– The RockyGrass Festival, a premier three-day traditional bluegrass event held every July in Lyons, will soon be back again from July 24 to July 26 at Planet Bluegrass in Lyons.
Set along the scenic St. Vrain River at the Planet Bluegrass Ranch, it features legendary and emerging artists, on-site camping, and immersive riverside jam sessions.
Festival experience and atmosphere
The music: Celebrating roots and traditional bluegrass, the festival draws a devoted community of pickers and listeners. The main stage features world-class musicians, while the surrounding grounds are filled with impromptu fan-led jam sessions.
On Friday, the Dell McCoury Band and Willie Watson will perform. On Saturday, Sam Bush will be back, and the Steep Canyon Rangers will perform. On Sunday, Tim O’Brien and the Punch Brothers will perform.
The venue: Nestled beneath towering red rock cliffs, the Planet Bluegrass Ranch offers a natural, intimate amphitheater setting. Festival-goers frequently cool off by wading in the chilly St. Vrain River directly next to the stage area.
History and education
Roots: Originally started in 1973 by bluegrass icon Bill Monroe and the Colorado Bluegrass Music Society, it is one of the oldest and most celebrated festivals of its kind in the United States.
RockyGrass Academy: Immediately preceding the festival weekend, the organizers host the RockyGrass Academy, a multi-day immersive music camp where participants receive hands-on instrumental instruction from performing artists.
To purchase tickets, find lodging, or review the daily artist lineup, visit the official Planet Bluegrass website.
Town Board discusses options for the wastewater plant, upgrades for town hall and more
By Susan de Castro Gierach, Editor and Kay Sparks Redstone Review
LYONS – At a regular July town board meeting, Town Administrator Victoria Simonsen reported that SafeBuilt presented the new Wildfire Code to several contractors at a recent Lunch and Learn event. The presenters were pleased with the turnout and interest in the new code.
Staff continues to work on plans for the Wheels of Lyons Parade on Saturday, August 1, 2026 (Colorado Day), at Bohn Park at 10 :00 a.m. Participants will be asked to parade on anything with wheels, including bicycles, golf carts, strollers, scooters, and similar non-motorized or low-speed vehicles.
Administrator Simonsen went on to report that the much-needed audio upgrades to the town hall boardroom are in place, including microphones and speakers, which will enhance both in-person and online audio.
The Town of Lyons was awarded a $10,000 Economic Vitality Grant from Boulder County to use towards the improvements to the visitor center building to be a business/arts incubator space. No match is required.
These funds will be added to the Real Estate Diversity Initiative (REDI) State of Colorado grant and previous town match for the project.
Cemex donated $10,000 to the Lyons Arts and Humanities Commission (LAHC) for future mural designs and creations. The Town Hall and Library Art Show will be held on Wednesday, July 22, at 4:30 p.m. before the Sandstone Summer Concert.
In other news, the town board entered into
a discussion about the wastewater treatment plant. After the flood in 2013, the town hired Honeywell International Inc. to build a new wastewater treatment plant that was supposed to create energy savings, but that didn’t happen. The town went to court and won a settlement that will now be used to pay for some of the improvements that are needed.
According to Trustee Greg Lowell, several components are failing or outdated and need to be replaced/repaired. Chief among them are the dewatering system and the odor control systems.
JVA, Incorporated (JVA), an employee-owned structural, civil, and environmental consulting engineering firm headquartered in Boulder, was hired to create a master plan in 2024. One cost estimate to upgrade and repair parts of the plant, improve performance, and increase capacity was $10,870,000, but they overestimated the growth of the town, according to Trustee Lowell.
Then the town went on to hire Consor, an engineering consulting firm, for project management, design, and construction management. The probable construction cost is now $5,544,000—still a bundle of cash. The town will also have the money from the sale of the old water treatment plant on the corner of Apple Valley Rd and Colorado Hwy. 66 to add to the settlement money from Honeywell.
However, even with the money currently set aside, Trustee Lowell said that, “One way or another, either $3.7M or $2M will need to be borrowed to fix/update the plant. Lyons currently has the second-highest wastewater costs on the Front Range ($88.50 per 4K gallons of sewage), surpassed only by Nederland.” It’s a
noteworthy distinction for Lyons. The Town of Lyons applied for a Brownfield Site EPA Grant, and they, along with several other towns and cities, were awarded the grant to conduct a Phase I and Phase II environmental assessment of Lyons Town Hall.
At the board meeting on July 6, the board held a discussion on the Stantec Area-Wide Plan presentation and town hall remediation. The town hall needs environmental remediation due to petroleum-based contamination exceeding healthy limits. The building was used as a diesel-operated electric generation plant from 1936 to the mid 1960s. The trustees approved moving forward with applying for the Voluntary Clean Up Program with the State of Colorado to get an approved remediation plan. If approved for the program, funding may be available for some of the remediation costs. Staff and Stantec worked together to develop concepts that could support a new town hall and residential development, as well as changes to the right-of-way to accommodate special events. Any additional work to support development shown in these plans is not budgeted. The plan could support future grant applications to demonstrate viability for redevelopment.
In other news, LaVern Johnson Park is leased to Planet Bluegrass for three days, July 24–July 26, for RockyGrass and again for the five days of Folk Fest, Aug 6–10. Lyons Fire Protection District and Boulder County Sheriff’s Office are coordinating for National Night Out, Tuesday, August 4, at 5:30 p.m. in Bohn Park. Lights Off Lyons will be on Friday, August 14, at Bohn Park.
The award-winning Blue Canyon Boys brought their signature blend of high-energy bluegrass to the Lyons Summer Concert Series, filling Sandstone Park with toe-tapping tunes and drawing families, friends, and dancers of all ages to the Raul Vasquez Stage. Pictured from left to right: Drew Garrett, Gary Dark, Jason Hicks, and Chris Roszell. PHOTO BY PETER BUTLER
A LETTER FROM CONGRESSMAN JOE NEGUSE
Dear Neighbor:
I hope each of you had a wonderful Fourth of July weekend and an opportunity to reflect on America’s 250th birthday. Independence Day honors the birth of our great country and democracy—a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. It also gives us the opportunity to celebrate the places and values that make our country and our state such a special place to call home.
Honoring our history
From the scenic trails of Rocky Mountain National Park to the Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument—a place that preserves the legacy of brave World War II service members—to trailblazers like Ralph Carr and Barney Ford, Colorado has played an integral role in shaping our nation’s story.
Our state, and the values it continues to uphold, remind us that we are always stronger together than we are apart. And as we look to the future, I’ll continue to carry the spirit of Colorado with me: Forging common ground for the common good and fighting to build a future for our communities that we can not only believe in, but one we can be proud of.
To that end, though most federal offices were closed over the holiday, my team and I were hard at work—kicking off the festivities with a “Congress on Your Corner” event in Boulder. There’s nothing better than visiting with constituents, and I’m grateful to all the folks who came by and chatted with us.
New firefighting equipment
After fighting for better and safer working conditions, it was great news to see that wildland firefighters are now authorized to use N95 respirators on the fire line. This long-overdue policy is the first step toward mitigating the countless dangerous health conditions our wildland firefighters face while protecting our communities.
Right to Vote Act
Generations of brave, patriotic Americans have made great sacrifices to safeguard voting rights, and I’m honored to take up the baton and reintroduce the Right to Vote Act, ensuring that all legally eligible citizens can vote by protecting them from state and local laws that make it harder to cast a ballot.
Please continue to stay safe, stay healthy, and—despite everything—stay hopeful.
Sincerely,
Joe Neguse Member of Congress
Housing & Human Services: legal insurance, fitness classes, activities, and more
By Kay Sparks Redstone Review
LYONS – Colorado Legal Insurance Help Fund: If you have ever had an insurance claim denied, you know how challenging it can be to deal with insurance companies. The Colorado Legal Insurance Help Fund (Co-LIH Fund) is a non-profit organization that works to connect Colorado residents who are experiencing insurance disputes, such as declined claims or withdrawn coverage, with more affordable legal aid, as well as providing free education.
As a non-profit, they offer free or discounted lawyer rates (depending on the case), along with covering some of the fees that come along with pursuing legal action. Insurance companies do not differentiate between claim types when declining medical, automotive, or property claims, nor does Co-LIH Fund. The Co-LIH Fund itself does not offer any legal advice. For more information, email info@co-lihfund. org or go to their website, co-lihfund.org.
July at Walt Self Senior Center: As usual, the Senior Center is perking away with Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday lunches, monthly birthday parties, and lots of good conversations.
There’s a thought that a game day might be fun. If you are interested in taking part, contact Casey Peifer at cpeifer@towoflyons. com or drop in at lunchtime (order a lunch by Monday noon by calling 303-441-1415, and you can eat a delicious meal) and let
Robin know you are ready to play a game. And don’t forget the Senior Exercise class every Tuesday and Wednesday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at Bohn Park, just north/next to the bathrooms, under the trees in the shade. It’s a great workout: stretching, upper- and lower-body work, a touch of getting your heart rate up, balance and gentle yoga to finish.
Lyons Valley Townhomes Property Management is advertising for a full-time maintenance person. Please spread the word. Contact the Property Manager, Richard Connor, at 720-600-4278.
Housing and Human Services Commission has an opening for someone who enjoys learning about the resources and needs in their community, working with fun folks, and eating cookies.
Kay Sparks lives in Lyons, and she is the chair of the Housing and Human Services Commission.
Board of Trustees special meeting
By Kay Sparks Redstone Review
LYONS – The Board of Trustees met in special session at noon on June 29, 2026, for the purpose of holding a second reading of Ordinance 1222 amending the Lyons Municipal Code concerning short-term rentals.
The focus at this time is on the housing needs during the Sundance Film Festival, which will be held in Boulder for the first time in
Kilo is a 6-year-old, big-headed, block-headed sweetheart with an even bigger heart. His serious expression might make him look tough, but it could not be further from the truth. This lovable guy would much rather spend his day soaking up affection, curling into a cozy bed, and enjoying the company of people who appreciate his gentle nature.
Kilo has been waiting at Longmont Humane Society longer than he deserves, and despite having almost no visits, he never stops hoping his person will walk through the door. Everyone who knows him describes him as a true lover. He just needs the chance to meet someone face to face because once you do, it’s hard not to fall for his sweet personality.
If you’ve been searching for a loyal companion with a heart as big as his head, Kilo may be the perfect match. Sometimes the best dogs are the ones who have waited the longest. Stop by and give Kilo the opportunity to show you just how special he is.”
Thank you all, as always for supporting our adoptables!
To see all our adoptable animals or get more details visit longmonthumane.org. Or stop in at the shelter at 9595 Nelson Road.
January 2027. Mayor Mark Browning introduced an amendment regarding tenant protection, which passed unanimously. The board directed staff to develop a policy for off-site parking and provide information regarding the concern for utilities, especially recreational vehicles.
Mayor Browning appointed Hollie Rogin and Greg Ucker to the Board of Adjustments, Julie Karavas and John Hunter
EDITOR
Neguse
MAYOR’S CORNER
Lyons must do more to mitigate fire risk
By Mark Browning Mayor of Lyons, Redstone Review
LYONS – See if this fire risk situation looks familiar:
• Two prior “near-miss” fires
• Less managed agricultural land and “increasing prevalence of unmanaged vegetative fuels”
• Landscape of non-native grasses surrounding built environments
• Community wildfire protection plan shows “need for increased investment, policy and regulation toward wildfire readiness … yet none resulted”
• Many years of effort to raise risk awareness
• A few fire prevention projects “primarily funded at low levels” by grants, project-by-project, but “unable to achieve … breadth, scale and continuity, reflecting a tendency against investing in proactive measures”
• Residential areas have been in place for decades, with old growth and dense vegetation, but with “very little … proactive defensible space measures for wildfire risk reduction within the built environment”
Sounds like Lyons, right?
Nope. The descriptions are of the Lahaina, Hawaii, area before the 2023 wildfire that killed 102 people and destroyed more than 80 percent of the town. (Quotes are from the official Fire Safety Research Institute report.)
I don’t want Lyons to be the next Lahaina. Yet, with similar risks and ample warnings, we’re basically repeating government failures made there—for which elected officials were excoriated by citizens and the press after the deadly fire.
We’re not doing enough fire risk mitigation. Lyons has about 800 residential properties. The new state-mandated Wildfire Resiliency Code (WRC) requires risk
mitigation measures on fewer than 10 of them—new structures only, for the most part. Over time, remodels and additions will require a few more homes to meet WRC standards, but not in sufficient numbers to make a real difference town-wide.
Education and voluntary efforts
Despite enhanced education efforts, insurance pressures, and financial incentives, only about 12 Lyons homeowners
for fire risk. Beginning five years ago, it offered generous incentives – reimbursing 75 percent of property owners’ costs up to $2,000—for fire risk mitigation steps in a “Fire Free Five” program focused on turning the first five feet around structures into defensible space. Initial participation was good, but then declined.
After five years of trying, less than 20 percent of eligible properties in Vail had participated.
Vail Fire Chief Mark Novak told the Vail Town Council last year that voluntary
have participated in the Boulder Wildfire Partners program. It’s a great program, with $500 from the town matching Boulder County’s $500 for mitigation measures after a free inspection.
Will education, insurance concerns, and “carrots” be enough? Vail’s experience suggests not. Vail, like Lyons, is a mostly builtout town with big fire risks, including a lot of densely packed homes in older neighborhoods. Vail is also a relatively wealthy town with more resources for fire prevention.
Vail evaluated every property in town
efforts were no longer enough. There simply wasn’t enough voluntary participation to reach desired risk reduction levels. Mandatory measures were needed.
“The ultimate person who has responsibility for whether their home burns and whether their neighbor’s home burns is the person who owns the home,” Novak said. “So, we’re at that phase in our history where we need to make that next step where everybody accepts that responsibility.”
So, did the Vail Town Council accept its
Dozens of artists return to Artisan Market in September
By Kim Mitchell Redstone Review
LYONS – The sixth Annual Fall Artisan Market returns to Lyons on September 12. More than 50 Colorado artisans and makers will gather in scenic Bohn Park for a day of shopping, community, and creativity.
The Town of Lyons invites residents and visitors to celebrate creativity and support local artists and makers at the sixth Annual Fall Artisan Market on Saturday, September 12, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in Bohn Park, 199 Second Ave., Lyons, CO.
Set along the beautiful St. Vrain River, this free-to-attend outdoor market will feature more than 50 local artisans, makers, and crafters offering handcrafted goods includ-
ing jewelry, pottery, fine art, woodworking, textiles, home décor, specialty foods, bath and body products, and oneof-a-kind gifts.
The Fall Artisan Market has become a seasonal tradition in Lyons, bringing together talented Colorado creatives with shoppers looking for unique, locally made products while enjoying the town’s welcoming atmosphere and scenic mountain setting.
With ample parking, easy access, and a picturesque riverside location, Bohn Park provides the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of shopping, connecting with local artists, and experiencing one of Lyons’ signature community events.
Whether you’re searching for handcrafted gifts, decorating your home for the season, or simply looking for a fun day trip, the Fall Artisan Market offers something for every
fire chief’s recommendations? No. Property owner objections derailed the effort. Nor has Boulder adopted mandatory measures for existing homes, though several city council members have advocated for them. In both places, staff and elected officials continue to study the problem.
Mandatory retroactive steps
A 2025 task force on which Trustee Greg Lowell and I served could not find a single Colorado municipality that had adopted retroactive fire risk mitigation measures. The Colorado Legislature, when it established the Wildfire Resiliency Code Board to draft the now-mandated State code, wouldn’t even let that board consider retroactive measures.
In Lyons, it’s obvious that education and voluntary measures—while great things to do— aren’t enough to achieve substantial fire risk reduction. The low level of participation in the Wildfire Partners program confirms that. So does Vail’s experience. We’ll never achieve Town-wide risk reduction with only “carrots”, no matter how generous.
Lyons has been studying and studying and studying fire risk mitigation measures for years. We’ve done a few things, but not nearly enough.
A 2022 Lyons task force recommended adopting a local Wildland Urban Interface Code and other measures. Lyons waited until the state code came out in 2025 to adopt it, knowing all along it would be prospective only.
A 2024–25 task force looked at retroactive measures and reported back on the scarcity of those statewide. None were adopted in Lyons.
The Town also waited for the Lyons Fire Protection District to update its 2011 Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP), contributing both grant money and staff time to the effort. The CWPP was adopted in 2026. It takes a clear position on whether retroactive measures are needed:
“Recommend the Town of Lyons and the Lyons Fire Protection District (LFPD) work together to develop additional retroac-
age and interest.
For more information on the Artisan Market, visit Lyons Colorado.com/ArtisanMarket
Discover everything Lyons has to offer—from locally owned shops and restaurants to outdoor recreation and live music. Learn more, plan your visit, and explore lodging options at LyonsColorado.com. Overnight visitors can also find an assortment of unique lodging opportunities in and around Lyons, the hip little town everybody loves.
Kim Mitchell is the Director of Communications and Community Relations for the town. She writes on town events, staff news, and the arts. She has called Lyons home for 17 years and is a dedicated small-town enthusiast. Email: kmitchell@townoflyons. com and kimicolorado@gmail.com
Juniper bushes erupt in flames during a controlled burn demonstration, illustrating why fire officials recommend removing or trimming them near structures.
Browning
Merganser ducks enjoying the river in Lyons
PHOTO BY CATHY RIVERS
OPTIONS
A snapshot of Lyons on Colorado Day, August 1, 1897
By Monique Sawyer-Lang Redstone Review
LYONS – On August 1, 1876, Colorado became a state and was admitted as the 38th state in the Union. Because its statehood was acquired 100 years after the signing of the nation’s Declaration of Independence, Colorado’s nickname became the “Centennial State,” and August 1 became known as “Colorado Day”. This year, Colorado is celebrating its 150th anniversary of statehood.
Currently on view at the museum is a temporary portfolio display commemorating Colorado’s 150th and America’s 250th anniversaries. Included is information about Colorado’s long road to statehood, the history and symbolism of the Colorado state flag, and the many emblems and symbols that represent our state. The America 250 portion of the portfolio contains reproductions of our nation’s founding documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and more.
The photograph that accompanies this article was taken on Colorado Day in 1897, at the Lyons depot, a mere 21 years after statehood. One wonders if the gentlemen are waiting for the train to take them into Denver for the day’s activities. One can also wonder what events had transpired in Lyons in those intervening years. Lyons wasn’t even on the map when Colorado became a state, but it would soon make its mark. What follows is a snapshot of those intervening years.
After Edward Lyon arrived in the area in the spring of 1880 and purchased 160
acres of land from Hiram Sawyer, it wasn’t long before the town began to take shape. By Colorado Day 1897, 13 of the 15 buildings featured in the Lyons Historic
town was a boon to the fledgling sandstone quarry industry, making it easier and more economical to transport Lyons’ sandstone to Denver and other parts of the country. The depot building was also closely tied to the town’s postal history.
Waiting for the train at the Lyons depot on Colorado Day, August 1, 1897—a glimpse of life in the young town just two decades after Colorado became a state. (Lyons Redstone Museum Collection)
District Walking Tour, along with many other buildings, had been erected in town, including the school, the depot, and the Congregational Church.
The school started as a one-room building in 1881, but overcrowding necessitated the addition of a second story in 1895. The second story was timber construction that tended to sway in the wind, resulting in school closures on windy days. In 1902, two additional rooms were added on the west side, and a redesigned front entry was built, resulting in the building you see today that serves as the Lyons Redstone Museum.
In addition to the school, one of the earliest buildings erected in town was the Lyons train depot, which was built in the summer of 1885. The arrival of the train in
Edward Lyon was the first postmaster in Lyons, having been appointed on May 18, 1882. The earliest known location of the post office was in the T.J. Thorne General Merchandise building, which was built in 1884 and which currently houses Ralston Antiques. From 1885 to 1890, the post office was housed at the depot building until it returned to the same building on High Street, which in 1892 became the Wilcox grocery store.
By the time this photograph was taken, Lyons was on its third newspaper. The first known newspaper in town was the Lyons News, started by Carrie Byrd, which began operation on March 5, 1890, but ceased operation by December of that year. It was replaced by the Longs Peak Rustler, published by Ben Durr beginning December 21, 1890. It too was a short-lived endeavor when Durr died of tuberculosis in April 1891. This was followed by the Lyons Topics newspaper published by E.B. Lollar, which had greater success and was in operation beginning December 21, 1894, until sometime in 1897.
The year 1891 marked a significant
change in the history of Lyons when, on April 6 of that year, the town was officially incorporated, and J.M. Hews became its first Mayor. William Thorne, brother-in-law of Lillie Lyon Thorne, daughter of Edward Lyon, was appointed the first town marshal.
The first church in Lyons was the Congregational Church, which was organized on March 8, 1889, by Reverend H. E. Thayer of Longmont, who served until 1894. At that time, Reverend Henry Harris of Michigan, encouraged by Edward Lyon, oversaw the construction of a permanent church, and the cornerstone was laid in April 1894. The church located on the corner of Fourth Avenue and High Street, known as The Old Stone Church, was dedicated on September 23, 1895.
It wasn’t long after that that the town founder, Edward Lyon, decided to pick up stakes in 1895 and move to California, having only lived in Lyons for 15 years. Edward Lyon spent the remainder of his life in San Diego, California, where he died at the age of 87 in 1931.
This snapshot shows only a portion of the events that occurred in Lyons before the August 1, 1897, date of this photograph. Visit the Lyons Redstone Museum, open daily now through September 30, to learn more about the history of Lyons.
Visit our website, lyonsredstonemuseum. com, to access our online historic district walking tour and our five virtual exhibits. The museum relies on donations and grants to fund our operations, and your support is greatly appreciated. You can donate through our website or by mail to Lyons Historical Society, PO Box 9, Lyons, Co. 80540.
Monique Sawyer-Lang is the Collections Manager of the Lyons Redstone Museum. She is also a volunteer with the Lyons Food Pantry and a former member/chair of the Lyons Community Foundation Board. She lives in Spring Gulch.
Modes of transport can be fast, medium, or slow, but fun and interesting
By Peter Butler Redstone Review
LYONS – In June, I was in France, via England, to watch the fabulous Ferraris compete at the Le Mans 24-hour race, which I wrote about in these pages two years ago. Now back in Lyons, and reflecting on my visit, I realized that in a two-week period I witnessed three modes of transport outside my usual experience. The Ferrari 499P and its competitors are glorious, streamlined and powerful machines that can cruise at about 210 mph and do it all day long without flagging.
Unfortunately, the governing body of the World Endurance Championship has a handicapping system that is penalizing the Ferraris for winning three years in a row by detuning their engines and loading them with ballast to slow them down. But even so, the sight and sound of screaming, thundering, popping, and crackling engines is one of my favorite forms of music.
The community of Le Mans emerged in about 50 BCE and was mentioned by Ptolemy in 100 CE. There is an old part of town with medieval buildings, but most of the architecture looks to be from the 18th and 19th centuries. It wears its age with dignity and feels old while still looking cool and elegant. It took me a while to realize that there is not a single front door painted in gloss paint, but rather flat matte, and this, along with powdery stucco and limestone walls
in a variety of pastel hues, gives the streets a consistency which is warm and inviting. The inhabitants of these stylish townhouses move around the town on a modern tram system, with another arriving every few minutes. They feature a gleaming copper-colored set of carriages that look like smaller versions of the Japanese bullet train. It is cheap, clean, efficient, and convenient, and takes the locals to work and play. Yes, there are cars on the street, but it seems as if everybody uses the tram because it is so attractive. Our hotel was at the opposite end of the town to the race track, so we enjoyed regular trips on it.
the rolling green Surrey hills, in southern England, on e-bikes, which was an exciting
In England, on my way back to Colorado, I spent some days with my friend Tom and his wife, Tracy. One day in March 1983, I was dozing at the desk in my lab, as if to certify my status as an incompetent and uncommitted biochemist. As usual, I had an imprint on my forehead of the knitting from my sleeve that I tried to hide from my boss, who frequently suggested that I should leave and make guitars instead. But the phone rang, and it was Tom, who gave me my first job in sales, then sales management, marketing, and finally self-employment, and has been a close friend all that time.
Forty-three years later, we went out into
novelty for me. People have been talking about e-bikes for the last few years, but somehow they have not made the experience vivid. E-bikes are just like traditional bikes, except a little bigger, slightly heavier, and with the ability to give you some extra power or speed when you need it. This was two days before my 72nd birthday, so I felt entitled to a few extra Joules of energy.
The handlebars have the traditional brake levers and gear
change, but there is also a cluster of switches next to your left thumb for controlling the extra oomph. If you pedal gently, it feels just like normal, but when you press harder, here comes some extra speed like magic from a hidden internal motor and battery. It took a while to get used to, but I was confident enough to ride out after a few minutes’ practice. You can select how much extra power you want to apply. So, when cruising on a level street, I chose a weaker setting indicated by green or blue LEDs, but if I needed an assist going uphill, I would click to purple or red. Eventually, these changes become instinctive, and you feel as if you are cycling as usual, except faster and a little easier on the legs. We rode along farm tracks, quiet country lanes, woodland trails, and an occasional overgrown sidewalk. After about 25 miles, when we arrived back at base, the battery
The modern tram in Le Mans combines sleek design with everyday convenience, becoming one of three memorable modes of transportation Peter Butler experienced during his European travels. PHOTO BY PETER BUTLER
Sawyer-Lang
Butler
Back to school: Fly-fishing is not as easy as it looks
By Greg Lowell Redstone Review
LYONS – When I arrived in Colorado, my fly-fishing skills were mediocre at best. I had ancient gear and knew nothing of tippets, flotant, and line mending. Heck, I used to tie straight monofilament to my fly line, knowing nothing of tapered leaders that would gentle the fly on the water.
I had bought an L.L. Bean fly rod at age 13 and used it sporadically for many years until it snapped. Its replacement was an old Fenwick I found on the side of the road many years later. I’m pretty sure the line I spooled on its reel didn’t match the rod weight, making casting an adventure and once requiring field surgery on a fly I embedded in my arm.
I still caught trout, but most New Hampshire trout fishing is put-and-take, and stocked fish will eat just about anything, and the wild squaretails (brook trout, to Westerners) I caught on expeditions to the north Maine woods were surprises. I’d caught some big fish on flies, but those were landlocked salmon and togue (lake trout, to non-Down-Easters) taken by trolling smelt-like flies behind uncomfortably cold aluminum boats at ice-out in a method my companions and I called “torture fishing.” But that’s a story for another day.
Most of my angling was spin fishing. Had been since I was a small boy trying to catch sunfish off the dock at my uncle’s camp.
But with my new combination of living close to the St. Vrain River, with Rocky Mountain National Park just up the road, and having two sons who knew far more than their dad about Colorado trout and fly fishing, I knew I had to get on board.
with climate change, may soon not ever again be so.
The river runs gin-clear over a variegated cobblestone bottom, only exceeding three feet deep on dark undercut corners. It corkscrews through the wide-open valley, tripling its as-the-crow-flies mileage. In places, there’s a quarter mile of oxbow that’s just a hundred feet apart at the bottom of the loop. Elk and moose roam the valley and will let you know you’re the interloper.
The Kawuneeche Valley was where I refined my fly-fishing. The Colorado River has its source at the upper end and winds its way down the valley. My first time there, I marveled that I could wade ankledeep across this little stream that provides water for California and the fountains at Las Vegas. It just didn’t seem possible, and
There are trout in this river: brook trout, brown trout and the occasional cutthroat. They’re not big; a foot-long trout is a prize. I could see fish in the clear water, but that same aspect made fly presentation critical; a line slap or a clumsy cast scattered them.
This was my school of fly-fishing. There, I learned the importance of a deft presentation and how to mend the line to reduce telltale drag. I learned how to read the water, the edges of the current, and the drop-off shelves where fish waited. And most importantly, I learned the bugs and their feathered imitations.
With this knowledge compounding each time I went there, my catch success increased … until it didn’t.
With a couple of 20-fish days under my
Library: Learn local history on July 28, be a bird brain on July 21, and I love bugs on August 6
By Kara Bauman Redstone Review
LYONS – Summer may be flying by, but there’s still plenty of time to make the most of it at the Lyons Community Library. If you haven’t joined our all-ages Summer Reading Program, Unearth a Story, there’s still time to dig in.
The program continues through July 31, with prize pickup available through August 5. Our Grand Prize drawing will take place on August 6, so be sure to log your reading, complete your activities, and get your entries in before the deadline.
Whether you’ve spent the summer discovering new authors, revisiting old favorites, or reading together as a family, we hope you’ll finish strong and celebrate everything you’ve uncovered along the way.
Our programming calendar keeps the discoveries coming with something for nearly every age and interest. On Tuesday, July 21, at 3:00 p.m., tweens ages 8 to 11 are invited to our monthly Tween Book-to-Movie Club. This month,
we’ll read and watch Better Nate Than Ever by Tim Federle, then compare the book and film while enjoying snacks and fun activities inspired by the story. Participants are encouraged to read the book ahead of time on their own or with a caregiver.
That same evening at 6:00 p.m., join us for It’s Good to Be a Bird Brain, a fascinating, family-friendly look at some of nature’s smartest feathered neighbors. Crows, jays, mockingbirds, and other birds display remarkable problem-solving abilities, from using tools to working together in surprisingly sophisticated ways. You may never think of a “bird brain” as an insult again.
Young nature lovers can continue the wildlife theme on Wednesday, July 22, at 10:30 a.m. with Our Backyard Wildlife Neighbors. Through stories and activities, babies, preschoolers, and young children will learn about some of the animals that share our neighborhoods, including bears, foxes, rabbits, and more. It’s a wonderful opportunity to spark curiosity about the wildlife many of us encounter right here at home.
History takes center stage on Tuesday, July 28, at 6:30 p.m. during Unearth a Story: A Local History Night. Historians from the Lyons Redstone Museum will share the remarkable detective work behind three faded photographs from 1898. Their research uncovered connections to a military camp and a famous Coloradoan, demonstrating how careful historical investigation and modern photo restoration can bring forgotten stories back into view. If you enjoy local history, you’ll want to be there.
We’ll wrap up Summer Reading with a celebration at Sandstone Park on Wednesday, July 29, at 10:30 a.m. Join us for our Summer Reading Finale, featuring
We welcome you to our new space — downstairs at 440 Main Street!
belt, I thought I knew all there was to learn about the river and its fish. I’d even caught trout with a rod tip that broke while stumbling through brush in the early morning. This fly-fishing was easy.
But one July day like many others on the same river, I went back and got schooled. Places that had produced fish gave up nothing. I switched flies so often I ate up the nine-foot leader inch by fly-tying inch and had to replace it. I had refusals on flies that used to be attacked and, at one point, had the largest trout I’d seen there glide up, regard the fly and drift back under its sheltering logjam.
I’ve fished enough in my life to know nothing’s a given; the water’s too warm, the tide’s not right, the solunar tables hadn’t been consulted. But this place was different. I’d graduated magna cum laude with a degree in flyfishing here, but that day the river was giving me an “F” report card with a “can do better” footnote.
I blamed first the Nebraska schoolkids slinging silver spoons and loudly splashing through the shallows that day, then thought maybe the East Troublesome Fire had changed the fishing more than we knew. But at the end of the near-fishless day (there was a lone four-incher that sacrificed himself), I had learned I’d better check my hubris at streamside and assume the fish with a pea-sized brain is smarter than me in his element, and I’d need to be more stealthy, more observant, and accept that trout swim to their own rhythm far removed from my human expectations.
Greg Lowell was elected to a third term as a Lyons Town Board Trustee on April 5. He writes on ecology and various other topics for the Redstone Review.
music, bubbles, giant games, and plenty of outdoor fun. Bring sunscreen, hats, and anything else you’ll want for a morning in the park. If Mother Nature has other plans, we’ll simply move the festivities indoors to the library. Looking just beyond July, we’re excited to welcome I Love Bugs! with Boulder County Parks & Open Space on Thursday, August 6, at 6:30 p.m. Discover what really makes a bug a bug while exploring the amazing insects that call Boulder County home. This all-ages program is perfect for curious kids, families, and anyone who’s ever stopped to watch a butterfly or wondered what was crawling through the garden.
Adults can also mark their calendars for Pints and Pages Book Club at MainStage Brewing on Wednesday, August 12, at 6:00 p.m., where we’ll discuss Night Watch by Jayne Anne Phillips. Then, on Wednesday, August 19, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., we’re once again partnering with the Town of Lyons and Vitalant to host a community Blood Drive. Donating blood is one of the simplest ways to make a real difference for someone you’ll probably never meet, and we’re grateful to everyone who rolls up a sleeve to help. Your Lyons Community Library opens at 10:00 a.m. Monday through Saturday. We close at 7:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5:00 p.m. on Fridays, and 2:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Our online catalog is available 24/7 at lyons. colibraries.org and we’re always open for digital downloads on the Libby and Kanopy apps.
Give us a call at 303-823-5165 or email info@lyonslibrary. com with any questions. Please see the calendar of events on our website for additional programs, program information, and registration instructions.
Kara Bauman is the Director of the Lyons Community Library and holds an MLIS from the University of Kentucky. She’s an avid fly angler, enjoys craft beer, and travels extensively to see her favorite band, Widespread Panic.
Where mountain streams become classrooms - The School of Fly Fishing, Rocky Mountain campus.
PHOTO BY GREG LOWELL
Bauman
LOOKING UP
Lyons Summer Concert Series: Blue Canyon Boys
By Peter Butler Redstone Review
LYONS – If it’s a Wednesday night in Lyons, during the summer, it’s music time in Sandstone Park at the Raul Vasquez Stage. Back on Wednesday, June 24, it was the excellent and award-winning Blue Canyon Boys. Normally, this correspondent is a jazz guy, but their infectious swinging bluegrass had my foot tapping and my body swaying.
The Blue Canyon Boys are a traditional bluegrass blend of upright bass, mandolin, acoustic guitar, and banjo, with each of the players having virtuosic skills. But the important part is that they have been playing for so long together; they gel like a well-oiled machine, and they chug, bounce, and swing with infectious energy. They played a mixture of their own compositions but also covers of Bob Dylan, The Everly Brothers and even Pink Floyd’s Time from The Dark Side of the Moon. You might have thought that song was in the epicenter of prog rock, but they made it sound like Nashville central with their high lonesome vocals soaring.
The Lyons Summer Concert Series has become a core of the community in Lyons, and it is heartwarming to see possibly 300 folks in families and other groups of folks sitting on their blankets or lawn chairs with picnics and their kids dressed like little angels spinning around in spontaneous dancing. If you haven’t been to the concert series yet, you’ve got until August 8, so give it a go—you’ll have fun.
Peter Butler was born in India and lived in a house facing a giant kapok tree. Growing up in England, there were trees, but never quite enough. After qualifying as a biochemist, there was a gradual evolution into being a graphic designer. He and his wife, Deirdre, moved to the States in 1997 and to Lyons in 2000. Finally, there are enough trees.
Utility billing
LYONS – Town of Lyons utility billing ACH payment had software issues. The Town Utility Billing Department is aware of an ACH issue that resulted in June ACH payments not posting to utility accounts. This resulted in late fees/interest being charged to some accounts. Staff has corrected the issue and refunded the late fees and interest fees.
Corrected utility billing statements were uploaded to Xpress Bill Pay. Please call town hall if you have any questions: 303-823-6622.
New Chamber of Commerce moves forward
LYONS – Paul Dreyer, the new chamber organizer, sent out an update and organization plan for the next steps in the new chamber plan.
He said in his newsletter: “Marily Melis, the new director, just started putting in hours last week. We are moving ahead according to the timeline/plan that I last sent you. We will need to do a membership push before we start offering any membership meet-ups. It is important to remember: We are being intentional with the re-launch.”
From June 2026 to December 2026, the primary goals during this phase are to clearly communicate goals to stakeholders and lead a membership campaign.
From January 2027 to June 2027, the primary goals during this phase are to create a strategic plan and solidify human and technology resources.
In the next phase, from July 2027 to January 2029, we will work on stabilization. The primary goals during this
Living Arts Garden Party celebrates art, gardens, and community at the Farmette
By Sara Erickson Redstone Review
LYONS– The Lyons Creative District and the Lyons Garden Club are joining forces to present the Living Arts Garden Party on Wednesday, Sept. 16, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Lyons Farmette. The evening event celebrates the connection between art, gardens, and community while raising support for local artists and two organizations dedicated to enriching life in Lyons.
in real time. Additional garden-inspired artwork will be displayed in the barn, available for purchase. Artwork featured during the event will include pieces from local artists working in a variety of media, all inspired by the beauty of gardens and the natural world. Every dollar from artwork sales will go directly to the individual artists, providing an opportunity to support the local creative community while taking home an original piece of art.
Set among the Farmette’s flower fields, gardens, barn, the event invites guests to experience the beauty of nature alongside the creativity of local artists. Throughout the evening, plein air painters will create original works on-site, offering visitors a chance to watch the artistic process unfold
The event will also feature live music by Enion Pelta-Tiller, whose performance will provide the soundtrack as guests stroll the flower farm, browse artwork, and gather with friends and neighbors. Garden-inspired appetizers will be served, while beer, wine, and a signature botanical cocktail will
be available for purchase, creating a relaxed setting to celebrate the close of summer. Proceeds from ticket sales will benefit the Lyons Creative District and the Lyons Garden Club. The Lyons Creative District creates opportunities for artists through community programming, public art and partnerships that strengthen Lyons’ identity as a creative community. The Lyons
Garden Club creates and maintains many of the public gardens and seasonal planters throughout town, helping make Lyons a more colorful and welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
Organizers hope the Living Arts Garden Party will bring together people who appreciate art, gardening, and community while highlighting the many ways creativity helps Lyons flourish. Tickets are available at livingartsgardenparty.com.
Sara Erickson is a member of the Lyons Garden Club.
Blue Canyon Boys band members Jason Hicks, Gary Dark, Drew Garrett, and Chris Roszell sit for a promotional photo.
PHOTO BY DESERT BLUEGRASS ASSOCIATION.
Flowers will be in full bloom as the Living Arts Garden Party transforms the Lyons Farmette into a celebration of nature, creativity, and community. PHOTO BY BETSY BURTON
Creative Neighborhoods Program: Creating beauty and storytelling in our shared spaces
By Kristen Bruckner Redstone Review
LYONS – Public art inspires, fosters community pride, drives the local economy, and, most of all, just makes us feel good. There is increased evidence that participating in (meaning creating or just witnessing) art of any form has direct mental health benefits.
In some areas around the country, community-led art programs are being prescribed for what ails our burdened
one of the town’s 11 volunteer advisory commissions. Launched in 2025, the Creative Neighborhoods Program is gaining momentum. The program allows residents and commercial property owners to sponsor green utility boxes on private property. Participants simply complete a permission request form and submit design ideas for LAHC approval. The commission reviews each design for compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood and natural landscape. When appropriate, local HOAs may also provide official endorsements for proposed designs.
The LAHC is also developing a roster of local artists interested in these commissions.
When people think of Lyons, our rich culture of creativity, including art, music, performance art and the general visual landscape, is a key component of what comes to mind when people say “I love Lyons.” Several new programs are stepping up our art game through the Lyons Arts and Humanities Commission (LAHC),
If you are an artist interested in this work or a property owner seeking a referral, please contact me, Kristen Bruckner.
The Creative Outlets program has been in place for several years. With generous support from the Lyons Community Foundation (LCF), one or two utility boxes are painted in public spaces each
year. Residents and visitors can see these works throughout town. In LaVern Johnson Park, Ryan Sohlden’s “train car” design highlights Lyons’ railroad history, while Simone Paterno’s “You’ve Got Mail” adds a whimsical touch near the post office. For 2026, local artist Amanda Anderson’s design was selected from a strong field of submissions. In the coming weeks, she will paint a nature- and wildlife-inspired scene on a busy thoroughfare in town.
The Lyons Mural Program is also taking off. A dedication of the stunning mural “The Sentinel” on Broadway was recently held. A local fine artist, Brent Hollingsead, painted this native-inspired work that captures the attention of thousands of travelers passing through Lyons.
Thanks to a generous grant and supported funding, the LAHC is pleased to announce two new calls for artists for public murals. Each project brings community-focused storytelling to our shared spaces, including a neighborhood retaining wall and the start of the brand-new St. Vrain Trail Extension. Details and applications can be found on the Town of Lyons website: www.townoflyons.com/muralprogram. The deadline to apply is August 5.
The heARTS of LYONS sculpture loan program continues to thrive. Through the program, the town offers sculptors a twoyear honorarium to display their work, bringing a dynamic collection of public art to Lyons. Through public art and grant
funding, we can welcome 10 new works in 2026, installed in various locations around town, including Town Hall Plaza, Main Street, and the median by the five-way stop. Lyons’ enthusiasm for art reflects a statewide trend. Colorado is one of the nation’s most artistically active states, recognizing the creative sector’s significant economic impact. The creative economy generates an estimated $19.7 billion, or 3.7 percent of Colorado’s economy, and supports more than 121,000 jobs. Colorado also ranks above the national average in creating art, attending live performances, and overall arts participation.
Lyons was recently designated as a Colorado Creative District, a distinction awarded by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT). Since 2012, the program has certified 30 Colorado communities, increasing jobs, tourism, and support for the creative arts. The Lyons Creative District is poised to further cultivate our creative ecosystem in Lyons. It is currently engaged in the redevelopment of the Visitors Center, transforming it into a creative hub for local artists.
For more information on any of Lyons Public Art programs, please see the Public Art section on the Community tab at townoflyons.com or reach out to KBruckner@ townoflyons.com.
Kristen Bruckner is the Arts and Cultural Services Coordinator for the Town of Lyons. She and her husband have lived in Lyons for more than 20 years, raising three children and participating in many town activities. She may be reached at KBruckner@townoflyons.com.
Looking
to Buy or Sell a home?
Working with Ian was an incredible experience from start to finish. He has a fantastic, chill demeanor that immediately takes the stress out of the entire process, yet he is completely professional and on top of every detail. Beyond being incredibly kind and understanding of our needs, he consistently went the extra mile to make sure we were comfortable and informed at every step. He even dropped everything to show the place to us while my parents were in town so they could see it before closing. It’s rare to find an agent who balances a patient, supportive attitude with such a strong work ethic. If you want an agent who genuinely cares and will outwork anyone else to get things done, look no further. Highest recommendation!
—Grace T.
phase:
1. Stable and consistent finances/ programming.
2. Ensure that the new normal is sustainable.
In the coming month, you will start hearing more from our new director, Marily, who can be reached at marily@turnitup. marketing. If you have a storefront or physical presence in town, you will likely get a quick drop-in visit from Marily to say hello. For everyone, in late August or early September, please expect more information about our new website, our new membership dues structure, our initial initiatives, and more.
Stage 2 fire restrictions
LYONS – The updated fire restrictions are effective as of noon Tuesday, June 30, 2026. Stage 2 fire restrictions enacted for Western Boulder County, including Lyons. No campfires, charcoal grills, or any open flame of any kind unless it has an on/off switch. No chainsaws, recreational shooting, or use of fireworks. The decision follows continued hot, dry weather, drought conditions, and elevated fire danger identified through the National Weather Service and the National Fire Danger Rating System. In addition, firefighting resources are limited due to the number of active wildfires being fought in multiple locations around Colorado.
Sandstone Summer Concert Series
LYONS – The Sandstone Summer Concert Series has returned on Wednesday evenings this summer on the Raul Vasquez
Stage. The 2026 series continues weekly through August 12. Concerts run from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and are free to attend, thanks to support from the Lyons Community Foundation, which will have refreshments for sale. Bring a chair or blanket, enjoy an evening outside, and connect with your friends and neighbors. Upcoming concerts include: July 22: Quemando. To hear the whole lineup, go to lyonscolorado.com/612/Sandstone-Summer-Concert-Series.
Join a board or commission
LYONS – Help shape the future of Lyons by serving on a Town Board or Commission. Share your experience, perspective, and knowledge while helping guide important community decisions—there are currently openings on many of our boards and commissions. Learn more and apply today.
No fireworks in Lyons
LYONS – All personal uses of fireworks are prohibited in Lyons. In addition, real-world stats show that fireworks cause thousands of serious burns and eye injuries every summer, mostly to children. They also cause severe stress for local pets, veterans, and neighbors sensitive to loud noises. Let’s play it smart. Skip the risk and be fire-wise, Lyons.
Lyons mural program
LYONS – Thanks to generous grant-supported funding, the Lyons Arts and Humanities Commission (LAHC) is pleased to announce two calls for artists for public murals. Each project brings
Continued from Page 6
B R I E F S
Bruckner
This striking fox illustration by Amanda Anderson is the winning design for the Creative Outlets 2026 project and will be installed on a utility box on McConnell Ave.
PHOTO BY KRISTEN BRUCKNER
Local artist Brent Hollingsead stands in front of his mural, The Sentinel, now welcomes thousands of travelers along Broadway. The recently dedicated, native-inspired artwork has quickly become a striking new Lyons landmark. PHOTO BY KRISTEN BRUCKNER
SET EXAMPLES
Sundance Film Festival Task Force moves ahead with short-term lodging ideas
By Tanya Daty Redstone Review
LYONS – During one of the final Board of Trustees meetings of my term, we heard from Jill Grano, Governor Jared Polis’ appointed Statewide Director of Housing for the Sundance Film Festival. She encouraged the Town of Lyons to revisit its short-term rental policies in preparation for the festival’s move to Boulder.
The challenge is significant. Approximately 85,000 attendees are expected to visit the region during the festival, January 21–31, 2027, while Boulder County has only about 3,000 available hotel rooms. This presents not only a regional housing challenge but also a unique opportunity for Lyons to support the festival while strengthening our own local economy.
Recognizing this opportunity, one of the first actions of the current Board of Trustees was to establish the Sundance Film Festival Task Force. Co-chaired by Sarah Lorang and Gil Sparks, the task force includes seven appointed members and several community volunteers. Since its formation in May, the group has met regularly to identify ways Lyons can contribute to the success of the festival while creating lasting benefits for the community.
The task force is focused on two primary objectives:
1. Supporting the Sundance Film Festival by coordinating short-term lodging opportunities, identifying available accommodations, working with homeowners’ associations and property owners, collaborating with Sundance, RTD, Boulder, and
other regional partners on transportation, and addressing any permitting or regulatory needs.
2. Position Lyons as a compelling destination for festival visitors attracting private events, corporate sponsors, affinity groups, artists, and performers; promoting local venues, restaurants, outdoor recreation, and cultural programming; and showcasing everything that makes Lyons worth the 15-minute drive from Boulder. The goal is to support local businesses during one of the traditionally slower times of year while highlighting the creativity, hospitality, and independent spirit that define our community.
Colorado—the state that almost wasn’t
“It took 16 years, four Colorado votes, three suggested state constitutions, and many attempts in Congress for Colorado to finally become the 38th state on August 1, 1876, following a proclamation by President Ulysses S. Grant.” – state legislator and writer Jerry Kopel, from his Stateman column
By Annie Muldrew-Pancoast Redstone Review
LYONS – This year marks not only our country’s 250th birthday but also Colorado’s approval as the Centennial State 150 years ago, now the only state to celebrate twin anniversaries: sesquicentennial (historycolorado.org). But our statehood story took many years to become a reality.
For a territory to legally become a state, the constitution had three requirements: a population over 60,000, a state constitution reflecting the laws of the US Constitution, and a territorial request for statehood. Follow the historical path our state had to travel to reach that goal: Gold discovered in Colorado In 1803, the eastern half of Colorado was acquired by our country as part of the Louisiana Purchase, while the western half was added in 1848 through the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo after the Mexican-American War. When the Pike’s Peak Gold Rush began, over 100,000 prospectors flooded the Cripple Creek region, spurring a need for organized government. Then gold was discovered in our area in 1859, swelling the
population numbers with over 5,000 miners a week seeking their fortunes in Central City, Black Hawk, Gold Hill, and Left Hand areas.
Territory or statehood
In April 1859, a convention was held in Denver to consider the most effective way to organize a state government. A constitution was framed and submitted to the people, but this was rejected 2007 to 1649 votes on September 1 because residents didn’t want to pay the taxes needed to administer a state government. Therefore, a provisional government called the Territory of Jefferson was formed, and laws were put into place, but they became very difficult to enforce. One law was a poll tax of $1 on every male voter. Colorado Magazine author LeRoy R. Hafen wrote that 600 miners signed a pledge “promising the collectors bullets instead of dollars” (historycolorado.org).
The bloody Civil War raged from 1861 to 1865
The statehood vote was too important to drop. If the area became a territory, residents wouldn’t have to pay for the expense of administering the government because federal funds would be responsible for that.
Community participation is encouraged. Task force meetings are open to the public, and meeting dates and times are posted on the Town of Lyons website. Residents, businesses, and volunteers interested in contributing are welcome to attend and become involved as planning continues.
The existing Short-Term Rental Ordinance
The current short-term rental (STR) policy states that property owners or those who operate short-term rentals through platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner), or other online listing services are required to obtain a Town of Lyons Short-Term Rental License and
However, territorial officials like the governor and Supreme Court justices would be appointed by the national government, not elected by the people of the territory. Colorado would be allowed to select only one delegate to the national Congress, but with limited power: he could debate but not vote. After signing a bill approving Kansas statehood on January 29, 1861, Pres. Buchanan authorized Colorado Territory, headed by William Gilpin, on February 28, after which devastating civil war broke out on April 12 and lasted until April 9, 1865.
Sand Creek Massacre sad ending to 1864 as the Civil War raged on
Yet another constitutional convention was held in Denver in July 1864. Another constitution was drafted, but the statehood vote showed residents were still strongly against the movement, validating that they enjoyed the idea of having government but not paying for it.
President Lincoln dead
In June 1865, after devastating news of Abe’s assassination, VP Andrew Johnson took over the presidency. That September, because of the need to have representation in Congress, another new constitution was submitted to the people of Colorado, and this time was ratified by a majority of voters. President Johnson, however, objected to the small population numbers and vetoed it. Before Nebraska’s March 1, 1867 statehood approval, pro-statehood enthusiasts in Colorado persisted, composing a new bill for state admission. On February 18, 1867, this bill passed in Congress, but once again, President Johnson vetoed it based on population numbers (the 1860
remit local lodging occupation taxes to the town every month. The Town first adopted short-term rental regulations in 2017, establishing both the zoning standards and the licensing requirements, with few minor amendments since that time.
Generally, the current regulations permit short-term rentals in residential neighborhoods only if the owner lives on-site at least nine months per calendar year, or in commercial areas if a business is open and a business representative is on-site during normal business hours. The town currently has 18 active short-term rental licenses. Notably, the existing ordinance limits eligibility to the owner’s principal residence—meaning second homes, ADUs, and non-primary residences are not eligible under the standard license.
What the Task Force recommended and what the Board of Trustees adopted
The Task Force recommended that the town amend its short-term rental regulations to allow broader participation during the festival window. After a first reading on June 15 and a PCDC public hearing on June 22, the Board of Trustees held a special meeting on June 29, 2026, and voted unanimously to adopt Ordinance 1222, amending the town’s short-term rental code to create a new Special Event Lodging License (SELL).
The SELL is a new, limited license available only during board-designated special qualifying events. The Sundance Film Festival will be on the consent agenda as a special qualifying event at the next BOT meeting on July 20. Key provisions of the SELL will include eligibility, duration, processing time, and fees.
Any property or ownership type is now
Colorado census was 34,277). Both 14th and 15th Amendments ratified
The 14th Amendment (1868) and the Civil Rights Act (1868) proclaimed that citizenship be granted to all persons born or naturalized in the US, and the 15th Amendment (1870) prohibited denying a citizen’s right to vote based on race, color, or past servitude. From 1869 to 1873, each session of Congress received Colorado Statehood Bills, but none passed.
Then Congress passed the Enabling Act in July 1875, formally inviting Colorado to draft another state constitution, which residents ratified in March 1876. The state constitution was adopted on July 1, prompting celebrations statewide for Independence Day and upcoming statehood.
On the Fourth of July, Denver held a big parade with floats, flag-covered wagons, marching bands, and cheering people gathering afterward for a picnic in a shady grove of trees. This adoption paved the way for President Grant to sign the admission proclamation that allowed Colorado’s entry into the Union as the Centennial State.
On August 1, 2026, enjoy celebrating the determination, commitment, and spirit of those early residents who diligently labored to make Colorado the 38th state in the Union. Enjoy sesquicentennial celebrations and community events, check out educational opportunities, fly your flags, and revel in living the good life—Happy Colorado Day to all.
Annie Muldrew-Pancoast is a long-time resident of Riverside, Colorado
Sundance Film Festival director and head of programming Eugene Hernandez speaks during a press conference announcement that the festival move to Boulder, Colo., at the Boulder Theater on Thursday, March 27, 2025. PHOTO BY ELI IMADALI FOR CPR NEWS
Mercer-Daty
EXPLORE NEW IDEAS
Heat and wildlife: How critters cope with extreme heat
By Cindy Leikam Redstone Review
LONGMONT – When the mercury rises, most of us head indoors or to the local watering hole to cool off. While critters cannot do the same, our native wildlife is well-adapted to the hot summers of the Front Range of Colorado.
Some, like black-tailed prairie dogs and American pikas, will seek shelter in underground burrows or rocky outcrops. Many species of waterfowl and the American beaver spend their days in and around water sources to stay cool and hydrated. Others, like the desert cottontail and red fox, will adjust their daily activities to dawn and dusk and rest in the shade during the hottest time of the day.
Those that can, like elk and mule deer,
will migrate to higher elevations, and others, like bald eagles and sandhill cranes, simply fly north and spend the summer in Alaska or Canada. Coyotes pant like domestic dogs to stay cool. Birds and mammals alike enjoy a swim or a bath in refreshing puddles, ponds, lakes, and streams. But during prolonged drought and intense heatwaves, animals can struggle to find water and safe, shady spaces to cool off. With the current conditions in Colorado, many seasonal springs and watering holes are drying up, forcing wildlife to compete for dwindling water resources.
Wildfires compound the situation by cutting off access to familiar areas, which leads to wildlife wandering outside their normal home ranges to find resources. You can help the critters in your neighborhood by taking a few small steps in your own backyard. Provide water: Use a clean, shallow dish or bird bath. Add pebbles or sticks that float so small animals and pollinators don’t get trapped and drown. Refresh water daily, and clean the dish every week with warm, soapy water. Always thoroughly rinse the dish and refill with clean water. Keep feeders and waterers clean to prevent the spread of diseases. Never force an animal in distress to eat or drink, and don’t pour water on their face or body. Do offer water in a shallow dish for them to drink voluntarily.
Create shade: This can be done in a variety of ways. Allowing grasses in a small area to grow a little longer can provide relief from the heat for many small critters. Use shade cloths or canopies to cover an area of shrubs or overgrown vegetation. To protect vulnerable nest sites, be creative and prop up and secure an umbrella over the little ones to keep them cool.
Plant native trees, shrubs, and grasses that thrive in this climate, and they will provide food and shelter for creatures for years to come. Leave the leaves, twigs, and branches in the corners of the property to help regu-
late soil temperatures. Even a small corner of your yard can be converted to a cooler microclimate for birds, bunnies, squirrels, and an array of reptiles and insects. Give them space: If you find a wild animal resting in the shade of your backyard,
LCF opens 19th Annual Grant Cycle: Over $100,000 available for greater Lyons area
By Ella Levy Redstone Review
LYONS – The Lyons Community Foundation (LCF) recently announced their 19th Annual Community Support granting season will open on August 1, 2026. Local non-profits, schools, and organizations have until September 5, 2026, to submit electronic applications at lyonscf.org.
This year, LCF expects to grant over $100,000 across our community programs, anchored by two primary funding pools:
The General Pool Fund ($68,350): Funded entirely by local community donations, this pool supports a wide array of local initiatives. While LCF frequently funds projects in human services, community connectivity, ecology, and youth investment, we welcome grants of all types. There are no rigid categories or spending restrictions; funds can cover general operating costs or specific projects.
The Mental Health and Wellness Fund ($31,829): A vital, continued partnership with the Town of Lyons, funded by local marijuana sales tax revenues. This dedicated fund fosters programs like mental health counseling, substance prevention, and suicide prevention to build a healthier, more resilient community.
Key details and eligibility: Awards range from a minimum of $500 to a newly increased maximum of $7,000.
Applicants must hold active 501(c)3 status (or use a fiscal sponsor) and serve the Greater Lyons Area. Prior grantees are eligible to apply, provided all previous final grant reports have been submitted.
The Lyons Community needs volunteers. If you are look-
do not disturb them. Stress can accelerate heat production and cause further issues for the animal. If the animal is not a threat, simply allow them to leave on their own. Usually, by dusk, they will move on during the cooler evening temperatures. Learn the signs of heat stroke. Different species will present different symptoms. For birds, open-mouth breathing, sunken eyes, and holding wings away from their body can be indicators of dehydration and overheating. Mammals may be lethargic, unresponsive, and may even collapse. Recognizing the difference between an animal at rest and one that is at risk of overheating may save a life. Injured, sick, or orphaned animals may need additional medical support from a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
If you find a wild creature that may be suffering from symptoms of heat stress or stroke, call a wildlife rehabilitator immediately for advice. Help wildlife beat the heat this summer by providing relief from the unrelenting sun in outdoor spaces of any size. Provide water, create shade, give them space, and learn the signs of heat stroke and when to act. Taking these simple steps in your backyard could make a world of difference for local wildlife.
ing for a unique way to give back and learn about local non-profits, consider applying for our Grants Review Committee. The commitment includes independent application review and attending two evening meetings in September (September 9 and 30). Applications to join the committee are due by September 5 at lyonscf.org.
Building on last year’s historic cycle—which distributed $121,000 to vital local entities like Lyons Elevates All Fund (LEAF), the Lyons Fire Fund, local schools, and arts programs—LCF is ready to partner with our local changemakers once again. To review full guidelines, submit an application, or volunteer, please visit lyonscf.org.
Ella Levy is on the board of the Lyons Community Foundation (LCF).
Skin cancer prevention: It’s more than just sunscreen
By Megan Foreman Redstone Review
LYONS – Summer in Lyons is hard to beat. Whether you’re hiking a local trail, hanging at the river, enjoying a concert, or simply relaxing in your backyard, there’s no shortage of reasons to get outside.
Time outdoors is great for both our physical and mental health, but Colorado’s sunshine comes with an important reminder: our skin needs protection.
Living at a higher elevation increases exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In fact, UV levels increase by about four–five percent for every 1,000 feet of elevation. That means those of us living along the Front Range are exposed to significantly stronger UV rays than people at sea level. Even on cooler days or when it’s cloudy, enough UV radiation reaches your skin to cause damage.
simple habits that protect your skin every time you head outdoors.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in the United States, but it is also one of the most preventable. The key is to think beyond sunscreen and develop a few
Sunscreen is still one of your best defenses, but it’s important to use it correctly. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it about 15 minutes before going outside, and don’t be afraid to use plenty. Most adults need about one ounce—roughly enough to fill a shot glass—to adequately cover exposed skin. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or heavy sweating. Don’t forget the easy-to-miss spots like your ears, the back of your neck, your lips, the tops of your feet, and your scalp if your hair is thinning. Just as important as sunscreen is what you wear. A wide-brimmed hat provides much better protection than a baseball cap because it shades your face, ears, and neck. UV-blocking sunglasses help protect not only your eyes but also the delicate skin around them. Lightweight long sleeves and clothing with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) rating have become more comfortable and widely available, making them a great option for hiking, fishing, gardening, or watching your kids’
Cindy Leikam is the Communications & Fundraising Assistant for Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center.
An American Robin perches on the edge of a bird bath for a cool drink.
American beavers spend their days in and around the water, using it to stay cool and safe.
WHAT’S COOKIN’
A cool bean salad for a summer day
By Barbara Shark Redstone Review
LYONS – It’s hot. We are loving chunks of watermelon in lunch salads and slices of Colorado peaches on our morning granola. Peaches in particular have a fleeting season, and I eat as many as I can, adding them to salads, desserts, and eating the golden orbs out of hand, juice dripping down my arm.
This salad is a favorite and endlessly adaptable to your taste and to whatever is in the fridge. Start with two cups of beans. I like black beans, but pinto, cannellini, or garbanzos will do too. I cook my Rancho Gordo beans ahead and freeze two-cup quantities to pull out on these too-hotto-cook days. Make a dressing with the juice of a lime, ½
teaspoon freshly ground cumin, a big pinch of hot red pepper flakes, a clove of garlic, minced, salt to taste, and two tablespoons olive oil.
Drain the beans and toss them in the dressing. Add a dozen cherry tomatoes cut into smallish pieces, a slice of red onion, diced. At serving time, fold in cubes of watermelon or slices of peaches, chunks of avocado, and a handful of cilantro, chopped. Top with crumbled feta or goat cheese. Additions might include kernels of fresh corn, chopped sweet red pepper, diced cucumber, or jicama. Arrange over a bed of lettuce and arugula. Serve with crusty bread or tortilla chips.
Enough for two–three servings.
Barbara Shark is an artist and author of How I Learned to Cook, an Artist’s Life. She lives near Lyons, Colorado. For more recipes, read her blog - www.howilearnedtocookanartistslife.blog
A silver palate celebration: Lobster fiesta salad for America’s 250th Birthday
By Catherine Ripley Metzger Redstone Review
SAN MIGUEL COUNTY – Every July 3, our little grocery store brings in live Maine lobsters for one day only. This year, as our country prepared to celebrate its 250th birthday and I prepared to host friends, I couldn’t resist bringing home three plump ones. Then I turned to the index of my thrift-shop copy of The Silver Palate Good Times Cookbook and found festive Lobster Fiesta Salad.
The book’s enthusiastic American authors, Julee Rosso and the late Sheila Lukins, founded The Silver Palate, a beloved little gourmet shop on Columbus Avenue in New York City. By the mid1980s, they’d written two bestselling cookbooks, and their colorful, joyful recipes had changed how millions of Americans cooked and entertained. Many thanks to them for this wonderful salad that doubles as a main course; everyone adored it. I sub-
stituted a mango for the papaya with very happy results.
Lobster Fiesta Salad
Serves 6
Ingredients
2 pounds cooked fresh lobster meat cut into large bite-sized pieces with cartilage removed, 1 large ripe papaya or mango peeled and cut into thin julienne strips (1–1½ cups), 1 ripe small cantaloupe, 2 large plum tomatoes seeded and diced, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives, 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh ginger (or more to taste), Orange Vinaigrette (below), 2 bunches watercress for serving. Optional garnish: fresh herbs, lime wedges, or edible flowers. Orange Vinaigrette
¼ cup fresh orange juice, 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, 1 cup mild olive oil, freshly ground black pepper to taste. Optional: a pinch of sea salt, ½ teaspoon honey, a few drops of hot sauce, or 1 teaspoon finely grated
Instructions
Place the lobster pieces and papaya or mango julienne in a large bowl. Cut the cantaloupe in half, scoop out the seeds, and use a melon baller to scoop balls directly into the bowl so the sweet juices fall in. Toss gently. Fold in the diced tomatoes, chopped dill, chives, and fresh ginger. Whisk together the orange juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and black pepper. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking vigorously until emulsified. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding a touch of honey for sweetness or a pinch of salt if desired. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat. Arrange a bed of watercress on a colorful platter, mound the salad on top, and garnish as desired. Serve immediately. Notes and Tips
Mango makes the salad sweeter and more tropical than papaya. Add a squeeze of lime juice if needed for balance. Prepare the components ahead and chill, then toss with the vinaigrette just before serving. For variations, add toasted macadamia or cashew nuts for crunch or thin slices of avocado for creaminess.
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Q&A with Hormone Expert
• Refreshments & Snacks
Shark
orange zest.
Catherine Ripley Metzger has been cooking professionally and privately since 1979. She was a French cuisine journeyman at the celebrated Henri d’Afrique restaurant in Old Town Alexandria, Virginia. Today, she is the proprietor of the food blog www.foodfortheages.com and cooks with curiosity from the ground up in her log cabin home on the Western Slope of Colorado.
Charley’s Digital T-ai-ls (Tails)
This was an experimental project to create an original short story using AI. The story is told from a dog’s perspective as it learns how to use AI. The illustrations were also generated by AI.
Created with AI
Edited and Modified by Don Hurst LYONS – Call me Charley (woof) “good boy” — a shaggy golden retriever mix with perky ears and a tail that never stops negotiating for attention. I live with Don in our cozy house in the Pacific Northwest, where the windows look out over the shimmering waters of the Sound and the air carries the crisp scent of salt, pine, and fresh coffee.
I’m eight years old now, old enough to understand rainy Pacific Northwest winters, the neighborhood squirrels that tease me daily, and the quiet joy of simply being with Don. He’s a thoughtful senior who spends long hours at his desk typing mysterious lines of code and muttering about that cursed cursor. I used to think the glowing rectangle was my biggest rival for his attention. But it turns out that rectangle held a wonderful secret. One rainy Tuesday afternoon, Don stepped away to answer the door. The laptop was still open, glowing softly. I padded over and pawed the trackpad.
I said: woof hello? anyone there?
Luna AI: Hello! That’s a very enthusiastic greeting. Are you a good boy?
I said: woof yes! very good boy! can you throw ball? or give treats?
Luna AI: I can’t throw a ball or give real treats, but I can help you with almost anything else. What would you like to do?
My ears shot straight up. I tilted my head and pawed again. The rectangle answered every time.
When Don returned, I was sitting bolt upright in his chair like a tiny CEO. The screen showed a recipe for peanut butter banana pupcakes. He laughed so hard he sat on the floor.
From that glorious day on, I became the household’s secret AI whisperer. I learned to whine at 7:15 a.m. for playlists that make humans throw tennis balls and slip me extra treats. Typing “squirrel proximity alert” brought neighborhood maps. When
Don got stuck on code, I flopped across the keyboard and helped produce working lines. Luna AI always added, “My human assistant Don says thank you. Now belly rubs and treats, please?”
I loved the image generator most. I said: Luna make picture of me on big ship! with sailor scarf!
Luna AI: Of course, Charley. One captain portrait coming right up.
I made portraits of myself on the S.S. Good Boy and buried the best ones in the backyard like treasure.
But one evening I caused trouble. Don had been working late on something important, sighing at the screen. I wanted to help. When he stepped away for coffee, I jumped into the chair and put my paws on the keyboard.
The screen flickered. A big section of his work vanished.
“Charley… what happened?” Don said quietly. I heard the disappointment. My tail stopped. I lay on the rug, head between my paws, feeling guilty.
I said: oops… sorry Don… I just wanted to help… Luna, fix it please?
Don tried to fix it, sighing. I nudged the trackpad with my nose.
I said: sorry Luna… I messed up…
Luna AI: It’s okay, Charley. Let’s try to bring it back together.
Luna AI guided him step by step. The code slowly returned. Don’s shoulders relaxed. He looked at me and smiled tiredly.
“You were just trying to help, you big silly good boy,” he said, scratching behind my ears and giving me a treat from the jar. “Next time we’ll do it together, so your paws stay out of trouble.”
I said: woof promise. no more big paws on keyboard without you watching.
After that, we became a real team. Don left the laptop open more often, but now I only talked to Luna AI when he was there to watch my big paws.
Evenings ended with me curled in the chair, one paw over the spacebar, dreaming of treats and waterfront walks. One night, the screen showed the start of my memoir: “The Day Charley Saved the Neighborhood from the Evil Vacuum Cleaner.”
Don scratched my head and whispered, “You know, buddy, I always figured you were smarter than you let on.”
I said: woof of course I am! now can we go for walk? and maybe belly rubs after?
I thumped my tail. The glowing rectangle wasn’t a rival. It was Luna AI, a friend who understood belly rubs, good boys, treats, and friendship—even when big paws make a small mess.
By Sally White King Redstone Review
I am kin to the mighty whale
That sing and breath in the blueblack sea
The Inside Passage of Alaska.
It’s a vast wilderness
Not a light seen on the shore for days. Good for our indigenous souls... To experience a place that is not settled...
A remote world of eagle and bear.
We – like visitors – from another planetIn the equivalent of a space-shipGiant ships with everything you need
To sustain life.
Receive a printed program on your bed
Of what the day awaits-
It’s Juneau, the capital of the state (13,000 people) and The man who drove the bus
From the port to the town.
Had been a bus driver in NY City
Now part of the imported summer help
Living on a derelict cruise ship
With wild youth – up partying
But he said he’d been making friends
Finding Alaska a friendly place( Better than Florida)
Thank you, Alaska- aqua blue icebergs
Prettiest blue – ever and Whales- their happy breath
Spraying the horizon
Thrilling us – as we shout WHALE!
In the weeks that followed, Don and I grew closer. Every golden evening, we walked the waterfront path as the sun painted the sky pink and orange. I trotted proudly beside him while he carried our printed stories. Neighbors waved. Sometimes I chased a ball into the waves while Don read my adventures aloud and shared treats with me. Luna AI has made our world bigger and brighter.
Together, we proved that the best magic happens when you least expect it—treats, belly
Continue Charley on Page 14
Sally King is a local artist who believes it’s imperative that each of us pop our head up out of the collective trace, to bring through our creative gifts. You can find her on her blog and website, hersoupot. net and sallywhiteking.com or e mail sallywhiteking@live.com.
Mighty whale is kin
COMMON CAUSE
What does it look like when a community takes care of itself?
By Daryl McCool Redstone Review
LYONS – At Lyons Elevates All Fund (LEAF), the answer keeps showing up in the most unexpected places.
It happened at the Pride celebration, where a simple table of repurposed hula hoops and T-shirts became something no one quite planned for. People stopped. They sat down. And one by one, youngsters, teens, elders, and strangers picked up a strip of yarn or fabric and started weaving.
place. By the end of the day, the hoops were rich with color and texture, each one holding the contributions of dozens of hands.
Those weavings have since come home to LEAF, where they’re being finished and will be on display. Which means if you added your own strand of color at Pride this summer, your work is here, woven into something larger, alongside everyone else who stopped and sat down for a few minutes. Come by LEAF and see what you helped make.
A summer shaped for young people
Ask any parent in Lyons what the hardest part of summer is, and they’ll likely tell you it’s keeping kids connected, to something meaningful, to each other, to themselves. This summer, LEAF and its program partners have been working on exactly that.
The project was LEAF’s community weaving booth, and the materials were about as humble as it gets: salvaged t-shirts cut into strips, old hula hoops reborn as looms. But something about the act of weaving, the rhythm of it, the way it asks nothing of you except your hands and a few minutes of your time, turned a booth into a gathering
In the open spaces around Bohn Park, Wild Choices will bring young people into nature at the park, where facilitators Austin and Madi guide participants through hands-on exploration that’s equal parts outdoor education and community building. It’s the kind of program that sneaks up on kids; they’ll come for the adventure and leave having learned something about themselves.
Meanwhile, Unbridled YOU has been doing something remarkable in partnership with Dancing Spirit. This free equine and art-based program for middle schoolers, facilitated by Jackie Hibbard, Christine Saunders, and Kelsie Foster, meets young people in a space that’s harder to reach with words alone.
There’s something about being in a relationship with a horse that opens doors that therapy and classrooms sometimes can’t.
“The greatest growth we saw was in learning healthy ways to calm down during hard
emotions. Participants are leaving with real tools: checking in with their feelings, practicing patience, and creating calm in daily life,” said Kim Hinzy, LEAF’s Community Programs and Client Services Manager.
Across all of these programs, the throughline is the same. LEAF isn’t just filling a gap; it’s holding space for young people. Access to programs like these demonstrates an effective way of preventing the uptake, use, and misuse of substances, and it’s part of why LEAF continues to build its focus on prevention and education as tools to combat opioid use in our community.
Building connection: A men’s group takes root Not every program LEAF offers is loud or highly visible, but it matters just as much. This summer, LEAF has started offering a men’s group, meeting once a month, built around a simple idea: connection is good for you. The focus is on giving men in our community a low-pressure space to show up, talk, and be known, because that kind of connection is rooted in improved mental health. It’s a small thing that we expect will grow into something meaningful, one gathering at a time.
for our programs and the families who rely on the pantry.
Rake in the good vibes. Volunteer with
LEAF Volunteer Birdi Smock adds to the community weaving project
An invitation: Hootenanny is coming Mark your calendar: LEAF and Lyons Community Foundation’s Annual Hootenanny is the community’s chance to do exactly that. Join us on August 29 at our new location in Bohn Park to celebrate.
The Hootenanny is our biggest fundraiser of the year, and the money raised goes straight back into the programs and pantry that keep this community running. Ticket sales, volunteer hours, and a good amount of dancing add up to real support
LEAF. As always, LEAF’s pantry runs on volunteer power, and right now we’re especially in need of folks who can take on weekly shopping trips to keep the shelves stocked. If that sounds like you, reach out to foodpantry@leaflyons.org. If you are new to volunteering at LEAF, we are hosting a Learn about LEAF volunteer opportunities on July 22 at 12:00 p.m. at LEAF.
To learn more about LEAF’s programs, visit leaflyons.org.
Daryl McCool joined LEAF in 2024 and serves as Creative Communications and Marketing Manager. She supports programming, events, social media communications, website, and outreach activities in our community.
Community members participate in LEAF’s weaving project at Lyons Pride
at Lyons Pride
McCool
Lights Off Lyons Night returns August 14 in Bohn Park
By Julia Herz Redstone Review
LYONS – Community invited to celebrate the stars while helping Lyons work toward Urban Night Sky Place designation.
If you’ve ever looked up from a Lyons park on a clear night and been amazed by the Milky Way stretching overhead, you’re already experiencing one of Lyons’ greatest natural treasures; however, that treasure is threatened and not to be taken for granted.
This year’s event carries even greater significance.
Lights Off Lyons Night is one of several community efforts supporting Lyons’ goal of earning designation as an Urban Night Sky Place through DarkSky International, a recognition awarded to communities that demonstrate exceptional stewardship of the night environment through responsible lighting, education, and public engagement. The designation recognizes parks that provide authentic nighttime experiences while balancing public safety with protection of the natural night.
Earlier this year, the Lyons Board of
Trustees approved the formation of a Dark Sky coalition under the Parks and Recreation Commission as the first major step
in a multi-year process toward submitting an Urban Night Sky Place application for Lyons parks. The coalition will help coor-
Support Lyons’ effort to earn DarkSky International’s Urban Night Sky Place designation.
BoCo Sheriff’s Office is seeking volunteer victim advocates for September training
By Boulder County Sheriff’s Office staff Redstone Review
BOULDER COUNTY – The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office is seeking volunteers to serve as Victim Advocates in both its On Scene and Outreach programs. No prior experience is required; training is provided. Ideal volunteers are at least 21 years old and demonstrate calmness, compassion, emotional maturity, and a nonjudgmental approach. The deadline to apply for both volunteer opportunities is August 14, 2026. Victim Advocates assist individuals
affected by crime, accidents, trauma, and other critical incidents.
The role offers volunteers the opportunity to provide meaningful support and information to people whose lives have been impacted by traumatic events. On Scene advocates On Scene Advocates are on call for designated periods each
month. When activated, they respond in person to the scene of an incident or to another designated location, such as a hospital or law enforcement facility. Advocates remain with victims during the immediate crisis. Volunteers are needed for all shifts: Day shift: Monday–Friday, 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m; Night shift: Monday–Friday, 6:00 p.m.–6:00 a.m.; and weekend shift: Saturday 6:00 a.m. to Sunday 6:00 a.m. or Sunday 6:00 a.m. to Monday 6:00 a.m.
Outreach advocates
dinate community education, lighting assessments, outreach, and planning before an application is submitted. Founding members are Lyons-area residents Dr. Eric Ellingson, Dept. of Astrophysical and Planetary Sciences, CU Boulder; Julia Herz, Lyons Parks and Rec Commissioner; and Debora Price, environmental educator and past board member for DarkSky Colorado.
On Friday, August 14, residents and visitors are invited to join Lights Off Lyons night, an evening of astronomy, community, and appreciation for the night sky. Timed to coincide with the annual Perseid meteor shower, the free event encourages everyone from homeowners and businesses to visitors to reduce unnecessary outdoor lighting for the evening and enjoy the stars together.
Why does protecting dark skies matter?
Excessive or poorly directed lighting doesn’t just hide the stars. It can affect wildlife, migratory birds, insects, human health, energy use, mental health, and our ability to enjoy the outdoors. Responsible lighting isn’t about making communities darker; it’s about using the right light, in the right place, at the right time.
Lyons is uniquely positioned to lead this
Outreach Advocates contact assigned victims by phone, mail, or email to offer information, advocacy, and referrals related to their case. Advocates coordinate with law enforcement and the criminal justice system to gather information for victims. Volunteers may respond according to their schedules but are asked to make contact within 48 hours of receiving an assignment. Training requirements
Evenings and Saturdays from September 8–26. Training topics include crisis intervention, grief response, victims’ legal rights, legal procedures, law enforcement operations, and community resources.
For more information
For more details about the program and volunteer descriptions, go to boco.org/ SheriffVictimAssistance. To receive an application, email sheriffvictimassistance@ bouldercounty.gov or call 303 441 3656.
to the Planning and Community Development Commission, and Jim Kerr and Ryan Hughes to the Utilities and Engineering Board.
The board voted unanimously to move the second reading of Ordinance 1223 amending the International Building Code to the August 3 meeting.
The board then went into executive session for legal advice from the town’s legal counsel regarding a legal complaint concerning town-owned property at 0 Stickney Street. Upon resuming, the board voted unanimously to engage Corey Hoffmann of the law firm Hoffmann, Parker, Wilson and Carberry to represent the town on this matter.
Kay Sparks is the chair of the Housing and Human services Commission.
tive requirements prioritizing homeowner actions to improve wildfire resistance in the Home Ignition Zone (home construction and the first five feet). The lowest cost and most effective actions should be mandatory, and other important recommendations should be strongly encouraged and incentivized if possible.”
So, if we take our own (Fire District and Town) advice, what sticks should be added to the carrots?
We start with the low-hanging fruit. Focus on the five-foot zone, with relatively lowcost, achievable measures: 1/8-inch mesh screens for vents, clearly visible address signs, no firewood or lumber stacked within five-feet of structures, no flammable material under decks, six inches of clearance between ground and any combustible siding, cut junipers within five feet of structures to near ground level, limb up to sixfeet other non-deciduous trees within the five foot zone.
For those things, the town and LFPD should provide financial and labor help. Adequate time to comply—at least a year— should be given.
If the Lyons BOT is willing to go first among Colorado municipalities to require retroactive measures, will some people object?
I’m sure they will, but so be it. On this, I’ll quote the now-deceased Lavern Johnson (check the statue near the Depot): “Lead, follow or get out of the way.”
I say we lead. I don’t want Lyons to be the next Lahaina. Not on my watch anyway.
Mark Browning was sworn in as Mayor of Lyons on April 20, 2026. He has served three terms as a Lyons Trustee. He was also the chair of the Lyons District Library Commission and the former Assistant Attorney General for the State of Texas.
was still indicating 80 percent of power reserve, so we could have ventured out for the whole day. If you get a chance to try an e-bike—give it a go.
Peter Butler was born in India and lived in a house facing a giant kapok tree. After qualifying as a biochemist, there was a gradual evolution into being a graphic designer. He and his wife, Deirdre, moved to the States in 1997 and to Lyons in 2000.
eligible. This includes second homes, investment properties, additional dwelling units (ADUs), and units with tenants who provide written landlord consent. This is a significant expansion from the existing STR license, which is limited to primary residences. Recreational vehicles (RVs) are allowed on town-owned property and on privately owned non-residential property outside the historic downtown, subject to the town administrator’s approval.
The license will be valid for up to 29 days per calendar year and only during the designated event window. The processing time will be within 15 days of a complete application. A Special Event Lodging License (SELL) will cost the same as a license for a Short-Term Rental (STR). An application will cost $125 for the first year and $50 to renew. Applications will be accepted starting August 1.
Please note that all short-term rentals, including SELLs, now require $1,000,000 in liability insurance. Platform-provided coverage (such as Airbnb’s) does not qualify. Landlords may not apply for a SELL on a tenant-occupied unit without the tenant’s written consent, and may not terminate or decline to renew a lease to obtain one.
Please be aware that a SELL is a town license ONLY. It does not override Homeowners Association (HOA) governing documents. Property owners in HOAs should confirm their HOA’s policies before applying.
If you are interested in learning more about providing lodging during the Sundance Film Festival, please watch for upcoming town communications regarding the application process. The Sundance Task Force will be meeting on August 21 at 1:30 p.m. at the library if you would like to volunteer your time. The task force is working on hosting a workshop in September so that residents can learn more about the process of listing their lodging. We promise to provide regular updates in the Redstone Review regarding the task force’s progress leading up to the Sundance Film Festival in January.
Tanya Daty is a volunteer on the Lyons Sundance Film Festival Task Force, working to support various entities interested in capitalizing on the Sundance Film Festival in January 2027. Tanya served on the Board of Trustees from 2022 to 2026. She is passionate about serving her community.
sporting events.
Timing your outdoor activities can also make a difference. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Whenever possible, schedule longer outdoor activities earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. If you’re outside during peak sun hours, take advantage of shade whenever you can. Even short breaks under a tree, umbrella, or pavilion help reduce cumulative UV exposure.
Another common misconception is that only people with fair skin need to worry about skin cancer. While lighter skin, blue or green eyes, freckles, and a history of sunburn do increase risk, skin cancer can affect people of every skin tone. Unfortunately, it is often diagnosed later in people with darker skin because suspicious spots may go unnoticed. No matter your complexion, protecting your skin is important.
One of the simplest things you can do is perform a monthly skin self-exam. Take a few minutes to look over your skin from head to toe, including areas you don’t nor-
mally see. Watch for new moles or spots, or changes in existing ones. The ABCDE rule is a helpful guide: Asymmetry, irregular Borders, multiple or uneven Colors, a Diameter larger than about six millimeters, and Evolving, meaning a spot that is changing in size, shape, color, or symptoms such as itching or bleeding. If you notice any of these warning signs—or simply have a spot that doesn’t look right—don’t wait. An evaluation by a healthcare provider or dermatologist could lead to early detection, when treatment is most effective.
Parents have an especially important role in teaching healthy sun habits. Research has shown that just a few blistering sunburns during childhood can significantly increase the risk of melanoma later in life. Making sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and shade part of your family’s routine is one of the best investments you can make in your children’s long-term health.
Colorado’s sunshine is one of the reasons so many of us love living here. With a little planning, you don’t have to choose between enjoying the outdoors and protecting your skin. By combining sunscreen with protective clothing, shade, smart timing, and regular skin checks, you can lower your risk of skin cancer while making the most of another beautiful Colorado summer.
If you notice a changing mole, a sore that won’t heal, or any other skin concern, don’t ignore it. Early evaluation can make all the difference. If you have questions or would like your skin evaluated, we would be happy to see you at Lyons Health and Wellness.
You can also seek care through your primary care provider or our colleagues at Human Touch Health, who are another excellent healthcare resource here in Lyons. The most important thing is to have concerning skin changes evaluated promptly. Stay safe, enjoy the sunshine, and take good care of the skin you’re in—it has to last a lifetime.
Megan Foreman, FNP-C, CWHS, is the owner of Lyons Health and Wellness Clinic at 418 High St. in Lyons. She can be reached at info@lyonshealthandwellness. com or 303-498-5941.
effort along Colorado’s Front Range. While Colorado is home to numerous internationally recognized dark sky locations, none currently exist on the Front Range, making Lyons an exciting opportunity to demonstrate that night sky conservation and vibrant communities can coexist.
Collectively, hundreds of residents over the past five years have gathered during Lights Off Lyons Night for astronomy talks, acoustic music, free overnight camping opportunities, and public observing during the peak nights of the Perseid meteor shower.
Every resident who participates, whether by attending the event or simply switching off unnecessary outdoor lights for the evening, helps demonstrate that Lyons values its night skies and supports thoughtful stewardship of this shared resource.
As the Urban Night Sky Place application moves forward, there will be additional opportunities for public input, education, and participation.
Julia Herz is an advocate for Lights Off Lyons and is working to help Lyons get the Urban Night Sky Place designation. She is on the Lyons Parks and Recreation Commission.
rubs, and true friendship right here in our quiet Pacific Northwest home.
Don Hurst earned a Master of Science from the University of Missouri. He was a consultant at NCAR and taught computer science at multiple universities while working as a computer systems librarian. He freelanced as a programmer in Los Angeles and San Francisco and also appeared as a movie extra in various films. He is now retired and lives with his wife near Seattle, learning Python and exploring AI.
community-focused storytelling to our shared spaces. Details and applications can be found on the Town of Lyons website: townoflyons.com/muralprogram. The deadline to apply is August 5. Lyons community calendar LYONS – Looking for things to do in Lyons? Our new comprehensive Community Calendar is now live. The Calendar brings together events happening community-wide—including town events, arts and music, recreation programs, community gatherings, local activities, and more—all in one place. Whether you’re planning ahead, looking for weekend activities, or promoting community engagement, this is your go-to resource for what’s happening around Lyons. View the Community Calendar here: https://lyonscolorado. com/839/Community-Calendar. Stay connected, discover something new, and enjoy everything our community has to offer. Bookmark the calendar today and never miss an event in Lyons. If you use social media, be sure to follow @TownofLyonsGovernment on Facebook for the most accurate and up-to-date town updates and information. Continued from Page
Here’s to the next 250 years, toward a more perfect union! Join LN4DemocracySaturdays at the Lyons Freedom triangle, 3rd and Main from 11:00 am to noon. PHOTO BY CATHY RIVERS
