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Martha Cruz Rodriguez lent her expertise to a Pan de Muertos baking demonstration at the Carbondale Community Oven on Nov. 2 — more on page 20! Photo courtesy of Will Grandbois, Carbondale Community Oven

This Week:

6 ~ Avalanches 11-13 ~ Español 15 ~ First Friday 18 ~ CoMotion 21 ~ WIP Volume 15, Number 40 | November 9 - November 15, 2023

Look inside for our

2023/2024 Nonprofit Giving Guide!

OPINION

VOICES Radio Hour

By Travis Dean Wilson

Last fall, I had the wonderful opportunity to perform alongside a talented group of locals in the Queer VOICES Project piece, ““A Green Bird on Orange Trees,” an original production

by VOICES, the Carbondale-based nonprofit. VOICES was founded by two incredible women who both understood and fostered the importance of storytelling, Renee Prince and Barbara Reese. The vision that these two had for their community manifested itself as a movement here in the Valley to let every voice from every background be heard and for all to listen.

The importance each voice carries in their timbre, whether it be that of a youth, a sage, a woman, a Latino or a queer, like me, cannot be understated.

Barbara and Renee both value expression, along with others devoted to VOICES’ cause, and have helped dozens of voices ring alongside the Rockies which shape our diverse community.

My experience with VOICES is one that echoes many others’: it was life changing. Through the guidance of the directors and other cast members, I was challenged to delve deep into the confines of my being to pull forward a

LETTERS

Correction: Jasmin Ramirez’s first name was misspelled with an “e” tacked on the end in last week’s letters to the editor section.

Citizens meet FS

A group of Carbondale Concerned Citizens are going through the due process steps that the local Forest Service leaders performed incompletely to end up with a new building design completely out of place in our beloved historic downtown. I am positive that a design produced with diligent townspeople's inclusion would produce a compatible design. On our way to join in the design process, we have participated in processes available to citizens to interact with the federal government.

Several times we canvassed for petition signatures from people who were always shocked with the tree removals. One-thousand-four-hundred people signed to say they would keep the trees over a plan by the Forest Service to cut them down.

After petitioning, we moved on to call for a meeting with town trustees and the Forest service. It was placed on the agenda and the townspeople were allotted two minutes each. A very large number of people attended that meeting.

Empowering every VOICE

story within me that I wasn’t even aware needed to be spoken. It was a voice that I had locked away for the longest time because I felt that it had nothing left worthy to acknowledge, at least in my present life. VOICES taught me that rather than dismissing that part of me, I could give it a chance by sitting with it and listening to what it had to say. This allowed me to approach the cacophony of words in my mind with a sense of curiosity and acceptance, rather than shame and silence.

My piece revolved around a conversation I had with my younger self, recounting the joys, challenges and heartbreaks of my upbringing as a gay kid in the rural south. The dynamics in the piece were powerful and diverse; the retelling of my youth ranging from my comical shenanigans as a tot to the somber moments in my teenage years when life wasn’t always peaceful.

There were many themes which several people in the audience could relate to, whether that was grief, authenticity or, most importantly, selflove. I was determined to touch on all of these while finding a way to balance the humor with the horror. Being challenged by my team to make this not only compelling but succinct was difficult, but, in the end, the work was well worth the praise received and how it made me feel.

A moment from the vignette that will always stick out to me is when I proudly declared my full name, unapologetically bold and (I admit ) in a rather coarse fashion. In response, I was met with thunderous applause — and an ovation none of us on the production side saw coming. This was a moment that will forever live in my memory as one where the voice I had, kept hidden within the

vaults of my heart and mind, had finally received the recognition and love it had always coveted. It was a theater moment when the ubiquitous magic transcended the boundaries of the stage and became an experience the entire audience shared in harmony.

Even now that the show has finished and we all moved on to new projects, I can say that the entire process from start to finish will definitely remain in my heart for the remainder of my life. The connections I made with my team, from our first dance and drawing exercises to our final bow, are bonds of which have only strengthened since then. I am forever grateful to VOICES for giving me the gift of letting every part of my voice be heard, even the littlest one.

I am so thankful to the current team and to Renee for such a life-changing experience.

To Barbara: Wherever your spirit soars, I know that you shine in seeing how many voices continue to find the strength to speak out clear and strong.

That lesson you taught so many of us will never fade, it will only grow into a powerful choir of beautiful and brave VOICES.

Carbondale Concerned Citizens then hosted a forum of our own at the Third Street Center’s Community Room, and nearly 50 citizens attended.

Most recently, we requested and organized a meeting with Kevin Warner (with the Forest Service) and a small group of townspeople at the Forest Service office. At the beginning, we assembled in the lobby and Kevin invited us on a tour of their main building, and off we went into the many offices, and then down into the basement and even into the boiler room and all of the spaces being utilized.

I have been a building repairman for 39 years and have recently looked over the exterior roof, doors, windows and foundation. The roof and foundation appear to be in great repair. The windows and trim are in a state of neglect. The tour of the interior revealed a very well-kept space and, yes, I went into all of the restrooms to look.

The damn panic precluded citizen input and the Forest Service design process plunged ahead. Now, the Forest Service is presented with townspeople objecting to the sufficiency of the whole process. Will the Forest Service force their demolition of serviceable old buildings and land a new building sans trees on our small town Main Street?

The loss of our Main Street integrity and the loss of trust and respect for the Forest Service will result.

As I drive by the Forest Service property, I trust that the outcome of a collaboration with townspeople and the Forest Service will produce a more satisfying result.

Richard Votero, Carbondale

2 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

This month's title of VOICES Radio Hour is “Unsung Hero: A Tribute to Barbara Reese, Founder of VOICES.” It will feature 11 people who have been touched by Barbara and VOICES (Barbara's legacy), as well as classical music by MinTze Wu and other musicians, and three of Barbara's original poems read and recorded by her in 2022. It will air on KDNK this Friday, Nov. 10 from 6-7pm. It can be found on our website, www.voicesrfv. org, thereafter.

Protect the Crystal

Through the summer months, a group of local residents have been studying a range of tools that could be used to protect the Crystal River from dams and out of drainage diversions.

This group is an advisory body which includes residents of Gunnison and Pitkin counties who live on the Crystal and will report their findings in January 2024 to their respective commissioners.

During the Crystal River Community Summit, held the last week of October in the Roaring Fork High School auditorium, residents of the Crystal Valley met and had a chance to learn about the various options available to protect the Crystal River. Residents were asked to look at a range of legal tools which could be used to protect the river and to score them against a set of criteria that included durability, respect for local continues on page 22

Editor Raleigh Burleigh 970-510-3003 news@soprissun.com Sol del Valle Editor Vanessa Porras Contributing & Digital 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 Board Members / Mesa Directiva board@soprissun.com Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke Lee Beck • Donna Dayton Eric Smith • Roger Berliner Elizabeth Phillips • Jessi Rochel Andrew Travers • Anna Huntington

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

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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 Gretchen Greenwood & Lee Mulcahy Donna & Ken Riley

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VVAS deadline Our Underwriters and Nonprofit Partners!

Carbondale Arts is accepting applications for the Valley Visual Art Show (VVAS), which will be on display at the Launchpad Jan. 19 through Feb. 22. VVAS is one of the longest-standing community art shows committed to showing the work of local artists. Fifty pieces of art from 50 artists will be displayed. Applicants must reside within a zip code beginning with 816. The deadline to submit an application is Dec. 1.

Visit www.carbondalearts.org to apply and for more information.

Animal crossing

The end of daylight saving time means people have set their clocks back an hour, see dusk earlier and see more wild animals migrating to their wintering habitats during rush-hour traffic. Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Colorado Department of Transportation remind motorists to stay vigilant, drive cautiously and slow down as winter storms often push wildlife from the high country into lower elevations.

Visit www.coloradowta.com for more information.

Where there’s smoke RJ Paddywacks Cool Bricks Studio White River Books Alpine Animal Hospital

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

Fire managers with the Upper Colorado River Interagency Fire Management Unit are planning to begin burning slash piles, the result of multiple fuel reduction and hazardous tree removal projects across White River National Forest. The closest piles are located near the Sunlight Mountain Communication Site, southwest of Glenwood Springs. Crews may burn tens to hundreds of piles per day depending on locations and conditions. Most of the smoke will dissipate during the day but some could remain in valley bottoms and drainages at night. Visit www.colorado. gov/airquality/wildfire.aspx for health information.

Deck the walls

Every holiday season, Carbondale Arts transforms the gallery space at 76 S. Fourth Street into a shop filled with artisan goods created by local and regional artists. Goods typically include handmade candles and cards, jewelry, chocolates, ceramics, art prints, soaps and more! Members can get a special sneak preview from 4-7pm on Nov. 16, ahead of the public opening from noon to 7pm on Nov. 17. After that, it’ll be open through Christmas Eve from 10am to 5pm

weekdays, 10am to 4pm Saturdays and 11am to 4pm Sundays in December.

Glenwood hires city manager

The Glenwood Springs city council selected Steve Boyd as the new city manager during their regular meeting on Nov. 2. Boyd has 25 years of finance experience in the public and private sectors and has been with the city as chief operating officer since 2017. He signed on for a two-year contract and will be responsible for the day-to-day operations and administration of the city while working to implement decisions, policies and priorities adopted by city council.

Work for SANA

The Garfield, Pitkin and Western Eagle County Safe and Abundant Nutrition Alliance is looking for a passionate and committed bilingual individual to join their team. The right person would be ready to lead efforts to enroll our neighbors in assistance programs, design innovative outreach campaigns and collaborate with partners. The full-time position pays $27-30/hour with flexibility for time off and access to leadership training and development. Call 970-989-3513 for more information.

Two men arrested for assault

At 1:10am on Nov. 4, Carbondale Police were dispatched to a report of two men covered in blood and found one man slashed in the hand and another tending to him. Officers located a suspect’s vehicle in the City Market parking lot and commanded everyone inside of it to get out. While investigating the scene, they found a box cutter style knife with blood on it. According to witnesses, the original incident had occurred at the Red Hill parking lot. The suspect and the injured man reportedly got into an altercation with broken glass bottles before one of them pulled a knife, slashed the other and left the scene. Both parties were ultimately booked into Garfield County Jail, the suspected knife wielder for second degree assault, felony menacing, and criminal mischief and the injured man — after receiving medical attention — for second degree assault.

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Wolfy Draper and Stephen Molloy (Nov. 9); Natalie Rae Fuller

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VETERINARY SERVICES

Oneal Bogan DVM Lindsey Brooks DVM

The 19th annual Día de los Muertos celebration in Carbondale went off without a hitch! Every year this event recognizes someone who serves the Latino community.

This year, that award went to Dr. Maria Judith Alvarez of the Safe and Abundant Nutrition Alliance (SANA) and La Clínica del Pueblo. Alvarez is a licensed doctor in Mexico and has taken her knowledge and community organizing skills to better the lives of immigrants in the Valley. La Clinica del Pueblo started over five years ago in conjunction with Dr. Greg Feinsinger’s nonprofit, Center for Prevention and Treatment of Disease Through Nutrition.

Together they focus on good health through education and information, along with seeing over 350 patients a year. Alvarez is the director of SANA which works with Food Bank of the Rockies on food distribution and promotes healthy food practices. Other projects Alvarez has helped spearhead or is involved in are The Latino Folk Art Garden along the Rio Grande Trail and the annual Día de los Muertos celebration. Turn to page 14 for additional photos from this year’s event. Photo by Klaus Kocher

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970.319.5757 • hilary@hilaryporterfield.com • roaringfork-homes.com ©2023 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage is independently owned and operated.

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • November 9 - November 15, 2023 • 3

Election results, 2023

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent On election night, Carbondale Beer Works hosted a watch-party with Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) board candidates Jasmin Ramirez, Betsy After and Lindsay DeFrates in attendance.

Ramirez ran unopposed for a second term for District D. Betsy After sought the District B seat and Lindsay DeFrates ran for District C. When the first vote totals from the Colorado Secretary of State office came in shortly after 7pm, a cheer went up in the taproom as it became evident that After and DeFrates had garnered more than 70% of the votes in both races.

As of The Sopris Sun’s press deadline, unofficial results showed After’s lead as 77.25% to 22.75%, or 6,645 votes to 1,975, over challenger Alan Kokish. DeFrates’ lead was 73.82% to 26.18%, or 6,123 votes to 2,171, over opponent Phillip Bogart. Ramirez had 6,021 votes.

As far as voter turnout for the three counties within RFSD, Garfield County was at 32.33%, Eagle at 45.14% and Pitkin at 37.77%.

Statewide, the general turnout was 36.64%.

CMC District 2

Colorado Mountain College board seats were also on the ballot, but only District 2 was contested. As of press time, incumbent Marianne Virgili was at 69.94%, or 6427 votes, over challenger David Use at 30.06%, or 2762 votes.

Prop HH

For Proposition HH, “no” votes were up, at 59.66%, or 7291 votes, over “yes” votes at 40.34%, or 4881 votes.

Prop II

For Proposition II, “yes” votes prevailed at 67.5%, or 8153 votes, over “no” votes at 32.5%, or 3925 votes.

For a complete list of Colorado projected election results by county, visit www.bit.ly/COelections2023

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4 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

CO Appeals Court comes to order at RFHS Photos by Sue Rollyson Sopris Sun Correspondent

On Tuesday morning, Nov. 7, the students of Roaring Fork High School were exposed to a seemingly rare opportunity. A Division of the Colorado Court of Appeals heard two oral arguments in the high school auditeria, where students and some general members of the public were able to observe and ask questions.

Students from Basalt High and Carbondale Community School were also present.

“The events with high school students are part of the Colorado Judicial Department’s Courts in the Community program,” reads a press

release, “developed to give high school students first hand experience in how the Colorado judicial system works and illustrate how disputes are resolved in a democratic society.”

The judges covered two cases.

First, The Sentinel Colorado v. Kadee Rodriguez, an appeal filed by the Aurora newspaper questioning a trial court’s decision not to release records from an executive session held by Aurora City Council. Second, The People of the State of Colorado v. Bradley Todd Clark stemmed from an arson case. Clark argues that the trial court should not have admitted testimony that he was previously arrested for allegedly starting a dumpster fire in 2007.

(Above) Colorado Court of Appeal Judge David Furman, Chief Judge Gilbert M. Román and Judge Terry Fox listen intently to oral arguments.

(Below) Students speak with Judge David Furman during a luncheon following the hearings.

The school auditeria was filled with students interested in the appellate court process.

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • November 9 - November 15, 2023 • 5

Avalanches, avalanche safety and a milestone

By Ken Pletcher Sopris Sun Correspondent

Snow is accumulating on the peaks, Indy Pass is closed for the season, snow guns are roaring at the ski resorts and the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) is observing its 50th anniversary of avalanche forecasting and education.

In an Oct. 26 press release marking the milestone, CAIC Director Ethan Greene said, “Much has changed over the last 50 years, including how we forecast conditions, our understanding of avalanches, and the technologies we use to share information,” continuing, “But, what hasn't changed is our commitment to sharing information and educating people about avalanches to help keep people safe.”

Keeping skiers safe in Colorado’s backcountry is a major undertaking. The state’s steep, mountainous terrain and challenging weather patterns often make for unstable and dangerous snow conditions. Tied with Colorado’s popularity with adventurers, it has the highest number of annual avalanche fatalities of any state in the country; typically (though not always) about one-third of the total.

A report issued in August by Brian Lazar, CAIC’s deputy director, listed 11 fatalities in Colorado during the 2022-23 winter season (including one at Aspen Highlands), four more than the 10-year annual average. He told The Sopris Sun that although the “bad years make the data look worse,” overall statistics on fatalities are “generally flat,” when compared with earlier decades. Much of this can be

attributed to the fact that there are many more backcountry users nowadays, and, Lazar noted, “fatality rates are going down,” relative to the numbers out there.

Local ski mountaineering and touring pioneer Lou Dawson — who literally wrote the books on off-piste adventuring and whose WildSnow website has long been a leading authority on gear reviews, trip reports and related topics — agreed with Lazar. He told The Sun, “For many years [backcountry skiing] grew at a low doubledigits pace” annually, a somewhat unscientific (but still accurate) observation he arrived at by “counting the number of cars at the trailheads.”

Better gear

The rise in popularity of backcountry adventuring and its improved safety is in part because of continued advances in gear and equipment. Not only did the quality go up, but, as Dawson noted, the weight of a standard ski set (ski, boot, binding), dropped from some 11 pounds per leg in the old days to some three now.

A major improvement was the development in the ‘80s and ‘90s of the tech (or Dynafit) binding. Lighter and much more functional than previous models, it is now widely used in nontelemark ski-mountaineering setups. Dawson wrote in a WildSnow blogpost, “The amount of weight the tech binding saved took ski touring from a somewhat masochistic activity to a sport nearly everyone can enjoy.”

Another important innovation was the introduction of transceivers (avalanche beacons), beginning in the ‘70s with numerous improvements. The devices emit a radio

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Former longtime CAIC Director Knox Williams in 1975 (then the lead forecaster). Established by the U.S. Forest Service in 1973 as the Colorado Avalanche Warning Program, the CAIC has been a program of the Colorado Department of Natural Resources since 1983. Photo courtesy of CAIC

frequency that can be picked up by others who are similarly equipped and can help locate someone who has been buried in an avalanche.

This is significant, as the window of time between a rescue and a recovery is small, and beacons have saved many lives. However, Dawson noted, “About 40% of avalanche victims die of bluntforce trauma, rather than asphyxiation, and [beacons often] act as a body finder.”

More recently, skier-activated avalanche airbag packs have also become available. They can save some avalanche victims by keeping users more on top of the snow in a slide but cannot protect them from trauma caused by the slide.

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Research and forecasting

Also crucial in reducing avalanche mishaps has been scientific research into the makeup and behavior of snow on steep slopes and significant advancements in forecasting avalanche conditions.

Decades of data and measurements of snow conditions collected by researchers such as Ron Perla — known for the “30-degree threshold” (snow on slopes greater than that angle is more likely to slide) — have made predicting the stability of snow on a slope much more accurate.

Likewise, technological advancements have made possible increasingly sophisticated processing and modeling of the data, giving forecasters, like CAIC’s Lazar, “better tools, better forecasts and better ways of delivery” to users. CAIC recently launched a “more stable and mobile-friendly” website.

However, CAIC relies largely for its information on avalanches and avalanche accidents from eyewitness reports. “The number of avalanches varies year by year, but there are thousands [annually], and we record only a fraction of them,” Lazar noted. Likewise, CAIC only knows about accidents that are reported to it.

Education and training

Finally, improved avalanche safety has benefitted from better education and training on how to anticipate and deal with potential avalanche conditions. In a WildSnow blogpost, Perla called it “collective consciousness,” adding, “An increasing number of backcountry users correlates with increasing observations and tests.” This is only improved with better education and training.

Here in the Valley, Mountain Rescue Aspen (MRA) has long been conducting avalanchetraining classes. Greg Shaffran, MRA’s vice president/treasurer and instructor in the classes, said, “We want to preach the preventative aspects of mountain rescue.” He noted that backcountry adventurers not only need to acquire the necessary

Avalanche down the left side of a ridge near Independence Pass on Oct. 15, the first human-caused slide of the 2023-24 winter season. Photo courtesy of CAIC

safety gear (beacon, avalanche probe, shovel) but learn how to use them properly. Lazar added, “Learn how to interpret and use forecasts on current avalanche conditions, and make trip plans based on them.”

MRA maintains a beacon practice course at the base of Tiehack and is planning classroom and on-

mountain training in January. Details to follow are at www.mountainrescueaspen.org The CAIC website (www.avalanche.state. co.us) is an indispensable resource for all things related to avalanches and avalanche safety, education and training. It also includes an online form for submitting an avalanche report.

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7 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR Visit soprissun.com to submit events

The Farm Collaborative hosts its 16th annual Community Meal Share Giveaway on Nov. 14, from 2-5:30pm. At this year's event, known as "Farm-to-Fridge,” the collaborative gives away CSA-style ingredient-hearty bags filled with local produce. To register to pick up a bag, visit www.thefarmcollaborative.org Supply is limited. Call (970) 379-2323 for more info. Art by Sofie Koski

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9

TRANSFORM Michelle Hyken, Master Energy Practitioner, leads an evening of energy release and vibrational enhancement at the Third Street Center at 6:30pm. Register at www. thecenterforhumanflourishing.org

LIBRARY BOARD The Basalt Library board hosts a recruitment event and meet and greet at noon. More info at www.basaltlibrary.org

‘SPAMALOT’ Theatre Aspen Education presents the 7th-12th grade production of Monty Python’s “SPAMALOT,” opening tonight at 7pm at the Aspen District Theater. The show continues tomorrow and Saturday night, also at 7pm, and closes with a Sunday, Nov. 12 matinee at 2pm. Visit www.theatreaspen. org for tickets and more info.

MOUNTAIN PITCHES COVENTURE hosts its annual Mountain Pitch Event at the Third Street Center from 11am to 7pm.

Visit www.coventure.io for more info.

"The Chicken and the Egg: Where Does Interdependence Begin?" by Aaron Brown As Dr. King said, “We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.

Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.” In such a network, self-care and care of others are deeply intertwined. Where do we begin the work and how do we balance it so that all we do is as sustainable and enriching to the whole as possible?

Live in-person service. Live music by Jimmy Byrne.

Sunday, November 12th, 10am at Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist Community Room @ Third Street Center in Carbondale or via Zoom Join Zoom Meeting - https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82605258305 Meeting ID: 826 0525 8305 - Passcode: chalice

On the second and third Sundays of each month, we are very pleased to be joined in-person at the 3rd truu.org Street Center by Aaron Brown. Aaron Brown received his Master’s in Theological Studies from Iliff School of Theology. He develops coaching and leadership programs for a global consulting firm and has spoken intermittently over the last 12 years at TRUU. He is the father of two teenagers, one who recently started college, the other in 10th grade. He is delighted and honored to be joining the congregation this year as a guest speaker.

8 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

LEGAL CLINIC Volunteer attorneys offer free legal consultations for civil cases at the Basalt Library, 2-5pm. Call 970-9274311 or email info@basaltlibrary. org to make an appointment.

IMAGE TRANSFER Valeria Fiala teaches a variety of image transfer techniques at The ArtBase at 2pm. Register at www.theartbase.org CODING CLUB Seventh through 10th graders are invited to the Aspen Science Center’s Coding Club, hosted at the Carbondale Library today and Thursday, Nov. 16 at 3:45pm. More info at www.aspensciencecenter.org PT OPENING Valley View invites the community to a grand opening and ribbon cutting for the new Valley View Physical Therapy facility at City Market Plaza in Carbondale at 4pm.

FOCUSEDKIDS’ FALL FLING FocusedKids hosts its Fall Fling, an evening of wine, dinner, live music and a check-in on the program at the Old Thompson Barn at 5:30pm.

More info at www.focusedkids.org JEFF HURD The Garfield County Republicans (GCR) host a meet and greet with CD3 Republican candidate Jeff Hurd at the Hotel Colorado from 5:30-7pm. Concurrently, GCR hosts its Glenwood Springs Social, with guest speaker State Senator Perry Will, at the same site from 6-8pm.

GONG BATH Imbibe in the sound healing vibrations from gong master Richard Rudis at the Aspen Chapel at 6pm.

Visit www.bit.ly/GongBathAC for tickets and more info.

CRYSTAL VALLEY CAUCUS The Crystal Valley Caucus hosts its annual meeting at the Church at Redstone at 7 PM.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 10

VETERANS DAY Various government and public services offices will be closed in observance of the federal holiday. Admission to all State Parks is free to Veterans and military members today. Thank you to those who have served.

ENGLISH CLASS Valley Settlement offers a free ESL class at the Basalt Library from 9am to 12:30pm every Friday.

More info at www.valleysettlement. org or by calling 970-963-0851.

BOOK TALK Jillian Gibbs, Carbondale resident and founder of Advertising Production Resources, discusses her book, "The Marketer's Guide to Creative Production," at Explore Booksellers in Aspen at 4:30pm.

CRYSTAL THEATRE The Crystal Theatre shows “Killers of the Flower Moon” tonight through Sunday, Nov. 12 at 5:30pm, and again on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 5:30pm.

CLAY OPENING Carbondale Clay Center hosts an opening reception for its “Holiday Invitational Cash & Carry Exhibition” at 6pm.

Browse unique handmade gifts and support artists. More info at www.carbondaleclay.org

SOUND JOURNEY Zachary Cashin leads a vibrational sound journey at the Third Street Center’s Round room at 7pm. More info at www. thecenterforhumanflourishing.org ‘THE MINUTES’ Thunder River Theatre premiers “The Minutes” by Tracy Letts at 7:30pm.

The show runs each weekend through Nov. 26 with Friday and Saturday night showings at 7:30pm, and Sunday matinees at 2pm. There is a showing on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.thunderrivertheatre.com

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 11

CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE The annual Carbondale Christmas Boutique, where local artisans offer handmade gift items and treats, takes place at the Carbondale Firehouse from 8am to 3pm. Visit “Carbondale, Colorado Christmas Boutique” on Facebook for a preview of this year’s goodies.

PRINTMAKING CLASS Pam Porter teaches printmaking at her studio at the Third Street Center (Room 6) from 9:30am to 3pm. More info and registration at www.thecreativeflowstudio.com HEALING ART Sheri Gaynor shares how the power of visual journaling can empower your life.This creative process is designed to heal and alleviate stress. There are two sessions at The ArtBase, this morning from 9:30-11:30am, and this afternoon from 1-3pm.

Register at www.theartbase.org CACAO CEREMONY Nicole Lindstrom leads a cacao ceremony at True Nature. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com TRUE COLORS Celebrate the creativity and resiliency of local youth, and join in a community discussion around resources for local youth and their families at TACAW at 3pm. “True Colors: Free Community Engagement Event” is the result of a collaboration between YouthZone, TACAW, Anderson Ranch Arts Center, Tom Karrell Coaching and Aspen Santa Fe Ballet. Visit www.youthzone. com/truecolors for more info.

BOOK TALK Susan Leydecker speaks about her book, “A Woman on Top: My Journey of SelfDiscovery Through Love and Money,” at Explorer Books in Aspen at 4:30pm.

CRYSTAL THEATRE The Crystal Theatre screens “Stop Making Sense” tonight at 7pm. “Killers of the Flower Moon” screens tomorrow through Sunday at 5:30pm, and again on Thursday, Nov. 16 at 5:30pm.

CONTRA DANCE The Roaring Fork Contra community hosts a dance at the Carbondale Community School at 7:30pm.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 12

MOTHERHOOD RETREAT Kerrie Schur guides “HELD: Prenatal and Postpartum Wellness Retreat” at True Nature from 10am to 4pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com disABILITY FILM FEST Glenwood Springs High School hosts the “disABILITY Film Festival” at 2pm. Register at www. bit.ly/disabilityfilmfestival KDNK AT EL DORADO KDNK Music Director Cody Lee DJs a live set at El Dorado in Carbondale from 3-6pm. Check it out in-person or turn your radio on.

RANDOM CONVERSATIONS The Carbondale Library hosts the “Lost Art of Random Conversations”

community building event at 6pm.

NEW MOON CEREMONY Sheridan Semple leads a “New Moon Ceremony and Sacred Aromatherapy” session at True Nature at 6pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 13 HEALTH CARE LUNCHEON Valley Health Alliance hosts a Power Hour Luncheon and covers health care options available for small businesses and community members at Third Street Center at noon. Register at www. bit.ly/OpenEnrollmentLuncheon

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 COLLEGE PREP Roaring Fork College and Consulting offers high school seniors guidance in writing college application essays at the Basalt Library at 5:30pm.

More info at www.basaltlibrary.rog ‘COVENANT OF WATER’ For this month’s Book Talk, the Basalt Library hosts a discussion of Abraham Vergese’s “The Covenant of Water” at 5:30pm.

DRAWING CLUB The Roaring Fork Drawing Club celebrates its sixth anniversary at Carbondale Beer Works at 6pm.

ASPEN WORDS Aspen Words presents its “Spoken Word Poetry Showcase” at TACAW at 6pm. Register at www.tacaw.org

Saint Mary of the Crown Catholic Church in Carbondale

42nd Annual ELK DINNER and Country Store

Saturday, November 18, 2023 Elk Dinner Served from 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Donation: Adults $15.00 5 to 12 and Seniors $10.00 395 White Hill Road, Carbondale, Colorado (970) 704-0820 Para informacion en Espanol llame a Kary Lara (970) 366-6608

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15 GIS DAY The Pitkin County GIS (Geographic Information System) team hosts a community GIS open house at the Pitkin County Library at 11am. For more info, email gis@pitkincounty.com SOLAR SYSTEM Families learn about the planets as they make a model of the solar system and engage in other handson exploration with Aspen Science Center at the Basalt Library at 2:30pm.

More info at www.basaltlibrary.org SMALL WONDERS The Aspen Chapel Gallery celebrates the opening of its 16th annual “Small Wonders” exhibit, a show of original and affordable art no larger than 12” by 12” at 4pm. Thirty-six artists are participating.

BOOK TALK Brooke Lockyer speaks about her book, “Burr,” a '90s-era Southern Ontario Gothic at Explorer Books in Aspen at 4:30pm.

COMMERCE CONVERGENCE The Carbondale and Basalt chambers host a "Winter Wonderland" themed Business After Hours event at Eagle Crest Nursery in El Jebel at 5pm. Register at www.bit.ly/ WinterWonderlandCommerce FIGURE DRAWING Shawna Miller teaches the basics of figure drawing at The ArtBase at 6pm.

Register at www.theartbase.org GOLDEN LIGHT MEDITATION A livestream of meditation with Gary Springfield, author of "Source Dialogues," begins at 6:30pm. Register at www.thecenterforhumanflourishing. org Email lmckenzie1light@ gmail.com with questions.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16 BOOK CLUB The Third Thursday Book Club discusses "The Perfect Wife" by J.P. Delaney at 2pm at the Carbondale Library.

CARBONDALE CLAY CENTER

CCC will be closed during Friday, November 3rd.

Join us the following Friday, Nov. 10th, for the opening of Holiday Invitational

Annual cash and carry exhibition

November 10th December 23rd Opening reception Nov. 10th | 6-8pm Unique Handmade Holiday Gifts!

135 MAIN ST. CARBONDALE, CO | CARBONDALECLAY.ORG |970.963.2529

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • November 9 - November 15, 2023 • 9

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10 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

$

Sol del Valle el

Volumen 2, Número 37 | 9 de noviembre - 15 de noviembre de 2023 Conectando comunidades desde 2021

Así es como Carbondale celebra el Día de los Muertos

¡La decimonovena celebración anual del Día de los Muertos en Carbondale despegó sin ningún problema! Fotografía por Klaus Kocher

OPINIÓN

VOICES Radio Hour Por Laura Varela

Tuve la oportunidad de conocer a Barbara en el 2007. Trabaje para ella por 16 años, conocí a sus hijos, Sarah, Tessa y Andrew cuando venían a visitarla y en algunas ocasiones tuvimos largas charlas donde me contaban de su historia familiar. Ella era una mujer fuerte, inteligente, emprendedora pero a la vez con una tristeza que la envolvía.

Ciertas veces se sentía la soledad en esa enorme casa.

Me gustaba cuando la veía reír y cuando platicaba de sus proyectos. Admiraba su valentía

Ella era valiente

de salir a correr por las noches en la montaña donde vivía sin ninguna compañía o arma para defenderse de algún animal.

Era valiente, siempre lo fue.

En los duros inviernos ella siempre se aseguraba de salir a limpiar el camino muy temprano para que yo no tuviera problema para subir hacia su casa. Sé que a veces fue difícil para ella estar en ese lugar tan alejada de todos. La cantidad de nieve era demasiada y en ocasiones parecía que no iba a parar de nevar.

Aun así, ella nunca se rindió, en los primeros años estuvo acompañada de sus mascotas Pipa una perra salchicha y Ocho, su gato anaranjado, y otro perro cuyo nombre no recuerdo que falleció al poco tiempo de vivir en su casa en Old Snowmass.

Siempre fue generosa y de alguna manera trató de ayudarme.

CHISME DEL PUEBLO

Nunca pensé que su camino en esta tierra fuera tan corto, el día que ella se fue después de la noticia de su enfermedad, siempre creí que vencería y regresaría a casa como lo había hecho en las ocasiones anteriores.

Lo importante no es cuántos años vivimos, lo importante es la huella que dejamos en los caminos que recorremos y en las vidas de las personas que amamos y nos aman. Ella dejó muchas huellas y aunque nos duela su partida, hoy está en un mejor lugar disfrutando de su estancia con Dios.

Vuela alto Barbara, siempre te recordaré.

El título de este mes de VOICES Radio Hour es "Unsung Hero: A Tribute to Barbara Reese, Founder of VOICES" (Héroe anónimo: Homenaje a Barbara Reese, fundadora de VOICES).

Contará con 11 personas

Arte por Jacquelinne Castro

que han sido impactadas por Barbara y VOICES (el legado de Barbara), así como música clásica de MinTze Wu y otros músicos, y tres poemas originales de Barbara leídos y

Glenwood contrata a administrador de ciudad

Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro

Fecha límite de VVAS

El consejo municipal de Glenwood Springs ha elegido a Steve Boyd como administrador de la ciudad durante su reunión regular del 2 de noviembre.

Boyd tiene 25 años de experiencia financiera con el público y sectores privados y también ha trabajado junto con la ciudad como director de operaciones desde el 2017. Él ha firmado un contrato de dos años y se hará responsable de la administración y operaciones del día a día de la ciudad mientras que a la vez implementará decisiones, pólizas y prioridades adoptadas por el consejo municipal.

Carbondale Arts está aceptando inscripciones para el show de Arte Visual del Valle (VVAS por sus siglas en inglés), el cual estará en exhibición en The Launchpad del 19 de enero al 22 de febrero. VVAS es uno de los espectáculos de arte comunitario con más tiempo que se ha comprometido a mostrar las obras de artistas locales. Cincuenta piezas de arte de 50 artistas serán exhibidas. Los solicitantes deben residir dentro de un área de código postal que comience en 816. La fecha límite para las inscripciones es el 1 de diciembre. Visite www. carbondalearts.org para inscribirse o para más información.

Trabaja para SANA

Safe and Abundant Nutrition Alliance de los condados de Garfield, Pitkin y Western Eagle está buscando a un individuo bilingüe apasionado y comprometido para unirse a su equipo. La persona ideal estaría lista para liderar esfuerzos para inscribir a nuestros vecinos a programas de asistencia, diseñar campañas de alcance innovadoras y colaborar con socios. La posición de tiempo completo ofrece una paga de $27-30/la hora con flexibilidades de tiempo y acceso a la formación y desarrollo de liderazgo. Llame al 970-989-3513 para más información.

Animal cruzando

El fin del horario de verano significa que las personas han atrasado su reloj una hora, ven el atardecer más temprano y ven más animales salvajes migrando a sus hábitats de invierno durante la hora del tráfico. Los Parques y Vida Silvestre de Colorado y el Departamento de Transporte le gustaría recordar a los motoristas estar vigilantes, manejar con precaución y desacelerar ya que las tormentas invernales fuerzan a la vida silvestre de terrenos altos a elevaciones más bajas. Visite www.coloradowta.com para más información.

Dos hombres arrestados por agresión "Sincronías" parte 48, por Leonardo Occhipinti

Donde esta el humo

Los administradores de incendios con Upper Colorado River Interagency Fire Management Unit están planificando en comenzar la tala de incendios, el resultado de varios proyectos de reducción de combustible y eliminación de árboles peligrosos a lo largo del bosque nacional White River. Las acumulaciones más cercanas están ubicadas cerca de Sunlight Mountain Communication Site, al suroeste de Glenwood Springs. El equipo podría quemar de diez a cientos de pilas por día dependiendo de las ubicaciones y condiciones. La mayoría del humo se disipara durante el día pero un poco del humo también podría permanecer en la parte baja y drenajes del valle durante la noche.

Visite www.colorado.gov/airquality/wildfire.aspx para más información de salud.

grabados por ella en 2022.

Se emitirá en KDNK este viernes 10 de noviembre de 6 p.m. y a las 7 p.m. Se puede encontrar en la página web de VOICES, www.voicesrfv. org, a partir de entonces.

Cubriendo las paredes

Cada temporada de festividades, Carbondale Arts transforma el espacio de galería en 76 S. Fourth Street en una tienda completa de productos artesanales creados por artistas regionales. Los productos usualmente incluyen velas y tarjetas, joyería, chocolates, cerámicas, copias de arte, jabones y más. Los miembros pueden dar un vistazo especial de 4 a 7 p.m. el 16 de noviembre, antes de la apertura pública del 17 de noviembre de mediodía hasta las 7 p.m. después de eso, se mantendrá abierto hasta la víspera de Navidad de 10 a.m. a 5 p.m. los días de semana y de 10 a.m. a 4 p.m. los sábados y de 11 a.m. a 4 p.m. los domingos en diciembre.

12 • el Sol del Valle • soprissun.com/espanol/ • 9 de noviembre - 15 de noviembre de 2023

Alrededor de la 1:10 a.m. El 4 de noviembre, la policía de Carbondale fue enviada a un reporte de dos hombres cubiertos en sangre y encontró a un hombre con una herida en la mano y el otro individuo atendiendo a sus heridas. Los oficiales ubicaron el vehículo del sospechoso en el estacionamiento de City Market y ordenaron a todos dentro a salir. Mientras investigaban la escena, encontraron un cuchillo estilo cortador de cajas con sangre. De acuerdo con los testigos, el incidente original había ocurrido en el estacionamiento de Red Hill. El sospechoso y el hombre herido según se informa se involucraron en un altercado con botellas de vidrio rotas antes de que uno de ellos sacará un cuchillo, cortará al otro y huyera de la escena. Ambas personas involucradas fueron llevadas a la cárcel del condado de Garfield, el sospechoso que portaba el cuchillo fue llevado por agresión, delito grave amenazante, delito criminal y el hombre herido – después de haber recibido atención médica – fue llevado por agresión en segundo grado.

Bienvenidos los Nuevos

OPINIÓN

Podría haber creído que había visto suficientes ofrendas y altares de muertos en distintas localidades de mi amada tierra mexicana. Sin embargo, estas festividades, que transcurren del 31 de octubre al 2 de noviembre en Malinalco, Estado Sopa de Letras de México, me demostraron que los Por Angélica Breña rituales en torno a algo tan definitivo y contundente como la muerte despiertan la imaginación creativa de las personas, promoviendo nuevas interpretaciones que nos transportan al mundo de lo maravilloso.

En esta ocasión, quisiera compartir contigo un ritual conocido como los "Muertos Nuevos", que forma parte de las festividades del Día de Muertos en Malinalco. Este ritual implica la creación de una ofrenda especial en honor a aquellos que han fallecido recientemente, es decir, entre el 25 de octubre del año anterior y el actual. Para entenderlo mejor, he tenido el privilegio de entrevistar a varias personas oriundas de Malinalco, quienes, junto con sus familias, han convertido esta tradición en una verdadera obra de arte, utilizando los recursos limitados o abundantes que tuvieran a su disposición para honrar la vida de los miembros de la comunidad que han partido hacia el Mictlán o el inframundo, hacia el más allá y que vienen a visitar a los de aquí, en lo que fueron sus hogares.

Lo que hace que este ritual sea verdaderamente sorprendente es su naturaleza efímera. Solo durante unos pocos días, del 28 de octubre al 1 de noviembre, se abren las puertas de las casas que han sido tocadas

por la pena de la pérdida de un ser querido en el último año. En esos días, se invita a los amigos, vecinos y visitantes en general, como yo, a acompañar a los deudos en la contemplación de los altares que han sido construidos en honor del recién fallecido. La tradición del pueblo consiste en ofrecer una "cera nueva" a los familiares del difunto reciente. Esta vela se enciende junto a las demás ofrendas que iluminarán la visita del alma. A cambio, los familiares dan al visitante un pequeño regalo como recuerdo; puede ser los dulces favoritos o una bolsa de mercado reciclaje.

El altar se compone de elementos que forman parte del imaginario tradicional de las familias: mostrar los siete niveles del Mictlán, la sal purificadora, el perro que guía el cruce del río, las semillas de la fertilidad, los platillos favoritos del difunto, piezas de pan con forma de cuerpo humano, dulces miniaturas hechos de azúcar y lo más curioso, mostrar el oficio o cualidad que tenían durante sus vidas. Yo tuve la oportunidad de visitar varias ofrendas estupendas. La de Rosita, que bordaba bonito, o la de Doña Soco que fue una cocinera de buena sazón, la del plomero “Guero”, del pintorartista Felipe de la Fuente o la de Don Vicente el repartidor del gas.

El día 2 de noviembre, el Día de los Fieles Difuntos, se cierran las puertas de los hogares que estuvieron abiertas durante todo el día para recibir a las personas. Luego, se desmontan estos altares, con todas sus ofrendas, y se llevan al cementerio para adornar las tumbas correspondientes. Aquí, junto con el resto de la comunidad, se celebra la tan esperada visita de las almas con música, flores, platillos favoritos de los difuntos y un júbilo contagioso.

La tradición de los "Muertos Nuevos" en Malinalco nos recuerda que, a pesar de la inevitabilidad de la muerte, la vida de aquellos que nos precedieron sigue viva en nuestra memoria y en

Arco triunfal de acceso al Centro del pueblo de Malinalco donde se adora a Malinalxóchitl, la flor de malinalli. Foto por Angélica Breña

nuestra celebración.

En un mundo en constante cambio, es inspirador presenciar cómo estas tradiciones perduran y evolucionan, permitiendo que las nuevas generaciones se conecten con su herencia y al mismo tiempo, expresen su creatividad de maneras sorprendentes. Malinalco, con su ritual de los "Muertos Nuevos", me ha demostrado que es posible que todos nos consideremos iguales, que anhelemos ser parte de esta comunidad, aunque solo sea por unos días. Honrando a todos aquellos que ya se han ido, celebramos la memoria de sus vidas, construyendo puentes de unión que trascienden la barrera entre lo terrenal y lo espiritual, y enriqueciendo nuestra experiencia humana a través de esta hermosa tradición.

El poder de la comunidad: Recompensas de la Comunidad

10 Inscripciones apoyarían una columna semanal

Una forma fácil de ayudar a financiar The Sopris Sun/ El Sol del Valle Sin coste alguno para usted Cada vez que compre alimentos con el Programa de Recompensas de la Comunidad de City Market

100 Inscripciones apoyarían nuestro Programa anual de Periodismo Juvenil 1,000 Inscripciones apoyaría el coste anual de nuestra supervisión del gobierno local - un periodista que cubre cada reunión local de la ciudad / pueblo, condado, consejo escolar, consejo de la biblioteca durante un año completo.

2,500 Inscripciones apoyarían los costos anuales de impresión del Sopris Sun y El Sol del Valle.

Paso 1: Crea tu cuenta digital de City Market Paso 2: Elija The Sopris Sun/ El Sol del Valle como su organización sin fines de lucro preferida Paso 3: Compre como lo hace normalmente City Market hace una donación a The Sopris Sun/ El Sol del Valle el Sol del Valle • Conector de comunidad • 9 de noviembre - 15 de noviembre de 2023 • 13

Día de los Muertos 2023!

Photos by Klaus Kocher

Walking tall.

Applying the finishing touches.

Aurora Gonzalez, 10, and father, Noe Fierro, getting ready.

Estela Garcia la llorona.

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • November 9 - November 15, 2023 • 14

Carbondale Arts to take back First Fridays in 2024

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

Beginning in January 2024, Carbondale Arts (CA) will take the reins for First Fridays.

In a recent press release, Carbondale Chamber and Tourism President and CEO Andrea Stewart said, “The First Friday Committee is proud of 10-plus successful years of growth for First Friday, but now is a perfect time for us to pass the baton as we expand new member-driven chamber programming to support our small business community and broader economic development in Carbondale.”

Stewart went to Jamie Abbott, CA executive director, with a proposition to hand over First Friday responsibilities to the nonprofit arts organization.

It’s a coming home of sorts, as CA initially created and oversaw First Fridays.

“In the early 2000s, CA, then Carbondale Council on Arts and Humanities, founded First Fridays to highlight the arts in our community and support

businesses along Main Street. Over the past several years, this event gained a great reputation and respective audience under the administration of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce,” the CA press release stated.

Planning for the transfer of duties has been in the works for about a year, Abbott said.

“We were in close discussions about how that handoff might work, and then we spent time, internally, with our board of directors and staff with what we could bring to the table,” she said.

“It's a natural match because First Fridays is an opportunity to highlight the Creative District and bring people together.

Fundamentally, at its core, CA’s mission is to connect the community through art, so this feels like what we should be doing — it's time to bring it back,” Abbott shared.

“First Fridays is part of this organic community gettogether. There's no doubt that a part of it is people showing up and seeing each other and connecting. I

would say, even now, for CA, we show up at a monthly meeting with the Chamber, with the people from the town, with people from Alpine Bank, from First Bank, with whomever else might have some special offering that month, and coordinate.

That already happens and will continue to happen. It'll just be CA taking the lead,” Abbott said.

While some First Fridays are larger-scale productions, like last week’s Día de los Muertos festivities, with its parade and performances, “other months will be more low-key with a band playing on the street,” Abbott said.

“We’re trying to find ways to add a little bit more vibrancy to things,” she added, including looking for more opportunities to engage with Main Street businesses.

Michael Stout, CA’s community engagement director, is in charge of business relations and said, “CA is excited about partnering with the community and Main Street businesses to continue advancing the role of

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Open 7 days a week 10-6:30 / Phone: 970-963-1137 15 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

Art by Sofie Koski

the creative sector in the economic vitality of our historic downtown.”

Business participation can look different for any given month. “Those decisions will be driven by the business and made by the business.

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We're going to provide the opportunity and the container for it,” Abbott said.

Carbondale businesses interested in participating in First Friday events can contact Michael Stout at 970-963-1680.

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GARCO REPORT

Public comment dominates Nov. 6 meeting

By James Steindler Contributing Editor

It was a full house at the Monday, Nov. 6 Garfield Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) regular meeting. Members of the public took up the first hour and a half of the meeting speaking in regard to the ongoing library debate.

Resident John Steele explained his dissatisfaction with the Garfield County Library Board, starting with its three-minute time limit on public comments. “I’m surprised they didn’t pledge allegiance to the American Library Association (ALA),” he went on, inferring that a recent library board meeting did not open with the pledge of allegiance.

Steele said that he brought a letter to the commissioners Thursday, “applying to the open [library] board position for Rifle.” He added, if he were to serve on the library board, it wouldn’t make much of a difference. “I would be a minority of one, and I don’t know if I’m up to trying to fight that battle. You’ve got to make a decision,” he told the commissioners.

He added that “Several states, Florida being the most recent, have completely dissociated themselves from this organization,” referring to the ALA. Before Steele finished, Commissioner Mike Samson asked if he still was “requesting that we appoint you to the library board?” Steele replied, “I would take that position, if you so do wish, but I think you need to understand the reality of your situation.”

Chairman John Martin piped in, “Just so you know, there’s a process. The library needs to review and then forward a recommendation to this board for appointment. We don’t make it just on our own.”

John Lepkowski reminded the commissioners that the intent of a petition, signed by roughly 1,200 Garfield County residents, is to place Manga books in an age-restricted area, perhaps behind glass, but not to ban them.

As reported in the Post Independent on Nov. 3, “During a board of trustees meeting on Thursday [Nov. 2], the county library system announced it will not move Japanese Manga books to upper shelves or place them in separate sections.”

Garfield County resident Michelle Diamond, shifted the conversation and expressed her support for the appointment of Hanna Arauza to the library board.

Arauza was approved by the library board to fill the Rifle-based vacancy, but the commissioners have yet to approve that decision.

Commissioner Tom Jankovsky said that Arauza’s appointment was on the agenda for Monday, Nov. 13.

“I think part of it is, does she represent the community of Rifle? And, that will be part of the decision making,” he stated.

“You know, nobody represents everybody,” Diamond responded.

“We run into that all of the time, Michelle,” Martin quipped, which was met with laughter from the room.

Debbie Bruell, the Garfield County Democratic Party chairperson, chimed in over Zoom. She explained that the commissioners, according to Colorado law, do not have “the authority to manage or control the library.”

She went on to say, “According to Colorado law, you cannot appoint or remove library board members based on whether or not you agree with their opinions and their ideas.”

“I think we know that very well, Debbie,”

"And now for an executive interlude." replied Martin.

Later in the day, the commissioners went into executive session, “To confer with its attorney for the purpose of receiving legal advice on specific legal questions …” including, “specific legal questions about the appointment of trustees to the library board, and related specific legal questions around the BOCC’s action on Oct. 16 on pornography directed to the Garfield County Library Board.”

As reported in The Sopris Sun on Oct. 19, Jankovksy made a motion “that pornographic materials not be accessible to children in Garfield County Libraries and that children are not allowed to check out pornographic materials from the Garfield County Libraries …” which the commissioners passed unanimously.

“Hanna is wonderful, our library board is wonderful, and we’re on the right track,” Rifle resident Deb Grizzle said to the commissioners. “We don’t need to get on a different track.”

To view the Nov. 6 meeting in its entirety, visit www. garfield-county.com/board-commissioners

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16 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

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CMC’s Moffat County feasibility study hobbles along

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

On Aug. 28-30, the Colorado Mountain College (CMC) board of trustees held its regular meeting and annual planning retreat in Salida and Leadville.

They reviewed and discussed a third party feasibility study, which CMC commissioned at the request of the Moffat County Affiliated Junior College District, regarding the potential of annexing that taxing district with CMC’s. At the time, the trustees determined that more clarity was needed, specifically when it came to Moffat County constituents’ understanding and willingness to join the CMC district.

When The Sopris Sun initially covered the study in February, it reported that the communities of Salida and Poncha Springs had successfully joined the CMC district in recent years. The Moffat study is an ongoing one that could take several years.

As reported in the Craig Daily Press in December 2022 (when the study was launched), the intent is to “explore the possibility for Moffat County to move from the state network under Colorado Northwestern Community College (CNCC) into a local network under CMC.” The former vice president and campus dean of CMC Spring Valley and Glenwood Springs, Heather Exby, is serving as the Special Project Coordinator for the study. She explained that the trustees have had a mindful approach and are doing their best to be aware of all aspects and unanswered questions. She said that the idea of annexation into the community of Moffat County is complex. “[It’s] not an easy slam dunk, yes or no decision for the trustees to make,” she relayed.

In a PowerPoint regarding the study, it’s noted that “A vocal group of Craig leaders is dissatisfied with CNCC operations, feels promises were broken and [the] college actively inhibits Craig campus growth,”

which explains the reason behind the study.

The “upside,” according to the PowerPoint, is that “The Craig campus could thrive as a regional education center for both Moffat and Routt counties and, in addition to potential additional commuters, CMC could pursue the types of affordable student housing development there that it is undertaking in its other communities, but at a lower cost. Such investments could allay local concerns about inadequate investment in the Craig location.”

At the same token, there are some associated risks. “It could prove challenging to attract large numbers of additional students to Craig and expensive to maintain relatively large and empty academic buildings,” reads the PowerPoint. “The community could come to feel similar resentment toward CMC as an ‘absentee landlord’ as it does for CNCC.” “With the interesting economic challenges that the Moffat County community is currently facing, plus the fact that there is already an existing college whose statutory duty is to serve that area, the Trustees felt they needed to hear more broadly on how their community perceives their current situation and what exactly it is that they would want from CMC,” Exby summarized.

“The Trustees will do their best to address this complex annexation question mindfully and sensitively. What happens going forward is up to the people of Moffat County,” Exby stated.

In other news

The trustees unanimously approved a contract to construct four new parking lots at CMC’s Steamboat Springs Campus, something that Exby explained was directly related to the construction of new student housing on that campus. “[The Steamboat Springs Campus] has a very

The CNCC academic and student services building.

Photo by Nate Johnson

tight footprint, so the new student apartments took out a parking lot,” she elaborated. “They found it necessary to replace that lost parking lot with additional parking.”

The retreat in August also focused on implementing CMC’s new strategic plan for 20232030, titled “Mountain Futures.” Over that time, the college is committed to enhancing equity, care, innovation and integrity. For more on the strategic plan, visit www.bit.ly/MountainFutures During a recent work session, the trustees reviewed new data that showed enrollment is up approximately 11% over the last year.

Additionally, enrollment among students identifying as Hispanic or Latino is up nearly 15% and concurrent enrollment is up more than 18%.

This data indicates that the number of students is approaching pre-pandemic levels.

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • November 9 - November 15, 2023 • 17

CoMotion Dance celebrates 10 years with ‘Illuminate’

By Mellie Test Special to The Sopris Sun

On Oct. 27 and 28, the local CoMotion Dance Company presented a beautifully executed, thought provoking performance of modern dance titled “Illuminate: Light on the Undergrowth.” The sold out, one hour program included five evocative pieces choreographed by CoMotion team members Lilly Bright, Jen Campbell and Alyson Boell-Marchand.

The show, co-directed by Bright and Campbell, collectively explored intense themes such as the threat of power to personal truth, the many layers of women's desire, the underbelly of sisterhood and the challenges of mental illness. Local artist and photographer Ashley Mosher created several mesmerizing, bespoke filmscapes that were projected onto the dancers, adding another dimension to the space. The original soundscape for the show was created by two local musical wizards: Meagan Londy and Alexander Marchand.

“Illuminate: Light on the Undergrowth” celebrated CoMotion’s 10th Anniversary, marking a decade of creative collaboration and conversation with the Carbondale community.

Over the past ten years, CoMotion has become an essential part of Carbondale’s vibrant arts scene and its expansion is a testament to the power of commitment,

creative diversity and community connection.

Founded in 2013 by local dance artists Deborah Colley, Dana Ellis, Aja McAdams, Ashley Arnold and Brianne Jones, CoMotion is a collective of distinct movement artists who redefine their roles season after season, showcasing their unique styles and varied skills to fulfill a common mission.

Collectively, the company’s skill set reaches beyond masterful movement, and includes performance direction and production, choreography, sound, costume and graphic design, social media outreach and fundraising. It has included many different dance artists and collaborators over the years and was led by Deborah Colley from 2013-2018, Meagan Londy from 2018-2020, and is currently managed by Emily Fifer.

Without a commitment of teamwork, the company would cease to exist.

Deborah Colley, the primary force behind the creation of CoMotion, served as the artistic director until 2018 and continued dancing with the company until 2021. Her guidance, unwavering perseverance and artistic brilliance provided the foundational support that steered CoMotion through eight formative years. Her imprint on the company's ethos and creative direction is immeasurable.

Dana Ellis, another founding member, remains an integral part of CoMotion, displaying unyielding

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commitment through all ten seasons.

She embodies the values of cooperation and collaboration, consistently upholding these pillars on which the company was built. Ellis has made, and continues to offer, significant contributions to the creative tapestry of CoMotion by taking on various roles within the company, from directing and choreography to design.

CoMotion has established partnerships with various local organizations and artists. Collaborations with Dance Initiative, Carbondale Arts, VOICES, True Nature Healing Arts, SAW and many other local, regional and national dancers and companies have enriched CoMotion's repertoire and expanded opportunities for locals.

Through these partnerships, fostering connections within and beyond the community, CoMotion has not only strengthened its own horizons, but contributed to cultivating a rich and diverse local arts landscape.

In recent years, CoMotion has collaborated and performed in The ARTery by VOICES; True Nature Healing Arts’ Winter and Summer Solstice celebrations; Carbondale Arts’ Light the Night with Love, Convergent Circus, Wham Blam Thank You Ma'am — a "rewirement” party for local legend Amy Kimberly — and, of course, everyone's favorite spring event, the Green is the New Black Fashion Extravaganza.

Thanks to the vision and commitment of its founders and continued creative drive and dedication of its volunteer members, CoMotion

CoMotion member Dana Ellis and guest dancer Gwynne Jones perform a piece about the complexities of mental illness by Alyson Boell-Marchand.

Photo by Mellie Test

continues to enliven the local dance scene and inspire new generations of artists and arts enthusiasts. With its dynamic and ever-evolving approach to dance, the company is poised to continue its transformative journey.

Current active members of CoMotion Dance Company include: Lilly Bright, Alyson Boell-Marchand, Jen Campbell, Dana Ellis, Caitlin Evans, Emily Fifer, Meagan Londy, Lindsay Marquino and Mellie Test. For more information and to see what's up next for CoMotion, visit their website at www.CoMotionDanceCompany.com or follow their Instagram account, @ comotioncarbondale Editor's note: Mellie Test is a member of CoMotion Dance Company.

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Thursday November 9th 9:30am-11am

Explore our 13-acre campus along the banks of the Roaring fork river.

Glimpse into our classrooms & ask questions of teachers, alumni & enrollment.

Adult only tour for families with children in Early Childhood to Middle School are welcome to attend.

This is the only campus tour offered this semester before admissions open in February ’24 for Fall ’24!

RSVP required Space limited

Health Insurance Enrollment Events November 5 November 12 November 19 December 3 December 17 January 14

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Glenwood Library, 9am – 1pm Edwards Integrated Health Center, 9am – 1pm Third Street Center / La Clinica del Pueblo, 9am – 1pm Rifle Library, 9am – 1pm Third Street Center / La Clinica del Pueblo, 9am – 1pm Glenwood Library, 9am – 1pm

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18 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

Newborn to 8th grade • 16543 Highway 82, Carbondale CO • (970) 963 - 1960 @waldorfschoolontheroaringfork

Stakeholders convene amid passage of 10(j) rule

questions about the finalized designation of Colorado’s gray wolves as an experimental population under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act. That decision, approved

by Fish and Wildlife on Nov. 7, goes into effect on Dec. 8. Wolves remain on the state’s Threatened and Endangered Species List, and will be managed in a phased approach.

In Phases I and II, there are two types of permits that CPW can issue as management tools. A limited duration permit is required for lethal take by private landowners in the event of chronic depredation. A retroactive permit may be issued for taking of wolves in the act of attacking or chasing livestock.

By Paula Wood Sopris Sun Correspondent

Wolf reintroduction meetings have been taking place in all corners of Colorado for the last 18 months. During an informational meeting held on Tuesday, Nov. 7 at Garfield County Fairgrounds, the apprehension and concern from all stakeholders was palpable. Tom Harrington, ranch manager at Crystal River Ranch, eloquently summed up the sentiments of livestock producers.

“Being compensated for the losses of what we put our lives into every day won’t make it tolerable,” he stated.

The event, sponsored

by Holy Cross Cattlemen’s Association, Western Landowners Alliance, the Bookcliff, Mount Sopris and South Side Conservation districts, and the Garfield County Colorado State University Extension, had approximately 165 in attendance. Topics of discussion included a 10(j) rule update, managing and mitigating conflicts on grazing allotments,

OBITUARY

Photo by Paula Wood

compensation, importance of record keeping for producers and resources for conflict mitigation.

“We don’t want to see ranchers lose heart, cashin and raise houses instead of livestock," said Lenny Klinglesmith, rancher from Meeker and member of the Stakeholder Advisory Group. “We have to put

our independent thinking aside and work together.

Communicate with your neighbors.”

Matt Yamashita, Colorado Public Wildlife’s (CPW) Area 8 wildlife manager, had this to say.

“CPW has been tasked with reintroduction and implementation of wolves in the State of Colorado

by Dec. 31. We are

William Hagedorn

To view CPW’s Wolf Resource Guide, visit www. bit.ly/CPWResourceGuide.

For Colorado’s final Wolf Restoration and Management Plan, visit www.bit.ly/ WolfManagementPlan.

And, to view more on the 10(j) rule, visit www.bit.ly/10jrule

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Sept. 22, 1945 – Nov. 8, 2023

Bill Hagedorn, 69, of Carbondale passed away peacefully Monday, Nov. 6.

He married Sharon Hagedorn in 1993 who passed on Aug. 6, 2021. They lived in Carbondale for 32 years before moving to Golden 8 years ago. Bill is survived by his three children: Grace Johnson, Linda Bravdica (Mike) and Debbie Natichioni. He is also survived by his three grandsons, Mario Natichioni, Ryan Bravdica and Bryce Bravdica. And, survived by two sisters, Darla (Dan) Ball and Kara Hagedorn.

Bill, aka Poppy, lived an extraordinary life with his wife Sharon. Doctors told him that he wouldn’t live into his 30’s after an accident as a police officer in Durango, Colorado. After the accident, he had to learn how to read, write, talk and walk again. He met the love of his life, Sharon, while a patient at Hilltop’s Rehab Services. She was his Occupational Therapist Aid and they gladly shared Snickers with each other.

They soon married and lived a long and beautiful life together in the Crystal River Valley, riddled with fits of laughter.

They laughed so hard (almost daily) they couldn’t speak. “What are you guys

working with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to capture up to 10 wolves. Capture period is mid-December to March.” The reintroduction efforts will be focused in Eagle, Grand and Summit counties.

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laughing at?” was a common question from the family. We are happy he isn’t suffering any more, and he and mom can continue their fits of laughter.

Bill’s knowledge of history and trains surpassed most people. He dedicated two of his bedrooms as an elaborate HO scale train town and even built a life size caboose in his yard. Running trains and continuing to build on the train town was a common theme in his life.

Bill was a man of few words, but his silence was heavily shrouded by strength, courage and peace. His childhood was magical, which shaped the man he was as an adult. This quote from John Wayne, Bill embraced and modeled his life after … “Talk low, Talk slow and don’t say too much”.

Have an amazing and beautiful life beyond the dash our amazing father, grandfather, aka Poppy, and brother.

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THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • November 9 - November 15, 2023 • 19

Pan de Muertos Photos and text courtesy of Will Grandbois Carbondale Community Oven Tony's Bakery and Mini Market, Wilderness Workshop, Defienda Nuestra Tierra and Garfield County Libraries came together for what they hope will be a new local tradition: baking Pan de Muertos at the Carbondale Community Oven the day before the community's big Dia de los Muertos celebration. The inaugural event provided an opportunity to talk about the celebration's history and meaning, as well as test out the oven for the purpose — and the bread came out beautifully!

The Power of Community:

Community Rewards An Easy Way for you to

Help Fund the Sun At No Cost to You Every Time you Buy Groceries

10 Sign ups would support a weekly column 100 Sign ups would support our annual Youth Journalism Program 1,000 Sign ups would support the Annual Cost of our local Government Oversight - a journalist covering every local City/Town, County, School Board, Library Board meeting for a full year.

2,500 Sign ups would support the annual printing costs of the Sopris Sun and el Sol del Valle.

Step 1: Create your Digital City Market Account Step 2: Go to COMMUNITY ---> City Market Community Rewards Step 3: Choose SOPRIS SUN LLC as your preferred nonprofit Step 4: Shop as you normally do City Market then makes a donation to the Sopris Sun 20 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

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

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

La Ligua

By Raleigh Burleigh Currently in South America A small city sits nestled in the fertile hills of Central Chile beneath the watchful presence of Cerro Pulmahue. On any given weekday, the streets bustle with commercial activity. Spanish settlers were first attracted to this place by gold found within the hill.

Before they arrived, and continuing today, La Ligua is known as a place of weavers called "Lihuen" by the indigenous Mapuche. The tradition has been challenged by globalization, but many families remain dedicated to producing quality, colorful warm layers spanning countless styles. The river has gone dry from overuse, with many avocado farms taking from its tributaries. Every few years a strong enough rain may fall to wet the riverbed, which is otherwise used as a road for cars and pedestrians.

The Very Last Tomato

By Deorah Holt Williams

Plucked before the nights get too cold, It's so much more than a tomato.

It's warm summer sun, gentle rains, blue skies, green leaves, garden memories.

It's hope, and care, and pride.

La Ligua, photo by Raleigh Burleigh

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • November 9 - November 15, 2023 • 21

LETTERS water and property rights, protection of a healthy river corridor and prevention of dams and out of drainage diversions.

Wild and Scenic Designation stands out in each one of these categories.

The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, federal legislation adopted by Congress in 1968 to protect applicable American rivers, is considered the gold standard of protecting rivers. It has all of the words you want to hear: Your river must have no dams, must not divert water out of the drainage and must allow the river to continue to flow its natural course. So, this is exactly what we need if we want to give the Crystal River the best chance of remaining freeflowing in perpetuity. We need Wild and Scenic designation to protect the waters of our river and we need it now!

Chuck Downey, Redstone

Head scratchers

THE UNPARALLELED UNIVERSE

OMG, THAT AVOCADO I BOUGHT YESTERDAY IS SOMEHOW ALREADY..

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YOUR EMOTIONAL DAMAGES COUNT, TOO!

SUPER MUSHY! EW, YUCK! BROWN AND GROSS INSIDE! SMELLS KINDA WEIRD & FUNKY? WILL NOT MAKE A GOOD GUAC! ARGH!!

AVOCADO ABOGADO

AVOCADOS SHOULDN'T BE THE PITS.

CALL 1-555-GUAC-NOW TO KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! 22 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023

The Oct. 24 Carbondale town trustees meeting produced a couple of head scratchers. First, what’s the deal with the trustees closing Town Hall for Martin Luther King day starting Jan. 15? Martin Luther King (MLK) Day has been observed as a federal holiday since 1986. Why close Town Hall now?

It never has before. What’s changed for the trustees to suddenly start giving town staffers a day off for MLK Day? I’ve got nothing against MLK Day. He deserves to be honored. But, what does closing Town Hall the third Monday of January do to honor King?

Nothing, as near as I can tell. What closing Town Hall for MLK Day does is inconvenience folks who drive, bike or walk to do some business. They’ll have to return at a later date. Same goes with folks who call Town Hall with questions or whatever. Can the town trustees please explain the importance of recognizing MLK Day, 38 years after it became a federal holiday, in this way?

Next, what’s the deal with the trustees waving some fees for the Blue Lake Preschool? Trustees agreed that there is a need for preschools in Carbondale, but so what? There’s also a need for some place to buy underwear in town. Will trustees subsidize the next clothing store if the owner promises to sell underwear? Trustees Marty Silverstein and Lani Kitching voted against the motion to waive some fees.

Lynn “Jake” Burton, Carbondale/ Glenwood Springs

Blinkers in the Boomerang

I’m a frequent roundabout user; and there’s little choice in Carbondale with the “Boomerang.” I used these in Europe years ago. My Dutch friend says they are all over Holland and Europe.

But, he says drivers do something different: they signal. When you are preparing to exit, you use your right turn signal. When you are rounding the center you use your left turn signal, and the right signal when leaving. It speeds up coming and going. It’s safer for cars and walkers. If you have two minutes here is a video: www.bit.ly/ CarbondaleBoomerang Patrick Hunter, Carbondale

continued from page 2

USFS building

Forest Service District Ranger Kevin Warner is not listening. He is not listening to the people in Carbondale.

If this building was out on Highway 133, we probably would be ok with it.

But, it isn’t. I don’t know if he is being controlled by the higher-ups or doing this on his own. It doesn’t matter.

We need to take a stand and stop this new building; the U.S. Forest Service building in Carbondale should be so much better.

Betsy Lincicome, ex-Satankian

HeadQuarters support

With an overwhelming amount of people struggling to take care of their wellbeing, I am feeling called to reach out to our community for support. The HeadQuarters Mental Health Fund at Aspen Community Foundation provides subsidized therapy sessions to our community members who are uninsured, underinsured or facing financial hardship.

We have many applicants awaiting funding for various mental health issues, including PTSD, relationship issues, migration trauma, and substance abuse support.

HeadQuarters currently has more outstanding applications than funding to meet these needs – over $30,000 in requests total, with more coming in every day. Donations made to the fund will make a direct impact on the wellbeing of our community, allowing individuals to access transformative therapy services.

This year, the fund has given out 63 scholarships, supporting 538 therapy sessions for people ranging from age 4 through 65.

By providing financial assistance for therapeutic services, this fund is ensuring that our most vulnerable community members can access the professional help they require to cope with the unique challenges of living in a rural, resort region.

Your donation will make an immediate impact on the lives of people in our community. It is an investment in our shared future and a testament to our compassion and empathy for one another.

Donations to the Mental Health Fund can be made online at www. headq.org, on Venmo @head-q or you can email us at april@headq.org for more information.

Angilina Taylor Executive Director HeadQuarters Letters policy: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor.

Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome.

Please cite your facts and include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@ soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.

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The Ross Montessori School in Carbondale opened its Annual Wax Museum on Halloween. Ross students dressed up as an assortment of historical figures and read off short accounts of the figure’s life. This was a very fun and imaginative event that really showed off the students’ research and allowed all of them a moment to shine. Some of the most interesting figures found at the event were Prince Baldwin IV, Maria Montessori herself and Richard Colien Koch, who invented the Regency TR-1 Radio — the first portable radio that made news available — and who, in fact, was portrayed by his very own great-grandson, Caplin Hays, pictured above. Photo and text by Gus Richardson, youth correspondent

Offering: Dentistry Surgery Wellness Geriatric Care Chiropractic Acupuncture Cold Laser

Carbondale's own illustrious artist, John Toly, belatedly celebrated an Oct. 6, 85th birthday with friends late in the month. Photo courtesy of Bob Axelson

Public Notice November 2023

Notice of Opportunity to Comment On Issuance of a Restrictive Notice at the Marble Wetlands Site

POWER HOUR LUNCHEON Monday, November 13th, 12-1pm Third Street Center - Calaway Room

Health Care: Get to Know Your Options Valley Health Alliance

Facility: Marble Wetlands Site Address: Parcel 2917-264-00-005 Marble, Gunnison County, CO

Chris McDowell, Executive Director Taylor McBride, Community Coordinator and Connect for Health Assister

Thrive Osteopathy

Background: The Marble Wetland Preserve is a designated Voluntary Cleanup Program property, which includes a remnant slag pile from the Hoffman Smelter, an operation that ceased operation over 100 years ago. The Trust for Land Restoration, the property owner, in conjunction with the Town of Marble, completed cleanup of the site by consolidating loose slag and other materials in a capped repository, addressing drainage erosion,and revegetating the site to support the long-term health of the property. Because historic mining waste remains on site, this Restrictive Notice is being placed per the request of the Trust for Land Restoration to protect the site remedy and capped mine waste.

Public comments: Please submit comments by December 9, 2023 to: Mark Rudolph, CDPHE Project Manager CDPHE/HMWMD 4300 Cherry Creek Drive South Denver, CO 80246 mark.rudolph@state.co.us | 303.916.2179 | Toll free: 888-569-1831, ext 3311

Dr. Emily Zerba, D.O., Founder & Family Medicine Physician

Join us for an informative Power Hour Luncheon about health care options available for small businesses and community members.

You'll learn about the various healthcare and health insurance options available in the Roaring Fork Valley and gain valuable insights into alternative ways of providing employee health care benefits. Our expert speakers from Valley Health Alliance and Thrive Osteopathy will provide you with information needed to make informed decisions about health care and employee health benefits. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable knowledge to benefit your business and employees. Register now to secure your spot!

TICKETS*: Chamber Members: $35 in Advance Non-Member/at the Door: $40

*Includes presentation + lunch from Peppino’s Pizza

Scan QR code to register or call 970.963.1890

The Restrictive Notice is available online for review at: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/hm/HMWMD-public-notices

THE SOPRIS SUN • Your weekly community connector • November 9 - November 15, 2023 • 23

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24 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • November 9 - November 15, 2023