Roaring Fork High School’s baseball team won their home tournament trophy this
the Trent Goscha Memorial Tournament and spring sports, flip to page 9.
Photo by Isaac Sterling, youth correspondent
Choosing sobriety
This month on VOICES Radio Hour — Friday, April 11 at 6pm on KDNK — we hear from women in the Roaring Fork Valley, including Allison Alexander, who are living life sober, and learn what makes that journey a challenge, as well as a joy.
On a recent midwestern trip home, my aunt gave me a photo album with pictures of my childhood that I had never seen before or had long forgotten. Toward the front of the book is a series of photos from my Catholic baptismal after-party in the bar my grandparents owned.
This series gave me pause for several reasons. First, I converted to Judaism 15 years ago, but that’s a story for a different time. Secondly, I stopped drinking alcohol over five years ago. It also served as a reminder of what an incredibly large role alcohol plays in my family and our culture generally.
I did not stop because I hit rock bottom or had a particularly bad night out. Instead, I stopped because my sister’s drinking almost killed her in January of 2020, putting her in the ICU for weeks and then a nursing home, unable to walk for six months at the age of 33 with the alcoholic neuropathy of someone decades older.
if they can’t control their use of it, and almost all of us expect that our children will at some point drink. I had never questioned any of this before.
As I thought about those truths and others, I questioned whether I wanted to have alcohol in my life. At that point, I was beginning to remove things that were not adding value in my life or I had outgrown. I realized alcohol wasn’t a relationship I wanted to continue. When I am honest, it has brought a lot of harm to my life, even without it being a “problem.”
OPINION
The first few months I removed drinking were not challenging as we moved through COVID because I have never drank at home. I did, however, notice that I was invited to feel feelings in a way I hadn’t before without the occasional drink when life felt stressful or challenging.
VOICES
As a curious person, I wanted to understand why she kept ending up in this place after years of attempting sobriety in multiple ways in various rehabs. I had also watched my brother and other loved ones do terrible damage to their lives with alcohol. I did not struggle in the same ways, so I wanted to understand how I could support her better. I started reading books about addiction and the memoirs of those in recovery years ago.
RADIO HOUR
By Allison Alexander
That January, while my sister was in the hospital across the country, I felt helpless and turned to another book. This time, it was “Quit Like a Woman” by Holly Whitaker. I hadn’t drank since she entered the hospital, and as I started reading, I decided I wouldn’t drink while I read it. Halfway through, I decided I would not be drinking again, and I haven’t since.
Most books about alcohol or addiction I had read up until that point did not talk about the role alcohol plays in culture or outline how it impacts the brain, topics I am fascinated by. As I read, I started to realize how alcohol is a part of every part of our lives. If we are celebrating, perhaps even a baptism, we drink. If we are sad, like after a funeral, we drink. Culturally, we have made it routine to drink and abnormal to abstain.
It is also the only drug that we often look at the user as deficient
LETTERS
Peaceful protest
What a great turnout at the Resist protest in Glenwood Springs on Saturday. There were hundreds of folks across Grand Avenue from me where my two signs were the only conservative opinions amongst a forest of southpaw sentiment.
Yet the party of joy and inclusion was heart warmingly kind to me. I’ve never ever had so many people beating their chests while signaling I was #1 in their hearts. It was truly gratifying.
After my arms tired of sign waving I walked back to my Jeep wondering how so many folks could be so unhappy while living in our own little valleys of Eden. I also felt thankful to live in a community where people can peacefully disagree, unlike so many violent protests nationally. Good job folks.
Bruno Kirchenwitz Rifle
Aquatics center
This summer, the new Carbondale Aquatics Center will continue to take shape at the site of the old pool, with reopening scheduled for spring 2026. Going without a public pool for two summers is tough, but it also helps us realize how important a town pool is for our community. The new
As the world started to reopen, my newfound sobriety was put to the test. As an extroverted introvert, I used alcohol to “help” me move through social anxiety. What surprised me was that, for the first time, I was more present and calm in conversations while noticing others were not. As others drank more, I realized there was no pressure to perform because they likely wouldn’t remember the finer details of our conversation.
Last year was the most challenging year of my life as I navigated my divorce. It was also the first time since 2020 I thought, “I want to drink.”
The thought surprised me, but when I got curious about why I wanted to, I knew my reasoning was precisely why I should not. I wanted to numb and forget and check out of the worst pain of my life. Instead, I felt it. Instead, I let myself be truly sad and leaned on other tools.
Instead of a hangover, I felt clarity and joy on the other side. Being alcohol-free has also shifted the way I show up to support those I love who have not had the ease of experience I have in removing alcohol. I know that questioning the need for alcohol at every gathering and removing it has created meaningful moments and deepened my relationships in ways for which I am deeply grateful.
Allison is a heart alchemist and breathwork guide who specializes in supporting individuals and organizations in living out their heart-led missions. Curiosity is her superpower, and as a former children’s librarian, she is deeply passionate about play and storytelling. She is a proud member of the VOICES board.
facility will feature a brand-new ADA-accessible bathhouse, a six-lane lap pool with a diving board and climbing wall, a large shallow-entry recreation pool for kids and an in-ground hot tub/spa.
Despite a nearly 50% increase in construction costs, the Town has secured funding for these core elements thanks to healthy fund balances and increased sales tax revenue. Additionally, individuals, families, civic organizations, businesses and grants have contributed over $1.6 million in gifts and pledges, bringing us within $840,000 of our goal.
Community support is needed for the final phase of funding, which will allow us to include key enhancements that align with Carbondale’s core values of sustainability, inclusion and the arts, without impacting other budgets. These features include:
• A trellis and solar array — providing shade while advancing our commitment to renewable energy.
• Brick artwork and architectural enhancements — celebrating Carbondale’s creative spirit and enhancing Main Street’s character.
• High-efficiency heat pumps — ensuring energy-efficient electric heating for the pools and the building, advancing our climate goals.
• Spa accessibility features— making the center more inclusive for all ages and abilities.
Rather than scaling back to a basic design, we are striving for a facility that reflects the values and requests of our community. Carbondale has a long history of achieving big things through philanthropic support. Investments from individuals, businesses and organizations allow us to “punch above our weight” and build something exceptional — something we can all take pride in.
To help lead the way, I have personally donated six months of my mayor’s salary to this effort. I invite you to join me in making this vision a reality. Every contribution, large or small, brings us closer to the finish line.
If you’d like to donate or learn more, please visit www.carbondaleconnect.org/pool
Together, we can create an aquatics center that serves our town for generations to come.
Ben
Bohmfalk
Mayor of Carbondale
Pool 2.0
The Carbondale Pool has been a significant part of my life for 30 years. My daughter and I did triathlon training there; I hung out at the baby pool with numerous
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SCUTTLEBUTT
Spring Valley Ranch
OUR UNDERWRITERS AND NONPROFIT PARTNERS!
ASPEN VALLEY HOSPITAL
A long-awaited Garfield County Planning Commission hearing about the proposed amendment to the Spring Valley Ranch Planned Unit Development, scheduled for April 9, was cancelled last week. In an April 4 letter to Glenn Hartmann, director of the county community development department, and county attorney Kelly Cave, Bart Johnson, attorney for Storied Development LLC, said the developers felt “ambushed” by what they say are generalized concerns about the development and a “180degree change in position” by the county Road and Bridge Department (CBR) less than two weeks before the scheduled hearing. In January 2024, according to the letter, the CRB did not want County Road 115 (Red Canyon Road) to be improved or serve as a means of access for the development. Now, according to county documents, the county recommends “making the canyon section of the road one-way downhill along with other safety improvements.” No future date for a hearing has been set. All county documents and the April 4 letter are available at www. garfieldcountyco.gov/community-development
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Carbondale Arts is seeking proposals for gallery exhibitions for the 2026 calendar year. The gallery strives to provide a platform for local artists while also cultivating connections with regional and national artists to enrich our community. Proposals are due by May 1 at www.bit.ly/CAgallery2026
Clean nuclear
Governor Jared Polis recently signed into law House Bill 1040, classifying nuclear energy as “clean energy.” According to Joel Johnston, a partner at the law firm Hall Estill who specializes in environmental and regulatory issues, passage of the bill will increase funding opportunities for nuclear projects in Colorado and may reduce available incentives for wind and solar. “The fact remains that long-term radioactive waste management is a huge ongoing issue for the nuclear power industry, which this bill does nothing to address,” he stated.
Freedom to marry
On April 7, Governor Jared Polis signed into law a bill protecting the freedom to marry in Colorado by repealing language in the state constitution that bans same-sex marriage. “Colorado is for everyone, no matter who you are or who you love,” Polis declared. Amendment J, approved by voters in November, paved the way to remove language added to the constitution in 2006 which stated: “Only a union of one man and one woman shall be valid or recognized as a marriage in this state.”
Last Sunday, the Roaring Fork Coop parking lot was alive with activity. Besides the humans and dogs, a few horse trailers and several pickup trucks with lowered tailgates lined the perimeter of the lot serving as platforms to display all things tacky… but not in the tasteless or tawdry sense. A used tack sale, organized by Kelly Potter, was held featuring all things “horsey” including saddles, bridles, bits, girths, cinches, ropes, halters, etc.
TABOR
In a late-night vote this week, the state House Finance Committee narrowly passed a resolution bringing a lawsuit against the Taxpayers Bill of Rights (TABOR), a constitutional amendment approved by voters in 1992 with significant effects on government spending. The lawsuit will use taxpayer dollars on both sides, attacking and defending TABOR.
Humanitarian
awards
The Garfield County Human Services Commission and the Board of County Commissioners presented their 35th annual humanitarian awards to members of our community on April 7 at the Hotel Colorado. Carbondale’s Rita Marsh, co-founder and director of The Center for Human Flourishing, earned the Wellness Visionary award; Patricia Horwitz was honored with the Lifetime Service award; Dee Warwick took home Heart & Soul; and Quinn McSwain was recognized with the Taking Flight award. Congratulations to these community all-stars who make Garfield County a more vibrant, supportive and safe place to be.
Glenwood cleanup
Glenwood residents, get out your calendars! In welcoming spring, the City of Glenwood Springs is providing its residents with landfill vouchers, available upon request through April 30; is accepting brush and yard waste at its drop-off site at the old rodeo grounds every other saturday (as of April 5); and is hosting a hazardous waste drop-off and compost pickup day on April 19, from 9am to 2pm at the Community Center. For more information, visit www.cogs.us/696/Spring-Cleanup-Events
CMC to master’s
Colorado Mountain College (CMC) and Colorado State University (CSU) Global, a 100% online campus, have partnered to offer CMC
graduates a direct path to a master’s degree within select programs. CMC bachelor graduates with a 2.3 GPA or higher are guaranteed admission to CSU Global for master’s programs in business, leadership and education. Applicants with less than a 2.3 average can still apply through a provisional admission process. Accepted CMC graduates will also receive discounted tuition rates at CSU Global. “Through this partnership… CMC students will be able to access affordable and high-quality graduate programs that may have otherwise seemed out of reach for residents of rural mountain towns,” said CMC President Matt Gianneschi. For more information, visit www.csuglobal.edu
Sculpting Basalt
The Town of Basalt invites sculptors to apply for a piece of their art to be displayed along the new Midland Streetscape for two years as part of Basalt’s first art consignment program for temporary outdoor public art installations. The program will expand to Willits in 2026. After two years, the Town has the option to extend a display or purchase the sculpture for its permanent collection. The deadline to apply is May 1, and local, regional and Colorado-based artists will be given priority. Learn more and apply at www.basalt.net/bpac
They say it’s your birthday! Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Suzanne Lavin, Herschel Ross and Marty Treadway (April 10); Krys Greenwood and Iris Nott (April 11); Brandon McDuffey and Susan Shirley (April 12); Diane Kenney, Nicole Levesque, Brad Moore, Jane Munsell, Vicki Peterson and Bill Shepherd (April 13); James Armstrong, Ed Brown, Dino Baldizan, Mark Giesecke and Roberta McGowan (April 14); Aisha Weinhold, Deloras Pulver and KDNK (April 15); Rachel Connor, Ylice Golden and Emma Rose (April 16).
Photo by Jane Bachrach
McClure Pass Trail from Redstone meanders toward completion in 2027
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
A new trail from the village of Redstone to the top of McClure Pass has been controversial in recent years. The seven-mile trail is a planned segment of an aspirational Carbondale to Crested Butte trail, offering an over 80-mile alternative to popular existing hikes between the Roaring Fork Valley and towns south of the Elk Mountains. The new trail differs from the existing McClure Pass trail, which sees heavy use year-round.
When The Sopris Sun last covered this trail in 2023, it had recently received an environmental assessment approval from the United States Forest Service (USFS). Local environmental advocacy nonprofit Wilderness Workshop submitted an objection, requesting further assessment.
That led to negotiations between Pitkin County, Wilderness Workshop and other objectors, as well as the USFS and White River National Forest. Adjustments to the plan, including promises of additional environmental impact assessments, soothed some groups initially opposed to the trail. Pitkin County Open Space and Trails Director Gary Tennenbaum summarized this, saying, “The county has obtained approval from the Forest Service through the NEPA [National Environmental Policy Act] process, which addressed the major concerns.”
The Pitkin Board of County Commissioners and White River National Forest approved plans to construct the trail in early summer
2024. The process has faced some delays. Among these is a proposal to construct a new powerline and communications center on McClure Pass. According to Tennenbaum, the powerline has been on stakeholders’ radars for some time. The formal proposal was submitted to USFS in the autumn of 2024 and is currently under review.
However, Pitkin County Open Space and Trails plans to move forward with lower trail construction this year and next. Even if approved, the powerline proposal
would only affect the upper section of the planned trail near the top of McClure Pass. Tennenbaum said, “Our staff is working on implementing the parking area at the base of the Old McClure Pass Road and trail to the existing road for 2025.” As Old McClure Pass Road is already a popular hiking area, the improved parking benefits recreationalists and driver safety.
Actual trail construction is slated for next year. “We are planning on completing the trail from the Old McClure Pass Road
to the top of McClure Pass in 2026,” said Tennenbaum. After that, he elaborated, the plan is “to complete the trail from Redstone to the base of the Old McClure Pass Road in 2027.” Those two miles of trail between Redstone and the parking area will provide a safer alternative for pedestrians than walking along the shoulder of Highway 133.
The trail construction plan and implementation face restrictions approved by local environmental organizations. Construction related to the McClure Pass Trail will be limited to between July 15 and Nov. 15 to avoid winter and spring disruptions to wildlife. Once completed, the trail will have a seasonal winter closure from Dec. 1 to April 30, similar to sections of the Rio Grande Trail and other recreational trails in the Roaring Fork Valley. The winter closure will help protect wildlife during a vulnerable season. Per agreement with local stakeholders, if any changes are made to future segments of the trail in Pitkin County, the entire section of trail will undergo a comprehensive environmental analysis. Pitkin County has authority over the seven-mile section slated for Redstone to the summit of McClure Pass. Development of other sections of the Carbondale to Crested Butte trail falls in the purview of other counties. Records of decision for the Pitkin County segment are available for public viewing on the USFS website. Additional references can be found on the Pitkin County Open Space and Trails webpage.
A cyclist uses the public trail north of Carbondale and Mt. Sopris. The McClure Pass trail will eventually connect the village of Redstone to the top of McClure Pass. Photo courtesy of Pitkin County Open Space and Trails
Juggling the fate of public media
JAMES STEINDLER
Contributing Editor
Public media is like an invisible web connecting the country, from rural to urban America. More than 1,500 local radio and television stations affiliated with the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) can transfer information instantaneously to listeners across the nation, including emergency alerts. In 1967, Congress agreed this was a valuable asset for the American people and created CPB after President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Public Broadcasting Act.
CPB is a nonprofit that allocates federal funding approved by Congress every two years to those 1,500 member stations. Through the Continuing Resolution passed by Congress in mid-March, CPB funding through fiscal year 2027 was approved.
“The question is what steps the administration might take to try to overrule that approval,” said Stewart Vanderwilt, CEO of Colorado Public Radio (CPR). Public media has been increasingly targeted as of late by Republicans in Congress as well as the executive branch.
There is an innate interdependence among public radio stations. In Colorado, stations
rely on each other to report news from within a given area — which only local, boots-on-the ground reporters are readily available to cover — to share with other regional stations.
“If one station is put in peril, that impacts everyone — not just that one station in that community,” said Vanderwilt. “We really need to share with our audiences and our representatives that these stations deliver essential services that can only be done from where they are. You can’t replace this with an internet feed of national news from outside of Colorado.”
CPR receives about $1.4 million in federal funding annually, making up 5% of its revenue. In comparison, KDNK Community Access Radio received $144,743 from CPB in 2023, making up 24% of its revenue that year. In 2024, KDNK received $174,779.
“[Federal] grants are a match to local community support,” Vanderwilt explained, “and that match is higher for stations in less populated communities.” So the formula is meant to provide comparatively more support to rural communities, and at the same time is dependent on the level of local backing,
demonstrated by memberships and donations.
“The formula favors, appropriately so, smaller communities. So a dollar that KDNK raises is matched at a higher rate than a dollar that CPR raises,” Vanderwilt continued. “It’s really an incentive — each community, in a way, matches the federal investment.”
According to Protect My Public Media, a national advocacy group, taxpayer funding to CPB amounts to about $1.60 per person annually.
And that federal funding isn’t provided willy-nilly. KDNK Station Director Megan Passmore explained that all member stations are required to have an annual third-party audit to receive those dollars.
Federal grants to National Public Radio (NPR) make up approximately 1% of its annual revenue. “As a private nonprofit, the majority of NPR’s funding comes from donations and sponsorships,” a NPR spokesperson
told The Sopris Sun.
“So the impact will be at your station,” Vanderwilt stated. “When you hear it talked about nationally, about defunding NPR or PBS, the reality is it’s defunding local stations … that are run by local people.”
“CPB funding supports hundreds of member stations with local newsrooms in communities around the nation,” chimed in the NPR spokesperson. “These
continued on page 10
S
KDNK team members (clockwise, left to right): station elder and Assistant Music Director Luke Nestler, News Director Marilyn Gleason (wielding a cut-out of Membership Coordinator Chris Hassig), Station Director Megan Passmore, Underwriting Director Tracy Strode, Music Director Cody Lee, News Reporter Lily Jones and Board
President Maggie Seldeen pack into the studio during membership drive. Photo by James Steindler
Carbondale Rotary needs helping hands for highway cleanup on April 26
JAMES STEINDLER
Contributing Editor
The Rotary Club of Carbondale comes up in conversation a lot when public service is afoot. From sending local students on their first international exchange to serving up potato pancakes at the annual Potato Day, this local chapter remains an active one.
In February of 1905, Chicago attorney Paul Harris created the Rotary Club of Chicago, the first of its kind, “so professionals with diverse backgrounds could exchange ideas and form meaningful, lifelong friendships,” according to the organization’s umbrella website. Harris later said, “Whatever Rotary may mean to us, to the world it will be known by the results it achieves.”
Eric Berry, the owner of RJ Paddywacks Pet Outfitters and someone who already gives a lot back to the community, joined as a Rotary member about a year ago. To join the club, one must have a sponsor already on the inside, fill out a basic application and join the meetings (held in-person at the Carbondale Fire Station, and virtually) on Wednesdays at 6:45am. Berry said for several years he was wooed by a couple of members to join, including fellow Montessori
parent Alan Cole. Eventually, he was in front of Rotary presenting on behalf of KDNK Community Access Radio, along with Station Director Megan Passmore, for a grant that helped with the purchase of a new control board in the studio. “It opened the door for me,” Berry told The Sopris Sun.
“Carbondale Rotary funds scholarships for local students, provides funds for a lot of 501c3 organizations; in fact, we just gave $3,000 to Smiling Goat Ranch and another $2,000 to Raising a Reader,” said Berry. And grants aren’t it. For instance, members of Carbondale Rotary and the Rotary Club of Glenwood Springs will be traveling to the Navajo Nation in Chinle, Arizona to bring learning and reading materials there in June.
“Really, Rotary is about promoting relationships and peace,” Berry stated.
Highway cleanup
And why not keep things clean while at it? One of the diverse ways in which Carbondale Rotary gives back is by maintaining a section of Highway 82, between Aspen Glen right up to the entrance of Carbondale, through the state’s Adopt-a-Highway program. When an organization
or individual adopts a section of highway, Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) requests that the adopter clean the roadway four times a year. But, it’s been since COVID since a cleanup party at the Rotary section — largely because it takes a lot of hands, which requires a lot of volunteers. Volunteers are still needed for the upcoming project.
On Saturday, April 26, from 9:30am to 2pm, “We are going to pick up as much trash as we can along the highway going down toward Glenwood, and
same,” explained Berry. CDOT provides bags, safety vests and will collect the bags once the cleanup is complete.
Chuck Marsh with CDOT explained that the roads it maintains are divided into maintenance sections called “patrols.” Typically, four CDOT maintenance team members are assigned to a section that spans 10 to 40 miles, depending on the location and complexity of the road.
“This includes snow plowing, crash support, pothole repairs, fixing guardrails, mending fences,
in an email to The Sun. “While these patrols do the best they can to keep up, it is almost impossible to remove all of the trash or debris that is either thrown, blown or crashed into their patrol areas. That is why the Adopt-a-Highway program is such a big help.”
Besides having a sign installed that recognizes the organization or individual committed to caring for a section of highway, “It’s just the good feeling of knowing that you’re taking care of your community,” said Berry. “After the snow melts here it looks pretty ugly down there on the sides of the highway — stuff does accumulate — and it’s really nice just to spruce it back up.”
When asked if he’d been part of a highway cleanup before,
continued on page 10
assisted living in Aspen is expensive? Well, think again!
The best care, the best value at the top of the Roaring Fork Valley. The Whitcomb Terrace community is truly an extension of everything that makes Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley such a warm, welcoming place to live — beautiful views included!
• Virtually all-inclusive pricing
• Tenured staff with exceptional staff-to-resident ratios
• Robust schedule of physical fitness and social programming
• Furry friends welcome
or email Maggie Gerardi to schedule a tour. 970.544.1530 mgerardi@aspenhospital.org
Growing Empowerment:
Where there’s a Wille, there’s a way
GENEVIEVE VILLAMIZAR
Sopris Sun Contributor
Saturday, April 5, Growing Empowerment founder and executive director Kim Doyle Wille hosted the final workshop in a series held at Eagle Crest Nursery this winter. “Transplanting with Growing Empowerment” taught participants the ever-so-delicate art and science of potting up indoor produce seedlings — and avoiding the pitfalls so many of us encounter when trying it on our own.
Let’s face it: failure is one of the many reasons so many of us don’t grow or garden. But the human body needs food to stay alive — and love to flourish. Wille is a master though, so when politics and economies fail us, she turns to fundamental human endeavors: growing food, fostering connection and building community.
Since the 2008 U.S. recession, teaching others to grow food has become Wille’s throughline, her activist response to watching the people around suffer.
“I’ve always cooked for people and wanted to see people fed. When the recession hit, I saw some of my neighbors [turn to alcohol or drugs]. They just needed healthy food. So did I,” she said. So she built raised-bed gardens.
Wille’s been connecting people to gardens and food ever since. She believes that growing one’s own food brings dignity to food insecurity. It empowers people to take charge of their lives and needs when the social and power structures cannot.
And now is the time. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a non-partisan research nonprofit, reports that the Trump administration, with Republican support, aims to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest by cutting federal food support for the nation’s most impoverished.
Wille’s “dignity mission” in 2025 is to grow and distribute more than 5,000 plant starts into the hands of our region’s food-insecure families and individuals through Valley-wide Lift-Up food pantries.
Jan. 29, Lift-Up made a public appeal in an online press conference for more community support. Demand for services has soared 400% since the pandemic, but donations have dropped by 25% in the past two years.
So Wille has been sowing seeds since February — tomatoes, peppers and cucumbers are community favorites. But the list is endless; anything and everything you could dream of that’ll grow in the Rocky Mountains. Think nutritional powerhouses: cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, mustard greens, turnips. Think Simon and Garfunkel: parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme. Think birds and bees and all species “pollinator:” zinnias, calendula, marigolds.
Wille wants to feed us
In addition to Lift-Up plant distributions, Growing Empowerment sells a portion of the seedlings at very fair prices. Purchases help fund ongoing Empowerment costs: LED grow lights, light timers, electricity, gas, seed starting mediums, fertilizers, shelving, flats, trays and portable green houses.
Facilitating workshops comes naturally for Wille. She taught gardening and sustainable science at Yampah Mountain High School for nine years. She made such an impression that some of those students still volunteer and attend workshops with Growing Empowerment.
The hands-on workshops are integral to the volume of labor needed to prepare plants for distribution, but Wille’s hopes are higher than just tangible plants.
“My main thing,” she said, “is to get neighbors knowing their neighbors and community and helping each other, whether it be with gardening advice or sharing their harvests or just listening. I believe in breaking bread together — it opens so many doors.”
Doors in classrooms in the mid-Valley this month, where she’ll be teaching transplanting and leaving those transplants behind for school and student gardens. Doors in her own community, El Jebel, where volunteers spend warm
spring days transplanting at work tables in her driveway. Doors at the Good Seed Garden by the Orchard in Carbondale, where 400-500 plants will be sinking roots.
“The vast majority of those gardeners are from low-income households,” she said, “and they’ll donate 10% of their harvests to Lift-Up.”
Wille never stops
“In May, I’ll be offering small hands-on workshops in building self-wicking, keyhole and Hugelkultur raised bed gardens,” she said, referring to efficient approaches that people can build with repurposed materials.
Throughout 2025, Growing Empowerment will continue to have a lasting impact, connecting people and nutritious food, Valley-wide. Because where there’s a Wille, there’s a way.
To attend May workshops, volunteer, learn or buy plants, visit the Growing Empowerment Facebook page or contact Wille directly at kim.wille@gmail.com
Kim Doyle Wille, Growing Empowerment founder and executive director, hosted the final workshop in a series held at Eagle Crest Nursery this winter on April 5.
Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Aspen Science Center sparks STEM for everyone
KATE PHILLIPS
Sopris Sun Correspondent
At the intersection of STEM and community is the Aspen Science Center (ASC) team, ready to cultivate lifelong learners through invigorating scientific programming.
Founded in 2005 by local science enthusiasts, including the late philanthropist George Stranahan who spearheaded the initiative, ASC was created to increase public access to STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education. Situated in a storage unit in Aspen, ASC was likened to a traveling science center. Educators would gather their materials from the unit and host mini lessons at nearby organizations. While valuable, ASC’s reach was limited and demand was growing. Then, in 2019, a monumental change happened when ASC relocated to Carbondale’s Third Street Center.
“It gave us the opportunity to access a wider geographic range,” said Alex Tarika, ASC education manager. “We’re doing programs in Aspen, and now all the way west to Parachute. This centralized location has been huge.”
The physical location, aptly named the Aspen Science Discovery Center, provides stability and is an appealing gathering place for learners — particularly during ASC’s robust summer programming. This summer, ASC has dozens of camps for children, ages 3 to 14, including 12 at the Discovery Center itself. Covering various topics — such as early STEM for preschoolers, robotics, physics, geology and crime scene science — the camps bring students into the collaborative
space to engage their curious minds.
“You develop so much critical thinking from STEM, and creativity and collaboration and teamwork,” said Tarika. “Scientists don’t work alone, they work with each other. As a science teacher, I loved working with the kids in their lab groups. There is so much value.”
While camps are a week-long immersion for students, ASC has over 300 partnerships and donors, including the Town of Snowmass, Access Afterschool, Buddy Program and local libraries and schools, to promote year-round engagement and expand access across the socioeconomic spectrum. The celebrated library programs occur monthly
from Aspen to Parachute and present an eclectic array of experiences, namely Spanish STEM and coding clubs. In 2024, ASC served over 4,200 youth learners.
“We have really leaned into our partnerships to bring STEM to local communities,” said Tarika. “The libraries are such an incredible resource. They do so much already and want to provide more; and they were so excited when we started coming once a month.”
To attract learners of all ages, ASC also offers adult programming. Currently, ASC is partnering with Aspen Film to present the “Science on Screen” series. Since January, audiences have enjoyed “Witches of
MOUNTAIN PERSPECTIVES: KEN RUDIN ON THE STATE OF AMERICAN POLITICS
THE SOPRIS SUN IS EXCITED TO PARTNER WITH TACAW AND ASPEN PUBLIC RADIO FOR OUR INAUGURAL MOUNTAIN PERSPECTIVES SPEAKER SERIES, FEATURING RENOWNED POLITICAL ANALYST AND COMMENTATOR, KEN RUDIN. WITH OVER 30 YEARS IN POLITICAL JOURNALISM, INCLUDING EIGHT YEARS AS THE DEPUTY POLITICAL DIRECTOR ON CAPITOL HILL AT ABC, KEN ALSO SERVED AS POLITICAL EDITOR AT NPR, HE CURRENTLY HOSTS THE POPULAR PODCAST –KEN RUDIN’S POLITICAL JUNKIE WHERE HE OFFERS A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON TODAY’S MOST PRESSING ISSUES. THE MOUNTAIN PERSPECTIVES SPEAKER SERIES AIMS TO INFORM, INSPIRE, AND FOSTER CHANGE, ALL WHILE SUPPORTING OUR MISSION TO PROMOTE INDEPENDENT, NONPROFIT, COMMUNITY JOURNALISM.
Eastwick,” “The Pink Panther” and “Blades of Glory” followed by lively discussions exploring how science is woven into everyday life. The final event of the series is on May 7 at the Aspen Film Isis Theatre, featuring the film “My Body is a Geodesic Dome” with guest speaker Andrew Travers of the Aspen Institute..
This summer, ASC will present the “Science of Peak Performance” series, examining the science of aging. Planning is underway for this upcoming speaker series, so check back for details.
“We can do a lot and we love partnerships … to make STEM come alive,” said Tarika. “These partnerships and programs happen because someone comes up to us to ask if we can help them.”
ASC educators are also eager to bring the wonders of STEM to life.
Lillian McIntyre has been an ASC educator for nearly two years. With a background in biological sciences and early childhood education, McIntyre focuses on an experiential approach to STEM education.
“We’re not sitting in the classroom doing a worksheet. It’s fun and hands-on,” said McIntyre. “Kids in school might think that [math and science] are too hard, or not fun, but it doesn’t have to be. There’s a way to learn it for everybody.”
McIntyre is part of a dynamic team that includes permanent, guest and paid intern educators. Tarika said that because science is so broad it is difficult for one person to be a polymath; instead the educators meld their strengths to meet the public’s interests. For continued on page 10
FRIDAY, APRIL 11
7PM DOORS OPEN AT 6 TICKETS: WWW.TACAW.ORG TACAW MEMBERS AND SUNSCRIBERS RECEIVE A $5 DISCOUNT JOIN US FOR THIS ENLIGHTENING EVENT AND SECURE YOUR TICKETS SOON!
Aspen Science Center is driven to bring STEM education to everyone. The nonprofit’s Early STEM Summer Camp introduces the wonders of science to naturally curious children, ages 3 to 5. Courtesy photo
Rams baseball battles elements to keep the T. Goscha Tournament trophy safe at home
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
The weather was dishing up as much competition as the opposing teams for last week’s Trent Goscha Memorial Baseball Tournament in Carbondale.
In the end, it was the longawaited matchup of the host Roaring Fork High School Rams versus neighboring Glenwood Springs for the tournament championship late Saturday afternoon.
The Rams prevailed in a hardfought game, 6-3, for a first-ever home tournament title. Additional wins came Thursday, 14-4 over Grand Junction Central, and on Friday, 14-1 over Strasburg, in the six-team tournament.
Snow postponed Glenwood Springs’s game against Smoky Hill on Friday, which resumed on Saturday morning, but had to be played in Glenwood Springs while crews worked to clear snow from the Patch field in Carbondale.
The marquee matchup pitted the Roaring Fork Valley rivals against each other for the right to
hoist the trophy that’s dedicated to the memory of Goscha.
A promising youth baseball player, Goscha died unexpectedly during his eighth grade year at Carbondale Middle School. The tournament was established in his memory a few years later, and money raised through merchandise sales during the tournament went to support the Trent Goscha Memorial Scholarship for a graduating baseball senior.
In Saturday’s championship game, the Rams took an early 4-0 lead in the bottom of the first, including an RBI double by senior Josiah Wheeless. The Rams added runs in the second and fourth, leaving Glenwood in a hole and unable to catch up.
Rams sophomore Chase Fenton pitched a complete game, giving up just two walks and five hits, with two strikeouts.
“We played really well Thursday and Friday, and kept that common theme into the championship game — put the ball in play, make routine plays, pitch
strikes,” Rams head coach Marty Madsen said. “It was just a quality team outing… I was really impressed with the boys’ composure. It definitely had that playoff vibe, so it was a great atmosphere.”
For the three games totaled, Roaring Fork had 21 hits, and only four errors and only 11 strikeouts.
“Our pitching was unbelievable,” Madsen said. “We only used three kids in three games, so that’s big.”
Senior Cole Fenton got the game one win, giving up just three hits and throwing 12 strikeouts.
Junior Kenny Riley pitched the Friday game, recording five strikeouts and no walks on just 59 pitches.
The Rams were on the road Tuesday to play one of the top 5A teams in the state, Castle Ridge. Roaring Fork fell 12-0.
The team now stands at 3-7 overall, while holding at 0-2 in the 3A Western Slope League ahead of the next league game at Delta on Friday, April 11.
In other spring sports action…
Girls soccer
The Roaring Fork girls soccer team defeated Glenwood Springs 8-0 on April 4, and was back on
the home field Tuesday night against Basalt — another win, 4-1. Kennedy Arnold scored two goals for the Rams, while Carley Crownhart and Emma Charters had one each.
Against Glenwood, goals were scored by Carley Crownhart (two), with one each for Charters, Arnold, Erica Crownhart, Maddie Anderson, Riley Bevington and Helena McCracken.
Roaring Fork improves 2-1-2 on the season. The first 3A WSL game was scheduled at Steamboat Springs on Wednesday.
Lacrosse
The Roaring Fork girls lacrosse team followed respective 17-4 and 19-12 wins at Summit on April 2, and April 5 at home against Mullen, with a convincing 21-2 win at home against 4A Mountain East League rival Eagle Valley on Tuesday.
Points (combination goals and assists) leaders at Summit were Hailey Wolfe (seven), Josie McKinley (six), Jordyn Miller (three), and Ava Montemayor, Eva Feinsinger, Kayla Steele and Helen Dillard (one each).
Against Mullen, it was McKinley (eight), Wolfe (six), Miller
(five), Aurora Cheney (four), Myla Noonan (two), and Steele and Feinsinger (one each).
Against Eagle Valley, it was McKinley (10, all goals), Wolfe (four), Feinsinger and Lilu Illouz (three each), Miller, Lexi Moebius, Marin Weaver, Aurora Cherney, Ana Aguilar and April Thomas (two each).
Meanwhile, the boys co-op lacrosse team, which plays under the Glenwood Springs High School banner but includes players from Roaring Fork and Basalt, fell to 2-4 overall and 1-3 in the 4A Western league with a 14-1 loss to Aspen on Tuesday, April 8.
In other recent action, the Demons lost 9-6 at Telluride on April 3. Points came from Sawyer Harrington (five), James Genung (three), Canyon Cherney and Jonny Vrabel (two each), Samuel Volf and Wade Lehrman (one each).
The Demons won 18-6 at Montrose on Monday, April 7. Points came from Kiko Pena (seven), Genung and Cherney (four each), Vrabel and Alex Mauer (three each), Harrington (two), and Volf, Nico Savi, Brackett Enewold, Ossie Hilgeford and Sam Theron (one each).
Ram Chase Fenton lines up a heater during the championship game of the Trent Goscha Tournament on Saturday. Photo by Isaac Sterling, youth correspondent
Rams team members proudly display their “Trent Goscha Memorial Tourney Champs” t-shirts following the final game of the tournament. Photo by Isaac Sterling, youth correspondent
Congressman Hurd votes to cut government spending, tells constituents he supports Medicaid
LILY JONES
KDNK Community Access Radio
In mid-February, House Republicans narrowly passed a budget framework that is expected to slash the Medicaid budget in order to provide tax cuts. Republic Congressman Jeff Hurd, representing Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District, was among those who voted in favor of the measure. While President Donald Trump previously said he wouldn’t touch mandatory social programs, he approved this budget plan that includes renewing his 2017 tax cuts, which are set to expire at the end of the year.
In a recent virtual town hall, Hurd voiced support for Medicaid, with some caveats.
“I do support looking at something like work requirements,” he said. “But certainly we need to account for individual circumstances, when it comes to students and others who are in a position where they may not be able to work as much as others, who are otherwise able-bodied and able to work.”
Work requirements — requiring beneficiaries ages 18 to 64 to prove they are working 80 hours a month, or 20 hours per week, for example — are a popular talking point among House Republicans as lawmakers look for ways to whittle down the
RAMS REPORT
Track
& Field
The Roaring Fork boys and girls track team competed at the Eagle Valley Invitational on Saturday, April 5.
Top eight finishers collecting team points, by event, were:
• Girls 4x800 relay team of Izzy Moon, Caroline Cole, Sadie Silcox and Miley Stuart, third place (11 minutes, 21.6 seconds).
• 3200 meters — Stuart, third (15:39.9)
• 1600 meters — Moon, sixth (5:54.61); Cole, seventh (5:59.92)
• 400 meters — Junior Nikki Tardif, sixth (1:04.29)
• 200 meters — Tardif, eighth (29.04).
• The team is at the Glenwood Springs Demon Invitational this Saturday, April 12.
KIDS SCIENCE
from page 6
example, she noticed the community’s draw toward coding and robotics, so enlisted Paul Gonzales, who has extensive experience in the field, to facilitate lessons for students and educators alike, thus creating a thriving academic environment for everyone.
“Our bosses often tell us that we get to be an expert in not knowing,” said McIntyre. “Part of the beauty is that we get to learn together.” Participants and educators explore the wonders of STEM together to enrich citizens for the betterment of humankind.
To register for one of Aspen Science Center’s summer programs – including Early STEM – or to learn more about the paid internship program for high school and college students, visit www.aspensciencecenter.org
Congressman Jeff Hurd represents Colorado’s 3rd Congressional District. He can be contacted at hurd.house.gov/contact Courtesy photo
budget. Polly Anderson with the Colorado Community Health Network argued they’re an unnecessary barrier to care.
“It’s important to know that an estimated 93% of patients on Medicaid who can work already do, and work requirements are really just a way to make it more complicated for people to access the benefits and get caught up in some red tape and lose coverage,” Anderson said.
HIGHWAY CLEANUP
At 30% in 2024, the 3rd Congressional District has the most medicaid enrollments by percentage of its total population. Statewide, about 1.2 million people rely on this federal healthcare program. If Congress were to cut the Medicaid budget, Colorado could lose 14,000 jobs and more than $1 billion according to a report from the Commonwealth Fund and the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health.
Hurd said he supports Medicaid access for those who need it, but when speaking with constituents he said the current system may not be equitable. “I’m not sure that Colorado is necessarily getting a fair deal,” he told listeners. “If you look at the amount of dollars, Medicaid dollars, per person per capita that come to a state like California, they’re getting way more than a state like Colorado. It seems to me like we should have a more fair allocation of those Medicaid dollars and make sure that we spend them effectively.”
While it’s true that Colorado’s Medicaid spending is much lower than California’s, it’s important to note that California is facing a Medicaid funding deficit of about $6.2 billion. While his vote would likely impact the Medicaid budget for his constituents and the rest of the country, Hurd said
from page 6
Berry replied, “I have not. I’ve always sort of watched the folks doing it out there, going, ‘Wow! That is such good work.’”
He added that a dream of his is to do the same thing along Highway 133 south of Carbondale, and that CDOT would be most grateful if Rotary or another organization took that on. “I see it as important to keep all of the roads to Carbondale beautiful,” Berry stated. He mentioned Catherine
PUBLIC
MEDIA from page 5
organizations have full editorial independence to deliver programming their communities need and want … To cut funding for these organizations would be a grave disservice to the millions of Americans who rely on these sources for information.”
Should that federal funding ever go away, Passmore stated, “We’d have to figure out where to get that money, or make some unpleasant decisions.” She added that KDNK’s Board of Directors is working on scenario planning in case that ever happens.
Passmore pointed out that this isn’t the first time federal funding for public media has been scrutinized. Although, “With the current administration there is a heightened sense of concern,” she said.
“The fact that the funding has endured for 50 years is a testament to bipartisan support,” concluded Vanderwilt.
Folks who would like to make their case in support of public media receiving federal dollars can visit www. protectmypublicmedia.org The website conveniently connects constituents with their Congressional representatives.
coverage for those in need is of great importance to him.
“I am committed to making sure that those who need Medicaid the most —- the poor, the working, poor mothers, pregnant women [and] children —- have access to that critical safety net. That is why Medicaid was put in place, to protect the most vulnerable,” he stated. “Making sure that we effectively use Medicaid [and] protect those who most need it is a top priority for me.”
The House’s budget instructs the Energy and Commerce Committee to find $880 billion in cuts over the next 10 years, and Medicaid is expected to take the biggest hit. House minority leader Hakeem Jeffries told reporters that this is the biggest proposed Medicaid cut in history. The White House argues that cuts will eliminate fraud and waste by cracking down on improper payments and entitlement programs without affecting Social Security, Medicare or Medicaid benefits.
NPR reports there were multiple holdouts among moderate Republicans, but only one Republican representative from Kentucky voted against the budget. Frustrated with the delay, the Senate passed a competing budget resolution including $175 billion for border security and $150 billion in military spending.
Store Road (County Road 100) as well, but that is not eligible for the Adopt-aHighway program because it’s not a state roadway. “But I think we should do a town cleanup anyway,” he said.
“We truly appreciate the thousands of volunteers like those in the Carbondale Rotary Club who assist with this program each year and help us in keeping Colorado beautiful,” said Marsh on behalf of CDOT.
FCC investigation
At the end of January, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr sent a letter to the head of NPR and PBS stating that, upon request from the agency’s Enforcement Bureau, he was launching an investigation into the underwriting practices of the two public media outlets as well as their member stations.
Underwriting, which can consist of for-profit or nonprofit sponsorships, may seem like walking a fine line to someone outside the radio landscape. Public media stations are not supposed to promote a sponsor by delivering messaging that encourages a listener to buy something, but can mention a business, where to find it and that its support helps sustain the radio station.
“NPR programming and underwriting messaging complies with federal regulations, including the FCC guidelines on underwriting messages for noncommercial educational broadcasters, and member stations are expected to be in compliance as well,” NPR declared in a public statement. “We are confident any review of our programming and underwriting practices
People who would like to volunteer can call Eric Berry at 970-948-1369, and are requested to do so by Wednesday, April 23. The Rotary Club will provide lunch, most likely Dos Gringos, to the volunteers. “The more the merrier,” concluded Berry. “Many hands make light work.”
will confirm NPR’s adherence to these rules.” Passmore also assured that KDNK maintains underwriting practices that are consistent with the FCC guidelines.
Membership drive
KDNK happens to be in the midst of its spring membership drive. Memberships make up about 35% of the station’s budget, according to Passmore and, as stated above, can increase the level of federal support.
Speaking of awards, Walter Gallacher, host of KDNK’s public affairs show “Immigrant Stories,” recently received the Colorado Broadcasters Award of Excellence for Best Public Affairs Program. Gallacher won the same award in 2023. He has been hosting “Immigrant Stories” since 2006, but has been involved with KDNK almost since its inception — even having served on its board of directors for a time.
As of press time, KDNK raised $50,000 on its way toward a goal of $88,100. People can become a member or donate by visiting www.kdnk.org, calling 970-963-0139 or stopping by the station at 76 South 2nd Street in Carbondale.
Glenwood rally draws large crowd
Around 2,000 people showed up in Sayre Park on Saturday, April 5, for the Hands Off! rally organized by Mountain Action Indivisible in conjunction with more than 1,200 similar events throughout the country. It’s estimated that 5.2 million Americans participated nationally in demonstrations to protect various rights and social services.
Speaking in Glenwood Springs were 2022 Colorado Teacher of the Year Autumn Rivera, Glenwood Springs Middle School student Jude Greener, former Garfield County Library trustee Jocelyn Durrance, writer Annalise Grueter and Jake Black with Protect Our Winters. Musician John Hatanaka performed on stage and protestors lined Grand Avenue with homemade signs.
Organizer Debbie Bruell donned a cape, stating the local rally’s theme was “activism is our superpower” because “we can’t wait for someone to swoop in and save our country. It’s everyday people like us, getting out in the streets and visibly expressing our opposition, that’s going to stop the authoritarian takeover we’re witnessing.
Crowd sketch by Brian Colley
Debbie Bruell, photo by Amy Hadden Marsh
Photo by Raleigh Burleigh Jude Greener, photo by Klaus Kocher
Photo by Klaus Kocher
Photo by Klaus Kocher
Community Education Classes in Carbondale
UKRAINIAN EGG DECORATING
Saturday, 10am-3pm, 4/12
SPANISH - BEGINNING LEVEL II
Mon/Wed, 5-7pm, 5/19-6/18
SLOW FLOW YOGA
Wednesdays, 9-10am, 5/21-6/18
SEWING - KNOW YOUR FABRICS
Thursdays, 6-8pm, 5/22-6/19
INTRO TO BEEKEEPING
Tuesday, 5-8pm, 5/27
SEWING - REPAIRS & ALTERATIONS
Mondays, 6-8:30pm, 6/2-7/7
SOMATIC YOGA WORKSHOP
Monday, 9-11am, 6/2
BEGINNER WATERCOLOR
Tuesdays, 5:30-8:30pm, 6/3-7/15
CELL PHONE PHOTOGRAPHY
Tues 5-8pm/Sat 9am-12pm, 6/3-6/17
OPEN PAINTING STUDIO
Tuesdays, 1:30-4:30pm, 6/3-7/15
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Wed’s, 1:30-3:30pm, 6/4-6/25
THURSDAY, APRIL 10
NONFICTION BOOK CLUB
The Nonfiction Book Club discusses various biographies and autobiographies at the Carbondale Library from 2 to 3pm.
BANNED BOOK CLUB
The Banned Book Club discusses “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon from 4 to 5pm at the Basalt Library. There is also a virtual attendance option. More details at www.basaltlibrary.org/ events-calendar
BOOK LAUNCH
Celebrate Raina Telgemeier’s newest graphic novel, “The Cartoonists Club,” with a launch party at the Carbondale Library at 4pm where free copies will be given away (with registration) as well as cupcakes. To register, call 970-963-2889.
NUTRITION ENERGETICS
Madeline Kent teaches “Energetics of Nutrition” at True Nature from 5 to 6:30pm. Tickets at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
GROWING DAHLIAS
Vanessa Gilbert Meredith from Modern West Floral Company teaches about growing Dahlia flowers from tubers at Botany Houseplant Shop in Carbondale from 5:30 to 7pm. Sign up at www.botanyhouseplantshop.com
PRACTICAL FUELING
Carbondale’s Kylee Van Horn presents her new book, “Practical Fueling for Endurance Athletes,” following the group run hosted by Independence Run & Hike at 6:30pm.
GLENWOOD HISTORY
CREATIVE WRITING
Thursdays, 6-8pm, 6/5-7/3
INTRO TO SOUND HEALING
Thursday, 6-9pm, 6/12
LEAD A TRANSFORMATIVE LIFE Tuesday, 6-8:30pm, 6/17
BEGINNING SWING DANCE Wed’s, 6:30-8:30pm, 6/18-7/9
INTRO TO PERMACULTURE DESIGN Wednesday, 6-8pm, 6/18
GEOLOGY OF COLORADO, RF AND CRYSTAL VALLEYS Thursday, 6-9pm, 6/19
KIDS’ CLASSES
COOKIES FOR EASTER AGE 8-16
Cookies and decorating supplies provided. Must pre-register. Wednesday, 3-4pm, 4/16
STEAL THE SPOTLIGHT AGES 12-18
Learn to block, sing, dance and act a character from a musical. Fridays, 2-3:30pm, 5/30-8/8
BEGINNING SKETCHING AGES 10-17
Loose sketch simple characters starting with the basics. Mondays, 10-11am, 6/9-6/30
Browse and Register for Classes...
Local historian extraordinaire Christi Couch presents her explorations and discoveries of the area’s history — with a side of trivia — at the Glenwood Springs Library at 6:30pm. This event is presented in partnership with the Glenwood Springs Historical Society.
CRYSTAL THEATRE
Don’t miss your chance to see “The Penguin Lessons” at the Crystal Theatre tonight at 7pm. “The Friend” opens tomorrow and continues Saturday and next Thursday at 7pm. Sunday’s show is at 5pm.
IMMIGRANT VOICES
English in Action presents “Immigrant Voices,” a storytelling event, at TACAW at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
LENA MARIE SCHIFFER
Steve’s Guitars presents Lena Marie Schiffer of Laney Lou and The Bird Dogs at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net
FRIDAY, APRIL 11
ART OPENING
osts an opening reception for “subject/ matr/mother,” an exhibit curated by Shawna Miller featuring works by women artists Mya Cluff, Courtney Dudley, Darla Jackson, LUCIA, Erin Morrison and Maria Teicher, from 5 to 7pm. The exhibit will be up through May 15.
DJ EXTRAVAGANZA
Enjoy 30-minute DJ sets from KDNK staff members at Mountain Heart Brewing in Carbondale (1841 Dolores Way) as part of KDNK’s spring membership drive from 6 to 9pm.
BINGO FOR BOOKS
The Carbondale Library invites everyone for bingo, books and pizza from 6 to 7pm.
MOUNTAIN PERSPECTIVES
Political analyst Ken Rudin kicks off a new speaker series by The Sopris Sun in partnership with TACAW at 7pm. Breeze Richardson will interview Rudin about his career and the changing landscape of American politics. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
‘FOOTLOOSE’
Basalt Middle and High schools present “Footloose” — the musical youth edition — at the Basalt Middle School Theatre tonight and tomorrow at 7pm. Sunday’s show is at 1pm. Tickets at www.tinyurl.com/BasaltFootloose
‘BRIGHT STAR’
Sopris Theatre Company at Colorado Mountain College’s Spring Valley Campus presents “Bright Star” tonight at 7pm. The show continues this and next weekend, with Friday and Saturday performances at 7pm and Sunday matinees at 2pm. For tickets, call the box office at 970-947-8177 or visit www.tinyurl.com/CMCBrightStar
HST MUSICAL
Tony Award Nominee Joe Iconis and cast members of his incendiary new musical, “The Unauthorized Untitled Hunter S. Thompson,” present a sneak peek of songs and stories at the Wheeler Opera House from 7:30 to 9pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
BRADMAN
Bradman, aka Brad Manosevitz, debuts new original music at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net
EASY JIM
Easy Jim, a six-piece band, performs Grateful Dead music at the Belly Up at 8pm.
SATURDAY, APRIL 12
YOUTH ART EXPO
For its third year, Aspen Art Museum’s Youth Art Expo engaged 1,750 students from 13 schools across the wider Roaring Fork Valley who created art pieces based on this year’s theme: “Architecture & Imagination.” Their works will be displayed at the Aspen Art Museum today through May 11.
HOLISTIC HEALTH
Colorado Mountain College hosts a free Holistic Health Expo at 1402 Blake Ave. in Glenwood Springs from 8am to noon with a keynote address on integrative gut health by InSpero Medical’s Dr. Tereza Hubkova at 10am.
DANCE CONTACT
Tal Shibi teaches contact improvisation and expressive dance at The Launchpad from 10:30am to 2:30pm. Learn more at www.talshibi.com/carbondale
HAIKU CONTEST
In celebration of National Poetry Month, the Glenwood Springs Library offers a haiku writing workshop from 2 to 3:30pm. Anyone can also submit up to three haikus for a chance to win the library’s haiku poetry contest. Submissions are due April 16 and may be sent to tlamee@gcpld.org For more details, call 970-945-5958.
‘SOUNDS OF SPRING’
Jennifer Gary, flute, and Karen Tafejian, piano, perform “Sounds of Spring,” featuring the music of Debussy, at the Carbondale Library at 7pm. Admission is free.
RISING APPALACHIA
TACAW presents Rising Appalachia at 8pm. Tickets are sold out!
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
MOMMY MEET-UP
The Glenwood Springs Library hosts a “mommy meet-up” on Mondays from 11am to 12:30pm for mothers and their babies ages 0-3. There will be play items provided for the little ones and coffee and conversation for the moms.
IN STITCHES
The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 1:30pm.
BOARD GAMES
Kids (5 and up) play board games in the Treehouse Room at the Basalt Library Mondays at 4pm. Snacks provided.
BIKE PROJECT
The Carbondale Bike Project Shop helps people repair their bicycles on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 6pm and Sundays from noon to 6pm on the east side of Third Street Center.
SENIOR LUNCH
Every Wednesday at noon, Garfield County Senior Programs provides a nutritious meal for seniors at The Orchard. To reserve a place at the table, call 970-665-0041.
SPANISH CLUB
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.
SUNDAY, APRIL 13
SOUND MEDITATION
The Launchpad hosts a sound meditation from 9:30 to 10:30am. Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat, water bottle, a blanket and pillow. To RSVP, contact Lindsay at 720-394-8671.
RAM DASS ON DYING
A Spiritual Center presents “Do You Identify With That Which Dies or Your Essence?” — a recording by Ram Dass — from 10 to 11:30am at the Third Street Center, Room 31.
COEXISTENCE
The Sierra Club and Colorado Wild bring Hillary Zaranek, a rancher in Southwest Montana’s Tom Miner Basin just outside Yellowstone National Park, to speak at the Glenwood Springs Library about nonlethal coexistence methods for ranchers to succeed in the presence of wolves and other predators. The talk takes place from 4 to 6pm.
ECSTATIC DANCE
Gabriela Mejia provides music for the monthly Ecstatic Dance at 13 Moons Ranch (6334 Highway 133) from 6 to 8pm.
MONDAY, APRIL 14
NARCAN TRAINING
High Rockies Harm Reduction offers a free training for using Narcan to reverse opioid overdoses at The Meeting Place in Carbondale at 5pm. For more info, contact info@meetingplacecarbondale.org
TUESDAY, APRIL 15
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Sopris Lodge hosts the American Red Cross and Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District to teach about making a “go-bag” with essential supplies and how to keep your household safe in case of an emergency from 3 to 5pm. To RSVP, call 970-456-8764 or visit www.soprislodge.com/events
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.
CHOCOLATE SOCIETY
The Chocolate Society Club discusses cacao and art at the Cocoa Club. For more details, email mark@pollinatorchocolate.com
TEEN GAME NIGHT
Basalt Library invites teens to a monthly tabletop and board game night from 5 to 6pm. Registration is recommended but not required at www.basaltlibrary. org/events-calendar
‘CONCENTRIC RECOVERY’
Davis Cowles guides a “Concentric Recovery” monthly meeting at True Nature from 5:30 to 6:45pm, when participants combine physical practice with prompt-based discussion and connection around the central questions of addiction and recovery with a focus on its social and spiritual dimensions. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
DRAWING CLUB
The Roaring Fork Drawing Club meets at Studio 10 (off the Round Room at the Third Street Center) at 6:30pm for art-making with friends.
STEVE’S GUITARS
Love, DEAN with Carolyn Kendrick performs at Steve’s Guitars tonight at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16
STEM
The Basalt Library welcomes kids, ages 5 to 11, and their families to enjoy hands-on STEM activities with the Aspen Science Center from 2:30 to 3:30pm.
EASTER COOKIES
Kids, ages 8 to 16, are invited to decorate Easter cookies at Colorado Mountain College’s Carbondale campus from 3 to 4pm. The teacher is bilingual and parents are welcome.
COMPUTER CLEANING
Learn how to spring clean your computer at the Basalt Library from 5 to 6pm, including preparing devices to safely sell, donate or recycle.
CDALE OPEN HOUSE
Explore how your skills and time can positively influence your community. Carbondale hosts a Boards and Commissions Open House from 6 to 8pm at Town Hall with food and beverages provided.
BINGO
Bingo at Carbondale Beer Works benefits the Chris Klug Foundation beginning at 6:30pm.
THURSDAY, APRIL 17
BOOK CLUB
The Carbondale Library’s Third Thursday Book Club discusses “Wandering Stars” by Tommy Orange at 2pm.
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.
YARN GROUP
Basalt Library hosts a weekly yarn group on Tuesdays at 5pm. All are welcome.
GROUP RUN
Independence Run & Hike leads a weekly group run on Thursdays departing from the store’s location, next to the Carbondale City Market, at 6:30pm.
COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR
Carbondale Mayor Ben Bohmfalk posts up at Bonfire every Friday from 8 to 9am, and everyone is welcome to stop by to chat.
COSMIC WHOLENESS
Micha Shoepe leads Cosmic Wholeness, an embodied movement and meditation offering that explores patterns found in nature, the cosmos and our inner lives, at The Third Street Center every Sunday from 2:45 to 3:45pm. More details at www. michaelschoepe.com/cosmic-wholeness
Bingo at Carbondale Beer Works continues with a fundraiser for the Chris Klug Foundation (CKF) on Wednesday, April 16 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. CKF is headquartered in Aspen and promotes lifesaving organ, eye and tissue donations. Expect prizes, tasty drinks, friendly company and more. Photo by Klaus Kocher
Hershey attends first library board meeting as its Glenwood representative
MEGAN WEBBER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
The lines were clearly drawn at the Garfield County Public Library District’s Board of Trustees meeting on April 3, the first meeting where newly appointed Glenwood Springs representative Tony Hershey sat at the table as a board member.
Members of the public spoke for more than 45 minutes at the beginning of the meeting, divided both ideologically and physically on opposing sides of the room. Those on one side held miniature American flags and accused the library of grooming children, while those on the opposite side accused the other of bigotry.
Hirsch, Carbondale’s representative, was the only board member to join in doing so. Most people in the room did not stand or recite the pledge.
Rifle resident Trish O’Grady also spoke and said that she was readdressing her petition from July 2023 demanding the removal — or restricted access — of the manga series, “Prison School,” from the library’s shelves, an issue that she claimed has not received any attention. “It’s still a concern,” O’Grady said.
I wish you guys would just mingle a little bit. I think there is a path forward here on the issue that a lot of people spoke to.
During board members’ comments at the end of the meeting, Hershey said that he was surprised at the divide and said that he was looking forward to his new role.
- Trustee Tony Hershey
“I know that … some of you have heard of me, maybe from [Glenwood Springs] city council or something, but this is a different role,” he said. “I wish you guys would just mingle a little bit. I think there is a path forward here on the issue that a lot of people spoke to at the beginning of the meeting, and I’m going to work really hard to … be more successful and to move forward.”
Despite Hershey’s words, the room was fraught with contention. One member of the public said he was saddened that the board’s meetings did not include the Pledge of Allegiance, and another spoke only to ask those in the room to stand for the pledge. Stephanie
John Lepkowski, a Silt resident who, along with O’Grady, asked the board to remove or relocate the books, said it all came down to protecting kids from adult material. “We’re trying to save the children, not save the library,” he said.
On the other side of the room, New Castle resident May Gray said that those calling for the books’ removal were not acting out of an interest to protect children, but instead with an interest in politics.
“Is this really all for the children, or is this a political agenda?” she rhetorically questioned.
The finger-pointing did not end with public comment. At the end of the meeting, Trustee Myrna Fletchall, who was attending by Zoom, accused President Adrian Rippy-Sheehy of bullying when she said that Fletchall would not be sent data sheets, presented during a previous meeting, detailing staff compensation. Rippy-Sheehy also said that she wasn’t convinced that Fletchall wasn’t asking for the information so that she could pass it on to O’Grady or
another community member.
“I’m going to stop you right there, immediately, because that is not something you can say,” Fletchall said in response. “I’m tired of your behavior and treating me like that.”
After the back and forth, Rippy-Sheehy adjourned the meeting.
To review the meeting in its entirety, visit www.gcpld. org/about-us/leadership/board-of-trustees
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Tony Hershey (left-center) attended his first library board meeting as the Glenwood Springs representative on April 3.
Photo by Megan Webber
Code updates adopted
RALEIGH BURLEIGH
Sopris Sun Editor
After a lengthy process, Carbondale adopted long overdue code amendments with a few final adjustments on Tuesday night, April 8. All trustees were in attendance.
But first, a proclamation was read declaring April as Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month in 2025. A rapidly approved consent agenda included meeting minutes, license renewals for New York Pizza and Sopris Liquor & Wine and accounts payable.
During general public comments, Beth Krasemann, a teacher at Colorado Rocky Mountain School, spoke to the value of immigrants to our society. To the cheers of a couple dozen students in attendance, Krasemann asked Carbondale to thank Rep. Elizabeth Velasco for sponsoring a bill to protect immigrants’ civil rights and urge Sen. Marc Catlin to support it.
Then, a self-described “public lands user” from Basalt commented on the environmental impacts of pollution beneath the 133 bridge from people illegally camping. “I agree with everything [Krasemann] said,” he elaborated, “but [the trash] is affecting the amount of empathy and compassion I have toward the immigrant community and other homeless people who are not immigrants.”
During trustee reports, Ross Kribbs relayed public feedback about the 72-hour parking limit on public streets, suggesting that rule be revisited. Colin Laird addressed the mobile home park behind Honey Butter going up for sale. He reported that roughly 80 people
BASALT REPORT
attended a meeting regarding resident ownership. Chris Hassig suggested the Town be ready to assist however appropriate, if that includes annexing the property, for example. Christina Montemayor reported that the Latino Advisory Board has a new member. And Mayor Ben Bohmfalk gave a brief update about the process to hire a new town manager, stating, “the pay range is appropriate and attracting high-quality applicants.” The application window closes April 25.
During outgoing Town Manager Lauren Gister’s update, she said the police chief is looking at ordinances that are “either out of date or controversial” and maybe needing adjustment on April 18. She also noted that the Town has two trailers in the mobile home park being used for employee housing and that municipal managers from throughout the Valley are talking about what may be appropriate to assist both mobile home parks on the market.
Holy Cross Energy CEO and President Bryan Hannegan, joined by Lauren Suhrbier representing Clean Energy Economy for the Region (CLEER), then addressed the trustees regarding geothermal energy. Despite earning federal funds for a feasibility study, Carbondale’s aspirational geothermal project at the Third Street Center did not receive funding for implementation. Hannegan stated that Holy Cross, a member-owned electric cooperative, provided 75% carbon-free energy in 2024 and hit 90% in October. As they work
toward 100% they are interested in partnering with Carbondale to establish a geothermal network should the opportunity arise.
Trustees then met with Parks and Rec Director Eric Brendlinger and Joe Farstad, mountain region vice president at Wember, for a monthly report on the aquatics center construction and financing. Wember was contracted as the Town’s owner’s representative on the project and has faced scrutiny from the trustees. This meeting was no different, with Trustee Jess Robison expressing confusion and dismay with how the finances are being tracked.
According to Brendlinger, fundraising has $840,000 left to make the budget, with $330,000 in grant requests awaiting response and the potential for direct-pay tax credits for the all-electric facility once it’s built. Robison scrutinized a $354,000 change order that did not come before the trustees in alignment with a procurement policy that states they should review any change order over $100,000. Brendlinger accepted responsibility, explaining, “We had the blinders on.”
“I think blinders are not appropriate in this project or any,” Kribbs responded. “As an elected board, people have placed in us the responsibility to take a look at those things.”
After a quick break, the trustees reviewed a resolution and ordinance adopting updated codes. Building Official Aaron Kuhns began by substantiating his qualifications with a brief life story.
He answered a few questions from trustees then the floor was opened for public comments. Fred Malo reiterated 350 Roaring Fork’s desire to see no gas outlets in new construction, to which Kuhns replied, provisions were added that disincentivize gas.
Jack Wheeler expressed several concerns, specifically around new requirements for an architect stamp on residential construction, which he said would unnecessarily “create a burden on people” by making certain home projects unaffordable. He also thought the property management code should not be adopted because it would prevent people from addressing emergency situations, like replacing a toilet, without a permit.
Kuhns explained that the professional design requirement was developed to match Glenwood Springs and Basalt more closely, and the property management piece is mainly to assure failing appliances are not replaced with less efficient ones.
After some back and forth,
Short-term rental fee continues to stir debate
WILL BUZZERD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
This week, Basalt Town Council convened for a very busy night, unable to come to a conclusion on a possible regulatory fee which would cost short-term rental (STR) owners $2,532 per bedroom per year on their rental properties.
For background, the Town of Basalt currently only requires STR owners to pay for a sales tax license, short term business license and inspection, totaling $460 annually. The Town of Basalt also charges a 4% lodging tax on both the leasing and renting of rooms.
On Feb. 11, Ordinance No. 3, series of 2025 was first brought to Basalt Town Council. This ordinance would amend Town Code to include a new regulatory fee of $2,532 per bedroom on STR properties.
The $2,532 per bedroom per year cost was determined using data taken from a report created by financial consultant Economic &
Planning Systems, Inc (EPS). The Town of Basalt contracted EPS to conduct an analysis on the effects of STRs on affordable housing demands, weighing the relationship between how guests spend while renting and the number of local employees and households supported by that spending. The $2,532 fee is 50% of the maximum fee that could be charged according to the EPS report.
In addition, the amendment would contain language allowing for the exemption of this fee specifically for STR owners who demonstrate to the town manager that the STR property is the owner’s primary residence, and the STR is not being rented out for more than 60 days of the year.
Basalt staff contact for the citizen committee Basalt Affordable Community Housing group (BACH) Michelle Thibeault introduced the ordinance during this week’s meeting. BACH, which regularly
provides recommendations to the Town Council on any project or legislation regarding affordable housing, recommended the $2,532 value as well as the exemption for residents.
According to Thibeault, a nominal part of this fee is to provide revenue for affordable housing projects in Basalt. Additionally, the regulatory fee is also being considered such that Basalt does not remain, according to Thibeault, “one of the only communities in the Valley to not have an STR fee that is appropriate for the current market conditions.”
Brian Duffy of EPS also joined the meeting via Zoom to address criticisms of the STR fee analysis report. Since Feb. 11, citizens have declared the EPS report contains calculation errors and bases its fee study on guest spending data contained in an economic impact report prepared for the Aspen Chamber Resort Association. Citizens argued that data for
Aspen visitors does not accurately reflect Basalt visitors.
Duffy acknowledged that tables in the report show calculation errors. However, he stated that while they display incorrect values, the correct values were used to calculate the final estimate. In addition, Duffy explained that EPS assumed Aspen guest spending habits were comparable to those of Basalt guests, both because Breckenridge had a similar spending figure and because Basalt’s market is “considerably more expensive than statewide average markets.”
In the meantime, the Basalt Chamber of Commerce has requested spending data specific to Basalt and the Midvalley from the Colorado Tourism Office but has yet to receive it.
About two dozen Basalt residents filled Town Hall and offered their comments on the potential fee. Many criticized the inconsistent impact a flat per-bedroom fee would have on lower-cost rentals,
the trustees narrowed down on a motion approving the ordinance with some changes: removing the property maintenance code; allowing more than one accessory structure less than 120 square feet and up to 10 feet “not on a permanent foundation;” allowing for adding radiant heat in garages on an existing gas system; and not requiring an architect stamp on single-family home and renovation projects. The new codes will apply to projects submitted after June 31. Adoption was unanimously approved.
Suhrbier returned along with Zuleika Pevec for a presentation by CLEER on work completed in 2024 and review of a work plan for 2025 which includes looking at a multicounty electric vehicle car share program. Given the late hour, it was suggested CLEER return at another time to dial in on ideas like making home energy assessments mandatory based on some trigger and incentivizing electrification more in future code updates.
and others argued that STRs are what allow them to remain residents in the Valley and such a fee would endanger their livelihood. Others argued in letters that the fee exemption for residents could result in a lawsuit for discriminating against out-of-state owners.
For two hours, Town Council discussed the potential merits and flaws of this new fee, agreeing that it would be, in the words of Councilor Dieter Schindler, “another tool in the toolbox” for addressing affordable housing, and should be weighed with and against other strategies for the same purpose.
Council was unable to come to an agreement on the amount of the fee, and some councilors desired more information on other affordable housing strategies. Except Mayor David Knight, who wished to approve the ordinance as is, Town Council voted to table the ordinance for a public hearing on April 22.
April’s students of the month were (left to right): Yalitza Catalina Moreno Lopez, Kimberly Alonzo, Thea Monroe. Not pictured: Elliana Wantowicz and Ivy Cheney. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh continued on page 19
RFV filmmakers create a Christmas-themed rom-com
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
Graham Northrup and Laurie Clemens Maier of Northrup Studios recently wrapped shooting for a feature film, “Aspen Christmas Conspiracy,” a rom-com set in Aspen which tells the story of an idealistic social worker and a cut-throat prosecutor who by many mishaps and touches of mystery fall in love. They hope to release the film to audiences in November.
For Maier, this was her first time producing a feature film in addition to being the assistant director and provider of craft services. While those positions were a lot of work to undertake for one person, she said it made sense for her and she is proud of the results it brought.
“I did my best with what I knew how to do, and we made it through,” Maier told The Sopris Sun. “You learn so much when you’re doing feature films. I’ve acted in them before, and helped produce others 20 years ago, but this one was full on. Graham and I both jumped in and said, ‘Let’s get her done.’ We work really well together, so it was great.”
The project came about while Northrup was hoping to launch another feature-length project, a supernatural-themed screenplay called “The Pass.” Due to budgeting and time constraints, he returned
to the drawing board. Northrup looked at his options for storytelling and felt that Aspen, a place where he taught theater for many years, made the perfect backdrop to the story he would later put in front of a camera.
“I thought, ‘How about I write something easier to produce that I can tap the local talent for? What can I leverage about where I am and who I know that would make an interesting film?’” Northrup said. “I worked in Aspen for many years, and Aspen in the wintertime is gorgeous. Everything in Aspen at Christmas is special. So I thought to write a romantic comedy set during Christmas and then leverage all the production value I can get from shooting there and try to engage as many local artists, performers and technicians as possible.”
Acting talents were sourced from the Valley’s thriving theater community: Consensual Improv, Thunder River Theatre Company, Aspen Community Theatre and others. Appearing in the film, varying between lead and minor roles, are Jack Trembath, Wendy Perkins, Nina Gabianelli, Owen O’Farrell, Sonya Meyer, Gerald Delisser, Emily Henley, Jeff and Kristin Carlson, Jeff Patterson, Mike Monroney, Morgan Walsh, Trary LaMee and many others. Additionally, Ryan Honey joined the
cast and also served as the consulting producer.
Additionally, Northrup cast two former students of his from his time with Theatre Aspen, Maura Fawley and Lyon Hamill, as the film’s leads. Northrup said this locality element made the working environment a breeze.
“I wrote it with the local talent in mind,” he explained. “Every day we’d get together on set and be, you know, it was like a family reunion. It was easy because I knew all these performers, and worked with almost all of them in some capacity before, which was fantastic.”
His sentiments were echoed by Maier, who said, “We’re so honored
to have so many great people in the film that were willing to come in for a day or two and play smaller, but no less important roles. You need all those small roles in the film. The best part was being surrounded by a cast and crew that was so dedicated to making this awesome.”
Speaking of the crew, there were many locals behind the scenes as well, including Sean Jeffries as the production designer, Van Wampler as the camera operator, Willow Poschman as a production assistant and Northrup’s daughter, Eva, who served as set decorator production assistant. Additional workers were either Colorado-based or were brought in from Northrup’s Detroit,
Michigan network acquired on the film festival circuits. Discussing his hopes for audiences seeing the film, Northrup said: “I want the audience to have fun. I want them to laugh. But there’s moments in there that hopefully will make you think, ‘How do we get along with people that are on the other end of an ideological spectrum and how do we move forward together?’ It’s light, fun, Christmassy, there’s romance, it’s all those things. I certainly hope that the locals will have a great time seeing it.”
For more information or to support upcoming projects visit www.northrupstudios.com
“Aspen Christmas Conspiracy” features local actors and was created by leaning as much as possible on local talent.
Courtesy photo
Land of Peace Project honors culture and builds community
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
The Land of Peace Project ties the community of Carbondale and to the Land of Peace Art Village in the Volta Region of Ghana, exchanging resources, artistic development, cultural bridges and intrinsic joy while also addressing environmental challenges between both places.
“We are creating a cultural exchange where we can support each other in meaningful ways, whether through art, storytelling, environmental efforts or simply sharing wisdom,” co-founder Rochelle Norwood stated. “This is about more than charity. It’s about mutual learning and collaboration, a two-way street where we uplift each other.”
The project came about while Norwood was studying abroad in Ghana over 20 years ago. Initially studying sociology, Norwood deepened her passion for African dance. She came across a dance troupe, Africana Dance Ensemble, which later became her found-family. She also grew to care intimately about the area. Then, Norwood met Aziz Mohammed, a man dedicated to keeping the cultural legacy of Ghana alive. Together they founded the Land of Peace Project.
“We have beautiful, healthy and strong traditions in our culture, but at a certain point of time, we realized it was fading,” Mohammed told The Sopris Sun. “We have beautiful clothes that we make and wear ourselves, beautiful music, food and
dancing. We try as much as possible to see how best we can bring it back.”
Norwood explained how this collaborative effort focuses on making sure only the best is provided to and from each community. This includes working with local and Ghanaian designers to create unique articles of clothing from sustainable materials, as well as developing programming in the Roaring Fork and Crystal River valleys — through a collaboration with Aspen Dance Connection and Bonedale Flashmob — wherein education events are brought to schools. Dance classes for adults at 13 Moons Ranch, which Mohammed often joins via video call to provide his guidance, also fortify a connection between these distant regions.
“This is just the beginning of a broader vision that invites older students, high school and college aged, to step into leadership through project-based and community-connected learning,” Norwood elaborated. “Dance is the universal language. Through it, we honor Ghana’s traditions, strengthen our local community and celebrate the rhythms of life together with that universal dance piece.”
Norwood also acknowledges how the myriad of local African drummers and dancers scattered throughout the valley have played a major part in making the proj ect happen within the local community.
With the support of its fiscal spon sor, The Serious Type — a nonprofit founded by Nikki Beinstein — as well as
The Redstone General Store and Visual Adventures, the Land of Peace Project has produced a film called “Collective Heart.”
This 55-minute documentary created by filmmaker Jason Nelson follows Mohammed and Norwood around the Land of Peace Village as they share their visions and goals for spreading the mission of this
miserable and jealous of others here in the USA. When I see how so many Africans can get by and succeed with so little, it’s a reminder to get up and go do my best every day.”
A screening of this film will take place on May 6 at the Crystal Theatre, followed by a panel discussion at Pollinator Choc-
Rochelle Norwood’s daughter, Ruby, learns African dance from locals while visiting Ghana. Courtesy photo by Visual Adventures
Aspen Writers Network strengthens voices of Valley creatives
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
EDITOR’S NOTE: Annalise Grueter is a member of Aspen Writers Network.
The third Thursday evening of each month, Carbondale’s Bonfire Coffee bustles with activity. Two to three dozen people mingle, sipping seltzer and wine, grazing from charcuterie boards and eagerly chatting about a shared interest: writing. The Aspen Writers’ Network (AWN) is a creative coalition under the umbrella of Aspen Words. The group nurtures a quiet but productive stripe of people passionate about written expression.
AWN was started in early 2011 by Mark Tompkins. He had moved to the Valley the previous year. Before he had always lived in cities with large writing communities. Asking around and connecting with Aspen Words staff led to him blazing the trail for what was initially called Write Now!
The group has fluctuated in size over the past 14 years. When it started, Tompkins said it was only six people, but grew quickly. The network is in the midst of a renaissance now, after functionally ceasing during the depths of the pandemic. Locals responded enthusiastically when it resumed in 2022. Steering Committee member Lisanne Rogers shared that current membership consists of over 80 writers, and most meetings see between 20 and 30 — sometimes more — participants.
“There has been a huge benefit to having Bonfire Coffee as a home and having regular meeting times,” said Tompkins, “compared to varying locations and times.”
The group occasionally has teachers connecting virtually, but does not offer a remote attendance option, as many virtual writing groups already exist. One of AWN’s goals is to provide what online groups can’t: tangible, in-person connections.
“We need support, we need personal connections with other writers, with people who understand,” Tompkins emphasized.
“There is value in having community to talk [with] about the unique challenges of writing and trying to get published.”
AWN gatherings feature talks by traditionally published and self-published authors alike. Many of the presenters are members of the community. If you saw them around town or on a ski slope, you wouldn’t necessarily know that these folks have written bestsellers, mega-popular television episodes or essays printed in major magazines like The New Yorker.
Tompkins’ preferred genre is fantasy. He wrote poetry for pleasure from a young age, but starting about 15 to 20 years ago he became increasingly motivated to explore other written forms. “I was always called to write,” he said. “It was something I did for the love of doing it.”
Tompkins was drawn to the challenge of writing a novel almost like it was a bucket-list
item. He already had a solid outline developed for his first book in early 2012, and from there carved out sufficient time each week to write.
“Personally, I’m not sure I ever would have been published without Aspen Words,” said Tompkins — a testament to the organization. His historical fantasy novel, “The Last Days of Magic,” was published by Penguin Random House in early 2016.
Tompkins says that his favorite AWN events are the annual meetings focused on the publishing process. Each year, AWN brings in an editor or agent to share with the group about the state of the publishing industry. People tend to love this event, he said, since it can be so helpful in getting an agent and contract. Tompkins teaches another session himself, a pitch workshop to help writers find the heart of their story, what it is really about. Those two annual sessions happen to be the two coming up. “Perfect Your Pitch” is next week, April 17, and the “State of the Publishing Industry” presentation will be on May 15.
I confess some bias in highlighting AWN. In January, I joined the group to connect and learn. I have been impressed and inspired to
learn just how many discreet talents are scribbling away in our shining mountain valley. These connections have been so supportive and motivating as I seek an agent for my memoir manuscript and work toward other projects. Whether your dreams are tuned to science-fiction, poetry, romance, popular essays or the next great novel, come join your people every third Thursday at Bonfire.
AWN membership costs $150 a year, but the first session is always free for those interested in previewing the group before they join. Local creatives who want to participate, but are unsure about affording the membership fee, can contact Tompkins directly. In addition to the monthly meetings, membership also includes a 25% discount for Winter Words, free admission to Aspen Words Writer in Residence and Community Read events and private consultations with literary agents and editors during Summer Words. You can learn more or sign up at www.aspenwords.org/ aspen-writers-network
Local writers listen attentively to best-selling memoirist and novelist Marcia Butler during the March 2025 AWN meeting at Bonfire Coffee in Carbondale. Photo by Annalise Grueter
There was a show on television in the 1950s called “This Is Your Life.” In black and white, celebrities would be lured into a classic Burbank, California NBC studio and surprised with delightful accounts of their lives. People would share stories, photos, and videos and the darling subject would be swept off their feet with flattery and nostalgia.
What if budgeting felt like flattery and nostalgia? When host Ralph Edwards, with his mid-century idiolect, calls out the celebrity’s childhood piano teacher, the live audience cheers and the guest is speechless. This is not how most of us feel when we sit down to get real about our numbers.
be better stewards of it. When you appreciate something, you treat it with respect. Impulse shopping isn’t as rewarding when you have an intimate and normalized relationship with your money.
So next time you think about budgeting and get queasy, try this:
1. Name it something other than budget. “This Is Your Life,” perhaps?
2. Underneath that, write: “I live a miraculous and unique life.”
3. Document all your recurring transactions over the course of a year.
4. Pour yourself a glass of something fizzy and get all weepy as you do this! What a beautiful life.
5. Don’t forget things that happen annually, like paying a tax preparer, that annual credit card fee, or holiday gifts.
6. Highlight the things that bring you the most joy and spend a moment relishing in them.
7. This list is a budget of sorts. But it can be treated like an anthem of awesomeness.
8. Categorize things by “Needs,” “Wealth/Savings” and “Wants.” Sum up the total of “Needs” and multiply by four. This will give you an amount to have saved for a rainy day, aka Emergency Fund.
9. Celebrate! You live an incredible life!
10. Subtract your expenses from your income. If this number is positive, put the extra toward your next financial goal. Huzzah.
11. If you’re not living within your means, use this document to turn the dials until you find a solution that works for you.
It’s not worth the drama we inject into the process. At least, not the negative drama. Throw some cat-eye glasses on, drop some balloons from a net, queue up the cheer squad and feel like the celebrity you are. What a joy that we can buy peanut butter pretzels, drive to Moab, wear steezy kicks and give our children art supplies. Do it with pride because… this is your life.
Megan Janssen is a certified financial educator and founder of Money Juice. To join the April 16 workshop in Carbondale, “Money Management for Creatives,” visit www.money-juice.com
CDALE REPORT
from page 15
Lastly, per an intergovernmental agreement with Garfield County, Carbondale was asked to comment on a major development application: Harvest Roaring Fork PUD, proposing up to 1,500 dwelling units and a hotel on 283 acres across Highway 82 from Cattle Creek. For comparison, Carbondale’s municipal boundaries are roughly four times the size and include 2,633 households. Town Planning Director Jared Barnes prepared a letter. Mayor Bohmfalk stipulated, “We’re not the approval body,” and asked not to get into a philosophical discussion of individual opinions but comment on how effectively Barnes applied Carbondale’s guiding documents in the letter.
Hassig insisted on digging in, considering whether water rights were appropriately exercised in the 30 years since topsoil was scraped from the land. He also contended that Willits, a comparable project, has the worst traffic in the Valley, and treating Highway 82 as a local street will have big impacts on commuters to and from Carbondale. Solely providing technical input, he said, “is implicit endorsement of this project, which I think needs to go back to the drawing board.”
Gister suggested adding a general comment along the lines of: “Without substantial changes, Carbondale would have real concerns about the size and scope of this project.”
The ranch prioritizes a strong conservation ethic, striving to align their agricultural practices with their life's principles for health, well-being and resilience. All the while they’ve maintained an economically sustainable business and ecologically thriving landscape.
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With her husband, Andrew Anderson, Hilary Zaranek ranches in Southwest Montana Hilary started the first range rider program in the Tom Miner Basin in 2013, just outside of Yellowstone National Park where they graze upwards of 3000 cows annually in the presence of wolves, grizzly bears and mountain lions.
Empowering Latino entrepreneurs through education and connection
In celebration of Diversity Month, the Glenwood Springs Chamber and FirstBank are excited to host Hablemos de Negocios/Let’s Talk Business, an annual bilingual event designed to empower and support local Latino entrepreneurs. This year’s event will take place on Tuesday, April 15, from 4 to 7pm at Morgridge Commons, located at 815 Cooper Ave., 2nd Floor, in Glenwood Springs.
Following the tremendous success of our 2024 event, which drew an engaged audience and sparked meaningful conversations, we are eager to build on that momentum in 2025. Attendees can once again expect an inspiring and informative evening packed with opportunities for growth and connection.
This year’s event will feature engaging “TED-Style Talks” where three local Latino business owners will share their personal journeys, highlighting the challenges they’ve overcome and the successes they’ve achieved. Their stories will serve as inspiration and provide practical insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and established business owners alike.
prospective businesses. Booths will feature organizations offering essential tools and services to support business growth and success. Ample time will be provided for networking, allowing attendees to engage with fellow entrepreneurs, industry professionals and local leaders. Guests will also enjoy delicious food from local Latino-owned restaurants, adding a flavorful cultural touch to the event, along with refreshing beverages provided by Quality Brands of the Rockies.
In addition to hearing from local entrepreneurs, attendees will benefit from a business resource panel featuring local experts. The panelists will address a series of prepared questions, offering insights, guidance and information about valuable resources designed to help businesses thrive.
One of the featured partners is Educational Pathways to Innovative Careers (EPIC), a regional initiative that provides free resources to local businesses and industries for the betterment of students from Aspen to DeBeque. EPIC representatives will share information about their regional online marketplace, HUB for Career and College Exploration, which connects students with work-based learning opportunities and helps them explore innovative career pathways.
The event will also include a business resource expo, where attendees can explore available opportunities for both existing and
The Hablemos de Negocios/Let’s Talk Business series was launched in April 2024 by the Glenwood Springs Chamber Latino Business Advisory Council, a committee of the Glenwood Springs Chamber Board of Directors. The Advisory Council was formed to foster stronger connections between the Chamber and the vibrant Latino business community. By recognizing and celebrating the rich diversity and entrepreneurial spirit within this community, the Chamber is committed to promoting collaboration, business growth and mutual success.
Our Hablemos de Negocios/Let’s Talk Business initiative extends beyond this signature event. Throughout the year, the series offers a variety of educational and informational resources, including seminars, newspaper articles and networking events specifically tailored for the Spanish-speaking community. While many of our events are conducted in Spanish, we are continually working to make them bilingual to ensure greater accessibility for all. Our mission remains focused on providing essential business services and support that empower and uplift local Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs and business owners.
The 2025 Hablemos de Negocios/Let’s Talk Business event promises to be an enriching experience for anyone interested in learning, connecting and contributing to the growth of our diverse business community. The event is free and open to the public.
For more information, please visit glenwoodchamber.com or call 970-945-6589.
Leonardo Occhipinti’s “Nuevo Mundo” in Sol del Valle every week in Spanish.
LET’S TALK BUSINESS By Tara Harman
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Speak Up
By Samuel Adams Jr., a.k.a. Clay Boland Jr. Carbondale
Speak up now Before it’s too late. Defend the nation you love From the forces of hate.
It’s 1776 again And time to mend
The rights that our ancestors Fought valiantly to defend.
A picture is worth a thousand words ...
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We Choose
By Nancy Bo Flood
My friend chose this day to die
This week of spring equinox at noon.
In the grocery I stare In front of me Bins full of sweet potatoes Four varieties Which ones should I choose for supper?
11:45, nearly noon
Is someone sitting by his side?
A last kiss
His hand held in hers
Time racing
I choose the garnet potato
Savory
Sweet and hold it in my hand
You’re right at home
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grandchildren; we trained beginning kayakers there in the early days of my business, Colorado Wilderness Experience. And, most importantly, for more than 25 years, Carbondale Community School (CCS) taught students to swim with instructors at the pool. Every student who graduated
I hope you’ll join me in giving generously to the Let’s Make a Splash! campaign to create an aquatics center for Carbondale. You can do that by contacting Brian Froelich, aquatics center coordinator at
An April 3-9, Sopris Sun article, “Tesla Takedown takes Gypsum,” describes American flags being waved with messages like “Don’t buy a Swasticar” and a sign, “Tesla=Fascist.” Another message, “Deport Elon Musk to Mars.” Elon Musk is a co-founder of Tesla and is loathed because he supports President Trump. The FBI is investigating the violent attacks on Tesla individuals, dealerships, owners
A little history on the twisted name of the new vehicle, Swasticar. The “Swastika” was a modern symbol of the fascists of Germany during the early 1930s, extended to the end of World War II. Fascists killed 6 million Jews plus another 3 million non-Jews. Many were also murdered in Soviet prisons. The non-Jews that were murdered were from Poland, Romania and Croatia, including 3 million other
This is a list of the positive influences of Tesla. The motor is electric and more friendly to the environment. Emissions are zero and it can travel 800 miles on one fast charge. It has blind spot monitoring and collision warning systems. The financial depreciation is at a lower rate and the everyday, lower horse-power model can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds.
I don’t own a Tesla, but my next car will
be its author and finisher. As a nation of free men, we must live through all time or die by suicide.” We as a country are on the verge of having our democratic republic implode. As a country, we are now on the verge of becoming an oligarchy — a government in which a small group exercises control, especially for corrupt and selfish purposes. There are 13 billionaires in Donald Trump’s administration, individuals who will not be advocating on behalf of the vast majority of Americans. As a country, we continue to be burdened by a dysfunctional system that increasingly benefits a very small segment of the population at the expense of the vast majority of Americans. A substantial number of Americans are frustrated and angry about the direction our country is headed. This energy needs to be channeled and expressed in a positive manner. As we unite and move forward, it is wise to embrace the wisdom of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who was assassinated 57 years ago when he was 39 years old. “In the process of gaining our rightful place, we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline.”
In a letter dated Jan. 9, 1790, George Washington wrote, “The establishment of our new government seemed to be the last great experiment for promoting human happiness by reasonable compact in civil society.” I remain proud to be an American because we are guaranteed the opportunity to unite in a nonviolent manner to defend “the last great experiment” and continue to pursue a more inclusive form of democracy and share in our prosperity. Jim Coddington III Saint James Long Island, New York
When he was 28 years old, Abraham Lincoln delivered a prophetic warning at his Lyceum Address on Jan. 27, 1838. “If destruction be our lot, we must ourselves
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.
CORRECTION: The Sopris Sun’s Summer CSA guide printed last week was missing at least one local business:
MODERN WEST FLORAL CO. www.modernwestfloral.com
Contact: 614-307-4451, vanessa@modernwestfloral.com
Dates: June-October
Pricing: $35/week available weekly or bi-weekly delivery
Pick up: in Silt or Carbondale
Growing practices: Low-till, organically grown flowers with lots of love!
Offerings: A delightful mix of heirloom and hard-to-find annual and perennial flowers and foliage, as well as dried florals.
Tidbit: We are building a diverse flock of birds to help with pest control. We have quail, bantam chickens, guinea fowl and laying hens. It’s so fun seeing the birds dart between the flowers eating grasshoppers, earwigs and other yummy treats.
Carbondale’s “Spring into Wellness” First Friday was thriving with activity on April 4. From KDNK’s Lip Sync Battle fundraiser at the Thunder River Theatre (top left photo by Raleigh Burleigh, top right by Hannah Childe) to a pickleball demonstration on Main Street and abundance of wellness practitioners sampling their services at the Rec Center (bottom center and right photos by Raleigh Burleigh). Carbondale Trustee Ross Kribbs was spotted fiddling around at Marble Distillery (bottom left photo by Sandy Marlin).
Mark your calendars: the May 2 First Friday theme is “Family Block Party” and will feature a carnival at Chacos Park and the 4th Street Plaza as well as the Rotary Club’s grand Fireball Drop fundraiser.
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.
invited
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).
Please email raleigh@soprissun.com or call 970-510-3003 to coordinate.
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