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Volume 15, Number 46 | December 21 - December 27, 2023

World Peace That's what we challenged local kids to draw in our 2023 Spruce Up The Sun cover contest, and we think CMS seventh grader Penelope Mathis really captured the theme in her piece "Rice and Milk."

See more works of art on pages 8-9!

OPINION

Mature Content

By Ron Kokish

About 21,000 people live on Martha’s Vineyard, and median home prices are almost identical to Carbondale. In September of 2022, when 50 refugees suddenly arrived courtesy of Ron DeSantis, the island’s population increased by 0.002%. Volunteers cared for them at a temporary church shelter for 44 hours, at which point Massachusetts’ governor helped move the hapless group to a mainland location. “The people of the island rallied,” NPR’s Eve Zuckoff explained, “but there isn’t the infrastructure.” The Island’s only shelter, she went on to say, usually holds 12 people and has only one shower. Residents told CNN they felt enriched by these nearly two days.

Tell us about it! Six weeks ago, Carbondale precipitously learned that our unhoused population had jumped from maybe five people to about 125, a 2% increase in our total population.

Our shelter has zero showers and zero beds, because … what shelter?

More than 100 carpenters, plumbers, painters, remodelers, engineers, mechanics and others (according to a CBS News report) with no better place to go, because they ran out of days at Denver’s shelters. Some heard there might be work for people like them near Aspen, so they pooled their money, bought cars and drove up. Mostly, they lived in cars and tents near the boat ramp. Their cars were unregistered in Colorado, but they didn’t know that because sellers in Denver had given them fake paperwork and stolen plates, adding as much as $600 to the cost of each vehicle.

Carbondale makes room at the inn According to Town Manager Lauren Gister, the Town officially learned about the situation on Nov. 8, following an organizational meeting at the Third Street Center the previous evening. It was convened by State Representative Elizabeth Velasco and Voces Unidas de la Montañas (Voces), an advocacy group for Latinos. Town officials were not invited to that meeting, though my wife (Niki Delson) and I were. Third Street Center Exec and Carbondale Trustee Colin Laird was also there (though apparently not on behalf of the Town), as were people from about 15 organizations and agencies and a handful of the (primarily) Venezuelan refugees.

We received limited census data that Voces had hastily collected and heard touching personal stories from several eloquent spokespeople via instant translation. They were documented and wanted work, but most did not yet have work permits.

They were making themselves available for day labor at Carbondale’s traditional day labor site. They sent money to their families whenever they could. Their immediate needs were food, warm clothing and shelter.

Food Bank of the Rockies said they could supply some food. Pitkin County offered 50 cots. Niki and I decided to enlist two congregations and AgeFriendly Carbondale to provide winter clothing. The housing problem was not addressed, but the following morning Third Street tenants received an email from Colin. Effective the previous evening, the Center would temporarily house those who wanted to sleep there.

The large Community Hall was now a night shelter.

I can’t say things have gone smoothly since that meeting. Many are still unhoused, though better equipped to handle the cold while sleeping in cars.

At Third Street, with 60 people eating and sleeping in one room, contagious winter maladies have started appearing, though The People’s Clinic is assisting with medical services.

Adequate food is a day-to-day challenge, especially with no real kitchen facilities and only irregular

LETTERS

RE: Crystal Theatre It's crystal clear, Bob and Kathy Ezra seem to have a handle on the movie theater industry. Through their promised additional guidance, a new owner or owners of the Crystal Theatre in Carbondale will have a better chance of sailing through the tempest engulfing show business from top to bottom.

I am certain whoever wants to own the Crystal Theatre, a single-screen movie house, will appreciate the Ezras' stewardship so the motion picture palace will continue to be a special Hollywood film oasis in Carbondale and Colorado.

Perhaps the Colorado Film and Video Association, the premier Colorado-Hollywood group, will do more business and activities with the Crystal Theatre. Its membership could surely use more Hollywood magic and publicity in Colorado.

Do think like Paramount Global, Warner Brothers, Discovery, NBCUniversal and Walt Disney Company chief executives and board members, whoever buys this Hollywood entertainment dream depository, the Crystal Theatre.

Emzy Veazy III Aspen

deliveries from food banks. More than enough winter clothing has been collected, but distribution proved more complicated than expected. Voces wants out. Their mission is education and political organizing. They don’t want to forsake that in favor of refugee relief work. But no good deed goes unpunished and, for now, they are stuck, as are Colin Laird, his staff of one and all the Third Street tenants. Retired Re-1 superintendent Rob Stein has volunteered to look for and organize resources, but his forte is administering top-down systems with procedures and resources already in place.

This is new for Rob, and he readily told me that he’s not good at it, at least not yet. Neither is Irené Wittrock who is carrying most of the load for Voces. Her last job was as a support worker at Mountain.

Developmental Services. Irené, like everyone, took on work she’s never done and is coping as best she can.

So is the Town’s government. There’s a steady stream of people wanting to volunteer time, food and clothing, but no one is organizing this resource.

At last week’s trustee meeting, Mayor Ben acknowledged that the Town was moving at “government speed,” while Colin and Irené were carrying the load at “volunteer humanitarian speed.” He thanked them. The Town is working to open a second, equally inadequate shelter to relieve Third Street and a safe parking area for those who must remain in cars. The Town’s first concern, Lauren told me, is not letting anyone freeze to death. Second is seeing to it that they are treated respectfully. So far, so good.

So, listen up, Martha’s Vineyard.

We’re way past two days. We’re coping.

We’re getting better at it. We WILL get everybody through the winter alive and give these folks the respect they deserve. Then we’ll tell ourselves that we don’t want to do this again. But, if we’re called on, we just might. Like you said, Martha’s Vinyard, it’s enriching.

Especially when you stick with it.

Mature Content is a monthly feature from Age-Friendly Carbondale.

Re: Venezuelans I'm writing regarding the article in The Sopris Sun last week highlighting the struggles facing the Venezuelan refugees being hosted at the Third Street Center in Carbondale. I was happy to see the article focus on what is being done to help this group and to shed a light on those that are helping.

I would like to point out however that it's definitely not only "sympathetic churches" that have been supplying meals. Many local individuals have been cooking, delivering and supplying the needed meals from the beginning on their own.

There have been donations from local restaurants to help lighten the burden of cost and that has been appreciated.

If anyone would like to help, I suggest reaching out to Voces Unidas.

April Crow Spaulding Carbondale

2 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

continued on page 26

Editor Raleigh Burleigh 970-510-3003 news@soprissun.com Sol del Valle Editor Vanessa Porras Contributing & Digital Editor James Steindler Editorial Designer Hattie Rensberry Advertising Designer Emily Blong Delivery Frederic Kischbaum Bartlett Proofreader Lee Beck Executive Director Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246 adsales@soprissun.com Board Members / Mesa Directiva board@soprissun.com Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke Lee Beck • Donna Dayton Eric Smith • Roger Berliner Elizabeth Phillips • Jessi Rochel Andrew Travers • Anna Huntington

The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on second Thursdays at the Third Street Center.

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

Donations are fully tax deductible.

Sincerest thanks to our Honorary Publishers for their annual commitment of $1,000+ Lee Beck & John Stickney Kay Brunnier • Frances Dudley Michelle & Ed Buchman Sue Edelstein & Bill Spence Deborah & Shane Evans Greg & Kathy Feinsinger Gary & Jill Knaus • Eric Smith Peter and Mike Gilbert Carly & Frosty Merriott James Noyes • Megan Tackett Patti & George Stranahan Anne Sullivan & John Colson Elizabeth Wysong • Alpine Bank Emily & George Bohmfalk Kathy & Carter Barger Sandy & Paul Chamberlin Karen & Roger Berliner Gretchen Greenwood & Lee Mulcahy Donna & Ken Riley Gayle & Dick Wells

Legacy Givers for including us in their final wishes.

Mary Lilly

Donate by mail or online: P.O. Box 399 Carbondale, CO 81623 520 S. Third Street #26-B 970-510-3003 soprissun.com/Donate The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a proud member of the Carbondale Creative District

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Our Underwriters and Nonprofit Partners!

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

Fire budget

National treasure

The Carbondale and Rural Fire Protection District (CRFPD) held its 2024 budget hearing on Dec. 13. Members of the public showed up to express their concern about the district collecting increased property taxes without adjusting its mill levy. Temporarily decreasing the mill levy would offset the property tax increase for residents in the district. The draft 2024 budget lists the district’s property tax revenue at $$6,727,929 compared to $4,586,885 in 2023. The draft budget currently accounts for a temporary tax credit of $344,923. However, the department is waiting on assessed valuations from the three counties (Garfield, Pitkin and Gunnison) to finalize a revenue number and a tax credit amount. CRFPD will vote on the proposed budget and a mill levy adjustment during its Jan. 10 regular meeting at the Carbondale Fire Headquarters, 301 Meadowood Drive, at 11am. Visit www.carbondalefire. org/about-us/board-of-directors for a copy of the proposed budget and Zoom coordinates to attend the meeting virtually.

U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland designated the Glenwood Caverns and Iron Mountain Hot Springs a National Natural Landmark last week.

As reported by the Post Independent, Steve and Jeanne Beckley, owners of these properties and the corresponding businesses, applied for the designation more than 10 years ago.

The Glenwood Springs Citizens’ Alliance is hopeful that this action may help to prevent a proposed expansion of the neighboring limestone quarry, operated by a company currently under federal review due to permit noncompliance issues.

Help wanted RJ Paddywacks Cool Bricks Studio White River Books Alpine Animal Hospital

Nonprofit Partners

Wilderness Workshop 5point Film Festival Basalt Library Aspen Strong Carbondale Rotary Colorado Animal Rescue Carbondale Arts Carbondale Chamber of Commerce Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner in 2023? Email Todd@ soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866

The Town of Carbondale is seeking to hire a temporary shelter coordinator through March to help provide essential services and resources to the recentlyarrived, unhoused refugee population.

This position will oversee day-to-day operations at multiple shelters and requires fluency in English and Spanish.

The pay is $50 to $75 per hour for 20 to 40 hours per week. If interested, send a cover letter and resume to colin@ thirdstreetcenter.net

Water futures On Dec. 19, Xcel Energy signed a transfer of ownership of the historic Shoshone water rights to the Colorado River District for $98.5 million.

According to a press release, “the agreement marks a first step toward permanent protection of the most senior, non-consumptive water right on the Colorado River.” The Shoshone Water Right Preservation Coalition will now attempt to secure funding for the purchase and add an in-stream flow benefit. Learn more at www. keepshoshoneflowing.org

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South Bridge funding

The City of Glenwood Springs announced last week that the South Bridge wildfire egress project will receive $49,682,927 from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program.

The bridge will connect Highway 82 with neighborhoods on the south end of Midland Avenue, providing more than 4,000 residents with “critical egress and escape” in the event of a wildfire. This project has been a priority since the 2002 Coal Seam Fire and was earmarked for federal funding in 2005.

Evening hours The Painted Pig (689 Main Street) is now open for dinner service, Thursday through Sunday. This new restaurant also serves coffee, breakfast and lunch from Tuesday to Sunday, as well as Aquila Cellars wine from the North Fork Valley.

Winter activities The Glenwood Springs rec department is hosting a variety of bilingual, winter workshops for ages 5 to 14, with scholarships available, from Jan. 2 to Jan. 8. Topics include puzzles, puppets, animation and more. Details at www.bit.ly/glenwoodrec-arts

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There have been various reports of an injured mountain lion in the Hendrick Drive area of Carbondale attacking small game and at least one house pet. However, Colorado Parks and Wildlife only received one related report in September. The Sopris Sun is investigating the story and invites residents near Hendrick Drive to send any relevant information to james@ soprissun.com. Illustration by Sofie Koski

Lift-off Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper mutually celebrated the news that U.S. Space Command, headquartered in Colorado Springs, has reached “full operational capability.” Bennet stated, “In the face of Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and China’s saber-rattling worldwide, U.S. leadership in space is more critical than ever.” The unified combatant command was originally created in 1985, disestablished in 2002 and reestablished in 2019 by the Trump administration.

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Paula Fothergill, Tommy Sweeney and Robin Waters (Dec. 21); Jessica Hardin, Carolyn Jackson and Jerry Pluger (Dec. 22); Hanah Jundt and Greg Mohl (Dec. 25); Caitlin Causey, Emma Danciger and Darryl Fuller (Dec. 26); Laura Hader and Eduardo Torres (Dec. 27)

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 3

Grinches scrape by on Crystal River Road

By James Steindler Contributing Editor Mail tampering and parcel theft has been a pain in the side of many Crystal Valley residents, and left empty spaces under their Christmas trees. Local law enforcement is charging people when they can, but also have their hands somewhat tied.

The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) held a Zoom meeting at the end of October with a United State Post Office (USPS) Inspector General representative, an assistant U.S. district attorney and other local agencies to coordinate a response. At that time, the Inspector General’s office handed over “the investigation of a group stealing federal mail to the local and state agencies,” PCSO Detective Sergeant Brad Gibson told The Sopris Sun. A PCSO incident report, dated Nov. 9, reiterated that “The USPS told us [PCSO] the federal government will not investigate.”

State statutes Stealing USPS mail is a federal crime, not state, and therefore leaves the option to only file applicable charges under state statute.

“After that [October] meeting, the PCSO was left to investigate cases of third-degree trespassing involving mail theft, considered a minor offense,” Gibson explained.

“However, pursuing legal action

against the suspects for trespassing on the CDOT [Colorado Department of Transportation] right-of-way was deemed challenging after consulting with the district attorney's office.”

“The question of ownership and entry would be somewhat complicated, and it’d be the prosecution’s burden to show that an alleged trespasser knew they had entered onto another’s property,” explained Ninth Judicial Chief Deputy District Attorney Don Nottingham. “There could be an argument that by entering the mailbox a defendant enters onto another’s property, but that might require expert testimony to talk about what easements and other property rights apply ...”

Nottingham’s statements were offered as general information, as the deputy district attorney familiar with the PCSO cases was unavailable.

When an “item of value” delivered

by USPS is claimed to have been stolen, or a parcel is delivered by a private company (FedEx or UPS, for instance), PCSO can charge for theft under Colorado statute 18-4-401.

“Mail thefts, in and of themselves, are likely to be petty offenses,” said Nottingham. “They could be prosecuted in state court, but the penalties are very minor.”

Investigation challenges Another challenge is that most of the thefts have occurred in the wee hours of the morning (typically between 2 and

5am), when there are no witnesses and it’s more difficult to identify someone on camera. Since June, there have been cameras installed at two homeowners associations (HOAs) in the Crystal Valley. PCSO monitors the cameras on the Crystal River Road regularly, and will check them when they receive a report of a stolen item.

Documented license plates are great because a registered vehicle can lead to a suspect. Whereas if the footage is of an individual, the person needs to already be known by law enforcement in order to track them down.

According to the Nov. 9 incident report, PCSO was able to identify two suspects by confirming their identities with neighboring law enforcement agencies. The suspects were caught on a PCSO camera at Bill Creek Road in the Crystal Valley going through mailboxes.

It would seem like an open and shut case, but PCSO was not able to locate the suspects to serve a summons for the petty trespass offense. While it’s believed they live in Garfield County, according to the report, the suspects did not have current addresses known to law enforcement.

In November, the PCSO arrested another suspect on an unrelated felony warrant and “took advantage of [the] opportunity and charged the individual with third-degree trespassing for earlier mail thefts.” On Dec. 12, it was relayed that the same suspect had been recorded on a PCSO camera stealing mail on

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Dec. 5 in the Crystal Valley, and a theft charge was to be added. However, on Dec. 18, PCSO informed The Sopris Sun that it did not appear that packages nor items of value were stolen, leaving the department and the District Attorney’s office, yet again, at an impasse.

According to Gibson, there’s a group of suspects known by law enforcement to carry out this type of crime in the tricounty area. However, without sufficient evidence directly implicating someone with a specific incident, such as video surveillance or an eye-witness account, there is no means to file a charge.

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Michael Francisco lawsuit against the Town, officers stalled

By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun Correspondent It’s been three years almost to the day that Michael Francisco was arrested at the Carbondale City Market and charged with obstruction of government operations, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

All because he pointed at someone who worked in the gas station kiosk. Even though the resisting arrest case was dismissed in May 2021, a subsequent civil case has not yet been resolved.

Michael Fairhurst, Francisco’s attorney, told The Sopris Sun in a recent interview that, originally, they filed legal claims in 2022 against City Market, its parent company Kroger and an employee involved in the episode leading to Francisco’s arrest on Dec. 24, 2020.

Police body cam videos bear witness to a rough arrest that Christmas Eve, with Carbondale police officers wrestling Francisco to the ground in the selfcheckout aisle of the store, pinning him to the floor, conducting a body search and stripping him of his Rasta cap. Police forcibly removed Francisco from the store in handcuffs, put him in the backseat of a squad car and took him to the Carbondale police station.

After several hearings, all charges were dropped in May 2021 as part of a deferred sentence that included a facilitated conversation between Francisco and Carbondale Police Chief Kirk Wilson.

Legal documents show that Wilson apologized to Francisco at that time.

“A few months ago, the City Market side of the case, meaning City Market, its related entity defendant and the individual employed by City Market, resolved their claims against Mr. Francisco,” said Fairhurst.

But, attempts at settling with the Town of Carbondale have been elusive. First, he said, they

Steven Horn, aka Social, posted up for several weeks in 2021 on the corner of 4th and Main and in front of Town Hall in a show of solidarity with Michael Francisco. Horn won a settlement in a lawsuit against the Town after being hit with a Taser several times during a traffic stop in 2004. Art by Larry Day

entered into what’s known as a tolling agreement with the Town over a year ago. “The idea was to provide the parties with time to negotiate without potentially going to court because we were getting somewhat close to potential statute of limitation deadlines,” he

explained. “It made sense to buy the parties time to discuss the topic without intense time pressure.”

All parties, including City Market and the employee, ended up in private mediation in September. “And as is sometimes the case of these mediations, part of the case was resolved and part of it wasn't,” he added. “So, [the City Market et al case] is done.”

Fairhurst said that due to confidentiality requirements, he is unable to discuss details of the mediation or why things didn’t work out with the Town of Carbondale and the individual police officers except to say that it’s ending up in court.

Fairhurst filed a second amended complaint on Oct. 29 against the Town of Carbondale, Police Chief Kirk Wilson, former Carbondale police officer Tade Shively and Carbondale police officer Benjamin Mendoza. A second amended complaint is essentially the same as the original complaint, except with a few changes.

“The second one is consistent with our resolution of claims against the City Market defendants and Carbondale's unwillingness to reasonably resolve Mr. Francisco's claims against the town and its police,” explained Fairhurst.

But, the motion to amend the complaint is stuck in the slow-turning wheel of justice. Fairhurst explained that the judge has yet to rule on their motion to amend the first complaint.

“In other words, until Carbondale is officially added to the case, which at this point is up to the judge, we can't move forward with discovery or anything else of substance in the case,” he said. “It's in a holding pattern while the court has the motion to amend still pending on its docket.”

Attorneys for the Town of Carbondale have not responded to requests for comment from The Sopris Sun.

CALL FOR ENTRIES DEADLINE IS January 19, 2024

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

The Aspen Chapel Gallery’s 4 Rivers Biennial Exhibition is seeking Roaring Fork Valley artists to submit work for the juried show. Jurors Lissa Ballinger and Andrew Travers will pick the $1000 Judges Award and a $250 People Choice Award will be chosen by attendees.

Three ways to get an entry form: aspenchapelgallery.org, pick up an entry form at the AspenChapel Gallery, or contact Michael Bonds at studiomb628@gmail.com. Submissions deadline is Friday, Jan.19, 2024.

How to Enter: • Complete the entry form and mail it with your non-refundable entry fee before January 19 to: The Aspen Chapel Gallery, Attn: 4 Rivers Biennial, 77 Meadowood Drive, Aspen, Colorado 81611 • Email original digital images as jpeg attachments (5 megabytes or less) to: studiomb628@gmail.com by Friday, January 19. Entries will NOT be reviewed until payment is received.

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 5

Five wolves successfully released in CO

By London Lyle Sopris Sun Intern On Monday, Dec. 18, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) released five gray wolves from Oregon onto public land in Grand County.

It was a historic moment, putting into motion a ballot measure that voters in the Centennial State decided on back in 2020, with a narrow margin. Much support came from voters on the Front Range, but the wolves were reintroduced here on the Western Slope.

Colorado now joins the ranks of several other states inhabited by wild wolves, including Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, California, Washington, Oregon, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

“Although Colorado has a larger population than most states where gray wolves are already established, the population density on our Western Slope is quite comparable to the population densities of those states,” said Tom Delehanty, senior associate attorney at EarthJustice. “There’s a vast amount of space for wolves to be able to occupy and use.”

Governor Jared Polis joined roughly 45 other onlookers escorted by CPW officers at the release. "There is great respect for these animals,” stated Polis. “They have larger-than-life places in human imagination, in the stories we all grew up with and tell each other. Wolves are an iconic and legendary animal, and to know they are part of the Colorado landscape that has been an important part of their history and our history, it’s truly an important first.”

Of the five wolves released, there were two pairs of yearold, opposite-sex siblings, and a 2-year-old male. The wolves are the size of very large dogs, the largest male weighing 93 pounds.

Joanna Lambert, a professor of wildlife ecology and conservation biology at the University of Colorado Boulder, said that seeing the wolves gallop into the woods took her breath away. For years, Lambert and other wolf reintroduction advocates have been fighting to get “wolf paws on the ground,” and she felt herself gasp when “all the sudden, it happened.”

“This is a moment of

rewilding,” she said, “of doing something to stave off the biodiversity extinction crisis we are living in … to make a difference in this era of extinction. And moreover, this is a source of hope not only for all of us standing here but for our younger generations as well.”

Colorado’s wolf reintroduction program will be carried out in phases, with a handful of wolves being released in different regions throughout the Western Slope. Because CPW could potentially use the same location in Grand County for another release, it is to remain undisclosed to the public at this time. And, not without reason. Although gray wolf reintroduction was largely popular among voters in urban parts of the state, many Coloradans fought to prevent it from happening.

On Dec. 15, only three days before the release, U.S. District Court Judge Regina Rodriguez rejected a recent attempt by ranchers to block wolf reintroduction in Colorado. Attorneys for the Gunnison County Stockgrowers’ Association and Colorado Cattlemen’s

Watch CPW’s video of the release at: www.bit.ly/COwolfvideo Courtesy graphic

Association argued that the reintroduction of wolves would significantly disrupt the livestock communities and those that depend on them. They also claimed that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service failed to adequately review Colorado’s plan to release up to 50 wolves onto public and private land over the next several years.

“The ruling on Friday was a huge win for Coloradans, for the democratic will of our voters, and for the wolves,” responded Delaney Rudy, Colorado director of the Western Watersheds Project.

“A big part of the reason the court was able to strike down

the lawsuit so unilaterally is the livestock industry, and the interests of ranchers, have been taken into consideration and represented throughout the course of developing the reintroduction plan for Colorado. Everyone who has a vested interest in this issue has had a seat at the table, including hunters.”

Gray wolves are listed as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act, a large reason proponents advocated for reintroduction in 2020. Coincidentally, the release was close to the 50th Anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, Dec. 28.

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6 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

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Thunder River Theatre to ring in 2024 with ‘House of Venus’

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC) will host its annual New Year fundraising gala on Friday, Dec. 29, and Saturday, Dec. 30. Titled “House of Venus,” this immersive and interactive experience, directed

by Carbondale Arts legend and TRTC board president Amy Kimberly, will feature mind-bending illusions, fortune telling, burlesque performances, aerial silks, spoken word and so much more. Additionally, the name is an ode to the divine feminine spirit that can be found in the programming cultivated by TRTC. Originally called “House of Voodoo,” the name was changed due to TRTC not wanting to misrepresent the real-life religion. In a statement provided to The Sopris Sun by Artistic Director Missy Moore she explains, “[TRTC] strives to create and honor authentic voices in our programming, and as we have been developing our end-of-the-year show from the ground up with a variety of freelance artists and incredible minds, we came to realize that we were not holding that ideology at the forefront of our creative decisions. Voodoo is, in fact, a very real religion with very real practitioners, and it would be uncouth for TRTC to attempt to fully realize this world without that authentic voice in the room.”

Venus, the alternate namesake, refers to a goddess of love, sex, fertility and prosperity in Roman mythology, representing elements that are central in the world of theater.

“My love of immersive theater has shown throughout the years,” Kimberly told The Sopris Sun. “Since I ‘rewired’ [leaving Carbondale Arts] last year, I have had time to do something like this,” she continued. “I see the importance of this theater and want to help create something to bring in new audiences to learn about what's happening here and to experience something great. Also, to

Allison Gale (Gale Force) has been a professional performance artist since 2006. Creating compelling acts in burlesque, aerial, stilt dance, clown and character work conveying emotions and stories is her number one passion and drive in life. Courtesy photo

hopefully raise a little money for the theater to keep this great thing going.”

In addition to Stacey Everson and Carrie Vickers of Mt. Cirque bringing their aerial silks skills to the stage, acclaimed magician Professor Phelyx will be joined by burlesque artist Allison Gale, local drag queen Thelma Thunderthighs and professional tarot reader Kiki Dombrowski. Performer Nina Gabianelli will emcee as “The Madame.”

“We're going to have a myriad of artists that are bringing forth their own brilliant talent,” Moore confirmed.

According to TRTC Executive Director Sean Jeffries, the seed for this gala was planted in 2020.

During fundraising at the height of COVID-19, a collection of videos from performers was streamed, including from Mt. Cirque (Sopris Soarers).

Traditionally, the gala consisted of cabaret

CALL FOR ARTISTS 2024-2025 Art Around Town

The Town of Carbondale Public Art Commission’s annual rotating sculpture show, Art Around Town, call to artists is LIVE on CAFÉ’. Visit the link for the call information:

performances. Although these have always been a hit with TRTC’s audiences, Moore and Jeffries relayed that the annual gala is one of many things at TRTC being reimagined through a more collaborative lens.

“Sean and I started discussing what would happen if we started activating other not-for-profit art experiences and bringing them together in one place,” Moore explained. “Ultimately, we have the space for that, we have the black box. The lobby is going to be transformed, and the promenade is going to be activated. It's going to be full-scale.”

Kimberly said that she and TRTC are working to ensure they honor and recognize the collaborative efforts of all performers involved.

“The scope of the evening will be filled with joy, sexiness, laughter and empowerment,” Kimberly teased. “It is collaborative, and part of the magic and fun of creating something like this is seeing everybody come back together. My job is to create this connecting theme and feel through the night.”

Another topic that the theater hopes to emphasize is learning from past wisdom. TRTC will highlight its historic accomplishments during the gala in order to put its best foot forward in 2024.

“I am incredibly proud of the work we've been producing here at TRTC for the past couple of years,” Jeffries stated. “I want to continue that trajectory, because I think the town deserves it. They crave and support it, because we're a reflection of the arts that the town wants to see. Continuing to show up for the community, challenging them and giving them new lenses to see the world, [that] is our goal.”

“House of Venus” is intended for mature audiences.

Tickets are on sale starting at $50 for general admission, $75 for premium and $400 for a table of four (including a bottle of champagne and other sweet treats). To purchase tickets, visit www. thunderrivertheatre.com

I'm just waiting until you say the magic word…

Tre a t s !

The link is also available on the “Town of Carbondale, CO Public Art Commission” Facebook page and the Town website.

A change in the program allows an artist to be considered for up to four sculptures, at an honorarium of $1,000 each. A $250 travel allowance is also included for out-of-town artists.

DEADLINE TO APPLY IS FEBRUARY 5, 2024.

El Jebel, Colorado 970-963-1700 RJPaddywacks.com

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 7

Spruce up the Sun 2023 Contest winners The kids of Carbondale and beyond really responded to this year's theme of World Peace (La Paz Mundial). Let's be honest, as trite as it may sound, we're all ready for a little peace on Earth. What exactly that looks like depends on who you ask, but we're definitely seeing some common themes with these submissions. Check out our honorable mentions on this page and grade-by-grade winners across the way for some inspiration toward a brighter future.

Still not satisfied? Visit soprissun.com for even more.

MAEVE NORRDIN

BEST USE OF COLOR

THEO LUCKS

ABBY MINES

CALVIN KUHN

GEOGRAPHY WHIZ

MOMENT OF ZEN

OUT OF THIS WORLD

8 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

RUBY DEWOLFE

GROOVIEST

CALEB ANNABEL

TEAGAN RICE

THIRD GRADE

KINDERGARDEN

WYLAND CROCKER

FIRST GRADE

KADE MASON

FOURTH GRADE

WILCO LAUCKHART

SECOND GRADE

INA STUART

FIFTH GRADE

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 9

COMMUNITY CALENDAR Visit soprissun.com to submit events

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM

MANA FOODS N AT U R A L F O O D S S T O R E

Whether it’s a fantastic dessert, a local artisan bread, or a gourmet ingredient you can’t live without....

Think of us for all of your holiday needs.

The Roaring Fork High School band performed a Winter Concert at the Carbondale Middle School the evening of Wednesday, Dec. 13. The Middle School band joined in for a couple of numbers as well. Photo by Victoria Felix, youth correspondent

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22

CHRISTMAS THEATRE Theatre Aspen presents “Once Upon a Time Whimsical Wintertime Tales,” best suited for kids 4-10 and their families, at the Hotel Jerome at 4pm. At 7pm, adults are invited for dinner and “A Christmas Carol Cabaret.” Both shows recur nightly through Dec. 23. Tickets and more info at www.theatreaspen.org

FAMILY SOLSTICE True Nature hosts storytime, crafts and yoga for all ages from 4 to 6pm. Details at www. truenaturehealingarts.com

BOOK CLUB The Third Thursday Book Club discusses “Love and Ruin” by Paula McLain at the Carbondale Library at 2pm.

Mana Foods 792 Hwy 133, Carbondale Open 7 days a week 10-6:30 Phone: 970-963-1137

CELEBRATE THE SEASONS FINEST AT MANA FOODS REGISTER TODAY!

Community Classes in Carbondale

CAMPUS CLOSED FOR HOLIDAYS Friday, 12/22 - Tuesday, 1/2

CROSS COUNTRY SKI LESSONS Beginner and Intermediate level classes in both Skate and Classic style at Spring Gulch Trails.

Various dates in January PILATES BLEND A popular workout class that targets specific muscles while engaging the entire body. All exercises focus on the core principles of Pilates.

Mon/Wed, 1-1:50pm, 1/8-2/28 FUNDRAISING FUNDAMENTALS An online class dedicated to nonprofits, board members and volunteers. This 3-evening class will focus on the basics of fundraising.

Tuesdays, 7-8:15pm, 1/16-1/30 QIGONG Simple movements that energize, and harmonize the internal organs and energy flow. A gentle practice that improves balance, flexibility, and muscle tone, while promoting relaxation and focus.

Wed., 10:30-11:30am, 1/17-4/3

FILM STUDIES Watch five curated films and examine some literary and technical terms, as well as some social issues to guide discussions.

Wed., 6-9pm, 1/17-2/21

TODDLER AND ME YOGALATES Yoga and pilates are combined in this playful class where you can connect and exercise with your baby/toddler aged 6 mos - 4 yrs Fridays, 9:30-10:30am, 1/19-2/9 HAND WOVEN BASKETS Learn the basics of basket weaving while creating a beautiful and functional “Jelly Jar” basket.

Monday, 9am-3pm, 2/5 BEGINNER OIL PAINTING Learn the basics of mixing and painting with water-based oil paints. Class includes exercises, paintings, hands-on practice and guidance. Supplies are provided.

Tuesdays, 1:30-4:30pm, 2/6-3/19 SPRING PLANTING IN THE ROCKIES How and when to plant for successful high altitude gardening.

Wednesday, 6-8pm, 3/6

FOR MORE INFO AND TO REGISTER...

coloradomtn.edu/community-education

Carbondale Lappala Center • 690 Colorado Ave • 963-2172

10 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

SENSORY-FRIENDLY SANTA Santa Claus, trained in sensoryfriendly practices, will greet anyone and everyone at The Collective in Snowmass Village tonight and tomorrow from 5 to 6pm.

SOLSTICE OFFERING True Nature hosts “We Walk but Towards the Stars: A Journey from Grief to Peace” from 6 to 7:30pm.

This event is by donation. RSVP at www.truenaturehealingarts.com SWEET ROOT Redstone General Store celebrates the solstice with Sweet Root, performing from 6 to 9pm. There will be soup and cocoa and funds raised will help the General Store transition into a nonprofit.

SOLSTICE CELEBRATION The Center for Human Flourishing celebrates the solstice with cacao, breathwork, a guided meditation and sound journey at the Third Street Center at 6:30pm.

Tickets at www.tcfhf.org CHANGEMAKER SERIES The Changemaker Speaker Series brings “The Helmsman: Songs and Stories from the Seven Seas,” a musical and educational presentation

by Andy Mann, the founder of SeaLegacy, to the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm. Tickets and more info at www.wheeleroperahouse.com CRYSTAL THEATRE The Crystal Theatre shows “Maestro” tonight and tomorrow at 7pm and Saturday with subtitles at 5pm.

Then, “The Boys in the Boat” screens Dec. 26-28 at 7pm.

SOLSTICE FLOW Ally Morrison welcomes the return of light with a special yoga class at Kula (1201 Main Street) from 9 to 10:15am. Drop-ins are welcome.

ART OPENING The Harvey Preston Gallery in Aspen hosts an opening reception for “SearchLight,” a collection of works by Robert Brinker, from 5 to 7pm with an artist talk at 6pm. The show will be on display through Jan. 12, 2024.

GARRETT YOUNG Steve’s Guitars presents the Garrett Young Collective at 8pm.

Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23

ECSTATIC DANCE Alya Howe and DJ Dustin Eli host an ecstatic dance at 13 Moons Ranch, south of Carbondale, from 6 to 8pm. Questions?

Contact alyahowe@me.com RALPH STEADMAN The Fat City Gallery in Aspen (415 East Hyman Avenue) hosts an opening reception for a Ralph Steadman exhibition from 6 to 10pm.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 24

LIBRARY CLOSURES All Garfield County libraries will be closed today, tomorrow and New Year’s Day.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 25

HOLIDAY MEETINGS The Meeting Place in Carbondale (981 Cowen Plaza) hosts holiday meetings on Christmas and New Year’s Day at 10am for anyone in recovery. Find a list of daily meetings at www.meetingplacecarbondale.org CHRISTMAS BUFFET The Hotel Colorado’s culinary team offers a delectable Christmas menu.

Reservations are required and can be made by calling 970-928-3785.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 26

‘SHE GONE’ Comedian Becky Robinson makes a stop on her “She Gone” tour at the Wheeler Opera House with two back-to-back shows at 6:30 and 9:30pm. Tickets at www. wheeleroperahouse.com

NOURISHMENT The Redstone General Store serves up tea and non-alcoholic elixirs, appetizers and desserts from 7pm to 12:30am.

NY BASH Rootbeer Richie & The Reveille perform a New Year’s Eve Bash at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27

MONDAY, JANUARY 1

SOL FUNDRAISER Stage of Life Theatre Company hosts a fundraiser cabaret at The Launchpad at 7pm. Doors open at 6pm. Find tickets at soltheatrecompany.org

ONGOING

HOLIDAY CHILDCARE Rocky Mountain Kid CLUBS invites youngsters 4 and up to join in its Jingle Jam childcare offering Dec. 27-29 and Jan. 2-3 from 8:30am to 4pm. More info at www.rockymtnkidclubs.org

YOGA TOAST Cari Eisenson and Tyler Lambuth host a yoga event with live music and a champagne toast at Kula (1201 Main Street) from 6 to 8pm. Tickets at www.kulayogaonmain.com BIG HEAD TODD Big Head Todd and the Monsters perform at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.wheeleroperahouse.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28 COMMUNITY DINNER The Redstone General Store serves up a community meal with live music from 4 to 8pm.

LEE ROCKER Grammy-nominated Stray Cats founder and upright slap bassist Lee Rocker performs at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.wheeleroperahouse.com

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 29

HOUSE OF VENUS Thunder River Theatre Company presents “House of Venus,” a fundraiser gala, at 7:30pm tonight and tomorrow. Tickets at www. thunderrivertheatre.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 30 SLOPESIDE SOIRÉE The Aspen Art Museum hosts a “Slopeside Soirée” benefit at 5:30pm. Tickets and more info at www.aspenartmuseum.org

OZOMATLI A Valley favorite, Ozomatli, performs at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm.

Tickets at www.wheeleroperahouse.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 31

SPRING GULCH The Mount Sopris Nordic Council celebrates the addition of the Marion Lot at Spring Gulch with coffee, cocoa and sweet treats from 11am to 1pm.

CARBONARO EFFECT The star of a popular series, “The Carbonaro Effect,” Michael Carbonaro performs a New Year’s Eve show at the Wheeler Opera House at 6pm. Tickets at www.wheeleroperahouse.com ALCOHOL-FREE NYE The 13 Moons Ranch south of Carbondale hosts a New Year's Eve extravaganza beginning at 6pm. There will be chocolate, empanadas, a shadow puppet show, vision boarding, music

by Sweet Root, a dance party and a midnight sound bath. Proceeds benefit the Land of Peace Art Village in Ghana.

2024 Begin the new year with intention setting at Kula (1201 Main Street) from 10am to noon, including live music, meditation prompts, 108 sun salutations, mimosas and OJ. Tickets at www.kulayogaonmain.com MEDICAL CONSULTATIONS “Health is not just about pills and procedures.” La Clínica del Pueblo offers free medical consultations. For details, call Dr. Feinsinger at 970-379-5718.

AA 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 WOMENS’ HEALTH Every first and third Tuesday, the Mobile Health Clinic will be parked on Gisella Way in Basalt from 10am to 2pm, providing free ultrasounds, STI testing and more. More info is at www.pregnancycolorado.org LGBTQ+ PEER SUPPORT YouthZone hosts LGBTQ+ youth peer support groups at CMC’s Glenwood Springs Blake Avenue campus every Tuesday at 4pm, and at TACAW in Willits every Wednesday at 3:30pm.

YARN GROUP Basalt Library hosts a weekly yarn group on Tuesdays at 5pm. All are welcome.

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.

UNDER THE SUN Join Sopris Sun correspondents and guests for Everything Under The Sun, airing every Thursday on KDNK at 4pm. Then, stay tuned for El Sol Habla, noticias en español.

GROUP RUN Independence Run and 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.

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 11

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GIVE WHERE YOU LIVE MATCHING GRANTS THROUGH DEC 31st!

An Informed Community is Empowered. No Matter What the Language.

Join our Effort to Inform, Inspire and Build Community by Fostering Diverse Voices in Local Journalism.

All Donations will be Matched $2 for $1 through December 31.

Mail A Check: PO Box 399, Carbondale, CO 81623 For More Info Contact: Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246 • Todd@SoprisSun.com

Thank You if you already Joined Our Effort. We still need to raise $34,600 to reach our 2023 Matches.

www.coloradogives.org/organization/TheSoprisStun

A 501(c)(3) Nonprofit. Building and Empowering Our Communities from Aspen to Parachute and Beyond. All Donations are Tax Deductible.

12 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

Sol del el

Conectando comunidades desde 2021

Valle

Volumen 2, Número 43 | 21 de deciembre - 27 de deciembre de 2023 de 2023

'El sistema está roto' Por Halle Zander Aspen Public Radio Traducción por Global Language Services

A principios de mes, abogados especializados en inmigración organizaron en Carbondale un seminario legal para unas 60 personas procedentes de Venezuela.

Muchos de los asistentes llegaron al valle de Roaring Fork este otoño y pueden acogerse al estatus de protección temporal (TPS).

La sesión cubrió el proceso de solicitud de TPS, pero las abogadas Claire Noone y Jennifer Smith también cubrieron los desafíos legales y las fallas en el sistema de inmigración de Estados Unidos.

Aquellos que llegaron a los Estados Unidos procedentes de Venezuela antes del 31 de julio de 2023 pueden ser elegibles para obtener el TPS dado el aumento de inestabilidad y falta de seguridad en Venezuela, con el cual se otorgan permisos de trabajo y cierta protección frente a la deportación.

Pero Noone dijo que, por desgracia, gran parte de la información sobre los requisitos y la forma de presentar la solicitud está en inglés.

"Se encuentra oculta tras barreras burocráticas de información que resultan incomprensibles para la gente", dijo Noone. "Así que intentamos que fuera sencillo: cómo hacerlo y qué hacer para asegurarse de que la solicitud sea sólida".

Representantes del grupo de migrantes pidieron el mes pasado apoyo legal a la ciudad de Carbondale porque la adquisición del TPS permitiría a muchos de ellos conseguir empleos estables, mantener a sus familias y depender menos de los servicios públicos.

Alex Sánchez es el presidente y director ejecutivo de la organización de defensa de los latinos Voces Unidas, con sede en Glenwood Springs. Ayudó a organizar el seminario para

Aproximadamente 60 refugiados de Venezuela se reunieron en Third Street Center de Carbondale el 7 de diciembre para aprender cómo solicitar el estatus de protección temporal. Las abogadas Claire Noone y Jennifer Smith dirigieron la presentación en español.

Foto por Halle Zander/ Aspen Public Radio

asegurarse de que los nuevos vecinos de Carbondale no sean estafados cuando buscan asesoramiento sobre sus solicitudes.

"Vemos muchos abusos, muchos fraudes", dijo Sánchez. "Y a veces les crea más problemas a largo plazo".

Sánchez trajo a Noone y Smith al centro comunitario para ayudar a aclarar la desinformación, y los abogados coincidieron en que ciertos requisitos hacen que la solicitud de TPS sea difícil de navegar sin apoyo.

"Cada formulario que entregas al gobierno de Estados Unidos tiene que estar en inglés, y tiene que ser 100% exacto", dijo Noone. "Usted afirma eso.

Y así, si hay algo que no entiendes, [eso es] otra barrera de entrada."

Noone dijo que el pago de la solicitud del TPS por primera vez requiere el pago de una tarifa de $545, y aunque recibir asesoramiento jurídico puede reforzar la solicitud, también supone incurrir en gastos adicionales.

"Es probable que te cueste entre 1,500 y 2,000 dólares porque no se trata sólo de enviarla, ¿verdad?". dijo

Smith. "Es como, 'Oh, ahora recibimos las notificaciones de recibo'. Si el gobierno dice 'Necesitamos más pruebas', entonces tenemos que lidiar con eso."

Sánchez dijo que Voces Unidas está dispuesto a ayudar con algunas de las tarifas utilizando su fondo de emergencia, pero no tienen suficiente dinero para todos.

Retos tras la presentación Incluso cuando alguien presenta su documentación correctamente, el Departamento de Seguridad Nacional dice que algunos casos se demoran más que otros para procesar.

Smith espera que se tarde entre tres y seis meses, pero los retrasos en todos los niveles del sistema de inmigración hacen que ese plazo sea incierto, incluso si los solicitantes tienen un familiar que pueda patrocinarlos.

"El sistema no funciona", afirma Smith. "No funciona.

Está anticuado. Ni siquiera podemos proteger a los más vulnerables".

Noone dijo que incluso cuando alguien recibe el

TPS, sólo es válido durante 18 meses, y tienen que seguir renovándolo en intervalos de 18 meses.

"Nunca va a proporcionar a nadie la seguridad suficiente para respirar hondo", dijo Noone. "Y no ofrece una vía hacia la ciudadanía. No ofrece un camino hacia la residencia.

En realidad sólo protege a las personas que ya están aquí físicamente procedentes de un país muy concreto durante un periodo de tiempo muy limitado."

Los venezolanos llegados no son las únicas personas en el Valle Roaring Fork y el oeste de Colorado que necesitan ayuda legal para sus casos de inmigración.

Smith dijo que su firma está manejando actualmente alrededor de 300 casos de inmigración con personas que buscan asilo o diferentes tipos de visas y tarjetas de residencia, y algunos de sus clientes se sienten frustrados porque el TPS no está diseñado para ellos.

"Alguien vino y dijo: 'He estado aquí 23 años. ¿Por qué no me dan esto?'". dijo Smith. "Y eso es realmente difícil de responder porque es

como, 'Bueno, el gobierno no creó el TPS para ti, ¿verdad?

Y eso no es justo. Eres dueño de una casa, tienes un trabajo, tienes hijos, pagas tus impuestos, haces todas estas cosas. Y no tengo una respuesta para ti'".

A pesar de las largas colas, las barreras lingüísticas y los precios, Noone y Smith tienen la esperanza de que el TPS pueda ser una solución temporal para muchos de los recién llegados de Venezuela.

De todas las designaciones, dicen que el TPS es la más fácil de obtener, y vieron a mucha gente en su presentación ansiosa por aprender sobre ella.

"Hay hambre de conocimiento, así que había mucha gente haciendo fotos de las diapositivas, tomando notas, susurrando a la persona de al lado, diciendo: 'Oh, creo que somos nosotros'", dijo Noone.

A principios de enero se celebrará un seminario de seguimiento para ayudar a los emigrantes en sus casos particulares y facilitar la transición a más de 100 personas que buscan una oportunidad en el valle de Roaring Fork.

OPINIÓN

Navegando entre sombras y luz

Desde La Clínica

Por Maria Judith Alvarez Quiroz

La depresión, es una entidad que a menudo se arrastra en la penumbra de la comprensión social, merece ser examinada con empatía y conocimiento ya que es muy común y lo más importante,¡es tratable!

Todo el mundo se siente triste a veces, especialmente después de una pérdida.

La depresión es diferente, es mucho más que un estado de tristeza pasajero y es más discapacitante ya que impacta profundamente en la vida de quienes lo experimentan. Es definida como un trastorno mental que afecta no solo el estado de ánimo, sino también el pensamiento, el comportamiento y la salud física.

El Dr. Feinsinger nos dice, la depresión es común y afecta al 7% de los estadounidenses en algún momento dado de su vida.

Puede ocurrir en personas de todas las edades, desde niños hasta ancianos. Es la causa más común de discapacidad en las personas de 15 y 45 años de edad.

Los síntomas usuales de la depresión son: tristeza prolongada, pérdida de energía, irritabilidad, un retraimiento social, pérdida de interés en actividades que antes eran placenteras, despertarse temprano en la mañana u otros trastornos del sueño, incluido dormir demasiado, perdida de apetito, mayor sensibilidad al dolor, emociones entumecidas, dificultad para concentrarse y tomar decisiones, sentimientos de culpa injustificados y pensamiento de muerte.

El único síntoma que tienen en común todas las personas con depresión es la ausencia de “entusiasmo por la vida”. En los niños puede manifestarse como problemas de comportamiento en el hogar y una disminución en el

rendimiento escolar. En los ancianos, la depresión puede simular a la demencia.

La depresión puede surgir por diversas razones, como resultado de eventos traumáticos, predisposición genética- una persona con antecedentes familiares de depresión, ansiedad o abuso de sustancias tienen un mayor riesgo-, aunque la biología de la depresión no se entiende completamente, los niveles bajos de neurotransmisores cerebrales como la serotonina, la norepinefrina y la dopamina parecen desempeñar un papel muy importante. Los antidepresivos aumentan los niveles de estos neurotransmisores.

La depresión no solo afecta al individuo que la experimenta, sino también a quienes lo rodean, incluyendo compañeros de trabajo, amigos y miembros de la familia, afectando las relaciones interpersonales.

La depresion puede ser mortal y la decision de la persona deprimida al cometer suicidio tambien afecta a sus seres queridos por el resto de sus vidas.

En el 2014, mas de 42,826 estadounidenses perdieron la vida por suicidio, y en la mitad de estos casos se utilizaron arma de fuego.

La depresión es tratable mediante consejería o antidepresivos.

Desafortunadamente, el 80% de las personas deprimidas no buscan ayuda. Muchas personas toleran bien los antidepresivos, aunque algunas se quejan de los efectos secundarios. Sin embargo, al evaluar el riesgo/beneficio los efectos secundarios suelen ser leves y el beneficio de no seguir deprimido los supera.

Existe evidencia clara de que el ejercicio regular, tanto aeróbico como de fuerza, ayuda a prevenir y tratar la depresión. Una dieta antiinflamatoria rica en antioxidantes también ayuda.

Los alimentos específicos que se ha demostrado que ayudan a prevenir y tratar la depresión son las nueces, las semillas, las legumbres, las verduras y varias especias, incluido el azafrán.

Las personas deprimidas deben evitar el alcohol, que empeora los problemas para

dormir y la depresión.

Si tienes síntomas de depresión por más de una o dos semanas, no tienes que seguir sufriendo.

Primero prueba los cambios en el estilo de vida mencionados anteriormente, pero si no te sientes mejor después de algunos días, consulta a tu doctor de cabecera o a un experto en salud mental. Los psicólogos y consejeros no pueden recetar medicamentos. Pero los médicos clínicos y los psiquiatras sí.

La falta de comprensión puede obstaculizar la búsqueda de ayuda y perpetuar el sufrimiento silencioso. Así que debemos inspirar una comprensión más profunda y compasiva de aquellos que la experimentan, y así contribuir a despejar las sombras que envuelven la depresión y construir puentes de empatía y solidaridad.

En la Clínica del Pueblo realizamos dos cuestionarios sencillos que nos ayudan a identificar los síntomas de depresión y podemos ofrecer ayuda y tratamiento, para una consulta médica gratis llama al 970- 948-1072.

CONVOCATORIA DE CARBONDALE

JUNTA DE SÍNDICOS NOMINACIONES Elecciones ordinarias Ciudad de Carbondale

La ciudad de Carbondale celebrará elecciones municipales ordinarias el 2 de abril de 2024. Se eligen tres asientos de la Junta de Síndicos (todos los términos son de cuatro años). Aquellos que deseen postularse para Síndico pueden recoger una Petición de Nominación a partir del 2 de enero de 2024, lunes-viernes 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. de la secretaria del ayuntamiento, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO.

Cada vez que usas tu tarjeta de débito Loyalty*, Alpine Bank dona diez centavos a las causas comunitarias que son importantes para ti. ¡Solicita tu tarjeta hoy mismo! *Las tarjetas de débito de Alpine Bank están disponibles sin cuota anual para personas con una cuenta de cheques de Alpine Bank.

INDEPENDENCIA • COMUNIDAD • COMPASIÓN • INTEGRIDAD • LEALTAD

Requisitos: Todos los candidatos deben ser un elector cualificado de la ciudad, un ciudadano de Estados Unidos, tener al menos 18 años de edad y haber residido en la ciudad de Carbondale durante un año consecutivo inmediatamente anterior a la fecha de la elección.

Las peticiones deben devolverse a la secretaria del ayuntamiento antes de las 5:00 p.m del lunes 22 de enero de 2024.

La ciudad de Carbondale es un organismo gubernamental local no partidista, por lo que no existe designación de afiliación partidista.

Para más información, póngase en contacto con la secretaria municipal Jessica Markham en el 970-510-1206 o en jmarkham@carbondaleco.net

ES.ALPINEBANK.COM • MEMBER FDIC

14 • el Sol del Valle • soprissun.com/espanol/ • 21 de deciembre - 27 de deciembre de 2023

OPINIÓN

El Rincón del Sargento Por Carlos Cornejo

La vida, esa fugaz y efímera existencia que compartimos, transcurre a una velocidad vertiginosa, casi imperceptible. Un día, nos encontramos inmersos en la inocencia de la niñez, y al siguiente, despertamos envueltos en el aroma reconfortante del vaporub, con un leve dolor en la espalda que nos recuerda el inexorable paso del tiempo. Las fechas que marcan nuestro calendario -cumpleaños, aniversarios, navidades, y años nuevosse suceden unas tras otras,

Un mensaje sencillo como hojas arrastradas por el viento del otoño.

En este incesante transcurrir de los días, lo que perdura en nuestra memoria es el cálido abrazo de una abuela, el dulce sabor de las palabras compartidas en una conversación amena, y el eco resonante de las risas y llantos que, como visitantes fugaces, han marcado nuestro andar por la vida.

La verdadera riqueza de nuestra existencia no se mide en términos materiales, sino en la calidad del tiempo que generosamente compartimos con los demás. Al final de nuestro viaje, cuando miramos hacia atrás, lo que realmente atesoramos son esos momentos entregados a otros, esos instantes en los que nuestras palabras de aliento, amor y apoyo han sido faros de luz en la oscuridad.

Estos recuerdos forman un tapiz rico y variado, tejido con hilos de alegría, tristeza, triunfos, derrotas y amores perdidos. Cada hilo representa

un momento, una persona, una experiencia que nos ha moldeado. Desde las primeras palabras balbuceadas hasta las conversaciones profundas del ocaso de nuestra vida, cada interacción es una pincelada en el lienzo de nuestra existencia.

El tiempo, ese recurso finito y precioso, es el regalo más valioso que podemos ofrecer y recibir. En la era de la tecnología y la comunicación instantánea, es fácil olvidar el poder de una conversación cara a cara, de una carta escrita a mano, de una llamada telefónica inesperada.

Estos gestos, aunque pequeños, tienen la capacidad de conectar corazones y almas, trascendiendo la distancia y el tiempo. ¿Has tomado un momento recientemente para expresar a tus seres queridos cuánto significan para ti? ¿Les has recordado que estás ahí para ellos, en los momentos de alegría y en los de dificultad? ¿Has compartido con ellos la diferencia que han hecho en tu vida?

No dejes pasar la oportunidad de agradecer, de expresar tus sentimientos, pues nunca sabemos cuándo será la última vez que podamos hacerlo. Las palabras no dichas a menudo pesan en nuestro corazón como una carga silenciosa.

Un simple mensaje, enviado en el momento oportuno, puede ser un bálsamo para el alma, un destello de luz en la penumbra de la soledad.

Vivimos en un mundo bullicioso, lleno de distracciones, donde la soledad se esconde en medio del ruido y el ajetreo. En esos momentos de aislamiento, recibir un mensaje puede ser como encontrar un oasis en medio del desierto, un faro que ilumina nuestro día. Tú puedes ser esa luz para alguien hoy.

Mientras nos preparamos para la Navidad, a menudo nos enfocamos en grandes proyectos o gestos caritativos, olvidando que son las pequeñas acciones, las más sencillas, las que pueden marcar una gran diferencia.

Un mensaje que alegra, que consuela, que apoya, que

reanima, que transmite cariño, que dibuja una sonrisa, puede ser el regalo más valioso que podemos ofrecer.

En este mundo acelerado, no olvidemos el poder transformador de un simple mensaje, una palabra de aliento, un gesto de amor.

Porque al final, lo que verdaderamente importa, lo que nos llevamos con nosotros, son esos momentos compartidos, esas palabras dichas desde el corazón.

Nuestros recuerdos se convierten en el legado que dejamos atrás, historias que contarán generaciones futuras.

Cada sonrisa, cada lágrima, cada abrazo, es una huella indeleble en el corazón de quienes nos rodean. Al final del día, lo que perdura, lo que realmente importa, es el amor que hemos dado y recibido.

Si se te ha hecho tarde para comprar regalos o no sabes qué regalarle a esa persona que aprecias, regálale un poco de tiempo o un simple mensaje escrito desde el corazón, que, aunque económico, puede ser lo más preciado que podemos dar y recibir.

CHISME DEL PUEBLO Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro

Presupuesto de incendios El Distrito de Protección Contra Incendios Rurales y de Carbondale (CRFPD por sus siglas en inglés) presentó sus propuestas a la audiencia el 13 de diciembre. Los miembros del público se presentaron para demostrar sus preocupaciones acerca del distrito coleccionando impuestos de propiedad aumentados sin ajustar su Mill Levy.

Si se disminuye el Mill Levy, se podría compensar el incremento de impuestos de propiedad para los residentes del distrito. El proyecto de presupuesto del 2024 enumera los ingresos de propiedad del distrito a $6.986,563 comparado con los $4,586,885 del 2023. CRFPD votará por el proyecto de presupuestos y un ajuste del Mill Levy en su reunión regular del 10 de enero en Carbondale Fire Headquarters, 301 Meadow Drive, a las 11 a.m. Visite www.carbondalefire.org/about-us/ board-of-directors para obtener una copia del proyecto de presupuestos y para obtener un enlace de Zoom para asistir a la reunión virtual.

Se busca ayuda El pueblo de Carbondale está buscando contratar a un coordinador de refugio temporal hasta marzo para proporcionar servicios y recursos a la población de refugiados recién llegados sin alojamiento. La posición supervisará las operaciones del día a día en varios refugios y requiere fluidez en inglés y en español. La paga es de $50 a $75 por 20 a 40 horas a la semana. Si está interesado, envíe una carta de presentación y un currículum a colin@thirdstreetcenter.net

Puma Han habido varios reportes de un león de montaña lastimado en el área Hendrick Drive de Carbondale atacando a la caza menor y al menos una mascota de casa. Sin embargo, los Parques y Vida Silvestre de Colorado solamente recibieron un reporte relacionado en septiembre. The Sopris Sun está investigando la historia e invita a los residentes cerca de Hendrick Drive a enviar información relacionada con estos incidentes a james@soprissun.com

Tesoro nacional La secretaria interior de los EE.UU, Deb Haaland, designó a las Cavernas de Glenwood y Iron Mountain Hot Springs un Sitio Nacional Natural la semana pasada. Como fue reportado por el Post Independent, Steve y Jeanne Beckley, dueños de estas propiedades y los negocios correspondientes, aplicaron para la designación hace más de 10 años.

Glenwood Springs Citizens’ Alliance está esperanzado de que esta acción pueda ayudar a prevenir una expansión propuestas de la mina de caliza vecina, operada por una compañía bajo revisión federal debido a problemas de incumplimiento de permisos.

Actividades de invierno El departamento de recreación de Glenwood Springs está organizando una variedad de talleres bilingües para las edades de 5 a 14 años, con becas disponibles, del 2 de enero al 8 de enero. Los temas incluyen rompecabezas, marionetas, animación y más. Visite www.bit.ly/glenwoodrecarts para ver más detalles.

"Sincronías" parte 53, por Leonardo Occhipinti

el Sol del Valle • Conector de comunidad • 121 de deciembre - 27 de deciembre de 2023 • 15

Glenwood recibió casi $50 millones en subvenciones para el Proyecto South Bridge Por Andrea Teres-Martinez Post Independent Traducción por Edgar Barrantes

La Administración Biden-Harris otorgó casi $50 millones en fondos de subvención a la ciudad de Glenwood Springs para el proyecto del Puente Sur, anunció el martes el Departamento de Transporte de Estados Unidos.

El proyecto South Bridge construiría un puente sobre el río Roaring Fork, brindando acceso entre la autopista 82 de Colorado y los vecindarios al este de Airport Road, según la ciudad de Glenwood. El proyecto también pavimentará una segunda ruta de evacuación que conectará a los residentes del Corredor Sur con la Carretera 82.

La subvención de $49.68 millones fue uno de los 18 proyectos financiados por el Programa de Subvenciones para Transporte Terrestre Rural. El propósito del programa es ayudar a las comunidades de los Estados Unidos a completar proyectos de transporte que aumentarán la movilidad, mejorarán la seguridad y generarán crecimiento económico regional en las áreas rurales, ya que los caminos rurales enfrentan una tasa desproporcionadamente alta de muertes y muchos están en malas condiciones, según el Departamento de Transporte de los Estados Unidos.

La ciudad de Glenwood fue una de los 174 solicitantes que compitieron por los $645 millones en fondos disponibles del programa este año, que apenas está en

su segundo año. En total, se prevé que el programa invierta un total de $2.000 millones de dólares hasta 2026.

“Es fantástico ver a Colorado competir tan bien por nuevos e importantes fondos federales para infraestructura", dijo el gobernador Jared Polis en un comunicado de prensa de la ciudad el jueves. “South Bridge es un ejemplo de un proyecto importante que podría haberse retrasado muchos años más sin este financiamiento; con él, Glenwood Springs crecerá de una manera más segura y resiliente. Agradecemos a nuestros socios federales y locales por hacer una prioridad traer estos dólares a Colorado".

Además de reducir significativamente las distancias de desplazamiento, el puente también proporcionará “salida y escape críticos” para aproximadamente 4.000 residentes, que anteriormente solo tenían una ruta de escape viable, en caso de un incendio forestal.

South Bridge ha estado en obras durante más de 20 años, según la ciudad. “Cuando ocurrió el incendio de Coal Seam en 2002, comenzamos a tener conversaciones activas sobre el proyecto", dijo la alcaldesa Ingrid Wussow.

Debido a que el proyecto está solo en un 90% de ingeniería, lo que significa que están en la marca del 90% de los planes finalizados, Wussow dijo que la ciudad aún no tiene una cifra definitiva sobre cuánto costará el proyecto general.

“Con el entorno actual en el que nos

SE BUSCA EDITOR/A EDITOR WANTED

encontramos, con aumentos de costos y licitaciones de construcción, realmente no tenemos una buena respuesta para eso (los costos) en este momento", dijo el director de Obras Públicas, Matthew Langhorst. Aunque no es una cifra definitiva, dijo que el proyecto podría rondar los 75 millones de dólares.

“Para ser honesto, esta es la fase de luna de miel de la subvención", dijo Wussow. “Esto es como, ‘Tenemos el dinero.’ ¿ Y ahora qué?”

Wussow dijo que la ciudad y otros socios tienen una contrapartida del 20%, lo que para una subvención de $50 millones significa que serían responsables de igualar aproximadamente $10 millones, lo que suma un total de casi $60 millones en financiación después de esta subvención.

“Si el proyecto aumenta o disminuye, la ciudad, como una especie de fiduciaria de la subvención, tendrá que pagar el 20% del costo", dijo Wussow.

Este es el segundo año que la ciudad solicita la subvención.

“Hemos estado yendo a D.C. durante años con prácticamente la misma petición", dijo Wussow. “El año pasado llegaron treinta solicitudes para la Subvención de Transporte de Superficie Rural. Doce de ellos fueron financiados, y ninguno de ellos estaba en Colorado...

Necesitamos hablar para asegurarnos de que, si hay un incendio, podamos sacar a la gente de este corredor y que, a diario, podamos mantener el tráfico funcionando un poco más eficientemente".

El administrador de la ciudad, Steve Boyd, dijo que la ciudad aprendió mucho después del primer proceso de solicitud de la subvención, después del cual el consejo legal de la ciudad pudo recomendar una solicitud más competitiva.

“De hecho, nos animaron a volver a presentar la solicitud", dijo Wussow.

“Esa fue una muy buena señal para nosotros al iniciar el ciclo de subvenciones".

En términos de cronograma, Langhorst dijo que cree que la subvención incluirá estipulaciones sobre cuándo se debe completar el proyecto del Puente Sur. “Ni siquiera sé cuánto tiempo nos llevará implementar la subvención", dijo Langhorst. “Algunos de los plazos se basarán en lo que requiere la subvención... Por determinar, porque hace siete días descubrimos que recibimos $50 millones de dólares, pero no sabemos cuáles son las estipulaciones sobre los $50 millones de dólares".

Wussow dijo que la ciudad que recibirá la subvención no afectará sus planes de arrendar potencialmente parte del aeropuerto al grupo sin fines de lucro KGWS Airpark. Langhorst estimó que el aeropuerto tendría que cerrar durante 12 a 18 meses para completar el proyecto. “Él (el asesor legal) ya ha estado en conversaciones con el grupo sin fines de lucro", dijo Wussow. “Todos están conversando de manera muy abierta y transparente sobre cómo hacer que ambos funcionen".

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Al final sólo conservaremos lo que amamos; sólo amaremos lo que comprendemos; y sólo comprenderemos lo que nos han enseñado - Baba Dioum

16 • el Sol del Valle • soprissun.com/espanol/ • 21 de deciembre - 27 de deciembre de 2023

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wheeleroperahouse.com THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 17

THEATRE REVIEW

SoL closes out the year with ‘A Christmas Story ’

By Gus Richardson Youth Correspondent Editor’s note: “A Christmas Story” is no longer running, but it has become a tradition that youth correspondent Gus Richardson writes a review of SoL Theatre’s productions.

I was lucky enough to attend the final showing of SoL Theatre’s “A Christmas Story,” and it was one of the better shows I’ve seen this year. It was full of funny moments balanced with genuine heartfelt sentiments. It’s one thing to act in a comedy, but it takes a lot of skill to execute real emotion in that same space.

Now, to get more specific ... The costumes were amazing (a consistent “thread” in SoL’s productions). The guises placed me directly into the universe of the show and also informed me about the characters and their personalities. Every outfit seemed as though a lot of thought had been put into it.

Another fantastic aspect was the inclusion of musical numbers in the show. At multiple points throughout, a group of “carolers” would come on stage to perform schmaltzy ‘50s-esque covers of Christmas songs, which were all really well done. The singers in question absolutely rocked the socks off of the audience, and it may have been my favorite part of the whole thing.

Moving on, the visual humor was very funny. For example, early in the show Ralph’s dad gets into a tussle with the dogs next door; and when he comes in with the mail it’s clearly ripped and chewed. Then, near the end of the show, Ralph meets a mall Santa who has a massive tag on his back which reads “SANTA COSTUME.” It’s all very cute and very funny, adding more detail and charm to the show.

The real star of this show is the emotional vulnerability it represents. The story’s most compelling moments come when the family’s love for one another shines through; whether that’s Ralph’s mother coyly reserving information from his father, Ralph’s father secretly purchasing Ralph the BB gun he wants so dearly or Ralph’s parents both apologizing for the ways in which they upset each other at the end of the show.

At the end, it becomes clear that “A Christmas Story” isn’t really about Ralph, or his parents or even an official Red Ryder, carbine action, 200-shot, range model air rifle, with a compass in the stock and even tells time. Rather, it’s a story about love and how through stress, heartache and the scariest time of year (for some), we can make it through by loving one another and letting the people dear to us know how much we love them.

For more information about SoL Theatre, visit www.soltheatrecompany.org

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18 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

Agemian Badgett, who played the role of The Old Man, Ralph’s dad, glances at the camera after taking a bow with his castmates.

Photo by Gus Richardson

The Human Library Project arrives in Carbondale

By Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editor

The Human Library Project is a global movement with a simple slogan: “unjudge someone.” Headquartered in Denmark, this international nonprofit supports virtual and in-person events where “readers can borrow human beings serving as open books and have conversations they would not normally have access to,” the Human Library website (www.humanlibrary. org) describes. “Every human book from our bookshelf represents a group in our society that is often subjected to prejudice, stigmatization or discrimination because of their lifestyle, diagnosis, belief, disability, social status, ethnic origin, etc.”

“Menneskebiblioteket” as it is called in Danish, began in 2000. “The original event was open eight hours a day for four days straight, and featured over 50 different titles,” the website continues.

Nearly three years ago, Carbondale Age-Friendly Community Initiative (now Age-Friendly Carbondale) planted the seed with Garfield County Public Library District (GCPLD) to bring the Human Library Project to the Valley.

According to Frank Sgambati, an active member of Age-Friendly Carbondale, the intent is to address our country’s deepening divisions through non-judgemental listening. “I think all of us feel on some level like, wow, what’s happening?” He said, “We want

Illustration by Sofie Koski

to make sure we continue to have an open society, talking to one another, learning from one another, I kind of feel like that’s slipping away.”

The first event in what GCPLD hopes will become a series will be hosted at the Carbondale Library in partnership with Tom Karrel Coaching, At Our Honest and the Aspen Institute. Six “books” have been trained by the Human Library Project, representing a span of life experiences often

stigmatized: such as having had an addiction, been incarcerated, suffered a spinal cord injury, had an abortion, being transgender or undocumented.

The idea is to reveal a person, with all of their complexities, beneath each label.

“We’re not leaving any questions off the table,” said Alex Garcia-Bernal, GCPLD education and events manager.

There will, however, be ground rules to assure respectful conversation. For example, if a person is uncomfortable

with a question, they may respond, “I haven’t quite published that yet.” One rule for the participating “books” is to no longer be in crisis, to be able to talk openly about their experiences.

Each attendee during the event will have the opportunity to speak with three “books” in small groups for about 30 minutes each, with facilitation by Tom Karrel, creator of the The Lost Art of Random Conversations series.

Neither can participants preselect a book, Sgambati informed. “We’re there to learn and listen, not judge.”

In terms of future events, potentially more controversial topics will be considered, but also lighter topics with broad appeal, like conversing with a beekeeper.

Carbondale was chosen to host the first event because of the town’s generally open-minded disposition.

If all goes well, the library will try to host three to four of these events per year, receiving suggestions for new topics to explore. “It could be uncomfortable for some people,” Sgambati admitted, but the idea is to bring an open mind and open heart and “just listen.”

The event takes place on Jan. 28 from 10am to 1pm. It is free, but limited to 30 participants. There will be interpretation available and a standby list will be kept in case cancellations free up spots. Sign up early at www. bit.ly/human-library-carbondale

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 19

Rams basketball teams conclude pre-holiday slate

By John Stroud Sopris Sun Correspondent Playing up in competition against 4A and 5A teams to close out the preholiday schedule, the Roaring Fork High School (RFHS) boys and girls basketball teams now have their eyes on the 3A Western Slope League slate come the new year.

The Rams girls are off to a 3-2 start, scoring a win over Basalt, 47-27, to open the Basalt Tournament on Dec. 13. That was followed by a 62-33 loss to Kent Denver, currently ranked fifth in the state for 4A, and a close 48-39 loss to 4A Moffat County in Saturday’s third-place game.

Head coach Mike Vidakovich is confident in his team’s skills when it comes time to face off against the 3A league competition.

“Kent’s a very good team, and we won’t likely see another team like that until the playoffs,” Vidakovich said.

“Those last two games especially were good for us and will better prepare us for league play.”

Against Moffat, several Roaring Fork turnovers gave the Bulldogs a big advantage early on. But the Rams won every quarter from there on out to make it close.

“The girls know they have to cut down on the turnovers to win those games,” Vidakovich said. “They want to play fast, but sometimes they need to slow down their heads a little bit.”

Highlights for the Rams included 12-point performances for junior Carly Crownhart and freshman Riley Bevington versus Basalt, and 13 points and 10 rebounds for sophomore Nikki Tardif in the Moffat County game.

The Roaring Fork boys are off to a rougher start, going 1-6 through the early stretch with the lone win coming on Dec. 8, 63-33 over Brush. Prior to that, the Rams had a hard-fought game against 4A Rifle on Dec. 6, falling by just two points, 66-64.

That was followed by Basalt Tournament losses to the host Longhorns, 70-58, to Kent Denver, 9127, and to 5A Montrose, 57-24.

A tough early season schedule should better prepare the Rams boys for the 3A league, head coach Jason Kreiling said.

“These teams are a big jump from what we will normally be playing as far as competition goes,” he said.

“That helps when we play our league opponents.”

Scoring support behind senior Noel Richardson is what the team has to work on, he said.

“Especially if Noel has an off night, someone has to step up,” Kreiling said, noting that no Ram scored more than six points against Montrose on Saturday.

Richardson had 19 points against Basalt, with 11 and 10 coming from sophomores Lucas Carballeira and

20 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

Ethan Wilson, respectively. Richardson had 12 against Kent Denver.

Both Rams teams will have some time in the gym over the holiday break to fine tune things before beginning the new year with a flurry of league games, Jan. 10 at Meeker and at home in Carbondale for back-to-back games on Jan. 12 and 13 versus North Fork and Grand Valley.

Swim, wrestling seasons under way The combined Glenwood Springs High School girls swimming and Basalt High School boys and girls wrestling teams include several Carbondale athletes from Roaring Fork and Colorado Rocky Mountain School (CRMS).

The Demons swim team is off to a 4-0 team start behind senior sprint standouts Amelie Ogilby from CRMS and Adelyn Newton from Glenwood.

The seniors lead a group of eight swimmers with early qualifications to the state 3A championship in February, head coach Steve Vanderhoof said. Also on the team this year are RFHS senior Lucianna Phillips, junior homeschooler Isabella Moon from Redstone, and CRMS swimmers Rowan Wolfson, Penelope White and Laia Ogilby.

Meanwhile, Basalt’s wrestling teams have a few meets under their belts heading into the new year.

Competing at the West Grand

Roaring Fork High School senior Lucianna Phillips, swimming for the Glenwood Lady Demons team, makes her way to a sixth-place finish in the 100 breaststroke at the Montrose Recreation Center at a Dec. 16 meet.

Courtesy photo

Invitational last Saturday, Basalt’s Roaney Requeno won his firstplace match at 126 pounds over Rangely’s Ronny Anderson with a fall at 3 minutes, 13 seconds. Carlos Valenzuela took second at 138 pounds, falling in the championship match to Buena Vista’s Caleb Camp in 1:02.

Basalt’s lady wrestlers were at the Western Slope Showdown on Dec. 8-9, where Emely Mejia Garcia won her Round 3 100-pound bout over Alamosa’s Leah Pintor by fall in just 22 seconds. At 145 pounds, Roselyne Bernal pinned Bayfield’s Lucy Porter in 1:31.

GARFIELD COUNTY REPORT

Library malcontents keep at it, fence at St. Finnbar blocks angler access

By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun Correspondent Trisha O’Grady, John Lepkowski and Robin Pruett were out in force at Monday’s meeting to register their ongoing complaints about the Garfield County Public Library District board and a series of Manga books at the Silt Library. O’Grady said that her local petition has garnered 1,315 signatures, acknowledging that the library board has already responded to the petition and made its decision regarding the books in question.

She presented four changes she wants from the library board, including scheduling board meetings for evening hours, extending the public comment period during board meetings to 30 minutes, live streaming and recording the meetings and allowing participation via Zoom. She also wants the board to check for IDs at meetings to make sure those attending are from the district in which the meeting is being held. (The library’s website states that board meetings are “free and open to the public.”)

Then, O’Grady went after

"There goes the neighborhood" library investments. “They are sitting on $13 million,” she said. “Why are they sitting on that kind of money?” she asked. “Why isn’t it brought back to the taxpayers?” She said she would not support a mill levy for the library again.

“And, I’m going to make it vocal that nobody else should either,” she added.

In an email to The Sopris Sun, the library’s executive director, Jamie LaRue, said that the library is very limited in what it can invest in. “At this time, our entire investment portfolio is with Colotrust,” he wrote.

Colotrust.com states, “COLOTRUST is a statutory trust organized and existing under the laws of the State of Colorado and is intended solely for the use of Colorado local governments.”

LaRue added that the library is investing its portion of the oil and gas revenues from the past two years.

“We're investing what we're not spending, knowing that those revenues are projected to fall sometime after 2025,” he wrote. “The last time we saw those revenues drop, we wound up laying off 30% of our workforce, so we are

naturally conservative in our spending and savings.”

Lepkowski told the BOCC he’s learned from professionals that “most sex offenders are addicted to pornography” and he considers the Manga books at the Silt Library to be “grooming children.” For that reason, he added, the library is not safe for children unless he checks out those books, which he said he did in January for three months.

“I got disgusted, took my gym bag there and took 32 of the pornographic books out,” he said. Lepkowski said he was fined $535 for the books. He returned them because he wanted his library privileges back.

Other news…

In addition to updates on local mental health, the Public Health Improvement Plan, the county housing authority and other items, the BOCC heard a request to remove a fence blocking a longtime, public fishing easement. According to a letter signed by local anglers, the Ranch at Roaring Fork (RRF) built an 8-foot fence topped with barbed wire in 2019, allegedly blocking an easement that was granted in

2000 during the creation of the St. Finnbar subdivision.

Anglers say the fence blocks access to the only parcel of public land between Basalt and Carbondale, turning it into a private inholding. A civil lawsuit about the issue is pending.

The owner of Lot 6 in the St. Finnbar subdivision said he is unable to access the river because of the fence.

He’s also worried about wildlife since the fence sits in a floodplain and extends to the water. The owner of Lot 7 said that Garfield County revoked his building permit because the fence, which he said he did not build, is on his land. He asked the BOCC to reinstate his building permit.

“Well, if that's on your property, I think you have the right to take it down again,” said Commissioner Jankovsky, speaking unofficially. “This is something that this commissioner would do.”

The BOCC voted to allow the building permit on Lot 7 to move forward and to have county code enforcement staff look into the fence and signs in light of a possible land use violation. The discussion is continued to the Jan. 8, 2024 regular meeting.

SCHOOL DISTRICT REPORT

Board responds to drug concerns

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent At the Dec. 13 Roaring Fork School District board meeting, Interim Superintendent Dr. Anna Cole said, “We do have an increasing concern regarding the presence, use, abuse and transmission of illegal narcotics, like cocaine, opioids, fentanyl, at our high schools.”

In her superintendent update, she shared what was discussed at a meeting with the District Wellness Committee about three weeks ago.

“The topic of conversation which was prioritized by community members was on substance use. The takeaways from that conversation and what we heard from participants, who reflect the diversity of our community as part of that District Wellness Committee, were that we needed to provide more parent education opportunities and outreach around drug prevention, education and intervention, and also some pushes from partners that we need to use them more in our efforts,” Cole said.

A Dec. 15 press release from district offices stated the district will employ a range of strategies focused on enhancing

awareness, delivering education and bolstering intervention and enforcement at the high school level. A key measure to be instituted is increasing access to life-saving resources, such as Narcan/ naloxone, to ensure its availability in every high school classroom, the press release stated.

“We are planning to escalate a lot of our strategies around prevention, education and intervention, and considering some additional enforcement strategies to really work toward keeping our schools safe for our students,” Cole continued. “And we really are looking for community support and engagement to talk through what works, what we're missing and consider adopting new strategies — things like canine units, or drug-sniffing dogs, to identify where narcotics might be in our schools.”

The district has formed an internal task force to expand prevention education for students, parents and staff. Additionally, the district plans community education forums in January to discuss lethal drugs and explore multi-tiered strategies for student safety, including the potential use of drug-sniffing dogs.

“We'll also have listening sessions

Illustration by Sofie Koski

at all our high schools for our students, and we really want to hear community concerns, questions and recommendations about our current strategies and some of the ones under consideration,” Cole said.

She emphasized student safety as the top priority and encouraged collaborative conversations with stakeholders during upcoming

community sessions scheduled from 6 to 8pm on Jan. 17 at Glenwood Springs High School, Jan. 18 at Basalt High School and Jan. 23 at Roaring Fork High School. Meetings at 6pm will be in Spanish, and 7pm will be in English, with language interpretation provided at each meeting. Reminders for these events will be disseminated through staff and community newsletters.

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 21

GUEST

OPINION

By Will Hodges

A few days after Hamas’ Oct. 7 atrocious attacks on Israel, I wrote a letter to the Aspen Daily News arguing that the world was about to witness Israel punish the 2.3 million people of Gaza. Collective punishment is a war crime under the Geneva Conventions, as is denying food, water and medicine. I argued that Americans had a special duty to prevent such an outcome as Israel’s oldest and staunchest supporter. I take no pleasure in being right.

Israel’s war, which it simultaneously claims is self-defense and, in Netanyahu’s words, “mighty vengeance,” has killed 19,754 Gazans, including 7,729 children and 5,153 women. That is nearly one in every 100 Gazans. Eighty-five percent of Gazans are displaced. Almost half of Gazans were malnourished before Oct. 7. Now, there is virtually no food, water or medical care. Aid groups say the level

Two wrongs don’t make a right

of humanitarian aid entering can barely meet the minimal needs of 10% in Gaza.

Desperate people are now storming aid trucks at the Rafah crossing, devouring the food before it can be distributed to the neediest. The head of the U.N. Refugee and Works Agency warns of “social collapse.”

What was the reaction of the leader of the free world? On Dec. 8, the U.N. Security Council voted on a fifth ceasefire resolution. The vote was 13 to 1, with the U.S. voting alone against a ceasefire and using its veto power to block the resolution.

The U.K. abstained.

Again on Dec. 12, the U.S. voted no within the U.N. General Assembly; 153 countries were in favor of a ceasefire and only 10 were opposed, with 23 abstentions.

U.S. officials claim the resolutions don’t sufficiently condemn Hamas or affirm Israel’s right to self-defense.

They argue a ceasefire would only benefit Hamas, giving it time to regroup and plan new attacks. Arguing that only Hamas would benefit from a ceasefire is astonishing, when the world watches Israeli bombs kill and maim children, women, families, health care workers, journalists and U.N. staff, and while hospitals cease functioning and 2.3 million people face starvation and disease.

Israeli Defense Forces dropped 6,000 bombs in the first week alone, according to its own post on X (formerly Twitter). In comparison,

the U.S. dropped 7,400 bombs on Afghanistan in the year of its most intense bombing. Gaza is .05% the size of Afghanistan. The New York Times reported in a story on Nov. 25, titled “Gaza Civilians, Under Israeli Barrage, Are Being Killed at Historic Pace” that one would have to go back to the heaviest bombing of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, or even further to Vietnam or WWII, to find comparable levels of bombing and rates of death.

Biden officials would like us to believe they are noble guardians of Israel’s right to self-defense in a world stacked against it.

Anti-semitism is a terrible and old scourge and there is no doubt antisemitic attacks are on the rise. But, we must be discerning and based in fact. Criticizing any country’s foreign policy does not mean condemning its people, culture or heritage.

Accusations of anti-semitism are being used to silence critics of a violent and illegal 75-year project to supplant Palestinians from their homeland. I cannot possibly settle the debate over right and wrong when it comes to this conflict in 900 words.

I will just point out the uncanny continuity between the words of the founders of Zionism and the facts on the ground today.

Just to take one example, Theodore Herzl began to outline what it would look like to create a Zionist state smack dab in the middle of 1 million Palestinian Arabs.

www.theorchardlife.com 22 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

“We must expropriate gently the private property… We shall try to spirit the penniless population across the border… both the process of expropriation and the removal of the poor must be carried out discreetly and circumspectly.”

We are being asked to believe that Israel reserves the right to kill 20 times, 30 times, 40 times the number of innocent people to prevent the deaths of one innocent Israeli. Even if the bombs stopped now, it is going to take a massive effort to provide for the 2.3 million people now facing starvation and disease. No country has the right to exclusive security and protection superior to all other people. We are being asked to accept that Israeli lives are worth more than Palestinian lives.

And America is sanctioning this notion, being carried out before our eyes. The U.N. has documented 10,000 civilian casualties in Ukraine in 22 months. It is probably higher than that, but to be surpassing Ukraine’s two-year civilian death toll in just two months begs the question, “Is Israel’s war in Gaza worse than Putin’s?”

A group of locals held two protests, screened a film and marched for a ceasefire — for peace. While we’re just a group of citizens in a corner of Colorado, one can’t underestimate the value of people publicly expressing their opposition. Call the White House, Senators Bennet and Hickenlooper and Representative Boebert today, and every day, and demand a ceasefire, adequate humanitarian aid to Gaza and an end to U.S. support of Israel’s siege.

Mail Theft

from page 4

“If we can’t prove it’s them, then we can’t charge them,” Gibson told The Sopris Sun, “but we know it’s them.”

The three counties are working together to address the elusive situation.

The Sopris Sun was not able to obtain an interview with the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office ahead of press time, but did receive some data from its records department. The data reflects that, since January 2022, there have been 32 mail/package theft related cases in the county.

What you can do Gibson has reached out to the Crystal Valley community through its Facebook group, Crystal Valley Swap, offering to install cameras. PCSO shared information on how to obtain secure mailboxes and package receptacles with the Crystal River Caucus to pass along to the larger community.

“The most effective way to stop mail thefts is to remove unsecured mailboxes,” said Gibson. “Some HOAs have successfully transitioned to secure mailboxes and package drops.”

Gibson added, “A couple more PCSO cameras are available to place at other mailboxes, with the HOA's or mailbox owner's permission.” He emphasized that if they can get two more cameras up in the area, there is a better chance of identifying suspects.

If someone would like PCSO to install a camera at their mailboxes, contact Gibson at 970-920-5250.

OBITUARY

Philip Richard Haines

November 28, 1948 - October 11, 2023 Philip Richard Haines, affectionately known as Phil, was born on Nov. 28, 1948, and called Cetronia, Pennsylvania, home. On Oct. 11, 2023, in St. George, Utah, Phil peacefully departed this world, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure and generosity.

Phil, the son of Henry and Betty Grace Haines, was a devoted father to Derek, Brenden and Kara, a cherished brother to Patricia, and a doting grandfather to Kaylin, Colin and Asher Philip. He attended Parkland High School, where he excelled academically and was on the tennis team. The seeds of his commitment to service were sown during his involvement with the Civil Air Patrol, where he participated in search and rescue missions.

A dedicated seeker of knowledge, Phil attended Drexel University, transitioning from chemical to electrical engineering. His professional journey took him from the city of Philadelphia and LM Robbins to Mobile Oil. The adventurous spirit within Phil led him and his family to Saudi Arabia, where he worked with Aramco for 11 years, creating enduring memories.

Phil's personality was a tapestry of sincerity, authenticity and caring.

Charismatic and straightforward,

he never met a stranger and had a repertoire of captivating stories. A natural problem-solver, Phil was known for his determination to find solutions and share his wisdom. His emails and updates about his journeys enriched the lives of those around him.

His ultimate pride was for his children and grandchildren.

The great outdoors held a special place in Phil's heart. His love for nature, travel and delicious food fueled countless adventures. Armed with his camera, mountain bike and tent, in his trusty Volkswagen, Phil crisscrossed the country, camping in national parks and visiting loved ones. His passion for life was evident in his early morning mountain hikes, capturing the beauty of sunrise.

Phil dedicated time to Habitat for Humanity builds and actively supported the Colorado Rocky Mountain School, where two of his children studied. His selflessness and willingness to lend a helping hand left an indelible mark on those fortunate to know him.

Following Phil's wishes, he was cremated, and his ashes will be spread in several beautiful places worldwide. A memorial service, organized by his two remaining children, Derek and Kara, is

scheduled for July 11, 2024, in Woody Creek. Friends are invited to gather at the Woody Creek Tavern for a life-celebration dinner at 7pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions to charitable causes dear to Phil's heart, such as environmental initiatives, are appreciated.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to friends and loved ones for their unwavering support.

Phil's departure leaves a void that words cannot fill, but his memory will forever warm our hearts. To share condolences, memories and information, or to RSVP, kindly email his daughter, Kara, at karahflint@gmail.com In honor of a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, Phil will be deeply missed. May he rest in eternal peace, surrounded by the beauty he passionately embraced throughout his remarkable life.

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 23

Winter Words 2024 is underway

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent Aspen Words, a local nonprofit, is gearing up for its 27th Annual Winter Words series, which will take place between the Paepcke Auditorium in Aspen and TACAW in Basalt from Jan. 11 through Mar. 14.

Aspen Words is dedicated to encouraging readers, inspiring writers and connecting the people of The Roaring Fork Valley through the power of storytelling.

“We truly believe that reading, writing and storytelling increases people's empathy and willingness to learn about lives that are not theirs,” expressed Adrienne Brodeur, the executive director of Aspen Words. “You only need to read a novel; and you can't do that without getting out of your own head and into the character's head, right?”

Brodeur has been with Aspen Words for nearly 11 years.

This year’s events will feature five different authors with diverse works ranging from fiction to memoirs and poetry.The featured writers for 2024 include the owner of Parnassus Books and Faulkner award winner Ann Patchett, who will open the series along with New York Times best-selling author and friend, Elizabeth McCracken. The two will have a discussion about their recent works at Paepcke Auditorium, with a Q&A session to follow, on Jan. 11.

Brodeur explained that Patchett has been a local favorite of Aspen Words, who the community has adored for many years. Because Patchett and McCracken are good friends, they were enthusiastic to collaborate. The other authors for the 2024 series include: Sasha DiGiulian, Safiya Sinclair and Abraham Verghese.

Each year at Winter Words, authors worldwide are

invited to discuss their written works with the Valley’s community. All of the writers in this year’s lineup have new pieces out and are making a stop in the Valley while on the road for their respective press tours.

“It takes a lot of reading for this selection process,” Brodeur said, when it comes to selecting authors for any given year. “I would say I easily read over 100 books a year … But this isn’t a process I do alone. The team at Aspen Words are all book enthusiasts, and we all talk about our favorites and who we hope will come — from there, we create a list.”

In addition to being an environmentalist and having been featured in publications like National Geographic, DiGuilian is an avid, world-traveling rock climber who served on the Women’s Sports Foundation board for six years. She is also a global athlete ambassador for Right to Play, Protect Our Winters and Up2Up Sports. Her memoir, “Take The Lead,” will be the focal point during a discussion on Feb. 6 at Paepcke Auditorium.

Brodeur described how she became personally acquainted with Sinclair and her works. “I had a book of my own coming out last June, and we happened to both be at the Winter Institute Conference where I heard her talking about this book,” Brodeur explained, referring to “How To Say Babylon,” Sinclair’s recent memoir. “It's an amazing story, and she is brilliant,” Brodeur added. Sinclair’s memoir and poetry discussion will occur at TACAW on Feb. 29.

Verghese has been on Brodeur’s mind ever since she read his novel, “Cutting For Stone,” about 10 years ago. Verghese will close out the series on March 14 at Paepcke Auditorium at 6pm. Mitzi Rapkin, host of the "First Draft: A Dialogue on Writing" podcast, will moderate the event.

Those attending the speaker series can anticipate an intimate and entertaining talk about each published work. The audience is “going to experience

CALL FOR CARBONDALE

BOARD OF TRUSTEE NOMINATIONS Regular Election Town of Carbondale The Town of Carbondale will hold a regular municipal election on April 2, 2024. Three Board of Trustee seats (all four-year terms) are up for election.

Those wishing to run for Trustee may pick up a Nomination Petition beginning January 2, 2024, Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. from the town clerk, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO. Qualifications: All candidates must be a qualified elector of the Town, a citizen of the United States, at least 18 years of age, and must have resided in the Town of Carbondale for one consecutive year immediately prior to the date of the election.

Petitions must be returned to the town clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 22, 2024.

The Town of Carbondale is a non-partisan body of local government, therefore, there is no party affiliation designation.

For more information contact Town Clerk Jessica Markham at 970-510-1206 or jmarkham@carbondaleco.net 24 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

Ann Patchett (pictured) will open the Winter Words series, along with New York Times best-selling author Elizabeth McCracken, on Jan. 11 at 6pm at Paepcke Auditorium in Aspen. Photo by Emily Dorio

top writers talking about their wonderful works.

Most of our Winter Words writers are very open about their writing process and what inspired them to write,” concluded Brodeur. “I think we can all agree that hearing others’ stories, whether real or fiction, gives us a greater sense of connection to one another.”

All scheduled events occur at 6pm. Season passes for the author speaker series have already sold out, but other ticket options are still available.

For more information, visit www.aspenwords.org

Empowering Youth to Thrive We support 350+ youth each year through free services, including:

Mentoring Daily drop-in programming Nightly meals On-site therapy Experiential learning Double your impact! All donations matched through 12/31! www. ste p p i ng st o nesr fv . o rg 10 10 G a rf ield Ave. Ca rbo nda le , C O 8 162 3

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

Winter Solstice

Dear Santa,

Upon the hardwood floor.

We couldn’t find a name tag.

Is he Vixen? Is he Comet?

But when he barfed up tinsel, My Daddy named him Vomit.

Hi, remember me?

I asked you for a pet.

A goldfish or a hamster, That’s what I hoped I’d get.

So Santa, what’s your policy On taking presents back?

We just can’t keep this reindeer Who eats sofas for a snack!

But seriously Santa?

A reindeer? Really? Gee! First he ate the ornaments And then he ate the tree!

I know you must be tired, Sir, Too pooped to come yourself But please, come get this reindeer!

If you have to, send an elf!

Seriously, Santa?

By Kitty Riley

By Deborah Holt Williams Glenwood Springs

As dark shadows day And sun yields and waits We gather by candles And behold the flames.

We sing and we talk And savor the meals With spices and drinks Our best foods displayed.

You may be trying to downsize.

Or just no longer need him.

But gosh, before you dropped him off, How come you didn’t feed him?

We join in laughter Cry tears for those lost Shout winter wishes Of holiday cheer.

And we watch for day To grow longer soon And strengthen its glow And push back the dark.

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 by Larry Day

Mid-Valley Self Storage

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Seriously, Santa, Old Vomit has to go.

I tried to put him in the yard — He doesn’t like the snow!

He ate the treetop angel And the lights!

Now that was shocking.

He swallowed all the garland down

He likes it by our wood stove With my school bag for his head.

I must admit he’s comfy When I use him for a bed.

And then he ate my stocking!

And after all that eating, When he could munch no more, He left a present of his own

I went online for reindeer chow, I guess we’ll be OK. He’s so cute when he’s sleeping…

Ignore this. He can stay.

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 25

LETTERS Impact

As you know, at least 60 Venezuelan refugees have been housed in the Third Street Center Community Hall for nearly six weeks now in an emergency shelter. The impact of this unexpected use of the building, infrastructure and staff support has, and continues to, have significant costs. As an office tenant in the building, I have been witnessing the impacts firsthand. In addition to writing and calling town, county and state elected officials to request real, immediate, practical support, I also encourage you to support the Third Street Center nonprofit with a financial donation to cover these unexpected costs by visiting www.

ThirdStreetCenter.net In community, Sarah R Johnson Carbondale

Double standard I live in Arizona and travel through Carbondale every summer in my RV. It’s a great little town! Everywhere I go, there are "NO OVERNIGHT PARKING", and "NO OVERNIGHT CAMPING" signs. I usually have to drive five miles out of town just to sleep for eight hours.

Now, illegal immigrants show up in town, about 125 immigrants were mentioned in the latest news article, and they are allowed to park in their cars and sleep wherever they want with no police knocking on their doors.

And, I'm assuming the illegals have no driver's licenses, car registration or car insurance. One would think that non-English speaking people in this country illegally would have less rights than a U.S. citizen of 67 years.

But it's not that way.

Terry Ballard, Sierra Vista, Arizona Editor’s note: Many of the migrants who arrived in Carbondale, mostly from Venezuela, qualify for Temporary Protected Status.

Russ for CD-3

26 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023

I’ve spoken with a myriad of disheartened, frustrated CD-3 voters.

They don’t feel that an uneducated, self-aggrandizing woman in skintight jeans, with stiletto heels, packing a glock represents their mostly conservative, hard-working, middle class family values.

Their dilemma is that their other option is an elitist New York multimillionaire, who is backed by outof-state PACs and funded by Hollywood and East Coast far left ideologues.

If you want to lose your pick-up truck, gas powered cars, gas range, freedom of speech and religion and your Second Amendment rights, then Adam Frisch is your man!

In cold weather, your electric vehicle won’t even make it to Denver without a charge, let alone a round trip! If you want your tax dollars to support unvetted, illegal migrant encampments in our towns and cities, then Adam Frisch is your man.

Fortunately, CD-3 has a clear alternative choice, Russ Andrews

continued from page 2

is a middle class conservative with common sense ideas and solutions which represent the values of our Western Slope citizens. He is an engineer and problem solver, not an attorney or politician. Russ is an active hunter and proud supporter of our First and Second Amendments, our law enforcement and military and our forests and environment.

He supports a secure border and swift punishment of criminals in order to provide a safe environment for our children and families.

Russ will fight for our valuable water resources, and will prosecute those trafficking fentanyl and sex to the fullest! He has proactive plans to achieve these goals and will solicit likeminded congressmen from both sides to pass legislation.

If you agree that we need to change the dysfunction in Washington, then vote for Russ Andrews. You can also contribute to his campaign by donating at www.russ4cd3.com Dr. Lee E. Krauth New Castle

Dear Santa, I am writing to say thanks for my experience this past Saturday at MANA Foods. They hosted your look-alike elf, Roop, for pictures.

Everyone brought their own cameras.

MANA Foods had a Santa room decorated with lights, wrapped presents, golden reindeer and candy canes hanging from the lights. The backdrop picture was in front of your workshop.

The people who showed up were celebrating. Christmas is a time of family, and these wonderful people, some with three generations present and others with children meeting Santa for the first time, came for pictures.

This experience brought a warm, fuzzy experience to me, being the center of attention and fulfilling people’s quest for family holiday pictures with Santa.

Christmas is a time of magic, and I believe we all have some magic in each and every one of us. Gifts come when we share, and that was the gift I received: sharing.

Merry Christmas, Roop, Santa’s elf

Gussie poses with Santa Claus at MANA Foods on Dec. 16.

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

PARTING SHOTS

Independence Run & Hike’s annual Jingle Bell 5k welcomed 75 runners and walkers on Dec. 17, many donning “ugly” sweaters for a secondary contest following the race.

This year’s winners: Daniel Krasemann, fastest male at 16 minutes, 22 seconds; Amy Rollins, fastest female at 20:48; Josh Hejtmanek, ugliest sweater (three years in a row).

Photos by Sue Rollyson

LEGAL

ORDINANCE NO. 11 SERIES 2023 AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING SUMS OF MONEY TO THE VARIOUS FUNDS AND SPENDING AGENCIES, IN THE AMOUNTS AND FOR THE PURPOSES AS SET FORTH BELOW, FOR THE TOWN OF C A R B O N D A L E , COLORADO, FOR THE 2024 BUDGET YEAR

ORDINANCE NO. 12 SERIES OF 2023 AN ORDINANCE APPROPRIATING ADDITIONAL SUMS OF MONEY TO DEFRAY EXPENSES IN EXCESS OF AMOUNT BUDGETED FOR THE LODGING TAX FUND, WASTEWATER FUND, TRASH FUND, CARBONDALE HOUSING FUND, AND THE STREETSCAPE FUND OF THE TOWN OF CARBONDALE, COLORADO

NOTICE: This Ordinance was introduced, read, and adopted at a regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Town of Carbondale, Colorado, on December 12, 2023.

This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after publication of this notice.

The full text of said Ordinance is available to the public at www.carbondalegov.org or at the office of the Town Clerk, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, Colorado, during normal business hours.

NOTICE: This Ordinance was introduced, read, and adopted at a regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Town of Carbondale, Colorado, on December 12, 2023.

This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after publication of this notice. The full text of said Ordinance is available to the public at www. carbondalegov.org or at the office of the Town Clerk, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, Colorado, during normal business hours.

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • December 21 - December 27, 2023 • 27

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28 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 21 - December 27, 2023