Sopris the
Carbondale’s community
supported, weekly newspaper
Because every town needs a park, a library and a newspaper
Sun
Volume 9, Number 47 | December 28, 2017
Zombies
out on the town
Moments you might have missed in 2017
A horde of zombies turned out for the annual pub crawl around downtown Carbondale the evening of Oct. 21. Diners lucky enough to be in Town for the popular eatery’s last supper were grateful not only because they were able to enjoy one more dinner before the restaurant closed, but also because they were safe from the insatiable thirst of creepy creatures like Kelly Hedrick.
To all of us here at The Sopris Sun, 2017 felt like a dance – balancing both highs different emotions and moods and knowing when to speak out and when to be Photo byand Janelows, Bachrach silent. It was a year of different cultures and species coming together, celebrating life and mourning death but moving in synchronicity as we balance life’s challenges going into 2018. Photos by Jane Bachrach
970.963.5880 970.963.5880
WE HAVE THE PERFECT BOTTLE FOR MR. OR MRS. “HARD TO SHOP 10% OFF:FOR.”
On theOnSE 133 the Corner SE Cornerofof Hwy Hwy 133 Main Street Street inin andand Main Carbondale Carbondale
ANY COMBIN COMBINATION NATION OF 6 BOTTLES (WINE, LIQUOR LIQUOR OR SPIRITS) ANY COMBIN COMBINATION IN NATION OF 12 BOTTLES (WINE, L IQOUR OR SPIRITS) LIQOUR
A GIFT CARD from SLW is sure15% to put a smile on their face! OFF:
580 Main S treet Carbondale • www.mi-casit a.net • Deliver ing from Iron Br idge tGift o Cat her ine S tore – Call for det ails Card
CarbondaleCommentary Commentary Carbondale
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. ditor or guest columns. For more information, email editor Will Grandbois at news@soprissun.com, or call 510-3003.
Everything under The Sun
A former wildlife officer’s perspective on the Crystal Trail
By John Seidel The natural grandeur of this beautiful valley will thrill visitors no matBy Will Grandbois Retired DOW Biologist and ter Staff what side the trail is placed on. Sopris Sun ormer Roaring Fork Valley Journal columnist. Providing access to the east side to the river in Avalanche Creek and I don’t usually put apapers wholethat lot the of stock in the NewValley Year tranThere’s also will the provide matter access of theto“Parting —that an will oftenI see through the local proposed Crystal trail Filoha Meadows significantShot” habitat be sition (see past rants on our inelegant and arbitrary calendar), funny and sometimes poignant photo that acts as the curtain s still being considered for placement on the east side of the Crystal degraded by bandit trails and off track intrusions. Mountain bikers but now that it marks the anniversary of my role at The call oftoabegiven issue. Jane getsThey fullseek credit comRiver. This controversial placement has been discussed andhere rejected by appear a pioneering species. out on newthat trailsidea, and ways Sun, I find myself getting all sentimental. In addition to the myriplete with the punny title. She also pitched a section for “Bright he public, local governments, local environmental organizations and of traveling in previously untracked forests and meadows. I have no adstate of local happenings youWildlife can read about(CPW). in our annual year in doubt Ideas” from us users and from the access community, which we have he Colorado Parks and Division I am surprised that these will gain from the east side of theneither Crysreview, it’s been an eventful year for the paper itself. ruled out nor gotten around to implementing. hat Pitkin County, who has led both the state and natal up old mine roads in Filoha meadows and reach elk We’ve hadtoa pretty staff shuffle. The deOur rotation of columnists hasHawk expanded someional efforts protectsignificant natural habitats and placed trails that follow the ridge line from Peak down parture former Editor expected, what, with Nicolette a regular monthlyofslot wildlife asof a significant valueLynn for itsBurton citizens,was is even conto Elephant Mountain.taking Enforcement of closures eiand I suppose we can’t John Colson forhabitat. retiring for Higher Ground” and Judith Ritschard idering placing this trail infault undisturbed wildlife ther“Seeking seasonal or new trails has proven to be very diffiafter these years we District expect for himthetoColstay contributing intermittenthas butdemonstrated engaging observations I wasallassigned to the (though Carbondale cult, and non-compliance that some involved in as-yet unrevealed ways). Our search for (we’re still working on a name for those). I’d like to orado Division of Wildlife (DOW) in 1972 and served of these users do not respect regulations and restrictions. a new part time reporter brought us Megan Tackreiterate my call for a cogent conservative n that capacity until 1978. I worked with Aspen DOW Kevin Wright, a retired wildlife officer forcolumnist both the ett, who savvy readers might have recognized from — email news@soprissun.com forhas more officer Allen Whitaker in identifying and mapping sigCarbondale and Aspen districts, in information. his letter of a few wildlife freelanced stories beforeCounty she joined the staff. “The23,Covert Critique” —science an opportunity for nificant habitat for Pitkin in 1974. We March 2017 spelled out the and studies that Kathryn willuse be departing adwould salesperson, folks to his submit silly oropinion unusual observations with also helpedCamp write land regulationsas that protect a support professional that the placement of position we’re hoping to fill soon. Luckily, some degree of east anonymity never quite effects took off, hese habitats. This was groundbreaking and onewe of have the this trail on the side will— have negative on Jane Bachrach and Terri Ritchie for wildlife experience and but we’llwildlife probably revisit it.Rick I also intended atolong do first counties in the state to incorporate habitat resident populations. Thompson, continuity, and Tommy Sands is no newbie at deliva series of columns titled “Willing” featuring myself n its planning and zoning regulations. time private wildlife consultant with a history of peer ery, either. trying new things and myself. In This decision, to locate the trail on the east side of the Crystal River reviewed studies andout respected positions onembarrassing numerous developments ThebeSopris Sun hasstanding captured a broad talent: on thethe end, it was Megan who actually something the sort, would contrary to board this long valuation of array wildlifeofhabitat western slope, agreed with Kevin’sdid assessments andofwarnings. Magill,Since Stacey Raleigh Burleigh, Marilyn Murphy completely bypassing to myput clever punon (and FeatWhy reference). nFaith the county. the Bernot, ’70s there has been a tremendous amount of What is the motivation this trail the Little east side? would and Nicolette Toussaint. Barbara Dills and You’ll see the model, though not name, in next habitats week’s edidevelopment in this narrow While valley that has reduced theDebbie usable Bruell habi- your county which has supported andthe protected wildlife for will be stepping back fromofsome of their leadership roles tion. I 50 also enjoyed our the point / counterpoint style of columns at by the historic populations the many wildlife species that use(keep this almost years disregard science and experience experts for to an eye announcement soon) onlyoriginally person acHumans Vampires, andby ama mulling ways towith use athe format in valley asout the for lastan habitats available there to them. Elkthe were a placate thevs. ideological desire few individuals, narrow and tuallyanimal leaving theoccupied lineup isthe Matt Adeletti, who movedoftothe Boulder. a (slightly) more serious context. plains that plains and river bottoms state. single track focus. Both groups have benefitted fromdrove a lovely officespecies just a On the subject of Humans I hope itoffered will goto down Continuous development of these areas these new and other Kelly Grange, historic ownervs. ofVampires, Filoha Meadows, sell couple doors down from old digs in The Third Streetare Center. as this an inaugural thing as firstinannual) event. nto the mountains and lessour accessible areas. These habitats the me property in(there’s 1976. no Ronsuch Shore, a pioneer solar energy useIt A lot ofavailable; folks have hadisanowhere chance to see it for during “Where My injoins a growing ofme recurring events, among them Classic ast ones there else left themthe to use. the valley, wentlist with and together wechief evaluated the hot springs Peeps scavenger hunt, while off orThe picking Movie Night — calendar for latehomes. February. I am At” surprised that this issue is stilldropping being debated. State someDivi- on the property formark use inyour heating single family We calculated thing or justhas stopping by 30 for years a chat.asOur door is generally open thatAll thisheat was10-12 supported thethe best we’ve had onion of up, Wildlife for over a respected professional we of could homesby with hotyear springs on ever the property. while continuously we’re here (and not against on deadline) but the line, withinroughly twice as many to and soprissun.com agency advised locating thedue trailtoon theunpredicteast side We stood the meadow looked up atvisitors Chair Mt decided thatthan neihoursThe we push keep,toI’m stillitaton The House at life-long noon ondream Thurs- ther ourofold average.toThat probably has something toPitkin do with our ofable the river. locate thePour east side is the us wanted develop this beautiful spot. Would County complaints, comments and suggestions. increased usethis of social media. Almost new people on ofdays Daletaking Will and has been compliments, passed on to Gary Tennenbaum of Open have allowed development on this400 parcel? I thinkliked not. us Why forTrails. the actual content of the paper, I think I’ve lived up to allow Facebook — which, incidentally, is a great way to notice stories SpaceAsand this impact? my promise notthe to Crystal changeRiver everything all at be once, butnice there are you might haveland missed in thewould print edition, about current A bike trail up valley would a very addiYour existing use codes prohibit chat this development if ion to thenoticeable extensive trail of Pitkin Col-of being a private corporation. let a have publica several newsystem features. PagesCounty of the and Pastwestern was one issuesdone and by keep up to individual date with or breaking news.Why We also orado. It could be placed west of the andyears the agency dofeed it? Stick your principles; support knowledgeThat’s and science my first additions, with along a lookthe back to side 10, 20, 30 river and 40 Twitter and to recently signed up for Instagram. probHighway 133 right-of-way would provide a wonderful experience to over ideology. This is obvious anyone, not justhave biolo-a drawn from the archives of the Roaring Fork Valley Journal ablyemotion plenty and for now — though perhapstosomeday we’ll he biking public. The scenic wonders this beautiful valleyLibrary). will be gists, that this trailthings on theyou undisturbed east side the river would de(available for public perusal at the of Carbondale Branch Pinterest of fun can do with old of newspapers. enjoyable from the west side of the river. The bikeittrail along the Colthe next habitats. the right Locateofthis trail which along Sometimes abridged, sometimes expanded, runs every week grade Our newDo thing is anthing. overhaul ourneeded website, orado River very popular. Its location next the Intertransportation corridor of Hwy 133. As one rode bike on except for has thisbecome one (a review of year-in-review issuetoseems a bit the should play better with Facebook (none ofwho those bighisblack x’s tate not even the era of coalI’ll trucks; a trail is needed. Just build it too in meta even noticed for me).by its users. The river and the canyon are the Hwy with133 our during links) and phones. let you know more when we get ocusAnother of the users. The same said of— theaCrystal road. will be safe and very enjoyable for its users. addition was could “Ourbe Town” Q&A Valley formatTrail. that along readythe toexisting roll it out in aIt month or so. gives us a chance to highlight folks that may not otherwise make Anyway, that’s probably enough about the past and I’d like to the paper. The goal is to introduce readers to folks they, and even keep a couple of my cards face down for the future. Suffice it to we, don’t necessarily know, so while we have a list of potential say that, as proud as we are of our work so far, we’re hoping to people to pick on, we’re always open to suggestions. raise the bar in 2018. Stay tuned.
OPINION OPINION
Letters
he 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 .O. Box 399, Carbondale CO 81623. Letters exceeding that length may be returned for revision or submission as a guest column; please nclude your name, town, and contact information. The deadline for submission is noon on Monday.
Letters
Save the aesthetics of the most un-urban place. Governments know that if they control the The Sopris Sun welcomes no more thanoptions 500 words via email at news@soprissun.com or 250 snail mail Crystal River Valley your letters, limited toLess invasive include widening dialogue, they control thewords issues.via Nowhere in
at P.O. Box 399, Carbondale CO 81623. Letters exceeding that length returned revision or gathering submission as a has guest column; the highway shoulders by amay fewbe feet where forthe opinion process there been Dear Editor: please include your name, town, and contact information. The deadline for submission is noon on Monday. I’m deeply concerned about the Open feasible only, and beginning the trail at the an option for residents to oppose any addiof McClure Pass bypassing is alsospread not given opSpace and Trails trail through the top Thanks for proposed the Stoke! Soprispath. Sun Wildlife for helping theanword a very special thanks to Christhe andcostly Aus- tional invasive construction within the valley. tion for “none of the above”— evidently they Crystal River Valley. It has been my home and ton Tribble of the True Media Foundation on what it is that we’re working on. This Dear Editor: trail should also be an option. don’t speak English or have online access. or thirty years and I still thrill at its beauty No It’s about celebrating what we have in for all of their work in making it happen. season, remember to capture your stoke! Like Robert Moses the builder of bridges and OST has conveniently deflected attention as I drive Highway 133. I, as do many, love common versus what makes us different. And thank you Carbondale Beer Works Maybe we’ll watch your film on the big found, if you build it they will come. away from the “none of the above” option o hike and bike and find no shortage of highways screen next year. We may enjoy the outdoors in different for supporting us with beer! Thank you for your time and consideration. to focus attention on where a path should hese opportunities now. I have studied the Troy Hawks With Winter Stoke, we make our local ways, and at different places, but we all Jacqueline Dearborn go — like its existence is a foregone concluplans, both A and B. I find no good reason Sunlight Mountain Resort share the stoke of winter when it arrives. skiers and riders the night’s star athletes Marble sion — and has garnered opinion in a o embark upon a decades-long costly projWe call it the winter stoke; that inner ex- and celebrity filmmakers by playing their skewed process to gain an answer they want, ect that will produce endless traffic delays, citable feeling we all get with that first videos on the BIG screen. We let the audi- Inconsistencies as Delia Malone and others contend. ntroduce signs, guardrails, pullouts, and None of the above on Crystal Trail just ence vote for their favorites, and we bring Dear Editor: snap of cold weather and snow. IOur initially favored a path that did not eneven bridges required by Plan A or B. Either Dear Editor: Garfield County Commissioners Thanks to everyone who submitted it full-circle by dedicating proceeds toon three ancient wintering grounds plan will destroy the natural vegetation, alter Pitco OST has been soliciting opinion for croach films and attended our second annual ward teaching local students broad skills are so funny. I have owned a Carbondale busicritical wildlife areas, and cross private months about the preferred alignment of the for elk. gas wells right next to residences Winter Stoke Film Festival. Big thanks to in producing digital media and the life les- ness20 for 12 years and lived there 17 years property. Further, either plan will ultimately proposed bike path in the Crystal Valley. and an injection well pumping gas waste Colin Laird who made it a cinch to host sons that go along with that. Finally, we’d esult in bringing an urban project into a This process is skewed and fatally flawed. LETTERS page 14 also like to thank Megan Tackett and the our show at the Third Street Center. And LETTERS page 14 • SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • OCTOBER 26 -28, NOVEMBER 1, 20173, 2018 2 THE • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 2017 - JANUARY
Sincerest thanks to our
Honorary Publishers for their generous, ongoing commitment of support. Jim Calaway, Chair Kay Brunnier Bob Ferguson – Jaywalker Lodge Scott Gilbert – Habitat for Humanity RFV Bob Young – Alpine Bank Peter Gilbert Umbrella Roofing, Inc. Bill Spence and Sue Edelstein Greg and Kathy Feinsinger
Thank you to our SunScribers and community members for your support! It truly takes a village to keep The Sun shining.
To inform, inspire and build community. To inform, inspire and build community. Donations accepted Donations accepted online or by mail. online or by mail. P.O. Box 399 P.O. Box 399 520 S. Third Street #32 520 S. Third Street #32 Carbondale, CO 81623 Carbondale, CO 81623 970-510-3003 970-510-3003 www.soprissun.com www.soprissun.com Editor Editor Will Grandbois • 970-510-0540 Will news@soprissun.com Grandbois • 970-510-0540 news@soprissun.com Advertising: Kathryn Advertising: Camp • 970-379-7014 Kathryn Camp • 970-379-7014 adsales@soprissun.com adsales@soprissun.com Reporter: Megan Tackett Reporter: Megan Photographer: Jane Tackett Bachrach Photographer: Jane Bachrach Graphic Designer: Terri Ritchie Graphic Designer: Ritchie Delivery: Tom Terri Sands Delivery: Tom Sands CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS board@soprissun.com board@soprissun.com Barbara Dills, President BarbaraBruell, Dills, President Debbie Secretary Debbie Bruell, Cliff Colia • DianaSecretary Alcantara Cliff Colia • Diana Alcantara Matt Adeletti • Olivia Pevec • Faith Magill Olivia Pevec Raleigh • Faith Magill Stacey Bernot• Burleigh StaceyMurphy Bernot•• Nicolette Raleigh Burleigh Marilyn Toussaint Marilyn • Nicolette Toussaint The Sopris Murphy Sun Board meets regularly on the The Sopris Sun Board meets regularly second Monday evening of each monthonatthe the second evening of each month atforthe Third Monday Street Center. Check the calendar Third Street Center. Checkdate the calendar details and occasional changes.for details and occasional date changes. Founding Board Members
Board Members Allyn Founding Harvey • Becky Young • Colin Laird AllynBarbara HarveyNew • Becky Young • Phillips Colin Laird • Elizabeth Barbara New • Elizabeth Phillips Peggy DeVilbiss • Russ Criswell Peggyus DeVilbiss • Russ Criswell Send your comments: feedback@soprissun.com Send us your comments: feedback@soprissun.com The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a proud member of Inc. the The Sopris Sun, Carbondale is a proud Creative memberDistrict of the Carbondale Creative District
The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. The are fully tax deductible. The Donations Sopris Sun,toInc. is aSun 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation. Donations to The Sun are fully tax deductible.
Happy trails to 2017 By Will Grandbois Sopris Sun Staff
There’s no way a single issue can truly capture all the happenings of a year in Bonedale and beyond, but hopefully our 51 other issues have given readers a good sampling. We’ve been in the first row for folks’ highs and lows, tried to branch out without losing the basics and given readers what they want as well as hopefully what they need. The list that follows is far from comprehensive. We have tried to focus on things we felt made the year stand out, as well as those that might have lasting impacts on years to come. We have also tried to hold our remembrance of those passed until the end, while the news of the newborns has yet to be written. We’d caution against reading this as some sort of “greatest hits” — although the 17 photos interspersed throughout are almost exactly that. If we had to crown a top topic, The Crystal River Trail certainly generated more letters than almost every other issue combined — but that story is far from over. Instead, we invite you to take a step back. Look at where we’re going, where we’ve been, and how you fit into it.
JANUARY
New energy at the Near New A new generation stepped up to join the Carbondale Daughters of Rebekah, and help staff the associated Near New secondhand store. It proved a perfect arrangement for Rochelle Norwood, the youngest member in years, and Olivia Pevec of Scavenger Industries, who had been looking for a downtown outlet to support many of the same missions as the Rebekahs. “It’s a culture that is at one time fading and at the same time having a renaissance,” Pevec observed.
Town adds to cemetery capacity Paul and Celia Nieslanik agreed to swap 1.38 acres of land next to Hillcrest Cemetery (White Hill) in exchange for similar acreage near the Carbondale Nature Park. The move will make it possible for the Town to add new burial plots in the sold out cemetery even as Evergreen/ Weaver Cemetery on Eighth Street began to fill up. “This was long term and a fairly unique opportunity to get cemetery space,” Town Manager Jay Harrington said. “(Land) in the Roaring Fork Valley is hard to come by.”
Protests at home and away Alice The Magazine coordinated the first of a series of marches in conjunction with demonstrations around the country on the day after Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration. In what became a familiar pattern, a mile-long procession made its way along Highway 133 from The Goat to the Main Street roundabout, with protesters carrying signs and chanting “love trumps hate” before returning the way they’d come. At least 100 people later come out to march for Planned Parenthood — and were this time met with a small counter-demonstration. The marches continued throughout the year, though never with quite the turnout of the first event. Instead, political efforts turned toward boycotts (several shops closed for “A Day without Immigrants”) and meetings (“Indivisible Roaring Fork” and “Save Michelle’s Garden” are two prominent organizations formed in response to federal policies).
Two more trustee appointees Erica Sparhawk, program director for regional alternative-energy advocacy organization CLEER (Clean Energy Economy for the Region), was picked to fill the trustee vacancy that came open last year when Mayor Dan Richardson was elevated by voters from his original role as a trustee to take on the mayor’s job. Later in the year, Katrina Byars would resign citing cost of living, and Luis Yllanes, a bilingual Florida-born man with a background in the arts, would be appointed to fill her seat. Coupled with the 2016 appointment of Heather Henry to fill a seat vacated by Alexander Hobbs, that means that three incumbents will go through the election process for the first time in 2018, alongside Richardson and a seat vacated by term-limited Frosty Merriott.
KDNK selects station manager After just nine months as news manager at KDNK community radio, Gavin Dahl was promoted to replace longtime general manager Steve Skinner. Dahl expressed gratitude for the work done by Skinner over the decade that he ran the station and to the community for starting and maintaining the station’s vitality over its 38 years of existence. His training in radio, Dahl said, began at two college stations, at the University of Texas in Austin and then at Evergreen State College, a liberal arts institution in Olympia, Washington. He also worked at a station in Boise, Idaho (KRBX) after graduating from college, where he got his first taste of management.
FEBRUARY
Basalt’s administration shuffle After Ron Miller, who had been filling Mike Scanlon’s empty shoes as Basalt town manager, stepped down, trustees decided that longtime area bureaucrat Davis Farrar should have the reigns until a permanent appointment was made. Farrar had severed as Carbondale’s town manager for 13 years, Silt’s interim town manager on two separate occasions, and was serving in the role in both Collbran
BEST OF 2017, No. 1: There’s a reason the ambulance is parked next to the bullriding chutes at the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo — it’s one of the most dangerous yet exciting events there. Photo by Jane Bachrach and DeBeque. The Town later settled on Ryan Mahoney, who had previous served as town manager in Buena Vista and Dolores, as their top candidate. Contract negotiations were ongoing as of The Sun’s last report, but he has since fully taken over the role, and readers can still expect a full profile at some point.
Jackel passes torch to Brendlinger After nearly 16 years as recreation director, Jeff Jackel announced his retirement having overseen projects valued at more than $6.6 million. The Town opted to promote from within, and he was succeeded by recreation center head honcho Eric Brendlinger. Thus far, the transition appears to have been almost seamless.
Land swap agreement inked The controversial Sutey-Two Shoes agreement encountered a few final hurdles before it was officially signed. Originally slated for completion on Feb. 9, the deal called for the exchange 1,200 acres of public land in Eagle and Pitkin counties
for a 557-acre ranch near Red Hill owned by billionaires Leslie and Abigail Wexner. It was held up pending a ruling by the Interior Board of Land Appeals, but eventually approved and signed in March.
Art bus rolls out Sopris Sun Intern Laney Devers featured Carbondale Arts’ efforts to turn an old school bus into a “mobile maker studio” offering multimedia art courses to schools. Named Rosybelle in honor of the late Ro Mead, it saw plenty of use throughout the summer despite being technically still a work in progress. More recently, an electrical fire in the battery compartment caused a temporary setback, but the bus is expected to be back at full capacity early next year.
School threat proves bogus When the FBI informed Carbondale Police that an online post indicating an 18-year-old was going to “take weapons and go to his high school and use them,” YEAR IN REVIEW page 5
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018 • 3
Town Report
Cop Shop
The following items are drawn from Town Manager Jay Harrington’s weekly report to staff, trustees and others.
REC CENTER RATES will increase on Jan. 2 (it’s closed on New Year’s Day), with family passes replaced by household passes and only day passes remaining the same price. Additionally, an LED retrofit of the Rec Center is almost complete pending replacement of the can lighting. DROP IN SPORTS for adults include volleyball on Mondays from 7 to 9 p.m. (until winter league begins Jan. 8), basketball Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m., soccer Fridays from 7 to 9 p.m. and Pickleball Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. — a rec. center day pass, punch pass or membership is required to participate. SPECIALITY CLASSES include SahnTaeKwonDo martial arts classes for children and adults from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. A few morning slots are still open for Base Camp cycling, as well.
SATURDAY Dec. 16 at 9:55 a.m. Police assisted EMS with an ambulance call and were later informed that the person transported was deceased.
A SITE SURVEY is planned for the communication lines at Nettle Creek, with the potential for a CenturyLink T1 or fiber connection. The Utilities Department’s switch to fiber presented some issues with the supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) system which have been resolved.
SATURDAY Dec. 16 at 10:10 a.m. Officers received a report of possible underage sexting. SATURDAY Dec. 16 at 2:07 p.m. An investigation into a civil matter suggested the need for a search warrant on possible fraud charges.
A SNOWMASS DRIVE TRAIL draft intergovernmental agreement was provided to Garfield County, and should appear the agenda for the Jan. 9 trustee meeting.
WEDNESDAY Dec. 20 at 1:47 p.m. Carbondale Police assisted Colorado State Patrol with a DUI investigation following a “Report Every Drunk Driver Immediately/Reckless driving” report.
RANGE TRAINING took place for about half the Carbondale Police force, with the other half completing theirs earlier in the month. NOT IN THE POLICE LOG was an arrest for felony theft from a local hardware stores in which “items were recovered.” The suspect was taken to Valley View Hospital on a mental health hold and later taken to Garfield County Jail. Officers searched the residence and found another male in possession of a schedule one substance, who was also arrested.
save
ReD Hill
WEDNESDAY Dec. 20 at 6:56 p.m. A report of road rage and a physical altercation near the Third Street Center led to the identification of one of the men involved, while the other is still at large.
Together we can save the face of Carbondale 50
ye
Gle nwo od >
HOCKEY REGISTRATION is underway for a youth learn-to-play class, which runs Tuesdays and Thursday Jan. 2 through Feb. 1 at the Gus Darien Ice Rink. Contact Jessi at 510-11278 or jrochel@carbondaleco.net for info.
FRIDAY Dec. 15 at 11:49 p.m. When an officer noticed a car driving off the right hand shoulder at the intersection of Highway 133 and Dolores Way, the 35-year-old driver was stopped and arrested for driving under restraint and suspicion of driving under the influence.
PLANNING REFERRALS were sent out regarding three applications to the Town, including a rezoning, a PUD amendment and the revised senior living application. Staff have also received an application to rezone 689 Main Street from a PUD to Historic Commercial Core.
s
ICE RINK installation took place at the rodeo grounds. The liner went in on Dec. 21 and was filled by the town water truck and Carbondale Fire Department. The rink may open this week, and ice skates will be available for rental at the rec. center at that time. Completion of the Fourth Street rink is pending delivery of the necessary materials.
From Dec.15 thru the 21, Carbondale Police handled 209 calls for service. During that period, officers investigated the following cases of note:
CANDIDATE INTERVIEWS took place for part-time Front Desk and Recreation Specialist positions, and applications are being accepted for the full-time Recreation Coordinator. Construction bids are also being sought for the construction of a perimeter fence at the west side of Bonnie Fisher Park. Interested contractors can contact 510 -1277 or ebrendlinger@carbondaleco.net.
ar
CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING drop off has been set-up across from Town Hall.
Red Hill Recreation Area
Mushroom Rock
(BLM)
It s up to you! FOR SALE
Hw y 82
Three Poles
(25 acres)
FOR YOU. FOR FUN. FOREVER.
y1
Your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.
4 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018
Hw
CARBONDALE
l
07 nty Rd. 1
Area for Possible Future Road Realignment and Trailhead Parking
Give today to Save Red Hill!
Watercolor by Brian Colley
T ra i Possible Cou
Possible Trailhead
33
Aspen Valley Land Trust needs your help. We must raise $1.35 million by January 15th, 2018 to buy the private property at the base of Red Hill, create better, safer access to your favorite backyard trails, and ensure the entrance to Carbondale will always be scenic and welcoming. We are over half way there!
Existing Trailhead Existing Parking
Ro
ari ng Fo rk
R iv er
Donate today!
avlt.org
As pe n>
Year in Review
had pinged to a local IP address, Roaring Fork School District issued blanket lockouts and closed select schools. Other area schools followed similar precautions. It turned out at the threat was unwarranted and had been called in around the country, but both school officials and law enforcement stood by their cautious approach and called it an excellent chance to practice and improve emergency plans.
Welcoming Winston home at TRTC The opening performance of Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” at the Thunder River Theatre was given special significance as the back box performance space was officially dedicated “The Lon Winston Theatre.” Winston had founded the institution and served as its executive director for more than 20 years, overseeing the construction of its permanent home at 67 Promenade. He’d turned the keys over to Corey Simpson the previous year, but continues to direct select performances.
continued from page 3
CRES hits enrollment hurdle
With fewer students anticipated for the next school year, Crystal River Elementary School was forced to cut back on staff. It was a counterintuitive conundrum for a school that has otherwise made tremendous strides with significantly improved test scores and a new sense of identity around “project-based” learning. With a broad array of school choice and “baby bust” altering demographics, however, the school braced to try to offer the same quality with fewer resources.
MARCH
Teacher housing becomes a reality Two years after the Community Partnership Development was finally deemed economically infeasible, a smaller Roaring Fork School District housing complex was proposed along South Third Street. Backed by $5 million in bond funds, RFSD was mostly exempt from standard approvals but opted to go through the Town process for 20 apartments totalling 33,000 square feet on a 1.37 acre plot currently mostly occupied by a bus barn. With few objections from the Planning and Zoning Commission or Trustees, construction began in earnest and is well underway.
Safe paths through the dark
BEST OF 2017, No. 3: This little ballerina cuddles her doggie while waiting for her turn to rehearse for Bonedale Ballet’s performance of “Four Seasons.”
Robbery leads to manhunt, murder connections After police identified cousins Benjamin Weeks and Nicholas Ameral as suspects in an armed robbery at the Cowen Center in Carbondale, the pair were spotted boarding a downvalley RFTA bus. As police prepared to conduct a stop, however, the young men kicked out an emergency window and escaped, prompting an extensive pursuit. Police dogs, drones and an airplane combed the hills near Basalt until the pair were stopped in a car two days later with signs of exposure. Ameral later pleaded guilty to robbery charges and was sentenced to six years in prison followed by five years of mandatory parole. Weeks, it turned out, was wanted for murder and other charges related to a case in Las Vegas. He remains in jail in Glenwood Springs and is slated for a January trial before being sent to Nevada for prosecution there.
Following several violent crimes in unlit areas, trustees attempted to address concerns with a map of safe routes through town. They also agreed to a number of “next steps” in making the streets as safe as possible at night, including adding lights to the east-side pedestrian trail along Highway 133 at the north side of town and installing a sidewalk along Village Road at Gianinetti Park, where people currently must walk either in the road or through the dark park. Many of the Parks and Recreation Commission’s recommendations have since been carried out.
‘Panic! Pánico!’ at Basalt High School Budding nonprofit VOICES helped Basalt high schoolers produce a special, one-time performance that wasn’t exactly a play, or a dance recital or even a variety show. As “devised theatre” the unscripted production included a mix of formats with some “connective tissue” on common themes.
Third Street gets a makeover A $493,000 renovation and rearranging of South Third Street began with a planned (and accomplished) goal of wrapping up by Memorial Day. The row received new sidewalks, landscaping and ditch access on both sides of the street. It took a while for folks to adjust to the new parking arrangement, but eventually the orange plastic fences came down as clover began to grow. The jury is still out on how everything will work under a foot of snow, but as long as there are some bike tracks in the concrete our nostalgic editor is happy.
BEST OF 2017, No. 2: On Jan. 21, women, men, kids and dogs made up the mile-long procession up and down Highway 133. Carbondale’s version of the women’s march in Washington, D.C. drew at least 600 marchers while hundreds more looked on.
Hard work pays off for RFHS scholars With a graduating class of around 80 students, the Roaring Fork High School Class of ‘17 boasted six students awarded some of the state’s top scholarships — two Boettchers (a full ride anywhere in the state) and four Daniels (a full ride anywhere in the country). Tavia Teitler later opted to accept financial aid at Stanford instead (we don’t blame her), while Nick Penzel, Julia Lee, Enrique Gonzalez, Lorenzo Andrade and Fabian Rico are all off taking advantage of the support to make us proud.
APRIL
Don’t walk out, waffle in
and Stringer expressed excitement for the school. “I think Kelsie is amazing and the attributes she brings to the community are a true asset,” he said. “I’m looking forward to both of us working together.”
KDNK studio rezoned Upon discovering that the former Town Hall turned radio station’s technical status as high density residential prohibited certain types of gatherings, KDNK set out to change that. Citing Historic Commercial Core to the north (although that property itself had only recently been rezoned from Commercial Transitional), they asked for the same and recieved it.
You know that it ain’t Vail Town Manager Jay Harrington was among three finalists for the same position in Vail. Harrington had been at his post in Carbondale since 2011, and boasted 23 years of experience. In the end, he pulled himself out of the running before the final decision was made. He said that family considerations played the biggest role in his decision.
As the community at large balked at Roaring Fork School District’s replacement for departing Roaring Fork High School Principal Drew Adams, students staged a “waffle in” — a show of support with tinges of a peaceful protest. After five years, Adams was leaving at the end of the school year to work and live abroad YEAR IN REVIEW page 7 with his family. Vice Principal Kelsie Goodman applied for the job, but Superintendent Rob Stein offered it to Brett Stringer, who was working at the North Middle School Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Aurora. While the student message was one of unity and empowerment, the school board heard a series of strongly worded objections from parents, faculty and others before opting to approve Stein’s choice. Despite BEST OF 2017, No. 4: Born with a white marking on its the controversy, Good- face that resembles a heart, this baby goat, born last April man didn’t hesitate to at Someday Ranch, is a symbol of pure love. stay on as vice principal, Photos by Jane Bachrach
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018 • 5
Scuttlebutt
Send your scuttlebutt to news@soprissun.com.
Enough snow for skiing
retiring after 17 years at Colorado Mountain College’s Spring Valley campus. During that time, he oversaw 45 academies, or cohorts of students. Brun, who received a special plaque during his last graduation ceremony on Dec. 15, started teaching parttime at the academy in 1995.He was a 20year member of the Rifle Police Department before leaving as a sergeant to take over CLETA. His retirement will end a 38-year law enforcement career.
Sunlight Mountain Resort is officially open for its 51st season. It’s a great time to grab a pass — including the Sunny Soaker pass with Glenwood Hot Springs access included — or a lift ticket — including “the world’s most expensive lift ticket” which includes a new pair of custom Meier skis. You might also be able to convince some friends to visit by telling them about the ski, swim and stay package which adds the Marble Distillery Inn to the mix. More info at www.sunlightmtn.com.
Jazz it up
Paper’s passé Riders on the Colorado Department of Transporation’s “Bustang” service between Glenwood Springs and Denver (with legs to Fort Collins, Colorado Springs and, just announced, Pueblo) now have another way to purchase tickets with the JustRide ticketing app. Get it on Google Play and the Apple App Store to purchase a single ride, 10-ride, 20-ride or 40-ride passes and view schedules and fares. For more information, visit: www.ridebustang.com.
Atreya Stryker, Eder Rubio, Sierra Hageland and Jasmine Ingle-Lewis were among among the December students of the month recently honored by the Town. Photo by Will Grandbois endar versions will be shared publicly for additional feedback before a final recommendation is presented to the board for approval in March.
Make a date
Words, words words
Roaring Fork School District is seeking public feedback on school calendar interests to inform the planning process for 2018-19 and 2019-20. A public survey can be accessed in English at tinyurl.com/RFSD1819CalEN and Spanish at tinyurl.com/ RFSD1819CalES. In February, specific cal-
Aspen Words launches its 21st annual “Winter Words” series on Jan. 9 with Alice McDermott, a National Book Award winner and three-time Pulitzer Prize finalist. McDermott will read and discuss her latest novel, “The Ninth Hour.” Four events will follow McDermott’s talk: U.S. Poet Laure-
Start the New Year with Actions for Your Health
ate Tracy K. Smith (Jan. 23), No. 1 New York Times best-selling novelist Christina Baker Kline (Feb. 20), New Yorker staff writer and Pulitzer Prize winner William Finnegan in conversation with Aspen local Charlie MacArthur (March 20) and Pulitzer Prize finalist and best-selling novelist Luis Alberto Urrea (April 3). More information at www.aspenwords.org.
Leaving the law Colorado Law Enforcement Training Academy Program Director Kevin Brun is
The Zack Ritchie Quartet brings a fresh perspective to the time honored tradition of jazz standards with some not so traditional holiday drink specials at The Temporary (360 Market St. in Willits) beginning at 8 p.m. Dec. 28. Made up of Alex Heffron on guitar, Nicolas Killeen on sax, Hudson Knott on bass, and Zack Ritchie on drums, the band is a showcase of the latest musicians to come out of the Thompson Jazz Studies Program at CU Boulder. Hear where the Denver jazz scene is headed! Tickets are $5 to $8 and available at www.tacaw.org/ event/1607824-zack-ritchie-quartet-basalt/.
They say it’s your birthday Folks celebrating another year of life this week include: Chip Bishop (Dec. 28); Randy Schutt, Sue Edelstein, Nick Walgren, Mark Gray and Wyatt Kribs (Dec. 29); Beymar Silva (Dec. 30); Kris Cook (Dec. 31); Anne Grice and Ryan Camp (Jan. 1); Eric Rudd (Jan. 2) and Lucas Pulver (Jan. 3).
Events supported by
Dr. Greg Feinsinger founder of Center for Prevention of Disease through Nutrition Tuesday, January 2nd • 7 p.m. Presentation about the science behind plant-based nutrition. Monday, January 8th • 8 a.m. - noon (continuing every Monday morning) Free consultation by appointment. Call 970-379-5718 Monday, February 5th • 7 p.m. (continuing on the 1st Monday of the month) Powerpoint presentation about the science behind plant-based nutrition. Monday, January 25 • 6:30 p.m. (continuing on the 4th Monday of the Month) Plant-based Whole Food Potluck
CALL FOR CARBONDALE Center for Human Flourishing Third Street Center 520 S. Third St. Carbondale www.davinikent.com
GRANDMA’S CHRISTMAS GIFTS
LuLu’s THRIFT 570 Highway 133 La Fontana Plaza Carbondale, CO 963-1984
LULU’S ACCEPTS DONATIONS
Like Us on Facebook
6 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018
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.
Year in Review
MAY
Thompson Park ‘in a hiatus’ Developer Frieda Wallison of Basalt opted to reduce the scope of the The Thompson Park housing project, which had been in the works for nearly eight years. The project, which initially was planned for a little more than 10 acres along Highway 133 between Triangle Park and the Keater Grove neighborhood, at one time was expected to result in construction of between 45 and 85 homes. The current plan calls for a handful of homes in a small corner of the property now that Wallison has sold a two-acre site for the newly built Ross Montessori School and turned the Historic Thompson House and its immediate surroundings over to the town to be used as a museum run by the Mt. Sopris Historical Society.
continued from page 5
fee shop, with Mid Valley Church pastor Lance Norton serving as barista. Named “Cilundu” — “mountain” in the Chitonga language, the Zambian title provides a perfect opportunity for Norton to talk about the New Day Orphanage, which the proceeds from those morning mochas support. While Lance has been The Sun’s main supplier thanks to proximity, we’re also well aware of the relatively new Carbondale Creamery shop on Highway 133, and hope to catch up with them in a more ice creamy season.
Moments of zen The Roaring Fork Valley’s Buddhist practitioners now have focal point at the Way of Compassion Dharma Center in Carbondale. Located in The Sun’s former office at the Third Street Center, it the first such center to open up in the valley, according to its Spiritual Director, John Bruna (who also goes by a traditional Buddhist name, Jangchub Chophel). The center has wasted no time in hosting an array of distinguished visitors and events.
BOA blocks building permit on Euclid After numerous meetings and neighbor protests, the Carbondale Board of Adjustment (or at least, the Planning and Zoning Commision acting in that capacity) vetoed a proposal for a five bedroom, 4,455-square foot house on Euclid Avenue. While it fit the letter of the law, BOA members felt the house didn’t meet “the intent” of the Old Town Residential zone district, while the applicant disagreed. The Town later received a summons to District Court on the matter.
BEST OF 2017, No. 5: Adam Mercado literally skateboarded across Bonedale during warm-ups for the 16-and-over competition at the Annual SK8 Revival drawing competitors and onlookers from across the country to the North Face Park. building’s former gym. Perhaps the most striking change was the installation of six large windows and two sets of glass double doors. At the time of the story, fundraising was ongoing for window shades, new flooring, improved sound and lighting and more. The TSC was also soliciting suggestions for a name.
filiated with the club recently acquired the Ace Lane property. “Our goals with the land are consistent with the goals we had when we bought the Aspen Equestrian Estates barn/facility next to Catherine Store, which is to grow and introduce this great equestrian sport, namely polo, in the Roaring Fork Valley,” he told The Sun.
A brick-and-mortar bookstore
You can’t kill a dandelion
Bookbinders Basalt debuted in Willits, and although owners Catherine Maas and Lisa Krass had never run a bookstore before, they seemed optimistic. Indeed, the cozy interior, eclectic selection with some local favorites and regular book clubs seem to have made it a hit. Just don’t ask our staff about the length of their to-read shelves.
With their lease up at the end of the month and no renewal in the cards, The Carbondale Food Co-Op considered all its options before a solution presented itself. At a meeting at the library earlier in the year, one member had advocated for dissolution of the board and perhaps the whole organization to allow for a fresh start as a nonprofit. His fellows seemed disinclined to take so drastic an approach, but as the deadline approached, bare shelves and staff layoffs had things looking grim. At the last minute, the owners of Rhumba Girl Liquors stepped in with an offer the remaining board members couldn’t refuse. After several weeks of absence — during which time the old build-
Polo planned for TCI Ranch BEST OF 2017, No. 6: Pitcher Brian Cantu of the Carbondale Cowboys throws a pitch during a Mountain West summer baseball game in Carbondale last June. Cantu hails from Tabor College in Kansas.
Fatal wreck prompts charges A 17-year-old was killed and others were injured when a car full of teens went off Sweet Hill just west of town. The driver, 18-year-old Gerardo Banda, later pleaded guilty to felony vehicular homicide, vehicular assault and driving under the influence of alcohol and was sentenced to six years in prison.
Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall When the Carbondale Public Arts Commission debuted its new year of art, one in particular garnered a lot of attention. Minneapolis sculptor Kimber Fiebiger’s depiction of the classic nursery rhyme perched outside the Carbondale Branch Library was viewed by some as off putting but by many more as a perfect fit. A group of citizens have since been fundraising (www. youcaring.com/HumptyDumpty) to make the placement permanent, and are less than a $1,000 short of their $6,000 goal.
A different kind of service The Third Street Center got a new cof-
JUNE
A new bar The scion of the Roaring Fork Beer Company, Batch took over the European Antiques space on Main Street with a completely remodeled interior (complete with a hidden staircase). The “tasting room,” as it is styled, features 24 taps — four times what the Dolores Way location offered. It has since hosted numerous new and old events and established itself as a core element in the downtown scene.
One of the last historic ranches between Aspen and Glenwood Springs — a 100-acre parcel formerly known as the McClure River Ranch near Catherine Store — sold for $7.2 million. Marc Ganzi, who co-founded the Aspen Valley Polo Club at Catherine Store with his wife, Melissa, confirmed that a partnership af-
YEAR IN REVIEW page 8
Connecting cameras to cops Carbondale Police began a slow roll out for “body-cams,” which will capture images and sound recordings of everything from traffic stops to street encounters with citizens, similar to the devices worn by big-city cops and made famous in news stories about controversial acts by police around the country. But the local police say the move was not driven by national news stories or complaints about police behavior, but rather by a desire to enhance evidence collection and accountability for everyone involved.
No longer a gym The Third Street Center raised $90,000 for the first phase of its “Let there be Light” campaign to overhaul the
BEST OF 2017, No. 7: When the ditches were turned off for the season, a number of fish were trapped in the Sopris Park ditches. These two compassionate guys, decided to embark on a fish rescue and netted a number of their finned-friends, then returned them to The Roaring Fork River. This ain’t no fish story. Photos by Jane Bachrach
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018 • 7
Year in Review continued from page 7
ing on Main Street was leveled and the property sodded and fenced off — Dandelion Market reemerged on Highway 133. It’s still in need of more volunteers and customers. Theresa’s Market and Sweet Coloradough, the other businesses on the property believed to belong to local landowner and philanthropist Bren Simon through Equanimous Holdings LLC, appear to have given up on a Carbondale location.
JULY
TRTC takes home Henrys It the first year Thunder River Theatre Company was able to impress the judges necessary to qualify for the Colorado Theatre Guild’s Henry Awards. An impressive 11 nominations lead to two top prizes Outstanding Sound Design for “The Tempest” and Outstanding Set Design for “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” — both credited to Sean Jeffries.
Snowmass Avenue trail considered In a joint meeting, Carbondale and Garfield County explored the possibility of putting a pedestrian path alongside Snowmass Drive, the one-time bypass for coal trucks hauling loads from mines near Redstone to the coal loading facility on Catherine Store Road east of town. Before anything concrete happens, it will be up to Carbondale to come up with estimated costs of such a project, as well as an idea of whether the town should annex the road and perhaps the adjacent Vetter Trailer Park (aka The Garfield Court Mobile Home Park), both of which currently are in the county’s jurisdiction. More recently, they had some added encouragement in the form of letters and presentations from third graders asking for a safe path to school.
BEST OF 2017, No. 8: Dance Initiative presented “A letter to congress A WILD Sanity” on Aug. 25 and 26 at Sustainable Settings. Combining spoken sentiments with dance, the performance was part of a film project created by Deborah Colley to let Congress know the power of public lands. Photos by Jane Bachrach
AUGUST
Grand Avenue Bridge Project While the construction of a new span across the Colorado River and Interstate 70 was ostensibly a Glenwood affair, it had significant impacts throughout the Valley. Despite mitigation efforts, epic traffic jams were the norm as much of area’s workforce passed through the construction zone. Many Carbondale municipal positions shifted to four 10 hour days, and the Town also modified construction hours and other policies to ease the impact. In the end, despite an unexpected collapse, the bridge was finished in less than the estimated 95 days, and there was much rejoicing.
Carbondale, AirBnb reach tax agreement Airbnb started collecting and remitting sales and lodging tax to the Town of Carbondale on behalf of hosts. A 3.5 percent sales tax rate and a 2 percent lodging tax were arranged as part of the Voluntary Collection Agreement — the ninth such in Colorado and one of around 300 worldwide.
seen for several weeks in the same area, but cleared out after attracting large crowds to their tree during the Our Town One Table event. Residents were cautioned that they had better make sure their trash containers are sufficiently bear-proof to avoid penalties that can reach up to $1,300 in fines, but compliance remained low. The trustees have made it a priority to tackle the problem before hibernation ends.
New ownership at Miser’s Miser’s Mercantile and its contents were seized by landlord Dale Eubank, who contended that former owner Sam Hunter owed more than $12,000 in back rent. After a brief closure, the store reopened under Eubank, with consignment honored for new sales but not for back credit. The building has since undergone considerable renovation. Back Door Consignment also underwent an ownership change, but the voluntary sale and less significant physical changes made for far less drama.
Trustees take immigration stand
BEST OF 2017, No. 9: This little equestrian seemed to be more interested in sucking on his lollypop during his break from competition during a horse show at Strang Ranch in August.
A proposed resolution aimed at protecting Carbondale’s Hispanic community from deportation and othCarbondale gets er anti-immigrant actions, by police or a new postmaster BEST OF 2017, No. 10: During the Sopris by the town, was passed by the town’s The 81623 zip code has a Sun’s eclipse party in August, Prairie Rose Board of Trustees (BOT). Although new postmaster after some Dills served as a canine canvas on which reworked somewhat, it was based time without one. Soft spoken reflected stars shone on her adorable on proposal by Carbondale Middle School eighth-graders Vanessa Leon, and polite, Reza Tehrani came puppy face. Jessica Koller, Keiry Lopez and Casto the United States from Iran as a teenager in 1987. After some time in Denver, he end- sidy Meyer — all members of a CMS organization known ed up getting a job as a postal clerk in Aspen, and eventu- as The Issues Club — earlier in the year. Specifically, it ally began to work his way up in the organization using “recognizes the importance of all persons in the commuhis management background and some encouragement nity, regardless of immigration status,” and clarifies that from an existing postmaster. He served in various roles the town “supports a clear path for immigrants to legally in Glenwood, Old Snowmass and Carbondale before be- live, work and become citizens of the United States.” ing officially sworn in as the head honcho in Carbondale.
Crown trail system improvements
Bear incidents up
Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers went to work on new and improved hiking, biking and equestrian trails in the Crown area off Prince Creek Road near Carbondale. In a series of evening events, crews built bridges, cleared brush and established a link to the proposed site of a future parking lot — although Pitkin County Open Space & Trails has not yet made a final decision on the subject.
While you’d generally expect to encounter a bruin in Aspen or Glenwood, Carbondale saw its share over the summer. In one particularly unfortunate case, a young bear cub, roaming with its mother around the streets of old town, was electrocuted when it climbed a power pole and had to be put down by the Carbondale Police Department. A pair of bears — possibly relatives — were
8 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018
(Not quite) total eclipse of the sun
While many of the most enthusiastic astronomers made the trip to “the path of totality” in Wyoming, Carbondale had a pretty good view of the solar eclipse and took advantage of it. The Sun’s eclipse viewing party was a hit with adults but even more popular with the kids, while a smaller group gathered on White Hill. The next total solar eclipse over town will take place in 2045. YEAR IN REVIEW page 9
Year in Review
continued from page 8
A living letter
A special live performance of “Letter To Congress: a WILD Sanity” at Sustainable Settings combined spoken sentiments with dance against a wild backdrop. The core of the project is a film which will help illustrate the power of public places to lawmakers who may never experience them first hand. Almost all the footage was shot earlier this summer in various locations throughout the White River National Forest.
The Temporary becomes a happening hangout Although it’s official grand opening wasn’t until December, the new performing arts space in Willits has been hosting events for months, from comedy to theatre to film. Tucked in harmoniously with offices and a hot tub retailer, it’s about as unassuming a performance venue as one could imagine. But those who pass through the gigantic door off of Market Street will encounter spacious lobby and well-stocked bar allow and space for 140 spectators in a large open room with a slightly elevated stage. Long term its founders are hoping to raise up to $8 million to construct a stand-alone, state-of-theart facility, but for now, The Temporary provides a small taste of that vision.
SEPTEMBER BEST OF 2017, No. 11: The theme of the 46th Annual Mountain Fair was Water and on Friday afternoon Mother Nature decided to pour her heart out during the drum circle and opening ceremonies. However, it didn’t seem to dampen anyone’s spirits or bother any of those children wanting to nap. Photo by Jane Bachrach
years. At the same time, Roaring Fork School District implemented a new enrollment process, which continues to guarantee enrollment and transportation for children living within a school’s attendance area, with the option to cross over if capacity isn’t met.
New school leadership In addition to a new principal, Roaring Fork High School hired athletic secretary and former water girl Jade Bath as athletic director. Meanwhile, Crystal River Elementary School Vice Principal Sam Richings-Germain took over as principal at Carbondale Community School, and Liz Meador stepped into that seat to complete the shuffle.
Documentary studies ‘How We Grow’ A film project focused on a group of local young farmers was finishing post production and slated for submission to the Sundance Film Festival. According to co-director Tom Zuccareno, the documentary “is a story of how this community, the Roaring Fork Valley, has built systems that support young people making the decision to become farmers,” despite the well documented obstacles facing anyone who wants to farm in a high-altitude, resort-oriented region where land values generally have outstripped the financial wherewithal of the agriculture industry.
Look out, 5Point
Riverview School
Pre-kindergarten through eighth grade students, most of whom had previously attended Glenwood Springs schools, found themselves in a brand new building across from Ironbridge for the new school year. The school was proposed as part of the 2015 bond issue to relieve overcrowding in Glenwood Springs schools and address the population growth expected over the next five to ten
The third annual flagship “No Man’s Land” film festival kicked things up a notch with four days of femalefocused outdoor films at The Crystal Theatre and a wide array of events throughout downtown. Once just a dream for Aisha Weinhold, the enthusiasm of filmmakers, speakers and spectators underscored the resonance of the idea and its future potential. YEAR IN REVIEW page 12
The Sopris Sun is hiring!
Life
without
Part-time Ad Manager position 20-30 hours per week
The
Sun?
Looking for a community-minded person to join our lively team. Start date: January 1
That wouldn’t be much fun. It takes community support to keep The Sopris Sun shining. Please donate at soprissun.com or PO Box 399, Carbondale, CO 81623 All donations are tax-deductible.
For details and a full job description: barbara.dills@gmail.com or 970-963-5782.
Best way to warm up after playing in the cold Historic Underground Vapor Caves
December’s Special Cranberry Body Wrap
Private Mineral Bath Back, Neck and Shoulder Massage Day pass to Our Historic Vapor Caves “A Day at the Spa” $135
For Information & Reservations call 970-945-0667 • yampahspa.com Spa Open 9-9 Salon Open 9-7 • One Block East of the Hot Springs Pool
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018 • 9
Community Calendar THURSDAY Dec. 28
IMPROVISATIONAL JAZZ • The Zack Ritchie Quartet play all of your favorite jazz classics and mix in a healthy dose of improvisation at 8 p.m. at The Temporary (360 Market St., Willits). Tickets are $5 -$8 at www.tacaw.org/event/1607824zack-ritchie-quartet-basalt.
FRI to THU Dec. 29-Jan. 4
To list your event, email information to news@soprissun.com. Deadline is noon on Monday. Events take place in Carbondale unless noted.
table eats plus a build your own bloody bar — there’s also a $10 kids option without the alcohol. FITNESS & FASHION • The Buddy Program, SoulCycle and Outdoor Voices team up for a 1 p.m. SoulCycle class at 534 E. Cooper Ave. in Aspen followed by a 2 to 4 p.m. champagne and shopping reception at 625 E. Hyman Ave. (also in Aspen). NEW YEAR’S EVE STRUT • Let’s Just Dance hosts a special evening of dancing beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Third Street Center (520 S. Third Street). $10 per person; info at 366-6463 or billypat4@gmail.com. There will be no dance on Jan. 2, 2018.
MOVIES • The Crystal Theatre presents “All the Money in the World” (R) at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 29- Jan. 4.
FRIDAY Dec. 29
ROCK FLAMENCO • El Javi, out of Mexico City, joins the spirit of flamenco with the heart of rock at 8 p.m. at The Temporary (360 Market St., Willits).\ STRINGIN’, SINGIN’ & STOMPIN’ The last show of the year at Steve’s (19 N. Fourth St.) starts at 8:30 p.m. and features Lookout Mountain Showdown.
SUNDAY Dec 31
BRUNCH • Celebrate and still be home early with a 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. brunch at Batch (358 Main St.). For $30, get bottomless chicken and waffles and farm-to-
ROCKABILLY • Ring in the New Year beginning at 9 p.m. at Carbondale Beer Works (647 Main St.) with The Tankareys. No cover; ’40s theme; champagne toast at midnight. A Rockabilly New Years Eve at Carbondale Beer Works. DJ • Ring in 2018 with Marble Distillery (150 Main St.) beginning at 9 p.m. with an evening of fine craft spirits, DJ Benny spinning the latest hits, a balloon drop and complimentary toast at midnight! Cover is $20 per person. There are also a limited number of reserved tables; call 963-7008 or email scoop@marbledistilling.com for info.
MONDAY Jan. 1
INSPIRATION & INTENTION • Join River Morgan for a heart-centered yoga class, enjoy a cup of chai with the community followed by sacred chant, journaling and teachings from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at True Nature Healing Arts (100 N. Third St.). $45 for the whole experience; $25 for just the final Bhakti hour.
Further Out FRIDAY Jan. 5
POETRY & ART • DJ Hill presents her poetry readings and collage art alongside live music from John Hatanaka, giveaways, snacks and more from 4 to 7 p.m. at Roadside Gallery (320 Main St.). FEETS OF COMEDY • From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., the Waldorf School on the Roaring Fork (16543 Highway 82) presents six time World Hacky Sack Champion and Awarded Innovator of Juggling Arts Peter Irish and his circus arts show. Bring cash or check for tickets at the door: adults are $10; children $5. CONSENSUAL IMPROV • Thunder River Theatre Company’s improv comedy troupe performs on its home stage (67 Promenade) at 8 p.m.; tickets are $12 at www.thunderrivertheatre.com or 963-8200.
TUESDAY Jan. 9
ART DEMO • The Glenwood Springs Art Guild’s free January demonstration for members and non-members alike will be held at 3:30 p.m. at the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (1630 Grand Ave., Glen-
wood Springs). Directed by Sandy Boyd, it will feature a design based on a tossed rope. For more info call 948-3204.
FRIDAY Jan. 12
AMY GOODMAN • American broadcast journalist, syndicated columnist, investigative reporter, and author Amy Goodman will talk about the grassroots resistance to the current administration beginning at 7 p.m. at The Temporary (360 Market St., Willits).
Save the Date THU Jan. 25 – SUN Jan. 28
X-GAMES • Action sports, music and a snowy festival experience returns to Buttermilk. All sport competitions are free and open to the public. Ticketing information and details for concerts at www.xgames.com.
Ongoing HEALTH THROUGH NUTRITION • Free opportunities include… One-hour consultation about heart attack prevention, plantbased nutrition, other medical issues. Call retired family doctor Greg Feinsinger, M.D. for appointment (379-5718). First Monday of every month catch a powerpoint presentation by Dr. Feinsinger about the science behind plant-based nutrition, 7 to 8:30 p.m., board room Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.). Fourth Monday of every month, plantbased potluck 6:30 p.m. Calaway Room, Third Street Center. All events supported by CALENDAR continued on page 11
Happy New Years from Our Family to Yours
WEBSITE DESIGN • EMAIL MARKETING • SOCIAL MEDIA • SEARCH MARKETING • ANALYTICS & TRACKING
Helping you put the correct digital marketing tools in place to reach your business goals.
981 Cowen Dr. Suite A, Carbondale,CO 970-510-5271 or book online : www.bombshellsalonco.com
Include Carbondale Homeless Assistance (CHA) in YOUR Holiday Giving! Here’s HOW:
• Purchase gift cards at Subway, Heidi’s Deli, Dos Gringos, Roaring Fork Co-op & Sopris Laundry. • Donate $ for Carbondale Recreation Center shower passes. Drop cards and any $ donations off at Amoré Realty, 711 Main St., Carbondale. • Donate your used clothing to Misers Mercantile or Ragged Mountain Sports and ask credit go to CHA accounts.
• Donate food &/or your time at Community Meals held 1st and 3rd Saturday each month at Faith Lutheran Church, 1340 Hwy 133, Carbondale. Stay current with CHA needs & news at www.facebook.com/ groups/carbondalehomeless/
Thanks for YOUR support!
www.FootStepsMarketing.com 326 Hwy 133, Suite 290, Carbondale, CO 81623 | (970) 510-5143
THIS COMMUNITY AD SPACE DONATED BY COOL BRICK STUDIOS.
10 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018
Community Calendar
continued from page 10
Ongoing
Davi Nikent, Center for Human Flourishing. More information at www.davinikent.org. BLUEGRASS JAM • Bring the instrument of your choice or just your voice for a weekly jam session first and last Sundays at 6:30 p.m. at Steve’s Guitars (19 N. Fourth St.) and all other Sundays at the Glenwood Springs Brew Garden (115 Sixth St.). HIGH NOON • Bring your compliments, complaints and ideas to Sopris Sun Editor Will Grandbois at 12 p.m. Thursdays at the Pour House (351 Main St.). DECK THE WALLS • The Launchpad (76 S. Fourth St.) hosts a seasonal artisanal market. 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. BOOK CLUB • Join friends and fellow readers to discuss great books at Carbondale Branch Library (320 Sopris Ave.) at 4 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month; call 963-2889 for this month’s selection.
ROTARY • The Carbondale Rotary Club meets at the Carbondale Fire Station (300 Meadowood Dr.) at 6:45 a.m. Wednesdays. The Mt. Sopris Rotary meets at White House Pizza (801 Main Ct.) at noon every Thursday. BRONCO BABBLE • Get excited for the next big game and share your own thoughts from 4 to 4:30 p.m. Thursdays on KDNK. 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. 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.
STORY ART • Carbondale Branch Library (320 Sopris Ave.), in partnership with the Aspen Art Museum, invites kids to learn about artists and create masterpieces of their own at 4 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month.
MINDFULNESS • The Mindful Life Program in the Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.) offers group sessions Mondays at 7:30 p.m. Admission is by donation and registration is not necessary. Info: mindfullifeprogram.org and 970-633-0163.
LIONS MEET • The Carbondale Lions Club meets the first Tuesday of the month at the Gathering Center at the Orchard (110 Snowmass Dr.) starting at 6:30 p.m. Info: Chuck Logan at 963-7002 or Chris Chacos at 379-9096.
RUN AROUND • Independence Run & Hike hosts a run around town Saturdays at 8 a.m. Meet at the store 596 Highway 133 (in La Fontana Plaza) and run various distances, with different routes each week. Info: 704-0909.
OPEN MIC • A new open mic takes place from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays at Riverside Grill (181 Basalt Center Circle, Basalt). Food and drink specials. Free. PARENT CHILD CLASSES • Waldorf teacher and parent Holly Richardson offers programs for caregivers and children ages 1 to 3, with musical storytime from 9 to 10 a.m. Mondays, Sweet Peas Garden from 9 to 11 a.m. Wednesdays and Peas and Carrots from 9 to 11 a.m. Fridays. Call 963-1960 for more info or visit waldorfschoolrf.com. Preregistration is suggested before Sept. 30 but drop ins are also welcome. GRIEF AND LOSS • Pathfinders offers a grief and loss support group every other Monday at 6 p.m., and a caregiver support group every other Wednesday noon. An RSVP is required to Robyn Hubbard at 319-6854. Pathfinders offers support groups from Aspen to Rifle and is located in Carbondale at 1101 Village Rd. Info: pathfindersforcancer.org. STORYTIME • Carbondale Branch Library (320 Sopris Ave.) hosts stories songs and more for ages four and up at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays and three and under at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. MAKERSPACE • Children and teens are invited to design, create, tinker, and play with art and technology to design and create with 3D Pens, make stop-motion animation films, engineer duct tape creations, build their own video games, and more from 2 to 3:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the Carbondale Branch Library (320 Sopris Ave.).
Gather with us.
ONE VOICE • Lisa Dancing-Light, founder of Higher Octave Music Programs, presents a new community singing group intended to celebrate the joy that music brings to the spirit. Thursdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at The Helios Center (601 Sopris Ave.) in Carbondale. 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. BRIDGE • The Carbondale Bridge Club hosts duplicate bridge (not sanctioned by ACBL) from 6:30 to 10 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at the Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.). $6/per pair. Contact Marlene for more info: 928-9805. SENIOR MATTERS • The nonprofit Senior Matters, based in the Third Street Center (520 S. Third St.), offers numerous programs for senior citizens, including: tai chi with John Norton at 8:30 a.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays; tai chi with Marty Finklestein at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays; Alaprima Painters at 11 a.m. on Thursdays; the Senior Matters Book Club at 4 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of the month; and the Roaring Fork Brain Train. Info: seniormatters.org; Diane Johnson at 970-306-2587; and Senior Matters, Box 991, Carbondale CO, 81623. SENIOR RADIO • Diane Johnson talks about senior issues and services on KDNK at 4:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month.
JANUARY SPEAKERS: 1/3/17 – Terry Classen, Sopris Lodge Project Senior Living in Carbondale 1/10/17 – Dick Durrance Where War Lives: A Photographic Journal of Vietnam
“SERVICE ABOVE SELF”
Thank you to all the volunteers who signed up to Ring the Bell for Salvation Army!
Looking to have fun and give back? Come join us at Rotary every Weds. at 7 a.m. at the Carbondale Fire Station - All are welcome! RSVP to Ed Queenan at (401) 465-4276 or queenan.edward@gmail.com!
“Are you looking for a hiking buddy? If so, I’m your guy, Jack, a 2-year-old Shepherd mix. Visit me at C.A.R.E, and take me for walk. You’ll see how silly, smart, fun I am.” OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
MON – FRI 8 am to 6 pm SAT – SUN 11 am v to 2 pm
truenaturehealingarts.com 100 N 3RD S T • C ARBONDALE 970.963 .9 900
We have 8 dogs and 23 cats 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
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018 • 11
Year in Review
continued from page 9
On the subject of nature…
didn’t think she’d be the one to take them up on the offer. But a day after her stay of removal was denied, she moved into the parsonage on Cleveland Place and doesn’t know when she’ll come out again. Federal policy discourages immigration officials from raiding churches and schools, so she although ICE is well aware of her location, it is hoped that she’ll have a safe place to appeal the decision and potentially move toward citizenship. Meanwhile, she is basically on house arrest and welcomes visitors — contact TRUU for more information.
It was a dangerous season for mountaineering in the area, with eight of 11 fatal accidents across Colorado fourteeners taking place in Pitkin County. Mountain Rescue Aspen recovered five bodies from Capitol Peak, two from Maroon Bells and one from Conundrum, MRA president Jeff Edelson said of the climbing season. With more and more people on the peaks, rescuers and others urged caution and advocated for education — though another incident drove home the point that no one is immune to the dangerous of the backcountry.
NOVEMBER
Raid turns up more than pot
Bridges High gets a custom space
One suspect fled and another was taken into federal custody when law enforcement busted an illegal marijuana grow on public land near Redstone. Discovered by an anonymous civilian near the apparent remnants of a smaller, older grow sight above the former Placita townsite, the grow contained mostly harvested marijuana, some trimmed and drying and several trash bags worth of already dried and packaged buds. Also in evidence was the rack of a recently killed buck deer and a bag of dead minks. The suspect is charged with conspiracy to manufacture, distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 1,000 marijuana plants. If convicted, he will face 10 years to life in prison and/or a $10 million fine.
Oct. 2, 2017, “forever after” as Colorado Mountain College Day. CMC also arranged an array of programming around its campuses throughout the year and pursued, but did not achieve, a ballot item looking for a loophole in the Gallagher Amendment.
Beginning in sight for City Market
A grand ARTway
Along with the six plat-filing deadline extensions in two years, Kroger offered a timeline for the construction of a new grocery store north of the current building. If all goes as planned, closing on the property will take place in February 2018, with site work later the same year and vertical construction in early 2019.
OCTOBER 50 years of CMC
As the school celebrated 50 years, Governor John Hickenlooper proclaimed
BEST OF 2017, No. 12: This year’s highlight at Colorado Animal Rescue’s Annual fundraiser came when C.A.R.E. Executive Director Wes Boyd brought Corey Simpson and his rescue dog, Sam onstage and invited attendees to start howling. The reason why became obvious when Charlie joined in and everyone had a howlin’ good time.
After nearly two years of planning, community members celebrated bootson-the-ground progress of the Rio Grande ARTway with two volunteer work sessions at the new DeRail Park near Highway 133 and one at the Latino Folk Art Garden along the path near Eighth Street. Carbondale Arts will continue to develop the 1-mile section of the Rio Grande Trail that bisects Carbondale in an effort to establish a “creative place-making project that reflects the cultural diversity of the community, inspires greater use of non-motorized transportation, preserves
BEST OF 2017, No. 13: A horde of zombies turned out for the annual pub-crawl around Carbondale. Those folks lucky enough to be dining at Town restaurant that evening, on their closing night, were amused by some of the hungry Zombies obviously jealous they were left out in the cold during its last supper.
our heritage, and strengthens our core creative community,” according to the ARTway master plan.
See you around, Town
While almost every school in Roaring Fork School district saw improvements following the bond issue, the changes at the old Carbondale Union High School building are particularly striking. After 20 years of secondhand spaces, Bridges High School has a tailor made campus in the south side of the building, with its own entrance, a cafeteria and classrooms that aren’t scattered all over. Construction is ongoing in the rest of the building, which will house the district office in addition to existing tenants like YouthEntity and Bonedale Ballet.
Lease negotiations between Town restaurant owner and the building owner — believed to be the aforementioned Bren Simon — fell through. Rather than pursue a new location, Fischer opted to close the relatively young but beloved eatery’s doors. He’ll still have plenty on his plate with Phat Thai right across the street and The Pullman in Glenwood.
Crystal River Trail It’s hard to decide exactly where to place the latest chapter in this decades long debate. Pitkin County Open Space and Trails kicked off the year with open houses in Redstone and Carbondale, Wilderness Workshop commissioned a 114-page report on possible wildlife impacts from a Boulder-based wildlife biologist over the summer, and a series of presentations were held in September. Governor Hickenlooper even weighed in by including a Carbondale to Crested Butte route on a list of priority connections. It really came to a head, however, during a joint meeting with Pitkin County Commissioners, OST and Carbondale Trustees on Oct. 17. With over 100 people in attendance, some folks came down in favor of a trail on the east side of the river, others advocated for a west side route following Highway 133, and still others didn’t want it built at all. The comment period was twice pushed back, and when it came time for the Carbondale trustees to submit their own thoughts, the only consensus was that the process was flawed. The process will continue into 2018, with a joint work session planned for Jan. 16 and open houses on a draft plan slated for March.
Unitarians offer sanctuary When the Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists announced their intention to offer immigration sanctuary, Sandra Lopez
12 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018
BEST OF 2017, No. 14: It doesn’t appear to matter to this equine and caprine that they are different colors and are different species. They are living together in harmony at Skyline Ranch in Carbondale. Photos by Jane Bachrach
Soccer boys go far The Roaring Fork High School soccer boys had their best season in recent memory, leaving higher ranked teams in their wake as they ascend through the playoffs. The finally met their match against the defending champs Kent Denver, but with most of their top players returning next year, the story is far from over. “I just coach for the season, but I have it in the back of my mind that this team is only going to get better,” Coach Nick Forbes said.
Carbondale Fire keeps funding Voters gave Carbondale and Rural Fire Protection District three more years at their current property tax level. With two to one support for the measure, it seemed YEAR IN REVIEW page 13
Year in Review
continued from page 12
like a return to the norm of public support for the district. A notable exception was 2013, when the fire board was shot down in pursuit of significant increase with no expiration date. Two lean years later and after extensive public discussion and master planning, the board again pursued an increase, this time for 1.75 additional mills with a two-year sunset clause, which proved palatable. The latest vote is essentially a renewal of that rate with a slightly longer sunset.
nership, which also runs the Sopris Shopping Center and Self Storage just across Colorado Avenue to the north. With streets on three sides and a marked drop in elevation on one side, it’s a development challenge despite its prime location. “I’ve always viewed it as the entrance to town,” said Ron Stein, who has hoped to develop the lot for the better part of a decade. The approved design includes 2100 square feet of commercial space and 18 residential units.
Proposed history fund goes down
‘No for right now’ on assisted living proposal
Garfield County voters rejected a tax increase of $3.42 per $100,000 of assessed property value that would have supported seven historical societies located in Garfield County: the Mount Sopris Historical Society in Carbondale, Glenwood Springs Historical Society, Glenwood Springs Railroad Museum, New Castle Historical Society, Silt Historic Park, Rifle Heritage Center and Museum and the Grand Valley Historical Society. The rail museum has since closed, and it’s unclear how the other organizations will fare without the extra revenue.
Stein proposal proceeds Trustees approved a plan for a mixed use development on the northeast side of the roundabout at Highway 133 and Main Street. The currently vacant lot is owned by Stein Properties Limited Part-
While the developer for the proposal feels that Sopris Lodge Assisted Living facility, because of the nature of its wouldbe residents, wouldn’t need anywhere near the 247 parking spaces typically required by the town for a project that size, that didn’t fly with the Planning and Zoning Commission. The proposal was rejected with the understanding that with a different approach — and at least a parking variance — it might be back before P&Z in the near future with a different result.
Rams drop varsity football Following a no-win season with few upperclassmen on the roster, Roaring Fork High School announced it would nix varsity football in favor of JV for the next two years. Without the numbers for both
BEST OF 2017, No. 15: The internationally and locally popular MarchFourth Marching Band from Portland, Oreg. returned to town and took Carbondale by “storm” on July 30, closing out this year’s rain-soaked Mountain Fair. The band consists of about 20 talented musicians, dancers and artisans. Photos by Jane Bachrach
YEAR IN REVIEW page 15
N ew Year’s Strut We hope you join us December 31st to bring in
2 018
with an evening of dancing, snacking and enjoying friends, old and new! Round Room at the Third Street Center, Carbondale 7:30 p.m. • $10/pp
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018 • 13
Letters from page 2 water through their drinking water aquifer is appropriate but a new public Grand River Park on 75 acres near some condominiums is inappropriate because It wants to host a concert once a year. Silly goofs. John Hoffmann Carbondale
Traffic’s still an issue Dear Editor: The bridge is done and we’re all back to driving solo, including the RFTA drivers. Rush hour traffic on Grand Ave. isn’t as bad as it was during the bridge outage, but it’s just as bad as it was before and that’s bad. That’s why I moved out of Glenwood Springs. I hope CDOT’s next project is repaving Glen Avenue south of 27th St. That’s like Burma Road. Even riding the bus, I couldn’t text it was so bumpy. Back East, they have a system called traffic actuated stop lights. If you hit one stoplight and go the speed limit, you’ll miss the next one and catch the one after that. On Grand Ave., you get one light you’ll get ’em all. The ultimate solution to this valley’s traffic problems is affordable housing in Aspen. Many work in Aspen, but few can afford to live there. Those mansions could be cut up into at least a dozen affordable family units. That would maximize the utility of the real estate for the common good. Fred Malo Jr. Carbondale
’Tis the season for reflection on the past and resolutions for the future. So we asked a few locals who were out and about after the holidays about their plans for 2018. Compiled by Megan Tackett
“Work less, play more. Take more time for myself. As far as what that looks like, I want to make the Top 25 of the Village Smithy patrons. That’s a goal, not a resolution.” – Charlie Smith
“I always try to have a practical [resolution] and one for personal growth. The practical one is what I want: getting back into my running and training for marathons again. Whereas for self growth, I want to practice patience — those kind of go hand-in-hand, I guess.” – Kate Phillips
“Let social media influence me less -- stay off the political stuff because it just hurts. Other than that, I’m going to try to make some changes to the brewery, to bring more of our touch into the [Carbondale Beer Works].” – Patrice Fuller “My personal resolution is to strengthen my mindful meditation practice. As far as the town is concerned, I feel 2017 was another fantastic year. In 2018, I look forward to our staff and our community thriving.” – Dan Richardson
“To be honest, I actually want to lose more weight and just be the kind of person I can be. My favorite part about 2017 was to be with my family and to be able to say, ‘this is what we’re doing.’ 2018, I’m looking forward to just being with some friends and having a great time.” – Cami Britt
HIGH NOON
Help yourself, help your town, help your neighbor
Y U B CAL LO
Photo by Jane Bachrach
Will Grandbois
He’ll take your compliments and complaints, answer your questions and hear your suggestions.
Pour House
Stop in for lunch, grab a drink or dessert or just drop in.
✽
*You help yourself by insuring Carbondale businesses stay in business so you don’t have to shop out of town; you help the town of Carbondale by keeping your sales tax dollars
right here; and you help your neighbor because most of Carbondale’s store and businesses are locally owned.
14 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018
Sopris Sun Editor will be at the
(351 Main St.)
at noon Thursdays
Year in Review
continued from page 13
lost the bid for the Space to Create designation. It’s far from a done deal, but we hope to hear some results soon.
AVLT, Town pursue Red Hill property
BEST OF 2017, No. 16: Carbondale’s American legion Post 100 held their traditional Memorial Day ceremony on May 20. This year, following the the wreath toss from Veterans Memorial Bridge, a special ceremony was held honoring departed member “Fergie” Ferguson at Evergreen Cemetery. or the option to go down to a smaller league, it was pitched as the best chance to protect the players with some chance of changing back down the road. “We’re not doing this because we lost,” Athletic Director Jade Bath said. “We’re doing it because it’s best for the kids and we’re trying to keep them safe. It’s gonna hurt, but it’s the decision we had to make.”
Unclassifieds
DECEMBER Housing creativity
The Carbondale Creative District and Town of Carbondale held an feasibility study in conjunction with Artspace, an organization dedicated to affordable housing for artists. The possible partnership offers a second chance after Carbondale
Parting Shot
With plenty of help from Aspen Valley Land Trust, Carbondale may end up owning almost 25 acres of land at the base of Red Hill — allowing the construction of a new parking lot and trail getting hikers and bikers off the road. Colorado Parks and Wildlife, the Bureau of Land Management and the Red Hill Council are also closely involved in planning, but it’s AVLT that has already put the land under contract — with a plan to close Dec. 15 — and launched a $500,000 fundraising project to cover it. If things go as planned, a community fundraising campaign would cover the rest of the cost with an endowment for future maintenance.
Zoning change proposed for new housing project The Garfield County Planning Commission rejected a developer’s application to amend the county’s comprehensive plan in order to accommodate a vision for a new community of up to 400 small houses in the pasture northwest of the intersection of Catherine Store Road and Highway 82. It remains to be seen if the property will be back on the table with a less dense development at a future meeting.
In remembrance Carbondale area residents said final goodbyes to loved ones and friends in 2017, among them: Richard John Allenby Ayleen Ruiz Alvarado Vern Arbaney Greg Benson Mary Boland Henry Bosco Linda Bowman Wesley Paul Bright Greg Chandler Larry C. Cheney Vera Diemoz Bonnie Fischer Susan Gibbs Angus Leslie Graham Kenneth James Holgate Hayden Kennedy Shaw Lewis Bill Lukes Margaret (Margy) Miller Maureen Nuckols Jack Sebesta Megan Jane Swanton Vickie Walton
Submit to unclassifieds@soprissun.com by Friday 12 p.m. Rates: $15 for 30 words, $20 for up to 50 words. Payment due before publication.*
THE SOPRIS SUN IS HIRING. Parttime Ad Manager position, 20-30 hours per week. Great opportunity for a community-minded person to join our lively team. For details and a full job description, please contact Barbara Dills, board president, at barbara.dills@gmail. com or 970-963-5782. GET THE WORD OUT IN UNCLASSIFIEDS! Rates start at $15. Email unclassifieds@soprissun.com. FREE CLASSIFIED ADS for kids and teens to promote their businesses enterprises. Thirty word maximum. Please send to unclassified@soprissun.com. *Credit card payment information should be emailed to unclassifieds@ soprissun.com or call 948-6563. Checks may be dropped off at our office at the Third Street Center or mailed to P.O. Box 399, Carbondale, CO 81623. Call 510-3003 for more info.
BEST OF 2017, No. 17: Just as this herd of cattle headed up to BLM land last May for a summer full of lush green grass and peace with their families and friends, as we say goodbye to a tumultuous 2017, we too can look ahead to a 2018 filled with some green grass and peace. Photos by Jane Bachrach
Service Directory WINDSHIELD REPAIR & AUTO GLASS REPLACEMENT
970-963-3891
Mobile Service Available
Locally Owned by David Zamansky
500 Buggy Circle, Carbondale, CO
! s e r i T l l We Se
Come to Sunburst for your Winter tire change-0ver! 970-963-8800
745 Buggy Circle in Carbondale www.sunburstcarcare.com
The Sopris Sun, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • DECEMBER 28, 2017 - JANUARY 3, 2018 • 15
LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL in Carbondale
CARBONDALE
970-510-3065 Off Highway 133 on Main Street 9:00am–6:50pm, 7 days/week
PARACHUTE
970-285-2166 Off the I-70 Parachute Exit 9:00am–9:00pm, 7 days/week
PLUS CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN FRISCO, AVON, AND EDWARDS
TUMBLEWEED420.COM
* As of May 2017, the Edwards dispensary was ranked #5 of 631 Colorado dispensaries by users of Leafly.com
Leafly.com Top Five Dispensary*