Signs of the Times
Signs of all sorts dotted the crowd at Paepcke Park Saturday, March 8 at a rally organized by Carbondale resident Linda Lafferty that drew roughly 350 people. Speakers included Pitkin County Commissioner Greg Poschman, Alan Muñoz Valenciano of Voces Unidas de las Montañas, Mountain Action Indivisible and journal ists Andy Stone and Annalise Grueter.
Residents of the Roaring Fork, Colorado River and Eagle River valleys were present — some angry, some sad and some out of work — ready to send various messages to lawmakers at all levels. “Lunatic at the helm”; “Grow a Spine Congress”; “Americans Against Oligarchy”; and “Speak Before it Becomes Illegal” were some of the slogans and suggestions from the crowd. An effigy of CD3 Congressman Jeff “(Un)Hurd” sat in a chair with his fingers in his ears, mocking Hurd’s dearth of town halls in this part of the district. (Note: Hurd offered a teletown hall at 6:30 pm Tuesday, March 11.)
Stone, a former editor of the Aspen Times, told the crowd that Donald Trump has declared the press as the enemy of the people. He spoke of news deserts, billionaire-owned media and recent Trump lawsuits against broadcasting giants ABC and CBS.
“Donald Trump sued [ABC] for $15 million because a reporter said [Trump] had been found guilty of rape,” he recalled. “Everyone thought there was no way Trump could win. But ABC settled. They gave $15 million to the Trump Foundation.”
“You’ve got to maintain the free press,” he added, citing local media outlets. “These are important things. We need to fight for them.” He encouraged the crowd to vote, organize and reclaim the country, step by step. “Standing against unconstitutional actions is not an act of rebellion,” he said. “It’s an act of fidelity to the ideals of justice.”
Muñoz Valenciano, regional manager for Voces Unidas de las Montañas, fired up the crowd on a cold late afternoon before talking about immigration and the need for racial equity. He said immigrant communities have been marginalized by both Trump administrations. “They have been told to ‘Put your head down because you don’t know the risks that might come from an administration like this,’” he said.
continued on page 8
PHOTOS AND TEXT BY AMY HADDEN MARSH Sopris Sun Correspondent
How I found IFS
This month on VOICES Radio Hour — Friday, March 14 at 6pm on KDNK — we kick off our Common Ground series by discussing the ways we can bring our best self to the table for hard conversations. In a conversation with Paul Dankers, who is a psilocybin harm reduction specialist, we discuss Internal Family Systems and how this therapy model can help us put down our defenses and see what connects us rather than what divides us.
I first learned about Internal Family Systems (IFS) through an unexpected source: a Facebook ad for a global summit on psychedelic therapy. Expecting little, I signed up and was astonished to find it was a legitimate gathering of top researchers and facilitators exploring cuttingedge therapeutic modalities. As I dove into the hour-long interviews, I kept hearing references to “IFS,” “Exiles,” “Protectors” and “Firefighters.” I had no idea what they meant.
Eventually, I traced these terms back to Richard Schwartz and his book, “No Bad Parts.” I bought the audiobook. My husband listened first, and when he came back saying, “You have to hear this,” I had no idea that my life was about to change in a profound way.
from judgment to understanding is where the real healing begins. This understanding has profoundly altered the way I relate to myself. Before IFS, I often felt at war with my own mind. Parts of me carried intense self-doubt, anxiety and perfectionism. My inner critic was relentless, and my go-to coping mechanism was distraction — anything to avoid facing deeper wounds.
OPINION
VOICES
RADIO HOUR
By Paul Dankers
IFS is a groundbreaking psychological model based on a simple yet radical premise: We are not singular, monominded beings. Instead, we are made up of different “parts” — aspects of ourselves that hold various emotions, beliefs and roles. This isn’t a disorder; it’s how the human mind naturally functions. We reference it in everyday speech when we say things like, “I want to attend your party, but part of me is worried that I won’t know anybody there.”
The most transformative concept in IFS is that, beneath all these parts, each of us has a core Self — an essence that remains unbroken no matter what we’ve been through. This Self is defined by the eight 8 C’s: Calm, Confidence, Clarity, Compassion, Courage, Creativity, Curiosity and Connectedness. When we operate from Self, we lead our internal system with wisdom and care, rather than being dominated by reactive parts.
Parts develop in response to our life experiences. Wounded parts, called “Exiles,” carry burdens of pain, fear or shame. “Protectors” step in to keep these wounds hidden. Some act as “Managers” who control our behavior, while others act as “Firefighters,” reacting impulsively to shut down pain through distractions, addictions or even self-sabotage. These protectors mean well, but their methods can create suffering of their own.
What makes IFS life-changing is that it teaches us not to fight or suppress these parts, but to approach them with curiosity and compassion. Instead of shaming an inner critic, we ask, “What are you afraid would happen if you stopped criticizing me?” Instead of battling anxiety, we explore what it’s trying to protect. This shift
LETTERS
CORRECTION: Jane Taylor was mistakenly cited as Jane Smith in A.O. Forbes’ “Seeking Haystacks” column last week.
Measles vaccine
I was a child before the measles vaccine existed. When I was 10, I got sent home from school one day feeling worse than I had ever felt in my life with a headache that I thought was going to make my head explode. I had the measles and I was sicker than I had ever been or have ever been since.
A child has died of measles in the United States, and this child had not been vaccinated against the measles. Evidently, this particular variant of measles has arrived in the United States from Europe. Since measles can make a child blind, I was put in a darkened room for two weeks. I couldn’t watch TV or read or do anything. My wonderful mother read stories to me when I felt well enough to listen. And then my poor little sister, only 22 months old, got measles from me and my mother couldn’t put her down for two weeks. She could only hold her in her arms to comfort her.
I want to encourage parents if they have not yet had their children vaccinated for
IFS taught me to see them differently. I started noticing when my “Manager” was working overtime, micromanaging every detail to prevent failure. I realized my procrastination wasn’t laziness — it was a “Firefighter” trying to protect me from the terror of falling short. Most shockingly, I met an “Exile” — a young, wounded part of me carrying the belief that I was unworthy of love. Instead of rejecting these parts, I finally listened to them. As I did, something incredible happened: The fear and self-judgment began to soften. I no longer had to fight against myself. The more I showed up with compassion for these parts, the more they trusted that I — the Self — could lead. It became easier to recognize when my reactions were coming from a protective part rather than my true essence. I became more patient with myself, less controlled by perfectionism and more able to step into the present moment without being hijacked by old fears.
But the impact of IFS didn’t stop with my internal world — it transformed my relationships, too. I recognized that everyone has parts. Instead of reacting defensively to criticism, I became curious: “What part of this person is speaking? What are they trying to protect?” This shift made room for deeper, more meaningful connections. Conversations that might have spiraled into conflict became opportunities for understanding.
IFS also helped me break generational patterns. I saw how family dynamics shaped my protectors and exiles, and how those patterns could be passed down. By bringing Self-energy to my interactions, I could interrupt cycles of shame, fear and control, replacing them with empathy and openness.
Of course, I don’t do this perfectly. I still have days when my protectors take over. But IFS gave me a roadmap back to Self — a way to return to calm, clarity and compassion when I lose my way. If I could leave readers with one message, it would be this: You don’t need to fear your inner world. There are no bad parts of you — only parts carrying burdens that they’re waiting to release. When you meet them with love instead of resistance, healing isn’t just possible — it’s inevitable.
Paul Dankers is the husband of Michael Schoepe, the co music director for Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists, the music director of Aspen Choral Society and a psilocybin harm reduction specialist.
measles to do so immediately, so that no child suffers and no family suffers when that can be prevented very easily with the MMR vaccine.
There is nothing you can do to prevent measles, including taking vitamins, except to get a vaccine. Measles is one of the most contagious viruses that we have circulating on the planet, far more contagious than COVID or the common cold.
Please don’t be afraid of this vaccine. Use it to protect your family.
Illène Pevec Carbondale
Facts still matter
We’re reading different headlines, those MAGA supporters and me. They read about violent criminals being rounded up and sent away, I read about Navajos or asylum seekers who followed every step of the law facing immigration enforcement raids. They read about billions in fraud and waste being found and cut. I read about scientific studies abruptly ending and National Park rangers losing their jobs. We can hear of the same event and view it oppositely: They see Trump and Vance demanding respect for America
by schooling Zelensky, I see an abandonment of democratic values and allies to cave in to Putin — an enemy of freedom. What we are lacking today are a common news source people trust and a tendency to follow rules of civility. We no longer agree on basic facts or a belief in the common good. Much of this came about with the demise of local newspapers, the rise of social media and algorithms that give us what we want to hear, and opinions that substitute for news and facts.
But facts do matter, or at least they should. Trump lost the 2020 election. Russia invaded Ukraine. The billions of dollars DOGE is cutting could also come from not extending the tax cuts to millionaires and billionaires. I would love to have a civil discussion with anyone who has facts to prove otherwise. Any takers?
Peter Westcott Missouri Heights
Who to trust for news
I read with great alarm where Russia, China and other autocratic regimes are trying to tilt the results that AI produces continued on page 18
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SCUTTLEBUTT
Spring Gulch vandalism
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Spring Gulch is closed for the season following an unprecedented weekend of vandalism at the Marion Gulch parking lot. On Friday night, for the fourth time this season, some rowdy individuals drove their vehicles on the meticulously-maintained cross-country skiing trails. This time, the offenders slid off a trail and got stuck. Sheriff’s deputies from Garfield and Pitkin counties were called to the scene, intercepting two high school students attempting to flee. Bonfire parties were also thrown both Friday and Saturday night at the Marion Lot with a porta-potty incinerated on the second night. The Mt Sopris Nordic Council is looking for information on this incident, stating, “We are so disheartened and frustrated … It’s devastating to see a beloved community resource abused in this way, especially when so much time, money and resources are invested to maintain and protect it.”
Honey Butter closing shop
After nearly five years of dishing out fried chicken and tasty breakfasts and lunches, Honey Butter is closing its doors. This Carbondale venture by the owners of Slow Groovin BBQ and Propaganda Pie gave new life to the former Red Rock Diner. According to its owners, Honey Butter will be reimagined as a new mobile concept called “Morning Buzz.” This month will feature fun specials and events leading up to one final brunch on March 30. “The overwhelming support we’ve had from so many gracious and genial patrons over the years has filled our souls with more gratitude and accomplishment than words can express,” stated a press release.
Highway 82 study
The City of Aspen has initiated a comprehensive study of the Highway 82 corridor west of Aspen, focusing on the area near the Aspen-Pitkin County Airport and the Mountain Rescue campus to downtown Aspen. This project aims to assess transportation needs for commuters, visitors and residents, focusing on safety, traffic flow, multi-modal transportation and environmental considerations. Community members from Aspen to Parachute are encouraged to provide feedback via an online questionnaire at AspenCommunityVoice.com
Prescribed fires
Fire managers from the Upper Colorado River Interagency Fire Management Unit are planning several prescribed fires on federal
lands in Eagle and Pitkin counties in the coming weeks, including Sunnyside (one mile north of Aspen), Braderich Creek (one mile west of Redstone), Battlements (12 miles south of Rifle) and Cottonwood Creek (four miles north of Eagle). Smoke will be visible in nearby communities. Prescribed fires lessen the intensity of wildfires and give firefighters a place to more effectively engage wildfires when necessary.
Brittany Rose
Sopris Elementary School educator Brittany Rose, selected to represent K-5 educators on a panel with the Dalai Lama in 2021, is now participating in the nationwide “America’s Favorite Teacher” competition. The winner will receive a $25,000 cash prize, a trip to Hawaii and an all-school assembly with Bill Nye (the Science Guy). Share your support by voting for Ms. Rose by 7pm, March 13, at www.americasfavteacher.org/2025/brittany-rose
SkiMo
World Championship
Last week (March 3 to 8), local athletes competed in the Ski Mountaineering World Championships in Morgin, Switzerland. Aspen’s Jessie Young and teammate Cam Smith (Crested Butte) placed 12th in the Relay Mix race. Young led the women in the Individual race placing 16th, while Grace Staberg (Summit County) finished 11th in the U23
Check out our website for more event information at https://thecenterforhumanflourishing.org/ Cook
To
Your
division. In the men’s Vertical, Smith placed 20th followed closely by John Gaston (Aspen) and Joseph DeMoor (Carbondale), finishing 21st and 23rd respectively. Aspen’s rising star George Beck finished 22nd in the U23 Vertical and 18th in the U23 Individual. Team USA continues their season abroad as they try to qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Lift-Up hiring
Lift-Up, a nonprofit providing hunger relief from Parachute to Aspen, is currently seeking a director of development familiar with fundraising in the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys. Applications will be accepted until March 20. Find more information at www.bit.ly/lift-up-job
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Alex Alvarado, Denise Barkhurst, Mike Cuseo, Jared Kennedy, Justin McBride, Mark Nieslanik, Grant Stevens, Nancy Thal and Caitlin Walker (March 13); Sonya Meyer and Athena Wright (March 14); Paula Stepp and Sierra Thompson (March 15); Dalene Barton, Hannah Burleigh, Jordan Clingan and Trae Moxley (March 16); Annie Tempest and John Foulkrod (March 17); Michelle McGrory and Dean Mercado (March 18); Matthew Eames, Sophia Higbie, Katie Hunter and Michael Schneiter (March 19).
Photo by Nuni Zee
Recovery cards — messages of hope for those living with addiction”
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
The deadline for Colorado artists to submit designs for the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration’s (BHA) recovery and mental health commemorative cards series closed on Feb. 26. The project, created in partnership with the Lift The Label public awareness campaign, utilizes the talents of Colorado-based artists to celebrate recovery efforts for those living with mental health struggles and substance use disorders.
The Recovery Card Project was created over five years ago and more than 150,000 cards have since been distributed. According to Shadia Lemus, BHA marketing supervisor, the project garnered great interest this year, on par with 2023, with 61 artists answering the call to submit work, some of whom were first-time submitters, which Lemus said demonstrates a growing interest in spotlighting the importance of mental health and substance use disorder recovery.
the project was an incredible resource for Coloradans.”
She continued, “I think this project is a huge tool that can be used by people to break the stigma around having tough conversations with our loved ones about substance use, mental health or really any other topic they may be struggling with.”
Magor has been a creative person her whole life and began publicly sharing her art about six years ago. She is a member of We Are CommUNITY, a Denver-based grassroots project with the mission to empower individuals experiencing homelessness through collaboration, advocacy and compassionate care. “We offer direct care services to those who need them most,” she said. “We hope to spread compassion through commUNITY.”
I like to remind people that even through hard times there will be light and joy,
-Madison Magor
“We basically set up these cards where people can either take them home or use them for personal use if they have someone to give them to. We’re in the process of distributing them statewide to individuals who could use those words of encouragement,” Lemus stated.
One of the artists contributing to this project is multimedia Denver local creative Madison Magor. She initially became involved when she ordered one of these cards for her friend who needed support. She now creates these cards in English and Spanish to extend the project’s reach.
“I wasn’t sure what the best way to open up the conversation between us was,” Magor said about sending a card to her friend. “I figured I could write them a card to help remind them how much I love and support them. I thought
A common thread in the work she submits for this project, which she has been contributing to since 2021, is encouraging people to “keep going” with themes of animals and nature. Magor has faced her own struggles and triumphs with addiction and finds solace in this project, seeing it as a way to build trust between individuals and break stigmas around mental health and addiction through the lens of community as opposed to only encouraging clinical treatment.
“I think in the past, many themes around mental health have been to get treatment, and then you’ll start to feel better. I think that’s really diluting the actual experience of going through highs and lows all the time. I like to remind people that even through hard times there will be light and joy,” Magor said. “In my experience of giving a card to somebody, it helped create more trust between us to have conversations about substance use and mental health without judgment.”
Discussing how Coloradans can continue to support recovery efforts beyond this project, Magor encouraged our
readers to educate themselves on the guiding principles of harm reduction and to show kindness and empathy to those living with substance use disorders.
“Disorders can look very different for everyone, but offering a smile to someone who may have been having a hard day, or not using stigma-based terms to describe people who use drugs, are both ways to be supportive. You can always offer a listening ear to someone who may be struggling without judgment and without giving advice,” Magor stated.
To order free recovery cards and learn more about the project, visit www.recoverycardsproject.com
Recovery cards are designed by Colorado artists and available to order for free for Colorado residents. Courtesy photo
Agaricus julius awaits crowning as state mushroom
KATE PHILLIPS Sopris Sun Correspondent
The Agaricus julius reigns supreme as the mushroom is slated to be crowned Colorado’s official state mushroom.
“We have a state animal and we have multiple state plants, trees and flowers. Excluding a mushroom is like excluding an entire kingdom of life,” said Hamilton Pevec, president of the Western Colorado Mycological Association (WCMA). “Part of this effort is to make sure that funga are always part of the conversation. Flora, fauna and funga. Ecologically speaking, we wouldn’t be here without them.”
Side note: some mycologists are pushing to use the term “funga,” partly because it flows better with flora and fauna.
The designation was officially introduced in January 2025 as HB 25-1091. To be considered, the mushroom had to fulfill a lengthy criteria. Specifically, it has to be geographically, socially and biologically relevant, be original, recognizable, taxonomically stable and tell a compelling story.
A choice-edible mushroom, Agaricus julius, also known as “the Emperor,” beautifully
identified as its close relative Agaricus augustus, known as “the Prince,” but upon further inspection of the DNA sequence data mycologists realized they beheld an entirely new species. Thus, in 2016, Agaricus julius, “The Emperor formerly known as The Prince,” was recognized.
“What’s really interesting is that this species is considered
considered stable and the species will not be reconsidered a new species in the future.”
Prized among mushroom foragers, it appears in high-elevation, spruce-fir forests and is easily identified by its large cap adorned with brown scales and
found a lot at a time. Whereas if you’re lucky to find an Agaricus julius, you only get a few — one, two or three — at a time.”
A civics lesson
While the bill recently passed through the House and Senate, its story began in September 2020, when Greg Sanchez, a social studies teacher at Horizon High School in Thornton, created a unique opportunity for his civics students.
“I started this as an experiment with the students to see what efforts we can do to influence the government,” Sanchez elaborated. “I reached out to see what could happen, [so] to show students the process.”
However, the process took some time as COVID and retiring representatives caused unexpected delays. Sanchez said the initiative finally gained momentum when state-wide mycologists and House District 31 Representative Jacque Phillips joined. Between WCMA, the Colorado Mycological Society, Pikes Peak Mycological
legislation and was excited to see student involvement.
“It’s something they wanted to get designated for Colorado and it’s a great way to learn how legislation is made before it becomes a law,” Phillips stated.
Sanchez hopes a state mushroom will promote further funga discussion and help educate the public about its benefits. His students agree.
“Mushrooms are severely underrated, as I only learned about them for like less than a week in fourth grade,” said freshman Delilah Viano who provided testimony to the House on Feb. 3. “If we had a state mushroom, then people could learn about it and know what they do to the environment and ecosystem.”
An incredible asset to the Colorado ecosystem, the Agaricus julius is a saprotrophic fungus, meaning it decomposes dead or decaying organic material, thereby recycling nutrients and reducing wildfire fuel. Culturally speaking, Sanchez said mushrooms play a key role in understanding the intricate
PADDYWACKS
The Agaricus julius, a choice-edible mushroom, will soon be named Colorado’s state mushroom. In a collaborative effort between mycologists and state leaders, the initiative also helped students learn about the democratic process. Photo courtesy of Western Colorado Mycological Association
The Soldner Center looks to inspire RFV through multiple mediums
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
The Soldner Center for the Arts and Innovation, a rich cultural art center which has been bringing transformative experiences to both viewers and artists since 2021, recently closed registration for its annual poetry workshop: “A Year of Poetry and Introspection.”
This workshop, done in collaboration with poet, author and friend of the Soldner family, Heather Swan, is dedicated to Ginny Soldner, who along with her husband, Paul, built the center over the course of many decades after purchasing the land in the 1950s. The workshop will include a three-day, in-person gathering at The Soldner Center, and additional meetings will be held over Zoom starting in July and concluding in May of next year.
In speaking with Stephanie Soldner, director of the center and daughter of Paul and Ginny, she stated this program is a special way to not only honor her mother, but to bring new life into the center. Though Ginny’s primary medium of art was painting, she was also what her daughter described as a “shy poet.”
“My mom took workshops and classes from the very early days of Aspen Word, which used to be Aspen Writers Workshop, and she had been influenced to write,” Stephanie told The Sopris Sun. “She was a
fairly shy poet, so I have not published her poetry [and] nor did she.”
Stephanie is excited to see how the program, being a year-long as opposed to the single day it was afforded in the past. It began as a nature writing workshop with Swan having been the guide since its inception. Following some participant feedback and a subsequent discussion between Stephanie and Lonnie Buerge, treasurer of The Soldner Center and a fellow poet, they decided to make it a yearlong hybrid workshop.
“People said they’d really love it if this wasn’t just one day, if this could carry on for longer than that. So [we] got to thinking, ‘Why not try to make this into a year-long opportunity for a select group of poets?’” Stephanie continued. “They don’t have to be professional. They can be amateur. That’s where we came up with this idea that honors Ginny, and also delves deeper with a year of introspection.”
In addition to the poetry workshop, The Soldner Center has two additional programs slated for 2025. For one, Nicole Gogolak will host “Art In The Open: Plein Air Painting,” which will actually take place on both the summer solstice (June 21) and autumn equinox (Sept. 20).
“[Nicole] is open to anybody who wants to try something different. She’ll be offering different kinds of materials for people
to experiment with and I think that will be lovely,” said Stephanie. “Each one of those days will culminate in getting together with some drinks and refreshments in a miniature gallery show here at the center, where participants will be able to appreciate each other’s work. I think that’s a lot of fun.”
Another 2025 program: “Western Kintsugi and American Tea” to be hosted by John Domenico will teach participants the beauty of repairing broken things through the principles of mindfulness and respect. Kintsugi is traditionally recognized as an art form where ceramic bowls are broken and repaired with lacquer and gold dust. For this workshop, participants will discover that there is still value, and perhaps even more beauty, in the work
they’ll create after repairing broken items.
“To quote Leonard Cohen, ‘There’s a crack in everything, and that’s how the light gets in.’ It’s that same philosophy, just because something is broken doesn’t mean it’s invaluable,” concluded Stephanie. “In fact, it’s the break and then the repair of that break that becomes even more powerful and beautiful. It’s a beautiful philosophy and way of living with the fragility of life, but at the same time finding ways to be healing and strong.”
Registration is still open for these latter two programs. For more information or to register for upcoming workshops, visit www.soldnercenter.com
MOTHER’S DAY IS RAPIDLY APP A ING
All local mothers who have welcomed a baby into their lives this past year are invited to have a portrait taken to run in The Sopris Sun’s May 8 edition.
Please email raleigh@soprissun.com or call 970-510-3003 to coordinate. this past year are invited to have a portrait taken to run in Can't make any of these dates?
Our professional photographer will be setting up April 12 and May 3 at the Third Street Center (in Carbondale) and May 4 at the Glenwood Springs Library with appointments from 9am to 1pm (all dates).
Stephanie Soldner talks to a group of ceramic students from Anderson Ranch outside of the Soldner Center. Courtesy Photo
ALWAYS IN STYLE
The 14th annual Carbondale Arts Fashion show was one for the books, or the screen perhaps. Leaning into this year’s film noir theme, “Camera Obscura” projected cinematic backdrops on curtains that would open to reveal small apartments containing big secrets.
These dance interludes complimented the stylings of fashion designers from near and far, while local models strutted their stuff on the runway for three sold-out performances. This followed months of rehearsals, the last of which was photographed by Will Sardinsky.
Photographer Tommy Sands attended on an official night and shared some of his shots from this community project, on par with the finest of fashion shows.
Photo by Tommy Sands
Photo by Tommy Sands
Photo by Will Sardinsky
Photo by Will Sardinsky
Photo by Will Sardinsky
Photo by Tommy Sands
Photo by Will Sardinsky
Photo by Will Sardinsky
Photo by Will Sardinsky
Photo by Tommy Sands
PROTEST AGAINST TRUMP, MUSK IN ASPEN
He added that the result has been the weaponization of anti-immigrant narratives based on hate and racism. “That is not the reality of immigrants that live in our valley, that live in our state or across the country,” he explained. “The impacts of immigrants in our community are fundamental and describe who we are.”
Roseann Casey from Eagle is one of those out of work. She lost her job on Feb. 7, four days after an executive order effectively shut down the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) office in Washington D.C.
“I worked for a company managing a contract supporting the Africa Bureau,” she told The Sopris Sun. “We recruited and hired technical and administrative staff who implemented projects across the subcontinent.”
MUSHROOMS
from page 5
She had two years left on a five-year contract when the plug was pulled. “I saw the writing on the wall when we first got a stop-work order that said there’s going to be a 90-day freeze on all projects and we’re going to do a review and see where there is potential for cuts or improvement,” she said, adding that within a week, thousands of contracts were terminated. “It was just a way to create a fake premise around why they were cutting projects, and then to just kind of wholesale get rid of U.S. foreign assistance projects.”
She said the loss of USAID could be dangerous for locals who worked for the U.S. government or its partners. “We have left a lot of them without jobs,” she explained. “With all the propaganda and rhetoric saying that USAID employees
are corrupt, that they’re unqualified and that they were doing fraudulent projects, we have now also made local staff in the countries where they work vulnerable to people accusing them of corruption.”
said Sanchez. “I really dug deep into that and some of the traditions and mushroom cultures around the world. This effort ties into that because of politics -— how the government is involved with mushroom topics.”
“I really want to give a lot of credit to the joint committee. I started by myself, but this would not have happened if we didn’t have support from professional mycologists and the different association presidents,” Sanchez concluded. “From an education standpoint this is something to help students understand that their voice matters. Engaging with your government is really important, and I’m glad they were involved.”
Visit www.wcmycoassociation.org to learn more about Agaricus julius and our local mycological association. And always consult with an expert before consuming mushrooms foraged in the wild.
THE TENTH GATE MANTRA READING
64 HOURS UNBROKEN CHAIN OF SOUND
Wednesday March 19th
Join us for 9th Year and 18th Reading : Experience the power of KUNDALINI GURMUKH MANTRA. A tool for expanding the heart chakra and opening the 10th Gate Sign up to read (for one hour) in a prayer of prosperity and inner awareness.
Casey worked remotely from Eagle so she avoided the pain of having 15 minutes to clear out her office like many of her colleagues. “Most of the people [in D.C.] convened outside the building to clap for each other, hug each other and make it an event where they showed their support for each other,” she recalled. “It’s just unreal the way this has unfolded and to watch the name being taken off the building.”
calibrate Universal Love and Harmony
Photos by Amy Hadden Marsh
Wine, beer, not everything is clear with Redstone’s liquor licensing OPINION
In many ways, Redstone is the last frontier of regulation, full of colorful personalities, differing opinions and little governmental oversight. Falling under Unincorporated Pitkin County, our sheriff is based in Aspen, over an hour away, the fire department is located in Carbondale and the closest thing we have to a town government is our chamber of commerce, the Redstone Community Association (RCA).
Reminiscent of the Old West with its general store, historic architecture and traditional values, Redstone inspires nostalgia for a bygone era. Due to its diminutive population, change often kicks up dust storms across the community as many aspire to retain the remoteness from modern society. Residents fiercely protect their community, reining in the advance of cell towers, short-term rentals and bike paths. Ironically, this safeguarding has established a patchwork of long-standing grudges and resentments, undermining the embodiment of our tight-knit community.
Last July, a new proprietor came to town, proffering wine, sommelier advice and sporting a big city background. Justin
Abad is an active member of the RCA and has ingratiated himself with many in our community. His wine shop, Boulevard Barrel, is refined yet accessible, nestled in the heart of Redstone’s commercial district across from Propaganda Pie. Like in the days of old, Abad lives behind his shop with his 4-year-old daughter.
The shop’s courtyard is quintessential Redstone, offering a cozy community gathering place where neighbors and tourists can converse on summer days while sipping wine.
Abad described his vision of the Boulevard Barrel as “based on the kind of old-school wine shops and salumieri of Italy from the time I spent studying abroad.”
He said he offers “a well curated, value-driven, off the beaten path selection of wines,” adding, ”I am trying to introduce people to makers, importers and distributors that are a little bit smaller, that I think provide the same value.” Abad wants to introduce a food component as well, with prepared foods and sandwiches, soups, salads and take-home meals at the Boulevard Barrel.
Abad recently applied for a Change in Class of License from a Fermented Malt Beverage and
Wine License to a Beer and Wine Liquor License and a Takeout and Delivery Permit. The new license extends to the courtyard and allows the Boulevard Barrel to offer wine tastings and food. However, one of his direct residential neighbors has questioned the current license’s standing. They assert the Boulevard Barrel is running an illegal bar in the courtyard with unlicensed public drinking. Now, the Boulevard Barrel is mired in the red tape of Pitkin County regulations.
The RCA has recused itself from being embroiled in this matter with its president, Josh Wamboldt, stating, “We try to support new businesses and existing businesses.” He said, “Our community comes first over anything else, so we have to look at our community impact over business impact.”
Abad said of the licensing process, “the messaging has been inconsistent at best, and I believe that what standards are being applied, statutorily enforced, etc., seem to be pretty inconsistent throughout the community.”
While investigating Abad’s current license, I also found the licensing process convoluted and vague. I blew around
GUEST COLUMN
By Elizabeth Key
departments like a tumbleweed, from the Pitkin County attorney, to clerk, to zoning enforcement, Open Space & Trails and the Colorado Department of Revenue, liquor enforcement division. The only definitive conclusion I reached was that Abad must reinstate the two commercial parking places, currently serving as courtyard seating.
Officer Jerry Tevault of the state Department of Revenue’s liquor enforcement division was called to investigate the Boulevard Barrel last December. He reported, “Pitkin County Sheriff’s Deputy David Silverstein called me regarding open containers and public drinking in the unincorporated area of Redstone. Deputy Silverstein stated they don’t have anything prohibiting opening containers or public
drinking unless it was part of a driving under the influence investigation. He said he doesn’t know of any local ordinances prohibiting people from wandering down the street of Redstone with alcohol.” Tevault ultimately concluded the Boulevard Barrel was not violating its license and stated, ”...as to the best of our understanding, there are no ordinances permitting public consumption in the community. If additional information comes to light, a new investigation will be opened but, at this time, this case is closed as unfounded.”
With a population of 92, Redstone may be a one horse town, but it mirrors national strife, often facing even division on issues. Residents frequently face off against each other as if it is high noon in the Wild West, forgoing communication, empathy and compromise. This is evident in the public comment portion of the Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners meeting regarding Abad’s new license request that took place on March 12. Maybe our community needs to have some heartfelt conversations that take place over a glass of wine.
For The Boulevard Barrel licensing developments and to view public comments visit: www.bit.ly/PitCoMarch12
THURSDAY, MARCH 13
SENIOR ART CLASS
The Art Base offers “Young at heART,” a senior art class, at the Eagle County Community Center in El Jebel on Thursdays from 12:45 to 2:15pm. The class is free (with a suggested $10 supply donation) and open to all with no registration necessary.
NONFICTION BOOK CLUB
The Nonfiction Book Club discusses this month’s theme, “Colorado,” at the Carbondale Library from 2 to 3:30pm.
ARTIST LECTURE
Multimedia artist and recipient of the 2024 Aspen Art Fair Anderson Ranch Visiting Artist Prize, Masako Miki, speaks at Anderson Ranch from 4:30 to 5:30pm. Register at www.andersonranch.org
PUBLIC LANDS PROTEST
Folks gather in support of public land managers, many being let go under the Trump administration, at the Forest Service office in Glenwood Springs (900 Grand Avenue) from 4 to 6pm. For more details, visit www. wildernessworkshop.org/conservation-watchdog
‘JUST OUR TYPE’
Join renowned curator, author and design expert Ellen Lupton for an exclusive exploration of Bauhaus’s enduring legacy in graphic design and typography at the Madeleine Albright Pavilion (845 Meadow Road, Aspen) from 5 to 6pm. Register at www.tinyurl.com/
JustOurType
ASPEN LAUGH FESTIVAL
The 2025 Aspen Laugh Festival continues at the Wheeler Opera House with Michael Cruz Kayne and Sofia Niño de Rivera, at 5:30 and 8pm, respectively. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
MENOPAUSE & SEX HEALTH
Dr. Rochelle Bernstein and Kim Riley offer solutions to address changes in libido, health and to increase feminine presence and enable more sexual joy and desire at True Nature from 5:30 to 8pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
SOL THEATRE
Poets and Writers Group
Sunday, March 16 at 3:30pm
Adults are invited to join us to engage in writing prompts that ignite the imagination, learn new craft strategies, and be inspired by other writers in the group.
Meet the Author featuring Konrad Nau
Wednesday, March 19 at 6pm
Meet local author Konrad Nau as he shares some of the adventures, mishaps, and transformative events from his coast-to-coast bicycle trip of 1974.
Third Thursday Book Club
Thursday, March 20 at 2pm
Join us to explore a mix of fiction and non-fiction, covering a broad range of genres and topics. March selection: “Brave the Wild River” by Melissa L. Sevigny
Stage of Life Theatre Company presents “Junie B. Jones: The Musical Jr.” at Thunder River Theatre with shows at 6pm tonight, tomorrow and Saturday, and 2pm matinees on Saturday and Sunday. Find tickets at www.soltheatrecompany.org
REPOTTING 101
The Botany Houseplant Shop hosts a repotting workshop from 6 to 7:30pm. Register at www.botanyhouseplantshop.com
UTE TRAIL TALK
Bill Kight, who spent over 20 years working with the three Ute tribes to identify the ancient Ute Trail across the Flat Tops north of Glenwood Springs, will present about his experience at the Glenwood Springs Library at 6:30pm.
CRYSTAL THEATRE
The Crystal Theatre screens “The Last Show Girl” tonight at 7pm. “Black Bag” screens tomorrow, Saturday and Thursday, March 20 at 7pm and Sunday at 5pm.
FRIDAY, MARCH 14
PRESCHOOL FUNDRAISER
The Children’s Mini College — located at Colorado Mountain College’s Glenwood Center — hosts its second annual Irish-themed “Gold & Green” fundraising happy hour, with Irish music, donated beer and wine and Irish appetizers (some baked by the Mini College’s students), from 5 to 7pm.
PERSPECTIVES
The Carbondale Clay Center displays works by high school students from Basalt and Carbondale with an opening reception from 6 to 8pm. Another reception will be held on April 4, also from 6 to 8pm.
MEN’S BREATHWORK
Davis Cowles guides a men’s ceremonial breathwork circle at True Nature from 6 to 8pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
MICKY & THE MOTORCARS
The Ute Theater in Rifle presents Micky & The Motorcars at 8pm. Tickets at www.utetheater.com
NURSE JOHN
Comedian John Dela Cruz (a.k.a Nurse John) performs at the Wheeler Opera House at 8pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
SATURDAY, MARCH 15
UPLIFT
HeadQuarters and Roaring Fork CrossFit team up to offer a free hour of physical training paired with mindfulness beginning at 9am at 35 Park Ave. Space A, Basalt. Register online at www.headq.org/support/events
TRANSPLANTING WORKSHOP
Growing Empowerment hosts a hands-on transplanting workshop, where participants learn how to successfully transplant seedlings for indoor growing at high altitude until they can be planted outdoors, from 10am to noon. Transplanted starters will be donated to Lift-Up. For more details, call 970-704-9535.
COUPLES WHO CLAY
Carbondale Clay Center invites couples to its St. Paddy’s Day Pottery Date Night, with pottery wheel throwing instruction provided by Molly Altman and Matthew Eames, from 4 to 6:30pm. Register at www.carbondaleclay.org/ date-night
PEACE IN GRIEF
Local authors Jessica Lockwood and Gary Gleason join Pathfinders Grief Counselor Robyn Hubbard to share their personal journeys of navigating grief and widowhood with courage and care at True Nature from 4 to 6pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
SPRING GULCH SEND-OFF
Mountain Heart Brewing hosts the Mt Sopris Nordic Council’s Spring Gulch season send-off party with music by Sweet Jessup and the Dirty Buckets from 5 to 7pm.
JERRY SEINFELD
As part of the 2025 Aspen Laugh Festival, Jerry Seinfeld performs at the Wheeler Opera House tonight at 6 and 9pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
CONTRA DANCE
The Carbondale Community School hosts a contra dance from 8 to 10pm. The tutorial begins at 7:30pm.
TOMMY CASTRO
Tommy Castro & The Painkillers brings blues guitar and rock and soul to TACAW with a show at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
SUNDAY, MARCH 16
A SPIRITUAL CENTER
A Spiritual Center (room 31 of the Third Street Center) opens the room to stimulating topics of discussion and the collective wisdom of all present from 10 to 11:30am.
HEALTHY MAMAS
Kerrie Martin hosts an afternoon of ceremony, movement and education to support pregnant and postpartum mamas as well as those contemplating motherhood at True Nature from 10am to 4pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
COMMUNITY GRIEF
Artist Rachel Becker, also a death doula, hosts a community grief ritual at The Launchpad from 1 to 3pm. “Bring an item that represents your grief or something/someone you are mourning” for a collective altar.
STEVE’S GUITARS
Cosy Sheridan and Heidi Rovig perform at Steve’s Guitars at 6pm. ickets at www.stevesguitars.net
MONDAY, MARCH 17
IN STITCHES
The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 1:30pm.
BOARD GAME BONANZA
Basalt Library welcomes school-aged children (5 and older) to enjoy board games, snacks and friends from 4 to 5pm.
LUCK OF THE LEGION American Legion Post 100 in Carbondale hosts a St. Patrick’s Day Party, complete with corned beef and cabbage for $12, at 5pm.
ASPEN FILM
Aspen Film continues its month-long “Focus on Lynch” series with a screening of the David Lynch film “Lost Highway” at its AF Isis Theatre at 7pm. Tickets at www.aspenfilm.org
ATLAN
Enjoy traditional Irish music with “An Evening with Atlan” at the Wheeler Opera House from 7 to 8:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19
SEED STARTER WORKSHOP
Vanessa Gilbert Meredith of Modern West Floral Company leads a seed starting workshop at the Botany Houseplant Shop from 5:30 to 7pm. Register at www. botanyhouseplantshop.com
‘LEGACY’ SCREENING
True Nature hosts a free screening of “Legacy,” a film offering intimate glimpses into agriculturalists lives, followed by a community discussion with agricultural and wellness professionals from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
MEET THE AUTHOR
The Carbondale Library presents Konrad Nau, author of “I Rode a Bike for 50 Years,” at 6pm. Books will be available to purchase after the talk.
SPRING VALLEY COALITION
The Spring Valley Coalition hosts a community meeting from 6 to 8pm to discuss the Spring Valley Ranch Substantial PUD Amendment and its opposition, ahead of an April 9 Garfield County Planning Commission meeting. Join at the Colorado Mountain College Spring Valley Campus in room 120 of the Ascent Center. More details at www.springvalleycoalition.com
THURSDAY, MARCH 20
BOOK CLUB
The Carbondale Library’s Third Thursday Book Club invites you to discuss “The Lost Girls of Willowbrook” by Ellen Marie Wiseman at 2pm. For more information, call 970-963-2889.
OPEN HEART SESSIONS
Laura Bartels with the Mindful Life Program offers “The Open Heart Sessions,” a strength-based course in living with resilience and wisdom, beginning today at 6pm and continuing on Thursdays through April 17 with in-person and online options. Find more details at www.mindfullifeprogram.org/ upcoming-events
‘BANNED TOGETHER’
The Basalt Library presents a pre-release screening of “Banned Together,” a new documentary about book bans and curriculum censorship in schools, at 6pm. Following the screening, there will be a Q&A with the film directors. Popcorn will be provided and all are welcome.
‘THE GLEANERS AND I’
Join UpRoot Colorado for a community potluck and a free screening of “The Gleaners and I,” a documentary by French filmmaker Agnés Varda with English subtitles, at the Glenwood
Library at 6pm. Attendees are requested, though not required, to bring a dish to share and their own reusable cutlery and dishware. To RSVP, visit www.bit.ly/gleaners-rsvp
COMEDY NIGHT
Steve’s Guitars hosts Comedy Night featuring Beth Brandon, Ryan Honey, Don Chaney, Eric Gile and Miller Ford. The show starts at 8pm, find tickets at www.stevesguitars.net
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.org 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.
BIKE PROJECT
The Carbondale Bike Project Shop helps repair people’s bicycles on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 6pm and Sundays from noon to 6pm on the east side of Third Street Center.
PAWS TO READ
Heeling Partners of the Roaring Fork Valley brings a four-legged friend to read with children at the Carbondale Library every first and third Tuesday of the month at 3:30pm. To register, call 970-963-2889.
CRIBBAGE
Whether you’ve played for years or are looking to learn, stop by the Carbondale Rec Center from 4 to 5pm Tuesday nights. Bring snacks or non-alcoholic
COMMUNITY CLASSES IN CARBONDALE
INTRO TO BUSINESS OF ART
Learn to create business plans, market and show your art. Mondays, 5-7pm, 3/17-4/21
AIKIDO (Try it for Free 3/18-3/20)
A non-violent way to re-direct, neutralize, or avoid an attack.
Tues/Thurs, 6-7:30pm, 3/18-5/8
MICROSOFT EXCEL WORKSHOP
From basics to more advanced spreadsheet functions.
Tues, 5:30-8pm, 3/25-5/6
TREE PRUNING TECHNIQUES
Covers timing, techniques, and different styles.
Tues, 4-7pm, 3/25- BASALT
HISTORY OF CONCERT POSTER
Learn about the art form, bands, artists, history and the industry.
Thurs, 6-7:30pm, 4/3
BEGINNING SWING DANCE
Jitterbug basics - step, turns, spins, dips, and fun moves. Wed, 6:30-8:30pm, 4/9-5/7
*CREDIT CLASSES
*WATERCOLOR - ASPEN Wed, 5:10-8:45pm, 3/26-4/30
*CPR FOR PROF. - CARBONDALE 8:30am-5pm, 3/26
drinks to share! Visit www.carbondalerec.com for more info.
YARN GROUP
Basalt Library hosts a weekly yarn group on Tuesdays at 5pm. All are welcome.
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.
SPARK
The Carbondale Library invites kids to “build, create, explore, concoct and invent together” on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Wednesday of each month at 2pm.
CLUB DE ESPAÑOL
Practice Spanish and enjoy specials at Bodegón in Carbondale every Wednesday from 5 to 7pm.
CANCER CARE
The Calaway-Young Cancer Center at Valley View Hospital offers yoga for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers at 9:15am on Thursdays. Then, the Walk and Talk cancer support group meets at 11am at the chapel in the cancer center.
WIGGLES OUT
Toddlers get their wiggles out at the Carbondale Library on Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30am.
UNDER THE SUN
Join Sopris Sun correspondents and guests for “Everything Under The Sun,” airing every Thursday on KDNK at 4pm.
GROUP RUN
Independence Run & Hike leads a group run on Thursdays departing from the store’s location, next to the Carbondale City Market, at 6:30pm.
KIDS’ CLASSES
TUMBLE, BALANCE AND BREATH Movement and fun to develop basic tumbling and social skills. Wed, 4-4:45pm, 4/2-4/23
COOKIES FOR EASTER AGE 8-16 Cookies and decorating supplies provided.
Wednesday, 3-4pm, 4/16
Community & KIds Class Registration...
SOFT GOODS
MANUFACTURING
INFO MEETING ONLINE
Learn about the Soft Goods Sewing & Design program courses, projects, and opportunities with Q&A. Wednesday, 5:30pm, 3/26
Scan for Zoom link...
*FIRST AID & CPR - CARBONDALE 8:30am-5pm, 3/27
*WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER - SV 8:00am-5pm, 4/14-4/27
Springs
The artists of the International Guitar Night 2025 tour gave a stellar and enthusiastically received performance at Aspen’s Wheeler Opera House on March 7. (Left to right) Lulo Reinhardt, Sönke Meinin, Alexandra Whittingham and Niwel Tsumbu. Photo by Ken Pletcher
Rams hoops teams bow out in Sweet 16 of 3A state tourney
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Roaring Fork High School’s boys and girls basketball teams managed opening-round wins in the regionals of the 3A playoffs last weekend, but were both upended in the second round to conclude their seasons.
It was epic March Madness basketball for the No. 9-seeded Lady Rams, who won easily Friday, March 7, over No. 24 Lyons, 53-26, before facing the regional host, No. 8 Strasburg on Saturday.
A game of fits and spurts for the Rams ended in a disappointing 59-57 loss, but Roaring Fork came to play.
The Rams were down 36-27 at halftime, and fell further behind 41-27 in the third quarter before going on an 11-0 run to make things interesting.
Again behind 53-43 late in the fourth quarter, the Rams came charging back to tie it at 55-all late in the game. What at first was thought to be a 3-pointer by sophomore Riley Bevington got waved off, and Strasburg closed it out 4-2 down the stretch to seal it.
“I’ve really never seen a group of kids play as hard as they did,”
head Rams coach Mike Vidakovich said afterward. “They gave everything that they had, but we came up a couple points short of our goal of getting to the final eight in Denver.”
Senior Carley Crownhart led the way with 17 points in the contest, followed by Bevington with 16 points, junior Nikki Tardif with 12 points and senior Erica Crownhart with eight points.
“Carley and Erica set a great example for us this weekend with their work ethic and attitude,” Vidakovich said of his senior leaders. “Everybody else followed along. I’m very proud of them.”
The Rams finished the season at 22-3 overall, after taking second in the 3A Western Slope League (WSL) at 12-2.
Their only regular season losses came to the Cedaredge Bruins, who advanced to the Great 8 of the 3A tourney as the No. 4 seed.
Boys fall to Firebirds
After slipping by longtime nemesis No. 18 Denver Christian 50-47 on Friday night, the No. 15 Roaring Fork boys advanced to face No. 2 Windsor
Charter Academy (WCA).
Roaring Fork was the only regular public school in the regional hosted by the WCA Firebirds, who proved too much to handle in a 70-40 loss on Saturday afternoon.
Down just 19-16 after one quarter of play, WCA went on a 25-8 run in the second frame and never looked back.
“This group of boys fought really hard this weekend against a couple of good teams,” head coach Jason Kreiling said. “It was great to go and get at least one win this weekend. Good luck to Windsor Charter; they are a really good team.”
Junior Lucas Carballeira led in scoring for both games, with 19 points against Denver Christian and 14 versus WCA.
The Rams finished at 18-7 overall after going 12-0 to win the 3A WSL for the first time in 12 years.
“The end of a high school sports season is always very abrupt,” Kreiling said. “You spend a lot of time outside practice and work preparing for four-and-ahalf months, then it all comes to an end in one night.
“This group is special,” the coach added. “The seniors I have
coached since third grade, and my son (Lawson) is a part of that group. This year stings a little more than in the past.”
At the same time, Kreiling said he is looking forward to next season with a solid core of returning starters in juniors Kiko Pena, Lucas Carballeira and Ethan Wilson, along with Quintin Galbraith and Ryder Tezanos.
Spring season begins
Meanwhile, several spring sports teams for Roaring Fork saw their first action this past weekend.
The Rams baseball team had 10-0 and 16-9 losses to Discovery Canyon and Montrose, respectively, at a weekend tournament. They play another tournament on the Front Range this
Friday and Saturday, March 15, against Kent Denver and Colorado Academy, and are set to host Coal Ridge for a double header on March 29, followed by the Trent Goscha Tournament April 3-5.
The combined Roaring ForkBasalt-Glenwood girls lacrosse team also opened 0-1 with a 10-8 loss at home Saturday against Steamboat Springs. Junior Jordyn Miller scored five goals, and senior Hailey Wolfe had three. The Rams recoved with an impressive win against Montrose on Tuesday, 17-1, and will be in Grand Junction on Thursday. Girls soccer opened the season Tuesday at Grand Junction with a tie, 2-2, and is at Fruita Monument on Friday, while boys and girls track and Field opens the season Friday at the Rifle Invitational.
Jordyn Miller takes a shot during Saturday’s game against Steamboat Springs. Photo by Isaac Sterling, youth correspondent
Sopris Sun interns among
Seniors at Roaring Fork High School were sprinkled throughout the school’s audi toria and entry hall to fill attendees in on what they pursued as their Capstone project. Every student in the Roaring Fork School District is tasked with completing a Capstone project in order to graduate. They are able to choose something, anything (within reason) of interest that matters to them and turn it into something that has an impact or takes them beyond the classroom.
This year, The Sopris Sun decided to highlight two projects in particular: those of its interns Yesenia Benavides and Gus Richardson. Both of these young people have been in The Sopris Sun Youth Journalism Program since their sophomore year, and many readers would recognize their bylines and/or writing styles.
For his senior capstone project, Richardson chose to highlight a very hip local band, of which he is a member: FOTOSTATIC. Richardson created a zine — a self-published magazine — featuring the band that is meant to be given out at shows and other events. The experience left him with an idea of what it’s like to promote a band, and the zine will serve to spark some interest and get more feet on the dancefloor at upcoming shows. “It has bios about the band members, lyric breakdowns and never-before-seen information about the Valley’s favorite teens,” Richardson summarized.
Benavides decided to build off of her position at The Sopris Sun for her project. Because she is passionate about immigration, and intends to study immigration law, Benavides pitched writing a series of related articles that will be published in both The Sun and Sol del Valle — so in English and Spanish. She has been hard at work, having interviewed an immigration attorney live, and in Spanish, on the air at the La Nueva Mix radio station in Glenwood Springs and following up with another attorney to ask some follow up questions. That first article is set to publish next week, so keep a lookout. Benavides wants to be a part of better informing the immigrant community, as well as the whole, on this increasingly important issue.
We are proud of Yesenia, Gus and the entire Rams class of 2025!
Board split on recommending Use or Hershey for Glenwood seat, staff compensation called into question
MEGAN WEBBER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
The Garfield County Public Library District Board of Trustees voted on Thursday to recommend Susan Use and Tony Hershey to the Garfield Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) for the vacant Glenwood Springs seat on the library’s governing body.
On Feb. 27, the BOCC interviewed Hershey and Use in addition to two other applicants — Ksana Ogelsby and Maureen Biermann — for the position. While the BOCC has the authority to make the final decision on who will ultimately fill the role, the library board was asked to rank the applicants and return a decision to the BOCC ahead of their March 10 meeting, when they were set to make a decision. See this week’s GarCo Report for details on the BOCC’s decision to go with Hershey.
Use, who previously held the seat for four years until December, received three votes from library board members. Hershey, a local attorney and former Glenwood Springs City Council member, received two.
Board members John Mallonee and Michelle Foster along with board president Adrian RippySheehy cast their votes for Use,
while board members Myrna Fletchall and Stephanie Pierucci Hirsch voted for Hershey. Board member Brit McLin was excused and absent from the vote.
“I think that Susan was an excellent board member,” Mallonee said, adding that he believed her experience would serve the library well going forward.
Fletchall disagreed, saying that Use’s previous role on the board was a reason not to reappoint her, while Hershey’s fresh perspective was a better option.
“I feel that sometimes Susan gets influenced on her decision, even if the situation is pretty black and white,” Fletchall said. “I think that that history she has with the board for this many years is not beneficial to the drama that we’re trying to move away from. We’re trying to be proactive, we’re trying to make the library move forward.”
board to rank the four candidates led to some confusion. Ultimately, although board members expressed support for either Ogelsby or Biermann as second preferences behind Hershey and Use, they decided only to recommend Hershey and Use as their top two choices with the 3-2 vote standing.
what an appropriate level of that focus might look like, because he said that in recent months it’s begun to feel like board members are too concerned about operations when, according to Colorado state statute, the board is responsible for overseeing things like the library’s budget, but not for going through and checking each invoice.
I think that that history [Use] has with the board for this many years is not beneficial to the drama that we’re trying to move away from. We’re trying to be proactive, we’re trying to make the library move forward.
On the other hand, she said that Hershey has no history on the library board that would make him biased one way or another. “He has knowledge with other boards, he has experience with other boards and he has experience as a lawyer, and I think that that will be beneficial,” she said.
The BOCC’s request for the
GARFIELD COUNTY REPORT
- Myrna Fletchall, Library Board
Later in the meeting, the board discussed operations and governance protocols and continued past conversations about wages and compensation, including the compensation of the library’s executive director, Jamie LaRue. LaRue asked the board to discuss
New library trustee, $ 797
AMY HADDEN MARSH
Sopris Sun Correspondent
The Garfield County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting in Rifle on Monday began with public comment from Rifle resident Mary Jane Hangs, a regular attendee when the BOCC comes to town. She had two concerns about the county’s senior citizens. First, she disagrees with how the Garfield County Department of Human Services (DHS) represents the county on the advisory board for DHS senior programs. The purpose of the advisory board, according to the bylaws from which she read, is to
, 000
inform the BOCC of the direction of DHS operation of senior programs and senior issues in general.
“We have a [DHS] staff member who is doing the programs on the advisory committee,” she explained. “I think [the Garfield County representative] should be someone from the governing body of Garfield County.” She said too much of the funding, which comes from the federal Older Americans Act, state and county coffers, is being spent on administration and not enough on the programs.
“We need a little more oversight,” she said.
LaRue said that throughout this discussion, Fletchall continued asking the staff at consecutive meetings for more comparative data about compensation. LaRue said that it began to feel like she was crossing a line.
“We gave you, position by position — here’s the range, this was the source of the data — and so at some point it’s like, happy to answer questions, but not new questions each time,” LaRue said.
Fletchall argued that as a member of the compensation committee she was deserving of seeing specific information, such as data comparing library staff’s compensation to wages at other libraries and similar organizations in the region. She said she wondered why LaRue was withholding that information from her and earned applause from the
room when she said she felt that LaRue was denying her access to it.
In a brief back-and-forth, Rippy-Sheehy said that she had been under the impression that LaRue gave Fletchall the information she requested, only for Fletchall to then express that that was not the information that she had wanted to see. Fletchall maintained that she had been asking for the same information all along and never got it.
Mallonee said that he agreed that trustees should have access to any information regarding finances and that to his knowledge, that information is fully under the purview of trustees. He made a motion to establish a retreat once the vacant trustee seat is filled for board members and library management to strengthen their relationships and get to know each other. He also made a second motion for an optional work session for the requested information about compensation comparisons to be explained to the trustees. Both motions passed unanimously.
“I think we’re all in the same place, like — it’s tense,” RippySheehy said during the vote. “And we’re neighbors and we want to kind of get along, and let’s just set some time aside.”
for new SUVs, a trip to D.C.
was leaving office, they discussed what roles Jankovsky would take on — looking after senior matters was one. “I just haven’t been tied into the schedule of when those meetings are,” he explained. “I will take that on myself.”
Hangs’ second concern was the fate of the Parachute Valley Senior Center building, which Jankovsky told her would not go away. “You’re not going to lose that senior center,” he said. “We’ll come up with a resolution.”
he said. “I read SB 24-216 twice, trying to find out where that was in the bill, and it’s not there.”
SB 24-216 or Standards for Decisions Regarding Library Resources was signed into state law last year.
The BOCC then approved a letter supporting Kathleen Sgamma, director of the Denver-based oil and gas trade group Western Energy Alliance, to lead the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). “I know she’ll be a strong representative for us in the BLM,” said Jankovsky.
“A member of DHS staff should not be a
Commission Chair Tom Jankovsky said that, as former commissioner John Martin
Agenda items were few but mighty. Two people tried to comment about the library but Jankovsky swiftly put the kibosh on that. “No more comments on the library,” he said. “It’s on the agenda and it’s just a decision.” In fact, the unanimous decision was to appoint Tony Hershey to fill the Glenwood Springs library trustee seat.
The library board’s top recommendations were Susan Use, followed by Hershey. Jankovsky reiterated that he is looking for diversity of opinion, robust discussions and no “groupthink” on the library board. Hershey was his first choice; Maureen Biermann, his second and Susan Use, his third.
He stated that Use was his first choice after the December interviews but he changed his mind. He said he respects Use and understands the importance of consistency on the board. The axe fell when he spoke directly to Use, who was in the audience. “Both times, you stated in your interview that it was against the law to move library books around [in the library],”
Commissioner Mike Samson spoke about his and Commissioner Perry Will’s recent trip to Washington, D.C. for the National Association of Counties (NACo) legislative conference, stating that he told the leader of the Senate Natural Resources Committee that he is dismayed at Colorado’s “anti-oil and gas positions.”
“We are envious of Utah. We are envious of Wyoming and people who see the importance of the United States being an energy independent nation,” he expounded. “It would help our economy in western Colorado as well as Colorado as well as the western United States as well as the United States of America and the world to develop our resources — not just natural gas but our resources.”
Samson added that the nation’s capitol seems more upbeat and excited. “Our country is headed in the right direction for the
Code master, Aaron Kuhns, advances
RALEIGH BURLEIGH
Sopris Sun Editor
Shortly after joining the Town of Carbondale staff last year, Building Official Aaron Kuhns began the formidable task of updating Carbondale’s building codes with goals of resolving inconsistencies, better matching the codes of neighboring jurisdictions and catching up with international efficiency standards. According to Kuhns, it’s been over 10 years since Carbondale underwent a process like this.
Prior to getting technical, the trustees began their regular March 11 meeting with a police ceremony for the swearing in of Officer Isabel Herrera and promotion of Sergeant Paul Lazo. Chief Kirk Wilson lauded both for their bilingual skills, improving the outreach and effectiveness of the department.
The unanimously approved consent agenda included a slew of meeting minutes, accounts payable, special event permits for the annual Ducks Unlimited fundraiser (April 5 at The Orchard) and 5 Point (April 24-27), a lease agreement extending use of The Launchpad building by Carbondale Arts for another five years with incrementally increasing rent, an application by Oscar Abello to join the Latino Advisory Board and an update on the pool project which warranted extra discussion.
Trustee Jess Robison expressed dismay with the report from Wember, the Town’s owner’s representative on the project. She requested more detail in future reports, to be able to track change orders and how contingency funds are dropping.
“I have yet to see a satisfactory job done by this owner’s rep,” declared Trustee Chris Hassig.
Trustee Ross Kribbs called attention to the state of the construction site, saying, “it looks like a dump” compared with other projects “that look clean and crisp.” He suggested this may be a reflection of the
quality of the work within the construction fence and “for the price we’re paying for this, it’s reasonable to ask that our Main Street looks tidy.”
During public comments, Kae McDonald, also a Town employee, shared observations about the public electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and frequency of users overstaying the two-hour posted limit, for which there is currently no consequence.
During updates from trustees, Mayor Ben Bohmfalk stated CRW Consulting is assisting with the town manager search and they are “optimistic about the candidate pool and landscape out there for this position.” He also shared that the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority is looking at ways to continue helping to fund the Downtowner and WE-cycle services in proportion with the percent of rides connecting to the Park and Ride.
Public Works Director Kevin Schorzman joined for the next
action items. The first was a chip sealing project contract with GMCO, LLC for $155,760. The second, a discussion of public EV charging stations and whether the Town should charge for electricity at the Level 2 station east of Town Hall and/or raise the cost at the Level 3 station on Cowen Drive. The 2025 budget includes funding for an additional charging station north of Town Hall. Schorzman sought direction on whether the Town 1. should try to simply break even on electricity costs, 2. set rates high enough to also cover maintenance and replacements or 3. keep costs for charging as low as possible in alignment with Carbondale’s values.
There was general consensus among the board that users should at least be charged for staying beyond the two-hour limit, which would require at least a nominal cost to access a payment method. Trustee Colin Laird acknowledged from experience the chargers aren’t cheap
and they break. “We don’t want to be subsidizing people who are buying really expensive vehicles,” he said. Schorzman will return at a future meeting with a few scenarios.
Next, Tree Board representatives Dan Bullock and JoAnn Teeple gave an annual update, touching on the great work of Town Arborist Carl Meinecke,
progress of emerald ash borer treatments and other miscellaneous Tree Board business.
“Getting trees planted at Chacos Park is my main objective,” stated Hassig, commenting on how quickly the ice rink melts now without shade.
Schorzman briefly returned to recommend acceptance of public infrastructure at the Thompson Park development (which was approved) before the meeting swung into a robust discussion of codes. Kuhns provided a 127-page document including a memo and draft of the code updates, bringing all codes up to 2021 standards. “Everything’s probably changed to some degree,” he stated.
Most comments from builders, architects and the general public supported Kuhns’ work. Fire Marshal Karl Oliver noted the last adopted fire code was from 1988, “which today doesn’t cover a lot of the risks we have in our town, period.” One point of contention, brought forth by Age-Friendly Carbondale, was the exclusion of Universal Design principles from these updates. Committed to within the latest Comprehensive Plan update, Universal Design assures people can safely and comfortably age in place.
continued on page 18
Thurs, Mar. 20, 6-7:30PM Banned Together pulls back the curtain on two of the most controversial issues in America today: book bans and curriculum censorship in public schools. This documentary follows three young women during their senior year of high school as they go from local to national activists.
Sergeant Paul Lazo had a new badge pinned on his vest by Sarah, his wife, while Chief Kirk Wilson looked on. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Students of the month (from left to right): Jacob Govea-Mendoza (CMS), Gustav Smith (RMS), Victoria Carreno (CMS), Santi Feria (RMS). Not pictured: Zoe Locsin and Joseph Ramos. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Happy multicultural St. Patrick’s Day!
We are on the eve of the traditional celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. But what does this day mean for the local culture in Colorado, the Hispanic culture and the Irish culture? Although it might not seem like it, this holiday has roots that touch the history of all of us.
St. Patrick is much more than a holiday of beer and green salad. While it’s true that painting rivers green in cities like Chicago or enjoying the dazzling parades in New York are feats that are part of the celebration, the history behind this day goes far beyond that.
It is clear that the St. Patrick’s Day celebration has deep religious roots. St. Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland. A little over a thousand years ago, a young man named Maewyn was kidnapped at an early age and taken to Ireland. He escaped for home, but later obeyed two spiritual revelations and returned to the place where he had been held captive: Ireland.
Many stories have been told about him, like his encounter with the pagan tribes of Ireland, his imprisonment and the brutal persecutions he suffered at the hands of the inhabitants of those lands. It is also said that he drove
all the snakes out of the island, forcing them to sink into the sea, which would explain the absence of snakes in Ireland. Another famous story is his confrontation with the druids (pre-Christian Celtic priests) and how, through prayer, he managed to extinguish a fire that they were guarding during a ceremony.
The truth is that the way St. Patrick evangelized was unique. He integrated local knowledge and traditions with Christianity. One example of this is the shamrock, which he used to teach the mystery of the Holy Trinity: three persons in one. The stem represented God, and the three leaves of the shamrock each represented one of the three divine beings. Likewise, the pagan sun god was incorporated into St. Patrick’s cross. Instead of suppressing traditions, he sought to integrate, unify and validate them.
renewal, is the tone that defines this holiday, brought to North America by Irish immigrants. Patrick’s Christian vision generated very solid values in Irish culture — a way of living faith through hope, hard work and a strong sense of community.
ANCHORS AWEIGH
The commercial aspect of St. Patrick’s Day, with its aesthetics, beer and food, is just one facet of what represents the influence of Irish culture in this country. Many of Colorado’s residents descend from Irish pioneers, impoverished Catholics who emigrated to the United States fleeing religious persecution and post-war famine. With a remarkable work ethic, a great sense of humor and deep family bonds, they could be compared to the “Latinos of Europe,” as I once heard a professor say.
The color green, which symbolizes nature, hope and
It’s incredible that the United States has over 32 million people claiming Irish heritage, more than the population of Ireland itself. It’s a community with which the state of Colorado has a
historical debt, after the Ludlow Massacre, when people, many from Ireland, were killed by militia for demanding better working conditions in the mines. More children died in the massacre than men protesting.
The relationship between Ireland and Latin America is also notable. For starters, they share a very similar migration history to Hispanic culture. The only difference is the melanin in the skin. Countries like those in the Andes — Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Bolivia — helped Ireland and the United Kingdom survive hunger by sending potatoes and corn to their pantries after the world wars. Or in the Bolivarian Revolution or the Mexican-American War, in which Irish troops were sent to support the independence and American movements. The same union and independent spirit characterizes the Irish, Latino and North American cultures.
So, the next time you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, let it be an opportunity to recognize our similarities, our struggles and our culture, which in the end are very similar. Let the green color of St. Patrick, his shamrocks and his food be symbols of hope, unity and mutual respect.
By Felipe Perez Sol del Valle
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores. Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com
Tell Them I’m Gone
By Dan Spiller Glenwood Springs
O down river, O down river
Wash this old fool away
Where lost is and hopeless remains
Tell my son, tell my son
Not to do what I have done, I could not walk and tried to run
Tell him, love from a broken man will come undone
Tell my love, tell my love
The key is in the back door, the bed will be warm without me
The gun is in the draw, keep the barrel well and oiled for me
Tell my lord, tell my lord
His money’s in his bowl, he can beg some other fool, I am reborn Enlightened I am singing your praise for the devil’s door
by flooding their input channels with disinformation. With AI now being used to overwhelm traditional media sources AND social networks by producing massive amounts of content, how do you know if what you are reading/hearing is the truth? As I stated in an earlier letter to the editor, get your news from a reliable news source such as those ranked by NewsGuard (www.newsguardtech.com), which ranks news sources from both the left and the right. They are rated on a scale of 0 to 100, with100 being the best.
Here are some credible news sources with scores of 85 to 100: Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Denver Post, NBC News, ABC News, The National Review, Christian Science Monitor, CBS News, New York Times, The
Some not so reliable news sources of with scores between 65 and 80: New York
And some unreliable news sources with scores under 50: MSNBC and Breitbart. I urge you to unplug from your social media accounts and go to these news sources with scores of at least 80 or better instead. And sample both sides (I regularly read The Washington Post AND The Wall
Jerome
Dayton Carbondale
I heard it over and over again during the 2024 campaign season, how Representative Jeff Hurd was a “reasonable Republican.” I even heard it at a recent town hall in Grand Junction where more than 400 concerned citizens hoped to talk to the congressman.
Surely, I thought, Rep. Hurd would
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first time in a long time,” he opined. “I see a genuine joy and happiness among people that our government is turning around.”
Commissioners approved the consent agenda, which included a contract to Daniels Long Chevrolet to purchase 14 new 2025 Chevy Tahoe SUVs for the Sheriff’s Department. The total cost is $797,133 based on a cooperative purchase agreement.
The Board approved a K9 vehicle donation from the county fleet to the New Castle Police Department and a 2012 Ford F-250 wildland fire transport truck to Colorado River Fire and Rescue. The approval was unanimous; although Jankovsky had trouble with donating the vehicles, stating that since there are no natural gas rigs in the
CARBONDALE REPORT
Trustees considered it reasonable to approach the next update with Universal Design in mind. With copious notes, Kuhns is expected to return in April with a final document to be adopted which will take effect in July. Going forward, the Town intends to go through this process every two years.
Lastly, the meeting concluded with an update from Artspace on the Town Center project which has run into financing hurdles. Andrew Michaelson with Artspace presented five funding scenarios for consideration which prompted discussion regarding the intent of downtown zoning
relish the opportunity to hear how worried and, in some cases, terrified many of his constituents are as we witness the dismantling of American democracy. Vital social programs and entire government departments are being slashed, acknowledged Hurd in a recent CPR interview, seeming to understand the danger.
In that same interview, however, Rep. Hurd went on to label that town hall as “political theater” and implied that I, and hundreds of other attendees, were funded by some billionaire. Sadly, Hurd declined to show up and witness the event firsthand. That’s exactly what former CD-3 Rep. Lauren Boebert would say. Remember her? She’s the gal Hurd told voters was unserious and he’d do better. Now, he’s spewing the same old and tired talking points used by Elon Musk-backed politicians in Congress.
Mr. Hurd, for the record, I don’t have to be paid to stand up to an oligarchy. In fact, it costs me time, gas and sleep.
I resist, and will continue to resist, because this authoritarian takeover could also cost me my country.
JoAnn
Kalenak Hotchkiss
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, no smearing, 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.
county right now, he would prefer some money for the vehicles.
County manager Fred Jarman mentioned that Ryan Lee is the new county safety and loss prevention specialist. County Attorney Heather Beattie discussed the Intergovernmental Agreement between the library district and the BOCC, stating that Library Board President Adrian Rippy-Sheehy has requested to talk with Jankovsky in June.
Commissioner Will gave an update on the NACo meeting in D.C. as well as HB 25-1258, the Scientific Wildlife Management bill that died in the House Agriculture, Water and Natural Resources Committee last week.
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and how to realistically build an affordable mixed-use development at this site.
Michaelson was given direction to go forward with a smaller parcel than the previously discussed 6th Street section, pursuing state funding for an eight-unit, for-sale condo building with first-floor commercial space. Robison disagreed with separating out that section without more of a plan for funding the full project.
As always, the full meeting can be reviewed on the Town of Carbondale’s YouTube channel.
Walk for Justice sees big turnout
PHOTOS AND TEXT BY LOU GALL Youth Correspondent
Open Call for Board Members
Becoming a parent is one of life’s most precious and challenging journeys, filled with questions, doubts, and excitement. That’s why we’re here.
Founded in 1983 as the Family Visitor Program of Garfield County and known today as Great Expectations, our evidence-based perinatal home visiting programs improve child and maternal health and reduce the risk of child abuse and neglect. Our registered nurses and family support specialists confidentially and compassionately help families in Garfield, Pitkin, and western Eagle counties access community resources, mental health support, and parent support groups at no cost.
Great Expectations is inviting applications for three Board seats with terms commencing July 1, 2025. With looming financial challenges tied to fluctuations in government funding, strong leadership and strategic foresight are more vital than ever.
If you are interested in making a di erence in the lives of future Coloradans, please fill out the Board of Directors Interest Form on our website (scan QR code) by March 31, 2025. While we invite all interested candidates to apply, we are actively looking for persons with these distinctions:
•Corporate and individual philanthropy
• IT, including security and data/CRM
software
•Nonprofit management
•Spanish language proficiency
•Preferably reside in Colorado
•Colorado state governance
•State and federal funding
Scan Here to Apply
Website: https://greatexpectations.co
Instagram: @greatexpectationssig
Facebook: Great Expectations CO
Email: sara@greatexpectations.co
TLEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF CANCELLATION AND CERTIFIED STATEMENT OF RESULTS
§1-13.5-513(6), 32-1-104, 1-11-103(3) C.R.S.
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN by the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District, Garfield, Gunnison, and Pitkin Counties, Colorado, that at the close of business on the sixty-third day before the election, there were not more candidates for director than offices to be filled, including candidates filing affidavits of intent to be write-in candidates; therefore, the election to be held on May 6, 2025 is hereby canceled pursuant to section 1-13.5-513(6) C.R.S.
The following candidates are hereby declared elected:
Michael Hassig 4 year term until May, 2029
Michael R. Kennedy 4 year term until May, 2029
Gretchen Stock Bell 4 year term until May, 2029
Jennifer Cutright, Designated Election Official
Contact Person for the District: Jenny Cutright
Telephone Number of the District: 970-963-2491
Address of the District: 300 Meadowood Drive, Carbondale,
District Email: office@carbondalefire.org
Sopris
on March 13, 2025.
McBurney remarked, “We need solidarity amongst all people so we can walk arm in arm for peace.” Across the board there was a shared sentiment of a need for reform in the public sphere, while highlighting the integral part these marginalized communities play among the whole. Carlson added, “If we can be the voice saying, ‘You are loved as you are,’ it offers up so many more voices to be heard.”
Throughout this event, a message of hope was shared, with many wielding signs in support of equal and equitable treatment of all inhabitants of the United States.
“We can do this peacefully,” Law asserted. All of the pastors agreed one way to be heard is by taking action and offering future events to create a more welcoming community, starting here within the Roaring Fork Valley.
his past Wednesday, March 5, Ash Wednesday, Glenwood Springs-based churches sponsored the Walk for Justice, when nearly 200 people came together to show support for minority groups. The march started at the Bluebird Cafe and concluded at Sayre Park. Local pastors Rebecca Dunagan, Bruce McBurney, Kimberlee Law and Jeff Carlson hosted the event.
Tricia Cleis and her cat, Frank.
Concussions Uncovered: All About Brain Health and
Recovery
This special session brings together top experts in concussion research and treatment. Dr. Micky Collins, Dr. Anthony Kontos, Dr. Anne Mucha and Ostop from UPMC Sports Medicine will share the latest facts, clear up common myths and explain how concussions can be treated.
When: Thursday, April 10 at 5:30 pm
Where: Hoffman Hotel, Mount Sopris Room, 30 Kodiak Drive, Basalt
Who Should Attend: Anyone who has experienced a concussion or is interested in brain health. Athletes, parents, coaches and the greater community — all are welcome!
FREE to our community, RSVP encouraged. Scan the QR code or visit aspenhospital.org/event/concussions-uncovered
