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RAMped up for summer!

A special day for Roaring Fork High School each spring is Ram’s Day. This year, the graduating seniors did community service projects in the morning followed by lunch and activities at Triangle Park. Crews could be found at North Face Park doing weed mitigation, at the fire station cleaning trucks, working at the community gardens by The Orchard, engaging with second and third graders at Crystal River Elementary School and doing other random acts of kindness.

After lunch, the whole school came together to pose for the annual all-school photo and then to the practice field to compete in games planned and run by Student Council. A little rain did not put a damper on this wonderful rite of spring and celebration of the end of the school year.

Roaring Fork High School’s graduation ceremony is this Saturday, May 27, from 10am to noon. Bridges High School celebrates on Friday, May 26, from 5 to 7pm. And Colorado Rocky Mountain School grads walk on June 3.

Photos and text by Sue Rollyson

By Dale Will CVEPA Views

The first whites in the Crystal Valley traveled on the Ute Trail, as well documented by the Hayden surveys in 1873. Whites brought with them the wheel, and no sooner than the first homesteads were staked, petitions began flowing into the nascent Pitkin County clerk’s office requesting a wagon road. The 1886 petitioners included Myron Thompson and Floyd Grubb. A route was laid out likely on top of the Ute Trail, except where it could not be made suitable for wagons. The construction would be basic, using picks and mules that were gentle on the landscape. One of the eventual road contractors was James Bogan, whose hand-laid rock walls remain evident today along the “Bear Creek Trail,” and for whom the campground is named.

Red Wind Point was originally a tight narrows with steep cliffs immediately adjacent to the river on both sides. Neither the highway bench nor the old railroad grade originally existed. The wagon road had progressed up the east side of the river, past Nettle Creek. Faced with impassible cliffs on both sides at Red Wind Point, the only feasible choice was a log bridge over the river just downstream of the point, and a climb up the west bank to near the current location of the Sweet Jessup Ditch. The road crested this shoulder and dropped back to the river along the west bank until it reached Janeway. Several old sections are still

LETTERS

Tax woes

As a resident and contributing member of the Roaring Fork Valley for over 25 years, I am writing out of concern for long-term residents and low income members in our community. The land tax hike across the board is untenable for many.

As a teacher and curator of storytelling events throughout the Valley for over 10 years, supporting nonprofits and community members to cultivate and share their voices in stories from their lives, I am somewhat of an ear for the community.

This land tax increase has brought many to tears as some people can not afford it. They are now frightened and stressed. So many of these Coloradans are the backbone of the local workforce; they are our creators, visionaries, volunteers and the foundation behind many community programs and events.

Please reevaluate. Please consider a person’s length of time owning a property, a grandparent clause, a

John Osgood, Pitkin County and the Battle at Red Wind Point

visible to a discerning eye.

The wagon path was finished around 1888, allowing the Valley’s homesteads a few years of what must have been a very idyllic and quiet, bucolic setting. My old friend, Jessie Boyce, once remarked that a mature civilization is one where people can safely travel by muscle power. To have walked or ridden a horse from Carbondale to Hayes Falls along this route must have been truly exquisite.

However, the quietude of the Crystal was not to last. One John Osgood wanted local coal rendered into carbon (at the now iconic and thankfully dormant Coke Ovens) for his steel mills in Pueblo. To get coke out of the Valley, he needed a railroad.

Osgood was purportedly at this time the sixth wealthiest man in the world, and he wasn’t inclined to worry much about those already settled here. Upon hearing reports that the railroad was obstructing the wagon path, County Commissioner John Bennet traveled up Rock Creek (known now as the Crystal River) and was quoted in the Aspen Daily News saying, “I don't want to do anything that would cripple or embarrass a new (rail)road into the country, but the rights of the argonauts who have gone there and through all sorts of exposure and hardships, wrested its riches and its charms from the wilderness, must be respected. We succeeded in building the road up Rock Creek at a cost of some $6,000 and — while we don't object to subsidizing a railway company and encouraging it for 'steen times that amount — we must protect the outlets from the country.”

Upon reaching the Red Wind Point narrows, the rail builders simply demolished the wagon bridge and blasted their way along the east bank where the iconic red cliffs still show the scars of dynamite. Now completely denied access up the Valley, angry Crystal residents petitioned the county

graduated scale for the purchase price and when the homeowners purchased. Please take into consideration income tax returns, and adjust proportionally income and land taxes so we all can fairly contribute but not be crippled.

Please make choices that keep all residents; create safety for marginal populations. Create volunteer projects to support the counties we reside in.

Please help, please speak up to town, state and government officials.

Thank you for your action in advance,

Alya Howe, Carbondale

HCE election

Local action has enormous impacts on a wide range of issues affecting our lives. In that way, our communities are lucky to have a partner in Holy Cross Energy (HCE), which is leading the way in the transition to a clean energy future and local energy innovation. HCE is a democratically-run rural electric cooperative, meaning all members get a say in how it is operated.

commissioners, stating that “the Red Wind Bridge on the County Road about eight miles above Carbondale has been destroyed … cutting off egress to the best market for some of the ranches, said ranches being isolated.” Petitioners included John Mobley, whose cabin yet stands in Janeway.

Think about it. Homesteaders had persuaded the fledgling county to turn the Ute Trail into a wagon path with free use to all. Homesteads were appearing and a muscle-powered economy was beginning to flourish. Along comes a wealthy robber baron who, without any communication with the county or the residents, knocks down a critical bridge and constructs a private railroad, which, of course, would haul freight for a price. Class warfare? Perhaps. It was certainly an enormous affront to the commoners’ life in the Crystal.

The county commissioners responded on April 7, 1893 by appointing a Special Attorney to prevent further obstruction and address John Mobley’s demand that the county “restore the public thoroughfare to a passable condition.” Wrangling between Osgood and the county went on for decades, with the railroad widening its grade to allow a parallel wagon path and complaints of horses terrified by steam locomotives. CDOT would eventually blast its way up the west side of Red Wind Point building Highway 133; the landscape there today bears little resemblance to what the Ute left behind. We still have the uber-wealthy deploying their economic muscle here, though nowadays drawn more by the allure of trophy ranches. And, sadly, traveling up and down the Crystal Valley by muscle power remains a difficult and frightening experience.

CVEPA strives to protect the wild landscape while also seeking to protect public access along historic routes in the Crystal Valley. See www.cvepa.org

In the HCE board election that started on May 16, I’m proud to support Alex DeGolia for reelection. I’ve known Alex for over a decade, when we first met on a rafting trip in the Grand Canyon. Alex works on climate and clean energy policy at the Environmental Defense Fund, which means he’s very familiar with the issues facing the Holy Cross board every day and understands how Holy Cross can take advantage of opportunities to benefit our communities.

Most importantly, I know Alex’s character and know that his values and approach align with those of our communities. During his first term on the board, Holy Cross expanded its leadership of the clean energy transition while saving tens of millions of dollars via investments in wind and solar, investing in nation-leading wildfire protection, and introducing new programs to support things like home batteries and EV charging.

This year, you can vote by returning

continues on page 26

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UpRoot hiring

UpRoot Colorado, a nonprofit focused on increasing access to nutrition while supporting farmers and reducing food waste, is hiring a gleaning and foodsystems coordinator for the Roaring Fork Valley. This grant-funded position will be full time through October, then part-time through May 2024. Find details at www.bit.ly/UpRootJob

Rams Run record

Crystal River Elementary School’s (CRES)

10th Annual Rams Run fundraiser raised a record $31,047.85 this year. The organizers attribute the success to 19 sponsors and student participation. Proceeds will be split between the physical education department and the parentteacher organization, so all the money raised will benefit CRES students.

Caitlin Carey for BOCC

RJ Paddywacks

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Nonprofit Partners

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

New Castle Councilor Caitlin Carey announced during a Sunday Garfield County Democrats meeting that she will run for the Garfield County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) District 2 seat, which has been held for the past 25 years by John Martin, a Republican in his sixth term as commissioner, reported the Post Independent. Carey worked for a plaintiff law firm in Birmingham, Alabama, before moving to Garfield County in 2013. She has since been a case analyst, researcher and director and has served on New Castle Town Council since April 2022.

Traffic jam

The Garfield County Commissioners signed a letter to the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) regarding the current and projected congestion of Interstate 70 and Highway 82 within the county. The letter argues that CDOT is the primary stakeholder and should facilitate discussions between the local governments, and at least be involved. The letter states, “According to population and employment forecasts … Garfield County’s population is estimated to grow by 40%, from 62,000 residents in 2020 to 86,000 in 2040.” The county expects that the six municipalities will also sign the letter. Visit

In true community spirit, dozens of Redstone residents and friends stuffed 2,000 bags with sand on Saturday, May 20, in preparation for likely flooding. Pitkin County donated bags and sand after receiving pressure, and the residents made quick work of filling and stacking them before enjoying a barbecue at the fire station. Photo

River death

The body of a 34-year-old Vail resident was recovered from the Colorado River on Sunday, May 21. Nicholas Courtens was part of a five-person private group of rafters and wore a personal flotation device and helmet. Although the group was able to pull his body to the shore, Courtens could not be resuscitated. A White River National Forest press release responded, “high river flows create hazards that do not exist at lower water levels and can be dangerous for even highly experienced rafters and kayakers.”

High water

“High flows can be dangerous for all forest users,” stated a White River National Forest press release, citing small creeks running high and swift streams as being particularly dangerous for pets and small children. “Never attempt to drive through flood waters because the currents can be much swifter and the water much deeper than it appears.” The Hanging Lake Trail is closed through June 2 due to water covering many sections. Work to improve the trail by reengineering and relocating bridges will begin this fall.

COO Bohmfalk

Ben Bohmfalk, Carbondale’s mayor, has been hired by Roaring Fork Schools as the new chief operating officer, a position currently held by Jeff Gatlin who accepted a similar role with the Jefferson County School District. Bohmfalk has worked for over 20 years with the district, initially as a high school social studies teacher and more recently as the technology integration facilitator. “I have dedicated my entire career to the success of students, teachers and staff in the Roaring Fork Schools and am ready to apply my full skillset to this critical leadership role,” said Bohmfalk.

Get a lift

The Forest Service is seeking public comments on Sunlight Mountain Resort’s proposal to replace its Segundo chairlift, built in the ‘50s. A modern, triple-chair lift would increase its capacity from 970 people per hour to 1,400 using the existing corridor and terminal locations. The first phase would involve removing trees to widen the corridor and constructing new tower foundations. Public comments are being solicited through June 16, as part of an environmental review. Find more information at www.bit.ly/SegundoLift

Preservation pride

May is Historic Preservation Month, and the Carbondale Historic Preservation Commission wants to remind residents with older homes that theirs may be eligible for a historic plaque detailing its significance. Reference the April 27 article, “Carbondale residents mark their historic homes,” for more context and contact Kae McDonald by emailing kmcdonald@carbondaleco. net or calling 970-510-1248 to find out if your home qualifies.

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Sean Connors, Charlie Cook and Paul Dankers (May 25); Dena Barnes, Amber Frisbie and Sue Hopper (May 26); Lacy Dunlavy, Richard Glasier, Jennifer Johnson and Myki Jones (May 27); Dorie Hunt, Joan Lamont, Louis Meyer, Alex Salvidrez and Amanda Seubert (May 28); Clark Cretti (May 29); Rianna Briggs and Barbara Frota (May 30).

by Elizabeth Key

for a week of compassion with the monks of the famed Gaden Shartse Monastery

By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun Correspondent

In a press call, timed just ahead of Colorado Public Lands Day, Democrat U.S. Senators Michael Bennett and John Hickenlooper and Congressman Joe Neguse (D-CD2) were joined by Eagle County Commissioner Kathy Chandler-Henry, Gunnison County Commissioner John Houck, and Carbondale rancher Bill Fales to announce the reintroduction of the Colorado Outdoor Recreation Economy (CORE) Act.

Call it a sort of re-reintroduction; the bill was first introduced in the U.S. House in 2019 and reintroduced four times since. The Act was introduced in the U.S. Senate in 2020 but did not make it out of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

So, lawmakers are trying again.

The CORE Act is an ambitious piece of legislation meant to permanently protect close to 420,000 acres of public lands across Colorado. Originally, protections included the Continental Divide and Camp Hale, wilderness in the San Juan mountains, the Thompson Divide (TD) and officially defined the boundaries of Curecanti National Recreation Area. In October 2022, President Joe Biden designated 53,804 acres of Camp Hale and the TenMile Range as the Camp Hale/ Continental Divide National Monument. This area has been removed from the CORE Act.

Protections for the TD remain in the Act. But, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) are working on an administrative withdrawal of 224,703 acres from future oil, natural gas and mineral leasing. This may ring a bell because In 2015, the White River National Forest (WRNF) closed 61,000 acres of the TD within its boundaries to future oil and natural gas leasing. Then, in 2016, the BLM canceled 25 illegally-issued

natural gas leases there. But, Peter Hart, Wilderness Workshop attorney, told The Sopris Sun that the 2015 decision did not apply to the TD outside of the WRNF. “There’s a whole bunch of the TD on the Grand Mesa Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest,” he said. The 2015 decision protects the TD for 20 years but it is a forest level decision. “This means that [WRNF supervisor] Scott Fitzwilliams can reverse it any time he wants,” explained Hart. “Or a subsequent forest supervisor could reverse it down the road.”

The proposed TD withdrawal includes land in the WRNF, the Grand Mesa Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest, BLM-managed lands, and reserved federal mineral interests and protects the area for 20 years. It covers more land and the protections are stronger, said Hart. “It would be a secretarial level decision, so it could only be reversed or overturned by the [Interior] Secretary or maybe

an act of Congress,” he explained.

The CORE Act would go one better: permanent protection of 252,000 acres of the TD.

During last week’s press call, lawmakers praised community efforts that have put the TD in the spotlight. “Every provision in [the CORE Act] reflects thoughtful collaboration among county commissioners, businesses, ranchers, sportsmen, and conservationists,” said Bennet. “It enjoys the full support of seven counties, 16 towns and cities, and the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute Tribes in the state of Colorado.”

The TD Coalition came together in 2009 to fight natural gas leases and protect the area from future leasing. Members include ranchers, hunters, anglers, mountain bikers, hikers, conservation groups and local government officials. Carbondale rancher Bill Fales is still involved and was part of last week’s press call. “It's truly a grassroots effort that has absolutely unanimous support in this valley,” he said. “Not only does it protect our incredible public lands, but by protecting them, we also protect the private ranch lands that rely on them for our summer grazing.”

Republican congresswoman Lauren Boebert, who represents Colorado’s Third District, home of much of the CORE Act land, is not in favor of the bill. In a September 2022 letter to President Biden, Boebert had harsh words for the Act. “For years, partisan bigcity Democrats — with the full backing and support of the far-Left green energy cartel — have attempted to implement massive new land grabs through the so-called Colorado Outdoor Recreation and Economy (CORE) Act,” she wrote.

Boebert has also been outspoken against the Camp Hale-Continental Divide national monument designation and the proposed TD administrative withdrawal. “Local stakeholders have come out in strong opposition to this land grab,” she said in a 2022 press release. “[T]his unilateral designation will kill jobs, harm private water rights, prevent responsible

Aspen trees in the Thompson Divide near McClure Pass. The aspen groves in the Thompson Divide are some of the largest in Colorado and one of the reasons why this area is so ecologically important and valuable to the community and wildlife. Photo by Amy Hadden Marsh

The sinking of Highway 133

By Elizabeth Key Sopris Sun Correspondent

Nature is coming for Colorado drivers from all sides during springtime in the Rockies. Commuting in the mountains is like Chicken Little's version of Russian Roulette with rock slides, mudslides and sinkholes. Coloradans may not have to slalom alligators and roll over Burmese python speed bumps, as they do in Florida, but I contend driving in Colorado is even more precarious.

I once had a snowy owl bounce spread eagle against my windshield, and the deer are practically suicidal. In old-town Carbondale, the side of my car was bodyslammed by a deer while I was driving down Main Street. I guess the deer bounded past the Village Smithy in search of forest, leaving my car dented and tufted with fur. Hello deductible.

I developed some resentment toward the “watch for falling rocks” road signs. Craning my neck to see if the sky is falling while driving and attempting to outmaneuver gravity doesn’t seem practical. The two car-sized boulders that blocked my way home on 133 last summer would have hit me like an ACME anvil, no matter if I drove like the road runner. It's all a matter of chance, and in the springtime, the odds start to favor mother nature. I propose amending the signs to say, “Falling rocks. Drive at your own risk.”

Spring mudslides on 133 near the Penny Hot Springs can be overwhelming. Luckily, the skinny-dipping hippies go elsewhere when the spring runoff washes out their enclave. The new retaining wall seems formidably effective at holding back the oversaturated earth. Sopping soil leads to more abundant surface runoff and heightens the chance of debris build-up and dams. Currently, Colorado is experiencing a sinkhole reminiscent of Florida. Sinkholes can develop anywhere the underlying ground is void, such as old mining tunnels, culverts, or hollow rock formations.

On Tuesday, May 2, a sinkhole forced a safety closure of Highway 133 near Somerset. CDOT has been monitoring the potential road failure around the clock since Saturday, April 29, when the highway started showing signs of buckling. During a 2020 inspection, a hole had been identified in the underlying culvert and was deemed eligible for replacement but was not rated for priority repair or replacement, according to Elise Thatcher, Northwest Colorado regional communications manager at the Colorado Department of Transportation.

The spring runoff and resulting buildup behind a debris flow lodged a large log into the preexisting culvert hole. The hydraulic pressure sheared and propelled the culvert 60 feet toward the North Fork Gunnison River. Unsupported, the roadway eventually collapsed. Thankfully, no one was hurt during the road failure. The

AVSC Summer Bike Programs

Who: 7 – 13-year-olds

What: Weekly Mountain Bike Camps with 2 and 3day options

Where: Transportation provided to explore the trails of the Roaring Fork Valley, with drop off/pick up at Crown Mountain Park.

When: June 5 – August 18

Cost: $200 - $295 per session. Scholarships available!

Equipment: Loaner bikes available upon request.

AVSC Summer Mountain Bike Programs are open for registration! At the core of our

ensuing sinkhole continues to erode and is currently three times larger than it was initially.

Last week, contractor Ralph L. Wadsworth won the bid with CDOT in the amount of $1.9 million to install a temporary two-way bridge and repair Highway 133. CDOT has a history of working with this contractor on other projects. The contractor is performing emergency maintenance until the temporary bridge can be erected. Once the temporary bridge is installed, they will begin the permanent repairs and determine a proper structure to replace the culvert, most likely an open-ended concrete box.

CDOT representatives described the temporary bridge being put together like an Erector set (think old-school Legos) and then placed across the chasm. Geo pattern analysts will establish how far to place the ends of the bridge across the sinkhole to ensure the structure is on sound ground. The temporary bridge will resemble a permanent bridge and allow vehicle passage in both directions.

In the meantime, CDOT has identified the 180 residents of Somerset, area contractors and miners through a reverse 911 system. They have been issued passes to skirt around the sinkhole on a small access road to Paonia and Somerset. There is also a temporary bus system to shuttle 300-plus mine workers to and from the mine. Springtime in the Rockies can be challenging for Colorado commuters, so keep your head and stay alert so you don’t get hurt. CDOT encourages travelers to detour via Highway 50 and I-70. Real-time updates will be posted at COtrip.org

This photo, taken May 15, shows road damage on 133. Courtesy photo

Panels and Produce: CO farmers

win prize for solar project

By Will Buzzerd Sopris Sun Correspondent

On April 20th, the Colorado Farm and Food Alliance (CFFA) received a $50,000 prize from the National Community Solar Partnership to further farm-based renewable energy projects in the North Fork Valley, focusing on the burgeoning field of agrivoltaics — a technique which combines solar arrays and crop fields to create high efficiency, clean energy agriculture.

Also sometimes referred to as agrisolar or dual-use solar, agrivoltaics doesn’t necessarily require crop production. Photovoltaic (solar) panels can also be used on land for livestock, providing shelter for animals against the rain and sun. Additionally, panels can be placed on natural ecosystems, and while at first that may sound detrimental, the additional shade provided by the panels can theoretically increase diversity of plant life and preserve soil moisture.

The National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) — part of the U.S. Department of Energy — published the Solar Futures Study in September of 2021, which outlined projected renewable energy needs in the coming decades to fully decarbonize the U.S. energy grid by 2050.

At the moment, only about 22,000 acres of the country are being used for solar. In order to meet the goal set by NREL, solar may have to compose 45%

of the nation’s energy grid by 2050, and for that goal to be met approximately 0.5% of the surface area of the U.S. will be used for solar power (between four and 10 million acres). While that sounds like a lot, roughly 52% of the surface area of the United States is already being used for agriculture: over 1.2 billion acres. Combining agriculture with solar energy may prove a space-effective strategy for decarbonizing the United States in the decades to come.

The prize was received from phase one of the Community Power Accelerator (CPA) initiative, a multiphased project led by the Department of Energy designed to spur development of community-owned, local-scale solar and renewable energy projects. With a total prize pool of $10 million for renewable projects from Boston to Hawaii, CPA has multiple phases designed to orient these projects towards expansion and train their leaders on solar development over the course of a year.

Steps in each phase include designing a pitch presentation for investors and receiving consultation on possible hiccups that come with small-scale renewable energy projects. Having won the prize for phase 1, CFFA is eligible to win even more funding as the program continues.

CFFA, based in Paonia, originally coalesced around a community of western Colorado ranchers, food producers and agricultural workers

who organized against oil and gas sales in the North Fork Valley. Since then, CFFA has expanded to strengthen local food systems and support all sorts of local climate action projects with the aim of providing clean, wholesome food statewide. The award, however, is for a collaboration between CFFA and a small team of North Fork community leaders.

“Our goal is to promote rural climate leadership and to show that the clean energy transition can support agriculture, boost local enterprise, and work toward greater energy equity,” said Pete Kolbenschlag, director of CFFA.

Currently, the largest commercially active agrivoltaic site in the nation is located in Longmont, but CFFA aims to bring this technology to Delta County. Right now, the team is primarily focused on developing an agrivoltaic project at Thistle Whistle farms in Hotchkiss. Spread across two acres, the array would fully accommodate agriculture and is expected to produce 0.5 megawatts (MW) of clean energy.

“This project will give a handful of farms, like this one, and a few foodrelated businesses that use our produce, a way of accessing cleaner power, while benefiting our farm by giving us more gentle growing conditions under the panels to grow some of our crops,” said

Mark Waltermire, owner of Thistle Whistle. “And we can set the stage for similar projects in areas around the valley that can help other producers.”

The team is also considering two other projects, one being a larger farmbased agrivoltaic project, but at the moment Thistle Whistle is the primary focus.

“The idea of the prize is to help consider projects thoroughly, and where appropriate move forward with community solar projects,” stated Kolbenschlag. However, the hope is to eventually be able to generate at least one MW of energy across all three potential systems.

In addition, CFFA plans to perform research in partnership with the Colorado State University Western Colorado Research Center. The research will look into what crops thrive the most in an agrivoltaic system, and how these crops respond to co-location with solar panels.

“We have an exceptional team and an exceptional project,” said Kolbenschlag. “We think this can be a model for rural climate action and community resilience.”

Double the love!

While Thistle Whistle Farms will only mix produce with solar panels, arrays can provide a shady reprieve for all sorts of livestock. Courtesy photo

Forest Service prepares to redo Carbondale

By Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editor

Sitting across from Carbondale’s post office is a familiar brown building with yellow trim. The Aspen-Sopris Ranger District office was built in 1939 to serve as a residence, rather than a visitor center with offices. Touring the building, it’s clear that the space is creatively utilized to make the most of its design, with uniforms in the attic, desks tucked wherever they fit and a maze of filing cabinets and narrow hallways. It’s Carbondale-quirky, but the Forest Service is ready to start fresh.

In January 2020, the public was invited to an open house where designs were shown for a single-level, ADAaccessible building with a reconfigured parking lot. Because it’s federal property, the project is exempt from the town’s code and other public processes. However, District Ranger Kevin Warner assured The Sopris Sun that careful thought was put into fitting in with other buildings on Main Street.

“Originally, this building here, from the office back, was the ranger’s residence,” said Warner. He pointed out arched doorways and an old fireplace covered by a bookshelf. “It was never intended to be an office space.” What’s now referred to as “the engineering building” outside was the ranger’s office, and later became a warehouse.

All three of the current buildings are set to be demolished: the primary visitor center and offices, the engineering

building and a shed. These buildings were determined not to be historically significant by the state Historic Preservation Office. “I recognize and appreciate that some people like the look,” said Warner. However, “older buildings are really expensive to maintain.”

A new, lower-maintenance building will be more efficient, though not net-zero. “This building is not energy efficient at all,” said Warner. “The old boiler downstairs is limping along…”

The new design sets the primary entrance closer to Weant and Main Street, with a semi-outdoors covered area hosting interpretative displays. A road will enter off Main Street closer to the pool and connect with Weant Boulevard so that RVs and other large vehicles are able to drive straight through without having to turn around.

With a larger conference room, the office will be better suited to host events and staff meetings. Warner informed The Sopris Sun that his full district meetings currently occur at the library, fire station or town hall, because not all of the employees fit in the conference room at the current site. The new building will also include a break room.

If everything goes as planned, Warner said, “we’re hoping we’ll be able to start the beginning of the redevelopment plan in November of 2023.” A temporary office has not yet been determined. With visitor information available in Glenwood Springs and Aspen, online services and local vendors, this may be

Aspen-Sopris District Ranger Office New Building Construction

foregone for the 2024 season.

Perhaps ironically, the plans include removing seven established trees from the property. Based on public feedback, the Forest Service will attempt to preserve a large spruce on the corner of Weant and Main popularly decorated as Carbondale’s Christmas tree. However, during a Tree Board meeting on May 18, doubts were cast on the practicality of saving that tree.

“When they start cutting for utilities … that tree will not stand,” said JoAnne Teeple. “I will give you the analogy of someone putting their elderly relatives into a nursing home and never going to visit them and watching them die a slow, painful death where that tree should be honored and taken out of its misery so we don’t watch it fail. It will not survive any construction…” whereas two smaller spruce trees could potentially be saved. The tree board also identified two mature maple trees in the public right of way which they will attempt to save.

“I was impressed at the level of outreach that they went through with

the community to get to the project they have,” said Public Works Director Kevin Schorzman. “Particularly since, as a federal agency, they were not required to do any of it.” Schorzman also pointed out that the landscaping will use less water.

In 2005, Congress gave the Forest Service authority to sell, lease or exchange excess administrative sites and use the proceeds toward acquiring, maintaining and enhancing other properties. With $4 million from national funds, plus another $1 million or so from local sales, the White River National Forest is eager to get this project underway. Timing it with the demolition of the town pool could be advantageous for both projects, though an entire block of Main Street could be under construction through 2024. This summer season, the Carbondale office will be open from 8am to noon and 1 to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday. For more information about the White River National Forest, visit www. fs.usda.gov/whiteriver

This rendering depicts the new Aspen-Sopris Ranger District offices in Carbondale as seen from Main Street. Courtesy graphic

THURSDAY, MAY 25

AVALANCHE BIRDING

It’s birding season! Join Roaring Fork Audubon exploring Avalanche Road from 7am to 1pm. To register, email smnharris@gmail.com

CODING CLUB

The Aspen Science Center hosts Coding Club at the Carbondale Library at 4pm.

COMMUNITY DINNER

The Redstone General Store hosts a community meal, by donation, from 5 to 8pm with live music by Sweet Root. Reservations are not required.

GOLDEN LIGHT MEDITATION

Lisa McKenzie leads Golden Light Meditation at the Third Street Center from 6:30 to 8pm. To register, email lmckenzie1light@gmail.com

PEAK PERFORMANCE

Join the Aspen Science Center and ski experts for an exploration of STEM and peak performance at the Aspen Community Church from 6:30 to 8pm. Tickets at www.aspensciencecenter.org

FRIDAY, MAY 26

STONE ENTROPY

Carbondale Arts presents “Stone Entropy” featuring three local marble sculptors: Chet Haring, Lucas Leone and Greg Tonozzi. The exhibit runs through June 27 with an opening reception on June 2 from 5 to 7pm.

LITTLE MERMAID

Crystal River Ballet School and Crystal River Youth Ballet Company present “The Little Mermaid Ballet” at Basalt Middle School this evening at 6:30pm and tomorrow at 2pm.

CRYSTAL THEATRE

“You Hurt My Feelings” opens at the Crystal Theatre at 7:30pm and continues on May 27 and June 1 at the same time. The May 28 show is at 5pm.

RACHEL BAIMAN

Singer-songwriter and fiddler Rachel Baiman performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. For tickets, visit www.stevesguitars.net

SATURDAY, MAY 27

SPRING BIRD COUNT

Roaring Fork Audubon’s Spring Bird Count has been a citizenscience tradition for 38 years. Lend a pair of eyes somewhere in the Valley from 7am to 1pm. To sign up, email smnharris@gmail.com

PLANT SALE

Wild Mountain Seeds hosts a plant sale with regionallyadapted vegetable starts at True Nature from 10am to 3pm. Casey Piscura will share about his seed work from 11am to 1pm.

BUNDLE DYEING

Katie Brown hosts an afternoon of natural dyeing using locally grown flowers and other plants at the Botany Houseplant Shop from 1 to 3pm. Visit www. box-eleven.com to sign up.

MINDFUL WEBINAR

The Mindful Life Community offers its next Mindful Living Skills webinar led by Laura Bartels and John Bruna. Visit www.bit.ly/MindfulLivingSkills for more info and to register.

SUNDAY, MAY 28

PLANT SALE

Wild Mountain Seeds hosts a plant sale with regionallyadapted vegetable starts at 689 Main Street from 10am to 3pm, this Sunday and next.

TUESDAY, MAY 30

DRAWING CLUB

Join the Roaring Fork Drawing Club for an informal drawing session at True Nature’s Peace Garden at 6:30pm.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 31

EL JEBEL BIRDING

Join Roaring Fork Audubon for birding in El Jebel from 7:30am to noon. RSVP by emailing fulcon@comcast.net

The Aspen Chapel Gallery’s upcoming exhibit, “Feast on Art” opens with a reception from 4 to 7pm on May 31. Art by Marina Romanov

FEAST ON ART

The Aspen Chapel Gallery’s newest exhibit, “Feast on Art” opens with a reception from 4 to 7pm. The show features mixed-media work from artists throughout the Valley, and sales benefit Harvest for Hunger, a Snowmass Village nonprofit rescuing food waste.

DOLORES FILM

The Protect the Dolores Coalition presents “The River of Sorrows” at TACAW at 7pm with a Q&A at 8:30pm. The film looks at water use issues, boating, mining, agriculture, climate change and Tribal water rights from the perspective of a near-dry river in southwest Colorado. RSVP for free at www.tacaw.org

LANEY LOU

Lany Lou and the Bird Dogs perform at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

THURSDAY, JUNE 1

2023 HEALTH FAIR

Aspen Valley Hospital hosts its 2023 Spring Health Fair, where community members are offered discounted lab tests, today and tomorrow in Aspen and June 3-4 in El Jebel. Visit www. aspenhospital.org/healthfair to register for an appointment.

BIKE PROJECT

The Carbondale Bike Project Shop helps people repair their bicycles on Tuesdays from 2 to 6pm and Thursdays and Sundays from noon to 6pm at the Third Street Center.

UNDER THE SUN

Join Sopris Sun correspondents and guests for Everything Under

The Sun, airing every Thursday on KDNK at 4pm. Then, stay tuned for El Sol Habla, noticias en español.

BRIDGE NIGHT

Bridge players of all levels are invited to play at the Basalt Library at 4pm.

ART WALK

Tour Carbondale’s newest Art Around Town installations with visiting artists and the Public Arts Commission, beginning in front of Town Hall at 5:30pm and concluding with a reception at Marble Distilling at 7pm.

PSYCHEDELIA

Aspen Film presents “Psychedelia: The History and Science of Mystical Experience” at the Isis Theatre at 5:30pm. Tickets are complimentary for Aspen Psychedelic Symposium attendees.

RODEO TIME

The Carbondale Wild West Rodeo kicks off at 5:30pm and continues every Thursday through Aug. 17 at the Gus Darien Riding Arena (County Road 100). Tickets can be purchased in advance at the Roaring Fork Valley Coop. A free shuttle runs from 6 to 10pm between the rodeo and The Orchard (110 Snowmass Drive). Onsite parking is now $10 per vehicle.

TAB BENOIT

Grammy-nominated singersongwriter Tab Benoit performs at TACAW with Matt Andersen opening at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

FRIDAY, JUNE 2

PSYCHEDELIC SYMPOSIUM

Aspen Public Radio, Healing Advocacy Fund and the Aspen Psychedelic Resource Center host the inaugural Aspen Psychedelic Symposium at the Wheeler Opera House beginning at noon. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

SUMMER READING

Carbondale Library kicks off its Summer Reading Challenge with an all-ages lawn party at 1pm.

C6 STUDIO OPENING

Celebrate First Friday by stopping at a brand-new artist studio in downtown Carbondale. The grand opening for C6 Studio, at 50 Weant Boulevard in Carbondale, blasts off this First Friday from 4 to 7pm. Visit www. kousacreative.com for more info.

PAIRINGS PARTY

The Carbondale Clay Center hosts its First Friday Beverage Makers event, celebrating the closing of its current exhibit, “Pairings,” from 5 to 8pm. Visit www. carbondaleclay.org for more info.

WILDERNESS PARTY

Wilderness Workshop hosts its 2023 Community Party at Sopris Park, complete with good food, live music and beer, all in the name of public lands, at 5:30pm. Visit www. wildernessworkshop.org for more info.

HECATE SPRING

Hecate Spring, a project born out of an original musical written by Olivia and Ayana Pevec, is presented at Steve’s Guitar’s at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

THE RESCUE BAND

The Rescue Band performs at Carbondale Beer Works at 8:30pm.

SATURDAY, JUNE 3

GLENWOOD BIRDING

Join Roaring Fork Audubon for a day of birding beginning at Veltus Park in Glenwood Springs at 7:30am. RSVP by emailing kjcchickadee53@gmail.com

GARAGE SALE

River Valley Ranch hosts its annual community garage sale from 8am to 2pm. Maps will be available at 8am at the Ranch House.

SUMMER READING KICKOFF

Ahead of its Summer Reading Program, the Basalt Library hosts a party, complete with a bouncy house, a three-legged race and more, from noon to 3pm.

JULIA MARSHALL

A celebration of Life will be held for Julia Marshall from 2 to 5pm on the TACAW Listening Lawn in Willits. All are welcome, but it will be outside, so dress accordingly.

SALSA NIGHT

Enjoy an evening of Latin music and dancing with Mezcla Socials and Orquesta La Brava at TACAW. Doors open at 7:30pm with lessons from 8 to 9pm.

JEFF PLANKENHORN

Slide guitar virtuoso Jeff Plankenhorn performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

MONDAY, JUNE 5

SEED PEACE

Seed Peace welcomes volunteers at Sunfire Ranch on Mondays from 8am to noon and on Fridays from noon to 4pm. To RSVP, email heatherfroelicher@gmail.com

LEER CON ANGÉLICA

Practice your Spanish by reading “Diez Treguas,” by Francisco Varela, with Angélica Breña at the Basalt Library at 5pm. The session will be in Spanish and English.

ENGLISH IN ACTION

English in Action hosts open hours for English language learners at the Basalt Library at 6pm.

Gates Open 5:00 p.m. Slack 5:45 p.m.

Grand Entry 7:30 p.m.

Admission: Adults $15 Children 10 & under Free w/Adult

Fence parking $50

On-site vehicle parking $10

Shuttle bus from town FREE

Reduced price tickets available at Roaring Fork Valley CO-OP

Gus Darien Arena

1 mile East of Carbondale on Catherine Store Road

BRIDGES HIGH school

Congratulations CLASS OF 2023

Jaylynn Archibeque Luis Arevalo

Oscar Barraza

Judan Briceno-Diaz

Meet the Seniors

Idalia Funes Alvarez

Karyme Gallardo Jesus Gomez Trujillo

Ryan GonzalezGuzman Clelia Membreno Villalta

Wendy Membreno

Dariana Mejia Montoya

Larry MartinezMercado

Salvador Medrano Lupercio

Omar Grijalva Daniel

Jocelyn Juanlucas Lopez

Irvin Grijalva

Chris Flores Medrano

Ivan Chaparro Vargas

Alexa Diaz Abigail Delgadillo Cigarroa

Arly Ramirez Pavon

Bryan Rascon Trevizo

Marie Rodriguez Niebla

Ariel Ruiz

Sebastian Silva

Jose TorresHernandez

Zani Stump

Jhovany Vigil

Orlando Villalobos Zaragoza

Sofia Pena Villalta

Dayana Perez Rios

Kadin Pastore

Angel Ordonez Garcia

Miguel Mireles

Jose Munoz Delegado

Betsy Navarro Casillas

Luis Mondragon

Emily Inscho

Alan Marin Trinidad

ROARING FORK HIGH school

CLASS OF 2023 Congratulations

Highlights

The Roaring Fork High School class of 2023 is set to take flight! This accomplished group of students is preparing to spread their wings and explore the world in a myriad of exciting ways. From artists to electricians, athletes to kinesiologists, and business people to world travelers, this diverse class has a wide range of interests and ambitions. They are the future dentists and medical professionals, engineers, geologists, foresters, teachers, social workers, and psychologists that will make a difference in the world and we are excited to celebrate their accomplishments.

Highlights

DEAN McMICHAEL

earned the distinction of National Merit Scholar. This prestigious honor is awarded to only a select group of high-achiev ing students across the country.

CORBIN CARPENTER is going to the University of Alaska, Anchorage to join the D1 Nordic Ski Team and study Kinesiology.

BRADY SAMUELSON

will be Wrestling for CMU and studying Fire Science and Sports Management.

Natividad Flores, Katie Grijalva, Misha Logan, Aleyda Loya, Jenny Martinez, Karen Nuñez Hernandez, Evelyn Rodriguez, Isabella Tellez, Daniel Vega De La Torre, Monica Vega Garcia will receive the rigorous Colorado State Seal of Biliteracy with their high school diploma.

The Class of 2023 has left their mark on Roaring Fork High School with their impressive capstone projects. We are proud to highlight just a few of these projects which demonstrate their creativity and commitment to making a difference in the community:

Dilan Cifuentes

Prepared for his TOEFL certificate (Teacher of English as a Foreign Language) so he can teach English Language Learners in the future.

Jax Carpenter

Designed and created a custom leather jacket and clothing line.

Sawyer Riley

Explored his interest in wilderness careers shadowing a wildlife biologist to monitor local elk and bear populations

Morgan Kaegebein

Redesigned the logo for the Carbondale Police Department.

Misha Logan

Built an origami sculpture of the RFHS Ram.

Cas Weaver

Outlined an entire novel including story outline, chapter drafts, character sketches, and illustrations.

Gabe Serson

Became a Junior Achievement volunteer and taught middle school students about financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and career readiness.

Roxana Garcia

Created Backpacks of Hope to be distributed to children who need to leave their homes unexpectedly

Daniel Vega and Ivan Pereida

Created their own brand and logo, completed design work, and hand printed a clothing line with support from Stepping Stones.

Logan Hermes

Designed and built a bench made from recycled skateboard decks to enhance the Carbondale Skateboard Park.

Aleyda Loya

Taught Spanish to students at Crystal River Elementary school to prepare for her future career in education.

Julia Gressett

Organized an amazing valley wide piano competition for students of all ages.

As this class prepares to graduate, we celebrate their achievements and look forward to the bright futures that await them. Congratulations, Roaring Fork High School class of 2023!

CL SS OF 2023 Mee Sen o s

Maxfield Brooke

Samantha Anderson

Corey Bollock Brayden Bell

River Byrne Abigail Campos

Walter Burger

Isabella Brown

Meet our Seniors

Roxana Garcia Gonzalez

Julia Gressett Zane Garcia Doone Gohery

Emry Foote

Nathan Drew

Natividad Flores Gonzales Jack Erickson

Henry Cole Kendra Costello

Carol Cisneros

Dilan Cifuentes Moreno

Jax Carpenter

Ari Chacos

Corbin Carpenter

Eliot Carballeira

Meet our Seniors

Ana Martinez

Asael Loya

Arian Martinez

Emiliano Magana Villagomez

Sophia Jones Morgan Kaegebein

Ari Huthmaker

Ammy Lopez Mendoza

Aleyda Loya

Bivian Lopez

Misha Logan

Logan Hermes Edgar Hernandez

Carmeron Hermes Katie Grijalva

our Seniors

Nicolas O'Hara

Maeve Murray

Karen Nunez

Angelina Montemayor

David Miranda Yanez

Alma Resendiz

Tatiana Matuszeski

Ryan Metheny

Jennifer Martinez

Dean McMichael

Alex Rosenberg Brady Samuelson

Evelyn Rodriguez Sawyer Riley

Me Meet e ou our Se Seni nior ors

Gemma Teahen

Emily Wilson

Daniel Vega De La Torre

Isabella Tellez Ferrufino

Riley Wheeless James Wherry

Cas Weaver

Monica Vega Garcia

Aidan Shmigelsky

Gabriel Serson

Cormac Shanks

Leah Shafer

Seniors Year Fun

Sol del Valle

Conectando comunidades desde 2021

Por Jeanne Souldern Traducción por Dolores Duarte

El 2 de junio, la Radio pública de Aspen, el Healing Advocacy Center y el Centro de recursos psicodélicos de Aspen presentarán el Simposio psicodélico inaugural de Aspen en la histórica Wheeler Opera House de Aspen.

El evento de un día de duración, se celebra inmediatamente después de la aprobación de la Ley de salud con medicinas naturales (Proposición 122) en una iniciativa por votación en Colorado el pasado noviembre. Esta ley despenaliza la posesión y el consumo de hongos psicodélicos y ciertas sustancias psicodélicas de origen vegetal en Colorado para los mayores de 21 años. Su aprobación representa un cambio drástico en la percepción pública de los psicodélicos.

Doce panelistas y cuatro moderadores, expertos en neurociencia, asesoramiento conductual y sobre adicciones, antropología cultural y médica, investigación psicodélica y defensa de reformas políticas, compartirán sus experiencias y hallazgos.

Los asistentes podrán profundizar en los avances de la investigación científica y los estudios clínicos sobre la eficacia del uso de psicodélicos sintéticos y derivados de plantas para tratar la depresión, la ansiedad, el trastorno de estrés postraumático (PTSD por sus siglas en inglés), los trastornos de dolor crónico y afecciones como la cefalea en racimos, un trastorno neurológico caracterizado por fuertes dolores de cabeza recurrentes.

Zach Leary, hijastro adoptivo del psicólogo y líder de la contracultura psicodélica de los años 60 y 70 Timothy Leary, será el presentador del evento.

Leary es el presentador del podcast "It's All Happening" -Todo está sucediendo- de la Asociación multidisciplinar de estudios psicodélicos (MAPS por sus siglas en inglés), un papel que, según dijo, "me ha llevado a muchas buenas conversaciones con muchos líderes de pensamiento en el espacio psicodélico".

Leary, de 49 años, estudió con el maestro espiritual Baba Ram Dass (antes conocido como Richard Alpert), quien, a principios de la década de 1960, fue amigo íntimo y socio profesional del mayor de los Leary en la Universidad de Harvard, donde ambos investigaban los efectos

terapéuticos de drogas psicodélicas como la dietilamida del ácido lisérgico (LSD por sus siglas en inglés), más comúnmente conocida como "ácido".

El joven Leary, criado en el mundo de los psicodélicos, observó: "Cuando los psicodélicos formaban parte de la contracultura de los años 60, la investigación psicodélica, en los círculos legítimos, permaneció inactiva durante décadas debido a un prejuicio cultural contra los psicodélicos".

Por ejemplo, Leary compartió, "MAPS sacó a los psicodélicos de la contracultura y los introdujo en la corriente principal de una manera muy eficaz, articulada y legítima", en parte mediante la participación en ensayos clínicos en la Administración de veteranos con personas que sufren de trastorno de estrés postraumático, que "está ayudando a cambiar los prejuicios en torno a los psicodélicos".

Científicos e investigadores de la Universidad Johns Hopkins han visto vidas cambiadas de los veteranos gracias a la introducción de los psicodélicos. "Mi pasión es reunir a todas las culturas para que se sienten a la mesa en igualdad de condiciones y debatan cómo podemos avanzar de la mejor manera posible", afirmó Leary.

El "Renacimiento Psicodélico", que comenzó hace unos 15 años, se ha centrado en un tema de suma importancia dentro de la comunidad psicodélica - la pureza de las drogas.

El renacimiento también ha "creado una atmósfera y un

ecosistema donde estos compuestos son creados con un alto grado de integridad, lo que es bueno para el consumidor final porque le permite saber que lo que está recibiendo es puro y seguro", compartió Leary.

Uno de los resultados del avance en la investigación psicodélica ha sido su introducción en el diálogo sobre la atención a la salud mental en Estados Unidos. "Vemos muchas poblaciones diferentes que sufren ansiedad, depresión y PTSD, y más gente está de acuerdo en que los tratamientos actuales son a veces ineficaces para tratar las enfermedades mentales". Leary explicó: "Los psicodélicos tienen un enfoque más transformacional, lo que significa una revisión espiritual psicosocial que te permite tener una nueva relación con lo que sea que te esté sucediendo".

Citó la contínua investigación psicodélica en instituciones tan respetadas como las universidades de Nueva York y Johns Hopkins y el Royal College de Londres, que arroja resultados positivos, de los cuales "la información es extraordinaria". Y añadió: "Una de mis esperanzas es que las personas que sufren puedan obtener la ayuda que necesitan".

El simposio concluirá con un discurso principal presentado por Dennis McKenna, hermano de Terence, conocido defensor de los psicodélicos .

A principios de la década de 1970, los hermanos McKenna, nacidos y criados en Paonia,

colaboraron con Jeremy Bigwood en el desarrollo de una técnica para el cultivo casero de setas de psilocibina, los cuales publicaron en 1993 en un libro titulado "Psilocibina: Guía del cultivador de hongos mágicos: Un manual para entusiastas de la psilocibina".

En los comentarios finales de Leary con The Sopris Sun, dijo que su viaje y dedicación para aprender más sobre los usos positivos de los psicodélicos modernos le llevaron a observar: "No soy un fanático [del uso de psicodélicos], ni mucho menos. No creo que los psicodélicos sean para todas las personas. Mi principal misión es que se acepten como método de curación, bienestar mental, crecimiento espiritual y uso recreativo seguro. Tienen la misma legitimidad que cualquier otra cosa, incluyendo la meditación, el yoga y la respiración. Todo forma parte de la misma idea: que deberíamos tener la libertad de cambiar nuestra conciencia como mejor nos parezca".

Los boletos de entrada para el evento del 2 de junio, de 12:00 a 7:00 p.m., están disponibles en aspenshowtix.com a $28 dólares por persona. Según el sitio web de la Radio pública de Aspen, el costo de entrada incluye todos los gastos administrativos "ya que los organizadores pretenden ofrecer un acceso razonable a esta importante conversación".

Volumen 2, Número 13 | 25 de mayo de 2023 - 31 de mayo de 2023

Simposio inaugural de Aspen explora los psicodélicos

Imagen de cortesia

En columnas pasadas hemos explorado el origen de la creatividad. ¿De dónde vienen nuestras ideas? ¿Vendrán de nuestra mente? ¿De una relación espiritual con un ser más grande que nosotros?

Quizás sea la magia de unos pequeños genios invisibles como sugirió la autora Elizabeth Gilbert. Tal vez la creatividad simplemente sea el producto de mantener un hábito diligente y constante de observación y experimentación. Bien lo dijo Pablo Picasso, “La inspiración existe, pero tiene que encontrarte trabajando.”

Independiente de su origen, no puedo evitar sentir que como artista y escritora, mis oficios se

vean amenazados ante la Inteligencia Artificial (IA) que parece haber explotado desde la pandemia. Siendo en sí, su propio fenómeno generalizado como una enfermedad infecciosa que se ha desparramado por todo el mundo y apenas es el comienzo.

En su inocencia, años atrás cuando aún vivía, mi abuelo decía, “esas son cosas del diablo”, cada vez que veía algún desarrollo tecnológico incluso hasta en las caricaturas en la televisión. No pienso que realmente dijera eso de forma literal. Puedo cambiar la cita a decir, “esas son cosas desconocidas”, que por igual tiene un tono de advertencia. La IA es desconocida y por lo tanto, en muchas personas causa miedo y desconfianza aunque de naturaleza no sea realmente algo malo.

Como familia, de broma imitamos a mi abuelo, “esas son cosas del diablo”, decimos cada vez que no entendemos algo. Y la verdad es que es difícil de entender como inteligencias artificiales se continuarán desarrollando en los próximos años, ¿cuál

será nuestro papel en la sociedad? Especialmente como personas creativas si en cuestión de segundos programas como Chat GPT pueden generar guiones o manuscritos enteros mientras yo tardo horas, y a veces días germinando mis ideas.

Fue hace un mes más o menos cuando escuché por primera vez sobre el programa Chat GPT. Un cirujano ortopédico fue el que me lo mostró tras decirme que él lo usaba para escribir sus artículos médicos. Me quedé boquiabierta, emocionado él me pidió que le diera algo que escribir. Yo le dije que me describiera el sabor del café en español. En menos de un segundo comenzó a escribir párrafo tras párrafo, y si soy honesta, era hermoso lo que había escrito. ¿Cómo es que algo que nunca ha probado, ni probará el sabor de un café por la mañana ha sido capaz de transportarme a esa experiencia? Maravillado él me dijo, “¿es genial no? Ya nadie nunca tendrá que escribir novelas”. Quizá para aquel que no encuentra gozo en la creatividad si lo vea

como un beneficio el nunca tener que escribir, el nunca tener que dibujar, diseñar o componer música. Ya que este es solo el comienzo, me pregunto ¿cómo se diferenciará mi trabajo o el de cualquier persona creativa al de la IA? Esta pregunta me llevó a recordar un artículo que leí hace varios años durante una investigación de la obesidad infantil. Este artículo por The New Yorker, titulado, The Memory Kitchen, La cocina de los recuerdos, se trataba de la historia de un restaurantero turco llamado Musa Dağdeviren, quien tenía un “proyecto ambicioso para documentar, restaurar y reinventar la cultura gastronómica turca”.

Lo que más me intrigó de este artículo fue cuando Musa le dijo al reportero sobre su madre. Le contó que cuando ella murió, la esposa de su sobrino hizo un platillo tradicional, cuando lo probó, comprendió que su madre realmente estaba muerta. "Me di cuenta de que nunca iba a volver a probar ese platillo como lo hacía mi madre. La persona

que hace la comida -su físico, su alma- es única. Es como las huellas dactilares, o la escritura." dijo Musa a The New Yorker.

En México conocemos esta alma de la comida como sazón. Cuando un platillo llega a su perfección, hay quienes tienen buen sazón y por igual aquellos que no aun no lo han desarrollado a su madurez. Como lo describe Musa, es como tu huella o la forma en la que escribes, es único para ti. En mi familia, las recetas se comparten porque la comida nunca será igual aunque la receta sea la misma.

En el alba de la IA, lo que me consuela de su desarrollo es su falta de sazón. El alma que a todas las obras generadas le faltarán. La conexión humana es lo que nos une, el empatizar con las emociones del otro, llorar cuando nuestros amigos sufren, sudar en sus esfuerzos y gozar en sus logros. Como diría mi abuelo, “esas son cosas del diablo”. Estas son cosas desconocidas, y aún tengo más preguntas que respuestas, pero por lo menos sé que aunque la receta sea igual, nunca será lo mismo.

¡Celebremos a los estadounidenses mayores!

Miércoles, 31 de mayo ~ 5pm-8pm

Centro Comunitario del Condado de Eagle 0020 Eagle County Dr. El Jebel, CO

¡Disfrute de una noche de música en vivo, baile, canapés, postres y socialice, mientras celebramos a los adultos mayores en la comunidad!

¡Póngase su ropa vaquera y zapatos de baile!

Actuaciones de música en vivo de:

Tim y Melissa

Dustin Lutomski y Frank Todaro

¡Gracias a nuestros patrocinadores de Roaring Fork Age Friendly Collaborative!

Por Vanessa Porras

El Rincón del Sargento

Por Carlos Cornejo

Las nuevas leyes en estados como Florida y Texas que claramente son anti-inmigrantes no crean comunidades más seguras. La retórica de los políticos que infunde miedo a los desconocidos son mal fundamentadas y solo buscan crear reacciones emocionales sin ver la realidad en la que vivimos. Los inmigrantes, legales o ilegales, no son la causa del crimen o cargas públicas como afirman.

Para muestra basta ver un estudio llevado a cabo por CATO Institute. El estudio fue realizado en Texas, ya que es el único estado que mantiene archivos sobre arrestos que incluye información sobre indocumentados en el

Leyes anti-inmigrantes no crean comunidades más seguras

estado. Según el estudio, los inmigrantes indocumentados tienen un 47% menos de probabilidades de ser condenados por un delito que los estadounidenses nativos.

Los inmigrantes legales tienen un 65% menos de probabilidades de ser condenados por un delito que los estadounidenses nativos. O sea que a la par, los estadounidenses nativos cometen crímenes casi al doble que los indocumentados. Los inmigrantes no son un montón de criminales buscan dañar a la comunidad.

Desafortunadamente no hay peor ciego que el que no quiere ver. Los políticos ganan elecciones apelando a las pasiones de sus constituyentes y últimamente se les han lanzado a los inmigrantes como la causa de todos los problemas.

Después de que entrara en rigor la nueva ley SB 1718 en Florida, la Representante Estatal, Kiyan Michael, dijo “Florida envió un fuerte mensaje de que, como

CHISME DEL PUEBLO

Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro

Director de operaciones Bohmfalk

Ben Bohmfalk, el alcalde de Carbondale, ha sido contratado por las escuelas públicas de Roaring Fork como el nuevo director de operaciones, una posición la cual estaba previamente ocupada por Jeff Gatlin quien aceptó una posición similar en el distrito escolar del condado de Jefferson. Bohmfalk ha trabajado por más de 20 años con el distrito, inicialmente como un maestro de estudios sociales en la escuela secundaria y más recientemente como un facilitador de integración de tecnología. “He dedicado toda mi carrera al logro de los estudiantes, maestros y el personal de las escuelas de Roaring Fork y estoy listo para implementar el conjunto de mis habilidades hacia este papel crítico de liderazgo”, dijo Bohmfalk.

Congestión de tráfico

Los comisionados del condado de Garfield firmaron una carta para el departamento de transporte de Colorado (CDOT por sus siglas en inglés) con respecto a la congestión de tráfico actual y futura de la interestatal 70 y la carretera 82 dentro del condado. La carta argumenta que CDOT es la parte interesada principal y que debería facilitar discusiones entre los gobiernos locales y por lo menos involucrarse. La carta declara, “de acuerdo con el pronóstico de la población y empleo… La población del condado de Garfield ha estimado un crecimiento del 40% de 62,000 residentes en el 2020 a 86,000 para el 2040”. El condado espera que los seis municipios también firmen la carta. Visite www.bit.ly/GarCoCDOT para verla.

Carey se postula para BOCC

La concejala de New Castle Caitlin Carey ha anunciado durante la reunión de Demócratas del Condado de Garfield que se postulara para el asiento de distrito 2 de la junta de comisionados del condado de Garfield (BOCC por sus siglas en inglés), el cual ha sido ocupado por los últimos 2 años por John Martin, un republicano en su sexto periodo como comisionado, reportó el Post

estado, protegeremos nuestros recursos, nuestras comunidades y nuestras familias”. Lo que no se da cuenta es que esas comunidades y familias en Florida, también son inmigrantes. Y los recursos también son de ellos.

La idea de que los inmigrantes no pagan impuestos es erróneo. ¿Alguna vez has ido al supermercado y te han preguntado, si te pueden o no cobrar los impuestos por tu estatus legal? Un reporte del Seguro Social indica que los indocumentados proporcionan un impacto positivo en el programa del Seguro Social donde pagan por beneficios que nunca recibirán.

Solo en el 2010 los inmigrantes indocumentados sumaron $12,000,000,000 al programa del Seguro Social, los cuales ayudaron a la agencia a mantenerse a flote. En el mismo reporte indica que se espera que este efecto positivo a las cuentas del Seguro Social solo siga incrementando. Las recientes medidas

anti-inmigrantes en Florida y en Texas solo causan miedo, desconfianza y crimen. Y eso no hace comunidades seguras. Pero lo que la xenofobia no ve, ni le interesa saber, es la realidad. Solo trata de infundir temor y crear división. Y todo para que? Para ganar elecciones y poder político.

El costo será caro para nuestras comunidades. Primero en lo económico y luego en lo social. El efecto de falta de empleados creará un aumento en los precios para todos. Desde la canasta básica hasta la construcción. Todos hemos visto la tremenda labor y contribuciones de inmigrantes en todo el país y ahora en Florida se ven los trabajos abandonados y solos. Se que la gente, por necesidad, regresará a trabajar. Pero quisiera que pudieran hacerlo de una forma más digna. El efecto social será aún peor. Parece que a veces se nos olvida que los inmigrantes no son un número o una sombra sospechosa. Son seres humanos como tú y yo. La gran mayoría solo busca un mejor futuro para sus familias. Con grandes metas y estragos como todos.

Independent. Carey trabajó como demandante para un bufete de abogados en Birmingham, Alabama, antes de mudarse al condado de Garfield en el 2013. Desde entonces ella se ha dedicado a ser analista de casos, investigadora y directora y ha servido al ayuntamiento del pueblo de New Castle desde abril del 2022.

Impuestos de CMC

La junta directiva de Colorado Mountain College discutió acerca de reducir sus impuestos de propiedad para diciembre del 2023 para poder mantener el crecimiento de los ingresos en relación con la inflación (5.7%) en respuesta a un salto de valoraciones de las propiedades en todo el estado. Aún así, se espera que los ingresos totales aumenten al menos $4.9 millones de los cuales permitirán un 5% de ajuste de costo de vivienda para trabajadores de medio tiempo y tiempo completo.

Muerte en el río

El cuerpo de un residente de Vail de 34 años de edad fue descubierto en el Río Colorado el domingo 21 de mayo. Nicholas Courtens era parte de un grupo privado de descenso de ríos de cinco personas y durante el momento de descenso de río usó un dispositivo de flotación y un casco. Aunque el grupo fue capaz de llevar su cuerpo hacia la costa, Courtens no pudo ser resucitado. Un comunicado de prensa del Bosque Nacional White River respondió, “las corrientes fuertes en áreas altas de los ríos crean peligros que existen en áreas con niveles bajos de agua y pueden ser peligrosos para inclusive a balseros y kayakistas altamente experimentados.”

Río Crecido

“Corrientes altas pueden ser peligrosas para todos los usuarios de bosques”, declara el bosque Nacional White River en un comunicado de prensa, citando la situación de arroyos pequeños con corrientes altas y corrientes rápidas como particularmente peligrosas para mascotas y niños pequeños. “Nunca intente

En cuestión de seguridad pública, los pasados años han sido difíciles para las agencias de ley ya que hemos perdido legitimidad y confianza de nuestras comunidades. Estas leyes solo nos dividen más. Cómo va a tener un inmigrante confianza de reportar un crimen o cooperar como testigo, cuando le tienen miedo al mismo oficial que lo debe proteger.

Al mismo tiempo la retórica de infundir miedo en contra de los inmigrantes, hace que personas sin escrúpulos se sientan justificados en lastimar y atacar a personas que tengan la apariencia de “indocumentado”.

Apenas hace unos días escuché una llamada de servicio donde el querellante exigía a los oficiales investigar a una persona por que “de seguro es ilegal". Míralo, con esa camioneta que trae, de seguro vende fentanilo”.

Las leyes estatales antiinmigrantes solo crean miedo en la comunidad y no hacen nada para resolver el crimen que verdaderamente está pasando día con día. Menos seguridad y más odio y división es lo que fomentan.

manejar a través de arroyos porque las corrientes podrían ser más rápidas y el agua podría tener más profundidad de lo que aparenta”. El sendero de Hanging Lake está cerrado hasta el 2 de junio debido a que el agua cubre varias secciones. Construcción de reingeniería y traslaciones de puentes para mejorar el sendero comenzarán este otoño.

Nuevo récord de los Rams

La 10a recaudación de fondos anual Rams Run de la escuela primaria Crystal River (CRES por sus siglas en inglés) recaudó un récord de $31,047.85 para este año. Los organizadores atribuyen el logro a los 19 patrocinadores y la participación estudiantil. Las ganancias serán repartidas entre el departamento de educación física y la organización de padre-maestro, así que todo el dinero recaudado beneficiará a los estudiantes de CRES.

"Sincronías" parte 25, por Leonardo Occhipinti

Partes interesadas de Apple Tree se reúnen para debatir sobre calidad del agua

Por James Steindler Traducción por Dolores Duarte

La tarde del 18 de mayo, tras meses de planificación, la comunidad de Apple Tree organizó una reunión para debatir sobre la calidad del agua del parque de remolques. Representantes del Departamento de salud pública y medio ambiente de Colorado (CDPHE por sus siglas en inglés), Salud pública del condado de Garfield, la corporación que gestiona el parque - Investment Property Group (IPG) - y una gran cantidad de residentes de Apple Tree estuvieron presentes.

Los asistentes, en su mayoría residentes, hicieron fila en la puerta para registrarse, y tuvieron la opción de utilizar un dispositivo para escuchar a un intérprete en tiempo real.

"Entendemos que hay serias preocupaciones sobre la calidad del agua que afectan a la comunidad de Apple Tree. Sabemos que el sabor y el color son un problema; hace que la gente no quiera beber el agua o bañarse con ella. Sabemos que puede acortar la vida útil de los electrodomésticos", aseguró Nicholas Griffin, técnico de agua potable del CDPHE. "Estamos trabajando con Apple Tree para ayudar a atender estas preocupaciones".

Griffin explicó que la Agencia de protección ambiental tiene requisitos

cuando se trata de agua potable pública, pero algunas normas, como el olor y el sabor, se consideran secundarias y no se implementan. Por lo tanto, de acuerdo con CDPHE, los operadores de agua de Apple Tree han estado en conformidad con lo requerido.

Cuando se trata de soluciones a largo plazo, Griffin dijo que cualquier opción viable sería costosa. La primera solución posible que propuso sería 1) perforar un nuevo pozo (pero eso no garantizaría que la calidad del agua mejore), 2) obtener derechos de aguas superficiales del río Colorado, 3) conectarse a la ciudad de New Castle y comprarle agua al por mayor o 4) construir una planta de tratamiento de agua para filtrar mejor los contaminantes "estéticos" del pozo existente.

Jeffrey Sandoval-Mangers, representante de IPG, dijo que el financiamiento de un proyecto a largo plazo es un obstáculo importante. Añadió que es demasiado pronto para saber si ese costo repercutirá en los residentes de Apple Tree.

Según la legislación de Colorado, las empresas privadas no pueden optar a muchos subsidios que, de lo contrario, serían adecuados en este caso. Esto podría cambiar con la aprobación del proyecto de ley sobre la calidad del agua en casas móviles de Colorado, que está a la espera de la firma del gobernador

Jared Polis.

"A largo plazo, Apple Tree e IPG están trabajando para diseñar y examinar los costos de construcción de una planta de tratamiento de aguas para mejorar la calidad del agua", declaró posteriormente Sandoval-Manger a The Sopris Sun.

Mientras tanto, Sandoval-Mangers explicó que la administración espera instalar dispensadores de agua potable adicionales. Además, IPG está trabajando con CDPHE para optimizar las descargas del sistema y planea educar a los residentes sobre la forma de purgar las tuberías en sus hogares.

La residente Mirelia Trevizo, asistida por el intérprete Alan Muñoz Valenciano de VOCES Unidas, expresó sus sentimientos. En primer lugar, agradeció la presencia de los participantes y reconoció que aún queda mucho trabajo por hacer. Subrayó que los residentes que viven allí no tienen más remedio que utilizar el agua.

Trevizo explicó que nadie viste ni compra ropa blanca. Añadió que sólo compra forros para colchón blancos porque no los encuentra en ningún otro color. Sacó un forro de colchón de una bolsa de basura que, según explicó, sólo había puesto una vez en la lavadora. Estaba lleno de manchas. Otra residente, Kim Cassady, mostró al grupo el compartimento de detergente de su

lavadora que, igualmente, era marrón y tenía costras con sedimentos.

El comisionado del condado de Garfield, Tom Jankovsky, quien estaba sentado con la comunidad frente a los presentadores, aprovechó la oportunidad para dar su opinión. "Tiene que ser algo más que dispensadores de agua. Esta gente necesita ver una solución que avance y esta solución tiene que producirse antes de 2027".

Sandoval-Mangers había indicado que una solución a largo plazo podría no iniciar hasta 2027, cuando será requerido por ley actualizar el sistema de tratamiento de aguas residuales de Apple Tree.

Marcus Howell, defensor de justicia ambiental del CDPHE, un cargo relativamente nuevo que transmite las quejas de la comunidad sobre contaminación al ámbito estatal, pidió a los asistentes que tuvieran en cuenta cierto contexto. Señaló que, desde que asumió su cargo hace poco más de un año, ha escuchado varias quejas de residentes de parques de remolques de todo el estado en relación con la calidad del agua. Dijo que la voluntad de IPG de abordar la preocupación en Apple Tree es única.

"Quiero dar crédito a Jeff y a IPG, quienes han trabajado activamente con nosotros. Sé que los problemas a los que se enfrentan son reales y no quiero desestimarlos en absoluto, pero es una buena señal que los propietarios del parque, el estado, el gobierno local y los miembros de la comunidad estén todos juntos aquí..." manifestó Howell.

Apple Tree stakeholders convene over water quality

By James Steindler

Contributing Editor

On the evening of May 18, after months of planning, the community of Apple Tree hosted a meeting addressing the trailer park’s water quality. Representatives from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Garfield County Public Health, the corporation managing the park — Investment Property Group (IPG) — and a slew of Apple Tree residents were present.

People, mostly residents, lined up at the door to sign in, and had the option to utilize a listening device for realtime translation.

“We understand there are serious water quality concerns impacting the Apple Tree community. We know that taste and color are an issue; it makes people not want to drink the water or bathe in it. We know that it can shorten the lifespan of appliances,”

CDPHE Drinking Water Coach Nicholas Griffin assured the crowd. “We’re working with Apple Tree to help address these concerns.”

Griffin explained that the Environmental Protection Agency has requirements when it comes to public drinking water, but some standards, such as smell and taste, are considered secondary and are not enforceable. Therefore, according to CDPHE, Apple Tree’s water operators have been in compliance with what's required.

When it comes to long-term

solutions for Apple Tree, Griffin said that any viable option would be costly. The first potential solution he pitched would be to 1) drill a new well (but that wouldn’t guarantee the water quality would be any better), 2) obtain surface water rights from the Colorado River,

3) connect to, and purchase water wholesale from, the Town of New Castle or 4) build a water treatment plant to better filter “aesthetic” contaminants from the existing well.

Jeffrey Sandoval-Mangers, representing IPG, said that financing a long-term project is a significant hurdle. He added that it’s too early to tell if that cost would be passed onto Apple Tree residents.

According to Colorado statute, private companies are not eligible for many grants that would otherwise be suitable in this case. This could change with the passage of Colorado’s Mobile Home Park Water Quality (MHWQ) bill, currently awaiting Governor Jared Polis’ signature.

“In the long-term, Apple Tree and IPG are working to design and examine costs to build a water treatment plant to improve water quality,” SandovalMangers later told The Sopris Sun. IPG is holding out hope that grants will become available to privately owned trailer parks, such as Apple Tree, through the MHWQ bill.

In the meantime, Sandoval-Mangers explained that management is hoping to install additional drinking water dispensers. Additionally, IPG is working

with CDPHE to optimize system flushes and plans to educate residents on how to flush the lines in their homes.

Resident Mirelia Trevizo, assisted by interpreter Alan Muñoz Valenciano of VOCES Unidas, expressed her feelings. First, she thanked the stakeholders for being there and acknowledged there is much work yet to be done. She stressed that the residents who live there have no choice but to use the water.

Trevizo explained that no one wears or buys white clothing. She added that she only buys white mattress covers because she can’t find them in any other color. She pulled a mattress cover from a garbage bag which she claimed to have only put through her washing machine once. It was riddled with stains. Another resident, Kim Cassady, showed the group the detergent compartment from her washing machine which was, likewise, brown and crusted with sentiment.

Garfield County Commissioner Tom Jankovsky, who was sitting with the community facing the presenters, took the opportunity to give his two cents. “It has to be more than just water dispensers. These people need to see a solution moving forward and this solution needs to happen before 2027.”

Sandoval-Mangers had indicated that a long-term solution might not commence until 2027, when it will

be required by law to update Apple Tree’s wastewater treatment system. Marcus Howell, the environmental justice ombudsperson for CDPHE, a relatively new position that relays community complaints regarding pollution to the state level, asked attendees to consider some context. He noted that since he took on his role a little more than a year ago, he’s

Tonya Johnson, interpretation specialist with CDPHE’s Environmental Justice division, hands out translation devices to community members at the May 18 meeting. The next stakeholder meeting has not yet been scheduled.

Photo by James Steindler continues on

Trustees bring uniformity to commissions

By Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editor

Carbondale trustees tackled a diverse agenda on May 23. All were present, with Chris Hassig joining remotely, though Erica Sparhawk left early citing “family obligations.”

The unanimously-approved consent agenda included a special event liquor license for Coventure, a license renewal for Izakaya, the modified Meadowood school district housing agreement, appointment of Heather MacDonald to the Historic Preservation Commission and outdoor summer seating for the Black Nugget.

During public comments, several neighbors of the Gus Darien Arena expressed concerns about the Mexican rodeos scheduled for June 11, July 16, Aug. 20 and Sept. 24. Specifically, they asked how traffic, parking, noise and security will be managed. “We want to make sure there’s not going to be any problems,” said Bob Myers, resident of Willow Lane.

Parks and Rec Director Eric Brendlinger briefly assured them that the Mexican Rodeo, with its new promoter, will abide by a facility use agreement which specifies these things.

The first official item on the agenda was a new liquor license for 358 Main Street, formerly Batch Provisions. “When Batch left, I felt a huge void on Main Street,” said Mike Arnold, owner of this and the neighboring building which houses Brass Anvil. Arnold enlisted Aly Sanguily and Chase Engel, who owned and operated Batch, to assist with putting together something new “to return some of the funk to Main Street,” said Arnold. “I’m invested in town and want to do something cool.”

Asked about the name, he told trustees that “there are a couple of names out there, but I think the winner

BASALT REPORT

is El Dorado.” He said the new bar will be similar to Batch, serving wine, beer and cocktails, plus a few food items. Approval was unanimous.

Next, Andrew Michaelson, director of property development with Artspace, gave the trustees an update on Town Center. A request for proposals issued in March yielded six qualified candidates, he said. Of the six, Jv DeSousa, based in Boulder, and Bldg Seed Architects, based in Carbondale, were selected to work in tandem. “Both brought strong elements in different ways,” said Michaelson. Beginning in June, Artspace will meet with the team on-site to begin the design process including public outreach.

Moving along, trustees interviewed Cindy Suplizio to serve as an alternate on the Planning and Zoning Commission. Suplizio was born and raised in Grand Junction and has lived in Carbondale “off and on” for the past 30 years. She previously served on the commission and has worked as an engineer and educator. Suplizio’s approval was unanimous, as well as moving Kade Gianinetti from first alternate to a voting seat.

Trustees then heard an update regarding the Crystal River Restoration Project, which will involve in-stream and riparian work along a half-mile stretch known as Riverfront Park. Improvements will include deepening the river channel for fish habitat and enhancing access with an ADA-compliant ramp and an outdoor classroom, among other features.

Quinn Donnelly, project manager and river engineer with River Restoration, told the trustees that in-stream work will begin mid-July. Riverfront Park will soon close to the public to allow for work along the banks. The meeting proceeded with a Memorandum of Understanding between the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo (CWWR) nonprofit and the Town. According to Mike Kennedy, CWWR board president, they have

E-bike rebates ride into town

By Will Buzzerd Sopris Sun Correspondent

On May 23, Basalt Town Council convened for its regular meeting. With Mayor Bill Kane absent, David Knight led discussions on e-bike rebates, Midland construction updates, childcare and more.

During the opening public comment period, a citizen presented a petition with 207 signatures asking the Town Council to delay the Midland Streetscape Project construction until the fall and preserve diagonal parking on the street.

Then, Senior Planner Sara Nadolny presented an update on the e-bike rebate program slated to launch on June 1. It is also known as “Bike Basalt: Everyone, Everywhere, Emissions Free!” and will allow full-time Basalt residents to receive a rebate certificate for $250 off an e-bike purchase at Basalt Bike and Ski and Nox Cycles USA upon signing a commuter pledge to use the e-bike to replace a minimum of three vehicle trips per week. Additionally, an e-bike event is planned to take place in Willits on June 17 to educate participants on e-bike safety, etiquette and basic maintenance. Certificates are only available for 250 Basalt residents, so mark your calendars!

Next was an update on the Midland Streetscape Project led by Town Engineer Catherine Christoff and Project Representative David Detwiler. According to Detwiler, Phase I of the project — which includes replacing various utility lines on the Midland Spur — is predicted to be completed around mid–July. Because of this, the Basalt Sunday Market is to be held within the Basalt River Park on June 18. Furthermore, bids for Phase II of the project, the main drag of Midland, are due by June 1.

Council approved a $605,000 change order for

utility construction on the Spur, accommodating fiber installation, lighting and infrastructure for future electric vehicles. The price reflects both $350,000 worth of savings made by contractor Stutsman Gerbaz, as well as a contingency allowance of $200,000 only to be spent at the Town’s approval. Additionally, Council also approved up to $151,000 with Grand Junction Pipe and Supply for both Phase I and II’s water infrastructure material.

Looking ahead, the Basalt Summer Concert Series is coming to the River Park on eight consecutive Wednesdays beginning July 12, from 5:30 to 8:30pm. All concerts will be free to the public and attendees are encouraged to bring blankets and seating. While outside alcohol will not be permitted, nonprofit organizations will sell beverages onsite. The lineup for the season hasn’t been officially announced, but Planning Director Michelle Thibeault said that Belly Up Aspen regulars will recognize many of the names.

Next up, Council held a first reading for a series of reviews and PUD amendments for the construction of a domestic abuse shelter at the end of Cody Lane. Response, the applicant for the development, plans on constructing an office and shelter to provide critical temporary housing for abuse survivors and their children, aiming to serve 40-50 clients per year. The review mostly consisted of environmental details, as well as possible temporary employee housing within the space. A second reading was unanimously approved.

Next was another first reading for a PUD amendment which would allow a conversion of NJS Kinder Cottage day care from a commercial property to a single-family residence with a home day care. Once serving 65-70 families pre-pandemic, the family-run day care has faced financial strain which

invested $120,000 into the facility over the past 18 years. Given the rodeo’s popularity, changes have been made to accommodate its growth. The event is no longer BYOB — a vendor has been contracted to sell booze — and parking now has a fee, though there’s a free shuttle from The Orchard. You can find details at www.carbondalerodeo.com ahead of the season’s first rodeo, June 1.

Then, trustees signed onto a letter requesting that the Colorado Department of Transportation facilitate conversations around regional transportation solutions in Garfield County (projected to grow from 62,000 residents to 86,000 in 2040). Approval was unanimous.

The meeting concluded with changes to make boards and commissions more uniform, each with three-year terms that begin June 1 and conclude May 31. This way, recruitment could happen all at once with an open house in March of each year. Most boards and commissions would have seven regular members and the option of one or two alternates, plus an optional non-voting youth representative. Only two total members of each may live outside town limits. If a member misses more than three consecutive meetings, or more than 30% of all meetings, they will be referred to the trustees for possible removal.

has required downsizing.

If the PUD amendment is secured, the current care center at 400 Alexander Lane would shift from being able to serve 30 children to 12 — only having spaces for siblings, legacies and alumni. Mary Wolfer, who operates the business, closed a waitlist for 144 children. “It’s super sad to go backwards,” she said, “but we stayed true to who we have — and that’s where we’re at and that’s the best we can do.” Council expressed their gratitude and a second reading was approved for the PUD amendment.

The next ordinance was a minor use agreement for parking spaces at Basalt Center Circle, which would allow the Center Circle association to manage the use of its own spaces — essentially upholding the status quo from previous years. This was approved unanimously.

Last was the second reading for an ordinance approving Holy Cross Energy’s installation of underground utilities at an open space in Willits to provide service to the Tree Farm area. This too was approved unanimously.

Crystal River work is set to begin. A new automated headgate for the Weaver Ditch was already installed.

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

The River Park Bandshell will be ready for concerts this summer. Photo by Will Buzzerd

Inaugural Aspen symposium explores psychedelics

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

On June 2, Aspen Public Radio, Healing Advocacy Center and the Aspen Psychedelic Resource Center will present the inaugural Aspen Psychedelic Symposium at Aspen's historic Wheeler Opera House.

The day-long event follows on the heels of the passage of the Natural Medicine Health Act (Proposition 122) ballot initiative in Colorado last November. The Act decriminalizes the possession and use of psychedelic mushrooms and certain plant-based psychedelic substances in Colorado for individuals 21 and over. Its passage represents a dramatic shift in the public perception of psychedelics.

Twelve panelists and four moderators, with expertise in neuroscience, behavioral and addiction counseling, cultural and medical anthropology, psychedelic research and policy reform advocacy, will share their experiences and findings.

Attendees can expect a deep dive into advancements in scientific research and clinical studies investigating the efficacy of using plant-derived and synthetic psychedelics to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder), chronic pain disorders and conditions like cluster headaches, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent severe headaches.

Zach Leary, the adopted stepson of psychologist and ‘60s and ‘70s psychedelic counterculture leader Timothy Leary, will emcee the event.

Leary is the host of the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS) “It’s All Happening” podcast, a role that, he said, "has brought me into so many good conversations with so many thought leaders in the psychedelic space."

The 49-year-old Leary studied with spiritual teacher

Baba Ram Dass (formerly known as Richard Alpert), who, in the early 1960s, was the elder Leary's close friend and professional associate at Harvard University, where the two were researching the therapeutic effects of psychedelic drugs like lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), more commonly known as “acid.”

With the younger Leary’s upbringing in the world of psychedelics, he observed, “When psychedelics were a part of the ‘60s counterculture, psychedelic research, in legitimate circles, went dormant for decades because of a cultural bias against psychedelics."

For example, Leary shared, "MAPS brought psychedelics out of the counterculture and into the mainstream in a very effective, articulate and legitimate way,” partly by participating in clinical trials at the Veterans Administration with people suffering from PTSD, which “is helping to change biases around psychedelics.”

Scientists and researchers at Johns Hopkins University have seen veterans' lives changed by the introduction of psychedelics. "My passion is bringing all the cultures together to have an equal seat at the table and discuss how we can move forward in the best way possible,” Leary said.

The “Psychedelic Renaissance,” which began about 15 years ago, has focused on a topic of prime importance within the psychedelic community — drug purity.

The Renaissance has also “created an atmosphere and ecosystem where these compounds are created with a high degree of integrity, which is good for the end user because it lets them know that what they're getting is pure and safe,” Leary shared.

One result of the advance in psychedelic research has been its introduction into America's mental health

Courtesy photo

care dialogue. "We see many different populations suffering from anxiety, depression and PTSD, and more people agree that the current treatments are sometimes ineffective in treating mental illness.” Leary explained, “Psychedelics have more of a transformational approach, which means a psychosocial spiritual overhaul that allows you to have a new relationship with whatever's going on with you.”

He cited the ongoing psychedelic research at well-respected institutions like New York and Johns Hopkins universities and the Royal College of London yielding positive results, of which "the data is extraordinary." He added, "One of my hopes is that people who are suffering can get the help they need.”

continued on page 21

High water levels are creating potentially dangerous conditions. Always check conditions before going on the water.

DANGEROUS CURRENTS

Debris and trees create invisible and dangerous underwater currents

COLD WATER

Cold water can result in potentially fatal hypothermia

UNSTABLE RIVER BANKS

Riverbanks can erode and break away without warning

LIFE JACKET

Always wear a life jacket while boating, paddleboarding or jet skiing

BOAT SOBER

Boating while impaired can be deadly BOAT WITH FRIENDS

Never boat alone. Let someone know where you are going and when you will return PROPER EQUIPMENT

Use equipment designed for the river or lake. Pool toys will not keep you safe

Saturday, june 10th 2023-CARBONDALE POOL SUNLIGHT MTN

1/2 MILE SWIM, 16 Mile Bike ride (2,700ft vertical gain), 5k run (600ft vertical gain)

RACE begins at 7AM - Afterparty at SUNLIGHT AT NOON

To register vist: www.trisignup.com/Race/Info/CO/Carbondale/TrifortheSun

Symposium emcee Zach Leary is an author, a retreat facilitator and developer of the Psychedelic Studies Intensive Program, an eight-week course designed to deliver a holistic approach to assisting others with their healing using psychedelic plants and medicines.

Shining Mountains Pow Wow returns to Aspen

By Tom Mercer Sopris Sun Correspondent

There is a very special event scheduled for the Memorial Day weekend at Aspen High School in the Big Gym. It’s suitable for the whole family, it’s inexpensive, and it’s both educational and great entertainment.

Deanne Vitrac-Kessler, local organizer of the upcoming Shining Mountains Pow Wow and co-founder of the Aspen Indigenous Foundation, said: “This will be the third pow wow in Aspen that I have organized.” She continued, “Pow Wows are generally organized by a committee that works for months” to prepare. She explained, “The committee books drum groups, the Head Man and Head Woman dancers, the spiritual person who will lead the blessing prayer, and the color guards.” They also arrange food and lodging for the staff. Last, but not least, the committee raises money to pay the champion dancers, drummers and singers.

Vitrac-Kessler credited Emcee Steve LaPointe and Arena Director Phil Gover for their assistance in organizing Aspen’s upcoming pow wow, saying that arranging an event of this magnitude is no easy task. She reported that more than 100 native participants are expected to attend, and they will be coming from Colorado, Montana, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Arizona.

She added, “Most pow wows are highly competitive,” noting that this pow wow will likely not be any different. Each competitors’ regalia alone can cost thousands of dollars and champion dancers and singers attend as many pow wows as they can. Vitrac-Kessler

said there is a pow wow circuit that is followed by the “champion dancers and singers” as a way of making money through their talents. But primarily, she continued, a pow wow is “an opportunity to gather, sing, dance, reconnect with old friends and celebrate

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Euclid Alley & Crystal Circle Sewer Improvements

Issue Date: 5/8/2023 | Closing Date: 5/30/2023

rich ancestral histories and culture.”

Some historians claim that pow wows originated with warriors returning to their tribes after battling enemies. They were a means of relating bravery and the battle’s events via traditional dances. The most prestigious act in battle involved not killing, but “counting coup,” which required coming close enough to hit the enemy for the purpose of humiliating them.

Aspen’s Shining Mountains

Pow Wow will feature 15 vendors’ booths offering native silver and turquoise jewelry, crafts and clothes. Navajo fry breads and Indian tacos will also be available. A Pow Wow is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn more about the culture of the people who first called this land their home. Take the kids — they’ll love it.

Details:

Saturday, May 27

1-5pm & 6-9pm

Sunday, May 28

1-5pm

Adults: $10

Students: $5

Under 12 or Veterans: Free

Camping: Allowed, no camper hook-ups

Showers available

Public Works Department

Town of Carbondale

511 Colorado Ave Carbondale, CO 81623

Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference: 5/16/2023 @ 2 PM at Project Site

Sealed bids for the construction of the Euclid Alley & Crystal Circle Sewer Improvements will be received from invited Bidders by the Town of Carbondale (“OWNER”) at Town Hall, 511 Colorado Ave, Carbondale, CO 81623, until 1:00 PM on May 30, 2023, at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. The project consists of two sewer main improvements, one in Euclid Alley and the other in Crystal Circle. The Euclid Alley Sewer Main Replacement consists of the installation approximately 750 LF of new sewer pipe and manholes, reconnecting existing sewer services, and abandoning existing manholes. The Crystal Circle Sewer Main Repair consists of a sewer main pipe repair, water service line replacement and associated pavement repair. Bids will be received for a single prime Contract. The prime Contract will be split into two phases to cover two separate sewer replacement and repair projects, with the first in Euclid Alley and the second in Crystal Circle. Bids shall be on a unit price basis as indicated in the Bid Form. All bids shall include pricing to meet Buy American/AIS and Davis Bacon wages requirements per Federal regulations. Bidding Documents will be provided to prospective Bidders as electronic PDF files.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: Roaring Fork Engineering (RFE), 592 Hwy 133, Carbondale, CO, 81623 (Contact: Anthony Alfini, PE (970) 618-7073, AnthonyA@rfeng.biz).

Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office on Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below.

Bidding Documents are available as electronic portable document format (PDF) files. Alternatively, printed Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office via in-person pick-up, for a nonrefundable charge of $25 per set. Checks for Bidding Documents shall be payable to Roaring Fork Engineering. The date that the Bidding Documents are transmitted by the Issuing Office will be considered the date of receipt of the Bidding Documents. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office.

A pre-bid conference will be held at 2:00 PM on May 16, 2023 at the west side of Sopris Park (in Carbondale, CO) near the restroom building. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is highly encouraged but is not mandatory. A 5% bid security shall be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. Bidders shall submit proof of qualifications to perform the Work as described in the Instructions to Bidders.

Public Works Department Town of Carbondale

Courtesy photo

Aperture of Hope sheds light on grief

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

When you visit the Aperture of Hope website, you are greeted by the photo of a young woman with green eyes, long auburn-colored hair and a gentle smile.

That fresh-faced young woman, Emily Adams, died after ingesting a fentanyl-laced Percocet pill.

At the time of her death, the 21-year-old was employed as a peer support specialist at a men’s recovery center in Tucson, Arizona. It was April 2020, the early days of the pandemic, and Emily was one of many across the country who would be laid off from her job. Despite the layoff, “she was loving her job and looking forward to going to school in the fall to be an addiction counselor,” said her mother, Cath.

Cath thinks Emily was looking for relief from tooth pain. The browser history on Emily’s cell phone revealed she had searched images of Percocet pills — possibly to identify their color, shape and inscribed imprint codes — in an attempt to ensure that what she was taking was, in fact, a Percocet pill.

“I know she was looking for a Percocet because of the search on her

phone, but I cannot tell you if it was someone from work that gave it to her or how she got it,” Cath explained.

The next day was Emily’s younger sister’s 16th birthday, so when the telephone rang, they thought it would be Emily sending Ashley birthday wishes. Instead, it was the call no one ever wants to get.

Cath recalled they were told there would have to be an autopsy. After about a month, the autopsy report stated that Emily’s heart, brain and organs were healthy and determined there was only one substance in her body — fentanyl.

Since Emily’s death, Cath and her husband, Gregg, and their son and daughter speak to students in schools and other community groups to bring awareness about the pervasiveness of fentanyl.

After Cath completed a storytelling class, she said, “It totally flipped things around and changed how I tell my story by looking at the beauty and hope.”

She said, “The story [of Emily’s death] has many layers, and it has evolved from how we shared our stories with others at the very beginning. And because fentanyl is a big topic, I was more focused on the cause of Emily's death rather than the cause of Emily’s life.”

While the family continues to engage groups in conversation about fentanyl, Cath and Gregg, who have run a professional photography business for over 20 years, have turned the lens to a different focus, forming Aperture of Hope.

Aperture of Hope uses photography as a tool to connect with others and, in turn, help others connect with themselves. For example, someone dealing with depression can find solace in photography's quiet nature. Cath has worked with people undergoing significant life changes, like health issues or coping with loss and has

found a contemplative mind as one becomes immersed in composing the shot.

The parallels between life and photography are many. Cath said, “Choices are made as to what you wish to focus on and what you choose to leave out of the frame. In the mindfulness of the moment, you start to see the little things and how they relate to our everyday lives, which can send you on a path of healing.”

For more information about Aperture of Hope’s work, go to www.apertureofhope.com

The RFSD Board of Education adopted and approved a proclamation declaring May 9 as Fentanyl Awareness Day in the Roaring Fork Schools in honor of Emily Adams. After the meeting, the group posed for a photo: (left to right) directors Kenny Teitler, Maureen Stepp and Jasmin Ramirez, Superintendent Dr. Jesús Rodríguez, Cath Adams (holding a drawing of Emily by Edie O'Byrne), Cath's daughter, Ashley, and Director Natalie Torres. Photo by Jeanne Souldern

Lamont bids adieu after 25 years at CMS

By Kayla Kaufman Youth Correspondent

After 25 years at Carbondale Middle School (CMS), Jennifer Lamont will retire as its principal at the end of this school year. Lamont has had a highly successful career, and is adored by the CMS and Carbondale communities.

Lamont’s enthusiasm for education and dedication to the middle school have provided a long-lasting impression on students and staff. In a line of work that has increasingly seen teachers and administrators leaving the profession, Lamont’s career is inspiring, certainly in this reporter’s eyes.

Over the years, Lamont has enjoyed working closely with CMS families, expressing to The Sopris Sun, “It really felt like being a part of something.”

Prior to her employment with CMS, Lamont worked at Aspen Middle School. In 1998, she purchased a home in Carbondale and applied for a job at the middle school as a special education teacher, which was in line with her major in college. After a brief 20-minute interview, she was hired.

In 2011, after working as a special education teacher for 13 years, Lamont moved on to become the school’s assistant principal. Merely two years later, she was

promoted as its principal, a position she has excelled at alongside Assistant Principal Heather Fox and a talented teaching staff.

Building relationships with students has been a guiding light in Lamont’s career, perhaps not in small-part due to Carbondale’s tight-knit community. Naturally, and luckily for her, fulfilling the leadership role at CMS inevitably brought about that camaraderie between herself, her colleagues, her students and their families. Lamont’s friendly nature and caring disposition also imposed a level of respect and trust among the administration at CMS.

Lamont leaves her position after having navigated many challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as many great successes, for instance, when CMS was awarded the Colorado Succeeds Award in 2018. Something unique about CMS is its environment, Lamont told The Sopris Sun. She hopes students will remember “the feeling when you are in the hallways.”

Under Lamont’s leadership, CMS has made school more enjoyable for students by providing not only a healthy learning space but additional fun activities such as spirit weeks, dances and music accompanying the class-bell.

Community members have expressed gratitude for Lamont’s service to the thousands of students

who have walked the halls of CMS during her tenure. They wish her a relaxing retirement and hope she’ll enjoy whatever endeavors she’ll pursue next.

On a personal level, Lamont stated that her upcoming transition, leaving CMS, is sure to be difficult and that the change is drastic. “I take my life in summer and semesters,” she said in jest. Lamont plans on taking time for family and friends. She will visit her three daughters on the East Coast this summer, enjoy more skiing next winter and plans to eventually make her way back to CMS to substitute part-time.

She is confident that CMS will be in good hands under the guidance of Michael Logan, who will take the helm as the next principal of CMS, beginning the 2023-2024 school year.

On May 22, Ross Montessori School honored their scholar-athletes for the 2023/24 school year. These students have reached a state or national in their sport. The following students were acknowledged for their hard work in balancing being a student with being an athlete simultaneously. Sports represented are: baseball, big air snowboarding, big mountain skiing, downhill mountain biking, fencing, hockey, mogul skiing, soccer, swimming and snowboarding. Congratulations for representing your school so well: Brody Beauchamp, Hugo Faughn, Micah Morey, Brody McDermott, Reed Russell, Charlie Sanders, Henry Sanders, Kate Sanders, Judah Simmons, Andrew Tews, Cristian Turcios (not pictured) and Faye VanMoorsel. Courtesy photo

That's a wrap! RFHS sports had an impressive showing this spring season, with baseball advancing to the first round of state playoffs, and soccer and lacrosse both making it to the second round. Athletic Director Crista Barlow was glad to see the students work hard and support each other. Photo by Sue Rollyson

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Jennifer Lamont, photo by Kayla Kaufman

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

On April 11, Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers (RFOV) announced its summer and fall community projects. The Carbondale-based nonprofit promotes stewardship of public lands through volunteer projects, events and other educational and community activities.

RFOV was established in 1995 by David Hamilton, Kevin O'Brien and Michael Hutton. Since then, RFOV has worked to immerse volunteers in the ways of stewardship in partnership with federal and state agencies, and local organizations. Recently RFOV expanded its efforts in the Crystal River Valley. Volunteer programs and training sessions for this season began on May 18 and will conclude on Oct.15. The organization is expanding its trail crew efforts to care for high-priority areas in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass area. It will also host the Marble Stewardship Weekend Extravaganza, June 24-25. RFOV is offering an additional summer session for its popular youth program, "Adventure Stewards,” plus, "Little Explorers," a childcare program for volunteers with children ages 4-8. Projects this season focus on wilderness restoration, trail maintenance and backpacking.

A recent volunteer project involved trail maintenance and restoration of the Mushroom Rock and Blue Ribbon trails. Volunteers worked three consecutive Tuesday evenings, May 2, 9 and 16, to clean those trails.

"We define stewardship as caring for the places that we care about. When you define it in that way, stewardship can mean many different things," Program Director Melissa Daniels stated. "It can mean caring for the park next to your house, or it can mean caring for the trails."

Daniels has been with RFOV since March of 2021 and worked closely with her colleagues and community members, instilling comradery between those who participate. She holds a Master’s Degree in natural resources and environmental sciences.

"We have an immense privilege to live in an incredibly beautiful place, with lots of opportunities to be outdoors, again, whether that's at our local park or our backcountry trails. I think that we have a responsibility to take care of

those places so that future generations can enjoy them,” she continued, “We care about stewarding our community. We're not just out there fixing trails and planting; we're also out there helping people build a sense of community with each other."

Daniels highlighted RFOV's launch of its chainsaw sawyer program, held May 19-21, which equipped volunteers with chainsaw safety skills to be utilized during fire mitigation projects.

Sara Gilbertson, RFOV’s communications and engagement director, praised the training designed by Daniles for each project. Gilbertson has been involved with RFOV for nearly a year and has a background with the World Wildlife Conservation Fund and National Geographic.

"On the 2023 project season schedule, you'll see it says, ‘Register here, come on out, join one of our crews, do some work and meet new people,’" Gilbertson stated. "Those opportunities are what we refer to as community projects. We also have projects where volunteers learn specific skills, such as using a chainsaw or the basics of restoration or rock work. These training sessions are great as they enable volunteers to become more highly skilled."

Gilbertson echoed Daniels’ sentiment that engaging volunteers in restoration efforts helps people become more involved with their community while caring for our lands.

"At community projects, everybody introduces themselves to each other, and we share information about ourselves — like in a staff meeting. [This is] why we engage with as many volunteers as possible, so they can all meet each other and become more embedded in our shared community," Gilbertson explained.

She and Daniels explained that RFOV's website shows the level of labor expected for each offering. This feature allows those looking to get involved with stewardship activities to choose whether they want to do communication-based volunteer work or the heavy lifting that comes with the restoration projects.

RFOV is currently recruiting new volunteers, and a full schedule of volunteer activities is available on their website. To sign up, visit www.rfov.org or stop by their office at the Third Street Center in Carbondale.

Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers partnered with organizations like CORE to maintain popular trails like Braderich Creek in 2022. Courtesy photo

CORE Act continued from page 4 energy production, stop active forest management that will reduce wildfires and prohibit critical minerals exploration. “

Bennet told reporters during last week’s call that the national monument designation helps build momentum for the CORE Act. “Those designations themselves have the support of the vast majority of people in Colorado. Eighty percent of people support the CORE Act,” he said.

“Obviously, having a split House is going to add to the challenge,” he said, adding that it’s too early to tell this year. “At this stage, I would never predict failure, but instead would bet on success because we have momentum,” he explained. “It's well understood in Washington how broadly supported this legislation is on the ground.”

The USFS will accept public scoping comments on the proposal until June 16. You can find more information and how to comment at www.bit.ly/PublicCommentTD

Apple Tree

A seriously close call

continued from page 14

heard several complaints from mobile home park residents around the state regarding water quality. He said IPG’s willingness to address the concern in Apple Tree was unique.

“I want to say, to Jeff and IPG’s credit, they have been active in working with us. I know that the issues you are facing are real and I don’t want to dismiss them at all, but it is a good sign that the park owners, the state, the local government and the community members are all here together…” Howell stated.

Psychadelics

continued from page 16

The symposium will conclude with a keynote address delivered by Dennis McKenna, the brother of well-known psychedelics proponent Terence McKenna.

In the early 1970s, the McKenna brothers, who were born and raised in Paonia, collaborated with Jeremy Bigwood to develop a technique for the at-home cultivation of psilocybin mushrooms, which they published in a 1993 book titled “Psilocybin: Magic Mushroom Grower’s Guide: A Handbook for Psilocybin Enthusiasts.”

In Leary’s closing comments with The Sopris Sun, he said his journey and dedication to learning more about the positive uses of modern-day psychedelics led him to observe, “I am not a zealot [for the use of psychedelics], by any stretch. I don't think psychedelics are for every single person on any given day. My main mission is that they are accepted as a method for healing, mental health wellness, spiritual growth and safe recreational use. They have the same legitimacy as anything, including meditation, yoga and breathwork. It's all part of the same idea; that we should have the freedom to change our consciousness as we see fit.”

single person on any given day. My main mission is that they are accepted as a method for at

Tickets for the June 2 event, from noon to 7pm, are available at aspenshowtix.com at $28 per person. Per the Aspen Public Radio website, the ticket price includes all handling fees “as organizers seek to provide affordable access to this important conversation.” Spanish-language translation will be provided by the Wheeler.

By Tom Mercer Sopris Sun Correspondent

Lynn Hazzard, a long-time resident of Carbondale, recently survived a serious medical emergency, thanks to her attentive neighbors Cheryl and Bruce Hasselbring.

The Hasselbrings were accustomed to seeing Hazzard enjoying her morning coffee outside on her deck, but one morning, Hazzard was nowhere to be seen and her window shades were still closed. Concerned for their neighbor, the Hasselbrings checked to see if she was all right. She wasn’t.

Hazzard was displaying some alarming symptoms, so they took her to her doctor, followed by a quick trip to Valley View Hospital for a Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI). Based on the results of the

MRI, they took Hazzard to Valley View’s emergency room which was followed by a quick trip by ambulance to St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction.

Hazzard’s condition was determined to be the result of a potentially life-threatening subdural hematoma, so surgery was scheduled for the following morning. Hazzard is home now and her son and daughter-inlaw are staying with her. She is expected to make a full recovery.

She would like to remind us that if we notice that someone is exhibiting personality changes, headaches and dizziness, that these symptoms may be caused by a very serious, or even lifethreatening, medical condition. So, don’t wait — see a doctor.

Lynn Hazzard was saved by her neighbors, Cheryl and Bruce Hasselbring. Courtesy photo

Managing with less water, western producers feel the heat GUEST

OPINION

By Ava Gilbert

The Colorado River has been getting attention like never before due to reservoir levels dropping in a decadeslong drought. When assessing major water usage, people are quick to point a finger at farmers. Farmers are under immense pressure, feeding much of the U.S. while embedded in a large system, culture and economy. So, when we’re considering where to make changes to save our river system, we need a holistic approach; one that is solutions-oriented and considers the lasting impacts.

Colorado River water is sorely overallocated. Anyone living in the seven Colorado River basin states can feel the tension of a scarce resource getting scarcer. We should all invest in positive change, instead of placing blame on others. Solutions to save the Colorado River need to come from citizens, policy makers, local and regional officials, as well as farmers. We all need to talk about realistic options as we move into a dryer future.

One option for a resilient future is for farmers to transition to more efficient irrigation methods. This doesn’t work in all situations, because water conservation equipment can be expensive and labor-intensive. Small-scale, mixed-crop producers are naturally more compatible with watersaving irrigation techniques. Common examples include drip emitters, precisely targeted at each plant's roots, and efficient over-head wobbler emitters.

Farmers don’t get enough income to cover the cost of labor and basic equipment as is, so this kind of equipment most often requires grant funding or donations. As mentioned in MIT News, “Drip irrigation can reduce a farm’s water consumption by as much as 60% and increase crop yield by 90% compared with conventional irrigation methods. But these systems are expensive, particularly in off-grid environments where they cost farmers more than $3,000 per acre to install.”

Water retention, or keeping water on the land, can be achieved a few different ways. We know that simply having perennial vegetation present will help retain water in an area for longer. Farmers implement gardens and hedgerows throughout their property for this reason, and many other benefits. In tandem with this, small retention ponds and thoughtful landscaping can have a powerful impact on a farm’s water cycle. Zach Weiss describes the success stories

of this type of work on episode 110 of the Down to Earth Podcast.

Prioritizing soil health is also a big contributing factor, and one that producers in the West are rapidly becoming more aware of. Healthy soils with organic matter and living microorganisms retain water, which means crops require less frequent irrigation. Methods such as low-till, cover-cropping, crop rotation, limited compaction and rotational grazing can help build healthy soil. This is sometimes referred to as “regenerative agriculture.” These techniques, discussed in Paul Hawken’s book called “Drawdown,” are known to increase water retention several-fold, thus creating drought tolerance and flood insurance.

Producers can also transition into growing less water-intensive crops and instead choose those better suited to an arid climate. This method works for large-scale producers, as they are typically focused on one crop. Alfalfa and corn are the most prevalent and water-intensive crops in Colorado; whereas other popular crops such as sugar beets, dry beans, or garlic need very little water.

Making this transition would require a shift in government subsidies. As mentioned in a 2021 article from American Action Forum, “Subsidies for corn — the most abundant crop in the United States — have far surpassed

those for any other crop, estimated to have totaled more than $116 billion since 1995. This is followed by subsidies for wheat at $48.4 billion and for soybeans at $44.9 billion over that same period.” In fact, there’s a lot that the federal and state governments can do in terms of policy, incentive and support. The Colorado River District is an organization working to educate the public and policy makers alike, while advocating for farmers.

Another option is to stop irrigating so much land. Fallowing is the act of leaving an area out of production and unirrigated for a while. A new program called the System Conservation Pilot Program (SCPP) is part of a broader initiative by Colorado and three other states to help stabilize the river system. It is compensating farmers who practice fallowing. Large-scale producers and ranchers don’t have the option to adopt small-scale technology that waters more precisely and don't have the option to forgo income from crop sales. This program may especially be helpful in supporting these larger operations to transition to different crops or land management strategies. There’s a lot of criticism directed toward the SCPP, but it may have a role to play in the bigger picture.

We can also focus on cutting water use in other land management sectors in addition to commercial agriculture. Lawns and parks, for example, need to be managed much differently. While “green space” or access to nature is essential for human well-being, it should

continues on page 23

CMC intends to soften the impact of increased property values

CMC Board of Trustees Guest Column

As many property owners digest considerable increases in 2023 property valuations, the Colorado Mountain College Board of Trustees plans to reduce its mill levy to keep revenue growth near inflation (5.7%) in the 2023 tax year. We believe this is the right thing to do for the college and for taxpayers in CMC’s multicounty district.

CMC was founded nearly 60 years ago as a locally funded college that serves its communities with postsecondary education and training opportunities closely tied to the regional economy and workforce needs. This has never changed. In recent years, CMC has worked diligently to ensure that special taxing districts can adapt to changing economic realities.

None of us could have anticipated the acute and accelerated increase in property values. Fortunately, entities like CMC now have the capacity to temporarily lower their mill levies to reduce the fiscal pressures felt by businesses and homeowners.

You may have read recent headlines from the state capitol in Denver promising reductions in property taxes due to the dramatically higher property evaluations. While these are attractive initiatives, the reality is that this proposed package is a complicated mix of new regulations and a referred measure that will need voter

approval in November. And this measure may compete with other property tax initiatives on the ballot.

Whether and if these measures are adopted is to be determined. In the meantime, we, the CMC Board of Trustees, intend to lower the college’s mill levy in December 2023 to a level in which overall revenue from this source does not exceed inflation.

We won’t be able to set that level until December 2023, as we must first receive final property valuations from counties later in the summer and then watch to see if measures on the 2023 ballot pass or fail. So, we ask for your patience and confidence.

Financially speaking, CMC is one of the healthiest and best managed public colleges in the state, and, arguably,

the nation. The college’s credit rating increased twice in the past decade and is the second highest among all colleges and universities in the state – a rating we work hard to maintain.

This enviable fiscal health allows the college to invest in new academic and locally relevant training programs, state-of-the-art facilities, competitive wages and benefits, and housing. It is not, however, an invitation to arbitrarily collect revenues above the college’s budgetary needs. We believe that effectively stewarding local resources requires balance, care and integrity.

We all live here, too, and we love our rural mountain towns. We are your neighbors and strategic partners, and it is our privilege to represent Colorado Mountain College.

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NETTLE CREEK MICRO-HYDRO PROJECT

Issue Date: 5/23/2023 | Closing Date: 6/13/2023

Guest Opinion

continued

reflect natural environmental limits. Home gardens and community gardens can be sources of locally-grown food while consuming less water. Smart landscape design in public parks also reduces water consumption.

These are just a few options when it comes to using less water in agriculture. It remains unclear how much water will be conserved with each solution. Farmers and politicians need to implement a variety of approaches that will make progress across small-scale and large-scale farms, as well as other sectors. The transition to responsible water management cannot completely fall on the shoulders of farmers.

There are a number of things that we can all do. Look into reliable resources on water and attend community meetings regarding the topic. Stay up to date with new farm bills and make your support known for policies that will promote this transition. Invest in local agriculture and consider on-farm tours or volunteer opportunities to gain real context about that side of the food system.

Let’s all take responsibility for our dependence on the Colorado River and be proactive about our options.

Public Works Department

Town of Carbondale 511 Colorado Ave Carbondale, CO 81623

Non-Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference: 6/6/2023 @ 9:30 at Project Site

Sealed bids for the construction of the Nettle Creek Micro-Hydro Project will be received from invited Bidders by the Town of Carbondale (“OWNER”) at Town Hall, 511 Colorado Ave, Carbondale, CO 81623, until 1:00 PM on June 13th, 2023, at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. The Nettle Creek Micro-Hydro project consists of the installation of a micro-hydro plant located next to South Nettle Creek and the Nettle Creek Water Treatment Facility. The scope of work includes the construction of a micro-hydroelectric powerhouse and required existing pipeline modifications to operate the plant. Additionally, grading and drainage improvements will be part of the site work.

Bids will be received for a single prime Contract. Bidding Documents will be provided to prospective Bidders as electronic PDF files.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is Roaring Fork Engineering (RFE), 592 Hwy 133, Carbondale, CO, 81623 (Contact: Maggie McHugh, PE (614) 256-4714, MaggieM@rfeng.biz). Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office on Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 8 AM to 5 PM and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below.

Bidding Documents are available as electronic portable document format (PDF) files. Alternatively, printed Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office via in-person pick-up, for a non- refundable charge of $75 per set. Checks for Bidding Documents shall be payable to Roaring Fork Engineering. The date that the Bidding Documents are transmitted by the Issuing Office will be considered the date of receipt of the Bidding Documents. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office.

A mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at 9:30 AM on June 6, 2023 at the project site located next to the Nettle Creek Water Plant. Contractors should plan for 2-3 hours for the site visit. See the project manual for more details about the mandatory pre-bid conference. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is mandatory.

A 5% bid security shall be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. Bidders shall submit proof of qualifications to perform the Work as described in the Instructions to Bidders.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: Roaring Fork Engineering (RFE), 592 Hwy 133, Carbondale, CO, 81623 Contact: Maggie McHugh, PE (614) 256-4714, MaggieM@rfeng.biz).

Public Works Department Town of Carbondale

The CMC Board of Trustees (from left to right): Chris Romer, Patty Theobald, Peg Portscheller, Marianne Virgili, Bob Hartzell, Marky Butler, Bob Kuusinen and David Armstrong. Courtesy photo

Shades of Nuance: Dispatches from the Eastern Front

By Tucker D. Farris Foreign Correspondent

Vilnius, Lithuania- Past 10pm, as the Baltic sun finally retreats over the horizon, the winding cobbled streets and yellow brick facades of the Old Town of Vilnius fades into a curious silence. It is not the silence of our little valley town, where the howl of coyotes and the occasional passing car on 133 punctuate the night. It is the silence of a European neighborhood abutted by universities and tourist spots. A dull thump of club music echoing through the walls from the pub that now caters to spring breaking 20-year-olds, after surviving nearly a century of hostile occupation, peppers the night in a rhythmic tone of distant familiarity. The murmur of the pensioners on holiday finding their way up the lane and stopping by souvenir stalls and cafés full of English-speakers blends with the club music to form an almost compositional contrast.

Breaking the calm of the city's silence is the occasional outburst of the intoxicated frolickers happily stumbling to their accommodations from a night of cheap, but overpriced beers on the tourist streets.

This is not the silence that concerns me, nor is it a weight on my mind. These are the sounds of life, of reality, of existence playing out just as similarly as the live music echoing out of Sopris Park during every Mountain Fair. It is evidence that humans are living and experiencing life. The silence that is bubbling just below the revelry, however, that is the true worry. It is the pressure, the realization, the understanding that less than a thousand miles to the southwest, a war is waging every single day that stands to put the existential reality of all of us in sharp focus.

From the patio of a café on Pilies street, over an espresso, you can watch a curious procession on weekends. Young soldiers in their uniforms walking with their parents up the main drag, talking animatedly, sharing smiles, and preparing to go in for a family breakfast. This is a stirring sight.

Lithuania has a uniquely dark history of young soldiers having to defend their homeland. It has been the dominant reality of these people for the past century at the very least. Occupied at one time or another by the German Empire, the Third Reich, the Russian Empire, and the Soviet Union, Lithuania has seen her fair share of conflict both in her streets and in the spirits of her people. The remnants of these eras are etched into the city of Vilnius in sometimes subtle, sometimes explicit ways.

The former headquarters of the KGB and before it, the Gestapo, stands perfectly preserved down the river from me, now the Museum of Occupation and Freedom Fights. Even on the street corners you can see the rusted steel Cyrillic street signs from when the Soviet Union renamed these ancient, cobbled ways underneath the far newer and more modern signs in the Lithuanian language.

Lithuania, as it exists at the moment I am authoring this piece, is barely three years older than I am, although the city outside my window is celebrating its 700th birthday. They were the first of the Soviet republics to secede from the USSR in 1991, ending a campaign of resistance to tyranny that began in the early years of the 20th century.

The soldier walking with his parents, a couple on the northern end of middle age, brings that history home. There is a very small chance that the man’s father walking in stride with him up the lane was not somehow in service to the national resistance at some point in his life. There is a guarantee that the young soldier’s grandparents fought the Germans in the 1940s or the Soviets after 1945.

Why is this haunting?

Because the shadow of that bubbling silence looms ever so loudly to the east. The sun rises from Belarus here, which lies only 30 miles away. There are Russian tanks and artillery there, heading to Ukraine. There are ICBMs there with global range. The silence echoing under the din of the city is this reality. That the war in Ukraine is not only real here,

but it is a stone’s throw across the forest.

Before I traveled here, I took note often in my wanderings through our little town of the numerous Ukrainian flags planted all over. Yard signs that say, “We Stand with Ukraine,” faded blue and yellow stripes in shop windows. A sentiment that was quite a trend a year ago when the invasion first began. There are similar flags here. The left façade of the presidential palace itself is adorned in the blue and yellow of Ukraine. The flags hang in tandem with the Lithuanian tricolor from every embassy, law office, bookstore and hotel.

But the sentiment is different here.

It is hard in our town to understand the nature of life beyond the Valley, particularly when we pride ourselves on living in a place so amazing, we haven’t a need to “pass the roundabout,” so to say. When we consume our news, we are now so conditioned to leave a story in the infinite scroll void and move to the next one without the time to process what we have read.

When I see the flags around home, I have to ask: “How are we standing with Ukraine?” When I see the flags here, I needn’t even ask. With Russia’s enclave of Kaliningrad to the west, Belarus to the east and Ukraine to the south, coupled with a fraught history of revolutionary defiance, this gem of the Baltic coast stands a prime target for an escalation at any moment. The soldier with his parents moves me to tears not for patriotism or for the glory of the heroes, but because I see this young man, a decade younger than me, happily enjoying the weekend with his parents knowing full well that it very well could be his last. He could, at a moment’s notice, be on the frontline trenches of a new global catastrophe.

The people of this city have stood with Ukraine. They have hosted her president; they have pledged untold amounts of arms and ammunition. A destroyed Russian tank stands rusted and burnt-out in the center of the city as a testament to the defenders of Ukraine and their efforts. There is a tension here that is twofold: stand with Ukraine and stand ready to defend your home. It can get lost in the beauty of the city and the warmth of spring, but it is here, nonetheless.

To those of us at home, I offer only the simplest of questions that quite ironically have been posed in academic circles here since the October Revolution: “What is to be done?”

How do we stand in the face of the greatest threat to our existential continuation of life? How do we invite our survival in the face of what is very real and very close to the hearts, minds and bodies of millions of our fellow humans?

I cannot presume to have the answers, nor can

I offer a commentary condemnation of this entire conflict in the medium of our local publication. What I may offer is the reminder that I espoused a year ago: there are an infinite palette of nuances in our time. The villainization of Russia en masse solves no problems and stands to indenture thousands of innocent people to the downfall of an imperialist’s failed attempt at immortality. To “stand with Ukraine” in word or gesture solely only serves to warm our own egos. To do nothing or to downplay the seriousness of this conflict dooms us all.

I cannot, nor will I suggest avenues for us to support the defenders of Bakhmut or Kyiv. I cannot provide strategies for the deconstruction of the Russian invasion. What I can ask, suggest, offer and plead of my neighbors is this: think outside of our valley in our experience of reality. It is difficult for a myriad of reasons in the U.S. to consider the lived realities of others beyond our borders, especially “behind the iron curtain.” But it is damnably critical for us to not just be informed, but to grow out beyond the veil of the Cold War that still so heavily looms over the cultural reality of the United States.

We cannot feasibly stand with Ukraine as readily as the citizens of this city. We cannot meet mothers and children at bus depots with blankets and warm pork dumplings and a home out of the cold while their sons and husbands stamp their feet in the frozen trenches in Donetsk. But we can do something. We must. Not for the political rivalry of the Cold War, not for the balance of European power and economics, but for the humanity of the people who every single day face the artillery shell, the cruise missile barrage, the siege, the hunger and the cold. When we look at our Ukrainian flags in our yards and in our windows, we, as residents of a town that prides itself on community, need to ask the critical question. How might I lend a hand to the preservation of humanity?

In my experience, I hope that the soldier I saw in the street never gets the call to leave, that his parents do not get the letter bearing the president’s printed signature, and that the candles in the cathedral do not become overly bright with memories of humanity lost in the forests and fields of this terrible contest of humanity versus extinction.

What is to be done?

Tucker Farris teaches sociology at Colorado State University, researches Cold War spy craft, and occasionally writes for this paper from all manner of places. His work currently reaches us from the Baltic States.

The Old Town of Vilnius, photo by Tucker Farris

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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

Stopping a season in its tracks

By Chris Hassig Carbondale

Have you wished to stop a season in its tracks?

To curl up in its ephemeral corner

To be engaged, one by one, to all its wonders

To stop time, I guess

It's coming on to lilac season

When my folly reaches full bloom

Winter withers to the peaks

The season takes me by the nose into its ripeness

I’m down by the swelling river

What does the river smell like?

I couldn’t tell you, but I know

Each year I think I forget, but then I find myself on the bank

There it is

Unmistakable

There’s a certain coolness, moisture and density pulled in with it, But that’s not the scent itself

I wander past the boundaries of my language

Find myself tongue-tied and surprised

How are there no common words to describe any of this?

I'm digging in the water, able to sense a solid object below the surface

But unable to mouth and free it into translation

It lives in mystery and intuition

Turning and scaling the river’s bank I’m hit with different multiplying worlds of smell,

Trying to name these vegetal waves of spring that layer and run together in the shifting breeze

And failing

Muddy slough, willow and dogwood, wild apple blossom

New grass pushing up through dead leaves

Stripped bark

I can’t even find a neutral term That word ‘smell’, it comes out ugly, biased

All the basic words I grasp

Smell, stink, stench, odor, whiff Scent, fragrance, aroma, balm, perfume

Feel rough and reductive to me

Ham-handedly dividing these fathoms into implied bad and good Without stopping to really sense them out

The smell of the river, the breath of returning spring, it's neither good nor bad—it’s just

More than that

So here I am, breathing in, trying to hold a season in Steeling for the heat

In love with a world beyond words

LETTERS

your ballot in the mail, online in your Holy Cross account or the Holy Cross website, or at the Annual Meeting. I encourage you to vote for Alex DeGolia.

Chris Hassig, Carbondale

HCE 2

Holy Cross Energy (HCE) members have a critical but easy decision to make in their choice of a Northern District director. A careful read of the impressive bios and statements of the candidates will reveal Linn Brooks as the top, outstanding choice.

I have known Linn Brooks for more than 20 years as a leader, visionary, problem-solver, and successful manager, all essential qualities for the HCE board. Linn was the general manager of two growing water and sanitation districts for 11 years, leading each through challenging legal, regulatory, personnel, environmental and fiscal changes, all requisite experiences for the HCE board. While leading these Eagle County water boards, Linn successfully created a culture of consistent, meaningful, cost-effective customer service as her priority, a hallmark of HCE’s mission.

Linn Brooks has experience working for and with, as well as leading, a board of directors. Linn successfully fostered close, working relationships with the changing directors of her two elected boards during her 11 years as GM. In her final four years at the water districts, Linn was elected president of the extremely diverse and influential Colorado Water Congress, a statewide board of water users and water interests, further qualifying her to successfully contribute as HCE director.

Additionally, Linn’s extensive leadership background in water provides her with the unique understanding of the critical waterenergy nexus faced by all energy utilities.

HCE faces remarkably similar challenges to those successfully navigated by Linn Brooks as a professional: environmental, regulatory, structural rate changes, aging infrastructure, communications, customer service, emissions reduction, housing and staffing. Linn’s professional background and experience are a made-to-order fit to contribute from the first day following her election to HCE’s board.

Do not delay, vote your HCE ballot now starting with an enthusiastic endorsement of Linn Brooks.

Sincerely, Chris Treese, Glenwood Springs

Tacos and Tunes

Ross Montessori hosted its third annual Tacos and Tunes on Saturday, May 13.

A special thanks to John Michel for playing lovely music at the event. We would like to thank Rolling Fork for providing delicious food. Also, we appreciate Pediatric Partners, Basalt Concrete, Schmueser Gordon and Meyer, DNC Mechanical, and Alpine

Bank for their ongoing support of Montessori education in the Valley. Our Parent Teacher Organization members, including officers Monika Baez, Jillyin Flecker, Abe Korah, and Jennifer Steele, are always so thoughtful in putting together these community events, and we really appreciate them!

Erin

Beaudette

and

Sonya Hemmen Ross Montessori School

Fireball Drop

Carbondale Rotary’s third annual Fireball Drop on Cinco de Mayo was a huge success! Volunteers, scholarship recipients and spectators joined us in Sopris Park on First Friday, May 5, to witness exactly 1,000 ping pong balls tumble from a fire truck ladder onto targets on the ground to select our winners. It was a beautiful, sunny day and great fun!

Huge thanks go out to our title sponsor, Ace Hardware of Carbondale, and featured sponsor, Alpine Bank, for their consistent and dedicated support.

ANB Bank, the amazing agents at Coldwell Banker Mason Morse in Carbondale, the Cowen Center, the Glenwood Springs Post Independent, Martin Insurance, Obermeyer Wood, Rivers Dentistry, RJ Paddywacks Pet Outfitters, Sopris Liquor and Wine, and Umbrella Roofing also stepped in with key support.

Other sponsors included Bookbinders, Colorado Family Dentistry, Sam Augustine at Compass Real Estate, Cornerstone Mortgage, DHM Design, Lulubelle and Bristlecone Mountain Sports, Willits Dentistry, Mike Waski, Modern Day Media, The Pain Center of the Roaring Fork Valley, Carbondale Car Care Phillips 66, Roaring Fork Family Physicians, Karen Pierson and Brian Leasure of Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s Real Estate at RVR, RK Wolff Safety Consulting, Sopris Engineering, and Whitsitt Law Office.

We would like to especially thank the wonderful men and women of the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District. They once again provided the equipment, manpower, expertise, and good music that made it all possible!

Thank you also goes to our event partners: the Town of Carbondale Parks and Recreation Department, Andrea and everyone at the Carbondale Chamber, The Sopris Sun, Greg and the crew at KDNK, and everyone at City Market Carbondale.

Lastly, many thanks to all of you who bought balls from us, our local National Honor Society high school students, Ascendigo, Roaring Fork Pickleball, and YouthZone! You’ve helped us raise much needed funds for these organizations as well as all our community service projects, scholarships and grants. We are indeed grateful to be a part of this wonderful community.

Carbondale Rotary Club

Plan ahead!

Construction at Brush Creek Park & Ride begins May 15

Parking at the Brush Creek Park & Ride will be reduced this summer Bus service will be unaffected. Park either in available parking spots at Brush Creek or park for free at Buttermilk

The construction project, funded in part by the Elected Officials Transportation Committee, will improve lighting and landscaping and double the number of paved parking spots.

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MISSION:

To provide a safe and supportive location for meetings, fellowship, educational activities, and social events for people, families, and friends in recovery.

Hosting live, hybrid and online recovery meetings.

of classics

“Ghost Riders in the Sky'' to “Story of My Life” by Social Distortion. Stroud, the Post Independent’s managing editor, is stepping away from the daily grind of journalism after more

Johnny

Questions? linda dupriest@pitkincount y.com (970) 309-3188

SERVICE DIRECTORY

www.meetingplacecarbondale.org

Jake Zamansky

(Above) Friends, family and colleagues — going back to the Valley Journal days — of John Stroud gathered for a night of karaoke at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue on Sunday, May 21. Reporters behind the byline showed their chops, including Stroud, seen here busting a move, who sang a handful

ranging from

Cash’s

than three decades in the industry here in the Roaring Fork Valley. Thank you for keeping the community up to speed over the years, John. Photo by James Steindler

(Top-Right) The Valley Journal gang poses for a photo around Christmas time, 1996. Can you spot Stroud? Photo from Valley Journal archives

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