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8-9 ~ Calendar

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J u ry duty, what give s ?

By James Steindler Contributing Editor

Pretty much wherever you live in the good ol’ United States of America, a jury notice will find you and likely several times throughout life. While, at first glance, it may appear in the mailbox as an inconvenience to the receiver, it’s part of a larger system — albeit imperfect — that’s endured since before the dawn of the first 13 colonies.

While it’s a nationwide custom, and every jury system in the country is rooted in the Constitution, the practice can vary. For example, in Colorado county and district courts, a convicted felon can serve as a trial juror but not on a grand jury. Utah is a different story. There, people with a felony are not eligible to serve unless their conviction has been expunged.

Other eligibility requirements include being 18 years or older, a United States citizen, being literate in the English language and residing at least 50% of the time in the jurisdiction for which being summoned.

Within the Colorado Judicial Branch (CJB), the size of a jurisdiction can make a difference when it comes to who sends notices to potential jurors.

“Here in the Ninth Judicial District — meaning Garfield-Glenwood Springs, Garfield-Rifle, Rio Blanco and Pitkin Counties — the clerk of court has the dual duty of jury commissioner,” Dawn Garey, the clerk of court for Garfield County’s Glenwood Springs courthouse, explained to The Sopris Sun. “So, we send out the summons. In larger districts and/or counties, they usually have a jury commissioner that does this.”

There are 22 judicial districts within CJB and 64 counties. Garfield County has two separate court houses — the primary being in Glenwood Springs, and an associate courthouse in Rifle.

In Colorado, whenever there is a jury trial set at the county or district level, the jury commissioner puts in a request to randomly pull names from a “jury wheel” made relative to the county or district. The jury wheel is created at the state office every August for the upcoming year.

The term “jury wheel” originates from back when names were placed into a barrel and turned around to mix them up. Today, the system is computerized.

“There are three ways that the jury wheel is created,” Garey said. “This occurs at the state office for the entire state of Colorado.” She explained that CJB uses voter registration and department of revenue data — including drivers license information and tax records. “We also run the names through vital statistics every quarter to remove anyone who is deceased,” Garey added.

The computer system will detect names that are the same with matching addresses, in an attempt to avoid delivering multiple notices to one person.

“You’re allowed one postponement for the year for any reason at all,” said Garey. After one freebie, a prospective juror must provide a darn good reason to miss jury selection, and the jury commissioner ultimately has the discretion to grant an excuse ahead of trial or not.

Once someone appears for jury duty at the courthouse, it’s in the judge’s and attorneys’ hands to determine who will be excused. This process is called jury selection, or voir dire. Attorneys argue whether a juror’s background or personal values should disqualify them from serving in a particular case. Once the jury is selected, everyone remaining outside the jury box is dismissed.

Children are not allowed to appear alongside their parents. Mother’s who are breastfeeding may be granted a postponement and called again at a later date.

In Colorado, in most cases, an employer is compelled to pay an employee’s wage for a day they would have worked but had to appear for jury duty instead, and up to $50 a day for the first three days of service. The law states: “An employer shall not threaten, coerce or discharge an employee for reporting for jury service as summoned.” In Utah, the state compensates the juror directly for their time away from work.

On top of the county and district courts, someone may be called to serve in federal court. The United States District Court of Colorado is divided into four juror divisions, and the nearest federal courthouse is in Grand Junction.

"Give it a whirl, Merle!"

The key to life OPINION

96% of our terrestrial birds rely on insects supported by keystone plants.”

Branching Out

By Geneviève Villamizar

Returning West as a young adult, two things blew me away: its screaming blue skies and the alkaline pungency of its landscape. My entire physical body recognized both as home; deserts and mountains were the playground of my earliest years. In the weeks before moving onto campus, I gathered armfuls of tall western sage, rabbitbrush and brome. I wove in asters and larkspur, blazing star and sunflowers. The hall outside my dorm room was so strong of scent, I was warned that “burning incense is against the rules.”

Every region on Earth has its own “incense,” the fragrance of its dominant flora, commingled. Many of these plants are keystone species, critical to sheltering, nurturing and feeding the majority of wildlife species, explains the National Wildlife Federation. “Without keystone plants in the landscape, butterflies, native bees and birds will not thrive;

LETTERS

Re: Thoughts to share

Like so many of us in the West, we live large and play hard, no bandwidth for the “little stuff”; turning our sights instead to the grandiose or epic. As recreators, we are public land users, conquering rivers and mountains, rock and ice, to engage our passions. (I am looking in a mirror as I write that.) So when I bring these ubiquitous species home, it’s an effort to capture every grand adventure, epiphany, achievement or ass-kicking the backcountry has given me.

A deeper lesson, indelibly marked by place, has risen for me: a commitment to honor these places…

…by staying out of them.

Headline after headline, study after study reports the ways that our playtime is pushing species to the brink — or outright extinction. I continue to look in that mirror and ask myself: Why disturb places so critical to others’ survival… when I don’t really have to?

From the most delicate larvae ensconced in subterranean mycorrhizae… to apex predators providing ecological services… to each everyday, ordinary species in between… I’ve had to ask myself: Am I more important than them?

It is not a loss to me. I’m

In a recent letter to The Sopris Sun, a writer shared her observations that school-aged children use the library computers to play violent video games, implying that shooting games lead to school shootings, and suggesting that library staff should prohibit access to these games in the library.

As the writer observed, our library is a gathering place for middle schoolers after school, particularly on early release Wednesdays. And many kids use our public computers to play an online game called “Shell Shockers”, in which the player is an armed egg fighting against other eggs with guns. The game is rated E10+, which means that the content is “generally suitable for ages 10 and up” and “may contain cartoon, fantasy or mild violence, mild language and/or minimal suggestive themes.”

We recognize that not everything accessible through our computers will be appropriate for all audiences. However, we must abide by library policy, which states that “the responsibility to choose to access or not access specific materials found in the library rests with the individual customer. No library staff member or any other person, group, or organization should restrict an individual’s access to materials. The

discovering other wilds, places of obvious overlap between wild and developed. Feral places along roadways, edges of parking lots, abandoned places where nature is taking over again. In these borderlands, I can still get my dose of wild from the synanthropic species — the creatures that aren't as bothered by us and, in fact, have found ways to leverage our resources and infrastructure to their own advantage. This still makes for an impressive immersion into the lives and antics of residential deer herds, hawks, eagles, ravens, magpies, migratory songbirds, wild turkeys, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, whistle pigs, skunks — even simple ol’ squirrels or gophers.

I’m Homo sapiens, sling shot in hand. So are you, I hope. Here we are, peering up at the goliath of climate change and mass extinction. What can a feeble primate such as you or I do in the face of all that?

We can introduce keystone species at home. We can jumpstart wildness in the space we rent or own or steward by planting all those common, ordinary “weeds” right up to our door. A triumph today can be making a difference. A score today can be the number of living things that show up for you. A rite of passage can be the first time you achieve a goal made for the planet instead of yourself. It feels pretty freaking awesome, to be honest.

When we plant a rabbitbrush

responsibility for selecting what a minor may read or view lies solely with the parent or legal guardian.”

I know how hard it is to send kids off to school with reports of mass shootings constantly in the news and on our minds. Fortunately, research has shown no link between violent video games and mass shootings. In particular, a recent study at the University of Oxford debunked the theory, with the lead researcher stating that “despite interest in the topic by parents and policy-makers, the research has not demonstrated that there is cause for concern.”

On early release Wednesdays, and at other times throughout the week, we provide library-led activities in our Community Room, but many kids choose to spend their time on the public access computers. We’re happy to be a place that kids want to be, and we encourage families to have open discussions and set personal boundaries with their children before allowing them to visit the library on their own.

Tracy Kallassy, Carbondale Library branch manager

Diplomatic solutions for Ukraine!

Okay everyone, time to face up to the very real and looming possibility that the intensification of this Russian/

or sage (just an example among many species to play with), we support an ecological web of life. So much bigger than you or me (how’s that for an epiphany or an epic?). Forty-four moths and butterflies use sage; 28, rabbitbrush. Beyond pollen or nectar, imagine how many moles, voles, rabbits, snakes, toads, etc. scurry from bush to bush for burrowing, cover or shade. Deer and elk eat either when there’s little else.

Less grandiose to some of us? Birds. Ducking under a sage last week, I looked up and discovered a nest, so delicate, so perfectly woven into its branches, yet invisible to any from the outside. That feathered brainiac built in the midst of a flying, crawling food buffet.

I grew up on Marty Stouffer’s Wild America, but this stuff, in real life? Is way cooler: moths getting it on, squirrels kickin’ ass at parkour, ravens duking it out with hawks… our fellow sentients, living out lives just as we are, replete with adventures, epiphanies, triumphs and downfalls.

Small, insignificant or common species are the key to life on this planet, and the key to saving it. Before we can save the rhino, orangutan or whale, we self-indulgent humans might look to save ourselves. But without saving these “plain old” species first, we cannot save the grand — or even ourselves.

Ukrainian, NATO/American, globalist proxy war has already led us into WWIII. There still may be time for diplomacy and resolution, but all of us, no matter what our political persuasion, must now fearlessly make it known to our local, state and federal officials that they must immediately find diplomatic, de-escalating solutions to stop this madness. I certainly haven’t heard anything about finding diplomatic solutions, have you? We can’t be fooled again, can we? And now the threat is nuclear. Yes, what’s happening in Ukraine is horrifying. Putin is certainly a war criminal, and our hearts go out to these poor people, but please, step back and get a whiff of the danger we’re all in if this proxy war isn’t resolved diplomatically. I don’t pretend to know all the ins and outs of it, but I sure can smell a putrid pack of war-like, nefarious, totalitarianminded rats scurrying around the globe. Can’t you? Their hidden networks of turd-filled nests have now infested just about every major sector of our society…

Sounds a little crazy, I know (and I sincerely hope I’m the lune), but it’s just that history is filled with supercrazies that simply want to kill people and destroy everything good. Our planet and

continued on page 18

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Our Underwriters and Nonprofit Partners!

Seeding collaboration

On Feb. 1, two nonprofits focused on local food systems resilience — the Farm Collaborative, headquartered at Cozy Point Ranch near Snowmass Village, and Seed Peace, located at Sunfire Ranch south of Carbondale — announced that they will be joining forces “to increase efficiencies while maximizing impact.” Seed Peace’s farmer and production programs will expand at both sites and continue under the banner of the Farm Collaborative.

“This partnership between two great organizations ushers in a new era of collaboration as the regenerative farming renaissance emerges in the Roaring Fork Valley,” said Jason Sewell, fifth generation owner of Sunfire Ranch.

Mountain Fair 52

The 52nd annual Carbondale Mountain Fair poster design contest is underway. The theme this year — Where The Wild Things Grow — “is a celebration of the flora and fauna (and possibly fairies!) that inhabit our greater mountain community,” announced Carbondale Arts on Feb. 7. Interested artists should submit a welldeveloped concept for the design along with at least three work samples by April 1. For more details, contact brian@ carbondalearts.com

RJ Paddywacks

Cool Bricks Studio

White River Books

Alpine Animal Hospital

Novus Glass

Nonprofit Partners

Wilderness Workshop

5point Film Festival

Basalt Library

Aspen Strong

Carbondale Rotary

Carbondale Animal Shelter

Carbondale Arts

Carbondale Chamber of Commerce

Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner in 2023? Email Todd@ soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866

Right on track

The Roaring Fork School District’s graduate rate exceeded the state average for on-time graduation in 2022, with 85.2% of students graduating on-time as compared to the 82.3% state average. The local dropout rate, however, was slightly higher at 2.5% compared to the state’s 2.2% in 2022.

Centennial plate

Coloradans can now vote to determine the Centennial State’s 150th anniversary license plate design. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles has narrowed the contest down to three options, and the deadline to vote is Feb. 15. Learn more at DMV.Colorado.gov/ HistoricColorado

Planning ahead

Permits for Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness overnight trips in the 2023 season will become available for reservation on Feb. 15. You can plan ahead by visiting www.recreation.gov

YOUR

Call

Students at Crystal River Elementary School (CRES) have been making the most of winter with outdoor sports organized by P.E. teacher Marty Madsen. Ice skating and Nordic skiing have long factored into the physical education program developed by Madsen, who is in his 20th year with the school. Prior to COVID, the kids would shuttle to the Gus Darien Arena for skating. Beginning in 2021, with help from Cuc Construction, the school now has its own mini rink. “I love my job, and I finally got to the point where I really get to do these fun and unique things that kids can experience at school,” said Madsen.

Scholarship season

Colorado Mountain College encourages prospective students to think about securing funds through March 1 for the upcoming school year. In partnership with FirstBank, opportunities include up to $2,375 for a student who is the first in their family to pursue a degree, as well as a new $100,000 endowment to provide scholarships each year in perpetuity. Learn more at coloradomtn.academicworks.com

Hospitality Marketing

Olivia Savard, born and raised in the Valley, and Marlene Neidert, former marketing project manager for Visit Glenwood Springs, have launched a new agency “to help local businesses in the tourism and hospitality industries navigate the ever-changing world of social media and digital marketing.” Learn more about Hospitality Marketing at www. hospitalitymarketing.org

Thanks, Dr. Exby!

After eight years serving students, faculty and staff at Colorado Mountain College (CMC) Spring Valley campus

Working Together

For Pets And Their People

2801 CR 114 Glenwood Springs, (970)947-9173CO

CARE has 5 dogs and 5 cats available for adoption.

and Glenwood Center, vice president and dean Dr. Heather Exby is retiring at the end of the spring semester. Exby “championed” the $5 million Promise of Spring Valley capital campaign, wrote CMC President and CEO Dr Carrie Hauser in a press release. “We are profoundly grateful for all that Heather has done…”

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Charley Hill (Feb. 9); Diego Gonzales, Sara McAllister and Pam Rosenthal (Feb. 10); Georgia Chamberlain, Linda Criswell, Anne Goldberg, Thomas Mack, Sydney McBrayer and Hamilton Pevec (Feb. 11); Raleigh Burleigh, Sam Hayes, Ciara Low, Faith Magill, Meghan Murphy, Sarah and Laura Nelson, Jamie Ramge, Gene Schilling and The Sopris Sun (Feb. 12); Amy Rota (Feb. 13); Gabriela Meijia, Winnie Steindler-Crampton and Andrea Stewart (Feb. 14); Jennifer Moss, Scott Levine, Dave Plumb and Megan Tackett (Feb. 15).

RJ offers a “C.A.R.E. new adoptive including a “Paws for a first time

RJ PADDYWACKS offers a “C.A.R.E. package” for new adoptive families, including a “Paws for Points” plan and a first time 15% discount for your new pet.

El

Pictured here (left to right): Hazel Patera, Briana Portillo Gonzalez and Madeline Halverson. Check out page 17 for more photos by Sue Rollyson.

Aspen businesses patent biodegradable fire foam

By Will Buzzerd Sopris Sun Correspondent

Last month, Aspen-based business Multi-Inc., in partnership with development company AspenGlo, unveiled a new, federally patented biodegradable fire-resistant foam design to protect structures in the event of wildfire. The newly developed foam is not only unprecedented in its reduction of environmental harm, but its long-lasting protection against flames.

After seven years in development, founder and president of Multi-Inc. Ken Johnson announced the patent in his home state of Colorado, declaring it “ultimately the right place” to unveil a revolutionary new way to keep at-risk communities safe.

Firefighting foam has existed since 1902 as an extremely effective tool for fire suppression. Foams are superior to water in that they can completely block a fire’s access to oxygen, and can even suppress fires with liquid fuels (such as gasoline).

Additionally, significant energy is required to vaporize

the foam, meaning it won’t evaporate from heat nearly as quickly as just a layer of water on a structure. Within the various types of firefighting foams, Class A foams are used for fires with solid materials like wood and plastic fuel, and function primarily by “expanding water” into a thick layer, allowing better fire control with less water. They also allow water to soak into the fuel, reducing the chance of rekindling. On the other hand, Class B foams are specifically tailored for liquid fuel fire, and work by smothering a fuel’s explosive vapors.

However, both Class A and B foams have specific drawbacks. Class A foams generally do not contain fire-retardant chemicals and, while that makes them less environmentally harmful, it means that once they evaporate, they can no longer protect against a fire. According to “Class A Foam: Best Practice for Structure Firefighters” by Dominic J, Coletti, “[Evaporation] happens quickly if the exposure is adjacent to a high-intensity fire. After a foam application evaporates off a wood exposure, the wood

continues to absorb heat, boils-off internal moisture, and erupts in flames after reaching its ignition temperature ... One coat of Class A foam is not a ‘cure-all’ during most exposure protection operations.”

Conversely, Class B foams do contain chemicals with serious human and environmental health concerns. Many Class B foams are aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) which contain toxic, non-biodegradable per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are incredibly difficult to break down and are highly permeable, able to easily move into soil and organisms.

PFAS have been linked to cancer, reproductive and developmental issues, and immunological issues. A study performed by the International Pollutants Elimination Network in 2019 found that “firefighters using AFFF have unacceptably elevated blood levels of [types of PFAS].” Even the U.S. Department of Defense briefed Congress in 2022 about phasing out the use of AFFF, citing environmental and human dangers.

The recently patented foam by Multi-Inc. and AspenGlo seeks not only to provide firefighters with a tool that is safe for both them and water systems. It also seeks to

remedy Class A foams’ Achilles heel: their poor utility as a protective measure.

In 2021, AspenGlo conducted tests with firefighters and other industry partners with great success. According to AspenGlo’s press release, “The foam was sprayed on a 10-foot wooden wall, and surrounding soil and concrete, creating a fully-encased eggshell protective layer. The structure was then torched at 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit (1,000 degrees hotter than an average wildland fire). After power washing the spray with the preserved wood cocooned safe underneath, the wall was found in nearly pristine condition.”

And, after spraying, “the foam adheres for a number of days as a hard shell,” meaning that it can be deployed far in advance and much further

from dangerous blazes than the typical Class A foam. As of yet, there are no other firefighting foams that act in the same way.

The frequency of wildfires generally trends higher as time goes on, and the burn scars of 2018’s Lake Christine Fire are still plainly visible from up and down Highway 82.

Allison Holloran, President of AspenGlo, stated, “We were adamant that there was no time like the present to move forward on getting Multi-Inc.’s product into the meaningful hands of those that can be the most impactful.”

As the Valley’s population increases, our firefighters need the best equipment for keeping vulnerable communities and ecosystems safe. AspenGlo and Multi-Inc. are greatly confident that this newly patented foam will do just that.

Kent Oliver spraying a wooden test wall with Multi-Inc's new foam. Photo courtesy of Allison Holloran

Needle exchanges, free clothes and a civics lesson

By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun correspondent

Garfield County Commissioners’ Monday agenda was full — five hours worth of topics, including a liquor license transfer for Rifle Fireside Lanes, fee waiver requests for events at the county fairgrounds, approval of the consent agenda, program updates and a raft of discretionary fund and nonprofit fund requests.

Andrea Palm-Porter of Roaring Fork Leadership (RFL) requested $5,000 to expand RFL’s civics programming. Palm-Porter asked the board to describe the civic culture of Garfield County, which sparked a trip in the Way Back Machine with commissioners at the helm, replete with stories about a bowling ball and a burning tire rolling down Grand Avenue, and the old A&W where Taco Bell now stands.

Commissioner Mike Samson described the county culture as “evolving.” Commission Chair John Martin noted that Grand Avenue is more of a freeway than a Main Street, and neighborhoods in Glenwood Springs are becoming parking lots. Palm-Porter was able to steer the conversation back to the importance of RFL’s work in the community, including unconscious bias programs and upcoming community conversations in Carbondale.

Kirsten Petre McDaniel, Youthentity executive director, and Greg Beachey, career academy director, talked at length about the organization’s successful career expo and financial literacy programs for youth. Their $15,000 request ($10,000 of which would come from the nonprofit discretionary fund) would go to a career expo next month at Glenwood Springs High School for students from Aspen to Glenwood Springs, and for expanding financial literacy programs. The career expo targets sophomores and juniors, and includes interactive, web- and app-based tools, plus

conversation with business owners. Youthentity’s financial literacy programs, meanwhile, served 6,000 middle school students across the state in 2022, in 81 schools, 30 school districts and 24 counties.

Morgan Hill, associate director for Carbondalebased Clean Energy Economy for the Region (CLEER), requested $330,000 for the Garfield Clean Energy Collaborative. She reviewed CLEER accomplishments over the past decade and thanked the board for funding help that made programs possible. Hill encouraged the board to help make Garfield County carbon-free by 2030. The idea is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions related to energy use by 100% with a 10% reduction in emissions from natural gas, which drew less than enthusiastic responses from the board.

Martin said the goal is unattainable and that the term “carbon-free” is a contradiction. Hill asked the board what terminology they would prefer to which Martin responded “limited use of carbon-based fuel.” Commissioner Tom Jankovsky said that “carbonfree” does not take into account what it takes to make infrastructure, citing wind turbine blades made from balsa wood out of the Amazon rainforest. Nonetheless, the Board moved to approve CLEER’s request.

Other smaller requests included LOVA trails, West Elk trails, the Middle Colorado Wildfire Ready Collaborative, Ambleside School, Colorado Mountain College non-traditional scholarships and the Rifle Rendezvous. The board will make decisions on all funding requests later in February.

The Salvation Army requested a fee waiver for use of the Garfield County Fairgrounds later this month to give away four pallets of new clothing donated by Walmart.

The annual fireworks ban got a first reading on Monday. The ordinance would be in place for one year, except for a week around July 4, which could

2023 CHIP SEAL PROGRAM REQUEST FOR BIDS

The Town of Carbondale is accepting bids from local qualified contractors to perform work on the 2023 Chip Seal program.

Sealed bids will be received until 11:00 am February 21, 2023, by the Town of Carbondale, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, Colorado 81623, at which time the bids will be opened and read aloud Specifications and contract documents can be found on the Town of Carbondale website, or at Town Hall.

Work on this project cannot begin prior to May 15, 2023, and must be complete by June 30, 2023. No chip seal work will be allowed on Tuesdays as Tuesdays are residential trash and recycling collection days and all roads being chip sealed this year are residential in nature.

The Chip Seal Program consists of applying asphaltic binder and aggregate meeting CDOT No. 8 specifications on approximately 56,767 square yards of street surface. All work shall meet, at a minimum, the Town of Carbondale Chip Seal Surfacing Specifications. A list of the streets scheduled to be chip sealed are included (see Street Listing). The Town has a limited budget for the 2023 Chip Seal program and therefore reserves the right to adjust the quantities to fit within the financial limits of the program based on the bids received. The listed square yard measurements are estimates for bidding purposes only and the final square yardage will be determined at the end of the project.

The successful bidder will be expected to enter into an Agreement for Professional Services with the Town. Bids shall be submitted on the bid form attached to the request for proposals.

be revised if necessary. Municipalities and federal lands are not included in the ban. The decision will be made on March 6.

Ongoing logging operations on the Buford-New Castle Road will delay new gravel for the road until next spring. Deb Fiscus, county landfill manager, talked trash. The board approved the 2022 sales tax recovery and a land use change permit for Alpine Animal Hospital’s large animal facility east of Carbondale. In other news, Mason Hohstadt and Chelsea Carnoali presented a detailed update on the state attorney general’s distribution plan for federal opioid settlement money. Garfield County is part of Region 5, which also includes Eagle, Pitkin, Summit and Lake counties. According to the presentation, the AG’s office has secured over $700 million to be paid out over 18 years. Region 5 would get an estimated $4,918,279. Funding priorities for the region include public education about the misuse of opioids, Naloxone data tracking and harm reduction programs such as syringe services or “needle exchanges.” Jankovsky was concerned that harm reduction methods encouraged opioid use. “I see this as enabling,” he said. He cited the county’s preferred long-standing goal of setting up a detox facility. It is uncertain if Garfield County’s share of the opioid funds would go toward the detox facility. Commissioners Samson and Martin are now in Washington, D.C., this week for the National Association of Counties conference.

Garfield County Commissioners, art by Larry Day

Rams rock Cowboys on Senior Night

By Luke Wander Sopris Sun Correspondent

The Roaring Fork Rams boys varsity team had two jobs to do on Saturday night: honor their seniors and win a game of basketball. They did both, and then some.

After suffering a 16-point loss to league rival Cedaredge on Friday night, Coach Jason Krieling and his team knew they had a point to prove against the Meeker Cowboys. “[The loss] was a wake up call for our guys,” said Krieling. “We had to come out ready to play tonight."

Before taking the court, Athletic Director Crista Barlow led a moving ceremony to honor all six Roaring Fork seniors: Ryan Metheny, Eliot Carballeira, Diego Loya, Gabe Serson, Eddie Hernandez and River Byrne. The Class of ‘23 has faced numerous challenges in their four years of playing high school hoops. They have contended with injuries, fatigue, hectic schedules, coaching changes, long bus rides over snowy mountain passes, not to mention the difficulties posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Emerging from this crucible with a strong sense of team unity and togetherness, this class of seniors has led the Rams to their first winning season in nearly a decade, and a decent shot at a league title to boot.

Despite the emotions on display during the ceremony, Roaring Fork dictated the pace of the game from the tip-off. Hernandez set the tone with a layup in transition, and Byrne made jump shots from either side of the three-point line to open up an early lead. Crisp passing combined with penetrative dribbling and patient shot selection gave the Rams the edge.

On the defensive end, their energy limited Meeker’s opportunities, both at the perimeter and in the paint.

The second quarter belonged to Byrne, who made a series of three-point shots that got the

home crowd up and onto their feet. He welcomed the increased attention of Meeker defenders and kept sinking shots. When the Cowboys finally had to double team him, Byrne’s teammates found themselves in acres of space and by halftime, the Rams held a comfortable lead of 35-13.

The Rams got right back to business in the third quarter, putting the Cowboys under even more pressure and forcing turnovers left and right. With 29 points on the night, Hernandez was a constant menace in transition. “On defense I just try to get the ball loose,” said Hernandez after the game. “Then I’m heading down the court because I know my teammates will find me.” Metheny, a forward, had a strong third quarter as well, putting himself in position to get rebounds and scoring eight points in the paint.

As the fourth quarter ticked away and the Rams maintained their 30-point lead, the game became an opportunity for Coach Krieling to give the crowd a preview of what is to come in the next few years. As the upperclassmen left the game one by one, the crowd gave them one last round of applause and, with a few minutes to go, the seniors were all cheering their younger teammates from the bench. The scrubs did what they needed to do to protect the lead, and the game finished 74-44.

“I had a lot of nerves before the game,” said Hernandez, of the pressure he felt on Senior Night. “But it felt amazing to get the dub.”

Roaring Fork will finish out their season with three away games at Olathe, Gunnison and Grand Valley. Coach Krieling says his team’s mentality will be simple over the next two weeks. “To win this league we have to keep winning games. We have three road games to finish the season, and we want to be at the top of the league.” They will be paying close attention to how Cedaredge performs, as both teams have only one conference loss.

Earlier in the evening, the Lady Rams snapped a two-game losing streak by beating the Meeker Cowgirls 57-48. The game was a tense back-andforth contest for the first three quarters, until the Lady Rams pulled away in the final minutes.

“I told the girls to finish the quarter strong,” said Coach Juan Quintero. “We focused on one possession at a time defensively, and got stops.” Sophomore guards Erica and Carley Crownhart put in huge offensive performances for Roaring Fork, with 14 and 19 points, respectively.

They kept the momentum strong, winning their senior night game against Aspen 44-20 on Feb. 7.

There will be one more chance to see the Lady Rams play at home on Saturday Feb. 11, at 12:30pm against Gunnison.

Senior Eddie Hernandez slips through the Cowboy defense for an easy two. Photo by Sue Rollyson

By Luke Wander Sopris Sun Correspondent

The Basalt High School Wrestling Program honored four seniors before taking on the Rifle Bears on Friday night in Carbondale. For seniors José Muñoz, a student at Bridges High School, and Brady Samuelson, a student at Roaring Fork High School, it was a doubly special evening. Both boys have worn the purple and gold of Basalt for their entire careers, but rarely get the chance to wrestle in their home gymnasium at Roaring Fork High School.

Before the wrestling got underway, Basalt Assistant Coach Ryan Bradley recognized Brianda Murrieta of Basalt for her years of support as team manager. Up next was Nayeli Membreno, a senior and first-year wrestler for the Lady Longhorns in their inaugural season, followed by “Big Man” Muñoz, a four-year member of the varsity squad. Samuelson rounded out the list of seniors, thanking his family for their support of his wrestling career, which began in second grade.

The girls varsity dual between Basalt and Rifle featured two teams in their first year of existence. Basalt’s Paola Cruz Andrade pinned Rifle’s Breauna Sigmon in the second period of their match, while Basalt’s Roselyne Bernal won a 5-2 decision over Rifle’s Mikhayla Washington. Nayeli Membreno and Emely Mejia Garcia of Basalt both won by default, as did Rifle’s Madison Farris for Rifle’s only points of the dual, which finished 21-6 in favor of the Lady Longhorns. Coach

Senior wrestlers honored

Bradley is hopeful that the success of the girls varsity squad this year will inspire younger wrestlers thinking of joining the team.

On the boys side, the Rifle Bears got an early 18-0 lead after three consecutive pins. Basalt’s Dayton Schenk pinned Rifle’s Alex Murchinson to stop the Bear’s momentum, before a pin by Samuelson gave the Longhorns hope and got the crowd going. Muñoz then won by forfeit, evening up the dual 18-18.

Pins for Rifle’s Ayden Piatt and Basalt’s Towler Scott kept the dual even, and Roaney Requeno pinned Rifle’s Tucker Collier to give Basalt a 30-24 lead with four matches to go. The only match of the dual that went all three periods saw Rifle’s Gavin Nash win a 14-2 decision over Basalt’s Ivan Babonoyaba. Rifle’s Jordan Irwin then pinned Bronze Urfrig of Roaring Fork High School, earning a 34-30 lead for the Bears.

Rifle’s Trety Trouskie and Parker Miller both pinned their opponents to seal a 46-30 victory for their team.

Following the duals, several wrestlers got the chance to compete in exhibition matches, which included pins for Basalt’s Membreno and Luca Shafer.

The evening was a testament to the cooperative work done by Basalt Athletic Director Jason Santo and Roaring Fork Athletic Director Crista Barlow, as well as Coach Ryan Bradley, who had a vision for celebrating their senior wrestlers and brought the community together to pull it off. When asked what his senior wrestlers mean to the program, Coach Bradley did not hold back. “Brady and José give a lot of hope to the young wrestlers who are taking their lumps that if they work hard and learn to wrestle they can compete at a high level.”

in the local community

Senior Brady Samuelson (above) scores six points with a quick pin and Senior Nayeli Membreno (below) throws her opponent to the ground.

Photos by Sue Rollyson

Now Offering Assisted Living and Memory Care

THURSDAY, FEB. 9

LEGAL CLINIC

Basalt Library offers a free legal clinic from 2 to 5pm. To sign up, contact the library at 970-9274311 or info@basaltlibrary.org

LGBTQ+ AUTHOR

Author Cathy Hyliger, an early childhood educator with two sons in the LGBTQ community, presents her books at the Glenwood Springs Library at 2pm.

HOUSEPLANTS 101

Botany Houseplant Shop in Carbondale offers an introductory class for improving plant parenting skills from 5 to 6:30pm. To register, email www. botanyhouseplantshop@gmail.com

PERSPECTIVE POWER

Aspen Strong hosts a mindfulnessbased writing workshop at Basalt Library from 4:30 to 6:30pm.

FOCUSED FAMILIES

Parents with students in kindergarten to fifth grade are invited to three parenting education sessions at Basalt Library: Feb. 9, 23 and March 2 from 5:30 to 7 pm. Registration at www.bit.ly/FocusedFamiliesBasalt

BINGO

The Redstone Inn hosts “BINGO” from 6:30 to 8:30pm.

LIFT SERIES

Acclaimed singer/songwriters Brett Dennen and John Craigie perform at the Wheeler Opera House at 8pm for the 6th annual Lift Series. Find tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

FRIDAY, FEB. 10

GLENWOOD CAVERNS

Henry Hill performs for the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park Friday Afternoon Club, from 5 to 8pm.

ROCHELLE JOHNSON

The Art Base hosts an opening reception for Denver-based painter Rochelle Johnson’s exhibition, “From Urban Life to Blue World”, from 5 to 7pm. The show will remain on display through March 3.

BOTANICAL DYES

Katie Browne of BOX ELEVEN guides a fabric dyeing workshop with locally-harvested botanicals at Botany Houseplant Shop in Carbondale from 5 to 7pm. To register, email boxeleven@hotmail.com

LIBRARY CONCERT

Basalt Library presents “Four Hands on Keyboard”, a concert celebrating piano duets, at 5:30pm.

HAPPY HOUR CRITIQUE

The Carbondale Clay Center welcomes fellow potters to critique one another’s work over drinks from 6 to 8:30pm. Register online at www.carbondaleclay.org

CRYSTAL THEATRE

The Crystal Theatre shows “Women Talking” at 7pm tonight, tomorrow and Feb. 15-16. The Sunday matinee is at 2pm and “A Man Called Otto” screens on Feb. 11 at 4:15pm.

SOUND JOURNEY

Dr. Zach Cashin leads a sound journey at the Third Street Center from 7 to 8:30pm. Reserve your spot by emailing info@tcfhf.org

CONSENSUAL IMPROV

TACAW present’s Consensual Improv at 8 p.m. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

SATURDAY, FEB. 11

ART HEALING

Sheri Gaynor leads an art for stress release class at The Art Base from 9:30 to 11:30am today, and online tomorrow. Sign up for this free resource at www.theartbase.org

CARD MAKING

Pam Porter leads a printmaking workshop at The Art Base with emphasis on pleasing that special someone, from 10am to 3pm. Register at www.theartbase.org

MOCKTAILS

Basalt Library partners with A Way Out for “Mocktail Hour” in partnership with local bartenders at 5:30pm.

DATE NIGHT

The Carbondale Clay Center offers Partner Wheel Throwing for “a different kind of date night” from 6 to 8:30pm. The class will repeat on Feb. 18. Register online at www.carbondaleclay.org

FLY COMP

Roaring Fork Conservancy and the Roaring Fork Valley Fly Fishing Club host the 7th annual Iron Fly Competition at The Tipsy Trout in Basalt from 5:30 to 10pm. Competitors will be provided secret and “funky” materials to use in their fly. Register to compete at www.roaringfork.org/events

LOVE LETTERS

Theatre Aspen presents “Love Letters” with Judd Hirsch and Marilu Henner at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.theatreaspen.org

CONTRA DANCE

The Valley’s Second Saturday contra dance tradition continues at the Carbondale Community School (1505 Satank Road) with live music by the Wooden Nickel String Band from 8 to 10pm. Beginners can attend a quick lesson at 7:30pm.

DINNER AND A SHOW

TACAW partners with Epicure Catering to present Rainbow Sign (Brian Blade, Bill Frisell, Jason Moran and Thomas Morgan performing the music of Ron Miles). Dinner starts at 6pm and the show begins at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

SUNDAY, FEB. 12

GRILL OUT

The Mount Sopris Nordic Council wraps up Ski for Sisu with a party and cookout at Spring Gulch from 10am to 2pm.

SUPER BOWL PARTY

Marble Distilling invites you to watch Super Bowl LVII with a party beginning at 2pm. For tickets, call 970-963-7008.

VALENTINE MAKERSPACE

Basalt Library offers art supplies to build a valentine from 2:30 to 3:30pm.

INTERNATIONAL GUITARISTS

The Wheeler Opera House presents Jocelyn Gould, Jesus Guerrero, Stephanie Jones and Olli Soikkeli performing international guitar stylings at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

TUESDAY, FEB. 14

BLACK HISTORY

Colorado Mountain College presents “Black History Live: Josephine Baker” at the Spring Valley New Space Theatre from 3 to 4:30pm. Becky Stone will portray Baker, a world-renowned performer, WWII spy and civil rights activist.

BOOK TALK

Basalt Library hosts Mary Fox leading a discussion of “Little Fires Everywhere” by Celeste Ng at 5:30pm. Copies of the book are available at the library.

MET IN HD

The Aspen Music Festival and School and the Wheeler Opera House screen a high-definition recording of Luigi Cherubini’s “Medea” performed by The Metropolitan Opera at 5:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

BE MY VALENTINE

True Nature hosts a workshop for singles and couples to delve into deeper love, from 6 to 8pm. Tickets at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

DRAWING CLUB

The Roaring Fork Drawing Club meets at Axkawa for open mic night with Pam and Dan Rosenthal at 6:30pm. BYO-drawing supplies.

VALENTINE’S COMEDY

Wedded comedians Kara Klenk and Jared Logan perform at TACAW at 8pm. Epicure

Catering will serve dinner at 6pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

WEDNESDAY,

STEAM

FEB. 15

The Aspen Science Center offers hands-on science activities for ages 5-11 at Basalt Library from 2:30 to 3:30pm on the third Wednesday of each month.

PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBIT

The Aspen Chapel Gallery presents “HERE, a photography exhibition” in partnership with the Aaron Roberts-Gray Memorial Scholarship Fund and Aspen Community Foundation. An opening reception will occur tonight from 4 to 7pm and the show will continue through April 1.

HIP HOP SHOWCASE

Local youth perform hip hop dance at The Launchpad at 4:45pm. Swing in and cheer them on!

CRYSTAL TRAIL

The Third Street Center will host a public open house for the White River National Forest’s draft decision notice regarding a proposed seven-mile

bicycle and pedestrian trail between Redstone and McClure Pass, from 5 to 6:30pm.

WINTER WORDS

Kwane Alexander, author of “The Door of No Return”, presents at TACAW at 6pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

HIGHWAY HISTORY

Jeffrey Evans presents the history of Aspen’s entrance, from 1960 to 2023, at the Wheeler Opera House at 7pm. “You cannot possibly have more fun than this on a Wednesday evening, so don’t even try.” Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

THURSDAY, FEB. 16

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

Dr. Clair Rummel, a board certified geropsychologist, leads a caregiver support group for individuals caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias or other forms of cognitive impairment. Basalt Library hosts the group from 10:30am to noon.

BOOK CLUB

The Carbondale Library hosts “a lively book discussion” from 2 to 3pm.

SAFE SPACE

Basalt Library offers a safe space for teens to access self-care resources, counseling and more, from 4 to 5pm at the conference room to the left of the main entrance.

RIVER TALK

Alex Hager, Colorado River Basin and water reporter at KUNC, presents “Where Do We Flow From Here?” at the Basalt Library from 5 to 6:30pm. Register online at www.roaringfork.org/events

AROMASTROLOGY

Honor the Pisces New Moon with an aromatherapy ceremony guided by Sheridan Semple at True Nature from 6 to 7:30pm. Tickets at www. truenaturehealingarts.com

FRIDAY, FEB. 17

HOT OFF THE PRESS

Anderson Ranch hosts an opening reception from 5 to 6pm for an exhibition featuring special prints by world-renowned artists. The show remains on display through March 10.

TRTC PREMIER

“You Can’t Take It with You” opens at the Thunder River Theatre at 7:30pm and continues Feb. 18, 23, 24, 25, March 2, 3 and 4 at 7:30pm and Feb. 19, 26 and March 5 at 2pm. Tickets at thunderrivertheatre.com

GREENSKY BLUEGRASS

Paul Hoffman (phoffman) — singer, songwriter and mandolin player for Greensky Bluegrass — performs at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30 p.m. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

HONKY TONK

The Hugh Phillips Band performs at TACAW at 8:30pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

SATURDAY, FEB. 18

LINOCUTS WORKSHOP

Curt Carpenter teaches an intermediate relief printmaking class at The Art Base today and tomorrow from 9 to 3pm. Registration at www.theartbase.org

MARDI GRAS

The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park celebrates Mardi Gras with Cajun foods, live music, a costume contest, tarot readings and more. Access is included with any park admission.

RFV local pursues rare academic opportunity

By Vanessa Porras Sol del Valle Editor

One of the research submissions accepted for the 2023 International Convention of Psychological Science (ICPS) in Brussels, Belgium, is being conducted by Ximena Gutierrez, a former Glenwood Springs High School student. Along with her team at Lindenwood University in Saint Charles, Missouri, Gutierrez has been working for the past semester to understand how perceived gender identity influences the perception of a couple in different social contexts.

The research focuses on how samesex couples express their gender and how they are perceived by selected participants. The research that will be presented at ICPS is an extension of previous research relating to how interracial couples’ racial identity and compatibility are perceived.

Perception bias is a tendency people have about a group of individuals or events. Those biases are influenced by subconscious judgments and external factors like heteronormative stereotypes and associations. “What in our society drives us to want to look for a feminine and a masculine [in a relationship]? What drives us as a society to say this race looks best with this race, and this race shouldn’t be able to date someone of the other race?” said Gutierrez.

This research can bring awareness to better understand the reasons behind certain assumptions, which can improve

the interactions of those who are most affected by them. These correlations are intrinsically linked to the way people make connections with others, whether it’s a friendship, a romantic relationship or a networking opportunity.

As a Latina and a member of the LGBTQ community, Guitierrez knows firsthand what it’s like to walk into a job interview and wonder whether her perceived identity, based on the clothes she’s wearing, will affect her chances of being hired. “If we’re aware of that, we can change [it] and treat people with more respect and equality than we are [doing] now,” said Gutierrez.

Along with their acceptance to ICPS, Gutierrez and her team are preparing to present their research at the Midwestern Psychological Association (MPA) in Chicago on April 20, 2023. The acceptance to ICPS and MPA have been pivotal in Gutierrez’ academic trajectory. She is now looking to further her undergraduate education and apply to a graduate program where she can focus on women’s health research.

Gutierrez recalls a time of uncertainty as a high school student when she considered pursuing a bachelor’s degree. In that pursuit, she experienced pushback from her family who questioned whether she really needed it. “Having this huge opportunity to be able to present the research that I have been nurturing for the last semester for an international audience… That only makes me want to pursue education even more,” said Gutierrez.

Last semester Gutierrez transferred from Laramie County Community College in Cheyenne, Wyoming, where she was playing basketball on an athletic scholarship, to Lindenwood University, where she traded the wooden floors of a gym for the field. Once again, Gutierrez was awarded an athletic scholarship to play for the Lindenwood rugby team, ranking first in women’s Division I college.

“I was like a featherless bird the first two months,” said Gutierrez. She showed up to Lindenwood as a senior transfer student, having played three years of basketball after not having touched a rugby ball in four years. “They would say things like, ‘ruck and scrum,’ and I had no idea what that was,” she said laughing. Eventually, she learned all the terminology and soon started as a lock and main jumper.

In her accumulation of academic and athletic successes, Gutierrez was candid and admitted that her parents often didn’t know how to praise her work because they didn’t know it was an accomplishment. She reminisced, “They’ll say, ‘Ok mija, I’m so happy for you, but what does that mean?’ It makes me so happy to be able to share this, especially coming from the background that I come from.”

As a Hispanic, first-generation, Roaring Fork PreCollegiate alumna, and as someone who didn’t think they would get an education or the necessary funding, Gutierrez emphasized the importance of seeking help. “[By] asking

for help, we can accomplish the things that we want to do. I had to ask for a lot of help; financially, emotionally, from my team, my coaches, especially Rhonda Moser who [encouraged] me pursuing my education… The PreCollegiate program was that mentor that I didn’t have in my parents.”

For Gutierrez, ICPS is an important opportunity to share her research on an international scale, reaching across cultures and advancing research in the United States. However, this opportunity comes at a financial cost. Gutirrez is seeking donations to fund her participation at ICPS in order to continue her career in psychological research and have the opportunity to be integrated into the international research community. For more information on how you can contribute to Gutierrez’ fund, you can email ximenagutierrez12@yahoo.com

When You Have Unexpected

Weekdays:

Ximena Gutierrez is a student at Lindenwood University, her psychology research was selected for the International Psychological Sciences Convention. Courtesy photo

Sol del Valle

Una oportunidad académica única

Por Vanessa Porras

Sol del Valle Editora

Una de las investigaciones aceptadas para la Convención Internacional de Ciencias Psicológicas (ICPS por sus siglas en inglés) del 2023 en Bruselas, Bélgica, está dirigida por Ximena Gutiérrez, ex alumna de Glenwood Springs High School. Junto con su equipo en la Universidad Lindenwood en Saint Charles, Missouri, Gutiérrez ha estado trabajando durante el último semestre para entender cómo la identidad de género percibida influye en la percepción de una pareja en diferentes contextos sociales.

La investigación se centra en cómo las parejas del mismo sexo expresan su género y cómo son percibidas por los participantes seleccionados. La investigación que se presentará en el ICPS es una extensión de investigaciones previas relativas a cómo se percibe la identidad racial y la compatibilidad de las parejas interraciales.

El sesgo de percepción es una tendencia que tienen las personas sobre un grupo de individuos o acontecimientos. Estos sesgos están influidos por juicios subconscientes y factores externos como estereotipos y asociaciones heteronormativas. "¿Qué nos lleva en nuestra sociedad a querer buscar un femenino y un masculino [en una relación]? ¿Qué nos lleva como sociedad a decir que esta raza se ve mejor con esta raza, y que esta raza no debería salir con alguien de la otra raza?", dijo Gutiérrez.

Esta investigación puede ayudar a comprender mejor las razones que subyacen a ciertas suposiciones, lo que puede mejorar las interacciones de quienes se ven más afectados por ellas. Estas correlaciones están intrínsecamente vinculadas a la forma en que las personas establecen conexiones con otras, ya sea una amistad, una relación romántica o una oportunidad de establecer contactos. Como latina y miembro de la comunidad LGBTQ, Guitierrez sabe por experiencia propia lo que es entrar en una entrevista de trabajo y preguntarse si su identidad percibida, basada en la ropa que lleva puesta, afectará sus posibilidades de ser contratada. "Si somos conscientes de ello, podemos cambiarlo y tratar a la gente con más respeto e igualdad de lo que hacemos ahora", afirma Gutiérrez.

Junto con la aceptación al ICPS, Gutiérrez y su equipo se preparan para presentar su investigación en la Asociación de Psicología del Medio Oeste (MPA por sus siglas en inglés) en Chicago el 20 de abril del 2023. La aceptación a ICPS y MPA han sido fundamentales en la trayectoria académica de Gutiérrez. Ahora está buscando continuar su educación universitaria

y aplicar a un programa de posgrado donde pueda centrarse en la investigación de la salud de la mujer.

Gutiérrez recuerda un momento de incertidumbre cuando, siendo estudiante de secundaria, se planteó estudiar una licenciatura. En su esfuerzo, experimentó el reto de su familia, que cuestionaba si realmente era necesario. "Tener esta gran oportunidad de poder presentar la investigación que he estado cultivando durante el último semestre para un público internacional... Eso sólo hace que quiera seguir estudiando aún más", dijo Gutiérrez.

El semestre pasado, Gutiérrez se trasladó de Laramie County Community College en Cheyenne, Wyoming, donde jugaba básquetbol con una beca deportiva, a la Universidad de Lindenwood, donde cambió los suelos de madera de un gimnasio por el campo. Una vez más, Gutiérrez obtuvo una beca deportiva para jugar en el equipo de rugby de Lindenwood, nº 1 de la División I universitaria femenina.

"Fui como un pájaro sin plumas los dos primeros meses", dijo Gutiérrez. Se presentó en Lindenwood como estudiante de último año transferida tras haber jugado tres años basquetbol y no haber tocado un balón de rugby en cuatro años. "Decían cosas como 'ruck y scrum', y yo no tenía ni idea de lo que era", dijo riendo. Con el tiempo, aprendió toda la terminología y pronto empezó a jugar como bloqueadora y principal saltadora.

Entre de su acumulación de éxitos académicos y atléticos, Gutiérrez fue sincera y admitió que sus padres a menudo no sabían cómo elogiar su trabajo porque no lo reconocían como un logro. "Me decían, 'Ok, mija, me alegro mucho por ti, pero ¿qué significa eso?' Me hace muy feliz poder compartir esto, sobre todo viniendo de donde vengo", recordó Gutierrez. Como hispana, de primera generación, ex-alumna de PreCollegiate y como alguien que no pensó que conseguiría una educación o la financiación necesaria, Gutiérrez enfatiza la importancia de buscar ayuda. "[Al] pedir ayuda, podemos lograr las cosas que queremos hacer. Tuve que pedir mucha ayuda; económica, emocional, a mi equipo, a mis entrenadores, especialmente a Rhonda Moser que [me animó] a seguir mi educación... El Programa PrecCollegiate fue ese mentor que no tuve en mis padres".

Para Gutiérrez, el ICPS es una oportunidad importante para compartir su investigación a escala internacional, a través de culturas y haciendo avanzar la investigación en Estados Unidos. Sin embargo, esta oportunidad tiene un coste económico. Gutiérrez está buscando donaciones para financiar su participación en el ICPS con el fin de continuar su carrera en la investigación psicológica y la oportunidad de integrarse en la comunidad internacional de investigación. Para más información sobre cómo puede contribuir al fondo de Gutiérrez, puede enviar un correo electrónico a: ximenagutierrez12@yahoo.com

Volumen 1, Número 50 | 9 de febrero de 2023 - 15 de febrero de 2023

Conectando comunidades desde 2021

Ximena Gutiérrez junto a la Dra. Stephanie Afful, profesora y mentora de investigación. Foto cortesía de Ximena Gutiérrez

¿Dónde están todos los abogados? OPINIÓN

Esquina Legal

Por Tony Mendez

El Colegio de Abogados del Noveno Distrito Judicial (un área geográfica que incluye a Carbondale, Glenwood Springs, Meeker, Rangely y Rifle) tiene 158 miembros. El Colegio de Abogados del Condado de Pitkin (cubriendo el área geográfica de Aspen y Snowmass) tiene 167 miembros. El Colegio de Abogados de la División Continental (con áreas geográficas Avon, Basalt, Breckenridge, Dillon, Eagle, Edwards, Frisco, Georgetown, Gypsum, Idaho Springs, Leadville y Vail) tiene 183 miembros.

Cada uno de estos

miembros es un abogado o estudiante de derecho. Entonces, habiendo tantos abogados en el occidente de Colorado, ¿por qué es tan difícil encontrar abogados para la comunidad, o abogados de servicio público? Yo supongo que los abogados prefieren trabajar para sí mismos, controlando su agenda, el potencial de ganancias financieras, y a cuáles clientes le dan servicio.

A contraste de tener que trabajar para organizaciones comunitarias donde su tiempo es dictado basado en las necesidades de la comunidad, tienen un sueldo fijo, y no tienen tanta flexibilidad. Aunque existe el mito de que la abogacía comunitaria no paga y es agotante, no tiene que ser la realidad con una buena planificación estratégica.

Hace unas semanas, tuve el privilegio de asistir a un evento denominado “Cumbre de Abogacía por la Justicia Económica”. Ahí, aprendí del término “abogacía del movimiento”: abogados quienes aprovechan el movimiento ocurriendo

dentro de la comunidad, y usan sus habilidades para ayudar al movimiento. El haber asistido al evento organizado por Towards Justice, una organización enfocada en los derechos del trabajador, me dio aliento e inspiración a seguir adelante con este trabajo.

En cierta parte, me he sentido agotado sobre cuánta necesidad legal existe en este valle. Alpine Legal Services hace mucho para las comunidades de Parachute hasta Aspen. Y con tantos abogados en el área, es increíble pensar las dificultades que tenemos en reclutar abogados quienes quieran hacer servicio público, o ser abogados comunitarios.

Quizás es por el dinero. Quizás es por el control de su tiempo. Quizás es porque el sistema está torcido de tal manera que obliga a los abogados a tomar la decisión de entrar a la práctica privada en vez de dar abogacía comunitaria. Sin importar el razonamiento de porqué es tan difícil reclutar abogados dentro del servicio público, la comunidad de Parachute

a Aspen ocupa y merece tener más abogados quienes están enfocados en el bienestar de la comunidad.

Entonces, ¿dónde están estos abogados en el valle?

Que alguien me explique, ¿qué se hicieron?

En algunos círculos sociales quizás suene cliché, pero lo que este valle necesita es más abogados. No me refiero a abogados privados, quienes cobran entre $200 y $500 por hora, y piden un depósito de $5,000 para tomar el caso.

Sino, lo que este valle necesita son más abogados quienes su enfoque es el servicio, o interés público. Abogados comunitarios. Abogados progresivos. Abogados que comprendan cuando la ley es una herramienta poderosa y que entiendan cuando la ley se está usando como herramienta de subordinación en vez de reforma o transformación. Este valle ocupa a abogados quienes quieran usar sus enseñanzas, y licencia para practicar leyes, para mejorar la comunidad.

Donaciones por correo o en línea P.O. Box 399 Carbondale, CO 81623 970-510-3003 www.soprissun.com

Editor Raleigh Burleigh • 970-510-3003 news@soprissun.com

Editora Contribuyente

Vanessa Porras

Directore Artístico

Hattie Rensberry

Diseñadora de anuncios

Emily Blong

Traductoras

Jacquelinne Castro y Dolores Duarte

Distribucion

Frederic Kischbaum

Bartlett

Hank van Berlo

Executive Director

Todd Chamberlin • 970-510-0246 adsales@soprissun.com

Miembros de la Mesa Directiva

Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke

Jessi Rochel • Lee Beck

Gayle Wells • Donna Dayton

Terri Ritchie • Eric Smith

Roger Berliner • Elizabeth Phillips

Andrew Travers

el

Sol del Valle agradece por su apoyo a:

MANUAS, FirstBank y Alpine Bank

The Sopris Sun, Inc. es una 501(c)(3) organización benéfica sin fines de lucro. Contribuciones financieras son deducibles de impuestos.

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Sopa de Letras

Por Angelica Breña

La Biblioteca Regional de Basalt cuenta con una importante colección de libros y material en español, tanto para adultos, jóvenes y niños. Siempre está en busca de nuevas formas de ser punto de encuentro para los usuarios que hablan español, los que son bilingües o los que están aprendiendo español. El año pasado la Biblioteca decidió enviar a su bibliotecaria peruana Gabriela Lagos a la Feria Internacional del Libro (FIL) en Guadalajara, Jalisco para enriquecer el acervo en español y promover la cultura. A continuación, la entrevista que realizamos para dar a conocer su experiencia.

1.- Gabriela, este diciembre fue la primera vez que asististe a la FIL de Guadalajara y

La FIL le da la bienvenida a la Biblioteca de Basalt

pisaste Tierra Mexicana, nos puedes comentar qué te pareció?

G. La FIL de Guadalajara es un evento impresionante, gigantesco en donde concurrimos de todas partes de Latinoamérica. Está muy bien estructurado, es una joya, un patrimonio cultural importante. Si bien yo había asistido a la Feria del Libro en Lima, Perú, las magnitudes de esta feria fueron una gran sorpresa, además de la seguridad que sentí todo el tiempo en Guadalajara.

2.- ¿Cuál era tu objetivo por parte de la Biblioteca Regional de Basalt?

G. La consigna era experimentar lo que la feria ofrecía. Absorber un poco de la cultura mexicana, dado que muchos de los usuarios de la biblioteca tienen sus raíces en México. Y quizás la más importante; la adquisición de libros en español y bilingües para toda la audiencia de la biblioteca: adultos, niños y jóvenes.

3.- ¿Qué fue lo más relevante dentro de tu experiencia de la FIL?

G. La oferta de libros infantiles; todos los que pude hojear eran impresionantemente bellos,

CHISME DEL PUEBLO

Colaboración de siembra

creativos y con narrativas de diferentes puntos de vista. Mi mayor logro fue adquirir decenas de libros para lectores en su primera etapa. Por ejemplo, los libros colombianos hablan de su vida cotidiana y de lo que hasta ahora conservan algunas tradiciones en los pueblos; los libros de España hablan de la naturaleza, los libros de Perú resaltan sus sitios arqueológicos y reservas naturales.

Curiosamente, en la colección para adultos encontré un libro sobre salsas mexicanas de edición bilingüe. Me fascinaron los libros de la editorial Larousse, sobre todo, los de cocinar como: “¡Vámonos a la Estufa! con Janet Jauja Cocina Mexicana” que también tiene su canal en YouTube, es muy popular.

Otro que me encantó, es el de “Marcelo” de Guillermo Fesser, novela que habla sobre el arduo trabajo que como emigrante ecuatoriano llega realizar y cómo este personaje se convierte en un barman famoso en la Estación Central de Manhattan, Nueva York. Para la audiencia juvenil escogí una novela gráfica de la historia de un perro y su dueño que viajan al sur de Tokio, y el perrito siempre lo sigue a

El 1 de febrero, dos organizaciones sin fines de lucro se enfocaron en la fortaleza de sistemas de alimento locales – Farm Collaborative, con su ubicación central en Cozy Point Ranch en Snowmass Village, y Seed Peace, ubicado en Sunfire Ranch al sur de Carbondale – anunciaron que unirán fuerzas para “incrementar la eficiencia y al mismo tiempo maximizar el impacto”. Los programas de agricultores y producción se expandirán en ambos sitios para continuar bajo el título de Farm Collaborative.

Concurso de Mountain Fair

El concurso de cartel del 52º festival anual de Carbondale, Mountain Fair, está en camino. El tema de este año – Donde Crecen las Cosas Salvajes – “es una celebración de flora y fauna (¡y posiblemente hadas!) que habitan en nuestra gran comunidad montañosa", anunció Carbondale Arts el 7 de febrero. Los artistas interesados deben entregar un concepto bien desarrollado para el diseño junto con al menos tres muestras de trabajo antes del 1 de abril. Para más detalles, contacte a brian@ carbondalearts.com

En buen camino

La tasa de graduación del distrito escolar de Roaring Fork excede el promedio estatal de graduación puntual en el 2022, con 85.2% de estudiantes que se gradúan a tiempo comprados con el 82.3% del promedio estatal. Pero al mismo tiempo, la tasa de deserción escolar estuvo levemente más alta con el 2.5% comparado con el promedio estatal de 2.2% en el 2022.

Matrícula de Colorado

Los residentes de Colorado ahora pueden votar para determinar el diseño de la matrícula del 150º aniversario del Estado Centenario. La División de Vehículos de Motor de Colorado ha reducido el concurso a tres opciones, y la fecha límite para votar es hasta el 15 de febrero. Para saber más, visite DMV.Colorado.gov/ HistoricColorado

Ayuda personal

La biblioteca de Basalt ofrece un espacio seguro para que adolescentes tengan acceso a recursos de ayuda personal, asesoramiento y más, el 16 de febrero de 4pm a 5pm en la sala de conferencias al lado izquierdo de la entrada principal.

Libros en español que Gaby Lagos adquirió en la FIL para la Biblioteca de Basalt. Foto cortesía de Angélica Breña

donde su dueño elige ir, me pareció muy tierna, la novela se llama “El perro guardián de las estrellas” de Takashi Murakami.

4.- ¿Qué mensaje quieres compartir para los usuarios de la Biblioteca de Basalt como resultado de haber ido a la FIL 2022?

G. Me gustaría invitar a todos a visitar la nueva colección de libros en español que hay en nuestra biblioteca, también animarlos a que vayan este año a esta gran feria FIL porque el país invitado será la Unión Europea y me imagino que las presentaciones serán

en inglés con traducción simultánea.

Y por favor, que no se pierdan esa sensación de estar en un centro con hispanoparlantes que vienen de todas partes de América Latina a conocer las nuevas tendencias en libros, novelas gráficas, cuentos infantiles y materiales didácticos impresos. En la FIL se respira un amor a los libros que nunca había imaginado y también se ofrecen conciertos y espectáculos que seguro gozarán chicos y grandes.

La experiencia de Gaby Lagos me recordó que leer y pensar en mi lengua nativa me hace sentir más pertenencia. Como maestra y promotora de la lectura en español, haber asistido a la FIL en ocasiones pasadas me ha dado la oportunidad de conocer o escuchar de viva voz a celebridades como la española Rosa Montero, Vargas Llosa, Alberto Ruy Sanchez, al turco Orhan Pamuk , el neoyorkino de la mejor trilogía detectivesca Paul Auster, y a la Pakistaní Malala. No cabe duda que los que cuentan sus historias, nos hacen sentir nuestras propias historias. Espero este año asistir a la FIL con los amantes de la lectura de este valle.

Líderes Latinos de diversas organizaciones a través del valle Roaring Fork se reunieron el miércoles pasado en el restaurante Frida, para conectar y colaborar con Sean Dollard y Avondine Couzelis-Hill, directores de programas del Colorado Health Foundation. Foto de Vanessa Porras

Temporada de becas

Colorado Mountain College alienta a los futuros estudiantes a pensar acerca de asegurar fondos hasta el 1 de marzo para el siguiente año escolar. En asociación con FirstBank, las oportunidades incluyen hasta $2,375 para estudiantes que sean el primero en su familia en obtener un título, además de una nueva donación de $100,00 para proporcionar becas cada año a perpetuidad. Para saber más, visite coloradomtn.academicworks.com

¡Gracias, Dra. Exby!

Después de ocho años cumpliendo su labor ayudando a estudiantes, la facultad y el personal en Colorado Mountain College (CMC) en Spring Valley y en Glenwood Center, la vicepresidenta y decana Dr. Heather Exby se jubila a finales de este semestre de primavera. Exby “defendió” la campaña de $5 millones Promise of Springs Valley, escribió la presidenta y CEO de CMC Dr. Carrie Hauser en un comunicado de prensa. “Estamos profundamente agradecidos por todo el trabajo que Heather ha completado…”

Planeando por adelantado

Permisos para pasar la noche en Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness en la temporada del 2023 estarán disponibles con reservaciones el 15 de febrero. Puede planificar por adelantado al visitar la pagina web www.recreation.gov

Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro

Tenacious Tackett tackles new terrain

Ann Korologos

November 16, 1941January 30, 2023

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear friend, Ann Korologos. Ann passed earlier this week from complications related to bacterial meningitis.

By Hattison Rensberry KDNK News

Megan Tackett has been a recent but recognizable fixture at the Aspen Daily News for the past four years: first as a crime reporter, then chronicling COVID. Last week, she wrapped up her tenure as the paper’s editor-in-chief. Tackett previously worked at The Sopris Sun and KDNK.

During her time at the Daily News she collaborated heavily in production of a stand-alone Spanish-language newspaper called el Sol del Valle. In partnership with The Sopris Sun, this initiative has helped expand access to local journalism in the Roaring Fork Valley.

When asked about her

experience as editor at the Aspen Daily News, Tackett had this to say: "I was always simultaneously floored and flattered by the level of engagement from my readers. We have such an incredibly engaged community, and people are so well-informed. It has been the professional honor of my life to sit in this chair in this community, so thank you."

Tackett established a reputation for tenacity in her reporting and a familiarity with community members from all walks of life.

continued on page 18

Ann was a passionate and dedicated advocate for the arts, and her enthusiasm for the gallery she owned was unparalleled. Ann coined the phrase “Art you love to live with,” because that’s exactly how she felt. She was the epitome of a true art collector, friend, and advocate. As she did with everything she approached, she brought her passion, knowledge, experience and trust, transforming “The Basalt Gallery,” as it was known prior to 2007 under the former owners, into the nationally-acclaimed Ann Korologos Gallery.

Ann treasured the relationships fostered through this community of artists, clients, friends, and the AKG team. Ann

REQUEST FOR BIDS

2023 BITUMINOUS CRACK SEALING PROGRAM

The Town of Carbondale is accepting quotations qualified contractors to perform work on the 2023 Bituminous Crack Sealing Program.

Sealed quotations will be received until 11:00 am February 21, 2023, by the Town of Carbondale, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, Colorado 81623. Specifications and contract documents can be found on the Town of Carbondale website, or at Town Hall.

The Bituminous Crack Sealing Program consists of cleaning cracks and application of approximately 10,000 pounds of hot applied crack sealant material. All work shall meet, at a minimum, the Town of Carbondale Bituminous Crack Sealing Specific Requirements. A map of the streets scheduled to be crack sealed is included on the Agreement on the Town of Carbondale website . The Town has a limited budget for the 2023 Crack Sealing Program and therefore reserves the right to adjust the quantities to fit within the financial limits of the program based on the quotations received. Work on this project must be complete by May12, 2023.

The successful company will be expected to enter into an Agreement for Professional Services with the Town (see Agreement on the Town of Carbondale website). Quotations shall be submitted on the quotation form attached to the request for quotations.

inspired us, challenged us to be the gallery she knew it could be, and mentored so many far beyond the world of contemporary western art. Mentorship was a value she held in high regard. Her visionary leadership had an impact on the world that will never be forgotten. Ann made the world a more beautiful place.

Through our incredible team, exceptional artists, and in honor of Ann’s legacy, Ann Korologos Gallery will continue onwards, as she would have wanted. We will strive to carry on her legacy of excellence, her support of the arts, and her desire for every interaction with the gallery to bring joy,

beauty, connection, and knowledge to each person, with every visit. There will be a memorial service in her honor in the near future. Details will be shared once they are finalized.

As Ann would say, “Onward.”

The funeral is scheduled for 11am on Feb. 11 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. A Colorado celebration of life will be held this summer. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Cristo Rey Network or The Art Base. Details may be found at www.cristoreynetwork.org or theartbase.org

JOIN OUR TEAM!

We are seeking a full-time STUDIO MANAGER to join our collaborative and dynamic design studio.

The ideal candidate will be a dynamic and high-energy individual with a strong work ethic and ability to learn and adapt. Working in a collaborative and energetic environment, this role will include liaison with marketing, human resources, and accounting, special projects with firmleaders, and administrative support to the leadership of the studio.

Candidates should be able to work independently, be accustomed to learning new programs and systems, be well organized, flexible, and enjoy the administrative challenges of supporting an office of diverse people.

To view the full job description, and to apply, please visit: www.ccyarchitects.com/careers

Megan Tackett poses at her farewell party between Aspen Daily News owners David Cook and Spencer McKnight. Courtesy photo

Courtesy photo

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC) will be premiering their third production of the 2022/23 season, "You Can't Take it With You", on Feb. 17. The show will run for three weekends, through March 3.

The story centers around a conflict between two families with drastically different outlooks on life, the Sycamores and the Kirbys. Their fates become entwined when the oldest son of the Kirbys falls in love with the daughter of the Sycamores. The core message of the show will leave audiences thinking hard about their life and how they strive for happiness, according to director Missy Moore.

This classic three-act comedy by playwrights Moss Hart and George S. Kaufman originally premiered on Broadway in 1936 and was adapted to the big screen in 1938. It features a jam-packed cast of 19. The show is often performed in high school theater programs, as casts this large are difficult to come by, making it one of the mostplayed productions among young thespians.

Audiences can expect to see several familiar Roaring Fork Valley performers, as well as several newcomers. The talents include Trary Maddalone, Cassidy Willey, Gabrielle Bailes, Christopher Wheatley, William LeDent, Gerald DeLisser, Micha Schoepe, Sophia Kai-Higbie, Joshua Adamson,

BOOK REVIEW

TRTC presents "You Can't Take it With You"

Elijah Pettet, Owen O'Farrell, Allison Fifield, Lee Sullivan, Toddy Walters, Nina Gabianelli, Travis Wilson, Damian Smith and Tom Karrel.

Bob Moore will also appear in this production. In a fun twist of the longrunning history of the Moore family's involvement with theater, this will be the first time Bob is directed in a show by his daughter, Missy.

The Moores and five other cast members sat down with The Sopris Sun to discuss their roles and what they're most looking forward to with this upcoming "feel-good" show.

"This play is about striving to find your own happiness, and it doesn't matter what you do. Be it through your hobbies, be it through love, be it through whatever choice how you choose to live your life,” stated Missy.

Piggybacking off that, Wiley told us that this production is “infectious” and will be refreshing for audiences to see. "This play is full of joy, joy, joy. To be part of an ensemble this large, we don't get this opportunity very often, especially once you get out of school plays, to really show up in a room with so many of our friends and just play. It's awesome," she said.

When asked about working with a cast of this size, each ensemble member echoed the sentiments of Bob in that the rehearsal process has been akin to “herding cats.”

“There's a lot of ideas which can be very good, and also, 'let's choose two

“The Memoirs of Stockholm Sven”

By Amy Krakow Carbondale Branch Library

Imagine life in a rickety, makeshift hut on an uninhabited fjord on the Arctic Archipelago of Svalbard where four months of the year you live in total darkness; where glaciers, polar bears, and a faithful dog named Eberhard are your only companions. You have chosen this solitary life purposely due to unfortunate circumstances which have changed your life forever.

In Nathaniel Ian Miller’s debut novel, “The Memoirs of Stockholm Sven”, be prepared to immerse yourself in the masterfully woven prose of early 20th century Stockholm. This tale of adventure, solitude, unimagined love and the resilience of characters rich in personality and vitality will draw you in from the very first paragraph.

At 32, Swedish-born Sven Ormsom finds himself restless and gloomy, deploring the daily grind of life in 1920s Stockholm. Unlike his father who is content with being a tanner, Sven yearns for a life of adventure in the Arctic. But, his romantic imaginings of what this life would be is light years away from the harsh reality.

Suffocating in Stockholm and unable to hold down mundane jobs, his sister Olga suggests he find work in a mining camp in Longyear City on Svalbard. Here he meets an eccentric Scottish geologist, a bibliophile comrade as well as a patron of the arts and Scottish whiskey. Tragically Sven is caught in an underground avalanche and left disfigured, disheartened and broken.

Finding himself next as an apprentice cook in tiny Camp Morton, he meets and becomes

a longtime friend of Tapio, a Finnish fur trader who mentors him in the art of trapping and other necessary skills needed to survive the brutal Arctic winters. Tapio is his only real connection to the outside world, relaying news of significant events including the Russian revolution and the Finnish civil war. Years into his isolation, with regular letters from his sister, Sven receives an unexpected visitor who extinguishes his loneliness and changes his life forever.

Hunker down, wear plenty of clothing and build a warm fire while reading this unimagined life spun from a remarkable author.

ideas instead of 20,’” stated Kai-Higbie. “There's so much going on. It's so much fun. It is more difficult, but it's so interesting to get to do that outside of a musical.”

Bailes felt similarly, saying that it has been a “wonderful learning opportunity” to watch her castmates work. "It's great to have such a strong sense of artistic community,” she said. “It's the reason I'm here. It takes a while to find your home, but when we do find one, it's awesome. I love that we can see what a beautiful and healthy, happy family looks like [in this show] because we always see tension and drama. So to have loving behavior modeled was just

She doesn’t plan on leaving Carbondale any time soon — she’ll be focused in her new role as operations director for Bowden Real Estate.

"I've gotten to know Bob [Bowden] over the years, and I told him I don't know the field, but I would be honored to take it on. Business development and growth management is definitely in my wheelhouse and something I'm passionate about. He tells me, ‘I'll teach you the industry, I just want your brain,’ and I thought, ‘Okay, here's someone on a similar wavelength as me.’ But, the thing that's so wonderful to me as well, is he's in a stage of his life where he is really thinking [about his] legacy. And when it comes to strategic positioning within the community for him, that now also

amazing.”

Due to the large set and slightly limited seating, director Missy Moore encouraged the community to get their tickets to the show early. Because "You Can't Take it With You" is running for three weekends, there are plenty of opportunities to come and see this show.

In the words of cast member Travis Wilson, it's a “good laugh” with a “great message.”

"If you're in need of something lighthearted and a sort of epiphany with your life, I highly recommend coming to see it," he stated.

For more information and tickets, visit www.thunderrivertheatre.com

means meaningfully exploring publicprivate sector partnerships to tackle this workforce housing problem that seemingly every resort community on the Western Slope is facing.”

Now that Tackett is no longer corralling reporters and photographers, you’ll see less of her toting around a laptop, and more of her at yoga classes, out socializing, or skiing to her heart’s content.

“I'm so, so, so excited at every level,” she continued. “I feel like I'm getting paid to get the equivalent of a Harvard MBA, and I think that we have an opportunity to not create new momentum but more meaningfully leverage the momentum the community already has going in this conversation as it pertains to housing. So, between those two things it's a dream job."

A small portion of the massive, star-studded cast that TRTC has assembled for "You Can't Take It with You" premiering Feb. 17. Courtesy photo

Tackett from page 14

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

Long Story Short

By Sofie Koski, Carbondale

Clarissa‘s heart pounded. She scrolled with a certain propensity through the articles and blogs; her eyes searching. Her hack program ran listlessly on the split screen. She tugged nervously on her camisole, her face the sole illuminated surface in the obscurely screen-lit room.

The news articles displayed carefully worded headlines, proclaiming in almost an ecclesiastical way, “Edification for the Tasks! Rectitude in the Tasks!” The manipulation in their tone was almost unbearable, and Clarissa flicked past them with umbrage.

Tasks had only been implemented nationwide for nine months, but the effects had been all too evident. Clarissa spotted a link that looked promising. She moved her cursor toward it. Her hack “glitched” and a title bar suddenly appeared, blocking her view.

“Hey there! Looks like you’re a little off track. Need a reminder for your next task?”

Clarissa decided the rumors about the new spying software were true, and kept her philippic curse to herself.

“Oops! Totally forgot,” she muttered. She closed the pop-up, and it redirected her back to her feed. A new headline appeared: “Tasks CEO Cory Melli Issues New App Function Edict Prohibiting Users from Ever Closing their Browsers.”

Clarissa felt the dread creep into her stomach.

That’s strange, we were just discussing that yesterday, she thought. She clicked the headline, the weak, carnal part of her hungry with intrigue. The clock on the far wall ticked, keeping pace with the speed in which she devoured the words.

“We aren’t sure what’s coming next, but the backlash is sure to be fierce, especially from some like —”

The screen went black. “No, no, no…”

All of Clarissa’s clacking would not bring the article back. She slumped in her chair, which responded with a creak. Clarissa felt disgusted that she let the story’s inflection get to her. It was just a stupid article.

She sat in the dark, the clock ticking much slower now. A phone ringing made her jump. She fumbled to pick it up and put the speaker to her ear.

“Hey Ellie.”

Music at the Library: Four Hands on Keyboard

Fri, Feb. 10, 5:30-6:30PM

Featuring pianists

Susan Nicholson and David Dyer.

Date Night: Mocktail Hour

Sat, Feb. 11, 5:30-6:30PM

Local bartenders explore what makes a good non-alcoholic drink!

Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores. Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com

“Clarissa! What the heck was that? You were supposed to get back to me an hour ago!”

“I know I know,” Clarissa mumbled, fiddling with her computer as it restarted. Ellie used to speak in much more obscene language, but recently the Tasks were even less lenient about cursing. It still put Clarissa on edge, but she wasn’t being paid for nothing.

“We need that link by tomorrow night, you know?” Ellie rasped.

“Yeah, I know.”

There was a moment of silence and neither of them spoke. Until, “Hey, did you see that article… about the new rule?”

“No. What are you talking about?”

Clarissa stopped fiddling, and sat up straight.

“You didn’t see it? It's the newest one.”

“Clare, I’ve been scouring the feed for hours, I think I would have seen it.”

The cogs in Clarissa’s mind began to turn. Ellie knew her well. “Hey Clare, what are you thinking?” she probed.

“Oh, nothing.” This seemed to appease Ellie and she moved on quickly.

“Hey, you want to hear something funny? Mark said his vocabulary recommendation for the day was ‘impedimenta.’ What kind of stupid word is that?”

“Uh-huh.” Clarissa was not listening. Her laptop was up and running again and she was searching in vain for the article.

“I mean, who the heck do these people think —”

Ellie’s words were drowned out by a ringing in Clarissa’s ears. She could not find the article anywhere, but there was an even newer one, from just two minutes before.

“John Lebo Involved in Altercation with Tasks Employee Angered about Company Habiliments.”

She clicked on it, but the screen went black, followed by yet another pop-up.

“Hey, Ellie, I have to go.” She

hung up without waiting for a response.

“Clarissa! Please refrain from using your computer the rest of the day. Drink some water and go on a walk. If you use your computer again, you will be suspended for a week,” the pop-up read.

By the sinister tone in the text, she could tell she had stumbled across something she was not supposed to see. She checked her phone, opening the Tracks app. In the span of five minutes, she had climbed from number 12,568,021 in suspicious activity to number 6,807 for the whole state of Illinois. She slammed her laptop shut, pocketed her phone and was out the door before the office chair hit the desk. She walked briskly down the hall of the office.

Maybe I should take a walk, she thought.

Book Talk: Little Fires Everywhere Tues, Feb. 14, 5:30-6:30PM

Mary Fox will lead a discussion on the book by Celeste Ng.

Skating and skiing at CRES

As an outside observer, I can share how delighted I was to see how much these kids helped each other, from latching down skates, getting boots into bindings, pushing each other on chairs, helping each other up, etc. Just seeing how much most of them enjoy being outside and moving and playing, without the rules of a sport and the freedom to pursue the activity in any way they choose… it was such a delight!

Some were completely locked into the physical activity (like one hockey player) and others were more social. I did not hear one complaint about snow or cold! Marty has done so much to make this available to our K-4 kids and, by my observations, it is a beneficial program on so many levels; not only the physical movement but cooperation, determination, perseverance, etc.

REQUEST FOR 2 PROPOSALS (RFP)

Town of Carbondale invites quali ed rms to submit a proposal for:

1. ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN SERVICES (for design & engineering) OR

2. CONSTRUCTION MANAGER AT RISK (CMAR/CMGC) SERVICES (for the general contractor/construction of the)

Carbondale Aquatics Center.

Proposals are due by March 7, 2023 to:

Owner’s Representative-Wember, Inc. c/o Sarah Hoover 453 Mediterranean Way Grand Junction, CO 81507 For more info: 970-871-1998 or e-mail:shoover@wemberinc.co

RFP is available for download at www.carbondalegov.org and hard copies are available at CarbondaleTown Hall

an online cooking and nutrition class with licensed Food For Life instructor Laura Van Deusen

Photos and text by Sue Rollyson

Soren Cree and Paphawit Akarapanont practice skating.

Paphawit Akarapanont and James Clapper sharpen their skills.

Marayra Marin Lorenzo (above) enjoys a snack while skiing and Stella Robson (right) balances on skates.

Left to right: Zuzu Machavariani, Estefania Vega, Aspen Cervantes, Marayra Marin Lorenzo and second grade teacher Mary Lewis.

Left to right: Jeydan Telles Medrano, Aranza Flores Serafin, Estefania Vega, Alan Villata Ramirez and Max Garcia Perez.

LETTERS

way of life (especially in America) is just too precious and beautiful!!! We simply can’t let it be destroyed! Please, now is the time to loudly make ALL our voices heard. Contact everyone you know to speak out to their public officials. Do whatever you can to push our politicians toward finding diplomatic solutions to end the war in Ukraine! It may be “now or never,” so don’t delay!

Jackie Chenoweth, Carbondale

Public lands

Tim McMahon, an Avon citizen employed at Beaver Creek, was fired and banned from skiing for putting a sign in the national forest (public lands) in front of a snow stake. The sign was critical of Vail Chairman Rob Katz suddenly giving employees 10 days to vacate Vail/ Beaver Creek employee housing during the pandemic. (“Vail Resorts employee who posted sign in front of snow stake cam says protest got him fired,” Summit Daily, April 20, 2020)

Recently, Tim was arrested for protesting in a chicken suit carrying a sign that said “Vail Resorts informing J1’s by email that there is ample housing in the valley should be criminal.” Both cases may be headed to trial soon and are a waste of citizens' hard earned money paying for nonsense trials. The privatization of public lands is not acceptable. Neither is using a town’s police forces as political stormtroopers which, sadly, smacks of Russia or China. (“Chickensuited demonstrator cited for trespassing in Vail,” Vail Daily, Jan. 3, 2023)

The multinational industrial corporate ski duopoly of Vail and Aspen is not conducive to liberty and freedom. Company towns where groupthink thrives overreach way too often. Consequently, these corporate behemoths want to silence their critics, like Tim McMahon. We should all be grateful to people like the Chicken Man, as well as Michelle Siemer, Dan Herrick and Aspen's Sandwich Board Lady for standing tall in the face of corporate bullying. And we should call

continued from page 2

for the resignation of the captured supervisor of the White River National Forest, federal bureaucrat Scott Fitzwilliams, who allows this oppressive “white terror” designed to erode our civil rights.

Public lands are public. Tim McMahon’s ban and arrest at Vail is a continuation of the political crackdown on all American citizens’ freedom of speech and expression and another intimidation of civil society. It will contribute toward more mistrust of our corporate government and hostility in society. Tim’s GoFundMe is here: www.gofundme.com/f/2zgtzgmaterials-parking-and-lawyer-fees

Lee Mulcahy, Basalt

Crystal Trail

I am disheartened to read that the Forest Service has proposed construction of a “nonmotorized recreation trail” on a historic wagon road and Old McClure Pass Road between Redstone and McClure Pass. At some point, we need to acknowledge that we are one of many species in these valleys, and that these corridors are critical to the longevity of the ecosystems we live here for and love.

In the spring, you can walk the Old McClure Pass Road and find multiple rocks overturned by bears coming out of hibernation and hunting for grubs, in addition to white hillsides covered in blossoms which produce the berries bears feed on before hibernation. In the winter, you will find elk bedded on this east-facing trail, saving energy by catching the first rays of a winter sunrise. How can the Forest Service say a developed trail has “no significant impact”? At this point in history, any wildlife habitat is critical wildlife habitat.

I question the development of more “non-motorized recreation trails.” These “trails” already exist. Let’s be honest, “non-motorized recreation trails” is a misnomer for “bike path.” Once this becomes a bike path, grandparents will not be walking it with

their grandchildren and citizens will not be walking it with their dogs. Bikes will monopolize the trail. Grandchildren, elk, bear, moose, bobcats, and hikers will leave. Multi-use?

The trails and wagon roads as they currently exist are available to all and require no ownership of equipment. I question the equity of developing a bike path and wonder what percentage of our population is able to afford such a bike?

The new McClure Pass road is already wonderful for cycling. What happened to the Option A (keep the trail in the highway corridor) / Option B (build new trails) conversation? This feels like the initiation of the non-highway corridor option which, if continued, will include 13 river crossings with irreparable impact to the Crystal River and species, including us, who are dependent on it!

The Crystal River Valley continues to be wild and scenic. We need to keep it this way!

Please come to the public open house at Third Street Center on Wednesday, Feb. 15 to voice your concerns.

Heather Froelicher, Crystal Valley

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Correction:

In The Sun article "CSQ strikes 'gold' in Marble" (Feb. 2), it was incorrectly stated that Colorado Stone Quarries was ordered to restore the original Yule Creek streambed. The Sun regrets the error.

LEGAL

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Carbondale Planning and Zoning Commission for the purpose of considering a combined application for a Major Site Plan Review, Minor Plat Amendment, Rezoning Application, and Alternative Compliance to allow the construction of a 50-unit residential development. The property is located at Lots 2A and 2B, North Face Base Camp Subdivision (East of the Meadow Wood Dr and High School Access Road intersection). The property is approximately: Lot 2A - 3.439 acres (149,781 sq. ft.); Lot 2B 23.822 acres (1,037,672 sq. ft.) and is zoned Community Arts (Lot 2A) and Commercial Business Park (Lot 2B).

The Applicant is Robert Schultz Consulting LLC

The Owner is Roaring Fork School District

Said Public Hearing will be held at the Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO at 7:00 p.m. on March 9, 2023. Copies of the proposed application are on file in the Planning Department office, Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO and may be examined by interested persons during regular working hours, 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The application may also be reviewed on the Town’s website at www.carbondalegov.org

Jared Barnes, Planning Director

Adverteyes in The Sun

Eagle County planning staff, planning commissioners, owner representatives and some 40 members of the public visited the proposed site of the Twin Acres Riding Stable and Boarding Stable, a proposed development for a commercial 50-horse boarding and riding facility at 623 Fender Lane in Missouri Heights. While the property has been historically used as a small working ranch, and is partially protected by a conservation easement with Aspen Valley Land Trust, the proposal includes constructing a new 20,000-square-foot riding arena and 25-stall stable. After the site visit, attendees reconvened at the Eagle County building in El Jebel where a special use application was heard by the Roaring Fork Regional Planning Commission. Fifteen members of the public spoke out against the application, basing their concerns on issues ranging from the project's scale and character to impacts on wildlife and water resources, views traffic, noise, etc. Nonetheless, the commission voted to recommend approval of the application, which will next be sent to the Eagle County Commissioners for a final decision. A public hearing will be scheduled for later this winter. Photos by Will Sardinsky

For more information contact Todd Chamberlin adsales@soprissun.com or 970-510-0246

Doug Pratte, Land Planner and Twin Acres Riding Stable and Boarding Stable special use permit application representative, shows a map of the proposed changes to the property.

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