On Nov. 4, the Carbondale Bicycle Pedestrian and Trails Commission (BPTC) held an open house to review the third draft of its Carbondale Mobility Access Plan (MAP) and solicit feedback. BPTC members, Town staff, and a Front Range planning consultant have been working on the MAP for a year and a half. Representatives from four Town of Carbondale boards attended the open house, as well as citizens concerned with safety and quality of life along public thoroughfares. The open house revealed a long road ahead amid unprecedented growth.
Adam Cohen, who lives on 8th Street/Cowen Avenue, opened public comments. He’s a dad; the neighbors on either side have kids, too.
“We’re a bit nervous to have our kids ride bikes to school, ride our bikes to town, because there are just so many speeders on this street.”
The family’s 3-year-old dog was hit and killed in front of their home, yet Cohen
appeared hopeful. Sharing images of East Village Road in Willits, he described narrow lanes, crosswalks, speed tables and bulb-outs “that make it almost impossible to speed.” The design of the road makes for a safe, vibrant street for pedestrians of all ages, cyclists and dogs.
“There’s a great opportunity to turn our street into something like this, simply because it’s still an open canvas,” he said, pointing out that nothing has to be torn down to create a strong pedestrian and bike corridor, “to make a fresh start.”
Pre-pandemic, Carbondale viewed itself as “a funky little mountain town,” a friendly place, idyllic enough to walk or bike anywhere. Since 2020, Carbondale’s population has grown by 5.27% and traffic has intensified. Some locals believe this growth to be an urban influx, bringing an aggressive edge to driving.
Public comments at the open house emphasized an increase in both overflow traffic avoiding Highway 133 and
speeding on residential streets. They expressed concern over poor street planning, dangerous intersections, a lack of guiding signage, little to no traffic calming infrastructure and the inefficacy of policing or ticketing. In the earliest draft of the MAP, there were about a dozen locations associated with these concerns. This third draft lists approximately 75 problem areas.
To some present, the MAP was beginning to feel unwieldy, producing more questions than solutions. How will the Town fix so much soon enough? Where will funding come from? How
to prioritize what should be done first?
BPTC member Ted Zislis asked why Complete Streets, a specific planning approach and process, was only mentioned once in the 65-page document.
“The Complete Streets concept is a holistic approach to city planning,” Zislis emphasized, “not just fixing one little street corner at a time.”
Smart Growth America explains that their Complete Streets program “is the integration of people and place in the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of transportation networks.” Their website
Highway 133 is an area under scrutiny when it comes to safe access for everyone, including pedestrians, to all parts of Carbondale. The Town’s Mobility Access Plan is some two years in the making, looking comprehensively at how different forms of transportation flow and connect. Photos by Will Sardinsky
continues, “Complete Streets policies can help [towns] transform how they make decisions about their streets.”
Zislis wanted to see Complete Streets front and center in the MAP, clearly defined so that policy makers, stakeholders and the public understand exactly what it is.
“There are 10 guiding elements that philosophically support the Complete Streets concept and yet they appear nowhere in our MAP,” said Zislis. Those ten elements establish accountability measures.
“The problem is, we recognized we had so many of our current road problems back in 2013 [when Carbondale completed a comprehensive plan] but no commitment was made, so nothing has happened since then,” Zislis said.
Looking ahead to Thanksgiving
Over a third of Americans, myself included, plan to travel during this year’s Thanksgiving holiday, and small wonder. It’s difficult to find any civilization without a ritual gratitude gathering when the harvest is in. They called it “Thesmophoria” in ancient Greece and “Cerealia” in Rome. Assyrians, Persians and pre-Columbian Americans all had their versions. “Thank you, god(s), for helping us survive the year and giving us a shot at the coming one.”
My favorite term for it is “ingathering.” It’s biblical, it was used in 16th century England, and it just sounds so right. The harvest has been processed and stored. The animals are down from summer pastures. Life moves indoors and inward. There’s also winter work to be done of course, but unlike relatively dispersed summer work, we huddle together more while doing it.
As a child, I was oblivious to ingathering. I was raised in Manhattan without so much as a goldfish by Jewish/Viennese Holocaust refugee parents who could barely grow a cactus and chose to never celebrate America’s ingathering. Probably, after losing 95% of their large and loving family to the Nazi killing machine, gathering the half-dozen survivors who escaped to New York was too reminiscent of the multitude that would never gather again.
be wondering about? What will the country that rescued my parents and made my life possible be like? Will democracy hold, allowing UA 498 to take off as planned? Will it be delayed due to the inconveniences of martial law or even canceled due to the outbreak of a civil war? Will we be roasting turkeys and baking pies more or less as usual? Anything seems possible tonight, as we wait for the polls to open tomorrow, but there’s one thing I am pretty sure about: This election won’t resolve our national differences. Just getting past this election with a reasonably intact and functional country is the best outcome I dare to hope for.
OPINION
MATURE
CONTENT
I learned America’s Thanksgiving myth at school, but my first inkling about the feel of an American Thanksgiving came during my freshman fall in Central New York’s farm country, on the two-mile walk from the Cornell campus to downtown Ithaca. Decorated front porches were piled with fruits of the harvest, crisp winds cut the clean autumn air and children laughed amidst the falling leaves. As the holiday approached, I yearned to go home even though my family’s walk-up flat was nothing like those iconic streets.
By Ron Kokish
I learned more about America’s Thanksgiving at friends’ and girlfriends’ homes. When I met Niki, I adopted her big family, they adopted me, and I spent every ingathering with them. I came to love that holiday, and I still do. Later, raising our own family, we had many ingatherings in our home. Now, with most of my grandchildren grown, we are privileged to celebrate with our niece and nephew in Portland. This year’s travel plans are complete and I’m looking forward to huddling together, reviewing the year and getting mentally and spiritually ready for winter.
But, as I write this, on the eve of Election Day 2024, things feel strangely amiss. What will the weeks between tomorrow evening and our ingathering bring? What more will we know by the time you read this and what will we still
LETTERS
Re: Assault
Recently, we witnessed an unthinkable crime, and rather than coming together to support the victim and seek justice, too many have chosen to indulge in rumor, accusation, and finger-pointing. I am both disgusted and appalled.
There are people here who seem to revel in the chance to spread gossip, as if violence and trauma are topics for casual entertainment. I wonder, to those who are eager to whisper details about this victim: have you considered the unimaginable toll such an experience takes? Do you imagine yourselves invulnerable, believing that something like this could never touch you or those you love? Because, as much as we want to believe in our small-town safety, the reality is that bad things can and do happen. I pray that none of you will ever have to find out what that really feels like. And to those who claim the police are withholding information, accusing them of incompetence or even malice — these are the very people who put themselves on the line every day for our protection. Dismissing them as “roid ragers” or questioning their
“How did we get here?” I’m tempted to ask, but then I think that we didn’t “get here” at all. We’ve been here for a long, long time. Socioeconomic class struggles, attempts at cultural homogeneity, resisting changes wrought from within and without, conflicts between idealists wanting to build brave new futures that will never quite be and idealists wanting to return to former prosperity, peace and greatness that never quite were — there’s nothing unusual about all that. What does seem unusual, and much more worrisome, is the growing loss of faith in our institutions for resolving those differences. And elections are, of course, the institution at the very core of our society.
This isn’t our first rodeo. The Founders didn’t want to overthrow or even change the British Government. They just wanted fair representation within it. When they lost hope of achieving that, they went to war. Whites in slave states went to war again when growing egalitarianism seemed about to destroy their most cherished institution. Both times, violent social disruption was preceded by decades of maneuvering and compromises intended to avert what eventually happened, and both wars failed to settle the differences that caused them. Has the Great American Experiment reached another such watershed moment?
It will be a while before we know. In the meantime, this Thanksgiving may remain disturbingly unique but life goes on and it’s time for ingathering. For guidance on how to best conduct myself under these circumstances, I’m turning to Reverend Florence Kaplow paraphrasing Kurt Vonnegut: “We should be unusually kind to one another. Jokes help a lot. And get a dog, if you don’t already have one.” This will be good advice to remember in Portland if circumstances allow me to get there, and perhaps even better advice if they don’t.
Mature Content is a monthly feature from Age-Friendly Carbondale.
motives shows a profound lack of understanding. I truly hope none of the police critics ever find themselves in a desperate situation, in need of those same “worthless” officers. The work our law enforcement does isn’t perfect, but it’s far better than the chaos that would ensue without it.
The recent community meeting was supposed to be a time to show compassion and solidarity, a chance to unite and let the victim and their family know that they are not alone.
Instead, it turned into a spectacle — an opportunity for some to seek out gory details, to accuse, to point fingers, and to act as though this horror was nothing but fodder for their curiosity. Shame on us as a community for forgetting what empathy means.
There is no dignity in what we’ve shown lately. Until we choose respect and understanding over rumor and suspicion, we are failing ourselves, our community, and — most importantly — the people who need us most. I pray we do better.
Eliza Sutton Carbondale
Downtowner
Thanks to RFTA and the many folks who have worked to get a wider bus service in our community.
As a senior at Crystal Meadows, I am grateful for the free Downtowner on-demand rides that we have enjoyed since July.
As the hours of darkness lengthen and the deadline for this pilot program nears (end of December, 2024), I hope the service is proving popular and useful to Carbondale.
For me, night driving is a challenge, so calling the Downtowner for a ride is key to enjoying all that our town has to offer.
I encourage you to use this free ride because it is a “use it or lose it” program. And yes, you can bring your well-behaved dog!
Save gas, emissions, and money and call the Downtowner.
Brenda Buchanan Carbondale
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is a proud member of the Carbondale Creative District continued on page 22
Cool Bricks Studio
Aspen Valley Hospital
Colorado Mountain College
Hillary Porterfield
Carbondale Rotary
Nordic Gardens
NONPROFIT PARTNERS
Basalt Library
Colorado Animal Rescue
Carbondale Arts
Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist
Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner in 2024? Email Todd@soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866
SCUTTLEBUTT
The Sopris Sun received reports of a hungry bear attempting to enter cars up Cattle Creek Road. Nicknamed “Alfredo,” the bear was successful at least twice, trapping himself once inside a vehicle and wreaking total havoc. Car owners in rural places are reminded to lock their cars at night and carry tasty-smelling foods
The public is invited to help build a Native Ute Plant Guild at the Carbondale Historic Food Forest, featuring plants that were used as food and medicine by Colorado’s native Ute people. Help is requested at the Thompson House Museum History Park this Saturday, Nov. 16, from 1 to 4pm. For more info, contact carbondaleheritage garden@gmail.com
Roaring Fork Mill
The Colorado Grain Chain, a nonprofit focused on growing a community-centered statewide grain economy, awarded six $5,000 grants this year to “the middle phase of the organic grain supply chain,” between harvest and retail. Carbondale’s Roaring Fork Mill was among the recipients with the desire to “grow consumer knowledge of organic ancient and heritage grains via marketing.”
Art and fashion
Carbondale Arts has two artistic and fashionable deadlines approaching. Firstly, Dec. 2 is the deadline to submit applications for art pieces to be included in the 46th Annual Valley Visual Art Show. Anyone residing in an “816” zip code can submit a piece for consideration. Secondly, designers interested in having a line in next year’s Green Is the New Black Fashion Extravaganza must apply by Dec. 4. “Clothing must be sustainably created using primarily (75%) organic or sustainably tagged fabrics, up-cycled and/or recycled materials and made by designer or in a fair trade and/or locally-sourced scenario,” the rules read. For more information on both opportunities, visit www.carbondalearts.com
Business promotion
Carbondale Tourism wants to promote local businesses to tourists during the winter and holiday season. Find an online form at www.bit.ly/CdaleWinter
Join Carbondale’s Special Event Task Force to give input about events in public spaces or for a preview of the 2025 events calendar. Event organizers, businesses and neighbors of parks are especially encouraged to weigh in. The first meeting, Nov. 20 from noon to 1:30pm, will debrief 2024 events. A follow-up meeting, Dec. 18 from 5:30 to 7pm, will map out a plan for 2025. Both meetings will take place at Town Hall. If you plan to attend, email ebrendlinger@ carbondaleco.net
Healthcare
The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers that during open enrollment season for Flexible Spending Arrangements (FSA) they may be eligible to use tax-free dollars to pay medical expenses not covered by other health plans. An employee who chooses to participate can contribute up to $3,300 through payroll deductions during the 2025 plan year, not subject to federal income, Social Security or Medicare taxes. More information can be found at www. bit.ly/IRS969
Swatting incident
At approximately 8am on Tuesday, Nov. 12, Garfield County Dispatch received a report of an individual armed with a shotgun outside Rifle High School. The Rifle Police Department immediately responded, conducting a thorough check of the area and clearing the building. After careful investigation, it was determined that this report was a “swatting” event — a false emergency call provoking a large law enforcement response to an intended target, often disrupting communities and draining resources. Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Rifle Police Department.
They say it’s your birthday! Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Amy Fulstone, Ron Leach, Sue Rollyson and Morgan Williams (Nov. 14); Rachel Baiyor and Joyce Leeman (Nov. 15); Martín Bonzi, Thomas Cerise, Katie Hankinson and Robin Tolan (Nov. 17); Larry Smith and Erin Patricia (Nov. 18); Rowynn Anthes, Kelsey Clapper and Heather Lafferty (Nov. 19); Mike Metheny and Rosie Sweeney (Nov. 20).
Bill Morrow’s sculpture, “Saw Scraposaurs Junx” AKA “Scrappy,” came home to Carbondale on Friday, Nov. 8. Made from scraps in Morrow’s studio, the friendly dinosaur can be found across from the Smithy at Kay Clarke and Doc Philip’s home. This was Morrow’s final delivery. He then sold his truck at the Co-op. Pictured from left to right: Clarke, Morrow, Philip. Photo by Bonnie Pletcher
A conversation with author, activist Marianne Williamson
Lecture at Aspen Chapel on Dec. 5
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Marianne Williamson has done many different kinds of work over the years, including authoring 15 books since 1992 on facets of faith and spirituality — selling more than three million copies. In recent years, she has twice run as a Democratic presidential candidate, championing progressive positions with an emphasis on centering love within political action.
Williamson will speak at the Aspen Chapel on Dec. 5 at 6pm. The lecture event is titled “Navigating Our Way to the Future.” The Sopris Sun spoke with her last week in anticipation of the event. Below are highlights of the conversation. What, to you, do writing and public speaking offer as mediums of communication?
Either way, “A more internationalist perspective is needed,” Williamson noted, elaborating that traveling in other countries offers valuable societal insights.
As for the difference between writing and speaking, she said, “The power is in words. It’s less about whether they’re spoken or written. Reaching people is what matters.” She continued, “A book has its own relationships with readers. In a room full of people, though you know more about them than readers, you can’t read their minds.”
Where do communication, politics and faith intersect?
“The intersection of politics and faith, at this point, is very important to me. Spiritual devotion has fueled some of the most significant movements in our history,” Williamson said. She cited examples from the 1800s civil rights movements, to women’s liberation and the resonance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches in the ‘50s and ‘60s.
“What has happened in America over the last few decades [is that] left of center politics in this country have become very
secular,” Williamson asserted. “The emphasis on secular analysis has, I believe, robbed the left of its moral force. It also has in some cases made the ‘spiritual’ feel spoken down to,” which, in turn, can impede their access to political positions.
Williamson feels a shift is essential. “The kinds of political change that are necessary will not occur without spiritual revolution,” she noted. In her mind it’s important to speak from the heart first, instead of leading with data. While the latter is important, “If you’re only speaking from a cerebral place, you’ll only be heard by those operating from a cerebral place.”
What are some key mantras or messages that have stayed with you?
She rattled off a few:
“We’re here to love one another.”
“We’re here to do our best; to extend the love that can heal the world.”
“We need to purify ourselves.”
Williamson also referenced Gandhi’s assertion that “the end
is inherent in the means.” That concept is at the “core of nonviolent protest, which is highly relevant to our current political situation,” Williamson added.
Can you give some advice for navigating these complex times?
“Read Twitter less, read history more,” she said, noting the dangerous potential social media has to influence people’s perceptions. She emphasized that people need to “understand what a profound amount of propaganda permeates our media — [from] the left and the right.”
Williamson recommended that people “spend enough time in [the] quiet to think clearly” and to keep their hearts open. After all, “Manufactured chaos is not your friend,” she quipped.
In your experience, what are people surprised by when they lean into uncertainty or their faith?
“That it strengthens them. It empowers them. It calms them,” she said. “We are much more effective when we are at peace. So much more is happening in the quiet than we realize.”
continued on page 23
Make a difference where it matters most to you this Colorado Gives Day.
Marianne Williamson, courtesy photo
Member FDIC
Wilderness Workshop comments on BLM plans
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Last month, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced finalized resource management plans (RMPs) for the state of Colorado. Two of the plans announced are for lands managed by the Colorado River Valley and Grand Junction field offices and will affect roughly two million acres on the Western Slope for the next 15 to 20 years. The Sopris Sun spoke with Wilderness Workshop for more details.
The new RMPs were met with mixed receptions among Colorado stakeholders. On the conservation side, nonprofits and local agencies are enthused about the additional protections the plans establish for wildlands, cultural sites and wildlife habitats. However, those same groups feel the plans also reflect a missed opportunity for preventing greenhouse gas emissions, since the RMPs outline oil and gas leasing parameters.
Some energy companies, conversely, are pleased that minimal changes have been recommended for mineral leasing.
In a public statement, Wilderness Workshop assessed that the RMPs “only make modest gains on reducing damaging climate emissions by closing lands with no and low potential — and some areas with moderate potential — for oil and gas development, leaving many sensitive environmental areas open to future oil and gas leasing.”
Despite that, in Wilderness Workshop’s view, this year’s RMPs are significantly improved over the most
The Carbondale-based nonprofit viewed the previous RMPs as inadequate.
Advocacy Director Erin Riccio explained that the 2024 plans “provide important protections for special places like the Grand Hogback and Castle Peak.”
BLM has the power to determine whether lands can be leased for oil and gas production, and to what degree. “BLM looks at these spaces based on potential allocation,” Riccio stated.
Wilderness Workshop reps argued that BLM continues to prioritize oil and gas despite all of the community vocalization against those uses.
“Climate change is an enormous threat,” Riccio asserted. And conservation groups have mixed feelings about the 2024 RMPs because historically, once finalized, the plans cannot be revised until the next cycle
decade. Wilderness Workshop Campaign Manager Michael Gorman elaborated, “Public lands can be really valuable for carbon sequestration in forests, wildlife refuges and more ecosystem services.”
“These planning processes lay the foundation for 10-20 years of management,” Riccio shared, which means that plans’ either positive and negative effects cannot be quickly shifted. If federal policy changes, however, Wilderness Workshop considers that the 2024 RMPs provide some insurance to protect public lands.
That said, just because RMP cycles are long does not mean the public should disregard them, and Wilderness Workshop encourages citizens to get involved with input processes.
“We try to keep track of these things to let the community know ways they can be helpful and advocate,” said Riccio. Gorman
added, “It’s worth noting that having a really engaged community has been key to some of the successes we’ve seen conservation-wise.”
Riccio anticipates opportunities for the public to share input with the Forest Service in the coming months. “We track these processes for the National Forest as well. We expect a major revision to be announced in the next year or two,” she said.
Wilderness Workshop and partnered conservation organizations hope that local, state and federal institutions continue to prioritize conservation of the many ecosystems in Colorado and nationwide. “A diversity of landscapes protected is important to protect biodiversity,” Gorman stated. “We continue to face increasing pressures from climate change.”
Wilderness Workshop has been advocating for permanent protection of wild spaces since 1967, focusing on Colorado’s Western Slope. The organization is responsible for helping to secure congressional designation for the Hunter-Fryingpan, Collegiate Peaks, West Elks and Raggeds Wilderness Areas, and doubling the acreage of the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness Area. Its work also resulted in vehicle limitations in the Maroon Creek Valley starting in 1975.
“We think that our public lands should be part of the solution, not the problem,” concluded Riccio.
You can learn more about Wilderness Workshop at www.wildernessworkshop.org
Conservation nonprofits like Wilderness Workshop advocate with federal entities to ensure the protection of Colorado’s wilderness areas. This photo in the heart of the Maroon BellsSnowmass Wilderness shows some of the wild space which engaged citizens and conservation groups have helped protect. Photo by Annalise Grueter
Fletchall: ‘We can agree to disagree’
JAMES STEINDLER
Contributing Editor
With the onset of library trustee appointments being vetted through the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) rather than the Garfield County Public Library District board of trustees — as has been customary prior to this year — things are shaking up on the panel.
The libraries, as of late, have been scrutinized by members of the public and BOCC. The latter has exercised unprecedented oversight over the district, namely through the appointment of trustees. Myrna Fletchall was the first trustee to be appointed since the commissioners took over that process. Out of 10 applicants, Fletchall was one of three recommended by the library board to represent Rifle. She grew up in Chihuahua, Mexico until moving to Tijuana at the age of 10. Today, she is a proud resident of Rifle.
“I moved here with my family in 2015. Both of my sons are graduates of Rifle High School,” she told The Sopris Sun. “We moved to the Western Slope so I could pursue an opportunity with Mountain Family Health Centers. I will always be grateful to them for that.”
During her early life in Chihuahua, access to libraries and other resources was limited, so she wouldn’t have considered herself an avid reader at that time. “I will say, my first real library experience was when I moved to Tijuana,” she continued. “It was a place we went to study, hang out with friends for homework and find resources.”
She attended school in Tijuana through what would be the equivalent of eighth grade in the states. When she arrived in the U.S. she took advantage of the resources available, initially through Harrison High School in Colorado Springs. “They had an alternative program designed for parents learning English as a second language with a pathway to a GED,” Fletchall shared. “I graduated with a GED as Valedictorian.” Later, she earned certifications in medical billing and coding.
She added that she started reading “for fun” once she came to the U.S. and began studying English. Her favorite
book is “Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action” by Simon Sinek.
Having first immersed herself in the libraries in Tijuana, she considers the institution essential. Asked why she chose to apply for a library trustee position, she stated, “I love the libraries and want to serve my community.
“As the interview process was announced I became more aware of the controversy surrounding the appointment,” Fletchall acknowledged. “My appointment involved both boards in the process,” she continued. “I feel boards should avoid oversizing their own appointees to maintain an efficient decision-making process and prevent diluting accountability.”
Indeed, division has, yet again, been roused with little gray area. While both ends of the spectrum may claim their arguments are not political, a casual observer might disagree.
During Fletchall’s first meeting as a board member in June, Trish O’Grady, a western Garfield County resident who has spearheaded public action against the library board, congratulated Fletchall on the appointment and stated, “You were my number one pick.”
In September, Fletchall made a motion that the library board say the Pledge of Allegiance before meetings. O’Grady was present for that meeting and vocalized her support. Board President Adrian Rippy-Sheehy said she wondered whether Fletchall was “bringing someone else’s agenda to the district.” That motion was denied by a majority vote.
When it comes to restricting access to certain books based on age, Fletchall said she doesn’t consider that to be any different than restricting access to mature films or video games. She added that some of the books in question have a parental advisory warning on the cover and that she agrees with the publisher’s discretion. “I don’t feel library staff should be judging if a minor is mature enough for content labeled as such,” she stated.
As reported in this week’s GarCo Report (page 14), the library board recently reappointed two incumbents,
Jocelyn Durrance (Carbondale) and Susan Use (Glenwood Springs), whose terms were set to expire. Despite the trustees’ decision, the BOCC is still advertising for those two seats as well as the New Castle seat, which is vacant.
“We’ll accept those two nominations from the library board as candidates,” said Commissioner Tom Jankovsky during Tuesday’s BOCC meeting.
“They’re in the running, they’re in the running,” chimed Commissioner Mike Samson. Applications are open through Nov. 27 and interviews will be held in front of the BOCC on Dec. 5.
“‘We can agree to disagree’ is a phrase often used to acknowledge a difference in opinion while maintaining respect for the other person’s perspective. It’s a way of recognizing that, despite differing views, there’s no need for conflict or animosity. After all, it’s often our differences that drive innovation and growth, and they don’t always need to lead to division,” concluded Fletchall.
Myrna Fletchall was appointed by the Garfield County Commissioners to represent Rifle on the Garfield County Public Library District board earlier this year. Courtesy photo
Would a vacancy tax work here in Carbondale?
KEN PLETCHER
Sopris Sun Contributor
As we all know, one of the greatest challenges facing Carbondale and the region is the lack of affordable housing. Our housing issues are a constant topic in news articles, municipal council meetings, task forces and election campaigns. Various efforts have been made to reduce the shortage — such as rent controls and deed restrictions, subsidized company-owned housing units and restrictions on short-term rentals — but these have provided only limited results.
One component contributing to the housing crisis is unoccupied or rarely used homes. That is a situation generally recognized upvalley but is an issue in our area as well.
The city of Vancouver, British Columbia, has an acute housing shortage. It has been exacerbated by absentee homeowners — notably, wealthy Hong Kong residents who have bought a considerable amount of property in the city and surrounding municipalities as a means of sheltering assets from the Chinese government.
To address the situation, the city has instituted a vacancy (or empty-homes) tax for properties that are not occupied for most of the year. It applies to all property owners but is targeted largely at noncitizens. The process is fairly complicated, with provincial and federal levies in addition to the city tax; and the rate is high, the aggregate total now at 5% of assessed value annually for noncitizens.
“Beats this dump!”
However, there are a number of exemptions (e.g., property that is being renovated or is being bought or sold) that owners can claim to avoid paying the tax. The most important of these is renting out unoccupied properties, and it appears to be working. Per a 2023 city report, the number of vacant properties decreased by 54% between 2017 and 2022, and thousands of condominium units had been converted to rental properties.
In addition to increasing Vancouver’s housing stock, revenue collected from the tax has yielded tens of millions of dollars to be used for increasing affordable housing stock. Hundreds of new units have been constructed since 2017.
Could such a tax be implemented in our area? The immediate answer is no; Colorado’s Constitution prohibits municipalities
from enacting new taxes without a specific legislative mandate. However, the Dillonbased Colorado Association of Ski Towns (CAST), which is a strong advocate for increasing affordable housing in the state’s resort communities, has been urging the Colorado Legislature to pass a bill that would make the vacancy tax a possibility.
Margaret Bowes, executive director of CAST, told The Sopris Sun in an email, “A vacancy tax bill would be enabling legislation only, so would not set a vacancy tax statewide but would authorize local governments to consider if such a tax is appropriate for their community, determine how that tax is structured, and then ask their local electorate if such a tax should be imposed.”
The Sun also reached out to the Carbondale Town government and heard from
trustee Colin Laird, who is also the Town’s liaison for CAST. He told The Sun in an email, “I’m not aware of vacancy rates for the town. I know there have been some studies in the past, but they are focused more on resort communities like Aspen.” He continued, “I know that from other CAST members, the vacancy tax is more of an issue in more traditional resort communities. We need more information to assess whether it’s viable in Carbondale.”
One of the other approaches that CAST is taking is promoting real estate transfer fees. These are not subject to the same restrictions as instituting a new tax but still require legislation to allow municipalities to impose these fees. Revenue from these could be used to fund local affordable housing. Laird said, “The real estate transfer fee would probably be much more useful in Carbondale and other communities/counties in the region.” However, Bowes noted, “The current administration is not supportive of a real estate transfer fee.” For now, CAST is not pursuing such a bill. There actually is a program already in the Valley that provides incentives for Carbondalians to rent to Aspen One employees during the ski season: Tenants for Turns, which Sun correspondent Kate Phillips wrote about for the paper last month. A recent email from Ellen Williams, Aspen One’s assistant public relations manager, stated that the program hoped “to house around 200 employees this season, and about 80 of the interested landlords are in Carbondale.”
those in the transplant community with the ultimate goal of eliminating the wait for transplantation.
Youth education programs, such as Toolkits for Teachers, help dispel misconceptions about organ donation by providing fact-driven, age-appropriate and bilingual curriculums for health educators, community advocates and driver education teachers. Donor Dudes, an outreach program geared toward high schoolers and college students, allows volunteer students to facilitate their own fundraising events.
“We wanted to focus on that first introduction to organ donation and get it right so that young people know what this means and can make an educated
Your Local Family Dental Office
decision,” said Klug. “The hope is that all the people we come in contact with will go home and have a conversation with their family.”
Klug, a former professional snowboarder, created the foundation in response to his own personal experience as a transplant recipient. Diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis, a rare degenerative bile duct condition, Klug needed a liver transplant. He was asymptomatic for many years, but when his health began to deteriorate his need became critical. Then, in July 2000, after nearly six years on the list, Klug received the lifesaving call.
continued on page 19
When You Have Unexpected Medical Needs
The annual Summit for Life, to be held on Dec. 7, features a lively party and worthy cause. Photo courtesy of the Chris Klug Foundation
Soggy grass boys of Carbondale advance to 3A semifinals
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Editor’s note: No. 5 Roaring Fork’s 3A state semifinal game against No. 1 Holy Family at JeffCo NACC Stadium near Golden took place after the print deadline for this story on Wednesday evening. Look for the result online and on the Sopris Sun’s Facebook page.
The road to the boys 3A state soccer semifinals for Roaring Fork High passed across a familiar pitch last weekend, and the scuffle was everything a fütbol fan could expect.
Two of the best teams on the Western Slope came to play Saturday on a soggy Rifle Bears field that had been covered with snow overnight. It was the third straight weather-impacted playoff game for the Rams, including a 1-0 second-round win in a snowstorm over The Academy at Carbondale’s Rams Field on Nov. 5.
Once again, it was the No. 5 Rams of Carbondale who emerged the victors with a 3-2 win over No. 4 Rifle before an overflow crowd that included nearly as many Rams as Bears fans. Despite having conceded the 3A Western Slope League title to Roaring Fork, the Bears earned the higher state tournament seed with a better overall record.
Rifle indeed looked the better team for much of the first half, controlling the ball but never quite finding a clear shot on goal.
The only scores came on penalty kicks by each team, Roaring Fork’s after a hand call in the box against Rifle 17 minutes into the game, and Rifle’s on a tackle penalty against Rams keeper Keven Cisneros with 11 minutes remaining.
With the score still knotted 1-1 a little over six minutes into the second half, Rams senior Phillipe Huang looped a shot from the left corner of the 18 into the net past Rifle keeper Jefferson Torres to make it 2-1.
Junior Delano Crooks nearly had the insurance goal from about the same distance on the right side with 20:45
to play, but Torres made a beautiful save, punching the ball up and over the crossbar.
An apparent Rifle goal a few minutes later was erased by an offsides call, but the Bears finally managed to tie it 2-2 on a penalty call against the Rams in the box.
The score held with both teams applying pressure, but Roaring Fork winning a majority of the 50/50 balls by crowding the center of the field.
The strategy paid off with just 90 seconds to play, when Crooks collected a pass from sophomore Wesley Serrano to boot home what would end up being the game winner.
The win set up a semifinal matchup for the Rams (13-3-2) on Wednesday against the tournament’s top seed, Holy Family (14-2-2), at JeffCo NACC Stadium at Long Lake Park. The winner advances to Saturday’s 3A State Championship game at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City.
Basalt football opens playoffs with big win
The No. 2 Basalt High School football team cruised through the first round of the 2A state football playoffs at home on Saturday, winning 42-14 over No. 15 The Academy.
The Longhorns are now set to play No. 10 Sterling this Saturday at Sterling (game time 1pm on the NFHS streaming network), by virtue of the Tigers’ 33-31 upset win over No. 7 Woodland Park. Had Woodland Park won, Basalt would have a second-round home game, but because CHSAA rules prevent teams from playing two games in a row on the road, it’s off to the eastern plains for the Longhorns.
Basalt controlled from the opening kickoff in the opener, building a 35-7 lead over the Wildcats by halftime. The teams traded a touchdown and extra point in the third quarter, but by then it was academic.
Longhorns junior quarterback Karson Schneider completed 10 passes for 119 yards and two touchdowns, with one interception. Senior Taylor Hays collected both of the touchdown passes, finishing the day with four catches for 68 yards. Junior Will Taralo carried the ball 24 times for 186 yards, including two touchdowns, and senior Will Daniel rushed for 159 yards on 11 carries, including a touchdown. Defensively, Daniel was in on 15 tackles, seven of them solo.
Left: Roaring Fork junior Delano Crooks battles for possession against Rifle sophomore Oscar Valencia on Nov. 9. Above: A young fan plays in the snow that had to be shoveled from the Rifle Bears field before the game. Photos by John Stroud
Jon Waterman — National Geographic photographer, rugged adventurer, award-winning author — is publishing a new book, “Into the Thaw: Witnessing Wonder Amid the Arctic Climate Crisis,” a firsthand account of climate change in the Arctic Circle. Waterman had the first winter ascent of Mt. Denali’s Cassin Ridge in 1982; he’s kayaked North America’s Northwest Passage; boated the Colorado River from source to sea and once sailed to Hawaii. Still, he says, “Into the Thaw” is his most important work yet. “In many ways, it’s the capstone of my career,” he told The Sopris Sun.
Four decades ago, Waterman worked as a rescue ranger at Denali National Park in Alaska. There he witnessed abundant wildlife and began documenting the natural wonders and cultural heritage with his camera and pen. He returned to those lands in 2021 with his son and subsequently wrote an op-ed for The New York Times about the changes he witnessed. “I was quite stunned,” he said of returning to the Noatak River, a place he hadn’t been in more than 30 years. Covering 100 miles with his son, they saw only one caribou, compared with hundreds he spotted in 1983. “The migration has completely changed,” he said. “The herd has shrunken to a third of its size.”
In 2022, he returned for an extended expedition with kayaker and photographer Chris Korbulic, traversing more than 500 miles by foot and packraft, meeting with scientists and the Iñupiat (native Alaskan Inuit people). “Into the Thaw” is a photograph-rich adventure memoir laden with scholarly research and cultural anecdotes, carried by humor and charm. It is also an introspective look at aging and the changes one experiences in a lifetime. In recent weeks, Waterman has
Waterman chronicles arctic climate change in new book
Signing and lecture benefits The Sopris Sun
RALEIGH BURLEIGH Sopris Sun Editor
In
checks out spruce trees collapsing in the permafrost thaw — this “drunken forest” effect is now occurring throughout the North. Photo by
traveled the country, presenting his new book published by Patagonia.
“I’ve worked with many of the major [publishing] houses,” Waterman said, having produced four books with National Geographic. “No one has treated me as well as Patagonia. It’s a real pleasure working with them.” He saw Patagonia as the perfect partner to publish this work based on their ethos as a corporation striving to make the world a better place. Not only was the book printed on 100% recycled paper, it was done in Canada to minimize transportation.
“Amazingly, more than any other book, I knew exactly how to write this one,”
CARBONDALE Revolving Loan Fund
Waterman continued. “I had all these years collectively of time in the arctic where I actually observed climate change.” Despite a tremendous amount of research, “the book just flowed right out of me.”
Waterman first became aware of climate change in the arctic back in 1997. During that trip he spent eight days kayaking alone. Sheltering with Inuit in a hunting camp, he was told by an elder that until the ‘90s, sled races continued through July 4. Then it warmed so much there was no longer enough snow in the late spring and early summer.
The Iñupiat people have ancestors extending back to the most recent ice age.
“They have been here through the millenia,” Waterman said. “They have weathered enormous change. Consequently, they’ve become adaptive people.” Inuit inventions include the harpoon, kayak, trampolines, the sled dog and even a visor akin to sunglasses to protect from snow blindness.
Reverence for the Iñupiat is a big part of the book. “Indigenous cultures of the world are going to suffer the most during this time of climate crisis,” Waterman explained. “They’re subsistence people and have contributed the least to greenhouse gasses. Yet, they suffer the most from our jet travel.” Nonetheless, he found the Iñupiat to be “not resentful or cynical in the least bit.” His takeaway, “We can’t stop climate change, but we can think about reducing its impacts for indigenous peoples of the world, let alone ourselves.” His book concludes with tips for taking action.
Since 1989, Waterman has lived in the Roaring Fork Valley. On Nov. 22, he will give a lecture at the Third Street Center as a fundraiser for The Sopris Sun. White River Books will have copies available to purchase — a great holiday gift — which Waterman will sign. Waterman is waiving his honorarium and donations will be accepted at the door.
The book is 70,000 words with 78 color photographs and detailed maps. It is officially available Nov. 19. Learn more about Jon Waterman at www.jonathanwaterman.com
IN A NUTSHELL
What: Jon Waterman lecture
Where: Third Street Center
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)
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
the Noatak National Preserve, Chris Korbulic
Jon Waterman
SEED SAVING
Save money by saving seeds from your heirloom flowers and vegetables using techniques that have been used by humans for thousands of years.
Saturday, 1-3pm, 11/23
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
Classic and Skate style lessons for beginners to intermediate skiers at Spring Gulch. Starting in January
DYNAMIC WORKOUT
A full body workout with a warmup followed by cardio, sculpting, and floor exercises, with lots of stretching throughout.
Tues/Thurs, 11-11:50am, 1/7-1/30
QIGONG
A simple, gentle practice to improve energy, balance, flexibility, muscle tone, relaxation and focus.
Weds, 10:30-11:30am, 1/8-2/26
HEALING DANCE
Empower yourself with this fusion of yoga, movement therapy, and dance to awaken confidence, and build focus and strength.
Mondays, 6-7pm, 1/13-2/3
Registration Opens 11/18
PILATES WITH PURPOSE
Develop core strength, balance, and stability, with mindful and precise movement and the seven classic Pilates principles.
Mon/Wed, 12-12:50pm, 1/13-3/5
SOMATIC YOGA WORKSHOP
A gentle practice to heal pain, release tension and anxiety, and facilitate ease of movement. Monday, 9-11am, 1/13
AIKIDO
An effective, non-violent practice of peaceful conflict resolution to re-direct, neutralize, or avoid an attack.
Tues/Thurs, 6-7:30pm, 1/14-2/6
INTRODUCCIÓN A LA FOTOGRAFÍA
Aprenda las funciones básicas de su cámara para que pueda comenzar a fotografiar con control y aumente su confianza en las computadoras. Martes, 6-8:30pm, 1/14-2/4
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14
YOUTH BIRDING CLUB
Basalt Library hosts a birding club for middle schoolers at the library from 3:45 to 4:45pm.
CODING
The Carbondale Library teams up with Aspen Science Center to teach Python (a coding language) to high school students at 3:45pm.
DECK THE WALLS
Carbondale Arts members are invited to preview the annual Deck the Walls holiday market with a 10% discount and light and yummy fare from 4 to 7pm. Then, the market will be open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm (and Sundays from 11am to 4pm beginning in December) with the exception of Nov. 27-28.
RESTAURANT TAKEOVER
Mountain West Gives takes over the Glenwood Canyon Brewpub from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Nonprofit leaders will take orders and deliver meals with all tips supporting their service work. Reserve a seat by calling Ryan Parker of Bay Equity Home Loans at 970-309-6850.
DEATH DOCUMENTARY
The Center for Human Flourishing screens “The Last Ecstatic Days,” a documentary about a young man with brain cancer filming his death journey, at 6:30pm. Akaljeet Khalsa will facilitate a conversation after the film. More info at at www.tcfhf.org
ARTIST TALK
Savanna LaBauve and Lindsey Yeager present their artwork at the Aspen Collective Gallery at 6:30pm.
RODRIGO ARREGUÍN
Rodrigo Arreguín performs at Heather’s in Basalt from 6:30 to 9:30pm.
CRYSTAL THEATRE
“Conclave” continues at The Crystal Theatre at 7pm tonight, tomorrow, Saturday and next Thursday. This Sunday’s show is at 5pm.
‘FEEL IT ALL’
TACAW screens “Feel It All,” a Colorado-based documentary about professional skier Drew Petersen’s journey from the depths of suicidal depression to summoning the strength to run the Leadville Trail 100 ultramarathon, at 7pm followed by a keynote talk with the film’s subject. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
ANASTASIA
Theatre Aspen Education presents “Anastasia: The Musical” featuring local youth performing at the Aspen District Theater tonight, tomorrow and Saturday at 7pm and Sunday at 2pm. Tickets at www.theatreaspen.org
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15
ART BASE GALLERY
The Art Base hosts an opening reception for painter Ann Morgan’s “Once When I Was You,” featuring large AI-generated digital mash-ups, from 5 to 7pm.
REGENERATIVE STRATEGIES
Don Hall, author of “The Regeneration Handbook,” presents at the Third Street Center from 7 to 9pm. A follow-up will take place tomorrow (Saturday) from 9:30am to 1:30pm. More info at at www.tcfhf.org
VAUDEVILLE REVUE
The Glenwood Vaudeville Revue opens its Holiday Show tonight at 6pm. The show continues through Jan. 11. Visit www.gvrshow.com for tickets and additional showtimes.
HEATHER’S
Catch Chris Bank and Hap Harriman playing at Heather’s in Basalt from 6:30 to 9:30pm.
SALOMÉ SONGBIRD
Salomé Songbird performs at Steve’s Guitars at 7:30pm. Tickets at www. stevesguitars.net
MAY ERLEWINE
TACAW presents Midwest songwriter May Erlewine at 8pm. Tickets at www. tacaw.org
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
UPLIFT
HeadQuarters teams up with Roaring Fork CrossFit in Willits to offer a free, guided workout benefitting the body and mind at 9am. To register, visit www. headq.org/support/events
UTE GARDEN
Help build a garden at the Thompson House Museum History Park featuring plants used as food and medicine by the Ute from 1 to 4pm.
‘SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN’
The Aspen Choral Society presents “Singin’ in the Rain” as part of its fall fundraiser at 3pm. After the film, an Italian buffet dinner will be served at the Village Smithy. Tickets at www. aspenchoralsociety.org
ELK DINNER
Saint Mary of the Crown Catholic Church in Carbondale hosts its 43rd annual elk dinner and country store from 4:30 to 7pm.
GARRETT & MARTIN
Singer-songwriters Jan Garrett and JD Martin present their new original album, “Hidden Gems,” with a concert at the Third Street Center from 6 to 7:30pm. For tickets, visit www.tcfhf.org
JOHN MICHEL
Heather’s in Basalt presents John Michel from the John Oates Band performing from 6:30 to 9:30pm.
CONTRA DANCE
Spin your partner and dosey doe your neighbor with the return of monthly contra dances at the Carbondale Community School from 8 to 10pm. Show up at 7:30pm for a brief walkthrough of the basic steps.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17
PRACTICING REPAIR
Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist hosts a conversation on “the spiritual practice of repair” with Liza Ferrier at the Third Street Center from 10am to noon.
CONNECTION IS MEDICINE
Deva and Eaden Shantay, founders of True Nature, host a half-day retreat from 10am to 4pm. Register at www. truenaturehealingarts.com
ENTER GHOST
Ceasefire Now RFV hosts a discussion of Isabella Hammad’s “Enter Ghost,” this year’s Aspen Words Literary Prize winner, at the Pitkin County Library from noon to 2pm.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18
MEMOIR WRITING
Jessica Amber Barnum teaches memoir writing for older adults at the Basalt Library from 1:30 to 3pm.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19
WRITING WORKSHOP
The Glenwood Springs Library hosts a memoir and journal writing workshop every Tuesday this month from 2 to 3:30pm. For more info, call 970-945-5958.
PAWS TO READ
The Carbondale Library welcomes Heeling Partners of the Roaring Fork Valley and their therapy dogs to help young readers gain confidence. Fifteen-minute slots are available beginning at 3:30pm. To sign up, call 970-963-2889.
SHOSHONE WATER RIGHTS
On behalf of local governments, water entities and regional organizations, the Colorado River District is working to purchase and permanently protect the water rights associated with hydropower production at the Shoshone Power Plant in Glenwood Canyon. Learn more about this $99 million deal at a presentation at the Basalt Library from 5 to 6:30pm.
DRAWING CLUB
The Roaring Fork Drawing Club meets at Thunder River Theatre beginning at 6:30pm.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20
COMMUNITY MEAL
The Farm Collaborative’s 17th annual Farm-to-Fridge event invites you to access free farm-fresh food at the Cozy Point FarmPark (220 Juniper Hill Road, Aspen) from 2 to 6pm. To sign up, visit www.bit.ly/farm-to-fridge17
PUBLIC SPEAKING
Sonya Meyer guides “From Nerves to Noteworthy: Make Your Presentation Pop,” a workshop to hone one’s public speaking skills, at the Carbondale Library at 6pm. Register by calling 970-963-2889.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21
VOLUNTEER FAIR
Basalt Regional Library partners with High Country Volunteers to host a volunteer fair, matching community members with volunteer opportunities, from 4 to 7pm.
LOUNGE SESSION
HeadQuarters in Basalt invites you to harness the power of journaling while exploring “The Garden Within” by Dr. Anita Phillips in a group setting from 6 to 7:30pm.
COEXISTENCE
The Colorado Sierra Club presents a screening of “Range Rider” on the topic of coexistence between ranching and wolves at the Third Street Center at 6pm.
SACRED CINEMA
As part of its Sacred Cinema series, Aspen Chapel screens “The Razor’s Edge” with Bill Murray. Doors open at 6:15pm. For more info, visit www. aspenchapel.org
STEVE’S GUITARS
Hunter James & The Titanic performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22
GIVING BLOOD DRIVE
Sopris Lodge (295 Rio Grande Avenue) hosts a Thanksgiving blood drive from 10:30am to 2pm. Register to donate at www.tinyurl.com/ SoprisBloodDrive
MUSIC AT THE VAULT
The Wheeler Opera House presents Brazilian guitarist Gabriel Santiago and jazz pianist Peter John Stoltzman at The Vault at 6pm. Tickets at www. aspenshowtix.com
WHITE HORSE YOGA
White Horse Yoga (105 Village Lane) guides “Gratitude YIN + SOUND” from 6:15 to 8:15pm. Register at www.whitehorse.yoga
SOUND JOURNEY
Zachary and Krista Cashin take attendees through a sound healing journey at True Nature from 6:30 to 8pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
BOOK SIGNING
Jon Waterman presents his newest book, “Into the Thaw,” at the Third Street Center at 7pm. White River Books will sell copies of the book and donations at the door will benefit The Sopris Sun.
COOL COOL COOL
Funk and R&B band COOL COOL COOL performs at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
TOMMY THE ANIMAL
Catch an album release party for Tommy The Animal’s “Turbo Poetry” at the Belly Up at 8:30pm.
ONGOING EVENTS
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
The Meeting Place in Carbondale (981 Cowen Drive) offers “Hole in the Donut AA,” Monday through Saturday at 6:45am, plus “Daily Reprieve” at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Find a full schedule at www. meetingplacecarbondale.org
IN STITCHES
The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 1:30pm.
MONDAY MEDITATION
Roaring Fork Insight guides a weekly meditation group meeting at the Third Street Center (Room 31) from 7 to 8:30pm
YARN GROUP
Basalt Library hosts a weekly yarn group on Tuesdays at 5pm. All are welcome.
BABY STORYTIME
The Carbondale Library hosts baby storytime at 9:30am on Tuesdays.
RAISING A READER
Basalt Library hosts an hour of storytime, activities and snacks Tuesdays at 10:30am.
BIKE PROJECT
The Carbondale Bike Project Shop helps people repair their bicycles on Tuesdays from 2 to 6pm and Thursdays and Sundays from noon to 6pm at the Third Street Center.
SENIOR LUNCH
Every Wednesday at noon, Garfield County Senior Programs provides a nutritious meal for seniors at The Orchard. To reserve a place at the table, call 970-665-0041.
ASK A LAWYER
Alpine Legal Services offers a hotline clinic on Wednesdays from 5 to 7pm. Call 970-368-2246 and visit alpinelegalservices. org for the schedule of dates by legal topic.
AIKIDO
Crystal River Aikikai has expanded its schedule. Adults and teens are now welcome to train at 13 Moons Ranch on Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30pm in addition to Mondays from 5:30 to 6:30pm. Kids can train from 4 to 5pm on Wednesdays and Mondays and all dojo members ages 10 and up are invited to informal open mat time from 5 to 6:30pm on Wednesdays. Find more information at www. crystalriveraikikai.com
CANCER CARE
The Calaway-Young Cancer Center at Valley View Hospital offers yoga for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers at 9:15am on Thursdays. Then, the Walk and Talk cancer support group meets at 11am at the chapel in the cancer center.
WIGGLE
OUT
Toddlers and preschoolers get their wiggles out at the Carbondale Library on Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30am.
UNDER THE SUN
Join Sopris Sun correspondents and guests for “Everything Under The Sun,” airing every Thursday on KDNK at 4pm.
GROUP RUN
Independence Run & Hike leads a weekly group run on Thursdays departing from the store’s location, next to the Carbondale City Market, at 6:30pm.
COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR
Carbondale Mayor Ben Bohmfalk posts up at Bonfire every Friday from 8 to 9am, and everyone is welcome to stop by to chat.
The Aspen Chapel Gallery hosts an opening for its 17th annual Small Wonders exhibit from 4 to 7pm on Wednesday, Nov. 20. Thirty-four artists showcase works no larger than 12x12 inches. Art by Amy Beidleman
Library board in the crosshairs, ECMC, nonprofit funding, budget
AMY HADDEN MARSH
Sopris Sun Correspondent
The Garfield County Public Library District board of trustees has really gotten stuck in the craw of Trish O’Grady, Rifle resident and vocal library critic. She opened this week’s Garfield County Commissioner (BOCC) meeting Tuesday with complaints about how the library board reappointed two incumbent trustees without BOCC approval at the regular monthly meeting on Nov. 7.
If you think the library board appointment issue was settled last spring, think again. Three positions on the board have opened up. Crystal Mariscal recently resigned her position representing New Castle. Two incumbents, for Carbondale and Glenwood Springs, are eligible for another term.
At the Nov. 7 library board meeting, Board President Adrian Rippy-Sheehy, in response to a question from trustee Myrna Fletchall, referred to the library board of trustee bylaws, stating that only new members of the board will be presented to the BOCC for appointment.
“We’re just going with our bylaws. The county commissioners need to follow our bylaws,” said Rippy-Sheehy. She added that the BOCC has misunderstood the bylaws. “This is a reappointment so this says only new members need to go before the county.”
O’Grady stated that the only action on the library board’s agenda that day was to recommend the reappointments. “I would assume these action items would have been fully explained, discussed and understood by all the trustees prior to this to know exactly what they were voting on,” she said, adding that Fletchall’s questions indicated otherwise. “I believe this was purposely orchestrated by Adrian,” O’Grady continued. “There
are no meaningful checks and balances on this board whereby they can vote themselves to be reappointed for a total of 10 years.”
Commissioner Tom Jankovsky stated Tuesday that the library board does not have the final say on their board members. “That has been in the purview of the [BOCC] since the library board was established,” he said.
Garfield County Attorney Heather Beattie pointed out Tuesday that Resolution 24-12 specifically gives the BOCC authority to appoint any new library board members or any members whose terms are expiring. “That’s actually being misunderstood by the library board,” she said. “And, frankly, the law requires that we have an IGA [Intergovernmental Agreement] and that’s why the IGA was so important and we’re currently going to discuss that,” she said, adding that if the library board had responded sooner to the county’s IGA request, this wouldn’t be happening right now. “As far as how [the incumbent trustee appointment] is going to work is that this board is going to appoint new members and — who knows? They may end up being the same members that the library board has appointed.”
As for the library board’s Nov. 7 decision? “It’s our opinion that it’s not effective,” said Beattie.
The meeting to discuss the IGA is scheduled for Nov. 21 at the BOCC meeting room in Glenwood Springs. Library Board trustee interviews are scheduled for Dec. 5. Both meetings are open to the public.
On to other news… The BOCC approved most of the fourth quarter discretionary grant requests. County Manager Fred Jarman said that $33,550 remained in the fund and the “asks” were for a total of $37,500. Approvals include Mt Sopris Nordic Council for $5,000, Western Slope Veterans’ Coalition $5,000, Liberty
Join us at one of our upcoming events, where our certified health coverage guides will be available to assist you and your family through the enrollment process. Bilingual staff will be available.
Colorado has expanded access to health insurance coverage options, regardless of immigration status.
Avon, Basalt, Glenwood Springs, and Rifle Integrated Health Centers
Basalt Integrated Health Center
Glenwood Springs Library
Gypsum Integrated Health Center
Glenwood Springs Library For more information call 833-273-6627 or Email EnrollmentHelp@mountainfamily.org
Classical Academy technology upgrade
$5,000, KDNK Community Radio $5,000, Symphony in the Valley $5,000, Colorado Mountain College Foundation $2,500, Rifle Middle School $2,500.
A new nonprofit, Roaring Fork Show Up (RFSU), working to raise awareness of racial disparities and amplify voices of under-represented races in the county, was not awarded any of its $5,000 request. Jankovsky said funding was denied because no operational outline was presented about how RFSU would use the funds, and encouraged the nonprofit to come back next year.
Commissioners approved the county budget for 2025 and three new county fair board members. They listened to an update on the recent state Energy and Carbon Management Commission (ECMC) rulemakings on pre-application consultations, oil and gas siting authority, disproportionately impacted communities, community liaisons, oil and gas impact areas, biological resources and alternative oil and gas well location analyses. Jankovsky also presented an update on a meeting with West Slope county commissioners and Colorado Parks and Wildlife about the next gray wolf release, scheduled for December.
You can watch the entire meeting on the Garfield County website.
Diggy and her owners, Sara and Allan Porter, love the Sopris Sun for all of the local news and events! Plus, Sara practices her Spanish by readingel Sol del Valle.
Carbondale wouldn't be the same without our local newspaper and the connection it provides within the community!
Sara, & Allan Porter Carbondale, CO
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Trustees look at Chacos Park and other enhancements
RALEIGH BURLEIGH
Sopris Sun Editor Carbondale’s regular Board of Trustees meeting on Nov. 12 began with student of the month awards, followed by approval of a consent agenda including appointing Meredith Bullock to the Tree Board, youth Oliver Skagen to the Environmental Board, Frank Nadell to the Public Arts Commission, a liquor license renewal, accounts payable and $136,820 toward a new blower for the wastewater treatment plant.
Niki Delson then spoke to the sex assault that occurred last week. As a woman, neighbor and someone who had a career working with sexual offenders, she stated the police reasoning for believing the incident was isolated was not reassuring. She also felt the neighborhood should have been alerted, which segued into Sue Zislis’ comment recommending TextMyGov, a tool New Castle uses that enables a municipality to contact its community with urgent messages.
Ron Kokish, representing Age-Friendly Carbondale thanked the trustees for taking seriously their Highway 133 hazards report. “Regardless of what happens in the country, democracy is working quite well in Carbondale,” he said.
BASALT REPORT
During the town manager’s report, Lauren Gister introduced Patrick Thibault, Carbondale’s new municipal clerk. He will have several weeks of overlap training with outgoing clerk Jessica Markham. Moving on to action items, five applicants were approved to form the Town’s first Latino Advisory Board in accordance with a resolution passed two years ago. Ana Tapia, Maria Graciani, Maria Judith Alvarez, Maribel Barbosa and Viviana Quintero will elevate the voice of Carbondale’s Latino residents and help remove barriers to participation.
Next, Little Blue Preschool quickly received an extension for public improvements to the facing sidewalk and landscaping given construction on their building expansion has been delayed by a year.
A larger item meriting more discussion was an amendment to the code updating inclusionary housing requirements. The change primarily consisted of requiring 25% (up from 20%) of all new residential developments with more than nine units, including rental-only, to be accessible according to Carbondale’s area median income (www.bit.ly/
CdaleAMI24). Developments with four units must have one unit be resident-owned and restrictions augment with the number of units up to ten.
Trustee Ross Kribbs asked why it wasn’t possible to increase the number to 30% as suggested at the previous hearing, to which Planning Director Jared Barnes responded neither the Planning and Zoning Commission nor the public had sufficient opportunity to consider that substantial of a change as part of the process. With that explanation, the ordinance was unanimously approved.
Town adopts 10-year art improvement plan
WILL BUZZERD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
This week, Basalt Town Council convened to discuss a potential 23-unit development adjacent to the Willits Lane Roundabout, as well as a new 10-year plan to bring public art to all areas of Basalt.
The first action item of the night was a public hearing and second reading for the approval of a series of reviews for the construction of a mixed-use residential/office building in Willits Town Center. The applicant, Sophie CO LLC, intends to construct a three-story building in the vacant lot adjacent to the Bank of Colorado.
The first floor of the building would contain approximately 3,800 square feet of commercial/office space, and the second and third floors would include 23 residential units. In accordance with Basalt’s guidelines, five of the 23 units are to be deed restricted.
The discussion continued this week, focusing primarily on the applicant’s intention to prioritize occupancy in one of its deed-restricted units for on-site employees.
There was some disagreement between council members over the on-site occupancy policy. While acknowledging the appeal for local
businesses to have employee housing, Councilor Angèle Duprè-Butchart expressed hesitancy, “If that employee loses their job they also lose their housing, and that’s a tough pill to swallow.”
Duprè-Butchart and Councilor Ryan Slack both suggested increasing the quantity of deed-restricted units prioritized for employees.
Councilor Richard Stevens supported the current plan. “I hear from local businesses all the time that the biggest challenge is employees, and whether you lose your job … depends on whether the business goes out of business,” he said. Summarizing it as a chicken-or-the-egg type of problem, Stevens argued that housing preserves businesses which in this case would preserve housing.
After lengthy discussion, the council unanimously approved the application with the condition of three deed-restricted units being dedicated to on-site housing. The allocation of units to employers will be handled by the developer.
Arts Capital Improvement Plan
Town Council also approved a 10-year Arts Capital Improvement Plan (ACIP), which will guide the acquisition, display and funding of public art beginning in 2025. The document was
drafted by Town staff and the Basalt Public Arts Commission (BPAC) to meet the 2020 Master Plan objective to “create a long-range and comprehensive arts and culture plan for Basalt.”
In order to work with BPAC’s budget, the ACIP outlines some of the various ways the Town will acquire public art. Two traditional strategies include art competitions (much like the mural competition held on Midland Avenue in the summer of 2023) and annual grants given by BPAC directly. However, the ACIP also outlines programs such as an art exchange with other Roaring Fork Valley communities, or an art consignment program wherein art will be displayed in public while open to the public for purchase.
The ACIP also highlights priority areas for public art. In East Basalt, BPAC identified Midland Avenue as a prime location for rotating art pieces. In a manner similar to the marble plinths seen on downtown Carbondale’s street corners, BPAC is interested in placing plinths in regularly trafficked areas of Midland Avenue to bring new pieces of art to the area on a regular basis.
Another priority area in East Basalt will be “Art Alley,” adjacent to Two Rivers Road. BPAC suggested permanent public art in the form of murals to
Trustees then got to review a final draft schematic design for Chacos Park and the 4th Street Plaza. Nicholas DiFrank with re:LAND presented the project, 14 months in the making. The goal of Chacos Park, he explained, is to be “Carbondale’s Swiss Army Knife — the do-it-all tool.”
From daily activities to headline events like Día de los Muertos and farmers’ markets, the design is intended to be versatile and pedestrian-centric with ample shade, a seasonal water feature, fixed stage and seamless connection across 4th Street. Seven parking spaces are reduced to four and bicycle parking is dramatically increased.
The estimated total cost is $2,883,985, increasing annually with projected inflation. Undergrounding powerlines would be an additional cost of approximately $250,000. Three timelines were delineated, depending in part on a competitive Land and Water Conservation Fund grant, with construction possibly beginning in May of 2026 or lasting into 2027.
With approval of that schematic design, trustees then looked at their five-year capital improvement plan (www.bit.ly/ CdaleCapital), identifying projects costing more than $20,000.
continued on page 23
Motio by Wynn Earl
Jr. was a fivepiece sculpture spread between various locations in Basalt from 2017 to 2020. Beginning in 2025, the Town intends for more public art pieces like this to spring up on a rotating basis.
create an inviting, exciting alternative entryway to Basalt River Park.
In West Basalt, BPAC identified a wide variety of spaces available in Willits Town Center for different kinds of permanent and rotating art fixtures both along walkways and in parklets. In addition, the Willits roundabout has been highlighted as a site for a permanent sculpture.
BPAC’s first step in 2025 will be to develop its art consignment and art exchange programs, and Midland Avenue will be the first area of Basalt to see a rotating public art plan.
Buzzell,
Photo from board packet
Students of the month (left to right): Santhiago Cruz, Kade Mason, Christopher Fulton, Benjamin Robison and Sofia Moreno Cruz. Not pictured: Marcus Castro Ambrosio. Photos by Raleigh Burleigh
Tommy The Animal launches ‘Turbo Poetry’
MYKI JONES
Arts Correspondent
Local rock band Tommy The Animal will release their fifth album, “Turbo Poetry,” on Nov. 22 with a party at Belly Up Aspen. Additionally, the band will perform an acoustic rendition of the tracks at Steve’s Guitars on Dec. 12.
“It’s been a while since we last played Steve’s, so that’ll be fun,” stated band member Jack Douglas. “I think it’s nice that they record all their shows, so ‘Turbo Poetry’ will be something we can share with a broader community.”
Caleb Cofsky (guitar/vocals) formed the band in 2017 with Douglas (guitar/ vocals), Kyle Light (drums/other instruments) and Kyle Jensen (bass). The band blends inspiration from rock and roll classics such as The Grateful Dead, The Beatles and Neil Young, with a sound that is psychedelically whimsical for the modern age, perfectly balancing nostalgia and originality.
Listening to tracks from the upcoming album, audiences are in for a groovy trip. A recently released single, “Burn My Wings,” tells the story of a search for the meaning in life, with rich instrumentation lifting lyrics that make one feel as though they are the main character of a coming-of-age film from the 1980s.
Douglas said the album’s name came from Cofsky’s affinity for the word “turbo” and the band’s inclination toward albums with two words in the title. “We wanted a unique phrase, something that, when you put it into Spotify, would be the only
thing that comes up. The word ‘poetry’ doesn’t scream to be preceded by ‘turbo,’ and I think it’s just an interesting sort of full-steam versus artistic beauty kind of theme,” Douglas stated.
“I wanted the name to be two words that normally wouldn’t go together and to be a meaning that can be interpreted differently by anyone and not have a singular meaning,” Cofsky added.
Describing the process of writing tracks for this new album, Cofsky said it was a deliberate and time-consuming process but very exciting for him and the band overall. “I had about 30 or 40 songs I had written, and I went through and picked the ones that felt like they would fit the band the best, and the ones that were the most exciting. A lot of times I’ll write in my house in the morning, like, I’ll wake up and just pick up my guitar and try to come up with two or three ideas a day, and certain ones will have more momentum than others,” he stated.
Tommy The Animal released its first album in 2017 and is proud to be based in Carbondale. They tour and play music all over the country and even graced the stage of this past Mountain Fair. Cofsky said that opportunities have opened up for them in the past year especially.
“I feel we’ve embedded ourselves into the music scene here,” he stated. “Just this past year, my phone has been blowing up with offers to play Belly Up, weddings, the bars in Carbondale and Mountain Fair. Having that small, tight-knit community in the Valley has been awesome. I feel that a unique thing about our band is that we value the place we live in. The small community aspect of it has been a rewarding grind,” Cofsky said.
“Turbo Poetry” will be available on streaming platforms Nov. 22. To purchase tickets for the Belly Up show on Nov. 22, visit bellyupaspen.com For tickets to the Dec. 12 show at Steve’s Guitars, visit www.stevesguitars.net
GARFIELD COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES OPENING
The Garfield County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is currently seeking citizen volunteers to fill one vacancy with a term that expires on December 31, 2025, and represents the New Castle area; one vacancy with a term that expires on December 31, 2029 and represents the Carbondale area; and one vacancy with a term that expires on December 31, 2029, and represents the Glenwood Springs area.
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The board of trustees sets policies, adopts the annual budget, and is involved in developing long-term goals, known as the strategic plan, for the Garfield County libraries. The board meets on the first Thursday each month at 2:00 p.m. Applicants must indicate how they support the mission, vision, and core values of the Garfield County libraries.
Please send a letter of interest explaining how your service will benefit the Garfield County libraries, and background and skills that are relevant to the position to fjarman@garfield-county.com. For more information, please call 970-945-5004. Applicants will receive a packet with more information.
Letters of interest are being accepted until November 27, 2024. A special meeting to hold interviews is taking place on December 5, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. on a rolling agenda in the BOCC board room at 108 8th Street, Glenwood Springs. The appointments will be made at the next regularly scheduled BOCC meeting on December 9, 2024. A representative of the Garfield County Library District Board of Trustees is invited to attend and participate.
Tommy The Animal (left to right): Kyle LIght, Caleb Cofsky, Jack Douglas, Kyle Jensen. Courtesy photo
Challenge Aspen Sole Mates put the racing in ‘fundraising’
ANNALISE
GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
It began 21 years ago — this branch of fundraising, anyway.
Challenge Aspen was founded as an organization 29 years ago. The original focus was supporting adaptive ski programs for people with visual impairments. However, the mission quickly expanded to creating and supporting adaptive sports opportunities for people with many forms of physical and cognitive disabilities. With that, the organization explored creative ways for promoting awareness and raising money for program participants.
The Sole Mates teams are just one of those programs. Back in 2003, CFO Jenni Peterson explained, “former Executive Director Mardell Burkholder introduced the idea of a marathon team fundraiser.” That first team traveled to Lausanne, Switzerland, to run in the marathon and half-marathon events.
Each year since, community members commit to a 20-week training plan — often for a trail marathon race — and to raising money to support adaptive sports programs. Peterson joined Challenge Aspen in 2004, and in 2005 became involved with the then-unnamed marathon fundraiser. In 2006, when Burkholder left the organization, Peterson convinced incoming CEO Houstan Cowan of the fundraising tradition’s value. The Sole Mates name came about in 2020, as a form of connection for long-time team members during the pandemic.
The initiative raises tens of thousands of dollars each year. “Over the past 22 years, Challenge Aspen’s marathon teams have traveled to 15 different countries, raising more than $1.3 million [net] to support the organization’s programs,” Peterson said. Those funds support participant scholarships, adaptive equipment, advocacy, continuing education, mentorship and more. Aspen High School teacher Megan Noonan is in her sixth year with the fundraising team. “My first race I participated in was in 2019 when we went to Croatia,” Noonan told The Sopris Sun. “I also went to Italy in 2022 and now Ibiza this year,” she said. “I participate each year with the local training portion of the Sole Mates, but can only travel occasionally as it is tough being away from my family during the school year.”
Dozens of community members join the fundraising and training efforts each year, though, like Noonan, not all of them travel to the selected race given competing commitments. Many of the fundraiser participants join to support family or friends who benefit from adaptive sports opportunities. Long-time local Katie Grange joined
Challenge Aspen’s Sole Mates team in 2022, even though she and her son Max have been involved with the organization since 1996. Max was one of the organization’s first program participants, and has taken part in every adaptive program Challenge Aspen has offered. Katie Grange had moved away from running, but through Sole Mates, she’s fallen back in love with the sport.
For Noonan, Challenge Aspen helps ensure that her son, who has epilepsy, can ski and ride chairlifts safely. “[He] had some breakthrough seizures when he was about to have his annual ski day with his class at Aspen Elementary,” Noonan shared. “Challenge Aspen supplied a chairlift harness so he could participate safely in case he had a seizure on the chairlift.”
In this highly athletic valley, it can be easy for abled people to overlook the privileged ease of access to a variety of sports. Challenge Aspen works hard to close that gap. “They truly create so many opportunities for people with disabilities — cognitive or physical — to participate in all recreational activities that some of us may take for granted.” Noonan emphasized, “I truly believe it is so important to create equal access for all people, and I will do whatever I can to support, educate and spread the word for Challenge Aspen.”
The Sole Mates team set a cumulative fundraising goal this year. Their efforts have been so consistently strong that this year’s goal was $150,000. As of early November, one week after the selected Ibiza Trail Marathon, runners had raised over $180,000. Sole Mate runner Oliver Bacharach took third place in the 48-kilometer (30-mile) race, with a time of 4 hours and 40 minutes. Kelly Vaughn was the second female overall in the marathon.
Last year, at Chile’s Ultra Paine race week in Patagonia, the group raised over $190,000, and multiple fundraisers raced their way onto podiums. Carson Campisi of Basalt won the Ultra Paine 50-kilometer women’s race, with Carbondale’s Jennifer Mendez not far behind in third. Olivia Niosi of Aspen won the series’ 80-kilometer distance outright, and was the only woman to race that distance. Sole Mates selects races between late September and mid-November each year, to allow for a summer training season for fundraising team members. Peterson takes input from the group to select locations, and chooses races with various distance options.
Visit www.bit.ly/ChallengeAspenSoleMates get involved with Sole Mates. Challenge Aspen welcomes donations any time of year, if you aren’t inclined to join the voluntary running fundraisers. More information at www.challengeaspen.org
Making your haul easier with the dolly hitch
MYKI JONES
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Jeff Farris owns and operates Whisper Performance, a motorcycle, UTV, ATV and general-toys storage facility in Carbondale. Born in Nebraska and having lived between Minnesota and Florida throughout his life before ending up in the Valley 10 years ago, he grew up working on a plethora of mechanic projects with his grandfather — an inventor as well as a mechanic — who instilled a belief within Farris that he could design a million-dollar idea.
Fast forward to today; Farris has a patent pending for a hauling device known as the dolly hitch — his million-dollar idea.
According to its website, the dolly hitch is an easy-to-install device designed to simplify hauling cargo, especially for long-distance journeys. It has a built in motorized mechanism for raising and lowering, is durable and rust-resistant and has a weight limit of 400 pounds.
Its features ensure that any cargo is safe and protected during a trip with the device remaining securely attached to the back of a vehicle along with whatever sits on top of it. Plus, it essentially removes the effort of loading and unloading.
“The idea started as a trash can hauler, then turned into a universal hauler and then we turned it into the dolly hitch,” said Farris. “It’s a dolly setup where you can haul your trash cans, dirt bike, lawnmower and anything you need to haul [and] lift up and down. With the dolly system you can wheel in and out of doorways and garages.”
He started brainstorming the hitch after witnessing a man breaking the back window of his vehicle while unloading a dirt bike. He thought back to a conversation he had with a gentleman years ago about a prototype for a product like this. Eventually, he got to work on the concept after discussing it with a customer, Eddy Silva, who would become an investor and partner for the product.
“I was building a motorcycle for a customer … who I showed my idea to,” Farris recalled. “Three days later, he said, ‘I think it’s a great idea … I’ll invest 50/50 with you. Let’s get it going.’”
“I’m just kind of, by the seat of my pants, making it work here in the Valley and hopefully making the dolly hitch take off,” Farris added.
Since their encounter and the spark that ignited the partnership, the duo have been figuring out the manufacturing side of things. Though he did not name the manufacturer they have been working with, Farris confirmed that it is based in the United States.
Additionally, he shared how he has been able work on this project while maintaining his business. “As the business owner, I’m able to make sure that the customers are okay beforehand, then, if I have free time, I jump over to the dolly hitch.
And despite some hurdles Farris had to overcome in bringing this product to fruition, he said that the support he has received has been very reassuring. “The learning experience has been the most rewarding element. I have discussed this idea with so many people and haven’t heard a lot of negativity,” he shared.
“These last few months have been in somebody else’s hands,” he concluded, “and we’re waiting on details from them.”
For updates on the dolly hitch, visit www.dollyhitch.com or Whisper Performance’s website, www.whisperperformance.com
The 2024 Sole Mates pose together before racing in Ibiza, Spain. The group spent several days in Barcelona before heading to Ibiza. The team hosts a celebration in the Roaring Fork Valley each year before traveling to their selected race. Courtesy photo
Jeff Farris uses his patent-pending dolly hitch to raise a load on the back of a suburban with ease. Courtesy photo
CMC backs outdoor skill development for adults
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
This summer and autumn, I explored the history of U.S. and Roaring Fork Valley experiential education and shared about some of the many programs available for local youth through school and private organizations. In this winter feature the series turns to outdoor education opportunities for adults of all ages.
For this iteration I spoke to Colorado Mountain College (CMC)’s Johann Aberger, professor of outdoor education at the Spring Valley campus. Statewide, CMC offers two different tracks: Outdoor Recreation Leadership and Outdoor Education. The former is an Associate’s program at the Leadville campus and geared toward individuals starting careers as professional guides. The Outdoor Education track is available at many campuses, including those in the Roaring Fork Valley.
A full two-year course load results in an Associate’s degree. However, Aberger says the majority of students he sees are “non-traditional, above20 students taking one-off courses for skill development.” This may be professionals or
avid recreationalists seeking Wilderness First Responder or American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education certifications, or even folks wanting formal instruction when starting or improving a sport — from rock climbing to mountain-biking to kayaking.
“I’ve taught 17-year-olds alongside 72-year-olds,” shared Aberger with a smile. CMC offers a wide variety of introductory courses for outdoor skills and sports. The campuses also offer orientation courses, which Aberger said offer powerful opportunities for self-exploration and identity development through the medium of the outdoors.
The intersection of outdoor education and social psychology offers promising possibilities of helping people heal and develop resilience and resourcefulness.
Aberger reflects on growing up in what he describes as a “rough area of central New Jersey” and feeling a sense of disconnection. He found respite and freedom in nature and went on to study outdoor education at the University of New Hampshire. He then completed a Master’s degree at Arizona’s Prescott College before leaning
into experiential education as a career. Once he arrived in the Roaring Fork Valley and started facilitating outdoor education with Colorado Mountain College, he hasn’t looked back. “Big picture, I feel outdoor education is key to the
survival of humanity,” Aberger declared. “I think there’s something about being in wild spaces that opens us up in ways classrooms cannot.”
While he’s witnessed more moments of empowerment than he can count, especially
on course camping outings, he recounted a particularly powerful one during a campfire connection exercise. On a trip in the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness, a participant shared about being brought across the border as a toddler. She spent her childhood and life up to that point perceiving wilderness as a barrier that separated her from her family and represented unknowns and disconnection. The CMC camping course gave her the opportunity to add a new definition to what it meant to her. Her choice to be vulnerable invited others in the group to contemplate her perspective and, moreover, that not everyone may consider the outdoors as a safe or comforting space.
Aberger thinks it is important, especially for people getting into the outdoors for the first time, to seek out hands-on learning opportunities — whether that means venturing on an easy hike with a wildflower pocket guidebook or enrolling in a CMC course. He worries that relying on the internet for information has the potential to be detrimental.
continued on page 19
Sopris Lodge artist in residence: JoAnn Coffman
Arts Correspondent
This is the third feature in a short series highlighting artists living at Sopris Lodge Carbondale Senior Living.
It’s certainly no secret by now: The Sopris Lodge senior living facility in Carbondale is a mecca for artists where residents continue to create and share with their neighbors and visitors. One of these talented artists is 93-year-old JoAnn Coffman — a former home economics teacher and the former matriarch of the Coffman Ranch, now owned by Aspen Valley Land Trust.
She is a lifelong artist who, today, enjoys the additional time she has to paint.
Coffman spoke of her old studio at the ranch and shared that she hopes to have a similar set up at Sopris Lodge, eventually. She and Rex, her husband, moved into Sopris Lodge in October 2023 and remained there together until his passing in June. She has remained at the Lodge and continues creating art by way of her favorite medium: watercolor.
She spoke about creating watercolor leaves that are attached to her front door and which she switches out with new ones each month. Coffman loves all of the ways one can experiment with watercolors.
“There’s more to it than just putting the paintbrush on the paper,” she stated, and explained how the background of a certain piece was uniquely designed. “I wet the back of the paper, then I took coffee and went over it and then I put sprinkled salt on it. So there are all kinds of little tricks you can do.”
Born and raised in North Platte, Nebraska, she draws inspiration from the animals and nature she grew up with, specifically horses and sunflowers.
“I think it’s being raised in a rural area. I just loved my horses and always saw sunflowers growing along the road in Nebraska and in Colorado. I was driving up through El Jebel the other day, and there were so many
sunflowers on the road. They’re just a pretty flower,” she said gleefully.
Coffman shared that, when growing up, her family would spend time together doing art rather than playing games or engaging in other “typical” family activities.
“My mother was an artist and we never did play games at home. We were always seated around the table doing some kind
of art project together,” she shared. “My main art when I was young was designing clothes for my paper dolls, and I drew a lot of horses. I love to draw horses.”
When Coffman entered high school, she couldn’t do art as much as she would have liked. But that changed when she went to college. It was during this experience that she discovered her love for watercolors.
“I had a teacher who gave you the choice of 15 assignments, and you could do them any time and in any order you wanted to … I did watercolor [and] decided I liked that,” she reminisced.
Her pieces at Sopris Lodge range from one of her late husband’s favorite cow (#46) and her calf to Coffman’s childhood home as well as many seasonal pieces. When discussing her work, she is proud to say she has never sold a single piece.
“I have never sold any of my art. I always give it away,” she shared. “Most of them are relatives and friends and they have all said to me, ‘Oh, I have never had a picture by a real artist.’”
Coffman said it is wonderful to be surrounded by people her age who share similar interests and talents. Beyond that she said art has been a common connection for many of her friendships throughout her life, specifically citing those made in Sun City West, Arizona where she and Rex spent much of their downtime.
“It keeps you in the picture,” she said, pun intended. “It’s just like having friends [who] like the same things you like. And I think, you know, it’s not only in art but in other things too.”
Recently, CMC led a technical canyoneering course in Arches, Zion and Capitol Reef National Park. Courtesy photo
MYKI JONES
JoAnn Coffman. Photo by Beth White
Artist Chris Erickson’s sculpture is one of three recently erected along the section of Highway 133 as part of Carbondale Art’s Gateway Public Art Project. The sculptures round out the artistic installation at the north entrance of town along with five murals, including the mural in the background by Nicholas Ward.
Photo by Will Sardinsky
CMC OUTDOORS from page 18
MOBILITY ACCESS PLAN
Smart Growth America found that early versions of Complete Street policies “failed to specify and require the incredibly difficult work of institutionalizing the approach, such as training agency staff, traffic engineers and project managers.” Complete Streets has since integrated these aspects.
So, in addition to adopting a Complete Streets policy, Zislis urged the Town to hire a traffic engineer — an experienced professional who can put the MAP into play.
“The community wants to see some changes now. But as slowly as the wheel turns, I don’t think we’re going to see a lot of change
He elaborated that resources online sometimes are so detailed that people memorize photos instead of developing real skills. Part of the value of outdoor education courses is developing the skills to be able to manage unexpected situations in the outdoors. Specifically, Aberger opined, “14ers.com has too much information. You can see every detail of a route without ever stepping foot onto a peak. That doesn’t always make people safer, and it can cheapen the experience.”
For people interested in spending more time outside, Aberger recommended “anything that gets you off your screen and outside, even into the backyard,” whether that’s a book or a walk along a river path. Basalt Regional Library offers a Library of Things where outdoor gear can be checked out, just like books. Offerings there include birdwatching kits, tents, telescopes and even State Park
until the Town government starts to make a real commitment to follow through,” he concluded.
BPTC expects to finalize the Carbondale Mobility Access Plan and make their final decisions on infrastructure changes and funding by January 2025. Based on other management plans in the Town quiver, the MAP open house revealed that final decisions and funding will more likely be an ongoing and iterative process.
MAP Carbondale can be found on the Town website under the “Boards and Commissions” tab: www.carbondalegov.org
passes. Garfield County Public Library District, likewise, checks out State Park Pass Kits that include binoculars and various guidebooks. For basic skills before committing to a full-semester CMC course, Aberger endorsed Mountain Rescue Aspen. “Locally, I think Mountain Rescue is doing a great job offering basic information and workshops to help keep people safe.”
Aberger’s work is grounded in Edward Abbey’s philosophy that it is not enough to fight for the natural world, but that we must also enjoy it. “I hold as a guiding principle that nature can shape us in ways no strategy can. It’s the power of place,” he said.
CMC certificate courses include Wilderness EMS, fly fishing guide certification, rope rescue training and avalanche awareness, in addition to sport skills including: mountain biking, climbing and rafting.
More info CMC courses at www.coloradomtn.edu
SUMMIT FOR LIFE
“I was elated to get the call,” he recalled. “It was like I was in the Olympic starting gate. I was excited and ready. I was prepared for this, for what I would call the race for my life.”
Despite fears of the unknown, Klug and his support team went through with the transplant and less than six weeks later he was back on his snowboard. Motivated by this second chance, Klug trained relentlessly and went on to achieve a bronze medal for Team USA at the 2001 Salt Lake City Olympics.
“It’s really neat to show people what’s possible after a transplant,” said Klug. “I will never stop sharing my story, because it might help one person to say, ‘Hey there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I can bounce back and not give up on my dreams.’ It’s such a privilege to share that message. It motivates me.”
Klug attributes CKF’s success to the unwavering support of community members both near and far. Employees of the nonprofit, such as Executive Director Jessi Rochel and Program/Communications Director Anna Morgan-Palardy have helped shape CKF, as well as board members, volunteers, students and educators who have donated their time and energy to help strive for eliminating the transplantation wait list.
“We’ve had a lot of help. This whole community has been a huge part of this foundation,” said Klug. “That’s what Summit for Life is all about. Yes, it’s a fundraiser, but it’s the kickoff to winter and a celebration of second chances and what’s possible. It’s going to be a heck of a party!”
Registration for Summit for Life is now open. Visit www.chrisklugfoundation.org to learn more about the race and how you can get involved with CKF.
Town of Carbondale Special Event Task Force Meeting Announcement
The Special Event Task Force reviews special events within Town Parks, Streets and Facilities.
Review of 2024 special events on Wed. Nov. 20th, 12 - 1:30 pm
Proposed 2025 events reviewed on Wed. Jan. 15th 5:30-7:00 pm Both meetings take place at Town Hall. These meetings are open to all interested citizens.
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
7/11
Jalisco Grill
Mi Lindo Nayarit La Fogata
Gloria’s Boutique
GLENWOOD SPRINGS
7/11 West Glenwood
Office Hospital Valley View Recreation Center
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
‘Viva la Vida’ and the tenacity to live it
Translation by Bianca Godina
“Viva la Vida, Watermelons 1954” was Frida Kahlo’s last oil painting. At the end of her life, Frida moved away from her usual themes and painted more still lifes because her health no longer allowed her to create more detailed works. In 1953, just a year before her death, she had to have her right foot and part of her leg below the knee amputated due to gangrene. From this event came the famous saying, “Pies para que los quiero, si tengo alas para volar meaning “What do I need feet for if I have wings to fly?” Frida is symbolic not just for her talent, nor even for the feminism she now represents, but for her determination to live.
the same harsh facade she projected. Instead, each room had an air of tenderness and vulnerability. I felt as if I were invading something private, as though around every corner she might be there, demanding an explanation for why I was in her house.
OPINION
EXISTENTIAL ARTIST
By Vanessa Porras
Despite being on a tour where you walk in line with an endless flow of people ahead and behind you, I had the impression of being alone. Like when you enter your grandmother’s bedroom without permission and, through her belongings, start discovering her “secret” life. If it was a hideout, it was one that allowed her to take off the mask.
Like many fans, I spent most of my life dreaming of the day I could visit La Casa Azul in Coyoacán. Many warn, “Don’t meet your heroes,” in case they aren’t what they appear to be once you’re face-to-face. Frida, for me, like for many others, was a strong, free-thinking and independent figure who cared little about what others thought of her. She lived her life to the beat of her own drum and savored the disdain of others.
The day I had the opportunity to visit the house that was once her home, now a museum preserving her legacy and history, I thought it would be like entering the hideout of a revolutionary akin to Pancho Villa. I imagined perhaps something colder or more rigid, something that would show
I saw her dolls and thought of the little girl with polio and how hard it must have been not to play like all her sisters; the loneliness that led her to create imaginary friends.
I hope the exit is joyful and I hope never to return again.
-Frida Kahlo
I saw her bed, and all I saw were the hours that turned into years bedridden with
chronic pain that only worsened over the years. I saw her dresses and thought of everything she wore underneath to hide the mutilated body the tram accident had left her with. I walked through her garden and recalled a video taken of her with Diego Rivera, the great love of her life, and imagined her life if she could have fulfilled her dream of being a mother and having her little ones running around the yard. Her pain is neither new nor unknown. Some might say she narcissistically shouted it to the wind, painting tragedy after tragedy in an attempt to process her own life.
At the end of my tour, I came upon the framed notebook page, the famous amputated foot surrounded
by thorns with the resilient and certainly defiant phrase, “Pies para que los quiero...” If life has already taken so much from you, what’s one more foot?
Who wouldn’t be filled with rage and bitterness with so many misfortunes?
Nevertheless, despite a lifetime of misfortune, she was still in love with life. The next painting was also her last, “Viva la Vida,” carved into a watermelon — a fleeting and final message of resistance. Frida died on July 13, 1954, at 47 years old, the same year she completed this work. Despite all the pain, her desire to live was greater. Of all her works, this one has become my favorite. Everything comes to an end; Frida concluded her life with the determination and stubbornness to live despite everything, giving thanks to life — her final love letter but in true Frida style, letting us know that in the end, she won.
Tutty Frutti Full edition is available every Friday afternoon on newstands and at businesses from Rifle to Aspen
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
Day after day, Week after week, As summer ends And autumn reigns, For me, There is an undercurrent Of dread. Our enemy Is crouching nearby, And will soon attack. I know it, And that knowledge Brings with it A kind of tension.
Then, one night, While we sleep unguarded, The world around us Is changed.
But it is not a vicious Or violent attack. We wake To a soft blue purity, Reminiscent of carefree innocence. Gentle flakes sift down In a leisurely But determined fashion, Bestowing peace On everything below, Releasing the tension, And it is good.
Fire sale
By JM Jesse Glenwood Springs
Godforsaken times A reckoning close at hand Devil buying souls
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
Art Ackerman, age 99, wearing his 80-year-old naval aviation cadet uniform for a photo on Veterans Day.
Photo by Sue Rollyson
LETTERS
The economy
It’s the economy, stupid… or is it the stupid economy?
Thoughts about the economy and consumer price impacts… corporate profits reached an all-time high in 2024, U.S. stock markets have reached record highs, the U.S. is a net energy exporter (including the importation of crude oil and the exportation of refined petroleum products along with natural gas in liquid form). The U.S. is energy independent albeit affected by global markets and corporate decisions. Will “drill baby drill” affect pump prices especially in our “free market” economy?
As recently reported, “The American Economy is the Envy of the World” (The Economist, Oct. 19, 2024), record corporate profits undoubtedly affect consumer prices, a primary cause of higher inflation. Shrink-flation (same price for less product) to recent record high stock markets and shareholder returns are more affected by actions of the free-market private sector than government or officials. In our region, especially Glenwood Springs, monopoly-by-default (having just one supermarket in a town) also affects what shoppers pay. Fuel prices are affected by the global oil markets, corporate greed and possibly “isolation/rumored price collusion” in our local markets.
The president and federal government, from agencies to elected representatives, may have less control of our economy through policies, tax rates, structure and interest rates than the private, free market. Tariffs on foreign goods affect what consumers pay. Proposed increased tariffs will be passed through to consumers who must pay more for goods with foreign content. Achieving 100% U.S. manufactured goods is admirable although achievability and immediacy would be a real and impractical challenge. Continued and expanded government subsidies are yet another “twist” in economic policy, the prices we pay and who and how those in the business profit.
Those with money can make even more money, from corporations, executives and billionaires, but what will be the realities for consumers in a now uncertain future?
Will the USA continue to be the most powerful country in the free world or will it be “the end of the world as we know it?”
Greg Jeung
Glenwood Springs
Thanks
We at 5 Point Film Festival would like to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to everyone who attended and supported us at our In The Field fall benefit on Oct. 26 at Spring Creeks Ranch. The entire 5 Point Film team feels incredibly lucky and grateful to have such strong support from our wonderful community.
The enthusiasm and generosity from our guests made the event a success and has energized us as we start to work on our 18th flagship festival, taking place April 24-27, 2025 in Carbondale. We’re excited to roll up our sleeves and create an unforgettable experience for our community.
A special “thank you” to our amazing sponsors and donors whose support made this event possible: Spring Creeks
Ranch, JP Morgan Private Bank, Field 2 Fork Kitchen, El Dorado Spirits + Legends, Partake Brewing, SIX Productions, Bethel Party Rental, Sopris Liquor & Wine, The Valley Hopper, Premier Party Rental, No Fine Print Wine, Robyn and Dr. Tito Liotta, Bobby Almazan, Michael and Julie Kennedy. Donors included: Blazing Adventures, Bodegón, Botany Houseplant Store, Bristlecone Mountain Sports, Buck Aspen, Contour Body Aesthetics, EcoFlight, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Kat and Pete Rich, Lakota Links, La Raza Restaurant, NRS, Pollinator Chocolate, Proudline Fishing Expeditions, Red Hill Animal Health Center, RJ Paddywacks, Snowmass Tourism, Stio, Spring Pilates Carbondale, Tiny Pine Bistro, Two Leaves and Bud Tea Co., The Gant.
We truly appreciate your partnership and commitment to our mission at 5 Point Adventure Film Festival and we hope to see everyone at the 18th flagship festival.
With Gratitude, Aly Sanguily 5 Point Film Festival
Thank you, Garfield County
To those in my adopted and cherished home,
Last week was, to say the very least, disappointing. While my heart is broken, after all, I was so excited to have the opportunity to serve this place and the people I so love on an expanded level. I will continue to serve my hometown of New Castle with passion, persistence and determination.
I have spoken with Mr. Will and we have had a good discussion including talking about accountability and how we both believe it is imperative that we hold our leaders accountable. To that end, I told him if I saw him making decisions I needed him to hear about, I would come bang on his door. His response was, “I expect you to.”
This is constructive.
This is what it should be.
For now, meeting so many of you and getting to know you has been an utter joy these last many, many months. You have enriched my life to say the very least. You have challenged me, encouraged me and helped me see things in different ways. You truly are my why.
One of my Council colleagues texted me last week to check in on me, see how I was doing. He reminded me to be proud of my efforts and to get ready, because we still have work to do. Yes, we do. The silver lining to this is that I get to continue serving alongside six of the most wonderful people on Town Council and with a staff that I truly enjoy.
Thank you Garfield County for sharing your heart, your energies and your time with me.
Caitlin Carey New Castle
Letters policy: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor. Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome. Please cite your facts and include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@ soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.
WILLIAMSON
from page 4
She added, “What we need is not to fixate on uncertainty. What we need to do is embrace certainty. We need to share certainty that we can make it. We need to embrace certainty that we will grow from our mistakes, that we will do what needs to be done.”
What do you think are important things to remember and consider as we navigate the future?
In reference to the current political climate and forces of hate and division, Williamson emphasized the importance of declaring “not on our watch.” She said it’s imperative, rather, to navigate through love
REPORT from page 15
Highlights include $280,000 toward Town Hall renovations to accommodate for more employees; $400,000 toward a new motor grader; up to $6.75 million over several years toward a new roundabout at Industry Way.
“We’ve been talking about this for a while,” Trustee Colin Laird said of the roundabout. “I just want to push this as fast as we can.” Additional Highway 133 crossings will be prioritized before the roundabout, but can not practically be constructed in 2025, Public Works Director Kevin Schorzman said.
Finally, trustees reviewed community grants and took another look at the draft 2025 budget. Each year, Carbondale dedicates 1% of its general fund expenditures to local nonprofits. This year, that amount is $121,000 with an additional $35,000 allocated toward special events.
and inclusion. “This is a time for the assumption of power,” she added.
“Going forward, we need integrative politics. We need to employ forces of the mind and spirit as well as the body. We need a new paradigm, a new way of thinking about social change.”
“Navigating Our Way to the Future,” will be from 6 to 7:30pm on Dec. 5 at the Aspen Chapel. In-person and virtual ticket options are available. Attendees can buy VIP tickets to attend a meet and greet with Williamson starting at 5pm, and receive a copy of her latest book, “The Mystic Jesus: The Mind of Love.” More information is available at www.aspenchapel.org
Considering the Mt. Sopris Music Fest and second Sunday summer concert series, Mayor Ben Bohmfalk suggested zeroing out those dedications and combining them for a total of $8,480, then bringing that amount to $10,000 and requesting bids for a refreshed music in the park series. “I’d rather see us have three really good [concerts] than five nobody knows about,” he said. Other trustees agreed.
Regarding the 2025 budget, trustees decided to add $90,000 predicting a modest 1% sales tax revenue increase. “The next time we see this, we’ll be asked to approve it,” said Mayor Bohmfalk of the budget.
Regarding upcoming meetings, the trustees have a work session with the police department on Jan. 21 and will also talk about water rights and conservation. The Mobility Access Plan will be reviewed on Jan. 28.
2801 CR 114 Glenwood Springs, CO p.h. (970)947-9173
C.A.R.E. currently has 7 dogs & 6 cats available for adoption.
Featured Pets:
Bert & Ernie will make your heart smile! These bonded boys are 12 years old and full of affection, wiggles, and silliness. They would love to find a home together! November is adopt-a-senior pet month. Call us!.
The Roaring Fork High School boys soccer team received a hearty send-off on their way to play against 3A top seed Holy Family on Wednesday, Nov. 13. The winner will advance to Saturday’s State Championship game at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City.
Photo by Sue Rollyson
400 E Valley Rd. #I/J (Next to City Market in El Jebel) / 970-963-1700 / rjpaddy wacks com
ColoradoAnimalRescue org
Working Together For Pets And Their People
BERT & ERNIE
An evening with bestselling author Jon Waterman introducing his new book, "Into the Thaw" A Fundraiser for the Sopris Sun in partnership White River Books
With 78 stunning color photographs and a half dozen detailed maps, this book — part adventure memoir, part scientific report on the changing climate — will make a great holiday gift. White River Books will be selling copies at the event. All donations benefit The Sopris Sun
Complimentary snacks and refreshments will be served.
