There are two things we can count on in this world: death and taxes, and while death still appears to be an absolute, Garfield County property taxes are somewhat negotiable until June 8. The thing is, the county reassessed property values at the height of the roller coaster that is the housing market (especially in our little kingdom), and while the price of homes may come back down, we all know the taxes won’t.
I wonder about the origin of tax collection… Was it a group decision made while sitting around the campfire one night, or some old king hanging out in his drafty castle, thinking, “Boy, this place could really use some improvements. I should head down to the hardware marketplace and pick up a few things, but how will I pay for it…?”
What’s amazing to me: to this day we pay. We are all born on this planet, and one could argue that provides the right to water and shelter, but the trick is in the random lot to which we were born.
If we stick to the facts, over 4 billion years ago, our little planet was formed. It happened. Get over it. And now, life on Earth — as we perceive it — has transpired due to a long progression of small, not necessarily coordinated, everyday triumphs: amino acids in meteors, the end of The Age of Fishes, H2O, penicillin, coffee, etc.
Humans are a wonderfully creative and productive species, although we do have the tendency to be conceited and gullible — two traits that do not complement each other very well, or at all actually. Also, if you’re not into bureaucratic processes, this probably isn’t your favorite planet. Everything we do is by trial and error, and sometimes we must do it over and over again before we even understand that there was an error.
We are ranchers in the Crystal River Valley with family ties to the area going back generations. Like many people living here, our livelihood depends on clean air, clean water, and a stable future climate. Protecting local land and water, and ensuring a rapid transition to a clean energy future to protect our climate is critical to another hundred years of sustainable agriculture and healthy communities. By voting in the Holy Cross Energy board elections this month, you can support this transition and ensure local food security for future generations throughout our region.
We supported Alex DeGolia’s candidacy three years ago, and believe he remains the strongest candidate to continue to promote our values on the Holy Cross board. Through his service on the Thompson Divide Coalition board, where he currently serves as Vice President, and his work on clean energy and climate advocacy at Environmental Defense Fund, Alex is already active in protecting local land and water as well as our climate. Holy Cross is now on track to reach more than 90% clean and renewable electricity by the end of next year and has committed to 100% by 2030. It also has continued to keep electricity costs low and service
As far as tax (money) is concerned, we’ve set up a system that’s rigged to flip. This is a rafting term that means all our stuff is securely tied down on the boat, so that if it flips over in the river, we won’t have to watch all the food and beer turn to flotsam — or jetsam. (River rats are a wonderfully helpful, loyal tribe, but if they find your beer downriver, they probably won’t go out of their way to get it back to you. After all, all is fair in love and rapids.)
Ever since the put-in, it would seem we have had the haves and the have nots, i.e. those who can afford straps to tie their gear down, and those who cannot. If we take an alien’s-eye view, I worry that human intentions and actions may seem terribly archaic and primitive (but that’s probably just because we are.)
I mean, humans are very excited and busy with each new day; some of us drive around in our gas-guzzling SUVs and have meetings with each other to discuss how to get more money, and some of us get up early every day and spend our
reliable, which are critical to our ability to continue to operate our ranching business and for many other business owners throughout the region.
Voting started on May 16, and you can now vote by returning your ballot in the mail, signing into your Holy Cross Account, or on their website with a special code emailed to all members. However you vote, remember to do so and we hope you will vote for Alex DeGolia to protect our region’s environment for years to come.
Bill Fales and Marj Perry Cold Mountain RanchIt was Winston Churchill that said:
“We shape our buildings and afterwards our buildings shape us.” It is with a good dose of sadness that I read last week’s Sopris Sun article on the replacement plans for Carbondale’s Forest Service buildings.
There was a time when federal architects recognized the heritage they were a part of. I believe that high point was in the 1930s when a post office looked like a post office and a Forest Service building reflected its tradition as well. Think of our national parks and the lodges that were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps with the use of
time acquiring food and water and shelter. What may surprise the aliens is that the ones who spend their lives working for food and shelter to share with their family are considered the world’s poorest inhabitants and the ones who have to sit through mind-and-ass-numbing meetings while someone else brings up their children are considered the wealthy. Crazy!
In general, I am a rulefollower, and I can usually follow my heart through life without coloring too far outside the societal lines. But when the lines are arbitrarily drawn by a bored king-child and they conflict with common sense and the common man, then I have to say something.
Just like free piles and vehicles put out to pasture signal the absence of an HOA, tax hikes are a sure sign of gentrification, and they go hand-in-hand with expensive hardware stores and empty lawns. A significant increase in property tax will flip a quirky neighborhood faster than you can yell, “Highside!” That’s why I am encouraging my neighbors to appeal the county assessor’s evaluation and, while they’re at it, park an old boat out in front of the house.
www.garfield-county. com/assessor/appeals/
timber and stone. These were buildings that embraced an environmental aesthetic that we can still feel today. And as a building tradition, this aesthetic was continued at least through the 1960s in the use of materials and colors for Forest Service facilities.
With the proposed site development and building, I do wish there had been a more sensitive approach to the existing Forest Service campus. The proposal is very vehicle oriented, with a two lane wide “street” running through the site with parking stalls and a large gravel Maintenance Yard, but ironically an obvious lack of trees and the shade they provide.
I had a professor tell me once that architects save trees, developers cut them. In this instance, this is not quite true. The site plan shows the removal of two mature street trees and three internal trees without considering their replacement. As for the current buildings, the main structure is to be torn down. The historic Engineers Office and the former Stable when Sopris Park was its pasture — both small buildings — are also to be razed instead of relocated on-site. Only the metal warehouse building is to be saved. Ouch!
As for the new building, the use of
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A celebration of life for Julia Marshall, founding board chair for The Arts Campus at Willits (TACAW), will be held on the Listening Lawn at TACAW on Saturday, June 3 from 2 to 5pm. On top of being an integral advocate for the arts, Marshall designed the landscape at TACAW where the celebration will take place.
At least one local nonprofit has allegedly been fleeced of event revenue after using BrownPaperTickets.com to manage its ticket sales. The Better Business Bureau has logged hundreds of complaints against that company since June 2020. In 2022, it was acquired by Events.com, which has not stymied the flood of complaints regarding a general lack of communication and failure to return ticket sales in a timely manner (or at all). Event planners be cautioned.
Carbondale’s long-standing Memorial Day tradition, organized by the American Legion Post 101, involves a 21-gun salute at the White Hill and Evergreen cemeteries, where a commemorative wreath is left, followed by a salute on the Veterans Memorial Bridge crossing Highway 133. A wreath is dropped into the Roaring Fork River by children, in remembrance of all who lost their lives serving in the military. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
Cool Bricks Studio
White River Books
Alpine Animal Hospital
Novus Glass
Wilderness Workshop
5point Film Festival
Basalt Library
Aspen Strong
Carbondale Rotary
Colorado Animal Rescue
Carbondale Arts
Carbondale Chamber of Commerce
Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner in 2023? Email Todd@ soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866
Many folks have been wondering about the construction underway north of the electrical substation in Carbondale. Back in December 2020, trustees approved a 590unit self-storage facility at this location, along Highway 133, annexing 2.8 acres with the promise of connecting a sidewalk between the bridge and park and ride. The entrance will be right-in, right-out and the energy net-positive building, with rooftop solar, will be screened by murals.
The Garfield County Assessor’s Office reported a median increase of 54% over 2021 appraisals. Property owners now have until June 8 to appeal property values based on the local real estate market as of June 30, 2022. Restrictions, such as a state legislature-approved $15,000 valuation reduction for residential and $30,000 for commercial properties, will prevent taxes from jumping quite as high as assessments. Information about appeals, property tax deferral programs, senior and veterans exemptions and more are at www. garfield-county.com/assessor
The Safe Abundant Nutrition Alliance (SANA) is expanding its services and seeking a full time program manager
to help coordinate partnerships and increase enrollment in food benefit programs in Pitkin, Eagle and Garfield counties. Proficiency in English and Spanish is required, as well as supervisory experience and intermediate computer skills. For more details, email mariajudithalvarezq@gmail.com
Due to the harsh winter conditions in the northwest part of the state, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced that it will reduce the number of biggame hunting licenses and shorten hunting seasons in areas where herds were most affected. CPW is issuing 236,600 licenses for deer, elk, pronghorn, moose and bear — down 32,000 from last year. CPW monitored collared big-game and based on its research decided on the limitations. Visit www.bit.ly/COBigGame for more detailed updates regarding the 2023 big-game seasons.
“At the request of the Colorado Energy Office on behalf of Governor Polis … Holy Cross Energy (HCE) has agreed to temporarily suspend the proposed electric rate changes intended to take effect on Sept. 1,” informed a press release. The decision was made by the HCE board on May 24. Approximately 135 members and stakeholders provided comments in person and virtually during that meeting, in addition to 300 written comments received during the preceding public comment period.
The “Experience Electric Road Show” will make its final stop at the Glenwood Springs Community Center on June 4. At 1pm, there will be a bilingual “Electric Vehicle (EV) 101” training, followed by a “ride or drive” period between 2 and 5pm when attendees can test drive EVs — including bikes and vehicles. Visit www. garfieldcleanenergy.org for more info.
Bonedale Ballet is currently accepting students, ages 3-6, for its summer session. Classes focus on fundamental ballet vocabulary, stretching, coordination, musicality and creative movement in a fun, supportive group setting. A student performance and family picnic will take place on the last day of the session. Sign up at www.bonedaleballet.com, or by calling Alexandra Jerkunica at 970-379-2187.
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Chip Munday, Shea Nieslanik, Debbie Romanus and Carolyn Sackariason (June 1); Li McBrayer, Matthew Mead, Easton O’Flannery and Tracy Trulove (June 2); Emily Elizabeth, Cheryl Frymire, Trary Maddalone LaMee and Anna Ramirez (June 3); Francie Jacober and Rachel Kelmanson (June 4); Kelsey Buss, Stephanie Ayala, Lacy Hughes, Johnny Nieslanik and Jim Ryan (June 5); Lisa Goddard, John Klusmire and Illène Pevec (June 6); Jenn Roeser and Gayle Wells (June 7).
the word on the street? Let us know at news@soprissun.com
Just in time for the outset of Historic Preservation Month, on Wednesday, May 24, stakeholders gathered for a ribbon cutting to mark the launch of phase one of the Cardiff Coke Ovens Stabilization Project.
The Cardiff Coke Ovens south of Glenwood Springs were built in the 1880s, but it wasn’t simply an operation where workers processed coal. The townsite of Cardiff was a bustling community with around 400 residents in its heyday, according to the Glenwood Springs Historical Society website.
Of course, it was a company town. The Grand River Coal and Coke Company established the coke ovens, only to transfer them a few years later to the Colorado Fuel and Iron Company, which had a stronghold over the industry. In 1915, the coke ovens ceased production for good. “The closure caused the decline of the town, little of which is left today,” reads the website.
In the early years following its closure, bricks from the ovens were taken and utilized elsewhere. Then, the elements took their toll and 21st century graffiti made its mark at the historical site. In fact, the site is accounted for on the National Register of Historic Places.
In 1998, the historical society acquired a grant from History Colorado-State Historical Fund to create a restoration plan for the 10 ovens it owned at the time. In 2017, the historical society purchased the remaining ovens, totalling 50, but still down from the original 249.
Twenty-five years later, the State Historical Fund stepped up once again to help preserve Cardiff’s legacy with another $35,000 grant for phase one. The City of Glenwood Springs matched $15,000 — the 25% match required for the grant.
According to Project Manager Carolyn Cipperly, archivist for the historical society, phase one will entail reducing vegetation at the south part of the site,
reseeding areas with native grass and wildflowers, installing an informational sign, graffiti removal (as approved by the State Historical Fund), the installation of caution signage and a “buck-and-rail fence beyond the oven tops to deter folks from walking on them.”
The City was granted $140,000 through the Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District for “planning and construction of parking, an ADA [American with
Disabilities Act] ramp, new stairs, an exhibit area for the equipment from the original mill — located to the north of the site — and a hard surface placed on the path in front of the dozen southern ovens,” shared Cipperly. “This work is tied to the South Bridge project, so exact timing is hard to say,” she added.
The city and the county each committed $50,000
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Carbondale wouldn't be Carbondale without our own newspaper to tell stories about who we arein pictures and words. The fact that our paper is a non-profit is so fitting for our town! We're happy to be playing our part as Sunscribers.
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By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun Correspondent
Most of the 68 campgrounds dotting the vast 2.3 million acres of the White River National Forest (WRNF) are managed by one private company, Vista Recreation (VR). According to VR’s website, it is now the largest operator of outdoor recreation facilities in the nation with a “footprint in 16 states and over 700 locations.” VR began partnering with the WRNF in 2011 and operates campgrounds in the Aspen-Sopris, Blanco, and Eagle-Holy Cross Ranger Districts, but its contract ends this year. The WRNF issued a prospectus in March, calling for management bids for the next 10 years, starting January 2024.
Section Seven of the Granger-Thye Act is what gives the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) the authority to contract with private companies to manage campgrounds. “It was issued in 1950 and is the law that allows us to allow a third party to occupy federal facilities,” explained Paula Peterson, WRNF’s recreation program manager who administers the concession permit.
Peterson told The Sopris Sun that the prospectus, a detailed document with appendices, is part of USFS policy that mandates a competitive bid process for federal campground management. “This permit is authorized at the forest supervisor’s level,” she added. WRNF Supervisor Scott Fitzwilliams will ultimately issue the permit to the successful bidder after each bid is reviewed by the USFS national and regional offices.
The application is basically a business proposal. The concessionaire is granted a special use permit and is responsible for all operations and maintenance of the recreation facilities as shown in the prospectus.
According to the WRNF, the gross revenue generated by VR from camping and day-use fees between 2020 and 2022 was a little over $2,367,000.
“The campground concessionaire charges the camping fee at all of these sites,” explained Peterson. “Then we add up all of those 60-plus sites and that is the campground concessionaire's revenue.” Other sundry fees, like the sale of firewood, can add to revenue. The concessionaire pays the USFS a fee,
based on a specific formula, which can be offset by certain kinds of authorized work.
The permittee hires the hosts or management teams to operate the campgrounds. Hosts provide their own self-contained living quarters, like a camper or fifth wheel, and all supplies. They are responsible for making sure the campgrounds and bathrooms are clean, safe and in good shape. They also welcome and educate campers, and collect camping fees.
Carbondale resident Carolyn Hall has been a host at Avalanche Campground for close to a decade as a volunteer for the USFS. But, that’s changing this year. The WRNF recently made improvements to the campground, including new fire rings, upgraded tables and food lockers to avoid problems with bears. As a result, VR will manage Avalanche this summer and charge a fee to camp.
Kendra Head, the developed and dispersed campground recreation manager for the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District, told Hall by email in April that her services would no longer be needed.
“I’m devastated,” said Hall, who shared photos with The Sopris Sun from her nine summers at Avalanche. She has stories of campers and rogue bears, and knows the area well.
“That was my life up there,” she said. “That’s what I live for, because I was up there five months out of the year.” Hall added that she isn’t angry with the WRNF. “It's the government,” she shrugged. But she doubts she’d be hired by VR as a host. “I’ll be 83 in November,” she continued. “I don’t think they’d hire someone my age.”
David Boyd, WRNF public affairs officer, told The Sopris Sun in an email that the Avalanche campground has always been a part of the current VR permit. “But, we did not have them managing the campground until we had made the upgrades,” he said. “We kept [the campground] open and did not charge to camp there.” Camping at Avalanche remains on a first-come, firstserved basis but site fees jump to $18 per night this summer.
Head told Hall that VR will provide a host at Avalanche. But, Hall worries that the host will be part-time. “The bottom line is, they need a [full-time]
host up there,” she warned, citing remoteness, no wifi or cell service, the occasional roaming bear, increased traffic and poor campfire hygiene.
“There are people who start fires in high winds,” she exclaimed. “I’ve put out burning fires of campers who left their site and weren’t coming back.“ She sent a letter covering her concerns to Head. VR did not respond to questions from The Sopris Sun by press time.
The most recent concessionaire permit was issued in 2010 and is good for ten years. But, VR is now in its 12th year. “The USFS was not ready or able to get the prospectus on the street [to meet
the 10-year deadline],” said Peterson. “So, we amended our existing permit to extend it for two more years.”
VR’s permit expires Dec. 31, 2023. The company must go through the bidding process to reapply. “They need to bid, just like everyone else,” said Peterson.
The prospectus is available at https://bit.ly/3TiuduD. The WRNF hosts a two-hour virtual Q&A session July 7, from 10am to noon. RSVP by June 30 to paula. peterson@usda.gov
Final proposals are due by 4:30 pm July 14.
“On Monday, May 22, Ascendigo Autism Services became the proud owner of 695 Buggy Circle,” began a recent press release from the organization.
Ascendigo is a nonprofit that serves many people living with autism in the region. While it started as a summer sports camp in 2004, today it operates year-round providing opportunities and regular support to its clients, young and old.
“Our goal is to integrate people with autism into community life, whether through outdoor recreation, assisting in basic life skills, finding compatible employment in friendly companies or simply going out with friends to restaurants, museums or concerts,” the press release continued.
This is the first time Ascendigo will own the property it operates from. It purchased the space on Buggy Circle for $3.15 million.
“Since the organization was founded … all programs and operations have occurred at rented and leased spaces throughout the Roaring Fork Valley,” the press release stated. “Owning this commercial property will allow the organization to consolidate operations to better serve the autism community and to realize enormous operational efficiencies.”
The building, which is pretty
barebones at this point, will require build-out and customization to meet Ascenidgo’s needs. It will include a “living lab” for job training and life skills guidance for adults, clinical spaces for children and adults receiving behavioral therapy, gathering spaces for Life Enrichment clients, recreational therapy amenities (including a climbing wall) and more.
So, the organization won’t be moving in right away. But, the architectural designs and other work will begin immediately in order to secure the necessary building permits. According to Julie Kaufman, Ascendigo’s chief development officer, they anticipate moving in within the next 12 months.
Readers may recall Ascendigo’s proposal for a piece of ranchland on Missouri Heights which was ultimately denied by the Garfield Board of County Commissioners after contentious deliberation on the board and within the community.
The organization has not ditched its efforts to eventually acquire ranchland where it can provide even more recreational therapy opportunities and a summer camp program. However, some of the donor funds earmarked for the ranchland prospect were used to purchase the building on Buggy Circle.
“The search for a single home to host all of Ascendigo’s many programs and needs has proven to be enormously difficult,” Kaufman told The Sopris Sun. “We understand that we may
need to operate these programs across multiple properties, and owning our own building in Carbondale is a very important first step in this process.”
Ascendigo serves between 180 and 200 individuals within its directservice programs each year. “Through the Ascendigo Academy, we also train community members, educators, law enforcement and caregivers in autism support,” Kaufman added. “Through these trainings and resources offered to the community, we touch about 400 people.”
Considering it’s a nonprofit, Ascendigo is launching a capital campaign to help pay for the upgrades to the new property, and to replenish
the funds intended to buy ranch property one day. Visit www.ascendigo. org to donate, or email Kaufman at Jkaufman@ascendigo.org to find out how else to support the project.
”We are looking toward a very bright future with the purchase of 695 Buggy Circle in Carbondale,” said Dan Richardson, Ascendigo’s chief executive officer. “This two-story commercial property is located in an ideal location, walking distance to our vibrant downtown and the Rio Grande Trail. This building is sure to be a showcase for inclusion, sensory support, and universal design. Ascendigo is proud to show the world what a true inclusionary space can be.”
By Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editor
Melons, squash, peppers, tomatoes, eggplant and herbs, plus over 100 varieties of pollinator-friendly flowers — all of these and more are growing from seed and seeking soil.
Kim Doyle Wille has golden eyes reflecting a golden heart. She’s also got some 5,000 plant starts, representing around 400 different varieties, spilling out of her El Jebel home. Many of the varieties were grown from saved seeds, making them regionally adapted to our climate. This includes 17 varieties that survived the Lake Christine Fire, which came right up to Wille’s house.
“Most of what is planted is not available in local nurseries, as I didn’t want to diminish the business of those who do so much to support our efforts throughout the year,” said Wille. She bought premium potting soil and planted extras of everything everywhere (the guest bathroom, bedroom, dining room and an outdoor room outfitted with full spectrum grow lights).
Wille, a longtime resident of the Valley and recently a gardening teacher at Yampah Mountain High School for nine years, is selling these plants as well as offering them for free to families in need. As soon as she first heard that bonus SNAP benefits would end in March 2023, she got busy. The Pandemic Relief Benefit represented $95 to $250 per month for families, taken away at the same time grocery prices skyrocketed. The summer months are an especially vulnerable time for children who depend on free and reduced meals through schools.
“Food stamps are not a bad thing, they help us when we need help,” Wille insisted.
Her hunger-relief mission began in 2008, when the recession plunged friends and neighbors and herself into need. On a trip to Arvada, she noted how one food pantry offered produce, which was not the case locally at the time. In 2010, Wille won an Oscar Meyer Weinermobile “Good Mood Mission” ride to the Carbondale and Glenwood Springs Lift-Up facilities. Her goal was to prove that
food-insecure neighbors wanted and needed fresh produce in local pantries. Gardeners traded excess harvests for organic seeds donated by Botanical Interests and the event was a success.
Later, in 2013, Wille and Dolores Pulver dedicated ten plots of the Good Seed Community Garden in Carbondale to providing produce for Lift-Up, a tradition that Pulver continues to this day. Since 2011, the Good Seed Community Garden's mission, she informed The Sopris Sun, is to donate fresh food to people in need, with gardeners asked to set aside 10% of their harvests to give away. And the trend has grown, with Lift-Up contracting local farms for fresh vegetables beginning in 2020. In 2022, 63% of the nonprofit’s food budget was paid to local producers, their website states.
Since leaving Yampah last year, Wille has been building teaching gardens at her property while learning how to podcast and acquiring the right equipment. She’ll be launching a “High Altitude Gardener” podcast and YouTube channel soon, once plant starts are distributed and her teaching gardens are planted. Wille has received help from a former student and friends, and invites anyone to volunteer in exchange for plant starts.
“I need to get all the plants distributed, or sold, by June 9,” she told The Sopris Sun, hoping to recoup some of the $3,000 she invested on grow rooms.
Help Wille and others by buying a few starts, and/or referring friends and neighbors in need that want to grow their own food this year.
The plants are available by appointment, seven days a week, at $3 and $4. An updated list of varieties can be found at “Growing Empowerment” on Facebook. To schedule an appointment or volunteer, Wille can be reached via that same Facebook page, or at thehighaltitudegardener@gmail.com
June 21, 5-8pm
Celebrate The Sun with a free, family-friendly, yard party-potluck at the Community Bread Oven behind the Third Street Center on Wednesday, June 21 from 5 to 8pm. We will provide pizza dough and non-alcoholic beverages, you can bring special toppings or a side dish to share, a lawn chair, lawn games (think croquet, bocce, cornhole, frisbee toss, etc.), family and friends!
MAKE-YOUR-OWN-PIZZA
POT CK • C QU TE
YARD GAMES
WHEN: Wednesday, June 21, 5 to 8pm WHERE: 3rd St. Center Bread Oven Please let us know you are coming! Send an RSVP to Todd@Soprissun.com
S t r o l l M a i n S t r e e t i n t h e h e a r t o f C a r b o n d a l e ’ s C r e a t i v e D i s t r i c t a n d e n j o y a w i d e r a n g e o f l o c a l a r t s & g a l l e r i e s ( b r a n d n e w A r t a R o u n d T o w n s c u l p t u r e s ) , s h o p p i n g , a w a r d - w i n n i n g r e s t a u r a n t s & s p i r i t s , l i v e m u s i c a n d e n t e r t a i n m e n t
O t h e r h a p p e n i n g s o n M a i n S t r e e t :
d e r t h a l s , 5 : 3 0 - 8 : 3 0 p m
C a r b o n d a l e A r t s G a l l e r y h o s t s " S t o n e E n t r o p y "
o p e n i n g r e c e p t i o n a n d a r t i s t t a l k , 5 - 7 p m
C a r b o n d a l e C l a y C e n t e r h o s t s P a i r i n g s
B e v e r a g e M a k e r s E v e n t , 5 - 8 p m
California-based muralist Jonny Alexander returned to Carbondale on commission to beautify the new Sopris Self Storage facility. Alexander did two murals at 1201 Main Street, as well as one in the new Hayden’s Place gym. The north building of Hayden’s Place is now filling with residents and the south building is set to welcome renters in June. Leased commercial space will begin its buildout later this summer. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh
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.
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). Limited on-site parking is now $10 per vehicle.
CRYSTAL THEATRE
The Crystal Theatre shows “You Hurt My Feelings” at 7:30pm tonight, tomorrow, Saturday and June 8. The Sunday screening is at 5pm.
TAB BENOIT
Grammy-nominated singersongwriter Tab Benoit performs at TACAW with Matt Andersen opening at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
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 visiting a brand-new artist’s 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.
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 tonight from 5 to 7pm.
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, beginning 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
RVR 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.
RAILWAY PROTEST
350 Roaring Fork hosts a protest of the proposed Uinta Basin Railroad at Centennial Park in Glenwood Springs at noon.
Friends and acquaintances of Ben Sellers Sr. are invited to celebrate his life at the American Legion in Carbondale at 2pm. Food will be provided with drinks available to purchase.
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
SUNDAY, JUNE 4
PLANT SALE
Wild Mountain Seeds sells gardening plant starts at 689 Main Street from 10am to 3pm.
ELECTRIC ROAD SHOW
The “Experience Electric Road Show” will be at the Glenwood Springs Community Center at 1pm presenting a bilingual “Electric Vehicle (EV) 101” training, followed by a “ride or drive” from 2 to 5pm where attendees can test electric bikes and vehicles. Visit www.garfieldcleanenergy. org for more info.
MONDAY, JUNE 5
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.
SCREENAGERS
The Carbondale Library screens “Screenagers” at 6pm, with a panel of juvenile mental health experts and free copies of the book “Parenting in the Screen Age” for all participants.
ENGLISH IN ACTION
English in Action hosts open hours for English language learners at the Basalt Library at 6pm.
TUESDAY, JUNE 6
KIDS CLUB
Rocky Mountain Kid CLUBS kicks off its Adventure in Summer 2023 programming. Visit www.rockymtnkidclubs.org for more info and to register.
MARBLE BIRDING
Join Roaring Fork Audubon for birding at Beaver Lake and Placita Railroad. The group meets at Carbondale’s former City Market at 7am and returns at 1pm. RSVP by emailing fulcon@comcast.net
LESSON IN WILDLIFE
The Pauline S. Schneegas Wildlife Foundation introduces some of its housed critters and explains what to do if you come across an injured wild animal. It all takes place at the Basalt Library at 10:30am.
MAGIC OUT LOUD
Amazing Dave Elstun teaches all about magic at the Carbondale Library at 2pm in the first all-ages Summer Reading Challenge event.
TECH TUESDAY
The Basalt Library hosts “Tech Tuesday,” today and every Tuesday from noon to 2pm, where kids build robots and learn how to program them. Visit www. basaltlibrary.org for more info.
DRAWING CLUB
The Roaring Fork Drawing Club meets at Basalt River Park at 6:30pm.
FULL CIRCLE
5Point Film presents “Full Circle: A Story of Post-Traumatic Growth” at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm (tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com). The film repeats at TACAW on June 7 (tickets at www.tacaw.org).
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 7
ADVOCACY BIRDING
Join Roaring Fork Audubon for birding along Wagon Wheel Trail up McClure Pass. Surveying bird species is part of an effort to protect this trail from proposed development. The group meets in Carbondale at 7am and will return by 1pm. For details, email smnharris@gmail.com
CARBONDALE MARKET
It’s time to get some fresh veg at Carbondale’s farmers market, Wednesdays from 10am to 3pm through Sept. 27!
LIBRARY BOOK CLUB
Discuss books you love, or not so much, at the Basalt Library from noon to 2pm.
SEWING NIGHT
Cosecha Textiles Upholstery and Sewing Studio, located at 95 Red Dog Road in the Crystal Valley, invites sewers of all levels to discover new techniques from 4 to 9pm. All levels are welcome. Visit www.cosechatextiles.com for more info.
THEN AND NOW
Susan Stevens of the Aspen Valley Land Trust will discuss the planned and potential economic, industrial and population changes expected to occur in the Valley in the coming years, at the Third Street Center at 6pm.
EIGHT MOUNTAINS
Aspen Film presents “The Eight Mountains,” a journey of friendship and self-discovery in the Italian Alps, at the Isis Theatre at 7pm. Tickets at www.aspenfilm.org
THURSDAY, JUNE 8
DREAM YOGA
Andrew Holecek leads a five-day lucid dreaming yoga retreat at Beyul Retreat, today through Monday, June 12. Visit www.beyulretreat. com for more info and to register.
LEGO CAMP
Help build a lego display at the Basalt Library that will stand for “years to come” today at noon.
PARKER MILLSAP
Renowned folk-rock artist Parker Millsap performs at TACAW at 8pm. Visit www.tacaw.org for tickets.
FRIDAY, JUNE 9
GEM & MINERAL SHOW
The increasingly popular Marble Gem and Mineral Show kicks off today and lasts through Sunday, June 11. Visit www. marblegemshow.com for more info.
MUSIC AT THE LIBRARY
The Josefina Mendez Quintet plays some jazzy tunes at the Basalt Library at 5:30pm. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic fixings to enjoy during the show.
BLOOD SWEAT & TEARS
TACAW screens the documentary
“What the Hell Happened to Blood Sweat & Tears?” at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
NEW - SEWING
Learn to sew a simple project, and/ or continue with your own project. Some sewing machines provided. Upcycling is encouraged.
Thursdays 6:30-9:30pm 6/8-7/27
CREATIVE WRITING
An online class to hone writing skills and expand self-expression with creative writing and/or poetry.
Wednesdays 6-8pm 6/14-7/12
PHOTOGRAPHY 101
FREE - CONSCIOUS LIVING
Join True Nature’s Co-founders
Deva and Eaden to learn how yoga, lifestyle, and spirituality can support your personal growth and deepen community connections.
Friday 6-7pm 6/9 at True Nature
TODDLER AND ME
YOGALATES
Combo of yoga and pilates in a playful class where you can exercise with your baby/toddler.
Saturdays 11am-12pm 6/3-6/24
MONOTYPE PRINTING
Explore the creative potential of monotype printing - an experimental, spontaneous way to make unique images on paper.
Mondays 6-9pm 6/5-7/17
Get off the automatic settings on your DSL camera in this beginner to intermediate class.
Saturdays & Wednesdays 9am-1pm 6/18-7/5
MORE SWING DANCE
Build on the basics of Jitterbug (East Coast) Swing with Charleston, Lindy Hop (West Coast) basics and expand your dance knowledge.
Wednesdays 6:30-8:30pm 6/28-7/26
KILN GLASS CRASH COURSE
Join Linda Halloran in this series of five hands-on classes to create small plates or coasters and a large (10”) plate or bowl in glass. No prior experience necessary. Sat/Sun
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By Geneviève Villamizar Sopris Sun Contributor
Memorial Day weekend, campers and hikers might have been surprised at the sight of 600-plus acres of newly burned, south-facing terrain above Avalanche Creek.
As part of the Aspen-Sopris District wildlife habitat improvement project, the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management partnered with Pitkin County and Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District on May 1 and May 3 to burn overgrown, dense and declining scrub oak, mountain mahogany, serviceberry and aspen.
Why would land agencies purposefully roast our forests after the Grizzly Creek and Basalt Mountain wildfires? Because the chaos of forest fires allows for regeneration.
Long before European colonization of North America, western landscapes and ecosystems evolved for millennia through fire cycles. Animals and plants evolved with those fire cycles, too; so much so that some species are dependent upon them.
The advent of national parks and forest preserves in the 1880s, however, spurred policies of fire prevention and suppression to protect wilderness areas and future commercial timber production. Today’s public forests reflect those policies: increased tree stand density and canopy cover accompanied by a decline in overall biodiversity.
A familiar example of this is the juniper-pinyon forest of Carbondale’s Red Hill trail system. The aging trees and almost-full canopy has a minimal grassy understory with little to offer wildlife.
The Avalanche Creek valley has a lot of shrub diversity, but it’s what the forest service calls “decadent:” woody, overgrown and in decline.
“This is winter range for elk, deer and Rocky Mountain sheep,” explained Write River National Forest Public Affairs Officer David Boyd, waving up the valley. “There’s not much food here for animals. When you burn it — especially this time of year — it’ll burn kind of patchy. Biologists call it a ‘mosaic.’ Mosaic ecosystems create ‘edges:’ places where plant diversity increases.”
In the late 1960s and early ‘70s, the tide turned as conservationists convinced land management agencies of the beneficial ecological role of natural fire cycles in forest health. As such, federal and state land agencies have since turned to prescribed burns — defined by the Forest Service as “the controlled application of fire by a team of fire experts under specified weather conditions to restore health to ecosystems that depend on fire.”
“Controlled” is the operative word. Twenty yards from the general briefing for the Avalanche prescribed fire was a mobile weather station tracking data on wind, temperatures, air pressure, precipitation and humidity specific to the burn site.
“They’re looking for a forecast for right here,” said Aspen-Sopris District Ranger Kevin Warner. “It’s not the same forecast we can look up online. They’re monitoring the weather conditions the day of, the few days prior. They collect fuel samples — they actually come out and cut stuff off the trees, take it back and ‘cook’ it, do other things with it, to make sure they understand what the fuels are. They’re looking at the underbrush and the moisture there, looking at where the snow levels are … They’re out here driving and looking at this area three to four days a week for a month or more.”
The final push in the prescribed Avalanche burn is to stimulate grass production in a winter-range sheep meadow toward the top of the ridge.
“If we run fire through those meadows, the grass grows taller and denser, providing that nutrition that sheep are looking for. It’s not necessarily what they’re using in the summertime,” said District Biologist Phil Nyland, “but as that grass dries and
goes dormant, there’s better, more nutritious grass — and more of it.”
In addition to improving habitat and forage for wildlife, the Avalanche burn gives recreators the unique opportunity to watch forest fire regeneration right in their own backyard. Expect burned shrubs to send up the new, tender shoots elk and deer need for winter nutrition. In newly opened areas, watch for long-dormant species to finally have their time in the sun again. Wildflowers, forbs and grasses will be lush again, for many years to come — an invitation to other wildlife we might not have seen in some time. Burned trees create habitat for nesting birds and small mammals. Renewed understories offer forage
to grouse, wild turkeys and bears. Wildflowers particularly go nuts after controlled burns from the heat and nutrient dump, which in turn feeds migrating and resident songbirds, gophers, chipmunks and squirrels. The forest truly comes alive.
And a bonus delight? Next year’s burn morels, for those in the know.
If you’re curious about the health of Colorado forests, the Forest Service has partnered with the Division of Forestry to publish an annual “Report on the Health of Colorado’s Forests” since 2001 (available at: www.bit.ly/ COforestshealth).
Angelique Pretorius is starting a new life, one free of the helplessness she suffered during her entire childhood in South Africa. At 25 years old, she has made her way to America and started her college education. That’s step one. But step two, the ability to stay here and continue her studies, is proving to be far more difficult.
Companies sponsoring au pairs on a J1 Visa offer online classes in preparation for lower level jobs, but they discourage college level courses that fulfill degree requirements. Pretorius pushed back in order to attend Colorado Mountain College. For her, the opportunity to go to college fulfills a dream worth fighting for. “It has always been my biggest dream and desire to become a psychologist and have my own practice one day. I want to help survivors like myself,” she explains.
While working full time, her freshman year resulted in a 4.0 GPA and a place on the President’s List. Because I was her English Composition teacher, I became privy to both her story and her potential. I was also graced with her amazing laugh and seeing the friendships she built during class discussions. However, it was this opening paragraph in a letter she wrote that grabbed my heart:
“I have a long, sad, and disturbing story about the tough childhood that I had to survive and escape, but I am not going to tell this story, because I don’t want it to define me or use it to get what I want. I want to work for what I want in life.”
Unfortunately, she makes far too little money as an au pair and cannot continue in her credit courses if she stays in that job. Standard J1 Visas do not allow workers to attend any college courses. Therefore, she is applying for an F1 Student Visa.
This visa does not give her “in state” tuition. It also does not allow her to work more than 20 hours a week, and employment must be on campus at a far lower wage than we typically see in our valley. The toughest part to overcome is that the visa requires a $36,000 guarantee so that the government can verify available funding to pay tuition and living expenses.
We hear, almost daily, about the complications with the United States’ visa process. Pretorius is not an “illegal” immigrant or a “dreamer,” but the process to stay may be just as frustrating. For now, she is simply a young woman with an indomitable spirit who desperately wants an education. “The reason why I want to pursue an education in the U.S. is because of the opportunities and safety here. I do not have the opportunity to go to college in South Africa. Remaining in the United States permanently is my dream. I feel confident that I can be valuable and make a difference if given the chance to continue my studies at CMC and, later, a four-year school.”
English teachers will tell you that we learn our students’ “voices” through their writings. We determine what they value, how their logic leads them to dissect complicated rhetoric, and where their empathy intersects with the greater good for us all. I have always felt lucky to be in a profession that allows me these windows. It reinforces that it “takes a village” to make the world a better place, even if it means helping one person at a time.
I have started a “gofundme” page for Angelique. Along with applications for scholarships and grants from local non-profits, she is hoping to raise enough money to attain her F1 visa. Her current visa expires in September, and she is required to return to her home country for three months where she will apply to return as a student. She has saved money for the visa fees and has her plane ticket back to the U.S. in time for the spring 2024
semester. She has housing lined up with a friend. I expect to see her infectious smile on campus, knowing she is working hard for the success and happiness she so desires.
To help Angelique, please contribute at this link: www.bit.ly/AngeliqueCMC
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Por Ray K. Erku, Post Independent Traducción por Edgar Barrantes
Después de que su distrito escolar le comunicó que no podía vestir una banda de graduación méxico-estadounidense, después de suplicar a los miembros de la junta escolar que reconsideraran, y después de que un juez del Tribunal de Distrito de los Estados Unidos negara su moción en el tribunal, a Naomi Peña Villasano, estudiante de último año de Grand Valley High School, se le permitió atravesar el escenario en la ceremonia de graduación de su escuela secundaria el sábado.
“Defiende siempre lo que crees,” dijo justo después de recibir su diploma. “Tal como mi cita de senior.”
A fines de abril, la superintendente Jennifer Baugh y la administración de Garfield 16 le advirtieron a Peña Villasano que se le excluiría de la ceremonia de graduación de Grand Valley si decidía usar la banda—adornada con barras y estrellas en un extremo y en el otro un águila, un cactus y una serpiente que simbolizan la bandera de México.
Esa estola estaba ligeramente cubierta alrededor del cuello de Peña Villasano por una banda amarilla más gruesa el sábado. Ningún administrador o maestro trató de detenerla mientras tomaba su diploma.
“Estoy súper emocionada,” dijo. “Estoy conmocionada, pero muy orgullosa de mí misma y de todos los logros que he tenido”.
Las semanas previas a la ceremonia de graduación de Grand Valley estuvieron plagadas de controversia. En un correo electrónico que explica por qué el distrito no quería que Peña Villasano usara la estola, Baugh dijo que podría alentar a otros estudiantes a usar lo que quisieran, como una bandera confederada.
La comparación hizo que Peña Villasano y otros, como el grupo latino regional de defensa Voces Unidas, visitaran el capitolio en Denver y hablarán con los legisladores y el gobernador Jared Polis sobre este asunto.
También hicieron varios comentarios públicos en una reunión de la junta escolar del 16 de mayo, argumentando que la junta debería votar sobre la creación de una nueva política que permita el uso de insignias nacionales en la graduación.
“Este distrito cree que no hay tiempo suficiente para considerar
adecuadamente los cambios en sus reglas y tradiciones antes de la graduación, por lo que las reglas y tradiciones actuales estarán vigentes y se aplicarán por completo,” dijo la presidenta de la Junta, Lynn Shore, en un comunicado de prensa del viernes. “Debido a que los problemas planteados tienen mérito y ya es hora de revisar las reglas y tradiciones, estas se revisarán durante el año escolar 2023/24.
Shore dijo que los afectados, incluidos los estudiantes, los padres, el personal, la administración y la comunidad, serán invitados a participar.
“Esto se hará con la intención de asegurar que la ceremonia de graduación del 2024 se lleve a cabo sin controversias,” dijo.
A principios de esta semana, Peña Villasano presentó una demanda contra Garfield 16, alegando que violó sus derechos de libertad de expresión bajo las enmiendas Primera y 14ava.
El viernes, un día antes de su graduación, la jueza del Tribunal de Distrito de Estados Unidos, Nina Y. Wang, rechazó la solicitud.
“Estamos decepcionados de que la corte no estuviera dispuesta a usar una orden de restricción temporal en la víspera de su graduación para evitar que el distrito escolar realmente viole sus derechos de la Primera Enmienda,” dijo el presidente y director ejecutivo de Voces Unidas, Alex Sánchez, al Post Independent el viernes. “Nuevamente, la inconsistencia en las reglas escolares en torno a las insignias es la razón por la cual Voces Unidas presionará por una mayor claridad en la ley estatal. Esperamos que el distrito escolar haga lo correcto y no impida que una estudiante se gradúe simplemente porque está celebrando su cultura.”
El distrito declaró en el comunicado que le dijeron a Peña Villasano que no se le permitiría usar su banda en la ceremonia de graduación, pero que podía decorar su gorra. La política de Grand Valley High School sobre las decoraciones de gorras de graduación se puede leer en: www.bit.ly/GVHSgorras
“La decisión de Garfield 16 de no permitir una banda durante la ceremonia de graduación fue para proteger las tradiciones simbólicas que representan los logros académicos y los servicios a la comunidad de los graduados,” según el comunicado. “Cada estola, cordón o prendedor que se usa sobre la toga del
continua en la pagina 14
Volumen 2, Número 14 | 1 de junio de 2023 - 7 de junio de 2023
Aprendí la palabra "machismo" en un lugar de comida mexicana. Con mi esmalte de uñas negras, una declaración de mi última fase de no conformidad, hice mi pedido y esperé pacientemente a que llamaran mi nombre. Cuando lo hicieron, tomé mi bolsa para llevar del hombre al otro lado del mostrador, quien vio mis uñas negras brillantes extenderse. Señaló mis uñas y se rió, diciéndome que mis uñas estaban pintadas como si no lo supiera ya. Los tacos estaban deliciosos.
Me di cuenta de que el machismo es una obsesión por las apariencias. Superficial por naturaleza, sirve como una señal al mundo de que un hombre ha dominado el arte de la masculinidad.
En una fachada total, los hombres están en un duelo con las expectativas a lo alto del mediodía y el primero en parpadear es asesinado a tiros. No estoy del todo seguro de dónde proviene este machismo ácido o qué lo hace persistir a lo largo de las generaciones. Podría ser un dogma misógino o un estado perpetuo de supervivencia que contamina el concepto de masculinidad. Sin embargo, se ha convertido en una leyenda que los hombres latinos son los más machos entre los machos.
Y estas trampas finalmente recayeron en mi padre. Tal vez no era una fachada, sino más bien una capa fina de armadura que había usado para proteger las partes tiernas de sí mismo de un mundo que exigía dureza y estoicismo. Porque cuando pienso en mi padre, recuerdo las partes más tiernas de él.
En mis preciados recuerdos, veo a mi padre cortando hábilmente una jugosa sandía en el verano, sus manos moviéndose con precisión. Cada corte es deliberado y seguro. Toma un cubo de sandía, extiende su mano para ofrecerme la primera pieza. En ese simple acto, presenció una muestra profunda de fuerza.
Y luego esas mañanas serenas, cuando el mundo está quieto. Veo a mi papá empujando la cortadora de sacate. Su dulce silbido llamando a las palomas y resonando en el vecindario. En estos momentos, su masculinidad irradia con un poder tranquilo, una suavidad que sostiene el peso del mundo. Los papás toman mentas extras del plato de mentas en los restaurantes. Sacuden las M&Ms en sus manos antes de meterlas en la boca. Hacen asados ritualmente. Estornudan innecesariamente fuerte. Se niegan a usar el GPS. Gruñen sin razón. En estas escenas, el machismo se desvanece y debajo se encuentra una sensación única de papacidad, una autenticidad tonta que brota cuando simplemente pueden ser ellos mismos. Amo a mi papá. Es algo que nunca nos hemos dicho explícitamente e incluso al escribirlo ahora, se siente un poco extraño. Pero en lo más profundo, sé que mi papá me ama y él sabe que yo lo amo. Es una conexión que existe en
nuestro silencio, transmitida a través de los pequeños momentos de dulzura, una mirada fugaz en la mesa de la cena, una nueva historia de su juventud que nunca he escuchado antes o un mensaje aleatorio en Facebook un martes por la tarde preguntando: "¿What's up?"
A través de estos pequeños y tiernos momentos, se transmite el sentido de la masculinidad. La expectativa patriarcal seguirá exigiendo un hombre rudo y estoico. Esas características tóxicas se transmitirán previsiblemente a través de las generaciones. Pero es reconfortante saber que el lado más suave de la masculinidad se filtra a través de las grietas de la armadura y también se transmite.
Y tal vez, poco a poco, como el río Colorado talló los cañones, esa filtración lenta ensancha las grietas para que transmitamos estos momentos de vulnerabilidad, empatía y compasión. Si podemos hacer eso, entonces tal vez podamos cambiar el legado de la masculinidad y crear un camino más nutritivo hacia la masculinidad para las generaciones futuras.
graduado simboliza los honores académicos, las actividades patrocinadas por la escuela y el alistamiento militar. Nuestra intención era proteger estos símbolos, ya que la graduación es un momento para celebrar los logros de los estudiantes.
El distrito también declaró en el comunicado que cuando Peña Villasano presentó su deseo de usar su banda para la graduación, la administración del distrito se reunió con ella en un esfuerzo por encontrar una solución.
“Después de varias reuniones con la superintendente, Dra. Jennifer Baugh, la directora de Grand Valley High School, Kelly McCormick, la Sra. Pena Villasano y su familia, y otro personal de apoyo del Distrito, se estableció un plan,” afirmó el comunicado. “A la señorita Peña Villasano se le instó a canalizar sus inquietudes utilizando procesos democráticos que involucran a la clase de último año y la Junta de Educación del Distrito. La señorita Peña Villasano falló en el cumplimiento de dichas tareas.”
Por Denise Moss
Traducción por Dolores Duarte
Angelique Pretorius está iniciando una nueva vida, libre del desamparo que sufrió durante toda su infancia en Sudáfrica. A sus 25 años, logró llegar a Estados Unidos y ha comenzado sus estudios universitarios. Ese es el primer paso. Pero el segundo paso, la posibilidad de quedarse aquí y continuar sus estudios, está resultando mucho más difícil.
Las empresas que patrocinan a Au pairs con una visa J1 ofrecen clases en línea como preparación para trabajos de menor nivel, pero desalientan cursos de nivel universitario que cumplan con requisitos de titulación. Pretorius hizo todo lo posible por asistir al Colorado Mountain College. Para ella, la oportunidad de ir a la universidad cumple un sueño por el que vale la pena luchar.
"Siempre ha sido mi mayor sueño y deseo convertirme en psicóloga y algún día tener mi propio consultorio. Quiero ayudar a sobrevivientes como yo", explica.
Mientras trabajaba de tiempo completo durante su primer año, obtuvo un GPA de 4.0 y un sitio en la lista del rector. Como fuí su profesora de composición en inglés, conozco su historia y su potencial. También tuve la suerte de escuchar su increíble risa y de ver las amistades que forjó durante las discusiones en clase. Sin embargo, el párrafo inicial de una carta que escribió fue lo que me llegó al corazón:
"Tengo una historia larga, triste y perturbadora sobre la difícil infancia que tuve que sobrevivir y escapar, pero no voy a contarla porque no quiero que eso me defina, ni utilizarla para conseguir lo que quiero. Deseo trabajar por lo que quiero en la vida".
Desgraciadamente, gana
Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro
SANA está contratando
The Safe Abundant Nutrition Alliance (SANA por sus siglas en inglés) está expandiendo sus servicios y está buscando un administrador de programa de tiempo completo para ayudar a coordinar asociaciones e incrementar las inscripciones en programas de beneficios de alimentación en los condados de Pitkin, Eagle y Garfield. Capacidad de hablar en inglés y español es requerido, además de experiencia en supervisión y habilidades intermedias en computación. Para más detalles, envíe un correo electrónico a mariajudithalvarezq@gmail.com
Leer con Angélica
Practique su español al leer “Diez Treguas”, por Francisco Varela, con Angélica Breña el lunes 5 de junio en la biblioteca de Basalt a las 5 p.m. La sesión será en español e inglés.
Rodeo mexicano
El primer Jaripeo Ranchero familiar de la temporada será el domingo 11 de junio, comenzando a las 2 p.m. en Gus Darien Riding Arena, con la Banda Rafaga como presentación musical principal.
¿Qué es eso?
Mucha gente se ha estado preguntando acerca de la construcción en marcha al norte de la subestación eléctrica en Carbondale. En diciembre del 2020, los administradores aprobaron un almacenamiento de 590 unidades en esta ubicación, a lo largo de la carretera 133, anexando 2.8 acres con la promesa de conectar la acera entre el puente y la estación de autobuses. La entrada será directa y el edificio, con techos solares, será proyectado por murales.
La oficina del tasador del condado de Garfield reportó un aumento medio del 54% de tasaciones del 2021. Los dueños de propiedades ahora tienen hasta el 8 de junio para apelar valores de propiedad basados en el mercado inmobiliario local a partir del 30 de junio del 2022. Las restricciones, así como una legislatura
muy poco dinero como au pair y no puede continuar con sus cursos de créditos si sigue en ese trabajo. Las visas J1 estándar no permiten a los trabajadores asistir a ningún curso universitario. Por lo tanto, está solicitando una visa de estudiante F1. Esta visa no le concede matrícula "del estado". Tampoco le permite trabajar más de 20 horas a la semana, y el empleo debe ser en campus con un salario mucho más bajo de lo que solemos ver en nuestro valle. Lo más difícil de afrontar es que la visa exige una garantía de $36,000 dólares para que el gobierno pueda verificar el financiamiento disponible para pagar la matrícula y los gastos de manutención. Casi a diario escuchamos hablar de las complicaciones en el proceso de visado en Estados Unidos. Pretorius no es una inmigrante "ilegal" ni una "dreamer", pero el proceso para quedarse puede ser igual
de frustrante. Por ahora, es simplemente una joven con un espíritu indomable que desea desesperadamente una educación. "La razón por la que quiero seguir una educación en Estados Unidos es por las oportunidades y la seguridad que hay aquí. En Sudáfrica no tengo la oportunidad de ir a la universidad. Quedarme en Estados Unidos permanentemente es mi sueño. Confío en que puedo ser valiosa y marcar la diferencia si se me da la oportunidad de continuar mis estudios en CMC y, más adelante, en una escuela de cuatro años".
Los profesores de literatura decimos que aprendemos de las "voces" de nuestros alumnos a través de sus escritos. Determinamos lo que valoran, cómo su lógica les lleva a diseccionar una retórica complicada y dónde se cruza su empatía con el bien común para todos nosotros. Siempre me he sentido afortunada de estar en una profesión que me permite estas ventanas. Refuerza la
estatal aprobada de una reducción de $15,000 para propiedades residenciales y $30,000 para propiedades comerciales, lo cual prevendrá que los impuestos suban al igual que las evaluaciones. Para más información acerca de las apelaciones, programas de aplazamiento de impuestos de propiedad, excepciones las personas de tercera edad y veteranos y otras cosas más, visite www.garfield-county.com/assessor
“A petición de la Oficina de Energía de Colorado de parte del gobernador Polis… Holy Cross Energy (HCE por sus siglas en inglés) ha aceptado a suspender temporalmente el propuesto cambio de precios de electricidad destinado a tomar efecto el 1 de septiembre”, informó el comunicado de prensa, la decisión fue hecha por la junta de HCE el 24 de mayo. Aproximadamente 135 miembros y accionistas proporcionaron comentarios en persona y virtualmente durante la reunión, en adición a 300 comentarios escritos durante el periodo de comentario público previo.
El martes 6 de junio a las 6:30 p.m., los residentes de Glenwood Springs están invitados a una jornada de puertas abiertas en las instalaciones de Colorado Mountain College (en Blake Avenue) para proporcionar comentarios con respecto al proyecto “Rediseñando Blake Avenue”. La ciudad presentará cuatro conceptos para la calle 7 y la calle 12 (los cuales no están actualmente programados para remodelación en cualquier momento) para que el público escoja; se supone que esto ayude a informar del proyecto en la calle 13 y la calle 27, los cuales se espera empezar en el 2024 desde la calle 24 hasta la calle 27. Aquellos que no puedan asistir en persona pueden proporcionar sus comentarios en línea comenzando el 6 de junio. Visite www.cogs.us/753/Blake-Avenu para más información.
El “Experience Electric Road Show” hará su última parada en el centro comunitario de Glenwood Springs el 4 de junio. A la 1 p.m., habrá un entrenamiento bilingüe de “vehículos eléctricos (EV por sus siglas
idea de que "se necesita de todo un pueblo" para hacer del mundo un lugar mejor, aunque sea ayudando a una persona a la vez.
He abierto una página de "gofundme" para apoyar a Angelique. Junto con solicitudes de becas y subsidios de organizaciones locales sin fines de lucro, espera recaudar dinero suficiente para conseguir su visa F1. Su visa actual expira en septiembre, y debe regresar a su país de origen durante tres meses, donde solicitará volver como estudiante. Ha ahorrado dinero para el pago de la visa y tiene su boleto de avión de vuelta a EE.UU. a tiempo para el semestre de primavera de 2024. Ya tiene alojamiento en casa de una amistad. Espero ver su sonrisa contagiosa en el campus, sabiendo que está trabajando muy duro hacia el éxito y la felicidad que tanto desea. Para ayudar a Angelique, por favor contribuye en este enlace: www.bit.ly/ AngeliqueCMC
en inglés) 101”, seguido por un periodo de “montar o conducir” entre las 2 y las 5 p.m. en el cual los asistentes podrán hacer una prueba de conducción de EVs – incluyendo bicicletas y vehículos. Visite www. garfieldcleanenergy.org para más información.
Debido a las duras condiciones invernales en la parte noroeste del estado, los Parques y Vida Silvestre de Colorado (CPW por sus siglas en inglés) anunció que reducirá el número de licencias de caza mayor y reducirá las temporadas de caza en áreas donde las manadas sean las más afectadas. CPW está emitiendo 236,000 para ciervos, alces, antilocapra y osos – bajando a 32,000 desde el año pasado. CPW observó la caza mayor y basado en su investigación se hizo la decisión en limitaciones. Visite www.bit.ly/ COBigGame para actualizaciones más detalladas con respecto a las temporadas de caza mayor del 2023.
The debate over a comprehensive health and human sexuality curriculum to be taught at Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) schools ended on May 24 with the Board of Education’s unanimous approval. The curriculum was recommended by Chief of Student and Family Services Anna Cole and her team.
The decision came after weeks of vigorous discourse by parents and community stakeholders who submitted written comments through the district website and inperson remarks at school board meetings, either supporting or opposing the Rights, Respect and Responsibility curriculum, also known as the 3Rs.
The 3Rs curriculum, according to their website, is a comprehensive human sexuality curriculum developed by a national nonprofit, Advocates for Youth, in collaboration with a team of experts and educators. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of respecting oneself and others, promoting healthy relationships and making informed decisions.
It aims to equip students with accurate, age-appropriate information about sexual and reproductive health, relationships and consent to foster respect for diverse identities and responsible behavior.
Despite the availability of opt-out alternatives for parents who do not wish to have the 3Rs curriculum taught to their children and teachers who decline to teach it, those who opposed its adoption cited objections based on religious or moral beliefs, concerns about age appropriateness, desire to keep sex education home-based only, preservation of cultural norms and fears of promoting early sexual activity among
young people.
Amanda Cerveny, the parent of a former and current RFSD student, spoke to The Sopris Sun about her concerns. “We haven't come to a resolution that encompasses everyone,” she said. “If the goal were to ensure an inclusive curriculum, there wouldn't be a debate.” When asked if there were other curriculums she would support, she explained, “We need to do our diligence as parents and educators so that we don't just throw one thing out on the table and hope it fits everyone. It should be something that a majority of people can feel encompasses everyone. That might be impossible, but it's certainly
worth taking the time to explore.”
Among the 60 community members in attendance, one of the youngest speakers was Selah Schneiter, an eighth grader at Glenwood Springs Middle School who identifies as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Addressing the board, she said, “Without representation in the school curriculum, children experiencing feelings outside the heterosexual norm are made to feel strange and different. This also influences their peers to see them as strange and different, and easier targets for bullying, teasing and even harassment.”
Schneiter addressed
the importance of respect, compassion and inclusivity for those in the LGBTQ+ community. She said, “I am not strange; I am not different. I am not a threat or a bad influence on my peers. I go to church almost every Sunday, and I'm active in my youth group. I like to bake and climb. I'm good at math, but I'm nervous about how well I did on my math test yesterday. I'm normal, and every one of our students deserves to feel welcomed and normal, not just by school counselors or one of their teachers; they deserve to be embraced by their peers, the administrators and everyone they encounter at school.”
The curriculum will be implemented during the 202324 school year.
In her closing remarks, before the meeting’s adjournment, Board Secretary and Treasurer Natalie Torres said, “I do want to comment that I appreciate all the work and involvement that has gone into this. I want to relay a personal hope that, based on the written and public-speaking comments we've heard, this curriculum can help our kids teach adults how to treat each other with respect and kindness. I really do hope that this is something that we can get from this as well.”
Young people took the stage throughout the Valley over the weekend, for the ceremonious tradition of closing one chapter for another: graduation. Here in Carbondale, The Bridges Frogs walked Friday, May 26, followed by the Roaring Fork Rams the next morning.
Colorado Rocky Mountain School will host its commencement ceremony on June 3. Check next week’s issue for photos!
As is tradition, Rams graduates, attired in their caps and gowns, walked the halls of Crystal River Elementary School and were cheered on by youngsters destined to walk the same path one day. Another tradition, practiced by both the Frogs and Rams is for graduates to grace someone who has impacted their lives with a flower symbolizing their gratitude.
The Sopris Sun wishes you all the best in future endeavors. Onwards!
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Congratulations to the first class to go from kindergarten through eighth grade at Two Rivers Community School! This public charter school in Glenwood Springs opened its doors in 2014 with a focus on place-based and project-based learning. Courtesy photo
River Byrne, pictured here with his mother, Christina "Pixie" Byrne, signed with Oklahoma City University for basketball. He was away with family when other student athletes signing for colleges were reported on in our May 11 issue.
RFHS legacy award winners were honored for living, loving, learning, leading and leaving a legacy.
By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent
Felicia Trevor Gallo and Lynn Ruoff have been friends for 20 years. During that time, they each pursued specific learning journeys. For Trevor Gallo, this has been studying the astrological heavens, and for Ruoff, it has been the resonance of sound therapy.
The two spoke with The Sopris Sun about their new business venture and how it came to be.
Ruoff said, “Flash lives astrology, so being her friend and knowing her for so long, I’ll ask her for advice. For example, I'll get upset or frustrated with someone, and she says, ‘Oh, that’s because her sun sign is this, or her moon sign is that, or this archetype,’ and when you take yourself out of the equation, you don't take it personally. And she can look at my natal chart and tell me, ‘Give yourself a break, because it’s this planet doing this or doing that,’ and that information has been life-changing for me,” Ruoff explained.
They realized that together they could offer transformative and holistic experiences for others, “and that's what spurred
us on to this collaboration.”
Trevor Gallo shared.
Trevor Gallo, host DJ of KDNK Radio’s “Flash Cafe,” was drawn to study astrology in her late teens and has continued to develop a solid foundation in understanding the meaning of astrological signs and houses, the movement of the planets at any given time (transits), and aspects between planets.
She uses online astrology software to create a personalized natal chart that plots the position of the planets and houses at the time of the client’s birth. That snapshot in time provides detailed information about personality traits and life potentials.
The study and daily application of astrology have provided Trevor Gallo with insight into the strengths and challenges in her life. “Astrology helped me to understand the world and gain a deeper understanding of myself,” she observed. And, to never get “too stuck” in circumstances, because “no matter how good or bad you feel, it will change because the planets are constantly in orbital motion,” she shared.
Trevor Gallo said, in astrology, the timeframe known
as the “Platonic Year” is the time it takes — approximately 10,000 years — for the planets to return to the same positions they held at any given moment. That understanding highlights the uniqueness of each moment in time. In other words, she said, everything is in an unceasing evolution.
Ruoff is a sound healer who has studied various soundbased techniques, including harmonic scales (musical scales that incorporate specific intervals and harmonic relationships), and uses them to create resonant sounds that can promote relaxation, balance and healing. Tools she employs in her practice are tuning forks and singing bowls, each emitting specific frequencies.
Harmonic scales, also known as “solfeggio scales,” have been a part of ancient healing traditions worldwide. For example, in China, besides their use in musical expression, the scales have been incorporated into spiritual practices, including singing bowls used in meditation or mindfulness practices.
Ruoff explained that an electromagnetic field (EMF) refers to the vibration associated with sound waves and frequencies in sound
therapy. In humans, an EMF is generated by energetic activity in the physical body. “In sound healing, a practitioner is the go-between. It's not passive for the client; you're not just lying there. The sound therapist is an intermediary that is doing something called ‘entrainment,’ which is the synchronization of biological rhythms or brainwave patterns, with an external stimulus, such as sound or music,” she shared. That “EMF space” is where Ruoff does her sound healing work.
And while their practices do not offer medical advice or treatment, their focus remains on providing their clients with insights into
interconnectedness, personal growth and holistic well-being.
As the duo embarks on their entrepreneurial journey, they radiate an infectious enthusiasm for the work and one another, as was evidenced by the joyful laughter during this Sopris Sun interview. As the saying goes, their friendship and business collaboration might be “written in the stars.” Stay tuned.
Ruoff and Trevor Gallo will have a booth at Carbondale’s First Friday celebration on June 2, where you can ask questions or get more information. You can also go to www. soundenergyhealings.com
By Stephanie Dungan
Snowpack on top of Colorado’s Mt. Sopris shines bright white in the morning sunshine. Often, I have admired her grandeur from the ground, but I’ve never seen her from above. Looking down on this peak from a Cessna 210, it is clear to see that this mountain — as well as those that surround her — is part of an interconnected ecosystem. Sopris, seen from this aerial perspective, is a gift from EcoFlight, a non-profit based in Aspen with a goal to educate and advocate on behalf of wildlife and wildlands. The striking views and the big picture, so to speak, seen from an airplane are uniquely effective ways to witness the value inherent in our land, and not just as a resource to consume.
Taking part in the Flight Across America program, I was one of eight graduate students who participated in an extensive exploration of one of the essential elements: water. Over four days and four states, this group spoke with experts in policy and conservation, as well as Indigenous leaders, and witnessed firsthand (from the air) water issues facing the Colorado River Basin.
With this, our beloved mountain told a new story from a new perspective. At almost 13,000 feet, Mt. Sopris is located in the Northwest region of the Elk Mountain Range, her base nestled between the confluence of the Crystal and Roaring Fork Rivers. Scanning her slopes white with snow, speckled with dark patches of exposed granite, I suddenly realize that this is not the story of a single mountain.
As beautiful as she is, she does not stand alone within the Maroon Bells Wilderness. She is surrounded by other peaks, rivers, trees, animals and people. Her ecosystem doesn’t function within a vacuum of space that lies within what the eyes can see, but extends far beyond what can even be
viewed from a plane.
Snow that lies at the summit of Mt. Sopris may one day flow into the Crystal or Roaring Fork Rivers, only to later join into the massive Colorado River. A single molecule of water that lands on the top of this mountain has the potential to flow through seven different states and Mexico — though, given increased demand, it is unlikely to make it that far.
The Colorado River Basin does have a large and impending water problem. Deciding who gets water, how much they get and the value of this vital resource has been flawed from the start.
The Colorado River Compact of 1922 allocated shares of water from the Colorado River to each state within the Upper and Lower Basins. The problem was, and still is, it promised shares of water that were based on abnormally high flows through the river, creating a deficit from the very beginning. Now that the amounts of water are being reduced due to a changing climate, there is even less to go around. This fact creates impassioned debate, because
water is necessary for life.
Arguments over water rights, Indigenous rights, aridification, climate change and pollution are slowing the path to solutions. The complexity seems overwhelming, but there are solutions. Groups of conservationists are fighting to create protections for rivers, such as Wild and Scenic designation of the Crystal River. Designations such as this, help protect the free-flowing nature of rivers by preventing the construction of new dams or diversions. Rivers in a free-flowing state have better water quality, reduced levels of pollution and create an ecosystem that supports biodiversity. Contrary to what some believe, designations such as these don’t reduce access to rivers but instead foster a sense of stewardship that safeguards the recreational adventures these beautiful waters provide. Natural stream flows at the headwaters also have positive effects on water levels in downstream rivers, such as the Colorado River.
We are at a crossroads when it comes to the water
problem. We can choose to make changes now while we still have options, or we can continue to hide our heads in the sand until we are forced to change because there is no longer enough water to share. Sopris is but one mountain in a range and, just like her, we don’t stand alone in our efforts to find solutions. We are part of a history, ecosystem and a community that is greater than our individual selves. Solutions can be found in stories from the past, the scientific community, words of elders in Indigenous communities and conversations with our neighbors. Solutions to complex issues are not founded in being right, they are founded in working together and seeing things from new perspectives.
Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC) premiers its last show of the season, 'The Lifespan of a Fact,' on June 9 and it will run through June 25.
Written by Jeremy Kareken, David Murrell and Gordon Farrel, “The Lifespan of a Fact” is a fictional retelling based on a true story about renowned essayist John D'Agata and Harvard graduate and fact-checker Jim Fingal, as they collaborate on D'Agata's infamous essay, "What Happens There" — a deep dive into a series of suicides in Las Vegas, Nevada in the early 2000s.
The show is directed by Renee Prince and the cast consists of TRTC veterans Owen O'Farrell, playing John D'Agata, and Trary Maddalone LaMée, playing Editor in Chief Emily Penrose. The theater company welcomes newcomer Jack Trembath, who plays Jim Fingal.
Audiences can anticipate a theme about searching for the truth, within the context of news media and sensitive topics.
"What's striking about this play is it grapples with the idea of truth and the journey we go on to reach capital ‘T’ truth, especially in journalism," the show’s dramaturg, Kayla Henly, stated. "It digs into the trust that comes from an audience [and is given] to a writer.”
Prince echoed Henly, and added that this introspective show will have audiences dissecting how to make meaning out of the chaos they come across.
"It feels to me like an archeological dig. We're trying to dig up and find all of the juicy, wonderful, beautiful, sparkly things that the playwrights have left for us to discover. It's an exploration. We do
that a lot through playing and trying big, bold ideas. I love that part of the process." Prince shared.
Prince delved further into the rehearsal process. When she initially read the play, she was swayed back and forth by the characters' arguments. She described the show's conflict as just that, a fascinating debate that will pull audiences from one side to another throughout.
"I kept getting pulled back, because we're seeing what happens in the world when there's an erosion of fact, when we can't agree on the factual truth of an event…we can see how dangerous that is. These characters both make such compelling arguments, they both are right in their way," she explained.
O'Farrell and Trembath both stated that while their characters hold very opposing views on how to report the facts of a story, they share a similar desire to tell the truth in their work.
"D'Agata is a very interesting character to me,” said O’Farrell. “He sees the big picture and has a lot of freedom in his world. His writing style encompasses freedom of choice in his message. He's not beholden to the facts in any way, shape or form; and he's trying to get huge truths in his work while not caring about the little details. He's more into the feelings of everybody involved than the facts that may have influenced the story itself."
Trembath added that his character is the antithesis of D'Agata, in that he can “only see trees, and not the forest” of a story.
"Everything is a fact to my character in this play, even maybe to a fault. I think that's where the heart of the conflict between the two characters is,” added Trembath.
According to Trary LaMée, one question that will linger throughout the play is how much a writer is willing to risk to break an important story, especially when it will likely have a major impact on
the audience reading it.
"As an actor, I approach a character as if I'm an attorney representing that character gathering evidence and persuading the audience, who acts as the jury, that everything I do is motivated and justified. These playwrights walked a fine line trying to keep a careful balance. Up until the very end, an audience member could be debating with themselves about what they think," LaMée explained.
Tickets for “The Lifespan of a Fact" are available at www.thunderrivertheatre.com or through the box office at 970-963-8200.
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
Legacy Dance Company (LDC) held its Sixth Annual Showcase, “Under the Big Top,” over Mother's Day weekend at Glenwood Springs High School. Students wore animal and circus-themed costumes while they showed off the skills they’ve learned. Plus, LDC took the opportunity to deliver some internal news.
LDC instructs up-and-coming dancers and is based in Glenwood Springs.
An exciting, and somewhat impromptu, announcement regarding the company's future was given during the recital. Bailey Barnum announced that her sister, Bella Barnum-Collier, had transferred ownership of the company to her during a costume change at the recital. According to Bailey, the overall response from students and the community has been reassuring.
“I got a lot of positive comments after the show," Bailey stated. "I have the immense honor of continuing with this legacy. I think the work I'm most looking forward to is what I've been stepping into this past season…becoming the person that people come to…and being able to create new ideas."
Bailey stated she has always been inspired by her sister when it comes to artistic creations, and she praised Bella's ability to show up ready with new ideas. Now, Bailey herself is excited to do a little experimenting of her own, however, she intends to keep the bones of the organization the same.
"My sister worked hard to build the structures for this business, and every year you find something new and different. I plan to keep most of it the same," Bailey explained. "I love this business, and I love what it does. I love how it is and want to keep it
as similar as possible."
Bella moved to Maine with her family last year and could not travel to the Roaring Fork Valley for the recital. Before the transfer, she worked remotely to shore up some of the finer details and help guide students.
"Stepping away has, honestly, been natural. I started this company for Bailey, and my life has changed. When I moved to Maine, we agreed to give it a year of me doing remote work,” explained Bella. “They've been very self-sufficient, and they've been doing a fantastic job.”
Bella hopes to continue to support her sister from across the country as Bailey takes on the responsibility. She has been filled with pride watching Bailey and her former students continue to work hard.
"She [Bailey] has always exceeded expectations and takes them to places I could have never imagined. It's always been the greatest joy in my life to watch her succeed and thrive. It feels really good for me, as her older sister, to give this to her. It just feels natural, it feels perfect, It feels right. It's very emotional, for sure, but it's beautiful,” Bella expressed.
Bella is confident that her “labor of love,” that is LDC, is in good hands with her sister. Both attested that the art of dance was a major bonding agent during their childhood.
LDC’s summer classes will begin on June 5. A schedule has been released on its Facebook page. Dates for the fall classes will be announced later this summer. For more information or to enroll in a class, visit www.legacydancegws.com or call 970-456-4321.
NETTLE CREEK MICRO-HYDRO PROJECT
Issue Date: 5/23/2023 | Closing Date: 6/13/2023
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
Monk J. Burkmier, “Monk” to his friends, was born in the Bay Area of California on May 28, 1944, the “year of the bad penny” as he liked to say. He grew up primarily in foster homes and an orphanage in Los Angeles called the Lark Ellen School for Boys. He learned early how to be independent and make his own way in life. When he came of age, he joined the United States Army and was deployed to Laos as a paratrooper.
at live music events and venues throughout the Valley.
Evelyn (Evvie, Ev) was born in the city of Passaic, New Jersey. She passed away peacefully on March 20 after a prolonged battle with cancer.
Evvie spent her childhood in New Jersey and moved to the mountains of Colorado in the late 1970s. She raised her three children in Carbondale and spent many years loving and thriving in the beauty of the Roaring Fork Valley. Later in life, she moved to Denver to go to Metropolitan State University where she studied sociology and fine arts. She was an accomplished artist, an advocate for social justice, a strong-willed free spirit and a loving soul to so many from
all walks of life.
She is survived by her three children, Alicia Condit, Lydia and Carl Evins; and siblings, Jeanne Ellsworth, Bonnie Ellsworth Walker, Donna Ellsworth Brand and Rich Ellsworth; along with many spouses, nieces and nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews and some cats and dogs.
Celebration of Life services will be held Sunday June 4 from 1 to 3pm at Sopris Park in Carbondale. All who knew her are invited to share much love and many memories.
Coke ovens continued from page 4 and the excess funds are earmarked to match a grant for phase two of the project. The historical society intends to apply for a second grant through the State Historic Fund for phase two.
However, this time, “We will be applying for a general competitive grant for the next work, not the mini-grant. That dollar amount will be significantly higher,” Cipperly stated, “and we have matching funds set aside for at least most of that grant.”
Phase two is to include: vegetation mitigation for the remainder of the site, reseeding, “working with masonry professionals to rebuild the brick archways of the most significant ovens, affixing hog-panel grates to the arched openings, and installing clear hole covers to the roof openings, so those will be further protected,” she continued.
Cipperly shared the trivia that apparently John Osgood, the coal-tycoon and founder of Redstone, was involved in the building of the ovens at Cardiff as well.
“For folks who know of the Cardiff site and those who don't yet, come on by and enjoy the connection with our mining history, railroads of our region, immigrant stories and those curious brick igloos in a row by the airport,” concluded Cipperly.
After leaving the Army, he made his way to Cortez and worked as a dealer in a casino. He later moved up to Alaska and worked at the Saint Peter’s Cannery. He moved around and had various jobs, until he finally landed in Aspen in 1968, where he found housing at the Snow Chase Lodge. The proprietor, Pamela MacPherson, aka Mrs. Mac, aka Granny, and her family became the family Monk never had.
During this time, he worked as a sign maker, breakfast cook, taxi driver, underground ski instructor, thrift store owner, insulation contractor — among many other jobs.
Throughout the 1970s, Monk continued his various pursuits in the Roaring Fork Valley. In 1979, he and his friend Doug Driscoll spent the summer canoeing down the Yukon River in Canada. He found a love for rivers and worked as a guide on the Grand Canyon, running it 26 times over the years. Monk was committed to living a low-rent lifestyle and was often found living in his school bus or camper van. He loved photography and set up a dark room in the basement of the condo he was sharing with friends.
In 1996, Monk found his way to KDNK, becoming a volunteer DJ until October 2017. Many people knew him as Lark Ellen, a DJ name he adopted to honor his childhood and love for music. He was a treasured member of the KDNK family and made friends
CARE has 6 dogs and 11 cats available for adoption.
Summer Reading Kickoff Party!
Sat, June 3, 12-3PM
Celebrate the beginning of summer with an obstacle course, bounce house, food, activities and more!
Summer Performer: All Together Now with Wildlife
Tues, June 6, 10:30-11:30AM
Learn about wildlife and hear stories about animals rescued by the PSS Wildlife Foundation.
Tech Tuesday with Mr. Dom
Tues, June 6, 12-2PM Build robots and learn how to program them! Grades 5+.
In 2006, he met Marie Kuen, who would volunteer for KDNK events getting beer, ice and cup donations from Mr. C’s Liquor, where she worked. For nearly a decade, Monk was working as an insulation contractor and Persian rug dealer, selling them on consignment at shops in Carbondale. Through their blossoming relationship and mutual love for adventures in thrifting, Monk and Marie opened the Backdoor Consignment Store, which they owned and operated until 2017, when they sold the business and retired to the beautiful North Fork Valley.
Monk and Marie also shared a deep love of music and made themselves indispensable as volunteers and community members at many festivals. They helped to promote up and coming musicians, some of whom have gone on to national acclaim.
Monk enjoyed all the North Fork Valley had to offer until his sudden illness in February 2023. Marie will be forever grateful to the VA, who ensured that Monk’s final weeks were comfortable. Monk passed peacefully on April 30, with Marie by his side. Monk leaves behind a vast community of friends, and he’ll be remembered for many things including his ability to always see the bright side of life and helping his friends do the same.
A celebration of life will be held at Big B’s Delicious Orchards in Paonia in the early fall.
RJ PADDYWACKS offers a “C.A.R.E. package” for new adoptive families, including a “Paws for Points” plan and a first time 15% discount for your new pet.
PADDYWACKS offers a “C.A.R.E. package” for adoptive families, including a “Paws for Points” plan a first time 15% discount for your new pet.
Say hello to Bubbles!
Only 11 months old, this young lady is so funny and cute with her low-rider physique. Black lab and pug mix? Maybe! With a lovable personality and social demeanor, she’s a real catch. Contact
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores. Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com
I don’t mean the neighbors who share my rental apartment wall The ones who also wonder, "Can I buy anything at all?"
I mean YOU
The neighbors
The homeowners And property-tax payers
You’d like to “sell to someone local”
A family like your own
Have them celebrate holidays
And watch their children grow
You want to see less development
“We have enough already!”
Hold on hoss, I hear you, but here’s where it gets messy
I see your golden handcuffs
How you’ll someday want to cash out How your home may accidentally become short-term rented out.
I understand you need to sell We all do, you see.
Some may sell out to the man, Others to property management companies.
Maybe you don’t want to sell, Maybe you don’t like excavators. Maybe you like the idyllic green space, and living further from your neighbors.
I respect that too
I do indeed
But what should happen when housing is scarce, and people are in need?
The solution isn’t as simple, as having locals buy your house
Or allowing pricey developments
The kind unattainable in a financial drought
If the only people shouting are those that work three jobs
Then oftentimes those people, don’t have much time at all
We can’t make council meetings, forums, or commissions
And now you say, “What should I do?” Well here’s an answer for your question
Stand up for affordable housing
For attainable, purchasable units
Because, in twenty years when the developments DID happen you’ll say, “Oh man, we blew it”
This is your chance to help working locals buy here
Instead of second homeowners who visit three times a year
Talk to your councilors
Your representatives, developers
This is the way to ensure living spaces for in-town, non-commuting workers
The workers
Our hearts are heavy.
The young with futures bright, and pockets empty
The old with visions of retiring locally
You see we have our own loves to protect Our own hopes and dreams
But, we need support from our neighbors to bring about true affordable housing
LETTERS
materials and form produces an austere, if not brutal image. From what I can tell, the building is pushed hard to the sidewalk without any street landscaping or trees to soften its image. An entry trellis along Weant Street does signify the front door that is not to be found on Main Street. Trellis work on the Main Street facade would certainly help.
It is with these comments I hope the architects and their client will take a second look at what is proposed. With a few changes, the project could more clearly reflect a set of values that match Carbondale’s past and be more in line with its envisioned small-town, pedestrian-oriented future. As stewards of the landscape, this would also serve the Forest Service, as the building and its site should reflect an environmental sensitivity it currently lacks.
Eric Doud, CarbondaleKudos
I had the pleasure of attending the Baccalaureate event at RFHS on May 24. Evidently, this custom began in England in the 15th century where each graduate spoke in Latin. At RFHS, the graduating seniors spoke in English and/or Spanish and gave heartfelt thanks to their parents and teachers for supporting them to become good students, athletes and friends, and to graduate and continue on to their next life steps.
Each student's words were unique, sometimes funny, sometimes touching, and always expressing real gratitude. I realized listening to them that RFHS has created a very supportive
continued from
learning environment. In this time of enormous stress in politics and climate change world-wide, I am grateful to all the teachers, support staff and administrators who dedicate their lives to helping our youth develop the skills they need to go on to college and/or jobs and create good friendships. Thank you to the students for being who you are, each one of you, and thank you to your parents and the teachers you have had for helping you to become you.
Congratulations to you all!
With much appreciation,
Illène Pevec, Carbondale CongratsGraduation, it took a lot of focus to get here, congratulations to all of you. Please give the same amount of focus to driving. Since 2019, there has been a 37% increase in DEADLY crashes involving drivers under the age of 21. Distracted driving is listed as one of the major causes. Crashes are no accident — they are preventable. Wanting you around for years to come,
Diane Reynolds
Take A Minute/Slow Down in Town
Letters policy: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor. Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome. Please include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.
a creative program
The
Students were matched with peers at Hallett Academy in Denver to trade portraits — painted with only blue, red, yellow and white — based on photos. Participants also respond to prompts like, “What’s your best advice for someone your age moving to the mountains?” Then, the big reveal occurred on May 26. Nathan, pictured here with his family, said “I hope my pal sees how he’s happy and it looks like he’s in a good mood. … It was really hard to get the perfect colors, and I feel proud that I did it.”
