20230621

4-5 ~ Government

12-13 ~ Calendar

15-18 ~ Español

19-22 ~ Water Report

26-27 ~ Pickleball

This Week: A downright pleasant spring has officially tipped into summer. Wild flowers are popping in the high country, and Mt. Sopris is gradually shedding her white mantle. Enjoy these summer months before they are whisked away!

Mother Mountain Majesty

Photo by Andrea Bersson, Glenwood Springs

Support a sustainable future for The Sopris Sun OPINION

newspaper, which seeks to complement the other newspapers and provide content and coverage they can’t because of economic barriers or constraints imposed by for-profit publishers.

Yet, we are often the only press, and sometimes the only public, at these meetings. For the newspaper to be sustainable long-term, our people need to be paid a livable wage.

Fund The Sun

By Todd Chamberlin

Earlier this month, I was honored to fly to Washington, D.C. and attend the annual conference for the Institute for Nonprofit News. It was my first time at this event. There were hundreds of people in attendance, each representing different nonprofit news organizations throughout the country.

To my surprise, The Sopris Sun was mentioned many times by presenters and in one-on-one discussions with other attendees. People in the industry are fascinated by the many innovations our small, hometown newspaper has implemented over the past few years.

From being part of a Spanish news collaboration with seven other media organizations, to our Youth Journalism Program, our editorial achievements and the incorporation of original cartoons, fiction and a diverse freelance pool. We have done a lot to trailblaze nonprofit news in rural America, and other communities and publications are paying close attention.

In a time when many local newspapers are folding, industry insiders take note that we are a printed paper (most others are now only online), delivered to over 125 locations throughout six towns and four counties in the Roaring Fork and Crystal River valleys.

Industry insiders are amazed to learn that our newspaper is distributed for free, that there are no economic barriers for someone to pick up a copy of The Sopris Sun. Free printed newspapers are rare, and we are very fortunate to have five here in the Valley. The Sopris Sun is the only nonprofit, community-driven

LETTERS

Re: Doctrine of Discovery

Thanks so much for Amy Hadden Marsh's interview with Regina LopezWhiteskunk of the Ute Nation about the Pope's official renunciation of the Doctrine of Discovery. It would take quite a bit more than an apology for the Catholic Church, and for the inheritors of Western European colonization at large, to make up for the 500 years of genocide, land theft and abduction and disappearance of children in residential schools.

To this day, major fossil fuel projects continue to threaten native lands, from the Dakota Access and Enbridge's Line 3 Pipelines, both already flowing, to Line 5 in Michigan and the Coastal GasLink pipeline in British Columbia (legally sovereign Wet'suwet'in territory). Indeed, for those cries about rampant "wokeism" supposedly dredging up

In those discussions, I proudly tell them we have amazing support from the business community, who provide about 65% of our annual revenue through advertising in The Sopris Sun and our el Sol del Valle insert. However, that percentage has been dropping every year and we, like many other local news media outlets, are searching for a sustainable mix of revenue sources that can keep The Sopris Sun thriving for years to come.

Each week, it costs us about $10,000 to publish a paper. That expense includes printing and distribution, and paying our amazing staff and our freelance journalists, photographers, cartoonists and other contributors. As executive director, it’s my goal to not only pay a living wage, but a wage that allows our staff and contributors to flourish, and conceivably commit to a future in this place.

The Sopris Sun is also unique in that all our editorial staff were raised here locally, as were many of our contributors. The hope with our Youth Journalism Program is that this tradition of home-grown talent and dedication will continue to serve our community for generations to come.

I purposefully use the word “serve,” as journalism — a free press — is one of the bedrock services for a functioning democracy. It is a true labor of love and dedication. On an average week, between staff and freelancers, 10 or more hours are spent sitting in on public meetings. These span local towns, county government, the school district and library meetings, in addition to many state and federal public meetings, too. All of this in an effort to keep you informed about what is happening that might affect our communities and, ultimately, you.

Not only is there a cost to do this for the paper, but on an hourly basis, many of our freelancers and editors are making less than they would working for a fast food restaurant.

ancient history, and despite the Pope's apology, the Doctrine of Discovery is alive and well. It was reaffirmed by the Supreme Court as recently as 2005 in a case denying the Oneida Nation relief from state property taxes on land they had bought back from New York. In her decision, none other than Justice Ginsburg wrote, “Under the Doctrine of Discovery … fee title to the land occupied by Indians when the colonists arrived became vested in the sovereign — first the discovering European nation and later the original States and the United States.”

Will Hodges, Carbondale Redstone to McClure

The upper Crystal River Valley will soon get a new non-motorized bicycle/ pedestrian trail going from Redstone to the top of McClure Pass. The proposed

As mentioned previously, each week it costs about $10,000 to publish an edition of The Sopris Sun. With advertising having seasonal fluctuations, our board and staff decided we needed to be innovative in our business model as well. So we looked at the public radio model, and have decided to roll out the Sopris Sun SUNscriber program.

A SUNscriber is a Sopris Sun supporter who gives a monthly donation of any size to help sustain our monthly operations year-round. One of the most difficult problems for any nonprofit newspaper is not having consistent year-round revenue, income that doesn’t fluctuate month-to-month. The SUNscriber model will help power us through some of these hard months. It will also help fill in the gaps when advertising revenue drops or a grant doesn’t come through.

We understand that it is a big ask, but we hope this new program will ensure that The Sopris Sun continues to innovate and provide the coverage you have come to rely on for many years to come.

It is also a critical part of our mission, as a nonprofit, that our coverage remains free and accessible to all, because a vibrant community needs a strong newspaper for government oversight, to educate and combat disinformation, support local businesses and nonprofits, help build bridges and find common ground among community groups and members and as a vital platform to give each community member an opportunity to share their thoughts through letters to the editor.

During this summer fundraising drive our goal is to have 250 SUNscribers by Aug. 31. We currently have 56. Please consider becoming one yourself by logging onto www. soprissun.com/donate, or sending a monthly check to PO Box 399, Carbondale CO, 81623.

trail will be about seven miles long and located on the west side of Highway 133, with about 4.5 of those miles located on National Forest land and the rest along a new west shoulder of Highway 133. The upper four miles of the trail to the summit of the pass will follow the abandoned roadbed of the old, unpaved, previous version of Highway 133.

This past January, the Forest Service completed a formal Environmental Assessment on their part of the route and concluded that it would have “no significant environmental impact.” For environmental reasons, this part of the trail will have a reduced width and be constructed with a soft surface material. The trail will have seasonal closures to provide isolated elk calving during the spring months. With most of it being on WRNF land, this finding is a major step

continues on page 30

Editor Raleigh Burleigh 970-510-3003

news@soprissun.com

Sol del Valle Editor

Vanessa Porras

Contributing Editor James Steindler

Editorial Designer

Hattie Rensberry

Advertising Designer

Emily Blong

Delivery Frederic Kischbaum

Bartlett

Hank van Berlo

Proofreader Lee Beck

Executive Director

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

Youth Coordinator

Jeanne Souldern

Board Members / Mesa Directiva board@soprissun.com

Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke

Lee Beck • Donna Dayton

Terri Ritchie

Eric Smith • Roger Berliner

Elizabeth Phillips • Jessi Rochel

Juanma Cespedes • Andrew Travers

The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on second Thursdays at the Third Street Center.

The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with a mission to inform, inspire and build community by fostering diverse and independent journalism. Donations are fully tax deductible.

Sincerest thanks to our Honorary Publishers for their annual commitment of $1,000+

Lee Beck & John Stickney

Kay Brunnier • Frances Dudley

Michelle & Ed Buchman

Sue Edelstein & Bill Spence

Deborah & Shane Evans

Greg & Kathy Feinsinger

Gary & Jill Knaus • Eric Smith

Peter and Mike Gilbert

Carly & Frosty Merriott

James Noyes • Megan Tackett

Patti & George Stranahan

Anne Sullivan & John Colson

Elizabeth Wysong • Alpine Bank

Emily & George Bohmfalk

Kathy & Carter Barger

Sandy & Paul Chamberlin

Karen & Roger Berliner

Mama Sandy & Lee Mulcahy

Donna & Ken Riley

Legacy Givers for including us in their final wishes. Mary Lilly

Donate by mail or online: P.O. Box 399

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520 S. Third Street #26-B 970-510-3003

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Our Underwriters and Nonprofit Partners!

What's the word on the street? Let us know at news@soprissun.com

Troubadour talent

Carbondale’s own Jackson Emmer won the 30th annual Troubadour Contest at Telluride Bluegrass this year. The songwriter competition invites artists not currently signed to a major recording or publishing deal to perform original songs. Congrats, Jackson!

Holy Cross election

Holy Cross Energy, our nonprofit rural electric co-op, held its annual meeting on June 15, announcing newly-elected board directors. With 4,287 votes total cast, incumbent Alex Degolia will continue to represent the Western District after receiving 49.7% of the vote. Linn Brooks was chosen to represent the Northern District in a much tighter race, ahead of Kimberly Schlaepfer by 1% of the vote.

Grant opportunity

Interim principals

The Roaring Fork School District is doing some shuffling in light of two of its principals moving on from their positions. Basalt High School (BHS) Principal Peter Mueller announced that he is departing his position to pursue other career opportunities in the Valley. Glenwood Springs Middle School’s (GMS) former principal, Joel Hathaway, was promoted to serve as the district’s executive director of schools in May. BHS Assistant Principal Megan Hartmann will step in as her school’s interim principal, and GMS Assistant Principal Sarah Casaletto will fill the interim position there.

Sexual abuse

RJ Paddywacks

Cool Bricks Studio

White River Books

Alpine Animal Hospital

Novus Glass

Nonprofit Partners

Wilderness Workshop

5point Film Festival

Basalt Library

Aspen Strong

Carbondale Rotary

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

The Department of Local Affairs is providing $33 million in grants to nonprofits serving underrepresented communities. The Nonprofit Infrastructure Grant was created specifically to help communities disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Applications will be accepted between July 5 and Aug. 31 through a geographically-appointed Regional Access Partner (find the directory at www.bit.ly/DOLARAP).

Water rebates

The City of Glenwood Springs is offering rebates for water customers with efficient appliances or for turf removal. Turf removal is the biggest bang for the buck, with the City chipping in $2 for every square foot (up to 1,000 square feet) of lawn removed. Rebate funding is limited. Those interested can visit www. garfieldcleanenergy.org/gwsw-rebates

Climbing closures

The Forest Service announced temporary closures of climbing routes in Lime Creek Canyon (Eagle County) and Coal Creek (Pitkin County) due to nesting peregrine falcons in both locations. The cliffs and surrounding areas of the nests will be closed through July 31, but other routes that will not impact the falcons remain open. Visit www.fs.usda.gov/whiteriver for the closure order and maps.

The Carbondale Police Department (CPD) recently arrested a former youth soccer coach, Cesar Herrera Romero, following allegations of sexual assault made by juveniles. CPD believes that several incidents took place between Aspen and Glenwood Springs, and that there may be other child victims that have not yet come forward. CPD requests that parents and guardians whose children disclose relevant information contact the department at 970-625-8095.

Summer Advantage

Summer Advantage is underway at local elementary schools for the 12th consecutive year. This summer academic programming is provided for free thanks to Summit54, Roaring Fork Schools, Aspen School District and Summer Advantage USA. Students receive a nutritious breakfast and lunch daily, brain exercises, literacy, math, physical activity and enrichment programs like art, music, dance, video game programming and environmental studies. To learn more about Summer Advantage RFV, call Executive Director Terri Caine at 970-618-2219.

Theatre Guild awards

Thunder River Theatre has been nominated for seven Colorado Theatre Guild Henry awards, including best leading actor, supporting actor, supporting actress, costume design, scenic design and sound design. Winners will be announced on July 24.

CARE has 9 cats, 6 dogs and 3 guinea pigs available for adoption.

Martín Bonzi assists Gabriela Jimenez of Carbondale at an introductory training for participants in CLEER's eBikeThere Garfield County program on June 19 at the Third Street Center. Jimenez was one of 40 income-qualified residents to receive a new e-bike at a highly subsidized price through the program, which aims to reduce vehicle travel and pollution by making e-bikes more affordable. Participants are expected to use their e-bikes for commuting and to track their miles. Courtesy photo

Aspen to DIA

Roaring Fork Express, a shuttle service to and from Aspen to Denver International Airport has expanded its services. The shuttle will depart three times daily from Aspen (7am, 11:30am and 2pm), and three times daily from DIA (9am, 12:30pm and 5:30pm). Reservation options and more information can be found at www.letsride.co

They say it’s your birthday! Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Jessica Kollar (June 22); Keith Edquist, Marc Loggins, Daniel Pulver, Hattie Rensberry, Donna Riley, Felix Tornare and Lauren Whittaker (June 23); Brian Keleher (June 24); Mark Burrows, Olivia Pevec and Michael Quint (June 25); Jaspen Mackin, Emilee Phelan, Zack Ritchie, Lucy Sontag and Jake Zamansky (June 26); Roberto de Leon, Erica Pincomb and Colton Mesner (June 27); Michael Black, Adele Craft, Erin Galbreath, Jeff Isaacson, Claire de L'Arbre and Beth Mulry (June 28).

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.

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

Oh, Fiona! With the funniest face and silliest spirit, this 6-year-old gal wants to romp into your heart and live there forever. She’s zany, she’s playful, she’s goofy, and she’s great with kids, dogs, and maybe even cats. Best friend material! Get in touch for her info!

CLEER transportation program manager

Wholesale greenhouses to cover 95% of light at night, American Stewards of Liberty, Mountain Valley changes

By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun Correspondent

A full agenda greeted the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) Monday for the final meeting of the month.

The Board heard from citizens in the morning and the afternoon about issues not on the agenda. Richard Bach took time out from work to ask the BOCC to do something about increased taxes that are vexing property owners throughout the county. Commission Chair John Martin said they will consider reducing the mill levies which drive the tax base. He also said later in the meeting that more than 2,000 property tax appeals have been filed. Another citizen wants the county to change the floodplain review process.

American Stewards of Liberty

The consent agenda was approved, including a letter to Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Director Tracy Stone-Manning, requesting that the agency work with the Coordinating Local Governments (CLG) on BLM’’s proposed conservation and land health rule. The letter also assigns Margaret Byfield, executive director of the American Stewards of Liberty (ASL), a conservative lobbying group, as liaison for the CLG, which includes Garfield County.

ASL, based in Texas, advocates for property rights and organizes local leaders to fight federal conservation efforts, including a “Join the Delisting Movement” campaign against certain Endangered Species Act protections. ASL also provides training on how to

coordinate with federal agencies, based on a cultivated definition and use of the term “coordinate.”

ASL provides templates for county resolutions and letters. In fact, the BOCC’s 2021 resolution against President Joe Biden’s 30 X 30 proposal filled in the blanks of an ASL template that was available on its website. ASL has also organized the Multiple Use Alliance against the 30 X 30 proposal, calling it a “land grab.” The BOCC did not discuss the BLM letter on Monday prior to approval.

Mountain Valley Developmental Services

The County Department of Human Services presented an update, including major changes in the case management system. It was a complicated discussion full of acronyms.

“The state Health Care Policy and Financial Department is redefining how case management is provided to those with Medicaid waivers,” explained Sara Simms, executive director of Mountain Valley Developmental Services (MVDS) in Glenwood Springs, in an interview.

Basically, the “re-design” directive comes from a Federal law passed in 2014 for conflict-free case management. Two state bills from 2017 and 2021 mandate implementation guidelines for specific populations.

MVDS has been handling its own case management since the early 1980s. But, Northwest Colorado Options, within the Garfield County Department of Human Services, will become the single entry point and

Two land use code changes were approved, one of which requires wholesale greenhouses to black out 95% of indoor growing lights at night. Art by Larry Day

case management provider for MVDS clients. Simms told The Sopris Sun that the redesign will change how MVDS operates.

“Mountain Valley has been known to people, especially those who use our services, as a one-stop shop,” she explained. “You come in, you have your case management, you have your services; we've developed a robust menu of services for people.” MVDS will lose five case managers, which Simms said could make things difficult for current clients. “Case management is all about [our clients] being able to trust people,” she said. Re-design plans must be in place by July 1, 2024.

BOTT dines with BOCC

By Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editor

Correction: The Sopris Sun mistakenly reported that all trustees were present at last week’s meeting with the exception of Colin Laird. In fact, Marty Silverstein was also absent.

Carbondale’s trustees shared dinner with the Garfield County Board of County Commissioners on Tuesday, June 20, for their annual check-in. Peppino’s focaccia sandwiches were served.

Items discussed included regional transportation, affordable housing, rodeos and property taxes. The transportation conversation was prompted by a letter asking the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to facilitate a countywide transit plan in light of population and employment forecasts predicting 40% more residents and workers in Garfield County by 2040. The letter was signed by the county and its municipalities in May.

“We want people to work where they live,” said Commissioner Mike Samson. “That’s the utopia. We as governments need to encourage that as much as we can.”

“Growth needs to be where utilities are,” said Commission Chair John Martin, noting that the county and municipalities desire green spaces between urban centers rather than suburban sprawl.

“You can see the development we’ve been funneling toward our core,” responded Mayor Ben Bohmfalk. He mentioned that Nathan Lindquist, active transportation section manager with CDOT, responded positively to the letter.

Next, Mayor Bohmfalk summarized Carbondale’s Community Housing Plan, developed in January. He also asked if the county will join the West Mountain Regional Housing Coalition to work jointly toward housing solutions.

Commissioner Tom Jankovsky rattled off the efforts that Garfield County has undertaken, with inclusionary housing guidelines, loosened restrictions on ADUs, support for Habitat for Humanity and Garfield County Housing Authority, zoning for attainable workforce housing and waiving certain fees.

Samson explained that unless New Castle, Silt, Rifle and Parachute join the housing coalition, the county will abstain. “I’m open minded, but we have to have those other communities,” he said.

Trustee Marty Silverstein responded, “Looking into the future, the same problems we have with affordable housing [are] already there in New Castle, it’s coming to Silt, it’s coming to Rifle … It isn't just one municipality's problem.”

Next, the rodeo topic got heated. Commissioner Martin attempted to preclude this by explaining all the measures taken to address parking, trash and noise. He announced that two of the four traditional Mexican rodeos are now moving to the Rifle fairgrounds, which means the final one in Carbondale will be on Sunday, July 16.

Nonetheless, several members of the audience interjected that they were not invited to discussions about events scheduled at the Gus Darien Riding Arena. “Smaller events are more conducive to a smaller space,” said one. Another brought to the podium a bag of garbage he picked off his street near the

The emerald ash borer, a jewel beetle native to north-eastern Asia, has arrived in Carbondale. This is the first confirmed case of the insect, known for devastating trees in the genus Fraxinus, on the Western Slope of Colorado. The beetle has no predator in North America and has spread to at least 35 states. Already, four ash trees in front of the Post Office have fallen casualty and were removed on June 19. According to a press release sent on June 20, there are around 470 ash trees on public property in Carbondale. Town Arborist Carl Meinecke will consult with various town boards on how to proceed. “It has probably been in town for two or more years,” said Meinecke, “but I am just now noticing the obvious signs as trees are starting to decline.” Find more information at csfs.colostate.edu/eab

Gus Darien Riding Arena. One woman slapped the podium, exclaiming, “we don’t want events every weekend all summer long.” Several said, “It’s not the rodeo,” in reference to the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo, which is the biggest and most frequent event using the public amenity.

Town Manager Lauren Gister weighed in, explaining there were two meetings with the Town, Mexican rodeo promoters and the neighbors, and a distinct process for events in Town-owned spaces begins each fall for the following year, with approval in January. More effort will be made to notify neighbors of the rodeo grounds in the future, she said.

Lastly, Commissioner Martin explained that every taxing entity has the authority to adjust its mill levy and urged trustees to look into that possibility given historically high assessed property values. “Who has come to our aid every time we needed to raise a tax or float a bond? Turn to your citizens and say, ‘Hey, we’re here for you as well,’” he suggested. “Make it easy on them … because this is a hardship, truly a hardship.”

Short-term rentals

The work session continued with a review of short-term rental (STR) regulations. Gister began with the history, explaining how trustees approved a resolution as a temporary measure to collect data in response to anecdotal stories and concerns by residents about long-term rental options being turned into STRs by investors. Properties already being used as STRs were grandfathered in for a license, but new licenses were only allowed for primary residences or residences within the Historic Commercial Core zone district.

Accordingly, there are 71 licensed STRs in Carbondale, 2.4% of the total housing stock, and 31 are entire houses. There’s an unknown number of unlicensed STRs operating, as the Town has yet to implement enforcement through software.

For comparison, Mayor Bohmfalk cited data collected by the Colorado Association of Ski Towns, revealing 56% of residential units in Breckenridge have STR licenses, 30% in Steamboat,

Photo by Jeanne Souldern

HILARY PORTERFIELD

main & w eant blvd )

furniture, lighting, home decor & gifts

Emerald Ash Borer, Agrilus planipennis, courtesy photo continues on page 28

Paonia businesses feel impacts of 133 closure

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

On April 29, a sinkhole began forming on Highway 133, between Somerset and Paonia, that grew to cause massive road damage resulting in a total road closure that lasted nearly two months.

The sinkhole resulted from a strong spring runoff destroying a culvert that ran beneath the highway.

On Monday, June 19, the Department of Transportation (CDOT) announced that a temporary bridge is now open, ten days ahead of the contractor’s deadline. Commercial motor vehicle traffic is restricted to 85,000 lbs and an 11-foot width, and the speed limit for all vehicles is 40 mph through the work zone.

Since the road closure began, businesses in the North Fork Valley — known as the state’s “organic bread basket,” with beloved food and wine experiences — saw impacts ranging from inconvenient to wholly negative. These included folks living in the North Fork Valley and working in the Roaring Fork Valley having to take a long alternate route, and ranchers struggling to transport livestock.

Goat farmer David Miller and his cheesemaker wife, Suanne, established their farmstead creamery, Western Culture, after purchasing their land in Paonia in 2015. They and four employees distribute their cheeses in the Roaring Fork Valley, Telluride and Grand Junction areas, as well as the North Fork Valley.

According to Miller, the road closure caused an evolving disruption of the economics of the North Fork Valley in aspects of commerce and livelihood. "It's impacted our business as far as our agri-tourism and customer flow go. It has severely impacted the businesses around us as well, because we rely on that nice

flow of customers from over the hill," Miller said.

Miller opined that action wasn’t taken quickly enough. "Where the sinkhole happened is a corner of Gunnison County, which isn't popular and doesn't provide a lot of tax base to Gunnison County. Therefore, in my opinion, it was put on the backburner as far as

priority. I believe that this could have been attended to quicker, faster and more efficiently," he said.

Steve Steese, co-owner of Storm Cellar Winery, which he runs with his wife, Jayme Henderson, said that while their business has still been getting good traction and customer flow from the Front Range and within their community, they have been missing the “transient” tourism traffic from folks who make day trips to the North Fork.

"We had so much traffic last year from Carbondale and the rest of the Roaring Fork Valley, and we just want that to continue," Steese stated. He elaborated that he hopes Roaring Fork Valley residents will again support the business now that repairs are complete. "The hard part is that, as a seasonal valley, with the loss of a whole month, it almost doesn't matter how busy the rest of the summer is. It's very difficult to make up for the lost month," Steese concluded.

For updates on the temporary and permanent repairs to Highway 133, visit cotrip.org

Paonia, nestled beneath Mt. Lamborn, was severed from the Crystal Valley in early May by a failed culvert crossing Highway 133. Businesses in the North Fork Valley experienced a consequential drop in visitation. Photo courtesy of Storm Cellar Winery

RCA airs concerns over county’s permit

By James Steindler Contributing Editor

Redstone’s Fourth of July parade is just around the corner, and this year it’s going to look a bit different. As locals have seen with the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo, growth has given way to more structure in what is ceasing to be the Wild West.

The Aspen Daily News printed a story on June 10, breaking the news that Pitkin County is requiring the Redstone parade receive a permit beginning this year. The Sopris Sun sat down with the Redstone Community Association (RCA), which organizes the annual event, to get its take.

Katie Lowery has served as the treasurer for RCA for about four years, but has lived in Redstone for the past 20. She attended her first Fourth of July parade on the Boulevard in 2004.

“I think the only way it’s grown is the amount of people who attend it. The actual parade and festivities themselves have been the same,” clarified Lowery. She added that they don’t even advertise for the parade anymore, with the exception of social media — and even there, there’s not much of a following. “It’s just known,” she said.

Every year, the parade goes back and forth on the Boulevard, earning the distinction of “the only parade you get to see twice!” There’s a water fight (organized by Carbondale and Rural Fire Protection District) and a ducky derby race. The activities take place over a few hours, and then the village is deserted (at least of visitors).

“People start showing up around 10 in the morning and they’re gone by 2 or 3 o’clock,” said RCA board member Josh Wamboldt.

Wambolt, who owns Avalanche Outfitters, has

helped coordinate the horse-drawn wagons in the parade — namely, the Grand Marshall. This year, however, he’ll be focused on parking. Or, as he put it, “trying to coordinate the excessive parking change we have to make.”

That’s what Pitkin County’s reasoning comes down to: parking and traffic and how that can affect public safety.

“Last year, I think we had cars a half mile down on both sides of Highway 133, plus almost half a mile up Coal Basin Road and behind the coke ovens,” said Wamboldt.

In November 2022, the RCA received an email from Pitkin County Community Development, expressing concerns about the amount of people that were attending events in Redstone, and wanted to begin discussions around permits. Since then, the county has joined at least three of RCA’s board meetings.

Lowery began working on the permits in March of this year and discovered they’d need a $1 million insurance policy which ended up costing just shy of $400. “So, not as bad as we thought it would be,” she stated.

Wamboldt pitched the idea of closing one side of Highway 133 for parking, and keeping one lane open for alternating traffic controlled by temporary traffic lights, but that didn’t quite cut it for the county. Instead, parking will be spread out between Coal Basin Road, Elk Park and between the Fire Station and the North Bridge on Redstone Boulevard. There will be flaggers at the coke ovens to stop traffic and guide attendees across Highway 133. But, parking coordination, from Wamboldt’s understanding, falls on RCA volunteers of whom he fears there will be a deficiency.

An A-1 Traffic Control estimate came back at around

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$3,500 for the event, which Pitkin County offered to pay this year. But, Lowery expressed that RCA has a modest budget and is concerned that the annual fee could have a big impact on the nonprofit’s coffers in the future. Accordingly, RCA considered charging an admittance fee for the parade, but decided not to this year considering other changes spectators will face.

The RCA is also concerned that the county will require permits for other events, including the Grand Illumination. When asked if the county is considering requiring permits for other events in Redstone, Pitkin County Undersheriff Alex Bruchetta simply stated, “To my knowledge, no other event in Redstone attracts attendees at the level of the Redstone [Fourth of July] Parade.”

“We want people to know that the RCA is here, and we are doing everything we can to stay and continue to put on these events,” said Lowery. “But, in order to do that we have to have donations. We have to have volunteers. We’re going to need help.”

Visit www.redstonecolorado.com/rca to sign up to volunteer, donate or to learn more about RCA.

I am a proud Sunscriber because I believe in local community driven journalism. Local journalism gives a voice to the people and protects our right to know what's going on in our communities, our country and our world. The Sopris Sun builds community, captures history, shares stories about our people, cultures, arts, schools and businesses and where we can all have a voice. Independent local journalism helps us fight for the things that matter in our communities. It informs us about important issues and helps us find common ground. The Sopris Sun enlightens us, delights us, inspires us and unites us. You can be a Sunscriber too, it feels warm and fuzzy, I promise!

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Garfield County Public Health, among other entities in our communities, is distributing Naloxone kits to reduce the number of opioid overdose deaths. Safe, FDA approved, and easy to use, Naloxone can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose.

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A scene from Redstone's 1995 Fourth of July parade. Photo from Valley Journal archives

Parents fight to save music at CRES

By Max Seitel Youth Correspondent

Carbondale is a Colorado Creative District, meaning that it is recognized by the state for making economic and social contributions through the arts. With its art galleries and regular concerts, art and music are part of Carbondale’s DNA. But, the rising cost of living now threatens arts opportunities in local schools. Next year, Crystal River Elementary School (CRES) will not be able to provide a music program.

Early this past school year, the CRES music teacher announced to the administration that she would not be returning next year. The teacher announced her exit in February, so the school posted the open job online and had a 12-week application period. Two musicians applied, but one was deterred by housing costs, and the other didn’t have a teaching license. Thus the job closed, and music programming was cut. In its place, CRES plans to create another STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) opportunity for its students.

CRES parents, concerned about kids not having equal access to creative resources through their public school, decided to take initiative. They created a petition in support of keeping music programming at CRES, and to raise

awareness about the ongoing need to support teachers and art programs in the current economic environment.

“We’ve had some great responses come out of that,” said Beverly Patera, a CRES parent. “People [are] willing to do whatever it takes to keep the program alive.”

This petition, and the group of parents behind it, have a few main goals. The first is to permanently bring back music beginning with the 20242025 school year. The second is to create regular music experiences and exposure or kids next year without the formal program. The final goal is for CRES staff to be more transparent about the challenges they face.

One possible solution to bring back music can be found just a few miles downvalley at the Riverview School. Riverview faced a similar problem to CRES, where applicants didn’t have teaching licenses, but ended up supporting an applicant with provisional and accelerated licensing programs. Looking forward, this could be an option for CRES as well.

“We can work with people who are willing to look into [provisional licensing],” CRES Principal Aimee Brockman told The Sopris Sun. “We just didn’t have the right applicant this year.”

Beyond this, community outreach from parents has brought this issue to the attention of the local music

community, and organizations like Jazz Aspen. Another idea for next year is to team up with organizations to have musicians come to the school and give kids an experience with music, even if it's not necessarily formal instruction. Many parents are worried that this gap in music education will poorly set up young kids for their middle and high school music experience, so a main goal in these creative solutions is to somewhat prepare the third and fourth graders moving into middle school with music knowledge. Looking beyond next year, the future remains uncertain. Asked if she thinks music will return after next school year, Principal Brockman said, “We go through a whole budget and staffing process every year. We’ll reevaluate

when we have more information.”

Some parents aren’t satisfied with this inconclusive response. “For me, that’s not good enough,” said Aaron Aeschliman, another concerned parent. “I need a guarantee that music will come back.”

As it becomes more difficult to maintain staffing in schools, especially in the arts, it is more unrealistic to expect a perfect music teacher candidate to just appear on the doorstep of CRES. But, at the same time, there are creative solutions out there, and it is up to the school to be willing to try them out.

This issue extends beyond the elementary school. Staffing schools across the Valley is a growing challenge. Adaptation will necessitate community outreach, and parents working with the schools to provide the best possible learning environment for their children.

Art by Sofie Koski

Monks return to share compassion at Third Street Center

By Will Buzzerd Sopris Sun Correspondent

From June 23-28, the Way of Compassion Dharma Center will host a special visit from the monks of the famous Gaden Shartse Monastery during their Sacred Earth and Healing Arts of Tibet Tour. The event will be hosted at the Third Street Center in Carbondale, and will include the creation of a sand mandala for public viewing, a series of workshops, ceremonies and more.

The Way of Compassion Dharma Center, founded in 2015, provides resources and teachings freely to Dharma students in the Roaring Fork Valley. Providing a weekly schedule of meditation and study groups, as well as day-long programs and retreats, the center is largely supported by a free-will donation basis and led by Spiritual Director John Bruna.

Bruna, after a long career of various pursuits, was ordained as a Buddhist Monk at the Gaden Shartse Monastery in India in 2005, with the name of Jangchub Chophel. After six years of monastic life — some of which entailed leading the same tours as the visiting monks this year — Bruna now lives as a layperson, sharing his experience and monastic training for the benefit of others.

Since the invasion of Tibet by the Chinese government, many Tibetan people have had to form close communities in other countries

for the preservation of their culture. Although the Indian government has provided land to organizations like Gaden Shartse, they are not funded by the government and thus rely, in part, on donations from across the world for sustaining themselves and rebuilding their community.

The Sacred Earth and Healing Arts of Tibet Tour forms a significant part of these fundraising efforts, in which monks from Gaden Shartse donate two years of their lives sharing their practice, culture and experience with the global community — including our valley.

The events will vary from those catering to curious folks who might not be practicing Buddhists, like a session on Monday in which the monks will present daily life in the monastery and answer any questions; as well as events for all ages, such as a Tibetan butter sculpture workshop on Sunday.

For those more in the practice of Dharma, events include a meditation workshop with Bruna and a tea offering on Saturday, as well as a Vajravidaran healing ritual on Sunday. However, the main attraction is certain to be the creation of the sand mandala over the week, as well as its dissolution ceremony.

“The first night, there’ll be a ritual and the monks will do prayers, they’ll purify the environment and make it conducive to receive the sand mandala, so that’s usually

a big night,” said Bruna. “A lot of people, they see these beautiful sand mandalas, and they get swept up. It’s hard for them to grasp the hours of work that go in, and the detail and the dissolution. There’s a much greater purpose. The idea of the sand mandala is to bring healing and peace to an area, and to purify the area of negativity.”

Over the week, the monks will painstakingly construct a symbolic image of Chenrezig, the Buddha of Compassion, with brightly colored sand, the whole time with meditation, intention and prayer.

Chenrezig embodies the great compassion of all Buddhas, which is the desire to free all beings of suffering. “A lot of people get confused with compassion, they think sympathy is compassion, which it’s not. Compassion is really this force, this energy — you want to remove suffering,” Bruna shared.

Once completed, the mandala undergoes a dissolution ceremony, in which all the sand of the mandala is swept up and the image is erased.

“The idea is that this is for the whole area; it’s for the Valley,” says Bruna. “[The Mandala] will be consecrated, which means it will be blessed with the deities themselves … Then, the idea is that all of the sand is blessed with healing and purification qualities, and everyone who is there gets a little bag of sand to take home. Then, what we do is go to the river

… do some more prayers, and the idea is that these blessings will be carried through the waters all the way through the Valley.”

For those interested, the events of Compassion week begin on Friday, June 23 at 7pm, with the opening ceremony in the round room of the Third Street Center. A calendar of events is available at www.wocdc.org

The mandala will be open for public viewing the next day through its dissolution, and while the events are all free, donations are suggested by the center.

After days of building a meticiulous sand mandala at the Third Street Center, the Gaden Shartse monks will ceremonially dissolve its blessing in the Crystal River. Courtesy photo

All 12 inaugural students of Ron Speaker’s summer Finance Camp passed their final exam, earning $750 of trading capital on top of the initial $500 awarded for their community service work. Students represented every high school in the Valley and received a 90-day trial of Bloomberg financial data to assist with stock analysis. Skills taught included proper dining etiquette for a business luncheon, presented by Alex Yakjo (pictured).

Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Carbondale’s Daisy Troop 17082 earned “Take Action” badges by providing input on new equipment for the Hendricks Park playground. A ribbon-cutting took place on June 20. Photo by April Crow-Spaulding

Unveiling of Aspen’s first public art installation echoes Carbondale precedent

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

Aspen is embarking on a new artistic journey with its first-ever public art installation as part of its new Public Arts Plan. The inaugural project, a temporary street mural near the Wheeler Opera House, will be unveiled during the opening weekend of the Aspen Ideas Festival. On June 25, from 10am to 4pm, community members and Aspen Ideas Festival attendees are invited to visit the site and help paint the mural from start to finish. Public arts programs are said to have numerous benefits for communities. They’re known to contribute to the cultural fabric of a place, enhance public spaces, promote creativity, engage residents and visitors and inspire both current and future generations of artists.

Emily Ford, the communications manager at Aspen’s City Manager’s

Office, shared that the genesis of Aspen’s Public Art Plan can be traced back to the collaborative efforts of the City of Aspen's leadership and the community, with “the intention of mirroring Aspen's unique cultural spirit and further enhancing the sense of unity and connectedness through public art.”

In March, in response to residents’ requests, Aspen City Council approved a contract with consultants to develop the program, which will feature city-owned art displays installed throughout town. Funds are being allocated to support artistic and cultural initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to preserve the city's artistic heritage. “By investing in public art, we are not only preserving our cultural heritage but also boosting the overall quality of life in Aspen,” Ford explained.

Installation artist Chris Erickson, who has been chosen to lead the project, grew up on

the Front Range and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in painting from Fort Lewis College. He moved to the Roaring Fork Valley about 20 years ago, eventually settling in Carbondale because of “its vibrant art scene.”

Erickson previously worked with the Aspen Institute on an installation for the opening of the Resnick Center for Herbert Bayer Studies. Describing Bayer’s profound impact on design, architecture and art in Aspen, Erickson said, “Working with the Aspen Institute and the Aspen Ideas Festival, it’s hard to ignore the influence of

Herbert Bayer. His imprint is on the town of Aspen.”

Austrian-born Bayer, who initially trained as a Bauhaus artist and architect, came to Aspen in 1946 and, after developing a close friendship with Aspen Institute’s founder Walter Paepcke, was enlisted by Paepcke to design the institute’s original campus.

Taking inspiration from Bayer's work, Erickson incorporated elements from his paintings, allowing them to guide and shape the direction of the design.

The installation project, meant to promote pedestrian

safety at busy Aspen intersections, is inspired by the Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Asphalt Arts Initiative, which, according to their website, is “helping cities use art and community engagement to improve street safety and revitalize public space” through what they call “visual interventions.”

Erickson shared that Aspen appears to be taking its lead from Carbondale, which he called “the model in our Valley” for community-driven arts initiatives. He added, “Carbondale is a community

continues on page 28

Carbondale artist Chris Erickson will lead Aspen's first-ever public art installation on June 25. Courtesy photo

Valley Settlement receives $2 million donation

By Will Buzzerd Sopris Sun Correspondent

On May 23, Glenwood Springs-based organization Valley Settlement received a transformational $2 million donation from famed philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. Valley Settlement, which provides education and mentoring programs for immigrant families throughout the Roaring Fork Valley, will use the donation to expand its programming into western Garfield County as part of its recently approved five-year strategic plan.

Founded in 2011 as a project of Carbondale-based social justice nonprofit MANAUS, Valley Settlement was created with the primary goal of listening to the needs of local immigrant families, and from those families’ needs and aspirations, collaborating to create programs for the entire family. Valley Settlement’s successful programs include El Busesito Preschool — a small fleet of buses converted into preschools which provide bilingual education to children up and down the Valley — as well as education for adults in English, computer skills, pre-GED work and more.

The donation came from MacKenzie Scott — who, owing to a 4% stake in Amazon, donated over $10 billion to different organizations. Maria Tarajano Rodman, executive director of Valley Settlement, stated that although the gift itself was not a surprise, the amount and the donor was.

“We were approached through email from a consulting firm that said there was an anonymous donor that was vetting our work for a possible gift, [and asked] if we were willing to have conversations about that,” she said. It was after a vetting period by the consulting firm that Valley Settlement received a call which stated that Scott was the donor and that they would receive a total of $2 million.

“Just because you’re being vetted for a gift doesn’t mean it’s gonna happen,” Rodman said, “so we were thrilled when we finally got the phone call … It was a lovely opportunity and such a validation of the extraordinary work of this community — the members of the Latino-Latina community that really created the work here at Valley Settlement, our board, our donors, our volunteers and our partners.”

Valley Settlement has regularly

worked with many partners throughout the Valley. These include the Roaring Fork School District, which has helped in particular with the Busesito and Parent Mentor programs. The Parent Mentor program has parents volunteer in the grades of their children, assisting district teachers who may not yet be bilingual and providing a bridge for children who are still learning English.

Rodman also acknowledged the organizations — primarily churches — which have provided a safe, welcoming venue for El Busesito and its students. There are many more partners which make the work of Valley Settlement possible. “No organization does anything alone,” Rodman said. “There are so many different relationships which make our work possible, and I hope that this is a validation of all of our work, because it really does take all of us.”

The donation came serendipitously.

In December 2022, Valley Settlement approved a five-year strategic plan for how to strengthen its impact. After a year and a half of attentive listening — Rodman listed community members from Parachute to Aspen, families who may not be connected to Valley Settlement, partners, donors, volunteers and staff, among those who were part of this intensive process — Valley Settlement created a plan to expand its scope in three primary ways.

First, the strategic plan includes making programs more accessible to the entire family, expanding to include teens, fathers and grandparents. The second goal is to strengthen existing relationships to enable Valley Settlement to provide its work as effectively and for as long as possible. The third is to expand outreach into western Garfield County to collaborate with even more immigrant communities.

However, before expanding into West Garfield, Valley Settlement will do what it has always done: listen to the needs and aspirations of the community there in order to create the best possible resources for its families. “We can’t do it without the support of the community,” Rodman said. “It’s not just us going to a new place, it’s us building the relationships of what we can do together”

Those interested in registering or volunteering for Valley Settlement’s programs, and those wishing to donate, can find more information at www. valleysettlement.org

One of Valley Settlement's many successful programs is El Busesito — school buses converted into preschools which provide education to kids up and down the Valley. Courtesy photo

Our Monthly Theme Is:

RITUAL

In the month of June Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist is exploring the theme of “ritual” by asking the question “How do we share meaning in our action when our beliefs are so diverse?”

The Skeptical, the Seekers and the Curious are always welcome!

by Rev A.G Norris Live

Sunday, June 25th, 10am

Stapenhorst

Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist Community Room/Third St. Center in Carbondale

Join Zoom Meeting - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82605258305

Meeting ID: 826 0525 83053 - Passcode: chalice

truu.org

PRESENTED BY EAST COAST ASSET MANAGEMENT MIKE CONNOLLY, ASPEN

FAMILY AND PET FRIENDLY!

Don’t be shy, come on in! “Stone Entropy,” an exhibit featuring marble sculptures by Chet Haring, Luke Leone and Gregory Tonozzi, concludes on June 27. “Metamorphic processes have been happening to this stone for billions of years,” wrote Tonozzi in his artist statement. “My hands are now part of these changes.”

THURSDAY, JUNE 22

NATURAL OILS & DYE

Head to the Botany Houseplant Shop for its “Essential Oils and Botanical Dyeing Happy Hour Workshop” at 5pm. You will “make n’ take” your own essential oil room spray, and a botanically dyed bandana. Sign up at www.box-eleven.com

NARRATIVE ENNEAGRAM

Learn more about a personality system describing nine distinct patterns of thinking at True Nature at 5:30pm. This is the second class in a series and drop-ins are welcome. Learn more at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

RODEO

GRATEFUL

Aspen Film presents the 11th annual Grateful Dead Meet-Up at the Movies, featuring footage of a 1991 concert at Chicago’s Soldier Field, at the Isis Theatre tonight at 7pm and on June 24 at 3pm. Tickets at www.aspenfilm.org

TRTC SHOW

Thunder River Theatre Company’s production of “The Lifespan of a Fact” continues tonight, tomorrow and Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 2pm, the final performance. Find tickets at www.thunderrivertheatre.com

CRYSTAL THEATRE

The Crystal Theatre shows “It Ain’t Over” tonight at 7:30pm; then “Asteroid City” on June 23, 24, 28 and 29 at 7:30pm and on Sunday, June 25 at 5pm.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual walker, we’ve got a race for you! Join us for a day of community, friendly competition, and supporting the Buddy Program.

REGISTER TO RACE AT buddyprogram.org/boogiesbuddyrace

Aunque seas un corredor con experiencia o un caminante casual, ¡Tenemos una carrera para ti! Acompáñanos para un día de comunidad y competencia amistosa para apoyar al Buddy Program.

REGISTRATE PARA LA CARRERA buddyprogram.org/boogiesbuddyrace

JULY 4 WAGNER PARK, ASPEN

Scan to register Escanee para inscribirse

MEET US AT

The Carbondale Wild West Rodeo kicks off at 5:30pm 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 onsite parking is now $10 per vehicle.

EQUITY SPEAKER

MANAUS’ Equity Speaker Series continues with Pattie Gonia, a drag queen-environmentalist community organizer, presenting at TACAW at 6:30pm. Register for free at www.tacaw.org

BIRDS OF PLAY

Birds of Play puts on a free concert at Coal Basin Ranch, west of Redstone, at 6:30pm.

HEALTHY HEARTS

SPONSORED BY:

The Center for Prevention and Rootbound Cooking will teach a free cooking class, “Food for a Healthy Heart,” at the Third Street Center at 7pm. To sign up, contact rootboundcooking@gmail. com or call 970-424-2175.

THEATRE ASPEN

Theatre Aspen presents “Beautiful: the Carole King Musical” with preview shows tonight and tomorrow night at 7:30pm and a preview matinee on Saturday, June 24 at 4pm. Saturday performances (June 24, July 1 and July 8) are at 8pm. The June 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, as well as the July 3, 5, 6 and 7 shows start at 7:30pm. Matinees are on July 1 and 8 at 4pm and July 6 at 2pm. Visit www.theatreaspen. org for tickets and more info.

FRIDAY, JUNE 23

COMPASSION WEEK

Join the Gaden Shartse Monastery of Tibet and Carbondale’s Way of Compassion Dharma Center for a week of events. The opening ceremony, tonight at 7pm, initiates a sand mandala of the Buddha of Compassion which will be constructed over four days and end with a dissolution ceremony on June 28. The mandala creation will be open for public viewing at the Third Street Center, where Tibetan goods will also be sold to benefit the monastery, from 9am to 5pm through June 28. Learn more at www.wocdc.org

FONDUE NIGHT

The Cocoa Club and Aspen Fondue join forces to indulge diners with a menu of cheese and chocolate fondue at the CoCoa Club at 6pm. Call 970-340-4608 for reservations.

A BAND CALLED ALEXIS

Enjoy country-rock entertainment at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue with A Band Called Alexis performing at 7pm. Tickets at www.gvrshow.com

COMOTION

CoMotion presents “In Celebration of the Sun” at True Nature tonight and tomorrow at 7:30pm. Find tickets at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

SATURDAY, JUNE 24

MARBLE STEWARDSHIP

Pitch in on trail restoration projects and discover more about the Town of Marble’s history, all while having fun, at the Marble Stewardship Extravaganza today at 9am through tomorrow at 3pm. Camping is available for those

Photo by Beth White

Music by Ellen

Live in-person service (and online via Zoom)

who wish to participate both days. Visit www.rfov.org for more info.

SUDS REFILLERY

Refill household soap and cleaning containers with SUDS Refillery outside of the Botany Houseplant Shop from 9am to 1pm. The SUDS Refillery pop-up will be joined by local artist Lindsay Jones, who will be selling her creations. Visit www.sudsrefillery.com for more info about SUDS Refillery.

PHOTOGRAPHY CAMP

Cath Adams leads a two-day photography class where teens will discover how to connect their own personality with the environment to create their own unique style of photography at the Art Base today and tomorrow from 1 to 4pm. Visit www.theartbase.org to register.

APOCALYPSE APOTHECARY

If you didn’t have access to the internet, a pharmacy or store, would you have what you need to treat some basic health needs? Sunny Morehouse and Megan Miller teach about 10 plants that can be cultivated for making medicine from 1 to 4pm at True Nature. Tickets at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

MIDSUMMER NIGHT

The Marble Hub hosts A Midsummer's Night Community Event at the Marble Community Church from 3 to 6pm. Visit The Marble HUB on Facebook for more info.

ASPEN IDEAS

The Aspen Ideas Festival kicks off with “To End All War” at 3:30pm and continues through June 30. Find tickets and details at www.aspenideas.org

FACT FEST

True Media Foundation counters the Aspen Ideas Festival with its own experts in science, medicine and geopolitical events, beginning at 1pm at Rio Grande Park and continuing at Mountain Chalet Aspen (33 East Durant Avenue) at 5:30pm. More info at www.bit.ly/FactFest

MAGICAL MOMENTS

Redstone’s free summer concert series kicks off with The Queen Bees performing at Avalanche Outfitters (behind the coke ovens) from 6 to 8pm.

MUSIC ON THE MOUNTAIN

The Glenwood Caverns “Music on the Mountain” summer series kicks off with an ‘80s-themed dance party, with music by none other than That Eighties Band, at 6pm. Come in costume and expect trivia. All proceeds benefit the nonprofit Roundup River Ranch.

VAUDEVILLE

Catch the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue’s Spring Show this weekend before it closes, tonight at 6pm.

STEVE’S GUITARS

Dominick Antonelli performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Ticket at www.stevesguitars.net

SUNDAY, JUNE 25

THE SEAGULL

Aspen Film and National Theatre Live present “The Seagull” at the Isis Theatre at 3pm. Tickets at www.aspenfilm.org

SOUND JOURNEY

Dr. Zachary Cashin leads a healing sound journey at True Nature from 6:30 to 8pm. Tickets and more info at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

MONDAY, JUNE 26

STORYTIME

Theatre Aspen (470 Rio Grande Place, Aspen) hosts storytime for kids ages 2-5 and their families, in partnership with Pitkin County Library, from 10:30 to 11am on Mondays through Aug. 14.

PLANT�BASED POTLUCK

Plant-based, whole food enthusiasts

and friends share a meal at the Third Street Center from 6:30 to 8pm. More info at www.tcfhf.org

TUESDAY, JUNE 27

MR. TAP

Mr. John “Tap” Williams gives a short history of tap dancing and demonstrates steps at the Carbondale Library at 11am and the Glenwood Springs Library at 2pm. The event is for children and it’s free for all to participate.

CREATIONS AND LIBATIONS

Sheri Gaynor guide’s this month’s Creations and Libations lesson, a monthly opportunity for LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to create and imbibe, at the Art Base at 6pm. Visit www.theartbase.org to register and for more info.

DRAWING CLUB

Roaring Fork Drawing Club meets up at Board By Design, near Thunder River Market, at 6:30pm.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28

BIRD WATCHING

The Roaring Fork Audubon Society guides a bird watching expedition on the Basalt Mountain Ditch Trail from 7am to 1pm. Email smnharris@gmail. com to reserve a spot, or visit www. roaringforkaudubon.org for more info.

2023 LAWN BASH

Aspen Public Radio hosts the 2023 Lawn Bash Volunteer Fair, where several nonprofits from the Valley will be present and filling attendees in on how they can become involved, from 3 to 6pm at the Red Brick Center for the Arts in Aspen. At 5pm, the event culminates with a panel discussion on America’s food ecosystem, presented in partnership with Aspen Film.

‘PRECIOUS AND ENDLESS’

A video recording of VOICES Theatre

Project’s “Precious and Endless” screens at Sopris Lodge today at 4pm and again at 6pm, with a 5pm reception between showings. RSVP by calling 970-456-6871 or by visiting www.soprislodge.com

BASALT MUSIC

Brothers of Brass open for Los Mocochetes at Triangle Park at 5:30pm.

ROCK’N’ROLL

Guitarist and historian Joey Leone teaches about the early years of rock and roll at the Carbondale Library at 6pm. This free lecture is intended for adults and all are welcome.

FIGURE DRAWING

Shawna Miller guides a basic figure drawing course at The Art Base at 6pm. Visit www.theartbase.org to register and for more info.

‘FOOD AND COUNTRY’

Following Aspen Public Radio’s 2023 Lawn Bash, Aspen Film’s Isis Theatre will screen “Food and Country” at 7pm.

EGG HARMONICS

The Center for Human Flourishing hosts Dr. Stephanie Stanfield and her Harmonic Egg chamber, alleviating stress with lights, music and vibration, at 7pm at the Third Street Center. Learn more at www.tcfhf.org

THURSDAY, JUNE 29

THE TEMPEST Theatre Aspen Education presents Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” at the Hurst Theatre (470 Grand Place, Aspen) at 10am today, tomorrow, and Saturday. Learn more at www.theatreaspen.org

FRIDAY, JUNE 30

YES MA’AM

Steve’s Guitars presents “Yes Ma’am” at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

I Support the SOPRIS SUN!

I joined the board of the Sopris Sun this winter because this nonprofit, community-committed newspaper is establishing a sustainable, replicable model for the future of fact-based local journalism and is an antidote to the spread of cynical, bottom-line-driven, not-so-local local news sources.

The Sun’s talented bilingual staff and contributors produce a weekly paper that is always local and always original, covering the issues and events that matter in Carbondale and the Roaring Fork Valley along with showcasing fiction and art (yes, those matter, too) and mentoring student journalists.

— Andrew Travers

TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS:

ONLINE: soprissun.com or coloradogives.org

MAIL A CHECK: P.O. Box 399, Carbondale CO 81623

SPONSORSHIP: Sponsor an advertisement for your favorite nonprofit or struggling local business.

DONATE ON

Contact: Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246

Todd@SoprisSun.com

JUNE 23-28

THE MONKS OF GADEN SHARTSE MONASTERY IN CARBONDALE!

Sand mandala

· Special events

· Family activities Meditation workshop

LOCATION:

3rd Street Center, 520 S 3rd ST Carbondale, CO

See the full schedule at www WOCDC org

Contact: 970-704-5512

admin@wocompassion.org

Local artists exhibit works at CMC Aspen

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

Carbondale artists

Leah Aegerter and Mila Rossi have joined creative forces with the help and curation of Lauren Mayer. They are now the focal artists of an exhibit at Colorado Mountain College's (CMC) Aspen Campus, which opened on June 14 and will run through Aug. 25.

Aegerter and Rossi each moved to the Valley six years ago and first met at Anderson Ranch. Shortly after, both began leasing space at Carbondale's Studio for Arts and Work (SAW).

"A year ago, I left my job at Anderson Ranch to pursue my practice full-time. It truly has been a much deeper dive into my work in the last year," Aegerter stated.

Her unique art medium centers around digitizing textures that she finds in nature, specifically geologic textures. The process uses 3D scanning, known as photogrammetry; the files are then translated into new materials and composed into textured sculptures.

"I'm really excited about this exhibition and to be exhibiting alongside Mila, because I think our work speaks well regarding looking at micro textures from the environment. It's some of the first large-scale work I've made in a while," Aegerter continued.

Rossi, who came to the Valley from Atlanta, Georgia, worked in communications for the nonprofit world and even worked as an art teacher before circling back to pursue her art full-time two years ago. Her medium is photography, which is then transferred to a different medium, similar to Aegerter's process. Images are laid upon canvas and then layered with paint and other mixed materials to capture natural textures.

"For me, especially during COVID, I would use art to escape,” Rossi stated. “I wanted to escape and be transported somewhere else. That was my way to decompress, process, and get those emotions out while feeling stuck.”

Both artists commended one another for the speeches each gave during the opening reception for the exhibit. Both were also appreciative of how the community showed up for them and offered support.

"I feel like our community shows up for each other in a special way,” said Aegerter. “We both gave an artist's talk during the opening, and it was just wonderful to hear from [Rossi] about the process and the ideas behind her work, and it was nice to be able to share that myself."

Rossi piggybacked on that sentiment, saying that the opening event was wonderful due to the strong sense of community. "I loved seeing other artists and seeing friends. I think CMC does a nice job of being a community place in the Valley and in Aspen, which I think is unique." She continued, “I loved hearing Leah's talk because we do share so many similarities."

They both agree that the multifaceted, complex worldviews art provides for students and community members is one of its greatest gifts.

"Art is how we share the way we as artists see the world and how we interpret it,” said Rossi. “I think art works so well in a community because we have energy and influences with each other; it's this lively energy which makes things exciting and generates new ideas.”

Aegerter added, "It's a way to imagine a world that we want to see, or to escape into abstraction or surrealism, escape from the world we're currently in. It has so many avenues for enrichment."

While the CMC exhibit runs through Aug. 25, Rossi and Aegerter will stay busy at SAW, with an open house in August and a store opening in mid-November for folks to meet SAW artists and support their works. Additionally, Rossi will participate in the Redstone Art Show at the end of August. Aegerter, meanwhile, will have a show at The Art Base in Basalt beginning Aug. 22, which will run for about a month.

The CMC exhibit is available to view by appointment. To book your visit, call 970-925-7740. To further support Mila and Leah, check out their art at SAW or at www. sawstudio.com, and visit each artist's website: www.artbymilarossi.com and www.leahaegerter.com

"Beneath 2" by Leah Aegerter was created with abaca paper, pigment and thread. Courtesy image

The Town of Basalt presents

Sol del Valle

Conectando comunidades desde 2021

Carlos Loya Rico: El hombre detrás del árbol de navidad

Por James Steindler Traducción por Dolores Duarte

Carlos Loya Rico es el encargado de la cuadrilla de calles del Departamento de obras públicas de Carbondale. Conversó con The Sopris Sun para compartir con los lectores un poco sobre su historia personal. La entrevista fue editada para mejorar la claridad y espacio.

Cuéntame cómo llegaste al valle.

Mi primer viaje a Estados Unidos fue en 1984, y me quedé en Mesa, Arizona, durante un año y medio. Vine aquí porque soy de Chihuahua, México, donde tenemos muchos manzanos.

De 1985 a 1988, venía a Hotchkiss a recolectar manzanas. La temporada de cosecha es de septiembre a mediados de octubre, así que durante esa época regresaba a México en diciembre. Pero hubiera preferido trabajar aquí todo el tiempo posible.

En 1989, el propietario del huerto de Hotchkiss, Ralph Melville, quien también era dueño del Mountain Chalet de Aspen, vendió el huerto y se trajo a todos a Aspen. Empecé a trabajar en el Mountain Chalet como lavaplatos.

¿Cómo llegaste a trabajar para el ayuntamiento de Carbondale?

En 1991, traje a mi esposa e hijo mayor y nos quedamos aquí de tiempo completo. Trabajé para Mountain Chalet durante siete inviernos, pero en verano trabajaba en la construcción para Marty Schlumberger. Me quedé en Aspen hasta 1993, cuando compré nuestra primera casa remolque en Basalt. En 2000, nos mudamos a una casa remolque más grande en El Jebel; teníamos tres hijos y necesitábamos más espacio.

En 2000, dejé de trabajar para Schlumberger Construction y empecé a trabajar para Jack Wilkie Builders. Pero en 2005 el aserrín empezó a provocarme asma. Así que lo dejé y me compré un camión de volteo. Empecé un negocio como subcontratista: Carlos Trucking.

En 2007, llegó la gran recesión. No había construcción, no había trabajo. Pero, con mi camión de volteo venía a Carbondale a remover la nieve en invierno, cuando Smiley Wise era supervisor [de Obras Públicas]. Me convertí en operario para la ciudad. Así que he estado aquí desde 2007 hasta hoy.

¿Es un buen trabajo?

Sí, me encanta mi trabajo. Ahora soy encargado y operador de maquinaria pesada. He puesto las luces del árbol de Navidad en Main Street durante los últimos 16 años. Estoy muy contento con la gente con la que trabajo y espero jubilarme aquí.

¿Actualmente vives en Carbondale?

No, vivo en Glenwood, donde compramos un dúplex en 2015.

¿Por qué decidiste venir a Estados Unidos?

Durante los años 80 en México, no había trabajo, no había dinero y casi todo el mundo ansiaba el sueño americano.

Háblame del proceso de inmigración.

Antes de ser ciudadano, fui residente. Obtuve mi primera tarjeta de residente en 1987. Mi esposa tardó siete años en obtenerla. Ella la recibió en 1996; pero antes de eso, podíamos quedarnos en Estados Unidos, pero no podíamos volver a México.

¿Fue duro dejar a tu familia? ¿Visitas de vez en cuando?

Sí. Después de arreglar papeles, viajábamos quizá dos veces al año a México. Arreglé una tarjeta de residencia para mi mamá y mi papá; y mi esposa arregló otra para su mamá. Nuestras madres fallecieron, pero mi padre, de 89 años, está ahora en México porque aquí hace demasiado frío.

¿Cuándo se hicieron ciudadanos estadounidenses?

Somos ciudadanos desde 1998. Yo estaba haciendo el GED en el Colorado Mountain College. Estudiamos mucho porque necesitábamos conocer la historia de

Estados Unidos. Había 100 preguntas en el examen de ciudadanía y sólo podías fallar cuatro o cinco. Pero lo hicimos. Fue un gran, gran día para nosotros.

¿Tiene hermanos?

Sí, mi hermano es ciudadano y vive en El Paso. Mi hermana también es ciudadana y vive en Glenwood Springs.

¿Te sientes unido a la comunidad latina del valle?

Ah, sí. Tengo algunas historias al respecto. Jackie Morales, que dirigió Asistencia para Latinos en los años 90, era mi amiga. Ayudaba a los latinos del valle con la interpretación y otros asuntos, y yo era voluntario en su organización. Murió, pero dejó un legado para los latinos del valle.

¿Algo más que quieras añadir?

Soy muy feliz aquí. Carbondale es mi hogar.

Volumen 2, Número 17 | 22 de junio de 2023 - 28 de junio de 2023

Carlos Loya Rico, foto de James Steindler

Apnea significa suspensión transitoria de la respiración y apnea del sueño se refiere a cuando esto sucede durante el sueño. Hay dos tipos de apnea del sueño: obstructiva y central.

La apnea obstructiva del sueño (AOS) es común en personas con sobrepeso con el cuello grueso, un mentón hundido o que tienen otras condiciones que pueden obstruir el flujo de aire cuando los tejidos de las vías respiratorias superiores se relajan durante el sueño. Esto es similar en los niños con las amígdalas y adenoides agrandadas.

Por lo general, las personas con AOS roncan. A menudo, sus compañeros de cama notan que dejan de respirar

La apnea del sueño puede causar graves problemas de salud

periódicamente durante varios segundos mientras duermen. Se despiertan repentinamente durante la noche con un resoplido, es decir, una respiración fuerte y ruidosa.

A comparación, la apnea central del sueño es común en personas que viven a más de 3.000 pies de altura (como en nuestro valle) y es más probable que ocurra a medida que las personas envejecen.

Por la noche, el cerebro detecta que no hay suficiente oxígeno en el aire, lo que provoca varias respiraciones profundas seguidas. Esto da como resultado un nivel bajo de dióxido de carbono en la sangre y, cuando el cerebro lo detecta, la respiración se detiene durante varios segundos para permitir que el CO2 vuelva a un nivel normal. Algunas personas tienen apnea mixta: obstructiva y central.

Quienes padecen apnea entran y salen de un sueño profundo durante toda la noche sin que ellos lo sepan. Esto causa estragos en el cuerpo, particularmente en el sistema cardiovascular.

Los síntomas clásicos de la apnea del sueño grave son: sentirse inquieto al despertarse por la mañana y sentirse somnoliento durante el día, lo que puede provocar accidentes, depresión y bajo rendimiento laboral.

Otros problemas asociados con la apnea del sueño son: aterosclerosis, ataques al corazón, hipertensión, problemas cognitivos incluyendo demencia, arritmias cardíacas, disfunción eréctil, diabetes (las hormonas del estrés que causan la diabetes se secretan durante la noche en personas con apnea del sueño) y sudores nocturnos. Otro problema es la “sangre espesa”, lo que significa un alto recuento de glóbulos rojos (hematocrito y hemoglobina) debido a que el cuerpo intenta compensar el bajo nivel de oxígeno en la sangre durante la noche produciendo más glóbulos rojos.

Cualquier persona con cualquiera de estos problemas debe someterse a una prueba de detección de apnea del sueño.

La apnea del sueño se puede

diagnosticar a partir de lo que nota un compañero de cama. Se puede confirmar con una oximetría nocturna simple y económica, usando un monitor de dedo que mide la frecuencia del pulso y el nivel de oxígeno durante toda la noche. Si esta prueba es normal, la apnea del sueño es poco probable. Si es anormal, el siguiente paso es un estudio de sueño nocturno más extenso. Un estudio del sueño en el hogar es más conveniente y menos costoso, pero no tan preciso como un estudio realizado en un laboratorio del sueño.

Si se diagnostica apnea del sueño, se debe realizar un análisis de sangre de la tiroides, porque la tiroides baja puede causar o contribuir a la apnea. Las personas con apnea del sueño deben evitar el alcohol, los somníferos y dormir boca arriba, ya que todo esto empeora la apnea. Perder peso puede ayudar a los pacientes con AOS que tienen sobrepeso. En la apnea central pura, suele ser útil moverse al nivel del mar. La mayoría de las personas con apnea del sueño necesitan CPAP (presión

positiva continua en las vías respiratorias), el tratamiento estándar de oro. Esto implica que el paciente use una máscara que generalmente solo cubre la nariz por la noche que se conecta a través de un tubo a una máquina silenciosa que expulsa aire a una presión continua, evitando así los ataques de apnea.

Se estima que alrededor de 18 millones de estadounidenses tienen apnea obstructiva del sueño, y más del 90 por ciento de ellos no han sido diagnosticados. Muchas más personas que viven en las alturas sufren de apnea central del sueño y, de nuevo, la mayoría no está diagnosticada.

Si después de leer la información anterior, usted o su pareja piensan que podría tener apnea del sueño, mejoraría su calidad de vida y tal vez salvaría su vida si buscara un diagnóstico y tratamiento. Su proveedor de atención primaria debería poder ayudarlo con esto. Si no cuentas con uno puedes llamar a 970-989-3513 para un consulta gratis con el Dr. Feinsinger.

I Support the SOPRIS SUN!

The Sopris Sun is truly a remarkable nonprofit organization. As a Spanish immigrant living in Carbondale for the past 11 years, I am incredibly grateful for their efforts in making local journalism accessible to the Spanish-speaking community through El Sol del Valle. It brings me joy to see how they value diversity and inclusivity in their reporting.

One of the reasons I admire The Sopris Sun is that they are an independent newspaper, free from any corporate influence dictating its news, columns, or programs. They have assembled an exceptional team, consisting of talented staff members, as well as skilled freelance reporters and photographers. It's inspiring to witness their dedication to delivering quality journalism that truly serves the community.

¡No lo dudes apoya al Sopris Sun y al Sol!

¡Hazte ‘sunscriptor‘ ahora!

-Juanma Martin

TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATIONS:

ONLINE: soprissun.com or coloradogives.org

MAIL A CHECK: P.O. Box 399, Carbondale CO 81623

SPONSORSHIP: Sponsor an advertisement for your favorite nonprofit or struggling local business.

DONATE ON

Contact: Todd Chamberlin

970-510-0246

Todd@SoprisSun.com

Cada vez que usas tu tarjeta de débito Loyalty*, Alpine Bank dona diez centavos a las causas comunitarias que son importantes para ti.

*Las tarjetas de débito de Alpine Bank están disponibles sin cuota anual para personas con una cuenta de cheques de Alpine Bank.

¡Solicita tu tarjeta hoy mismo!

Por Judith Alvarez-Quiroz

Desde la Clínica

El Rincón del Sargento

Por Carlos Cornejo

En un mundo donde la salud física a menudo ocupa el primer plano, es crucial no pasar por alto el aspecto igualmente importante de la salud mental. Nuestra sociedad está comenzando a reconocer la importancia de abordar los problemas de salud mental y brindar los sistemas de apoyo necesarios. Una de las organizaciones que desempeña un papel fundamental en este esfuerzo es Mind Springs Health, un centro regional de salud mental que ha estado sirviendo al área de diez condados en el oeste de Colorado.

Como miembro de la Junta Directiva de Mind Springs Health, he tenido el

Mind Springs Health: Un faro de esperanza para la salud mental en nuestra sociedad

privilegio de presenciar de cerca la importancia de esta institución en la comunidad. Mind Springs Health ha estado a la vanguardia de la atención de salud mental, brindando servicios esenciales a las personas que lo necesitan. Con su hospital psiquiátrico de última generación y un equipo dedicado de más de 500 empleados, esta organización se ha convertido en un salvavidas para innumerables personas que luchan contra desafíos de salud mental.

Sin embargo, los tiempos recientes no han sido fáciles para Mind Springs Health. La instalación ha enfrentado una intensa supervisión por parte de las autoridades estatales, lo que ha requerido cambios sustanciales para garantizar su continuidad. Bajo esta presión, Mind Springs Health se embarcó en un viaje transformador, con un cambio completo en el liderazgo, procedimientos revisados y un compromiso renovado de servir a la comunidad.

Es crucial destacar cómo

CHISME DEL PUEBLO

Elección de Holy Cross

Holy Cross Energy, nuestra cooperativa eléctrica rural sin fines de lucro, tuvo su reunión anual el 15 de junio, anunciando los recién elegidos directores de la junta. Con 4,287 votos emitidos en total, Alex Degolia continuará representando el distrito occidental después de haber recibido el 49.7% del voto. Linn Brooks fue elegida para representar al distrito del norte en una carrera más ligera, adelante de Kimberly Schlaepfer con 1% más del voto.

Oportunidades de subvenciones

El departamento de asuntos locales está proporcionando $33 millones en subvenciones a organizaciones sin fines de lucro que atienden a las comunidades menos representadas. La subvención de Infraestructura de Organizaciones sin Fines de Lucro fue creada especialmente para ayudar a las comunidades desproporcionadamente impactadas por la pandemia. Las inscripciones serán aceptadas entre el 5 de julio y el 31 de agosto

Descuentos de agua

La ciudad de Glenwood Springs está ofreciendo descuentos para clientes de agua con electrodomésticos eficientes o para quitar el césped. La eliminación de césped es la mayor inversión de dinero, con la ciudad contribuyendo $2 por cada pie cuadrado (hasta 1,000 pies cuadrados) de césped eliminado. Los fondos para el descuentos son limitados, a aquellos que les interese pueden visitar www.garfieldcleanenergy.org/gwswrebates

Cierres de escaladas

El Servicio Forestal anunció cierres temporales de rutas de montañismo en Lime Creek Canyon (condado de Eagle) y Coal Creek (condado de Pitkin) debido a halcones peregrinos anidando en ambas ubicaciones. Los acantilados y áreas alrededor de los nidos estarán

Mind Springs Health sirve a las poblaciones marginadas de nuestra sociedad. Las personas que enfrentan desafíos económicos, discriminación racial, estigma social u otras formas de marginalización a menudo experimentan tensiones adicionales en su salud mental. Pueden enfrentar barreras para acceder a la atención, como limitaciones financieras, barreras lingüísticas o la falta de recursos culturalmente sensibles. Como resultado, estas personas corren un riesgo desproporcionadamente mayor de padecer problemas de salud mental y a menudo luchan por encontrar el apoyo adecuado. Cortar fondos para instalaciones como Mind Springs Health solo perjudica a los más vulnerables en nuestra sociedad. La falta de financiamiento adecuado dificulta aún más el acceso a los servicios de salud mental para aquellos que más lo necesitan. Debemos reconocer que la salud mental es un componente integral de la atención

médica general y no podemos permitir que se descuide o se considere menos importante. Al proporcionar recursos adecuados y apoyo continuo a Mind Springs Health y otras organizaciones similares, aseguramos que las personas marginadas tengan acceso equitativo a los servicios de salud mental necesarios para su bienestar y recuperación.

Como miembro de la Junta Directiva, puedo atestiguar el compromiso y la dedicación de Mind Springs Health para abordar las necesidades de salud mental en nuestra sociedad. La organización ha demostrado su voluntad de adaptarse y evolucionar para satisfacer las demandas cambiantes de la comunidad y proporcionar servicios de calidad a aquellos que los necesitan.

La importancia de contar con instalaciones como Mind Springs Health no puede ser exagerada. Los problemas de salud mental se han vuelto alarmantemente frecuentes en nuestra sociedad, afectando

cerradas hasta el 31 de julio, pero otras rutas que no impactan a los halcones permanecen abiertas. Visite www.fs.usda.gov/whiterive para ver la orden de cierre y los mapas.

Directores provisionales

El distrito escolar de Roaring Fork está haciendo intercambios a la luz de que dos de sus directores se moverán de posiciones. El director de Basalt High School (BHS por sus siglas en inglés) Peter Mueller anunció que estará dejando su puesto para seguir otras oportunidades de carrera en el valle. El ex director de Glenwood Springs Middle School (GMS por sus siglas en inglés), Joel Hathaway, fue promovido para servir como el director ejecutivo del distrito de las escuelas en mayo. La asistente de director de BHS Megan Hartmann se hará cargo como la directora provisional de su escuela, y la asistente de director de GMS Sarah Casaletto llenará la proposición provisional ahí.

Abuso sexual

El Departamento de Policía de Carbondale (CPD por sus siglas en inglés) arrestó recientemente a un ex entrenador de fútbol juvenil, Cesar Herrera Romero, después de acusaciones de agresión sexual hechas por los jóvenes. CPD cree que varios incidentes tuvieron lugar entre Aspen y Glenwood Springs, y que podría haber otras víctimas que aún no se han presentado. CPD pide que los padres y los guardianes de aquellos niños que divulguen información relevante contactando al departamento al 970-625-8095.

Clases de verano

Summer Advantage está en marcha en las escuelas primarias locales por el 12o año consecutivo. La programación académica de este verano es proporcionada gratuitamente gracias a Summit54, las escuelas de Roaring Fork, el distrito escolar de Aspen y Summer Advantage USA. Los estudiantes recibirán desayunos y almuerzos nutritivos diarios, ejercicios

a personas de todas las edades, orígenes y estilos de vida. La pandemia en curso solo ha exacerbado estas preocupaciones, ya que las personas lidian con un mayor estrés, ansiedad y aislamiento. Mind Springs Health se erige como un faro de esperanza, ofreciendo atención, apoyo y tratamiento compasivos a quienes más lo necesitan.

Al proporcionar una amplia gama de servicios de salud mental, que incluyen terapia, asesoramiento, intervención en crisis y atención psiquiátrica, Mind Springs Health aborda las diversas necesidades de las personas dentro de su comunidad. A través de sus esfuerzos, no solo ayudan a las personas a recuperar el control de sus vidas, sino que también contribuyen a reducir el estigma que rodea a la salud mental.

Es esencial reconocer la importancia de apoyar instalaciones como Mind Springs Health. El cuidado de la salud mental no es un lujo, es un derecho humano fundamental. Al invertir en estos servicios, invertimos en el bienestar de nuestras comunidades.

cerebrales, literatura, matemáticas, actividades físicas y programas de enriquecimiento así como arte, música, baile, programación de videojuegos y estudios sociales. Para saber más acerca de Summer Advantage RFV, llame a la directora ejecutiva Terri Caine al 970-6182219.

De Aspen a DIA

Roaring Fork Express, un servicio de transporte entre Aspen y el aeropuerto internacional de Denver (DIA por sus siglas en inglés) ha expandido sus servicios. El transporte partirá tres veces diarias desde Aspen (7 a.m., 11:30 a.m. y 2 p.m.), y tres veces de DIA (9 a.m., 12:30 p.m. y 5:30 p.m.). Opciones para reservaciones y más información pueden ser encontradas en www. letsride.co

Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro

"Sincronías" parte 29, por Leonardo Occhipinti

Por Todd Chamberlin

Traducción por Dolores Duarte

A principios de este mes, tuve el honor de volar a Washington, D.C. y asistir a la conferencia anual del Institute for Nonprofit News. Fue mi primera vez asistiendo a este evento. Concurrieron cientos de personas, cada una en representación de diferentes organizaciones de noticias no lucrativas de todo el país.

Para mi sorpresa, The Sopris Sun fue mencionado muchas veces por los ponentes y en discusiones individuales con otros asistentes. La gente del sector está fascinada por las muchas innovaciones que nuestro pequeño periódico local ha llevado a cabo en los últimos años.

Desde formar parte

Apoya un futuro duradero para The Sopris Sun

de una colaboración de noticias en español con otras siete organizaciones de medios de comunicación, hasta nuestro programa de periodismo juvenil, nuestros logros editoriales y la incorporación de caricaturas originales, ficción y un grupo diverso de colaboradores independientes. Hemos hecho mucho para abrir camino a las noticias sin fines de lucro en la América rural, y otras comunidades y publicaciones están prestando mucha atención.

En un momento en el que muchos periódicos locales están desapareciendo, los conocedores del sector toman nota de que somos un periódico impreso (la mayoría de los demás sólo se publican en línea), que se distribuye en más de 125 lugares de seis pueblos y cuatro condados de los valles de Roaring Fork y Crystal River. Los conocedores del sector se sorprenden al saber que nuestro periódico se distribuye gratuitamente, que no hay barreras económicas para que alguien tome un ejemplar de The Sopris Sun.

Los periódicos impresos gratuitos son raros, y somos muy afortunados de tener cinco aquí en el Valle. The Sopris Sun es el único periódico sin fines de lucro e impulsado por la comunidad, que trata de complementar a los demás periódicos y ofrecer contenidos y cobertura que ellos no pueden ofrecer por las barreras económicas o limitaciones impuestas por editores con fines de lucro. En esas conversaciones, les digo con orgullo que contamos con un apoyo increíble de la comunidad empresarial, que aporta alrededor del 65% de nuestros ingresos anuales a través de publicidad en The Sopris Sun y en nuestro suplemento el Sol del Valle. Sin embargo, ese porcentaje ha ido disminuyendo cada año y nosotros, como muchos otros medios de comunicación locales, estamos buscando una combinación sostenida de fuentes de ingresos que pueda mantener la prosperidad de The Sopris Sun en los próximos años. Cada semana nos cuesta alrededor de $10,000 dólares publicar un

periódico. Ese gasto incluye la impresión y distribución, y el pago a nuestro increíble personal y a nuestros periodistas independientes, fotógrafos, dibujantes y otros colaboradores. Como director ejecutivo, mi objetivo no es sólo pagar un salario digno, sino un salario que permita a nuestro personal y colaboradores prosperar y comprometerse con un futuro en este lugar. Dado que la publicidad sufre fluctuaciones estacionales, nuestra junta directiva y nuestro personal decidieron que también debíamos innovar en nuestro modelo de negocio. Así que nos fijamos en el modelo de la radio pública y decidimos lanzar el programa Sopris Sun SUNscriptor. Un SUNscriptor es un seguidor de Sopris Sun que hace una donación mensual de cualquier cantidad para ayudar a mantener nuestras operaciones mensuales durante todo el año. Entendemos que nuestra petición es grande, pero esperamos que este nuevo programa garantice que The Sopris Sun siga innovando y

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

We need extra helping hands for the Bash for the Buddies and Boogie's Buddy Race!

We have flexible shifts depending on your availability

Check out the "behind the scenes" of two of our biggest fundraising events

Have fun and meet new people Special volunteer gift

Text or call Molly at 970 317 2835 or email molly@buddyprogram.org

NECESITAMOS VOLUNTARIOS

¡ N e c e s i t a m o s a y u d a p a r a e l B a s h f o r t h e B u d d i e s y l a c a r r e r a d e B o o g i e ' s B u d d y !

proporcionando la cobertura en la que confías durante muchos años por venir.

También es una parte crítica de nuestra misión, como una organización no lucrativa, que nuestra cobertura siga siendo gratuita y accesible a todos, porque una comunidad vibrante necesita un periódico fuerte para la supervisión del gobierno, para educar y combatir la desinformación, apoyar a las empresas locales y sin fines de lucro, ayudar a construir puentes y encontrar un terreno común entre los grupos comunitarios y miembros y como una plataforma vital para dar a cada miembro de la comunidad la oportunidad de compartir sus pensamientos a través de cartas al editor.

Durante esta campaña de verano para recaudar fondos, nuestro objetivo es tener 250 SUNscriptores para el 31 de agosto. Actualmente tenemos 56. Por favor, considera la posibilidad de suscribirte visitando la página www. soprissun.com/donate, o enviando un cheque mensual a PO Box 399, Carbondale CO, 81623.

There are so many details that take place behind the scenes for the Buddy Program's summer events We are in need of volunteers!

Volunteers needed for the following dates:

4 July July July

7 8 TH TH TH n in in

Aspen Aspen Aspen

Hay tantos detalles que toman lugar detrás de las escenas para los eventos del Buddy Program ¡Necesitamos voluntarios!

Se necesitan voluntarios para las siguientes fechas:

Visit buddyprogram.org for tickets

Tenemos turnos flexibles dependiendo de tu disponibilidad

Vea el "detrás de las escenas" de dos de nuestros eventos mas grandes para recaudación de fondos Diviértete y conoce gente nueva Regalo especial para voluntarios

Envíe un mensaje de texto o llame a Jennifer al 970 300 2964 o envíe un correo electronico a jennifer@buddyprogram.org

4 Julio Julio Julio

7 8 en en en

Aspen Aspen Aspen

Director Ejecutivo

TOWN OF CARBONDALE 2023 Drinking Water Quality Report

Covering Data For Calendar Year 2022

Public Water System ID: CO0123167

Esta es información importante. Si no la pueden leer, necesitan que alguien se la traduzca.

We are pleased to present to you this year’s water quality report. Our constant goal is to provide you with a safe and dependable supply of drinking water. Please contact RICHARD WEINHEIMER at 970-510-1353 with any questions or for public participation opportunities that may affect water quality.

General Information

All drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contaminants. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that the water poses a health risk. More information about contaminants and potential health effects can be obtained by calling the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (1-800-426-4791) or by visiting epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water

Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in drinking water than the general population. Immunocompromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV-AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly, and infants can be particularly at risk of infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. For more information about contaminants and potential health effects, or to receive a copy of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and microbiological contaminants call the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (1-800-426-4791).

The sources of drinking water (both tap water and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it dissolves naturally occurring minerals and, in some cases, radioactive material, and can pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or from human activity. Contaminants that may be present in source water include:

• Microbial contaminants: viruses and bacteria that may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations, and wildlife.

• Inorganic contaminants: salts and metals, which can be naturally-occurring or result from urban storm water runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining, or farming.

• Pesticides and herbicides: may come from a variety of sources, such as agriculture, urban storm water runoff, and residential uses.

• Radioactive contaminants: can be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities.

• Organic chemical contaminants: including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production, and also may come from gas stations, urban storm water runoff, and septic systems.

Sources (Water Type - Source Type)

In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment prescribes regulations limiting the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. The Food and Drug Administration regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water that must provide the same protection for public health

Lead in Drinking Water

Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. We are responsible for providing high quality drinking water and removing lead pipes, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components in your home. You share the responsibility for protecting yourself and your family from the lead in your home plumbing. You can take responsibility by identifying and removing lead materials within your home plumbing and taking steps to reduce your family's risk. Before drinking tap water, flush your pipes for several minutes by running your tap, taking a shower, doing laundry or a load of dishes. You can also use a filter certified by an American National Standards Institute accredited certifier to reduce lead in drinking water. If you are concerned about lead in your water and wish to have your water tested, contact FRED SIROTEK at 970-510-1355. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available at epa.gov/safewater/lead.

Source Water Assessment and Protection (SWAP)

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment may have provided us with a Source Water Assessment Report for our water supply. For general information or to obtain a copy of the report please visit wqcdcompliance.com/ccr. The report is located under “Guidance: Source Water Assessment Reports”. Search the table using system name or ID, or by contacting RICHARD WEINHEIMER at 970-510-1353. The Source Water Assessment Report provides a screening-level evaluation of potential contamination that could occur. It does not mean that the contamination has or will occur. We can use this information to evaluate the need to improve our current water treatment capabilities and prepare for future contamination threats. This can help us ensure that quality finished water is delivered to your homes. In addition, the source water assessment results provide a starting point for developing a source water protection plan. Potential sources of contamination in our source water area are listed on the next page.

Our Water Sources

WELL RFWF NO 1 (Groundwater UDI Surface Water-Well)

WELL RFWF NO 2 (Groundwater UDI Surface Water-Well)

WELL RFWF NO 3 (Groundwater UDI Surface Water-Well)

WELL CRYSTAL RIVER NO 2 (Groundwater UDI Surface Water-Well)

SOUTH NETTLE CREEK DIVERSION (Surface Water-Intake)

NORTH NETTLE CREEK DIVERSION (Surface Water-Intake)

Potential Source(s) of Contamination

EPA Superfund Sites, EPA Abandoned Contaminated Sites, EPA Hazardous Waste Generators, EPA Chemical Inventory/Storage Sites, Permitted Wastewater Discharge Sites, Aboveground, Underground and Leaking Storage Tank Sites, Solid Waste Sites, Existing/Abandoned Mine Sites, Other Facilities, Commercial/Industrial/Transportation, High Intensity Residential, Low Intensity Residential, Urban Recreational Grasses, Row Crops, Small Grains, Pasture / Hay, Deciduous Forest, Evergreen Forest, Mixed Forest, Septic Systems, Oil / Gas Wells, Road Miles

Terms and Abbreviations

• Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) − The highest level of a contaminant allowed in drinking water.

• Treatment Technique (TT) − A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water.

• Health-Based − A violation of either a MCL or TT.

• Non-Health-Based − A violation that is not a MCL or TT.

• Action Level (AL) − The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment and other regulatory requirements.

• Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL) − The highest level of a disinfectant allowed in drinking water. There is convincing evidence that addition of a disinfectant is necessary for control of microbial contaminants.

• Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) − The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.

• Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal (MRDLG) − The level of a drinking water disinfectant, below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs do not reflect the benefits of the use of disinfectants to control microbial contaminants.

• Violation (No Abbreviation) − Failure to meet a Colorado Primary Drinking Water Regulation.

• Formal Enforcement Action (No Abbreviation) − Escalated action taken by the State (due to the risk to public health, or number or severity of violations) to bring a non-compliant water system back into compliance.

• Variance and Exemptions (V/E) − Department permission not to meet a MCL or treatment technique under certain conditions.

• Gross Alpha (No Abbreviation) − Gross alpha particle activity compliance value. It includes radium-226, but excludes radon 222, and uranium.

• Picocuries per liter (pCi/L) − Measure of the radioactivity in water.

• Nephelometric Turbidity Unit (NTU) − Measure of the clarity or cloudiness of water. Turbidity in excess of 5 NTU is just noticeable to the typical person.

• Compliance Value (No Abbreviation) – Single or calculated value used to determine if regulatory contaminant level (e.g. MCL) is met. Examples of calculated values are the 90th Percentile, Running Annual Average (RAA) and Locational Running Annual Average (LRAA).

• Average (x-bar) − Typical value.

• Range (R) − Lowest value to the highest value.

• Sample Size (n) − Number or count of values (i.e. number of water samples collected).

• Parts per million = Milligrams per liter (ppm = mg/L) − One part per million corresponds to one minute in two years or a single penny in $10,000.

• Parts per billion = Micrograms per liter (ppb = ug/L) − One part per billion corresponds to one minute in 2,000 years, or a single penny in $10,000,000.

• Not Applicable (N/A) – Does not apply or not available.

• Level 1 Assessment – A study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system.

• Level 2 Assessment – A very detailed study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why an E. coli MCL violation has occurred and/or why total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system on multiple occasions.

Detected Contaminants

TOWN OF CARBONDALE routinely monitors for contaminants in your drinking water according to Federal and State laws. The following table(s) show all detections found in the period of January 1 to December 31, 2022 unless otherwise noted. The State of Colorado requires us to monitor for certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants are not expected to vary significantly from year to year, or the system is not considered vulnerable to this type of contamination. Therefore, some of our data, though representative, may be more than one-year-old. Violations and Formal Enforcement Actions, if any, are reported in the next section of this report.

Note: Only detected contaminants sampled within the last 5 years appear in this report. If no tables appear in this section, then no contaminants were detected in the last round of monitoring.

Disinfectants Sampled in the Distribution System

TT Requirement: At least 95% of samples per period (month or quarter) must be at least 0.2 ppm OR If sample size is less than 40 no more than 1 sample is below 0.2 ppm

Typical Sources: Water additive used to control microbes

continued on next page

TOWN OF CARBONDALE 2023 Drinking Water Quality Report - Detected Contaminants Cont’d..

Lead and Copper Sampled in the Distribution System

*If minimum ratio not met and no violation identified then the system achieved compliance using alternative criteria.

Secondary Contaminants**

Erosion of natural deposits; water additive which promotes strong teeth; discharge from fertilizer and aluminum factories

from fertilizer use; leaching from septic tanks, sewage; erosion

**Secondary standards are non-enforceable guidelines for contaminants that may cause cosmetic effects (such as skin, or tooth discoloration) or aesthetic effects (such as taste, odor, or color) in drinking water.

Violations, Significant Deficiencies, and Formal Enforcement Actions

Health-Based Violations

Maximum contaminant level (MCL) violations: Test results for this contaminant show that the level was too high for the time period shown. Please read the information shown below about potential health effects for vulnerable populations. This is likely the same violation that we told you about in a past notice. We are evaluating, or we already completed an evaluation, to find the best way to reduce or remove the contaminant. If the solution will take an extended period of time, we will keep you updated with quarterly notices.

Treatment technique (TT) violations: We failed to complete an action that could affect water quality. Please read the information shown below about potential health effects for vulnerable populations. This is likely the same violation that we told you about in a past notice. We were required to meet a minimum operation/treatment standard, we were required to make upgrades to our system, or we were required to evaluate our system for potential sanitary defects, and we failed to do so in the time period shown below. If the solution will take an extended period of time, we will keep you updated with quarterly notices.

CHLORINE/CHLORAMINE

CHLORINE/CHLORAMINE

FAILURE TO MAINTAIN MINIMUM TREATMENT FOR SURFACE WATER FILTRATION AND DISINFECTION

FAILURE TO MAINTAIN MINIMUM TREATMENT FOR SURFACE WATER FILTRATION AND DISINFECTION

Disinfectant residual serves as one of the final barriers to protect public health. Lack of an adequate disinfectant residual may increase the likelihood that disease-causing organisms are present.

Inadequately treated water may contain disease-causing organisms. These organisms include bacteria, viruses, and parasites, which can cause symptoms such as nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and associated headaches. Please share this information with all the other people who drink this water, especially those who may not have received this notice directly (for example, people in apartments, nursing homes, schools, and businesses). You can do this by posting this notice in a public place or distributing copies by hand or mail.

Additional Violation Information:

DESCRIBE THE STEPS TAKEN TO RESOLVE THE VIOLATION(S), AND THE ANTICIPATED RESOLUTION DATE:

WE INCREASED THE CHLORINE DOSAGE FROM A .8 MG/L TO A 1.2 MG/L THIS WAS DONE AUGUST 10TH WHEN DISCOVERED THE LOWER CHLORINE DOSAGE ON THE MONTHLY OPERATING REPORT.

Charmaine White Face, Oglala Tituwan Oceti Sakowin

By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun Correspondent

Charmaine White Face, or Zumila Wobaga, is Oglala Tituwan Oceti Sakowin (Great Sioux Nation). She is the spokesperson for the 1894 Sioux Nation Treaty Council and co-founder and coordinator for Defenders of the Black Hills, which received the International Nuclear Free Future Award for Resistance in 2007 in Salzburg, Austria. She is an author, teacher, organizer, scientist and great-grandmother.

She spoke with The Sopris Sun in May about the 1493 Doctrine of Discovery and its impacts on Indigenous people. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.

What is the 1894 Sioux Nation Treaty Council?

In 1868, our nation made the last treaty with the United States and it was very specific about the land area where we would be living. That land area is all of western South Dakota and parts of North Dakota, Montana, Wyoming and Nebraska.

But when they discovered gold in the Black Hills, which is almost in the middle of the treaty territory, they proceeded to decimate our economy, which was the buffalo. They slaughtered almost all the buffalo in the whole United States.

Then they put us in prisoner of war camps, that’s what they call American Indian reservations. I happen to come from POW Camp 344. That's the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. And they call it

the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Well, we were a band of a big nation, not a tribe. We were just a part of a big nation.

There were many massacres but the most famous one is the 1890 Wounded Knee Massacre. We had signed this treaty in 1868 and in 1890, they massacred more than 300, mostly women, children and elders, because by then most of the men were already gone. My great-great-grandmother, my great-grandfather were all there and they escaped. So I am a descendant of survivors of the Wounded Knee Massacre.

We didn't have the word “chief.” There was a “headman.” We were a matriarchy, too. That's another thing people don't know. The older women were the leaders of the people. The headman was chosen, not elected, not a popularity contest. They were chosen for their ability and their care for the people.

We learned that it was always the white men, the white soldiers, the men, who would speak with us. In our culture, there's a respect thing going on. The women talk to the women. The men talk to the men. So the men would talk to these soldiers, and then they would come back and talk to the women and ask for advice. But if you remember, by that time, we were fighting for our very survival — even up to today.

So in 1894, this headman named He Dog got together with some other men and they established the Sioux Nation Treaty Council. In our way, that means all the adults who belong to our nation, all had a say-so in this. But the United States

government had already started in the 1880s, for us here in South Dakota, taking kids away to the boarding schools to change them into white people. Well, you can't change us into white people. But, you know, to brainwash us, in other words, so that we would follow the culture and the value system of the white Americans.

It was forbidden to talk about the treaty. Our whole culture was forbidden to talk about the language and our spiritual beliefs. We don't even have the word “religion” in our language; it's our spiritual beliefs. It's our relationship with Creator and all that is.

He Dog was a spokesperson and knew that

Portrait by Larry Day

YouthZone gives back through restorative justice

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

Youthzone, an award winning nonprofit dedicated to applying evidencebased youth development practices, has served teens and families in Colorado’s Ninth Judicial District since 1976. The organization specializes in intervention and prevention methods for at-risk youth, worki ng with more than 1,000 teens annually.

One of the main approaches of YouthZone is rooted in restorative justice: a responsive approach to offenses that focuses on examining the impacts of wrongdoings and what can be done to help repair any harm done, all while holding a juvenile defendant accountable. Restorative justice entails working inside, as well as outside, of the court system.

"We offer an invitation to take accountability, because accountability is scary. But, it doesn't have to be like that, so we try to frame it as an invitation," explained Mary Bess Bolling, YouthZone’s restorative justice coordinator. "We offer a space where people can, with the help of facilitators, guide a conversation where young people and their families can take accountability."

Bolling has been with YouthZone for nearly four years. She guides juvenile clients through the restorative justice process and fa cilitates tasks to accomplish the accountability component.

Recently, YouthZone held a restorative justice course funded wi th grant money from Colorado’s Office of Adult and Juvenile Justice Assistance (OAJJA). There, Bolling and Deb Whittle, the event’s co-facilitator, trained eight new volunteers over a 20-hour (three day) session. According to Bolling, another workshop is in the works and will likely take place in January 2024.

"We're excited to have more community members doing this work.” Bolling stated. "It's a very community-oriented practice, and hopefully responsive to the needs of the community as well."

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization was inhibited from facilitating this level of community involvement due to social distancing. Now, they are looking to recruit more restorative justice volunteers.

"We're focusing on recruiting from specific communities. We have many members and volunteers in Carbondale and Glenwood Springs, and now we need a few more. We serve the entire Ninth Judicial District, so we need to focus a little more on the Rifle and Parachute commu nities, as well as Aspen’s, " Bolling shared.

Facilitator Tom Karrell has been with YouthZone since January a s a volunteer diversion interventionist, a position in which he helps establish environments where young clients can make healthier choices.

"In our work, restorative justice is used as an alternative pat h for young people who have gotten into trouble and are working with YouthZone to repair some of the harm done, and fulfill their obligations to the courts — but in a much different way," he explained.

GarCo report

Other business

continued from page 4

The BOCC moved on to an update from the county public health department, including air quality at the Sievers Gravel Pit between Glenwood Springs and Carbondale, and proposed changes to tracking and monitoring citizens’ air quality complaints.

Ted White, county environmental health specialist, presented a report from data collected in 2022, citing increased ozone and particulate pollution in 2020/2021 from wildfires close by and far away. In short, smoke from distant wildfires creates ozone. Local smoke creates an increase in particulates. Air quality monitoring stations have returned to Carbondale and Battlement Mesa.

The BOCC granted $10,000 from the discretionary fund to the Roaring Fork Wildfire Collaboration and agreed to be the fiscal agent for a $500,000 grant for construction of the new withdrawal management (detox) facility in Glenwood Springs.

The Board also approved the first reading of a countywide weed ordinance, which could mean fines for not mitigating weeds in unincorporated parts of the county. Jamaica Watts, county finance director, and county manager Fred Jarman provided 2024 county budget projections in an “unofficial kick-off” to the budget process.

Two land use code changes were approved, one of which requires wholesale greenhouses to black out 95% of indoor growing lights at night. BOCC approved liquor licenses for the Mexican rodeos in Carbondale and Rifle. An update from Mountain Family Health included good news about school-based and community health centers, and the in-house pharmacy for uninsured patients.

Detailed handouts for Monday’s reports and updates are available at www.bit.ly/BOCC6-19-2023

He further echoed that there is a lot of evidence-based researc h around restorative justice, and considers it a more effective way to get through conflict and adversity.

"For folks who want to dig in during a 20-hour immersive traini ng, there will be opportunities to do so. There will also be opport unities to sit in our monthly community practice and do a shorter four-hour tr aining… So, there are ways to get involved," Karrell stated. "Work like this can be advantageous for everyone in the community — just the essence of it. It gives the curiosity of, 'What questions could I ask my kid or ask other people?' which breeds curiosity and connection rather than accusation."

To get involved in a restorative justice facilitator training, make a donation or to simply follow along what YouthZone has been up to, visit www.youthzone.com

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

Courtesy image

Empowered cancer survivors convene at Sayre Park

By James Steindler Contributing Editor

Sayre Park was buzzing with good tunes (courtesy of Bo Hale), laughter and strength the evening of June 14, when cancer survivors and allies gathered to celebrate life.

Sue Drinker is still in remission after being diagnosed in 2005, going through some “serious chemo” and coming out the other side a year later. Early on in her journey, she decided to pay it forward and document fellow survivors through the medium of photography. “I started taking ‘survivor pictures,’ and I’ve done about 250 in the last 17 years,” she told The Sopris Sun.

Some of Drinker’s photos were on display at the event, organized by Valley View’s Calaway-Young Cancer Center. Most were taken in the past year. The portraits at the center of the party were of survivors Drinker first photographed when she was still sick, but reshot again recently; so, the verbiage accompanying those photos was about what it’s like beyond surviving a diagnosis, and living with cancer.

“I think it’s really important to celebrate the people who survive, and also to make the public less scared of us. I think people are afraid that if they talk to us about

cancer or surviving, that it’s something that’s hard for us to talk about. I think this kind of event really elevates survivors as people who are ‘cool,’ people that you should be talking to. People who have been through a lot that you may go through in the future, or not, or your family or whatever. So, get to know us. Don’t be scared of us. Get to know us,” she encouraged.

Diane Heald, the nurse facilitator in Valley’s View’s Infusion Center, asked the crowd to join her in a moment of silence in honor of those who did not overcome their battles with cancer. Then, she introduced Jeanie Norris, a survivor and the event’s keynote speaker.

Norris, 63, discovered a lump last summer, was subsequently diagnosed with breast cancer and then began treatment at the Calaway-Young Cancer Center. She commended the welcoming nature of Valley View as a whole, from its valets to its doctors.

“The best thing of all, of course, was after completing radiation and being told that I was cancerfree … It has been quite a journey” Norris stated. “To take the scariest time of my life and turn it into an empowering turning point is nothing short of remarkable.”

She added, “A very wise woman

I Support the SOPRIS SUN!

The Sopris Sun is our weekly community heartbeat – written, composed and photographed right here in Carbondale! Real stories, real people. I look forward to discovering what’s new every week. Let’s keep the beat going! Won’t you join me with your support?

-Wendy Stewart

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ONLINE: soprissun.com or coloradogives.org

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Contact: Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246

adsales@soprissun.com

(Sitting, left to right) Deborah Williams, Ruth Barber, Carol Burns, and Victoria Monge are all a part of Valley View Walk and Talk, a support group for cancer survivors that meets on Thursdays from 11am to 12:30pm at the Chapel in Valley View. It is not a religion based support group, they clarified for The Sopris Sun. Leeza Monge (standing) attended the celebration in Sayre park with her mother, Victoria.

at the Center told me, I can be sad and even fearful about cancer, and still be a happy person.” After departing from the microphone, Norris blew a kiss to Heald. Portraits from Drinker’s “Survivor Series” can be found in the lobby of the Calaway-Young Cancer Center. For additional photos of the June 14 event, visit www.soprissun.com

Arabella Marmolejo, who was diagnosed in November and is currently in treatment, excitedly accepts a mango, courtesy of Señor Mango.

Town of Carbondale, Colorado REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR "Chacos Park" SITE

MASTER PLAN

Town of Carbondale is soliciting proposals and statement of qualifications from qualified firms/individuals to develop a “Site Master Plan & Report” for the Chacos Park property at 4th Street & Main.

This Site Plan will determine how best the Town should develop this property to meet the public needs of the site.

A copy of the Request for Proposals that outlines the scope of services and submittal requirements can be obtained by going to the Town of Carbondale website www.carbondalegov.org or at this link:

https://www.carbondalegov.org/residents/rfps/index.php

or contact: Eric Brendlinger - Parks & Recreation Director Phone: (970) 510-1277 Email: ebrendlinger@carbondaleco.net

Photo by James Steindler

Photo by James Steindler

Weather… or not

Photos and text by Jane Bachrach

The weather was a challenge June 16-18, but it didn’t stop Carbondale’s Roaring Fork Pickleball Association (RFPA) from holding their first tournament of 2023 at the Young-Calaway pickleball courts.

According to the RFPA president, Trevor Cannon, “there were probably five rain delays on Friday and Saturday.” That didn’t, however, dampen the spirits of competitors or spectators, as everyone pitched in and dried off the courts using everything from brooms to leaf blowers and old towels.

Sunday was beautiful… that is… until the wind blew in and folks had to hold on to their shade umbrellas until it died down. Fortunately, nobody was blown away except by the competition, the food and the fun that was had by all!

Due to the growing popularity of pickleball, the RFPA has grown from about 250 members to 450 members. This members-only tournament attracted 153 pickleball players ranging from levels from 3.0 to 4.5.

Thanks to President Cannon, First Lady Lorraine Elowe and a slew of club volunteers who all pitched in to make the three-day tournament a big success.

For more info about medal winners and tournament photos, visit RFPA's Facebook page.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

WWTF Digester Building HVAC Improvements

Issue Date: 06/06/2023 | Closing Date: 06/27/2023

Public Works Department Town of Carbondale 511 Colorado Ave Carbondale, CO 81623

Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference: 06/13/2023 @ 1 PM at WWTF

Sealed bids for the construction of the WWTF Digester Building HVAC Improvements will be received from invited Bidders by the Town of Carbondale (“OWNER”) at Town Hall, 511 Colorado Ave, Carbondale, CO 81623, until 1:00 PM on June 27th, 2023, at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. The MUA Replacement project consists of the removal and relocation of an existing Digestor Building MUA to the Upper Mechanical Building, and the installation of new duct work to an existing exhaust fan located on the Upper Mechanical Building roof. The work also includes the installation of a new MUA on the Digestor Building (pre-purchased by owner), installation of three new exhaust fans, and removal and installation of duct work to all HVAC equipment.

Bids will be received for a single prime Contract. Bids shall be on a unit price basis as indicated in the Bid Form. Bidding Docu ments 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 Issu ing 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 Docu ments 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 1:00 PM on June 13, 2023 at the WWTF located at 0101 Highway 133, Carbondale Ave in Carbondale, CO.

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.

(Top) RFPA members dried the courts using all available means.

(Bottom) Mark and Maarja Wisroth won gold in mixed doubles.

(Left) Barbara Tatge and Amy Fulstone enjoyed some shade between matches.

RE-ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Nettle Creek Micro-Hydro Project

Re-Issue Date: 6/20/2023 | Closing Date: 6/30/2023

Sealed bids for the construction of the Nettle Creek Micro-Hydro P roject will be received from invited Bidders by the Town of Carbondale (“OWNER”) at Town Hall, 511 Colorado Ave, Carbondale, CO 81623, until 11:00 AM on June 30th, 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.

This project is being re-bid from a previous issue date of 5/23/2023. The project scope has not changed. 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 nonrefundable 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 pre-bid conference will be held at 9:30 AM on June 26, 2023. This conference is mandatory only for bidders who did not attend the previous pre-bid conference. The conference will be at the project site located next to the Nettle Creek Water Plant. See the project manual for more details. All bidders planning on attending the pre-bid conference must RSVP directly to Maggie McHugh by Friday June 23rd

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. v

Lari Goode kept order on the courts.

First Lady, Lorraine Elowe, and President Trevor Cannon presided over the event.

Brooks Cowles and Tristan Droppert were fierce competition in mens doubles.

A gust of wind is no match for RFPA members.

Players wrung out towels between drying the courts to reuse and keep the action going.

and Carbondale’s percentage is about the same as Glenwood Springs’ (2.3%). With its first dedicated tax toward affordable housing, 6% on STRs approved by voters in November, Bohmfalk’s question was whether to allow incremental expansion for situations that don’t fit the current regulation.

After hearing from several members of the public, primarily representing owners of STRs, the trustees decided to leave the ordinance unchanged for now, allowing licenses to be renewed for two years. As Trustee Chris Hassig stated, “we nipped the runaway train in the bud.”

Arn Menconi represented renters who wish to sublet a room as a STR. As it stands, this is only possible with the owner of the property assuming liability.

Trustee Luis Yllanes considered the new condos at Hayden Place, near the roundabout, with three-bedroom apartments renting as high as $5,000 per month. “I can see where people would want to do that,” he said, regarding shortterm leasing a spare bedroom as a renter.

“I don’t want to give too much ground there,” said Hassig, calling it a “good stop gap measure” if the property owner is required to hold the license.

Other business

The meeting concluded with project updates presented by Gister. Among these, the Crystal River Restoration project will be delayed until after July 15 to protect nesting birds. Aquatics facility construction will not get started until next year, with the 2024 pool season canceled. The Artspace/Town Center project is on track. The multi-modal mobility plan is moving along. Valley Settlement will assist with launching a Latino Advisory Committee.

A new building official, who starts on July 25, will help oversee updates regarding ADUs and energy codes. The Historic Preservation Commission did not receive a grant for expanding historic design guidelines, but Mayor Bohmfalk encouraged them to request funds from the Town. The Nettle Creek project did not receive any bids. Work on the first bulb out on Eighth Street has begun, as well as fixing irrigation at 133 — both undertaken by Town employees to save money. A new pedestrian crossing at Cowen and 133 is expected to be installed this summer.

Lastly, WE-Cycle is set to launch during the first week of August, deliberately after Mountain Fair.

whenever they were going to talk with other American leaders, that it would be men talking to men. [But] they would go home and talk to their wives and their moms and their grandmas and their aunties and everybody else, and find out, you know, what should we do, now?

Since 1984, we have been sending our people to the United Nations. [We] were there when the first discussions and decisions were being made about having a Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. My question has always been, don't the Universal Human Rights cover us too?

Did conversations about the Declaration of Rights of Indigenous Peoples begin in 1984?

They began in ‘84 with the Working Group on Indigenous Populations, a committee of the United Nations, where all indigenous delegates would meet. The United Nations had appointed different specialists in different fields who had already written about Indigenous “populations,” as they called us at that time. So it was made up of “experts” on Indigenous people, and that's who met with these indigenous representatives who came from all over the world to meetings in Geneva, Switzerland. Our representatives would come back, tell everybody what happened, get input, and then go back to the next meeting [in Geneva]. That went on for a long time.

Then, in 1994, the sub-commission approved the original Declaration. The working group approved of it first and then the sub-commission approved of it next. The next one to approve of it before it was sent to the General Assembly was the Commission on Human Rights. But, when the sub-commission brought it to the Commission on Human Rights, the United States pushed it off and said, “We have to have more debate.” They had already worked on this for 10 years but the United States wanted more debate! The Kansas Group — Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the United States — all speak English and they're all colonizing governments. They all pushed it off into an intersessional working group so [the declaration] would not go into the Commission on Human Rights.

Backing up a little bit, why did the original people all over this country go to the U.N. in the first place?

I can't speak for any other nations. I can only speak for us. We are a nation. We have an international treaty with the United States. Our treaty is very specific because it gives a very specific land area. We had international treaties with other countries before that.

Our first treaty was with France in 1658. So see, we were around even before there was such a nation as the United States. And we were having international treaties with other nations — France, Great Britain, Canada, and then the United States. So of course we would go to an international arbiter in an international place where we could get this settled. We can't go to the courts of the enemy, which is the United States justice system. They're the enemy! They're the other country that is a party to this international treaty. And that's why a lot of Indigenous all over the world go to the U.N. [The U.N.] calls itself the family of nations. We should be a part of it. We should be sitting at the table along with everybody else.

that knows how to do art right. Much of that is because of the efforts of people like [former Carbondale Arts executive director] Amy Kimberly, who’s been an advocate and leader in establishing Carbondale as a preeminent arts town.”

Carbondale has established itself as a haven for artists through grassroots efforts, community and volunteer support. Erickson shared, “For years, people have looked at Carbondale’s art scene and tried to get some of that secret sauce.”

On June 27, in conjunction with the pavement art installation, the Aspen Ideas Festival is presenting “The Case for Art as Civic Glue,” a discussion on how institutions can harness the power of the arts to strengthen communities. The event at the Wheeler Opera House begins at 5:30pm.

Looking ahead, Ford said the City of Aspen is “moving beyond merely creating installations to fostering an ongoing dialogue

around public art in Aspen.”

Next up, the City will organize a public art event at the Pitkin County Library on August 9, with more community-focused events scheduled for this fall.

Erickson sees a bright future for the Aspen public arts plan, saying, “If you have the right people interested in empowering artists and giving them a platform and space to generate work, the possibilities are endless. When you have resources, and you add passion — that's a winning formula.”

Mural painting is open to those 10-years-old and up. Sidewalk chalk will be provided to younger children for art activities. To learn more about Aspen’s public art projects and participate in shaping the future of public art in Aspen, go to www.aspencommunityvoice. com/aspen-s-public-art-plan

Are original people from around the world considered nations in the U.N. yet?

Yes and no. Originally, they called us “populations,” right? Like populations of fish, populations of flowers. We were considered a “population” and there was a big long fight over that.

At the U.N., we are “peoples.” I've been going for the last 20 years and I'm fighting for “nations.” We are not “populations.” We are not “peoples.” We are nations. I am a representative of our nation.

How would you define the 1493 Doctrine of Discovery that was repudiated in March?

Repudiated! Everybody can repudiate the Doctrine. I do. I repudiate the Doctrine of Discovery. It doesn't do a thing. The Pope repudiating the Doctrine of Discovery doesn't do a thing either.

Repudiated is not necessarily revoked. They did not revoke the Doctrine of Discovery. And even though that happened 500 years ago, what it caused is still affecting us today. And it's not just the land issue. The Doctrine of Discovery gave the United States, through the Johnson v McIntosh case, the right to take any land and all that we have. Like the Louisiana Purchase. they gave away half of the United States and we're sitting in the middle of it! You know, we're a nation! How dare you!

This Christian ideology is giving legitimacy to theft, to torture, to murder, to genocide. And the consequences are happening today. Biologically, whenever children or young people experience trauma, it creates [DNA methylation]. It is passed down through the generations. So the trauma my parents and my grandparents experienced in boarding school has been passed down to me and now to my children and my grandchildren.

Those are all consequences of the Doctrine of Discovery, which legalized the superiority of colonizing governments to do whatever they wanted to do.

Tell me more about generational trauma, as you've witnessed it today, 500 and some odd years after the Papal Bull.

As far as DNA [methylation], that's where the boarding schools come in. The boarding schools forbade teaching any part of our culture. Where I live in South Dakota, if anybody talked about the treaties or sang the songs or had a ceremony or spoke our language, they would be killed. Killed or imprisoned.

The easiest example I can give you is this: My parents were born in the 1920s. They were little children at Holy Rosary Mission, a Catholic mission. One of their little friends was beat to death when he was 8 years old, and they witnessed it. He was beat to death with a harness, you know, the kind you put on horses, for saying one Lakota word to his friend. So, what did that do to my parents? What did that do to their DNA? My dad was 6! My mom was 8! We can't ever, ever say one Lakota word. If we do, we die!

[DNA methylation] is a survival technique. My parents needed it for their own survival. So then they have me and it's in my DNA. Unless I'm in ceremony or unless I'm someplace safe, I cannot speak our language.

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My life on two wheels, part two

By Stanley Trulock Glenwood Springs

By the summer of 1958, I had outgrown my 20-incher, so my grandma and grandpa took me to Montgomery Wards and let me pick out a new, “big” bike. It was a red and white 26-inch. They put in the trunk of their 1958 Ford and took it home.

When we unloaded it, I got on and rode off. The blocks didn’t seem as long as they had been, and I was flying. After dinner, I’d ride till dark and then get up early the next morning and go all day, only stopping for Kool Aid and a sandwich for lunch. I was home for dinner because, “You will be home for dinner,” then off until dark. I needed to get a headlight.

Summertime was baseball time, and to say that my dad was a fan would be a gross understatement, hence my brother's name, Ted Williams Trulock. He wanted to name him Stan Musial Trulock, but when he married my mom she came with a Stan.

Anyway, every summer my dad would sign me up for little league and I would get on my bike with my baseball glove and go to try outs/practice. I was never very interested, so I wasn’t good enough to make the teams with the nifty uniforms, matching caps and real baseball shoes. I was always in the “farm league.” We got t-shirts that said “Little League Farm,” so everybody could tell that we weren’t the cream of the crop. We were given solid color caps so we could tell our teammates from the other teams. My dad told me to keep an eye on the ball, so I would watch it as it hit me in the face.

Oh yeah, this story’s about me and my bike. So, after a few evenings of riding to little league and playing a limited amount, I figured out that I could put on my t-shirt and cap, grab my glove, hop on my bike and ride right past the ball field to the new and different neighborhoods to check them out.

I learned new shortcuts, and which houses didn’t have fences so I could ride through their yards when they weren’t home. I knew that I had to be home before dark, and everything was good until dad decided to come and see how I was doing.

When I got home that night, he asked how I did and I made up a story about getting a hit or something. He pointed out that the coach had said that I very rarely showed up, and when I did I wasn’t that interested. I said that it was true and that I really would rather ride my bike. That was the night that my baseball career ended.

My dad told me to just tell mom and him where I was going, and he would save the money that it cost for little league. I wouldn't have to drag my glove around with me. I didn’t tell him that I usually ditched it by the Presbyterian Church, because I figured nobody would steal it from there. After that, I would tell them the general direction I was headed.

I would ride over to Mayfair and around the Country Club, as they had paved streets unlike the tar and gravel in my part of town. Our streets were rough enough that my wheels would get out of tune and the tires would rub the fender. Being a kid, and not knowing anything, rather than trying to tighten the spokes to straighten the rim, I just took the fenders off. That made it look cool. I also

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flipped the handlebars upside down so it would look like an “English Racer.”

The summer of 1964, I got a job as a caddy at the Country Club. It was fairly easy and paid real good. Good enough that half way through the summer, I had saved money to buy a new bike. I had been reading “Boys Life” and “Popular Mechanics” magazines about the new Schwinn Varsity 10-speed.

Mom and dad took me to Durst Cycles in Urbana and I picked out a candy blue one that was beautiful. It came with no fenders and dropped handlebars with white tape instead of grips like a “real” English Racer and skinny 27 inch tires that were rock hard, unlike the fat squishy tires on wobbly wheels. If I remember correctly, it was $72 (in 1964 dollars). I’m sure I paid in one and five dollar bills, as that was how I was paid at the caddy shack (taxes, what taxes?). I then rode home to 2103 Southwood Drive. That was the farthest I had ridden through town ever.

I remember reading about a guy who drafted a semi truck and went 70mph on his Schwinn, and when I first started pedaling mine, I was pretty sure I could do the same.

I continue to have bicycle adventures to this day and this could turn into a “never ending story.” However, 1964 was also the year that I rode a motorcycle for the first time, and just like when my dad let go of my bicycle seat, I got a “feeling” I thought was wonderfully fun. Little did I know that would actually shape the rest of my life.

Stanley Trulock is 73, and still rides his bike. “Every time I do, at some point in the ride, I get the same ‘free’ feeling that I felt when I was 5,” he said. Trulock has been a professional motorcycle mechanic since 1971, “so the motorcycle ride I took in 1964 did shape my life,” he added.

A yellow warbler confronts its own reflection in a garden mirror.

Photo by Tommy Sands

LETTERS

in moving the trail project forward.

Safety concerns, primarily with traffic and the absence of shoulders on Highway 133, have discouraged the use of the existing Highway 133 for recreational purposes. The new trail will provide a long-awaited and safe recreation amenity for residents and visitors to the upper Crystal River Valley.

The trail will be funded by GOCO grants and the Pitkin County Open Space and Trails fund, which by its charter is required to use at least 25% of its revenue for the construction and maintenance of trails. It will also complement the major conservation and land ownerships in the immediate areas in and around Redstone that Pitkin County Open Space has made. The next step in the project will be to complete the detailed design for the new trail, for which the exact route has already been established. To date, no time estimate for the construction phase has been released and hopefully the project will not be stymied by objections or appeals over the final Environmental Assessment which was released by the Forest Service this past January.

Chuck Downey, Redstone

Parades!

Nuggets, Strawberry Days, Juneteenth, so much to celebrate… and now one to think about.

Friday, June 16, CDOT sponsored a “hearse” parade in Denver as part of their seat belt awareness campaign and messaging about Colorado’s highestever roadway deaths last year. Perhaps your life has been impacted or that of someone you know.

Going somewhere? Stay focused, wear a seatbelt, don’t drive distracted or under an “influence.” Allow enough

continued from

time, our roadways are fuller than ever with all our new residents.

Take a Minute, think about it, Slow Down in Town

Diane Reynolds, Glenwood Springs

Trump Trump has officially been indicted on 37 federal felony counts. For some, this will come as no surprise, and for others this will come as a shock. Regardless of where you fall on the political spectrum, it’s crucial that our elected officials be held to the same standards as any other American.

The charges against Trump are serious — obstruction of justice, criminal conspiracy, violating the Espionage Act. He is accused of knowingly taking hundreds of documents from agencies like the CIA and the Pentagon. Some of the documents he took contained delicate national security intelligence, including nuclear secrets and potential military vulnerabilities to the United States and our allies. When others have committed crimes of this nature, they were prosecuted, and Trump should not be an exception.

Fame, riches, and title do not make someone above the law. The rule of law is a basic principle that everyone must be held to equally — including Donald Trump. A grand jury of everyday Americans reviewed mountains of evidence, including testimony from dozens of witnesses, and determined there was enough evidence Trump had committed a crime to charge him. Thirty-seven times, to be exact.

These are crimes against our country. To preserve the rule of law and our democracy, we must let the legal process proceed, without interruption or interference.

Katrina McAlpine, New Castle

The 126th Strawberry Days saw scores of locals and tourists mingling in Two Rivers Park over the weekend. Despite the rain, the parade on Pitkin Avenue the morning of Saturday, June 17 likewise drew quite a crowd.

(Top left) The Glenwood Springs Demon's cheerleading squad had some parade spectators chanting along.

(Left) The Anytime Fitness float was stacked with muscle.

Photos by James Steindler

The Glenwood Springs Kiwanis Club built an elaborate contraption off the main stage for their ball race fundraiser. Photo by April Crow-Spaulding

THANK

Diana Stough Alcantara

Kelley Amdur

Jane Bachrach

Kathy & Carter Barger

Carrie & Keith Brand

Raleigh Burleigh

Todd Chamberlin

Daniel Benavent

Debbie & Marc Bruell

Kay Clarke

Brian Colley

Barbara Collins

Cathy Cooney

Peter Davidoff

Donna & Jerome Dayton

Barbara Dills

Sue Engelhardt

Christina Flynn

Denise Fogerty

Walter Gallacher

Will Grandbois

Mary Groome

Cedar Rose Guelberth

Heather Henry

Eilene Ish

Leslie & Patrick Johnson

Susan Jordan

Wewer & Steve Keohane

Sarah Klingelheber

Colin & Alice Laird

Megan Larsen

Blake Leonard

Laurie Loeb

Tristan Mead

Tim & Donna McFlynn

Sally & Frank Norwood

Michelle Page

Matthew Patera

Illene Pevec

Terri & David Ritchie

Joel Rittvo

Jessi Rochel

Aly Sanguily

Terri Slivka

James Steindler

Wendy Stewart

Danny Stone

Kenny Teitler

Andrew Travers

Gayle Wells

John Wilson

Annie Worley