RESIDENT / OCCUPANT PRSRT STD ECRWSS US POSTAGE PAID LYONS, CO PERMIT No 2053 $.50
Redstone Review stands behind the United States Constitution VOLUME 26, NUMBER 9
LYONS, COLOR ADO
OCTOBER 17, 2025 / NOVEMBER 13, 2025
B •R •I •E •F •S The Halloween Brief title Spooktacular Celebration LYONS – textis on Oct. 25
LYONS – Don’t miss the fun; all Brief titlewelcome to join in the ages are LYONS – text celebration. The Lyons Elementary School will be the site for the Spooktacular games, crafts and activities for the Lyons Annual Spooktacular Celebration, Oct. 25.
The fun begins at 4 p.m. at the Lyons Elementary School (LES), outside on the grounds of the elementary school’s playground. The LES Choir will also be performing that afternoon. The parade will begin at 6 p.m. with lots of people in scary costumes in the people powered parade. The line-up is starting in front of the elementary school about 5:45 p.m. for the Parade along Main St at 6 p.m. Find your place early. The Lyons Middle Senior High School band kicks off the foot parade for the Spooktacular event, performing while marching down Main Street. The dance troupe from Mayama will also be dancin’ in the streets. Main Street will be closed to vehicular traffic, with detours along Broadway. Following the parade, ghosts and goblins, pirates and princesses are invited to trick or treat from 3rd Ave, along Main St to 5th Ave. The local businesses provide the treats at their businesses. Don’t forget the annual Chili Cook-Off at MainStage Brewing at 450 Main Street sponsored by the Lyons Garden Club. The judging begins at 4:30 p.m. Priscilla’s party; her artbeat goes on
Rumbakh said that in her counLyons Town Board looks at buyout properties, try, there are not many opportunities for young people like her to their opinions to public votes to allow BoCo Land Use IGA to expire express officials or other people in posiBy Susan de Castro Gierach Redstone Review Editor
LYONS – A day of celebration for local artist Priscilla Cohan will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, from 5–10 p.m. at Continue Briefs on Page 6
issuu.com/sdcmc Like us on Facebook I •N •D •E •X LYONS MAYOR’S CORNER OPTIONS CONTRAST LOOKING UP INSIGHT VIEWPOINT SHOWCASE WHAT’S COOKIN’ VOICES ARE HEARD CHOICES
Sam and Drew of Lafayette, CO., soaking up fall vibes at Loukonen Farms — a favorite pumpkin patch in Boulder. CATHY RIVERS
2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 13
LYONS – The Lyons Town Board discussed, at some length, the Deed Restricted Buy Out Parcels (DRBOP). Town Administrator, Victoria Simonsen said there are 12 DRBOP properties that are under a neighbor license agreement with the Town of Lyons. These parcels are mostly in the confluence area. DRBOP properties are properties acquired post-flood by either FEMA or HUD and were deeded to the Town. Acquisitions occurred because homeowners chose to sell them rather than rebuild in a flood zone. The parcels are small lots and are deed restricted and do not allow a home to be built on them. They cannot be sold, but they can be leased and used for other things such as gardens, picnic and recreation areas or to provide more yard space for an adjacent neighbor. Some of the parcels have lease agreements in place. These agreements allow use of the parcels in exchange for regular maintenance of them. Simonsen added that there are 27 DRBOP parcels that the town acquired and had to maintain on a regular basis. The town board is now looking at those proper-
ties to see what the best use of those parcels might be. Some parcels have signage saying Town of Lyons. Trustee Greg Lowell said that there are some violations concerning people using the properties, and suggested more oversight. There are two non-profit groups who are leasing community DRBOP properties: The Rocky Mountain Botanical Gardens, the Community Food Forest LLC, and the Community Orchard. The last two are the same group operating on two different sites. The board decided that the non-profits should not be charged for their use of the property. At the end of the discussion the board decided that there should be more community input before they make any changes or decisions. The board directed staff to facilitate more community meetings with the residents in the confluence area for the purpose of discussing how many events they might want to hold, how many people could attend, if they wanted acoustic music in their neighborhood or what type of use they would like to see for those DRBOP properties. The board went on with other matters to pass Resolution 2025-68 notifying Boulder County of the expiration of the Land Use Inter-
governmental Agreement (IGA). The motion was passed by all. Many Lyons residents express concern and some dislike for the current IGA with Boulder County. Only a few municipalities have an IGA with Boulder County. Following extensive discussions over the past few years among the board of trustees, the IGA Task Force, and the community at large, the Board of Trustees directed staff to bring forward a resolution approving the expiration of the 2012 Land Use IGA with Boulder County. During the September 15, 2025, Board meeting, the board discussed several reasons for declining to move forward and extended its gratitude to all parties involved in the discussions. The Lyons Town Board listened to the residents and decided not to renew their current IGA with the county, which expires on Nov. 28, 2025. In other news, a young foreign exchange student, Kseniya Rumbakh from Kazakhstan in central Asia, spoke to the board during audience business about her first impressions of living in the US with a family in Lyons. She told the board that she loved being in this beautiful area and that she loved having the opportunity to be out in nature.
tions of authority and she was pleased to be able to express her opinions to the town board. She is staying in Lyons with Trustee Tanya Daty and her family. Changing direction, the board heard a short report from Finance Director, Cassandra Eyestone. She told the board that July sales tax revenues were up 6.5 percent from July 2024 and year to date sales tax is up 6.9 percent from 2024. In other matters, the town board passed Ordinance 1198 on second reading to sell the property at 2186 Apple Valley Road (the former Lyons water treatment plant) to Richard Barth Himmelstein for $350,000. The property is no longer used for a public purpose and was declared surplus. The motion was passed by all trustees. After a short discussion the board passed ordinance 1198A on second reading amending the Lyons Municipal Code concerning the classification of E-Bikes. The motion passes by six to one with Trustee Mark Browning dissenting. The E-Bikes are separated into three classes. Only Class one and two are allowed on trails, these bikes can go up to 20 miles per hour. Class 3 E-Bikes can go up to 28 miles per hour and are not allowed on trails or pedestrian paths. These bikes must go on public roads only.
PAGE 2
LYONS, COLOR ADO
OCTOBER 17, 2025 / NOVEMBER 13, 2025
LYONS Wildfire mitigation rebate match makes Lyons more resilient By Kim Mitchell Redstone Review LYONS – As wildfires continue to pose a serious threat in Colorado, the town of Lyons has taken a proactive approach—with its 2025 wildfire mitigation rebate program designed to empower residents, enhance safety, and protect our community. There’s no better time than this fall to get started. Cooler temperatures, lower fire danger, and easy access to outdoor areas around your home make the fall season the ideal time to complete wildfire mitigation projects. This wildfire rebate initiative brings two major benefits to qualifying households. First, residents may be eligible to receive up to $500 from Boulder County’s Wildfire Partners rebate when they complete eligible wildfire mitigation activities—such as clearing flammable vegetation and debris, upgrading attic vents, or replacing wooden fences where they attach to your home with non-combustible materials. On top of that, the town of Lyons is offering a matching rebate up to $500—doubling your investment and allowing homeowners
to receive up to $1,000 total when they invest in making their homes more wildfire-resilient in Lyons. The first step in qualifying for the town’s rebate is completely free and incredibly valuable. All Lyons homeowners are eligible to schedule a wildfire home assessment with Wildfire Partners. During this visit, a wildfire expert will walk through your property, identify specific risks, and provide a personalized action plan. This tailored guidance helps ensure your mitigation efforts are effective and aligned with the best practices for your home in Boulder County. Here’s how to get started this fall 1. Schedule your free home assessment. A trained expert will evaluate wildfire hazards and recommend practical, property-specific improvements. 2. Start your mitigation work. Reach out to local contractors or complete the recommended mitigation projects yourself. Fall is a great time to clear any vegetation and flammable materials within five feet of your home, remove your junipers, or install ember-resistant features. 3. Apply for Boulder County’s rebate. After completing eligible mitigation work,
assessments and increased financial support, residents gain both the knowledge and resources to take meaningful, effective action. Improving wildfire safety at your home is a powerful way to contribute to community-wide resilience. Applications for the town match are easy to complete online—visit: https://townoflyons.com/wildfirerebate. While we’re pleased that some residents have already completed mitigation work in 2024, only work completed in 2025 is eligible for this year’s rebate program. Let’s harness this opportunity together—take advantage of fall weather, invest in your wildfire mitigation efforts, and secure up to $1,000 in rebates. Take the first step and schedule your free home assessment today, then complete qualifying mitigation work, and make a lasting impact for your home and your community.
submit before-and-after photos and other required documentation for verification with Boulder County. 4. Submit your Lyons rebate match application. After completing your county rebate application and mitigation work, apply for the town match. Lyons residents who complete more than $500 in mitigation work in 2025 are eligible to apply for the town matching program. 5. For example, if you spend $1,200 on eligible mitigation, you could receive $500 from Boulder County and $500 from the town of Lyons—making these crucial, protective improvements more Emilyn Inglis with her big Kim Mitchell is the Director of Comaffordable than ever. check for completing a fire munications and Community RelaWe recommend mitigation project. tions for the town. She writes on town events, staff news and the arts. Email: acting soon—funds are limited, and rebates are awarded on a kmitchell@townoflyons.com and kimicolorado@ first-come, first-served basis. With expert gmail.com.
to those in need. The bus is wheelchair accessible. Ride service is offered by HHSC takes on transportation—getting from here to there available Via, a nonprofit organization. Contact: By Kay Sparks Redstone Review
LYONS – Residents of Lyons and the Lyons area who do not have a car or drive have several options for getting to Longmont or Boulder. Town of Lyons zTrip Vouchers: Boulder County provides FREE vouchers for zTrip, a taxi service, that can fund travel between Lyons and Longmont or Lyons and Boulder. The vouchers can be used to get to medical appointments, grocery stores, pharmacies, work, school, and for other trips to meet basic needs. The zTrip program is administered by the
Town of Lyons and jointly funded by the town and Boulder County. zTrip Vouchers are not available for use between Lyons and Boulder during the hours the Lyons Flyer bus is running. Valid for one way travel to or from Longmont any day of the week, 5 a.m.–7 p.m. Vouchers are available at Lyons Town Hall. For more information, contact 303-823-8250; recreation@townoflyons. com. Lyons Flyer The Lyons Flyer provides FREE bus service between downtown Lyons at Broadway and 4th Ave. to New Vista at Baseline Ave. in Boulder, along Hwy. US 36 and Broadway within Boulder on weekdays only, Monday–Friday, For schedule and stops details, go to https://bouldercounty.gov/transportation/multimodal/lyons-flyer/. Via Mobility Service Via provides door-to-door transportation from locations within Lyons to other locations within Lyons or to Longmont. The service is designed primarily to assist individuals whose mobility is limited due to age or dis-
Pigeon, is a 2-year-old, 54-pound mixed-breed sweetheart bursting with enthusiasm and love. He adores people, enjoys daily adventures, and gets along great with both dogs and cats. Energetic, affectionate, and smart, Pigeon learns quickly and walks nicely on leash. Recommended for a home with older children, this loyal boy is ready to join your life—and fill it with joy and tail wags. To see all our adoptable animals or get more details visit longmonthumane.org.
ability (permanent or temporary).
303-447-2848 or visit viacolorado.org.
However, rides may be available to the general public as space allows. Riders must register with Via before their first ride, and all trips must be scheduled one to seven days in advance. Within Lyons: Mondays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Lyons to Longmont: Tuesdays, 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Other days and hours may be available with enough advance notices. Morning, afternoon, or all-day trips to Longmont are available every Wednesday if at least 3 people call to reserve a ride. COST: $1.25-one way within Lyons and $4-one way to Longmont. Reduced-fare and no-fare options are
Lyons has a representative on the newly formed Boulder County Community Advisory Committee for Linking Boulder County, the county’s first countywide transit plan. Stay Tuned. Lyons Valley Townhomes are available. There are two 2 BR, 1 BA townhomes available for qualified households. To learn more contact Highland Property Management, 720-600-4278. Housing and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Needs YOU. The HHSC has an opportunity for two
Lizzie is a 4-year-old Domestic Shorthair with a personality as striking as her adorable face. She’s gaining confidence every day and loves attention from her favorite humans. Lizzie prefers to be the only pet in the home—no dogs or other cats for this independent lady. With patience and love, she’ll continue to blossom and show just how affectionate she can be. Recommended for a home with older children, Lizzie is ready to find a quiet, cozy place to call her own. Come meet Lizzie today!
Continue HHSC on Page 14
VOLUME 26, NUMBER 9
LYONS, COLOR ADO
PAGE 3
MAYOR’S CORNER L E T T E R •T O •T H E •E D I T O R Support for using buyout spaces for gardens and public spaces Dear Editor, LYONS – As someone who has served on the Town of Lyons Parks and Recreation Commission for six years, including as chair, I’ve seen firsthand how thoughtful use of our open spaces can strengthen the heart of our community. That’s why I support using buyout properties for community gardens, orchards, and small gathering spaces. These parcels will never be developed for housing again, but that doesn’t mean they should sit neglected. Transforming them into managed green spaces gives them new life and purpose like supporting pollinators, providing fresh food, offering outdoor learning opportunities for children, and giving neighbors a place to connect. Just as importantly, these gardens and orchards serve a vital role in wildfire mitigation. When land is cared for and regularly irrigated, it stays green and low in fuel, acting as a natural fire break between developed areas and wilder, more combustible zones. Fruit trees, garden plots, and open gathering areas create buffers that can slow or redirect the spread of flames, offering firefighters safer zones to work from and protecting nearby homes. In a region increasingly at risk for wildfire, this kind of proactive land management is not just a benefit, it’s a necessity. These projects aren’t “destination” parks or commercial ventures; they’re quiet, community-driven efforts rooted in stewardship and resilience. Investing modest town resources to maintain them is a smart, forward-thinking choice, one that promotes sustainability, safety, and connection among neighbors. Lyons has always been defined by creativity, collaboration, and care for the land. Let’s continue that legacy by supporting community gardens and orchards that turn past loss into shared growth and a safer, stronger future for everyone. Yelena Hughes, Lyons resident
October kicks off the budget process, law enforcement costs increase, and marijuana tax revenues By Hollie Rogin, Mayor of Lyons Redstone Review LYONS – October may be known for being the height of spooky season in Lyons, and for the Board of Trustees and town staff, it’s not just because of Halloween. Rogin October is also the month we kick off the annual budget process. Since 2022, this has included a town-wide survey so that the board can get a better sense of what’s important to our residents. We had a record response rate this year; thank you so much to all who took the time to let us know what your priorities are. Every budget cycle comes with its challenges, and this year is no different. Just as the State of Colorado and Boulder County are facing tightening their belts, so must the Town of Lyons. For example, the State Legislature last session reduced the amount of state marijuana tax proceeds municipalities will receive and will likely further reduce the amount in the next session. This means there will be fewer resources for the town to dedicate to funding substance abuse treatment/prevention and mental wellness initiatives via the Lyons Community Foundation. By way of another example, there is a very significant increase in the cost of law enforcement in Lyons. The tab for the Boulder County Sheriff’s services in town is rising to parity with neighboring communities and accounts for their own cost increases and budgetary challenges. All of this is to say that the board will need to make some
difficult decisions regarding budget priorities over the coming months while we also consider a longer horizon to set Lyons up for success in the longer term. The board and staff will be having budget workshops at town hall on October 22 and 23, from 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. Many of you may recall that the town has been in negotiations with Boulder County regarding our Land Use Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) for quite some time. Many residents became very actively involved in the IGA process, for which the board is very grateful. Our Land Use IGA, which determined where and how Lyons could grow, was last updated in 2012, and we began negotiating a new IGA in 2022. After incredibly hard work on the part of two boards, the PCDC, town staff, Boulder County Staff, the IGA Task Force, and our citizens, the board unanimously decided to allow the 2012 Land Use IGA expire and to cease negotiations for a new one. Of note, in all of Boulder County, only the City of Longmont has entered a new Land Use IGA with Boulder County. This comes as a disappointment to some, and a relief to others. Each board member has their own reasons for their vote to allow the IGA to expire, but I thought I’d provide mine here. While previous IGAs included a section regarding partnerships with the county, any newly negotiated Land Use IGA would not include one. For example, issues related to transportation, herbicide use on properties adjacent to Lyons, housing, and other common interest areas could not Continue Budget on Page 14
Together, these successes highlight not only the hard work Lyons Middle Senior High earns national of Lyons’ students, but also the dedication of staff and the strong support of families and the broader St. Vrain com“Our teachers really care about our students, not and state recognition for academic excellence munity. just with their academic achievement, but as whole people.
and Science. To receive the award, schools must earn an That really boosts students’ desire to succeed,” said Aimee “Exceeds Expectations” rating on the state’s School Perfor- Brown, a high school counselor at Lyons Middle Senior. mance Framework, reflecting consistent excellence rather Through rigorous academics, consistent achievement, and LYONS – Lyons Middle Senior High School is celebrating a than short-term gains. “We do have high expectations, and a focus on student growth, Lyons Middle Senior High season of academic recognition, recently earning top honors we make sure that we put that rigor into everything we do, School stands out as a model of excellence at both the state at both the state and national levels. The school was named but we also provide lots of support—whether it be one-on- and national levels. among the top 5.8 one help, or revisiting earlier Emily Hooge is a Communications Specialist with the St. Vrain percent of public high material,” said Anna Marie schools nationwide in Strzyz, an English and elective Valley School District. the U.S. News & World teacher at Lyons Middle Senior Report’s Best High High School. Schools Rankings, In addition to these reflecting Lyons Midrecognitions, Lyons has dle Senior’s strength greatly broadened its in college readiness, Advanced Placement state assessment peropportunities. In the formance, graduation past three years, access to rates, and support for AP classes has expanded all learners. “At Lyons, from eight to eighteen our culture of success course offerings through is built on high expeca partnership with tations, unwavering the Advanced Global support, and a growth Interactive Learning mindset that empowEnvironments (AGILE) ers every student,” A Lyons Middle Senior student writes during her Lagugage Arts program and St. Vrain said Chris Carter, an class. Virtual High School. Advanced Placement This growth reflects (AP) calculus teacher at Lyons Middle Senior. Lyons’ commitment to preparing students for postLyons was also awarded the 2024 John Irwin School of secondary success and lays the foundation for even Excellence Award by the Colorado Department of Edu- greater achievement in the years to come. For Oz, a cation. This honor, given to only about eight percent of senior at Lyons Middle Senior, “AP courses have made A Lyons Middle Senior student works on an assignment during his Colorado schools, recognizes sustained academic achieve- school more enjoyable because they’re challenging AP Calculus class. ment over time, specifically in English Language Arts, Math, and exciting.” By Emily Hooge Redstone Review
PAGE 4
LYONS, COLOR ADO
OCTOBER 17, 2025 / NOVEMBER 13, 2025
OPTIONS Wolverines may join wolves in Colorado reintroduction efforts By Peter Butler Redstone Review LYONS – Colorado already has a wolf reintroduction program but now it is considering a wolverine reintroduction program. The spelling Butler of wolverine has the suggestion that it is a first cousin to wolves—like a wolf and a jar of Vaseline had a baby. It drives me crazy when people use the name of an animal as some sort of an insult. You dirty rat. That guy is a snake. What a weasel. They all imply that the creature in reference has character flaws so ingrained that they are taken for granted. Personally, I regard rats, snakes and weasels as smart, resourceful and all-round cool. When I was about nine years old there was a publishing company in Britain that printed very thin, 32-page books on nature with lots of photographs. Somehow, I coaxed my parents into getting me the edition on the Mustelidae, that is the weasels and their cousins— just the ones in the United Kingdom (UK)—with the weasel at the small end and European badgers at the bulky end. In between are ferrets, stoats, pine martins, mink, polecats, and otters. Worldwide there are 107 species that include civets, sables, and sea otters. The family used to include skunks, but they have now been given their own group outside of the Mustelidae. The element that made them so compelling was that, for their diminutive size, they are ferocious predators and can bring down prey double and triple their own size. And they look really cute. Wikipedia has just relieved me of a 60-year misapprehen-
sion. I spent my life thinking that the Mustelidae were so called because they all exude musk in some form or other. Skunks use theirs as a pungent defense mechanism, and the goo from the embarrassing end of a civet is a raw material in the perfumery industry. For a small family group, they
seem to get their unfair share of industrial exploitation. Everybody seems to be freaked out by skunks; mink get sewn into coats; and sables are rolled into watercolor artist’s paintbrushes. Somehow, I overlooked that must and musk are different in letter four. But I am informed that in Latin mus means mouse and telum means javelin. So, a mustelid is a javelin mouse. Woo, all they need is a tight-fitting suit
and the ability to fly. But according to Merriam-Webster “must,” in its fourth meaning, pertains to musk, so there we are back again. Some ancient taxonomist had a punning sense of humor. It seems that all of the family is musky but in various degrees. Back in England, I had been a weasel fan for years before I ever had contact with one when one of our cats brought in a stoat corpse in perfect condition. It was a shame that my first encounter was with a dead one, but I studied it carefully. About 13 inches long, its fur was soft and it had a smell, not a stink but something dark and mysterious. I kept going away and coming back to pick it up and give it another big sniff. You can understand its importance to perfumery. So, I always considered stoats to be rare and precious. But in New Zealand they think differently. Somehow stoats were introduced and are among the threats to ground nesting birds. The avian denizens of the antipodean islands seem to have been like the dodos before European colonization, and could nest on the ground without interference. But stoats are depleting their numbers and there is a national campaign of eradication. Yet another infringement on mustelid rights. Is there such a thing as antimustelidism? I propose it as word of the year. The wolverine reintroduction is going to be a challenge. They are about as elusive as bigfoot, avoiding all contact with humans and living high above the snow line. They have very thick rich brown fur which is oily and frost resistant to keep them snug, and they seem to be able to live on the leanest of diets. Their strong jaws can crunch through bones so they are capable of surviving in tough conditions. Continue Wolverines on Page 14
information about where they may resenting more than 920 individual newslook to find out more on their own. What paper titles published in Colorado from Historical research: a quick start guide with follows is a brief guide to resources that are 1859 to 2025. Access to the collection By Monique Sawyer-Lang Redstone Review
LYONS – The 46th year of operation for the Lyons Redstone Museum has come to a close. It was a Sawyer-Lang great season with visitorship up markedly over the previous year. The museum also opened two new exhibits: Built of Stone and First Peoples of the Lyons Area. Built of Stone tells the geological history of the area’s iconic sandstone layer, Lyons Formation, and early history of the sandstone quarry industry in the Lyons area. First Peoples of the Lyons Area exhibit touches on the history of the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Ute tribes who inhabited the Lyons area prior to the arrival of settlers and town builders. Closing for the season doesn’t mean work comes to a halt. Staff will be working behind the scenes cataloging and archiving the collections, developing new and updating existing exhibits, and turning their attention to preparing for opening in 2026. Working on projects over the winter is only possible through funds received from grants, such as the Lyons Community Foundation, donations, and many volunteer hours by staff and our dedicated museum volunteers. Last year over 780 hours of volunteer time was given to the museum. It’s during the winter months that the museum welcomes students from Lyons Elementary School into the building to learn about Lyons’ history and to participate in programming that aligns with
school district curriculum. Every class will visit at least once during the school year with the Fourth Grade Museum Stewards visiting multiple times as they work on a year-long project which debuts in May.
Another facet of off-season museum work is assisting people and organizations with research projects. It’s wonderful when we can help people find the answers they are looking for, but sometimes that’s not possible. It’s then that we try to provide them
easily accessible and that provide a wealth of information whether you are researching a particular person or subject or just enjoy exploring history. Online sources make research much easier these days and are a great starting point for any research project. Some sources, such as Ancestry.com, require a monetary investment but there are plenty of others that are free. When researching persons who have died a good place to start is with the websites Billion Graves and Find a Grave. Information that can be gleaned from those sites such as birth and death dates and locations can be used to find additional information in U.S. Census records at National Archives (archives. gov/research/census). These records can provide information on additional family members, occupation, country of origin, and more. Military service is often acknowledged on gravestones and information regarding that service is available through the National Archives (archives.gov/veterans) website. Another useful source of information is newspaper collections. A good place to start is the Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection (CHNC). CHNC is a service of the Colorado State Library and includes more than 6.7 million digitized pages, rep-
is free. Two early Lyons newspapers are included on the site: the Longs Peak Rustler which was in publication from December 12, 1890 to April 3, 1891 and the early years, June 1900 to May 1922, of the Lyons Recorder. Later editions of the Lyons Recorder are currently being digitized and are available at the Lyons Redstone Museum. Additional newspaper collections are available at the Longmont Library, the Carnegie Library for Local History in Boulder, the Denver Public Library, and in the History Colorado Archives. Going beyond newspapers, the above-mentioned institutions, along with the Longmont Museum, Museum of Boulder, and the Estes Park Museum, are considerable resources for photographs and documents to supplement your research. Additionally, books on Lyons history will be available for purchase at our booth at the Holiday Artisan Market held December 6 and 7 at the Lyons Elementary School gym. You can explore more of Lyons history through our historic district walking tour and our five virtual exhibits, all of which can be accessed from our website www.lyonsredstonemuseum.com. The museum relies on grants and donations 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.
VOLUME 26, NUMBER 9
LYONS, COLOR ADO
PAGE 5
CONTRAST for scientific, cultural, and educational purposes. Why Boulder County Open Space isn’t always open only Whisman called those stipulations “very By Greg Lowell Redstone Review LYONS – If you’ve visited any of the Boulder County Parks & Open Space (BPOS) properties around Lyons you’ve no Lowell doubt run into a sign like the one pictured here. And your first thought, like mine, was no doubt, “Why? Isn’t this public land, paid for with my taxes?” Well, you’re right about who paid for the land; funding is through four ongoing sales taxes of 0.475 percent and about $2.5 million in property tax proceeds. But the access issue is complicated. Lyons is surrounded by thousands of acres of BCPOS open space with Heil Valley Ranch and Hall Ranch being the largest properties. Of the 10,345 combined acreage of these two parcels, 6,236 acres are off-limits year-round to public access, and another 299 acres have seasonal closures for eagle nesting. These two open spaces have a much higher percentage than most of BCPOS’ other open spaces. Much of this posted acreage is to keep users on the trails to prevent erosion and protect vegetation, but a large share of it is to protect sensitive plant communities and wildlife habitat. The acreage is closed to the public under the recommendations of the North Foothills Open Space Management Plan (1996). The plan focuses on “areas with a concentration of significant plant communities and avian conservation areas,” and which provide habitat for “human sensitive wildlife species.”
Additionally, other parcels like the 766acre Dowe Flats (west of Rabbit Mountain), the Andesite Mine site and the South St. Vrain River corridor (west of Lyons and off Route 7) are currently completely closed to public access. These closures are because the county is awaiting completion of restoration efforts before formulating management plans for two of the properties. Cemex must restore Dowe Flats to its pre-quarry condition and the same is true for the Andesite Mine. Both restorations must be approved by the state before BCPOS takes possession. The South St. Vrain River corridor upstream of Lyons is closed due to restoration; the new plantings need time to establish. Heil Valley and Hall Ranch open spaces and these three properties are among the most restricted in the BCPOS portfolio of 67,519 open space acres that the coun-
ty owns, so it might seem to many users that these local closures are indicative of BCPOS restrictions on all the land they own. Not so. In fact, only 42 percent of the county’s open space is off-limits to the public with agricultural leases and protection of vegetation and wildlife habitat being the primary reasons. It’s worth noting that there’s another 40,571 acres that Boulder County has conserved through conservation easements purchased from private landowners, meaning the land is forever protected but is largely off-limits to the public unless the landowner allows access. For those of you keeping score, that’s 108,090 acres of land permanently protected from development, bought with your tax dollars and managed by BCPOS. Reasons for closures vary Some of the BCPOS land closures are due to pre-existing agreements with the seller or donator of the property. “Sometimes the seller or the donor of the land made demands that there be no public access,” said Janis Whisman, Real Estate Division Manager for BCPOS. “But the land was so desirous for open space that the land deal went forward with the restrictions.” A local example of this is the Southdown Indian Mountain property (basically, the ridge and land below it on the east side of Stone Canyon Road), which was donated to the county by the previous mine owners. The owners stipulated that 280 acres of the property must be closed to the public until 2030 and that the remaining 250 acres remain closed forever, with limited access
unusual.” Whenever the county limits public access it does so for specific reasons, often related to conservation issues and public safety. These types of contractual agreements with the seller put 2,158 open space acres off-limits to the public. The next largest category of restricted access properties (1,490 acres) includes those currently under management review for potential public use, including the previously mentioned Andesite quarry. Although the site is regarded as part of the state-approved reclamation plan, the mining company is still responsible for successfully revegetating the site, which may take several years under our semi-arid climate. Once the site is revegetated and the reclamation is approved by the state, BCPOS will lead a public process to determine the property’s future uses and management. The one aspect of public closure that seems most logical affects the smallest acreage. Only 726 acres of open space are permanently closed for protection of sensitive wildlife habitat and vegetation. Here in Lyons, the most prominent closure is for the golden eagle nesting site above LaVern Johnson Park. The cliffs and the land on the west side of the river in that vicinity are under BCPOS management. Violations mean fines Any violation of BCPOS open space closures—permanent or seasonal—is subject to a fine of $100, said Bevin Carithers, BCPOS Ranger Supervisor. Lyons resident Greg Lowell is a Lyons Town Board Trustee and serves as a liaison to the Ecology Advisory Board for the Lyons Town Board.
Dr. Eric Harker offers guidance on fall respiratory vaccines By Eric Harker Redstone Review LYONS – My name is Eric Harker and my wife and I live on Apple Valley Road where we have raised two, (now grown), daughters. I have spent most of my life in the area and I love this community and Dr. Harker its people. I’m a primary care internal medicine doctor and I’ve just opened a practice in Lyons, thanks to the generosity of Bronwyn Muldoon and Megan Foreman, who are generously sharing their space with me until I find a permanent place to land and work in town. My medical credentials: I trained at some of the leading medical institutions in the US: Duke Medical School (#3), University of North Carolina school of public health (#2), and the University of Colorado School of Medicine (#8 for primary care internal medicine). I led prevention programs including immunizations at Kaiser Permanente across Colorado. My intention is only to say that I know a lot about preventive health care and I want you to be able to trust my medical opinion.
My caregiving credentials: I watched my father die of lung cancer when I was eight and he was 39; I carried my disabled mother out of public places when she passed out with seizures when I was 10; I helped my grandmother with Parkinson’s disease (dressing, bathing, toileting) when I was 13; and took my first job bathing residents in an Alzheimer’s unit of a nursing home when I was 14. I held my mother’s hand when she took her last breath, thanks to the generosity of a nurse who allowed me to see her despite COVID restrictions. I’ve seen first-hand how terrible illness is, but also how terrible the health care system can be. I’ve heard hundreds of stories from patients about medical gaslighting and sometimes embarrassing or even dehumanizing treatment, especially from women and older adults. While the healthcare system can be harsh and unkind, my goal is to communicate and care for this community and the patients I serve. Your care, feelings, preferences, knowledge and past experiences are valid, especially in a space where they are not always considered. Now that you know a little bit about me, I’d like to share my thoughts on the important issue of respiratory infections and vaccines (RIV). The reason that respiratory infections are so important is that they are the single leading cause of acute illness in the world. They literally come from the air that we breathe. While the vast majority of upper respiratory infections are little more than a nuisance, they are still the leading cause of avoidable hospitalization and one of the leading causes of death for vulnerable populations: older adults over 65, children under 2, and people with chronic conditions including
asthma, emphysema/COPD, heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, severe obesity, immune deficiency including cancer/chemotherapy, sickle cell disease, and more. For those at risk, this nuisance can lead to severe illness, mortality, and lifelong disabling damage from infection.
The culprits I’m talking about are influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus… or RSV, and bacterial/pneumococcal pneumoniae. Other respiratory infections include rhinovirus, regular coronaviruses and over 200 different viral and bacterial strains, but most of these infections tend to be mild. The good news is that there are effective and relatively safe vaccines available for these leading infections. I’ll summarize the standard recommendations here: COVID-19 Annual booster for those aged 6 months and older, ideally taken in the fall. This is especially important for those over 65 or with chronic conditions and risk factors (see above). Influenza (flu) Annual booster for everyone 6 months and older. Vaccination is especially crucial for young children, adults 65 and older, pregnant people, and those with chronic health conditions. Vaccination should ideally occur by the end of October, in time for “flu season.” Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) A one-time only vaccination is recommended for adults over 75, pregnant women (for the protection of their infants), and adults aged 50-74 with chronic heart or lung disease, weakened immune systems, and residency in a nursing home. Continue Dr. Harker on Page 14
PAGE 6
LYONS, COLOR ADO
OCTOBER 17, 2025 / NOVEMBER 13, 2025
LOOKING UP discussion—no expertise required, just curiosity. Popcorn provided; admission The Library reaffirms the right of everyone to read freely ence free. By Kara Bauman Redstone Review
Bauman
LYONS – The first full week of October marks Banned Books Week, a time when libraries across the country reaffirm one of our most cherished principles—the freedom
to read. At the Lyons Community Library, we proudly uphold the American Library Association’s Bill of Rights, which affirms that libraries are forums for information and ideas. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to explore books that challenge, comfort, surprise, or inspire them. Not every book is right for every reader, and that’s okay. Each family decides what aligns with their values and interests. Our role is to make sure those choices remain available. If you or someone in your household is looking for materials that are a good fit, our trained staff of readers is always happy to help. We know our collection inside and out and can easily tap into libraries across Colorado and beyond through our far-reaching interlibrary loan network. Whether you’re searching for a gentle picture book, a thought-provoking novel, or a deep dive into a complex subject, we can help you find what’s right for you. Later this month, we’ll celebrate another important occasion—National Friends of the Library Week, October 19–25. Our Friends group is a cornerstone of community support for the library. Their dedication shows up in ways big and small, from volunteer hours to financial support for special programs and materials. This summer, their generous sponsorship made it possible for us to welcome Colorado author Shelley Read, whose event drew a full house and fostered lively conversation. If you’d like to show your appreciation, the Friends’ Annual Book Sale is the perfect opportunity. Join us at the Library on October 24 and 25 to browse gently used books, puzzles, and media—treasures for
every kind of reader. While you shop, be sure to stop by the bake sale hosted by our Teen Advisory Group (TAG), with proceeds benefiting the Friends. It’s a sweet way to support both our young volunteers and the Friends who sustain so much of what we do. And mark your calendars for the Friends’ Annual Business Meeting at Oskar Blues on November 13—a fun, informal gathering where everyone is welcome to learn more about how to get
shaped the landscapes, culture, and ecology of Boulder County. It’s a celebration of the waterways that define and sustain our community. Then, on November 6 at 6:30 p.m., join Boulder County Parks & Open Space for Discover Ron Stewart Preserve at Rabbit Mountain. This engaging slideshow program uncovers the fascinating natural and cultural history of one of our most beloved open spaces. Expect stories, surprises, and
Libraries exist to connect people—with ideas, with one another, and with the stories that shape our shared world. As we celebrate both the freedom to read and the friends who help us thrive, we’re reminded how much stronger our library—and our town—are because of community. Your Lyons Community Library opens at 10 a.m., Monday through Saturday. Closing times are 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5 p.m. on Friday, and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Our catalog is always available at lyons.colibraries.org, and digital downloads are open 24/7 through the Libby, CloudLibrary, and Kanopy apps. Call us at 303-8235165 or email info@lyonsregionallibrary. com with any questions. For more events, details, and registration, please visit our website’s calendar. 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.
B •R •I •E •F •S Briefs Continued from Page 1
involved. As the seasons shift, our programming calendar is rich with opportunities to connect, learn, and explore. On October 22 at 6:30 p.m., we invite you to Flowing Through History and Nature: Exploring Boulder County’s Watersheds. This immersive program reveals how our region’s rivers and creeks—from Boulder Creek to St. Vrain Creek—have
a new appreciation for the land right in our backyard. Finally, on November 12 at 6 p.m., we’ll screen SEED: The Untold Story in partnership with the Lyons Community Farm Project. This visually stunning documentary explores the beauty, science, and urgency of protecting the world’s seed heritage. Following the film, we’ll host an open audi-
the Wildflower Pavilion at Planet Bluegrass. Priscilla Cohan passed away in October 2023. She was a beloved Lyons artist and tireless community advocate. In celebration of her life there will be an art sale, several bands performing, small bites and a cash bar. There is an entry donation. The fundraiser aims to fully endow the Priscilla Cohan Artistic Pursuits Fund, PCAP ($25,000.) Lyons Mayor Hollie Rogin, asked the LCF to create a fund honoring her memory. The PCAP Fund will be making annual grants of $1,250 available to support artists’ creative endeavors beginning in 2026. Plan to come and celebrate our Priscilla, buy some art, enjoy wonderful music, Continue Briefs on Page 8
VOLUME 26, NUMBER 9
LYONS, COLOR ADO
PAGE 7
INSIGHT landscaping and framing crews, as a insulation installer, and God Tales of a young struggling writer onwoodcutter, knows what all else. I could easily learn do almost anything in the grunt labor trying to keep his head above water todepartment, but I utterly failed as a roofer First printed in RR on Feb. 2024 issue By John Gierach Redstone Review LYONS – Whenever someone asks me how Gierach long I’ve been a freelance writer, I dither about when to start counting from. Was it when I first got something published? When I first got paid for something I got published? When I quit my day job to make a go of being an actual professional writer or, a few years later, when I did the same thing, but that time it stuck?
I’ll go with my first paycheck, since the term “professional” implies a livelihood, and also because there’s no encouragement like a check big enough to pay the rent. So that would put the birthdate of my career about 48 years ago in 1976, although I could make a good case for putting it ten years earlier on the learning curve. When the occasional aspiring writer asks me for advice about how to get started, I say I could provide some pointers if it was still the mid-1970s, but all I can tell you now is how to hang on as an old print guy in the 21st Century with AI nipping at my heels. But what interests me now are some of the jobs I did to keep food on the table while I was living out the cliché of the struggling young writer trying to get some traction in my chosen field. Like many in my generation, my first real job was as a bus boy and dishwasher at the minimum wage at the time of $1.30 an hour. Unbelievably, that was enough back then to get by on as long as you were willing to live like a stray dog, which I was at the time. I got along well with the cook and the waitresses (we were all in the same boat) and the saving grace was that when my meal break came, I could order as much
of anything on the menu as I wanted. One day it would be a huge pile of eggs, three kinds of meat, hash browns and a stack of pancakes; the next day the same amount of meat loaf, mashed potatoes, canned vegetables and dinner rolls. Either way, I’d take a deep breath and put away as many calories as I could hold without hurting myself. I’m still nostalgic for those meals, as well as for the six-foot-tall, 180-pound kid in his 20s who could put away that much food at a single sitting. The first time I came to Colorado I fell in with two other guys who were working in a silver mine for room, board and a share of the profits. I was surprised how easy the
work was – in two months we only brought out a few truckloads of ore – and I was surprised that our share of the “profits” was so paltry, although we were promised riches as soon as we hit the vein of silver we were digging toward. Of course, it was all a scam. We were there as window dressing to make the mine look like a going concern while the owner bilked investors until he was popped for mail fraud. As soon as we smelled a rat, we all blew town with the vague sense that the law was breathing down our necks. From there I went to New York for no other reason than that most of the writers I’d ever heard of went to New York, and because there was a girl there I could stay with. I ended up working as a courier for a photo lab, running exposed film and prints back and forth on a bicycle—a job I got after a week in New York by claiming to know the city like the back of my hand. I cheated death daily in Manhattan traffic, had multiple bikes stolen, and got mugged once (Who’d mug a hippie in torn blue jeans?) The closest I ever came to the literary world was to have a few beers in the bar where Dylan Thomas drank himself to death. I went back to Colorado where I worked
because I was scared of heights. My boss was understanding. At the end of my first miserable week, he handed me my pay, plus an extra twenty dollars cash and fired me saying, “I can see you’re a good worker, but you need a job where you can stay on the ground.” In fact, I was a good worker, but all these jobs were just means to an end and I never developed more than an inkling of loyalty because it would always be one-sided. As a friend at the time said, “Loyalty just means you’ll eventually end up working without pay.” I figured all I ever owed anyone was a day’s work for a day’s pay and I once quit a perfectly good job because I wanted to go fishing in Idaho and they wouldn’t give me the week off. Most jobs involved drudgery of some kind – that’s why they had to pay you to do them - but there were occasional moments of fun that could make your day. When I worked for the Humane Society, we kennel guys were charged with determining the breeds or mixes of the dogs up for adoption. Some were obviously German shepherds, Labs or whatever, others were obvious mixes and still others were total head-scratchers: the incomprehensible products of generations of random cross-breeding. But people believed whatever we said, assuming incorrectly that we were experts, so now and then, just for a laugh, we’d invent a breed and send someone home believing that their brand-new puppy was a pure-bred Tasmanian cheese hound. It’s possible that I’ve had jobs I don’t even remember. (There’s a vague sense that I once worked at a car wash, but I can’t place it.) Other jobs have distilled down in memory to a single sensation, like crippling vertigo up on the roof or the godawful itch I associate with fiberglass insulation. My memories of some jobs are as packed with plot twists as Victorian novels, while others seem to exist as a series of vignettes, each as separate and seemingly self-contained as short films. For instance, one night while working in a convenience store in north Boulder a few blocks from the old Bus Stop Gentleman’s Club (that is, strip joint) an attractive young woman I thought I recognized, but couldn’t place came in. As she was checking out, I asked, “Do we know each other from somewhere?” She flashed me one of the prettiest grins I’d ever seen and said, “You just don’t recognize me with my clothes on.” Fade to black; roll credits.
John Gierach died on Oct. 3, 2024. He was an outdoor and fly-fishing writer who wrote books and columns for magazines including a regular column for Trout Magazine. His books include Trout Bum, Sex Death and Fly fishing, and Still Life with Brook Trout. He has won seven first place awards from the Colorado Press Association for his columns in the Redstone Review. His latest book, All the Time in the World, was released in March 2023 and is available at bookstores and fly-fishing shops in the Boulder/Denver area.
There Came the Bear `
By Sally King Redstone Review Tom Mangelsen healed his soul By standing behind a camera All day long – for years. And as I watched the video about his work I could tangibly feel his love... Especially for a mother bear, named 399. It stirred my own love for bears And I thought I’d paint one But it was deep - Let Go. I wasn’t allowed to paint with my mind. And as my chalk drawing failed I thought “well that’s that”....but As I was wiping the canvas with a sponge There came the bear, in the drips and smudges... Love made it happen, not me Not even my own love But LOVE. ```````````````````` We are testing these waters Is LOVE actually a real power we can call on? Let’s be surprised, shall we? ````````````````````` Tom Mangelsen and Jane Goodall are featured On a 60 Minutes rerun on You Tube. Powerful advocates for the animals on our planet. Inspiring to watch- love Sally Sally White King is a local artist who believes it’s imperative that each of us pop our head up out of the collective trance, 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.
PAGE 8
LYONS, COLOR ADO
OCTOBER 17, 2025 / NOVEMBER 13, 2025
VIEWPOINT Lyons Garden Club Chili Cook-Off is back By Sara Erickson Redstone Review LYONS – Get ready to spice things up at the Lyons Garden Club Chili Cook-Off where bold flavors, friendly competition, and fun town events come together for a sizzling good time. Saturday, October 25 is a festive day in Lyons. In addition to the cook-off, The Friends of the Lyons Library is holding their annual book sale on October 24 and 25. Then of course there’s the fabulous Spooktacular Parade. Indulge your literary, parade-loving and culinary sides all in one day! Do you have a chili recipe packed with flavor and spice in every bite? Enter it in the Cook-Off and win a great prize. We will award a $50 gift card from a local restaurant to the winners in the red, green and vegetarian categories. Bring your chili between 3 p.m. - 3:45 Beth Smith making the rounds p.m. in a labeled crockwith chili samples. G. BHAN PHOTOG- pot (on back), labeled RAPHY ladle, and complete the ingredients card. All cook-off details can be found on the LGC website www. lyonsgardenclub.com. We encourage preregistration as it helps ensure that we have all the supplies needed for the event. We have had 25–30 entries in previous years. You may also register in person on October 25 starting at 3 p.m. The more entries, the more chili, the more fun! Judging will begin at 4 p.m. sharp. Don’t be late. Late entries will not be judged, but will be available for sale. Chili sales start at 4:30 p.m. Tastes are available for $1
each, $5 for 5 tastes, or purchase a bowl for $5. Participants often purchase several tastes and then settle in on a bowl of their favorite. Beverages will be available for purchase at Mainstage. Many thanks to Mainstage for their support of this event. The cook-off will end at 7 p.m. or until we run
B •R •I •E •F •S Briefs Continued from Page 6 and unbeatable Lyons camaraderie. Neighbors 4 democracy rally
LYONS – No Kings national call to action day, October 18. Lyons Freedom Triangle, 3rd Ave and Main St. 12 p.m.–2 p.m. Music Fest following in Sandstone Park from 2 p.m.–5 p.m. Featuring 3 local bands and a food truck. Peaceful celebration of our love of country and support for a healthy Democracy. Weekly rallies are usually on
Saturday from 12 p.m.–1p.m. For more information go to the website at www.lyonsneighbors4democracy.org. Lyons Fire District limb drop-off & chipping
Sandy Spellman and Sharon Lynn, serving up chili. G. BHAN PHOTOGRAPHY
out of chili. Which happens. All proceeds from the chili cook-off will go towards LGC projects and our scholarship fund. We are proud of our scholarship program and we have awarded three scholarships to deserving Lyons high school seniors who plan to pursue studies in areas related to plant/agriculture/ecology. We are grateful for all chili donations for this annual fundraising event. Please contact Sue Wratten at steveandsuew@gmail.com or Sara Erickson at sarae403@gmail.com for more information. Messages can also be sent through our website. Check out our website to see our projects and events.
LYONS – On Saturday, October 18th from 8 a.m.–12 p.m. members of the Lyons Fire Protection District will be hosting a limb drop-off at the Town of Lyons Public Works Facility, located at 4687 Ute Highway. This is a great opportunity to take advantage of removing any dead limbs from your property and bring them to the drop-off, where they will be chipped into mulch. Lyons Fire Protection District, the Town and Boulder County Wildfire Partners are teaming up to offer this free community event. Please register in advance using the special event code 417. For registration and information visit www.townoflyons.com/wildfirechipping. Senior exercise group
LYONS – Need to move your bones? Join the senior exercise group. If you want variety, this class has it all. We work on fitness, coordination and balance, and there’s lots of socializing too.
Sara Erickson is a member of the Lyons Garden Club.
Continue Briefs on Page 14
Turning over a new LEAF with a brand-new executive director By Daryl McCool Redstone Review LYONS – Lyons Elevating All Fund (LEAF) is beginning an exciting new chapter with the arrival of its Executive Director, McCool Jocelyn Farrell. Known for lifting up neighbors through programs that nourish, connect, and support the Lyons community, LEAF is eager to grow its impact under Farrell’s leadership. Reflecting on her first weeks with LEAF, she said, “I’m just so inspired by the incredible energy, heart, and hard work that everyone brings to LEAF. The compassion and dedication of our volunteers truly capture the spirit of Lyons—resilient, caring, and always ready to lift one another up. It’s pure joy to be part of such a dynamic organization that does so much good for our community. I feel deeply honored to be a part of it.” Volunteers and community leaders share that excitement as well. “I can speak to Farrell’s integrity and her genuine willingness to listen and collaborate. While serving with her on the Board of Trustees, I was always impressed by how thoughtfully she approached every discussion, listening to all sides before offering a measured response. One thing I truly admired was her curiosity. She often began with, ‘I wonder…,’
which set the tone for open and productive conversations,” said Tanya Mercer-Daty, Lyons Town Board Trustee. Daty went on to say, “I trust Jocelyn will continue to bring that same curiosity, collaboration, and c o mp a s s i o n to her work in human services. She is, quite simply, one of the best people LEAF’s new Executive I know. You Director, Jocelyn Farrell only have to meet her children to see the values she lives by every day. LEAF is incredibly fortunate to have her as Executive Director. Lyons is lucky to have her as a community member. And I am lucky to call her a friend.” The LEAF Board is equally optimistic. “We are thrilled to welcome Jocelyn as the new Executive Director of LEAF. From the moment we met her, it was clear that her enthusiasm, collaborative spirit, and deep commitment to community align beautifully with LEAF’s mission. Jocelyn brings both strategic insight and a compassionate
approach to leadership, which will help us strengthen programs, deepen partnerships, and ensure that every neighbor in the Greater Lyons area has access to the resources they need. We look forward to working with her as she guides LEAF into its next chapter with vision, purpose, and heart,” said Kim Hinzy, LEAF’s Chair of the Board of Directors. Over the coming months, Farrell plans to spend time connecting with clients, volunteers, staff, and community partners. The goal is to listen, learn, and strengthen relationships that make LEAF such a trusted presence in Lyons. “I believe the best ideas come from listening to the community,” said Farrell. “LEAF exists to elevate all of us, and together, we’ll continue making Lyons a place where everyone can thrive.” The community is invited to a Welcome Reception for Jocelyn Farrell, October 16 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at LEAF. Ways to get involved with LEAF Lyons Elevating All Fund (LEAF) thrives because of community members like you. Here are a few simple ways to connect: • Volunteer – Join our team of neighbors lending a hand at programs and events. • Donate – Every contribution helps elevate support for individuals and families in Lyons. • Spread the word – Share LEAF’s mis-
sion with friends and neighbors so more people know where to turn for support. • Stay connected – Follow LEAF on social media for updates and opportunities. We truly are better together. Daryl McCool joined LEAF in 2024 and serves as Outreach Coordinator. She supports programming, events, social media communications, website, and outreach activities in our community.
VOLUME 26, NUMBER 9
LYONS, COLOR ADO
PAGE 9
SHOWCASE Better health is central to human happiness and well-being By Bronwyn Muldoon Redstone Review Introduction to a new series LYONS – The human body is a complex structure of interconnected systems and vital organs. When all the systems work together, not only do our bodies function Muldoon efficiently, but we also experience overall good health and wellness. Because the systems overlap, when a system fails, no matter how small, it could make us susceptible to other diseases and conditions decreasing our quality of life. Our eyes are parts of our bodies which can
directly affect our overall health and wellness but also can help us detect systemic health issues early. In the upcoming months, several healthcare practitioners who live and work in Lyons will be contributing articles to discuss current health issues/trends to help us. The Lyons community is very fortunate to have a strong foundation of healthcare providers who want to share their insights and professional expertise and guide our community towards good health and disease prevention. Dr. Liz Erley is an Optometrist and Eye Specialist at Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado in Longmont. When people think about their health, our eyes are easy to overlook. The eyes are more than windows to the soul; they are an indicator of our overall health. Good vision is an integral part of healthy living and has a direct impact on our ability to read, write, communicate with others, drive, and numerous daily activities. Several medical conditions like hypertension, high cholesterol and diabetes, manifest their first symptoms through the eyes. Below Dr. Erley discusses Dry Eye Disease.
Full circle – a celebration of fall
By Annie Muldrew-Pancoast
Dry Eye Disease By Liz Erley Redstone Review LONGMONT – Dry, gritty, burning, tired eyes—these are more than just everyday annoyances. They are symptoms of dry eye disease, one of the most common and often underdiagnosed conditions seen in Erley eye care today. It affects millions of Americans, and its prevalence is increasing as we spend more time on digital devices, live longer, and take medications that reduce tear production. Simply put, dry eye occurs when your eyes do not produce enough tears or when the quality of your tears is poor. Tears are not just water; they are a delicate mixture of oils, mucus, and protective proteins. When this balance is disrupted, the eye surface becomes irritated and inflamed, leading to blurred vision, discomfort, and in severe cases, damage to the cornea. Anyone can develop dry eye, but it is especially common in women over 40, contact lens wearers, and people with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or thyroid disorders. Lifestyle plays a role, too. Prolonged screen use decreases blink rates, and Colorado’s dry, windy climate is particularly harsh on the tear film. While many think of dry eye as a minor nuisance, untreated disease can reduce quality of life, interfere with reading
and driving, and even compromise surgical outcomes such as LASIK or cataract surgery. Studies also show that chronic eye discomfort contributes to fatigue, irritability, and reduced work productivity. The good news is that dry eye can be managed effectively. Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause, which is why a comprehensive eye exam is so important. Options range from prescription eye drops and in-office therapies that improve oil gland function to advanced biologic treatments such as serum tears and platelet-rich plasma eye drops. Lifestyle adjustments—like using humidifiers, staying hydrated, and practicing the “20-20-20” rule for screen breaks—can also make a big difference. If you are experiencing persistent eye irritation, burning, or blurred vision that improves with blinking, don’t ignore it. Early intervention can prevent progression and restore comfort. As a dry eye specialist, I encourage anyone with symptoms to schedule an evaluation. With today’s diagnostic tools and therapies, relief is possible, and your eyes deserve it. Liz Erley has lived in Lyons for 28 years and is an Optometrist and Eye Specialist at Eye Care Center of Northern Colorado in Longmont.
Quakies quiver, rustling, anxious to take flight, to be free to soar in the brilliant blue sky and filtered fall sunlight. Little do these golden discs know that freedom, joyous and fleeting, spells the end of the fluttering freely, the being safely anchored to a gnarled aspen branch. Instead, deliriously dancing, whirling, wheeling, spinning cartwheels in the breeze, life begins to seep out into the musty decayed perfume that only autumn can produce. Drifting down to the leaf-covered ground, the long wait begins, baking warmly in the tree-dappled sun, nestled snugly with fellow golden orbs, adding to the earthy smell, creating compost to enrich the soil for next year’s freedom-seeking siblings.
Taking a drive along the Peak to Peak Highway to view the glorious colors of fall “There is something incredibly nostalgic and significant about the annual cascade of autumn leaves.” —Joe. L. Wheeler By Annie Muldrew-Pancoast Redstone Review RIVERSIDE – Growing up in Massachusetts, my childhood was filled with wonder, especially in the fall when beautiful maple and oak trees displayed their myriad colors. My family and I would drive tree-lined back-country roads seeking pumpkin and apple cider stands. Scampering through piled-up leaves that crunched under our feet, my younger sister and I would hunt for the prettiest leaves to press between waxed paper for scrapbooks. Now enjoying my 58th Colorado autumn, I still chase favorite stands of trees. I never tire of reveling in this yearly wonder as the fall air signals the change in seasons. Yellow-foliage trees like our Quaking Aspens (Populous tremuloides) are deciduous trees, meaning “falling off at maturity.” In the fall, life-giving chlorophyll, changing temperatures, and shortening days allow those brilliant shades of color— yellows, reds, oranges,
even purples—to dazzle our autumns. All these glorious colors are due to the magical mixing of varying amounts of the chlorophyll residue and other pigments in the leaves during the fall season. But it is always inevitable, always bittersweet, when fierce rains and winds—or even some snow—arrive to wreak havoc on the tender connection the leaves have with their trees. As the weather turns, trees
start building a protective seal between the leaves and their branches which take in as many nutrients as possible from the leaves. If those leaves remained, they wouldn’t survive the winter and would make the trees vulnerable to damage. So, when the time is right, the leaves are cut off from the fluid in the branches and separate to flutter in the breeze and drop to the ground. This year, the annual “leaf-peeper” hunt was full-on judging by the traffic going through Lyons toward Estes and up the canyon road I take to get home to Riverside. On a recent day of errands in Longmont, I stopped on my way home to recycle in Lyons, oohing and aahing at the arch of redleafed trees along 2nd Avenue. As I headed up Highway 7, the lower portion was decked out in brilliant purple-reds and yellows. The closer I got to home, the glow of aspens intensified in brilliance. It was enough to take my breath away. One recent fall morning on my yearly pilgrimage with my camera and mug of tea, I ventured up Riverside Drive through the glowing aspens at the top and took a left onto the Peak-to-Peak Highway. The experts aptly named it a Scenic Byway, all 55 miles of
it, from Estes Park to Blackhawk. Originally built in 1918 as Colorado’s oldest scenic highway, it encompasses Gilpin, Boulder, and Larimer counties and allows for stunning views of the Front Range mountains of our Colorado Rockies. On this trek, I wound my way past brilliant stands of yellow-orange-red aspens from Peaceful Valley all the way past Ward to the long stretch before the Sugarloaf Road turnoff. As I looked west toward the Indian Peaks, like generations before me, my favorite valley of gorgeous aspens and evergreens, incredible in their brilliance against that blue-blue Colorado sky, warmed my heart. Lucky for us all, these sights are in our own back yard to enjoy. This uplifting yearly gift from Mother Nature makes for a smile of satisfaction that we can still count on the regularity and normalcy of the change in seasons. Like so many of us, especially during these dark days in our country, I feel so fortunate to be living in our part of Colorado and celebrating another full circle of colorful leaves. Annie Muldrew-Pancoast is a long-time resident of Riverside, Colorado
PAGE 10
LYONS, COLOR ADO
OCTOBER 17, 2025 / NOVEMBER 13, 2025
WHAT’S COOKIN’ 6–7 corn tortillas. Line a pie dish for ten minutes before slicing. Garnish with Southwestern Tart soften with them, one in the center, then overlapchopped cilantro. ping others around the edge. By Barbara Shark Redstone Review LYONS – On a beautiful fall day we ventured to the mountains for a golden hike in the highShark country aspens at the Caribou open space trails near Nederland. After hiking we had lunch at a local bakery, New Moon. We ate a Southwestern Quiche made with a corn tortilla crust. I had to try this in my kitchen. Here’s my version. Southwestern Tart For the crust: Lightly oil a comal or heavy skillet and
Roast 2–4 poblanos or other chiles like Anaheims. Peel, deseed, and cut into oneinch pieces. Sauté a medium sized onion, chopped, in a tablespoon olive oil or butter until softened and translucent. Add a ½ teaspoon salt. Make the custard mixture: In a measuring cup combine three large eggs and enough milk or half and half to make 1 ½ cups. Beat in a bowl until well combined and lightened. Add half a cup of grated Monterey Jack, cheddar or gruyere. (3–4 ounces.) Spread the onions and chiles in the tortilla shell. Pour over the egg/cheese/milk mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes or until the center is just barely jiggly. Cool
Lady M’s Green Tomato Chutney By Catherine Metzger Redstone Review SAN MIGUEL COUNTY – Summer has gracefully transitioned into fall, with plenty of rain, no deep freeze so far, and the tomatoes in my garden, although no longer ripening, are abundant. And what’s more, the local apples are ripe. I know of only one recipe that can transform these plentiful harvests into something extraordinary: Lady M’s Green Tomato Chutney. This delightful chutney, once tasted, will undoubtedly become a staple on your dinner table. My first encounter with this chutney was in 1979 at Finlaystone Estate. I remember vividly how it elevated every forkful of roasted pork, beef, lamb, cottage pie, or even a slice of cheese. Its sweet, sour, tangy, earthy, and lightly spiced flavor is simply unforgettable. Then, at the end of that summer, Lady M and her daughter Judy graciously showed me the secret to making this traditional, UK-style chutney. Here I report it to you as faithfully as I can, using the correct amount of vinegar 1 part vinegar to 4–5 parts fruit (apples and tomatoes), for safe preservation and good flavor balance.
I worked at Finlaystone Estate, in Renfrewshire, Scotland when it was a private home, before it opened to the public. This chutney recipe, crafted by Lady M herself, was a cherished oral recipe in the 1970s at Finlaystone, and I, and the bevy of cooks that both preceded and then followed me, learned it in those ancient kitchens. Although there are numerous green tomato chutney recipes, none I’ve tasted so far rivals this one. Its perfect blend of pungent, zesty, and sweet aromas filled the Finlaystone kitchen—and now my kitchen in Colorado—as it simmered on the old coal-burning Esse stove. But a word of advice: be sure to open the kitchen win-
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
dows to let out some of that intense aroma. John discovered this delightful chutney just this week and is already wondering how we ever lived without it. I highly recommend you give it a try; it’s a culinary experience you won’t soon forget. Lady M’s Green Tomato Chutney Ingredients 8 lbs/3.6kg green tomatoes 6.25lbs./ 2.8kg apples, pared and chopped 2.5 cups/375g chopped onion 2.5 cups/375g raisins 4 lbs./ 64 ounces/1.8kg brown sugar (I used 3.75lbs. of granulated sugar and added ¼ cup/60ml molasses to get the brown sugar flavor.) 5 cups/1.25 liters vinegar 3 tablespoons salt ¼ cup/60g fresh grated ginger, plus a hunk of fresh ginger tied up in a cheesecloth while cooking 4 cinnamon sticks 5 tablespoons/55g mustard seeds 12 fresh garlic cloves, minced Instructions 1. In a very large, non-reactive pot or Dutch oven, combine all the ingredients. Place the ginger tied into the cheesecloth into the pot as well.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. 3. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the chutney has thickened, about 1.5 to 3 hours. Your green tomato chutney is done when it reaches a thick, jam-like consistency, the color of the mixture turns a glossy brown, and a wooden spoon drawn across the bottom of the pan leaves a visible trail that only slowly fills in with liquid. Continue Green Tomato on Page 14
VOLUME 26, NUMBER 9
LYONS, COLOR ADO
PAGE 11
VOICES ARE HEARD that it is not our job to fix or heal anyelse. Our job is to be human together Embracing the expression of emotions can save lives isone with another human, hear their love, their By Janaki Jane Redstone Review LYONS – Over the last couple of years, I have had some interesting and sometimes painful conversations with people about whether or not suicide is preventable. Because much of my work and time in the last 13 years has been in so-called “suicide prevention,” I feel grief for the people whose loved ones have unexpectedly ended their lives and who feel betrayed by the idea that something they had no idea was in any way a possibility could have been prevented. But I also know that I, myself, have helped to prevent people from dying by suicide. How to reconcile this, and if suicide is preventable, how? The answer is simple, but, oh, so difficult. It is difficult because it involves breaking a deep and for many, unconscious, taboo in our culture. This taboo is around talking about how we are feeling, especially if those feelings are “negative” or “uncomfortable,” but the expression of any strong emotion, even joy or happiness, is often proscribed. This taboo is so strong that happily married couples are often afraid to share their real feelings with each other, and parents are afraid to let their children feel and express strong emotions. The emotions I am using are from the Atlas of Emotions, by Drs. Eva and Paul Ekman, who created the atlas at the request of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. If you are interested in diving deeper, the atlas is free online at https://www.paulekman.com/ projects/atlas-of-emotions/. We are told to “let it go” (Elsa), to “shake it off,” (thanks, Taylor), to “get over it.” We feel embarrassed and uncomfortable when someone expresses strong emotion. We do not know how to respond, so our response is to ignore or distract ourselves and anyone else who is present. This is what leads to suicide (and many other painful things, but today I am talking about suicide)—the denial of feelings. The denial of feelings in ourselves, the family’s denial of feelings in the child, the culture’s
denial of feelings, but especially “negative feelings” in everyone. We are culturally brainwashed from birth to avoid and deny our strong feelings.
First, we have to recognize that allowing ourselves and others to feel our painful feelings is not wallowing. It may be uncomfortable, awkward, or painful, both for us and those around us. But the only way around is through, as they say. Denying and pushing down our emotions, no matter how, only makes them fester. Just like any infection, what heals is light and air. Breaking the taboo of talking about how we are feeling is easier for some than others. I have not infrequently gotten the sarcastic “Tell us how you really feel” comment from people who are uncomfortable that I express my feelings, not just in my words, but in my tone of voice and body language. I do not enjoy people putting me down for expressing myself, but I believe so strongly in the need for everyone to do so that I keep doing it. The website “Longevity Protocols” summarizes the research this way: “Chronic emotional suppression is the habitual
restraint from expressing and experiencing emotions, both negative and positive. This emotion regulation strategy, especially common in Western cultures, is strongly
linked to poorer mental health and social relationships, as well as increased risk of somatic diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases.” What our emotions need is to be expressed, and to be heard, and to be acknowledged. We all need to erase “Don’t feel that way.” from our brains and vocabularies. Instead, we need to learn how to say: “Wow, I hear a lot of emotion there. Tell me more.” TELL. ME. MORE. That’s what people need to hear, not “Don’t say that.” If you have learned how to reflect back and feel able, that is an excellent way to encourage others to speak about how they are feeling. When people feel heard and “seen,” the pain often abates, just a bit. This way of being with another person is not difficult, but it can feel hard, especially as we have been trained to do the opposite. Like anything, it gets easier with practice. The important thing to remember
pain, their joy, their fear, their enthusiasm, their rage, all their feelings, and follow Pema Chödrön’s advice and “keep our seat,” which, simply translated, means to stay present and not get distracted by our own feelings or thoughts. Pema Chödrön is an American born Tibetan Buddhist nun, who has workshops and has written several books from her monastery in Nova Scotia. Remember that if you or another person feels desperate, there is always 988. Vets can press 1 to talk to a trained veteran. If you would like to learn how to identify and support people who are struggling, Lyons Elevates All Fund (LEAF) offers courses in suicide prevention a few times a year. If you need/want to find a therapist, reach out to Boulder County WellMind Connection at 303-441-1300, Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m. or email them at WellMind@bouldercounty.gov. LEAF has a wide range of mental health and emotional support programs, with something for everyone. Janaki Jane writes on issues of society and mental health. She is co-director of BolderMind Talks and Tabletops: removing the barriers that keep too many from getting help, with funding from Boulder County and ARPA. She lives with her husband, off the grid in the foothills with the moose and birds for company.
Bets Burton’s dog Blueberry takes relaxation to new depths—paws crossed underwater!
PAGE 12
XX
LYONS, COLOR ADO
DATE / DATE
VOLUME 26, NUMBER 9
LYONS, COLOR ADO
PAGE 13
CHOICES A “striking” problem: Window collisions and the survival of the Red Crossbill By Cindy Leikam Redstone Review
conifer trees provide a protected nest for broods of 3–4 nestlings. Both parents forage for seeds from the cones, using their specially adapted bill to dig into the crevices to get and crack the tough seeds. Males display showy red feathers, but females have a more neutral, yellow hue. Size matters for these birds.
are known to travel in an irregular pattern, sometimes far from their usual range in search of forage, so it is not unusual to find them in the suburbs of the front range. Young, inexperienced birds are often most likely to hit windows while moving through unfamiliar territory in search of food. Window strikes make up a large number
through. Decals are inexpensive and can be found at the local Wild Birds Unlimited store or online. There are many different LYONS – This time of year, most bird spetypes available from many different brands, cies begin moving from their summer habbut the most important things to consider itat to their wintering grounds in warmer are covering the entire window with the climates. But not all bird species leave the pattern, and placing decals about two inchColorado Front Range when the seasons es apart. change. Aside from exterior decals, other There’s a handful of hardy birds that methods to help reduce bird strikes stay all year, including the Red Crossinclude hanging strands of beads on bill, that call the cold conifer forests of the outside of windows or installing the Rocky Mountains home. Although screens on the outside of windows. crossbills are not a rare bird, they are If all this sounds like just too much not a regular patient at Greenwood. work, simply stop cleaning the outside However, last month we admitted two of your windows. The dirt and dust female Red Crossbills on the same will build up over time and act as a day! Both were found stunned on the film that the birds can see. ground after flying into windows at Most importantly, always be pretwo different homes in the Boulder pared for a window strike or other County foothills. wildlife emergency. It can happen Fortunately for both birds, they were when least expected, but having a found and brought to the center for few simple items nearby can help an care. One was suffering from neuroanimal in need. Keep a small box logical issues, and the other from an with airholes or pet carrier handy injured wing. Both are pretty typical at home or in the car. Stash a blaninjuries found in birds after window ket, gloves, hand sanitizer, and towel strikes. Fortunately, the wing was not inside the box or carrier. Don’t forbroken, and the neurological trauma get to save the number of the nearest Built for the pines: the Red Crossbill’s crisscrossed beak is made for one thing — cracking open pinewas treatable and subsided over time. licensed wildlife rehabilitator, Greencones for the seeds within. Both birds quickly graduated from wood (303-823-8455) in your phone. their cozy bins in the Bird Intensive Always call first before acting. Check Care Unit to a larger enclosure to begin to Larger crossbill species are more adapted of our bird intakes each year. They can out our website greenwoodwildlife.org for retrain their flight muscles to prepare for to forage the seeds from larger cones while occur at any time of the year, but especially advice after hours. their release. the smaller varieties eat the seeds of small during peak migrations. Window collisions We expect our pair of Red Crossbills to There are eight separate species of cross- cones. Petite Red Crossbills are perfectly happen when birds see the sky and trees make a full recovery and soon will rejoin bills, although some are only identifiable by suited for the small cones of native Doug- reflected in the glass and try to fly into it. their flock in their natural home in the their slightly varied songs. Red Crossbills las Firs, Colorado Blue Spruces, Lodgepole Simple steps can reduce window strikes. expansive conifer forests of the Rocky are social birds and are found in small to and Ponderosa Pines. One of the most effective strategies is Mountains. medium-sized flocks year-round, even in Crossbills are not migratory, but they are installing UV reflective decals on window the mating season when birds have paired nomadic and move around in response to exteriors that break up the reflection so Cindy Leikam is the Communications & up. After selecting a nesting site, the male changes in food supplies. This behavior is birds can “see” the glass as a solid, flat Fundraising Assistant for Greenwood Wildlife remains nearby to help incubate the eggs described as “irruption” periods. Flocks surface. But from the inside, they are see- Rehabilitation Center. and feed the chicks. The high branches of local donors whose extraordinary generLCF sets new record for grants and raises $121,000 the osity is the true engine of this work. Every gift strengthens the safety net and By Ella Levy, Rachel Pickarski & Grace Simonsen Redstone Review LYONS — The true measure of a community’s strength is not just in what it survives, but in how it chooses to invest in its future. This year, the Lyons Community Foundation (LCF) is proud to announce an inspiring and historic testament to local generosity: $121,000 in grants for the 2025 cycle. This record-breaking investment, fueled entirely by the compassion of neighbors like you, will bolster the well-being and resilience of the greater Lyons area. Answering the call
The need in Lyons is growing, but so is our resolve. This year, the LCF Grants Committee was profoundly moved by the volume of requests, receiving over 40 applications—including six from first-time applicants—seeking over $211,000. Your giving met that challenge head-on. The $121,000 total is a substantial leap from the $83,000 awarded last year, demonstrating a fierce commitment to our shared future. These funds will be immediately put to work strengthening these core areas: Human Services, Youth Investment, Community Connectivity, and Ecology. A crucial focus on mental wellness In a vital new partnership this year, the Town of Lyons directed funds from local marijuana sales to be specifically earmarked for mental health and wellness. LCF proudly oversaw the distribution of these grants.
The need proved overwhelming. In total, $38,400 was awarded to recipients focused on projects supporting mental health and wellness. Notably, LCF supplemented the Town’s contribution from the general grants pool to ensure these critical services could move forward without delay. Our partners in progress This historic funding will directly support a wide range of organizations, helping young people learn, supporting neighbors in need, keeping the arts vibrant, and protecting our precious natural spaces. The 2025 grant recipients include: Lyons Booster Club, Lyons Fire Fund, Lyons Arts and Humanities Commission, Lyons Community Church, Lyons Community Farm Project, Lyons Creative District, Lyons Valley Preschool, Lyons Elementary School, Lyons Middle Senior High School, Greenwood Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, Lyons Elevating All Fund (LEAF), Lyons Historical Society/Lyons Redstone, Lyons Pride, Priscilla Cohan Artistic Pursuits Fund, Simply Bee Conservation, St. Vrain Schools Education, Team Colorado Whitewater Racing, Lyons Backer Football Club LTD, and the Town of Lyons. Fueling the Future LCF extends its deepest gratitude to the Town of Lyons for its partnership and to
civic life of Lyons. LCF’s ability to respond
to growing community needs depends on year-round giving. Please consider joining this movement. How you can help LCF’s ability to respond to growing community needs depends on year-round giving. If you’d like to support the next grant cycle—or target a gift to areas like mental health, youth, ecology, or community events—please consider making a donation and inviting a friend or neighbor to do the same. Every gift, at every level, strengthens Lyons’ safety net and civic life. For more information on Lyons Community Foundation grants and ways to give, visit lyonscf.org. Ella Levy is the LCF Grants Chair; Rachel Pickarski & Grace Simonsen are LCF Consultants.
PAGE 14
LYONS, COLOR ADO
HHSC Continued from Page 2
Wolverines Continued from Page 4
Lyons area residents to join the five present commissioners. The HHSC is an advisory to the Board of Trustees in housing and human services concerns. Our functions are broad and flexible. We receive updates from service providers like Boulder County Area Agency on Aging, LEAF, Town of Lyons and Board of Trustees and share that information with the community; we monitor housing needs and opportunities and work in partnership to address them; we respond to individuals who have questions and concerns regarding housing and human services. We meet the second Monday of the month from 4:30 p.m–6 p.m. at Lyons Regional Library. If you care about your neighbors, have ideas, or simply enjoy good conversation and community problem-solving, we’d love to have you at the table. Cookies, compassion, and community—all in one meeting.
In fact, their Latin species name is gulo gulo, which comes from the Latin word for glutton. There seems to be a rethink on whether they really are gluttons, but this trait is reflected in their names in Norwegian and German. The rumor seems to have been widespread. But if you’ve been toughing it out all alone at the top of some snowy peak and you find an old carcass, it would seem sensible to take advantage of the smorgasbord of frozen bones. Personally, I’d prefer a cheese sandwich but everyone to their own preference. 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.
OCTOBER 17, 2025 / NOVEMBER 13, 2025
Travels with Redstone Amy Rullkoetter recently In July, Karen Kavnar and her sons, Charlie and Beau Chilson, traveled to the Amazon in Brazil. Using an old-fashioned system of ropes, pulleys, and harnesses, they hoisted themselves—and the Redstone Review!—165 feet into the air to explore the remarkable rainforest canopy. Take the Redstone with you on your next trip and send us your photos showing where the Redstone has traveled. Send your photos to redstarnews5@ gmail.com. Travels with Redstone Amy Rullkoetter recently returned from two unforgettable weeks in China’s Sichuan Province, where she rode horses with Tibetan nomads and camped across the mountains and steppe—reaching elevations of up to 15,000 feet. Along the way, she visited Maiwa Monastery in Hongyuan, home to the highest stupa in the world.
Kay Sparks is the chair of the Housing and Human Services Commission.
Dr. Harker Continued from Page 5 Budget Continued from Page 3 have been a part of a new IGA. While I understand the county’s reasoning for this change, I believe it weakened the benefits we’d receive from having one. Next, part of the benefit from having a Land Use IGA is having some predictability regarding whether, where, and how the town will grow. We heard loudly and clearly that residents would like to have much more direct say in that issue, and so the “5-acre rule” was amended via Ordinance and during the last election to provide for that. Given that our residents now have much more control over any non-infill growth, particularly on the western boundary of town, a Land Use IGA that doesn’t provide additional benefits to our residents and could constrain what the whole community would like to see in the future seems unwise. I’d like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved in this long and arduous process. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I’d like to thank everyone who continues to step up to help our mountain neighbors in Nederland after their devastating fire. When people ask me if Lyons has a sister city, I like to say we unofficially have two: Ned and Jamestown. I know we’re keeping Ned’s business owners, workers, and residents in our thoughts and hearts as they begin the long process of recovery and rebuilding their beloved shopping center. Let’s keep sending Lyons love and grit their way. Hollie Rogin was sworn in as Mayor of Lyons on April 18, 2022. Before that she was elected to serve on the Board of Trustees for the term of 2020 – 2022. In 2015, Hollie created the foundation for what is now the City of Boulder’s Commercial Affordability program on a pro bono basis. While serving as a Trustee, she was the Board liaison to the Economic Vitality Commission and the Historic Preservation Commission.
Briefs Continued from Page 8 One day each week we’ll do some exercises involving hand weights and bands, along with some low impact aerobics and coordination exercises. Chairs will be available for those who prefer to sit and exercise. Walkers are encouraged to go at their own pace. All exercises can be modified to accommodate any fitness level. Both classes will end with some balance exercises and gentle stretching. Bring a water bottle and you may bring your own hand weights and yoga mat if you prefer. This class is taught by Lisa Ramsey. The class is for ages 55 and up on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.; no class Oct 14 and 21 at the Walt Self basement, 235 Railroad Ave, entrance at back of building. The class is free for seniors only. For more information, contact Lisa Ramsey at lramsey@ townoflyons.com or 303-823-6622 x30. Regional race
LYONS – There will be a regional cross-country event on October 23 and October 25 at the Lyons Middle Senior High School at 100 McConnell Drive, Continue Briefs
Bacterial Pneumonia (pneumococcal) One time series (4 doses) under age 5 and a single dose after age 50. Additionally individualized protocols exist for those aged 5 to 49 at increased risk including immune compromise, heart or lung disease, alcoholism, smoking, renal disease, diabetes, sickle cell disease, cochlear implants. Complicating matters at the worst possible time—respiratory infection season— there have been major shakeups at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and conflicting recommendations have emerged, particularly for the COVID vaccines. The FDA has fully approved the COVID booster only for adults over 65 and those with risk factors. Use for others is considered “off label” use. This “off label” designation means that some insurance plans won’t cover the vaccine for lower risk people, and coverage requirements are different in each state. To complicate things, the CDC advisory committee (ACIP) just this week has tepidly recommended the vaccine for everyone over 6 months, but with a weaker recommendation of “shared decision making” for those at lower risk, and only after consultation with a clinician (a doctor, pharmacist, or nurse depending on various state regulations). The full “routine” recommendation that people SHOULD take the vaccine is reserved for those over 65 and those with major risk factors. Discrepant recommendations from the FDA and the CDC, disagreement from the major medical societies, along with different insurance policies and state mandates have led to a lot of confusion and mistrust. So, what’s a reasonable person to do? In my opinion, if you are at increased risk of respiratory infections, you should consider getting each of these vaccines as described above. If you are worried about respiratory infections and want the maximum protection for you and those around you, you should get the vaccines you qualify for. If you have loved ones that are at high risk, and that you are in close contact frequently, you should get all of the respiratory vaccines you qualify for. If you are strongly opposed to getting vaccines, you certainly don’t have to and there are no mandates, but you may be at increased risk of these infections for yourself and those around you. Whether vaccinated or not, consider taking extra precautions around those at high risk, such as avoiding close contact when you are ill or have been exposed to someone who is ill. Be vigilant and seek medical care when an upper respiratory infection that seems like a nuisance takes a turn for the worse, especially if you are at increased risk. If you take nothing else away from this note, love each other and watch over your neighbors, your friends, and those you think are a little weird or have crazy politics. Doctor’s orders. These are hard times. Let’s get through it together. Stay well. Dr. Eric Harker MD MPH, Internal Medicine, recently opened up his medical practice called Human Touch Health. He is a doctor of Internal Medicine.
Green Tomato Continued from Page 10 Be patient when cooking your green tomato chutney: this process can take anywhere from an hour to three hours or more, (depending on the amount of water in your fruit) and requires you to stir frequently to prevent scorching on the bottom of the pan as it thickens. 4. Remove the pot from the heat and discard the cinnamon sticks. 5. Ladle the hot chutney into sterilized jars, leaving a ¼-inch of headspace. 6. Check hot-water-bath process times based on your elevation and always follow tested guidelines from reliable sources like the National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP).
Briefs Continued Lyons. For more information call 303823-6631. Library book sale
LYONS – The Friends of the Lyons Regional Library, located at 451 4th Ave, are hosting their community book sale on Friday and Saturday, October 24 and 25. For more information call, 303-823-5165. Annual budget
LYONS – Staff has begun work on the 2026 Annual Budget. Additional budget meetings with the Lyons Board of Trustees are scheduled for 3 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, October 22 and October 23 at the town hall at 432 5th Ave, Lyons. The budget meetings are open to the public. Plans to underground some utility lines
LYONS – The Town of Lyons plans to underground the overhead utilities and replace the existing waterline along Ewald Avenue from Prospect Street to Meily Street. The project is scheduled to begin later this fall. Electric auto charging station
LYONS – Installation is underway for a Level 3 fast-charging electric vehicle station in the southeast corner of Sandstone Park. This project is funded through a federal grant. Replacing sidewalk ramps
LYONS – CDOT will be upgrading and replacing sidewalk ramps along Main St (US-36) to meet ADA standards. Work is expected to begin in early to mid- October and continue through December. Safe Routes to schools
Since cooking for room and board at a Scottish estate in 1978, then as a French cuisine journeyman at the celebrated Henri d’Afrique restaurant in Alexandria, Virginia, Catherine Ripley Metzger has been honing her culinary skills. Today, as proprietor of the blog, www. FoodForTheAges.com, she sources locally, gardens intentionally and cooks with curiosity from the ground up in her log cabin home on Colorado’s Western Slope. For more practical, how-to recipes, go to www.foodfortheages.com.
LYONS – The Town of Lyons has acquired Federal grant funding through Safe Routes to School (SRTS) for design and construction of sidewalks on the east side of the elementary school. The grant will provide funding for sidewalks from Stickney to Main Street along 3rd Ave, as well as some portions of Stickney north of the elementary school. The design and construction will include sidewalk, curb and gutter, signing and striping, and necessary drainage improvements. The design is currently out for bid.
VOLUME 26, NUMBER 9
XX
LYONS, COLOR ADO
PAGE 15