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Volume 9, Number 45 | December 14, 2017
Zombies
out on the town
Not only is Carol Klein one of Carbondale’s super-volunteers, she was a good sport modeling as our Minnie Pearl doppelganger. Photo by Jane Bachrach
What’s with this Minnie Pearl character on our cover?
OR ING F K VALL R A
EY
RO
that thethe price tag was essential to your essential to our keepin’ A horde of zombies turned out for the annual pub crawl around downtowncided Carbondale evening of Oct. 21. Diners luckygenerosity enough tois be in Town Minnie’s countrified character. on keepin’ on. And, because we’re the for the popular eatery’s last supper were grateful not only because they were able to enjoy one more dinner before the restaurant closed, In this issue of The Sopris Sun, we’ve kind of nonprofit that’s committed to but also because they were safe from the insatiable thirst of creepy creatures like Kelly Hedrick. If you’re too young to recall, Minnie Ophelia Colley created Minnie Pearl, by put price tags on stories, features and transparency, we think our readers should Photo by Janephotos Bachrach because they’re essential to our know what this “free” newspaper costs. Pearl appeared for decades on the Grand accident she left a price tag on Minnie’s Ole Opry and Heehaw. When Sarah flower-bedecked hat. Later, Colley de- character — and our survival. It’s true: Continued on page 8
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CarbondaleCommentary Commentary Carbondale Carbondale Commentary
The views and opinions expressed on the Commentary page do not necessarily reflect those of The Sopris Sun. The Sopris Sun invites all members of the community to submit letters Sun invites all members of the community to submit letters to the of The Sopris Sun. The reflect those necessarily do not page Commentary on the expressedFor and opinions he to views the editor or guest columns. more information, email editor Will Grandbois at news@soprissun.com, orSopris call 510-3003. The Sopris Sun invites all members of the community to submit letters to the Sun. reflect those of The Sopris necessarily do not page Will the Commentary and opinions he views 510-3003. or call at news@soprissun.com, Grandbois email editor information, For more on columns. expressed or guest ditor ditor or guest columns. For more information, email editor Will Grandbois at news@soprissun.com, or call 510-3003.
Raising good men A officer’s on A former former wildlife wildlife officer’s perspective perspective on the the Crystal Crystal Trail Trail
By John Seidel The natural grandeur of this beautiful valley will thrill visitors no matBy Judith Ritschard By JohnDOW Seidel Biologist and Retired The natural of this beautiful valley will thrill visitors no matter what sidegrandeur the our trailsons is placed on. How manyBiologist isFork it now? I’veJournal honestly lost track. tant to correct when they make comments that uphold Retired DOW and ormer Roaring Valley columnist. ter what side the trail is placed on. access to the east side to the river in Avalanche and Lately thereFork haveValley been Journal countlesscolumnist. prominent men who have theProviding oppressive social norms. Even comments that seemCreek harmless ormer Roaring Providing access toprovide the east access side toto the river in Avalanche Creek and I see through the local papers that the proposed Crystal Valley trail Filoha Meadows will significant habitat that will be been accused of sexual harassment in the weeks since Harvey like “so-and-so throws like access girl” can be perfecthabitat opportunities to I see through the local papers that the proposed Crystal Valley trail Filoha Meadows will provide to significant that will be sWeinstein still being was considered for placement on the east side of the Crystal degraded by bandit trails and off track intrusions. Mountain bikers outed by the media. These accusations also include talk to them about respecting the different abilities within every s still being considered for placement on thediscussed east sideand of the Crystal degraded trails species. and off They track seek intrusions. Mountain River. This president controversial been rejected by appear to by be individual. abandit pioneering andbikers ways the 41st of placement the Unitedhas States, 93-year-old time Iout willnew justtrails sit them both River. This local controversial placement has been discussed and rejectedand by appear to bein a previously pioneeringMaybe species.next They seekand out new trails and ways he public, governments, local environmental organizations of traveling untracked forests meadows. I have no George H.W. Bush, and Bill O’Reilly. I’m not sure down to show them footage of Serena’s killer serve or he public, local governments, local environmental organizations and of traveling in previously untracked forests and meadows. Ithe have no he state Colorado Parks and Wildlife Division (CPW). I am surprised doubt that these users will gain access from the east side of Cryswhat’s worse: O’Reilly using his professional power Mo’ne Davis throwing a ball. See that kids. That right he state Colorado Wildlife Division (CPW). I am surprised doubt that these users will gain access Filoha from the east sideand of the Cryshat Pitkin County,Parks who and has led both and natal up mine roads meadows reach elk dynamic against young women or the the state fact that Fox there isold throwing like in a girl. hat Pitkin County, who has led both the state and natal up old mine roads in Filoha meadows and reach elk ional efforts to protect natural habitats and placed trails that follow the ridge line from Hawk Peak down Newsefforts Channel his pervy ways for more than When boysthe watch shows I’m Hawk there to askdown them ional to enabled protect natural and placed trails thatmy follow ridge line from Peak wildlife as a significant value for itshabitats citizens, is even conto Elephant Mountain. Enforcement of closures of eia decade abefore they fired him. questions that make them think twiceofabout how girls wildlife significant for its citizens, is even conto Elephant Enforcement eiidering as placing this trailvalue in undisturbed wildlife habitat. ther seasonalMountain. or new trails has proven toclosures be very of diffiWhat on Earth is happening here? Is there all of are often portrayed. For example recently I asked, idering placing this trail in undisturbed wildlife habitat. ther seasonal or new trails has proven to be very diffiI was assigned to the Carbondale District for the Colcult, and non-compliance has demonstrated that some a Isudden a dramatic increase in District sexual harassment? “What you think about the girls being was assigned the Carbondale Colcult, anddo non-compliance demonstrated thatoverly some orado Division ofto Wildlife (DOW) in 1972for andthe served of these users do not respecthas regulations and restrictions. As a woman who understands the meaning of the squeamish about those bugs? Do you think all girls orado Division of Wildlife (DOW) in 1972 and served of these users do not respect regulations and restrictions. n that capacity until 1978. I worked with Aspen DOW Kevin Wright, a retired wildlife officer for both the movement all tooI well, I can honestly say no. are Kevin like that?” or a“Did youwildlife notice officer how that boy had n#metoo that Allen capacity until 1978. worked with Aspen DOW Wright, retired for both officer Whitaker in identifying and mapping sigCarbondale and Aspen districts, has in his letterthe of It is not that inappropriate sexual misconduct is sighapto go save those girls? Dodistricts, you think girls always need officer Allen Whitaker in identifying and mapping Carbondale and Aspen has in his letter of nificant wildlife habitat for Pitkin County in 1974. We March 23, 2017 spelled out the science and studies that peningwildlife more than before. It is that women are finding boys to 23, save2017 them?” Thisout type of dialogue is necessary nificant habitat for Pitkin County in 1974. We March spelled the science and studies that also helped write land use regulations that would protect support his professional opinion that the placement of the confidence to finally shed lightthat on would something that our whole seeing that gender rolesprofessional on TV and in booksthat arethe stillplacement very unbalalso write land usegroundbreaking regulations support of hesehelped habitats. This was and oneprotect of the this trailhis on the east sideopinion will have negative effects on society has kept silent. In their collective courage they are con- anced, favoring the males aseast the side heroic main character. hese habitats. This was groundbreaking and one of the this trail on the will have negative effects on first counties in the state to incorporate wildlife habitat resident wildlife populations. Rick Thompson, a long fronting theinstigma of abuse, past wounds, and their humiliation. Don’t think for awildlife moment that boysRick are Thompson, ever too a long first thezoning state toregulations. incorporate wildlife habitat resident populations. n itscounties planning and time private wildlife consultant with a history of peer As an advocate for gender equality, I’m over here loudly cheeryoung to get cued in on the dynamic and pown its planning and regulations. timeand private wildlife consultant with a history of peer This decision, to zoning locate the trail on the east side of the Crystal River reviewed studies respected positions on numerous developments ing these women on as they bond together toof call out prominent erful roles women play in this world. numerous developments This decision, to locate trail on the east side Crystal River reviewed studies and respected positions would be contrary to thisthe long standing valuation ofthe wildlife habitat on the western slope, agreed with Kevin’son assessments and warnings. men inbepower who behaved terribly. Their bravery speakshabitat for all It the is crucial for our agreed sons towith see would contrary long standing valuation of wildlife slope, and warnings. n the county. Sinceto thethis ’70s there has been a tremendous amount of on What iswestern the motivation to put thisKevin’s trail onassessments the east side? Why ! would ofthe uscounty. ordinary women who have encountered our share of dickwomen in motivation different roles that n Since the ’70s there has been a tremendous amount of What is the to put this trail on the east side? Why would s s development in this narrow valley that has reduced the usable habi- your county which has supported and protected wildlife habitats e l habitats for e heads, but for countless reasons felt pressured to sit on our words. demonstrate leadership and audevelopment in this narrow valley that has reduced the usable habiyour county which has supported and protected wildlife c at by the historic populations of the many wildlife species that use this almost 50 years disregard the science and experience of expertsfor to ri P And because of this tidal wave of exposure, I’m reminded more thority, skill and strength. This at by the historic populations of the many wildlife species that use this almost 50 years disregard the science and experience expertsand to valley as the last habitats available to them. Elk were originally a placate the ideological desire by a few individuals, with aofnarrow than animal ever just how much available responsibility lies on my shoulders. I’maa placate is why I point out women police valley as the last habitats them. Elk were originally the ideological desire by a few individuals, with a narrow and plains that occupied the plainstoand river bottoms of the state. single track focus. boy mom. upofto beplains men and Iriver want mine the ones single officers and soldiers, women plains animalBoys thatgrow occupied the and bottoms ofbethe state. track focus. Continuous development these areas drove these andto other species Kelly Grange, historic ownerwho of Filoha Meadows, offered to sell allied with women, the ones who support women and feel that are physically strong, or in fields Continuous development of these areas drove these and other species Kelly Grange, historic of Filoha Meadows, offered to use sell nto the mountains and less accessible areas. These habitats are the me this property in 1976.owner Ron Shore, a pioneer in solar energy gender equality is good for everyone. that are traditionally male dominant like pilots and engineers. nto the mountains and less accessible areas. These habitats are the me this property in 1976. Ron Shore, a pioneer in solar energy use ast ones available; there is nowhere else left for them to use. in the valley, went with me and together we evaluated the hot springs Since the daythat my older soniswas born knew I had toState stepDiviup to in Inthe the future Ifor have add to together this by family taking time to about astI ones available; there is issue nowhere else leftI debated. for them to use. valley, went with me and we evaluated the hot springs am surprised this still being The on the property use in heating single homes. Weread calculated the plate and be stronger than order to The show himDivia le- that women whoheat have made a difference in history. I am surprised that thisover issue is before still being State on the for10-12 use inhomes heating single homes. ion of Wildlife has for 30 years asinadebated. respected professional weproperty could with thefamily hot springs onWe thecalculated property. git example of has strength in the It helps enormously Raising boys that turn intoup good men is and a big ion of continuously Wildlife for over 30feminine years asform. a the respected we could heat 10-12 homes with hotMt springs onresponsibility, the property. agency advised against locating trail onprofessional the east side that We stood in the meadow looked atthe Chair decided that neiagency continuously advised against locating the trail on the east side We stood in the meadow looked up at Chair Mt and decided that in our household both my husband and I believe in gender but I’m determined to do what it takes. I think failing on neithis of the river. The push to locate it on the east side is the life-long dream ther of us wanted to develop this beautiful spot. Would Pitkinthat County of the river. The push to locate it on the east side is the life-long dream ther of us wanted to develop this beautiful spot. Would Pitkin County equality and on a daily basis demonstrate it to both our boys. My one is not an option because it will only add to the hurt, abuse, of Dale Will and has been passed on to Gary Tennenbaum of Open have allowed this development on this parcel? I think not. Why of Daleand Will andto has beenWe passed Tennenbaum of Open this development on this I think Why husband loves cook. shareon in to theGary cleaning and laundry while have and allowed inequality that already exists. But,parcel? don’t think fornot. a second Space Trails. allow this impact? Space and Trails. allow this impact? I have no problem getting on the working end of a shovel, a drill that it’s just up to us moms. I’m calling on all you dads, aunts, A bike trail up the Crystal River valley would be a very nice addiYour existing land use codes would prohibit this development if bike up the Crystal River beand a very nice addiYour existing land use codes who would prohibit development if orAan ax trail ifextensive I need totrail chop wood. uncles, teachers and neighbors aroundthis our boys ion to the system of valley Pitkinwould County western Col- being done by a private individual or are corporation. Why leteveryday a public ion to the extensive trail system of Pitkin County and western Colbeing done by a private individual or corporation. Why let a public My boys will also be asked to challenge traditional masculine to demonstrate not just what respect for women looks like, but orado. It could be placed along the west side of the river and the agency do it? Stick to your principles; support knowledge and science orado. It 133 could be placed westthem of the river the do it? Stick to your principles; support knowledge science stereotypes. They alreadyalong hear the us tell that boys canand have what respect for ideology. all human beings looksto like. We need more carHighway right-of-way would provide aside wonderful experience toa agency over emotion and This is obvious anyone, notand just bioloHighway 133 right-of-way would provide a wonderful experience to over emotion and ideology. This is obvious to anyone, not just biologood cry if they want or that they can wear any color they choose, ing, respectful men. Let’s do our best to ensure we raise boys that he biking public. The scenic wonders of this beautiful valley will be gists, that this trail on the undisturbed east side of the river would dehe public. wonders ofThe thisbike beautiful valley will be gists, that thisthe trail on sidethis of the river trail would deorbiking outfit from for that matter. But, itthe doesn’t stop there. I think it’s imporare part solution and notthing. the east problem. enjoyable theThe westscenic side of river. trail along the Colgrade the of habitats. Dothe theundisturbed right Locate needed along enjoyable from west side the river.Its The bike trail along theInterCol- grade the habitats.corridor Do the right thing. needed trail along orado River hasthe become veryofpopular. location next to the the transportation of Hwy 133.Locate As onethis who rode his bike on orado has noticed becomeby very popular. location next to theare Intertransportation corridor Hwy 133.aAs oneiswho rodeJust his bike tate inRiver not even its users. TheItsriver and the canyon the the Hwy 133 during the era of of coal trucks; trail needed. buildon it tate in noticed by its users.beThe andCrystal the canyon the Hwy during the eraItofwill coal a trail needed. for Justitsbuild it ocus ofnot theeven users. The same could saidriver of the Valleyare Trail. along133 the existing road. betrucks; safe and very is enjoyable users. ocus of the users. The same could be said of the Crystal Valley Trail. along the existing road. It will be safe and very enjoyable for its users. The Sopris Sun welcomes your letters, limited to no more than 500 words via email at news@soprissun.com or 250 words via snail mail at P.O. Box 399, Carbondale CO 81623. Letters exceeding that length may be returned for revision or submission as a guest column; please include your name, town, and contact information. The deadline for submission is noon on Monday.
OPINION
OPINION OPINION
Letters Letters Letters
he Sun welcomes yourfire letters, limited to need no more than 500 words via email at news@soprissun.com or 250 words via snail mail at A Sopris different side of the dept. Ready to feed hungry workers of the planning committee. he Sopris SunCarbondale welcomes CO your81623. letters,Letters limited exceeding to no morethat thanlength 500 words viareturned email atfor news@soprissun.com or 250 words via snail mail at .O. BoxEditor: 399, may be revision or submission Dear With the help of Gene Schilling, CarDear Editor: as a guest column; please .O. Box 399, Carbondale COcontact 81623.information. Letters exceeding that length may be returned for submission as a guest column; please nclude name, town,experience and The deadline is noonofficers on revision Monday.orYes, Chiefforofsubmission Police, police we really, really need snow. We Myyour only previous with fire- bondale nclude your name, town, and contact information. The deadline for submission is noon on Monday.
were also in attendance to help with parkmost un-urban ing and traffic place. concerns. most un-urban Less invasiveplace. options include widening Maureen was a volunteer firefighter invasive options widening theLess highway shoulders byinclude a few feet where for many years. And before she passed, reen Nuckols Memorial Service, I saw a the highway shoulders by a few feet Dear Editor: only, and beginning the trail where at the I’m deeply concerned about the Open feasible she requested that her memorial beatheld different side concerned of the department. only, and beginning the trail the I’mand deeply the Open top of McClure Pass bypassing the costly Space Trails proposed about trail through the feasible at theMcClure firehouse. am in awe and in UnderTrails the proposed leadershiptrail of through Carbondale PassI bypassing costly Space the top and of invasive construction within the the valley. Crystaland River Valley. It has been my home thanks of each and everywithin one ofthe thevalley. wonFire Chief Ron Leach, his been crew my took over and invasive construction Crystal River Valley. It has home or thirty years and I still thrill at its beauty No trail should also be an option. derful firefighters, staff, option. and police officleaning the truck baythrill until ititssparkled; trailRobert shouldMoses also be or years and133. I still beauty thean builder of bridges and as I thirty drive Highway I, as doatmany, love NoLike cers that helped us make her final wish counting, setting up andI, then taking Like Robert Moses builder of bridges and as driveand Highway 133. many,down love found, if youthe build it they will come. o Ihike bike and findasnodoshortage of highways come true. We simply could notcome. have almost 500 chairs; securing and building highways found, if you build it they will o hike and bike and find no shortage of Thank you for your time and consideration. hese opportunities now. I have studied the it without you.time and consideration. a beautiful riser; securing and studied staffingthe the done Thank you for your hese opportunities I have Jacqueline Dearborn plans, both A and B.now. I find no good reason Along with the Fire and Police Depart“tribute” podium with speakers and miJacqueline plans, both A and B. I find no good reason Marble Dearborn o embark upon a decades-long costly projfamily, friends, neighbors, crophone; creating and fastening direc- ments, manyMarble o embark upon a decades-long costly project that will produce endless traffic delays, and musicians, were involved in maktional staffing shuttles to and from ect that signs; will produce endless traffic delays, ntroduce signs, guardrails, pullouts, and None of the above on Crystal Trail ing this special dayonfor the Luttrell None ofathe above Crystal Trail / the firehouse; setting up tables and decontroduce signs, guardrails, pullouts, and even bridges required by Plan A or B. Either Dear Editor: Nuckols family. For all of us who loved rating them with beautiful flowers; helpeven bridges required by Planvegetation, A or B. Either Editor: plan will destroy the natural alter Dear Pitco OST has been soliciting opinion for Maureen it couldn’t have been a better ing to direct each and everyone one of us plan willwildlife destroy the natural alter months Pitcoabout OST has soliciting opinion for critical areas, andvegetation, cross private the been preferred alignment of the celebration of her life. Thank you. of the on the wildlife Memorial Walkplan andwill then gently critical and cross privateto months about preferred alignment property. Further,areas, either ultimately proposed bikethe path in the Crystal Valley. our seats; cleaning after most of into us left; property. Further, either plan will ultimately bike Nancy path in Reinisch theand Crystal Valley. esult in bringing anupurban project a proposed This process is skewed fatally flawed. Springs and basically standing at attention esult in bringing an urban project for intoany a This processGlenwood is skewed and fatally flawed. SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • OCTOBER 26 -14-20, NOVEMBER 2• THE • THESOPRIS SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 2017 1, 2017
fighters been when Save thehas aesthetics of they the are saving Save the aesthetics of lives and homes through fighting fires or Crystal River Valley the helping as EMTs. But this week, at MauCrystal River Valley Dear Editor:
are seeing many enthusiastic, ready-to-go Governments know that if they control the people who have here,control often for Governments knowarrived that if they dialogue, they control the issues. Nowherethe in their firstthey winter season, to work up on the dialogue, control the issues. Nowhere in the opinion gathering process has there been mountains and in our priceless hospitality the opinion gathering process has there been an option for residents to oppose any addiand tourism industries. an option residents to oppose anyan additional path.forWildlife is also not given opBut, while most of seasonal and longertional path. Wildlife is also notevidently given anthey option for “none of the above”— termforemployed workers are evidently raring tothey go, tion “none of the above”— don’t speak English or have online access. without snow, they haven’t been called don’t speak English or have online access. OST has conveniently deflected attention to OST workhas this season. Thus, we are seeing conveniently deflected attention away from the “none of the above” option manyfrom morethe people atofour LIFT-UP Aspen away “none the above” option to focus attention on where a path should Food Bank, as well our six other locato onaswhere a path should go focus — likeattention its existence is a foregone conclutions. New arrivals often are worried that go — like its existence is a foregone conclusion — and has garnered opinion in a they shouldn’t be asking for food assission — and has garnered opinion in a skewed process to gain an answer they want, tance. Oh, no, please ask for help now! In skewed process to gain an answer they want, just as Delia Malone and others contend. Carbondale, the indomitable Boyle just Delia favored Malone others contend. I as initially aand path thatDebi did not enheads the volunteer staff the LIFTI initially favored a path thatatdid not encroach on loyal three ancient wintering grounds UP elk. Food Bank, and athey want grounds hungry croach on three ancient wintering for I have owned Carbondale busipeople know that arethere there17 toyears help. for elk. I have owned a Carbondale business forto12 years andthey lived Food17 Bank is nessThe for LIFT-UP 12 yearsCarbondale and lived there years LETTERS page 14 LETTERS page 18 LETTERS page 14
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Local organizations provide resources for ‘silence breakers’ with a deputy any situation that may be deemed noteworthy, Daok said. Additionally, every CMC employee undergoes a Last week, Time Magazine announced proprietary two-and-a-half-hour online its 2017 person of the year: the “Silence training about preventing and reporting Breakers.” It’s referring to the group of misconduct. “We want everyone on camwomen who spoke out about sexual pus to be aware of what the definition of misconduct in their respective industries, sexual misconduct is, how to report it, and launched the #MeToo movement on social then what the resources are that we have media and generally cultivated the nation- available,” she said. al dialogue that’s led to seemingly unendIn addition to counselors and designating headlines and allegations. ed coordinators, the CMC Cares page of It’s a literal and figurative its website (coloradomtn.edu/student_ snapshot of the issue. Yes, services/cmc-cares/) allows anyone s sexual misconduct is pervaaffiliated with the institution to e l c i t Ar 0 sive in high-profile industries submit an anonymous complaint, 6 1 , $56 ually like Hollywood, and those alincluding sexual harassment and n an legations garner equally highTitle IX complaints. profile media coverage. But, as Even thorough efforts to educate the Center for American Progress and prevent misconduct are not foolrecently reported, lower-paying industries proof. “Of course, like any other institu— large parts of the Roaring Fork Valley tion, we certainly do have reports,” Doak economies — often represent the bulk of said. When that occurs, timely and thorsexual harassment complaints filed with ough investigation is important, and it’s the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity not a one-size-fits-all response. “It’s very Commission. The study, which categorized situational. It’s important to look at ev41,250 EEOC complaints from 2005 to ery aspect.” The consequences of a claim 2015, found that more than 14 percent rep- could range from training and education resented employees in accommodation and for the involved individual to removal food service. Retail trade (13.44 percent), from the college. manufacturing (11.72 percent) and healthTraining and making policies easily accare and social assistance (11.48 percent) cessible seem to be the common approachwere the next largest industries from which es among prominent employers in the Valemployees filed sexual harassment claims. ley. And while complaints occasionally do Education services rounded out the “Top happen, having those policies in place and 10,” as it were, with almost 3.98 percent. updated is crucial to responding effectively. Of course, not all complaints are han“We have definite steps,” Nichole dled through the EEOC. “In our district, Schoon, RFTA Title IX coordinator, said. complaints of sexual harassment are rare,” “We have it in our handbook, which evRoaring Fork Schools Public Informa- ery employee receives when they come on. tion Officer Kelsy Been said in an email. They know where they can go [and] who “However, when a sexual harassment they can go to if something were to hapcomplaint is filed, our HR department fol- pen. We also advertise our policy statement lows a formal protocol to investigate the on our website and send it out to different allegations and take appropriate measures entities that we are with,” she said. While when needed.” there was one incident during her tenure Colorado Mountain College has ex- with the organization, “it was a misundertensive resources for both students and standing [that] was handled within house,” faculty regarding sexual misconduct. “I largely thanks to those policies, she said. think CMC has made a concerted effort The Town of Carbondale has similar to have up-to-date policies and procedures processes that seem to have curtailed poregarding sexual misconduct and any kind tential issues. “We haven’t received any reof gender-related discrimination,” CMC cent complaints (over the past 4-5 years),” Title IX Coordinator Lisa Doak said. In Town Manager Jay Harrington said in an addition to Doak, every campus location email. “The Town also requests all new has a designated deputy coordinator. All employees to watch a training produced employees double as “mandatory report- by our insurance company on sexual haers,” a status that requires a worker share rassment in the workplace,” he said, addBy Megan Tackett Sopris Sun Staff
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Colorado sexual harassment complaints to the EEOC by year Female Male
While state harrassment complaints appear to be on the decline, retaliation complaints (not shown) have increased by 86 percent nationally — suggesting that the number of reports may not be indicative of the number of incidents. Sopris Sun graphic based on EEOC stats ing that a similar training is in place regarding workplace violence.
Breaking down the numbers A request for Garfield County and Pitkin County statistics with the EEOC regarding sexual harassment claims proved inaccessible — and that’s by design, said Patricia McMahon, outreach and education coordinator for the EEOC Denver Field Office. While unexpected even for her, it made sense, she said, as the commission is “picky” regarding details its systems share in reports. That’s to protect employer confidentiality, she explained. If instead of labeling a county as “Colorado 1,” for example, a report listed that county by name, it would not be difficult for someone to deduce which entity is a defending employer based on that information. So, while county information is recorded in every complaint, it is subsequently coded according to an auditor — and even EEOC employees don’t know the codes. That said, the EEOC does break down nationwide and statewide statistics. Depending on which numbers you look at, the story changes. On the one hand, sexual harassment claims have been dwindling in recent years. With the exception of a minor spike between fiscal-year 2015 and FY
2016, the number of sexual harassment claims filed with the EEOC in the United States has steadily declined since 2009 — Colorado’s numbers were less linear, but the overall trend was similarly downward (going from 204 complaints in FY 2009 to 164 in FY 2017). That trend looks hopeful — but most complaints may go unreported altogether, largely out of fear of retaliation. The EEOC statistics would confirm that assertion. There were 33,613 Title VII retaliation complaints filed with the entity in FY 2009 in the country; by FY 2016, that number had grown to 42,018. Last year in Colorado, Title VII retaliation complaints had swelled to 41.6 percent of EEOC complaints in the state, up from a five-year low of 34 percent in 2012. Most sexual misconduct complaints are handled internally, within a company’s human resources or equivalent department — if they are handled at all (again, most complaints go unreported). Many local employers outline their policies in their employee handbooks and publish reporting pathways on websites. If anyone is considering filing a complaint with the EEOC, there is an online portal to do so (publicportal.eeoc.gov/portal/Login. aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fportal%2f), as long as the standard 180-day timeline is met.
The Sopris Sun is hiring! Part-time Ad Manager position 20-30 hours per week Looking for a community-minded person to join our lively team. Start date: January 1 For details and a full job description: barbara.dills@gmail.com or 970-963-5782.
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017 • 3
Town Report
The following items are drawn from Town Manager Jay Harrington’s weekly report to staff, trustees and others.
Signs of the season
under “Employment Opportunities” on Letters to Santa started on Dec. 1 and the Town’s website www.carbondalegov. will run through Dec. 21. Drop off your let- org. Additionally, construction bids are beter in Santa’s Mailbox at the Carbondale ing sought for the construction of a perimRecreation and Community Center. Make eter fence at the west side of Bonnie Fisher Park. Interested contractors can consure to sign your name and address tact Parks & Recreation Director so Santa can write you back! Eric Brendlinger at 510-1277 or Also, the Carbondale Recreation eport R ebrendlinger@carbondaleco.net. n w o and Community Center will be T 040 , 4 closed on Dec. 25 and will close 1 $ lly Back to business annua at 3 p.m. on Dec. 24. It will also Sales tax revenues for Novemclose early on Dec. 31 and will be ber were 9 percent above Novemclosed on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1. ber 2016. Year to date revenues for 2017 are 4.9 percent above 2016 year to Stay active The Parks and Recreation Brochure for date revenues. January through May 2018 is in production and will be coming out as an insert in the Dec. 21 edition of the Sopris Sun. Online registration will also be available at www. carbondalerec.com. The back page of the brochure will provide an opportunity for citizens to fill out the Carbondale Pool Survey and give feedback to the Town of Carbondale Parks & Recreation Commission. The survey will also be online at www.surveymonkey.com/r/carbondalepoolsurvey.
Need a job? Youth and Adult Athletics Program Coordinator Jason Thraen has accepted a position in the field of recreation in Iowa. The Town will be hiring to fill his position and the job description and application process is detailed at www.carbondalerec.com and
Zone out Planning Staff prepared the Planning Commission packet for the Dec. 14 meeting, which focused on a Unified Development Code amendment on Mobile Home Parks and off-street parking requirements for Assisted Living Facilities.
Out on the streets The streets crew worked on lowering some of the manhole sewer rings on trails in River Valley Ranch and finished installing holiday banners and wreaths in the downtown area. They also worked worked together to train each other on equipment operation, swept streets and sanded intersections for the first time this season. The new arborist worked on installing game
fencing around trees at North Face Park and the Nature Park, pruned trees at Colorado Meadows Park and finished up a few remaining lights on trees downtown.
Water logged The air compressor at Nettle Creek was inspected this week and the pulley and motor need to be replaced. These items have been ordered. The Special Use permit has been received from the USFS for the Nettle Creek Treatment plant, a long process that we are relieved is completed. The town also received a call out regarding a burst meter plate last night. The service was turned off and the property owner representative has been notified.
From the Force Eloisa Duarte from the Valley Settlement Project is continuing weekly Spanish lessons for Carbondale officers. After new technology was adopted by the Town’s service provider, one of the message/ radar signs is back up and running on Snowmass. Crews are working on the other one. Yet another vandalism took place at Sopris Park on the north bridge over the ditch. Parks staff had it closed off to conduct repairs of the custom woodwork and to keep the public safe due to the original vandalism that destroyed the safety railings on the bridge. For safety regulations the bridge will remain closed until the custom wood work can be completed and re-installed.
Cop Shop From Dec. 1 through 7, Carbondale Police handled 201 calls for service. During that period, officers investigated the following cases of note: FRIDAY Dec. 1 at 2:23 a.m. A menacing report lead to a summons for 60-year-old Dolores Way resident. FRIDAY Dec. 1 at 2:14 p.m. The owner of a dog who allegedly attacked a deer near Roaring Fork High School was issued a summons. SATURDAY Dec. 2 at 2:16 a.m. When a car reportedly failed to stop at a stop sign, police contacted the 43-year-old driver and arrested him on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. SATURDAY Dec. 2 at 11:57 p.m. A traffic stop for failing to maintain a single lane lead to the arrest of the 34-year-old driver on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. MONDAY Dec. 4 at 7:35 a.m. An officer stopped a 17-year-old boy for speeding and ended up issuing a summons for minor in possession of a controlled substance. MONDAY Dec. 4 at 11:29 a.m. Police took a report of a cold hit and run in a shopping center parking lot; an investigation is ongoing.
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Happy Holidays from our family to yours! 970-963-1644 or visit NieslanikBeef.com 4 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017
Trustees approve 2018 budget Lack of capital projects fund may sap reserves By Will Grandbois Sopris Sun Staff The die is cast for Carbondale’s spending next year, though Town Manager Jay Harrington characterized the budget approved on Dec. 12 as “a living document.” If anything, it’s conservative projections for income — a 2 percent sales tax increase compared to 3.4 percent this year — and expenses may help avoid dipping into reserves. That’s precisely what happened last year, when trustees accepted the possibility of reducing savings to 75 percent of annual operating costs.
This year’s budget reduces that figure as low as 71 percent thanks in part to the Town’s decision to partner with Aspen Valley Land Trust for the purchase and improvement of a parcel at the base of Red Hill. “There’s kind of a last minute opportunity we’d be foolish not to take advantage of,” Mayor Dan Richardson noted. Even so, some trustees worried that it might prove a slippery slope. “I feel like we kind of drew a line in the sand at 75 percent,” Ben Bohmfalk said. Added Marty Silverstein, “You don’t want to be taking from your reserves every single year… we need to figure out how to get more money into our capital fund on a regular basis.” Harrington encouraged trustees to look at the big picture, with more than 14 million dollars in the bank across several accounts.
“We’re kind of right at that sweet spot that I wouldn’t go any further,” he said. “We focus on that general fund, but on the big picture I think we’ve kept ourselves in a pretty good financial position.” The budget also included a 3 percent cost of living increase for employees but, Harrington said, intentionally kept the total number of employees the same. As such, a last minute request from the Mount Sopris Historical Society to make its executive director a Town position was not met with enthusiasm. “It’s not only late, but not something that’s been on our to-do list,” Richardson said. Indeed, employees and benefits are by far the Town’s biggest expense. “It’s grown as the healthcare costs have grown,” Harrington said “…and there’s no relief in sight.
Event task force recommends common consumption By Will Grandbois Sopris Sun Staff It has been a fairly quiet year for Carbondale’s Special Event Task Force, but that may be about to change. The committee seems to have resolved many of the complaints that corresponded with its creation several years ago, Co-Chair Jake Boyles told
trustees on Dec. 12. And with the calendar looking almost identical 2017 except for applying street closures to every single First Friday, it didn’t take long to approve the schedule. Instead, the discussion focused on what would amount to a temporary repeal of open container laws on Main Street for three summer First Fridays
— provided attendees purchase a special cup with proceeds helping put on the monthly event. “Not only were we looking for ways to bolster First Fridays… but it was also looking to create a funding mechanism,” Boyles explained. “There was some discussion of whether alEVENTS page 16
The Town of Carbondale issued a proclamation honoring tireless volunteer and Village Smithy cofounder Chris Chacos on Dec. 12. “The Carbondale community has been deeply touched by Chris’ infectious energy which he happily spreads through the downtown core, from organizing businesses to plant their flower pots to making sure the sidewalks are litter-free,” it read. Others recognized at the trustee meeting include Trustee Frosty Merriott for encouraging Carbondale Police to carry narcan — resulting in two lives saved — and Officer David Moreno for 20 years of service. File photo by Lynn Burton
Bringing the world into your home.
Shop at Strange Imports for Globally inspired gifts! Holiday Sale extended through this weekend BOGO 50% off ALL Jewelry 15%-50% off ALL furniture 423 Main Street | Carbondale Colorado | 970.963.7100 The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017 • 5
Scuttlebutt
Send your scuttlebutt to news@soprissun.com.
Do not pass Go; do not collect $200
ming on the brakes if suddenly blinded. Better yet, avoid eastbound travel on Floyd Hill between 7 and 8:30 a.m. if possible.
Already known for its brand-name cachet, Aspen becomes legendary in the game world with the release of an official new game of Aspen Monopoly. The whole game has been “localized” to include well-known sites such as Clark’s Market, the Aspen Art Museum, Maroon Bells, Pitkin County Dry Goods and of course the four Aspen Mountains, honorifically located where the railroads traditionally were on the original gameboard. The silver playing pieces are familiar symbols as well, and include a gondola, an aspen leaf, a bear, a hiking boot and a skier. This creation is the brainstorm of Katherine and Dane Chapin, part-time residents of Aspen who own the rights through Hasbro, and is available for $40 at an array of area retailers including Explore Bookstore, the Aspen Art Museum, Carl’s Pharmacy and others.
Let it snow Hopefully we’ll have some snow by Jan. 5, when Sunlight holds its skier appreciation day. That means $20 lift tickets for non season pass holders and a superhero/villain costume contest. Find out more at sunlightmtn.com.
Water and Wood
Naturopathic doctor and author Jade Wimberley signs a customer’s book on Dec. 7 at Lux Wellness Center’s holiday party and book signing for her new book “The Health Revolution”, available at Lux Wellness Center in Lines Plaza or at Amazon. Photo by Jane Bachrach
Big tent
Clutch, a B2B ratings and reviews firm in Washington, DC, just released a list of the most highly recommended marketing, development, design, and IT companies from around the world, and one company in Carbondale made the list: Bluetent. With only 15 Colorado companies making the Scuttl e rankings, it’s something to brag about. Find $14 butt ,040 out more about the list at clutch.co/resourcannua es/clutch-global-leaders-2017, or check out lly Bluetent at bluetent.com.
With the grain The Carbondale Community Oven is looking for Colorado grain growers to share samples of their product. They’ll have a chance to talk to local bakers and use the oven’s large Meadows mill. The event will occur on a Friday or Saturday in May 2018, but only if they have
a sufficient number of growers who will attend. To get involved, contact comoven@gmail.com or 306-1015 by Jan. 1.
Sarah Woods, Director of Philanthropy, announces her retirement after nine successful years with Roaring Fork Conservancy. 2018 will mark the completion of the River Center in Basalt, a project for which Sarah was instrumental in securing funding and bringing to fruition. For nearly a decade, Sarah has also helmed the organization’s signature fundraising event, the River Rendezvous. Sarah’s legacy also includes the Children’s Water Education Fund – started after observing RFC’s education programs in action she prioritized the need to continue teaching our Valley school children the importance of keeping our waters healthy and clean. Sarah and Robert will continue to be strong advocates for all rivers and especially their “home” river, the Fryingpan.
They say it’s your birthday
Driving blind
Following a recent crash and safety closure on eastbound Interstate 70 at Floyd Hill, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) is reminding drivers who travel the highway about the yearly sun glare problem in the area. Drivers are encouraged to make sure their windshield is clean inside and out, wear a good pair of sunglasses, expect traffic slowdown and avoid slam-
Folks celebrating another year of life this week include: Steve Keohane (Dec. 14); Alya Howe, Ciarra Bristol and Lynn “Jake” Burton, Arturo Ortiz, Anthony Ortiz (Dec.15); JR Burton (Dec. 16); Aiden Knaus (Dec. 17); Ralph Wanne, Daisy Tena and Kathy Ezra (Dec. 18); Frances Lewis and Shirley Bowen (Dec. 19); Don Butterfield, Tyler Thompson, Terry Glasenapp and Prema Trettin (Dec. 20).
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The Near New Store The Near New Store is run by the Rebekah Lodge, a sisterhood whose motto is
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continued from page 1
Sun
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Stefanie Diaz and Mayett Silva
Jessica Beltran and Lucy Robinson
Amanda and Zachary Durham
Kassandra and Issac Dean Campbell
RA Roa MP rin AG g Fo E I rk NS ID E
| May 11, 2017 Volume 9, Number 14
community connector
Carbondale’s weekly
With the season of holiday giving right around the corner, you’ll see that we’ve put price tags on some of our stories, features and photos to show you why your support is so crucial to The Sopris Sun. And it’s no accident that we asked Carbondale’s super-volunteer Carol Klein to model our Minnie Pearl get-up on the cover. Volunteers, in-kind donations, and your story ideas, letters, and feedback, as well as greenbacks themselves, are the lifeblood of this nonprofit community newspaper. Like all newspapers, The Sopris Sun depends heavily on advertising to pay our staff and cover our rent, printing costs, and other bills. But as a nonprofit, approximately 15 percent of our $252,000 annual budget must be covered by donations from individuals and businesses. We’re extremely grateful for the generous support of so many donors who have contributed already in 2017, but we still have a way to go to reach our $20,000 individual and business fundraising goal by the end of the year (another $7,500 to be exact)*. If all our regular readers who have not yet made a contribution donate before December 31, we can easily reach that goal. Might you be one of them? * Those numbers do not include the additional support of our Honorary Publishers, local angels who have made a major long-term commitment to The Sopris Sun and make up the balance of our fundraising needs. If you have the means and desire to join the growing list of Honorary Publishers who have committed to ongoing support of $1,000 a year or more, we would love to include your name, or your company’s name, on the masthead on page 2, as you like. ]
Because every town needs a park, a library and a newspaper
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Each cop yo The Sop f ris Sun cos $1. t us 12 to produ ce this yea r. In 2018, we expect o costs to ur ris $1.2 e to 0 per copy .
Amanda and Cleo Nielsen
Megan and Hunter James Hartmann
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The unsolved case of th e
Dead Iron Mule
By Justin Patrick Special to The Sopris Sun Near Marble, up rock-an d-mud County Road the Outward Bound 3 just past facility, lies the North Lost Trailhead. It’s is one of the less-tra velled entrances into the Maroon BellsSnowmass Wilderness, and for good cause. It is hard to spot, for starters. But it is also steep and overgrown and least two substantial at Hannula creek crossings and does require andsAxel notAngie immediatelyKepa offer any Maiolong views, the Cara and gratifyi kind prized by typical hikers. Further detract day Olivia and JJ Ruiz ing from its appeal, this winter a particularly forceful avalan Susan and Emmett Rains che swept through the narrow gully along North Lost www.soprissun.com atoblitera and Creek and pages 11-13 ted a section of the trail. See more photos Thereon is now a tangle of large downed trees and burgeo vegetation that one must ning dutifully wrangle to link established trail. up with the ARU SUB OD NWO Those GLE tenacious enough to trudge through the debris N FEES! continu PTIO e along and ADO the steep, winding trail will eventua PAYS ALL ! pets SP l a lly small, come P loca slanted to for meado D w at about 10,000 feet WK ‡ er homes of elevation. Many hikers with their Help us find forev 6DWXUGD\ 0D\ “gotta keep truckin’â€? usitfor lunch! Join zip past FUN! blinders on will (I missed , and the first s,itpets time), but astute observ prize ys, notice ers will that about twenty or ID tags Tons of giveawa pet so yards west off the trail, engr obscur partially ed by aved brush and tall grass, Free custom sits the remains of a large, rather old iron rather behemoth that looks a lot like a locomotive, at first glance, but clearly is not, on second steam This rust-bitten machin glance. e is about ten or fifteen and must weigh several feet long tons. It appears that it was abandoned while heading down the meadow towards town. At least that is how it is oriented. The front of the appara tus has a large compartment — a boiler — with a spout protrud ing from the top. Peering into this cavernous compartment , one can see a smattering of coaster -sized holes cut out of a barrier between this and the longer back side. Next to and detach ed from the main body is a pair of humon an axle, and they appear gous iron wheels connected by to have been draggin though it looks like g a plow, it was hammered on haphazardly and perhaps was not include d with the original manufa only clue about this cture. The machine’s origins is an engraving that reads “Frick & Coâ€? and “Waynesboro, PA.â€? Seeing as this author ry town is an amateur historia Because eve n — and I do mean amateur — I began The Dead Iron Mule, searching for an explan k, a library an Eclipse steam engine why this heavy, unwiel ation as to needs a par tured by a Pennsylvania manufacdy machine was left spaper to rot in this precompany as early as carious, isolated spot, and a new sits today in a meado the 1870s, and what it might have w along the North there in the first place, been doing Lost Creek Trail. Photo by Justin Patrick and when. I regret to inform readers that despite my researc h and consultation with local ans, I do not have a histori2017ation about definitive30, explan whatever mission or beast of a contrap what this missions it was commi 8 | March ssioned to do. 9, Number tion and its master(s) were doing exactly By whom, and to what umI ehave but Vol contemplated some plausib , end, I could not devise. stretch to posit that such It seems a le theories. What is clear is that a powerful, expensive this little piece of history machine was chugged out to its curren in a meadow is yet anothe abandoned t grave site simply to r example of how almost plow a tiny high-altitude meadow omably difficult life was unfath with tor a short nec growin in this area just a hundre con g season (to grow what, exactly? Potato d years ago, and to what great pains community es, which could not have the rugged settlers here been particularly lucrative?). My tame the land, with suffered to friend and colleague both impressive success Peter Hart, whose family boasts a rich genera es and failures. Indeed, despite tional history in the the knowledge and techno colossal state and is a rather astute observer vantages afforded by of the the modern age, we continu logical adhaps the best explanation. human condition, offered perwith our mountains, e to wrestle which makes our forefat “Some weasel,â€? and I’m hers’ plights all the more relatable. swindled a big city money paraphrasing here, “probably Frick & Company was man to hire him to build a manufacturing powerh through that valley — a road cepted before the Civil ouse in- An illustra maybe to a mining claim. War and became the tion of the Eclipse He got as far as he could, clearing economic driver in a steam engine as advert of Waynesboro. Its colorfu rocks and trees and Frick & Co. catalog ised road with l founder, George Frick, forging a shoddy ue over the a plow, crashed the thing business from a small hundre grew d years ago. his shop to a humming factory or broke an axle or most likely just looked that it was profiled by so notable the around the isolated, rugged valley Scientific American in potential multiple uses said ‘to hell with this,’ and 1883. of the steam engine Indeed, in its heyday walked on out of there, only adds to tract the mystery of its presenc in the mid-1870s, Frick blew the conpurse on whiskey and e outside manufacturing, among & Co. was hub loose women, and was other machines, over for silver mining, a bustlin Marble, which was once a heard from never 4,000 steam enagain.â€? In an era when gines per year that were g marble extraction and one population industry, banks and outlaws were robbin being sold in market center in a more or less g disappearing into canyon s as far away as Australia and racking lawless territory magna where any number of s across up awards at state fairs state lines, a coal te was building a utopian ambitious characters across the U.S. The bigger units were may have been Redsto mining village and castle trying their hands at sold at roughly $100,0 any gamut of thorou ne, and dentist-turned in 00 in dollars, and were employ ghly logical or ab-gunslinger Doc Hollid ed for a variety of essentia today’s solutely hare-brained scheme wasting away peacefu ay was s, funded perhaps by and agricultural purpos l industrial investo lly after a morally ambigu speculative sanatorium es. They could be used rs out east. ous life in a as portable saw in Glenwood, then why mills, plows, engines — essentially a power not? It seems unlikely that The case of the Dead station on wheels. a steam engine could In one old black-and-whi Iron Mule may never have appeared hopefu on the scene without te photo a steam engine be solved, but the assistance of locomo lly pulling an entire house is depicted paper tive transport. A relative it will continue to spark the imaginations between locations, much delivered to me by Pitkin of today’s ly carefree hikers recreat ern Mack truck might. like a mod- torian County official and local ing in valleys that In a Frick catalogue Dale Will, authored by his- claimed souls once from the late by Darrell 1800s the Eclipse Steam the hundreds. Whoever was Munsell, documents that the Crystal River Railroa Engine, which appear at the helm of that steam engine, were d was running to Redsto s to be the most likely match for the they to learn that one ne and then Groov Placita by the turn of machine on the North day Slowthe century, at the behest in’-BBQ devouring Lost Trail, is referred to as the “Iron tourists would be admiri of wealthy coal beauty magnate and industr Mule.â€? ng the ialist John Osgood, who of the damnable Lost Unfortunately for my Trail on a pleasant built the Red- jaunt, stone Castle. Perhaps purposes as a historic Saturday and returning to a central the Iron Mule was delivere al detective, area ly-heated hotel room, d by rail to the probab in the very early 1900s, would ly have taken to drink and was then set loose long before risking their to perform a nugget lives for of silver. THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • SEPTEMBER 21-27, 2017 • 3
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8 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017
20 things that make The Sun shine 1 2 Protection by the numbers Carbondale and Rural Fire
By Will Grandbois Sopris Sun Staff small in the name, it’s just one While “fire” is right there n Disale and Rural Fire Protectio facet of the services Carbond . square miles and six stations trict provides across 323 but not as accurate more is “Maybe Emergency Services n. Deputy Fire Chief Rob Goodwi much fun to say,” observed the amspend more time running In fact, volunteers actually ent for the provided by the departm cy bulance. According to data service, 576 were emergen for calls 1,197 of s past 12 months, with 101 motor vehicle accident inmedical service (EMS) related, were 231 service and “good aid to included in that figure. There checks, citdale Fire provided mutual include things like smoke Over the last year, Carbon figures tent” responses — which — and 90 received it 21 times. Those were canceled en route its neighbors 23 times and izen assists and calls that . coverage aid area near the Eagle County standby or special event not include the automatic may to enin well occasions that called for as result paged the latter don’t usually Fire is automatically According to Goodwin, doesn’t alnt part line, where Basalt . In any case, mutual aid less considered an importa sure the quickest response mean any action, but are neverthe to an incident; it can also ways mean responding directly a station. of the department’s role. alarm false a was g call fire type of el by mannin ents face By far the most common (18) freeing up personn challenges rural departm by brush or wildland fires In fact, one of the biggest (154 for of them), followed leaks and 11 calls 911 while crews e gas 13 someon fires, when — vehicle Five are concurrent calls and structure fires (14). dale area, that 80. someone else. In the Carbon s bring the total figure to carbon monoxide incident better are still out helping 152 calls) in 52 weeks. as par for the course and d 71 times (for a total of volGoodwin sees false alarms e to not call happene lities means more staff and would not want someon Preparing for those eventua the main than the alternative. “We a cerof expertise. It’s one of did not want to come to range we wide a thought with they unteers to go back 911 because board has cited in its decision said. tain type of incident,” he require factors the CRFPD override for the comon the rare side, they often to renew a 1.75 mill levy voters the to Also, while fire calls are and rescue. anything besides search years. ve much larger crews than to have at ing three people to personal protecti structure fire response is “Everything from training The national standard for nine date apparatus and and one ladder truck within rs and paid staff to up to on least 15 people, two engines e fire to gear for voluntee response are directly reliant foot residential structur adequate staffing for incident minutes at a 2,000 square said. n always don’t Goodwi ents we receive,” fire departm the level of funding that safely operate. Small rural help. aid from other districts does achieve that, but mutual
ions. Members of the grew to cataclysmic proport and Research Counset on fire and the flames the propane tank was the Propane Education on Sept. 30, funded by propane trainreally hot out there after ing to Dennis Cruise, a propane fire training class t. It was pretty scary and how to the field next door. Accord ents participated in a special it’s important to know in a practical training in od Springs fire departm reasons part Glenwo took safety for and they and also Basalt fire e structur Carbondale, m training they putting out a brush or to 4.5 hours of classroo than t addition differen In o. very is Colorad e fires cil of 2017 • 3 or • OCTOBER 5-11, , putting out gas and propan connect Virginia nity from h or commu Bachrac instruct ing by Jane dale’s weekly together as a team. Photos THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbon handle them and work
In the heat of the momen
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Weekly coverage of arts and entertainment Local nonprofit highlights Quirky columns Your letters to the editor Calendar of events Scuttlebutt Town Briefs Cop Shop Classic movie night SoprisSun.com website Mountain Fair insert
Green Is the New Black insert 13 Mother’s Day edition 14 Rampage distribution 15 Local birthdays 16 Lively photos of kids and animals 17 Local business ads 18 Youth sports and other activities 19 Cattle drives, rodeo highlights, sheepdog trials 20 Sopris Sun on Facebook
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1,450
Although she was the
mastermind behin d the
The tale behind the tiles 720 works of art project Diane Kenn ey
still finds new disco veries in the tiles
on the Sopris Park
bathrooms. Photo by Will
By Lynn Burt Mentors usua on lly suggested Special to The painters could a theme the choo Sopris Sun tile their house, pets, se from — such as family scene Hiding in plain Mountain Fair s, scenes, self portr or mountains ter’s Sopris Park sight, the Carbondale Clay — “or anything aits Cenrestroom-tile proje they wanted,” in the making. Kenney ct was four years said. The younger the child the faster they seem get their tile pain ed to “I always say ted. As soon this took four as the child finish Mountain Fairs ed painting, the and two Potat mentor asked o Days,” project them to descr organizer Dian ibe what their e Kenney told The painting was abou Sopris Sun. “I t. think we starte “It wasn’t alwa d in 2000 at Mou ys obvious ntain Fair.” what we were looking at, so The project event then we asked ually wrapped if it 600 individual OK to add some would be ceramic tiles aroun black brush d the restrooms work to pull out on the west side what they had of Sopris Park. painted. With out the black Kenney said brush work, a the project was lot of the tiles part of the Clay looked pretty Center’s comm blobular,” Kenunity outreach ney said. program to offer hands-on, partic The tiles were ipatory art-making fired at about experiences. “We 1,900 degrees, also wanted to In addition to so they are “increate public art contributing to numerous credibly” durable in Carbondale,” squares, Kenn and are not ey did a couple she said. of her own. affected by weat her. Most of the tiles Each installatio were painted by n cost about ementary/midd kids (probably $5,000, much le school ages) of which during Mountain el- covered by grants that Kenn and Potato Day, Fair restroom’s ey wrote. As noted was but adults and presc west into the action. on the hoolers also got side, Aspen Valley Com the project was sponsored by At Mountain the munity Foundatio Fair and Pota Town of Carb n Spring Boar to Day, Kenney other Clay Cent ondale, Carbonda d, and Carbonda er mentors set le Clay Center, up a table with le Council on Arts materials, brush and ceramic es and colorants. and Humanitie The project attra s. Back at the Clay ter at the east cted more than a doze end of Main Stree Cen- ter ment n Clay Cenors, volunteers t, mentors appli soft background and ed a bondale others. The Town glaze called “maj assigned staffe inch terra cotta olica” to each of Carrs 8X8 to tile sandblast the create a smooth walls to The majolica glaze before hauling them to the surface. The park. Davis (of rendered each Capco Tile & Stone Clay Center hired Steve chalky for decor tile surface dry and ers invol ating. “It was a ) to install the tiles. ved little bit like wate painting,” Kenn Othrcolor designed in the project included Marry ey remembered. Noone (who the mural on “All throughou fair(s) we trans the east side), t the Judy Davi ported tiles back Julie s, Sue Kolbe and to the Clay Cent Johnson, soon as we built er as “maybe” Nanc up a load (for “The tiles have y Barbour. the kilns).” The suggested pretty much been donation was touch respe ed. cted I am cover the proje and un$5 per tile to proud of this proje ct’s costs. help to see it ct and it gives me … to remember joy the joy that went ing of it,” Kenn into the makey concluded. THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbonda le’s weekly comm unity connector • JULY 13-19, 2017 • 3
Grandbois
volunteer hours Our nonprofit board contribution in 2017.
Debbie Bruell, Barbara Dills, Cliff Colia, Diana Alcantara, Matt Adeletti, Olivia Pevec, Faith Magill, Stacey Bernot, Marilyn Murphy, Raleigh Burleigh, and Nicolette Toussaint.
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ation. We call our d onors “SunSc ribers” and it’s easy to join them. Ju st go to soprissun .com and c li c k on the yellow “supp ort” button o n the home page. You’ll h ave the optio n to choose a one-time don ation or to se t up recurring monthly don ations (even $5 per month makes a hug e difference a nd you proba won’t even m bly iss it). Or you can se nd a check to : The Sopris Su n PO Box 399 Carbondale, CO 81623 or drop off a donation at our office in the Third Street Cente r: 520 S. Third S treet #32 Thank you!
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017 • 9
Quilting together a community of crafters By Will Grandbois Sopris Sun Staff Hanging out with the Roaring Fork Quilt Guild feels something like wrapping yourself in one of their creations. Each of the roughly two dozen members brings a different character and experience that somehow stitches together into a warm, welcoming whole. The group usually gathers at the Carbondale Branch Library, but more intimate gatherings and special retreats are all part of the program. Food is an essential element, and the group has even assembled their own book of each other’s signature recipes, like Susan Dodington’s cherry pie. Many of the women (men are welcome but something of a rarity) are friends away from the sewing machines, as well. “I think my life is very blessed to have these women in it,” said Renee Morrison. “We came from different places and economic backgrounds, but we have something we’re all interested in.” That’s particularly helpful for Fiona Heggie as a part time resident. “I regard them as my family in the valley,” she said. You’ll hear similar sentiments from long standing members like Lynn Kerr, who found out about the local quilting scene from a chance encounter at a fabric shop back before “The Needle and I” and “Quilters of the Rockies” merged into a single guild. The shop is now gone, but the camaraderie it helped build isn’t fraying — and most of the ladies have enough fabric stashed away to survive on for years. It’s a spirit that the craft seems to sew all over the country, according to relative newcomer Becka Sheehan. “You can go different places and walk in and not know anybody and have something to talk about,” she said. A quick primer for the uninitiated: quilting comprises a broad array of techniques for pairing a pieced top with some
A fine example of the Guild’s craft, this quilt will be raffled off for charity on Dec. 15. For a last minute ticket, call (805) 570-7171. Photo by Will Grandbois sort of batting for heft and a back to hold it all together. “We take perfectly good fabric, cut it up into small pieces and sew it all back together again,” noted Heggie. It makes for beautiful, hangable works of art, but it’s also practical. Heggie sees it as a “uniquely American” pursuit borne of a time when scarcity drove women to make something warm out of whatever worn fragments of fabric they might have on hand. Although many textiles are now made overseas and few high schoolers have even heard of home economics, the quilters see it as far from an out-of-date skill. “I kinda see the culture going back to the basics,” observed Kelly Wood. The process is streamedlined somewhat by advances in technology, with most of the piecing and some of the quilting now aided by machines. But it’s affixed to a sturdy backing of tradition. “There’s a lot of emotion and memory tied up in quilts,” Donna Dayton said. And hers, at least, are meant to be used.
To Revere Greatly
Could everything truly be “holy now?” Can we take a reverent air, as the song by Peter Mayer claims? Join us Sunday, Dec. 17, 2017 - 10:00 a.m. Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist (TRUU) @ Third Street Center, Calaway Room
www.tworiversuu.org
Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist
Presiding Minister: Shawna Foster Inspirational, Contemporary Music: Jimmy Byrne Preschool with Justice Bouchet
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10 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017
“You need to wear it out,” she said. “I’ll make you another one.” Many of their individual works are given as gifts, and even some of their collaborations have a charitable intent. On Dec. 15, they’ll raffle off a quilt and donate the proceeds — at least $2,000 — to Roaring Fork Brain Train. It’s the third such project, which they alternate annually with a quilt show every other Strawberry Days. In between, they bring in guest instructors and try to learn from each other, too. “Creativity spurs creativity,” Kerr said. “We try to set challenges and work outside of the box.” That shouldn’t deter beginners, however. The group is far more supportive than competitive, and the process of creation is described as a kind of therapy. “It’s very relaxing,” said Heggie. Added Dodington, “It’s such a nice accomplishment when it’s finished.” For more information, contact roaringforkquiltguild@ yahoo.com.
A festival for the Virgin of Guadalupe Photos and text by Diana Alcantara Every Dec. 12, those devoted to Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe take the time to pause from the business of daily life to remember and honor the miracle that happened almost 500 years ago. It is believed that Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to a humble Aztec named Juan Diego on Dec. 9, 1531, ten years after the Aztec Empire fell to the Spanish Conquistadores. It was on a hill covered with nopal cactus, by the name of Tepeyac in what is now Mexico City. For many years Tepeyac was a worship site for Aztec Mother Goddess, Tonantzin. Her apparition included a request that Juan Diego go to the bishop and ask that a church be built at the top of the hill. Juan Diego went to the bishop, but the bishop was not convinced and required that Juan Diego return to Tepeyac and bring proof of the miracle. Juan Diego returned to the hill on Dec. 12, and La Virgen gave Juan Diego the proof that he needed – roses. Juan Diego filled his tilma (cloak) with the roses and ran back to the bishop. When he opened his tilma, the bishop fell to his knees. It was not the roses that convinced him, it was the image of her that had been imprinted onto the cloth. To this day, the Virgen de Guadalupe is a national and religious symbol of peace and hope to the Mexican people. The tilma hangs in the Basilica that sits next to the hill still known as Tepeyac. In 1999, Pope John Paul II declared her the Pa-
Connect
troness of the Americas. Here in Carbondale, members of the Saint Mary of the Crown Catholic Church gathered along the Rio Grande Bike Trail for their own pilgrimage. They donned traditional dress, carried the statue on their shoulder, played music and sang her devotional song, and offered the folkloric dance. All this graced the same route that brought supplies, moved coal and potatoes, and carried new settlers to the Roaring Valley over 100 years ago.
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The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017 • 11
Community Calendar THURSDAY Dec. 14
TRUNK SHOW • Lulubelle (320 Main St.) hosts DENEV for a 4 to 7 p.m. event with sipping, socializing and, of course, shopping. PROSPERITY FILM • Pedram Shojai, OMD, explores Conscious Companies and inspires viewers with ideas of how to invest your money and apply principles of “for-benefit’ businesses big and small at 7 p.m. at The Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.). Suggested donation of $10, reservations at info@davinikent.org. MINDFUL PARENTING • Deepen your relationship with your kids in good or hard times in a 5:30 to 7 p.m. workshop at Aspen Community School (340 Woody Creek Mesa, Snowmass). Suggested donation $20 or RSVP at roaringforkinsight.org/parent.
THU– SUN Dec. 14-17
CONSTELLATIONS • Thunder River Theatre Company presents the romantic story of a beekeeper and a physicist who meet and fall in love. Directed by Mike Monroney and featuring Roaring Fork Valley locals Nikki Boxer and Nyle Kennin, all shows begin at 7:30 p.m. except matinee performances at 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets at thunderrivertheatre.com or 963-8200. MESSIAH • The Aspen Choral Society presents Handel’s classic the Snowmass Chapel Thursday, Basalt Middle School Friday, The Wheeler Opera House Saturday and St. Stephen’s Catholic Church on
To list your event, email information to news@soprissun.com. Deadline is noon on Monday. Events take place in Carbondale unless noted.
Sunday, at 7 p.m. each night. Tickets are available for $15 at aspenshowtix.com or $20 at the door.
FRIDAY-THU Dec. 15-21
MOVIES • The Crystal Theatre presents “Lady Bird” (R) at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 15-16 and Dec. 19-21, showtime is 5 p.m. on Dec. 17 (captioned) and “Loving Vincent” (PG-13) at 5:15 p.m. on Dec. 16. Closed Dec. 18.
FRIDAY Dec. 15
COOKIE CONTEST • Drop off a dozen cookies at Kitchen Collage (840 E. Valley Rd.) by 3 p.m. and stick around as judges award prizes for the top bakers. UGLY SWEATER PARTY • Roaring Fork Beer Company brings its third annual tradition to Batch (358 Main St.) from 7 to 11 p.m. with prizes, holiday infusions, live music from DJ Benny and more. AMERICANA • At 8 p.m., Jackson Emmer brings his playful lyrics and intimate style to Marble Distillery (150 Main St.). TEEN ROCKERS • High school band Sleepy Justice takes the Steve’s Guitars stage (19 N. Fourth St.) at 8:30 p.m. or thereabouts.
GYPSY JAZZ • The Temporary (360 Market St., Willits) celebrates its official grand opening with La Pompe Jazz at 8 p.m. and a champagne toast.
FRI-
DAY-SUN Dec. 15-17
CHRISTMAS STORY • The beloved classic film about a boy and his Christmas dream of getting a Red Ryder air rifle comes to the Stage of Life (520 S. Third St.) with three performances: Dec 15 and 16 at 7 p.m. and 2 p.m. Dec. 17. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for kids under 12 online at soltheatrecompany.org or at the door.
SATURDAY Dec. 16
KID FLIX • Beginning at 3 p.m., The Arts Campus at Willits (360 Market St.) screens the best of New York International Children’s Film Festival. Recommended for ages 8+. COOKIE EXCHANGE • Carbondale Arts invites you to bring a dozen or more cookies to trade for a holiday assortment from 4 to 5 p.m. at The Launchpad (76 S. Fourth St.). SANCTUARY FOR SANDRA • Join the Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists and one of TIME magazine’s 100 most influ-
ential people of 2017, Jeanette Vizguerra, at 4:30 p.m. at the Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.) to hear from Sandra and others who have taken sanctuary across the state. BEER BENEFIT • Support Sunlight Ski Patrol at the inaugural Brewers’ Ball from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Sunlight Lodge Bed & Breakfast (10252 C.R. 117). Tickets are $25 at the door and, in addition to raising funds for first aid, training and equipment, give you a chance to sample nearly two dozen local and artisan ales, saisons, porters and more. Info at www.sunlightpatrol.org. WHISKEY • Marble Distillery (150 Main St.) releases its very first bottles of Hoover’s Revenge and Ragged Mountain Rye during a 3 to 6 p.m. Happy Hour. BLUES • The Temporary (360 Market St., Willits) continues its Grand Opening celebration at 8 p.m. with singer, composer and instrumentalist Otis Taylor. METAMORPHIC ROCK • The Universal Sigh comes all the way from Georgia to play at 8:30 p.m. at Steve’s Guitars (19 N. Fourth St.).
SUNDAY Dec. 17
JINGLE BELL RUN • Independence Run & Hike (586 Highway 133) hosts its ninth annual 5K jog around Carbondale and up White Hill at 11 a.m. to benefit local high school track teams. The $15 entry fee also gets you a Dos Gringos burrito CALENDAR continued on page 13
Diane Kenney Pottery Annual Open House ALL ARE WELCOME! Fresh pots, good cheer & treats
One Day Only Saturday, DECEMBER 16 10 A.M. – 5 P.M. Come share the Holiday Spirit – with Gusto! Info: 970-963-2395 or potter@sopris.net
Directions: 0172 N Bill Creek Road: 6 miles south of roundabout on Hwy 133, turn left at bridge next to KOA (BRB) and follow signs
Trinity Reformed Church
Sunday mornings Apple Tree Community Center 5033 County Road 335 New Castle, CO 9 a.m. Sunday School 10 a.m. Worship
Sing to the LORD, all the earth; Proclaim his salvation day after day. – First Chronicles 16:23
12 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017
tickets on sale today for Aspen Film Members!
Community Calendar and drink. Wear an ugly sweater for a chance at winning a less ugly one.
MONDAY Dec. 18
PLANT BASED POTLUCK • Bring your favorite holiday season plant based whole-foods (no added oil, salt or sugar) dish and your recipe to share at 6:30 p.m. at The Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.). Questions? Call Ardis Hoffman at 970-340-9009 or e-mail ardishoffman@gmail.com. A WONDERFUL LIFE • At 7 p.m., the Basalt Regional Library (14 Midland Ave.) screens the holiday classic with Jimmy Stewart.
WEDNESDAY Dec. 20
HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES • Basalt Regional Library (14 Midland Ave.) invites middle and high schoolers to don their ugliest sweater, build gingerbread houses, eat candy and win prizes from 3:30 to 5 p.m.; bring a donation for Colorado Animal Rescue (food, toys, etc.) to be entered for the grand prize. Then, at 5 p.m., join local musician Dwight Ferran for holiday guitar music around the library. SOLSTICE CELEBRATION • The Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists and Davi Nikent celebrate the shortest day of the year with a ritual, dance, bonfire, song and cider from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.).
continued from page 12
Ongoing
KARAOKE • The Black Nugget (403 Main St.) and Sandman bring you over 30,000 songs to choose from and a quality sound system to release your inner rockstar at 9 pm. every Thursday. DHARMA • The Way of Compassion Dharma Center holds a Dharma talk and meditation from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays and a silent meditation and Buddha of Compassion practice at 8 a.m. Saturdays. YOUR STORY, YOUR LIFE • A free facilitated workshop for adults, writing your personal history, one story at a time. Facilitated by Shelly Merriam, historian/writer/genealogist. First and third Fridays, 10 a.m. to noon at the Glenwood Springs Branch Library, (815 Cooper Ave.). Info at 945-5958 or gcpld.orgf. WRITERS GROUP • Wordsmiths of all experience and abilities gather at the Carbondale Branch Library (320 Sopris Ave.) at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of the month. YAPPY HOUR • Colorado Animal Rescue’s Yappy Hour at the Marble Bar (150 Main St.) takes place at 5:30 p.m. the third Thursday of the month. Sip on handcrafted cocktails and meet a C.A.R.E. dog, with $1 from every drink donated to C.A.R.E. Bring your own dog along as well. COMMUNITY MEAL • Faith Lutheran Church (1340 Highway 133) hosts a free community meal from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on the first and third Saturdays of the month. Info: 510-5046 or faithcarbondale.com. Carbondale Homeless Assistance also has its meeting on the fourth Tuesday of each month. TRIVIA NIGHT • Gather a team of up to six and head to Marble Bar (150 Main St.) on the
third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. to compete for the chance at $50 off the team tab, plus show off the custom made marble Trivia Trophy for a while.
one’s invited for SRF meditation from 10 to 11 a.m. on the first Sunday of the month and 5 to 6:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of the month.
AIKIDO • Roaring Fork Aikikai (2553 HIGH NOON • Bring your compliments, Dolores Way) trains adults and teens Moncomplaints and ideas to Sopris Sun days through Thursdays at 6 p.m. and Editor Will Grandbois at 12 p.m. Saturdays at 3:15 and 4:30 p.m. and Thursdays at the Pour House (351 kids Tuesdays and Thursdays from Calendar Main St.). 4 to 4:30 p.m. (ages 5-8) and 4:45 $28,0 to 5:45 (ages 8-14). More info at 80 BRONCO BABBLE • Get excited a n rfaikikai.com. n u ally for the next big game and share your own thoughts from 4 to 4:30 FIGURE DRAWING • Drop in for p.m. Thursdays on KDNK. figure drawing with Hone Williams and Staci Dickerson at 6:30 p.m. Mondays at HEALTH THROUGH NUTRITION • Free opportunities include… One-hour con- The Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.) sultation about heart attack prevention, plant- suite 33. based nutrition, other medical issues. Call re- DECK THE WALLS • The Launchpad (76 S. tired family doctor Greg Feinsinger, M.D. for Fourth St.) hosts a seasonal artisanal market. appointment (379-5718). First Monday of evYOGA • Get a donation based introduction ery month catch a powerpoint presentation by to Hatha Yoga Tuesdays from 8 to 9 p.m. at Dr. Feinsinger about the science behind plantThe Launchpad (76 S. Fourth St.). based nutrition, 7 to 8:30 p.m., board room Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.). Fourth ROTARY • The Carbondale Rotary Club Monday of every month, plant-based potluck meets at the Carbondale Fire Station (300 6:30 p.m. Calaway Room, Third Street Center. Meadowood Dr.) at 6:45 a.m. Wednesdays. All events supported by Davi Nikent, Center for The Mt. Sopris Rotary meets at White House Human Flourishing. More information at www. Pizza (801 Main Ct.) at noon every Thursday. davinikent.org. LET’S JUST DANCE • Feel great, have fun MEDITATION • Free silent meditation ses- and dance Tuesdays at The Third Street Censions are held at the Launchpad (76 S. Fourth ter (520 S. Third St.). Catch a free lesson at St.) from 6:45 to 7:30 a.m. on Mondays, 7 p.m., then from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. it’s open Wednesdays and Fridays. Additionally, The dancing with two-step, swing, waltz, line Monday Night Meditation Group meets from dance, salsa and more. No partner or ex7 to 8:15 p.m. at True Nature (100 N. Third perience necessary. $8/person; $14/couple. St.) and offers instruction in the Buddhist prac- Questions? Call 970-366-6463 or email biltice of Vipassana. Also at True Nature, every- lypat4@gmail.com.
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017 • 13
Constellations at TRTC – A love story. Or not. that differently! I want a do-over!” will recognize the thin fabric that separates one possibility from another in a relationship. No scene – that barbecue, this date, a break-up, a proposal, a reunion – happens only one time in this play. Suddenly the lights flicker and the conversation repeats, but with different results and a different meaning.
Despite a contradictory script, TRTC gave the audience human, likeable characters and a compelling glimpse into human nature. For Nyle Kenning, who plays Roland the beekeeper, that’s the magic and mystery of theatre itself. The same words, the same scene, can take on a different meaning on different nights during any production. In “Constellations”, this reorientation happens repeatedly on the same night. This reviewer was surprised that Payne’s script hung together as well as it did. His characters are likeable and consistent, their story follows a roughly
ReD Hill
TRTC’s audience, this reviewer asked for reactions. One friend from Glenwood Springs said she loved it; it really captured the essence of relationship. Another, a friend from Carbondale, hated it. She said that while director Mike Mulroney and actors Nikki Boxer and Nyle Kenning did a fine job, she didn’t like Nick Payne’s play. This reviewer agrees that the Payne’s script is challenging. Boxer and Kenning could have fallen off the tightrope at any moment. In an alternate universe, they could have flopped. Belly-flopped. But they didn’t. Despite a contradictory script, TRTC gave the audience human, likeable characters and a compelling glimpse into human nature. Still, one could be left wondering why Thunder River Theatre chose this play out of all the possibilities in the theatrical universe? And why TRTC chose to mount it on the heels of Dead Man’s Cell Phone, another play that departs from linear reality to veer into the speculative and surreal? Playgoers who want to ask those questions — or others entirely — will have an opportunity after the Thursday, Dec. 14 performance, which includes a postshow talkback. Constellations will run through the weekend, with additional performances at 7:30 pm on Dec. 15 and 16. The final performance will be a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday, Dec. 17.
Together we can save the face of Carbondale 50
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chronological arc. Perhaps the script works because it’s composed in bursts; short scenes in which Marianne betrays Roland by sleeping with someone else seven times, or alternatively, Roland betrays Marianne by sleeping with someone else once. Scenes in which she forces him to move out. Or he goes on his own. Scenes in which she has a fatal tumor. Or doesn’t. If Payne had chosen a different structure — say three acts with conflicting versions of the couple’s relationship — the theatrical result might have been far less coherent. Payne’s play premiered at London’s Royal Theatre in 2012, garnering strong reviews and being named winner of the “best play category” at the theatre awards sponsored by the “Evening Standard” newspaper. Although the structural concept of multiple, co-existent storylines is novel, it’s not untried. The movie “Sliding Doors” tries something similar, as does the less-subtle Groundhog Day. Still some playgoers may “diss” the play, finding Payne’s continued reorientation of reality disorienting. TRTC’s staging – some dark rock shapes looming up from a theatre-inthe-round setting – leaves everything to the imagination. There are no costume changes, no props, no music. Everything depends on how the two actors handle Payne’s challenging script. After encountering several friends in
s
Maybe, in an alternate universe, Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC) never chose to produce “Constellations”. Maybe Nikki Boxer never portrayed theoretical physicist Marianne. Maybe Nyle Kenning never played Roland the beekeeper. But in this universe, TRTC premiered author Nick Payne’s play last Thursday, December 7. In his notes on TRTC’s production, Director Mike Monroney characterizes the 90-minute, one-act “Constellations” as “Groundhog Day meets Carl Sagan.” The crux of Payne’s physics-inspired script is that multiple events exist all at the same time, in parallel realities. That premise, played out in short scenes demarcated by a flickering of the stage lights, follows a romantic relationship that begins with a chance social encounter, follows varying rituals of cohabitation, betrayal, separation and reunification. The play’s premise is revealed by Marianne as she tries to explain her work in quantum mechanics. “We’re part of a multiverse,” she tells Roland. “At any given moment, several outcomes can coexist simultaneously.” Marianne explains string theory; the playwright strings together multiple short scenes that explore the possibilities inherent in any and every developing relationship. Anyone who has ever thought, “If only I hadn’t said that! If only I had just said
ar
Review by Nicolette Toussaint
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14 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017
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Firefighters snuffed a smoldering battery compartment Rosybelle Mobile Maker Bus on Dec. 8 before it could spread further. “The good news is there’s minimal damage and no one was hurt,” said Rosybelle Coordinator Kat Rich. “In retrospect, it was a very small disaster that could have been much bigger.” According to Rich, a passerby happened to notice smoke coming from under the bus, where a series of lead acid batteries stored energy from a solar array
to power electronic, heat and lights for the rolling art activity space. A loose metal fitting is believed to have caused an arc that torched foam insulation, though no active flames were observed. The damage is estimated at $2,000 to $4,000; it’s currently unclear whether insurance will cover the damage. In the meantime, the bus will be temporarily out of commission — though luckily few activities were schedule for the next month, anyway. Photos by Jane Bachrach
Shop Local.
It matters.
If everyone spent just $20 more in Garfield County this holiday season (instead of shopping online or traveling to other locations), that would equal over
$1.2 million
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This holiday season, don’t just buy presents. Build your community. Shop Local. The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017 • 15
Unions, lawsuits and global warming From the archives of the Roaring Fork Valley Journal Dec. 15, 1977
Dec. 18, 1997
In something of a surprise vote, miners at the Anschutz Thompson Creek mine west of Carbondale voted to become a non-union operation. The national United Mine Workers of America and local Redstone Workers Association had vied for the votes of 92 eligible hourly workers, but in the end an independent shop won out. The UMWA had stepped in for contract negotiations the previous year, but Anschutz miners had not walked out with their colleagues a week before the vote. In the end, some counted it as a half victory for the RWA, since their bigger competitor at least had not snagged the role. In other news… Carbondale’s volunteer firefighters came out against the board’s proposal to hire a building manager, feeling the role would clash with the authority granted to the fire chief (Tim Trulove had just been voted in following an election that also made current chief Ron Leach a captain).
Journal staffers Lynn Burton and John Stroud wrote a set of point/counterpoint columns on the topic of global warming. Burton filled the role of skeptic, urging critical thinking and citing 70s fears of a new ice age, the expensive and inconclusive computer models at the time and noting that the debate in general seemed agenda driven rather than science based. Stroud agreed on the last point, but shot back that by the time the change was categorically proven it might be too late. (He also used the “earth-is-round” theory as a comparison, so we might want to check in with him now for his opinion on flat earthers.) In other news… A new ice rink opened at the Gus Darien are on Catherine Store Road.
Dec. 17, 1987 Almost two years after an explosion at Rocky Mountain Natural Gas in Glenwood Springs killed 12, a wrongful death suit by survivors and families of victims was still pending. The Fire Department had found that the gauge on a 853 gallon propane truck was removed allowing gas to escape into the building. The suit contended that an employee had tampered with the gauge despite warnings to facilitate illegal transportation of the tank. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration had proposed $2,000 in damages against the company. In other news… The Carbondale Centennial Committee was looking at ways to spend a $3,600 budget surplus on a sculpture on the corner of Eighth and Main.
Dec. 20, 2007 The Parks and Recreation Commission was drafting recreations for potential future use of the Carbondale Nature Park — already known as the town’s “unofficial dog park.” A $3 million plan for a series of ponds and gardens had taken back seat to the then-new Rec. Center and planned Gateway River Park, leaving the 33-acre parcel more or less unimproved. “Right now, The Parks and Rec Commission appears to be sympathetic with dog owners until we find a new use,” said Recreation Director Jeff Jackel. (The only noticeable change since then is the addition of an archery range at the south end of the property.) In other news… Lead by Cathy Britt of Dancing Colours, a group of mostly local artists created ornaments to adorn a “Holiday Peace Tree” which was auctioned off for charity.
Events continued from page 5
lowing drinks in the street disrupted the family friendly nature… but the majority of the committee sort of felt that it did in fact enhance it.” “I don’t think it’s fair for First Friday to bear the blame of the 10 to 2 crowd when it’s really a 5 to 9 event,” he observed later. Businesses with a liquor or gallery license could opt in to serve folks who come in with an empty cup, allowing them to return to the street to socialize or stay with their families. Boyles hoped it might increase traffic to businesses outside the standard gallery-and-restaurant focus of the event, as well as alleviating crowds at the bars without reducing income. “The goal is to increase revenue, not to cannibalize the revenue,” he said. Overall, most trustees seemed supportive of the idea. “I think we can have a family friendly event with alcohol,” Erica Sparhawk said. “I totally support this. I think it’s awesome,” Heather Henry agreed. “I’m really interested in the details.” Indeed, that may prove the sticking point, with logistics ranging from security to carding to encouraging or preventing reuse of cups at future events. Frosty Merriott expressed hesitation, as did Mayor Dan Richardson, though he recalled the fun of Mountain Fair Main Street in the days before Carbondale had an open container law. “It’s discussions like this that make me feel old,” he said. Ultimately, the council agreed that further conversation and a public hearing, though not required by law, is warranted. The issue should appear on agenda in early 2018.
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16 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017
CALL FOR CARBONDALE
BOARD OF TRUSTEE
NOMINATIONS Regular Election Town of Carbondale
The Town of Carbondale will be holding a regular municipal election on April 3, 2018. The Mayor’s seat (four-year term) and four Board of Trustee seats (three four-year terms and one two-year term) are up for election. Those wishing to run for Mayor or Trustee may pick up Nomination Petitions beginning January 2, 2018 from the Town Clerk, 511 Colorado Avenue. Qualifications: All candidates must be a qualified elector of the Town, a citizen of the United States, at least 18 years of age, and must have resided in the Town of Carbondale for one consecutive year immediately prior to the date of the election. Petitions must be returned to the Town Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 22, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. The Town of Carbondale is a non-partisan body of local government, therefore, there is no party affiliation designation. For more information contact the Town Clerk Cathy Derby at 510-1206 or cderby@carbondaleco.net.
Practice makes perfect for ‘Messiah’ performers By Will Grandbois Sopris Sun Staff
The spirit was already there in the area’s first performance of George Frideric Handel’s choral epic “Messiah” 40 years ago, but the substance had room for improvement. “We were terrible when I think back,” said Steve Child who, along with his wife, Molly, has been participating almost since Day One. “Over the years we’ve added more parts of it and become more expert… Now the group has really blended.” And while the Aspen Choral Society no longer brings the event to Carbondale, participation and performances up and down the Valley makes it a whole community event. One year, John Denver even joined a performance at the Wheeler Opera House. “The way we remember, he didn’t really know the part all that well, but he was very enthusiastic,” Child said. The choir as a whole is full of amateurs and welcoming to first timers. “The people who have been singing it a long time help the newcomers,” Child said. “It’s really a group effort — a chance to give a Christmas gift to the community.” There are auditions for the solos, but while many of those selected have musical backgrounds, you might not know it. “There’s a tremendous amount of music talent in the Valley. They’re skiers, they’re musicians, they’re public school teachers,” said Stacey Weiss, who has sung with the group since 1994 and did a stint on the staff as “chief cook and bottle washer.” “It’s one of the true great locals organizations that really embodies the spirit of Aspen,” she said. “It’s one of those little holiday miracles.” The music itself is part of that, and she doesn’t feel that Christian themes clash with her Jewish roots. “I don’t see it as a particular religious experience, but
Marty Silverstein and Kathy Webb wish all our friends and neighbors a Merry Christmas and a Happy Hanukah. In the holiday spirit of giving, we encourage everyone to support one of the following local nonprofits or some of your choosing.
Senior Matters because seniors matter. P.O. Box 0991, Carbondale, Co 81623 www.seniorsmatter.org
Regardless, the piece, particularly the Hallelujah chorus, is synonymous with the season for many (even though some of the later parts actually relate more closely to Easter). “I think all of us have a need for traditions in our lives, and many people tell me that Christmas is not Christmas without “Messiah,” Dankers said. Dankers himself is a relative newcomer to the group, filling the vacuum left by the late Ray Adams in 2013. “I’ve got to hand it to Ray. The integrity of being able to do that piece of music for more than 35 years and still give it its due — my hat’s off to him,” Dankers said. That legacy has allowed Dankers to hold the group to a standard unprecedented for an amateur choir. “You have a whole body of people who already know the notes, so you can spend so much more time on the artistic portion of it and take it to a level you can’t get at if we were learning a brand new piece of music,” he said. That shouldn’t discourage newcomers. “Maybe not everybody can be a world class soloist, but chorale singing is a very egalitarian undertaking.The whole goal is to blend and do something as a group that none of us could do as an individual,” Dankers observed. “I think in this day and age when we’re so divided by so many things, being able to make music together creates a connection that hopefully crosses those boundaries.”
The Aspen Choral Society rehearses for Handel’s “Messiah” in December 1986. Valley Journal file photo by Rebecca Young as a musical experience that can bring people together no matter what their background,” she said. “It’s the un-commercialization of Christmas, and everybody finds something different in it.” Director and Conductor Paul Dankers agrees. “For me the music speaks for itself,” he said. “I think it’s Handel’s best work.” And, he added, sacred texts are replete with Messianic figures in addition to Christ, and the motif continues to pop up in modern fiction.
Next Steps What: The Aspen Choral Society sings Handel’s “Messiah” When and Where: Snowmass Chapel: 7 p.m. Dec. 14, Basalt Middle School: 7 p.m. Dec. 15, Wheeler Opera House: 7 p.m. Dec. 16 St. Stephen’s Catholic Church: 7 p.m. Dec. 17 Tickets: $15 at aspenshowtix.com or $20 at the door
“I’m Iris, a 5-year-old snow white beauty who will melt your heart. I’m great with other dogs and gentle with cats. Come meet me at C.A.R.E. today!” We have 8 dogs, 24 cats and 1 bunny waiting for a forever home.
RJ Paddywacks offers a “C.A.R.E. Package” for new adoptive families, including a Paws for Points plan and a first-time 15% discount for your new pet. RJ Paddywacks Pet Outfitter 400 E Valley Rd. # I/J Next to City Market in El Jebel 970-963-1700 rjpaddywacks.com
Working together for pets and their people
Colorado Animal Rescue 2801 County Road 114 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 970-947-9173 coloradoanimalrescue.org
Sopris Sun because local media matters P.O. Box 399, Carbondale, Co 81623 www.soprissun.com
C.A.R.E. because animals are all God’s creatures 2801 County Road 114, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601 coloradoanimalrescue.org
The Carbondale Library – Carbondale Collection Fund To keep our library strong 320 Sopris Ave, Carbondale, CO 81623 www.gcpld.org
A safe and happy holiday season to all. Kathy, Marty, Matt and Mickey
Holy NightsJournal
Join us to make an original handmade journal to deepen your experience of the 12 Holy Nights. Art supplies will be provided, and participants are encouraged to bring unique papers and other embellishments to share.
Suggested donation: $10-$25 Sunday, December 17 – 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
a center for healing & renewal in downtown Carbondale call Helena Hurrell Art Therapist & Metal Color Light Therapist 720-390-8388 to register or for more information www.helioscenter.org
THIS COMMUNITY AD SPACE DONATED BY COOL BRICK STUDIOS.
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 14-20, 2017 • 17
Letters continued from page 2 open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Third Street Center, 520 S. Third St., Room 35, Carbondale). Interested parties also can call (970) 963-1778, or simply show up during posted operation hours. For people living elsewhere, go to www.liftup.org/7-foodpantries to print off a list of times and days that the food banks are open in Aspen, Basalt, Glenwood Springs, New Castle, Rifle, Parachute and De Beque. If you are in need of food, please go to the LIFT-UP pantry or food bank that best matches your home address and – very important – bring a form of ID that is no more than 90 days old and that shows your current address – a rental agreement, utility bill, Colorado driver’s license, bank account opening doc or monthly statement, etc. The staff and volunteers at LIFT-UP help support our neighbors in need, honor our local workers who keep our economy growing, and thank local businesses for their donor support and job opportunities here in our service area, from Aspen to De Beque. Amy Barr LIFT-UP Executive Director
Nix football at RFHS Dear Editor: I can’t get the recent story about the temporary cancellation of varsity football at RFHS out of my mind. There’s a problem because not so many young people are coming out for the team? Of course – parents and youngsters
are getting wise to the concussion dam- you even wrote some of the changes by age caused by football and don’t want to hand late at night, I assume out of your go there. And those who aren’t well-read dedication to your duty! And that you enough or wise enough to recognize this were able to do all this without hearings, floor debates or any expert advice, speaks fact need protection from the schools. Please don’t bring football back – sub- loudly of your greatness! And thanks too for setting such a high stitute other sports that are not so damaging. We are losing Carbondale kids to moral standard for the rest of us! More (or other Valley public high schools because Moore) is always better in such matters. RFHS has neither golf or tennis teams. We know how important it is for anyone, particularly a Chief Justice of a state Expand basketball, volleyball, field Supreme Court, to set a good exhockey, or whichever sports can ample, and we are grateful that teach sportsmanship and be a rs Lette 0 so important an ethical leader great outlet for energy, but please ,06 as our Dear Leader has now don’t subject our kids to football. $21nually an come to the aid of Mr. Moore! Sue Edelstein And let me thank you too for Carbondale so fully transferring wealth among Not at all sarcastic our citizens. Such efficiency cannot go unrewarded, if only by campaign contriDear Editor: This letter is in praise of all that the butions! Your changes to our tax code, GOP and Mr. Trump have done for us! I from progressive (so that the wealthy pay am so grateful that I find it hard to fully more than the less wealthy) to one of fairness (reversing that tired old formula), and express my gratitude, but I’ll try. Thank you, GOP, for so efficiently fix- your elimination of most estate taxes, will ing our taxes! Many of us here in the Val- stimulate all of us to work much harder ley will see some reduction in our Federal to reach the upper income tiers! That will taxes. At least for a year or two. And even surely be a boon to the economy, if not to though some of us will see our loopholes those presently perched in the top branchand benefits decline, such as our deduc- es. Why, to say the least, there will be no tion of state taxes and loan interest, the need for any more trickling down, since cost of medical insurance, the price of we will all be so much better off. And hurrah for your embellishment higher education, and our deduction of charitable donations and alimony, we are of our national debt! Now foreigners can grateful for your carefully considered and own even more of our assets when they expertly crafted legislation. My goodness, buy our bonds at lower prices. And our
borrowing costs at home will finally rise so that our beloved bankers will be much happier. And our kids, and grandkids, and great grandkids will all learn to be harder workers with lower incomes, which will surely build character. I tried to call Mr. Gardner and Mr. Tipton, my wonderful representatives in Congress, to tell them in person of my gratitude, but alas their phones were busy, I’m sure due to so many other congratulators. I will try again, because I want to express personally how proud I am of their success in creating so many benefits for themselves. If not for the American people. Parker Maddux Basalt
Bingo thanks Dear Editor: Throughout the school day, Carbondale Middle School focuses on our Habits of a Scholar (executive skills, perseverance, enthusiasm, compassion and teamwork). This year, CMS is participating in the “CMS Kindness Project”. Carbondale Middle School crews are working to spread kindness in school, our community and the world. We believe everyone could use a little kindness! Most recently, we hosted a Bingo fundraiser for the CMS Kindness Project at Carbondale Beer Works. Thanks to Carbondale’s businesses and organizations unselfish giving and Sara Porter’s creative LETTERS page 19
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Letters continued from page 18 support, we are able to kickstart many of our Kindness projects. The Carbondale Rec Center, Two by Two, Marble Distillery, Tonic Juicery, Aspen Ski Patrol, the Women’s Auxiliary of the American Legion, Handmakery, CBW, and some local artists all contributed to our successful evening. Through the years, the Carbondale community has supported Carbondale Middle School in a variety of ways. Thank you for all you do for our kids. You are a part of their lives and the CMS family. Jennifer Lamont CMS Principal
Thanks from your birds Dear Editor: Since we consider ourselves the spokespeople for our local native birds, Roaring Fork Audubon (RFA) would like to give a big thanks to RJ Paddywacks for helping us with our annual Bird Seed Fundraiser. Locally owned, Paddywacks donated 20 percent of all their sales toward this important fundraiser, helping our all-volunteer Board to bring awareness to local conservation issues facing our native animals, especially the birds. Our hope is that awareness and education transfer to protection. Mary Harris Roaring Fork Audubon President
Sad to see Town go Dear Editor: Allyn Harvey’s questions in his letter regarding Ms. Simon’s intentions for Carbondale are being answered as we speak. Now we have seen three businesses displaced or lost. Having been in the bar and/or restaurant business for close to fifty years, seeing Mark and Lari’s Town restaurant being forced out of business is particularly offensive to me. The hard work, creativity in all aspects of their business, and obvious love they have for the
Parting Shot
hospitality industry has always impressed me. I was always proud to direct people who asked for other dining experiences in Carbondale across the street to Town. Congratulations on your great addition to Carbondale’s “Restaurant Row” and let’s see another one of your culinary masterpieces hit the street soon. Skip Bell Redstone
Lay of the land Dear Editor: There were some cautiously encouraging words at Wilderness Workshop’s “Monumental Evening” on Dec. 6. Coming just two days after Trump’s decision to drastically reduce two national monuments in Utah; Bear’s Ears, established by Obama in 2016, and Grand Staircase-Escalante, established by Clinton in 1996, a panel of three public lands advocates and one token journalist announced that lawsuits to stop the move have already been filed in federal court. UC Hastings law professor John Leshy said the 1906 Antiquities Act reads that a president can create a monument. It doesn’t say he, she, or it can eliminate or reduce one. The stumbling block could be if they run into a Trump appointed judge. Another interesting point Leshy made was there is no rational reason for Trump’s action. Oil and gas aren’t that interested in these lands. The only explanation Leshy could fathom is it’s just another attempt to abolish the legacy of our first black president. When Trump first talked about this matter, he called the establishment of the monuments “a land grab.” He should know about land grabs, That’s what he does for a living and for a handsome profit. I’m trying to imagine what profit Obama and Clinton gained from their acts. Fred Malo Jr. Carbondale
Ad Manager Kathryn Camp has accepted a position with another organization and will be leaving her role with the paper at the end of December. We will miss Kathryn’s many talents and her warm spirit. She has been an exceptional ambassador, furthering the paper’s mission in our beautiful community. We hope to have a new representative in place in January — check out the unclassified to the right for more information.
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