20 12 10 by The Sopris Sun

Because every town needs a park, a library and a newspaper

Carbondaleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s weekly

community connector

Volume 12, Number 44 | December 10 - 16, 2020

TESTING TIMES

Pandemic information, pages 10-13. Free COVID-19 testing is now available behind Town Hall â&#x20AC;&#x201D; as well as in Aspen, El Jebel and Glenwood Springs. Visit rfvcovidtest.com for info and reservations. Photo by Sue Rollyson

Having enough is the new ‘having it all’ OPINION

SEEKING HIGHER GROUND By Nicolette Toussaint

Recently, my friend Jessi Hempel, a nationally-known journalist, asked Facebook friends how they felt about “having it all” in this time of COVID-19. Cosmo editor Helen Gurley Brown used that phrase to title her 1982 memoire, and at the height of my career, it seemed something to strive for. But even then, my girlfriends had doubts about winning the “San Francisco trifecta”— having a nice apartment, a good job and a meaningful relationship all at once. There was no affordable housing. Our pay didn't match the available housing. And we were the wrong gender when it came to dating most of San Francisco's attractive men. So we generally had to settle for two out of three. Reading the phrase now, in Carbondale in 2020, “having it

all” definitely has a tin ring. I asked about the phrase in a local Facebook group. Freelance writer Sue Gray, who moved here from Southern California in 1997, answered, “I guess we had it all once: a house, two cars, two professional careers, a kid. We gave it all up to go live in the mountains. Except the kid.” My friend Ron Kokish mused, “Does money buy happiness? Studies show that it does, to a certain extent; currently around $90k/year for a family of four... Go past $90k, and happiness does not increase with wealth. That cutoff seems to be the point where a family has enough to eat well, a secure and decent roof over their heads, adequate health care and education without parents having to work so hard they can't adequately focus on their family relationships... If you moved to the mountains in hopes that the beauty of the physical surroundings would compensate for economic insecurity, you gambled on a long shot.” Choosing to live here has always involved tradeoffs. But COVID-19 has made them tougher, as folks like my friend Jessi, an urban professional with transportable work, have fled to more-rural environs. A “Zoom Town” effect is occurring in Montana, in the Hamptons, and right here in river city. Our valley is experiencing a real estate boom. Renters are being displaced as landlords are cashing in on what

Aspen realtor Tim Estin has called the “Great Urban Exodus”. The combo of COVID cancelling local service jobs and increased housing pressure from that urban exodus doesn't bode well for locals living on modest incomes. For some time, the home-job-family trifecta has been out of reach of many young Carbondalians, Sue Gray's son and his wife among them. Forget “having it all!” As 30-year-old Sopris Sun Editor Will Grandbois noted, “Most people my age I know are happy if they don't have to live out of their car and consider health insurance a luxury.” In reality, neither Aspen- or New-York-style expectations were ever sustainable. “These days I'm in a constant battle of having been raised to be a good little consumer, and to believe that every person on the planet can and should consume as much as they want, with no negative impact,” says Carbondale artisan Summer Scott. “Then there's the ever-growing realization that we're about to fall off the (environmental) cliff...” Judging from Jessi's friends' responses, even urban perspectives are changing: “I might have had it all, but I couldn't handle it!” “Is this a trick question?” “Wasn't ‘having it all’ an ‘80s thing?” Back in the ‘80s, Helen Gurley-Brown was writing for

women like me. But by the time I moved back home to Colorado in 2011 – after the economic bottom fell out, flattening my big, urban career – I suspected that her premise was absurd. Brooks Bell, a tech marketer and another of Jessi's friends, says that a cancer diagnosis clarified her priorities. “When we usually think about 'having it all', the list may include career, children, health, beauty, love, wealth and purpose. To have all of this is impossible. No one has enough time, energy, or intention to get it all done...To actually 'have it all', the list itself needs to change...” Indeed it does. Mine has. A couple years ago, I retired “early” (before the recommended 70) because, like Brooks, I was given a diagnosis that dramatically shortened my life expectancy. Then COVID came along and dramatically altered my notion of retirement: No travel. No concerts. No art shows, no live classes. I have no grandchildren or children... And yet, in many ways, I have it all: A small town where I feel safe, where friends drop off dinner when I'm under the weather. Places to walk outdoors. I'm blessed with a modest home, a good internet connection and enough money to buy art supplies. I've learned to teach art online, and due to COVID, I'm teaching quite a few homeschooled kids, forming relationships I wouldn't otherwise have. It's enough.

LETTERS Roberts-Gray letter comment

Commissioners come to Jesus

Dear Editor: Ms. Annette Roberts-Gray used a lot of numbers in her letter last week. She says the US has 4% Earth's population but almost 20% of covid deaths. As of November, China has reported 4,742 total deaths from the virus. They have 17% of Earth's population but admit to only .003% of the 1.53 million global COVID deaths. Hmm. Annette avows 20,000 plus "documented" lies by The Donald. I count 900 plus days of the sham Mueller probe that was based on lies. I recall Pelosi's baseless impeachment while Trump was battling the China Virus invasion. Ms. Roberts-Gray is upset that the President hasn't made plans for sharing the US vaccines with the world yet. That's because he really does put Americans first. She welcomes Joe and Kamala while I'd prefer Joe Camel. 74 million citizens voted for Trump because he's not a politician. Trump made his billions before politics. Joe and family made their millions from politics. Trump is beholding to no one. Who's Joe owe and will Hunter ride along selling access to the "big guy" again? Bruno Kirchenwitz Rifle

Dear Editor: As COVID-19 explodes in Garfield County, a showdown with the Colorado health department looms. The county could lose its 50-percent-of-indoor-capacity variance for businesses and other gathering places and face yet harsher restrictions. Their backs to the wall, our Republican Garfield County commissioners have found religion. The commissioners recently stressed that mask wearing is mandatory for businesses – for patrons and employees alike. They argue for “complaint-driven outreach.” Following a citizen complaint, businesses are to be reminded about the rules, and following a second, “the name of that business comes before this board and becomes public,” according to Commissioner Tom Jankovsky. This smells disingenuous, because our commissioners already know who at least some of these businesses are. You bet they do. And a “rat on your neighbor” strategy smacks more of Venezuela or China than democracy in America. My gal Marilyn and I could report retail outlets where the owners and staff flout their defiance of the mask order, but hell, some of these folks are our friends. Tattling is not how we roll. Besides, what would publicizing the names of these businesses accomplish? They’re inexplicably

proud of their self-centered civil disobedience. But they might listen to reason, if someone they respect took the trouble to persuade them. Someone they voted for, someone like, say, a Republican county commissioner. Non-maskcompliant business owners are part of the commissioners’ loyal political base. They look at the world in a way that I cannot fathom. But the commissioners speak their lingo. They know the secret handshake. Business owners set an example for their staff and their customers. A courtesy visit from John Martin or Tom Jankovsky or Mike Samson could make clear the threat our economy and public health face from both COVID and irresponsible actions. Right now it appears to be a matter of when — not if — the state steps in and further restricts our economy. Maybe we can still head this off. Challenging a dangerous mindset would require political courage, and leadership. It would surely be worth a try. Ed Colby New Castle Continued on page 22

Correction

Last week Jeannie Perry's "Ps&Qs" column ran with the wrong picture and byline.

The views expressed in opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect those of The Sopris Sun. The community is invited to submit letters up to 500 words to news@soprissun.com. Longer columns are considered on a case-by-case basis. The deadline for submission is noon on Monday. 2 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

Sincerest thanks to our

Honorary Publishers for their annual commitment of $1,000+

Email marilyn@soprissun.com for more information.

Jim Calaway, Honorary Chair Kay Brunnier Scott Gilbert Bob Young – Alpine Bank Peter Gilbert Umbrella Roofing, Inc. Bill Spence and Sue Edelstein Greg and Kathy Feinsinger Carolyn Nelson Jim Noyes True Nature Healing Arts Nicolette Toussaint Jill and Gary Knaus Megan Tackett Ken & Donna Riley Michelle & Ed Buchman CoVenture Lee Beck and John Stickney Deborah and Shane Evans Carly and Frosty Merriott

Legacy Givers

for including us in their final wishes. Mary Lilly

And all our SunScribers and community members for your support.

It truly takes a village to keep The Sun shining.

Donate by mail or online. P.O. Box 399 Carbondale, CO 81623 520 S. Third Street #32 970-510-3003 www.soprissun.com Editor Will Grandbois • 970-510-0540 news@soprissun.com Executive Director Todd Chamberlin • 970-510-0246 adsales@soprissun.com Graphic Designer: Ylice Golden Reporter: Roberta McGowan Delivery: Crystal Tapp Proofreader: Lee Beck Current Board Members Raleigh Burleigh, President Marilyn Murphy, Vice President Linda Criswell, Secretary Klaus Kocher, Treasurer Kay Clarke • Carol Craven • Lee Beck Megan Tackett • Gayle Wells Donna Dayton • Terri Ritchie The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6:30 p.m. on second Mondays at the Third Street Center. Contact board@soprissun.com to reach them. Founding Board Members Allyn Harvey • Becky Young Colin Laird • Barbara New • Elizabeth Phillips Peggy DeVilbiss • Russ Criswell

The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a proud member of the Carbondale Creative District The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Donations to The Sun are fully tax deductible.

Todd Chamberlin named executive director

*REGISTER ONLINE or CALL TODAY!

CMOOLORADO

Classes Starting as early as December 21!

U N TA I N C O L

SPRIN

Browse through our printed bulletin or online at www.coloradomtn.edu/ community-education/ classes/

` CROSS-COUNTRY SKI LESSONS

 Aspe

n & Car

LEGE

G 2021 CLASS SCHED U

bondal

Registr ation is O

pen!

Classic and Skate Styles various days/times at Spring Gulch Trail System Classes Start

Newly-named Executive Director Todd Chamberlin works on new projects to expand the advertising and reach throughout the valley. Photo by Roberta McGowan By Roberta McGowan Sopris Sun Staff The Roaring Fork Valley community’s only 501c3 nonprofit newspaper is modifying its organizational structure to help position the paper to grow and expand its mission. Todd Chamberlin, Sopris Sun advertising director, was appointed to the top spot and will be heading up business development, fundraising, distribution and sales for the organization. “We’ve had a good year and we’ll continue to work hard to expand our editorial and advertising base,” said Chamberlin, adding, “There are many opportunities for nonprofit and for profit organizations to collaborate and benefit our growing communities. As a community newspaper the Sun can be an integral partner in these collaborations. Up until now it was all on the editor to manage such collaborations. My role will mean we can do more of this, which I think will be very exciting.” The Sun has also recently been able to publish more robust papers thanks to the support from donors and advertising partners. The growth has opened the door to expand our mission a bit, Chamberlin revealed. “As our communities grow in size and together, there are always more stories than can and should be tackled,” he maintained, “I also feel there are many people in the valley who have not discovered the Sun, so we need to work on increasing distribution. With the City Markets' pulling free publications out of their store’s we are continually looking to find new distribution points to compensate for this loss.” Carbondale was without a newspaper from the 1930s, when the Carbondale Avalanche shut down, until 1974, when first the Roaring Fork Review and then the Valley Journal started. The Journal printed its last issue on Christmas Eve 2008, but The Sopris Sun opened for business in February 2009 and has published its weekly paper ever since. The Carbondale Branch Library offers 33 years of bound volumes of the region’s weekly newspapers. The issues can be read inside the

January

Get some great pointers and practice at Carbondale’s own worldclass cross-country ski trail system. Class size has been reduced to 4 students. NOTE: CMC campuses will be closed for the holidays. Plan ahead to make sure you are able to register for your class(es).

` PILATES AND ZEN BARRE

library but are not available to check out. Looking to the future, Chamberlin admitted that, as a 501c3 organization, “funding can be Online Mon/Wed & Tues/Thurs starting 1/4/21 stressful at best. There are so many great nonprofit These classes are live online and recorded so students can organizations in the valley and with Covid we are watch and workout on their own schedule. Try a pre-recorded all going after a smaller pool of money this year. class for FREE to see if you like it! We truly appreciate the community support we’ve had this year, especially with our advertisers. They truly are our partners in helping keep The Sun alive and thriving”. “Some of the reasons the board brought me Online Tues/Thurs, 6-7:30pm, 1/12-2/4 on board was for me to apply for more grants and A basic photography class for beginning as well as do more fundraising for the organization,” he intermediate photographers who want to get off the automatic said “the cost to print each free paper is around setting. Students must have a DSLR or film camera that can be $1.80. Relying solely on advertising, especially in taken off automatic settings. a bad economy is simply not feasible. So these grants and small monthly donations of $5 to $10 truly help make a difference in keeping the paper going. “ Online Mondays, 7-8:30pm, 1/18-2/22 Todd mentioned he will be sad to lose present Explore Native American literature that highlights the themes of Editor Will Grandbois, who will be leaving at the historical context, reservation life, and current cultural conflict end of the month. There is an ongoing search to through the writings of well-known Native American authors from find a replacement. Chamberlin will continue as various tribes. advertising director for now. Graphic Designer Ylice Golden, Reporter Roberta McGowan, and Crystal Tapp for delivery and volunteer Proofreader Lee Beck remain on staff with Online Thursdays, 6:30-8pm, 1/21-2/4 assistance from freelance writers, photographers and volunteers. Anxiety, grief, and change together can create some strong “Most importantly as a community emotional reactions. Learn how to be pro-active with stress resource, we want to continue to help struggling management skills that help when you are feeling overwhelmed. businesses, and do as much as we can to support other nonprofits, especially in these times. In 2021 we hope to expand our program of offering free and discounted rates when we can Online Wednesday, 6-8pm, 1/27-3/3 financially” he explained. Five curated films and a group of shorts will be watched and Chamberlin comes to his new role after years discussed. Examine some literary and technical terms specific to in a variety of positions including 10 years on the art form, as well as preface some social issues that can help the Carbondale Parks and Recreation Board, guide discussions. eight years as e-commerce director for National Geographic, director of outreach at High Country News, assistant manager at Aspen Skiing Company and park ranger at both the Zion and Rocky Mountain National Parks. A Colorado native and 13-year local, Chamberlin enjoys hiking, snowboarding, rafting, photography, travel and following the evolution of Carbondale’s creative community. To reach him, go to todd@soprissun.com or call 970-510-0246. THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 3

` PHOTOGRAPHY FUNDAMENTALS

` NATIVE AMERICAN LITERATURE

` ANXIETY MANAGEMENT IN TIMES OF CHANGE ` FILM STUDIES

*Search and Register at coloradomtn.edu/ community-education/classes/ 970-963-2172

SCUTTLEBUTT Cup auction

Go chasing waterfalls

Hundreds of original, handmade ceramic cups are available for viewing at the Carbondale Clay Center and for purchase via an online auction through 8 p.m. Dec. 13. The cups range from quirky mugs to elegant tumblers, from wild shot cups to refined tea bowls, and everything inbetween. With artists from around the country represented, there truly is something for everyone. Visit carbondaleclay.org for more information.

Improvements are about to begin on the heaviest use areas in Rifle Falls State Park. When completed the waterfall viewing area and trails near the falls will be better able to handle the growing number of visitors at this West Slope treasure. Workers will begin removing the pedestrian bridge at the base of Rifle Falls on Monday, Dec. 14. While the park will remain open during construction, visitors will not be able to use the popular loop hiking trail to cross below the falls. The caves on the east side of Rifle Creek and the trails east of the falls can still be accessed by hiking the upper section of the Coyote Trail and backtracking on the loop.

SAWliday The Studio for Arts and Works (525 Buggy Cir.) will host a holiday pop up featuring a wide array of art, ceramics and homegoods from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 12. Masks are required and social distancing efforts are in place.

To the max Dr. Maxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Healing Center at 207 Basalt Center Cir., Suite 207 is now open. With more than 30 years of hands-on holistic chiropractic experience, he incorporates a wide array of intersecting ideologies. Contact info@drmaxhc.com or call 444-5053 to learn more or schedule an appointment.

Basalt online Basalt Regional Library is bursting with virtual events â&#x20AC;&#x201D; read more in our next issue, but in the meantimeâ&#x20AC;Ś From 6:30 to 8 p.m. Dec. 14, catch a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Colonistâ&#x20AC;? game night. Then, from noon to 2 p.m. Dec. 16, celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah and a Colorado winter wonderland by sharing a traditional story or poem or listening to others. Finally, from 5:30 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 17, select members of the Roaring Fork Youth Orchestra will be joined by their teachers and mentors in a concert of holiday music specially tailored for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;COVID year.â&#x20AC;? Visit basaltlibrary.org to get involved.

Top care Heritage Park Care Center has been named one of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best nursing homes by U.S. News and World Report. Life Care, which operates Heritage Park, had 91 of its facilities nominated.

Sweet as honey

Placing pillars in public seems to have caught on, with another â&#x20AC;&#x153;monolithâ&#x20AC;? appearing at Sunlight Mountain Resort. Luckily, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s out of the way of traffic and the resort hopes to accommodate it. Courtesy photo

If a Roaring Fork Swap thread is any guide, Honey Butter â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Slow Groovin's new project in the old Red Rock Diner â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is a huge success. Described as "amazing," "delicious" and "incredible," it offers plenty of "soon-to-be famous" fried chicken options in addition to some more traditional diner fare and breakfast all day.

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Vicki Yarbrough, Bob Johnson and Bill Laemmel (Dec. 10); Marc Bruell, Gerald DeLisser, Lea Linse and Leslie Johnson (Dec.11); Laurel Janeen Smith, Beth Mohsenin (Dec. 12); Claire Markoya, Amy Broadhurst and Jon Araujo (Dec. 13); Steve Keohane (Dec. 14); Alya Howe, Ciarra Bristol and Lynn â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jakeâ&#x20AC;? Burton, Arturo Ortiz, Anthony Ortiz (Dec.15) and JR Burton (Dec. 16).

They say itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your birthday

Shit talk While Google has since caught and fixed it, outdoor clothing company Virtika was briefly listed as a public bathroom in Denver for the purposes of reviews (which, incidentally, gave it 1.8 stars). This was presumably related to owner David Leshâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flagrant disregard for forest rules, culminating in a social media post of him defecating in Maroon Lake (an action which resulted in his temporary ban from public lands.

Beautiful Poinsettias â&#x20AC;˘ Wreaths â&#x20AC;˘ Garlands & Greens for decking the halls â&#x20AC;˘ Unique Ornaments & DĂŠcor

Find y r â&#x20AC;&#x153;best Chris as ee e râ&#x20AC;? at the Chris as Sh pe

Come see our spectacular lights Take family photos in our festive settings Warm up by the ďŹ re (socially distanced) Take a family wagon ride around the nursery

Give e avorit your f er a n garde RD CA GIFT them t and le spring! of dream

We are committed to honoring holiday traditions while keeping us all safe.

400 GILLESPIE DRIVE, EL JEBEL | 970-963-1173 | EAGLECRESTNURSERY.COM 4 â&#x20AC;˘ THE SOPRIS SUN â&#x20AC;˘ soprissun.com â&#x20AC;˘ December 10 - December 16, 2020

Thank you to the Buddy Program’s 2020

Gingerbread House Workshop Sponsors Hosted by Helen & Jim Fifield, Candice & Jeff Gorsuch, Amanda & Bret Hirsh, Hannah Thompson, and Karen Wing With special thanks to Helen and Jim Fifield for their founding leadership! Project Architect $10,000 +

Karen Wing

Builds a Foundation $5,000 - $9,999

Katie & Adam Goldsmith, Lorrie Wright-LaRose & Tim LaRose, Jennifer & Joe Mason, Jeanne & Ned Walker Builds a Frame $3,000 - $4,999

Allison and Randall Bone, Helen & Jim Fifield, Amanda & Bret Hirsh, Mona Look-Mazza & Tony Mazza, M&W Properties, MBS Associates, Becky & Mike Murray, Billy Stolz, Gina & Andrew Turchin Builds a Roof $1,500 - $2,999

Holly & David Dreman, Molly & Will Gilmore, Gloria & Jimmy Marcus Lex Tarumianz

Builds a Wall $1,000 - $1,499

Laurie Michaels & David Bonderman, Annie & Jerry Hosier, Soledad & Bob Hurst, Steve Marucs, Sierra Vista/Bonita Neighbors, Hannah Thompson Builds a Floor $500 - $999

Elyse Elliott & Jeremy Bernstein, Nicole Giantonio & Jim Horowitz, Aimee & John Oates, Dana Presutti, Phyllis Sica

Builds a Window $250 - $499

Tyler Barletta, Michael Fuller, Kristen Maley & Doug Nehasil, Robin & Kenny Smith, Jennifer Causing & Peter Waanders, Lynda & Doug Weiser, Donna & Roy Wiedinmyer Builds a Door up to $249

Deborah Daine & Marc Bennett, Morgan & Matt Brown, Ashley & Mike Connolly, Divide Creek Builders, Julie Donovan, Alexandra Hughes, Johnson Construction, Nancy Snell & Rodney Knutson, Joy Myers, Doug Peate, Susan Plummer, She Haus, Maureen Boyd & Warren Tashnek

A A All set aspen THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 5

Have a little art star in your family? Enter the Spruce Up The Sun holiday cover design contest!

Theme: Holiday Wish Rules:

• Kids of all grades are invited to submit artwork • Paper Size: 8 1/2 x 11” • Feel free to use a variety of media • No glitter • No three-dimensional elements • Bright, bold colors are encouraged • Please write the child’s name, age, grade, school, and parent contact information on the back (not the front) of the entry

Deadline:

5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 14

Drop Off:

The Launchpad, 76 S. Fourth St., Carbondale

Mail:

P.O. Box 399, Carbondale CO 81623 For more information contact news@soprissun.com 970-510-0540

Carbondale’s weekly

Holiday Advertising Deadlines

Sun e h T p U e c u r p S Children’s 24 issue . c e D e th r fo 8 1 . Dec Year in Review 31 issue Dec. 18, for Dec. erlin today! b m a h C d d o T t c Conta 70-510-0246 9 | m o .c n u s s ri p adsales@so ﬁcations/ /advertise/speci

soprissun.com

Spruce Up T h e Su n

This year’s winner

GU I

community connec tor Volume 11, Numb er 46

| December 19, 201

is…

Our “friends and fam ily” theme was all about com ing together, so it’s fitting that our favorite cov er design was a coll aboration. Luis Santos Candela and Marcus Trujillo are at Carbondale Mid sixth graders dle School, and according to thei r teacher they came in at lunc h to work on thei r project. The fina l pro duct has wonderf ul dep th, with plenty of deta il in the laye rs. In add ition to being festive, loca l and thematic , it’s, wel l, cute. And that’s precisely what keeps this trad ition going year after year. Of course, ther e were plenty of other spec tacu lar works of art in the run ning, so we also awarded first plac e in each grade to: Maya Annabe l (first), Morgan Dillard (second ), Lyrah Kreilin g (third), Maielle Maes (fourth) , Simona Perutkov a-R and (fifth) and Emmal ine Warner (sixth). We also awarded run ners up in each grade and an arra y mentions, includin of honorable g our youngest contestant — 3-year-old Cam ila Cruz — and our oldest — 16-yearold Bro ok-lynn Lowery, who was also the first to submit and assu age our fears of hav ing to cancel the whole thing. Che ck ‘em all out on pag es 12 and 13. Contest ants who wou ld like to pick up their orig inal artwork can stop by our office at the Third Stre et Center. We’d like to than k ever yon e who sent in wor k, as wel l as our panel of judg es who were tasked with cho osing amo ng such ama zing entries.

Happy holidays!

a Happy Holiday!

Contest winners will hav e their artw k printed in the December 24, 20 20 issue.

Our holiday issues are super popular every year. You do NOT want to miss highlighting your business or nonproﬁt. Most of all, you can lock in 2020 prices for the coming year. 6 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

RE C

Because every tow n needs a park, a libra ry and a newspaper

Art Base takes root By Roberta McGowan Sopris Sun Staff

A downtown Basalt fixture has taken a giant leap forward to finally find its forever home with the $1.5 purchase of the entire building at 174 Midland Ave. Skye Skinner — appointed Art Base executive director appointed in 2020 after two years in the interim position — announced the upcoming move to the 4880 sq.ft. Three Bears building from its 1800 sq.ft space in the old Basalt library. “This opportunity simply fell out of the sky,” she enthused. “We just couldn't pass up the chance to establish ourselves here permanently.” Skinner described the advantages of this opportunity as the building is fairly new, but maintains the exterior historic nature in sync with other nearby structures. Plus, she said, the building interior has no weight bearing walls, so the remodeling can be accomplished on a totally open canvas and is basically move-in ready. “It will be a while, though,” Skinner noted. Skinner envisioned a ground floor gallery that directly faces the street and encourages passersby to stop and take a gander at the variety of creativity on display. Works of visual art support student, emerging and established Colorado-based artists. Solo exhibitions focus on artists living in the valley. On the second and top floor, workshops and classrooms will be located as an educational magnet for adults and kids. Accessible now only by two staircases, it will be modified to include an elevator to enable people with disabilities to easily participate. The building also boasts a rooftop deck, which Skinner noted, has a lot of possibilities. She emphasized how important community support has been. “We were able to raise over $700,000,” she smiled. “And we’ll soon be kicking off a capital campaign to pay off the remaining mortgage and bolster long

Art Base Executive Director Skye Skinner shows where the large first floor gallery space will be located to attract the interest of people strolling by on Midland Avenue. Photo by Roberta McGowan

OUR AN NU AL

IT'

FOR E M TI

term funding in the form of endowments.” One of its main goals, according to the website, is to establish the historic downtown Basalt as an art and intellectual center. An economic benefit could be “a combination of arts organizations, cultural events and creative businesses has been shown to dramatically increase financial vibrancy.” What is now called the Art Base had its beginnings as the Wyley Art Center in Woody Creek in 1996. The center moved to Basalt in 2005, and changed its name to the Art Base in 2015. Skinner comes to the organization after 22 years at the Compass, the nonprofit that operates the Aspen and Carbondale Community Schools. John Black, president of the Art Base Board of Trustees, said “She is well respected in the Roaring Fork Valley for her work in the nonprofit sector, and we are fortunate to have her join us during this exciting chapter.” With a hefty schedule of week-long and weekend classes, the Art Base offers year-round courses in painting, drawing, sculpture, mixed media and journaling with images. Also, among its programs are middle school art, after school art, ARTMentors for teenagers and adult workshops like the Creativity Club. The nonprofit also sponsors Art Talks limited to members which have featured artists discussing their creative processes, printmaking demonstrations and art in education. All are appropriate for the entire family. Through the holiday season, free “make your own ornaments” kits are available outside the front door. Future programs Skinner hopes to develop include English newcomer public arts, artist residencies and to design and open a digital suite with youth and adult classes. To reach out to people throughout the valley, the Art Base offers scholarships. Go to the artbase. org for more information.

y a d i l Ho

Special Savings on Gift Items for All Ages Puzzles, Creative Kits, Art Supplies, Toys and So Much More in Store Through December 24th

23252 Two Rivers Road Basalt, CO 81621 970-927-4705 bprint@comcast.net basaltprinting.com

Local Your tore S Little h wit thing Every ore. and M

THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 7

OUR TOWN

If you know of someone who should be featured in “Our Town,” email news@soprissun.com or call 510-3003.

Ozminkowski sees science in both medicine and arts

By Olivia Emmer Sopris Sun Correspondent

to 40 patients in a day, and we’re getting around eight positives per day. But we'll see what happens. This week is really the one that'll tell us more about what people did over the Thanksgiving holiday. The other thing that we're seeing a lot of is people who know they're COVID positive, but they've had nowhere to get treatment because you can't be seen in a normal doctor's office.

Kaitlyn Getz Ozminkowski is an artist, known primarily for her ceramics, and an EMT at the Respiratory Acute Care Center at Rifle’s Grand River Hospital. Q: Where are you from and how did you end up in Carbondale? A: Originally I'm from Columbus, Ohio. I was working at a craft school in Maine — my background is in fine arts. Alleghany Meadows was on the board of this craft school and he asked me if I had any interest in being his assistant. He's an amazing potter, businessman, and entrepreneur and at the time he had two amazing galleries. It was such an honor to be asked to do that and so of course I moved out here.

years ahead of me. That's the beauty of Carbondale — it doesn't matter. You can show with this person, and have great conversations about your work with them, and grow and learn. There's no hierarchy, we're just all artists, making really cool stuff.

Q: Would you tell me a little more about your world as an artist? A: I graduated from Ohio University which has the thirdranked ceramics program in the U.S. I love the chemistry of ceramics, really all of the science behind what we're doing as artists. The whole valley has this amazing support system for artists, and I would get invited to do shows with people that, in my mind, are light

Q: What is your current job title? A: Emergency medical technician, intermediate (EMT-I). I work in the Respiratory Acute Care Clinic at Grand River hospital in Rifle. It was created because the emergency rooms are so busy, and if someone is coughing and clearly sick with something that could be COVID related, there's not enough capacity in the emergency rooms to handle all that.

Kaitlyn Getz Ozminkowski. Photo by Erin Danneker, Eyedrop Design Q: Who ends up at that clinic? A: Grand River is a federally funded hospital, so anybody can come to our hospital. They don't have to have insurance either. We see people from Grand Junction to El Jebel and Eagle. And all the way up to Craig, too. Patients who come to our clinic are those with any of the list of COVID-19 symptoms. We currently have seven exam rooms, but are trying to expand to 20. Q: How many of your patients are COVID positive? A: I started this position in August, and back then a few people a week would be positive. Now we see anywhere from 25

coworker of mine, David Hickel, is the EMS coordinator. I spend a lot of time outdoors because my partner and I are both climbers and ice climbers. I thought it wouldn't hurt and it'd be interesting. I took the class on a whim. We do these clinical rotations and I did one at Children's Hospital on a Friday night, overnight, 12 hours in the emergency and trauma department, and I was just hooked. I didn't know that I would remain calm and do what I needed to do until I was faced with it.

Q: That sounds stressful. How are you doing? A: Everybody in health care is asking, can we please shut down? The hospital I'm at, they've been in construction for a post operative wound care clinic. They just finished the construction and decided to change it to a COVID ICU. It’s got four beds right now. We had been sending people to Denver or to Grand Junction, but [those hospitals] are now full so we have nowhere to send anybody. To be honest, that is what kind of broke me. I was like, oh, this is how bad it is. We're gonna try and help people four beds at a time. It's better than nothing.

Vital Statistics

Favorite hike: There is a hike in Redstone to get to the Redstone pillar, which is an ice climb. I love it. It's very secluded and the ice is always big and cold. Favorite book: Krista Tippett's Becoming Wise. She does that public radio podcast, On Being. She's amazing. Birthday: Dec. 12

Q: How did you decide to become an EMT? A: I used to work at Colorado Mountain College. A former

Pet peeve: People who leave their grocery carts in the middle of the parking lot.

Co l

e o Av ad or

Sopris Lodge at Carbondale

Tru He e Nat alin ur gA e rts

Main St

Gra

eT rail

N 2nd St

N 3rd St

Welcome Center

Rio

Main St

Elevated Senior Living is Coming to Carbondale Sopris Lodge at Carbondale Senior Living is a lifestyle community offering independent living, assisted living and memory care for the Roaring Fork Valley. We support resident wellness, choice, and healthy living, allowing you to live well, age well.

• Easy access to the Rio Grande Trail and downtown Carbondale

• Fitness Center

• Wellness programs and life enrichment activities

• Outdoor patio with hot tub

• Delicious chef-prepare meals

• Gardening beds and greenhouse

• Concierge and transportation services

• Greenhouse

• Bistro, library, Internet café, and theater

• Pet-friendly community

• Technology for safety, security and entertainment

….and much more

Visit our Welcome Center Today!

Roaring Fork athletes shine no matter what colors they wear

By James Steindler Sopris Sun Correspondent

Roaring Fork students Maya Lindgren (top) and Corey Bollock (bottom) earned honors for their role on the Basalt softball team. Photos by Sue Rollyson

Despite not having hosted its own sports teams this first special season (declared by Colorado High School Activities Association [CHSAA] as ‘season A’) Roaring Fork student-athletes joined other nearby teams so they could still compete. Four girls from Roaring Fork High School (RFHS) joined Basalt’s Varsity softball team this year. This in and of itself is not atypical as RFHS doesn’t generally have its own softball team. However, this year the team totalled 12 players — a limit set by COVID regulations. Other restrictions prevented the team from traveling to the Front Range and capped the number of games at 16. The team played 25 games last season. David Miller trained the Longhorns for the past four years and has undertaken the role of head coach for the last three. When it comes to 2020 Miller said, “It was a challenging season, but let me say that we were all just thankful to play at all.” With restrictions preventing what’s generally customary such as players gathering in the dugout and fans missing from the stands (at least at home) the camaraderie associated with the sport has been relatively elusive — but not out of reach. “It made the game different,” Miller stated and then brought up the fact that at the end of a game the teams could not line up and shake one anothers’ hands — inhibiting a long time tradition of sportsmanship. “All that being said, we considered every game we got to play a gift,” he conveyed. Two Roaring Fork girls, Maya Lindgren (senior) and Corey Bollock (sophomore), were recognized across the league for their achievements this season. Lindgren made first team all conference which is made up of the top players from the entire Western Slope league and nominated by all participating coaches. “Corey made the next round which

Need Knows No

Season

Contribute to helping over 3,000 neighbors with safety & security needs!

Scan to donate!

is an honorable mention all conference,” Miller stated. Lindgren was put wherever she was needed and, “Can play any position on the field,” the coach regaled. Bollock has aspirations to play college ball, “And she’s got the ability to play someplace,” Miller surmised.

Season B The 2020-21 CHSAA ‘Season B’ permits schools to compete in basketball, ice hockey, skiing, girls swimming and wrestling. RFHS Athletic Director Dominik Yoder appreciates that athletes from his school have been participating in sports elsewhere and had the opportunity to watch at least one of the softball games from the sidelines. When asked how it’s been not having sports’ teams hosted at the high school Yoder replied, “TOUGH — and you can capitalize and bold print that if you’d like.” Well hold onto your couch cushion because the Rams are about to hit the court. That’s right, girls and boys basketball have already begun practice and are bracing to open the season in January. Because fans will still not be able to attend the games, each will be livestreamed for spectators to watch from the comfort of their homes. “We’re going to try and connect with our local radio stations to come in and do a play by play,” Yoder explained, “So kind of create a little bit of an NBA type atmosphere.” “Other than the athletes being required to wear masks, I think it’s pretty much the same as a normal practice outside of COVID,” Yoder said. Players have had to follow protocols such as not sharing water bottles, masking-up indoors and completing health screenings. “I think our student athletes are adapting,” he continued and described an instance where a student had missed a practice and later told Yoder they had because a friend of theirs had experienced mild symptoms. “Those are the kind of behaviors that will keep us safe and keep us competing,” he stated.

TOY DRIVE

This holiday season, give the gift of HOPE to children with life-threatening illnesses. Please donate new unwrapped toys for ages 3 to 18: gift cards, books, legos, dolls, art supplies, outdoor gear, action ﬁgures, recreational items, board games, remote controlled cars, stuﬀed toys, sports equipment, electronic games and smart devices. www.ShiningStarsFoundation.org Mackenzie@ShiningStarsFoundation.org 970-726-8009

https://tinyurl.com/yxdpn5ly

Mail a check! P.O. Box 2964 Glenwood Springs, Colorado 81602

For more info: 970-945-6976

Heather’s is proud to be a drop-oﬀ location for this toy drive. Please help us make the drive a success! Our hours are: Monday: 11am - 9pm Tuesday: CLOSED Wednesday: 11am - 9pm Thursday: 11am -9pm Friday: 11am - 9pm Saturday: 9am - 9pm Sunday: 9am - 6pm 166 Midland Ave Basalt | 970-927-0151 | HeathersSavoryPies.com

THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 9

County corona cases crest

By Will Grandbois Sopris Sun Staff

• for our businesses • for our schools • for our families We are United to Stop the Spread of COVID-19. Show personal responsibility by taking these critical public health recommendations seriously and encourage your friends, neighbors and family to do the same.

• Limit in-person gatherings, shrink your bubble • Wear a mask • Wash your hands frequently • Keep your distance 6 feet apart • Stay home if you are sick

The spectre of COVID-19 hung heavy over the Garfield County Commissioners’ meeting after the Coroner's Office determined that COVID-19 complications claimed the lives of at least five more residents. The loss of three people in their early 60s, a man in his mid-70s and two people in their 90s between the second week of November and the first week of December brings the county’s death toll to 11 with five more under investigation. “In the 16 deaths that I’ve reviewed… I feel that at least 13 of those people would still be with us today had they not contracted COVID,” Coroner Rob Glassmire clarified as part of the Dec. 7 meeting. The topic had already been discussed even before the agenda began in earnest, with Carbondalian Debbie Bruell seizing the public comment period to encourage commissioners to be more proactive in their messaging. “Asking people to wear masks because it’s a rule… is definitely not as effective as helping people understand why wearing a mask is so important,” she noted. “It’s deadly for many people. Even when it’s not deadly, many people are having long-lasting effects… I don’t want to look like California. It’s scary what’s happening there.” While Commissioner John Martin disputed Bruell’s assessment of the virus’s danger to the under-70 demographic, he agreed with the importance of slowing the spread. “The goal is to keep everyone healthy as much as possible,” he said. “Those who take the risks should also take the responsibility of protecting other people.” After Judie Blanchard, also of Carbondale, questioned the commissioners’ own lack of masks for the meeting — which was a mix of online and in person, with distancing in the latter case — the board asked for further COVID comments to be held until after the public health report. That involved officials from hospitals,

schools and local government, all of whom have been meeting weekly to coordinate. Roaring Fork School District Superintendent Rob Stein addressed the importance of public participation in preventing more quarantines like the recent transition of 17 Crystal River Elementary School students and staff, a Glenwood Springs Middle School class and Basalt Middle School’s entire fifth grade to distanced learning. “Another reason to really slow the spread is so we can continue operating our schools,” he noted. “The more people are sick in the community, the more staff we have sick.” Grand River Hospital has a similar problem even as it increases capacity, according to Dr. Kevin Coleman. “Our biggest issue is staffing,” he said. “As far as beds available, we’re sitting better than we were a week ago.” Commissioner Tom Jankovsky found the presentation promising. “I think the message we hear from you is quite different from what we read in the newspaper,” he noted.

‘Widespread community transmission’ In an effort to delve a little deeper, The Sun caught up with Public Health Specialists Carrie Godes and Mason Hohstadt. “We saw a really, really sharp increase beginning around Nov. 7, but we’ve started seeing a stabilizing of cases,” Hohstadt said. “That’s promising, but I don’t foresee that it’s going to go down significantly before the end of the year.” He reminded the public that the main way to avoid contracting or spreading the virus is to minimize close contact with others. Both specialists acknowledged that that can be particularly difficult in the cold season, during the holidays and after so many months of caution. “I think there’s some relaxing in those closer settings,” Godes observed. “Maybe early on, we were just much more strict.” According to Hohstadt, a little over 50 percent of reported cases have confirmed person-to-person spread, but, he said, “we have

read.com p S e h t p to S to d e it n U

tagio.com n o lC e s o m re a P s o Unid

10 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

Right now, the free tests provided by Dr. Brooke Allen's office are the main option without a doctor's appointment, but Garfield County is looking to roll out mobile testing soon — visit garfield-county.com for current info. Photo by Sue Rollyson

COVID-19 TESTING Aspen Valley Hospital is partnering with Pitkin County Public Health to provide COVID-19 testing for our community.

ASPEN

AVH’s Respiratory Evaluation Center

Location: • Aspen Valley Hospital at 0401 Castle Creek Road, Aspen

While Valley View and Grand River hospitals saw fewer positive tests in the last week, infection rates are still much higher than at any time before November. widespread community transmission here.” One emerging tool for identifying spread between strangers are exposure notifications — a setting on iPhones and an app for Android that uses Bluetooth to track contact and provide anonymous alerts when someone you’ve been close to tests positive. “From the day it got turned on, we got calls,” Godes said. “It appears to be working well.” Still, positive tests — much less hospitalizations or death — trend well behind exposure, with actions now having impacts weeks down the road. “People have personal responsibility not only for themselves but for others,” Hohstadt asserted. “Somebody you love and care for could have a really severe outcome.” “We really do need the public to know

about isolation and quarantine,” Godes added. “If you’re waiting for a test result and you’re not feeling well, you really do need to stay home.” That’s particularly important as Garfield County Public Health’s resources are overrun by over 400 open cases. “We are still above capacity, and we are retooling the way that we handle the influx of cases,” he said. The triage process will prioritize at-risk populations and essential workers. Those are the same demographics that are likely to be first in line for vaccination — a bright spot on the horizon. “The vaccines are supposed to be coming soon,” Hohstadt said. “It’s going to be interesting how we work with our partners on getting, keeping and receiving those.”

Glenwood expands outdoor dining

Restaurant patrons are now able to consume to-go alcoholic beverages in a designated warming area under the Grand Avenue Bridge. The area is marked by fencing which will also provide some wind protection. Alcohol consumption hours are 11 a.m to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The City has purchased six igloos to provide an area where people can take to-go beverages from the restaurants and to expand outdoor dining. The public is encouraged to use their own sanitizing wipes or hand sanitizer in addition to the regular cleaning throughout the day provided by City staff. The City has also purchased branded blankets for restaurants to give away to patrons to encourage outdoor dining — contact matt.nunez@cogs.us or 384-6424 or matt.nunez@cogs.us.

Pitkin County debuts traveler aﬃdavit

Visitors to the upper Valley will be asked to take responsibility to minimize transition and keep the community open. Beginning Dec. 14, all travelers staying at least one night in Pitkin County are required to: • Complete a traveler affidavit prior to arrival which includes, a negative COVID-19 test result for any persons ages 10 and older, that has been administered within up to 72-hours prior to arrival • Be symptom free for 10 days prior to travel • Quarantine for 10 days without a test. Certain exemptions are available for those who commute at least weekly for work or school, those seeking or receiving medical treatment and military personnel. Failure to comply is a violation of the Pitkin County Public Health Order and may result in a $5,000 fine. Visit covid19.pitkincounty.com for more information.

Hours of Operation: • Evaluation of patients with moderate to severe symptoms: Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 12 pm • Community symptomatic testing: Monday - Friday, 1 - 5 pm, and weekends 12 pm – 2pm, with a physician referral • Asymptomatic and Antibody testing available by appointment.

Details: • Physician referral required. • If you do not have a physician, call Aspen Valley Primary Care at 970.279.4111. • Cost (insured) – Tests will be billed to insurance. There is no out-of-pocket expense to the patient after insurance. • Cost (uninsured) – PCR testing is free – AVH is committed to cost not being a barrier to testing. Antibody testing $150 – $200.

Downtown Aspen Kiosk

Location: • Lot behind City Hall at 130 South Galena Street, Aspen Testing Hours: • Monday-Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm

Details: • Appointments encouraged, but not necessary. Go to curative.com. • Physician referral not required. • Cost (insured) – No cost. • Cost (uninsured) – No insurance necessary. Tests are provided whether or not you have insurance.

BASALT

Aspen Valley Primary Care’s Drive-Thru Testing Center Location: • Parking lot next to the Midvalley Health Institute at 1460 East Valley Road, Basalt Testing Hours: • Monday – Friday, 9 am – 4 pm

Details: • Appointment necessary. Go to curative.com. • Physician referral not required. • Cost (insured) – No cost. • Cost (uninsured) – No insurance necessary. Tests are provided whether or not you have insurance.

More detailed testing information is available on our website at aspenhospital.org.

0401 Castle Creek Road, Aspen, CO 81611 | 970.925.1120 aspenhospital.org |

AspenValleyHospital

Meet me under the Menorah. Or the mistletoe… but skip kisses and hugs with anyone outside your household. Spread holiday cheer. Not COVID-19.

Eagle County continues precautions

Changes to Eagle County Government operations implemented in response to COVID-19 will continue through the end of the year. Restrictions on in-person interactions at county facilities began in mid-November, with services provided via phone and/or online. Due to the continued high-level of disease spread in the community, county officials have extended the time frame through December. Community information and resources in response to COVID-19 are available at www.eaglecountycovid.org.

Get healthy holiday tips:

pitkincounty.com/holidays

THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 11

Carbondale Emergency Task Force

COVID-19 COMMUNITY RESOURCES The Town of Carbondale has established the Carbondale Emergency Task Force (CETF), a collective group of volunteer and organizational expertise from across the community that will provide support and guidance to the town in key areas of the potential impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. As a public service, we’ve compiled this list of community resources which will be updated as needed and posted on the Carbondale Task Force website.

COVID-19 Information

Financial Relief

WARNING SIGNS If any of these serious COVID-19 symptoms exist, seek emergency medical care immediately:

ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE Garﬁeld County COVID Economic Assistance can help with food, housing, utility and expenses, and can advise on enrolling in other government programs. (970) 945-9191, www. garﬁeld-county.com.

• • • • •

Trouble breathing Persistent chest pain or pressure New confusion Inability to wake or stay awake Bluish lips or face

COVID TESTING Free COVID testing is now available at multiple sites in the Roaring Fork Valley including Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Ave. Hours are Mon-Fri 9 am-1 pm. An appointment must be made online at www.rfvcovidtest.com. This service is tentatively scheduled to end December 30, 2020. COVID RESOURCES Garﬁeld County’s website provides reliable information on current local and national spread and statistics, updated safety precautions, tracking, testing, and other topics: www. garﬁeld-county.com/public-health/novel-coronavirus.

Unemployment Assistance UNEMPLOYMENT Colorado Department of Labor and Employment – if you’ve been laid off from your job, file for unemployment benefits at www.colorado. gov/cdle, (800) 388-5515. LOANS & RELIEF PROGRAMS The Carbondale Chamber can help small businesses and selfemployed people access loans and relief programs. www.carbondale.com/covid-19-update, (970) 963-1980. COVID SICK PAY Colorado Health Emergency Leave with Pay (HELP) ensures sick pay to certain front-line workers with flu-like symptoms who are being tested for coronavirus COVID-19. Info: (303) 318-8441. 12 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

RENT RELIEF The State of Colorado has programs that provide financial aid to both tenants and landlords facing hardship caused by COVID-19: cdola.colorado.gov/rental-assistance. RENT & UTILITIES The Salvation Army can provide financial assistance in the form of direct payments to landlords and utility companies. COVID-19 Relief call center: (855) 768-7977 (English only); local office: (970) 945-6976 (leave a voicemail, English and limited Spanish). UNDOCUMENTED WORKERS You may safely contact the following organizations for emergency assistance: Valley Settlement, (970) 963-0851; Catholic Charities, (970) 384-2060; Salvation Army, (970) 945-6976. The Manaus Emergency Fund/LaMedichi supports those who do not qualify for other programs: (970) 5100411, www.manaus.org. VETERANS The Western Slope Veterans Coalition offers one-time assistance: (970) 233-8375.

Legal Services EVICTION & LEGAL HELP Alpine Legal Services provides free 15-minute “Ask a Lawyer” phone consultations on Wednesdays 5-7 pm – call (970) 3682246. Vulnerable residents (crime victims, seniors, children) can access fuller assistance by calling (970) 945-8858. For landlord-tenant disputes caused by COVID-19, call (970) 230-3935 between 9-12 or 1-5, Monday-Friday, to be connected to a mediator.

DOMESTIC/SEXUAL ABUSE Advocate Safe House Project is based in Glenwood Springs: (970) 9452632. Response is an Aspen-based nonproﬁt: (970) 920-5357.

Food & Grocery Assistance FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION Lift-UP’s food pantry at the Third Street Center distributes prepacked food bags Mondays at 2 pm. Check website for more details and other locations: www.liftup.org. GROCERY ASSISTANCE Carbondale City Market offers curbside pickup for groceries and has a driveup pharmacy. Order in advance: citymarket.com, (970) 233-5205. FREE MEAL DELIVERY Valley Meals and More offers free volunteer delivery of groceries and takeout meals for seniors and others in need. info@valleymealsandmore.com, (970) 404-1193. SENIOR LUNCHES Garfield County Senior Programs offers free packed lunches on Wednesdays at noon at the Orchard church, 110 Snowmass Drive (next to Crystal River Elementary school). Reservations must be made by noon on Monday by calling (970) 665-0041.

Support for Children & Families FREE STUDENT MEALS Roaring Fork Schools are providing free breakfasts and lunches to students throughout the 2020-21 school year. To request home delivery, call (970) 384-9500. FAMILY SUPPORT The Roaring Fork School District’s Family Resource Center connects families to community resources and provides case management – email familyservices@ rfschools.com or leave a message at (970) 3849500. Stepping Stones offers support for youth and families with children under 21 – call (970) 340-2100 or email kyle@steppingstonesrfv.org. Family Visitor Services provides programs for infants up to age 3, and can also help you apply for other forms of aid – (970) 945-1234.

Mental Health Emotional Support

K& EE PT HI S!

SUPPORT HOTLINE Mind Springs Health has a mental health support line, Monday-Friday 8 am-5 pm. www.mindspringshealth.org, (877) 519-7505.

CRISIS HOTLINES The Hope Center has a 24-hour crisis hotline: (970) 925-5858, www.ourhopecenter.org. Statewide crisis and suicide hotline: (844) 493-8255. CARE CALLS Valley Meals and More volunteers do

“care calls” to check on seniors and those isolated at home. You can call them at (970) 404-1193. WELLNESS CHECKS The Carbondale Police Department does wellness checks – call their nonemergency line, (970) 963-2662.

Deliveries & Errands FREE DELIVERIES Valley Meals and More – seniors may email info@valleymealsandmore.com or call their hotline at (970) 404-1193 to request free delivery of prescriptions, food and other necessities.

Immigrant Services RESOURCES Valley Settlement oﬀers a comprehensive list of resources and information: www.valleysettlement. org/coronavirus, (970) 963-0851. Voces Unidas de las Montañas has a team of promotoras who provide oneon-one support and information to families aﬀected by COVID – call (970) 340-8576. ADVOCACY SERVICES Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition – advocacy services and resources at www. coloradoimmigrant.org/covid19. LEGAL SERVICES Alpine Legal Services provides many free services and has a full website in Spanish at www.alpineservicioslegales.org. Note: Organizations may be very busy at this time. If no one answers your phone call, please leave only one message, and wait for a call back.

This information was published Dec. 10, 2020. For updates, see www.CarbondaleGov.org/government/emergency In making this information available, the Town of Carbondale, Colorado, makes no representations, and accepts no responsibility or liability, as to the accuracy, completeness, content, reliability, or legality of this document. THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 13

Cozying up to a crackling fire sounds pretty inviting on these cold, short days. How about chimney fires, air pollution and smoke inhalation hazards? Not so much. If you use a wood stove or fireplace, it’s key to learn before you burn. To save money, and have a safer and healthier home, remember these three tips: 1. Have a certified professional inspect and service your wood-burning unit annually. If you smell smoke in your home, something may be wrong. It’s important to clean out dangerous soot build-up to help keep it working properly and avoid chimney fires. 2. Burn dry, seasoned wood. Wet, green, painted, treated wood, and trash should never be options. Start with chemical-free fire starters and dry kindling. Maintain a hot fire and don’t let it smolder. 3. Upgrade to an efficient, EPA-approved wood stove or fireplace insert. Modern wood-burning appliances are more efficient, emitting less smoke and carbon monoxide to keep your home warmer, your fuel bill lower, and your family safer. By burning wise, you can reap all the warmth — and none of the cold reality — of your wood fire. Acostarse frente a un fuego crepitante suena bastante atractivo en estos días fríos y cortos. ES LA TEMPORADA DE LEÑA EN CARBONDALE OTRA VEZ. AQUÍ HAY 3 CONSEJOS DE LA JUNTA AMBIENTAL DE CARBONDALE. 1. Para seguridad, deje que un profesional inspeccione su estufa de leña y el conducto de humo. 2. No queme mas madera seca. Mantenga un fuego caliente y evite la combustión lenta que produce humo nocivo. 3. Actualicé a una estufa o chimenea de madera aprobada por la EPA.

Forest Service approves Sweetwater protection Big questions remain By Jason Blevins The Colorado Sun The White River National Forest’s request for Land and Water Conservation Fund money to permanently protect Garfield County’s Sweetwater Lake — a pristine oasis surrounded by public lands — has been granted. But the agency did not say how much of the requested $8.5 million from the fund will be distributed. That’s just one of several recent examples of foot dragging by Trump Administration land managers who have missed critical deadlines imposed by the Great American Outdoors Act, a sweeping public lands bill that President Donald Trump promoted to help buoy Republican senators facing tough reelection bids in the West. The Forest Service on Friday released its 2021 list of Land and Water Conservation Fund projects for state grants under the Forest Legacy Program and for land acquisition. The list was due Nov. 2 as part of the passage this summer of the Great American Outdoors Act, which promised to whittle down an estimated $20 billion in deferred maintenance on public lands and directed $900 million a year into the Land and Water Conservation Fund. (The fund is supported by oil and gas royalties paid by energy companies exploring and drilling on federal land and water.) The Great American Outdoors Act requires the Forest Service and the Department of Interior to submit “a detailed description of each project, including the estimated expenditures from the fund for the project for applicable fiscal years,” by Nov. 2. Both agencies missed that deadline. The list released Friday by the Forest Service also lacked the dollar figures required by the legislation. As an added twist, Interior Secretary David Bernhardt on Friday issued an order that added new provisions to the Land and Water Conservation Fund, including severe limitations on the Bureau of Land Management’s ability to add new acreage. Bernhardt’s Secretarial Order 3388 prioritized land acquisitions by the National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over the BLM. A vague list he scripted last week distributing $900 million worth of Land

and Water Conservation Fund money sent just $2.5 million to the BLM for land acquisition, and dismissed six projects that had been previously trumpeted by the Trump Administration during the summer’s cheerleading for the Great American Outdoors Act. “That is consistent with the disdain Bernhardt has had for the Land and Water Conservation Fund,” said Aaron Weiss, the deputy director for the Center for Western Priorities. “He tried to defund it for three years and now he’s throwing sand in the gears before he leaves. Really, these guys are just making it up as they go along right now because they know it doesn’t matter. They are going to be gone soon.” Bernhardt’s order also requires both the approval of state governors and local county leaders for all federal land acquisition. The Garfield County Commissioners have long opposed adding federal land in their county but they do support the protection of Sweetwater Lake. “We will stand behind that, most certainly,” said Commissioner John Martin. In the final line of Friday’s order, Bernhardt added a legally questionable clause. “The termination of this order will not nullify the implementation of the requirement and responsibilities effected herein,” he wrote.

A workaround emerges But there is another option for seeing the Great American Outdoors Act fully deployed. Congress could force Bernhardt and the Forest Service to fund all the projects that were part of the promotions for the legislation. And lawmakers appear to be preparing to do just that. The U.S. Senate’s Appropriations Committee on Tuesday released funding recommendations for the Interior Department and Forest Service with specific projects and dollar amounts. The committee plan directs $54.1 million to the BLM — a $51.6 million increase over Bernhardt’s plan — and $120 million to the Forest Service for land acquisition. The committee’s list for LWCF acquisition projects includes $8.5 million for the Forest Service for Sweetwater Lake. Sweetwater Lake and the surrounding 488 acres has been owned for decades by private developers who pondered a luxury retreat, a

Reduzca las emisiones, queme menos madera, tenga un hogar más cálido y sea seguro. ¡Gracias!

14 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

The 77-acre Sweetwater Lake above the Colorado River near Dotsero is part of a 488-acre parcel the White River National Forest hopes to protect with support from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Courtesy of The Conservation Fund

The Forest Service said it would use Land and Water Conservation Fund allocations to protect 488 acres around Sweetwater Lake bordering the Flat Tops Wilderness in Garfield County. The agency did not say how much money from the fund would be directed to the White River National Forest’s $8.5 million plan to incorporate the parcel. Photo by Todd Winslow Pierce golf course and even a water-bottling facility. The White River National Forest’s request for Land and Water Conservation Fund support was among the agency’s Top 10 priority projects for 2021. Officials with the White River National Forest directed all calls about plans for Sweetwater Lake to the agency’s national press office, where spokeswoman Babete Anderson said there was no more information to share. “The list is the extent of the information on projects that we are sharing at this time, as numbers are still being finalized and we want to do everything we can to ensure efficient use of these funds,” she wrote in an email. “We hope to have more information soon.” In the past 50-plus years, the Land and Water Conservation Fund has awarded more than $272 million in grants to more than 1,100 projects in Colorado. The list includes national parks like Rocky Mountain and Great Sand Dunes, state parks including Golden Gate, Roxborough and Castlewood Canyon, and city parks such as Confluence in Denver and Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. A Land and Water Conservation Fund grant of $8.5 million for Sweetwater Lake would be among the largest ever awarded to Colorado. (Congress directed $14 million of the fund toward protecting almost 10,000 acres around Red Mountain in the early 2000s.) The grant from the Land and Water Conservation Fund will end a nearly two-year campaign to protect the lake and surrounding acres that spill from the Flat Tops Wilderness. That “Save the Lake” effort saw the Eagle Valley Land Trust raise more than $1 million from local governments and donors. The protection effort began with The Conservation Fund, which approached the private owners of the property in 2018 with a proposal for protection. Coulton Creek Capital, the Greenwood Village investment group that took over the property when a 12-year plan to bottle water from a spring on the property evaporated, was listing the “Sweetwater Canyon Club” for $9.3 million and agreed to work with the conservation group. Great Outdoors Colorado loaned money to The Conservation Fund to make the purchase with a plan to transfer the property over to the Forest Service. ‘“Despite the challenges, this has been moving along actually quicker than we anticipated,” said Justin Spring with The Conservation Fund. When, or if, the land becomes part of the National Forest System, the White River forest

management has a long list of priorities for Sweetwater Lake, including improvements to the water supply on the property and upgrades to a campground and boat launch. The agency is in talks with Colorado Parks and Wildlife about a shared management plan at Sweetwater Lake that could lead to the property becoming a new state park. “Sweetwater checks some important boxes for CPW and what we want stuff to look like. There is obviously water recreation and we also like the location as close as it is to I-70,” said Colorado Parks and Wildlife spokesman Randy Hampton. “Then there’s the access it provides to federal land, just a massive amount of land. So yes, there are many reasons we want to be part of that conversation with the Forest Service. We are in a mode right now where we are looking at other parcels. The governor has let his intention be known that he wants more state parks.” Adrienne Brink has run A.J. Brink Outfitters at Sweetwater Lake for 36 years. Over that span, she’s worked with six different land owners, all of them providing her a yearto-year lease for her business hosting hunters, campers and horseback-riding guests. Each of those owners had big plans, but nothing ever happened. The lack of continuity has made it difficult for her to invest in her cabins, restaurant, campground and stables. In the past several months she’s hosted White River forest officials and engineers who were making plans should the Land and Water Conservation Fund come through. She was eager to share her list of priorities, including replacing the 1954 roof on the restaurant, better camping access and maybe even a venue where she could host weddings and events similar to those held at Coulter Lake Guest Ranch near Rifle or Trappers Lake Lodge northwest of Meeker, both of which have concessionaire permits to operate amenities on federal land. “I never really had any owners who wanted to spend money on improvements,” she said. “I’m hopeful. We’ve been here for 36 years and always worried whether we would be coming back the next year. I’m hoping we can find some stability with the Forest Service. Sure seems like we are headed in the right direction.”

We have air purifiers for a safe environment!

The Colorado Sun is a reader-supported news organization that covers people, places and issues of statewide interest. To sign up for free newsletters, subscribe or learn more, visit ColoradoSun.com THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 15

A stroll in Sopris Park By Tom Mercer Sopris Sun Correspondent

Eric Brendlinger, Carbondale’s Director of Parks and Recreation, reports that Carbondale now has a total of 26 parks. Some are large and some are small, but Carbondale’s 3.9acre Sopris Park is generally regarded as the crown jewel by virtue of both its location and the numerous community events that continue to take place there. The park occupies most of the block bordered by Main Street, Euclid Avenue, Seventh Street, and Weant Boulevard. The remainder of the block is occupied by the White River National Forest’s Aspen-Sopris Ranger Station. The park, like the mountain, is named after Richard Sopris, a prospector, officer in the 1st Regiment of Colorado Volunteers, mayor of Denver and a representative for what is now Colorado in the Kansas Territorial legislature. A casual stroll through Sopris Park reveals a lot about the community of Carbondale, offering both a historical perspective and an appreciation for the community’s residents and their values over a period of many years. One such example of both qualities lies directly behind the John M. Fleet Pool. There you’ll find a very large rock bearing a plaque honoring 15 coal miners. The miners lost their lives due to an explosion at Mid-Continent’s Dutch Creek #1 Mine on April 15,

1981. In part, the plaque reads, “Our appreciation is unbounded. Our sadness is indescribable. Our memory is indelible. Our most fervent respect.” The explosion occurred when a combination of methane gas and coal dust in the mine was ignited, perhaps by a tiny spark. The resulting loss of lives had a devastating effect on the Carbondale community, and the tragedy will never be forgotten. Adjacent to the miner’s memorial is another large, darker rock. The rock displays a huge crack, and it is covered with many holes that have been drilled into its surface. Long-time resident Laurie Loeb reports that the holes were the result of “drilling contests” conducted over a period of many years. The contestants – mainly miners – competed to see who could drill the deepest hole in a short period of time. The miners have left their mark on Carbondale in many ways. There is a blue, metal park bench not far from the miner’s memorial plaque with a simple, heartfelt message that reads “In loving memory of Edward and Linda Diamond. I Do Not Know A Day I Did Not Love You.” Doctor Diamond was a Carbondale resident and was highlyesteemed by those who knew him. He died on Dec. 4, 2009 and Linda, his wife, died on Jan. 3, 2010. Together, they made a lasting impression on the community of Carbondale. Another memorial in the park is

located beneath a tree near Weant Boulevard. The memorial was created in the form of a bicycle, with colorful metal balloons floating above the attached plaque, which reads, “In Joyous Memory of Skyre Ryan Criswell, 1983 – 1990. For All Who May Learn That Just As The Flowering Of This Tree Is Part Of Its Cycle, So Death Is Just A Cog In The Wheel Of Life. May The Flowers That Fall So Gently From Our Lives, And The Ones Plucked And Carried By The Wind, Serve To Nourish Us. Skyre’s Horses Were Many. So May Ours Be.” Skyre suffered a fatal fall near Hanging Lake when he was 7 years old. Potato Day, Carbondale’s longest running annual celebration, has also left its mark on Sopris Park. According to Suzanne Gray of the Carbondale Historical Society, the first Potato Day was celebrated in 1909 when Carbondale was known far and wide for the quality of potatoes grown in the area. The celebration has been staged at several different locations over the years, but shortly after the park’s creation, it found a home in Sopris Park. Each Potato Day, barbeque beef and potatoes are roasted in underground pits on the south side of the park and served to hundreds of attendees. Sopris Park also offers a number of recreational features. The John M. Fleet Swimming Pool is located in the northwest corner of the park. Other

One of the park's oldest monuments is a flagpole supported by three slabs of marble — which also serves a great little fort. Photo by Tom Mercer park amenities include a shaded picnic shelter, a playground, a sand volleyball court and a stately flagpole flying the Stars and Stripes. “Lions 1970” is etched into the flagpole’s concrete base. Enormous slabs of marble from the quarry in Marble, Colorado surround the base of the flagpole. Last, but hardly least, is the entertainment centerpiece of Sopris Park - the gazebo. The Ben H. Reed Memorial Gazebo is

located on the southwest corner of the block, and it has featured nearly every form of entertainment since it was built 36 years ago. Carbondale resident Laurie Loeb moved to Carbondale in 1970, and notes that none of the town streets were even paved at that time. Laurie is the originator of Carbondale’s Mountain Continued on page 20

Support Spring Gulch Community-powered nordic skiing! Every winter, the Mount Sopris Nordic Council depends on annual memberships to keep the Spring Gulch trails groomed and open to the public. Become a member or renew your membership for the 2020/2021 season! Sign Up or Renew Online at www.springgulch.org

You could score a new Spring Gulch neck gaiter! The ﬁrst 200 people to contribute at a membership level of $125 or more will recieve a Spring Gulch topo neck gaiter custom-made by Kind Design. Find out more on our website! Available while supplies last. Promotion valid for 2020/2021 season only. Contact info@springgulch.org for more info.

16 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

Yule Creek after its diversion into a manmade stream bed.

LOCAL RIVER ALERT The famous Yule Creek Marble Quarry, now called the Pride of America Mine, is owned by the Italian Company Red Graniti. In October 2019, the Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association reported that the quarry had diverted a 1500 foot section of Yule Creek to a new drainage. The quarry ﬁlled in the creek’s natural course with mine waste so a new access road could be built. This was done without a permit and in violation of the Clean Water Act. Neither the Army Corps of Engineers nor Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety were aware of the transgression. Colorado Stone Quarries has retroactively applied for that permit, choosing to seek forgiveness instead of permission. The violation raises concerns about water quality in the Crystal River watershed and environmental impacts near the mine site. The Army Corp is currently seeking public comments regarding CSQ’s application. To view the application and instructions for submitting comments go to: https://www.spk.usace.army.mil/Media/Regulatory-Public-Notices/ Public comments are due Wednesday, December 16! For more information, and to read CVEPA’s recommendation, visit CVEPA.ORG

State oﬃcials set sights on ponds without water rights

By Heather Sackett Aspen Journalism

Rebecca Milvich has many fond childhood memories of playing in the pond on her family’s Old Snowmass property, which they purchased in 1985. Every summer, the pond off Little Elk Creek Avenue in Old Snowmass, became the neighborhood hangout as Milvich and her siblings and friends swam and paddled a canoe. Still today, the pond, which is filled by a ditch branching off Little Elk Creek, brings the family joy as they admire the ducks, fish and muskrats that live there. “Those are the passions that are wrapped around it,” Milvich said. “It’s very personal. It’s something that has enhanced our quality of life a thousandfold. Our ability to have a water feature has changed our lives for the better, for sure.” But on Sept. 22, the Milvich family received a cease-and-desist order from the Colorado Division of Water Resources (DWR) that said they had to stop filling their pond because of a downstream call on the Colorado River, in which water users junior to the Grand Valley irrigators’ water rights had to be shut off. It turned out the Milvich family did not have a legal water right for their pond, making them one of the most junior water users on the Colorado River system and one of the first to be curtailed. “We were from Southern California and we missed having the beach,” Milvich said. “And my dad was excited to purchase an actual piece of property that had water on it, totally not knowing that we were in some ways for these last 35 years breaking some rules and regulations. We had absolutely no idea.” The Milvich family’s pond is not the only one in the area lacking a water right. DWR officials say undecreed ponds throughout the region are depleting the Colorado River system in a time

A canoe floats in the Milvich family pond in Old Snowmass. The Colorado Division of Water Resources issued a cease-and-desist letter because the pond, which does not have a legal water right, was taking water out of priority. Photo by Heather Sackett when a climate change-fueled drought makes it more important than ever to account for every last drop of water. The Glenwood Springs-based Division 5 engineer’s office issued five cease-and-desist orders for ponds without water rights this season in the upper Roaring Fork Valley. And officials say there are many more ponds like these out there. Some of them are recently built for fire protection. The main concern with these ponds is water loss to the Colorado River system through evaporation. The bigger the surface area, the more water that is lost. “A lot of the depletions are pretty small, but it’s

REAL ESTATE FOR YOU!

New Listing - New Castle NEED MORE SPACE?

Coryell Addition — $425,000

death by a thousand cuts,” Division 5 Engineer Alan Martellaro said. “When you have these all over the place, they add up at some point.” According to Colorado water law, anyone is allowed to divert water from a stream simply by putting it to beneficial use as long as it does not harm senior water-rights holders. To protect their ability to keep using the water and save their place in line, most users make their water right official by getting a decree through water court. This enshrines the water right in Colorado’s system of prior appropriation in which the older the water right, the more powerful it is. “It’s a good idea because it protects your

standing,” Martellaro said. “It protects your priority. That’s the whole point of a water right.” That means ponds without a decree are last in line and are the first to be shut off when there’s a downstream call from irrigators in the Grand Valley, which have much older water rights — one from 1912 and one from 1934. Known as the “Cameo Call,” these irrigators can control all junior water rights upstream of their diversion at the roller dam in DeBeque Canyon. Most summers, Grand Valley irrigators “call” for their water when streamflows begin to drop. In general, the drier the year, the earlier the call comes on. This year, the Cameo Call first came July 30 and went off at the end of irrigation season Oct. 26. As long as the call is on, junior upstream water rights must be shut off or “curtailed” so that the downstream irrigators can get the full amount of water to which they are legally entitled. It is up to the division engineer’s office to decide exactly how to administer the call and which junior water rights to curtail, but undecreed water use is generally the first to go. “When the call is on, they are stealing somebody else’s water if they don’t have a water right,” said Bill Blakeslee, water commissioner for District 38, which encompasses the Roaring Fork River watershed. Blakeslee said he doesn’t like to issue cease-anddesist orders, and his goal is to educate people about the Colorado River system. “We don’t like to do our business this way, but this is one of the tools we use to help people understand we don’t have as much water as we used to and we all need to take steps to preserve as much as we can,” he said. “It makes a statement to the general public that we are in a drought situation, so let’s not do things that continue to contribute to further loss of water.”

Continued on page 20

1/8/21

9 AM-4 PM

The 36th Annual

SKIER APPRECIATION DAY

BENEFITTING

GET YOUR TICKETS AT SUNLIGHTMTN.COM ONLINE RAFFLE & AUCTION AT UNITEDWAYBB.ORG

$20

lift tickets

Casino-themed costume contest

On-mountain, outdoor games

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! TWO STORY TOWNHOME 1952 Square Feet — Built in 2000 3 bedroom and 2 1/2 baths

MOVE IN READY Laminate Flooring — Freshly Painted No HOA Fees!

0295 Badger Rd. Carbondale, CO | 970-309-6200 | www.trudiwj.com

Follow Sunlight Mountain Resort on Facebook for event updates.

THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 17

TOWN REPORT CARBONDALE DITCH

Cop Shop

SECOND STREET was

the Greater Outdoor Colorado Organization that will add a picnic shade shelter/outdoor classroom to the trailhead amenities list this spring.

closed north of Main Street on Tuesday for tree pruning and removal. Access was maintained through the adjacent alley.

ICE RINK installation is ongoing at the Gus Darien arena and slated to begin downtown soon.

improvements continue near Thompson Corner.

A COMPOSTING BIN is available for public use in front of the Town Hall, and restaurants have been furnished with handouts to provide with take-out.

REC. CENTER usage is up, with 108 cardio/weight machine reservations, 102 participants in 18 fitness classes and three sport court rentals.

YOUTH CLIMBING CLASSES are offered in

small, masked, three-week sessions throughout the winter — 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays for ages 6-8 and the same time on Thursdays for ages 9-13.

THE RED HILL TRAILHEAD will soon

have an informational kiosk, bike racks, trash and recycle bins and an enclosure for an ADA Porta Potty. Aspen Valley Land Trust has received a grant through the Resilient Communities program with

From Nov. 20 through Dec. 3, Carbondale Police handled 333 calls for service. During that period, officers investigated the following cases of note: FRIDAY Nov. 20 at 3:01 p.m. Follow a call about two cars harassing a semi, officers tracked down both drivers and summoned one for driving with a revoked license. FRIDAY Nov. 20 at 10:10 p.m.

The driver of an RV with no plates was pulled over and summoned for multiple infractions.

SALES TAX collections were up 23.9% in November compared to 2019, with the whole year to date up 5.8 percent.

SATURDAY Nov. 21 at 2:28 a.m.

Officers contacted a suspicious vehicle along the side of Indica Way and ended up citing an 18-year-old for underage possession of alcohol or marijuana.

PLANNING & ZONING will conduct a major site plan review for the Carbondale Center Place on Dec. 10. The proposal includes the redevelopment of the Sopris Shopping Center into two buildings with 76 residential units and 10,370 square feet of commercial space.

WATER

SUNDAY Nov. 22 at 1:21 a.m.

A 31-year-old approached and assaulted an officer on Main Street without any apparent provocation.

SUNDAY Nov. 22 at 7:36 a.m. A pair of packages were stolen from a porch on Vitos Way.

PROJECTS

continue with a clarifier replacement at the wastewater plant, inventory on the Nettle Creek line and filtration expansion and computer upgrade on the Roaring Fork wells.

MONDAY Nov. 23 at 4:29 p.m.

Following an accident at Highway 133 and Cowen Drive, investigators issued a citation for failure to yield and driving without a license. One car was towed from the scene.

WEDNESDAY Nov. 25 at 10:08 a.m.

FI NGER PR I N T I NG AND VIN inspections are

Police took a report of harassment on Heritage Drive.

not currently available due to COVID risk.

WEDNESDAY Nov. 25 at 2:07 p.m. After stopping a speeding car with temporary, out-of-state plates, police issued a summons to the 23-year-old driver.

WEDNESDAY Nov. 25 at 6:46 p.m.

Following a report of trespass at the park and ride, officers summoned a 46-yearold.

THURSDAY Dec. 3 at 4:39 p.m. Officers took a report of a weapons violation involving a minor.

Meanwhile, Daniela Trejo-Noyola, 16, has been missing from Glenwood Springs since early September. Anyone with information should contact the police.

FRIDAY Nov. 27 at 3:52 p.m.

A 27-year-old with felony drug warrants was transported to Garfield County Jail.

SATURDAY Nov. 28 at 11:56 p.m. A 24-year-old was arrested on a warrant.

SUNDAY Nov. 29 at 10:09 p.m.

Following an accident on Dolores Way, it was reported that another car picked up the passengers and left, and the latter driver ended up arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

TUESDAY Dec. 1 at 12:48 p.m.

Police took a report of a stolen portable welder.

WEDNESDAY Dec. 2 at 9:27 p.m.

Reports of domestic violence led to a pair of arrests for harassment and obstruction of governmental operations.

THURSDAY Dec. 3 at 2:40 p.m.

A 35-year-old with a warrant was transported to jail.

Missing teen Daniela Trejo-Noyola, Courtesy Photo Also, anyone who witnessed a hit and run in the Walmart parking lot between 5:20 and 5:50 p.m. on Dec. 4 — or have information about a red Volkswagen Beetle with no plates and probable damage to the driver’s door — are urged to contact Glenwood Springs Police.

Best way to warm up after playing in the cold

December’s Special Cranberry-Pomegranate Body Wrap Private Mineral Bath Day pass to Our Historic Vapor Caves “A Day at the Spa” $109

No Walkins Please Call for Appointments

Historic Underground Vapor Caves

For Information & Reservations call 970-945-0667 • yampahspa.com Spa Open 9-9 Salon Open 9-7 • Gift Certificates Available at Our Website

Your Story, Digitized

winter hours

Craft your online narrative Beautiful Website Design

FRIDAY - 4-9PM SATURDAY - 11-9PM SUNDAY - 11-9PM MONDAY -4-9PM

Effective Email Campaigns Best in Social Media Tactics Compelling Search Marketing

Contactless Online Ordering 970.510.5233

FootStepsMarketing.com

Carbondale, CO

18 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

303 river valley ranch rd. carbondale

homesteadcarbondale.com

Trustees tweak liquor distancing rules

By Will Grandbois Sopris Sun Staff

The Town will now allow restaurant liquor licenses — but not liquor stores — within 500 feet of school property. The Dec. 8 trustee decision was a bit of a departure from the staff proposal to tackle issues with the City Market complex’s proximity to a Colorado Rocky Mountain School field. Existing rules would have prohibited a pair of restaurants looking to relocate to the shopping center from serving alcohol, and already prevent the grocery store from selling beer. Because the distance is calculated by pedestrian access, the painting of a crosswalk on Dolores Way also undermined the possibility of a new brewpub there. West Main does not have the same issue, as the adjacent schoolowned property is zoned open space. Attorney Tarn Udall laid out the reasoning behind the rules, which mirror the State’s. “The purpose of these restrictions, in broad strokes, is to protect school aged children and underaged college students from intoxicated customers and underage access to alcohol,” she said. “The Town has the authority under the statute to eliminate or modify distance restrictions.” Other communities, including Rifle, Glenwood Springs, Telluride and Denver, have made their own tweaks. And many businesses in Carbondale itself predate the rules, resulting in liquor stores clustered closer together

than would now be allowed. The solution on the table was to calculate the distance from the nearest building entrance, rather than the property line. Both Udall and Mayor Dan Richardson made a point of emphasizing that no actual liquor license application is currently pending, and that each gets its own public hearing. That seemed to mostly mitigate the bombastic rhetoric of the previous meeting, in which numerous local liquor store owners spoke out against the idea of City Market selling beer again. The store itself participated in the public comment period via Attorney Adam Stapen. “I think any opposition to this ordinance is competition-based,” he noted. Julie Tran of Main Street Wine and Spirits didn’t necessarily see a problem with that. “Do we really need another large, retail liquor store?” she queried. “I just want to ask that you consider us in the spirit of supporting small business and the impact it would have on us.” The remaining public voices were in favor of the change, while Renée Grossman of Hi-Q dispensary advocated for eliminating setbacks altogether. “I do not think that it’s good for the Town of Carbondale to allow vacant land that might be surrounding a school to dictate land use,” she asserted. “I think kids are walking or biking by liquor stores every day, and they’re doing just fine.” While the board seemed united in their desire to allow restaurants to serve alcohol in the areas in question, there

were differing opinions on what to do about liquor stores. Ben Bohmfalk saw the possibility of changing the rules for one but not the other to be something of a double standard, and challenged his fellow trustees to imagine the discussion if a locally-owned liquor store were trying to relocate. But that argument didn’t fly for Luis Yllanes. “Our constituents aren’t knocking on our doors or emailing us wanting another retail establishment where they can buy liquor,” he said. And Heather Henry saw plenty of justification for keeping the liquor store rules in place. “It’s just barriers to make it that much harder… for kids that are under age to get

their hands on alcohol,” she said. But rather than have differing rules on distance calculating, Henry advocated for just eliminating the requirement altogether for on-premises consumption. That led to additional discussion on which specific types of establishments should be allowed or not before it was ready for a vote. The change passed 5-2, with Bohmfalk and Richardson opposed.

In other action, trustees… Addressed a fence at the Wastewater Treatment Plant that sits in the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) right-of-way by obtaining a 30-foot easement. As part of the deal, RFTA gets a deed to the remainder of the 200-foot right-of-

way. Otherwise, should the agency ever lose its railbanking status, each of the 14 federal grant properties along the Rio Grande corridor would revert back to the adjacent landowners. Approved the final budget, with some use of reserve funds for capital improvements, but very conservative income projection. Asked why she was planning for a reduction in revenues despite an ongoing increase in sales tax, Finance Director Renee Gustine explained that fees are down and the state’s new tobacco tax may impact the one the Town recently approved. Recognized Town Clerk Cathy Derby as “the one person who often is responsible for singlehandedly solving both immediate and longterm challenges that arrive.”

Town of Carbondale treatment plant area exhibit - RFTA Right-of-way. Courtesy graphic.

Not a KDNK member? Join today! SCAN TO JOIN

KDNK.ORG

KDNK.ORG| CARBONDALE | 970-963-0139

Staying Home? Try Out Our Delivery Services! We want you and your pets to stay healthy and happy, so we are urging our customers to use our delivery services. All orders over $75 get FREE DELIVERY!

Town of Carbondale Special Event Task Force Meeting Announcement The Special Event Task Force reviews special events within Town Parks, Streets and Facilities. 2021 special events will be discussed on Wednesday, Dec. 16th from 6-7:30 pm. This vitual meeting is open to all interested citizens. To receive a Zoom invitation and an agenda for the meeting e-mail:ebrendlinger@carbondaleco.net

970-963-1700 RJPaddywacks.com Open 7 Days a week − Mon.-Fri. 9:00-6:30 ~ Sat.-Sun. 10-5pm 400 E. Valley Road # I/J, Next to City Market in El Jebel

19 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

Park from page 16

Great towns deserve great Internet! Help us bring Ting Internet to the Roaring Fork Valley

Fair, the Carbondale Council on the Arts and Humanities, and several other Carbondale organizations and events. Laurie recalls that, prior to the construction of the gazebo, a flatbed trailer was often used as a temporary stage for Mountain Fair. Later, temporary stages were built using donated slab wood materials that were originally milled at the Flogus Sawmill in Lenado (near Woody Creek). The stage construction was executed by local volunteer contractors and builders, one of whom was Ben Reed. After each Mountain Fair, the temporary stages had to be disassembled and removed. Laurie notes that “the first Mountain Fair (which was called a ‘Chautauqua’) only had

around 20 booths, mostly featuring crafts, food or games.” When the existing permanent stage was built in 1984, it was named the Ben H. Reed Memorial Gazebo following Ben’s untimely death in an auto accident. Ben Reed’s contributions to the community and early Mountain Fairs will be remembered for a very long time. Each of Carbondale’s 26 parks, big or small, is an asset to the community. Sopris Park in particular, has borne witness to celebrations, ceremonies, concerts, picnics, laughter, and dancing, and will doubtless continue to do so for many years to come. Anyone up for a walk in the park?

Ting offers the latest technology—Crazy Fast Fiber Internet® direct to your home—for just $89 a month.

The gazebo is getting a bit of a makeover. Photo by Tom Mercer

Pond from page 17

Reliable and crazy fast Up to 1000 Mbps upload and download Connects right to your home

No contracts or hidden fees No caps or limits Real, human support 24/7

Why Pre-order? Pre-orders help Ting determine where to build our fiber Internet network. By pre-ordering today you’ll be casting your vote to help bring fiber Internet to your town. The more pre-orders in your area, the more likely you are to get Ting Crazy Fast Fiber Internet® so don’t forget to share this with your community!

Pre-order for just

Even though the ponds are causing water loss to the river system at all times, Blakeslee said he can apply the pressure of the law only when there is a call. “I can’t enforce the rules until the call goes on the system,” he said.

Compact call The Milviches were supposed to have stopped diverting water out of priority within 10 days of receiving the order or else face enforcement actions such as having to pay the state’s costs and legal fees. But Martellaro said his office so far has not fined the owners of any of the five ponds and won’t as long as they are working toward a solution. And since the Grand Valley call is now off the river, the issue is less urgent — for the moment. Colorado is entering a period of tighter accountability for some water users as Lake Powell’s levels continue to drop and the threat of a compact call looms larger in a warming West. A compact call could occur if the upper-basin states (Colorado, Wyoming, Utah and New Mexico)

can’t deliver the 7.5 million acre-feet of water per year to the lower-basin states (Arizona, California and Nevada), as required by the Colorado River Compact, a nearly century-old binding agreement. Upper-basin water managers desperately want to avoid this scenario. “I guess you could say one of the elephants in the room is the interstate compact situation,” Blakeslee said. So what are the Milviches’ options to remedy the situation? In order to be allowed to keep using water for the pond when a call is on, they must replace that water to the system. One possibility is getting a contract for an augmentation plan with a local water-conservancy district to release water from Ruedi Reservoir to make up for depletions from the pond. The Milviches have met with an engineer to assess their options. Whatever they decide, securing a water right through water court can be a lengthy, expensive process. “We are definitely terrified about that reality,” Milvich said.

Pre-orders: • are refundable • help bring Ting to your area • get you a free install and $50 toward future bills (a $250 value)

Pre-order at ting.com/roaringfork 20 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

Rebecca Milvich has many fond childhood memories of playing in this pond on her family’s property in Old Snowmass. Officials from the Colorado Division of Water Resources say ponds without a water right, such as this one, are depleting the Colorado River system. Photo by Heather Sackett

Across 1. Jacques ______, former President of France. 7. Means by which a machine accomplishes work. 8. Ice tower 10. First feature-length film by Spielberg. 11. Design motif for Town of Carbondale seal (2 words). 14. Coffee shop in Glenwood (2 words). 16. Tuberous plant featured in the Town of Carbondale seal. 17. Coffee shop in Silt. 18. Title for a peak. 21. Face your partner, pass right shoulders, backto-back, pass left shoulders. 22. Wild ____, near Allenspark, with lovely water features such as Calypso Cascades and Ouzel Falls. 23. Mountain town in southwest Colorado. Highest commercial airport in the world.

Cool Brick Studios

Down 2. Slotted metal plate that fits over a metal loop and is secured with a pin or padlock. 3. Now offers five bachelor's degree programs. 4. _____ Thai Montrose Cuisine. Noodles, curry, steamed veggies. 5. In ______. In place. 6. Well-known for his smile, he worked for Carbondale Public Works Department, as well as snow-cat mechanic and underground miner (2 words). 9. Region in northern Italy near Chamonix and Zermatt. Early settlers in our valley came from this area (3 words). 10. Not sparkly. Appropriate clothing for hunting. 12. ____ Turtles. Mutant skateboarders. 13. Fourteener with large permanent snowfield. 15. Lovely cheese for chicken enchiladas or other chicken recipes. 19. Range containing King's Peak, the highest point in Utah. 20. Fare thee well.

Across: 1. CHIRAC; 7. MECHANISM; 8. SERAC; 10. DUEL; 11. YINGYANG; 14. DEJABREW; 16. POTATOE; 17. MISTYS; 18. MOUNT; 21. DOSIDO; 22. BASIN; 23. TELLURIDE; Down: 2. HASP; 3. CMC; 4. CHANG; 5. SITU; 6. SMILEYWISE; 9. VALDAOSTA; 10. DRAB; 12. NINJA; 13. SNOWMASS; 15. ASIAGO; 19. UINTA; 20. ADIEU;

Your Big Backyard XI

Re Energize GARFIELD COUNTY

Clean Energy for Economic Recovery

AFTER-HOURS MEDICAL CARE ASPEN VALLEY HOSPITAL

SAVE ENERGY. SAVE MONEY!

world-class multimedia studio

photography • film • video 360° virtual tours

When you have unexpected medical needs, After-Hours Medical Care is here for you. We are staffed with doctors and nurses to answer your medical questions and treat minor injuries and illnesses, including: sprains, simple fractures, lacerations, UTIs ...and more.

CLEER and the Town of Carbondale want to boost your business – and the local recovery – through investments in energy efficiency.

If you have respiratory symptoms, fever, sore throat, or flu/COVID-19-like symptoms, we can arrange a telemedicine consult for you by calling 970.544.1250.

Recommendations on bestbang-for-the-buck energy upgrades

970.544.1250

234 Cody Lane, Basalt

Audio and visual excellence all under one roof !

CoolBrickStudios.com

86 S 3rd St. Carbondale, Colorado

Monday - Friday 3:00 – 11:00 pm Saturday & Sunday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm aspenhospital.org |

21 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

AspenValleyHospital

FREE professional building walk-through

Rebates can provide up to 50% of project costs!

ACT NOW! Some rebates expire 12/31! info@CleanEnergyEconomy.net (970) 704-9200

PAGES OF THE PAST

LETTERS

Circling the wagons

In one basket

From the archives of the Valley Journal and Sopris Sun

Dec. 11, 1980 Leadership from the American Mobilehome Association met with locals to urge collective action within and between trailer parks. “You have the responsibility to go back to your communities and organize the people in your own park, choose officers and collect dues,” lobbyist Lothar Vacano told them. “If it ever comes to a crunch, $2,500 buys a good courtroom fight.” While state legislation was slowly giving residents rights, he said, the bulk of the power stayed with landlords. (Since then, a number of mobile home parks, including Bonanza in Carbondale and Pan and Fork in Basalt, have been razed and their residents displaced against their will.) In other news… The Mountain Bell office in Glenwood Springs ceased taking local calls, instead directing customers to the corporate number for service.

Dec. 13, 1990 Basalt appeared to be considering the annexation of El Jebel Junction after City Market opted to build its new 42,000-square-foot store there instead of in town. Trustees declined to comment, but the idea was the

topic of an extensive executive session. El Jebel Junction was also considering incorporating on its own but with about 65 percent of the Town’s sales tax coming from the grocery store, Basalt was motivated to make the first move (and did end up getting its way). In other news… “Nearly half the Carbondale police department was called out to corral a one-man wrecking crew who kicked an officer in the groin, knocked out a police car window with his head, bit off a two-way radio antenna, repeatedly smashed his own face into a police car trunk and threatened the policechief ’s family.”

Dec. 7, 2000 Suzie Romig penned a feature on Police Sergeant and volunteer firefighter Mark Luttrell — a rescuer of both people and cats, the headline proclaimed. Among his highlighted exploits were helping stop an armed robbery, responding to the coal mine explosion, rescuing folks from a Jeep that rolled into the Devil’s Punch Bowl and… extracting a cat from behind a hot water heater, for which he received a letter of commendation. In other news… Julie and Nelson Oldham officially cut the

Retail Marijuana| 21 +

ribbon at Dos Gringos Burritos, bringing traditional and specialty “theme” burritos to Carbondale — and effectively becoming the anchor tenant of the fledgling La Fontana Plaza.

Dec. 9, 2010 Following the demolition of several trailers at Highway 133 and Sopris Avenue, the folks from Studio for Arts and Works created an Airstream village in the vacant lot (a space that now houses Roaring Fork Family Practice). It became a temporary hub for vendors, music, a bonfire and general “merry mingling.” Many of the participants cited Allegheny Meadows and his “Artstream'' with their interest in the brand. But in reality, they’ve enjoyed a loyal following ever since Halwy Bowlus — designer of Charles Lindbergh’s “Spirit of St. Louis — first debuted the retro futuristic design in the ‘30s. In other news… The Carbondale Council on Arts and Humanities (now Carbondale Arts) partnered with Feed Them With Music for a concert benefiting victims of the Haiti earthquake.

Dear Editor: The Holiday Baskets Program is in full swing! For nearly 40 years we have supplied food and gifts to people in need in our valley for the holidays. Run entirely by volunteers, this program is a wonderful community effort with numerous groups and individuals participating. Ten local social service agencies refer recipients to this program that provides gifts for 250 families, approximately 1,000 people, who live between Aspen and Glenwood Springs. In addition to gifts, each individual or family also receives a City Market Gift Card. The Holiday Basket Program often gives the only gifts families will receive for the holidays. We are still in need of donations to purchase toys and gift cards. If you would like to participate you may donate on-line (holidaybasketsprogram.com) or send a check to Holiday Baskets Program, PO Box 2192, Basalt, CO. 81621. Anne Blackwell Holiday Baskets Chairperson

Masks at City Market Dear Editor Just an observation I wanted to share. I have noticed that the Carbondale City Market doesn't seem to mind that some of their employees are wearing masks or

Continued from page 2 gaiters inappropriately, meaning below their noses. The two or three employees I've seen doing this on a fairly regular basis are working in produce, probably the worst place to be without a properly-worn mask when putting out fresh fruits and vegetables. I've also seen several vendors wearing gaiters below their noses as well. I've seen this behavior throughout the valley, although El Jebel seems to be better at monitoring this. I've talked to management several times, but it's quite disconcerting to be told “thanks for letting us know, we'll keep an eye on them,” but nothing is done. I have contacted Kroger directly but have yet to hear back. As far as customers entering the store without a mask, I have yet to see anyone standing at the front monitoring this. I was under the impression that Carbondale law states that all people must wear a mask when inside a public building. This is posted on the front door of Carbondale Town Hall. If Kroger has decided they will not question those who refuse to wear a mask, then I feel it's their responsibility to the rest of the community as well as their staff 's safety to at least have employees at the door ready to accommodate them. Amy Krakow Carbondale

@rockymountainhighq

Happy Hanukkah Celebrate every night of Hanukkah with help from high q

Deals for every night of Hanukkah Save on a variety of products Online ordering available

Deals available every day during regular business hours.

MACBETH “ABSOLUTE POWER CORRUPTS ABSOLUTELY”

A Shakespeare in the Park Film STREAMING FREE STARTING NOV 28 ON OUR WEBSITE: HUDSONREEDENSEMBLE.ORG Lee Sullivan Morgan Walsh Graham Norrthrup View the Hanukkah savings at www.highqrockies.com/holiday-gift-guide/ SNOWMASS VILLAGE MALL

• CARBONDALE

• SILT • PARACHUTE

WWW.HIGHQROCKIES.COM | 844-420-DANK (3265) 22 • THE SOPRIS SUN • soprissun.com • December 10 - December 16, 2020

Franz Alderfer Christopher Wheatley Paige Northrup Talulah Marolt Meredith Castor

HUDSON REED ENSEMBLE

PARTING SHOT

“Ask a Lawyer” Free Legal Advice Mediation Hotline for Tenants and Landlords

970-230-3935

Mon-Fri 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 1 – 5 p.m.

Wednesdays 5-7 p.m.

970-368-2246

SERVING PARACHUTE TO ASPEN This community ad space is donated by Cool Brick Studios

SERVICE

WINDSHIELD REPAIR & DIRECTORY AUTO GLASS REPLACEMENT WINDSHIELD

Roaring Fork High School grads may recognize Doug Pratte from his time at the front desk there, but these days one of his most public community roles is helping decorate Crystal River Ranch for the holidays. Photo by Will Grandbois

LEGALS PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on November 24, 2020, the Carbondale Board of Trustees approved an Annexation, Rezoning, Major Site Plan Review, Vesting, and Conditional Use Permit. The applicant/owner is Eastwood 133, LLC. The approval was for the development of up to 590 self-storage units, a small manager's office, and a single residential unit, all under common ownership and located within three buildings to include Building 1 (up to 68,683 square feet), Building 2 (up to 3774 square feet), and Building 3 (up to 2777 square feet), together with development of all associated parking areas, ingress and egress, private and public utility infrastructure to serve the Project, and public trail infrastructure, including the Art Walk, all as shown on the

970-963-3891

Mobile Service Available

bile ServiceYou’re not alone if you’re feeling life’s are overwhelming right now. Availabchallenges le In-person and tele-health (Zoom) appointments available to treat Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma.

Locally Owned by David Zamansky

Locally owned bybyJake Zamansky Locally Owned David Zamansky

Ingrid Wussow 970.404.5105

cbmasonmorse.com

Ericka Anderson, MA LPC

208 Midland Avenue, Basalt | (970) 309-7549 erickaanderson812@gmail.com | thehealinggrove.com

500 Buggy Circle, Carbondale, CO 500 Buggy Circle, Carbondale, CO

Thinking about selling your home? Contact me today for a free market analysis!

232893 South 88°44'00" West, 195.0 feet; thence continuing along said boundary South 01°16'00" East, 49.14 feet to a point on the Northeasterly right-of-way line of the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad; thence leaving said boundary North 33°10'35" West, 47.30 feet along said Northeasterly right-of-way line; thence leaving said Northeasterly rightof-way North 01°16'00" West, 520.88 feet; thence North 88°44'00" East, 220.00 feet to the point of beginning. Containing 2.602 acres more or less. Approval of this Site-Specific Development Plan creates vested property rights as provided for in Section 2.7.3. of the Unified Development Code Vested Rights. Doug Pratt, Land Studio on behalf of Eastwood 133, LLC

Practicing minimal contact check-in.

REPAIR & AUTO GLASS REPLACEMENTMo

970-963-3891

Site-Specific Development Plan. The parcel affected is located at 0430 Highway 133 (Parcel #2393-284-00-011). It is the 2.602 acre parcel along the west side of Highway 133, just north of the Public Service electrical substation. It is legally described as follows: A parcel of land situated in Lot 16 of Section 28, Township 7 South, Range 88 West of the Sixth Principal Meridian, being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point on the Westerly rightof-way line of Colorado State Highway No. 133, whence the East Quarter corner of said Section 28 bears North 24°43'21" East, 2372.8 feet; thence South 01°16'00" East, 511.89 feet along said Westerly rightof-way line; thence leaving said Westerly right-of-way line along the boundary of that Exception Parcel described in that document recorded as Reception No.

We Sell Tires! Come to Sunburst for your Winter tire changeover!

We are open Monday through Saturday from 8am-5pm and Sunday’s 9am-4pm (car washes only).

970-963-8800 745 Buggy Circle in Carbondale w w w. s u n b u r s t c a r c a r e . c o m

289 MAIN STREET | (970) 963-2826 | CARBONDALEAH@GMAIL.COM

Carbondale Acupuncture Center Serving the valley since 1997 Acupuncture Massage Therapy  Herbal Medicine  

Gift certificates available! Downtown by Sopris Park | 704-1310

THE SOPRIS SUN • Carbondale’s weekly community connector • December 10 - December 16, 2020 • 23

The Colorado Media Project

has selected The Sopris Sun to receive matching grant funds up to $5,000 until Dec. 31st from individual supporters.

Will be matched for gifts of $1,000 or less. Schedule your GIFT through Colorado Gives

Soprissun.com/donate For more info contact Todd Chamberlin | todd@soprissun.com | 970-510-0246 The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Donations to The Sun are fully tax deductible.