20230705

This Week:

7 ~ Opioid funds

8-9 ~ Calendar 10 ~ July 4

11-13 ~ Español 15 ~ Art

Soaking in the summer vibes

Carbondale’s Fourth of July pool party was filled with family fun. Swimmers competed in a watermelon relay race and diving for coins. Rubber duckies were abundant and pizza, cake and popsicles fed the crowd through the afternoon. It was a joyous celebration at the John M. Fleet Pool, which is in its final season. Trustees were informed on June 20 that the 2024 season will be canceled while construction of a new aquatics facility takes place. For more photos of Carbondale's Fourth of July pool party and parade, turn to page 10 Find the summer schedule at www. carbondalerec.com/aquatics

Photo by Sue Rollyson

Carbondale's makeover OPINION

By Jeannie Perry

Carbondale has good bones. This is part of the problem. The ultrawealthy have been buying up all the land around, while the rest of us play frogger in traffic all day just trying to pay the bills. And, the worst part, they buy raw land and then give it a mani/ pedi … What is with all the fences and gates and “No Trespassing” signs blocking the view, not to mention the wildlife’s access to water? This endless need to insulate themselves from the rest of the world reeks of insecurity and unresolved childhood trauma.

My childhood trauma involved watching calves roped and held down while cowboys vaccinated, branded and tagged them. Even though I knew we were doing it all in the name of responsible animal husbandry, I couldn’t help imagining how I would feel if I was roped, dragged, shot up, and burned before being turned loose in the pasture on wobbly legs.

My family has ranched here for generations and life on the ranch gives you calluses — inside and out. From my experience, it’s more nature than nurture. My youthful

LETTERS

Man’s inhumanity to nature

On my yearly journey to northern Idaho this year, my GPS guided me into southeastern Idaho and around Yellowstone National Park. In spite of the fact that I visited and thoroughly enjoyed Yellowstone many times with my family as a boy, that’s what I wanted. No way would I wish to battle the traffic by going through the park in June.

On the return trip, that same GPS took me right through the heart of Yellowstone, and I paid for it dearly. It took me four and a half hours to traverse the park.

The trek got off to a bad start with a major wreck near the west entrance. A buffalo, barely visible at least a quarter of a mile away, caused a two-mile backup. Why don’t they just go see Ralphie at the University of Colorado Boulder, I thought.

When I saw the sign saying “Old Faithful” next, I dropped one of the many f-bombs I uttered that day. I felt a little guilty about that. I shouldn’t be cursing out a natural wonder like a geyser when it was the invasive incursion of mankind that was creating this mess.

In fact, that’s what was wrong with the whole scene. All of Yellowstone is a natural wonder and here we are sitting,

commiserating with the dead head mounted on the cabin wall was met with relatives’ stares as blank as the glass eyes in said mount. It was obvious early on that I was too thinskinned to be a rancher, and to this day when I get dental work done, I shudder as the burning smell flashes me back to branding day on the ranch. My family’s land was just south of town along the Crystal River, where Mount Sopris looms large. Recently, half of the hill known as “the cut” on Prince Creek Road was removed by the new billionaire landowner, and young marmots are paying the price. These innocent critters end up as roadkill because they are now forced to live across the road from their water source.

Since we can’t be talked out of driving our cars, I think we should enlist the help of local realtors to solve this. Realtors may be able to influence the moneybags, convincing them to care about the fate of our local landscape and all of its critters. This includes Carbondale characters, who also need to cross the road once in a while for a drink of water — or something stronger.

If I ever found myself on the barstool next to a billionaire, I would buy him a drink and then I would say, release your trauma and follow your heart. Not because it leads to a bigger ranch on a bigger hill, but because the demons we face determine our legacy. Our actions create our story, which is the only thing that really lasts. In order to fully tell my story, I need to create a new word.

Desiderium rei exoptati, in Latin, means nostalgic for something that has never been, and now definitely

going nowhere in our fossil fuel burners, fouling the atmosphere with our greenhouse gas emissions.

It seemed appropriate when I saw a mule deer doe splattered on the pavement. All she was trying to do was get to the Madison River on the other side for a drink. Nothing in the instincts she developed in the wild prepared her for a speeding vehicle.

Like the Maroon Bells, Hanging Lake and other magnificent sites in the West, mankind is loving Yellowstone to death. It’s hard to tell the nature lovers to stay home, but perhaps we should just leave the internal combustion pollution machines parked outside the attraction and take a tour bus or ride a bike. A bus carrying 30 passengers is less harmful to the environment than 30 cars on the road and bikes are seldom involved in traffic jams.

Fred Malo Jr., Carbondale

Thanks to The Sun

Thank you to Sopris Sun designer Emily Blong for the great ad for the Marble Museum’s Fourth of July opening, and to Dave Taylor for funding it. The advertisement was colorful, attention grabbing and artful.

On a related note, the museum might

won’t happen. I know, you’re wondering how I can be nostalgic for something I’ve never known, but this is a very real feeling I get every time I drive past land that once held the potential for a peaceful coexistence between beauty and beast (mankind is the beast.) Now, an empty field surrounded by miles of fence, it just feels melancholic and less like home.

Affordable housing is no joke for any species. A place to live within a reasonable distance of work and a watering hole, is not too much to ask. But if we continue to let these guys fence everyone/thing out, then the heart of Carbondale will stop beating right there on the hot pavement next to that marmot’s.

Good Bones by Maggie Smith

Life is short, though I keep this from my children. Life is short, and I’ve shortened mine in a thousand delicious, ill-advised ways, a thousand deliciously ill-advised ways I’ll keep from my children. The world is at least 50% terrible, and that’s a conservative estimate, though I keep this from my children. For every bird there is a stone thrown at a bird. For every loved child, a child broken, bagged, sunk in a lake. Life is short and the world is at least half terrible, and for every kind stranger, there is one who would break you, though I keep this from my children. I am trying to sell them the world. Any decent realtor, walking you through a real sh*#hole, chirps on about good bones: This place could be beautiful, right? You could make this place beautiful.

be adding to its days of operation in July. Right now it’s open Thursdays through Sundays, 11am to 5pm. Stay tuned.

Lynn “Jake” Burton Docent, Marble Museum

‘Common Sense’

In January of 1776 Thomas Paine published a 47 page pamphlet called “Common Sense.” It contained the following words: “…some Massanello may hereafter arise, who laying hold of popular disquietudes, may collect together the desperate and the discontented, and by assuming to themselves the powers of government, may sweep away the liberties of the continent like a deluge.”

Is this not exactly the state we find ourselves in with the former president?

Patrick Hunter, Carbondale

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Ps & Qs

Our Underwriters and Nonprofit Partners!

Spring Creek Fire

As of Tuesday, July 4, when a red flag warning was in effect, the Spring Creek Fire was 37% contained and just shy of 3,000 acres had burned. There were 538 responders and the cause was still under investigation. There had been no evacuations announced at the time. Visit www.bit.ly/SpringCreekfire for more information and regular updates.

Wildfire safety

The Carbondale and Rural Fire Protection District (CRFPD) implores residents to be prepared for wildfires. First, people should create a “defensible space” by clearing the area around their homes of dry leaves, sticks and anything that can catch fire quickly. Second, pack an emergency kit with necessary supplies, such as water. Third, establish a family evacuation plan and meeting points. For more information about wildfire preparedness, visit www. carbondalefire.org

West Nile

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With rising temperatures and higher than normal moisture levels in Garfield County, mosquitos are buzzing. Last year, one case of West Nile was reported in the county. One in five people infected with West Nile develop a fever with other symptoms and one in 150 experience severe illness affecting the central nervous system. People are advised to drain standing water, cover up at dawn/ dusk if outdoors and use repellents such as DEET, or lemon and eucalyptus oils.

Deputized

Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario swore in five new deputies on Wednesday, June 28. Three other deputies have been sworn in since May 17 to fill patrol and Detentions Department vacancies. The Garfield Sheriff’s Office still has openings to fill, learn more at www.garcosheriff.com

Speedy services

Holy Cross Energy has completed phase one of a network infrastructure project installing 41 miles of fiber between Glenwood Springs and Aspen. The fiber network supports operations to more quickly diagnose outages, dispatch energy

CARE

resources in real-time and increase reliability between data centers during an emergency. Phase two will connect Avon and Gypsum and phase three will connect the first two phases over Cottonwood Pass. While Holy Cross Energy is not in the business of retail internet, they will sublease the fiber infrastructure to regional internet providers.

Equitable broadband

On June 26, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration announced that Colorado was awarded over $826 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program to expand internet service to unserved and underserved regions of the state. In Colorado, 190,850 households lack access to the internet, according to a press release from Senator Michael Bennet’s office.

Election rules

The Secretary of State’s office is considering preliminary draft rules to implement Senate Bill 23-276 (Modifications to Laws Regarding Elections). The rulemaking is intended to ensure that elections remain secure, transparent and accessible. A public hearing is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 3, at 1pm. Review the changes and sign up to give testimony at www.bit.ly/ COelectionchanges

Edible landscapes

Colorado Mountain College students and faculty invite the public to join a tour of the Carbondale Historic Food Forest, a pesticide-free edible landscape park south of the historic Thompson House (301 Lewies Lane). Meet the original designers and current stewards of this public park, who will introduce you to the special plants that live there. The tour begins at 9am on Sunday, July 9. Invite friends and bring gloves if you’d like to help with some maintenance afterward.

Twin Lakes diversion

The Twin Lakes Transbasin Diversion resumed operations last week and is diverting 396 cubic feet per second, which has reduced flows in the Roaring Fork River, which likely peaked for the season. According to Roaring Fork Conservancy, the Ruedi Reservoir is nearing 100% capacity for the first time since 2019.

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Teri Bruna, David Clark and Nannette Weinhold (July 6); Jeremy Bennett, Sheija Binshaban and Melanie Finàn (July 8); Kristin Garwood, Will Grandbois, Barbara Jackson and Judith Ritschard (July 9); Peter Gilbert and Rita Marsh (July 10); Art Ackerman, Joanne Kaufman, Monica Munoz, Danny Muse, Mellie Rose, Bill Spence and Bob Young (July 11).

RJ PADDYWACKS offers a “C.A.R.E. package” for new adoptive families, including a “Paws for

RJ

plan a first time 15% discount for your new pet.

Beautiful Billie! At five years old, this affectionate girl has a sensitive side and a big heart that shines with the people she knows and loves. If you’re seeking a super loyal companion to follow you anywhere, Billie might be your perfect girl. And just look at that grin...

Ray and Marge Speaker took his new wheelchair for a spin at the Carbondale Fourth of July parade. His wheelchair is on loan from the Near New, Rebekah Lodge. Photo by Tommy Sands

‘Empty the Shelters’ national adoption event.

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Martin leaves legacy of human connection and laughter

By James Steindler Contributing Editor

If you walked in on Garfield County’s Senior Programs Manager Judy Martin’s retirement party on Friday, June 30, your ears were met with a sound of boisterous laughter and joy. Every seat was filled with community members who came to bid her adieu.

Most in attendance had lots of life-experience and knew Martin through her work, and many were regular volunteers for senior programs offered between Carbondale and Parachute.

The outgoing program manager grew up in Norwood, Ohio. She left Norwood after college, worked for a couple of years and then returned to school for a Master’s in social work at the University of Washington in Seattle.

Martin has worked as the county’s senior programs manager for the past 15 years. And, she worked as the victim/witness coordinator for the Ninth Judicial District Attorney’s (DA) office for 15 years before that. Whereas in her position with the DA she didn’t have the chance nearly as often to get to know the people she helped on a personal level, her job with the county has afforded many life-long friendships.

“When you do this job, people open up their hearts to you,” Martin told The Sopris Sun. She’s made friends that she travels with, watches baseball games with and more. Looking ahead, “I’m not going to be lonely. I’ve got friends, man,” she said of retirement.

Martin pointed to the collaborative efforts between Senior Services and various municipalities, including Carbondale. In fact, she praised Carbondale Trustee Marty Silverstein, who attended her retirement party. “Marty has helped with that tremendously,” she stated. She also commended the Carbondale Parks and Recreation Department for its senior field trips, guided by Jessi Rochel, a superstar in Martin’s eyes.

On top of that she applauded Carbondale and Rural Fire Protection District and its assistant chief, Pablo Herr, for helping out with the congregate meals at The Orchard every second Wednesday for the past 15 years. “They say they’re sending five, could be 14,” Martin accentuated, “and sometimes police come.”

Martin said that she couldn’t have done the job alone and pointed out that there are more than 200 volunteers (mostly seniors) who help; whether it be setting up for congregate meals or sending birthday cards to local elders.

As a senior was leaving the party, Judy tells him she’ll see him at lunch, referring to the regular congregate meals in each municipality. “Because, where else can I go and get lunch for three bucks as a senior?” she quipped.

Garfield County Commissioner Tom Jankovsky said he has appreciated Martin’s

dedication to the job and for instilling a sense of human connection within the program. “She’s going to be missed,” he said.

“She’s wonderful. I’m going to miss her,” added volunteer and friend, Regina Cross.

Martin has a stack of books she’ll finally have the time to read. She plans to garden and travel with friends and attend lots of concerts — “any genre except straight country.”

“I have Lyle Lovett tickets tonight over at the Avalon [Grand Junction]. Jeff Tweedy is next month. I have Foo Fighter tickets, and I think I want to go see Leftover Salmon … they are so good in-person” she outlined.

“I need to thank each of you for showing up, for being who you are and for welcoming me into your hearts,” she tearily concluded. “Thank you.”

During the celebration, Martin had several business cards with her personal contact information already hand-printed on the back. She’d readily hand them out, telling this reporter when pointing to the business side that she’d be available there only until the following Monday, and to reach her at home after that.

When You Have Unexpected Medical Needs

Regina Cross (left) and Terry Carter (right) hold their friend and mentor, Judy Martin, close. Photo by James Steindler

RVR tees up for third annual ALCF benefit

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

The third annual Anna Lynn Cunningham Foundation (ALCF) benefit concert is on July 15 at River Valley Ranch at 6pm, featuring Dark Star Orchestra. This Grateful Dead tribute band has performed over 3,100 shows throughout their 25-year career.

"This is a great opportunity to see this band if you're a Grateful Dead follower,” ALCF co-founder Julie Warren stated. “You can expect a four-hour show where they'll pick one of the 2,000 Grateful Dead shows and play it in its entirety. We don't know what that show is yet. We'll find out shortly before the event, and the audience can expect a seven or eightpiece group entertaining them all night long.”

In addition, the third annual memorial golf tournament will take place at the River Valley Ranch Golf Course on Friday, July 21. The entire River Valley Ranch golf course will be converted into a par three course for a 22 hole team

scramble event that begins at 3pm. Teams of up to five can play, and lunch will be included.

ALCF was founded in 2020 by Warren and her husband, Red Cunningham, after their daughter, for whom the foundation is named, passed away from Ewing's Sarcoma at the age of 16. Warren and Cunningham started the foundation to support other families navigating childhood illness.

Though the family went through unimaginable grief when Anna died in 2019, they have dedicated their time to building the foundation, spreading positivity and light in remembrance of their daughter, who was joyful and giving.

"For us, it's pretty healing to be able to help parents, because we have been in that place, and it is a difficult place to be in,” said Warren.

“Knowing that we can offer a little bit of lightness or joy in a typically very sad time helps us heal, so keeping that legacy alive reflects who our daughter was. It means a lot to us.”

Her sentiments were

echoed by Cunningham, who told The Sopris Sun, “It's a good thing, and Anna would have much fun with it. I can only imagine her running around the concert, listening to music, and having a lot of fun."

Concerning the concert, Warner and Cunningham say that besides general admission, there is a “Deadhead” VIP experience which features gourmet food, an open bar and a lounge set-up. Many food trucks will cater the event, including The Rolling Fork, Mama's Pierogi, Slow Groovin' BBQ, Moontime Crepes and Windy City Eats. There will also be face painting for the little ones and beer and cocktails for adults in attendance.

"That such an acclaimed artist or band will be in our little town playing an outdoor concert was a general surprise the previous two concerts,” Cunningham said. Regarding the River Valley Ranch driving range, “It's a really fun, lighthearted venue that's been here for 25 years but hadn't been used for such events.”

Warren continued, "When people come to the concert, they often can't believe that this had never happened before, and they say, ‘Let's do this every weekend!' It's a lot of work, though."

All proceeds from this

fundraiser will go to ALCF, which will then distribute the money to families in the Valley facing the complex challenges wrought by childhood illness. Camping is not available for the concert and children aged 12 and under are granted free entry but must be with an adult. Locals are encouraged to walk or bike to the event because parking will be limited.

Asked how the community

can support the foundation outside of this benefit, Warren encouraged folks to visit their website, where sponsorship and donation opportunities are happening year-round.

For tickets for the Dark Star Orchestra concert on July 15 and the golf tournament on July 21, and to generally learn more and donate, visit alcfoundation.net

Deadheads rejoice! Dark Star Orchestra is truckin' into town. Courtesy image

National opioid lawsuit settlement funds find local allocation

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

Colorado is one of 46 states participating in the National Opioids Lawsuit, brought by the State Attorneys General against opioid manufacturers and pharmacies for their role in the country’s opioid epidemic.

In Colorado, 19 regional opioid abatement councils are currently in the process of implementing administrative structures to disburse funds awarded to states and localities from opioid-related lawsuits as part of the National Opioids Settlement.

According to Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser’s office, the state has secured $740 million in monetary damages from the National Opioid Settlement. The settlement will be paid to state attorney general offices over 18 years.

The Region 5 Opioid Abatement Council includes Eagle, Garfield, Lake, Pitkin and Summit counties. Council members are county public health representatives, clinical professionals, county commissioners, law enforcement officers and individuals in recovery. This diverse group of stakeholders is charged with deciding how to reach a consensus on key priorities in addressing the opioid crisis.

Region 5’s first opioid settlement fund distribution of $500,000 will be dedicated to three opioid abatement focus areas chosen by the council: 1) an anti-stigma campaign, 2) harm

reduction resources and 3) a data dashboard to track opioid statistics.

With an estimated $5 million designated to Region 5 over the 18-year settlement term, the initial disbursement of funds covers proposals written for two years. After two years, community needs will be reassessed to determine if priorities should shift to other areas, giving regional entities the ability to oversee how the dollars are most effectively spent.

Jarid Rollins, a co-chair for the Region 5 Opioid Abatement Council and director of Behavioral Health Services at MidValley Family Practice in Basalt, said the council is currently meeting monthly and the newly-formed initiative “has been kind of front-loaded because we're still figuring out processes.”

The first task, Rollins said, was assessing needs. “Our communities are fairly different enough that it makes it difficult to find one specific program. Some areas have more needs than others. The council must be able to meet the needs of our entire region.”

Reducing stigma promotes recovery

On June 29, the Region 5 Opioid Abatement Council voted to fund Effct, a marketing firm that has worked on mental health and wellness educational campaigns in Western Colorado, to develop and implement an opioid anti-stigma campaign.

Rollins explained, “While stigma is going down around mental health

in general, it’s still high when getting treatment for substance use, whether it is alcohol or opioids. Studies have found that stigma around addiction is one of the main reasons people don't seek treatment.”

A unified anti-stigma campaign across the five Abatement Council counties is important because, as Rollins said, “We have so many people that live in Garfield County and work in Pitkin County, or are living in Garfield County and work in Vail. So having some golden thread, connecting it all together — whether that’s seeing public service announcements on the bus, or something similar — the public will get a consistent message. There's more power in that.”

Promoting safety, reducing harm and saving lives

Carbondale-based High Rockies Harm Reduction (HRHR) was awarded a $100,000 grant for harm reduction campaigns. HRHR Founder and Executive Director Maggie Seldeen has seen the proliferation of opioid use in the Roaring Fork Valley. She said, “It's everywhere. I think sometimes it's worse here, in a smaller community, because we have limited resources, fewer things for young people to do, and isolation from services.”

Much of Seldeen’s work over the past few years has been connecting with the community — whether that is people using opioids or other drugs, law enforcement officers, school health

High Rockies Harm Reduction offers free naloxone kits and buttons (pictured here) to identify to others that you carrying naloxone. According to the CDC, anyone can carry naloxone to help respond to an overdose. Having naloxone readily available allows bystanders to help save lives by preventing a fatal overdose.

officials, addiction counselors, support groups or attending events to hand out free Narcan kits and fentanyl test strips. Seldeen said, “I’m excited because I've done a lot of lobbying this year, and there's a lot of forward movement, but I also couldn't believe that the work is ground-level and it's about building relationships.”

continues on page 18

Summer Concert Series

Photo by Jeanne Souldern

A SMART WAY TO REUSE

Meanwhile, over in Paonia on the Fourth of July, The Learning Council created a giant rainbow trout out of upcycled aluminum cans. The piece moved in seven sections, from gills to fins, each operated by one person and all together emulated a swimming effect down Grand Avenue. The Learning Council is a nonprofit with a mission to “enrich community through education, art, advocacy, food, agriculture and wellness for all.” Courtesy photo

THURSDAY, JULY 6

ARTISTS IN CONVERSATION

Curator Janelle Porter speaks with painter Rebecca Morris at the Anderson Ranch Arts Center at 12:30pm. Visit www. andersonranch.org for more info.

ICE CREAM

The Carbondale Library hosts an Ice Cream Social at 1pm.

BRIDGE

Play bridge with friends (or foes) at the Basalt Library at 5pm.

RODEO

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.

‘A WORLD ON THE WING’

Jessica Catto speaks with Scott Weidensaul, the author of “World on the Wing: The Global Odyssey of Migratory Birds,” at the Hotel Jerome at 6pm. Visit www.aspennature.org for more info.

VAUDEVILLE

Five dollars from each ticket sold for tonight and tomorrow night’s 6pm shows at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue will be donated to The Children’s Miracle Network.

CRYSTAL THEATRE

The Crystal Theatre shows Wes Anderson’s “Asteroid City” at 7:30pm tonight, tomorrow and July 13. The Sunday, July 9, show is at 5pm and “It Ain’t Over” returns on July 8 at 5:15pm.

STRUMBUCKET

Steve’s Guitars presents Strumbucket, a five-piece “twang-funk” band, performing at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

FRIDAY, JULY 7

FIELD DRAWING

Patrick Kikut, the lead artist on the Sesquicentennial Colorado River Exploring Expedition (a journey that retraced John Wesley Powell’s passage down the Colorado River) leads a Field Drawing Workshop at Roaring Fork Conservancy in Basalt, 22800 Two Rivers Road, from 9am to noon. Visit www.roaringfork.org to register.

WATER DAY

Basalt Library hosts an afternoon of splashing around in the sun from noon to 3pm. Visit www. basalt.library.org for more info.

NATURE JOURNALING

Exchange tips with fellow nature journaling enthusiasts at the Carbondale Library at 1pm.

ART OPENING

Patrick Kikut will display his paintings and drawings, based on exploring the Colorado River during the filming of “A River Out of Time,” at the Basalt Library at 4:30pm.

ARTISTS’ RECEPTION

The Ann Korologos Gallery hosts an opening reception for Andy Taylor and Dan Young’s exhibit, “Perspectives,” at 5pm.

‘DRAWN TO THE SURFACE’

The Carbondale Clay Center hosts a First Friday opening reception for “Drawn to the Surface” at 5pm.

CARBONDALE ARTS

Carbondale Arts hosts dual opening receptions for “Use is Beauty” by Justin Squier and “The Unimagined Place” by Carbondale Clay Center residents Brian Chen and Gabby Gawreluk, tonight at 5pm.

SPEARS & LOUISE

True Nature hosts Natalie Spears and Gabrielle Louise (with Ryan Dilts) performing in the Kiva from 7:30 to 9:30pm. Tickets at www. truenaturehealingarts.com

MT. SOPRIS MUSIC FEST

The 23rd annual Mount Sopris Music Festival begins at 6pm at Chacos Park in Carbondale, with Dan Sheridan performing at 7pm and Mitt Spicy & the Blues Bandits playing at 8pm.

BOOGIE’S BASH

Hosted by Gail and Lenny “Boogie” Weinglass at Merry-Go Ranch, this fundraiser for the Buddy Program includes dinner at 6pm with live music by Tunisia! Find tickets and the schedule at www.buddyprogram.org

SATURDAY, JULY 8

BIOBLITZ

Wilderness Workshop and the Eagle River Watershed Council guide an exploration of the Homestake Valley, which is home to ancient fens, from 10am to 4pm. Visit www. wildernessworkshop.org/events for more info and to register.

AWAKEN CHAKRAS

True Nature hosts “Wake the Voice: Ignite Your Power, Awakening Through the Chakras” from 10am to 2pm. Tickets at www. truenaturehealingarts.com

SELF�LOVE

Learn about self-love, selfcompassion and self-care at True Nature from 3 to 5pm. Tickets at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

SOUND IMMERSION

Ildi Ingraham presents a Sound Immersion at 4pm at the Carbondale Library.

MUSIC ON THE MOUNTAIN

Wild Flight performs at the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park at 6pm.

SUNDAY, JULY 9

FOOD FOREST

Join Colorado Mountain College for a tour of the Carbondale Historic Food Forest (301 Lewies Lane) at 9am. Bring gloves and stick around to help out until noon.

REDSTONE INN

Join the Redstone Historical Society at the Redstone Inn to celebrate 121 years of the inn’s history. A tour will take place at 2pm, followed by a presentation with a slideshow. A walking tour of the village is scheduled for 3:30pm (including a glimpse into Lucille Osgood’s cottage).

SOPRIS PARK CONCERT

Carbondale’ Second Sunday Free Concert Series continues at 3pm with Cruz Contreras of The Black Lillies performing along with The Cartwright Brothers.

MOJAVE DREAM

Enjoy music by Mojave Grey, TESS and DJ Haasy with catering and pop-up shops at an undisclosed Missouri Heights ranch, from 4 to 8:30pm. Proceeds benefit the Roaring Fork Conservancy and Mojave Dreams Foundation. Tickets at www.mojavedream.org

MONDAY, JULY 10

YOUR BRAIN, ONSTAGE!

TACAW hosts a week-long kids camp, “Your Brain, Onstage,” today through July 14, 9am to 2pm daily. Visit www.tacaw.org for more info and to register.

ART ON THE EDGE

The Art Base hosts a five-day “Art on the Edge” kids camp, ages 8-11, starting today at 9:30am. Visit www. theartbase.org for more info.

BLOOD DRIVE

Donate blood at the Basalt Library today between 11am and 2pm. Visit www.bit.ly/ LibraryBloodDrive to register.

AHS’ BIRTHDAY BASH

The Aspen Historical Society celebrates its 60th anniversary at 4pm at the Wheeler/Stallard Museum. Visit www. aspenhistory.org for more info.

ARTHUR TALK

Shayla Paradeis discusses her latest book, “Footprint of a Heart,” and more at the Carbondale Library at 6pm.

TUESDAY, JULY 11

KIDS YOGA

Diana Laughlin leads youngsters in a fun yoga and mindfulness session at the Carbondale Library at 11am.

COLLEGE FUNDING

Youthentity and the Savings Collaborative offer a College Funding Workshop at the Glenwood Spring Library at 6pm. Visit www. youthentity.org for more info.

RFOV VOLUNTEERING

Join Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers’ team of project ambassadors with a training from 6 to 7:30pm. Register online at www.rfov.org

SWING SWING SOIREE

Celebrate Art Ackerman’s 98th birthday at KDNK with a potluck at 6pm, followed by dancing and mingling during his regular show from 7 to 9pm. The Roaring Fork Drawing Club will convene to sketch.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 12

RECOGNITION WEEK

As part of Anderson Ranch’s Recognition Week, international artist honoree Christian Marclay speaks with curator-in-residence Douglas Fogle today at 11:30am. On Thursday, July 13, there’ll be a recognition dinner at 5:30pm featuring Marclay and Service of the Arts honoree Dana Farouki. Recognition week wraps up with Anderson Ranch’s annual art auction and community picnic on Saturday, July 15, at 11am. Visit www. andersonranch.org for more info.

‘ART FOR THE BIRDS’

The Aspen Chapel Gallery hosts an opening reception for its new exhibit, “Art for the Birds,” at 4pm. Visit www. aspenchapelgallery.org for more info.

BASALT MUSIC

Mama Lingua opens for Dragondeer at the Basalt River Park at 5:30pm.

AUTHOR TALK

Doctor John Hughes will speak about his new book, “Fifth World Medicine Book Two,” at the Basalt Library at 5:30pm.

‘THE PUBLIC’

The Carbondale Library hosts a screening and discussion of “The Public” with Emilio Estevez tonight at 5:30pm. The film will screen again at the Glenwood Springs Library at 5:30pm tomorrow.

SAVE THE LAND

Aspen Valley Land Trust hosts its “Save the Land” celebration at T-Lazy-7 Ranch at 5:30pm. Visit www.avlt. org for tickets and more info.

LA DOLCE VITA

Aspen Film kicks off its Cinema Italiano series with “La Dolce Vita,” showing at the Isis Theatre at 7pm. Tickets at www.aspenfilm.org

FILOHA MEADOWS

Roaring Fork Conservancy guides a tour of Filoha Meadows near Redstone at 7:30pm. Families with young kids are invited to join a separate tour tomorrow, July 13, at 7:30pm. Register online at www.roaringfork.org

SEASON AMMONS

Award-winning songwriter, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Season Ammons performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

c t a n d e n j o y a w i d e r a n g e o f l o c a l a r t s & g a l l e r i e s , s h o p p i n g , a w a r d - w i n n i n g r e s t a u r a n t s & s p i r i t s , l i v e m u s i c , c o m m u n i t y b o o t h s , f a c e p a i n t i n g & b a l l o o n a n i m a l s , a n d m o r e !

2 3 r d A n n u a l M t . S o p r i s M u s i c F e s t i v a l L i n e u p

PC: Renee Ramge

July

Greg

Rotary

July 19

Rotary

Achieving diversity requires Affirmative Action OPINION

analysis and “light bulb” moments? Diversity in the classroom. It’s really as simple as that.

Guest Opinion

By Denise Moss

Invoke the word “diversity” and you’ll get a reaction as varied as Peppino’s topping combinations. It’s a mantra, a boogeyman, a goal, a scourge. It’s the straw man for the far right, pointing its craggy finger at yet another reason our society is falling into decay.

For colleges, however, diversity is simply a way to bring students from different backgrounds together into shared learning experiences. It’s a way to help society break the cultural and ethnic barriers that keep us apart. The goal, rightly so, is for higher education to represent America’s melting pot.

As a college professor, I have been asked many times by administrators and peers how I honor student diversity. In truth, I only need to offer interesting topics and evoke subsequent thought and expression. What’s the easiest way to see success in these discussions, to see in-depth

The more diverse my student population is, the more I witness valuable conversations, sharing of ideas, and, importantly, evolving friendships. My most successful semesters are those with the highest diversity in the classroom. Ethnic, racial, economic, age, gender, nationality … the more variety I have, the more learning takes place. Universities have long been aware of these benefits, hence four out of 10 use race as one of the factors for admittance.

Affirmative Action was started as an executive order by John F. Kennedy in 1961. It was aimed at government contractors needing to employ a more diverse workforce. In the 1970s, this ideal was used in college admissions, specifically in highly competitive private and public universities, such as Harvard and University of California at Berkeley, to counter a history of inequality.

In 1996, California voters adopted Proposition 209 which states: The State shall not discriminate against, or grant preferential treatment to, any individual or group on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in the operation of public employment, public education, or public contracting.

The result? According to NPR, “A quarter-century after California banned

Carbondale celebrates independence

race-based admissions at public universities, school officials say they haven't been able to meet their diversity and equity goals — despite more than a half billion dollars spent on outreach and alternative admissions standards.

In an amicus brief sent to the Supreme Court in support of Harvard and UNC's race-based admissions programs, University of California chancellors said that years of crafting alternative race-neutral policies have fallen short.

‘Yet despite its extensive efforts, UC struggles to enroll a student body that is sufficiently racially diverse to attain the educational benefits of diversity.’”

Eight other states followed suit after California’s 1996 decision.

We live in bubbles. Our communities, our income levels, and our state’s education funding often control our opportunities. As a whole, poorer areas have lower educational outcomes and much less access to extracurricular activities that enhance college applications. It has long been known that low income families have children with lower test scores in reading and math. And while we can point fingers in a multitude of directions to explain this, the bottom line is that Affirmative Action in universities helps to overcome these disadvantages.

In general, relying on K-12 public schools, especially in areas of poverty, to produce merit-based college applicants is a pipe dream.

The benefits of admitting students who are less advantaged, but have extreme potential, serves us all.

Those students become successful contributors to the workforce. As a society, we want assimilation from different walks of life. Education offers that common language.

Justice Thomas took advantage of Affirmative Action then rolled the ladder up behind him. As stated by Freire, “The oppressed, instead of striving for liberation, tend themselves to become oppressors.” The answer is not to now turn our backs on the disparity in our country. We can’t pretend, as the court has, that we have somehow passed the mark for needing a balanced college acceptance formula.

Instead, let’s look at the model in our own state. “CU strongly believes in the transformative power of education, and we are dedicated to reflecting the diversity of our great state, nation and world as we build pathways that provide opportunity for aspiring learners to fulfill their college aspirations … We are steadfast in our belief that a vibrant and inclusive community leads to a richer educational experience for all, contributes to a positive society, and prepares our graduates to excel in an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.” (Statement from President Saliman and CU Chancellors on the Supreme Court's Affirmative Action Decision)

Photos by Sue Rollyson (left) and Tommy Sands (right)

Sol del Valle

Raising a Reader introduce el mundo de los libros

Por John Stroud Traducción por Dolores Duarte

No se trata sólo de los niños. También hay una importante lección de lectura para los padres y cuidadores que asistieron a los recientes campamentos de verano de Raising a Reader –Educando a un lector- con sus hijos en edad preescolar: gestos con las manos y elaboración.

"Queremos ayudar a los padres a que continuen leyendo a sus hijos en casa, así que parte de lo que hacemos es proporcionarles herramientas para enseñarles a leer los libros", explica Liz Russo, coordinadora del programa Raising a Reader y responsable de los campamentos de verano de El Jebel y Parachute en junio.

"Muchos padres se limitan a leer el libro, pero no hacen preguntas ni señalan", explica. Señalando los dibujos del libro y explicando cómo se relacionan con la historia es tan importante como leer las palabras. Hacer preguntas a los niños lo complementa".

Ese día en concreto, el 21 de junio en el parque Crown Mountain de El Jebel, el tema del libro fue el agradecimiento. Después de leer en voz alta un libro sobre la gratitud, se preguntó a los niños por qué

estaban agradecidos: mi cama, mi perro, mi madre y "por estar aquí" fueron algunas de las respuestas.

Los niños y sus padres, o en algunos casos una niñera, recibieron una piedra y pinturas, y se les pidió que hicieran en la piedra un dibujo de aquello por lo que estaban agradecidos.

Arte, danza, una variedad de juegos con movimiento y, por supuesto, bocadillos, fueron parte de las sesiones al aire libre de dos horas, dos días a la semana, que tuvieron lugar durante dos semanas a mediados de junio en lugares de El Jebel, Glenwood Springs, Rifle y Parachute.

Raising a Reader (RAR) Aspen to Parachute inició en 2003 como una organización sin fines de lucro para la alfabetización temprana de niños, la cual centra sus esfuerzos en infantes desde el nacimiento hasta los 5 años, preparándolos para el éxito en los programas preescolares formales, y eventualmente en el jardín de infantes, introduciéndolos a los libros.

Durante el año escolar, los niños de los distintos programas preescolares de las regiones y de las clases de preescolar reciben semanalmente bolsas de libros bilingües para llevar a casa. Se invita a los padres a leer los libros a sus hijos, devolverlos la siguiente semana , y a cambio reciben una nueva bolsa de libros.

Los niños juegan bajo un colorido paracaídas sostenido por sus padres en el campamento de verano Raising a Reader de Crown Mountain Park el 21 de junio. Foto por John Stroud

Los campamentos de verano gratuitos iniciaron en 2021, durante la pandemia de COVID-19. "Inició como una oportunidad para llevar nuestro programa a padres, cuidadores y niños durante el distanciamiento social, porque era al aire libre y era una forma segura de reunirse", dijo la Directora ejecutiva de Raising a Reader, Suzanne Wheeler-Del Piccolo.

Ha continuado como un medio para proporcionar un aprendizaje continuo entre los años escolares, y ha crecido exponencialmente. Los campamentos de verano de 2022 contaban con un promedio de 30-40 niños más los padres en dos ubicaciones en Glenwood Springs y Rifle. Este verano, gracias a Circle Grant, una donacion estatal que permitió ampliar el programa a El Jebel y Parachute, el programa ha crecido a unos 100 niños más 75 padres/cuidadores, añadió Wheeler-Del Piccolo.

"Lo que me parece realmente importante de estos campamentos es que padres e hijos participan juntos en actividades de aprendizaje y alfabetización", dijo. "Es algo que pueden aprovechar y continuar en el entorno familiar, y que ayuda a garantizar a largo plazo el éxito del niño una vez que entra a la escuela".

Gracias a FocusedKids, un programa de

Volumen 2, Número 19 | 6 de julio de 2023 - 12 de julio de 2023

Conectando comunidades desde 2021

Por Hector Salas-Gallegos Críticas

Cuando visité México por primera vez, hace casi una década, lo primero que llamó mi atención fue la cantidad de fantasmas, espíritus, demonios y brujas que habitaban allí.

En Estados Unidos, podría contar con una mano las veces que me encontré con algo remotamente sobrenatural, e incluso entonces, cuestionaba si todo estaba en mi cabeza. De niño, mi hermana veía películas de terror con su amigo y esas criaturas espeluznantes de las películas atormentaban mis sueños. Pero con el tiempo, me di cuenta de que mis miedos eran autoinfligidos. Los monstruos y demonios que merodeaban por la noche se desvanecieron lentamente en meras imaginaciones tontas. Qué infantil pensar que podrían alcanzarme más allá de la pantalla de televisión. En mi habitación. En realidad. En Estados Unidos.

Pero en México, parecía que seguíamos reglas diferentes. El pueblo en

el que me quedé estaba construido sobre un cementerio. Y debido a este hecho, había un fantasma en el cuarto de suministros que jugaba contigo. Había un mago en el pueblo que podía lanzar hechizos de fuego. Si escuchabas atentamente por la noche, podías oír los lamentos de una madre afligida que ahogó a sus hijos en el río cercano.

Sin embargo, no tuve estos encuentros paranormales de primera mano. Todos estos demonios y fantasmas me fueron presentados a menudo en la mesa durante las comidas por mis mayores. Intercambiaban historias de magia y brujería como si fueran tarjetas de béisbol. Algunas historias eran alegres, otras los hacían llorar, algunas les ponían los pelos de punta.

Lo que más me impactó fue la forma en que estas historias trascendían los límites del folclore y se filtraban en las conversaciones cotidianas. Alrededor de la mesa, la magia era un aspecto inherente y tangible de la vida. Este contraste con el panorama cultural en el que crecí me hizo consciente de la brutalidad principal de Estados Unidos: la magia solo existe en DisneyLand como una mercancía para vender. En mi cultura, es un hecho de la vida.

Tangente. Como escritor, siempre he sentido que al traducir del inglés al español o viceversa, algo se pierde. Solo recientemente me di cuenta de que es la magia la que no puede atravesar la traducción. No hay espacio para la magia y los milagros en la vida estadounidense. Me resulta difícil tomar en serio las historias mágicas de mis mayores después de tal condicionamiento. He aprendido a apreciar estas historias como metáforas, extrayendo las valiosas lecciones que intentan enseñar. Aunque me resulta difícil creer estas historias como verdaderas, su sabiduría y moralejas son muy reales. La historia de un libro maldito me enseñó la importancia de la honestidad y los peligros de ocultar secretos a los seres queridos. El cuento de advertencia sobre la maldición de un amante me recordó ser cauteloso al buscar orientación de aquellos que hacen grandes promesas pero carecen de integridad. A través de estas historias, obtuve valiosos conocimientos sobre cómo navegar las relaciones y comprender las consecuencias de nuestras acciones.

Otra tangente. Compartir estas historias con mis amigos blancos es bastante incómodo. Ellos interpretan mis relatos de manera demasiado literal, pasando por alto las complejidades y las moralejas subyacentes que las hacen realmente valiosas de contar. Así

que me quedo allí al final de mi narración y puedo sentir sus miradas vacías, preguntándose cuál es el punto de todo. Y les miro fijamente, sabiendo que nunca sabrán lo que significa cuando encuentran un cabello en su yema de huevo.

Aunque soy una persona extremadamente miedosa, me gusta escuchar historias paranormales de mis mayores. Las veo como una forma de conectar con mi herencia mexicana al adoptar una perspectiva diferente para ver el mundo. Esta perspectiva reconoce los misterios y maravillas que la vida encierra, reconociendo la interacción entre la sabiduría generacional y el encanto que se encuentra debajo de la superficie de nuestras historias más inquietantes. Me invita a ver el mundo a través de un lente de posibilidad, donde los límites entre lo ordinario y lo extraordinario se difuminan, y donde la magia puede encontrarse en los lugares más inesperados: en los lugares más simples, en una palabra susurrada, en un secreto contado, en un acto de bondad. Y con ese conocimiento, en la ardua rutina de la existencia, encontramos un mundo donde todo es posible. Ese potencial ilimitado es, en mi opinión, uno de los grandes motores de nuestra herencia.

empoderamiento para el cerebro, los campamentos ofrecen una lección semanal en la que padres e hijos participan juntos. WheelerDel Piccolo afirma que también es importante que los campamentos se lleven a cabo al aire libre, porque así se consigue un entorno más sano y activo.

Russo recalca a los padres que el 90% del desarrollo cerebral de un niño se da antes de los 5 años. Cada momento cuenta, dijo.

"Es muy importante que sigan leyendo a sus hijos en verano, lo que puede llegar a ser difícil porque la gente está de vacaciones y a veces se olvidan de leer un libro", dijo Russo.

Durante el curso escolar, los alumnos reciben una bolsa roja especial para llevar y traer libros a la biblioteca local, y durante el verano se fomentan las visitas regulares a la biblioteca.

"Esperamos que nuestras familias salgan de los campamentos de verano con una mayor comprensión de la importancia de alfabetizar en la infancia y con habilidades para utilizar en el entorno familiar, pero sobre todo que los niños hayan pasado un rato divertido e inolvidable inmersos en cuentos, actividades y aprendizaje con sus padres o cuidadores", concluyó Wheeler Del-Piccolo.

The People’s Clinic de Carbondale recibe una

Health Foundation

Nota del editor: este artículo declaró erróneamente que The People’s Clinic era un sistema de manejo de enfermedades.

The People’s Clinic atiende a pacientes ya diagnosticados para tratar de revertir las enfermedades.

The People’s Clinic, ubicada en el Third Street Center en Carbondale, recibió una subvención de $400.000 de Colorado Health Foundation.

Una organización sin fines de lucro iniciada originalmente por los médicos Greg Feinsinger y Judith Alvarez en el 2016, la clínica es gratuita y no requiere seguro para los pacientes. Desde sus inicios, la clínica bilingüe ha atraído a más de 500 pacientes al año, enfocándose principalmente en la comunidad inmigrante.

Una clínica enfocada en el

cuidado preventivo, la organización tiene un enfoque diferente a las prácticas médicas comunes. A diferencia del sistema de salud de los Estados Unidos, que Feinsinger llama un “sistema de manejo de enfermedades", The People’s Clinic intenta prevenir y revertir enfermedades en personas que ya han sido diagnosticadas.

“Esperamos hasta que ocurran las enfermedades y luego hacemos lo que podemos para tratar de controlar estas enfermedades crónicas,” dijo Feinsinger.

“La obesidad, la diabetes y las enfermedades cardíacas son cosas que se pueden controlar y prevenir fácilmente siempre que alguien se comprometa a hacer cambios en el estilo de vida.”

Con el dinero de la subvención, Feinsinger dijo que la clínica tendrá la oportunidad de crecer a nuevas alturas.

“En este momento, estamos

sentados en una oficina con una sala de examen. Esta subvención nos dará la oportunidad de hacer crecer nuestro equipo y agregar nuevos roles, así como mejorar nuestro espacio para que podamos continuar ayudando a tantos pacientes como podamos.”

Si bien la subvención para la clínica es un paso en la dirección correcta para la comunidad latinx y el llamado del grupo de defensa local Voces Unidas para una atención médica de alta calidad para los inmigrantes en Roaring Fork Valley, el presidente Alex Sánchez dijo que todavía queda un largo camino por recorrer.

“Voces Unidas apoya cualquier esfuerzo que aumente el acceso a una atención médica de calidad para las familias trabajadoras,” dijo Sánchez. “Hemos expresado nuestras preocupaciones a lo largo de los años sobre la atención deficiente que a veces

se ofrece a los miembros de nuestra comunidad simplemente porque nos identificamos como inmigrantes o no tenemos acceso a un seguro… Necesitamos más, no menos, inversión en las comunidades rurales.”

A medida que llega el dinero de la subvención, Feinsinger dijo que la oportunidad de crecimiento será una expectativa inmediata para la clínica y los programas que ofrece, incluida una clase de cocina saludable y una visita semanal a la tienda de comestibles para aprender sobre nutrición.

“Por lo general, tenemos 20 pacientes a la semana y con esta subvención buscamos duplicar eso y al mismo tiempo poder continuar con nuestros programas", dijo. Para obtener más información sobre The People’s Clinic, visite thirdstreetcenter.net

Por Taylor Cramer, Post Independent Traducción por Edgar Barrantes

subvención de $400.000 de Colorado

CHISME DEL PUEBLO

Traducción por Jacquelinne Castro

Incendio de Spring Creek

A partir del martes 4 de julio, cuando la advertencia de bandera roja estaba en efecto, el incendio Spring Creek fue contenido al 37% y alrededor de 3,000 acres fueron quemadas. Hubo 538 socorristas y la causa todavía está bajo investigación. No se han anunciado evacuaciones por el momento. Visite www.bit.ly/SpringCreekfire para más información y actualizaciones regulares.

Seguridad contra incendios

El distrito de Protección Contra Incendios Rurales y de Carbondale (CRFPD por sus siglas en inglés) le implora a los residentes de prepararse para incendios forestales. Primero, las personas deberían crear un “espacio defendible” al despejar un área alrededor de sus casas de hojas secas, palos y cualquier otra cosa que pueda agarrar fuego rápidamente. Segundo, empaque un equipo de emergencia con suministros necesarios, así como agua. Tercero, establecer un plan de evacuación familiar y puntos de encuentro. Para más información acerca de preparación para incendios forestales, visite www.carbondalefire.org

Nilo Occidental

Con las temperaturas subiendo y con niveles de humedad más altos de lo normal en el condado de Garfield, los mosquitos están zumbando. El año pasado, un caso del virus Nilo Occidental fue reportado en el condado. Una de cada cinco personas infectadas con el Nilo Occidental desarrollan una fiebre con otros síntomas y uno de cada 150 personas experimentan enfermedades severas afectando el sistema nervioso. Las personas son aconsejadas en

drenar agua estancada, cubrirse al amanecer/ anochecer si se la pasa afuera y usar repelentes como DEET, o aceites de limón o eucalipto.

Banda ancha equitativa

El 26 de junio, la Administración de Telecomunicaciones e Información Nacional anunció que Colorado fue premiado con más de $826 millones de parte del programa de Banda Ancha, Acceso y Despliegue (BEAD por sus siglas en inglés) de la ley de infraestructura bipartidista, el cual expande el servicio de internet a regiones sin servicios o con bajos servicios en el estado. En Colorado, 190,850 hogares carecen de acceso a internet, según un comunicado de prensa de la oficina del senador Michael Bennet.

Ayudantes del alguacil

El alguacil del condado de Garfield Lou Vallario nombró a cinco nuevos ayudantes del alguacil el miércoles 28 de junio. Otros tres ayudantes también fueron nombrados desde el 17 de mayo para llenar vacantes de patrulla y en el departamento de detenciones. La oficina del alguacil de Garfield todavía tiene vacantes para llenar, entérese más en www.garcosheriff.com

Desvio de Twin Lakes

La Desviación Transcueca de Twin Lakes resumió sus operaciones la semana pasada y están desviando 396 pies cúbicos por segundo, lo cual ha reducido los flujos del Río Roaring Fork, el cual probablemente alcanzó su punto máximo para esta temporada. De acuerdo con Roaring Fork Conservancy, la reserva Ruedi se está acercando al 100% de su capacidad por primera vez desde el 2019.

Servicios rápidos

Holy Cross Energy ha completado la fase uno de su proyecto de infraestructura de red instalando 42 millas de fibra entre Glenwood Springs y Aspen. La red de fibra apoya operaciones para diagnosticar más rápidamente cortes de energía. La fase dos conectará a Avon con Gypsum y la fase tres contactará las primeras dos fases a través de Cottonwood Pass. Mientras que Holy Cross Energy no está en el negocio de el internet al por menor, ellos subarrendan la infraestructura de fibra a proveedores de internet regionales.

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

"Sincronías" parte 30, por Leonardo Occhipinti

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

Raising a Reader introduces toddlers to reading

By John Stroud Sopris Sun Correspondent

It’s not just about the children. There’s an important reading lesson for parents and caregivers, as well, who attended the recent Raising a Reader Summer Camps with their preschool-aged children — hand gestures and elaboration.

“We want to help parents to continue to read to their children at home, so part of what we do is provide tools to show them how to read the books,” said Liz Russo, program coordinator for Raising a Reader and Summer Camp leader for the El Jebel and Parachute locations in June.

“A lot of parents just read the book, but they don’t ask questions and they don’t point,” she said. Pointing to the pictures in the book and explaining how they relate to the story is as important as reading the words. Asking questions of the children rounds it all out.

On this particular day — June 21 at Crown Mountain Park in El Jebel — the book theme was thankfulness. After reading out loud a book about being gracious, children were asked what they were thankful for: my bed, my dog, my mom, and “being here” were among the answers.

Children and their parents, or in some cases a babysitter, were then given a rock and some paints, and were asked to paint a picture on the rock of what they were thankful for.

Art, dance, various games involving movement and, of course, snacks, were all part of the two-hour outdoor sessions, two days a week, which took place over two weeks in mid-June at locations in El Jebel, Glenwood Springs, Rifle and Parachute.

Raising a Reader (RAR) Aspen to Parachute began in 2003 as an early childhood literacy nonprofit organization focusing its efforts on children from birth to age 5, preparing them for success in formal preschool programs, and eventually kindergarten, by introducing them to books.

During the school year, children in the various preschool programs across the regions and in kindergarten classes are given weekly bilingual book bags to take home with them. Parents are encouraged to read the books to their children and return them the following week, in exchange for a new bag of books.

The free summer camps began in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It started as an opportunity to bring our program to parents, caregivers and children during social distancing, because it was outside and it was a safe way to gather,”

Raising a Reader Executive Director Suzanne Wheeler-Del Piccolo said.

It has continued as a means to provide continuous learning between school years, and has grown exponentially. The 2022 summer camps averaged about 30-40 children plus parents at two locations in Glenwood Springs and Rifle. This summer, thanks to a state Circle Grant that allowed the program to expand to El Jebel and Parachute, the program has grown to around 100

children plus 75 parents/caregivers, Wheeler-Del Piccolo added.

“What I find really powerful about these camps is that you’re engaging both parents and children together in learning and literacy activities,” she said. “It’s something they can take and continue in the home environment, and help ensure long-term success for the child once they enter school.”

Using what’s called FocusedKids, a brain empowerment program, the camps provide a weekly lesson for both the parents and children to engage in together. Having the camps outdoors is also important, Wheeler-Del Piccolo stated, because it allows for a more healthy, active setting.

Russo emphasizes to parents that 90% of a child’s brain develop ment happens by age 5. Every moment counts, she said.

“It’s very important that they continue to read to their children in the summer, which can be hard because people are on vacation and sometimes they forget to read a book,” Russo said.

During the school year, students are given a special red book bag to take back and forth to their local library, and regular visits to the library are encouraged during the summer, as well, she said.

"We hope our families leave the summer camps with a greater understanding of the importance of early childhood literacy and skills to use in the home environment, but primarily children having had a fun and unforgettable time immersed in stories, activities and learning with their parents or caregivers,” concluded Wheeler Del-Piccolo.

TACAW serves up the sizzle with summer workshops

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

The warm weather brings another year to partake in a sizzling camp and workshop lineup at The Arts Campus at Willits (TACAW) promising participants engaging ways to explore the performing arts, foster self-discovery and learn about brain empowerment; and, that’s just for starters.

Art Williams, TACAW’s education and community partnerships coordinator, spoke with The Sopris Sun about what is in store for Roaring Fork Valley residents looking for a bit of learning and some old-fashioned summer fun.

‘Your Brain, Onstage!’

If you’re into melding the worlds of brain science and theater arts, then the "Your Brain, Onstage!" workshop might be for you. Designed for fourth to sixth graders, the week-long camp, July 10-14, 9 am to 2 pm daily, includes theater classes and a final performance at TACAW. Participants will learn about brain function, self-regulation skills and explore neuroscience lessons developed by the Aspen Science Center.

Williams explained that the camp’s

subject matter is particularly attuned to pre-teens. “Learning about what's going on in your amygdala when you're in conflict, or stressing out, will give you tips on how to get back to a regulated state,” he said.

TACAW will also host local teaching artists in music and dance workshops for youth, adults and families.

African drumming

“Family Drumming Fun with Lionheart Drums” will embark on an African drumming adventure on July 9 from 2 to 3pm, with Jessie Lehmann of Lionheart Drums scouting the way for participants ages 8 and up. The workshop will explore traditional rhythms, songs and instruments from West Africa and allow for personal growth through creative musical expression.

Lehmann shared, “You can teach the drumming techniques and the storytelling tradition. Then, you can create a system to earn more responsibility within the music, because the metaphors lend themselves very well to looking at different aspects of our lives. You must be able to listen to each other if you're in an ensemble.”

Polynesian dance

On July 15, Sandra Prado of Aspen Polynesia will lead participants in a rich cultural experience at the "Let's Go to the Island Tahiti!" dance classes. Two class offerings — one designed for ages 6 to 12 and the other for ages 13 and older — introduce the energetic dance style from the Polynesian islands.

Prado, who learned Polynesian dance in Mexico City, said, while participants learn basic dance movements, “It’s also a great physical activity, and the repetitive movements help with memory.”

She has also observed that “many students become more aware of their bodies.”

Consensual Improv

On July 24, from 4 to 6pm, Cassidy Willey will lead “Kids Comedy Workshop with Consensual Improv!” Willey, an actor, educator and founding member of the Consensual Improv troupe, will teach the basics of improv comedy through character creation and scene building. The workshop is for those ages 11 to 14.

Some workshop fees are paywhat-you-can. TACAW also offers payment plans for summer camps. For more information, visit www.tacaw.org/education

Sabrina Ferguson, right, and Raising a Reader Summer Camp Coordinator Liz Russo, take turns reading a book at the June 21, 2023 camp at Crown Mountain Park in El Jebel. Photo by John Stroud

Instructor Cassidy Willey (far right) and students pose during an improv workshop for youth hosted by Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC). Photo courtesy of TRTC

Andy Taylor and Dan Young share “Perspectives”

By Will Buzzerd Sopris Sun Correspondent

Beginning Friday, July 7, the Ann Korologos Gallery on Midland Ave in Basalt will present a new, two-artist exhibition titled “Andy Taylor and Dan Young: Perspectives” which highlights the works of two prominent Colorado landscape artists. Featuring more than 30 large-scale paintings and studies, the exhibition will have an opening reception on July 7 from 5 to 7pm and the works will be on view through July 25.

Taylor and Young have a lot in common, and details that set them apart. “Each has studied and painted Colorado landscapes for many decades, and each brings his own perspective to what he sees, what he notices, how it makes him feel, and how that feeling is depicted with abstract qualities,” praised Sue Edmonds, director of Ann Korologos Gallery.

What’s also special about this particular exhibition is that both Taylor and Young have been featured in the gallery for 29 years — from when the space was the Basalt Gallery to now.

Located in historic downtown Basalt, Ann Korologos Gallery has been showcasing contemporary western art for over 20 years in a wide variety of media. Painters, sculptors, printmakers, ceramic artists and more have all shared a space in the gallery, exhibiting their unique works inspired by both frontier culture and the natural beauty of western landscapes. Former U.S. Secretary of Labor Ann Korologos purchased the former Basalt Gallery in 2007, with the goal of creating a space in which one can be transported into an artist’s moment. Sadly, Korologos passed away in January of this year. However, her legacy and her vision for sharing “art you love to live with” will not be forgotten. Each month, exceedingly talented artists of the West, like Young and Taylor, give life to the space she worked to create.

Recently featured at the Ann Korologos Gallery in March, Carbondale-based painter Taylor uses a gestural style with rich colors to convey the mood and emotions elicited by the view of a particular landscape. His works usually begin with incomplete pen and ink sketches of scenery, which form the bones of

By Max Seitel-Hayes Sopris Sun Correspondent

Bird populations in the Roaring Fork Valley and around the world are on the decline, and to save them we need to take action. So who is up to the task? In the Valley, some unlikely saviors have emerged to save the birds — artists!

This Wednesday, July 12, the Aspen Chapel Gallery invites you to view an exhibition called “Art for the Birds.”

The Aspen Chapel Gallery, located in the Aspen Chapel at 77 Meadowood Drive, right next to the roundabout, has operated since 1985. The gallery aims to give local artists a space and a spotlight. “This gallery is a wonderful opportunity for local artists who are new to the game,” artist and curator Amy Biedleman told the Sopris Sun. The gallery showcases the work of both adult professionals and high school students just starting their journey as artists.

Every year, the gallery also partners with local nonprofit organizations to create themed exhibitions that further connect the community with art. For this next show, Biedleman has teamed up with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) to educate and inspire folks about local

his paintings

and from which a larger piece often evolves. However, while Taylor has been painting locales within the Valley for five decades, his choice of scenery is also very particular.

Taylor eschews the grand views of peaks Valley residents might be used to seeing on postcards, and instead chooses to document “insignificant scenes,” spotted en route to bigger landmarks — intimate, brief moments which one might ordinarily pass by on the way to a hike. Drawing on his memories, Taylor uses deep saturation and strong forms to vivify these passing moments in large oil landscapes, often forgoing acute detail for evocative, indefinite regions of color.

Young was born in Denver and raised in western Colorado. He has been painting full time in his home state since 1989. Featured last July, Young is also a landscape painter, primarily an impressionist who works plein air (outdoors). A camper and a fisherman, Young also brings his sketchbook, paint and brushes with him into the natural world.

While still impressionistic, Young paints in a more concrete and realistic style than his co-exhibitor, with colors vividly reflecting what he sees in the wild. Young also often chooses subject matter familiar to every

continues on page 18

Art and birds at the Aspen Chapel Gallery

birds, birding and environmental health.

“I think we’re all worried about them,” said Biedleman. “I know just from living here — there’s less birds.”

And she’s right — across North America, the bird population has declined by around 3 billion individuals

since 1970. Zooming in on Colorado, half of the state’s bird species are in decline. With frequent guided birding tours throughout the Valley, ACES is the perfect partner for the Aspen Chapel Gallery to address this issue.

“Art for the Birds” will be on display

through August 19, and it will feature a variety of artists with a unique styles and media. Biedleman herself is a featured artist in the exhibit. She has been a full time artist for more than 10 years, and often creates watercolor greeting cards. For this show, she used old maps of Aspen (courtesy of the Aspen Historical Society) and watercolor paints to portray majestic birds flying over the Valley.

Annette Murphy creates abstract and ethereal landscapes and creatures using regular household tools, such as

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"Three Times" by Andy Taylor, oil on linen. Cloudy patches of deep color are characteristic of Taylor's evocative style. Courtesy image

Owl sculpture by Pierre Wille, courtesy image

"Spotted Towhee" (watercolor) by Missy Prudden, courtesy image

Ruth Vars Barnes

Peter Kent Lundgren

January 13, 1956 - June 8, 2023

Peter was born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to Vern and Shirley Lundgren. Pete, his mother and two siblings moved to Wheat Ridge, Colorado, in 1968, then to Glenwood Springs in 1971, with Pete graduating from Glenwood Springs High School in 1974. As a teenager and young man, Pete loved spending time in the Roaring Fork Valley with his friends, skiing at Sunlight, hanging out at the Hot Springs Pool, and especially "spelunking" in what is now the Glenwood Caverns. Pete proudly served his country for 41 years: 22 years active duty Air Force Flight Line and 19 years as a system engineer for a civil defense contractor. Most of that time was in Germany, where he made many European friends, and met both of his wives. In the summer of 2018, Pete spent the entire month of July in Colorado (and beyond) seeing all his old buddies, and just having a great time with everyone. It was after that happy visit that he started to consider returning to the United States. In 2021, Pete and his wife Angelika made the move from Germany to Grand Junction, where he could begin enjoying his retirement. Pete spent time in the great outdoors that he loved, whether boating or motorcycle riding. He also adopted a wonderful dog, Trigger, and a beautiful Bengal

cat, Gracie. Both animals were given a warm, loving home and Pete benefited from the companionship with his pets.

Despite battling cancer for three years, Pete still tried to live life to the fullest. Our hearts are heavy with losing Pete, but we'll always remember the good times.

Surviving Pete is his mother, Shirley Wold, sister, Erika Borges, nephew and niece, Zachary Borges and Chloe Borges, cousins, Kristina Meredith and Erica Brager, and aunt, Bonnie Quirk. Pete was preceded in death by both of his wives, Ingrid and Angelika, his brother, Tony, his father, Vern, and aunt, Judie Malievsky.

A formal military ceremony will take place at 10am on Thursday, July 20, Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2830 Riverside Parkway, Grand Junction.

October 19, 1939 - June 16, 2023

Ruth Vars Barnes, 83, of Glenwood Springs, passed away on June 16 of heart failure, surrounded by her loving family. Ruth was born in Westerly, Rhode Island, to Mary Vars, a homemaker, accountant and investor who spent most of her life caring for others, and Raymond Vars, a pharmacist who ran Vars Brothers Pharmacies with his twin brother.

Ruth was the Valedictorian of her graduating class from Westerly High School. She earned a BA in chemistry from Mount Holyoke College (MHC) in Massachusetts, graduating magna cum laude, and was thrilled that both of her daughters also graduated from MHC. Ruth later earned an MA in teaching from Harvard University. She loved learning, and earned many accolades during her academic career.

Ruth met husband James (Jim) Barnes in 1964 on a blind date arranged by Jim’s cousin, also a friend and colleague of Ruth’s. Jim said it took him about 15 minutes to know he was in love with Ruth. Soon thereafter, Jim and his father ran into someone from Westerly who, when asked about Ruth, said, “Oh, Ruth Vars! A very brainy girl!” On June 26, 2023, Ruth and Jim would have been married for 58 years.

Ruth taught chemistry at Needham High School in Massachusetts, and later, because of her concerns about the environment, started a Shaklee business with husband Jim, sharing “products in harmony with nature and good health.” Together, they earned many Shaklee reward trips, which allowed the entire family to visit exciting locations all over the world. Later, daughter Deborah joined them in running the business, which still thrives today. Over the years, Ruth became a friend and mentor to many in Shaklee.

Ruth and Jim raised their daughters in Acton, Massachusetts, and later moved to Charlestown, Rhode Island, where they enjoyed a beautiful view of the ocean. Then, in order to be closer

to their grandchildren, they moved to Glenwood Springs, trading the ocean view for one of the mountains. Daughter Caroline later moved to the same neighborhood with her family. Ruth loved having her entire immediate family so close! She was also very active in the United Methodist Church over her lifetime, in both Acton and Glenwood Springs.

Ruth was incredibly warm and genuine, thoughtful and loving, and simply brilliant. Ruth loved laughing, and could be a bit of a prankster, especially on April Fools’ Day. But her favorite day was always March 4, because it is the only day of the year that is also a command — march forth! Ruth was also a wonderful listener and communicator. Friends and family will greatly miss the heartfelt and personal cards she sent to celebrate every special occasion.

Ruth was preceded in death by her parents, several cousins, and son-in-law Mike Augustyniak. She is survived by husband James, daughters Caroline Barnes and Deborah Barnes Hardaker, son-in-law Julian Hardaker and grandchildren Kate and Claire Hardaker, all of Glenwood Springs, and grandchildren Andrew (Drew) Augustyniak and Casey Augustyniak, of Northglenn and Westminster, Colorado.

A celebration of life will be held at the Glenwood Springs First United Methodist Church in the coming months. A second service will be held next year at The Chapel at Wood River in Richmond, Rhode Island.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any of the following organizations: Rocky Mountain Down Syndrome Association at rmdsa.org, For the Good at forthegood.org (A local nonprofit that partners with villages in rural Kenya to keep girls in school) and Glenwood Springs First United Methodist Church at roaringforkchurches.org

Hiroya Tsukamoto returns to serenade Carbondale

By Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editor

Hiroya “Hiro” Tsukamoto, a Japanese guitarist, will be returning to Carbondale on July 13 to play an intimate concert in True Nature’s Kiva. Having visited Carbondale several times over the years, he describes it as “one of my favorite small towns,” reminiscent of his grandparents’ village which he visited as a child.

Tsukamoto’s music is “eclectic, immersive and mesmerizing,” according to True Nature’s promotional copy. “Beautifully raw and cathartically emotional, Tsukamoto is a world-renowned, self-made musician.”

Now living in New York City, he arrived in the United States in 2000 on a scholarship to study at the Berklee College of Music. He has since traveled extensively within the United States and internationally.

Tsukamoto creates an immersive, dreamlike soundscape using his guitar and voice. His playing flows like poetry — a serene flurry of cascading notes — and one could easily believe that several guitars are playing at once. Rather, it’s Tsukamoto’s detailed fingerpicking that creates such rich textures.

Interviewed on Everything Under The Sun on KDNK in 2021, just before a spontaneous performance at the Third Street Center, Tsukamoto informed The

Sopris Sun that his musical journey began when his father, a fan of bluegrass music, brought home a used banjo from the thrift store.

“Japanese people are interested in Western culture,” Tsukamoto said, “very much so after World War II.” When the war ended, Japanese instrument companies began manufacturing banjos, mandolins and guitars. His father played the fiddle and had bluegrass musician friends encourage Tsukamoto’s practice. Later in life, the stylings of Pat Metheny were also an inspiration.

His latest album, “Little River Canyon,” includes mostly songs written during the pandemic. “When the pandemic started, I didn’t have any inspiration because I was not traveling,” he stated. “Then I started to focus on music here in my place, to focus on the sound of the music.”

His previous album, “Places,” evoked travel and incorporated a looping pedal and more layered compositions. A few tracks were even based on places in Colorado, like the Black Canyon of the Gunnison. “Little River Canyon” by contrast is more simply acoustic, and “pure,” performed with one guitar all throughout and “almost like one take,” Tsukamoto said.

To be on tour again, “it’s a good feeling,” he continued, with many shows booked in July ahead of possibly returning to his hometown in Japan to

play a concert later in August.

The show on July 13 is part of True Nature’s summer concert series which kicks off this Friday, July 7, with Natalie Spears, Gabrielle Louise and Ryan Dilts. Find tickets and details at www. truenaturehealingarts.com/events

To learn more about Tsukamoto’s music, visit www.hiroyatsukamoto.com

Courtesy photo

Hiroya Tsukamoto's latest album is a peaceful, dreamlike journey composed with one guitar and his voice. Courtesy image

Courtesy photo

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

An Unwanted Hug

By Shelly Merriam

June 17, 2023

I am possessed by my grandmother

A tornado of torment

Driving the moment

Carrying my resisting spirit swiftly east turbulent sky the black funnel approaching from behind

The sound wraps around me like an unwanted hug

I smell her body odor

Drive the car into the ditch Throw myself to the floor feeling the burn of the looped carpet

The air drops starkly in coolness

I stretch to see the tornado lengthening pointing the way to Emporia

Her body has passed her spirit hovers

Why does the dark side of nature and human nature seek to dominate and destroy

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

Data to drive effective policies and resource allocation

One question Rollins asked was: How do we know how we're doing? Currently, he said, accurate statistics cannot be gathered for naloxone use for opioid reversals. Many times, he said, when an opioid overdose occurs, the person is taken to an area hospital — whether that be via law enforcement or an ambulance district service — and opioid data is then collected.

However, Rollins explained that free smartphone apps, like OpiRescue and others, offer information on recognizing an opioid overdose and step-by-step instructions for administering naloxone, and they include a tool for reporting opioid overdoses and reversals. Those numbers are otherwise not captured in public health statistics.

Another important requirement for any data collection system is that it adheres to data privacy regulations in compliance with safeguarding personal information and following best practices for data security.

Garfield County Public Health Specialist Mason Hohstadt, a member of the Region 5 Opioid Abatement Council, is also a member of the data dashboard subcommittee, charged with reviewing RFPs for then making a recommendation to the Abatement Council.

Data dashboard RFP submissions are due by July 21, afterwhich the subcommittee will rank submissions and, Hohstadt said, “find an organization that we think can meet all of our needs.” That recommendation will be brought to the next Opioid Abatement Council meeting for a vote on July 27.

For more information on the Region 5 Opioid Council, go to https://www. eaglecounty.us/_T16_R63.php, hosted by fiscal agent Eagle County.

Bird art continued from page 15

a window squeegee. Mark Fuller, an experienced birder, uses photography as his medium. He’s also taught at CMC, led birding outings with ACES and is behind the photography of a book called “Birds of Aspen and the Roaring Fork Valley.”

Whit Boucher paints and draws his creatures using wood panels as his canvas. Leah Potts is another watercolor artist, and she uses detail and vibrancy in her paintings to bring animals to life. Pierre Wille, a sculptor who has previously collaborated with the gallery, plans to bring wooden and metal birds to the show. Thomas Barlow is an ice sculptor, who plans on “surprising” the gallery with his project.

Tori Campisi uses oil and acrylics, Bud Smoot builds colorful birdhouses and Missy Prudden creates in watercolor. Each of these artists has worked hard to apply skills along the theme, because the show is meant to bring the community together and open eyes and minds to the world of birding that exists in the Valley. “We just want to get people excited about birds,” said Biedleman. “And to think about what we can do — how can we get involved, what can we create, what can we do better.”

The opening reception for this exhibit is from 4 to 7pm on July 12 and the Aspen Chapel Gallery is open from 10am to 5pm every day.

Coloradan — snow-capped mountains challenging blue skies, rivers lined with cottonwoods and dotted with the occasional fly fisherman, horses grazing in wide valleys of brush.

Many paintings sell during the night

of the reception, so interested collectors should be sure to attend and get to know the artists in the meantime. In addition to the gallery show, Young and Taylor's work can be viewed on www. korologosgallery.com

Young & Taylor continued from page 15

"Road to Town" by Dan Young, oil on board. Young regularly depicts familiar Colorado views like these in his artwork. Courtesy image

An American flag hung over Highway 133 just south of Penny Hot Springs on Tuesday morning. Some Crystal Valley folks said they’d never seen it before. Does this kind of flag hanging require a CDOT permit?

Scenes from Redstone’s July 4 celebration. Photos by April Crow-Spaulding

Photo by Lynn "Jake" Burton