It’s been almost a decade since Roaring Fork High School invited the public to enjoy a play in its auditoria — the school’s auditorium-cafeteria hybrid. With little funding for these types of extracurricular activities, it took a passionate group of students to revive a theater club at the high school.
“It’s kind of just turned into a whirlwind,” director Sam Stableford, a junior at the school, told an audience of arts advocates at the State of the Arts Symposium hosted by Carbondale Arts on Oct. 11. Stableford was approached with the idea of starting a theater club by Vianne Camara, a Stage of Life (SoL) Theatre Company alumna and actress in Thunder River Theatre Company’s recent production of “What the Constitution Means to Me.”
“Having theater as an option is really, super important,” Stableford emphasized, noting that not all high schoolers are athletes, and unless youth have the opportunity to see a play and act, they may never discover those talents within themselves.
“The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” a faithful adaptation of Washington Irving’s classic American ghost story, is presented in collaboration with SoL but it’s being produced, costumed, designed and created entirely by the students. In order to pull this production off, they raised more than $5,000, including a $1,000 grant from the Rebekah Lodge. The theater club will now rely on revenue from this play to fund the next.
You have three opportunities to catch the show: Thursday, Oct. 17 at 7pm; Friday, Oct. 18 at 7pm; Saturday, Oct. 19 at 2pm. Tickets at www.bit.ly/RFHSplay
Left to right: Gus Richardson (Baltus Van Tassel), Iggy Richardson (Ichabod Crane), Eli Sorenson (Dirk Van Houten) Evalynn Evans (Mr. Van Ripper).
Left to right: Iggy Richardson (Ichabod Crane), Vianne Camara (assistant director), Sam Stableford (director), Sara Gray Kokish (producer), Juno Zislis (Mrs. Van Houten).
Sol del Valle is a community mosaic
I vividly remember the pride and happiness I felt back in 2015 when I asked my dad to pull over so I could pick up The Sopris Sun in Basalt, where I went to school. My poem had been published — “I’d be lying if I told you…”
It was a poem I wrote in my eighth grade classroom about my uncle, who lost his battle with cancer, and my grandfather, whose heart stopped beating after many medical procedures. This poem was not only deeply meaningful to me, but it was also my very first. I mention this because The Sopris Sun gave my 14-year-old self the opportunity to share my work as a fairly new poet.
Today, I have the privilege, week after week, of creating spaces like “¿Qué pasó la semana pasada?” (What happened last week?) and “El Rincón de la Creatividad” (The Creative Corner) inside Sol del Valle. These sections were created to feature local community members on a weekly basis. Two of my favorite issues were from May and June, when we published special features for Father’s Day and the graduating class of 2024.
to the readers that engage with our content, whether local or regional, informative or artistic.
OPINION
What made these features so special was the response from the community. We received more than 30 photos from readers via WhatsApp and Facebook for each feature. These weren’t professional photos — some were selfies, others were captured by proud parents or friends. Yet, our readers entrusted us to share these intimate moments, celebrating significant milestones in their lives with the broader community.
The significance of Sol del Valle is reflected in the response from our community. It is a mosaic of many pieces that create something truly unique: the only local Spanish-language newspaper in the Roaring Fork Valley. Each piece contributes meaning and value, starting with our publisher The Sopris Sun and the dedicated team behind the scenes, like Executive Director Todd Chamberlin, and our incredible editors, Raleigh Burleigh and James Steindler. Alongside them are the contributors who craft impactful stories each week and the many hours of support and dedication from our board members.
By Bianca Godina
In “¿Qué pasó?” we showcase photos from local events sent by readers and organizations, while in “El Rincón de la Creatividad,” we highlight small businesses, poetry, stories, legends and a variety of other creative works.
Recently, I received a wholesome surprise through WhatsApp. A reader shared a photo of her father, who is in his 70s, sitting at the kitchen table, reading “El Rincón de la Creatividad” to her. He was reading quietly to himself before telling her, “Mija, let me read these two poems to you.”
Mr. Huizar, who occasionally visits his daughter in New Castle, enjoys reading Sol del Valle. She shared with me that she has been saving copies of Sol del Valle to bring to him. This story is just one testament to the impact Sol del Valle is having in our valley. From creative minds that have the opportunity to be featured locally
LETTERS MAP update
Have you heard? Coming in 2025 to a Carbondale street near you: more crosswalks, wayfinding signs for priority bike routes, traffic calming pilot/demonstration projects on key streets, mini-roundabouts (adding a feature like a large planter to a four-way intersection to create a makeshift roundabout). These are a few of the first steps suggested in the comprehensive Mobility and Access Plan (MAP) now nearing completion.
Many of you provided feedback 15 months ago as Town staff, a Denver consultant and members of the Bike, Pedestrian and Trails Commission (BPTC) gathered information on improvement opportunities and concerns regarding our streets, trails and walkways. Your all-volunteer BPTC has spent the past year helping guide the development of this master plan to assure safe, pleasant streets and walkways throughout town with priority given to pedestrian, bike and transit options. During the year, BPTC reviewed numerous draft proposals and sent detailed suggestions back to the consultant.
As you know, traffic throughout town has increased dramatically. Our goal is to protect our delightful bike-ped culture and safe streets into perpetuity with a long-term strategy in the face of that growth. It will start small with improvements like those already mentioned. A key early strategy is “traffic calming” — infrastructure features that slow traffic down and allow safe access for
Another vital piece of the mosaic is our Sol del Valle team, including Margarita Alvarez (marketing consultant), Jackie Ramirez and Daniel Torres (reporters), Diane Amsden (layout) and Ingrid Celeste Zuniga (photographer), Dolores Duarte (translator) and Jacqueline Castro (artist and translator) along with over a dozen columnists and contributors. The Colorado West Spanish News Collaborative has been instrumental in supporting Sol del Valle, ensuring that it continues to grow as a reliable Spanishlanguage news source, informing our diverse Latino community from Parachute to Aspen.
But the most important piece of this mosaic is our readership — reflecting the beauty and complexity of our diverse community. Sol del Valle serves as a crucial representation of the Latino population, which makes up around 40% of the Roaring Fork Valley. With your support, people like Mr. Huizar and my younger self will continue to enjoy an informative and inspiring source of news. Between The Sopris Sun, two daily papers in Aspen, plus the Post Independent and Crystal Valley Echo, our valley is newspaper-rich. Sol del Valle, however, is the only newspaper fully in Spanish, and one of the few news sources in the underserved stretch between Parachute and Glenwood Springs.
The existence of our community newspaper would not be possible without continued financial contributions to The Sopris Sun. Help us deliver representational news to diverse people while training up new journalists by donating today at www. soprissun.com/donate or by sending a check to PO Box 399, Carbondale, CO 81623.
all modes of people movement. From there, MAP will add layers of larger infrastructure projects, and changes in development standards and code will give appropriate consideration to non-automobile access. Obtaining grants and other funding support will be essential early elements, too.
Here is the official MAP mission statement: Carbondale has a safe, connected and affordable transportation network which ensures mobility and comfortable access for everyone; prioritizes biking, walking and transit; reduces private vehicle use; and proactively confronts the pressures of growth to protect and preserve the small-town character and values of the Carbondale community.
BPTC will present recommendations along with a final draft of MAP to the Board of Trustees no later than January 2025. They will make the final decisions on infrastructure changes and funding. In the meantime, please join BPTC at its Nov. 4 meeting at 6pm at Town Hall for a presentation of the final MAP draft by the consultant. Rick Blauvelt Bike, Pedestrian and Trails Commission
The greater good
In a discussion with my students about the meaning of the “greater good,” they quickly defined why living in a manner conscious of doing what is best for the whole is to the benefit of all of society. Because many do not
behave with the greater good in mind, regulations, ordinances and laws exist to ensure that we live in a safe, clean and responsible community. It is why we don’t throw trash on the streets or in our rivers, why we allow pedestrians the right of way and why we are responsible for our pets.
There are three off-leash dog parks in town, all of which are easily accessible by car, bike or walking, yet every day I witness people bringing their off-leash dogs to Miners Park and the Hendrick Park soccer field. In the case of Miners Park, there are eight posted signs saying: “no dogs allowed.” It is easy to understand that children playing should not be subjected to dog feces and pee, and that the parks maintained by our tax dollars should not be torn up by dogs chasing balls. This is part of the greater good — to act in a manner that is not the most convenient for us as individuals, but to act for what is best for the community at large. Today’s society has become self-absorbed with individualism and convenience, as if the rules don’t apply if it causes someone to walk across the street or all of four blocks to an off-leash park. With the plethora of walkways, trails and paths in and around town, there is no excuse for abusing the open spaces our children play in and our families picnic in.
The rules apply to everyone because our community deserves to live with the greater good.
Denise Moss Carbondale
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
Proofreaders
Lee Beck
Tracy Kallassy
Ken Pletcher
Hank van Berlo
Executive Director
Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246
adsales@soprissun.com
Board Members / Mesa Directiva board@soprissun.com
Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke
Donna Dayton • Eric Smith
Roger Berliner • Elizabeth Phillips
Jessi Rochel • Andrew Travers
Anna Huntington • Michael Perez
Loren Jenkins
The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6pm on second Thursdays at the Third Street Center.
The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with a mission to inform, inspire and build community by fostering diverse and independent journalism. Donations are fully tax deductible.
Sincerest thanks to our Honorary Publishers for their annual commitment of $1,000+
Lee Beck & John Stickney
Kay Brunnier
Frances Dudley
Michelle & Ed Buchman
Sue Edelstein & Bill Spence
Deborah & Shane Evans
Greg & Kathy Feinsinger
Gary & Jill Knaus
Eric Smith
Peter and Mike Gilbert
Patti & George Stranahan
Elizabeth Wysong
Alpine Bank
Emily & George Bohmfalk
Kathy & Carter Barger
Sandy & Paul Chamberlin
Karen & Roger Berliner
Donna & Ken Riley
Gayle & Dick Wells
Legacy Givers for including us in their final wishes. Mary Lilly
Donate by mail or online: P.O. Box 399 Carbondale, CO 81623
520 S. Third Street #26-B 970-510-3003 soprissun.com/Donate
The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a proud member of the Carbondale Creative District continued on page 22
SOL DEL VALLE
SCUTTLEBUTT
Fashionably on time
Carbondale Arts is now accepting designer applications for the 2025 Fashion Show. This year’s theme is: Camera Obscura (a film noir, unveiling the unseen adventure). Dancer auditions will take place at The Launchpad on Oct. 20 from 6 to 7:30 and model auditions will occur in early January. Find more information at www.carbondalearts.com/fashion-show
Council vacancy
Glenwood Springs City Council is seeking to fill a now vacant at-large council seat with a term expiring in April of 2025. To be eligible, applicants must have resided in — and been a registered voter in — Glenwood Springs for at least one year. Applications will be accepted through 5pm on Wednesday, Oct. 23, and City Council will host interviews during a special session on Wednesday, Nov. 6. Those interested can find the application at www.cogs.us/212 or by contacting the city clerk’s office at 970-384-6406.
Community Pantry
The Carbondale Library has a reputation for feeding minds, and great minds have got to eat! Passersby may have already noticed a metal box that now serves as the branch’s Community Pantry. “The idea is that people from the community can stock it with [non-perishable] food when they have extra, and others can take from it when they need a little help,” said Branch Manager Tracy Kallassy. It’s not meant to replace food banks, she added, but as a supplement resource that can be accessed around the clock and without having to prove need.
Local food loan
The 2Forks Club is receiving applications for zero-interest loans toward businesses contributing to a healthy local food system. Applicants must be a member of the 2Forks Club and must submit their application by 5pm, Nov. 7 at www.bit.ly/2Forks2025 to be reviewed by a selection committee and voted on by fellow 2Forks Club members.
Oil spill
Carbondale staff responded to a report of oil in the ditch at Euclid and Weant on Friday, Oct. 4. The ditch was shut off and ECOS Environmental and Disaster Restoration was contracted to finish up remediation efforts on Monday, Oct. 7.
Chamber cheer
Basalt
The Carbondale Chamber was recognized at the annual Colorado Chamber Performance Awards Banquet on Oct. 4 with first place prize for Highest Membership Retention in 2023. “We work to promote our local business community, and it is meaningful to be recognized for our effort, especially with this award, as it directly correlates to our membership support,” said Chamber President and CEO Andrea Stewart. “We’d like to thank our 480+ members who continue to support the Carbondale Chamber, and take advantage of our various membership program offerings and benefits.”
Leaf drop
Starting Oct. 17, Carbondale residents can drop off their fall clean-up residuals — including leaves, yard and garden waste and branches less than two inches in diameter — in containers at the 4th Street and Colorado Avenue parking lot. Leaves will be used by local ranches for composting and yard waste will be composted at the landfill. Contaminants, such as plastic and paper bags, will result
About a dozen people gathered in Sopris Park on Oct. 14 to celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, recognized officially by Carbondale every second Monday of October since 2019. After passing around the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address and greeting the seven directions, a candle was lit and John Hoffman read the history of the Nuche (Ute) being forcibly removed from these valleys. After a potluck in the park, the group was invited to view a film at the Third Street Center. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
in an entire load going to waste. Basalt residents can drop off their yard waste at the corner of East Valley Road and Original Road (near MidValley Medical Center) between 9am and 3pm on Saturdays through Nov. 16. Glenwood Springs residents have one more opportunity to drop off summer yard waste: Saturday, Oct. 19 from 8am to noon at the Rodeo Lot by the airport; leaves can be dropped off anytime between Oct. 21 and Nov. 30.
Non-endorsement
Over the weekend, The Sopris Sun received reports that a truck with a large banner promoting Garfield County commissioner candidate Perry Will was parked in Carbondale’s City Market parking lot for more than three days. It was relayed that political promotion and overnight parking are contrary to City Market policy. Therefore, management got a hold of Will’s campaign and the vehicle was removed. Allegedly, the truck then reappeared at the New Castle City Market parking lot.
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Eric Berry, Ian Edquist, Carianne Eisenson and Mike Grandbois (Oct. 18); Hannah Condon (Oct. 19); Gabe Alcala (Oct. 20); Heidi Hendricks and Caitlin Kinney (Oct. 21); Lisa Quint and Adam Ting (Oct. 22); JoAnna Caldwell, Babbu Cheema, Anderson Cole, Tamara Haynes-Norton (Oct. 23).
Coming back around to AZYEP
24-Hour Takeover fundraiser kicks off Oct. 19
JAMES STEINDLER
Contributing Editor
Brendan Girardot has been listening to KDNK Radio since commuting to elementary school in the backseat of his parents’ car. As of late, he has been training to become the succeeding executive director of Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program (AZYEP).
Since Girardot was a teenager, AZYEP has been a part of his life. And it makes sense, having been musically inclined since he could tie his shoes and playing in bands with friends by middle school. Starting out as a drummer to express that teen angst, he later went into music production using software to make instrumental hip hop beats.
Having been somewhat of a “rambunctious and hyper kid,” he understands now how that association with music was a healthy outlet for his younger self.
Girardot first walked through the doors of KDNK as an eighth grader at Carbondale Community School. Having been tasked with carrying out a week-long internship with a local organization, he chose the radio station. “They had me filing CDs and vacuuming the floors,” he laughed. “In my downtime I’d hang out in the production room and spin records … and absorb being in that space. I think it was the last day of my internship, I got a quick training on the board and did an hour-long show.”
AZYEP was barely in its infancy at the time, so he hadn’t yet caught wind of the budding youth radio program sharing space and airtime with KDNK. It wasn’t long, however, before he was introduced and began hosting a regular music show with two close friends while attending Yampah High School. At the time, a few of his AZYEP peers were spinning entirely Spanish curated shows. “We came up with the name ‘Radio Evolution.’” He continued, “I actually have an old t-shirt that we made that says, ‘Radio Evolution’ and ‘Radio Evolución,’” speaking to AZYEP’s lasting reach within the Latino community. “From early on that was a big component of the program,” he noted. “It’s just really
cool to see how that element has played out.”
After first getting back into the fold as a part-time broadcast instructor about two years ago, his efficacy within the program resulted in a promotion as its community outreach coordinator. “That put me in touch with what the mission is on a deeper level,” he said, touching on the importance of collaborating with other youth-serving organizations in the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys, from fellow nonprofits to the school districts.
For the past few months, Girardot has shadowed longtime executive director Beth Wysong, who continues to empower and guide him through the transition. “Beth is amazing,” he stated. “I’m just so grateful for all of the guidance that she has given me. We work very closely on a day-to-day basis … I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor.”
“Brendan’s transition to the role of Executive Director is truly special, considering his experience as a DJ during our early days in 2003. Having him return to lead the program represents a full-circle moment in AZYEP’s mission to cultivate student leadership skills,” said Wysong. “His leadership will undoubtedly make a positive impact as AZYEP moves toward our 25th year of empowering kids.”
Continuing to expand outreach to the Colorado River Valley communities is important to Girardot. “It’s really cool to start fresh with kids who maybe didn’t have any knowledge about this opportunity, and just bring radio to them.” Often, all it takes, he added, is “[throwing] a couple of recorders in the truck, rolling down there and making it happen.”
Looking back on his time as a youth DJ, Girardot said that he especially values being in a position today “where I get to be the adult that I needed at that time in my life.”
24-Hour Takeover
In other news … AZYEP is bracing for blastoff of the Fourth Annual 24-Hour Takeover! Youth DJs will take over the KDNK airwaves from 4pm this Saturday, Oct. 19 through 4pm Sunday, Oct. 20.
“It’s our largest fundraiser of the year, in which we aim to raise $24,000,” noted Girardot. Listeners can support the cause by sponsoring a youth DJ, bidding on auction items or simply making a donation.
Youth DJs will rotate every hour for a fresh taste of music. Lela, a Basalt Middle School eighth grader, has the late night slot from midnight to 1am, followed by prerecorded shows through 5am on Sunday. Jem Badget, or better known as The Cool Cat on KDNK, picks up with the first live show Sunday morning at 6am.
The online auction is scheduled through Tuesday, Oct. 22. Items include a custom cruiser from Carbondale Bike Project, a staycation package and much more.
Lastly, keep your ears to the speaker to unravel a 24-word mystery phrase. During each hour, DJs will leak a word and the first listener to guess the phrase gets a special prize.
For a list of donation opportunities around the Takeover, visit www.azyep.org and click “4th Annual 24-Hour Takeover” at the top of the page.
AZYEP Executive Director Brendan Girardot works with 7th grader Ozzi Molnar in the KDNK studio. Courtesy photo
One year after unhoused newcomers influx, regional response coalesces
RALEIGH BURLEIGH Sopris Sun Editor
It was November 2023 when Voces Unidas de las Montañas, an advocacy organization, sounded the alarm about close to 100 unhoused people, mostly from Venezuela and unfamiliar with a Colorado winter, camping in cars and tents beneath the Veterans Memorial Bridge at the north entrance to Carbondale. According to Carbondale Police Chief Kirk Wilson, what began as 10 to 15 people grew rapidly.
At the time, an estimated 26,000 Venezuelan migrants had arrived in Denver, the majority bussed north from Texas. With crowded conditions in the city, groups began fanning out to other areas in search of job opportunities. Venezuelans who arrived in the United States prior to August 2023 are eligible for temporary protected status: legal documentation which shields them from deportation and allows them to apply for a work permit. The process, however, takes time and money ($545 per person, $50 for minors under the age of 14). Meanwhile, day labor opportunities were found in the Roaring Fork Valley.
As temperatures steadily dropped with winter’s approach, Carbondale faced a potential life-safety emergency. The Town responded with three stated priorities: ensure immediate basic needs are met, securing shelter from December through March; assist refugees with legal advice and other resources toward legal work and self-sufficiency; engage local counties, other municipalities and nongovernmental agencies in a regional approach to unhoused refugees.
With assistance from Voces Unidas, Colorado’s Department of Local Affairs, Pitkin County, the Third Street Center and other nonprofits, the First United Methodist Church and other churches, Roaring Fork Schools, Age-Friendly Carbondale, the Aspen Community Foundation and generous individuals, around 60 individuals were kept sheltered, fed and clothed through the winter with volunteer attorneys helping those eligible navigate the process to acquire a work permit. Others were provided transportation to other cities.
Alex Sanchez, founder, president and CEO of Voces Unidas, told The Sopris Sun he was “surprised and disappointed” by the lack of a regional response. When Garfield County was approached with a $50,000 funding request, the commissioners instead passed a “non-sanctuary” resolution which
led Voces Unidas to declare them a “hostile government” toward immigrants. Sanchez called the resolution “toxic” for citing disease spread and crime as justifications, enforcing racist stereotypes.
Nearly one year later, Carbondale officials are not concerned about a repeat scenario. “It’s very unlikely it’s going to look similar to last year,” said Mayor Ben Bohmfalk. “Last year, we weren’t monitoring and weren’t really aware.” This year, the dynamic is different. “Denver isn’t being overwhelmed by recent arrivals every week,” Bohmfalk continued. “We aren’t anticipating a big influx of people,” and those who arrived last year and stayed seem more settled in the area.
“Of course, if there’s a human health crisis, and people’s lives are at risk, I think the Carbondale community will always
step up,” Bohmfalk added. “But it just doesn’t feel like that’s where we are now.”
Nonetheless, a small group of migrants has consistently camped beneath the 133 bridge all summer. Wilson said the Carbondale Police Department has been patrolling the area to ensure the Town’s camping ordinance is followed, not allowing people overnight in undesignated areas. However, the north side of the river falls under the jurisdiction of Garfield County, Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), making a coordinated response difficult.
“We’re seeing fewer encounters in that area, which reflects our efforts to address concerns collaboratively,” Wilson said. “Regarding crime, we haven’t experienced an increase in major incidents. We’ve noticed the usual increase in cases where people forget to lock up their valuables during the summer months.” He added, “Our priority is to ensure the safety and well-being of all Carbondale residents and visitors, regardless of a person’s background.”
Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario pointed out that camping under the 133 bridge is nothing new. “I’ve been around here 38 years and there’ve been people sleeping under that bridge in that viaduct for 38 years,” he told The Sopris Sun. “It’s always been a problem.” Vallario explained that CDOT issued a letter allowing his office to charge people with trespassing. “Problem is, can’t put people in jail for that level of trespassing, they don’t show up for court, blah, blah, blah.” He suggested sealing the area
continued on page 21
The northern entrance to Carbondale became a destination for unhoused immigrants last November. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Building community on the slopes
KATE PHILLIPS
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Bluebird powder days are just around the corner, and Aspen One’s Tenants for Turns program is gearing up for another successful winter season of building community on the slopes.
Creatively addressing the Roaring Fork Valley’s housing shortage, especially for seasonal employees, Aspen One launched Tenants for Turns, an incentive program for local landlords and homeowners to rent affordable units to Aspen One employees. In exchange for a room, lessors can receive either a 2024/25 Premier Season and Uphill pass (sans the Ikon Pass), 10 all-mountain, one-day lift ticket vouchers or a $1,500 gift certificate that can be used at any Aspen One business. Lessors can receive an incentive benefit for up to three rooms.
The program is simple. Aspen One acts as the initial connector between lessor and tenant. Once the lessor is approved, their unit is posted to the online portal. Newly-hired Aspen One employees may then begin contacting lessors. From that point, lessors
and employees enter a standard rental agreement outside of Aspen One. While lessors have full control over the rental agreement, including rent, Tenants for Turns does require that rentals are for new and active employees, and that leases begin after Oct. 1 for a duration of 16-weeks, including the 2024/25 winter season.
Aspen One does not have a monthly rental rate requirement, but the company strongly recommends that lessors price their units fairly. Starting wages for first-time Aspen One employees are $21 per hour, and many employees arrive with little financial reserves.
Ellen Williams, Aspen One’s assistant public relations manager, said that conversations are held with landlords to ensure equitable housing options. Units that are priced too high, or are further from Aspen than Carbondale, risk being unfilled since most lessors opt to offer affordable options for employees.
“We encourage landlords to consider rent prices before posting units and have conversations around what we deem to be a
reasonable rate,” Williams told The Sopris Sun via email. The average rental is between $1,500 and $1,600 per month, but at print time, $900 units in Aspen and Carbondale are still available.
Historically, the Valley’s high cost of living has made it difficult for employees to find housing, and for Aspen One to retain consistent seasonal employees. In order for the company to be fully operational during the winter season, it became critical to secure housing.
“At Aspen One we don’t just want to house employees. We want to ensure stable and financially attainable housing,” said Williams. “Tenants for Turns allows just that and means we can
push to be fully staffed and have greater retention of employees because they have this great place to live. We’ve seen a tremendous positive impact.”
Nearly a decade ago, a similar program was discussed within the company, but it garnered little traction, according to Heather Henry, Aspen One’s vice president of housing and childcare. However, since 2020, the need for affordable housing became apparent as the housing crisis worsened. When the program was re-pitched, it was immediately swept up, and has developed into a “comprehensive housing initiative” where everyone benefits.
“Now the program is a huge hit,” said Henry. “It goes to show
the level of need in the Valley and also that the community is ready and willing to be a hands-on part of the housing solution. We love that about this amazing valley.”
The program is an overall win for everyone; landlords fill empty units and receive a generous incentive, seasonal employee retention is high and overall employee satisfaction has also increased. Most of all, however, Williams has noticed a growing sense of community between all parties involved. Lessors are proud to “help tackle the larger housing issue,” and tenants feel a sense of “stability, community building, and belonging” as a result of the program, Henry said. The tenants and landlords often establish long-term relationships, and decide to continue the rental agreement, either year-round or for the next winter season.
“The biggest impact we’ve seen thus far is the program has fostered a sense of community among employees and residents, leading to stronger social ties and networks, making Aspen One an even more attractive employer,” Williams affirmed.
Enrollment with the Tenants for Turns program is in high demand, and applications are filling fast. Visit aspen.com/ careers-tenants-for-turns to learn more about the program, landlord qualifications and tenant expectations.
Powder days aplenty for local landlords and homeowners who are accepted into Aspen One’s highly successful Tenants for Turns program.
Courtesy photo by Jordan Curet for Aspen One
RFSD housing: A paradox of progress
JEANNE SOULDERN Sopris Sun Correspondent
The Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) is experiencing mixed outcomes with two of its housing projects. One has alleviated teacher housing struggles, while another, intended for leadership recruitment, remains unoccupied.
The Sopris Sun recently spoke with Chief of Operations Ben Bohmfalk about the district’s two housing scenarios.
Meadowood
On Sept. 19, a ribbon-cutting ceremony saw key stakeholders and community leaders celebrating the completion of the 50-unit teacher housing project, located on Meadowood Drive between North Face Park and Roaring Fork High School in Carbondale.
In November 2015, Roaring Fork Schools passed a voter-approved $122 million bond. Fifteen million ($5 million each to Carbondale, Basalt and Glenwood Springs) was allocated to build 66 rental housing units. In 2024, RFSD leveraged rental revenue from those existing units and reserve funds to build the 50 Meadowood units, bringing the district’s total inventory to 116 rental units.
The Meadowood development includes eight 400-square-foot studios, 10 one-bedroom, 16 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom units. The buildings had staggered move-in dates, with the first tenants moving in in July, more in September and the remaining residents arriving on Oct. 4.
With the project’s successful completion, Bohmfalk explained, “It’s a huge step toward our recruitment and retention goals, and it’s the first year that we haven’t had many new teachers struggling to find a place to live. At the new teacher orientation in August, we asked about 60 new teachers if they were still struggling to find housing, and only one person said that they were in that situation — that’s the first time that we’ve been able to say that in over a decade.”
“Many people who’ve been here for a long time are now living closer to work.” Bohmfalk continued, “I remind
people that when a new housing project is developed, anywhere in the Roaring Fork Valley, it might increase traffic in one spot, like at Meadowood and Highway 133, but if you zoom out there are fewer vehicle miles being traveled every day when people live closer to work.”
In July, Talitha Cutchin, a third-grade teacher at Sopris Elementary School, moved into a two-bedroom apartment with her husband, Cameron, and their four-year-old son, Parks, who is enrolled in Sopris Elementary’s Pre-K program.
She is currently in her 12th year of teaching at Roaring Fork Schools, and this is the first time she has lived in staff housing. “This has been huge for us, especially since Parks now has his own bedroom, and we’re close to the park,” said Cutchin.
The Cutchins can stay in their apartment as long as they want, a change from the seven-year occupancy stipulation the district used to have. They are also saving $600 monthly from what they were paying at their previous residence — a one-bedroom apartment behind Walmart in Glenwood Springs.
“We owe it to the voters for approving the bond back in 2015, which was our initial seed funding of $15 million, allowing us to build and buy 66 units in Carbondale, Glenwood, Ironbridge and Willits,” Bohmfalk said.
“It’s always worth celebrating that it’s an all-electric project. It’s pretty amazing. It exceeded the Town’s and meets the state’s most recent energy code,” he said of Meadowood. “It’s a forward-thinking project, and not because anybody said we had to do it that way, but because it’s reflective of our community’s values and stewardship of the future.”
Unoccupied
In February, RFSD purchased a $1.226 million, 1,900-square-foot, single-family end-unit townhome in the Crystal Bluffs Loop area of Carbondale’s River Valley Ranch. The three-bedroom, two-bath home sits on a 2,178-square-foot lot, according to Zillow.
Last year, the Staff Housing Committee developed
guidelines for “leadership housing” — a unit purchased by the board to recruit and retain superintendents. Though Superintendent Dr. Anna Cole did not need the housing, the school board can allocate it to key leadership hires as needed.
According to a current Zillow real estate listing, the residence has appreciated to an estimated $1.331 million, or by $105,000, in eight months.
Bohmfalk said the home was offered to district leaders, including those from the district office, principals and assistant principals, but no one applied. He said the property will now enter the general staff housing lottery, which opened earlier this week.
However, selling the district asset is another option.
“Nothing’s off the table. If somebody rents it, it’ll be through the end of June. But if we have a financial situation that we need to address and we need to liquidate some assets and the board decides that that’s an asset they’d like to liquidate, that is entirely their decision.” Bohmfalk concluded, “I’d be surprised if we went in that direction because it was a really hard asset to acquire … One nice thing about it is that it’s an asset, so its value fluctuates with the market.”
The home, located at 1280 Crystal Bluffs Loop in River Valley Ranch, was purchased in February for $1.226 million and placed into the general staff lottery pool earlier this week.
Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
GARFIELD COUNTY REPORT
Beer and budgets
JAMES STEINDLER
Contributing Editor
EDITOR’S NOTE: Readers have likely been wondering where the GarCo Report has gone, and it’s not because the commissioners have taken a break. Rather, The Sopris Sun reached capacity with election coverage and ace reporter Amy Hadden Marsh taking time to assist with KDNK’s news director transition. We look forward to resuming our regular coverage.
Starting off on a lighter note, in the time that the GarCo Report has been absent from the pages of The Sun, Patrice Fuller of Carbondale Beer Works went in front of the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) a couple of times to obtain a brewpub license to open a second establishment where Ball Brewing once was — off Highway 82 across from the Thunder River Market.
Way back on Sept. 9, Fuller appeared in front of the BOCC, and following that hearing was to conduct a community survey within a set boundary. She returned on Oct. 7 with two pages of signatures from nearby residents in favor of the brewery.
Asked if there was any opposition, Fuller stated, not necessarily, but two residents said they didn’t care either way.
“Why should we go ahead and approve this license?” Chairman John Martin asked Fuller.
“I want to replicate a little of what we do at Beer Works. We provide a lot of community service [and] donate to a lot of nonprofits,” she replied. “The people I’ve talked to who live in that neighborhood are excited to have somewhere where they can walk to and gather. It’s just a little space with some beer, wine, pizza and some nonalcoholic drinks.”
Fuller also noted that opening the location will keep a couple of her team members adequately employed, “so they can continue to live in the Valley,” she told the commissioners. “It will provide my staff in Carbondale with some security.”
The board unanimously approved the brewpub liquor license.
Anytime Fitness is moving into the front part of what used to be Ball Brewery’s taproom. The Garage, aka Beer Works 2.0, will be located behind Anytime Fitness, with an entry on the east side of the building. “So go
support Kevin,” Fuller told The Sopris Sun, referring to Anytime’s owner. “Get on the elliptical … Then come have a beer.”
Aside from a pending fire inspection, Fuller is set to open the doors in the near future. So stay tuned.
2025 proposed budget
Proposed revenues for 2025 amount to $125.4 million, a $2.8 million decrease from the 2024 adopted budget. Proposed expenditures, however, have gone up. For 2025, the total proposed expenditures amount to $139.7 million — a $8.3 million increase.
“We continually face the challenge of a volatile, commodity-based revenue structure that
has recently resulted in significantly reduced property tax revenues due to the decline in oil and gas production,” County Manager Fred Jarman said during the Oct. 7 meeting.
He added that high inflation is a contributing factor, as well as equity adjustments (including county salaries and healthcare costs). Lastly, he pointed to the $11.2 million deficit in the proposed 2025 capital budget and a $3.4 million deficit in the proposed discretionary budget.
To make up the difference for the capital and discretionary budgets, the commissioners could opt to pull from reserves. However, as reported by the Post Independent last week, the commissioners
are considering reducing discretionary spending by 10%.
The operational budget, on the other hand, is balanced with proposed revenues at $118,767,727 and expenditures of $118,307,948, leaving a net balance of $459,779.
Jarman finished by cautioning the commissioners of the potential impacts once Colorado House Bill 1001, meant to lower property tax rates, goes into effect. He stated, “That picture is not clear … but it is coming and it will likely mean that your revenues will drop.”
The commissioners will revisit the budget on Tuesday, Oct. 22. It’s expected to be adopted on Tuesday, Nov. 12.
Catlin: ‘I love this part of the state — it’s my home’
LONDON LYLE Sopris Sun Intern
Republican nominee for Colorado Senate District 5 Marc Catlin grew up on a farm in Montrose County. Since 2017, he has served as the state representative for House District 58. His career has included managing the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users’ Association, a stint as a radio host of “Diversions” on KUBC AM — a talk show intersecting water, business and agriculture — and, most recently, as the Water Rights Development Coordinator for Montrose County.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Senate District 5 (SD5) covers a lot of diverse and rural areas. How do you plan to balance the needs of agricultural communities with the demands of growing resort economies?
I’ve represented resort communities like Telluride and Crested Butte. While their needs may differ slightly from rural areas, the key issues — housing, cost of living — are the same. I listen to what my constituents need and work to represent all voices.
What specific policies would you advocate for to make housing more affordable in SD5?
I believe folks in local communities need to sit down together to address workforce housing. It’s about sitting at the table and determining who has land, water taps and what can be done. Once those needs are clear, we can look to the state for grants and funding. Also, we should focus on building more attainable starter homes, not just larger, expensive ones.
What is your approach to protecting Western Slope water rights, and how would you collaborate with other legislators on this issue?
I have decades of experience working in water and agriculture, so I’d continue that work in the Senate. As vice chair of [the Agriculture, Water and Natural Resources Committee], I’ve worked on bipartisan bills like the Colorado Water [Conservation Board] Projects and the [Annual] Species Conservation Trust [Fund Projects]. I’m focused on policies that are good for the state and protect our water resources, and I’ve built relationships to get these things done.
How do you plan to address rural Colorado healthcare?
We passed a bill to bring healthcare professionals to rural Colorado while they get licensed, which improves access and affordability. Clinics in rural areas will also play an increasing role in providing healthcare, and we need more doctors and nurses in these communities.
If elected, how do you plan to work across the aisle?
I’ve always worked across the aisle, writing bills and finding Democratic co-sponsors. Protecting Western Slope water isn’t a partisan issue, and my relationships built over eight years in the legislature will help me continue this work in the Senate.
What are your priorities in terms of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability?
We need to keep water in our rivers, which is why I support purchasing the Shoshone water rights. Environmental health is tied to economic success, especially in our tourism-driven areas. I’ve passed bills like the Turf Replacement Program to save water and keep it in the environment.
What is your position on reproductive rights?
I support life, but I believe in exemptions for rape, incest and the health of the mother. These are personal decisions, and I hope Colorado can reach a consensus on these issues without continuing to battle over them.
What are your plans for economic diversification?
We need more jobs in all communities, not just resort areas. We’re working on a just transition in places like Garfield County, but we need to do better at replacing lost jobs with ones of equal quality and pay to help these communities get a leg up.
How do you plan to leverage political and working relationships to help effectively represent the district’s constituents?
I have eight years of legislative experience, and during that time I’ve built relationships that will help me be an effective representative for the district. I’m focused on common sense, not change for change’s sake. I love this part of the state — it’s my home — and that connection drives my dedication to serving this district.
Buerger: ‘Representation starts with showing up’
LONDON LYLE
Sopris Sun Intern
Born and raised on a ranch in Garfield County, Democratic nominee for Colorado Senate District 5 Cole Buerger describes himself as “not your typical politician,” and “a generalist, not a specialist.” Buerger is a small business owner residing in Glenwood Springs, and he serves on the boards of the Middle Colorado Watershed Council and the Colorado River Valley Economic Development Partnership. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Senate District 5 (SD5) covers a lot of diverse and rural areas. How do you plan to balance the needs of agricultural communities with the demands of growing resort economies?
I think the needs of agricultural and resort communities are intimately intertwined. The first thing any elected official has to do is show up and listen to the voices in any given community. I’ve been doing that since I got into the race last August. My background growing up on a ranch in Garfield County and serving on local boards gives me a deep understanding of rural challenges. Representation starts with showing up and taking the voices and concerns of our communities to the capitol.
What specific policies would you advocate for to make housing more affordable in SD5?
At the end of the day, we know this is a supply and demand problem. We need to really focus on the supply side of housing by reforming regulations like construction defects laws, because those make affordable housing less attractive to builders. Streamlining state funding to communities with fewer strings attached is another thing that could help speed up projects. I would like to see Colorado utilize public-private partnerships to help get more affordable housing on the market.
What is your approach to protecting Western Slope water rights, and how would you collaborate with other legislators on this issue?
We know that water is the lifeblood of Western Colorado. At large, I think we protect it by keeping it in its basins and safeguarding water rights. Prior appropriation is key. I’ll collaborate with legislators like Senator Dylan Roberts, who has done great work on water issues. This is not a partisan issue — protecting water benefits everyone.
How do you plan to address rural Colorado healthcare?
We need more healthcare facilities in rural areas and better ways to attract and retain healthcare workers. Helping small businesses create risk-insurance pools can reduce healthcare costs and improve access. Housing plays a part here too.
If elected, how do you plan to work across the aisle?
A lot of issues here on the Western Slope aren’t political. As a small business owner with deep roots in the community, I don’t see the world ideologically. I’ve always believed in representing my community’s values, even if it means pushing back against my party. We have to work together to represent the Western Slope.
What are your priorities in terms of balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability?
We should protect habitats, watersheds and forests, while encouraging responsible growth. I support initiatives like capping methane emissions and old wells, expanding public transit and reducing the environmental impact of development. There’s no single solution, but we can move the needle with smart, innovative policies.
What is your position on reproductive rights?
I respect differing views but believe that the government shouldn’t dictate personal decisions. For me, it’s about freedom — the right to make decisions about one’s own body without interference from the government.
What are your plans for economic diversification?
We need to empower entrepreneurs by reducing regulatory burdens and offering grants or tax breaks to help new businesses. Partnering with local colleges and universities can also help.
How do you plan to leverage political and working relationships to help effectively represent the district’s constituents?
I think strong relationships are key to being an effective legislator. Many of my endorsements come from people I’ve met on the campaign trail. I plan to maintain those connections and seek constant input from local leaders to ensure our communities are represented in legislation.
Marc Catlin
Cole Buerger
Rams soccer in driver’s seat for 3A league title; volleyball wins third straight
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
It’s watch, wait and win time for the Roaring Fork High School boys soccer team, which took another step toward securing the 3A Western Slope League title on Tuesday with a scoreless draw at Coal Ridge.
Now with a record of 8 wins, 2 losses and 2 ties overall and 5-0-1 in league play, and ranked third among 3A teams in the state, the Rams are sitting pretty going into the final three games of the regular season.
One of those games is a Thursday, Oct. 24 home stand against Vail Mountain, the only team that could spoil the party for Roaring Fork.
If the Gore Rangers beat Aspen this Thursday and Rifle on Friday, they could claim the league title with a win at Rams Field in Carbondale next week.
Roaring Fork head coach Nick Forbes and the Rams players hope it won’t come to that, but if it does, what a game to play in front of the Rams’ faithful, huh?
“Vail has to win all their remaining games, otherwise we’ve got it,” Forbes said on Wednesday. “So, we could be playing for league when we host Vail. But if they drop any points, we win the less-exciting way.”
The Tuesday match against 12th-ranked
“It was just a cagey game,” Forbes said. “We had more chances to win, but couldn’t put them away.”
The Titans’ goalkeeper, junior Colbran Ingelhart, had a nice save off a back post run from Rams senior Sam Brennan with less than 5 minutes to play in the game, and Roaring Fork junior keeper Keven
On Friday, Oct. 11, the Rams earned a 3-1 statement win over 4A Glenwood Springs, in Glenwood. Senior Fernando Rodrigues-Condela scored two goals and junior Delano Crooks had one. Sophomore Cal Stone had two assists, and Cisneros had five saves.
The Rams center it again at Montrose
season at Rams Field with a cross-town friendly against Colorado Rocky Mountain School at 6pm Friday, Oct. 25.
CRMS also saw a fair amount of action this past week.
Playing at the 2A level, the Oysters dropped a Western Slope North League match 2-1 at Caprock Academy in Grand Junction on Tuesday; fell 6-1 to Moffat County on Oct. 10 (goal by senior Alvaro Ruiz Maza Guajardo, assisted by senior Sebastian Case; 12 saves by senior keeper Leonard Jiang); and tied Grand Valley 1-1 on Oct. 8 (goal by sophomore Michah Hopkins; Jiang 12 saves).
CRMS is 1-6-1 overall and 1-3-1 in league, with the lone win coming at the beginning of the season when the Oysters beat Caprock 4-0.
Volleyball
Roaring Fork’s girls volleyball team improved to 6-9 overall and 3-4 in the 3A WSL with a 3-2 win (25-23, 25-23, 20-25, 19-25, 15-10) Tuesday at Basalt.
It was the Rams’ third win in a row, coming on the heels of a 3-0 (25-20, 25-18, 25-23) home win against Moffat County on Oct. 10.
“Even though we got off to a slow start this season, what I love about this team
continued on page 21
CRMS sophomore Micah Hopkins sprints the ball past a Moffat player on Oct. 10.
Photo by Sue Rollyson
Athletic trainer program a homecoming of sorts for Carly Shimp
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Carly Shimp grew up playing sports at Glenwood Springs High School (GSHS), but it was a class she took with the school’s long-time athletic trainer, Marni Barton, that would eventually bring her back full circle to the Roaring Fork Valley.
After earning respective degrees in athletic training and exercise physiology from Grand Canyon University and the University of Northern Colorado, Shimp recently became the new athletic trainer at Colorado Rocky Mountain School (CRMS) in Carbondale.
She’s now part of a team of athletic trainers who provide sports medicine services to area high schools through Valley View Hospital and its orthopedic services division, ValleyOrtho.
“I had always wanted to do something in the medical field, and after I took Marni’s class I just fell in love with it and decided that’s what I wanted to do,” Shimp said.
The student trainer class teaches high school students about sports injury, managing injury, taping and treating minor injuries during practices and games. It provides a solid base for
any students who might want to pursue a career in sports medicine after high school.
After taking the class, Shimp became a student athletic trainer at GSHS under Barton, observing her during practices and games and continuing to learn. Upon graduation in 2017, she decided that was the career path she wanted.
It’s great to get that experience early, and to follow someone and see things first hand.
- Carly Shimp
“It’s great to get that experience early, and to follow someone and see things first hand,” said Shimp.
“It’s definitely a demanding and time-consuming job, so you have to be passionate about it.”
ValleyOrtho partners with the Roaring Fork School District to provide a full-time athletic trainer at GSHS, Roaring Fork High School and Basalt High School. Barton is the lead trainer overseeing the program. The other trainers are Ryan Erickson at
Roaring Fork and Mike McCann at Basalt.
The program was created 26 years ago by Ross Peterson, director of rehabilitation services at Valley View Hospital. With the support of Dr. Tito Liotta, the long-time orthopedic surgeon with ValleyOrtho, trainers and supplies are provided at no cost to the schools.
“This is so important to the community that we don’t want cost to be an issue,” Peterson said. “We cover all of the related expenses, from personnel to the supplies that are needed.”
Peterson was the first trainer serving Glenwood Springs and Roaring Fork high schools, and over the years the program grew to include the three full-time trainers, and now Shimp, who is part-time at CRMS.
ValleyOrtho began covering boys and girls soccer games at CRMS about eight years ago, Peterson said.
With the addition of Shimp, those services can now extend to a variety of other competitive sports and activities offered by the independent prep school, such as cross country running, rock climbing, skiing and mountain biking.
Shimp also works with the
CARBONDALE
Revolving Loan Fund
Aspen Gentlemen rugby team and assists with coverage at the other area high schools and community sports events, including Ruggerfest and a recent lacrosse tournament.
She has regular hours three days a week on campus at CRMS, taking care of any students who have sports-related injuries and covering home soccer games.
“I really enjoy just being at all the games and being around the athletic community,” Shimp said. “That’s always been fun for me, and I enjoy that environment.”
Peterson started similar programs working with high school athletic programs in Minnesota and Summit County before he came to Glenwood Springs.
ValleyOrtho initially worked with Garfield Re-2 and District 16
The Town of Carbondale developed the Carbondale Revolving Loan Fund (CRLF) to enhance the ability of local busine secure the necessary capital to finance start-ups, operations, or expansion The loan fund was set up in 2002 with a partnership with the USDA The Town and USDA both contributed $50,000 In addition to providing access to cap CRLF is designed to help stimulate job creation and retention Loans are available to new or established businesses within the town limits of the Town of Carbondale To-date, the fund has $150,000 to loan to for-profit and no businesses based in Carbondale
CRITERIA
Loan proceeds may be used for business reasons, including real estate acquisition, construction, and equipment
Funds cannot be used for the refinancing of existing debt Applications will be considered on the basis of the character of the applicant, the applicant’s capacity to repay the loan, collateral and/or other sources of capital, and conditions affecting the applicant’s ability to repay the loan
The guideline for the amount to be requested is $5,000 to $25,000 The interest rate will depend on several factors such as the type of collateral, financial strength of the applicant, and the overall risk Fixed rates of interest will range from 3% to 5%
The term of each loan will depend on repayment capabilities and the purpose of the loan Repayment is monthly and loans are usually no longer than a 36-month term (3 years)
schools to provide athletic trainers, but those programs are now overseen by Grand River Health.
“It’s something I know I appreciated as a parent myself with kids who played sports,” Peterson said. “It’s peace of mind for a parent to know someone is there thinking about the kids’ best interests.”
Athletic trainers are the first line of handling sports injuries.
Physicians also attend home football games to provide additional medical care to the athletes, attending to injuries including possible concussions. In the case of a concussion, an athlete must be cleared by a physician to initiate the Return to Sport protocol.
Any student with an injury related to sports or physical activity
CONTACT
Scan QR code for more information or contact the Carbondale Chamber: 970-963-1890, chamber@carbondale com
The CRLF is made possible by the Town of Carbondale The Carbondale Chamber is not affiliated with the Town of Carbondale, rather assisting the Town by overseeing the marketing & promotion, and certain aspects of the administration of this program The loan funds are in no way exchanged with the Carbondale Chamber
CRMS Athletic Trainer Carly Shimp examines a soccer player’s hand on the sidelines. Photo by Sue Rollyson
Today!
Community Classes in Carbondale
APOCALYPSE 101 : SURVIVING A LONG EMERGENCY
Learn practical skills to survive local disasters, or a national/ global catastrophe.
Saturday, 1-3pm, 10/19
DIY ORGANIC LOTION MAKING WITH JULIE DEVILBISS
Make your own luxurious, and nourishing lotion with natural ingredients and emulsification Saturday, 1-4pm, 10/19
PHOTOGRAPHY 101 AND BEYOND
Learn to make great photos in this class for beginners and intermediate photographers with DSLR camera.
M/W/S, 9am-1pm, 10/21-10/30
EXPLORE EL MERCADO DE BIENES RAÍCES EN NUESTRO VALLE
Los estudiantes obtendrán conocimientos prácticos sobre cómo navegar en el ámbito inmobiliario a través de 3 sesiones interactivas y estudio de casos reales.
Tuesdays, 6-8pm, 10/22-11/5
HAND WOVEN BASKET
Learn/review the basics of basket weaving while weaving your own “Mini Van Tote.” Mon/Fri, 9am-1pm, 10/23-10/25
OPEN PAINTING STUDIO
Bring your ongoing work, or start something new in our sunny studio space with support of other artists and teacher Tues, 1:30-4:30pm, 10/22-12/3
CHARACTER DESIGN
Design and draw distinctive characters for comics, stories and even video games. High School students welcome. La maestra se habla español. Wed, 2-6pm, 10/30-12/11
FELTED HAT WORKSHOP WITH JILL SCHER
Create your own unique hat with felting techniques. Embellish your hat to make it a one-of-a kind artwork or gift. Sat/Sun, 10am-3pm, 10/26-10/27
To Register for Community Classes . . .
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17
GET THE WIGGLES OUT
Toddlers and their accompanying adults get their wiggles out at the Carbondale Library at 10:30am.
BOOK CLUB
The Third Thursday Book Club discusses “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus at the Carbondale Library from 2 to 3pm.
ACQUISITION TO EXIT
The Glenwood Springs Chamber and FirstBank invite current and prospective business owners to “Let’s Talk Business: Acquisition to Exit” — a bilingual event — at Morgridge Commons from 4 to 7pm. Find tickets at www.glenwoodchamber.com
‘DARKNESS TO LIGHT’
The Buddy Program, in partnership with Riverbridge Regional Center, Aspen Youth Center, YouthZone and Aspen Family Connections, hosts a bilingual “Darkness to Light” training focused on the prevention of child sexual abuse at the Third Street Center from 5:30 to 8pm. Dinner and childcare will be provided. RSVP at www.riverbridgerc.org/events
VISITING ARTIST
Anderson Ranch Arts Center hosts visiting artist Kevin Umaña, co-founder of The Ekru Project, an artist-run Kansas City gallery focused on emerging and underrepresented artists, who will speak from 5:30 to 6:30pm. More info at www.andersonranch.org
YOUTHZONE PARTY
YouthZone throws a cocktail party at Juicy Lucy’s Steakhouse in Glenwood Springs from 6 to 9pm. To RSVP, email anaaseh-shahry@youthzone.com or call 970-945-9300.
LOUNGE SESSIONS
HeadQuarters in Basalt invites you to explore “The Garden Within” by Dr. Anita Phillips through journaling and conversation from 6 to 7:30pm. Register at www.headq.org
CHARACTER STRENGTHS
Julie Oldham teaches about character strengths in part four of her Heyday Revolution Workshop from 6 to 7:45pm. Details at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
RODRIGO ARREGUÍN
Rodrigo Arreguín performs Latin classics at Heather’s Savory Pies at 6:30pm.
‘SLEEPY HOLLOW’
Roaring Fork High School (RFHS), in collaboration with SoL Theatre Company, presents “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” directed by RFHS junior Sam Stableford at 7pm tonight and tomorrow and at 2pm on Oct. 19.
CRYSTAL THEATRE
“White Bird” shows at the Crystal Theatre at 7:30pm tonight, tomorrow, Saturday and next Thursday. The Sunday show is at 5pm.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 18
PRESCHOOL STORYTIME
Bring your preschooler for storytime at the Carbondale LIbrary at 10:30am.
INTERNATIONAL POTLUCK
Himalayan Cuisine in Glenwood Springs (115 6th Street) hosts an international potluck celebrating diverse nationalities in the Valley from 5 to 10pm. Everyone is welcome to bring home-cooked dishes from different countries.
MUSIC AT HEATHER’S
Musicians Chris Bank and Hap Harriman perform at Heather’s Savory Pies at 6:30pm.
NATALIE SPEARS
True Nature hosts Natalie Spears for a night of music and storytelling from 7:30 to 9pm. Details at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
SHINING MOUNTAINS
The Shining Mountains Film Festival takes place at the Isis Theatre in Aspen from 6:30 to 9pm tonight and 2 to 9pm tomorrow. Tickets at www.shiningmountainsfilm.com
HIGH COUNTRY SINFONIA
High Country Sinfonia performs at the Christ Episcopal Church in Aspen at 6:30pm tonight and at the River Valley Ranch Thompson Barn on Sunday at 4pm.
QUEER VOICES
VOICES presents “Authentically versus…,” a Queer VOICES Theater Project, tonight and tomorrow night at 7:30pm. Catch a 2pm matinee on Sunday, Oct. 20. Tickets at www.voicesrfv.org/queer-voices
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19
HEALTH FAIR
Aspen Valley Hospital hosts its Fall Health Fair with “deeply” discounted lab tests at the Eagle County Community Center from 8am to 11:30am. You must make an appointment first. Book it at www.aspenhospital.org/health-fair
HEALTH FAIR 2
La Clínica del Pueblo also hosts a health fair today, from 8am to noon at the Third Street Center. Available services will include general health screenings, educational workshops, eye exams, dental check-ups, blood tests and more.
UPLIFT
Tune in your mind by tuning up your body at Roaring Fork CrossFit in Basalt from 9 to 10:15am. Register at www.headq.org
ANCIENT SOUNDS
Clemente McKay, an artist from Chile, teaches a daylong workshop with the Carbondale Clay Center exploring Andean clay sound-making techniques, from 9am to 5pm. Learn more at www.carbondaleclay.org
SYNC UP
Meghan Gilroy leads a day-long workshop at True Nature to get aligned with your soul purpose, from 10am to 4pm. Details at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
BOOK RALLY
The Garfield County Public Library District hosts a “United Against Book Bans” rally at Centennial Park in Glenwood Springs beginning at 11am. Children are encouraged to dress as their favorite book character for the chance to win a prize. After a few speeches, the group will march a petition to the Garfield County Administration building.
TEEN ART FAIR
The Glenwood Springs Library showcases arts and crafts by local teens from 11am to 5pm.
24-HOUR TAKEOVER
Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program takes over the KDNK airwaves through tomorrow at 4pm. Tune in at www.kdnk.org or at 88.1 FM to listen.
BREATHWORK CIRCLE
Davis Cowles leads a breathwork circle at True Nature from 6 to 8pm. Details at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
STILL HOUSE STRING BAND
Steve’s Guitars welcomes the Still House String Band for a concert at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net
Catch a conversation with the Carbondale Clay Center at 4pm this Thursday, Oct. 17, on “Everything Under The Sun” on KDNK. Gallery and Studio Manager Matt Eames will describe the work of Clemente McKay, a Chilean artist offering a daylong workshop exploring Andean clay sound-making techniques on Saturday, Oct. 19. Courtesy photo
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 20
BASKET WEAVING
Learn to weave a willow basket with Jenna Bradford and Jeff Wagner at The Launchpad from 9am to 4:30pm. No experience is needed. Register at www.layinggroundwork.org
MUSIC OF LIFE
Reverend Florence Caplow along with Two River Unitarian Universalist congregation members celebrate the music in our lives through song at the Third Street Center at 10am.
GRIEF AND LOSS
True Nature facilitates a day of supported reflection, nourishment and healing to honor grief and the grieving process, from 10am to 4pm. Details at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
SELF DEFENSE
Roderick O’Connor from the Aspen Police Department teaches a self-protection class for women at the Carbondale Library from 2 to 5pm. Registration is required by calling 970-963-2889.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 21
IN STITCHES
The In Stitches Knitting Club convenes at the Carbondale Library at 1:30pm.
MOVE FROM CENTER
Alexandra Jerkunica guides participants in coordinating their mind, body and spirit through a Pilates class at the Carbondale Library at 4pm.
INSIGHT MEDITATION
Roaring Fork Insight hosts a weekly meditation followed by a Dharma talk at the Third Street Center every Monday at 7pm. More info at www.roaringforkinsight.org
BABY & ME STORYTIME
Newborns to one year olds and their adults gather for storytime, baby sign language tips, singing and more at the Carbondale Library at 9:30am.
GIRLS WHO CODE
The nonprofit Girls Who Code teaches teens of all genders the ins and outs of coding at the Basalt Library from 3:45pm to 4:45pm. More info at www.basaltlibrary.org
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 22
TEEN CRAFT
The Glenwood Springs Library invites teens to attend a movie and work on crafts from 4:30 to 7:30pm. To learn more, call 970-945-5958.
WHY, WILDFIRE, WHY?
Aspen Center for Environmental Studies brings Dr. Park Williams to the
Pitkin County Library, from 6 to 8pm, to address a question many are wondering: “Why have we lost control of wildfire in the Western United States?” Can’t make it in person? Find a Zoom link at www.bit.ly/western-wildfire
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 23
GREAT PUMPKIN
The Carbondale and Glenwood Springs libraries host pumpkin carving and painting with pumpkins, patterns and tools provided at 2:30pm.
5 POINT SCREENING
The Carbondale Library welcomes 5 Point Film Festival for a free screening of adventure films at 7pm.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24
MUSIC AT HEATHER’S
Singer, songwriter, keyboardist Tim Veazey performs with bassist and vocalist Helen Highwater at Heather’s Savory Pies from 6:30 to 9:30pm.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 25
MEDICARE 101
Aurora McCarroll of Passage Insurance helps guide eligible seniors, 65 and up, in navigating Medicare and getting the coverage that meets their needs at the Carbondale Library from 3 to 4pm. Register by emailing aurora@passageinsurance.com or calling 970-355-3505.
GHOSTLIGHT
Thunder River Theatre Company presents “Ghostlight” at 6, 8 and 10pm tonight, Saturday, Sunday, Oct. 30 and Oct. 31. Tickets at www.thunderrivertheatre.com
COSTUME BALL
The Hotel Colorado hosts a 21+ Halloween party with a costume contest and music by DJ Star, from 7 to 11pm. Tickets at www.hotelcolorado.com
CONSENSUAL IMPROV
Catch Consensual Improv performing a “spooktacular” Halloween show at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.wheeleroperahouse.com
KASSA OVERALL
TACAW presents Kassa Overall performing jazz-hip-hop at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 26
FLASHMOB
The Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program DJs take over the KDNK airwaves for 24 hours with a goal of raising $24,000 for youth radio!
Don’t miss a “thrilling” performance by Bonedale Flashmob at Chacos Park today at 4pm. Donations will be accepted for the Carbondale Education Foundation. Saturday October 19th
Donate to our DJs or all AZYEP programs at azyep.org
Sopris Lodge artists in residence: Kurt Nestman
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
This is the first feature in a short series highlighting artists living at Sopris Lodge Carbondale Senior Living.
Sopris Lodge in Carbondale is more than an assisted living center for those in their golden years. From hosting community events to collaborating with local nonprofits, there is hardly a dull moment. And coming up, Sopris Lodge resident artists and musicians will showcase their talents.
The hope is to eventually open a public space where residents’ artwork will be displayed. For now, the fruits of their creativity will be shared amongst residents, their families and visitors.
“The Carbondale community is so rich in art and culture. Art has been a way that I have personally bonded with the residents,” Executive Director Marie Herr told The Sopris Sun. “I think they should be recognized for their talents. I love that we have 80 to 95 year olds still expressing themselves through art and music.”
Herr, who majored in art history and began a graduate program in museum studies, said art has always been a passion of hers. Highlighting that of the residents is important because of the storytelling element of this showcase, she added.
“It’s important for people to understand our residents’ stories [and] this is communicated through their art.” Herr continued, “Senior populations are overlooked at times, [but] art is a universal connection across generations.”
One of these artists is Kurt Nestman, who resides at Sopris Lodge with his beloved dog, Jake. Originally from Southern California, Nestman is a former CPA and, currently, an art teacher. His works draw inspiration from nature, family and the simple things in life.
Nestman uses various creative mediums, including: oil paint, graphite, colored pencil, digital illustration and — more recently and what he describes as his current favorite — watercolor. He has illustrated three children’s
books in collaboration with his daughter, Lauri M. Rubinstein, including: “My Friendly Giant” (March 2012), “My Friendly Giant Along the Cliff Walk” (September 2012) and “I Am Always With You” (September 2012). The latter is filled with positive messaging to help young children process grief.
“My daughter had a friend who passed away, and she wrote [“I Am Always With You”] for her daughter. It’s a kind of a story about bereavement,” Nestman shared.
Having the roots of an avid artist growing up, his parents enrolled him in classes under the guidance of a former Disney animator. That opportunity, he said,
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was life changing.
“When I was in junior high, and even before that, I used to doodle. Kids would come up to me, and say, ‘That looks really great,’” Nestman recalled. “My parents put me with a retired Walt Disney animator to take lessons for three years. That’s how I got started.”
“I say I have a gift from God,” he continued, “and it started very young. But when my parents in their wisdom put me with the animator, everything clicked.”
While he considered a career in commercial art, he said his mathematical abilities were his higher calling.
“I have always been good at math. I had two kids, and accounting paid more,” he stated. “Accounting paid for the kids’ tennis shoes, but this, now, is for me.”
In addition to his own, of course, Nestman has had a soft spot for all children, but, more specifically, those affected by various childhood illnesses who are often bedridden. Wanting to do his part, Nestman has created tutorial video content meant for kids living under such circumstances to bring the joy of art to them.
“I developed a YouTube drawing lesson … so the hospitals could put it on their systems. It’s only an eight-minute video but they can stop and start it whenever, so [children] can do it at their own pace. St. Jude’s sent it to every one of their hospitals; the Denver Children’s Hospital took it on and so did Valley View Hospital,” he explained.
When asked if he had any advice for aspiring artists Nestman said practice and patience are the keys to success. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of taking feedback and criticism. In that regard, he recalled such an interaction with fellow artist Roger Davis.
“I brought [Roger] in and showed him this Laguna Beach piece I made. Then I drug myself back in here and had to redo it [because] he critiqued it, and was honest with me,” Nestman stated.
Next time you’re visiting a friend or family member at Sopris Lodge, be sure to keep a lookout for Nestman and other resident artists’ pieces.
Kurt Nestman works on a watercolor painting of a fish at Sopris Lodge. Photo by Beth White
Colorado Wildland Fire Conference facilitates conversation and best practices
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
On Oct. 2-3, 251 attendees from across the American West converged on Snowmass Village for the 2024 Colorado Wildland Fire Conference (CWFC). The gathering, which was first held in the 1990s, occurs every 18 months. Host cities rotate around the State of Colorado to ground the conversation and the broad vulnerability to wildfires. Paul Cada is the Fire Adapted Colorado chairperson and the Wildland program manager for Vail Fire. He spoke with The Sopris Sun to share takeaways from this year’s conference.
challenges even if communities don’t look alike.” Each conference sees increased engagement with more attendees from government agencies and nonprofits.
more coordinated preventative actions are, the better, he elaborated.
“Actions that extend across communities are more helpful for fire mitigation and insurance eligibility,” so people shouldn’t just be engaging with their immediate neighbors. It is more effective to work with neighborhoods, HOAs, caucuses, cities and counties.
for the entire North American West, Cada said, and in combination with increasing air temperatures, it makes those stressed forest ecosystems quite literally a tinder box for wildfire.
-Paul Cada, Fire Adapted Colorado
Nationwide, CWFC is one of the longest-running state conferences for knowledge sharing. This year’s event saw record participation, with representation from almost every western state, and noticeable participation from California, New Mexico and Arizona, in addition to Colorado agencies. “I think that’s the cool part of a conference like this, it brings together agencies from different geographies,” Cada said. “We share a lot of similar
CWFC addresses much more than the topic of managing active wildfires. With climate change and warming temperatures, Cada explained that this year’s event had conversations around insurance, insurability and preemptive mitigation in areas of human infrastructure. Given the increasing risks, fire insurance conversations have become a priority for major employers, from ski companies to Front Range tech companies to law enforcement. “Insurability is on everybody’s mind,” he said, noting that many of the new attendees have been representatives from government entities and private agencies seeking to learn from fire responders about best practices for community protection and decreasing infrastructure risks.
“The proactive things people do make a difference,” Cada said, both for actual safety and for insurance eligibility. The
”How do we create fire-adapted communities?” is one of the key questions considered at CWFC, Cada emphasized. Over the years, that question has evolved from the outdated policy of putting out all fires as quickly as possible. Due to that old policy, “Colorado has overall degraded forest quality from decades of mismanagement.” That is true
Fire agencies in recent years have been asking, “How do we let fire do what it should be doing on the landscape while minimizing negative impacts on people?” explained Cada. Some strategies wildfire groups have employed with success are confinement and big boxing in response to larger wildfires. After the initial critical fight with the Grizzly Creek Fire in 2020, these were the strategies applied, as troops let the fire expand across the landscape until it burned itself out, only intervening
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Colorado Wildland Fire Conference participants take in the regenerating landscape of the Lake Christine burn area above Basalt and El Jebel. Photo courtesy of Eagle County Community Mitigation Manager Eric Lovgren
Local author’s new book delves into resilience
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
Laurel C. Fox can be described as many things: voice-over and stage actress, singer, substitute teacher, go-getter, mother and now, author and advocate. Her new book, “Braveing the Way,” is a profoundly intimate piece of nonfiction that tells the story of her daughter’s traumatic brain injury. Taylor was hit by a car at the age of 14, forever altering the course of her life.
While her daughter was hospitalized in intensive care, Fox kept an online journal through CaringBridge, a nonprofit based in Minnesota that allows people with medical conditions and their families to communicate. Fox and her daughter’s father each took 48-hour shifts to keep constant vigil over her. Many excerpts from the journal ended up in “Braveing the Way,” as Fox cited the entries as one of her most significant sources of comfort.
“I found writing to be my biggest comfort,” she stated. “It was very cathartic, and it was my way of reaching out to people when I had no one. I put many
of the [entries] in the book, and I was reflecting on those a lot. It was a huge thing for me when I started writing an actual book.”
A book signing at The Painted Pig with Fox and Robert McDermott, MD on Sept. 6, drew a solid and empathetic crowd.
“[It] was beautiful and incredible. There were wonderful questions, just people genuinely wondering how Taylor is, how my life is, and things like that,” Fox reflected.
Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Fox has been a Roaring Fork local since she was 9 years old. After her parents divorced, she moved to Snowmass Village, where she lived with her mother and siblings in their family vacation home and attended Aspen schools. After graduation, Fox pursued higher education in the art world and eventually ended up in Los Angeles working for “Sweet Caroline” singer-songwriter Neil Diamond as his personal assistant for 13 years. She also did voice-over acting work for big brands like Nintendo.
Fox also worked as a personal assistant for clients other than Diamond and was with one in Beverly Hills when she got the call from one of her daughter’s teachers that would change her life forever.
She recalled, “At approximately 1:30pm, I get a phone call, and I missed the call, and I remember thinking, ‘What was that? They’re calling back? That’s weird.’ It was a teacher at the school telling me my daughter was just hit by a car. I immediately sunk into the floor like quicksand. I didn’t know what to think, except that I knew that it was bad.”
In the book, she describes this day in vivid detail, along with alternating questions and fears that came up as she arrived at the hospital to see her daughter in the state she was in.
“I immediately fell into myself like, ‘How am I going to do this? How am I going to get her through this recovery? I’ve never done this before. I’ve never been an advocate. I’ve never been in an ICU.’” In the book, that’s
where Fox’s journey began, realizing she’d be advocating every day for her daughter.
The retelling of this traumatic time in her life touches on many themes, specifically bravery, resilience and finding strength within oneself, even when things are scary and uncertain. These themes are best be summarized in the book’s introduction:
“I could not turn the clock back and get a do-over of ‘that day.’ I had to take what was happening and use everything inside me to catapult forward. To me, at that moment, there was no option other than to deal with what was happening, make it part of my life, and fight like hell.”
“Braveing the Way” is available for purchase now on Amazon.
Laurel Fox signs copies of her new book at a recent event. Courtesy photo
Exploring the experience of plants in ‘If Flowers Could Talk’
that matter, she said, “We need each other,” and slid in, “I want to get kids off of technology and interacting with the
“It’s sort of an autobiography but fictionalized into four seasons as experienced by the main character, Petal,” she said of the book. The plotline is complemented with information about local and regional flowers and ecosystems, so that readers learn about horticulture while following the adventures of Petal, the protagonist flower. Over the course of each season, Petal meets other flowers and beings and learns about resilience and
Standley foresees the potential of “If Flowers Could Talk” teaching kids more about flowers while transferring valuable messages about identity and friendship. “It’s okay to be different as long as you’re kind and good. It’s important to feel welcome and be accepted,” Standley explained. A big part of that theme is emphasized at the end of the book, when Petal discovers she is not in fact a columbine, but a Calypso orchid — which are very rare.
In her own garden, Standley enjoys nurturing unique blossoms. “I couldn’t say that I love any particular flower more than another,” she responded when asked what her favorite species might be. “I appreciate delicate, harder-
Her garden and surroundings continue to offer inspiration beyond the blooms. Standley is considering additional ventures in children’s literature based on the fauna she gets to observe from her cabin. “I might write a book centered on foxes. I get to observe a lot of foxes where I live.”
For now, though, Standley is pleased to share her knowledge through “If Flowers Could Talk.” “It’s a feel-good book,” she said, but also a great teaching tool for blossom recognition and understanding the care and conditions different
flowers need to thrive. “The more fathers and mothers buy it, the more it can benefit families,” she ventured. She is working on scheduling events with local libraries and schools to reach more kids and their parents.
You can buy “If Flowers Could Talk” at White River Books or Flowers on Main Street in Carbondale. It is available online from Barnes & Noble or from Amazon. On the latter retailer’s website, the book has received unanimously five-star reviews in the two months it has been available.
Author Daniela M. Standley holding a copy of “If Flowers Could Talk.” Courtesy photo
Science, reason and local government
EDITOR’S NOTE: The opinions, including political endorsements, of columnists do not reflect those of The Sopris Sun.
As a career healthcare provider, I believe in science; that is, in ideas and beliefs that have been subjected to persistent, unsuccessful attempts to disprove them. As a scientist, my mind is open to questions and new information. I research facts about issues before making important decisions, make my decisions on the best set of facts I have at the time and change my mind when new, more persuasive facts arise.
I’m a lifelong Democrat because Democrats have most consistently represented facts as I see them and supported policies consistent with my personal values. I’m proud of my affiliation. In 2010, I moved from the “safe” political environment of a military community, where no one talked about politics, to Arizona which was heavily Republican at the time. Coming from a military mindset of leading by example and trying not to be a complainer, but rather one who tries to make things better (be part of the solution, not the problem), I decided it was time to actively help those seeking political office. They actually have the potential to shape our social context, about which so much complaining is done. So I became a political activist — making phone calls, writing postcards and knocking on doors.
In the United States, most political decisions are made by people we elect to determine what’s best for our communities. Therefore, it’s important to know the
facts about issues and where various candidates stand, before completing our ballots.
But my volunteer door knocking this election season has led me to conclude that one major contributing factor to the current political disarray is that many voters, while reasonably sophisticated about national issues and candidates, are unaware of many facts as far as local issues or where local candidates stand on them — if they even know these issues exist.
So I don’t knock on doors to get people to vote a certain way, which would be hopeless anyway. I knock with the intention that people who talk with me will be better informed about relevant facts by the time I leave.
and, coincidently, are the very issues and candidates they can most easily influence.
OPINION
MATURE CONTENT
By Ted Zislis
Most of the people I’ve talked with pride themselves on being well-informed, independent thinkers who don’t need more information. But when I respond with something like, “That’s great. Does that include our county commissioner candidates?” Most say, “No, I don’t know much about them.”
When they say they are well-informed, the people I’ve talked with are referring to national issues and candidates, less so to statewide issues and candidates and hardly at all to issues and candidates closest to home. It’s ironic, because these local choices often affect voters the most
During the past three months, there have indeed been numerous editorial comments in Roaring Fork Valley newspapers by writers who at least seem to be paying attention to these candidates and issues. Some, for example, have pointed out that our current Garfield County commissioners are excellent administrators because of their ability to maintain over $86 million in unspent county assets. But others ask, how important is maintaining a reserve amounting to 66% of the county’s total annual budget compared to meeting emergent needs?
Although saying that he wanted no one to freeze or starve, Commissioner Mike Samson voted against granting Carbondale’s request for $50,000 to help meet emergency immigrant needs last winter. It’s safe to say that commissioner candidates Caitlin Carey and Steven Arauza would have been more likely to have granted that request.
Commissioner Samson drafted and voted for a pro forma resolution declaring Garfield a “non-sanctuary” county. Carey and Arauza oppose such resolutions.
Samson supported limiting the library’s traditionally independent functioning. Commissioner candidate Perry Will said he didn’t think the current commissioners went about it all that well, but he supported their action. Candidates Arauza and Carey have said this decision was counter to public interests.
Samson believes that gas and oil extraction will and should remain a centerpiece of Garfield County’s economic future. Will’s voting record in the state legislature indicates agreement with that. Carey and Arauza favor stricter limits on extraction and increased efforts to move Garfield County towards alternative industries as quickly as possible, sans undue hardship. How familiar are you with these important local issues and others? Where do you stand on them? Do you know where each candidate stands on them? In our democracy, we have the right to elect whomever we want, but with that right comes a responsibility to be an informed voter. A president can’t make things happen because he/she says so; that’s a dictator. Presidents need down-ballot supporters at every level of government. County commissioners are our local regulators. My plea is for you to know who you’re voting for and what they stand for when you decide to give them control of issues that matter to you. Take the time to do your homework. Remember, a blank box on the ballot is a vote for the other guy.
Mature Content is a monthly feature from Age-Friendly Carbondale.
Remaining rural
We are writing in response to the guest opinion in the Aug. 1 edition of The Sopris Sun, and ongoing efforts by Keep Missouri Heights Rural (KMHR) to oppose rural operations in Missouri Heights. While their name suggests a commitment to preserving the area’s rural character, their actions reveal a narrow, self-serving agenda.
The opposition from KMHR is not merely about land use regulations but reflects a deeper issue of exclusionary practices and misplaced blame. The very subdivisions now opposing ranching and farming are built on land sold by generational ranching families who faced economic displacement, or who realized the increasing difficulties presented to ranches back in the 1990s. To condemn these ranchers and landowners for selling their land then, while reaping the benefits of that very development today, showcases an entitled hypocrisy that is both unfair and shortsighted.
Manicured, tidy subdivisions and overpriced, overbuilt homes inhabited by the wealthy do not build a community. The real strength of our community lies in preserving and supporting our agricultural roots. Ranching and farming are not just economic activities; they are cornerstones of Colorado and Roaring Fork Valley heritage. These practices are integral to the history and identity of our region, contributing to a way of life that has been sustained for generations. While the definition of rural deals with density, ranching and farming also define it in a relevant and meaningful way. Ranching and farming are not nuisances but essential elements of the rural identity that built Missouri Heights. By opposing agricultural
projects, KMHR is contributing to the destruction of our heritage and undermining this legacy.
Projects like Twin Acres and Ascendigo Autistic Camp offer real benefits, fostering inclusivity and preserving open space. In contrast, efforts to stop ranching operations by KMHR do little to enhance our community and only serve to further isolate and dilute its rural character. The focus on preserving property values over supporting these beneficial community projects reflects an exclusionary attitude that maligns the broader good.
This community’s concerns are not rooted in a misunderstanding of land use regulations or zoning laws. These concerns are based on lived experience and observations of how past developments have transformed Missouri Heights. Over the years, we’ve watched the landscape shift from working ranches to expensive and expansive McMansions. These developments have brought in more wealthy people, but they have not enriched the community in any meaningful way.
KMHR is missing the bigger picture. This isn’t just about zoning laws or county commissioners’ votes, it’s about the longterm threat to a truly rural landscape and lifestyle, impacting the community and a way of life that has shaped our region for generations.
If ranchers and agricultural projects are continually driven out by opposition and legal battles, Missouri Heights will become just another cluster of exclusive subdivisions. The actions of KMHR are accelerating the erosion of the rural character they claim to protect. We must support initiatives that
uphold our rural traditions and embrace community projects that enhance our collective quality of life.
Kat Rich, Missouri Heights resident
Gay Lewis, Someday Ranch
Mike and Allison Spayd, Spradley Farms
Felix Tomare, Milagro Ranch
Bill Fales, Cold Mountain Ranch
To Asheville with love
My husband Hal Herzog and I are in Colorado, visiting our daughter, Betsy After and her family. We come here a few times a year and, in the fall, we stay for a month. We love visiting the Roaring Fork Valley’s mountains, rivers and small towns. Carbondale seems a special community, especially in the scene at the end of the school day — children on bikes, scooters and skateboards, children holding hands while their parents push their strollers. It’s like a contemporary vision of the past.
We planned to go home on Oct. 5. Helene changed our plans — and our world.
Hurricanes usually travel up the east or west coast of Florida, and we watch as they swallow up towns in the pathway or safely turn eastward over the Atlantic. In Asheville, we breathe a collective sigh of relief from our safe and comfortable distance, thankful we are protected by the Blue Ridge and Smoky Mountains and the long distance from Florida’s storms.
This time, the hurricane changed its mind and took an inland path — rivers breached their banks, creeks became rivers. Streets, homes, businesses and families were lost in the water and mud. It destroyed sections of Asheville and the small towns and rural areas that make up western North Carolina.
Somehow, our home, our son’s, our daughter’s and many of our friends’ homes escaped major damage. Many people found a way to escape — or like us, were away when the storm hit. Those left behind are working with friends, neighbors and volunteers, clearing trees and electric poles that block roads and lay on roofs. Homes and businesses ripped off their foundations float by on rivers and creeks. Debris will contaminate the waters for years.
Historically, our mountains and rivers were resources for farms and factories and in recent years for the growth in recreation — hiking and biking, paddling, tubing and fishing, and always, gazing at the views and colors. The French Broad and the Swannanoa in Buncombe County; the Watauga in Boone; the Pigeon that took the east lanes of I-40; the Nolichucky in Tennessee — all are now changed forever.
We moved to the sleepy Asheville area 50 years ago, when there were just a few local restaurants, none recognized with James Beard awards. Long before its transformation into today’s popular tourist city, we took walks along the streets past abandoned, closed-up shops, corrugated plastic covering, signs of once-thriving businesses of the ‘60s and ‘70s. When we walked downtown, we always ran into friends and co-workers. Our three children, Adam Herzog, Katie Herzog and Betsy, were all born at Mission Hospital in downtown Asheville and grew up in the outdoors, hiking the Blue Ridge pinnacles, biking mountain trails, kayaking the Nantahala and French Broad.
Now the schools are closed, the Blue Ridge Parkway is closed, I-40 has fallen into
continued on page 22
Aspen
Mi Chola
Aspen Valley Hospital
Snowmass Market
The Aspen Store
Box on Hyman Avenue
Pitkin County Library
BASALT
Basalt Quick Lube
Basalt Regional Library
The Basalt Store
Alpine Bank Basalt
Timbos
7/11
Jalisco Grill
Big O Tires
CC Cafe
WILLITS/EL JEBEL
El Jebel Mobile Offices
Midvalley Surgery Center
El Jebel Laundromat
Eagle County Courts
City Market
Scottie’s
El Korita
Box on San Miguel
Casa Tequilas
TAC Fitness
ANB Bank
CARBONDALE
Catherine Store Garcia’s City Market
Alpine Bank
Box at La Perla
Box at “Main St.”
Recreation Center
Carbondale Library
CMC in Carbondale
3rd St. Center
Valley Meats
La Roca LiftUp
7/11
Jalisco Grill
Mi Lindo Nayarit
La Fogata
Gloria’s Boutique
GLENWOOD SPRINGS
7/11 West Glenwood Post Office
Hospital Valley View
Recreation Center
Mountain Family Health
Welcome Center
GWS Library
Sal Mex
La Michoacana
Coin Laundromat
Tony’s Market/Bakery
Tequila’s
Frida’s
El Yaqui
Kum & Go
Comfort Dental
Impuestos Seguros
NEW CASTLE
Tapatio’s Post Office
Taquerina Elias
New Castle Library
City Market
SILT
Silt Library
Silt Laundromat
Kum & Go (Main St.)
Silt Roundabout
La Placita 2
RIFLE
Tapatio’s Kum & Go
Taugenbaugh
Jalisco Grill
Box at City Hall
Rifle Library
Box at E 12 St.
El Patron
El Rincon
Spyderwash
Moma’s
Remington Square
Mercado San Jose
Carniceria San Jose
Nachos Mexican Dining
Paleteria la Korita
ProMex Bakery
Tutty Frutti
Full edition is available every Friday afternoon on newstands and at businesses from Rifle to Aspen
La influenza puede causar pérdidas
La comunidad enfrenta numerosos desafíos, pero uno de los más prevenibles es la influenza (gripe). Cada año, miles de personas en los Estados Unidos fallecen a causa de la gripe y sus complicaciones. Estas muertes, así como la pérdida de días laborales y escolares, pueden evitarse mediante la vacunación. La vacuna contra la gripe es un método eficaz y accesible para protegerse a uno mismo y a sus seres queridos.
Las vacunas han sido una de las herramientas más exitosas en la prevención de enfermedades, al estimular el sistema inmunológico y permitir que el cuerpo combata las infecciones sin necesidad de que la persona enferme. Han salvado millones de vidas y prevenido discapacidades graves, como la sordera causada por el sarampión o los defectos de nacimiento vinculados a la rubéola. En el caso de la gripe, la vacuna no solo reduce el riesgo de contraer la enfermedad, sino que también previene complicaciones severas como la neumonía.
neumonía, son las principales causas de las muertes relacionadas con la gripe.
Además de prevenir la gripe, la vacunación puede reducir el riesgo de sufrir ataques cardíacos y derrames cerebrales. Las infecciones virales, como la influenza, incrementan la inflamación en el cuerpo, lo que puede provocar complicaciones graves en personas con afecciones cardíacas.
OPINION
Los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades (CDC, por sus siglas en inglés) recomiendan que todas las personas mayores de seis meses se vacunen anualmente, preferiblemente antes de finales de octubre. Es especialmente importante que los adultos mayores de 65 años reciban una vacuna de alta potencia, y que quienes cuidan de bebés menores de seis meses se vacunen, dado que los bebés no pueden recibir la vacuna directamente.
DESDE
LA CLÍNICA
Por Maria Judith Alvarez
Es fundamental recordar que la gripe no puede tratarse con antibióticos, ya que es causada por un virus. Las formas más graves de influenza, como la A y la B, circulan principalmente durante los meses fríos. Tras la vacunación, el cuerpo tarda aproximadamente dos semanas en desarrollar la inmunidad necesaria, por lo que vacunarse a inicios de octubre es ideal para garantizar protección durante toda la temporada.
La influenza es altamente contagiosa y se propaga a través de las gotas que se expulsan al toser o estornudar. Los síntomas típicos incluyen fiebre, escalofríos, dolores corporales, tos seca, congestión nasal y dolor de garganta. En los adultos mayores, los síntomas pueden incluir confusión y fatiga extrema. Las complicaciones graves, como infecciones pulmonares, bronquitis y
Para la comunidad latina, vacunarse es de suma importancia. La gripe resulta más peligrosa para quienes no tienen acceso fácil a servicios médicos o no pueden permitirse faltar al trabajo por una enfermedad prevenible. Vacunarse es un acto de solidaridad, especialmente hacia los más vulnerables. Es importante desmentir un mito común: la vacuna no causa la gripe. Aunque es posible contraer un resfriado u otra infección viral al mismo tiempo que se recibe la vacuna, esta no provoca la gripe. Los efectos secundarios más comunes son leves, como un ligero dolor en el brazo donde se aplica la inyección, y suelen desaparecer en uno o dos días.
Para recibir la vacuna contra la gripe, simplemente acuda a su médico, a una farmacia cercana o a una clínica de salud pública. Además, es un buen momento para asegurarse de estar al día con otras vacunas importantes, como las de COVID19, neumonía y culebrilla, todas las cuales pueden administrarse junto con la vacuna contra la gripe.
Protegerse contra la influenza no es solo una cuestión de cuidado personal, sino también de responsabilidad hacia la comunidad. Al vacunarse, no solo se protege uno mismo, sino que también se reduce la posibilidad de contagiar a otros, especialmente a los más vulnerables, como los niños pequeños, los ancianos y las personas con enfermedades crónicas.
El mensaje es claro: vacunarse contra la gripe es un acto de cuidado y responsabilidad, tanto hacia uno mismo como hacia nuestra comunidad. Octubre es el mes ideal para hacerlo, y el próximo sábado 19 de octubre, de 8am a 12pm, en el Third Street Center de Carbondale, se estarán ofreciendo vacunas gratuitas contra la gripe, el COVID-19 y otras más en la Tercer Feria de Salud, organizada por La Clínica del Pueblo. Esta es una excelente oportunidad para protegerse y proteger a los demás. Para obtener más información, visite laclinicadelpueblo.care
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores. Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com
Preparing for winter
and
text
by Tommy Sands, Carbondale
A common sight of late ... bears can often be found napping in trees around town during daylight hours. They come down at dusk and dawn to feed to avoid human contact.
NEWCOMERS from page 5 RAMS REPORT from page 10
from access as a possible solution.
One result of last year’s reckoning was the Valley Alliance to End Homelessness emerging to lead a regional approach. This initiative belongs to the West Mountain Regional Health Alliance (WMRHA) nonprofit. Earlier this year, WMRHA was awarded $355,000 from The Colorado Trust, a private foundation, “as support for providing housing assistance and wraparound services to immigrants and refugees, specifically recent arrivals from Venezuela.”
WMRHA received the grant in collaboration with Recovery Resources, Alpine Legal Services and Mind Springs Health. Rob Stein, a former Roaring Fork Schools superintendent who volunteered extensively with the newcomers reponse last year, was hired as a consultant for the planning process, now underway. The planning phase will determine how the organizations involved can best work together and where service gaps still exist.
“One of the biggest gaps is around emergency shelter,” said WMRHA Executive Director Cristina Gair. “That’s a gap not just for our newly-arrived immigrants but overall for our homeless population.” Additional grant money from the Colorado Health Foundation will support the regional effort. Gair is optimistic that the work will be broadly beneficial for the Valley. “I think it’s going to move forward in a good direction and just improve our overall system of homeless response,” she said. “There’s still lots to do to best serve those experiencing homelessness, and the newcomers.”
eager to learn and show up without worrying about where we end up,” head coach Karen Crownhart said.
“Last night was a great example of how much they are learning each and every time they get on the court,” she said of the Basalt win. Crownhart acknowledged the ever-improving play of junior outside hitter Yaki Hernandez.
“She’s becoming more consistent as an outside go-to for us, but each game’s different,” Crownhart said. “Sometimes it’s (junior Nikki Tardif), sometimes it’s (freshman Clover Hansen).”
Games stats were not immediately available. Against Moffat County last week, it was Hernandez with 14 kills, and Tardif and Hansen with nine each. Seniors Erica Crownhart and Elizabeth Fullerton served up six and four aces, respectively, and senior setter Carley Crownhart recorded 36 assists.
Roaring Fork is at Olathe on Thursday, ahead of a weekend tournament at Battle Mountain High School, then back home on Tuesday, Oct. 22, 6:30pm versus Aspen
Football
The Rams fell to 2-4 overall and 0-2 in the 1A WSL with a 40-0 loss at home to Meeker on Oct. 11.
Playing without senior wide receiver and safety Hunter Noll due to injury, the Rams struggled on both sides of the ball against the 11th-ranked 1A team in the state.
Roaring Fork travels to play Olathe this Friday, Oct. 18, and is at Cedaredge on Oct. 25, before concluding the season at home against North Fork on Nov. 1 (7pm kickoff).
Cross country
The combined Basalt-Roaring Fork cross country runners were at the Rifle XC Invitational on Oct. 8, as they tuned up for the 3A Region 1 Championships slated for Oct. 24 in Fraser.
At Rifle Creek Golf Course, Basalt junior Towler Scott took fifth place with a 5-kilometer time of 16 minutes, 42.1 seconds.
Basalt’s girls were led by senior Izzy Moon, who placed 13th in 20:51.3. Also scoring top-25 finishes were juniors Addison Raymond, 14th (20:51.4), and Caroline Cole, 18th (21:26.2).
CRMS freshman Kayla Steele was 23rd in 21:43.5.
WILDLAND FIRE from page 15
to protect human infrastructure.
On the preventative mitigation side, when agencies do pre-emptive burnouts and prescribed fires, it can help prevent catastrophic wildfires. Controlled burns in late winter and early spring, when the landscape is more saturated with water, can help fire function as an ecosystem service while stabilizing the danger to humans. Cada cites the Roaring Fork Valley as a watershed that has so far done a good job and seen good results from the burnout strategy.
It is important to remember that fire is a valuable part of the ecosystem, Cada said. Fire is the best regenerator for old stands of aspens and oak brush, and when wildfires consume accumulated ground fuel in dense coniferous forest, it helps vary ecosystems for wildlife. Wildlife generally need both dense stands of forest for shelter as well as open spaces for roaming, grazing and hunting. Fire agencies have learned the hard way that putting out fires when they’re easy to contain can sometimes create longerterm ecosystem issues.
In fact, Cada said, dense forest areas with significant ground fuel tend to see worse outcomes in wildfire because fires are higher intensity and spread to larger areas, doing more damage. The East Troublesome Fire is an example of what can happen when fire is prevented to the detriment of an ecosystem. When a wildfire occurs in such deteriorated forest, it is extremely difficult for fire agencies to mitigate.
These days, fire agencies are focused on protecting human communities first, then managing fires as feasible in hopes of big-picture ecosystem benefits. The ultimate question in a warmer climate, concluded Cada, is “how do we learn how to live with fire?”
You can learn more about proactive community fire mitigation and CWFC at www.fireadaptedco.org
Photos
COMMENTARIES
the Pigeon River. The constant construction of high-rise hotels and condos charging hundreds of dollars a night will be put to rest and replaced by noises of cleaning, clearing
We’ve met many people in Carbondale — children and their parents, friends of Betsy and her husband, Brion After. Every person has expressed shock and concern about Helene’s destruction. Many have lived in Asheville and the surrounding towns and countryside, and they are heartbroken
As a dedicated unaffiliated voter, I want to share a few of my reasons for supporting Mike Samson for County Commissioner.
I have known Mike Samson for nearly 40 years. Mike is 100% committed to advancing what makes Garfield County special. Mike is a life-long public servant, having started as a public school teacher, then administrator and now serving as a committed county commissioner.
In today’s political environment, it’s enough for me to know Mike Samson is a man of integrity. He isn’t interested in headlines or higher office. As a commissioner, he continually demonstrates his dedication to protecting and improving Garfield County, and he’s not afraid to tackle anyone or any agency that represents a stumbling block to
I know Mike has agonized over many tough decisions before the commission. Above all, he wants to do the right thing.
Finally, Commissioner Mike Samson initiated a non-partisan, all-county Water Forum where everyone with an interest in our waters meets twice a year to share visions, desires, progress and concerns. Additionally, Mike and his fellow commissioners have generously “put their money where their mouth is” to secure local control and permanence of the vital Shoshone water rights for Garfield County and west-
If you care about protecting Garfield County’s water and other natural resources, I urge you to support Mike Samson’s re-election. His steadfast leadership on these issues is essential to the
Glenwood Springs
Our Republican candidates for Garfield County Commissioner both state their commitment to preserving Western Slope values and our rural lifestyle. While this sounds like an admirable goal, it is obvious that they are oblivious to the fact that their values might not be those of Garfield County’s changing demographics and economy. I, too, mourn the days gone by when Garfield County was truly rural. Just take a drive along I-70 and Highway 82 and visit the communities along the way — it’s obvious that things have changed and our governance needs to change with it.
While they are looking backwards and wishing for what once was, our two Democratic candidates are, instead, looking forward to a future where diversity is embraced, collaboration is encouraged, and our county’s energy revenue portfolio is modified to wean ourselves from the uncertainties of a budget based on boom and bust energy extraction to one that
from
about the devastation.
We are thankful for our visits to Carbondale, but it’s time for us to go home. It’s time to pitch in and help wherever we can while we mourn the past and brace ourselves for a new world.
If you’d like to make a contribution to the recovery, Blue Ridge Public Radio, our local NPR station, has a list of agencies working on recovery: www.bpr.org
Mary Jean Ronan Herzog Weaverville, North
from page 19
embraces the abundant solar resource that shines every day.
If we continue to elect and re-elect commissioners who are mired in the past, we will continue to have a commission that is primarily reactive instead of proactive. We need commissioners who are proactive problem solvers. Please cast your votes for Steven Arauza and Caitlin Carey.
Susy Ellison Carbondale
Can’t afford to live here?
The time is ripe to elect people who truly represent us and will fight for affordable housing. This isn’t the only issue, but it’s a big one. I’m casting my ballot for Caitlin Carey and Steven Arauza, two bright and energetic people I know will work hard for us.
The voting record of their opponents is fairly shocking. Perry Will actually supported formally thanking participants in the Jan. 6 attack on our country. Mike Samson opposed a bill to keep gas drilling at least 1,000 feet from school property lines. Really?
It’s time for change and I urge you to vote for Caitlin Carey and Steven Arauza. We are fortunate to have them here working for our best interests.
Kay Clarke Carbondale
Climate concerns
As the election draws closer, we cannot ignore the growing impact of climate change on our communities. Hurricane Helene and now Hurricane Milton, along with dozens of wildfires this past summer — they’re all clear warning signs of a very real climate crisis.
This issue deserves more attention than it’s received so far this election cycle. During the presidential debate, only one brief question was asked about climate at the very end.
The fact is, the climate crisis impacts us all, no matter where we live or how much money we make. Americans are being told to flee their homes and risk losing everything. Meanwhile, Big Oil continues to put profits over people by prioritizing fossil fuels that continue to destroy our environment. We cannot afford to lose any more time in the fight against the climate crisis. We need leaders — at the federal, state and local level — who believe in the science of climate change and are willing or can be convinced to take bold action before it’s too late. So I urge everyone: when you cast your ballot this November, think of our planet and the people that call it home.
Evan Michael Glenwood Springs
continued on page 23
Double trouble
The VP debate gave us a chance to see candidate JD Vance’s excellent impersonation of a decent man. Wow, do fabrications just roll off his tongue. Look out, we’ve got another Trump on our hands, and this one’s even slicker. Just ask the folks in Springfield, Ohio. Imagine if Pinocchio Trump and Pinocchio Vance were standing back to back in Kansas. Their noses would reach from sea to shining sea.
Glibness aside, these Trump/Vance lies are deliberate, intended to dominate the news and overshadow the accomplishments of the Biden/Harris administration.
A perfect example is Trump saying, “The economy is doing really, really badly. It’s a horrific nightmare,” which Fox “News” then reports as fact. Republicans will swear that the economy under Trump was strong, whereas now it is weak. In actuality, when Biden and Harris took office in January 2021, they inherited the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, as well as the worst pandemic in a century. And they found there was no plan in place for recovery. Despite congressional Republicans who did their best to block the administration’s efforts, the plan formulated and instituted by the Biden/Harris team exceeded expectations. Our economy recovered, and is strong. Inflation is at 2.4%, the same rate as it was before the COVID pandemic. Wages have now outpaced inflation. The Stock Market is at a record high. Unemployment is at a low 4.1% with the U.S. having created nearly 7 million more jobs than it had before the pandemic. Our economy will continue to be strong under a Harris/ Walz administration.
We will see more of this authoritarian tactic (daily havoc, disruption and disinformation) from Trump and Vance. As other readers have suggested, find a reliable source of news.
And vote like your democracy depends upon it, because it does.
Annette Roberts-Gray Carbondale
Strongmen
Of the many reasons why I believe Donald Trump is grossly unfit to hold office, I am perhaps most disturbed by his fascination with authoritarian strongmen like Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un. On one hand, I sort of understand how a pathological narcissist like Trump, with his bully mentality, can be attracted to such leaders. But how could someone, unless they are devoid of empathy or a conscience, countenance the cruelty and inhumanity of these people?
In my years at Encyclopædia Britannica, I worked with many who had lived under authoritarian rule. There was the woman born in East Germany who fled with her family to the West across a field and through barbed-wire entanglements under the threat of being shot by border guards. Or the woman who escaped from Romania, one of the most repressive of the Soviet client states.
There were others, but one who stands out the most was Lilia, born in the U.S. to parents who had escaped what was then the Soviet “republic” of Ukraine. Lilia was passionate about her heritage and introduced me to the centuries-old bitter struggle Ukrainians have waged against
Russian and then Soviet domination. The Soviet period was especially brutal, most terribly in 1932-33 when Josef Stalin perpetrated the Holodomor genocide, an intentional mass starvation in which as many as 7 million Ukrainians died.
Lilia impressed on me the intensity with which Ukrainians will never forget or forgive Russia for its prolonged cruelty toward them. Putin’s seizure of Crimea a decade ago and now his invasion of Ukraine proper have only served to amplify that sentiment. I believe that the Ukrainian people will never negotiate a settlement with Russia, as Trump has promoted, and will never stop fighting to retain their hard-won independence.
Donald Trump appears so susceptive to the flatteries and manipulations of these cunning and ruthless leaders. The rest of us, however, must see these people for who they are: an absolute anathema to everything we hold dear and sacred in this country. Please vote to keep a man like Trump out of the presidency!
Ken Pletcher Carbondale
Rotary thanks
On behalf of the Carbondale Rotary Club, we’d like to thank everyone for joining us for our third annual Potato Day pancake breakfast on Oct. 5. It was a beautiful morning and we enjoyed serving everyone pancakes and potato pancakes at Chacos Park at 4th and Main Street.
The event simply would not have been possible without the extraordinary generosity of Bonfire Coffee and the Village Smithy. They provided us with copious amounts of coffee, pancake batter and sausages to make the morning a success. Charlie Chacos and everyone at both businesses went above and beyond and we cannot thank them enough.
Thanks also go to our title annual sponsor, Ace Hardware, and lead annual sponsor, Alpine Bank, for their many years of steadfast support. Our other annual sponsors include Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty agent Karen Peirson, Bookbinders, Cowen Center Convenience Store, Coldwell Banker Mason Morse agent Brian Keleher, Lulubelle, Martin Insurance Group, Nordic Gardens, Obermeyer Wood Investment Counsel, Pain Center of the Roaring Fork Valley, the Post Independent, Rivers Dentistry, RJ Paddywacks Pet Outfitter, Sopris Liquor and Wine, Thunder River Theatre Company and Umbrella Roofing.
We’d also like to recognize and thank Alyssa Reindel at EverGreen ZeroWaste for making our breakfast as low-impact as possible. The Carbondale Community United Methodist Church was kind enough to lend us their tables and chairs.
Big thanks go out to Glenwood Rotarian Joe Mueller for once again loaning us his excellent grill. Joe embodies the best qualities of the Rotary motto, “service above self.”
Last but certainly not least, Eric Brendlinger and Erica Savard from the Town of Carbondale Recreation Department helped us organize and continue one of our favorite annual traditions. It was a great way to kick off Potato Day Saturday and celebrate the best of Carbondale.
Rachel Hahn and Alan Cole
Carbondale Rotary Club
WHAT LIES BENEATH … A trick, or a treat
Photo
and
text by Jane Bachrach
The pumpkin patch in front of the Carbondale City Market is quite alluring. Folks can’t help but stop and ogle the colorful display, even if they already have their pumpkins.
On Sunday afternoon, Oct. 13, it was quiet around the pumpkin patch, except for two teenage girls who had climbed to the top and were exploring, as if they were searching for the perfect pumpkin.
Roaring Fork High School students Perry Fulton and Alya Peterson were not looking for the perfect pumpkin. They were hoping to find and rescue the kittens that were hiding in the pumpkin patch, after someone had supposedly abandoned them in the City Market parking lot.
The girls saw three of the kittens but were unable to reach them. We hope the kittens have been rescued by now, and thumbs up to Perry and Alya for their efforts in trying to save the kittens!
Stay tuned …
LEGAL NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICE
CARBONDALE COMMUNITY SCHOOL
NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to §38-26-107, C.R.S., that after October 17th, 2023, at 10:00 a.m., final settlement with FCI Constructors (“Contractor”), will be made by the Carbondale Community School (“School”), for its project located at 1505 Satank Rd, Carbondale, CO 81623, subject to satisfactory final inspection and acceptance of the Project by the School.
Any person, as defined in C.R.S 2-4-401 (8), that has furnished labor, materials, sustenance, or other supplies used or consumed by such Contractor or its subcontractor in or about the performance of the work on the Project or that has supplied laborers, rental machinery, tools or equipment to the extent used in the prosecution of the work whose claim therefor has not been paid by the Contractor or subcontractor, at any time up to and including the time of final settlement for the Project, may file a verified statement of the amount due and unpaid on such claim at the School located at 1505 Satank Rd, Carbondale, CO 81623.
Failure to file such verified statement of claim prior to final settlement will release the School and its employees and agents from any and all liability for such claim and for making final payment to said Contractor. s/s
Carbondale Community School
NOTICE OF BUDGET
(Pursuant to 29-1-106, C.R.S.)
NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District for the ensuing year of 2025; a copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District, where the same is open for public inspection; such proposed budget will be considered at the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors to be held at Carbondale Fire Headquarters, 301 Meadowood Drive, Carbondale, Colorado on November 13, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Any interested elector of Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections thereto at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget.
