 133 between the BRB
No thanks to Boebert
and Hayes Creek Falls is 50 mph. From there to Placita, it drops to 40 mph. I was told as a kid that those sections of road were built in such a way that they could be driven safely at those speeds without having to slow down for curves. Urban myth? Maybe, but 50 and 40 do seem to be the magic numbers for avoiding repeated slow downs and speed ups. If only more drivers were interested in testing that out.
These almost daily vehicular dustups certainly frustrate. So far, my experiences have been minor compared to those of some Crystal Valleyans. Folks have been driven off the road because of such circumstances. It’s extreme stuff to encounter on a curvy two-lane road bordered by the Valley wall and the river. Add nighttime driving, and those new low-beam headlights that sear your eyeballs, and safely reaching one’s destination can be a mini miracle.
The lack of law enforcement in the Valley perpetuates the problem.
Folks we see walking between Redstone and the Coke Ovens travel at about 2.5 to 3 mph. The kids getting off of the school bus probably move slightly faster. Impressive cyclists who frequent 133 in the summer might make 18 mph.
Then there are the quadrupeds that occupy the fringes of the highway and traverse it frequently. A leisurely walk for a mule deer is about the same as a human, but they can run 35 mph. A mature male elk can run as fast as 40 mph. But sometimes 40 isn’t fast enough. My husband and I hit an elk once. It was on Highway 82 by Aspen Glen at 5am. I’ll never forget the shock of a huge animal slamming into the front of our car. Or, more accurately, the shock of our car slamming into a huge animal. We pulled over, examined the crunched bumper and hood and looked for the elk. It wasn’t there. The police officer said the bull would likely have wandered off the highway where he would collapse and die. To say that we were devastated would be an understatement.
A few years later, while driving to Carbondale, we saw a deer writhing in the middle of Highway 133 near
Where are the fact checkers when needed? Lauren Boebert, with her tilted moral compass, has no shame. But really you should know better than to take a press release from her at face value. Surely you realize that she has voted against every bill that would have helped our district. She is claiming credit for 10 community projects that were approved as part of H.R. 4366, the Consolidated Appropriations Act — a bill she and 82 other Republicans voted against. Before voting NO on this bill, she called it a “monstrosity … that excludes nearly all conservative policy riders we fought for.” Huh? One of Joe Biden's campaign promises was to address our country's infrastructure needs. That he has been able to accomplish this with such an obstructionist congress is nothing short of remarkable. So please give credit to President Biden and his team, and the Democrats who passed H.R. 4366, for providing $20 million for Colorado water and infrastructure projects.
Annette Roberts-Gray CarbondaleEditor's note: The Sopris Sun printed an item in Scuttlebutt last week about H.R. 4366 based on a press release from Boebert's office. We, and the press release, neglected to state that Rep. Boebert voted against the bill.
Thomas Road. We stopped and the driver behind us walked up to ask if we had a gun. It was the only time in my life I wished I had one.
The point is, it happens all too often.
If you value wildlife, you likely find it heart-wrenching to see a creature that is hurt and struggling in vain. To know our species is even tangentially responsible is a terrible feeling. Other than keeping my speed down, staying alert and saying a little prayer, I feel pretty helpless about bettering the odds. Fortunately, there’s an organization that’s working on behalf of everyone’s safety. Roaring Fork Safe Passages (roaringforksafepassages. org) was formed to study wildlifevehicle collisions and propose solutions. According to their website, wildlife collisions account for 30% of all reported accidents in the Roaring Fork watershed. For the Crystal Valley, they’ve identified the stretch near Sustainable Settings as a high priority site for a wildlife crossing. Their data indicates that rising needs for housing, transportation and recreation has resulted in habitat fragmentation.
Migration corridors are ingrained in the DNA of ungulates. Herds of elk will settle in the front yards of suburban neighborhoods. We look for the bighorn in Filoha Meadows because we know they’ll be there at some point in the spring. We’ve all seen the deer that cross 133 near the Montessori school in Carbondale. Carbondale has been there a long time. Deer have been there longer.
I don’t retaliate when I encounter clueless speed demons, but a lack of action won’t improve the situation either. It’s time to figure out a way to educate and make a difference.
Thankfully, many drivers are not just looking out for number one. Making our highways safer for humans and wildlife will require the compassion and efforts of many. More people must understand that our relationship with the wild parts of our Valley should be centered in respect.
To learn more about the Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association, visit www.cvepa.org
I recently had the pleasure of having lunch at the Village Smithy with Caitlin Carey, candidate for Garfield Board of County Commissioners District Two. The food, as usual, was delicious and the conversation was insightful. Carey talked at length about one of my favorite topics: Garfield County’s unhealthy dependence on oil and gas extraction for its revenues. She said 59% of the county’s revenues come from the industry and that puts the county on a very unsteady path.
Fossil fuels are currently experiencing a downturn and with increased reliance on renewables, the situation isn’t projected to improve. The county is operating in the red and county services such as Health and Human Services are being cut to the bare bones. Sheriff Lou Vallario was begging for two new squad cars, but the commissioners are telling him the county can’t afford them. She’d like to see more endowment investments, county encouragement of affordable housing projects and methane capture near Parachute similar to what’s being done near Somerset. Carey is a wife, mother, a paralegal at a law firm here in Carbondale and a member of the New Castle Town Council. She’s running for the seat being vacated by seven-term commissioner John Martin.
continued on page 24
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Beginning April 1, crews will begin replacing water lines for the new Forest Service building in Carbondale. For about three weeks, westbound traffic will be rerouted to Colorado Avenue between Sixth Street and Seventh Street. Eastbound traffic will remain on Main Street but will use the north lane, closer to the Post Office. Post Office customers will have to enter from the west and exit to the east on Main Street.
The Town of Marble is also hosting a board of trustees election this spring. Mayor Ryan Vinciguerra will defend his seat against Tony Petrocco, a current trustee and former mayor (2008-2012). Petrocco faced a recall attempt when he served as mayor in 2011 for allegedly working with local businessman Vince Savage in a way that appeared deceptive to some members of the public; he maintained his seat with 30 people voting in favor of the recall and 34 against. Vinciguerra is the owner of Slow Groovin’ BBQ and has served as mayor since 2020. Although three additional seats are up, Dustin Wilkey is the only person who returned a nomination petition. Marble residents can vote in-person at the Marble Hub on April 2 from 7am to 7pm.
The Garfield County Commissioners granted Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) $60,000 from the Conservation Trust Fund for an improvement project for the boat ramp next to the Hardwick Bridge on County Road 154 — about halfway between Carbondale and Glenwood Springs on the Roaring Fork River. The initial project bid is $223,850, which includes improvements to parking and river access. Construction is slated to begin on Aug. 15 and wrap up in September.
The deadline to submit sketch concepts for the Mountain Fair t-shirt and poster design contest is April 1!
This year’s theme is: “This Must Be the Place: Feet on the ground, head in the sky.” Need some inspiration? The entertainment lineup was (mostly) announced last week and can be found at www.carbondalearts.com/mountainfair
Independence Run & Hike held a FUNdraising Run and afterparty, starting and ending at Mountain Heart Brewery on Thursday, March 21. The $1,300 netted will go toward local Sara Porter’s campaign for the American Liver Foundation which wraps up after she runs the Boston Marathon in April. For more information and to contribute to the cause, visit tinyurl.com/SaraPorterALF
Photo courtesy of Kyle Jones, Independence Run & Hike
The Basalt Sanitation District was awarded a $900,000 interest-free grant from the Department of Local Affairs for energy efficiency and equipment upgrades. “Basalt Sanitation District discharges treated wastewater into the Gold Medal waters of the Roaring Fork River, making the efficient and responsible management of their operations essential to not only our community in Basalt but also all our surrounding communities and downstream users,” said Roaring Fork Engineering (RFE) project manager Maggie McHugh. “This project represents a major upgrade for critical systems that are close to 25 years old.” RFE helped secure the grant, which will fund about 40% of the project.
Mother’s Day is rapidly approaching! All local mothers who have welcomed a baby into their lives this past year are invited to have a portrait taken to run in The Sopris Sun’s May 9 edition. Our professional photographer will be setting up at the Third Street Center (520 S. 3rd Street, Carbondale) on April 6 and 13, with additional dates added if necessary. Please email raleigh@soprissun.com or call 970-510-3003 to coordinate.
A “little brown bat” in Boulder County was diagnosed with white-nose syndrome, a disease caused by an invasive fungus that has killed millions of bats in North America. This comes just weeks after a Longmont bat was confirmed to have the same disease, indicating that additional bats have been exposed and may be found in the coming weeks. White-nose syndrome was first discovered in Colorado in March 2023. “We continue to ask those visiting caves to decontaminate their gear to prevent human spread of the fungus and remind the public not to handle bats when encountered but instead report them to CPW,” a press release stated. “Of the 19 bat species native to Colorado, at least 13 may be susceptible to this disease.”
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Hank van Berlo, Madilyn Ebel, John Field, Damon Scher and Pat Wanner (March 28); Stacey Bernot, Lyzzi Borkenhagen, David Hayes, Lucy Perutz, Bob Schultz and Jesse Terrell (March 29); Jorie DeVilbiss and Megan Wussow (March 30); Georgia Ackerman, Colleen Borkovec and Jane Hart (March 31); Walter Gallacher, Jake Hawkins, Dave Ritchie, Francis Stuckens and Ed Troy (April 2); Jeff Busk, Lorena Medina Jones and Terri Ritchie (April 3).
On March 12, the Carbondale Parks and Recreation Department sent a press release detailing recent vandalism at the Red Hill/ Mushroom Rock trail. According to that statement, the Red Hill Council’s trail counter box, a device that captures heat sources to help track trail usage and wildlife movement, was broken into and damaged. It was located on a section of the trail under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management.
Additionally, woody debris was displaced into roughly 30 large piles, resembling bonfires awaiting ignition, along Ruthie's Run, Three Gulch Trail and further up toward Mushroom Rock.
The material had previously been placed by volunteers in high-impact areas to deter hikers and bikers from
RFOV performed last year. While RFOV has plans to send a crew to Red Hill later this spring, the scope of work has yet to be determined.
“It seems from our communication with the Town of Carbondale it may be a priority to fix that work that was completed last year as soon as possible,” she told The Sopris Sun. “It's a disappointment that that work was dismantled and that there was a lack of care for all of the community effort that went into it.”
The vandalism has left all entities involved in investigating it baffled, including the BLM, Carbondale Police and Red Hill Council. Penalties for destroying property on federal land can include hefty fines and potential jail time. This destruction has been estimated at $7,000 to $10,000 in damages.
“We're trying to figure out who's doing this,” said Carbondale Parks and Recreation Director Eric Brendlinger. “It is considered vandalism to work done specifically for restoration purposes, and they are dismantling that work. All these people have such a
vested interest in the longterm maintenance of this trail system, and we want to figure this out."
Brendlinger pointed out that displacing the woody debris not only harms efforts to protect wildlife and cryptobiotic soil, but also creates a fire hazard when accumulated into piles.
“We want to investigate this to ensure that there is no nefarious reason behind these actions,” he stated. “It might be somebody thinking they're doing something helpful, but it's misguided and misinformed if that's the case.”
Chris Brandt, president of the Red Hill Council board of directors, echoed Brendlinger's sentiments. “It
could be someone motivated to dismantle things, someone rejecting or not agreeing with the philosophies of our trail maintenance, or someone who's uninformed about what they're even messing with. They could be unaware that what they've changed was intentionally made that way by volunteers with restoration interests at heart,” he speculated.
Red Hill Council was made aware of these damages immediately and has since been working with others on the investigation, while also emphasizing the importance of respecting trails during mud season. This has included posts on social media accounts, bilingual fliers and
Trail counter boxes were damaged and piles of woody debris were mysteriously gathered into 30 piles on Red Hill — an inconvenience and a fire hazard. Courtesy photos
newspaper ads and banners at the trails.
This is not the first time they have struggled to maintain restoration efforts, Brandt said. “We've battled with it many times over the years. We've worked on several restoration and reclamation projects on Red Hill to consolidate and limit the footprint of disturbance to the established trail route to discourage the formation of social braids, alternative routes and shortcuts.”
If you have any information regarding vandalism at Red Hill/Mushroom Rock, contact the Red Hill Council at redhillcouncil@gmail.com or www.redhillcouncil.org
We already know that White House Pizza’s chocolate chipper is one of the finest desserts Carbondale has to offer — but how does it stack up for takeout?
To answer that question, The Sopris Sun once again assembled a panel of five judges for a blind taste test (we previously tackled burgers, tacos, soup and salad — though the closure of the first two winners will likely warrant a retest down the line). Sean Jeffries and Megan Tackett hosted, with Tracy Kallassy, Li McBrayer and John Stroud rounding out the panel. After making themselves sick on chocolate chip cookies, they found at least a couple you might want to consider if you don’t have the time to sit down with the chipper in all of its glory.
Why this particular taste test? For one thing, chocolate chip cookies are iconic — as evidenced by Hank Green’s recent assertion that they’re one of the best things we’ve done as a species (though he missed the opportunity to talk up inventor Ruth Graves Wakefield). They’re consequently a good baking baseline that also happens to be easy to eat on the go and widely available from a variety of different establishments.
Indeed, even with 3 B’s Bakery still waiting to open and no cookies to be found at Granetta Panini, Pollinator Chocolate or New York Pizza, there were still nine competitors. Each was purchased on the sly the day leading up
to the test and served at room temperature, with milk. The chipper, for comparison, was ordered online fresh and came with ice cream, but not the chocolate sauce and whipped cream that elevates it above a run-of-the-mill pizookie.
“It’s obviously not the same as sitting in the establishment and getting it hot, but it traveled just fine for me,” Tackett said. “The texture is just flawless.”
After that, three categories emerged: restaurants with the volume to be made fresh regularly, those that may have sat around a bit longer, and corporate cookies — which fared the worst. It may not even have been worth including Starbucks and Subway. Although Jeffries praised the latter’s chew, McBrayer found the flavor awfully artificial. “It was very evident which ones were homemade and made with love,” Tackett said.
In the crunchier category, Honey Butter’s famously-large cookie benefited from good chocolate, while Dos Gringos’ was described as a “trail cookie” that would hold up in a backpack.
“If it’s gonna be a little more crumbly, I want it to have some serious consistency like oatmeal,” Stroud noted.
McBrayer also preferred a softer cookie, which she got from the Village Smithy’s “very traditional chocolate chip cookie” — though the panel as a whole found it somewhat heavy on vanilla. Its Bonfire cousin down the street, by contrast, had more of an almond overtone, with big chocolate chunks and stock-photo aesthetics. There’s also a vegan version.
Plosky’s took chew to the extreme, perhaps because the author was skulking around waiting for the second batch to
finish after the first round sold out. “This is basically hardened cookie dough and I love that,” Jeffries noted.
But only two cookies garnered scores to compete with the chocolate chipper. Our runner up, Carbondale classic Peppino’s, comes in packs of two and received all-around solid reviews. “It’s the right texture, it’s got that nice lingering aftertaste,” Tackett said. “It knows exactly what it is and it knows it does it well.”
Her praise for the winner, Painted Pig, was even more effusive. “Right texture, right size, right ingredients. It tastes homemade,” she raved. “They’re new, so they still have hope and they’re trying.”
Indeed, it had been presented warm, and still retained a certain spicy aroma — whether cinnamon or nutmeg was up for debate. Added Kallassy, “The quality of the chocolate makes a big difference.”
In the end, the sheer variety earned praise from the panel. “I don’t think I’ve ever gone into any of these places and got a cookie before," Kallassy admitted.
The assembly was mixed on whether they’d go to Painted Pig, Peppino’s or White House to satisfy their cookie craving — or just stick to the ones Jeffries' mother sends.
“It’s such a classic dessert,” Tackett concluded. “We all have in our mind the perfect chocolate chip cookie, and no one of us would have the exact same iteration.”
CARBONDALE CLAY CENTER
PROXIMAL VERDURE
Exhibition sponsored by by HP BLOOMER & SAM OLIVER
First Friday Reception
April 5th, 6-8PM
In the CCC Gallery
March 11th - April 12th
Spellebration, the Roaring Fork Valley’s annual adult spelling bee with proceeds benefiting adult learners at Literacy Outreach, will mark its 30th anniversary with the theme "Under the LiteraSea" on April 5 at the Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs.
In an event press release, Literacy Outreach Executive Director Martha Fredendall said, “It’s the most fun you can have spelling. People love it because it’s an opportunity to let your inner nerd shine.”
Founded in 1986, Literacy Outreach, a Glenwood Springs-based nonprofit, is a nationally accredited program for adults to learn basic literacy skills, including reading, writing, math and conversational English.
Recalling the fundraiser’s origins, Jenny Zetah, a long-time Spellebration participant and Literacy Outreach volunteer, recalled that about 30 years ago she, Fredendall and the then-executive director went to a literacy spelling competition to see how it was done. “Then we tweaked it and brought our own back to Glenwood Springs, and we’ve been doing it ever since,” she said.
Event co-host and emcee Bruce Leland got involved with Spellebration about 17 years ago when he and his wife, Eileen, participated as spellers on a team sponsored by the 100 Club — composed of outdoor enthusiasts over 50 who, according to their Facebook page, with tongue-in-cheek, refer to themselves as "a drinking club with a hiking problem."
About six years ago, “I decided I'd like to help with the actual performance part of the event,” Leland shared. On stage, he and co-host Steve Shute move the festivities along by telling corny jokes — many of them “groaners” — to which Leland wholeheartedly admits, “We do some ad-libbing, too.” All of the folly adds to the charm and fun of Spellebration.
Over its three-decade history, Leland said the number of spellers (in teams of three people) has grown yearly, and costumes have become more elaborate and play a significant role in incorporating puns. For instance, during a pirate-themed year, Leland recounted, “We wore shirts with the pi symbol, hats with rat heads on them and carried carob beans. So, we were the ‘Pi-rats of the Carob Bean.’”
Leland recalled the efforts taken to keep the event going during the COVID-19 pandemic, hosting the event online for two years.
“It was challenging for all of us. We were crowded into the Literacy Outreach offices, signaling to one another and passing notes around. So, what we did online looked a lot more seamless than it actually was,” he said with a chuckle.
In 2023, they gathered in person once again at the Hotel Colorado. “We did lose some faithful participants when we couldn't do it the usual way because a big part of it is being there in person with the costumes and the whole atmosphere,” Leland explained.
The method for the spelling rounds has changed over time. Before, a single speller from each team would stand at a microphone in the center of the room. "It was nerve-wracking. Now, we're using laptops to spell every word and tallying the most correctly spelled words by the end of the evening," Zetah clarified.
Zetah, who has spent years teaching ESL (English as a Second Language) in local schools and in East Africa, said, “Literacy Outreach has helped so many people be a part of the community and gives them those basic literacy and financial skills.”
“I think those of us who like words just get a kick out of it,” Zetah said.
“All of this is to help Literacy Outreach. And that's the whole point: to have fun and raise money for Literacy Outreach, which performs a very valuable service for Garfield County,” Leland concluded.
Doors open at 5:30pm on April 5, and spelling starts at 6pm. In addition to a friendly-spirited spelling competition, the event offers a silent auction, food and a cash bar. A couple of local businesses have offered to sponsor teams of spellers by covering their registration fees. For more information about Spellebration, visit www.tinyurl.com/ Spellebration For more information about Literacy Outreach, visit literacyoutreach.org
The Aspen Indigenous Foundation (AIF) hosted the Fifth Annual Shining Mountains Film Festival (SMFF) at the Wheeler Opera House in December. To reach more downvalley viewers, three select films will screen at 6:30pm on April 3 at The Arts Campus at Willits (TACAW).
“The mission of the foundation is to increase the awareness in the Roaring Fork Valley of the Indigenous presence, history and wisdom through cultural programs and community education,” Deanne Vitrac-Kessler, the founder and executive director of AIF, told The Sopris Sun.
AIF gives back what it can to address the severe lack of resources on reservations. In fact, some of the proceeds from the event at TACAW will help fund a Victory Ride — a four day ride on horseback where youth of the Lakota Nation will follow in the footsteps of Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull to the battlefield of the Little Bighorn.
The full-length feature film of the evening, “Aitamaako’tamisskapi Natosi: Before the Sun,” is about a young Blackfoot woman, Logan Red Crow, who competes in a thrilling and dangerous bareback horse race. She is one of only a few women to participate.
Red Crow plans to join via Zoom following the film for a Q&A.
“Mylo,” one of the two short films, was shot on the Navajo (Dine)
Reservation. Mylo Fowler is a Navajo man and photographer “who goes in the wild and takes beautiful films of the natural beauty and scenery and wild horses,” summarized Vitrac-Kessler.
Vitrac-Kessler helped produce the other short film, “Healing of the Dragonfly,” about an Oglala Lakota man named Joe Pulliam, a ledger artist and a warrior. The Sopris Sun had the chance to speak with Pulliam ahead of the screenings at TACAW, which he plans to attend.
He currently lives in Rapid City, South Dakota but spent most of his life on the Pine Ridge Reservation. However, until 10-years-old, he lived in St. Paul, Minnesota, as his parents were relocated as a result of the Bureau of Indian Affairs’ 1956 American Indian Urban Relocation program.
He joined the army at 18 and then went to art school before returning to the reservation to work as a graphic designer. At some point, he became addicted to alcohol, which took a heavy toll. This year, he will be seven years sober.
“It’s my sobriety that has really opened doors for me and given me a second chance at life, and also in reclaiming my culture and reclaiming my language,” Pulliam stated.
He explained the origins of ledger art.
“Ledger art originated with the Cheyenne Dog Soldiers who fought
the United States army at Julesburg, Colorado in 1862. They captured the army’s ledger book … Over the years, 13 different Dog Soldier warrior artists did 100 drawings in that ledger book depicting combat scenes and other societal events and ceremonies.”
Sitting Bull himself was commissioned to draw 13 pieces of ledger art, seven of which are in the Smithsonian today. “This medium was very integral in preserving a lot of our history and culture,” Pulliam stated.
He continues the tradition, documenting current and historical events, and often will use documents associated with mining or railroad companies that are at war with the earth.
He spoke to the struggle of Native Americans in preserving their culture after centuries of forced assimilation. Growing up, his parents were punished for speaking their language and he was highly discouraged. The reservations
were created as prisoner of war camps, he pointed out. “They were never intended to develop economies or house healthy lifestyles or livelihoods.”
Still, “We all have higher hopes for our society to develop an economy, to develop an infrastructure and to develop a quality of life, so that we can partake in the American dream.”
“We’re using ledger art to bring awareness to social issues and historical injustices … It's like the warrior’s new weapon in this ongoing battle, in this gigantic war.”
When asked if there was anything else he would like to add, Pulliam simply stated, “That I am Ogalala Lakota, from the Pine Ridge Reservation and my Lakota name is Akicita Tokahe [The Leading Warrior into Battle].”
“I want to use art to help heal my people,” he concluded.
For tickets, visit tacaw.org
Aspen Film will host the 33rd Annual Shortsfest at the Wheeler Opera House and Isis Theatre from April 1 through 7. The Oscar-qualifying festival will feature works by emerging filmmakers from 24 countries, with 58% of the films directed or co-directed by women.
The Sopris Sun spoke with Shortsfest’s programming director, Jason Anderson, by phone last week while he was in Scotland, serving as a juror at the Glasgow Short Film Festival.
Anderson observed “a big surge in filmmakers making a big effort to connect with people through film,” as evidenced by this year’s 3,100 short film submissions, making it the largest number of entries in Shortsfest history.
Through a process of screeners reviewing submissions, that pool was eventually whittled down to the 70 short films screening at this year’s Shortsfest, where three juries will award nine cash prizes and an Audience Award will be selected by festival goers.
To pique filmgoers’ interest, Anderson gave The Sopris Sun a sneak peek at a handful of films screening at the Wheeler Opera House next week.
Screening on April 2, at 8pm, “Holiday House,” written and directed by American filmmaker Alex Heller, stars
Colorado-born and raised actor AnnaSophia Robb, playing a YouTube-like social media influencer who creates how-to videos on building miniature holiday villages and dollhouses.
An examination of the times we’re living in, “Heller asks, ‘What does it mean to build a business online, from the perspective of someone who's a social media influencer, and having to surrender part of your life to the Internet in hopes of making a living?’”
Anderson said.
"Nola," directed by Canadian filmmakers Aisha Evelyna and Natalie Remplakowski, will screen on April 3 at 8pm. Evelyna, a Toronto-based actress, takes on the role of a cook working in the fast-paced environment of a restaurant kitchen. Anderson said "Nola" may resonate with filmgoers familiar with the FX series "The Bear," which follows the
journey of a young chef as he returns home to manage his late brother's restaurant.
“The one thing we always look for is charismatic performances, and this film certainly has that. Our experiences in workplaces have definitely become more topical, and this film depicts that daily psychological and emotional impact of being in that intense kind of space,” Anderson explained.
“Existimos en la Memoria [We Exist in Memory]” screens on April 4 at 5pm. American director Darian Woehr, a National Geographic Explorer and award-winning documentary filmmaker, gives us an intimate glimpse into the lives of Maria and her grandchild, Marucha, both displaced Indigenous refugees. For Maria, the Venezuelan delta represents home, while for Marucha, the refugee camps are the only home she has known. The film delves
into the complexities of nurturing a new generation amidst displacement and highlights the profound connection between land, memory and identity.
“You realize how much the family bond is paramount, and how those core relationships sustain people experiencing hardship in the places where they've been displaced and while trying to find a new life elsewhere,” Anderson said.
Festival passes and general admission tickets can be purchased online at aspenfilm. org/festival/2024-shortsfest
The Voices in Film Youth Forum offers free youthfocused events, beginning with the Student Film Program and Youth Forum Kickoff Event taking place on April 1 at Glenwood Springs High School from 1 to 2:25pm. This in-school event showcases festival films, a documentary by a young Colorado filmmaker and a film from Aspen Film's Summer Film Camp. The interactive session, led by students, includes a filmmaker Q&A. GrassRoots Community TV will broadcast the event.
Regna Jones, the head of education for Aspen FilmEducates, shared, “Broadly speaking, our education outreach is year-round, so we have projects that happen throughout the year, with one of our biggest activations happening during Shortsfest.”
Austin Skalecki, a Wisconsin-based folk and blues musician, makes his Steve’s Guitars debut on April 5. He is looking forward to performing his original songs in the intimate space and sharing the stories which inspired them.
Skalecki was inspired to pursue music after growing up listening to artists like Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan and Kris Kristofferson. His lyrics speak to the simple pleasures of life and the connections people make. These themes are prevalent in his newest single, “Simple Things.”
“My new single is about taking a step back from life for a moment and finding ways to smile through all of the little instances in everyday life,” Skalecki told The Sopris Sun. “One of the lyrics in it says, ‘I got a mango in my bag for lunch; it does the job even though it ain't that much.’ … It’s about finding happiness within the simple things of life.”
As a traveling musician, he said that much of his recent content comes from new experiences and the people he has met along the way.
“In the last three years, I’ve started using music to travel. I have enjoyed sharing songs and going to new places … Colorado was one of the first states I started playing shows outside of the Midwest,” he shared. “I like to go rambling and I have met many people. I get a lot of stories from that.”
He described his writing process as therapeutic.
“I get this almost high from writing a song — where everything disappears momentarily,” he said. “That's what I love about songwriting. It's almost like a therapeutic tool, like a medicine. That’s how I like to look at it.”
Skalecki said that he appreciates Steve’s for its listening-room-esque setting, so he can share stories in between tracks. He prefers an intimate crowd and the opportunity to get up close and personal.
“I was looking for venues to contact. Seeing all the pictures and the artists [Steve’s] was bringing in, it felt like it would fit the mood I was going for,” he stated.
During this tour of Colorado, he continues to work on new music and seek out those experiences that inspire him. Specifically, he values the state’s abundance of nature and has considered even doing some recording outdoors.
“I have a lot of stuff already recorded and am focusing on getting the promotional work done. I would like to continue to do albums out in the middle of nature, somewhere that I connect deeply with” he concluded. “I’ll set up the mic and do raw and organic takes. I think that’s the direction I want to go in next.”
It sounds like he came to the right place.
To get tickets for Skalecki’s show at Steve’s Guitars, visit www.stevesguitars.net. To keep up with the artist, follow him on Spotify and Instagram at @austinskaleckimusic or visit austinskaleckimusic.com
Shortsfest’s films offer teachers an opportunity to enhance their curriculum by inviting filmmakers to classrooms to discuss their creative process and inspiration. Additionally, Aspen FilmEducates’ online platform enables classrooms from Aspen to Parachute to access films for viewing throughout April.
“The goal is to expose young people to great storytelling and the understanding that film is one of the most democratizing mediums,” Jones explained. “We can break through the noise of all the other things that they are able to watch online to show them films from around the world and open the window to different cultures and the shared and common themes of what it is to be human.”
A new event this year is the FilmEducates Gay-Straight Alliance Screening, taking place on April 7, from 2 to 3:30pm at the Isis Theatre. The event is open to the public with a suggested $20 donation to Aspen FilmEducates. Aspen Film and AspenOut have joined forces to raise awareness about local high school gay-straight alliance chapters with the screening of five Shortsfest films, followed by a Q&A session with filmmakers Harris Doran and Hao Zhou, emceed by Bryan Alvarez-Terrazas. To reserve a seat for this event, visit tinyurl. com/GayStraightAspenFilm Tickets are free for teachers and students.
In "Holiday House" an online content creator feels compelled to allow her online supporter to visit her workspace. Courtesy photo
We are delighted to offer you, our community, the opportunity to take advantage of low-cost blood tests
June 7 & 8
ASPEN
Aspen Valley Hospital Campus
Hosted at Aspen Ambulance 0403 Castle Creek Road
EL JEBEL
Eagle County Community Center 20 Eagle County Drive
By appointment only 8:00-11:30 am
Lab Tests Offered
• HealthScreen w/CBC – $79
Includes CBC, CMP, Ferritin, Iron Panel, Lipid Panel, TSH and Uric Acid (Fasting Required)
• hsCardio CRP – $42
• Hemoglobin A1C & EAG – $44
• PSA, Total – $47
• Vitamin D – $54
• T3, Free – $32
• T4, Free – $32
• CBC (Complete Blood Count) – $32
Visit aspenhospital.org/health-fair or scan the code for complete details.
Make your appointMent starting ApriL 17.
THURSDAY, MARCH 28
STORYTIME
The Carbondale Library hosts storytime for 0-5 year olds at 10:30am.
MORTALITY
Akaljeet Khalsa hosts a conversation about dying with grace at True Nature from 4:30 to 6pm. This community offering is free.
SOUND JOURNEY
Danielle Klein performs a Spring Equinox sound journey at True Nature from 6 to 7:15pm. Tickets at truenaturehealingarts.com
CRYSTAL THEATRE
“Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire” shows tonight at 7pm and Saturday at 4:30pm. “One Life” opens tomorrow at 7pm and continues Saturday and April 4 at 7pm, with a 5pm showing this Sunday.
FRIDAY, MARCH 29
BOOT TAN FEST
Sunlight Mountain Resort hosts the third annual Boot Tan Fest today and tomorrow. “Designed for women and femme folks,” the weekend includes music, games and more. Tickets at boottanfest.com
SOUND JOURNEY
Dr. Zachary Cashin hosts a “vibrational sound healing journey” at the Third Street Center from 7 to 8:45pm. To sign up, visit tcfhf.org
STEVE’S GUITARS
Haley Harkin and Carly Anne perform at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at stevesguitars.net
SATURDAY, MARCH 30
WHERE MY PEEPS AT?
The Town of Carbondale hosts an all-ages egg hunt spanning different public parks. “Please limit yourself to one gift per person; if you don’t like the gift, leave the full egg for someone else to find and keep hunting.” Visit tinyurl. com/WhereMyPeeps for more info.
PRUNING PRACTICE
Colorado Edible Forest, UpRoot Colorado, CSU Extension and Pitkin County Open Space host a fruit tree pruning workshop and volunteer day in Emma from noon to 4pm. To sign up, visit coloradoedibleforest. com/workshops Location details received upon registering.
SUNDAY, MARCH 31
CLOSING DAY(S)
It’s closing day at Buttermilk! April 7 is closing day for Highlands, April 13 for Snowmass and April 21 for Aspen Mountain.
HAPPY EASTER
The First Presbyterian Church of Glenwood Springs invites the community to celebrate Easter. All are welcome to attend the Easter morning breakfast at 8:30am, followed by a 10am service and culminating in an Easter egg hunt for the kiddos.
MONDAY, APRIL 1
MOTHERING 101
KLR Baby continues its eight-week early motherhood course, meant for pregnant mothers 35+ weeks along or whose newborns are 6 months or younger. Mothers can drop in for a single session or attend the entire series hosted on Mondays at 10:30am at the Basalt Library. Call 847-894-6546 with questions.
IN STITCHES
The In Stitches Knitting Club convenes at the Carbondale Library at 1:30pm.
DEATH CAFE
Death Cafe offers a safe place to share thoughts and hear others’ on the subject of death and dying at the Basalt Library from 5 to 6:30pm. This is not a bereavement or counseling session but an opportunity to bring comfort in talking about the subject. All are welcome and tea and cake will be provided.
EFFECTIVE REWRITING
Colorado Mountain College offers a twice weekly writing class, meeting on Mondays and Fridays in April from 6 to 8pm via Zoom. Presenter Edith Lynn Hornik-Beer has been published by major houses and will help participants whip their manuscripts into shape. For more info, call 970-870-4444.
BRYAN BIELANSKI
No joke! Bryan Bielanski returns to Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at stevesguitars.net
TUESDAY, APRIL 2
RAISING A READER
The Basalt Library hosts Raising a Reader/ Bolistas Rojas, when 0-5 year olds who are not enrolled in school enjoy storytime, activities and more, every Tuesday at 10:30am.
SOLAR CEREMONY
A partnership between the Town of Basalt and the Roaring Fork School District to construct five solar arrays is nearing completion and will be celebrated with a ribbon-cutting and groundbreaking ceremony at Basalt High School at 4pm.
SHORTSFEST
Aspen Film’s 33rd Shortsfest kicks off with a reception at the Public House at 5pm, followed by Program 1 at the Wheeler Opera House at 7pm. Film programs and panels continue through Sunday. Find the full schedule and tickets at aspenfilm.org
SACRED BROTHERHOOD
Kyle Leitzke, a certified Ayurvedic counselor and life coach, hosts a “sacred brotherhood circle” for heart-centered men ages 18+ at the Basalt Library at 5:30pm. This week’s topic is “boundaries.”
THE BIG FIVE
The Big Five, hosted by HeadQuarters in Basalt, helps participants leverage the power of their nervous system to boost mental fitness, emotional wellbeing and overall health every first and final Tuesday of the month at 6pm. Visit headq.org for more info.
MASTER THE MASTERS
Liz Waters teaches about artist Joan Miró by inviting participants to recreate one of his famous lithographs at The Art Base from 6 to 9pm. All levels are welcome, find details at theartbase.org
STEVE’S GUITARS
Americana artist Jeff Crosby performs at Steve’s Guitars, together with friends, at 8pm. Tickets at stevesguitars.net
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3
COMMUNITY RADIO
KDNK’s spring membership drive kicks off with a live broadcast from the Village Smithy featuring Merle and Pastor Mustard from 8 to 10am. Stop by or tune in!
LIVING DONOR DAY
In honor of National Living Donor Day, the Carbondale Rec Center will host the Vitalant Bloodmobile from 10:30am to 3pm. Sign up at bit.ly/April3Cdale
TACAW STORYTIME
The Arts Campus At Willits (TACAW) hosts musical storytime at the Basalt Library Treehouse at 10:30am.
BEGINNING FOOD GARDENING
For beginning gardeners or anyone wanting to increase productivity in their garden.
Thursday, 6-8pm, 4/11
WINES OF JEREZ AND SAN LUCA DE BARRAMEDA
No other region ages their Sherry wine as long as this region. Tastings will us the deductive tasting method.
Friday, 6-8pm, 4/12
APOCALYPSE 101 SURVIVING A LONG EMERGENCY
How to survive local disasters, or a national/global catastrophe.
Sat, 10am-1pm, 5/18
ACRYLIC PAINTING FOR BEGINNERS
Basic exercises to introduce this medium, and creating finished pieces from the first class.
Tues, 1:30-4:30pm, 5/21-6/18
PHOTOGRAPHY 101
TEEN DEFENSE
Girls, 15-19, learn self-defense techniques based on Krav Maga at 2:30pm at the Basalt Middle School gym on Wednesdays. Call 970927-4311 x1004 or email bcrooke@ basaltlibrary.org for more info.
SPANISH CONVERSATIONS
The Spanish Conversation Club meets for social practice at Bodegón in Carbondale from 5 to 7pm.
SHINING MOUNTAINS
The Aspen Indigenous Foundation brings a selection from the 2023 Shining Mountains Film Festival to TACAW at 5:30pm. Visit tacaw. org for tickets and more info.
THURSDAY, APRIL 4
PARKINSON’S
Sopris Lodge hosts Jodi Brown, CEO of Parkinson Association of the Rockies, for an educational presentation from 2 to 3pm. To RSVP, call 970-6780057 or visit soprislodge.com/events
COMMON ROOTS
HeadQuarters hosts Common Roots, a men’s peer empowerment group, at 6pm. All adults who identify as he/him are invited.
REEL ROCK 18
The Basalt High School Climbing Club presents films from the Reel Rock 18 Film Tour at the high school at 5:30pm. Visit tinyurl.com/BHSReelRock for tickets and more info.
APOLOGY ART
Julie Oldham hosts “Mastering the Art of Apology” at True Nature at 6pm. To register, visit truenaturehealingarts.com
SWINGING LIGHTS
Steve’s Guitars presents The Swinging Lights, an amalgam of many genres, at 8pm. Tickets at stevesguitars.net
FRIDAY, APRIL 5
PRODUCED WATER
The Colorado Produced Water Consortium meets virtually from 9am to 1pm. Public comments on the final draft of the Initial Produced Water Regulatory Policy Coordination Recommendation Report are requested. For details contact hope.dalton@state.co.us
NATURE JOURNALING
Adults who wish to explore, observe and creatively document nature are invited to join a group of sketch book writers and artists every first Friday at 1pm at the Carbondale Library.
FIRST FRIDAY
“Spring into Wellness” with healing businesses and practitioners showcasing their offerings at the Rec Center from 5 to 8pm. Carbondale Arts hosts a closing reception for “Interdimensional Threads” at The Launchpad from 5 to 7pm. The Carbondale Clay Center hosts a reception for “Proximal Verdure,” an exhibit by HP Bloomer and Sam Oliver, at 6pm. The exhibit will be on display through April 12.
PRESCHOOL FUNDRAISER
Blue Lake and Little Blue
Preschools host a benefit with live music and a silent auction at TACAW from 6 to 10pm. More info at bluelakepreschool.org
SPELLEBRATION
Literacy Outreach’s 30th annual Spellebration event will be hosted at the Hotel Colorado beginning at 6pm. This year’s theme is “Under the LiteraSea.” Learn more at literacyoutreach.org
DOUBLE FEATURE
Austin Skalecki performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm, followed by June Star at 9:45pm.
Tickets at stevesguitars.net
SATURDAY, APRIL 6
SEED STARTING
Kim Doyle Wille teaches about starting and transplanting seeds at the Carbondale Library at 10am.
SOUND IMMERSION
Ildi Ingraham hosts a sound immersion experience at the Carbondale Library at 4pm.
DANA COOPER
Steve’s Guitars hosts Nashville’s Dana Cooper along his national CD release tour at 8pm.
Tickets at stevesguitars.net
CONSENSUAL IMPROV
TACAW presents Consensual Improv for a night of comedy beginning at 8pm. Tickets at tacaw.org
Learn to capture and process dynamic photographs and become a more confident photographer with Joe Lavine.
Tues, 6-8:30pm, 5/21-6/11
BEGINNING SWING DANCE
Learn the basics of Jitterbugsteps, turns, spins, dips - and get ready for your your next event.
Wed, 6-8:30pm, 5/22-6/12
SEWING
Start with a simple project or your own project of choice. Bring your machine or use ours.
Thurs, 6:30-9:30pm, 5/23-7/18
BALANCE AND MOBILITY
Consciously activate balance with strength, reflex, flexibility, sensory awareness, and concentration exercises.
Thurs, 1:30-2:20pm, 5/30-8/15
ZUMBA WITH MIMI
Burn lots of calories in this fun cardio fitness dance program with Latin music and rhythms.
Thurs, 6:30-7:30pm, 5/30-8/8
CMC Carbondale will custom build a CPR training for your staff or group members. Call Sheehan Meagher for more info at 970-963-2172
FOR MORE INFO AND TO REGISTER . . .
Carbondale Lappala Center 690 Colorado Ave 970.963.2172
In conversation with The Sopris Sun, Willow Windgood defined magic as “shifting from the mundane to extraordinary, from one frequency to another.” She believes in nature magic, which ebbs and flows, and our ability to tune in when it's present by being present within ourselves, witnesses to each moment. “I feel like we're all so overwhelmed with too much information and not enough time,” she said. “Cultivating ancient practices can attune one to … the ability to cultivate one's life as sacred ceremony – to be able to step into a sense of true essence and connection to Source. Guidance is so necessary, especially now.”
Windgood is a former resident of Carbondale, where she lived with her mother, Karen Good. Eventually they made the transition over McClure Pass and, in 2006, began remodeling an old General Electric building into an artist residency space, now known as Elsewhere Studios. The building itself has a living quality, with earthen walls, a meandering ditch,
surrounding grove of trees and reclaimed wood from all over. Windgood came to refer to the building as her “Temple of the Muse,” a name which is now adopted for a few months each year as the space becomes home to Paonia's School of Magick (SoM).
The seeds of SoM began to germinate for Windgood after she attended a yearlong living tarot course with Dr. Robert Sullivan, a Choctaw, Kabbalistic teacher known also as “Chi.” Windgood recognized that a plethora of esoteric teachers live in and around Paonia and she sought to bring their traditions together for a multi-lineage sharing opportunity: Toltec, Mexica, Kabbalah, Celtic and more.
“This is the third blooming of the program,” Windgood said. The School of Magick first convened for one month in 2022. Coming out of COVID, Windgood heard a wake-up call to slow down and localize, to live life with utmost intention. Last year, SoM programming spanned three months. This year, they are focusing on three immersion workshops, with one spanning May 4 to May 10.
“Drum Birthing: An Embodied Alchemical Process of Birthing Your Drum and Song” is enrolling students through April 15. This seven-day immersion will be guided by Tara Seren (taraseren.com), also a former resident of Carbondale. Seren will take participants through the process of building a personal drum, accompanied by methods to unite one’s spirit and body.
Seren, now living in Cedaredge, has hosted private retreats for 12 years. She offers her drumbuilding workshop for a minimum of three days with the preference for it to last a week in order to evoke the subtle energies that help a student emerge feeling renewed. “When we slow down enough and open into the inquiry,” Seren said, “we inherently know how we're going to unfold, or birth ourselves.”
Seren is also a doula, working with the birthing and dying processes. She studied natural medicines and believes in “using what takes us home to help us heal.” A drum is a beautiful medium, she said. “It's a portal or
gateway to a lot of things.”
Nonetheless, “It's not so much about having a drum.”
As each person builds their instrument, they will be exploring their psyche and spirit. Other teachers, including Chi, will accompany the process with Kundalini yoga, Qi Gong, purification ceremonies and more.
“It's going to be an exceptional and really amazing experience to have seven other individuals to help regulate systems while moving through changing our way of being,”
before the fire and their peers and share a personal song with their new drum.
All materials for the drums will be provided, with different choices of animal hides, all ethicallysourced. Meals will also be provided by chef Chrys Bailey, using as many local ingredients as possible.
“The more people there are with drums in hand, connecting with their heartbeat,” Seren said, “the less we have people going straight to violence.”
Aspen Public Radio ha creado la siguiente Guía Electoral para ayudarte a encontrar la información que necesitas para votar, incluyendo fechas electorales importantes y listas de candidatos locales.
También estamos encuestando a la comunidad para averiguar cuáles son los temas que más preocupan a la gente y así ayudar a dar forma a nuestra cobertura de las elecciones de 2024. Dinos lo que tu quieres saber sobre los candidatos que se presentan a las elecciones y en qué pensarás cuando completes la papeleta electoral.
Escanea el código QR para compartir tus opiniones.
Cómo votar
GoVoteColorado.gov es la página principal de información electoral del Estado. Puedes registrarte para votar por primera vez, comprobar tu registro de votante y ver la papeleta de muestra. Si te mudaste, puedes cambiar tu dirección para asegurarte de que recibas la papeleta. Y una vez que hayas votado, también puedes seguir el estado de tu papeleta de votación por correo.
Puedes encontrar más información sobre cómo votar en las próximas elecciones a través de la página web de tu gobierno local.
Fechas clave
Si deseas recibir la papeleta por correo, debes actualizar tu inscripción al menos ocho días antes de las elecciones. Si piensas votar en persona, puedes inscribirte para votar hasta el día de las elecciones en un centro electoral y de servicio al votante de tu localidad.
Próximas oportunidades para votar:
• 2 de abril: elecciones municipales para la ciudad de Carbondale y la ciudad de Basalt
• 23 de abril: elecciones especiales para la ciudad de Glenwood Springs
• 25 de junio: elecciones primarias en todo el estado de Colorado, incluidas las primarias para los condados de Pitkin, Eagle y Garfield, el distrito 3 del congreso de los EE.UU., el distrito 5 del Senado del estado de Colorado, el distrito 57 de la Cámara de Representantes del estado de Colorado y
los regentes de la Universidad de Colorado.
• 5 de noviembre: Elecciones generales para elegir presidente de los Estados Unidos, representantes estatales y del Congreso, regentes de la Universidad de Colorado y comisionados locales del condado.
El lugar donde vives determina lo que verás en la papeleta electoral este año. En 2024 se celebrarán varias elecciones locales, estatales y nacionales, así como varias medidas electorales. Estas son algunas de las elecciones clave para nuestra región:
Las elecciones municipales de Basalt se celebran el 2 de abril. Los candidatos tienen mandatos de cuatro años.
Alcalde (un escaño vacante)
David Knight
Consejo municipal (tres escaños vacantes)
Hannah Berman
Angele Dupre-Butchart
Chris Mullen
Kaja L. Rumney
Richard Stevens
Tres concejales actuales no conservarán sus escaños: David Knight se presenta a alcalde, Glen Drummond dimitió el 30 de noviembre y Elyse Hottel no se presenta a la reelección.
Las elecciones municipales de Carbondale se celebran el 2 de abril.
Los candidatos tienen mandatos de cuatro años.
Ross Kribbs
Christina Montemayor
Susan Rhea
Jessica Robison
Los administradores salientes de Carbondale son Marty Silverstein (mandato limitado), Lani Kitching (mandato limitado) y Luis Yllanes (no se presenta a reelección).
Elecciones especiales en Glenwood Springs
Glenwood Springs celebrará elecciones extraordinarias el 23 de abril.
Esta elección especial contará con una medida de votación: "Mantenga Glenwood, Glenwood", también llamada pregunta A de la papeleta.
La medida requeriría una votación pública en caso de que:
• la ciudad quiera anexar terrenos
• la ciudad quiera vender terrenos de su propiedad
• la ciudad quiera construir viviendas en terrenos de su propiedad.
También requeriría la aprobación de la comisión de planificación y zonificación de Glenwood y del consejo municipal para cualquier proyecto de más de cuatro unidades.
Junta de comisionados del condado de Garfield
Las primarias para todas las elecciones a comisionado del condado tendrán lugar el 25 de junio. Los candidatos tienen mandatos de cuatro años. Distrito 2
Perry Will (R)
Caitlin Carey (D)
Nota: El republicano John Martin (distrito 2), que ocupa su escaño desde 1996, no se presentará a reelección.
Nota del Editor:
Según Glenwood Springs Post Independent, Caleb Waller no obtuvo suficientes votos de la asamblea de comisionados del condado de Garfield para que su nombre apareciera en la
boleta primaria. Tiene la opción de solicitar ser incluido en la boleta electoral, pero le dijo al Glenwood Springs Post Independent que no tiene intención de hacerlo.
Distrito 3
Mike Samson (R) (titular)
Steven Arauza (D)
Junta de comisionados del condado de Eagle
Distrito 1
Matt Scherr (D) (titular)
Distrito 2
Tom Boyd (D)
Sarah Smith Hynes (D)
Nota: Kathy Chandler Henry (Distrito 2) se retira de su escaño.
Junta de comisionados del condado de Pitkin
Distrito 4
Jeffrey Woodruff (D)
Nota: Steve Child (Distrito 4) tiene un mandato limitado y se retirará de su escaño.
Distrito 3
Greg Poschman (D) (titular)
Distrito 5
Francie Jacober (D) (titular)
Distrito 3 del Congreso de EE.UU.
Los candidatos demócratas son: Adam Frisch, Aspen
Los candidatos republicanos son: Russ Andrews, Carbondale
Joe Granado, Fruita
Ron Hanks, Cañon City
Robin Heid, Montrose
Jeff Hurd, Grand Junction
Curtis McCrackin, Cedaredge
Austin O’Connell, Glenwood Springs
Stephen Varela, Pueblo
Distrito 5 del Senado del estado de Colorado
Los candidatos demócratas son: Cole Buerger, Glenwood Springs
Barbara Bynum, Montrose
Los candidatos republicanos son: Marc Catlin, Montrose
Distrito 57 de la Cámara de Representantes del estado de Colorado
Los candidatos demócratas son: Elizabeth Velasco, Glenwood Springs (titular)
Actualmente no se postula ningún candidato republicano.
En aspenpublicradio.org puede acceder a un archivo de noticias en inglés sobre cada contienda. Aspen Public Radio irá actualizando esta lista a lo largo de la temporada electoral, eliminando enlaces obsoletos y añadiendo otros nuevos, en función de lo que resulte más relevante para los votantes.
April Spaulding Katie Tabor Volumen 3, Número 5 | 28 de marzo - 3 de abril de 2024 Conectando comunidades desde 2021
El agua en la frontera es una crisis global en todos los sentidos ya que limita más la supervivencia de las especies. Mientras las personas están buscando la oportunidad de cruzar por la frontera sur de Estados Unidos y conocer nuevas oportunidades que han sido negadas en sus países. Se ha creado una desestabilización por Estados Unidos en una cadena alineada hacia un sistema capitalista en el cual los recursos naturales son el interés básico y el más importante para desarrollar materia prima. El desarrollo tecnológico juega un papel importante a la hora de producir más en tiempo real, la denominada gran maquinaria de consumo por periodos pop artísticos de marketing empresarial. Generando la idea
de necesitar más de lo que en realidad producimos y llevando a la necesidad de trabajar por cosas superfluas en donde la idea intelectual de generar conocimiento y oportunidades de educación se ven mermadas por la masificación de un capital de producto en donde el individuo conceptualiza el dinero como un medio para sentir cierta satisfacción personal y alivio.
Es muy contradictorio como podemos asumir desde dos esferas. La primera esfera de las oportunidades en donde la gente abiertamente manifiesta que su vida va bien y que el tener un día de esquiar en la montaña es un día perfecto. La segunda esfera donde existe el mesero indocumentado en el mismo pueblo con un salario injusto pero suficiente para mandar a su país. No es fácil poner sobre la mesa una esfera en la cual se percibe perfección en comparación con la otra esfera social en la cual se percibe felicidad en los pequeños detalles.
Es por ello que si se compara la ambigüedad de la frontera con la alineación capital podemos decir que el norte nos ha soltado agua. El Río Bravo como se le llama
acá en las laderas del valle de Ciudad Juárez o el Río Grande como se le llama del otro lado de la frontera. Este cuerpo de agua crea una barrera de oportunidades, necesidades, capitalismo. También crea los dos lados del espectro; esfera uno y dos, el rico y el pobre, el que migró y el que pertenece. Todos estos casos son parte de la gran madre naturaleza, el poderoso Río Bravo que es conocido como agresivo, poderoso, estruendosamente grande. El río que hoy lleva agua de donde se cultivaba y se sobrevivía.
Nos han soltado agua del Norte. El agua que viene desde las montañas rocosas de Colorado y surge en cuerpos de agua en Taos llegando a la frontera donde corría por un desemboqué hacia el Big Ben y de ahí seguía su paso hasta Dos Bocas en el Golfo de México. El agua es regulada por un tratado firmado por México y Estados Unidos en 1906. Tratado en el cual se da de mutuo acuerdo que la presa del Elefante y la presa del Caballo en Nuevo México capturara el agua para regular la entrega hacia el Valle de Juárez. El valle en el cual se cosechaba en aquellos días algodón y hoy en
El radón es un gas radiactivo canceroso que entra a hogares a través del suelo. La única manera de saber si su casa tiene radón es hacer la prueba. Salud Pública del Condado Garfield está ofreciendo pruebas gratuitas. Recoja su kit:
Salud Pública
2014 Blake Avenue
Glenwood Springs 970-665-6383
Salud Pública
Oficina CLEER
195 West 14th Street Rifle 970-665-6383
520 S. Third Street, #7
Carbondale 970-704-9200
40% de los hogares en el Condado Garfield han probado por encima del límite de acción de radón de la EPA.
No necesita vivir en el Condado Garfield para obtener una prueba.
Río Bravo sin agua y con algún tipo de contaminantes.
Foto por Victor Zamora
día algodón y un poco de nuez. Por lo contrario, localidades como Las Cruces o Hatch en Nuevo México quienes hacen uso del agua para las nogaleras y el famoso green chili (Chile Chilaca a Ocho Ochenta). Estas localidades se encuentran antes de que el agua llegue a la localidad de Juárez y El Paso. El problema no solamente es el corte de cauce natural si no todo lo que conlleva en la línea eco sistémica conectada hoy en día a través del Río Bravo. Este cuerpo de agua sirve para descanso de aves que migran desde el Hemisferio Norte en invierno y del Hemisferio Sur
de México hacia Canadá en verano, al igual que el cambio de castores que construían diques naturales con los troncos para atrapar peces de agua dulce o reptiles como tortugas del desierto quienes usan este majestuoso Río para endulzar su supervivencia. En si los recursos naturales siguen siendo controlados por el capital, el uso de producción masiva determinados por la esfera norte y la esfera sur goteando por donde se puede con una carencia de intelectualismo puro, ya que Marte está a la vuelta de la esquina.
www.garfield-county.com
Críticas
Por Hector Salas-GallegosPara todos los propósitos, soy lo que mis compañeros hispanohablantes podrían llamar un "niño no sabo" (o no sabo kid mejor conocido en inglés). Cuando estoy charlando con personas que no hablan español, mencionó casualmente que hablo español con fluidez para evitar tener que explicar detalladamente cómo los hablantes nativos pueden notar mi crianza estadounidense con solo una simple oración.
Mi español está casi al 97%. Eso es mucho mejor que lo que la mayoría de mis compañeros que tomaron Español I y Español II en la universidad podrían esperar alcanzar. Pero dentro de mi comunidad un tres por ciento hace una gran diferencia. Por eso, cuando hablo con
mis compañeros hispanohablantes, especialmente con madres y otros adultos que conozco por primera vez, comienzo mis conversaciones diciendo que mi español deja mucho que desear. Entonces, ¿cómo llegué aquí?
Bueno, tuve la suerte de crecer en un hogar donde se hablaba español, así que mis habilidades de comprensión son más que sólidas. Sin embargo, no tuve la suerte de tener padres que corrigieran mi mal español. Ellos entendían lo que intentaba decir y simplemente me dejaban salir con la mía con el destrozo del idioma.
Durante un tiempo, veía ser bilingüe como una dicotomía, sintiéndome más como un hablante de inglés que de español. Parecía que mis dos idiomas estaban en constante competencia, cada uno luchando por dominar para reclamar dónde realmente existía el verdadero "Héctor".
Lo que soy ahora a los 26 años es un tipo bilingüe con defectos en su segundo idioma. Siempre ha habido un sentido de incompletitud en mi vocabulario y, por lo tanto, en mi identidad. Impre -
sionante para los hablantes de inglés, poco impresionante para los hablantes de español. Ahora, al entrar en esta etapa de mi vida donde conectar con mi identidad mexicana y latina se vuelve más importante, la idea de transmitir esta identidad pesa mucho en mi mente cuando pienso en cómo sería como padre, siendo tío de jóvenes a quienes impresionar y encontrándome con bebés latinos que me miran en Walmart. La idea de ser responsable del bilingüismo de un niño es lo que más me asusta sobre la idea de la paternidad, ser tio y el envejecimiento. Si mis padres, ambos hablantes fluidos, criaron a un hablante de español al 97% en una América predominantemente blanca, ¿estaría destinado a criar a un hablante al 94%? O peor aún, ¿la competencia lingüística se deteriora
exponencialmente, dejando a mi hijo con un 80% o incluso un 50% de competencia? ¿Mi tataranieta carecerá de las habilidades para mantener una conversación con mis padres?
Sí, en su mayoría, estas son crisis provocadas por la ansiedad, pero la esencia del problema está clara. ¿Cómo puedo preservar un idioma que ni siquiera entiendo completamente yo mismo?
LA PRESERVACIÓN DEL LENGUAJE VA MÁS ALLÁ DE MEMORIZAR PALABRAS. SE TRATA DE SALVAGUARDAR EL E SPÍRITU DE NUESTRA CULTURA A TRAVÉS DE LA INEVITABILIDAD.
Al final del día, no espero que los jóvenes de mi familia entiendan cada palabra en español. La preservación del lenguaje va más allá de memorizar palabras. Se trata de salvaguardar el espíritu de nuestra cultura a través de la inevitabilidad. Pienso en mis padres cuando escucharon mi primera palabra en inglés. ¿O qué hay de la primera palabra en inglés que no entendieron? ¿Sintieron que fracasaron al inculcarme su idioma? ¿Sintieron que la inglesidad entraba en mi cuerpo y empujaba un poco de esa españolidad hacia
afuera? ¿Sintieron que me alejaba un poco de ellos?
¿O quizás se sintieron satisfechos sabiendo que hicieron todo lo posible para anclarme a algo más grande que yo mismo; a algo que siempre me recordará de dónde vengo?
Me imagino transmitiendo palabras esenciales en español a mi hijo, como "ojalá" para expresar sus esperanzas y sueños, "chido" para describir lo que está genial, "chismear" cuando chismorrean con amigos, "a huevo" cuando se necesita determinación, y "mande" para inculcar respeto por los mayores.
Si puedo ser el catalizador de su primera palabra en español o su millonésima, tal vez pueda anclarlos al mismo legado cultural que he llegado a conocer. Y con suerte, llegarán a entender que no son dos seres separados atrapados en un solo cuerpo, sino una persona completa bendecida con la riqueza de dos idiomas gracias a los que nos precedieron.
Sin importar cuán limitado. Sin importar cómo se enseñe. Sin importar cómo se aprenda.
Vi un programa en Netflix el otro día donde dijeron algo que llenó mi corazón: Todo debe ser celebrado.
Agregaré: Cualquier cosa que deba ser recordada.
13 DE ABRIL, DE 8AM-2PM
Cuotas de recepción de residuos domésticos en la puerta de entrada en la 4th y Colorado: Se requiere prueba de residencia en la ciudad de Carbondale para las tarifas de recepción /reciclaje.
Ciudad de Carbondale (residente) $10 No residente $30
Carga con remolque (residente) $20 No residente $60
Reciclaje de colchones ($20 por colchón pagado en la puerta de entrada)
Refrigerador/congelador con freón - $40 por unidad (pagado en la puerta de entrada)
Unidad de aire acondicionado - $50/unidad (pagado en la puerta de entrada)
Mountain Waste:
Basura doméstica general (muebles/cercas, etc.)
Reciclaje de metales
Reciclaje de madera
Reciclaje de colchones ($20 por colchón)
Reciclaje de textiles (deben estar en bolsas para el reciclaje)
Todos los clientes serán responsables de los cargos relacionados con refrigeradores y otros artículos con freón.
Refrigerador/congelador con freón - $40 por unidad
Unidad de aire acondicionado - $50 por unidad
SITUADO EN EL ESTACIONAMIENTO DE LA 4TH Y COLORADO
ARTÍCULOS NO ACEPTADOS: Residuos peligrosos, ejemplos: aceite, pintura, líquidos de limpieza/envases, líquidos para autos, botellas de propano. NO habrá recepción de medicamentos recetados en este evento, pero está programado para el 27 de abril de 10am-2pm en el Departamento de Policía de Carbondale.
Deshechos de jardín y ramas NO serán aceptados en este evento.
Deshechos de jardín y ramas de 2" o menos de diámetro serán aceptados en la temporada de residuos de jardín que inicia el 20 de abril de 2024, y cada quince días hasta septiembre. Este evento está localizado en la 4th & Colorado, 9am-12pm. Sólo para residentes de la ciudad.
La recepción de artículos por parte de los residentes de Carbondale a proveedores que se indican a continuación es gratuita hasta que el subsidio de la ciudad se haya cumplido, a partir de entonces, se cobrarán las tarifas que figuran a continuación.
La recepción de artículos por parte de no-residentes a proveedores que se indican a continuación NO ES GRATUITA y se cobrarán las tarifas correspondientes.
Blue Star Recyclers: RESIDUOS ELECTRÓNICOS: Computadoras, discos duros, teléfonos móviles.
TELEVISORES: Televisores de pantalla plana, CRT y proyectores, cables y fuentes de alimentación.
Cámaras, equipos de grabación, radios, routers, hubs, tablets, teclados, mouses, fotocopiadoras, impresoras, microondas, reproductores de DVR/DVD/CD ($0.65 /lb)
MEDIA: CD/DVD/cintas ($3 /lb)
SÓLO BATERIAS ALCALINAS Y NO RECARGABLES (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V)
NO se aceptan otros tipos de baterías debido a problemas de transporte e incendios.
BOMBILLAS: Tubos fluorescentes ($ 0.25 /ft), incandescentes, CFL, tubos en U, halógenas ($ 0.75 /ea), Tubos rectos LED ($4.50 /unidad), Bombillas HID y LED ($2.50 /unidad), Luces UV ($5 /unidad) http://bluestarrecyclers.org/
LOCALIZADO EN EL ESTACIONAMIENTO DETRÁS DEL AYUNTAMIENTO
JLM Tires:
Sin costo para los residentes de la ciudad en los primeros 100 neumáticos, hasta 18 "con o sin rin.
Límite de 8 neumáticos gratis por cliente.
Un costo de $10 por neumático será cobrado a todos los clientes después de que el límite del presupuesto de la ciudad haya sido alcanzado.
LOCALIZADO EN EL ESTACIONAMIENTO DE 4TH & COLORADO
Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro
Día de las Madres
¡El Día de las Madres se está acercando! Todas las mamás locales quienes hayan dado la bienvenida a un bebe en el último año están invitadas a que les tomen un retrato para ser presentado en nuestra edición del 9 de mayo en The Sopris Sun. Un fotógrafo profesional estará listo en Third Street Center (520 S. 3rd Street, Carbondale) el 6 y el 13 de abril, con fechas adicionales si es necesario. Por favor envíe un correo electrónico a raleigh@soprissun.com o llame al 970-510-3003 para coordinar una fecha.
Fecha límite de Mountain Fair
¡La fecha límite para entregar conceptos de bosquejos para el concurso de diseño de camiseta y cartel de Mountain Fair es el 1 de abril! El tema de este año es “Este Debe ser el Lugar: Pies en la Tierra, Cabeza en el Cielo”. ¿Necesita inspiración? La programación de entretenimiento (por la mayoría) fue anunciada la semana pasada y puede ser encontrada en www.carbondalearts.com/ mountainfair
Desvío de Main Street
Comenzando el 1 de abril, personal de construcción comenzará a reemplazar líneas de agua para el nuevo edificio del Servicio Forestal en Carbondale. Por alrededor de tres semanas, el tráfico con dirección al oeste será dirigido a Colorado Avenue entre la calle seis y la calle siete, el tráfico con dirección al este permanecerá en la calle principal pero usará el carril del norte, cerca de la oficina de correo. Los clientes del servicio postal tendrán que entrar por el oeste y salir por el este en la calle principal.
Rampa de botes
El comisionado del condado de Garfield premio a los Parqués Y Vida Silvestre de Colorado (CPW por sus siglas en inglés) con $60,000 de los Fondos de Conservación para un proyecto de mejoras para la rampa de botes cerca de Hardwick Bridge en County Road 154 – ubicado entre Carbondale y Glenwood Springs en el Río Roaring Fork. La oferta inicial del proyecto es de $223,850, el cual incluye mejoras en el estacionamiento y acceso al río. La construcción está programada para comenzar el 15 de agosto y terminará en septiembre.
Hombre desaparecido
Dos hombres han sido arrestados en relación con la investigación de la muerte de un hombre de El Jebel que desapareció el 12 de marzo, según la Oficina del Sheriff del condado de Eagle. Josué Isai Cruz Del Cid fue encontrado fallecido el viernes por la noche en el extremo oeste del lago Christine en las afueras de Basalt, según un nuevo comunicado emitido por la oficina del sheriff el martes por la mañana. La oficina del sheriff está pidiendo a cualquier persona que tenga información sobre este caso que llame al 970-479-2201 y pregunte por un ayudante de turno.
Síndrome de nariz blanca
Un “pequeño murciélago café” en el condado de Boulder fue diagnosticado con síndrome de nariz blanca, una enfermedad causada por un hongo invasor que ha matado a millones de murciélagos en América del norte. Esto sucede solamente semanas después de que un murciélago en Longmont fuera confirmado en tener la misma enfermedad, indicando que murciélagos adicionales han sido expuestos y puedan ser encontrados
"Sincronías" parte 68, por Leonardo Occhipinti
en las siguientes semanas. El síndrome de la nariz blanca fue descubierto en Colorado en marzo del 2023. “Le seguimos pidiendo a aquellos que visiten cuevas en descontaminar sus equipos para prevenir que un humano propague el hongo y
recordando también al público que no interactúe con murciélagos cuando se encuentren sino que los reporten a CPW”, dijo el comunicado de prensa. “ de los 19 murciélagos nativos de Colorado, al menos 13 pueden ser susceptibles a la enfermedad.
¡Cómprate 4 nuncios (por uso cuando quieras) entre hoy y el 31 de agosto y recibirás 4 nuncios adicionales en Inglés gratis!
¡Incluye diseño y traducción!
Contáctanos llamando 970-510-3003 o por correo electrónico a sol@soprissun.com
Nothing encourages our student-athletes like big crowds at home games to cheer them on! Here are the remaining varsity home games for high school spring sports:
RFHS Girls Soccer
April 4 v. Coal Ridge at 6pm*
April 13 v. Mullen at 10am
April 23 v. Basalt at 4pm*
April 25 v. Delta at 6pm*
RFHS Baseball
April 4 v. Montezuma-Cortez at 2pm*
April 10 v. Olathe at 3pm*
April 16 v. Aspen at 3pm*
April 22 v. Battle Mountain at 3pm
April 23 v. Basalt at 3pm*
April 27 v. Cedaredge at 11am*
May 1 v. Rifle at 3pm
May 11 v. North Fork at 11am*
RFHS Girls Lacrosse
April 6 v. Steamboat Springs at 12:30pm
April 11 v. Aspen at 5:30pm
April 18 v. Fruita Monument at 4pm
April 19 v. Eagle Valley at 5:30pm*
April 26 v. Summit at 5:30pm
April 30 v. Battle Mountain at 5:30pm*
Basalt Girls Soccer
April 2 v. Montrose at 4pm
April 9 v. RFHS at 4pm*
April 11 v. Rifle at 4pm*
April 25 v. Moffat County at 4pm*
May 2 v. Coal Ridge at 4pm*
Basalt Baseball
April 6 v. Resurrection Christian at 11am
April 9 v. Cedaredge at 3pm*
April 13 v. Coal Ridge at 11am and 1pm*
April 26 v. North Fork at 1pm and 3pm*
May 7 v. Aspen at 3pm*
May 8 v. Rifle at 4pm
May 11 v. Delta at 11am and 1pm*
Basalt Girls Tennis
CRMS Girls
April 4 v. Vail Christian at 4pm*
April 6 v. RFHS at 11am
April 9 v. Moffat County at 4pm
April 18 v. Grand Valley at 4pm*
Track & Field
Glenwood Springs Demon Invite - April 12-13
Coal Ridge Invite - April 19
*= league game
This town is a gem. I’m running for the Board of Trustees because I value the people that bring Carbondale to life, and because I know that our remarkable vitality needs to be supported by wise choices and thoughtful planning.
Our town government has made good decisions and bad ones, and we’ll never get it just right or please everybody. That’s okay. But I think we can do better – and I haven’t hesitated to say so.
How do we do better? By looking deep at what we’ve gotten right, by looking even deeper at what we’ve gotten wrong, and by harnessing the power of our creative community, not dismissing it.
The three open seats in this election offer a chance for Carbondale to re-evaluate its priorities and recommit to engaging with its community members at every level. If that possibility excites you as much as it does me, I’d be honored to earn your vote.
Ross KribbsRossForCarbondale@gmail.com
970-379-5220
Follow this link to detailed biographies and statements by all of the candidates, or just google “get to know your Carbondale candidates”. Ballots are due by 7pm Tuesday, April 2nd, at Town Hall. Can’t find your ballot? In-person voting is available 7am till 7pm on that day. Please vote!
Sopris Lodge at Carbondale hosts
Jodi Brown, CEO of Parkinson Association of the Rockies, from 2 to 3pm on April 4. The presentation is free and open to the public, but an RSVP is required as attendance will be limited. For details, call Chase Corte at 970-6780057 or visit soprislodge.com/events
Sopris Lodge is located at 295 Rio Grande Ave., north of the Rio Grande Trail.
The event, part of Parkinson’s Awareness Month, will cover commonly used terminology and signs, symptoms and potential causes of Parkinson’s, according to a press release. Brown will also highlight how individuals and care partners can lead fulfilling lives, emphasizing the importance of exercise and community connection.
“The program is beneficial for those recently diagnosed, caregivers or anyone seeking to expand their understanding of this condition,” the press release continued.
The Sopris Sun contacted Brown via email for a Q&A. Some of Brown’s answers were edited for clarity.
Question, Sopris Sun: How many people in Colorado and the Roaring Fork Valley have Parkinson’s disease?
Answer, Brown: It is not an exact
science as we do not have a Parkinson’s disease registry in Colorado, but we estimate that there are approximately 25,000 people living with Parkinson’s disease in the state. We do not know exactly how many are living in the Roaring Fork Valley. We are trying to get a Parkinson’s disease registry here in Colorado. We were close to having it brought to the legislature last session but it fell off at the last minute. We will continue to work toward that. There are approximately 1 million people in the U.S with Parkinson’s, although recent consensus is that number is low. Approximately 90,000
people are diagnosed annually.
Q: What are some of Parkinson’s effects on cognitive abilities?
A: Multi-tasking can become more difficult, also memory difficulties and dementia. There can be mood changes associated with Parkinson’s disease, plus anxiety, depression, apathy and impulsivity.
Q: What is the average length of time from before suspected symptoms appear and a neurologist gives a diagnosis?
A: There is not an easy answer to this question. Some people may experience non-motor symptoms many years before a diagnosis, such
as loss of smell or constipation. It can take time for a neurologist to diagnose Parkinson’s, as symptoms could be related to other possible illnesses. Seeing a movement disorder specialist is recommended if you’re having a difficult time with diagnosis.
Q: Several exercises are recommended for those with Parkinson’s, including Power Punch boxing, which is Parkinson Association of the Rockies’ boxing class. Explain?
A: Non-contact boxing is a great exercise for people with Parkinson’s, as it is a high-intensity workout using boxing techniques for a full-body workout. All classes can be modified, based on the participant’s abilities and symptoms. It is a great class as it works core, voice, cognition and balance. Parkinson Association of the Rockies currently offers three Power Punch boxing classes between Glenwood Springs and Carbondale, and is working to add a class in Rifle.
Q: Is occupational therapy beneficial for some Parkinson’s patients?
A: Absolutely. A person with Parkinson’s (PWP) will most likely build a team that could include an occupational therapist, physical therapist and speech therapist. These professionals can help with many of the motor or non-motor symptoms that can be present with a Parkinson’s diagnosis.
Q: Can Parkinson’s patients drive a vehicle?
With both Mayor Ben Bohmfalk and Mayor Pro Tem Erica Sparhawk absent at Tuesday’s meeting, Marty Silverstein took charge as acting mayor. All other trustees were in attendance.
The room was filled with members of the public, many wearing white in solidarity with a revised resolution brought forth by Ceasefire Now RFV — a group of local activists dedicated to ending the war in Gaza and allowing humanitarian aid to reach civilians devastated by Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in retaliation for a brutal terrorist attack on Oct. 7, 2023. Despite an email sent to Ceasefire organizers by the mayor stating that their group would be limited to a total of three minutes to speak, all who signed up were allowed to speak.
There were several comments in favor of trustees putting the resolution on a future agenda, and one overtly against that action. Another attendee presented an alternative resolution which acknowledges Hamas started the war and affirms unwavering support for the continued existence of Israel and Israeli Jews.
Moving along, Silverstein encouraged everyone who is eligible to vote in Carbondale’s municipal
election by April 2. Three new trustees will be sworn in on April 23, with Silverstein, Lani Kitching and Luis Yllanes rolling off the board.
During her update, Town Manager Lauren Gister informed the public that less than 10 newcomer migrants continue to shelter at Town Hall, and a number have found housing locally.
Bus tickets have been given to those interested in relocating and the Town’s temporary shelters will officially close on April 1, with some services like shower vouchers continuing for a few additional weeks.
The consent agenda included: accounts payable, construction contracts for a Gateway RV Park
roof replacement and Sopris Park gazebo repairs, the January sales tax report (with a 27% increase in sales tax compared to January 2023), a mosquito control agreement with other Garfield County governments, a retail marijuana license renewal for Tumbleweed, liquor license renewals for RVR Master Association and Pollinator Chocolate and, finally, a contract with Downtowner for a taxfunded, on-demand taxi service.
Hassig voted against approval after asking about the Downtowner contract which pledges $181,500 to match a RFTA grant toward a sixmonth pilot program in 2024. A full year of service in 2025 would cost an
Municipal election
It’s time for Basalt’s voices to be heard! The Town of Basalt’s municipal election is currently underway, and the deadline to submit ballots is Tuesday, April 2 at 7pm. Ballots can be returned via mail or dropped in the ballot box behind Town Hall, located in Lion’s Park beside the Midland Spur.
The mayoral seat and three Town Council seats are open to candidates, although notably, only one candidate — current Town Council member David Knight — is running for mayor. Voters should also keep in mind that Courtney Sheeley Wyckoff has withdrawn from the election and is no longer running, even though her name is still on the ballot. Any votes cast for Wyckoff will not be counted.
For those unfamiliar with the current candidates, the Sun published a brief Q&A with each candidate last week, now available to read online at tinyurl.com/ SoprisSunBasalt
April 2 also marks the groundbreaking for a solar array installation at Basalt High School (BHS). The public is invited to attend a ribbon cutting and groundbreaking ceremony at 4pm.
Five solar arrays are being constructed in a partnership between the Town of Basalt and the Roaring Fork School District (RFSD). The other four are located on the rooftops of the BHS concession stand, Basalt Elementary School, the El Jebel school bus barn, and the Public Works building.
The solar array in front of BHS will be the largest and most visible of the five, and the final one to be installed.
On average, each of these arrays will offset traditional energy use at their respective properties by 31%. The solar project marks a step forward for Basalt’s climate goal to reduce town-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 80% by the year 2050.
The array in front of BHS will provide an educational tool for its students and be symbolic that Basalt’s future lies in clean energy.
This weeks’ Tuesday night meeting was especially brief. The meeting began with a pair of proclamations: March 2024 has been proclaimed American Red Cross Month in recognition of the organization’s generous
estimated $726,000, half of which could possibly be matched by RFTA. Clean Energy Economy for the Region received unanimous approval for a letter supporting their grant application to the Colorado Department of Transportation requesting $100,000 to launch a transportation management organization.
Carbondale may be asked to contribute between $2,500 and $5,000, depending on how many partners are willing to support this initiative, which is being led by the City of Glenwood Springs.
continued on page 21
humanitarian efforts, and April 2024 has been proclaimed National Donate Life Month with a goal to raise awareness about organ, eye and tissue donation and that registering as a donor can save a life.
Council was provided with an update on the Midland Avenue Streetscape project. Last week, contractor Stutsman Gerbaz mobilized to begin work on Midland’s new storm line, and the Black Hills Energy crew progressed their work on the main gas line to the Basalt Mountain Inn.
Additionally, some of the water lines installed last fall will be tested in the coming weeks, requiring water shutoffs. However, these shutoffs will be much shorter than the day-long blackout times that came with the lines’ installation. Beyond that, no new delays were announced, and the project is progressing as scheduled.
The only major action of the night was a resolution calling for a special election on May 21 for an amendment to Basalt’s Municipal Code adding new sections in regard to parking.
In response to many Basalt citizens’ complaints concerning the longtime difficulty of parking in downtown historic Basalt — a problem exacerbated by current construction — the Town has drafted a new section of its municipal code. Draft section 16-97 states that “There shall be no reduction in the number, size or configuration of public or private parking spaces in the Downtown Parking Area or of any public loading areas,” except if such parking spaces are replaced within 100 feet of the previously existing space. Voters will receive a special election mail-in ballot in the coming weeks.
Next, the Dandelion Day committee received approval for park and street rentals, a parade permit and special event liquor license. Dandelion Day will be hosted on May 11, with KDNK managing the booze corrale. In addition to vendors, there will be games, live music, educational talks and live screen printing for commemorative t-shirts.
The meat of the meeting involved a combined application for 111 Main Street: a subdivision exemption, rezoning, annexation, conditional use permit and a site review with alternative compliance.
The alternative compliance allowed the indoor portion to be less than the 14-foot height minimum for ground floor commercial properties as prescribed for the Historic Commercial Core zone district.
The proposal involved annexing a 1,700 square foot parcel on the far east side of Main Street into town limits for the creation of a food truck court.
The applicant agreed to a 1% real estate transfer assessment (RETA) condition on the property should it sell again, benefitting the Town’s Community Housing Fund. Staff also requested a $8,950 initial contribution toward housing initiatives reflecting 1% of the property's value when it was sold to the current owners. The item changed from a recommended continuation to approval with conditions.
With final approval in hand, business partners
and making other improvements with the aim to open next spring. Courtesy photo
The public hearing had a single participant: former mayor Stacey Bernot. “I’m so excited about this, I decided to brave the evening to visit you all,” she said. The property was once her grandmother’s home. She remarked that that end of Main Street is quieter now than when the coal trains flew by. As far as the future RETA, she thought it was wise, but considered “the other bite at the apple” to be “not in the
best interest of the project,” referring to the initial contribution asked of the applicants. Marty suggested the RETA be increased to 2% for future sales and the $8,950 ask maintained. This passed unanimously. Staff will now prepare the necessary approval documents.
“Folks, I think this is a funky, creative use of a very weird shaped parcel,” Silverstein concluded. “I’m looking forward to your food.”
WWTF SOLIDS HANDLING SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT FOR THE BASALT SANITATION DISTRICT
Issue Date: 03/28/2024 | Closing Date: 05/02/2024
Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference : 04/09/2024 at 10 AM at WWTF
The Basalt Sanitation District (Owner) will receive sealed Bids for the WWTF Solids Handling Improvement Project until 2:00 P.M., Thursday May 2nd, 2024, at the Basalt Sanitation District Office, 227 Midland Ave Suite C2, Basalt, Colorado 81621, Attention: Ian Quillan, District Manager, at which time bids will be opened publicly. Bids shall be clearly marked "Basalt Sanitation District – WWTF Solids Handling System Improvements Project.”
Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at the Basalt Sanitation District WWTF, 0701 Emma Road, Basalt, CO 81621 on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM. A tour of the facility will follow the pre-bid conference.
Qualification statements and other submittal requirements are outlined in C410 - Bid Form in Division 0 the Project Manual.
The general scope of work will include the following, but not limited to:
All necessary labor, supervision, equipment, tools, and materials for; installation of a new screw press solids handling system including modifications to feed pump room and screw press room, pump and valve improvements in RAS/WAS room, and installation of digester aeration equipment. All equipment replacements include demolition and removal of existing equipment as denoted in Contract Documents. Work includes replacing, providing, and installing all electrical conduit and wiring, power distribution centers, control panels, and controls to complete the required work. Screw Press package system and Tideflex aeration system equipment are supplied by Owner.
Due to equipment lead times, construction will not commence until Fall 2024.
Electronic bidding documents may be obtained from the Engineer, Roaring Fork Engineering located at 592 Hwy. 133, Carbondale, CO 81623, by emailing Maggie McHugh at maggiem@rfeng.biz. Electronic bids can also be obtained from the District office by emailing admin@basaltsanitation.org
No
The
Dated
A: Yes, a PWP can drive a vehicle. However, as the symptoms progress, this is something that should be evaluated regularly. An occupational therapist can administer a driving test to help determine when it might be time to hand over the keys and stop driving.
Q: Would you like to add anything?
A: Parkinson’s is called the “snowflake” disease as everyone diagnosed will have a different journey with the illness due to the number of motor and non-motor symptoms that can present with this chronic illness.
We will be hosting “Chat with a Parkinson’s Pro,” which is an education seminar that will include a movement disorder specialist, to talk about topics the community wants to explore at the Glenwood Springs Recreation Center on Aug. 17. A Vitality Walk will be held in El Jebel on Sept. 28.
Parkinson Association of the Rockies provides resources in the Roaring Fork Valley. All are free to PWPs and their care partner.
Resources include: Support groups in Carbondale, Glenwood Springs and New Castle; Chair yoga at the New Castle Community Center;Power Punch boxing at Midland Fitness in Glenwood Springs and Elite Performance Academy in Carbondale. For more information, contact 303-830-1839 or info@parkinsonrockies.org
Margaret Ritchie was born in Manhattan, NY and raised along the Hudson River. She graduated early from Hastings High School in Hastings-On-Hudson, NY in 1949, where she was president of the Opera Club, on the Yearbook Staff, in the History Club, sang Varsity Choir, played Field Hockey, acted in the Senior Play, and was named among Best Musician, Most Scholarly, and Most Likely to Succeed. She graduated from Oberlin College in Ohio with a BA in Classical Civilization in 1953, where she volunteered as a costume seamstress for the theater productions and met the love of her life, a young actor named Harry Ritchie. As she loved to recount, they met as she measured his inseam. They married in September 1953 at her parents’ home, in Ann Arbor, MI. Soon after they moved to New Haven, CT, where Harry pursued his PHD in Theater. In 1955 Harry was drafted into the Army and they were stationed abroad in Frankfurt, Germany, where, in 1957 they had their first son, David. After discharge and completing school, Harry landed his first teaching position at McGill University in Montreal. While
there, in 1959, they welcomed their second son, Stuart, into the world. They spent the next 16 years raising their family near college campuses in California, Massachusetts and for a year in London, England. Over these years Margaret worked in administrative capacities and was devoted to many creative and artistic interests including gardening, knitting, figure drawing, calligraphy, singing, and playing piano & guitar. She has always been thrilled that her two grandchildren carry her creative legacy forward, Elizabeth as a landscape designer and Zachary as a professional musician.
In 1975 Harry and Margaret relocated to Denver, where she earned her Master of Art History at the University of Denver. She worked in several art galleries before serving for eleven years as a publication editor at the Denver Art Museum. In 1995 they retired to Santa Fe, NM where they were active in the local arts community, including longtime memberships in the Santa Fe Opera and Aspen/Santa Fe Ballet. Margaret volunteered for many years with Pro Musica and The Nature Conservancy and other local non-profits. These years were also filled with cross
country road trips and visits to many places around the world, including Europe, South & Central America, and North Africa, as well as to Syria, Turkey, and the Galapagos Islands. They were especially fond of notable historic & archaeological sites, participating in many active site digs.
After 67 years of marriage, Harry passed away in January 2020. Margaret prevailed through this loss and the dark days of Covid to relocate to Glenwood Springs in May of that year. Since then, she has been a well-loved member of the Roaring Fork Senior Living community, where she is fondly known for her charm and feisty independence. She passed peacefully, surrounded by family, and cared for by her friends at RFSL and Home Care and Hospice of the Valley. Margaret is dearly missed by all who had the good fortune to know her.
Margaret was preceded in death by her parents Bob & Polly Elderfield, her only sister Nancy, and her husband Harry. She is survived by her sons David (Terri) Ritchie of Carbondale, CO, and Stuart (Julie) Ritchie of Aurora, CO, adult grandchildren Elizabeth and Zachary, two nieces, a nephew, and two cousins. Per her wishes, a private family memorial and the internment of her and Harry’s ashes will be held this summer, at the traditional family plot in Philadelphia. For decades, Margaret was generous to a wide variety of charities and causes, mostly supporting the arts, animals, and the environment. So in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favorite similar cause or passion. Or just hug your pets. It would make her very happy.
ACCEPTED
Entry Gate: 4th & Colorado in Carbondale
Entry Fees for Household Waste Drop-off at entry gate at 4th & Colorado: Proof of Town of Carbondale residency required for gate/recycling fees
Entry Fees per Load:
Town of Carbondale (resident) $10 Non-resident $30
Load with trailer (resident) $20 Non-resident $60
Mattress recycling ($20/mattress paid at entry gate)
Refrigerator/freezer with freon - $40 per unit (paid at entry gate)
Air conditioning unit - $50/unit (paid at entry gate)
Mountain Waste:
• General household trash (furniture/fencing, etc.)
• Textile recycling (must be in bags for recycling)
• Mattress recycling ($20 per mattress)
• Refrigerator/freezer with freon ($40 per unit)
• Metal recycling
• Wood recycling
• Air conditioning unit ($50/unit)
All customers will be responsible for charges related to refrigerators and other freon items.
LOCATED IN THE PARKING LOT AT 4TH & COLORADO
Hazard waste, i e , oil, paint, cleaning fluids/canisters, car liquids, propane bottles
Yard waste and branches will NOT be accepted at this event.
(Yard waste and branches 2” or less in diameter will be accepted at the seasonal
Yard Waste event that begins on April 20, 2024, and every-other weekend through September This event is located at 4th & Colorado, 9a-noon. Town residents only.)
NO prescription drug drop-off at this event but it is scheduled for April 27 from 10-2p at the Carbondale Police Dept.
Town of Carbondale resident drop-off items for the vendors listed below are free (until the Town subsidy has been met)
Out-of-Town resident drop-off items for the vendors listed below are Not Free and applicable fees will be charged.
Blue Star Recyclers
• ELECTRONIC WASTE: Computers, hard drives, cell phones.
• TV’s: Flat screen, CRT display and projector tv’s, cords and power supplies
Cameras, recording equipment, radios, routers, hubs, tablets, keyboards, mice, copiers, printers, microwave, DVR/DVD/CD players ($0.65/lb)
• MEDIA: CD/DVD/tapes ($3/lb)
• ALKALINE BATTERIES & NON-RECHARGABLE ONLY (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V)
NO other battery types are accepted due to transportation and fire issues.
• LIGHT BULBS: Fluorescent tubes ($0 25/ft), Incandescent, CFL, U-tubes, Halogen ($0.75/ea), LED straight tubes ($4.50 ea), HID and LED bulbs ($2.50 ea), UV lights ($5/ea)
http://www.bluestarrecyclers.org
LOCATED IN THE PARKING LOT BEHIND TOWN HALL
JLM Tires:
• No charge for Town residents for the first 100 tires, up to 18” w/o rims.
• There is a limit of 8 tires per customer
• A fee of $8 per tire will be paid by customer after the limit.
LOCATED IN THE PARKING LOT AT 4TH & COLORADO
• Crews will alternate lunches between noon and 1pm. Unloading may take additional time during this time-frame. Please plan accordingly.
• Check, cash, debit/credit card accepted.
• Proof of Town of Carbondale residency required for waiver of fees until the subsidy has been met for each vendor.
• The Town website and “Town of Carbondale, CO Public Works” Facebook page will have current updates.
November 17, 1941March 16, 2024
Bill Bartram graduated from this life on March 16, 2024 in Grand Junction. Bill was born Nov. 17, 1941 in Waterloo, Ohio to Pug and Carol Bartram. He was the only son with an older and younger sister.
Bill served in the United States Air Force from 1960 to 1964 as a firefighter. He was then in the Air Force reserves until 1966. He received his M.A. of Theology from Baptist Bible College in 1975 and went on to pastor the First Baptist Church of New Castle.
He also worked for the Roaring Fork School District before moving first to Kansas and then to Florida, where his wife passed away. He moved to Olathe after her passing to be closer to his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, who he loved!
He spent his final days residing at the Veterans Community Living Center in Grand Junction. Bill always had a good attitude, despite having multiple sclerosis for over 50 years. He was wheelchair bound
for 30 years or more, and now he's dancing and running and moving freely!
This attitude can be attributed to the relationship he had with his lord and savior, Jesus Christ. You would hear him say, “Every day is a good day, some days are just better than others. I can't complain." He attended Bible Baptist Church while living in Olathe.
Bill learned to love well and is loved by everyone who knew him, and he will be greatly missed. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sheila Ann, grandson, Brandon, sister, Faye, his parents and many others. What a great reunion they all had on March 16!
Bill leaves behind a son, William, daughter, Shannon Long, and son-in-love, John; a granddaughter, Corri Spaur, and grandson-in-love, Randall; three amazing great granddaughters, Ali, Ava and Ember; sisters Janet and Lou; numerous nieces and nephews and good friends.
To honor Bill, services are being held at Bible Baptist Church, 112 Main Street, Olathe, on Saturday, March 30, at 2pm.
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Lon Winston, the esteemed founder and executive artistic director emeritus of Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC). Lon passed away peacefully on March 21, leaving behind his radiant wife of 49 years, Debra, and a legacy that will forever resonate within the theater community.
A theater-maker and educator for 60 years, Lon’s legacy lies in the hearts of the many generations of students and audiences who have been fortunate enough to be in his sphere.
Lon was the visionary whose passion and dedication was the underpinning for TRTC.He founded the theater in 1995, and it was his innovative spirit, artistic excellence and downright tenacity which shaped the organization's identity and inspired countless artists and audiences alike. In the 21 years Lon ran TRTC, he directed and designed more
than 60 productions — and performed in many.
His final show was “A View from the Bridge” in February 2020, a fitting swan song as he played Alfieri, the all-knowing narrator.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Lon's family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you as we mourn the loss of a remarkable individual who touched so many lives.
In honor of Lon's legacy, we will be holding a celebration of life at the Lon Winston Theatre in TRTC on May 4, 2024. Details will be shared as we get closer.
When asked about what the community could do for her in this time of sorrow, Debra responded that she doesn’t need flowers but would prefer that people make a donation in Lon’s name to either Colorado Animal Rescue or TRTC.
“TRTC was our ‘baby,’ and the baby still needs to go to college,” she quipped.
Thunder River Theatre Company will forever be grateful for Lon's vision, leadership and enduring impact on our community. We pledge to carry forward his legacy with the same passion and dedication that defined his life's work.
Two Featured Locations: Carbondale Recreation Center at 567 Colorado Avenue and participating businesses, restaurants up and down Main Street & just off Main.
Collaboratively we are raising awareness of all the wellness opportunities available in Carbondale and beyond!
PRIZES PROVIDED BY: ALPINE THERAPEUTICS, BEE FRIENDLY CARBONDALE, CARBONDALE ACUPUNCTURE CENTER, CARBONDALE FARMERS, CUSTOM BODY FITNESS, PURA SIMPLE, ROCKY MOUNTAIN THERAPROS AND MORE!
Carbondale Arts First Friday Carbondale Parks and Recreation Department The Center for Human Flourishing
CO-SPONSORS: Alpine Therapeutics • Bee Friendly Carbondale • Carbondale Acupuncture Center • Carbondale Animal Hospital • Carbondale Community Acupuncture • Carbondale Crossfit • Carbondale Farmers' Market • Carbondale Recreation & Aquatics Center • Cavi-Cinch Spa • Center for Prevention and Treatment of Disease through Nutrition • Colorado Mountain College • Crystal Blanket • Dream Healings • Hamilton's Mushrooms • Light of the Moon Publishing • High Mountain Medicinals • Magic Mountain Nature Camp • Martin Finkelstein Tai Chi Qi Gong • Roaring Fork Neo-Shamanic Shadow Works • The Center for Prevention and Treatment of Disease through Nutrition
• Radically Authentic You Author Lisa Wilson • Roaring Fork Fencers Club • Roaring Fork Reflexology • Rocky Mountain TheraPros • Sopris Lodge • Thrive Carbondale - Dr. Zerba, DO • Antoinette Yarrow: Herbalist
By Elizabeth Key
A few weeks ago, my 6-yearold son asked me to play the 2017 Monopoly Aspen Special Edition game. During setup, I marveled at how the game’s landmarks still stood in a city that wealth has obliterated. My son caught onto the game swiftly, and I soon found myself in a position of being land-rich and cash-poor, mortgaged to the hilt. I could feel the familiar anxiety blooming inside me as I started to think of my actual mortgage. I picked up the dice, reminding myself that I am one of the lucky ones to have a roof over my head. As the dice tumbled across the board, I was relieved to land on Free Parking and a pile of cash. With that roll, I transformed from a struggling single mother into a powerhouse developer.
I bought the Little Nell and the Limelight, first building cabins, then lodges. My properties’ rents started spiraling out of control.
My son then landed in jail. I suggested being confined to prison may be the safest place for him, so as not to risk owing me rent. Soon, the city was mine, and I was flush with cash. In the next game, my son won, identifying my ruthless strategy and amassing a wealth of fake property and muted multicolored bills.
Eerily, Monopoly, a game of chance and strategy, mirrored the demise of my hometown of Aspen.
Greed has bankrupted the American dream. No longer does education, hard work and perseverance guarantee a living. The working class is slipping into the working poor due to the elite siphoning off wages, loopholing taxes and buying up property. The starter home no longer exists, and many locals are resorting to van life despite working full-time jobs. Often, the most brutally hit is a class I am intimately familiar with: the single mother. Like myself, Beth Grieser is a single mother bound to the Valley by the custody agreement of her 6-year-old son. Grieser was my son’s kindergarten teacher at Ross Montessori. She has been an educational professional in the Valley for 10 years. She has a master's degree in special education,
Martin has been getting by with the ample hairs on his chinny-chin-chin lately, barely beating Beatriz Soto four years ago and Greg Jeung years before that. Carey’s likely opponent will be Perry Will, who’s leaving his state senator position to run for commissioner so he can stay closer to his home in New Castle.
The demographics of Garfield County are changing. Carey’s salient quality is that she's a young female, a characteristic sorely missing on today’s county commission.
Fred Malo Jr.
Carbondale
Lent
What is Lent, anyway? Lent is the time of year in the Christian tradition when a person takes time to do some self-evaluation about where they are, what they have been doing, whether their priorities have been right and where they may have gone wrong. It's a good time for a course correction.
"Where does God fit into my picture?" someone may ask, and realize it is a provocative topic to explore. It may stir up a longing that has long been ignored. "Repent" is an old-timey word that sounds rather preachy in our day, but it is not really that scary. It just means to change your mind about something, and decide to go a different direction. We do it all the time. Instead of ignoring
a bachelor's degree in music education and Montessori teacher certification.Grieser has been housing insecure her entire time in the Valley, moving yearly. Twice, her units have been sold out from under her, and she has had to move from apartments infested with mice and roaches. Now, she rents a basement-level, onebedroom apartment with no windows for $2,200 a month in Carbondale. Her income from the school is $2,800 net. She works two additional jobs, as director of Access After School and as a music tutor to financially compensate.
Grieser told me, “I am trying to provide a service that is not providing for me,” speaking of her profession as an educator. She said, “I am always in fear of housing scarcity. I feel like I am in constant competition with couples who have double incomes.” Grieser originally came to the Valley to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle of fishing, skiing and rafting. She recently had to sell all her gear to make first, last and security deposit. Working 60 hours a week, Grieser said she no longer has time or money to do anything for herself. She is not alone in her situation; the rentburdened working class in the Valley scrambles to survive.
God, you decide to look into the whole idea and see if there's anything to it.
Lent is a good time for such a challenge; a good time to clean out the closet of your heart. Instead of hiding from your faults and failures, you own up to them with yourself and with God. We all have some, after all. When we own up to them, God is very happy to shower His love on us and forgive us, giving us a fresh start — like a shower after days of camping in the wilderness. It feels great to be clean! Lent ends with the celebration of the day Jesus rose from the dead, called the resurrection. Some folks call it Easter. This year, it is the last day of March. Until then, let the spring-cleaning of our hearts begin.
Linda Helmich Glenwood SpringsShame on the Garfield County commissioners for changing, without public notice or input from either the Garfield County Public Library District’s (GCPLD) board of trustees or the residents of Garfield County (or a public vote), the long-established practice of allowing the library’s trustees to nominate candidates to serve on its board. Is this action even legal? When the commissioners couldn’t intimidate the GCPLD trustees last fall with respect to the banning of [or limiting access to] certain books unpopular within a particular county constituency, they have now decided
I grew up in the West End with brothers Colter and Bridger Smith, partners in the Black Mountain development. Their residential sketch plan recently received a nod of approval from the Basalt Town Council. As locals, they have witnessed how the housing shortage has affected workers and businesses across the Valley.
”People can’t keep managers, can’t find managers because they don’t have anywhere to live,” Bridger said. “Or they are losing them because the rent is going up too high, and they have to move out of the Valley.”
Intending to address the housing shortage, the brothers identified a 9.3acre parcel within the urban growth boundary of Basalt. They believe it is a model location for local housing and an appropriate place to add density from an urban planning perspective. Bridger said, “This property is ideally situated as a transit-oriented property within .5 miles of a bus stop. It is sandwiched between the highway and the river, so it has the amenities of a river and the access to downtown.”
Utilizing the 2020 Basalt Master Plan, the brothers comprised the project of 64 units, a mix of studio to three-
to try another method to browbeat and bully the residents in this county.
The commissioners refuse to trust the GCPLD trustees to assess the needs of the library district — and the skills of the candidates — because the trustees are standing up in opposition. The trustees deserve our trust and support. They and their staff have done an outstanding job on behalf of the residents of Garfield County. Remember that the commissioners said they would allow the independence of the GCPLD board of trustees and that they were not in the business of censorship. But now I believe they are showing their true colors. It is disgraceful the way they both ambushed the very board of trustees that they appointed and betrayed their constituents. I have no trust or faith in the commissioners on this issue.
I believe that they would appoint someone to the library board who would be willing to ban any book that they personally disagree with. Are the commissioners willing to pledge that they will not appoint a trustee who believes books should be banned? To take any step in the direction to ban or limit access to books is simply wrong. But this is also a step the commissioners are taking now by hijacking the appointment process. They are clearly setting the stage to trample on the First Amendment of our Constitution.
Ellen DoleGlenwood Springs
bedroom apartments, 50% of which will be deed-restricted. Additionally, there will be 12 short-term rental river cabins. The project targets multiple income levels and will offer 32 free-market units specifically to locals for the first 90 days.
”The goal is to sell 100% of this project to people who live and work in this valley,” Colter said, mentioning the school district, fire department, Aspen Valley Ski Club, Aspen Valley Hospital and Colorado Mountain College.
The brothers have been in talks with all of these organizations, and some of them have expressed interest in buying free market units to provide worker housing. Aspen Valley Hospital especially needs its workers to live within a certain proximity from the hospital. In this valley, the elite play Monopoly with a weighted dice, amassing property and pushing out the locals. Unlike the board game, the Valley cannot function without a local working class. When developers, businesses and local governments collaborate to enhance affordable housing offerings, we can have a healthy economy. Let’s throw out the dice and develop our valley with the intention that everyone can not just survive but thrive.
from page 2
Unlike Donald Trump, who called migrants “not people” and “animals,” members of the Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists (TRUU) congregation experienced the humanity of our unhoused immigrant neighbors during a recent service as they shared stories of their harrowing journeys and future hopes.
Hearing of their excruciating decisions to abandon friends and family because of a collapsed economy, unbearable living conditions, a corrupt government and fear opened many hearts and minds.
Carbondale responded with compassion to people struggling to survive. However, come April 1, the safety net provided by our community will end. After listening to individual stories and learning about how grateful the migrants are for the support, several members of the congregation offered to open their spare bedrooms for several months to some of the newcomers as the process of applying for Temporary Protected Status or asylum continues.
What a different response, recognizing the humanity of people in need instead of dehumanizing them!
The Social Justice Committee at TRUU encourages others in our community to step up and meet the needs of our unhoused immigrant
continued on page 26
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
One evening in the light of the moon a beautiful puppy came into the world. Her fur was a beautiful flaxen color. She had expressive brown eyes, a tiny black nose and four snowy white paws. She loved the touch of her mother’s tongue cleaning her coat, and of how safe it made her feel. She was a happy confident puppy with a great future, and life with her mother was all she needed.
As the days passed, she thrived and became stronger and stronger as she learned to leap across small creeks and jump up on her hind legs to play and play and play, until she collapsed exhausted beside her adoring mother.
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
Then one day an accident happened. It had to be an accident! Someone took her away from her mother, took her away from all that she had ever known. She didn’t understand what happened. Abandoned, confused, and with a broken heart she somehow, somehow, carried on.
As she grew older she ran into other puppies who had grown into dog-hood, but when she encountered them she found herself on her back showing her tummy because they wanted to bully her and they never stopped. So, she decided the best thing to do was to be by herself.
One lonely day, walking through unfamiliar mountains, she came upon a spring of water. It came from a split in a huge rock filled with green foliage and beautiful ferns that grew all around it forming a pool at the bottom. She thought it was one of the loveliest pools she’d ever seen, and the cool mist forming around her nostrils smelled so good that she stopped and drank the clear delicious water. Then something happened. She wasn’t sure
what it was. She just felt different somehow. But the next time she saw other dogs running towards her she didn’t cower. She stood her ground, and to her amazement they ran the other way. It must have been the magic water that made her feel brave, so she revisited the pool more often.
As the years passed by, she gained a sense of independence that other dogs didn’t have. They needed each other, or a human, or something in their life. She didn’t. She was now the lone wolf and held her head high for what she had accomplished, because she knew that most dogs could never survive her way of life.
During her lifetime, she met male dogs who wooed her right off her four legs and she bedded down with them just like she had with her mother. She was content and didn’t need to drink from the magic spring anymore. But after a time, they would turn on her, growl at her, and even try to bite her, so she returned to her mountain and to the magic pool. Sometimes she would lie down next to the waters
and whimper and cry aloud, hoping that someone would hear her and come running up to snuggle with her. But that didn’t happen.
Many years passed by. One morning when licking her snowy white paws, she saw that the color of her fur was a little different and her rear hips hurt too. She wondered what this meant. Often, she would go back in time and think about what she could have become — like a guard dog, or maybe a seeing eye dog, or a bomb-sniffing dog, or even a show dog. She could have been any of those dogs, instead she chose to live out alone the rest of her years close to the magic waters.
One late night in the moon’s full brightness, she again thought of her mother, but this time was different! This time she felt her mother’s presence, and even smelled her. “Oh, mother," she thought, as huge tears formed in her eyes and dropped onto her snowy white paws. She sighed, sighed again, then gradually laid her weary body down and closed her eyes for the last time …
Instantly, she was reunited with her mother. Her mother! That quick! They looked into each other’s eyes. They squealed with joy and delight, then laid down together to snuggle …
Then she watched as her mother licked away the tears from her ebony paws.
neighbors who are struggling to become integrated into our community.
Contact Brooke at (970) 456-8480 for more information.
Social Justice Committee
Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists
We attended the Carbondale Trustee Candidate Forum last week and I walked away feeling any one of the contenders would be an excellent trustee. How fortunate we are to have six qualified locals vying for the daunting tasks required of elected officials. But one really stood out: Ross Kribbs. We would be especially lucky to have him working for our best interests.
Kay Clarke CarbondaleRoss Kribbs didn’t ask me to write this letter. Nobody did. Everyone running for the board of trustees this year seems so qualified, and it’s wonderful to see so much interest in the position. I know, though, that I will vote for Ross because, in the many years I’ve known him as a friend and neighbor, he’s impressed me with his concern for Carbondale. From directing the Roaring Fork Valley Youth Orchestra to engaging folks in conversations about what’s going on in Town, he’s walking the talk. Since we first met, I thought he should be on the board of trustees, so I’ll cast one of my votes for him and hope you do too. And good luck to all.
Linda Criswell CarbondaleEveryone around you always speaks about serving their community and how important it is, and wonders how a disconnected politician can just take elections by storm because of our unengaged population. Jess Robison is the one person in my entire life I’ve seen who has acted on those often spoken sentiments. All throughout her life, she has had a calling to public service and to bringing the desires of her community to life. From serving on Basalt High School’s Student Council to the Planning and Zoning Commission in Carbondale, she has always put intentional action toward serving her community.
Every time I talk to her about what’s next she is never pessimistic, she is never disheartened and she is always ready to show up and do what is right. I believe that she will be an incredibly valuable asset to our small community, where intention and doing what’s right has always been at the center of what we do. Jess Robison is an incredibly passionate, well-grounded person with strong ties to our mountain community. She will bring an intelligent ear to tough conversations, allowing for solutions that can serve the community at large while not alienating the minority opinion.
Jess Robison is the candidate that will bring our community into the future without losing our valuable roots.
Emily and Jack Wheeler V Carbondale
from
My friend Susan Rhea was so intent on doing a good job answering the board of trustee candidate questions that she forgot to include two very relevant things. As a member of the Parks and Rec Commission, Susan has been focused on sustainability and inclusion in the development of the new pool plans and in improved playgrounds. In preparing to offer her input for new projects, she does her homework, making an effort to understand all of the contributing factors for decision making.
Susan and I have volunteered together with Age-Friendly Carbondale. In particular, Susan has worked on pulling the data together that was compiled from the Highway 133 safety survey. She has put in countless hours to help design and present an actionable report to the Town. Susan is certainly already an asset to this community.
Sue Zislis
Carbondale
The Carbondale board of trustees elections are almost upon us and it's endorsement time. I'm endorsing Susan Rhea and Ross Kribbs. Both are capable, both are willing to speak out on issues and to be nay-sayers when they think it's called for. Our recent trustee boards have accomplished a great deal and coped well with two crisis situations: COVID-19 and the recent refugee influx. They have been great managers. A new Town Center, the Downtowner, a renovated Eighth Street, a new pool on the way, many improvements to parks, sound Town finances; their list of accomplishments is impressive and I can't begin to express my gratitude for the hard work they put in to make them happen.
But these same councils have not done as well as they might have managing commercial development, and the 2020/21 response to the Michael Francisco incident was shameful. I will never forget it. Luis Yllanes was the only trustee to say what he felt and thought and even he gave up after one short comment at one meeting. The other members hid behind attorneys, waited for expert reports that the public still hasn't seen and the matter is still being litigated.
While we're on the subject of moral leadership in local government, I want to note that Colin Laird showed it to a remarkable, even inspirational, degree spearheading our response to the refugee influx. Much of what we were all able to eventually do is thanks to Colin confronting the issue — at considerable personal cost — without consulting experts and without waiting to have his ducks lined up in neat rows. He just saw what was right and started doing it. I want more of that kind of local leadership and I believe Susan and Ross will provide it. I believe they will stand up to developers, confront moral issues when they arise and speak out publicly on behalf of what they believe in.
That's what I think, and my ballot is in. Is your's?
Ron KokishCarbondale
continued on page 27
Berman for Basalt
As a proud small business owner, avid outdoor enthusiast and engaged community member in Basalt, I am honored to endorse Hannah Berman for Basalt Town Council. Hannah's thoughtful and inclusive leadership style uniquely qualifies her to address the diverse challenges facing our mid-Valley community.
With Hannah on Town Council, I believe we can navigate complex issues surrounding housing, education, workforce development, outdoor and climate equity, and the balance between local needs and tourism. Her dedication to listening to all voices and finding collaborative solutions will undoubtedly benefit Basalt's future. Hannah's integrity, compassion and tireless work ethic, as seen through her current work with Aspen Skiing Company, make her the ideal candidate to represent our community. I urge you to join me in supporting Hannah Berman for Basalt Town Council. Let's vote for a youthful candidate who truly understands the needs of our community and is committed to making Basalt an even better place for us now, and for future generations to come.
Jake Wheeler
Day Fire Company, Basalt
Sue for C’dale
I am writing in support of Susan Rhea, candidate for Carbondale’s board of trustees. I have been on the AgeFriendly Carbondale (AFC) board with Susan for over a year, and what a busy year it’s been. AFC jumped into its Highway 133 advocacy project shortly after I joined the board. In case you are not aware, since last summer AFC has been gathering community concerns and comments, through surveys and community events, regarding the safety and usability of Highway 133. Susan has been right in the thick of it, making sure that we asked the community meaningful questions and reached as many diverse Carbondale voices as possible. She has pushed AFC to think broadly and creatively about our process, possible solutions to issues raised and how we communicate our findings and conclusions to the community and the Town government.
During this project, I have found Susan to be passionate, thoughtful and determined about making Carbondale safer for all its residents, preserving its small-town character and creating an environment that encourages more people to walk and bike. I don’t know how many hours AFC has spent on this project, but the phrase “boatload” comes to mind. Susan has been there for all of them, working hard to bring the experiences and concerns of the community to the people who can
By Wednesday, Dare-Case Contracting Services was picking steadily away at the main Aspen-Sopris Ranger District building on Main Street in Carbondale. We suspect that by this time next week, the structure — first built by the Civilian Conservation Corp in 1939 and later expanded — will be no more. Find details on an upcoming traffic detour on page 3 of this newspaper. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
from page 26
make a difference. Now, she has the opportunity to be one of those people, and I hope you will join me in voting for her for trustee.
Candace Goodwin CarbondaleI'm voting for Ross Kribbs for Carbondale trustee. I've known him for more than a decade and have found him to be smart, thoughtful and articulate. A musician, a music teacher, a photographer and a small business owner, he embodies the creative, can-do spirit that makes Carbondale the home we love. His work with the Roaring Fork Youth Orchestra and Ballet Folklorico is inspiring a new generation. As Carbondale continues to grapple with the challenges of growth, development and housing affordability, Ross' training in design and planning adds to the strengths of the present board. He's immersed himself in the life of the community and educated himself in the nuts and bolts of the Comprehensive Plan, the Planning and Zoning Commission and many of the Town's volunteer boards. He's a listener and a hard worker. Most importantly, Ross is passionate about our Town — its history, its culture and its future. Please join me in voting for Ross Kribbs for trustee for the Town of Carbondale.
Michael Hassig
Carbondale
In last week’s Sopris Sun, a Glenwood resident took issue with some of my answers in the previous week’s “get to know your candidates” article. My campaign is all about listening intently and responding to public concerns, and my policy is to fight fire with, well, coffee. I’ve reached out to that fella and offered to chat anytime, and the same offer stands for anyone in the Valley – particularly the residents of our remarkable Carbondale community. We’ve got great successes to learn from, as well as serious challenges that deserve real scrutiny, not rubber stamps.
And in case I wasn’t perfectly clear, our town library — “little” or not — punches well above its weight. It’s an inspiring place, and is precisely the type of project we ought to study and emulate: well designed, welcoming, and a daily host to activities and explorations that keep Carbondale creative and funky. If you agree, I hope to earn your vote.
Ross Kribbs
Candidate, Carbondale Board of Trustees RossForCarbondale@gmail.com
TRANSPORTATION/CAR
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