20240801

Fair-y Fairy tales

Another Mountain Fair has come and gone, and with it — countless colorful memories.

Mountain Fair is a magical time akin to Brazil’s Carnival, where our social roles loosen and everyone has the opportunity to celebrate good music, art and food together in Sopris Park. New connections are made and old bonds forged stronger.

Adults and children alike parade around in costumes, exchanging hugs and finding silly fun. Among the youth especially, it’s a celebratory summer crescendo before the inevitable return to school.

Mt. Sopris herself is central to it all, watching over the many lives that call these valleys home.

Find contest winners on page 7 and more photos on pages 8-9.

The Crystal River Ballet performed a dance based on the classic tale of “The Wizard of Oz” on Saturday morning of Mountain Fair. Due to the impending pool demolition, the Oasis kids’ stage and games area moved to Main Street for a family block party which didn’t quite live up to the shady ditch spot of yore.

Photos by Jane Bachrach

Fascist tea parties

“Elon Musk is really doing an incredible job educating the public about how capitalists end up aligning with fascists to maintain their wealth and limit the power of the working classes.” - @maxberger on X

Truth. Here’s the thing: If all the rhetoric were true then these billionaires wouldn’t need to sell their souls to today’s Republican party. They could pay their fair share of taxes, knowing that they can go back out in the free market, pull up their bootstraps and make it happen again.

Or just sit back and wait for trickle down economics to make its way down to them … Right. The American economy trickles these days in much the same way the Colorado River still reaches Mexico. The insatiable greed along the way prevents most of us from ever seeing a drop. Speaking of Mexico, if Trump gets back into the White House, and Project 2025 comes to fruition, I might just move there. Not to be all doom and gloom, but Agenda 47 (the same thing as Project 2025; Trump just changed the name to imply he will be the 47th — and last! — president this country sees) outlines a bleak future for everyone who isn’t a sycophant. And if it really comes down to fight or flight, in my younger days I would not have hesitated to join the fray, but now, “I said, ‘But I’m tired,’” in the words of George Thorogood.

years Reagan had Alzheimer’s while in office, and we all realized that the position is more of a figurehead, really. It’s the people surrounding the president you gotta watch.

OPINION

Most Americans who haven’t fallen so far down the Trumphole that they can’t see the light of day just want a sane and moderate leader to represent us in the world. Someone who will try to keep the peace and trade agreements alive. But a scary percentage of this country is living in a dream-state similar to “Alice in Wonderland,” except instead of enjoying a psychedelic tea party with a caterpillar they are drinking the Nationalist Kool-Aid put out by Paul Weyrich, a man on a mission to shred the Constitution (www.badfaithdocumentary.com).

Ps & Qs

Jeannie Perry

I’m tired of watching corporations like Amazon climb their money piles while using our tax money (i.e. the U.S. Postal Service) to do it. I’m tired of the media being so scripted I have to get my news from Jon Stewart on Comedy Central. And I’m really tired of watching the Republican Party pretend that Trump isn’t a ridiculous tool for a fascist fairy tale.

At this point, the Democrats could put up practically anyone and I’d vote for them. My preference would be Harris/Buttigieg, but I’m not sure the old blue-blazer guard is ready to smash through the privileged patriarchy domed ceiling like younger voters are …

That’s okay. Surely, we can find someone who’s willing and sane and winnable. How about The Rock or Samuel L. Jackson? I will vote Team Blue no matter what because in my formative

LETTERS

Downtowner

I took The Downtowner for the first time last Saturday and highly recommend it. It was a totally positive experience. We need to use it or risk the possibility of losing it in December. Let’s all support this free ride! It can also save you from getting a DUI. Tips are accepted!

Samantha Hayes Carbondale

Peace and love at the Fair

Having done tours of duty on the Green Team and selling t-shirts at past Mountain Fairs, I decided to give the Peace Patrol a whirl this year. How tough could that be? Peace is what the Fair’s all about. Not only have I never seen a fight at the Fair, but I’ve never even heard of one.

Veterans of the Fair tell me it wasn’t always that way. In the beginning, the cowboys and the miners liked to bring their hard liquor into the Fair and beat each other up, and they both enjoyed beating up the hippies. Today’s Fair-goers have adopted other intoxicants and an “I love you, man” disposition.

I found the Peace Patrol job delightful. Standing at the Seventh Street gate and welcoming smiling attendees looking forward to a fulfilling experience was like being the greeter at church. We only had to stop one person with a dog and we got no argument from him.

Fred Malo Jr. Carbondale

Meanwhile, our billionaire-in-a-white-hat, Bill Gates, is spending his money to re-invent butter without animal or plant matter. Yep, while orphans scour trash heaps in Kenya for their daily bread, Bill’s more focused on buttering his toast. Savor is a company working to bring us The Jetsons-like food technology and, using Gates’ money, they have “developed a process that involves taking carbon dioxide from the air and hydrogen from water, heating them up and oxidizing them to trigger the separation of fatty acids and then the formulation of fat.” (www.newatlas.com/technology/ savor-butter-bill-gates)

Welcome to Fruita. Sometimes I feel like I’m the one sitting at a tea party in the woods with a bunch of lunatics throwing teacups and cake, talking at no one and laughing at nothing. So, “This is how it happens,” I think to myself. This is how an empire eats itself. This is how a society sits at their fancy place setting, sipping their chamomile and watching the village burn to the ground. Here are three things we can all do to fight fascism in the United States of America:

• File an IRS 13909 violation form for the Heritage Foundation, EIN # 23-7327730 re: Project 2025.

• Check on our fellow party goers (neighbors) to see how they’re faring.

• Vote.

Re: Mountain lions

In response to London Lyle’s piece about Initiative 91, “Colorado voters to decide on anti-trophy hunting measure in November,” there is so much false information provided that it’s not really even a news article but rather an opinion piece to push an agenda. There is information spread by Cats Aren’t Trophies Coalition (CATs) that is completely false and the truth needs to be heard by the people versus the full on lies and flat out false information that is put out by CATs to get their measure voted on. So here is some flat truth that is fact-based and should have been researched by the writer.

1. Samantha Miller was quoted in this article saying, “No one has mountain lion meat in their freezer. There are a lot of ethical hunters who hunt deer and elk that support this campaign. No one’s hunting lions for their meat.” Simple answer: YES THEY ARE. And YES THEY DO HAVE MEAT IN THEIR FREEZERS. Here is the Colorado Parks and Wildlife 2024-2025 regulation for lion harvests: “All edible parts of lions must be properly prepared for human consumption, excluding internal organs. At a minimum, this means the four quarters, tenderloins and backstraps. Internal organs are not considered edible meat”

2. California banned lion hunting 50 years ago. They used to allow

around 250 lions harvested yearly when hunting was legal. Currently, California has to euthanize around the same amount of lions a year due to conflict. Lion populations remain “stable,” yet they have to take out that many lions a year; and they blame conflict mainly on growing human population. But you still have to take out that many lions a year. Hunters did the same thing, ethically, 50 years ago. Now, some guy shoots them in a trap when they are a nuisance and throws the meat in the dump. So their false narrative that lion populations are stable and self controlling in California is actually just hiding the truth that they still have to take out the same amount of lions each year.

3. Lions, and wolves even, do not control chronic wasting disease (CWD). If they did, the amount of CWD would not be growing, especially in northern states with heavy wolf populations. It’s another lie put out based on “emerging evidence” — no, it’s just a belief someone has because predators only kill the “sick and weak.” Colorado does need mountain lion hunting. It is not trophy hunting. That is a term used to turn people against it.

Josh Wamboldt Redstone

Editor Raleigh Burleigh 970-510-3003

news@soprissun.com

Contributing & Digital Editor

James Steindler

Sol del Valle Editora Bianca Godina bianca@soprissun.com

Lead Editorial Designer Terri Ritchie

Advertising Designer Emily Blong

Delivery

Frederic Kischbaum

Hank van Berlo Bartlett

Proofreaders

Lee Beck

Tracy Kallassy

Ken Pletcher

Hank van Berlo

Executive Director

Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246

adsales@soprissun.com

Board Members / Mesa Directiva

board@soprissun.com

Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke

Lee Beck • Donna Dayton

Eric Smith • Roger Berliner

Elizabeth Phillips • Jessi Rochel

Andrew Travers • Anna Huntington

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

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

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

Lee Beck & John Stickney

Kay Brunnier

Frances Dudley

Michelle & Ed Buchman

Sue Edelstein & Bill Spence

Deborah & Shane Evans

Greg & Kathy Feinsinger

Gary & Jill Knaus

Eric Smith

Peter and Mike Gilbert

Patti & George Stranahan

Elizabeth Wysong

Alpine Bank

Emily & George Bohmfalk

Kathy & Carter Barger

Sandy & Paul Chamberlin

Karen & Roger Berliner

Donna & Ken Riley

Gayle & Dick Wells

Legacy Givers for including us in their final wishes.

Mary Lilly

Donate by mail or online: P.O. Box 399

Carbondale, CO 81623

520 S. Third Street #26-B 970-510-3003

soprissun.com/Donate

The Sopris Sun, Inc.

is a proud member of the Carbondale Creative District continued on page 18

Cool Bricks Studio

Aspen Valley Hospital

Colorado Mountain College

Hillary Porterfield

Carbondale Rotary

NONPROFIT PARTNERS

Basalt Library

Colorado Animal Rescue

Carbondale Arts

Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner in 2024? Email Todd@soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866

SCUTTLEBUTT

Commercial inventory

Following last week’s article, “Commercial inventory remains scarce in Carbondale,”

Amoré Realty’s Lynn Kirchner and Kathie Jaycox invited The Sopris Sun to view a database tool that hadn’t existed when our counting efforts began in 2017. A quick search revealed five properties available to lease in Carbondale, including a 1,968-square-foot space on West Main Street that’s also for sale, in addition to 12 other properties for sale (two of which are associated with existing businesses). “That’s a lot of listings for a small town,” Kirchner pointed out. “Maybe not so scarce.”

Seeking health care contacts

The Sopris Sun is seeking readers who have non-traditional health care and insurance plans and are willing to be interviewed for a story. We are looking for input from providers as well as patients. The different insurance formats we are interested in are direct payment health care, group pool insurance and any other kind of coverage that differs from a standard deductible plan. We are hoping to showcase the various insurance options other locals are using and any local providers who accept these alternative methods. If you’re interested in being interviewed for this story, please contact our reporter, Jessica Peterson, at jessica@soprissun.com

Grizzly Creek

Reconstruction work on Grizzly Creek and Jessie Weaver (No Name) trails in Glenwood Canyon began July 31. Debris flows in 2021 destroyed bridges and prompted a closure two miles up the Grizzly Creek trail. The extended closure begins near the trailhead and also three miles up the Jessie Weaver trailhead. This work will restore a popular connection between the trails. The project is being funded by the City of Glenwood Springs, National Forest Foundation and U.S. Forest Service.

Garfield budget

Garfield County has begun its budgeting process for 2025. The county is projecting a significant revenue decrease in oil and gas property taxes in 2025 compared to 2024, and a moderate decline in residential property taxes over the same period. The county’s 2024 amended budget anticipates revenues at $131.4 million, and $139.2 million in expenditures, with a projected total fund balance of $100.7 million at year’s end. The budget is slated for review through October and adoption in November.

Lumberyard housing

The City of Aspen announced Monday that its Lumberyard affordable housing project was awarded a $2 million grant from the State of Colorado Department of Local Affairs. The project will provide 300 affordable housing units in Aspen. This grant will kickstart “Phase 0” which involves transforming the existing industrial site into a residential-ready site with utilities where a private developer can build housing on behalf of the city.

Pitkin 2050

Pitkin County announced the launch of its Vision 2050 project and will begin the process of modifying policy to align with recommendations from the Community Growth and Advisory Committee (CGAC) outlining the next 30 years of land use and energy conservation. During an 18-month process that concluded in 2023, CGAC addressed some of the challenges facing the county, including rapid growth, maintaining its rural/wild character and housing. “The identified values laid the groundwork for the Pitkin County Vision 2050: bold climate action while balancing the economy, preserving rural and wild lands and maintaining equity and affordability,” a press release detailed. CGAC will continue engagement and data analysis

which will eventually amount to amended codes and a comprehensive plan. For more on Pitkin County Vision 2050, visit www.tinyurl.com/PC2050

Traffic safety

Halfway through 2024, the Colorado Department of Transportation is sharing preliminary data on traffic fatalities. The results show a decrease in risky driving behaviors compared to last year. In the first six months of 2024, there were 294 fatalities on Colorado roads, down 9% from this time last year. This follows a steady increase in speeding-related fatalities between 2019-2023.

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Anibal Guevera and Sarah Uhl (Aug. 1); Jeff Dahl, Hattie Gianinetti, Catherine Masters, Maciej Mrotek and Justin Patrick (Aug. 2); Margarita Alvarez, Gavin Dahl and Sara Preston (Aug. 3); Megan Gianinetti, Kallie Hyer, Jay Leavitt, Tony Madrigal and Andrew Roberts-Gray (Aug. 4); Cilla Dickinson, Rosie McSwain, Shiloh Merriott and Ixchel Muniz (Aug. 5); Steven Haines and Carly Merriott (Aug. 6); Ed Engelki, Charlotte Graham and Marcelo Lott (Aug. 7). Wish to share a birthday for print? Contact us at news@soprissun.com

Nora Bilby’s Garden Delight key lime won “Best in Fair” for the pie contest this year. It was Bilby’s third year in a row winning this top award. She is pictured here with her father.

Photo by Jim Otto

For Mountain Fair contest results see page 7

‘It’s written

in her DNA to survive’

Aspen Glen bald eagle carries on after death of mate

AMY HADDEN MARSH

Sopris Sun Correspondent

Bald eagles mate for life. That is, unless one mate dies. For at least two decades a pair of bald eagles has nested and raised their young along the banks of the Roaring Fork River at Aspen Glen, between Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. This year, the nest was filled with three hatchlings who grew into nestlings and then fledglings. Just as the first youngster was ready for takeoff in early June, the male adult parent was killed by a car on Highway 82.

Delia Malone, vice-chair of Roaring Fork Audubon and an ecologist with the Colorado Natural Heritage Program, is one of four locals who study the eagles. She and Aspen Glen resident Sibel Tekce presented results of their work to the Garfield County commissioners in April to help preserve a buffer zone that’s been in place around the eagles’ nesting and foraging area since 1992.

Malone told The Sopris Sun that the loss of the adult male has been tough on the female. “She has to feed herself first and then she has to provide food for the eaglets,” she said. And that doesn’t mean heading for the nearest bird feeder. Feeding means hunting or catching fish, which takes time and energy. Meanwhile, she also defends her territory against raptors, corvids and other predators, and teaches the fledglings how to hunt and fish. All by herself.

Malone noted that the fledglings left the nest faster than usual this year. “I think it’s probably kind of like kids at home,” she said. “If your parents are feeding you, why leave? But the female probably wasn’t bringing enough food.” She added that fledglings usually stay close to the nest for four or five weeks, honing

their flying and hunting skills — basically learning how to be eagles. “During this time, the parents still provide all their food,” she said.

The female parent has been flying back and forth between the nest and nearby perch trees but no offspring have been sighted. “We really don’t see [this year’s] fledglings around too much anymore,” she said.

Malone believes the adult female is mourning her mate. “She sits out there in her perch tree that they shared together for so long,” she observed. “And she just sits there and sits there.” The eagle seems to have lost the wind beneath her wings.

“When they flew together, you could tell they were joyous flying together and in the dance,” said Malone. “I think she’s still hoping her mate will return. He’s returned for decades every day. ‘Why isn’t he coming back now?’”

The suitor

Another male bald eagle has entered the scene but the female does not appear interested. “He showed up about a week after [her mate] was killed,” said Malone. “They were vocalizing together but then she basically didn’t accept his advances.” Meaning, the female ignored any attempts at bonding.

The upside, said Malone, is that the drive to survive remains. “[The female’s] first focus is to reproduce and get those young out of the nest because successful reproduction is immortality,” she said. “It’s written in her DNA to survive.” And, apparently, the new guy has not given up.

Nowhere to go

Malone said the female bald eagle likely won’t leave this stretch of the river. “There is nowhere else to go,” she said. “Look at the river, look at the development, look at how houses are bank-to-bank along

continued on page 18

A new suitor tries to attract the attention of the female bald eagle after her mate was killed by a car in June on Highway 82.

Photo courtesy of Steve Harding

Carbondale Library scores a ‘bookmobile’ thanks to Carbondale Bike Project

AISHA WELLS

Sopris Sun Intern

It’s a bike, it’s a library, it’s a bookmobile! This library on wheels was born when Erin Hollingsworth, adult services coordinator at the Carbondale Library, reached out to the Carbondale Bike Project (CBP) to build a delivery bike for their Homebound Delivery program.

CBP was started in 2009 by Aaron Taylor to recycle and fix up discarded bikes. Taylor created the program in Aloha Mountain Cyclery’s basement which is where he met Jim Githens. When Taylor became executive director of the Way of Compassion Dharma Center, CBP moved its office to the Third Street Center, where it remains today.

Now, CBP rents the space for folks who wish to fix up their bikes and it also sells bikes and bike parts. The Bike Project has also taught students from the Carbondale Community School simple bike maintenance that they can apply at home.

Even though Githens was retired when Taylor left the project in 2022 to move to Crestone, no one wanted to see the bike project go away, so he took it on with Valerie Gilliam. Colin Laird and Mark Taylor from the Third Street Center decided to sponsor the project to keep it running.

Githens wasn’t ready to take on a full-time commitment, so when Erik O’Connell walked into the shop looking for ways he could volunteer, Valerie Gilliam asked him if he wanted a manager’s position. Erik has now been the manager of the Carbondale Bike Project since mid-January of 2024.

O’Connell found that the bike project had some challenges, especially in the funding department. Because it’s volunteer and donation-based, they have to rely on donated bike parts and other generosity. The bikes in the shop today were given to the project by the community and were fixed up with other parts that CBP salvaged from irreparable bikes. The rebuilt bikes are then sold or given to Bikes for Humanity, which donates these to community service workers, like teachers and healthcare workers, in districts of southern and eastern Africa.

Hollingsworth joined the Carbondale Library in November 2023. She works primarily to serve adult and senior patrons. The Garfield County Public Library District has a service called Homebound Delivery which delivers books to anyone who can’t leave their house and doesn’t have someone else who can bring them books — for example, someone who just had surgery or

some other injury. This program also helps seniors who live in an assisted living home like Sopris Lodge. The program allows patrons to call the library and ask for books to be delivered to their home.

Hollingsworth wanted to improve the Carbondale Library’s Homebound Delivery service, because it hadn’t been very active before, so, in true Bonedalefashion, she started to use her own bike to deliver books to people’s houses and Sopris Lodge. She would take several to Sopris Lodge every month to create a pop-up library for the people living there to browse, then she would then take the books back a month later when she

brought new books. For patrons outside of Sopris Lodge, there is a short application to ask for the library to deliver specific books, music, audiobooks, movies and anything else the library has available. All they need is a valid Garfield County library card.

Unfortunately, Hollingsworth’s bike didn’t have enough room for all of the books in her basket, so she emailed the Carbondale Bike Project about making a library on wheels. Luckily, O’Connell found the perfect Xtracycle frame for this project. After adding wheels, file folders and the other stuff that a bike needs, he came up with this: the bookmobile.

We’re Hiring!

Community Partner Programs Coordinator

Join our team! The Art Base is a non-profit art center in Basalt, CO, which fosters creative expression in the visual arts for all ages and abilities, through education, exhibitions, and providing opportunities to artists and artisans.

The Community Partner Programs Coordinator will be a friendly and community – centric person who is committed to the success of inclusive educational programming at the Art Base. Under the direction of the Education Programs Manager, the Community Partner Programs Coordinator will be responsible for co-creating and coordinating innovative programming with organizations serving underrepresented groups, aiming to expand art classes and opportunities, making art accessible to all. Bilingual Spanish/English required. www.theartbase.org

Now, Erin Hollingsworth (left) and others can deliver Carbondale residents their books on the bookmobile built by Erik O’Connell (right). Courtesy photo

Empowering community through learning at Basalt Library

Sopris Sun Correspondent

The Basalt Regional Library’s renewed mission statement, “The confluence of community, freedom and fun. A Place to Go. A Place to Gather. A Place to Grow,” was approved during its July 15 board meeting. The adjustment to the mission statement is just the beginning of a larger strategic plan update slated for 2025. Executive Director Amy Shipley filled in The Sopris Sun about how that has progressed thus far.

“A needs assessment and data collection process centered around community interviews,” Shipley explained. Through the first half of 2024, the Basalt Library completed 52 interviews with community members.

The next step, which is currently in process, is comparing the collected data with similar libraries across the country. From there, the library board and staff will create a mind map and identify key They each work with community orga

various community groups and many of its offerings come by way of those partnerships. One such series is the Dementia Education Series offered in partnership with Memory Care for Ascent Living Communities. The final summer event of this series, “Reducing Anxiety and Agitation in People with Dementia,” is from 4 to 5pm on Wednesday, Aug. 14, featuring Amelia Shafer.

viewed reading as a chore, she added.

The summer reading program culminates this week with a Scholastic book fair taking place through Sunday, Aug. 4. Books, magazines and prizes are available in exchange for book bucks or real dollars. The last day to submit reading logs, which also gains readers entry into the grand prize drawing, is Aug. 4. Grand prizes for adults include a one-night stay at the Hotel Maxwell Anderson in Glenwood Springs, two passes to Iron Mountain Hot Springs and a $100 gift certificate to the Italian Underground.

The library regularly collaborates with

An upcoming autumn event, Swap It Like It’s Hot, occurs annually and Shipley said, “It’s been really transformational for community members in need.” The fourth annual community clothing swap and thrifting event will take place in late October. The library will be accepting donations through the month of Halloween. While the specific swap date is not yet set, Shipley expects there to be a significant turnout. The Basalt Lion’s Club will provide free pancakes and Heirlooms Basalt is partnering to support.

Between now and autumn be sure to check out the Library of Things. Made possible by an outdoor equity grant from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Basalt Library is able to loan out camping kits, backpacking gear, board games, telescopes, handheld games and more. All you need is a library card to expand the possibilities for your end of summer and early autumn outdoor activities.

To learn more about the Basalt Library events, its Library of Things and so much more, visit www.basaltlibrary.org

Part of the setup at last year’s Scholastic Book Fair at the Basalt Library. This year’s book fair is open during business hours through Sunday, Aug. 4. Photo courtesy of Christy Baumgarten

There’s no time like August to make a will

LONDON LYLE

Sopris Sun Intern

August is recognized as National Make-A-Will Month. By making a will, people assure their possessions are passed along exactly as they see fit. The lack of a will can create turmoil for families left to deal with the assets a person has accumulated. As of 2022, 67% of Americans don’t have a valid will according to a report by CNBC.

The organization FreeWill partners with nonprofits to encourage folks to use their website to make a will for free. If they would like to, the option is given to include nonprofits that cater to a cause they believe in as legacy gifts. FreeWill recently celebrated the millionth will created on its platform, according to a FreeWill representative.

“Leaving nonprofits in your will is a really wonderful way to support nonprofit organizations that you’ve cared about in your lifetime,” said Jamie Abbott, executive director of Carbondale Arts. “It’s also

kind of a tax tool to help your family offset some of the taxes that happen later,” she added. Carbondale Arts has seen over 100 wills made on FreeWill through their referral link alone.

While most folks wait until they’re older to make a will, it doesn’t hurt to make one as a young adult as well. “Most people don’t think about it until they have children, but you can make one as soon as you’re an adult and responsible for yourself,” Abbott said.

Carbondale Arts’ formal legacy program is relatively new; they first launched it only two years ago. Despite that, Abbott said they’ve already received transformative gifts in the past few years. “When these gifts come to fruition, they can be completely transformative for an organization to receive,” Abbott said. “These kinds of legacy gifts are huge for organizations.”

For many nonprofits, receiving legacy gifts allows them to be more stable by adding the gifts to their

“I want to donate my entire tattoo collection to The Sopris Sun.”

reserve funds, launching new programming and even starting endowments. For example, community member Mary Lilly died April 26, 2016 and specified The Sopris Sun, Aspen Music Festival and School and KDNK as beneficiaries of her will, which left a sizable impact for all three organizations.

“The message of it all, especially in small towns with more

average means, is that when we do leave gifts in our will, whether that’s property or legacy gifts, it’s an opportunity to be tremendously helpful to family members and organizations as they go on,” Abbott said. When it comes to choosing an organization to put in your will, FreeWill allows you to name specific programs you would like your bequest to go

toward. If you’re looking for a charity or nonprofit organization to donate to, Charity Navigator is a free online tool that can help you find charities that align with your values. The site independently reviews nonprofits and provides details about them and their mission.

For more information, visit FreeWill.com

53 rd Mountain Fair Contest Winners

Pie

EXOTIC

Nora Bilby - Garden Delight Key Lime

Olivia Groth - Mojito Pie

Laurie Stone - Chocolate Raspberry Ganache

FRUIT

Robin Shannon - Strawberry Apple

Jessica Davidoff Meyer

- Strawberry Rhubarb

Katie Carlson - Strawberry Fields

CREAM

Jenna - Earl Grey

Alie Olivia Wetstein - Lemon Brulee

Jessica Davidoff Meyer

- Lemon Strawberry

BEST OF SHOW - Garden Delight Key Delight (3rd year in a row)

Cake

CAKE

Jessica Davidoff Meyer - Orange Buttercream

Kerry Toohey - Chocolate Oreo with Cream Cheese Frosting

Valee Noone

- Orange Almond Poppyseed

ALTERNATIVE

Redstone General Store

- GF Lemon Ricotta Olive Oil

Jody Henderson - Chocolate Irish Cream

Michelle Page - Strawberry/ Coconut/Carrot

CUPCAKE

Halsie Peck - Cereal Milk

Jessica Davidoff Meyer - Sicilian Orange

Peter Davidoff - Passionfruit Blueberry

BEST OF SHOW - Jessica Davidoff Meyer - Orange Buttercream

Men’s Woodsplitting

WINNER - Aaron Maisch - 17 seconds

Flair - Edgar Rojo

2nd - Morte Ross - 17.40 seconds

3rd - Matt Hogenboom (no time recorded)

Women’s Woodsplitting

WINNER - Alyssa Barker - 28 seconds

Flair - Elissa Rodman Gorman

2nd - Georgia Ackerman - 33.8

seconds

3rd - Rachel Croft - 35.05 seconds

Limbo

Cari Rohe - 2’2”

Talia Kurtz

Dara Unger

Bike Race

MEN’S (no last names provided)

Kyle Lindgren

Devin

WOMEN’S (no last names provided)

Chloe Annie Sarah

Fly Casting

Maureen Taufer

Scott White

BJ Schmidt

Double Horseshoes

Frank Anderson + Craig “Baggs” Hoffman

Christen + Troy Gawart

Mark Nersesian + Dan Jenkins

Single Horseshoes

Frank Anderson

Eddie McNeal

Craig “Baggs” Hoffman

Throwdown

“Silk Rodeo” Adam Ting, Emily Abbott, Nori Pao, Brian Chen

Singer/Songwriter

Jenny Henry

Running Race

OVERALL/MEN’S: Tyler Parker

WOMEN’S: Caroline Cole

Thank you to Carbondale Arts for providing the contest results

Flexibility pays off for this participant of the limbo contest on Saturday afternoon at this year’s Mountain Fair. Photo by Tommy Sands

This IS the place

Photo by MRL

Photo by Jane Bachrach

Winning form from the Carbondale Fire Department pulling CPD over the line. Photo by Tommy Sands

The community drum circle brought together all ages and set a pulse for the entire weekend, per tradition. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Shayla Paradeis (left) and Gabriela Mejia (right) delivered the opening prayer at this year’s Mountain Fair. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Photo by MRL

Photo by Jane Bachrach

Photo by Jane Bachrach

Photo by Will Sardinsky

Mountain Fair 2024

Photo by Jane Bachrach

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Photo by Will Sardinsky

Photo by Will Sardinsky

Photo by Will Sardinsky

Photo by Will Sardinsky

Photo by Will Sardinsky

Photo by Jane Bachrach

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Photo by Jeanne Souldern

Photo by Jane Bachrach

Photo by Will Sardinsky

THURSDAY, AUGUST 1

CMC OFFICE HOURS

Colorado Mountain College offers open office hours with an advisor on GED, ESL and digital literacy resources from 4:20 to 5:30pm at the Basalt Library. For more info, call 970-236-0451.

GUITAR ENSEMBLE

Young local musicians taught by Mateo Sandate perform at Carbondale Library from 5 to 6pm.

LIBRARY RESOURCES

Basalt Library teaches about how to access all its resources in Spanish and English at 5pm.

WILD WEST RODEO

The Carbondale Wild West Rodeo continues every Thursday through Aug. 22 with a free shuttle to the Gus Darien Riding Arena from both The Orchard and 4th and Colorado (across from Town Hall) between 6 and 10pm. Gates open at 5pm, slack is at 5:45pm and grand entry at 7:30pm.

SOL THEATRE

Stage of Life Theatre Company presents a coming-of-age musical called “13 Jr.” at 6pm tonight, tomorrow and Saturday with a 2pm matinee on Sunday. Tickets are available at www.soltheatrecompany.org

CRYSTAL THEATRE

The Crystal Theatre shows “Thelma” tonight at 7:30pm. “Twisters” opens tomorrow and continues Saturday, Wednesday and next Thursday at 7:30pm with a Sunday show at 5pm.

MEN’S GROUP

HeadQuarters provides a space for men to “gather sincerely with other men, to express the fullness of their experience and to witness other men doing the same” from 6 to 7:30pm. This offering is free and open to all male-identifying persons 18 and older.

CEREMONIAL BREATHWORK

Davis Cowles leads a “Men’s Ceremonial Breathwork Circle” at True Nature from 6 to 8pm. To register, visit www.truenaturehealingarts.com

AUDIENCE PLANT

The Aspen Art Museum presents “AUDIENCE PLANT 2024” — a concert at the top of Aspen Mountain merging electronic and orchestral tracks at 7:30pm. The event is at-capacity, however a limited number of tickets may be available on a first-come, firstserved basis.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2

VOICES

VOICES celebrates its youth queer residency students and teaching artists with a presentation at The Painted Pig from 5 to 6pm.

JAZZ

Chris Bank plays jazz at Triangle Park in Willits at 5:30pm.

FIRST FRIDAY

Valle Musico performs at Chacos Park from 5:30 to 8:30pm.

JERRY PLUGER

Join family and friends of Jerry Pluger for a celebration of life at the Third Street Center from 6 to 8pm.

ART RECEPTION

The Carbondale Clay Center hosts a reception for “Women Working with Clay” from 6 to 8pm.

SOUND JOURNEY

Dr. Zachary and Krista Cashin lead a healing sound journey at True Nature from 6:30 to 8pm. To register, visit www. truenaturehealingarts.com

‘COME FROM AWAY’

Theatre Aspen’s “Come From Away” opens tonight at 7:30pm and continues through Aug. 24. The story celebrates Gander, Newfoundland, a town that received 38 diverted planes and 7,000 stranded passengers on Sept. 11, 2001. Tickets at www.theatreaspen.org

THE DEAD ROOTS

Celebrate First Friday with The Dead Roots performing at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

TRACE BUNDY

TACAW presents intentionally-acclaimed guitar virtuoso Trace Bundy at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

ARTCRUSH

DJ Alexandra Richards performs the Aspen Art Museum ArtCrush afterparty at the base of Buttermilk from 9:30pm ‘til midnight. Tickets at www.bit.ly/ArtCrushParty

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3

RIVERFEST

Help clean the Colorado and Roaring Fork river corridors through Glenwood Springs from 9am to 3pm. After a float or walk along the banks picking up trash, participants will be treated to a picnic in Two Rivers Park. Find details at www.bit.ly/RiverFEST2024

ART LECTURE

The Powers Art Center welcomes Jonathan William Henery highlighting the achievements of his aunt and uncle, Christo and Jeanne-Claude, from 4 to 6pm. To RSVP, visit www.bit.ly/PowersArtAug3

The Carbondale Library hosts storytime

Earth: The Mountain West Women’s 11:30am and continue through Sunday at 4pm. Find the schedule and tickets at

The Carbondale Library invites natuwords and sketches every First Friday

hosts Wine & Dine at the Snowmass winners will be celebrated, a threecourse meal served with an open bar and champagne toast and it all ends

ARTISTS TALK

The Carbondale Clay Center presents a free artist talk with Jen Allen and Sanam Emami at El Dorado at 6pm.

LIVE MUSIC

Victoria Pennock will perform music at Bodegón from 6 to 8pm.

STEVE’S GUITARS

Lauren Podjun plays at Steve’s at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

EL DORADO

The Milemarkers perform classic rock at El Dorado from 8 to 10pm.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 4

SUNDAY MEDITATION

The Carbondale Meditation Circle of Self Realization Fellowship, based on the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, meets the first Sunday of every month from 9 to 10:30am in the meditation room at True Nature. More info at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

“Women Working with Clay” will remain on display at the Carbondale Clay Center through Aug. 16. The exhibit features 13 former speakers and presenters from the Women Working with Clay Symposium, founded in 2011 to honor the accomplishments of women ceramicists. Catch the First Friday reception on Aug. 2 from 6 to 8pm. Pictured: Raheleh Filsoofi uses her teeth to create a pattern on a dish. Courtesy photo

BROADWAY GAME NIGHT

Theatre Aspen hosts “Broadway Game Night: An Evening of Music, Mayhem and More” from 1 to 3pm at the Hotel Jerome in Aspen. Tickets and more info at www.theatreaspen.org

MUSIC AT THE HANDLEBAR

The Sopris Mountain Boyz perform at The Handlebar at the Homestead Grill in River Valley Ranch at 5pm.

RANDOM CONVERSATIONS

The Carbondale Library hosts “The Lost Art of Random Conversations,” a community-building event filled with meaningful conversations among strangers, at 6pm.

MONDAY, AUGUST 5

IN STITCHES

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

EL PLACER DE LEER

Practice Spanish by reading literature with Angelica Breña at the Basalt Library at 5pm. More info at www.basaltlibrary.org/events-calendar

AIKIDO

Crystal River Aikikai teaches aikido to adults and teens at 13 Moons Ranch from 5:15 to 6:15pm. Another class is taught on Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:30am. More info at www.crystalriveraikikai.com

SOURCE DIALOGUES

Lisa McKenzie leads a book group exploring Gary Springfield’s “Source Dialogues” from 6:30 to 8pm at the Third Street Center. More info at www.thecenterforhumanflourishing.org

MONDAY MEDITATION

Practice insight meditation and hear teachings of the Buddha at 13 Moons Ranch, south of Carbondale, from 7 to 8:30pm. More info at www.roaringforkinsight.org/events

ELI LEV

Eli Lev performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

BALTHVS

Colombian psych-trio BALTHVS performs at Belly Up Aspen at 8pm. Tickets at www.bellyupaspen.com

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6

YARN GROUP

Yarn crafters gather at the Basalt Library to share tips and projects at 5pm.

BIG FIVE

The Big Five group, hosted at HeadQuarters in Basalt and open to all, discusses mental health at 6pm. The group will reconvene and recap on the last Tuesday of the month to rehash the same topic. Email lindsey@headq.org for more info.

TYPOGRAPHY

The Aspen Institute presents a conversation about Bauhaus design and typography at the Paepcke Auditorium at 6pm. Registration is required at www.aspeninstitute.org/events

DRAWING CLUB

The Roaring Fork Drawing Club meets at Crown Mountain Park in El Jebel at 6:30pm. BYO-drawing stuff.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7

BACK TO SCHOOL

Elementary through college students are invited to grab some free school supplies, decorate pencil pouches and meet with 12 different local organizations that support students year-round at the Basalt Library from noon to 2pm. More info at www.basaltlibrary.org/ events-calendar

BASALT BOOK CLUB

Discuss your favorite and least favorite reads at the Basalt Library from noon to 2pm.

ROOTBEER RICHIE

Basalt’s summer concert series continues with The Low End opening for Rootbeer Richie & the Reveille beginning at 5:30pm.

KNEE PAIN EXPLAINED

Tomas Pevny, MD, an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Valley View, presents “Why Does My Knee Hurt? Five Common Causes Explained” over Zoom at 6pm. Register at www.tinyurl.com/KneePainVVH

WILD FEAST

Join Wilderness Workshop for Wild Feast at the St. Regis Aspen Resort for a special dinner beginning at 6pm with a performance by VOICES followed by a silent disco dance party at 9pm. For tickets, visit www.wildernessworkshop.org/wild-feast

GLENWOOD MUSIC

Louie & The Lizards performs at Two Rivers Park with The Know Bodies Band opening at 6:30pm.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 8

PAWS & CONES

Colorado Animal Rescue brings pups up for adoption, and ice cream for everyone, to Sopris Lodge in Carbondale from 3 to 4pm. Call 970-456-6871 to RSVP and for more info.

BANNED BOOK CLUB

The Banned Book Club discusses “Crank” by Ellen Hopkins at the Basalt Library at 4pm. Limited copies are available at the front desk at the library.

MUSIC AT THE HANDLEBAR

Rodrigo Arreguin performs at The Handlebar at The Homestead Grill in River Valley Ranch at 5pm.

Mosey on down and enjoy dining, live music, shopping & more on Rodeo Thursdays in Carbondale.

Drink Specials Food Promos

Entertainment

Park in town and ride the free shuttle to and from the rodeo:

#1. The Orchard #2. Fourth and Colorado

Community Classes in Carbondale

RESCHEDULED

PLANT PRUNING TECHNIQUES WITH CHRIS BEISER IN BASALT

Learn the “natural” style of pruning trees - timing, technique, different plants and styles. Monday, 5-8pm, 7/29

KNIT A STUFFED ANIMAL

Learn or review basic knitting techniques while creating your own adorable stuffed animal. Thursdays, 6-8pm, 7/25-8/15

APOCALYPSE 101

Practical knowledge and skills to survive local disasters, or a national/global catastrophe. Saturday, 10am-1pm, 8/3

MORE SWING DANCE LINDY HOP

Build on the basics with Lindy Hop and expand your dance knowledge and confidence. Wed., 6:30-8:30pm, 7/31-8/21

Fall Classes...

MEMOIR WRITING WORKSHOP

Explore memoir writing and learn how a turn a touchstone event into a great narrative. Mondays, 6-8pm, 8/26-10/7

INTRO TO SOMATIC YOGA

Gentle movements that heal pain, release tension and facilitate ease of movement. Mondays, 9-10am, 9/9-9/23

pARTy Bohemian-style at The Art Base’s annual fundraiser

JEANNE SOULDERN Sopris Sun Correspondent

The Art Base, renowned for its contributions to the Roaring Fork Valley art scene, will host its annual flagship fundraising event, the “pARTy,” on Aug. 17.

The Sopris Sun recently spoke with Art Base Executive Director Annie Henninger, who shared insights into the Basalt-based arts nonprofit’s annual flagship fundraiser.

This year’s theme is “Mountain Bohemian,” a nod to the environmental conservation efforts of Melva Bucksbaum Dedication to the Arts Award honoree Bill Kane, who has lived in the Roaring Fork Valley with his wife Carolyn since 1975, arriving to serve as the planning director for Aspen and Pitkin County.

The award is given annually to an individual who has made significant contributions to the arts in the community. Kane, a former Art Base board member and former town manager and mayor of Basalt, fits that bill as an advocate for Roaring Fork Valley nonprofits, beginning in 1978 when he served on the Aspen Art Museum board of directors while working as the City of Aspen’s planning director. In the 1990s, he collaborated with Robert Harth, then president and CEO of the Aspen Music Festival and School, to develop a campus master plan.

Henninger highlighted Kane’s dedication to improving the quality of life in the Roaring Fork Valley, describing him as “instrumental,” first with the organization’s move to the Wyly Arts Center (the

former Basalt Library location) and then to its current location on Midland Avenue.

The Arts Base has been making monthly payments on its current home and occasionally hosts capital fundraising efforts “to knock down the mortgage,” Kane shared.

“The Art Base has really blossomed. They own their space, and the community has been very generous. It’s one of the best gallery spaces — it’s spectacular,” he said.

Celebrating its 10th year, the “10×10 Name Unseen Silent Auction” features over 130 works of art, each 10 inches by 10 inches, generously donated by local artists. These artworks are unsigned, adding an element of mystery and excitement to the bidding process.

Expressing her gratitude for the artists contributing to the auction, Henninger said, “Not only is there quality and creativity [in the artwork] but there’s the generosity of all of these artists donating their time and their talents to support The Art Base.”

Henninger encouraged community members to participate, noting that anyone can register to bid online, regardless of whether they attend the event. The auction runs from Aug. 2 through Aug. 17, allowing ample time for participants to view and bid on artwork.

In addition to in-person silent auction bidding from 5pm to its close at 6:30pm, the pARTy will include a cocktail reception sponsored by Woody Creek Distillers, featuring signature

cocktails and a catered dinner provided by The Farmer and Chef.

Henninger highlighted the importance of community support for the event, encouraging those interested to purchase tickets soon, as they are expected to sell out.

The evening will culminate in a paddle raise auction, where attendees pledge financial support for various categories of programming, with each pledge directly supporting the continuation and expansion of The Art Base’s offerings.

Kane praised The Art Base’s programming, especially for youth. “A lot of people have gone through a few classes at The Art Base and found out that they truly have talent. And it’s not just with art; some of

them have been led into architecture, and some kids chose engineering paths. They discovered some skills that gave them the confidence to get into design professions, so it’s pretty impressive.”

Henninger encouraged attendees to embrace this year’s “Mountain Bohemian” theme with expressive attire that reflects a rich tapestry of colors, patterns and textures inspired by nature and the arts. “We are celebrating community this year,” Henninger said, emphasizing the event’s focus on coming together and supporting one another through the joy of artistic expression.

The public is welcome to attend the pARTy’s opening reception to view “10×10 Name Unseen Silent Auction” items at The Art Base, 174 Midland Avenue in downtown Basalt on Aug. 2 from 5 to 7pm.

To bid on “10×10 Name Unseen Silent Auction” artwork or to purchase tickets for the pARTy, go to www.theartbase.org

IN A NUTSHELL

What: The Art Base pARTy

When: Aug. 17, 5-9pm

Where: The Art Base and Lions Park, Basalt

How: Purchase tickets at www.theartbase.org

Why: In celebration of community and the arts

Former Basalt mayor Bill Kane is the recipient of this year’s Melva Bucksbaum Dedication to the Arts Award. Photo by Jeanne Souldern

Heritage Fire event showcases culinary talent

JEANNE SOULDERN Sopris Sun Correspondent

On July 27, the Heritage Fire Tour made its annual stop at Snowmass Base Village, showcasing 16 Colorado chefs grilling responsibly raised, heritage-breed animals and heirloom vegetables sourced from local farms.

The Sopris Sun recently spoke with Executive Chef Carson Kennedy from Snowmass’s Home Team BBQ about participating in this year’s event. Kennedy, who has been with the restaurant for just under a year and recently became the executive chef, said, “I have assisted other chefs for the last couple of years, but this will be my first time with my own booth.”

New retreat aims to cultivate healthy masculinity

Last year, 13 Moons Ranch welcomed the seventh annual Red Earth gathering, an event specific to women interested in herbalism. Red Earth will return again this weekend, followed by a new event intended only for men, Aug. 9-11.

Unlike the Red Earth gathering, Mountain Heart Men’s Ceremony is not centered around herbal knowledge so much as personal development. The weekend’s activities include drum making, a traditional Lakota sweat lodge, river plunges, music making and more. In addition to facilitated experiences, locally-sourced meals and on-site camping are included with the experience.

Local facilitators Eric Baumheimer, Anders Carlson, Davis Cowles, Dustin Eli and Kyle Leitzke have invited Ramses Abud, Mason Mostajo, Long Soldier, Alec Solimeo and Hunter Toran to Carbondale to help create the experience. As Cowles noted, every man that signs up will influence how the weekend unfolds.

“It feels like an art to me, a collaborative art,” he said of men’s work. “The facilitator is doing their part to allow the art to emerge from everyone.”

Cowles stumbled upon men’s work during the pandemic. Even in a virtual setting, he found it to be transformative “gathering regularly with a group of interested and committed men trying to become the best versions of themselves and support other men in doing the same.” He sees it as “a lost art and technology” reminiscent of our ancestors gathering around the fire.

“I think men and boys are in trouble,” Cowles continued. “They’re struggling. I know that can be an unpopular opinion to hold considering the amount of harm men have done in a patriarchal system… but it’s true.”

Mountain Heart will connect participants with the elements: open air, fire and the cold river, all held by the land. The weekend is structured around ceremony and will include a workshop where each person

takes home their own buffalo hide drum.

With Eli and Baumheimer guiding the music-making portions, “there is going to be a pulse to the whole weekend characterized by the beat of a drum, stomping of feet, chanting with voices, the way we breath and give awareness to our breath and, of course, the elements,” Cowles described.

One plant ally to be introduced by Toran is hawthorn, which Cowles referred to as “Cacao of the North” for its association with the heart. Toran will guide participants in asking wild things for wisdom. “When you go to be with a wild thing, a wild creature, you must go with humility, with questions, curiosity, willingness to listen for what emerges rather than get something out of it,” Cowles said. “Prayer is not asking for something, it’s refining our questions.”

He added that the intention is to create a container over the weekend where all participants remain at 13 Moons Ranch until the retreat concludes on Sunday afternoon.

“If we participate in the process, we become more than the sum of our parts,” told Cowles. “It’s tenuous,” he admitted. “We need more men to come into this thing to make it happen and make it what it can be.”

The event is open to male-identifying persons of all ages. A limited number of discounted work-trade tickets are available with highly discounted rates for youth (17 and under). The intention is to grow this event annually.

“We as men who live in this amazing valley and beyond have an opportunity to do something really special,” Cowles concluded.

IN A NUTSHELL

What: Mountain Heart Men’s Ceremony

When: Aug. 9-11

Where: 13 Moons Ranch, 6334 Hwy 133

How: Tickets at 13moonsranch.com/ mountainheart

Why: “To care for the living earth that sustains us.”

His background in fire and smoke cooking made the event a perfect fit.

“Now that I’m the executive chef at a restaurant closely aligned with cooking over fire, it made sense to participate this year,” he explained.

Kennedy has been in the Roaring Fork Valley for nearly a decade and has built a network within the local restaurant industry. Before joining Home Team BBQ, he worked at several establishments, including Meat & Cheese Restaurant in Aspen, where he was sous chef and later executive chef. He helped open PARC Aspen, where he also worked as a sous chef.

Originally from Vermillion, South Dakota, Kennedy started his culinary journey as a dishwasher and cook in high school. He never attended culinary school; instead, he learned on the job. “There’s a lot less structure in becoming a chef these days. You can learn just as much by hands-on experience working in a restaurant as you can in school,” he said.

Kennedy enjoys working with diverse cuisines, particularly American Southern food influenced by Louisiana and Creole cooking. However, he has also explored Indian, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking styles to broaden his culinary skills.

Kennedy showcased a dish combining traditional barbecue with Latin American flavors at the event. He served guests

smoked agave pork belly on a mini tostada with grilled achiote pineapple and jalapeño jam.

Preparing the pork belly involves smoking it for about three hours and basting it with agave to achieve a caramelized finish. Kennedy aimed to create a dish where all the flavors come together in one perfect bite, “It’s a nice combination of sweet, spicy, smokey and fatty,” he described.

Reflecting on his first year as a featured chef at Heritage Fire, Kennedy appreciates the camaraderie among chefs at such events. “It’s nice to get a bunch of industry people together. We love feeding people and get a great sense of satisfaction from it. Events like this remind us that we can also have a lot of fun,” he shared.

When entering the event grounds, there was a wagon stacked with ears of corn, cabbage, squash, onions, tomatillos and peaches, along with reusable cloth bags for guests to take home fresh, locally grown produce. Refreshments included wine, spirits and sparkling water.

This year, Heritage Fire donated a portion of ticket sales to The Farm Collaborative, a Colorado nonprofit connecting kids and communities to nature through farming.

One event tradition had guests voting for the “Best Bite of the Day,” with the winning chef crowned “Heritage Hero.” This year’s honor was awarded to Denver steakhouse, Guard and Grace, with a dish called “Head To Tail Duck Experience” by Chefs Troy Guard and Adam Vero. Kennedy values the immediate feedback from attendees. “There’s something about cooking over an open fire outdoors that creates a communal atmosphere. People gather around to enjoy the smells and sights,” he said.

Heritage Fire Tour events nationwide strive to educate consumers on heritage livestock, sustainable sourcing from family farms and the art of live-fire cooking while allowing chefs like Kennedy to showcase their skills, connect with peers and engage with the community.

RALEIGH BURLEIGH Sopris Sun Editor

Outside of Mountain Heart Men’s Ceremony, Cowles offers one-on-one coaching as well as events through his community-centric business, Moon & Back (www.mnbcoach.com). Courtesy photo

Chef Carson Kennedy at Heritage Fire on Saturday, July 27.

Photo by Jeanne Souldern

Increasing wildfire frequency and size have insurance in jeopardy

ANNALISE GRUETER

Sopris Sun Correspondent

Another July in the books, and with it, many wildfires. Smoky air weighs not just on our lungs but also on our minds. As wildfire frequency and damage have increased in recent decades, homeowners and renters alike have begun reconsidering how to protect themselves against the possibility of fires starting close to home.

As of July 30, there are 13 active wildfires in the state of Colorado alone. A new fire sparked up on the Front Range near Lyons just in the past few days. In this arid climate, some wildfires during the hottest and driest part of the year make sense. However, the steady increase in the number of fires and acreage burned raises questions and expenses for Colorado residents.

Take the summer of 2020 as an example. That year saw over 1,000 wildfires between April and November. The record for the largest fire in state history was broken first by the 139,007acre Pine Gulch fire in Mesa and Garfield counties, then broken again by the 208,913acre Cameron Peak fire in Larimer county, which burned for four months before being finally extinguished in early December.

Closer to home, the Grizzly Creek fire shut down I-70 through Glenwood Canyon for

two weeks and destabilized the canyon walls. No Name, Lookout Mountain and Coulter Creek residents had to evacuate on short notice as the fire raced through the dry tinder in the canyon. Eagle County residents and travelers through the canyon have had to cope with increased rockslides and post-rainstorm instability in the area ever since.

Just two years earlier, in 2018, the 12,588-acre Lake Christine fire forced over 2,100 evacuations in the central Roaring Fork Valley as it bore down on Basalt, El Jebel and Missouri Heights. Local environmental groups have supported the Forest Service in reseeding efforts to regrow healthy and diverse forest in the burn scar in the six years since.

Other fires in recent years, though smaller, have been dramatically unseasonal.

The Marshall Fire sparked on Dec. 30, 2021 and proceeded to destroy 1,084 residential structures, both homes and apartment buildings, and damage an additional 149 buildings. Over 30,000 people had to evacuate with minimal notice. According to Colorado Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway, the fire caused over $513 million in structural damage in just six hours. It took another $1.5 billion dollars to rebuild.

The repercussions reach far

beyond individuals who lost residences in these fires. More and more people are opting for catastrophe insurance or other supplemental policies in recognition of the risk. But like so many other costs, the insurance prices are only increasing.

A 2023 Colorado Public Radio report shows that regular homeowner insurance in Colorado has increased by over 50% since 2020 as a result of natural disasters. Earlier this summer, the Colorado Sun reported that these prices and the prices for catastrophe insurance may increase by another 50% to 100% in the next few years as risks continue to increase.

In Durango, which has been hit repeatedly by the double whammy of bark beetle tree damage and large wildfires in the past decade, new homeowners are struggling to even get insured. Many leading insurance agencies have adjusted policies for fire-prone regions in the past five years, but those new policies exclude many areas of Colorado. With or without insurance, it’s likely that fire-related expenses are only going to increase.

What does all this mean for Colorado residents? Certainly, it means that a reckoning is coming. But is that reckoning with the force of nature or with a faceless insurance agency? Homeowners have the ability to work within their neighborhoods

to mitigate risk in small ways, through landscaping and smallscale waterscaping. Renters, however, are at the mercy of their landlords and whether they choose to take similar measures.

It is also a worthwhile conversation for communities to have with developers and permitting

agencies. Should construction be permitted in high-risk areas? Or should new developments be limited to areas affected by fires in recent years? All these questions and more weigh upon residents of the Roaring Fork Valley and throughout the state. The answers remain to be seen.

Missouri Heights residents debate land use and ‘rural character’

This is in response to Amy Hadden Marsh’s article, “Missouri Heights residents fear losing rural Colorado lifestyle.”

The article, published July 19, 2024, expressed concerns about the potential impact of a proposed equestrian facility called Twin Acres.

The Eagle County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) subsequently denied the Twin Acres Special Use Permit application, a decision supported by Keep Missouri Heights Rural (KMOHR). KMOHR, while advocating for preserving the area’s rural character, emphasizes that we are not against ranching or agriculture. Rather, our focus is on ensuring that development aligns with existing zoning regulations and doesn’t adversely impact the quality of life for residents.

Zoning regulations exist to protect the rights of all landowners. When a Special Use Permit is required, it signifies that the proposed use deviates from the standard “as of right” use. This triggers a county review process to ensure that specific standards are met to mitigate potential negative impacts on neighboring properties and the environment.

Contrary to accusations, KMOHR maintains that we are not trying to stifle

the ranching business. The county attorney in fact explicitly stated that the proposed Twin Acres’ use was not a ranch by its definition. We argued that the Twin Acres proposal, due to its scale and intensity, was not compatible with the surrounding residential neighborhoods. The county commissioners echoed this view during the hearing, and the BOCC unanimously voted against the application.

GUEST OPINION

sold their land to developers. Homeowners purchased their properties based on existing zoning regulations and have a right to protect their quality of life and investments.

By Keep Missouri Heights Rural (KMOHR)

Similarly, and contrary to concerns, established ranches that followed proper zoning cannot be shoved out simply based on nearby complaints.

Many residents, including long-time locals (over 25 years) and experienced equestrians, appreciate the rural character of Missouri Heights and would support a properly scaled ranch, as it was historically. We refute claims that opposition to Twin Acres stemmed solely from newcomers with a “Not In My Backyard” (NIMBY) attitude.

KMOHR acknowledges that the neighborhood has evolved over time, with five HOAs and 450 residents now living in the vicinity of the proposed development. We emphasize that current homeowners cannot be blamed for the changes in the area. The responsibility lies with previous landowners who

While there are other commercial horse boarding facilities nearby, these are located a few miles away and are not in direct view of hundreds of homes. Additionally, many of these facilities were established before the surrounding residential development occurred. Property purchasers knew in advance what would be adjacent to them.

The term “rural” is not exclusive to ranching or agriculture. It’s about density; it encompasses the scale, scope and intensity of land use. There are rural neighborhoods that are primarily residential. Most of the zoning in this area is Rural/ Residential (RR) as well as Agricultural/ Rural (AR). The Eagle County plans call for no new Planned Unit Developments (PUDs) and the

area is zoned for limited growth, recognizing its quiet nature and encouraging low-impact agriculture and preserving residential rural character.

Yes, past subdivisions have brought increased light, noise and traffic. However, we argue that previous approvals do not guarantee future permits, especially when neighbors can demonstrate that a proposed development doesn’t meet the necessary standards.

KMOHR regrets that misunderstandings and a lack of awareness about land use regulations have caused a rift within the community. We hope that with time and increased understanding, these divisions can be healed. We also highlight the ongoing rewrite of the Eagle County Land Use Code as an opportunity for public participation in shaping the future of the area.

KMOHR believes that most residents in Missouri Heights value the existing rural lifestyle and wish to support all their neighbors, including ranchers, farmers and residential homeowners. We aim to foster a balanced approach to development that preserves the area’s character while respecting the rights of all property owners.

The Grizzly Creek fire erupted on Aug. 10, 2020 and remained burning into December. The fire caused a nearly two-week closure of Interstate 70 through Glenwood Canyon and forced evacuations of residents in the area. Thankfully, no homes were destroyed. Photo by Will Grandbois

“Americans have mastered the ‘art’ of living with the unacceptable,” —Breten Breytenbach

I have been circling this statement for months, disturbed by Breytenbach’s insight about who we are: a people seemingly ill-equipped to face our huge environmental, civic and political issues. Our nation appears unable to engage in any meaningful introspection, which proceeds truth telling — forget behaving well.

That this “art” has been mastered and polished by our sacred and trusted institutions leads to a most despairing thought: how low can we go? And, as observed by a recent student, this is not a recently acquired talent. When asked if he was hopeful, this student said, “It’s hard to be hopeful when our nation, despite its aspirational vision, is predicated on theft and genocide, with no attempts to make amends.” It is tough to teach these days, and even tougher to be a student.

I personally insist that I teach within the context of hope, and as luck would have it Steven Garcia-Machuca, a past student,

Radically contagious

rescued me recently. Over one coffee and egg sandwich, he single-handedly offset Breytenbach’s sobering assessment of America, reminding me what it looks like to clearly stand up for one’s ideals. Steven — by his very nature and his choices — lays waste to the false notion that our souls can survive in a world where we accept the unacceptable. He asserts that when we trade our word and dreams for the quick fix, the cost is irreparable.

Steven was a co-valedictorian at his graduation from Basalt High School on June 2, 2019. Since then, he graduated from Harvard with a degree in Global Health Policy. Steven has persevered — rising above the Valley’s economic challenges, defying the smothering dynamics of racism — and always with grace, dignity and an insistence on innocence.

Innocence is not passive. It is an assertive process, an existential predisposition to choose to never be complicit in anything that causes harm or strips dignity from anyone.

Steven’s innocence means he cuts no moral corners, and it is sustained by patience and hard

OPINION

SEEKING HAYSTACKS

By A.O. Forbes

work. When he was in my class, Steven’s innocence was contagious, and his voice powerful.

Steven’s valedictorian speech included: “Success is a very subjective concept. Is it a destination? A state of being? A mindset? Many of us equate academic and professional achievement as true success. Yet, real success is gaining knowledge, acquiring peace and feeling love in all types of situations. Contentment and self-love are not things money can buy, yet are essential aspects of a truly successful life.”

Life patiently waits for all of

us to find what Steven describes as “success.” Luckily, the inherent calm and grace that comes from earning our way appeals to our primal nature. As we catch our breath, we thirst for a state of clarity; firstly to find the truth of who we are and then to share that truth with the world. This is the work of the soul that flirts with the essence of our being and our identity. The trick is to realize that true innocence must be earned each and every day, earned by not acquiescing, but choosing. Our society tempts us to conform through the promise of money, fame and power; it is a hard sell and calls us to hold tight to our word — the one thing my grandmother said could not be taken from you.

“Hope is a moral choice founded on a great cause beyond oneself,” said Camus. Steven is special, yet in over 40 years of teaching, most of my students have shown a similarly profound desire to forge identities animated by authentic concerns for the world. For decades I’ve witnessed students seeking to rise above cynicism to offer their talents to our collective well-being.

This impulse is real and innate — I know this in my soul, and it gives me profound hope. Barry Lopez wrote, “There are simply no answers to some of the great pressing questions. You continue to live them out, making your life a worthy expression of leaning into the light.” High school senior Morgan Karrow echoed this in her graduation speech from Colorado Rocky Mountain School three years ago: “Whether Sisyphus believed there’s rainbows or hellfire at the top of the mountain, he’s got to push now anyways. So, the prize for me is that I get to be alive right now; I get to push the boulder.” Refusing to accept the unacceptable sounds complicated and exhausting. And it can be, for many of us may need to face where and how we are complicit in realities that break our hearts. But it is not a hopeless quest we begin. In fact, with every truth we uncover, our life will be more filled with energy and hope. And then perhaps one day, gradually, we too will be like Steven, Morgan and so many others — radically, beautifully contagious.

History of Roaring Fork Valley experiential education programs

For families who have lived in the Roaring Fork Valley for multiple generations, experiential education (ex-ed) programs feel like a joyful legacy and a tradition. What those rites of passage look like varies between individuals who have participated in school-based programs compared to private or summer programs, but the skills and confidence gained are consistent.

Upvalley schools

Ex-ed programs in the upper valley have a long legacy. Aspen School District started its now iconic program in 1968. These programs were closely affiliated with the Marble Outward Bound campus, which hosted the nation’s first Outward Bound course earlier that decade in 1962.

backpacking 20 to 30 miles through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness at the start of the school year.

The upvalley alternative schools, Aspen Country Day (ACD) and Aspen Community School (ACS), also have highly integrated experiential programs. ACD’s programs start in kindergarten and have multiple excursions per year, introducing 6-yearolds to an overnight trip at the end of their first school year. Mixed-age excursions start in fourth grade, allowing kids to try out leadership roles quite early.

By Annalise Grueter

Six decades in, the Aspen programs now start in first grade with day trips. Fourth grade and up take on week-long experiences focusing on place-based learning and specific outdoor skills through middle school. Aspen High School students enter a lottery to participate in one of over 30 different mixed-age group experiences which range from river rafting to community service to arts workshops.

The Aspen eighth grade outdoor ed right of passage is famous Valley-wide, as it still utilizes Marble as a base for team-building exercises after groups of 13-year-olds spend several days

ACS, a public charter school, takes a more integrated approach to experiential ed as part of its alternative educational model. Students go on more frequent field trips, which include immersive arts education and urban community service experiences in addition to outdoor excursions. ACS eighth graders complete their school year with a two-week trip, for which they do fundraising to alleviate the financial burden on individual families.

Carbondale schools

Between El Jebel and Carbondale, the independent K-8 Waldorf School on the Roaring Fork integrates experiential ed into its entire curriculum. Waldorf pedagogy emphasizes creativity, curiosity and compassion in a minimal-tech environment. It centers around a belief in the

value of play, individualized pacing for academic skill areas and cultivating a love for learning rather than rigid memorization and regurgitation of information. The education model was developed in 1919 by Rudolf Steiner, and is popular worldwide. The 33-year-old Carbondale school is just one of over 1,100 schools in 60 countries.

Carbondale Community School does not officially subscribe to Waldorf pedagogy, but similarly values play and multiple types of learning. The tuition-free 28-yearold charter school emphasizes the arts, emotional expression and community service in addition to outdoor education and field trips to new environments.

Carbondale’s private high school, the Colorado Rocky Mountain School (CRMS), also is renowned for its experiential ed. The CRMS outdoor program is intensive. Every year, all new students participate in Wilderness Orientation, which involves 10 days in the mountains of the Roaring Fork Valley learning outdoor skills. All students also participate in week-long trips each October and April. The programs heavily emphasize character development, collaboration and empathy. Worldfamous mountaineer Conrad Anker is among CRMS alumni and a testament to the program’s influence.

Many local experiential ed programs take local kids through the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness. This photo was taken looking south toward Marble from Trail Rider Pass.

Photo by Annalise Grueter

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Eagle Dreams

By Delia Malone

I wait

and as I wait, I dream

Of those days when my chosen one and I would dance in the sky

Soaring to the heavens, tumbling to earth.

For twenty years we danced to the song of life. Our bond growing stronger with each brood of eaglets that we fledged.

For twenty years, my chosen partner faithfully, daily, brought me and our young food as I sheltered our nestlings. And so, I wait.

Another has come to try and win my affection, to take his place as my companion.

But I dream of those days together with Him, dancing in the sky.

Daily I’ve returned to our fishing tree at the edge of the Roaring River where we perched together, waiting, preening, bonding, and watching for a chance for fish.

And so, I wait, hoping, dreaming of His return.

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

The Passenger in Seat 33B

By Tom Mercer

Orville Casey stood in the line of passengers boarding Flight 107. The flight was scheduled to depart Chicago’s O’Hare Airport at 12:15pm and it looked as though the plane would be departing on time. The line began to move forward. Orville found his seat, 33C, and stowed his carry-on bag in the overhead compartment. It seemed to Orville that it would be an uneventful flight, but that would not be the case.

As Orville watched the activity on the tarmac below, a man that had been behind him in the boarding line sat down in seat 33B. His clothing seemed dated but otherwise his behavior was unremarkable. Orville noted that the man had taken a book out of his briefcase to read during their flight. The book was titled “Strange Occurrences.” It was then that a stewardess requested that all passengers adjust their seats to the upright position and fasten their seatbelts. Orville was pleased that the flight would be departing on schedule.

As the plane taxied to its assigned runway, Orville introduced himself to the man in seat 33B. The man’s name was Will, and he was returning to his hometown: Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. Orville had visited relatives in Phoenixville, so he was familiar with the area.

They talked about the beauty of John James Audubon’s estate on the Schuylkill River in Valley Forge (where George Washington’s army spent a miserably brutal winter), Independence Hall in Philadelphia and numerous other locations of historic importance in Eastern Pennsylvania. They even touched on the subject of the mysterious beasts that were rumored to occupy the thick forests of the region. Neither man believed that the beasts actually existed, writing off the rumors as superstition. However, both agreed that the “backcountry” of Pennsylvania offered

fertile ground for folktales about strange beasts and occult practices. Both acknowledged that strange tales and superstitions could easily take root in the hills and dark forests of Pennsylvania. Orville remembered a colloquial term that seemed fitting in light of their chat. “Poppycock!” he said. Neither man knew the origin of the word, but it seemed altogether fitting and proper. Both chuckled.

Their chat continued as they flew east. They talked about baseball, early seafaring explorers, notable schools and colleges in Pennsylvania, and a number of other topics.

Before long, an announcement informed the passengers that the weather in Philadelphia was good, and they could expect to be on time.

The plane landed safely and proceeded to its assigned arrival gate. The passengers unbuckled their seatbelts and gathered their belongings in preparation for exit. Orville was still putting things in his briefcase when he noticed that Will was already moving up the aisle. Will was out of sight when Orville noticed that the book Will had been reading was still in seat 33B. Orville picked up the book, intending to drop it off at a lost-and-found if he was unable to locate Will. He exited the plane and looked for Will, but the man was nowhere to be seen, so he asked an airline employee at the gate if they could return the book to its owner at the address that had been given when the ticket was purchased. The airline staff checked but informed Orville that no one by that name had been on the flight. Seat 33B had not been assigned to anyone.

So, Orville kept the book and read it, and re-read it many times over the years. And for years, each time Orville traveled by air he scanned the crowded airports looking for Will.

OBITUARY

Alfred Bernard Calvert

August 3, 1932 - July 27, 2024

Alfred Bernard Calvert, more commonly known as “Bud” or “The Bud Man,” passed away peacefully with his nephew, Neal Jack, by his side on July 27, 2024, a week short of his 92nd birthday.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred and Georgia, and his five siblings, Jim, Mary Moran (Charles), Richard (Dorothy), Dorothy Jack (James) and Donald.

Born and raised in Chicago, Bud worked construction. He worked on the John Hancock Building and Sears Tower and fell in love with the West when he went to Squaw Valley, Idaho in 1960 to ski. He returned permanently to Carbondale in 1997 where he worked road construction and was a snowmobile guide at Sunlight Mountain into his 80s. He made annual trips back to Chicago to connect with family and friends, visiting his old watering hole, The Double Bubble.

The Crystal Meadows Senior Housing community will always remember Bud’s help and friendly wit and he will be missed by family and friends back home in Chicago.

I am writing to advocate for affordable housing projects in our community. It’s imperative to develop affordable housing to ensure that every individual and family in our community has access to a place to live that is close to where they work.

This spring, Basalt Library staff completed 52 interviews with community members about the needs in our community. This is what we heard: housing, transportation, childcare, healthcare, wages, sustainable growth for our area

As we build more housing, we don’t prioritize affordable housing for people who work here. We prioritize free market housing which often sells to people who don’t work here or reside here. So we’re just compounding the problem of having

more people in the area, and people who work here having to drive further to get to work. People want our local governments to protect the quality of life in our area by focusing on slow, sustainable growth and prioritizing housing for people who work here.

None of the people we talked to are averse to change. They all realize that change and growth in our area are a reality. They just want some semblance of a livable community to be protected from unrestrained growth and increasing wealth disparity.

We ask the Basalt Town Council to protect rental housing in the Basalt Center Circle development to protect affordability for people who work in our community.

Amy Shipley (lives in Rifle, works in Basalt) Basalt Library

almost the entirety of the river, except for a very few small areas.”

These raptors are territorial, she explained. “Eagles need an area for foraging and when an area is already taken, [a new eagle] can’t just move in.” Continued protection of the Aspen Glen Bald Eagle Buffer Zone is crucial.

It’s the same for elk or other wildlife in and around the Roaring Fork Valley whose habitat becomes buried under housing or commercial development. “The idea that, oh, if we develop here, the animals will just go elsewhere? Well, there is no elsewhere,”

She believes the bald eagle’s death is a metaphor for something bigger. “The eagle getting killed by the car was a five-second bleep in the news and then it’s done and people continue doing what we’re doing,” she said. “But it’s so far beyond that single tragedy: We are on a collision course and wildlife is in the way.”

EXPERIENTIAL EDUCATION

from page 16

Midvalley and downvalley public schools

Basalt schools have more limited options. Elementary school outdoor ed is facilitated by the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies through once-weekly classes and short field trips. Basalt Middle School offers offers one three-day-long trip per grade, between 90 minutes and three hours away from the Valley. The Basalt Education Foundation is working to support outdoor ed and experiential ed opportunities for students. Much of what is currently available to students is optional and via partnerships with external organizations.

Other Roaring Fork School District schools have similar situations with outdoor and experiential ed. Even though experiential ed provides opportunities for different learning styles to thrive and develop confidence, the context of how that has typically been done in the Valley is not universally well-received by families.

The next installment of this series aims to dive into the hesitations of local families. Why the gap in perception of experiential ed and what it can offer children and teens? Are there ways to better communicate the safety of these programs and the opportunities they can create?

PARTING SHOTS

August Already?

Thankfully there’s still plenty of time to enjoy our local farmers’ markets and summer’s bounty.

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Carbondale Planning and Zoning Commission for the purpose of considering an Administrative Site Plan review, a Variance, and two Alternative Compliance requests for the construction of a new restaurant at 522 Highway 133.

Project Description: The combined application includes the demolition of the existing building and the construction of a new restaurant as well as two alternative compliances to reduce the parking lot drive aisle length, to remove the landscape island requirement, and a 10-foot variance for the rear yard setback to accommodate a structural support column.

Property Location: 522 Highway 133 (Lot 1 Section: 33 Township: 7 Range: 88)

Applicant: Forum Phi

Owner: Chester’s Food and Bev, LLC

The Carbondale market (pictured) continues every Wednesday from 10am to 3pm at 4th and Main through Sept. 27.

Basalt’s market is open every Sunday from 10am to 2pm at 101 Midland Ave through Sept. 29.

Aspen’s Saturday market continues downtown from 8:30am to 2pm until Oct. 5.

And the Glenwood Springs market, Tuesdays from 4 to 8pm, is on 7th Street between Colorado and Cooper and will conclude on Sept. 10.

Photos by Raleigh Burleigh

Said Public Hearing will be held at the Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO at 7:00 p.m. on August 22nd, 2024.

Copies of the proposed application are on file in the Planning Department office, Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO and may be examined during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The application may also be viewed on the Town’s website at:

https://www.carbondalegov.org/departments/ planning/current_land_use_applications.php

If you would like to submit comments regarding this application you must send them via email to epeterson@carbondaleco.net by 5:00 pm on June 12th, 2024. The comments will be entered into the record. If you have questions regarding the application, please contact Ellie Peterson, Planner at 970-510-1212.

Published in The Sopris Sun on August 1, 2024.

You love learning. You recognize that great schools build brighter futures. Like you, Alpine Bank values education.

From rewarding K-12 students for good grades, to funding scholarships that can make dreams of college come true, Alpine Bank is determined to make a di erence in our community. alpinebank.com • Member

SUMMERTIME

August 2nd

Come enjoy the monthly celebration of local arts, shopping, restaurants, spirits, live music in the heart of the Carbondale Creative District.

Women Working with Clay 6-8PM at the Carbondale Clay Center

Valle Musico

5:30-8:30PM at Chacos Park

2757 Design Co. Open House

5-8PM 502 Main Street

follow @carbondalecreativedistrict for updates and visit carbondalearts.com for more information

VOICES & Aspen Valley Land Trust present VOICES Summertime Stories & Music: Our Land, Our Voices

Saturday, August 10th, 2024 6pm Guided Ranch Tour | 7pm Show Coffman Ranch 1837 CO Rd. 100, Carbondale, CO

STORYTELLERS

Stephen Bershenyi Francisco “Paco” Nevarez-Burgueño

Autumn Rivera

Jason Sewell

Highwater Farm Youth

MUSICIANS

Harris Jackson

Delaney Meyers

Ashton Taufer