Whether it’s protesting or celebrating, this community sure knows how to come together. That was shown time and time again in 2024, as Carbondale and the greater Roaring Fork and Colorado River Valleys faced significant changes — from challenges to milestones. As we look ahead, one thing is for certain, we’ll face it collectively.
Flip to page 4 for the 2024 Year in Review.
Photo by Klaus Kocher
Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Courtesy photo
Photo by Lynn “Jake” Burton
Art by Sofie Koski
Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Photo by Rebecca Young
Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Photo by Jane Bachrach
We’re here to listen
In the not-so-distant past, people have talked about how living in the Roaring Fork Valley is like being in a bubble, protecting us from the contention of what lies beyond. And, in this idealistic mountain town, with its vibrant, connected and whimsical community, there is good reason to be grateful for the comparable security it provides. As it turns out, however, the Valley just might not be as insulated from the trials and tribulations outside of the bubble.
Starting out the year, Carbondale provided for refugees from far-off places, stricken by turmoil, poverty and looking for a better life. The community endured together, despite people’s differences in how to address that situation, and came out on the other side having learned from the experience.
Disagreements regarding policy over literature reverberate across the nation, and a relevant case study has roused its head right here in Garfield County. Wolf reintroduction is caught in the crosshairs of the Valley’s longtime agricultural community and conservationists who wish to preserve the land as it’s been, and as it was.
leadership of Bianca Godina as its editor over the past year, this nonprofit’s Spanish newspaper has reached new heights. Today, it also has a letters-to-the-editor section, a creative corner and even a sudoku (instead of Luke Wander’s Itsy-Bitsy Crossword Corner found weekly in The Sun). It’s become a relied-upon connector for the Spanish community and, without a doubt, will prove to be an indispensable resource in the years to come.
OPINION
STAFF COLUMN
By James Steindler Contributing Editor
There is a lot we may not agree on, but there is hope for dialogue and perhaps even a bridging of perspectives. The Sopris Sun provides that platform, where all community members can express what they think is right, or important, whether it be in our letters-to-theeditor section or regular opinion columns.
The paper is not meant to support one cause over another, just to deliver the news and do it with credibility and integrity. Just last month, Executive Director Todd Chamberlin announced that the paper was certified by the Journalism Trust Initiative, which recognizes news outlets that “adhere to the highest standards of accuracy, transparency and ethical journalism.” The Sun strives to bring balanced coverage to its readers, and if someone feels otherwise we will always hear them out.
Sol del Valle is critical to leveling the playing field for equitable community engagement and awareness. Under the
LETTERS
Summit for Life gratitude
Thank you to everyone involved with the Chris Klug Foundation’s 19th Annual Summit for Life on Saturday, Dec. 7. We are thrilled by the continued support of our participants, sponsors, volunteers, fundraising donors and vendors.
A massive thank you to our generous sponsors: The Aspen Times, Paradise Bakery, Aspen Square Hotel, Aspen Snowmass, The Little Nell, Aspen Valley Hospital, Duck Company, Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International Realty, The Brodsky Family, Alpine Bank, Kahtoola, Donor Alliance, Bank of Colorado, Nite Ize, Deep River Snacks, First Western Trust, Stratos Residential Collection, Ute Mountaineer, Obermeyer, Wood Investment Counsel, Timberline Bank, DWC CPAS Advisors, The Ritz Carlton Club Aspen Highlands, Holy Cross Energy, Top Dog Repair & Towing, Mantis BBQ, Rocky Mountain Lions Eye Bank, Sundae and over a dozen other businesses that provided prizes!
Special recognition to our vendors for helping make the magic possible: JRoy and crew with Aspen Snowmass, Reilly and The Little Nell team, Mark and Dyan with Paradise Bakery, Jim and Duck Company, Rick, Christine and Cassie from Nite Ize, Austin and Cat with Kahtoola, Dana and the Aspen Square Staff, Anne with Aspen Times, Midnight Lightning, the Six Productions crew, Cath and Tyler with CJ Timing, Adam with Brooks Production, Matt with Matt Snell Photography, Michael Bond, Todd and
Our Youth News Bureau, currently made up of six high school interns who are excelling in written and radio journalism, photography and more, will carry on the torch. Intern Gus Richardson, who — sadly for us — is a senior this year, has been with the program since his sophomore year and is set to study journalism in the fall. Yesenia Benavides-Burgos, along with Richardson, continues to co-host Everything Under The Sun every week on KDNK Community Access Radio. She is determined to cover immigration in 2025, being acutely aware of what her community wants to know more about.
The Sun has the largest newsroom in the Valley, considering its abundance of freelance reporters that deliver the news within its pages — each with their own unique background. The conversation at our weekly editorial meetings, typically attended by about a dozen or more journalists, mimics that of which the wider community is having.
This holiday season some subjects may be left off the table during family gatherings, and understandably so. But The Sun will be here in the new year to listen to anyone who sends us an email, gives us a ring or walks through our doorway.
With your support, come what may, The Sopris Sun and Sol del Valle will continue to keep readers informed and supply the pages and ink for you to chime in on the conversation.
Consider making a donation to The Sopris Sun and Sol del Valle at www.soprissun.com/donate
Melissa with Mountain Creative, Sasa and the Aspen Ritz-Carlton, Lucas and SocialLight, Aspen Ski Butlers and DJ Tenza.
Our heartfelt appreciation to our 40+ volunteers. With only two staff members and 12 board members, this event would not be possible without their time, effort and energy! The 2024 Michael Wells Inspirational Award was given to Team Joyful in honor of our late friend and ardent supporter, Susie Budsey.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 for the 20th Annual Summit for Life!
Anna, Chris, and Jessi Chris Klug Foundation
USPS kudos
This has been a most challenging year for many of us, but I feel we are beginning to see that proverbial “light at the end of the tunnel.”
Another light has been our small, local Carbondale Post Office. Yes, they are understaffed, underpaid and overworked, but somehow they managed to deliver a backlog of almost two weeks worth of packages and mail in one-single weekend. Talk about challenging! I am not sure what caused such a back-up … Be it lack of staff, too many Amazon packages to handle and sort, or dealing with rude customers. And certainly this is not the season for delivery delays, but in the end the mail WAS DELIVERED.
May the New Year bring joy to all of us lucky enough to live in this beautiful
valley and, hopefully, many applicants to join the Carbondale Post Office staff. Janet and Arvid Johnson Carbondale
No complaining
Thanks for sharing the stories of Randy Udall from his friends and family. Especially that, “He made energy cool, he made it interesting.” These days, I hear too much talk of “grief” from climate or environmental activists. There is actually a lot that’s “cool” now in the energy transition and climate progress and other environmental quality measures. Populations of raptors have boomed worldwide during my lifetime; many other species are doing great here in Colorado. There were no moose at all when I moved here in 1975. Now, look out!
Our exposure to toxic heavy metals is way down. Until 1995, 99% of American children had blood lead measurements above today’s “action level,” now it’s only 2%. While some activists despair of “environmental racism,” recent measurements of lead in children’s blood were essentially equivalent for Hispanics and Anglos, though higher for Black people. All much, much lower than 30 years ago. In LA, calculated annual exposures to vehicle particulate pollution have remained 25% higher for Blacks and Hispanics for 20 years, but perhaps it’s more important that this exposure decreased by 60% for all races and ethnicities in those two decades.
Editor Raleigh Burleigh 970-510-3003
news@soprissun.com
Contributing & Digital Editor
James Steindler
Sol del Valle Editora Bianca Godina bianca@soprissun.com
Lead Editorial Designer Terri Ritchie
Advertising Designer Emily Blong
Delivery
Frederic Kischbaum
Hank van Berlo
Proofreaders
Lee Beck
Tracy Kallassy
Ken Pletcher
Hank van Berlo
Executive Director
Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246
adsales@soprissun.com
Board Members / Mesa Directiva
board@soprissun.com
Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke
Donna Dayton • Eric Smith
Roger Berliner • Elizabeth Phillips
Jessi Rochel • Andrew Travers
Anna Huntington • Loren Jenkins
The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6pm on second Thursdays at the Third Street Center.
The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with a mission to inform, inspire and build community by fostering diverse and independent journalism. Donations are fully tax deductible.
Sincerest thanks to our Honorary Publishers for their annual commitment of $1,000+
Lee Beck & John Stickney
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Michelle & Ed Buchman
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Deborah & Shane Evans
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Gary & Jill Knaus
Eric Smith
Peter and Mike Gilbert
Patti & George Stranahan
Elizabeth Wysong
Alpine Bank
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Kathy & Carter Barger
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Karen & Roger Berliner
Donna & Ken Riley
Gayle & Dick Wells
Legacy Givers for including us in their final wishes. Mary Lilly
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SCUTTLEBUTT
Launchpad heats up
Carbondale Arts (CA) offices will be closed for the holidays from Dec. 24 to Jan. 6. The Launchpad is getting a new heating system, which means the entire building will be closed from Jan. 6 to 15 — CA staff will be available by email that week. You can count on them to be back well in time for the opening of the 46th Valley Visual Art Show on Jan. 17.
Skiers and snowmobilers in the Burnt Mountain area south of Lime Park and Crooked Creek Pass will need to be aware of logging operations this winter. Much of the road to the Harry Gates Hut will be plowed for logging and hauling from south of the hut during the week. The Eagle-Thomasville Road will be plowed from Sylvan Lake State Park to the intersection of Forest Road 506 for more logging in Coyote Park. Both projects could add 18 trucks per weekday along the Eagle-Thomasville Road. At least three inches of snow will be left on those roads for winter recreation. The White River National Forest and the Tenth Mountain Division Hut Association plan to work on an alternate route to the Harry Gates Hut that avoids logging operations and the plowed road. Contact Aspen-Sopris District Ranger Kevin Warner at kevin.warner@usda.gov for more info.
Wolves recommendation
In a Dec. 21 letter to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Commission, CPW Director Jeff Davis recommended the denial of a Sept. 27 petition from livestock growers across the Western Slope requesting a pause in wolf reintroduction. The petition listed seven conditions necessary before more wolves are brought to Colorado. Davis stated that the seven conditions, including development of a state range rider program, non-lethal conflict management tools, a site assessment program, a definition of chronic depredation and more, have been met. It’s now up to the commission to make the final decision at its regular meeting, Jan. 8 to 9. View Davis’ official recommendation at www.tinyurl.com/DavisResponse
Housing survey
The Aspen Pitkin County Housing Authority (APCHA) invites community
members to fill out a survey aimed at shaping its next five-year strategic plan. The survey is open through Friday, Jan. 3. For the survey in English, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/APCHA2025StrategicPlan, in Spanish, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/ APCHA2025Spanish
Sol Theatre auditions
Sol Theatre Company’s first show of the season will be “Junie B. Jones The Musical JR,” directed by Karli Ulto, about a youngster’s first day of first grade. Auditions are next month, but sign-up times are closing fast for Thursday Jan. 9, Friday Jan. 10 and Saturday Jan. 11. Kids, ages 7 to 14, can register for auditions at www.soltheatrecompany.org Performances are scheduled for mid-March.
Buddy Program hiring
January is National Mentoring Month and the Buddy Program reminds everyone to help make a difference in a youngster’s life by becoming a Big Buddy. The Buddy Program is also hiring a development coordinator to support the development and marketing team and connect with donors. If that sounds like your dream job, you can find the application at
www.buddyprogram.org/careers Applications are due by Jan. 10.
Sponsor Basalt music
It may be cold and Christmasy but it’s time to think about being a sponsor for Basalt’s 2025 Summer Wednesday Night Concert Series. The free concerts run from June 18 to Aug. 13 at the Basalt River Park. Two categories of sponsorships are available, including Headliner Sponsor for $5,000 and Local Sponsor for $2,500. Nonprofits can apply individually or partner with a funding sponsor to benefit from concession sales. Applications for business sponsorships and nonprofit partnerships are at www.basalt.net/concerts.
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Daniel Giese, Hanah Jundt and Greg Mohl (Dec. 25); Caitlin Causey, Emma Danciger and Darryl Fuller (Dec. 26); Laura Hader and Eduardo Torres (Dec. 27); Chip Bishop (Dec. 28); Sue Edelstein, Mark Gray, Jordan Hirro, Randy Schutt, Will Tempest, Nick Walgren and Debbie Wilde (Dec. 29); Beymar Silva and Stephanie Syson (Dec. 30); Chris Barlow and Kris Cook (Dec. 31).
Sopris Sun cartoonist Brian Colley (who was on an art residency in Bariloche) recently met up with Editor Raleigh Burleigh (center) and Sol del Valle cartoonist Leonardo Occhipinti in El Bolsón, Argentina. Photo by Nuni Zee
Year in Review: 2024
JAMES STEINDLER Contributing Editor
Look at all you’ve done this past year, “Carbondale, the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond,” — to quote KDNK! It’s been one heck of a cycle and The Sopris Sun has done its best to roll with the punches and deliver the news as it comes; there certainly was no shortage in 2024.
The Sun wishes you all a pleasant and safe holiday season and looks forward to seeing what everyone will be up to in 2025. Happy New Year!
January
After a video of an injured mountain lion attacking a raccoon outside of a Carbondale home — within town limits — went viral, there were a slew of other sightings, likely of the same mountain
During this time, migrants, mostly from Venezuela, were also offered week-night meals at Crystal River Elementary School. The Town hired a shelter facilitator. The emergency response efforts were covered by a grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. The Town phased out emergency shelters by April. Later in the year, West Mountain Regional Health Alliance was awarded $355,000 from The Colorado Trust “as support for providing housing assistance and wraparound services to immigrants and refugees, specifically recent arrivals from Venezuela.” With Denver now facing less of an influx of refugees, Mayor Ben Bohmfalk doesn’t foresee a repeat, at least to the same degree, this winter.
Carbondale Trustees authorized the submission of a tax credit financing application to the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority for the Town Center affordable housing project. The application was denied later in the year, but the Town can apply again in February 2025.
lion. Because injured big cats will go after smaller, easier prey, a former resident of Hendrick Drive, Rico the cat, also, sadly, met his untimely demise.
Carbondale Bike Project operators Jim Githen and Valerie Gilliam put the word out for a new manager. Shortly thereafter, Erik O’Connell took on the role.
Trustees prepared to share their meeting space at Town Hall with 20 migrants, of the 60 housed at the Third Street Center.
unconscious bias with “Native Gardens.”
The Garfield County commissioners denied the Town of Carbondale’s request for $50,000 to help with refugee response.
Former Carbondale coal miners Robert Congdon, Smiley Wise, Gene Schilling and Mario Villalobos swap stories at KDNK as part of Carbondale Historical Society’s 2024 Winter Speakers Series..
Seven Carbondale trustee candidates submitted petitions to run for office: Jess Robison, April Spaulding, Katie Tabor, Susan Rhea, Christina Montemayor, Nicholas DiFrank and Ross Kribbs.
The Art Base welcomed its new executive director: Annie Henninger.
February
The Meeting Place, an addiction recovery hub in Carbondale, hired its first executive director, Karlynn Fulmer.
A Carbondale resident filed a complaint alleging that the temporary fence, surrounding the construction site for the new Forest Service building, blocked the public’s right-of-way.
Roaring Fork School District purchased a $1.226 million townhouse for future superintendents to reside, located in the Crystal Bluffs area of River Valley Ranch.
The Garfield County Public Library District provided funding for the Glenwood Springs Historical Society & Frontier Museum to hire an archivist for a two-year period.
Thunder River Theatre wowed audiences with Samuel Beckett’s “Endgame,” while Sopris Theatre Company tackled
Marie Herr assumed the executive director role at Sopris Lodge.
Girls and boys Rams basketball teams advanced to the playoffs.
The commissioners sent a letter of intent to the library board that it planned to oversee the trustee appointment process, from advertising to final appointment, starting with the then-vacant Rifle seat.
Jalisco Grill celebrated its grand opening in Carbondale, and the 122-room Hoffman Hotel opened for business across Highway 82 from Willits.
March
The commissioners passed a resolution declaring Garfield a “non-sanctuary” county. “Their actions are political and do nothing to resolve the barriers that both long-term and new immigrants face in Garfield County. Instead, they merely make clear where they stand — that police and public officials are not here to serve the Latino community. And that is shameful,” said Voces Unidas de Las Montañas CEO Alex Sánchez in response.
Dr. Anna Cole, who had been serving as the interim superintendent for the Roaring Fork School District, was named the sole finalist for the position.
Carbondale trustees declined to consider a Gaza ceasefire resolution, brought forward by Ceasefire Now RFV, on the heels of the Glenwood Springs City Council approving its own in February.
LIFT-UP opened a new warehouse in Glenwood Springs.
Community members gathered at Sayre Park in Glenwood Springs to publicly denounce the commissioners’ resolution declaring Garfield County as “non-sanctuary.”
The Carbondale Historical Society hosted the third-part of its 2024 Winter Speaker Series, “Tales of the Ute People in the Roaring Fork Valley,” at the KDNK classroom.
Carbondalians Devika Gurung and Krishna Thapa opened Himalayan Cuisine on 6th Street in Glenwood Springs.
Vandalism on the Red Hill trail system, including the destruction of a counterbox and stacking of debris into about 30 separate piles as if awaiting to be ignited, befuddled authorities.
continued on page 5
The Sopris Sun celebrated its 15th birthday in February. Art by Sofie Koski
Carbondalian Katrina Toews with the Western Slope Mennonite Fellowship took part in a hymn and sit-in with about 150 fellow Mennonite activists beneath the Rotunda in the Cannon Building of the U.S. Capitol, peacefully calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. Photo courtesy of Candace Lautt
Green Is the New Black Fashion Extravaganza models and designers put on the treasured Carbondale event for its 13th year. Photo by Will Sardinsky
Close to 20 people formed a circle outside of the old Forest Service building to honor pine trees slated for removal ahead of the building’s demolition. Photo by Amy Hadden Marsh
As the newly formed MainStreet Alliance continued to protest the impending Forest Service building as designed, Peak Tree Works brought down two trees north of the old building. The majority of the lumber from the trees went to Roaring Fork High School’s woodshop class.
Photo by James Steindler
Carbondale Arts celebrated the grand opening of the Youth Art Park along the Rio Grande Trail.
June
Carbondale’s Wild West Rodeo kicked off its 19th season with increased law enforcement addressing illegal parking along Catherine Store Road. A second shuttle stop was added at 4th Street and Colorado Avenue in town.
Carbondale musician Natalie Spears released her debut solo album “Hymn of Wild Things.”
The Keep Missouri Heights Rural community group implored Eagle County commissioners not to approve a proposed 20-acre equestrian center, Twin Acres Riding and Boarding Stable. Other Missouri Heights residents said they’d rather see horse stables than houses.
Garfield County commissioners passed Resolution 24-12, effectively taking over the library trustee appointment process.
A food truck court at 111 Main Street earned trustee approval.
April
Colorado Parks and Wildlife considered a test-and-cull method to address the detrimental impact of bacterial pneumonia complex on the indigenous Avalanche Creek bighorn sheep herd. The fatal disease stems from contact with domestic sheep.
Carbondale ushered in its newly elected trustees: Jess Robison, Christina Montemayor and Ross Kribbs. In Basalt, David Knight won the mayoral seat, joined by new council members Hannah Berman, Angèle Dupré-Butchart and Rick Stevens.
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) went digital.
Garfield County Planning Department considered an application to revise an existing Planned Unit Development. Georgia-based applicant Storied Development LLC’s proposed building the Spring Valley Ranch development, which would include 577 homes and a ski hill, among other accommodations.
Carbondale’s Carrie Vickers was inducted into Colorado’s Running Hall of Fame.
TACAW hosted “Hanging in the Balance: Competing Needs for Water in the West,” a panel discussion presented by Aspen Journalism and the Colorado Water Trust.
Lindsay Hentschel was announced as
Roaring Fork High School’s next principal. Around the same time, the school’s Booster Club raised funds to replace the scoreboard at Rams Field. And its athletic director, Crista Barlow, was recognized as the 3A Athletic Director of the Year by the Colorado Athletic Directors Association.
Winter Speaker Series.
The former principal of the Carbondale Community School, Sam RichingsGermain, took on a new role as director of the Marble Charter School.
Sol del Valle held a relaunch party at the Glenwood Springs Library, marking a new beginning as The Sopris Sun nonprofit assumed printing costs for the standalone Spanish language newspaper.
The long-anticipated Mind Springs Health withdrawal management facility opened in Glenwood Springs. YEAR IN REVIEW from page 4
Alpine Legal hosted a bilingual “Law Week” at Morgridge Commons in Glenwood Springs.
May
The lady Rams lacrosse and soccer teams advanced to the playoffs.
The Garfield County commissioners appointed Myrna Fletchall as the new library trustee representing Rifle.
The Colorado state legislature approved the reintroduction of North American wolverine (Gulo gulo luscus). It’s likely to be two years before the species is reintroduced.
Roaring Fork School District affirmed its safe haven policy in the wake of the commissioners declaring the county as “non-sanctuary.”
Twenty-eight Rams graduates earned the Seal of Biliteracy.
continued on page 6
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CARE has 14 dogs and 1 availablebunny for adoption. RJ PADDYWACKS offers a “C.A.R.E. package” for new adoptive families, including a “Paws for Points” plan and a first time 15% discount for your new pet. Tempo wants to be your adventure buddy! At only 11 months old, this husky-mix boy will keep you company as you bag peaks, go camping, play at the river, or run those trails. Great with other dogs too!
Photo by Sue Rollyson
Carbondale held its 25th Annual Dandelion Day festivities on May 11. Photo by Jane Bachrach
The Department of Interior announced approval of the Thompson Divide Administrative Mineral Withdrawal, thus protecting 225,000 acres from future oil and gas leasing for 20 years. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Photo by Will Sardinsky
YEAR IN REVIEW from page 5
The Forest Service released its final Decision Notice authorizing the construction of a seven-mile, multi-use trail from Redstone to McClure Pass, which will become a part of the larger 83-mile Carbondale to Crested Butte trail.
July
The Downtowner, an on-call microtransit option for transportation within city limits, began its six-month trial period in Carbondale.
Glenwood Springs Parks and Rec hosted the first-ever glenWOODSTOCK, a festival showcasing young artists, musicians and entrepreneurs.
Carbondale trustees narrowly approved a guaranteed maximum price contract for the demolition of the John M. Fleet Pool, as well as for utility work and excavation for the new pool. Later in the month, the trustees changed the name of the pool to the “Carbondale Aquatics Center.” At a meeting in December, the trustees approved funding for all of the new pool’s add alternates.
Age-Friendly Carbondale presented its “Highway 133: Dangerous as Designed” findings to the trustees.
Cocoa Club owner Mark Burrows filled readers in on a world-wide cocoa bean shortage, which caused chocolate prices to skyrocket.
Ascendigo Autism Services Executive
Director Dan Richardson announced he would step away by the end of the year but continue to support the disability community through BOLD: Empowering People and Property, which will specialize in property management services for adults with disabilities.
August
Longtime RFTA CEO Dan Blankenship, after 35 years of service to the organization, attended his final board meeting in that official capacity.
A public meeting was hosted at the Marble Fire Station regarding a proposed parking lot at Daniel’s Hill followed by a comment period. The 15-space parking lot, along with enough space for a trailer to turn around, was approved toward the end of the year.
Former law enforcement professional
September
A low crop of wild food sources this year meant that bear conflict rates in Pitkin and Eagle counties were at the highest they’d been in five years. At the time, the Roaring Fork Valley was experiencing the most incidents in the state.
A 50-unit teacher housing project, located on Meadowood Drive between North Face Park and Roaring Fork High School, opened its doors to new residents.
Mystic Eagle Quarry, an alabaster mine off of Avalanche Creek Road, slowly revamped operations after ceasing in 2003. Owner Robert Congdon has some lofty and bohemian-esque ideas for the underground space — such as artist studios and an amphitheater.
October
Sweet Jessup and the Dirty Buckets released “Dirty Demo,” recorded at Cool Brick Studios, at the 115th annual Potato Days. continued on page 7
Dustin Gehring became Roaring Fork School District’s school safety and security coordinator. Meanwhile, Joan Dizon stepped up as Dance Initiative’s executive director.
The Sopris Sun team came home with a dozen press awards following the annual Colorado Press Association Convention.
Nick Isenberg, host of “The Tactile Traveler” on KDNK, and RFSD board member Jasmin Ramirez attended the Democratic National Convention in Chicago as delegates.
The Sopris Sun reported that MANAUS, a local social-justice nonprofit spanning 20 years and founded by the late George Stranahan, would sunset by year’s end.
Michael Francisco, a Belize man who was taken down by police on Christmas Eve 2020 at the Carbondale City Market, settled with the Town of Carbondale for $350,000, preventing litigation in the race discrimination lawsuit.
Crystal Valley rancher Tai Jacober is appointed by Governor Jared Polis to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission, representing agricultural producers west of the Continental Divide.
Defiende Nuestra Tierra celebrated the installment of the first bilingual sign within the U.S. Forest Service’s Aspen-Sopris Ranger District, placed at the Mount Sopris trailhead. The Wilderness Workshop affiliated Latino outreach program also relaunched a map of local trails in Spanish, dubbed The Camino Latino. Photo by Samantha Sheppard
U.S. Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland, along with Senator Michael Bennett and several other key players within the Unified for Thompson Divide movement, addressed a large group of folks in Sopris Park, commemorating the 20-year Thompson Divide Administrative Mineral Withdrawal.
Photo by James Steindler
A bald eagle residing for years within the Aspen Glen Bald Eagle Buffer Zone still mourned the loss of her mate who was hit by a car in June, denying the advances of another new potential suitor. Photo courtesy of Steve Harding
Challenge Aspen presented “Love Story: A Swifties Midsummer Night’s Dream” at TACAW. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Strange Imports closed shop after more than 10 years on Main Street in Carbondale. Photo by James Steindler
Tina the Llama became a Carbondale sensation, spotted throughout town while observers posted their sightings on Facebook.
After 35 years, outgoing RFTA CEO Dan Blankenship addressed the board of directors for the last time in that capacity on Aug. 8. Photo by John Stroud
Stepping Stones, a youth outreach organization in Carbondale, celebrated 10 years of connecting and supporting young people. Courtesy photo
Tempest Manthei became the first beneficiary of West Mountain Regional Housing Coalition’s “Good Deeds” buy-down program after closing on her new home in Glenwood Springs. Photo by Powder Street Photography
YEAR IN REVIEW
from page 6
Community advocate and Age-Friendly Carbondale member Niki Delson received AARP’s top state-level honor: the Andrus Award for Community Service.
Trustees approved a redevelopment at 522 Highway 133 — currently the site of a dilapidated strip mall — to make way for a new restaurant, Main Line Social. Demolition and construction is set to begin next year with a goal of opening in early 2026.
Once an Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program youth DJ, Brendan Girardot returned to steer the helm of the organization as its executive director.
Community members gathered at Centennial Park in Glenwood Springs to protest the Garfield County commissioners increased oversight over the Libraries’
In memory…
This past year, our community said goodbye to many friends and family. We remember them and honor the legacies they’ve left behind:
Nicholas Cole Alban, Donald Milam Andrews, William Fred Bartram, Sheryl Bogatz, Robby Burtard, Alfred Bernard Calvert, Janice Blanche (Holgate) Clark, Ralph Roger Clarke, Rex Allen Coffman, Petra Crimmel, Doris ONeill (Day), Christopher Scott Frie, Raymond Andrew Girardot, Jr., Shannon Hatfield, Richard Meade Heinz, Shirley Lorraine “Nightingale” Joyner, Joan Kette Lamont, Jay Michael Leavitt, Matt Nieslanik, Mary Margaret O’Gara, Marilyn J. Pearson, Gregory Thomas Pelland, David “Stretch” Piccione, Jerry Pluger, Margaret Helen Ritchie, Michael Jon Raaum, Sue Scott, Ray L. Speaker, Irene Stella Huck Staats, Kyle Mucci Stewart, Michael Robert VanNess and Lon Winston.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Names included in this list were drawn from obituaries published by The Sopris Sun in 2023. We don’t charge to run obituaries with a local connection. Just send a photo and under 500 words to news@soprissun.com
board of trustees, and marched to the county administration building to post a petition on its front door calling for the rescission of Resolution
November
A sexual assault incident, stemming from a break in off of 8th Street, rattled the Carbondale community. The suspect is still at large and has yet to be identified following an initial police investigation. Any information relevant to this case should be reported to the Carbondale Police Department. Republicans prevail in national and local elections. Commissioner Mike Samson, reelected to his fifth term, said during a Republican watch party that it would be his last. Senator Perry Will won outgoing Commissioner John Martin’s seat. At the state level, however, voters strongly supported removing language in the constitution banning same-sex marriage and also established a constitutional right to abortion.
December
The Town of Basalt hosted a ribbon cutting for the nearly-completed Midland Streetscape Project.
A convicted felon repeatedly returns to a Satank residence in the wee-hours of the morning, prompting concern among community members and shining a light on delayed law enforcement response to the area.
Garfield County commissioners appointed Brit McLin to the New Castle library board position to finish out the final year of Crystal Mariscal’s term. They appointed Stephanie Pierucci Hirsch to fill the Carbondale position, for which incumbent Jocelyn Durrance was up for another term.
About 300 Garfield County constituents and representatives attended a meeting put on by the county and Colorado Parks and Wildlife at the New Hope Church in New Castle regarding gray wolf reintroduction. The message, from the mostly agricultural crowd, was: Pause wolf relocation.
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Separate storage for bikes and skis. Must be neat, clean and quiet. One person only, no animals, no smoking. Includes utilities, internet, monthly maid service. Parking space.
Available now/deposit required. $1500 month per person. Call 917-847-9606
Kiddos bust open the traditional Potato Head pinada at the 115th Annual Potato Days. Photo by Sue Rollyson
Roaring Fork High School invited the public, for the first time in nearly a decade, to a play: “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” The performance, directed by junior Sam Stableford, was entirely student-led and presented in partnership with SoL Theatre Company. Photo by Jane Bachrach
Hundreds showed up for the Garfield County and CPW meeting regarding gray wolves at the New Hope Church in New Castle on Tuesday, Dec. 17. Photo by Amy Hadden Marsh
Dia de los Muertos, 2024. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
2024-12.
Need
CALENDAR
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 25
EARLY PRESS DAY
Because of the holiday, The Sopris Sun will be available a day early. Merry Christmas and happy first evening of Chanukah!
CHRISTMAS CLOSURES
Garfield County and municipal offices will be closed Christmas day. All Garfield County Library branches will be closed as well.
Join us at one of our upcoming events, where our certified health coverage guides will be available to assist you and your family through the enrollment process. Bilingual staff will be available.
Colorado has expanded access to health insurance coverage options, regardless of immigration status.
Avon, Basalt, Glenwood Springs, and Rifle Integrated Health Centers
Basalt Integrated Health Center
Glenwood Springs Library
Gypsum Integrated Health Center
Please note, for OmniSalud enrollments: Re-enrollment begins November 1st. Unclaimed slots will open to the public at 8am on November 25th on a first come, first serve basis.
Glenwood Springs Library For more information call 833-273-6627 or Email EnrollmentHelp@mountainfamily.org
AIKIDO - TRY IT FOR FREE
Non-violent, peaceful conflict resolution to re-direct, neutralize, or avoid an attack.
Tues/Thurs, 6-7:30pm, 1/14-2/6
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
Classic and Skate style lessons at Spring Gulch. Starting in Jan.
DYNAMIC WORKOUT
A full body workout with cardio, sculpting, and floor exercises. Tues/Thurs, 11-11:50am, 1/7-1/30
QIGONG
A gentle practice to improve energy, balance, flexibility, muscle tone, and focus. Weds, 10:30-11:30am, 1/8-2/26
SOMATIC YOGA WORKSHOP
A gentle practice to heal pain, release tension and anxiety, and facilitate ease of movement. Monday, 9-11am, 1/13
STORY OF CHOCOLATE
Learn about the history, varieties, regions, and cultivation of chocolate. Includes tasting. Thurs, 5-7pm, 1/30
INTRODUCCIÓN A LA FOTOGRAFÍA - EN ESPAÑOL
Aprenda las funciones básicas de su cámara para que pueda comenzar a fotografiar con control y aumente su confianza en las computadoras. Martes, 6-8:30pm, 1/14-2/4
To register for Community Classes...
SMALL METALS & SANDCASTING
Join Natasha Seedorf to learn metal fabrication techniques for small objects. Senior Tuition Discount applies to this class. Wed., 5:10-9:30pm, 1/15-4/30 For info and registration, call or visit your local campus.
CHRISTMAS MEETING
The Meeting Place in Carbondale hosts a day-long Christmas Party, with food, movies, games and more, for folks in recovery from 9am to 11pm. More info at www.meetingplacecarbondale.org
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 26
HOLIDAY SKATING
Colorado Extreme opens its rink on Catherine Store Road for holiday skating through New Year’s Day, from 2:30 to 4:30pm daily. More info at www.coloradoextreme.org
CODING CLUB
The Aspen Science Center hosts Coding Club for 7th to 10th graders at the Carbondale Library from 3:45 to 4:45pm.
MENORAH LIGHTING
Community members gather to light the Menorah and sing songs together at 5pm in Triangle Park at Willits Town Center.
CRYSTAL THEATRE
The Crystal Theatre shows “A Complete Unknown” through Tuesday, Dec. 31 with nightly showings at 7pm, with the exception of Sunday when the show starts at 5pm.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27
HOLIDAY HISTORY
Aspen Historical Society guides a special holiday history tour in downtown Aspen from 1:30 to 3pm today and at the same time on Jan. 3. Register at www.aspenhistory.org
DINKY AWARDS
Tune into KDNK for the Second Annual Dinky Awards from 4 to 7pm.
SOL FUNDRAISER
SoL Theatre shares songs from its upcoming summer season along with cocktails, mocktails, treats and a special surprise from 6 to 9pm at the Thunder River Theatre. Tickets at www.soltheatrecompany.org
SAX & GUITAR
Chris Bank and Hap Harriman take to the stage from 6:30 to 9:30pm at Heather’s in Basalt.
DUI ENFORCEMENT
Colorado’s New Year’s Eve Weekend enforcement period begins tonight. Stay sober or stay off the roads.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28
NOON YEAR’S EVE
Glenwood Community Center hosts Noon Year’s Eve, with live performances, ice sculpting, skating and more, from noon to 3pm. More info at www.glenwoodrec.com
‘FEAR AND LOATHING’
The Aspen Collective hosts an opening for its upcoming exhibit, “Fear and Loathing,” including works by Johnny Depp, Ralph Steadman and Hunter S. Thompson, at 6pm.
LATIN & INSTRUMENTAL
Heather’s in Basalt hosts Rodrigo Arreguín from 6:30 to 9:30pm.
80S DANCE PARTY
Moonwalk into 2025 with a live DJ, costume contest, photo opps and a champagne countdown from 7:30pm to midnight at Thunder River Theatre. Visit www.thunderrivertheatre.com for tickets and more info.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29
PICK A CARD
Golden Sha, using her divination cards, offers each attendee to pick a personal message that also supports the whole group in Room 31 of the Third Street Center from 10 to 11:30am.
MONDAY, DECEMBER 30
BOOK TALK
Eric Bland will be at Explorer Books in Aspen talking about his book, “Anything But Bland,” at 4pm.
SLOPESIDE SOIRÉE
The Aspen Art Museum hosts its Slopeside Soirée with music by Cedric Gergais from 5:30 to 8:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenartmuseum.org
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 31
SOAK IN THE NEW YEAR
Glenwood Hot Springs hosts a slew of fun activities to bring in the new year starting at 7pm, including a biggest-cannonball contest, Marco Polo and more, and will be open until 1am.
NY BASH AT TACAW
The Parrisian Live Band, along with aeralist Sammy Altenau, performs at TACAW for its New Year’s Eve Bash. Doors open at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1
EARLY PRESS DAY
Due to the New Year’s holiday, The Sopris Sun will be available a day early. Happy New Year!
NEW YEARS CLOSURES
Garfield County and municipal offices will be closed New Year’s Day. All Garfield County Library branches will be closed as well.
THURSDAY, JANUARY 2
ART IN PROCESS
Reina Katzenberger returns to The Art Base for the fourth iteration of “Art in Process.” She’ll be creating within the space through the end of the month, and invites the community to stop in and take part in the process.
COMMON ROOTS
HeadQuarters provides a space for men to gather sincerely with other men from 6 to 7:30pm. This month’s theme: Envisioning. More info at www.headq.org
JOHN MICHEL
John Michel performs at Heather’s in Basalt at 6:30pm.
FRIDAY, JANUARY 3
FIRST FRIDAY
Enjoy a community skate night at Chacos Park for the First Friday of the year. Skates are available to rent at the Rec Center until 7pm.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 5
SUNDAY MEDITATION
The Carbondale Meditation Circle of Self Realization Fellowship, based on the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda, meets the first Sunday of every month from 9 to 10:30am in the meditation room at True Nature. For more info, email rachelfdayton@gmail.com
RANDOM CONVERSATIONS
The Carbondale Library hosts a community-building event each month filled with meaningful conver sations among strangers. Check it out this evening from 6 to 7:30pm.
MONDAY, JANUARY 6
AYURVEDIC YOGA
Laura Post guides an Ayurvedic yoga series at the Basalt Library every Monday this month from 10:15 to 11:15am. More info at www.basaltlibrary.org
NEW YEAR, NEW HOBBY
The Basalt Library invites teens to discover a new potential hobby every Monday this month from 4 to 5pm. This week’s hobby workshop: candle paint ing. More info at www.basaltlibrary.org
MOVING & LEARNING
Cari Shurman, an educator who has transformed classrooms through movement-based learning, shares how early childhood educators can incor porate movement in their classrooms over Zoom from 4:30 to 5:30pm. Regis ter at www.focusedkids.org
TUESDAY, JANUARY 7
READ THE RAINBOW
Read the Rainbow, student-led book club celebrating queer authors and stories, meets at the Basalt Library at
ONGOING EVENTS
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
The Meeting Place in Carbondale (981 Cowen Drive) offers “Hole in the Donut AA,” Monday through Saturday at 6:45am, plus “Daily Reprieve” at noon on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Find a full schedule at www. meetingplacecarbondale.org
IN STITCHES
The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 1:30pm.
ENGLISH IN ACTION
Volunteer English tutors and developing learners meet for informal conversational practice at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 6:30pm. Interested in becoming a tutor? Email angela@englishinaction.orgn or call 970-963-9200.
MONDAY MEDITATION
Roaring Fork Insight guides a weekly meditation group meeting at the
Third Street Center (Room 31) from 7 to 8:30pm
YARN GROUP
Basalt Library hosts a weekly yarn group on Tuesdays at 5pm. All are welcome.
BABY STORYTIME
The Carbondale Library hosts baby storytime at 9:30am on Tuesdays.
RAISING A READER
Basalt Library hosts an hour of storytime, activities and snacks Tuesdays at 10:30am.
TAI CHI
Garfield County Human Services is offering Tai Chi for Arthritis at the Carbondale Library, Tuesdays from 1 to 2pm and Thursdays from noon to 1pm. For more info, call 970-963-2889.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Some ongoing events may not be offered during the holidays.
Community members will gather together to light the Menorah and sing songs at 5pm on Thursday, Dec. 26 in Triangle Park at Willits Town Center. Photo courtesy of Aspen Jewish Congregation
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Whether you viewed November’s election results with delight, disinterest or dismay, most of us find ourselves suffering from political fatigue right now. We’re shutting off the TV, avoiding the web and trying to ignore the news. But as tempting as it might be to hide under the covers, so many important issues need our attention, and we simply can’t shut out the world just yet. Take the environment, for instance. Like everything else in politics, all signs are pointing to division and disagreement over whether to protect our natural resources: clean air, water, wildlife and public lands. And, if people do agree, they might disagree on how to do it.
If you’re like me and my friends at the Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association (CVEPA), you’re gearing up for four bumpy years. The next U.S. president’s pick to head the Environmental Protection Agency has promised to eliminate environmental regulations that have proven inconvenient for the fossil fuel industry. Trump has also promised to halt the Inflation Reduction Act, which will mean a lot less funding for clean air. And Project 2025 has a local component directed at abandoning the lease withdrawal recently obtained for the Thompson Divide, along with a bunch of other important environmental safeguards.
Environmentalists are reading the signs and burning the midnight oil, encouraging President Biden to designate more national monuments (including
Unite, baby, unite
the Dolores Canyon), and developing endangered species protections at the state level prior to Jan. 20. In Utah, the Southwestern Utah Wilderness Alliance took significant action by suing the state for its attempt to seize 18 million acres of public land.
There’s tension in the air, uncertainty and stress. And we could all do with a little hope.
OPINION
Like the rest of the country, not everyone in the greater Roaring Fork Valley agrees on everything, or ever could. Our life experiences, circumstances and core beliefs bring us to different conclusions. But I can’t help but wonder if we’re ignoring an opportunity to unite that’s right in front of us. That there’s something we stare in the face every single day. Something that really needs us to unite around it to survive. It’s this beautiful place where we live.
Why do we put up with it? For some, it’s that family is here. For others, treasured memories of childhood vacations have brought us back to settle and raise families. Some might be answering the call of the slopes or streams or other recreational opportunities. Some value our clean air or proximity to wildlife. There are probably some who put up with it just for the money. But I believe that most deal with the struggles because we love this place.
CVEPA VIEWS
By Suzy Meredith-Orr
Indications of how the environment might be treated over the next four years should remind us that the things we value come at a cost. Protecting this place requires us to engage. Luckily, political action is nothing new for residents of the Roaring Fork, Frying Pan and Crystal Valleys.
victory: a federal mineral lease withdrawal for 20 years. Currently, dozens have committed to be part of the process to determine the best way to protect the Crystal River from dams and diversions. CVEPA believes the best option is to designate the Crystal River as Wild and Scenic. The ways we choose to help may be different, but taking some kind of action is the goal. Even if you don’t consider yourself a “greenie” you can still make a difference. Not sure about climate change? Then how about advocating for keeping the public lands where you and your kids hike public by donating to CVEPA, Colorado Wild Public Lands or Wilderness Workshop.
Do the words “drill, baby, drill” make you want to celebrate? Perhaps consider throwing your hat in the ring for clean water, and working to protect the quality and quantity of what we drink or where we recreate. Roaring Fork Conservancy might be just the organization for you.
Proximity may not equal love, but that people want to be here is evident every time we head out to work. We travel between different towns, different counties and even different mountain ranges just to reach our jobs. We endure housing challenges, high taxes, transportation nightmares and limited family or “me” time for the sake of being here.
Take CVEPA’s start: a handful of folks who stopped a ski area from turning Marble into a town the size of Grand Junction. And we’re now celebrating our 52nd year. Then there’s the advocacy group that grew out of concerns over wildlife-vehicle collisions: Roaring Fork Safe Passages.
Countless people advocated for years for the protection of Thompson Divide. In April they celebrated a major
Care about mining history? Support efforts to preserve historic sites. Check out Aspen Valley Land Trust, or the Redstone Historical Society.
If you want a better handle on the issues facing the area, the nonprofit news organization Aspen Journalism provides excellent in-depth coverage of environmental issues within our watershed.
The point is to write a letter, join a protest or just support an organization committed to protecting our environment. A common purpose can unite us.
ASPEN
Aspen Daily News
Mi Chola
Aspen Valley Hospital
Snowmass Market
The Aspen Store
Box on Hyman Avenue
Pitkin County Library
BASALT
Basalt Quick Lube
Basalt Regional Library
The Basalt Store
Alpine Bank Basalt
Timbos
7/11
Jalisco Grill
Big O Tires
CC Cafe
WILLITS/EL JEBEL
El Jebel Mobile Offices
Midvalley Surgery Center
El Jebel Laundromat
Eagle County Courts City Market
Scottie’s El Korita
Box on San Miguel Casa Tequilas
TAC Fitness
ANB Bank
CARBONDALE
Catherine Store
Garcia’s
City Market
Alpine Bank
Box at La Perla
Box at “Main St.”
Recreation Center
Carbondale Library
CMC in Carbondale
3rd St. Center
Valley Meats
La Roca LiftUp
7/11
Jalisco Grill
Mi Lindo Nayarit
La Fogata
Gloria’s Boutique
GLENWOOD SPRINGS
7/11 West Glenwood Post Office
Hospital Valley View
Recreation Center
Mountain Family Health
Welcome Center
GWS Library
Sal Mex
La Michoacana
Coin Laundromat
Tony’s Market/Bakery Tequila’s Frida’s
El Yaqui
Kum & Go
Comfort Dental
Impuestos Seguros
NEW CASTLE
Tapatio’s Post Office
Taquerina Elias
New Castle Library
City Market
SILT
Silt Library
Silt Laundromat
Kum & Go (Main St.)
Silt Roundabout
La Placita 2
RIFLE Tapatio’s Kum & Go
Taugenbaugh
Jalisco Grill
Box at City Hall
Rifle Library
Box at E 12 St.
El Patron
El Rincon
Spyderwash
Moma’s
Remington Square
Mercado San Jose
Carniceria San Jose
Nachos Mexican Dining
Paleteria la Korita
ProMex Bakery
Tutty Frutti
Look for stories like this in this week’s Sol del Valle!
Un recuento del año 2024
BIANCA GODINA Sol del Valle
EDITOR’S NOTE: This is but a small part of what Sol del Valle has been up to this year. For the full Sol del Valle “2024 Year in Review” (in Spanish), pick up a copy or find it online at www.soprissun.com/soldelvalle
The year 2024 brought with it much change and growth. Our Valley, as we knew it, is very different year after year, and our only local Spanish-language newspaper, Sol del Valle, is also different from when 2024 began. We invite you to join us for a few highlights from 2024.
On Feb. 16, FirstBank inaugurated its first “Banking Center in Your Language,” offering the Latino community the opportunity to access banking services ranging from the most basic to the most specialized, such as bank loans, 100% in Spanish.
On March 8, English in Action launched its Welcome Home campaign to reach a goal of $5 million to begin construction of its new communication center.
The Glenwood Springs Chamber of Commerce also hosted its first bilingual event for entrepreneurs, “Let’s Talk Business,” focused on highlighting Latino businesses and providing Spanish-to-English translations.
El Sol del Valle welcomed the month of May with a redesign, incorporating new sections: “What Happened Last Week?”, Letters to the Editor, and the “Creativity Corner,” along with other entertainment sections such as Sudoku. Additionally, a new image design was introduced, celebrating its first special edition for Mother’s Day.
Full edition is available every Friday afternoon on newstands and at businesses from Rifle to Aspen
After nearly two years of Aspen Daily News and Sopris Sun working together to publish Sol del Valle, The Sopris Sun took on the publication costs for Sol del Valle. On June 28, The Sopris Sun published the first edition of Volume III of Sol del Valle, celebrating its relaunch with the community on June 29 with around 200 attendees and over 10 local organizations.
La Clínica del Pueblo gathered over 30 local organizations and dozens of participants for its health fair, “Healing Together,” on Oct. 19.
The City of Glenwood Springs concluded Hispanic Heritage Month in October with a grand finale attended by more than 500 people, featuring activities throughout the afternoon and culminating in dancing.
The Garfield County Libraries celebrated their annual Christmas Posada with dozens of families.
Follow Leonardo Occhipinti’s “Nuevo Mundo” in Sol del Valle every week in Spanish.
Sol del Valle editor Bianca Godina, intern Jaqueline Ramirez and marketing manager Margarita Alvarez at Sol’s relaunch party in June.
Photo by Klaus Kocher
The first Children’s Day event was brought to the Rifle Library by the Colorado River Valley Team, bringing smiles to dozens of children and entire families who came to enjoy the celebration on April 27. The tradition is largely celebrated annually among Latin American countries on April 30. Photo by Bianca Godina, Sol del Valle
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
A Christmas Tale
By Tom Mercer Carbondale-ish
Larry was a small man in stature, but he was blessed with a big heart. Every year, just before Christmas, he contacted the holiday stores’ and shopping malls’ Santas.
He talked to them about what children in the town requested for Christmas, and the Santas were happy to provide the information to Larry. The various Santa photographers were extremely helpful, too.
Having gathered the list, Larry could deliver gifts to the children’s doorsteps on Christmas Eve, just as he had done in years past. Larry bought toys, dolls and games in preparation for his Christmas deliveries.
He simply wanted to help bring some magic to the holidays. He even tried to find specific gifts that some children had requested. A few parents in the community were aware of Larry’s project, but they kept it a secret in order to preserve the magic of the season.
Unfortunately, Larry came down with a terrible cold just before Christmas and he was just too sick to make his intended deliveries. But on Christmas morning, one of Larry’s neighbors — who assumed Larry had made his usual deliveries — called and thanked him for the gifts his child had discovered Christmas morning. The caller’s child had received the gift he most wanted for Christmas, as had many other children in Larry’s town.
Larry was astounded. He could think of only one way the gift deliveries could still have been made: Santa Claus!
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
Baa Baa “Sangfwa”
By Deborah Holt Williams Glenwood Springs
The brave border collie was all in a lather.
He circled the sheep and insisted they gather.
The collie smelled wolf! He went through his paces.
The wolf crept in view, and his fangs gleamed with … BRACES?
His wolf teeth were covered in silvery wire.
His mouth was too sore for his lambchop desire.
His tiny turquoise rubber bands
Ruined his chomp and his dinner plans. The sheep giggled nervously. Baaa ha ha ha!
The collie relaxed with an air of sangfroid. He kept his cool knowing the wolf wouldn’t bite.
He calmed down his sheep and relaxed for the night.
He wondered, when wolves got their new braces tightened,
Was the brave orthodontist a little bit frightened?
“The Chairman called me to sub. Said you missed the beard. I keep cookies in mine.”
from page 2
Electric vehicles (EVs) are definitely cool. In the mountains, one cool aspect is that while going downhill, you can watch the battery charge increase from the regenerative braking. The 81623 area code is one of the top buyers of EVs on the Western Slope. The RAV4 plug hybrid EV is in second place here now. It has 42 miles of battery range for driving most days, and then a gas engine is available for the boonies. Someone here has one with the
I’ve heard too much “grief” about EVs and lithium batteries from “activists.” They are not weighing the relative merits and are overwrought and exaggerating secondary and tertiary impacts. One local author recently advocated for “clean” hydrogen fuel instead, probably not realizing that compared to a battery, it takes four-times as much energy to go a mile on H2.
Yes, worldwide greenhouse gas emissions are still increasing, but at a much slower rate during the last decade (0.5%/ yr versus 2%/yr). Deployment of cool, renewable, sustainable, efficient technology is increasing, so those emissions could
However, you did uncover the main problem with all the various religions of men, and the region many call the Holy Land. Although, I’m certain the Lord of the star fields cares much less than us about temples and real estate — in that we all interpret Holy writ to our own petty needs.
The Zionists are using a narrative to commit ongoing genocide to justify the need for a war God. Rather than face how their actions trash their own foundation of the Ten Commandments, as they’ve systematically stolen a lost nation from its lawful inhabitants for the last 70 years. But wasn’t that story precisely about such trashing, and thereby becoming a landless peoples?
I myself prefer the potter M.C. Richard’s interpretations as words to live by. She has written: “Bear ye one another’s burdens, the Lord said, and he was talking law,” in her lessons on turning clay called “The Crossing Point.”
Another classy one: Love your enemy, it’s the only way to find them out. This being the actual context for forgiveness. Anything less is window dressing the vile image in the mirror.
Eric Olander
Carbondale
Aspen One woes
I find John Hoffman’s letter [Forgiveness], comparing Biden’s pardon to the story of the Prodigal Son, ingenuous. For one, it misses totally the intent of the story, which is about a sinner who comes home poor in spirit, mourning the man he is in order to stand upright in his inheritance (squandered) once again. Make it back up the rest of the Beatitudes, for peace in his Father’s house. Is there any remorse or course correction going on here? I think not. Will Joe go to his knees, repent and ask the Father of the Catholic Church for mercy, in squandering the reputation, moral grounding and future stability of the entire empire, in his administration’s wallowing in the pigsty of worship towards the Seven Deadly Sins? As the policy practiced.
The greed and lies from Aspen SkiCo continue. “In the snowsports world, we are deeply committed — and it’s one of the things that keeps me here — to being the highest compensated ... in the industry,” stated yet another Aspen One executive puppet to the news.
I taught at Telluride where Tellski’s highest paid pros were paid 50% of the price for the ski lesson for their requested private lessons from day one of the season. Aspen One has been known for retaliation towards employees who attempt to exercise their legal rights to unionize. If we don’t have the right to free speech on public lands — the lands of the American people — we are slaves.
Lee Mulcahy Basalt
LETTERS POLICY: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor. Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome. Please cite your facts and include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.
The Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists (TRUU) revived their winter solstice celebration at the Third Street Center under the leadership of Reverend Florence Caplow, featuring music by Paul Dankers and Micha Schoepe. There was also poetry, a ceremony and a visit from Cailleach, the Gaelic Winter Goddess. It was followed by a bonfire and the burning of slips of paper written with individuals’ feelings or experiences they wanted to let go of as they transitioned from darkness into light. Photos and text by Sue Rollyson Happy Holidays and Cheers to the New
HappyHolidays and HappyNewYear! SoldelValle el
Dear Community, We are extraordinarily grateful to all our donors and advertisers who continue to make the Sopris Sun and Sol del Valle a pillar of our community! Your financial support helps us deliver local news and connect our vibrant community. Together, we’re making a difference!
Warm regards, The Sopris Sun and Sol del Valle Team
