This Week: 5-7 ~ GOVERNMENT 9 ~ SPORTS 13-15 ~ OPINION 16 ~ SOL DEL VALLE 17 ~ WORKS IN PROGRESS Your nonprofit
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Volume 18, Number 36 | October 15-21, 2026
Nuche blessings Larry Cesspooch, a Ute (or Nuche, “The People”) storyteller and spiritual elder, was invited to bless Sunlight Mountain Resort on Saturday Oct. 10, during the resort’s annual skier picnic and ahead of the upcoming winter season. Cesspooch has blessed the mountain three years in a row, according to the resort’s director of business development, Travis Baptist, but the blessing occurred during the first week of the ski season each of the two years prior. Following this past bleak ski season, they figured it might be a good idea to invite Cesspooch earlier, Baptiste said, also noting that it is, after all, traditional Nuche land.
Photo by Klaus Kocher
An Itsy-Bitsy origin story The Itsy-Bitsy Crossword Corner was born back in the halcyon of the summer of 2025, five-by-five puzzles. Each letter, word and days of October 2020, just 48 hours after meeting the woman I clue goes into a multi-tabbed spreadsheet that would make Marie would one day marry. Hannah Hunt knew I enjoyed crossword Kondo woozy. There, I check for originality and repetition. The goal puzzles, and she playfully dared me to write one is a weekly puzzle that rarely repeats words and for her via email at 9:31 on a Tuesday morning. By never, ever repeats clues. 11:26, my very first three-by-three puzzle was in Now, as ever, HH is each and every puzzle’s her inbox. first set of editorial eyeballs. She will tell me when The thrill of throwing nine letters together and my numbers are off, or when the clues are overly still coming away with six distinct words was, and didactic, or when my wordplay falls flat. Just the is, electric. Crafting clues that straddle the line other day we argued for 15 minutes over a pair of between cleverness and coherence is much more clues I wrote that followed the Will Shortz ruledemanding work. I assumed I would run out of book, yet didn’t truly work. I ended up changing ideas after a few puzzles, but we wrote, sent and the clues. solved little crosswords for months. Some people look at a crossword puzzle Fortunately, meeting HH also meant getting and see an individual IQ test. My hope is that to know the town of Carbondale, and by extenyou, dear reader, see a journey. No, that’s overly sion, The Sopris Sun. Back then I lived in a town dramatic. I hope you see a chance to wander with without its own paper. Every time I journeyed me, and weave the silly little threads of language ITSY-BITSY to the Roaring Fork Valley, I would seek out a that I’ve scattered to the wind back together. If CROSSWORD yellow box and read columns by Jeannie Perry a clue baffles you, ask a friend, or an aunt, or a CORNER and Mayor Dan, check in on the Garfield County passerby. There’s a chance they’ll be as confused By Luke Wander Commissioners’ meetings via Amy Hadden as you are, but the conversation that you share Marsh’s reporting, take delight in Brian Colley’s might just lead to figuring it out. interstellar cartoons and enjoy the healthy smattering of letters-toIn recognition of the collaborative spirit that good puzzles foster, the-editor from Fred Malo, Bruno Kirchenwitz, et al. Still, I always I want to extend an invitation to any and all Sopris Sun puzzlers, yearned for more. I wanted a puzzle. whether you’ve been solving since No. 001, or just discovered No. So I wrote my own private letter-to-then-editor Raleigh Burleigh 222 this very week. When the puzzle is too hard, let me know. When and pitched a weekly crossword. We haggled over fonts and font a clue is impossible, send me an email. If you have my number, give sizes, puzzle acreage, what should be handwritten and what should me a call (and leave a voicemail). If you find yourself jotting down a not, and a few weeks later, The Itsy-Bitsy Crossword Corner debuted puzzle in the margins of your work notes, and a few clues come to with Puzzle No. 001. mind, send them my way. I would love to give HH a break from all of These days, I have a well established routine and write the the editorial nonsense I put her through, but more than that I would puzzles in monthly batches. I keep a loose collection of three-by- love to see what this community can create. three combinations that I jot down as marginalia at my day job, but that is where the willy-nilliness ends. As some of you may You can reach Luke Wander, the creator have noticed, each month begins with three-by-three puzzles, of the Itsy-Bitsy Crossword Corner, at and as the month nears its end, we move to four-by-four, and, as itsybitsy@soprissun.com
OPINION
LETTERS CORRECTIONS: Laurie Chase’s name was misspelled in last week’s Glenwood Report; Age-Friendly Carbondale was mistakenly referred to as “Pet Friendly Carbondale” in last week’s calendar.
Vote Godes Having served on Rifle City Council, I know firsthand that many of the biggest issues facing our communities do not stop at city limits. Transportation, infrastructure and economic development affect all of us, and they take real cooperation between cities, towns, counties and state partners to address. That is one reason I have appreciated working with Jonathan Godes. Through my work with the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments, I have had the opportunity to work alongside Jonathan in his roles with the I-70 Coalition and as a regional grants navigator. I have seen how committed he is to bringing people together, finding common ground and helping move important projects forward. Regional work is not always easy. Every community has its own priorities, needs and limited resources. It takes someone who understands how to listen, build relationships and keep people focused on practical solutions. Jonathan does that well. Jonathan and I have worked together on regional transportation issues and on helping Northwest Colorado communities pursue state and federal funding for projects that matter locally. He understands that communities like Rifle, Glenwood Springs, New Castle, Silt and Parachute each have their own challenges, but that we are also connected by shared roads, infrastructure and economic concerns.
As someone who served on Rifle City Council, I know how valuable it is to have regional partners who understand what local governments are dealing with. Jonathan understands the pressures our communities are facing, especially when it comes to I-70 and Highway 82. These transportation challenges did not become important to him just because he is running for office. He has been working on them for years. There are plenty of people who can talk about the problems. What I have seen from Jonathan is someone who works to bring people, funding and projects together — and who keeps working until progress is made. I believe that experience and commitment would serve Garfield County well. Dana Wood Silt
Concern about Godes I want to address my concern with Jonathan Godes running for county commissioner. We ‘ve seen his policy making with regards to the City of Glenwood Springs and I don’t think he would be a good fit as commissioner for Garfield County. My question is, why really does he want to be one of Garfield County’s commissioners? I have doubts regarding his sincerity with his answers. I think his focus is the same we see with other Democrat candidates regarding TDS. They exhibit no common sense, concern for Americans, America First and lack fiscal responsibility and honesty. I truly believe he would not make decisions compatible with our rural county, but more like Denver and Boulder. And lastly, yes Mr. Godes, God did help us when Trump became president. Gayle Samuelson Glenwood Springs
2 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | October 15-21, 2026
Support our libraries How much do I value the Garfield County Public Library system? I can find almost anything on my phone, so why do I need the library? In fact, I often use the library from my phone. I check out books and audiobooks on Libby, watch a movie on Kanopy, browse magazines — everything from old favorites like The New Yorker and The World of Interiors to others I’ve never heard of — What Your Dog is Trying to Tell You, Backwoods Survival Guide, Garden & Gun, Vogue Music (in Japanese!). What happens if we don’t approve 6B extending the one-mill tax levy that we approved in 2006? There would probably be some reduction in staff, shorter hours, fewer days your favorite library is open. Roof leaks might not get fixed. Bathrooms might not be so clean. Meeting rooms might not be available. Online resources could shrink. By approving 6B, we invest in a stable future for the libraries at a cost of about $60 per $1 million of assessed value of your home. Our libraries provide true sanctuary in every town in the county for less than the cost of many streaming services. Where else can you go and be alone and quiet yet in company with other people? Where else can you discover something new by just walking down an aisle? Our libraries offer a form of participation in community that is accessible to people of all ages, incomes, sociabilities, schedules, backgrounds and agendas and it’s entirely free. Vote yes on Garfield County Public Library District Ballot Issue 6B. Olivia Emery Carbondale continued on page 18
Editor James Steindler 970-510-3003 news@soprissun.com Managing Editor Skyler Stark-Ragsdale Sol del Valle Editora Owen McArdle owen@soldelvalle.org Digital Editor Ingrid Celeste Zúniga ingrid@soldelvalle.org Lead Editorial Designer Terri Ritchie Partnerships & Engagement Manager Luise Nieslanik Advertising Department adsales@soprissun.com Sol del Valle Marketing & Development Manager Margarita Alvarez margarita@soldelvalle.org Advertising and Special Section Designer Emily Blong Delivery Fred Kirschbaum Bartlett Proofreaders Lee Beck Tracy Kallassy Ken Pletcher Hank van Berlo Executive Director Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246 todd@soprissun.com Board Members / Mesa Directiva
board@soprissun.com Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke • Eric Smith Roger Berliner • Elizabeth Phillips Anna Huntington • Loren Jenkins Carlos Ramos • Gayle Wells • Jamie LaRue Adele Craft • Stephen Shapiro • Andrew Parrott
The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6pm on second Thursdays at the Third Street Center. The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with a mission to inform, inspire and build community by fostering diverse and independent journalism. Donations are fully tax deductible.
Sincerest thanks to our Honorary Publishers for their annual commitment of $1,000+ Kathy & Carter Barger Lee Beck & John Stickney Karen & Roger Berliner Emily & George Bohmfalk Kay Brunnier Michelle & Ed Buchman Sandy & Paul Chamberlin Frances Dudley Sue Edelstein & Bill Spence Deborah & Shane Evans Greg & Kathy Feinsinger Peter & Mike Gilbert Michael & Nancy Kish Gary & Jill Knaus Jan & Warren Koster Bob & Dori Libson Lee Mulcahy Donna & Ken Riley Eric Smith Patti & George Stranahan Gayle & Dick Wells Elizabeth Wysong
Legacy Givers for including us in their final wishes. Mary Lilly Linda Criswell
Donate by mail or online: P.O. Box 399 Carbondale, CO 81623 520 S. Third Street #26 970-510-3003 soprissun.com/Donate The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a proud member of the Carbondale Creative District
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Mail-in ballots
OUR UNDERWRITERS AND NONPROFIT PARTNERS!
Garfield County voters who choose to mail in their ballot must make sure to include two postage stamps on the envelope, and send it out no later than Monday, Oct. 26, to ensure it makes it to the County Clerk’s Office in time for the final count. The status of submitted ballots can be tracked by visiting garfield.ballottrax.net/voter
Structure fire The Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District responded to a house fully engulfed in flames on Monday afternoon, Oct. 12. The fire crews responded at 1:16pm to the incident involving a single-family home at 16400 Highway 82, just northeast of Catherine Store. There were no injuries reported. “The home was fully involved when crews arrived,” Incident Commander Ashley Buss Greene said in a press release. “The surrounding vegetation created the potential for a wildfire, so our priority was to contain the fire to the structure and protect the surrounding area.” The district said the structure is a total loss and investigators are working to determine the cause.
Mountain bike injury
Alpine Bank Colorado Mountain College Nordic Gardens Hilary Porterfield Basalt Library
NONPROFIT PARTNERS Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist Carbondale Arts
Seventeen-year-old Carbondale resident Reed Russell, a nordic ski coach, a member of the Utah-based Outlaw MTB program and a World Cup mountain bike competitor, suffered a spinal injury in a severe mountain bike accident, and currently lacks mobility from the chest down. Russell has coached some of Sopris Nordic Council’s youngest skiers through its Bill Koch program, and, as one of their top riders, has been part of the Outlaw MTB team for nearly a decade. Support Russell’s recovery and the immense medical and rehabilitation expenses that he and his family are facing by donating at reed-russell.vercel.app Note “Reed Russell” in the Venmo memo line.
Colorado Animal Rescue
Motorcycle injury
Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner? Email Todd@soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866
Patrick Casse — an 18-year Carbondale resident ”who loves everyone,” as well as the outdoors, mountain biking, dirt biking, skiing and snowboarding — suffered a spinal cord injury in a motorcycle accident, and is facing specialized rehabilitation and a different way of life, according to an email to The Sun. His family seeks aid for the “enormous expenses” that accompany his recovery: rehabilitation, medical equipment, accessibility needs, transportation and more. Donate to Casse’s recovery and journey ahead at gofund.me/ cd4f6f0fe and/or share Casse’s story.
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The snow has finally reached Mt. Sopris, with a visible dusting seen from Carbondale the morning of Monday, Oct. 12. The Sun received an ample number of guesses this season for its annual First Snow on Sopris contest. Diane Vaughn, though it was her second guess, came closest with an estimate of Oct. 16, followed by Anders Hansen, Oct. 5, and Udelle Stuckey, Oct. 20. Congratulations to our winners, and thank you, everyone, for participating! Photo by Skyler Stark-Ragsdale
Glenwood Library manager Nathan Chadwick brings two decades of library experience to the Glenwood Library as he begins as the new branch manager. He received a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Missouri. Chadwick has worked in libraries in Kansas, North Carolina and, most recently, in Maryland, where he managed the Long Branch Library and worked in adult services at the Gaithersburg Library. “There’s something special about this area,” Chadwick said in a press release. “The library system and the staff I met gave me the encouragement and confidence to make this leap. It also feels like a place that fits my desire to help libraries grow in positive ways, supporting staff, strengthening partnerships and finding new ways to serve the community.”
of the mini-forum is available at kdnk.org/ podcast/everything-under-the-sun A direct link can also be found at The Sopris Sun’s website, soprissun.com
Hunter tips The White River National Forest offers hunters tips for the season, with rifle hunting season underway. Hunters are encouraged to review the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Big Game Hunting brochure to adequately understand Colorado regulations, study motor-vehicle-use maps at fs.usda.gov/r02/ whiteriver to understand where motorized travel is and isn’t allowed and remember to pack out everything, while planning ahead and saving room for any harvested game. Visit tinyurl.com/hunterinformation2026 for more information.
GarCo mini-forum
They say it’s your birthday!
On last week’s episode of Everything Under The Sun, The Sopris Sun’s weekly public affairs show on KDNK Community Access Radio, Editor James Steindler hosted a mini-forum between Garfield County District 1 commissioner candidates Jonathan Godes (Democrat) and Eric Rudd (Republican). Each candidate was allotted 90 seconds to respond to a list of questions. An extended version
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Matt Alberico, Darren Broome, Calder Morrison, Lupita Ochoa and Corey Mineo (Oct. 15); Alex Heinig, Oriana Moebius, Daniel Torres and Abby Zlotnick (Oct. 16); Eric Berry, Ian Edquist, Carianne Eisenson and Mike Grandbois (Oct. 18); Hannah Condon (Oct. 19); Gabe Alcala (Oct. 20); Heidi Hendricks and Caitlin Kinney (Oct. 21).
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Indigenous-led environmental movements highlighted on Indigenous People’s Day ALEJANDRA RICO Sopris Sun Correspondent
The Town of Carbondale officially recognized Indigenous People’s Day at a trustee meeting on Sept. 24, 2019. Annual events to commemorate the day have been organized since by Roaring Fork Valley Circle and, this year, 350 Roaring Fork collaborated on events in Carbondale as well. This year’s celebration reaffirmed Carbondale’s growing awareness of the rebranded holiday, with about 50 attendees, spanning from children to elders. This time around, it added the inclusion of an award-winning film, “The Condor and the Eagle” (2019), shown at the Third Street Center after a community potluck. Prior to the film, Carbondale community elder Rita Marsh opened a circle gathering in Sopris Park with an offering of gratitude. Carbondale Mayor Erica Sparhawk honored the day by welcoming everyone and Ross Douglas, one of the founding members of Roaring Fork Valley Circle, led the crowd in the salutation of the seven directions. Carbondalian John Hoffman read an excerpt from the newly published book “The Savage
Mind: An American Legacy” by Ojibwe writer David Treuer and Steve Kuschner of 350 Roaring Fork shared an excerpt from the book “Ecocivilization” by Jeremy Lent. Other community members shared their reflections and special guest Bryan Parras, one of the key protagonists of the featured film, gave a well rounded summary of its history. Parras’ advocacy journey has expanded from his role as a community organizer in Texas to a global activist, helping to bridge North (the eagle) and South (the condor) American Indigenous resistance to colonialism and extractive economies. The film, “a profound work of climate journalism,” as stated by Oscar-winning filmmaker Douglas Blushtook, took the audience at the Third Street Center through an epic cross-continental journey following four environmental advocates and Indigenous women leaders, from the tar lands in Canada, to Oklahoma’s oil and gas hub, to Houston, Texas (referred to as the energy capital of the world), to the deep jungles of the Amazon in Ecuador and Peru. Fighting against the Keystone
Ross Douglas (with the mic) leads the crowd at Sopris Park in the salutation of the seven directions. Photo by Jack Small
XL pipeline (shut down in 2021 by President Joe Biden) and the expansion of Canadian tar sands oil extraction — and its social repercussions, including the killings and disappearances of Canadian Indigenous women — are pivotal storylines in the documentary. The film’s four protagonists, Casey Camp-Horinek (Ponca Tribe of Oklahoma), Melina Laboucan Massimo (Lubicon Cree First
Nation of Alberta), Yudith Nieto (Mexican-American/Indigenous frontline organizer from East Houston, Texas) and Patricia Gualinga Montalvo (Kichwa First People of Sarayaku in the Ecuadorian Amazon) learned from each others’ long legacies of resistance. The movie shows a couple of the protagonists partaking in the front row of the 2014 People’s Climate March in New York, the largest in history at the time, and highlights
Camp-Horinek and Gualinga Montalvo being part of a group of historic leaders who drafted and were the first to sign the International Indigenous Women’s Treaty Protecting the Rights of Nature in September 2015. Though the timeline of the film takes place about 10 years ago, most of the issues portrayed in it are still at stake today, according to the directors of the film.
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4 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | October 15-21, 2026
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2026 state measures voter guide in brief JAMES STEINDLER Editor-in-Chief
The Sopris Sun has whipped up a voter guide to help folks navigate the complex statewide ballot measures facing voters on the Western Slope. The Sun referenced Ballotpedia, the Colorado Secretary of State and the Colorado General Assembly websites to inform this report.
Amendment 81 This is a proposal to change Colorado’s Constitution to require local law enforcement and prosecutors to report people charged with violent crime, or with any crime (including traffic violations and petty offenses) if they have a prior felony conviction, to federal immigration authorities if they do not have a legal residence status or if their status can’t be determined. Currently, local law enforcement in Colorado is able to assist with federal criminal cases, but is barred from assisting in civil immigration cases. The campaign pushing the proposal is funded by Advance Colorado, a conservative political nonprofit.
Amendment 82 If approved by voters, Colorado residents and businesses’ ability to purchase natural gas for cooking or heating would be enshrined in the constitution; businesses in turn would have the right to sell natural gas to those consumers. If passed, opponents say that
jurisdictional-wide electrification projects and goals could be put at risk. Proponents say that the state’s current goal for utility companies to cut emissions by 41% by 2035, compared to 2015, will force consumers to pay to retrofit their homes. Advance Colorado also led the campaign for this measure.
Amendment 83 The proposed amendment would establish the right to hunt and fish by “traditional methods” in the Colorado Constitution, and make it the preferred policy for managing wildlife and fish populations. Proponents, including the T. Roosevelt Conservation Alliance, the organization leading the campaign, say it would inhibit additional regulations on hunting and fishing in the state, which is part of Colorado’s heritage. Opponents, including Colorado Hunters & Anglers for Sensible Wildlife Conservations, say that greenlighting the vague language of “traditional methods” could open previously banned methods, such as steel-jawed leghold traps and baiting bears.
Amendment 84 If passed, Amendment 84 would require mail-in ballots for state or federal elections to include the last four digits of a valid form of identification number, and require election officials to confirm the number. If a number doesn’t match,
election officials must notify the voter, who in turn must provide a copy of their identification, otherwise their vote would not be counted.
gerrymander districting lines in their favor. The Colorado Supreme Court ruled against the Democrats ballot initiative in June.
Amendment 85
Amendment 87
Amendment 85 would require that all ballot questions be written in plain language and at no more than an eighthgrade reading level. Colorado law already requires that ballot measures be written in plain language, but there is no specified reading level. Opponents say the amendment could hamper adequately explaining ballot measures.
This amendment would set a tiered tax rate based on income in Colorado, replacing the current flat rate of 4.4% for all income levels required by the Taxpayers Bill of Rights (TABOR). The revenue from this change would go toward the Colorado Future’s Account to fund K-12 public schools, health care and early childhood care. People making up to $25,000 a year would be taxed at a 3.7% rate, compared to people making over $1 million at 8.4%. There are six tiers total based on income.
Amendment 86 Amendment 86 would require the Independent Redistricting Commission, formed by voter approval in 2018, and the Colorado Supreme Court to approve mid-decade Congressional redistricting proposals. It would also prohibit approval of redistricted maps that favor one political party. Currently, Colorado law only requires that these two bodies review redistricting plans after the once-a-decade U.S. census. Redistricting proposals between that time do not require the commission’s or the Court’s review. According to the Colorado Sun, “Amendment 86 was Republicans’ response to Democratic redistricting efforts in Colorado,” which was intended for this November ballot and came amid a nationwide effort by both parties to
Proposition NN If passed, the proposition would increase the cap on TABOR to support public education, including increased teacher pay. Some of the surplus would also be used to fund early-childcare programs. Proponents say that it would provide a source of meaningful revenue for public schools. Opponents say it would cost taxpayers TABOR refunds and impact cost-of-living for Colorado residents. To review the entire voter guide, including measures that did not fit in print, visit soprissun.com
GARFIELD COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES OPENING Be involved in helping make the decisions that shape the future of the Garfield County Public Library District The Garfield County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) is currently seeking citizen volunteers to fill two library board vacancies for 5-year terms expiring December 31, 2031. These seats represent the Silt area and a member-at-large in Garfield County.
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Please send a letter of interest explaining how your service will benefit the Garfield County libraries, along with background and skills that are relevant to the position, to Garfield County Manager, Fred Jarman, at fjarman@garfieldcountyco.gov. For more information, please call 970-945-5004. Applicants will receive a detailed packet. Accepting letters of interest until 5 p.m., Tuesday, October 20, 2026. A special meeting is scheduled on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at 1 p.m. in the commissioners’ meeting room, 108 8th Street, Glenwood Springs, for the BOCC to hold interviews. The appointments are being made at a future meeting. Accepting letters of interest until October 20, 2026.
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garfieldcountyco.gov THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | October 15-21, 2026 5
GARFIELD COUNTY REPORT
Commissioners discuss library board application, hear Xcel Energy wildfire mitigation efforts AMY HADDEN MARSH Sopris Sun Correspondent
It’s time for new appointments to the Garfield County Library Board of Trustees. Two seats will be open at the beginning of 2027, including the at-large position, now filled by Board Treasurer John Mallonee, and the Silt seat, filled by Board President Adrian Rippy-Sheehy, as discussed in the Garfield County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) meeting on Monday, Oct. 12. Mallonee will finish up his first five-year term on Dec. 31 and will be able to re-apply. Rippy-Sheehy terms out after 10 years on the board. Applications for the at-large seat are open to all county residents. The Silt seat must be filled by someone living within the 81652 zip code. Applications are due Oct. 20. Info about how to apply is at the Garfield County Public Library District website, gcpld.org The BOCC and library board representatives will interview candidates on Nov. 4 with the BOCC expected to make appointments at the regular meeting on Nov. 9. County Manager Fred Jarman said at Monday’s meeting that he has already received three letters of interest for the positions.
Taxes and budget The BOCC wrapped up Monday’s
business in under two hours. They approved a total of $120,658 in property tax abatements and the consent agenda, which included renewal of a brew pub for The Garage Bar between Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. Shari Neuroth, county budget manager, presented the 2026 fourth budget supplement and appropriations report, which show a $514,980 increase in supplemental revenues and a $976,080 increase in supplemental expenditures.
Xcel Energy wildfire safety Brad McCloud, Xcel Energy’s area manager and communications director, talked to the BOCC about the utility’s wildfire mitigation and public safety efforts. “We are replacing all of the transmission lines … through the state of Colorado currently,” McCloud said. This includes the Ute Rifle to DeBeque Transmission Line Rebuild project, which is replacing old, wooden transmission poles with steel. It’s part of a $1.9 billion wildfire mitigation plan. McCloud mentioned the importance of Xcel’s vegetation management. “That involves going from residential neighborhoods to [Bureau of Land Management land] and other areas,” McCloud explained, adding that crews are cutting back vegetation encroaching
on power lines. “Because, obviously, the last thing we want to do is have branches coming into contact with our lines and igniting fires.” McCloud said Xcel is taking a look at its public safety plan and, after 2025’s Lee and Elk fires in Garfield and Rio Blanco counties, mapping levels of fire risk in its service areas. “Those [fires] are the reasons why we’re having these kind[s] of designations so that we can be aware and we can manage ahead of any concerns and situations that we
have to deal with,” he said. To that effect, he added, Xcel has set up about 50 “pano AI cameras” on the Western Slope and Front Range to detect smoke. About a month and a half ago, McCloud said he got to see a camera prevent a major fire near Palisade. “Our camera picked up on it, sent the emergency messaging out to our county partners before they were aware,” he said. “They were able to mitigate and put that fire out before it became continued on page 13
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CARBONDALE REPORT
Trustees advance Town Center project, see 2027 budget first draft
SKYLER STARK-RAGSDALE Managing Editor
The Town Center project is picking up momentum after the Carbondale Board of Trustees approved a two-phase planning approach on Tuesday, Oct. 13, for the mixed commercial- and residential-use build. “I would not call agreements exciting, but I would call this one exciting,” Town Manager Ryan Hyland said of the agreement to go forward with the two-phased approach, adding that it represents forward progress on the latest version of the Town Center project. Years in the making, the Town Center would serve as a mixed commercial and residential hub on 1.4 acres of town-owned property surrounding the Thunder River Theatre Company, downtown. The town published a Request for Proposal on March 11, outlining a vision of 45 to 60 residential units split between “rental, ownership or mixed with a variety of unit types” and targeting 80% to 140% of the Area Median Income (AMI). The vision also included 10,000 to 20,000 square feet of commercial space in the project for creative industries. Trustees awarded the bid on Aug. 11 to developer Bond/Brookside, which submitted a proposal of 42, two- and three-bedroom units ranging in price
Ross Montessori’s Audrey Parrett (left) as well as Carbondale Middle School’s Xímenali Quíntero (Center) and Jace Walker were presented Student of the Month awards at the Carbondale Board of Trustee meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 13. Anthony Castillion Zaragoza also received the award. Photo by Skyler Stark-Ragsdale
from $420,000 to $775,000, targeting those making between 80% and 120% AMI. The developer also proposed including 3,324 square feet of retail space, adding that some homes could be combined with first-floor commercial space and double as live/work studios.
Bond/Brookside suggested a project timeline of 24 to 32 months. Phase one of this week’s agreedupon two-phase approach, as originally proposed on Tuesday by town staff, would cover the site evaluation and predevelopment process over a
12-month period. This will “refine the development program, evaluate housing and commercial uses, engage stakeholders, assess site constraints and financial feasibility, and prepare preliminary designs and financing strategies,” according to a staff memo presented to the trustees. The first phase would start as soon as possible. Trustee Kade Gianinetti questioned if the town needed a full year of community engagement in the first phase. “I feel like six months would be a nice check-in point,” he said. Phase two covers the project design, entitlements and financial plan, and leaves the town discretion on whether or not to authorize this second phase after phase one is finished. The goal of phase two would be to “advance the project toward entitlement applications, refine financing and ownership structures, and negotiate principal business terms for a subsequent Development Agreement,” the memo states. Colorado’s Space to Create Program will finance the two phases with $200,000 in funding; $50,000 for phase one and $150,000 for phase two. The trustees approved the two-phased approach, amending the timeline of continued on page 13
BASALT REPORT
Council nips Movieland hotel in the bud WILL BUZZERD Sopris Sun Correspondent
Basalt Town Council on Tuesday, Oct. 14, voted unanimously to deny an application on first reading to construct a 93-room Marriott hotel on the former Movieland site. Council also adopted a resolution to commit $100,000 to the West Mountain Regional Housing Coalition (WMRHC) in support of a program to convert existing free-market homes into permanently deed-restricted workforce housing. Walsh Dupart and Bowtie Partners applied to construct a 93-unit Residence Inn by Marriott as well as three deed restricted units on the parking lot of the former Movieland theater. The hotel was to be operated as a franchise by Bowtie Partners, who locally owned and operated Movieland until it closed earlier this year. “There’s not a tangible benefit for a hotel … for Basalt residents or neighbors. The existing movie theater brought that,” Mayor David Knight said. “I don’t think this passes my judgment.” A plan for the hotel was first presented to Basalt Town Council on Sept. 8, during which councilors voiced concerns regarding the size of the hotel and its proximity to houses in the neighboring area. To address those concerns, the applicant shifted the footprint of the hotel 10 feet closer to East Valley Road and Highway
82 and thus further away from neighboring homes. Because the footprint shifted, the applicant was able to plan for additional trees to form a landscaping “wall,” which could help shield local residents from the hotel. In an addendum to the application, the applicant also included an estimate of public revenues that the hotel would generate over 10 years. In total, the hotel was estimated to generate $8.6 million for the Town of Basalt and $4.6 million to local taxing districts, including Roaring Fork School District, Roaring Fork Transportation Authority, Basalt Regional Library and Roaring Fork Fire Rescue. Several citizens wrote in or took the podium during the public comment period to urge councilors to deny the application on the grounds of size, obtrusiveness and traffic impact. Councilor Angela Anderson voiced concerns that approving a hotel would too radically shift Basalt’s economy toward tourism. “When I moved here 10 years ago, Basalt didn’t feel as much like a tourist destination like it does now,” Anderson said. “To some degree that’s a good thing, but the more we as a town lean into that, the more we will suffer the economic repercussions when a season doesn’t go to plan.” Basalt Town Council voted unanimously to deny the application.
As viewed from Sopris Village Drive, a new digital rendering of the proposed hotel at the former Movieland site would include landscaping to help minimize the visual impacts for neighboring residents. However, the application was denied during its first reading by Basalt Town Council Tuesday evening. Courtesy graphic
Good Deeds Near the end of the meeting, the council unanimously agreed to grant $100,000 to financially support WMRHC’s Good Deeds program, which converts existing free market homes into 3% appreciation capped deed-restricted affordable housing without requiring new construction. The program is designed to increase the supply of affordable homeownership opportunities without the need for new development in a region where
construction and land costs continue to grow. To participate in the program, buyers submit an application to WMRHC, through which they must show proof of employment within the region. After qualification and an accepted purchase-sale offer on a home priced under $1.5 million, WMRHC pays 30% of the home purchase price in exchange for deed restriction. Basalt’s commitment is concurrent continued on page 8
THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | October 15-21, 2026 7
MOVIELAND from page 7 with an application from WMRHC to the Colorado Department of Local Affairs’ Down Payment Assistance Program, which if awarded would grant WMRHC additional funds for the Good Deeds program. If awarded, WMRHC intends to leverage local investments with state funding to extend the program’s reach. WMRHC’s Good Deeds program is distinct from Eagle County’s program of the same name, through which Basalt has already participated in two deed buy-downs this year. Interested residents of Eagle County would therefore be directed to the Eagle County housing authority.
Calling business owners In other news, the Town of Basalt will host a pair of local business roundtables on Oct. 27 and 29. Basalt entrepreneurs are invited to join Town Manager Gloria Kaasch-Buerger and Basalt Chamber Director Kris Mattera to share their experiences, concerns, questions and ideas for how to best support Basalt’s local economy. The roundtables are intended to foster connections between business owners and town leadership. The Town of Basalt will host a morning session on Tuesday, Oct. 27, at the Rocky Mountain Institute from 8 to 10am, and an evening session on Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Element hotel in Willits from 4 to 6pm. Those interested in participating can register in advance on the Basalt Chamber of Commerce website, basaltchamber.org, or simply show up in person.
Kohanna at Steve’s Guitars MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
On Oct. 17 at 7:30pm, folksy Americana musician Kohanna McCrary, known professionally as just Kohanna, will share her sound and her ode to Colorado with Carbondale audiences at Steve’s Guitars as part of her “Where We Going” tour. McCrary, who grew up in a small Virginia town, has chased her dream of music for what she describes as a lifetime of hard work and endless learning. After moving to Nashville for a year to break into the music industry, she later found herself at University of Colorado Boulder, where she studied marketing and became more involved in the local music scene. “I spent three years in Colorado, and I just had the best time ever,” McCrary said. “I got involved with the music community there and met so many great people during my time there. I am so excited to be returning.” In discussing her background and inspirations, McCrary said she has always made music and has drawn inspiration from artists such as The Lumineers, Sylvan Esso, Maggie Rogers and Australian musician Steph Strings, who McCrary had the chance to tour with in Denver, Colorado Springs and Fort Collins. While these influences can be heard throughout her music, her sound is entirely unique, vulnerable and homegrown. Part of this tour is to promote her most recent album, “Colorado: Side A” as well as to share songs she’s been working on with over 20 creatives in the collaborative piece known as “The Colorado Project.” In the upcoming tour stop at Steve’s, which will include a full band and fiddle, McCrary looks forward to sharing the stories that inspire her songs. “I’ve been wanting to go further west to perform, just to be in the mountains and I have wanted to bring my band out there because a lot of them haven’t witnessed a good chunk of the beauty that Colorado has,” McCrary said. One of the songs she plans to perform at Steve’s is “Sweet Abilene,” which tells the story of a woman, Abilene, who chooses stability over freedom despite her husband, Adam, leaving her for long periods of time to go into the mountains.
Kohanna McCrary looks forward to her upcoming performance at Steve’s Guitars in Carbondale. Courtesy photo
“We’re not just going to be going from song to song, one after the other,” McCrary said. “We plan to break down the background of our work and delve into the backstory of the songs. I feel that a lot of the themes that myself and the band come up with for the songs are very universal, and I want to make sure that we can continue to connect with audiences that way.” For more information or to support future projects, visit kohanna.co
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8 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | October 15-21, 2026
SPORTS
Combined-school Longhorns softball team playoffs bound; Rams soccer stays hot JOHN STROUD Sopris Sun Correspondent
The combined forces of three Roaring Fork Valley high schools has propelled the rejuvenated Basalt High girls softball team to the postseason and its first winning record in four years. The Longhorns, made up of players from Basalt, Roaring Fork and Glenwood Springs high schools, rolled to an overall mark of 14 wins, six losses, en route to sharing the 3A/4A Western Slope North League title with Eagle Valley at 9-1. With that, the Longhorns earned the No. 21 seed in the field of 32 Class 3A teams in this weekend’s Regionals. Basalt is in the Regional playoff hosted by No. 5 Strasburg, with a Saturday opener against No. 12 Delta. A pair of wins would advance the Longhorns to the 3A State Tournament the following weekend. “This team really focused on building good habits and setting some hallmarks from the very beginning, and it paid off,” first-year head coach Mike Bromberg said. “As coaches, we’re just the wind at their back and building off of what they created,” he said of he and assistant coaches Kelsey Dunn and Alexa Chattleton. “This program was ready for somewhat of a rebuild, and it was really player-driven.” The team put an exclamation mark on the regular season last Thursday, Oct. 8, sweeping a double-header over the visiting Moffat County Bulldogs, 21-6 and 16-0. Junior Hadley Ivy and sophomore Elsie Mile batted in four runs each in the
opener, Mile with a homerun, and Ivy pitched a complete game to get the win. In the nightcap, Mile again had four RBIs (runs batted in), and both she and Ivy hit home runs. “Softball in the Valley has seen a bit of an uprising,” Bromberg said. “Our seniors have gone through a lot of coaching changes and endured some losing seasons, but now we have several really strong freshman players and we’re building this program back from the younger classes up. So, this year was really a turning point for the program.” Now it’s on to the playoffs, where the Longhorns face a Delta team that handed them a 19-6 loss in a season-opening tournament on Aug. 14. “We still didn’t really know who we were at that point, and I think we’ve come a long way and can give them a good game,” Bromberg said. “We’re a confident hitting team, and we’ve really been focusing on being more assertive on defense. That’s going to be key for us.”
Boys soccer Meanwhile, the Roaring Fork boys soccer team picked up a couple more 3A Western Slope League wins this past week to move their season mark to 10-2, and remain undefeated in league play. On the road Tuesday at Coal Ridge, the Rams beat the Titans 1-0. The game was scoreless until the second half, when Ram junior Nico Passerini-Burks collected the game-winner. On Oct. 8, Roaring Fork defeated
Roaring Fork senior Sydney Ostberg (11) covers first base during the game against Moffat on Thursday, Oct. 8. Photo by Bob Rugile
Middle Park on the road 10-0, scoring seven goals in the first half and three in the second. Scoring two goals each in that contest were senior Cal Stone, junior Felipe Oliva and sophomore Colby Horst. Additional goals came from seniors Wesley Serrano, Kevin Morales and Oliver Shook, and from freshman Quintin Cohen. Next up, the Rams host Vail Mountain Thursday night. Kickoff is at 6pm at Rams Field next to the middle school.
Girls volleyball The Rams volleyball team finally notched another one in the win column at home on Oct. 8, when they defeated Moffat County at home, 3-0 (25-19, 25-19, 25-23). Leading the team in kills was junior Clover Hansen with nine, while senior Hazel Jenkins had seven and seniors Kate Taylor and Tess Hayes had five each. Hayes also had four service aces on the night. Next up, the Rams (4-13, 2-7) travel to play Delta on Thursday and Middle Park on Saturday.
Girls night on the ice at Colorado Extreme rink this Saturday JOHN STROUD Sopris Sun Correspondent
She spent the past few years in Colorado Springs, where most hockey programs are coed, same as they are Girls of all ages are invited out to the Colorado for the most part in the Roaring Fork Valley. Extreme ice rink east of Carbondale this Saturday, Oct. She’d like to help change that, and provide more 17, for a free evening of skating as part of World Girls’ opportunities to grow the sport among female players so Hockey Weekend. that they can have their own teams. The free skating event begins at 5pm Saturday at the “The girls game has taken its time to move west, but Colorado Extreme outdoor arena on Catherine we’re doing a good job of introducing girls to the Store Road. It will be followed by a pizza sport through our Learn to Skate program,” watch party, livestreaming one of the Moses said. professional women’s hockey games While the official International Ice that are on the slate for that evening. Hockey Federation’s World Girls’ “It’s a great opportunity to grab Hockey Weekend is this weekend, a friend and get on the ice with local programs are encouraged to just girls,” said Maddy Moses, organize girls-only events anytime high performance coach for during October. Colorado Extreme, a nonprofit Colorado Extreme is impleorganization that seeks to expand menting a Girls Club every other access to the sport of hockey in the Saturday starting on Halloween, - Carly Price, Roaring Fork Valley. Saturday, Oct. 31, including a morning Colorado Extreme “We have plenty of equipment at learn-to-skate session just for girls. the rink for them to use, and it’s a fun way That same day, the Glenwood Springs to try hockey for free, whether you’re an expeYouth Hockey Association is also hosting a girls rienced skater or just trying it for the first time,” she said. only “Try Hockey for Free Day” from 10:45am to 12pm at There won’t be any structured drills, but some of the the Glenwood Springs Ice Rink located at the CommuColorado Extreme age group team players will be on nity Center. hand to give some pointers and provide support. “Anything in the community that can get girls out on There’s no formal registration for the event; just show the ice with each other is awesome,” Moses said. up, she said. World Girls’ Hockey Weekend began in 2011, with Moses came to the Roaring Fork Valley this past June, hockey communities worldwide using the same weekhaving grown up on the East Coast where girls-only end to grow the girls’ game. hockey programs are common and playing the sport “Girls’ hockey is growing nationally, and this weekherself as a youth and at the collegiate level. end is our push to grow it here at home — turning a girl’s
Girls’ hockey is growing nationally, and this weekend is our push to grow it here at home — turning a girl’s curiosity into actual ice time.
Coaches and some of the girl skaters on the ice at the Colorado Extreme arena east of Carbondale on Catherine Store Road (2340 CR 100). Courtesy photo
curiosity into actual ice time,” added Carly Price, who is also associated with Colorado Extreme.
THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | October 15-21, 2026 9
CALENDAR THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15
LIBRARIES CLOSURE All branches of the Garfield County Public Library District are closed today for staff training. The libraries will reopen tomorrow.
Thank You
The October Health Fair was a great success! Thank you to all Health Fair volunteers for contributing to our community’s health and wellness.
TRUE NATURE True Nature hosts “Care for Caregivers” from 5:30 to 7pm, including light movement and breathwork with Taryn Giroux. Details at truenaturehealingarts.com CLAY CENTER The Carbondale Clay Center hosts an intro to wheel workshop at 6pm. Details at carbondaleclay.org/events ‘THE SHINING’ The Crystal Theatre screens “The Shining” at 7pm as part of Spooktober. Tickets at the door. STEVE’S GUITARS Dan Navarro plays at Steve’s Guitars from 7 to 8:30pm. Tickets at tinyurl.com/dannavarrosteves ‘IN THE COMPANY OF WOLVES’ “In the Company of Wolves” screens at the Wheeler Opera House at 7pm. The evening will include a Q&A with filmmakers, ranchers and conservationists. Tickets at wheeleroperahouse.com
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 16
‘STORYTIME PLAYGROUP’ The Basalt Library welcomes children ages 0-3 for “Storytime Playgroup,” which includes storytime, large motor movements and more. Details at basaltlibrary.org/events CHARGE AHEAD The deadline for Colorado’s “Charge Ahead Colorado EV Charging Grant,” providing charging infrastructure funding for electric vehicles, is today at 5pm. Details at tinyurl.com/ EVcharginginfrastructure2026 ‘ANATOMY OF TRAUMA’ True Nature begins a two-day “Anatomy of Trauma” workshop running from 5:30 to 7:30pm today and 10am to 5pm tomorrow and Sunday. Attendees explore the physiology of trauma, softening practices and more. Register at tinyurl.com/anatomyoftrauma CLAY CENTER Head over to the Carbondale Clay Center at 6pm for a Menorah making workshop. Details at carbondaleclay.org ‘SONGWRITERS’ ROUND’ Catch singer-songwriters Jackson Emmer, Megan Burtt and Martin Gilmore at TACAW at 8pm. Details at tinyurl.com/tacawcalendar ‘STARS N’ S’MORES’ Join Garfield County Outdoors and Aspen Valley Land Trust for an evening under the stars at the Silt River Preserve from 6 to 9pm, including s’mores, views of the night sky through a giant telescope, a nocturnal wildlife activity and more. No registration is required.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17
For you. For life.
aspenvalleyhealth.org aspenvalleyhealth
10 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | October 15-21, 2026
BACKCOUNTRY SYMPOSIUM TACAW hosts the Backcountry Symposium. The series of events and workshops begins with an Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club sports swap outside of TACAW from 9am to 2pm. Participants can also join a group run with Independence Run and Hike or a bike ride with Kyle Wellborn and Joel Dickey from 10:30am to noon. Attend workshops covering first aid and backcountry safety from 1 to 3pm, then catch a winter forecast at 3:30pm with OpenSnow meteorologist Sam Collentine. A social hour and raffle will follow,
along with discussions on the aftermath of backcountry disasters and a talk from Aspen Hall of Fame inductee Paul Andersen. RSVP at tacaw.org/calendar/ backcountry-symposium HOGBACK EXTRAVAGANZA The sixth annual Grand Hogback Extravaganza returns to the Grand Hogback Trail System from 9am to 1pm. Part mountain bike ripping, part parking lot party, and hosted by the Rifle Area Mountain Biking Organization, the extravaganza begins with an adult rolling start from the trail system at 9am. The kids ride launches at 11:30am. Registration and details at tinyurl.com/ hogbacktrailride SWAP IT LIKE IT’S HOT The Basalt Library hosts its Swap it Like it’s Hot clothing swap from 10am to 3pm. Folks can drop off donations for the swap through Thursday, Oct. 15, during regular business hours. For details, visit basaltlibrary.org/events or call 970-927-4311. TREE MULCHING Volunteer with the Carbondale Tree Board and help mulch trees to insulate roots, inhibit weed competition and more beginning at 10am at the Carbondale Market Place Lofts, 2111 Cross St. Email vanessa@coloradoedibleforest. com or jteeici@gmail.com to sign up. OKTOBERFEST The Carbondale Education Foundation’s annual Oktoberfest fundraiser returns to downtown Carbondale at 579 Main St., across from Peppino’s Pizza. A cornhole tournament begins at noon. Hazel Kuhn opens the stacked schedule of live music from noon to 1pm, followed by Rock & Roll Academy from 1:30 to 2:30pm, Anthony Peebles from 3 to 5pm, Sweet Jessup & The Dirty Buckets from 5:30 to 7:30pm and Typical Ghost from 8 to 10pm. Slow Groovin’ BBQ and Windy City Eats will serve grilled meat and schnitzel at the fest, which will include a beer garden and more. Details at tinyurl.com/ oktoberfestdetailscarbondale GLENWOOD OKTOBERFEST Glenwood Springs hosts its Oktoberfest on 7th Street from 3 to 8pm, equipped with festive food, local beer, German-inspired fun and music from Neue Polka and The Polkanauts. Glenwood Canyon Brewpub kicks off the festivities with a ceremonial keg tapping, providing complimentary beer on a first-come, first-served basis to 50 people of legal drinking age. Details at tinyurl.com/glenwoodoktoberfest NO KINGS Mountain Action Indivisible hosts “No Kings: Vote Early” in Sayre Park, a rally to celebrate the right to vote and ensure everyone exercises that right, from 4 to 5:30pm. Details at tinyurl.com/ nokingsvoteearly2026 PUMPKIN CARVING A Way Out and The Meeting Place host their annual pumpkin carving party from 4 to 6pm at The Meeting Place’s headquarters, 981 Cowen Dr. in Carbondale. The festivities will include costumes, pizza and candy. Guests are asked to bring their own pumpkin. HOCKEY, FOR GIRLS Colorado Extreme hosts a free girls-only, introduction-to-hockey skate extravaganza and pizza party at its rink (2340 County Road 100, Carbondale) at 5pm. STEVE’S GUITARS Kohanna McCrary and her band play at 7:30pm at Steve’s Guitars as part of McCrary’s “Where We Going Tour.” The tour highlights McCrary’s “The Colorado Project,” a 17-song, double album
Mark your calendar! The Bonedale Flashmob brings the annual worldwide synchronized dance, “Thrill the World,” to 4th and Main Street in Carbondale at 4pm on Oct. 24. The Carbondale event also serves as a fundraiser for the Safe & Abundant Nutrition Alliance (aka SANA), and donations can be made at tinyurl.com/SANAfundraiser Courtesy photo
created as a tribute to the state. Tickets at tinyurl.com/kohannaatsteves
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18
HALLOWEEN HUSTLE The “Halloween Hustle for Charity” returns for its fourth year with 1.5 kilometer and 5.5 kilometer fun runs/walks launching at 9am from the Glenwood Springs Elementary School. Details and registration at tinyurl.com/hustleforcharity A SPIRITUAL CENTER Larry Gottlieb presents “A View of Cultural Contrast from Switzerland” from 10 to 11:30am at A Spiritual Center, room 31 of the Third Street Center.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 19
HIKING CLUB The Garfield County Libraries’ Hiking Club sets out on No Name Trail in Glenwood Canyon for a 6.4-mile (there and back) excursion to the first scenic bridge. Participants are to meet at the trailhead parking lot at 9am. Folks must register in advance at gcpld.org/events For details, call 970-285-9870. TRUE NATURE True Nature hosts “Zen 101,” touching on the history, teachings and practices of Zen, from 7 to 8:30pm. Details at truenaturehealingarts.com
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 20
‘WINTER HYMNS’ “Winter Hymns,” a documentary following a palliative care physician, screens at the Crystal Theatre at 6:30pm in collaboration with Valley View Hospital. The palliative care team from Valley View will host a Q&A after the show. Tickets at zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/winter-hymns DRAWING CLUB Roaring Fork Drawing Club meets at 6:30pm at Cattle Creek Thrift & Furniture (62 County Road 113, Carbondale).
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 21
ASPEN SCIENCE CENTER Kids ages 5-11 are invited to make discoveries with the Aspen Science Center at the Basalt Library from 2:30 to 3:30pm. Details at basaltlibrary.org/events POWERS ART CENTER Powers Art Center hosts a spotlight tour through its exhibitions at 4pm. Details at powersartcenter.org
‘PARTY TO THE POLLS’ Head over to TACAW for pizza, prizes and to learn more about ballot measures from local experts. Register at tinyurl.com/partyatthepolls2026 WHEELER The Wheeler Opera House recently won the 2026 Outstanding Historic Theatre Award, and celebrates the achievement from 4:30 to 6pm. The event will feature remarks by Aspen Mayor Rachael Richards, prizes, light refreshments and more. RSVP at tinyurl.com/ wheeleropera2026
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 22
HOUSING APPLICATION The application to apply for a spot in an affordable Glenwood Springs two-bedroom, part of Habitat for Humanity Roaring Fork Valley’s The Confluence build, closes today. Apply at tinyurl.com/habitatconfluence AI AND MUSIC Join the Aspen Science Center at the Basalt Library for a community discussion on the relationship between music and AI from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Details at basaltlibrary.org/events TRUE NATURE Catch a sound journey at True Nature from 6:30 to 8:30pm with Dr. Zachary and Krista Cashin. Details at truenaturehealingarts.com ‘TRAIN TO BUSAN’ The Crystal Theatre screens “Train to Busan,” a film about a zombie outbreak in South Korea, at 7pm as part of its Spooktober series. Tickets at the door. ‘GIRL WINTER’ TACAW hosts adventure film “Girl Winter Film Tour” at 7pm today (underwritten by Aspen One) and 7pm tomorrow (underwritten by the Steadman Clinic). Details and tickets at tacaw.org
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 23
Jovan Mays, Poet Laureate and National Poetry Slam Champion explores the promises, contradictions, triumphs, and unfinished journeys woven into the American story. This afternoon of poetry bridges past and present, challenges assumptions, and reminds us that the American story is still being written. Presented with the support of a federal grant awarded to Colorado Mountain College’s Center for Civics Education & Engagement. FREE Saturday, 1-4pm, 10/17 at Aspen Campus in the AABC
Community Ed Classes in Carbondale HEALING PROPERTIES OF GRIEF Thursday, 6-8pm, 10/15 FREE
CREATE A PERSONAL REFUGE FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Mondays, 6-7pm, 10/19-12/7
BEGINNER ACRYLIC PAINTING
Tuesdays, 9:15am-12:15pm, 10/27-12/1
MORE SWING DANCE LINDY HOP
ZUMBA R E
BILINGUAL SCIENCE FUNDRAISER The Aspen Science Center matching fundraiser, courtesy of the Reuben H. Fleet Foundation and an anonymous donor, ends today. With the $5,000 in matching funds, the effort could raise $10,000 for bilingual science classes from Aspen to Parachute. Donate at tinyurl.com/bilingualsciencefunds
Find more upcoming events at www.soprissun.com/tag/curated-calendar
When the Lion Speaks Poetry for America
WATERCOLOR SKILLS FUNDRAISING FOR NON-PROFITS
Tuesday, 5:30-8:30pm, ONLINE 10/27
EXPLORING LOSS, GRIEF, AND RECOVERY
Thursdays, 6-8pm, 10/29-12/10
CMC Lapalla Center
690 Colorado Avenue
Saturdays, 9am-12pm, 10/31-11/21 Tuesdays, 5:30-8:30pm, 11/3-12/8
Wed, 6:30-8:30pm, 11/11-12/9
HAND WOVEN BASKETS TWILL MARKET BASKET
Thursday/Friday, 9am-2pm, 12/3-12/4
Scan for info and to Sign Up
970-963-2172
THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | October 15-21, 2026 11
BOOK REVIEW
Carbondale mountaineer releases ‘Fourteener Snow,’ a guidebook and love letter to Colorado’s alpine routes ANNALISE GRUETER Sopris Sun Correspondent
Colorado backcountry enthusiasts have been turning to the guidance of Carbondale-based Lou Dawson for over 40 years, ever since his first book, “Colorado High Routes,” was released. Dawson, a Colorado native, spent the first two decades of adulthood working in outdoor education and carpentry, while climbing and skiing mountains in his free time. That latter hobby gradually became his main profession, and then he began writing more and more about those experiences. He expanded into outdoor media, all the while pursuing an ambitious goal that eventually landed him in the Colorado Snowsports Museum Hall of Fame as the first person to climb and ski all 54 of Colorado’s 14,000-foot peaks. In late September, Dawson’s most recent book was released, honoring that milestone. “Fourteener Snow” was originally intended as a sort of update to Dawson’s 1998 chronicle of his North American ski mountaineering pursuits, “Wild Snow.” The new book, however, focuses on Colorado. Dawson has long drawn on his background in outdoor education to carefully describe both routes and hazards in snowy backcountry. “Fourteener Snow” also contains a meta-analysis of how much ski mountaineering has changed in the past few decades. Technology has evolved significantly, and one of Dawson’s reflections is how much easier it is to create maps now than when he was chipping away at skiing the fourteeners. “Fourteener Snow” is much more than routes and recommendations for backcountry safety. Dawson has leveraged his position as an active member of the Colorado ski mountaineering community to pepper the text with
Lou Dawson launches from the summit of San Luis Peak in 1988. Photo by Bob Perlmutter
interviews from other groundbreaking Colorado wintertime mountaineers — from Christy Mahon and Brittany Walker Konsella to Chris Davenport and Jarrett Luttrell. Dawson also shares stories from his original fourteeners endeavor, offering a glimpse into more rugged mountaineering than even today’s hardened athletes encounter. Dawson started skiing 14,000-foot peaks in the late 1970s. He had been working in outdoor education since he was 17 years old, and had already tallied recognition for rock climbing pursuits in Colorado, Utah and California. Combining his love for the backcountry with skiing on “easier” mountains, like Mount Elbert, Mount Massive and Castle Peak, gave him some breadth to grow his affection for the high country, as well as the sport.
It wasn’t until a decade later, when Dawson led a friend on a springtime backcountry excursion in 1987, that he formalized the goal to ski all of Colorado’s fourteeners. He had already done many of them, and the challenge became checking off the less aesthetic, more technical stragglers. By 1991, he completed the project on Kit Carson Peak in the Sangre de Cristo range. Along the way, Dawson notched six first ski descents, including on Elk Range peaks South Maroon, Capitol and Snowmass Mountain. Despite Dawson’s wealth of experience, he prefers to direct the spotlight toward other mountaineers and their accomplishments, something that comes through in his interviews in “Fourteener Snow.” The stories about his own mountaineering expeditions are in turn breathtaking and laugh-out-loud funny, from describing less-than-desirable snow conditions and tricky group dynamics on excursions. The actual routes described are comprehensive, with 88 total spanning 56 peaks — not just the United States Geological Survey-recognized 54. Dawson has drawn from his network of mountaineering friends to include photos of himself and ski partners in addition to the marked route photos and maps throughout the book. Dawson will be speaking about “Fourteener Snow” and backcountry safety practices this coming Saturday, Oct. 17, during the Backcountry Symposium at The Arts Campus at Willits. Copies of the book will be available in addition to Dawson’s 2024 memoir, “Avalanche Dreams,” as well as another more novice ski-touring guidebook, “Light Tours of Colorado.” For tickets and details, visit tacaw.org You can learn more about Dawson at his website, loudawson.com
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12 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | October 15-21, 2026
SCAN TO REGISTER
A case for dirt
Preserving the rural character of Hooks Spur Mid-valley residents were unpleasantly surprised last month to find their beloved Hooks Spur Road paved over without an opportunity for public comment. What was once a popular spot for running, gravel riding and dog walking is now much hotter, firmer and arguably less safe for nonvehicular travel. Runners and dogs enjoyed it as a low-impact alternative to the asphalt and concrete surfaces in Willits and on the Rio Grande. Gravel riders enjoyed it as the only spot near town for a chill, scenic ride. And, of course, it provides access to a vast network of trails, like Glassier, Buckhorn, Vasten and Crown Royale. Eagle County Commissioner Tom Boyd cited rising costs of “gravel, road stabilizers and dust suppressants” as reasons for paving this treasured stretch of dirt. The Road and Bridge Department has been using an asphalt milling application (AMA) — essentially reclaimed asphalt and emulsifier — around the county for the last year or two. Boyd said this is the first time they’ve gotten pushback for it. Although he didn’t know how often they’d been re-graveling this section, he said that when a dirt road needs to be resurfaced three to four times a year, “It becomes too costly to maintain.” The project is complete for 2026, but the county plans to revisit it in the spring. Boyd said that they will “look more closely” at this particular stretch of road at that time. It will be missed — it’s hallowed ground that brings community together, forges friendships and adds immeasurable value to the
GUEST OPINION By Molly Josephson region. Who doesn’t enjoy a postride sunset tailgate at Hooks lot? Here in the Valley, outdoor recreation is our lifeblood. We are particularly fortunate to have such a wide variety of outdoor spaces for movement. As a fitness coach and lifelong runner myself (and as anyone who’s ever dealt with injury or mobility issues can attest), I cannot overstate the value of a flat dirt surface. From rainy days to lunch runs, managing pain to blowing off steam, dog walks to mountain biking, a flat dirt road is where it’s at. Joe Risi had been teaching his 2- and 5-year-old kids to ride bikes on Hooks Spur the weekend prior to Aug. 25, and noticed a sign but no other indication of plans to pave until machinery was moved in that Sunday. The biggest concern among locals seems to be the increased risk of bike-car collisions, as people who already drive too fast on that stretch might be inclined to drive even faster. Some locals are disappointed with the lack of communication from the county. Often, it seems that Vail Valley tends to be the focus, when we have very different needs and values in this part of the county. Equally frustrating is that there was no public comment period or hearing about re-graveling or alternative cost mitigation methods prior to paving. The AMA project seemed to steamroll on through. Even on a rainy day in September, the new surface was noticeably hotter than surrounding areas.
On top of seeking community input, Eagle County could have looked at the potential for the heat island effect, impacts on wildlife and migration, effects on the drainage and runoff and so on. One wonders how far this type of project could go at the cost of environmental considerations. Boyd acknowledged that “[Hooks Spur] is something that’s valued for the character it brings to the community.” Speaking of character, Eagle County has a stated vision to preserve the rural character of this area, which runs counter to paving Hooks Spur. According to the Mid-Valley Area Community Plan, Emma is a historic space with expansive views, pastures and residences clustered around Hooks Spur Road and Hooks Lane. The Mid-Valley Area Community Plan serves to highlight where the county reneged on its mission for Hooks. First, Goal 2.1 states: “The character and appearance of Emma is preserved in a manner consistent with the values ... of local residents.” Second, Recommended Strategy G states: “Preserve the rural character of local roads.” Dirt has rural character; pavement does not. Clearly, a lot of Eagle County’s own conservationist values were compromised in an effort to save money and utilize reclaimed asphalt. Perhaps most glaringly, Policy 3.2.2.e says to “Discourage asphalt and concrete production” in Emma. Policy 3.2.1 aims to “discourage development or disturbances in natural areas that contribute
A sign that read “Don’t pave” was seen lying alongside Hooks Spur Road on Sept 1. Photo by Molly Josephson
to the quality of scenic vistas and view corridors.” Paving our only remaining dirt road clearly runs counter to this policy. As we can see from old photos, dirt is the view. We love dirt. The AMA program, especially when applied to rural dirt roads, is the opposite of discouraging development. And, while using reclaimed asphalt is a worthy cause, Hooks Spur is not the place. One may find a glimmer of hope in the latter half of 3.2.2.i: “Strive to minimize ground disturbances and encourage the prompt reclamation of disturbed areas.” One can only hope the county is open to rectifying this.
This area is home to deer, elk, bears, mountain lions, beavers, foxes, coyotes, all kinds of birds and even a lynx or two, all of which rely on our (human) stewardship for their survival. Policy 3.2.4 speaks to concerns for wildlife, with the county promising to: “Strive to protect and preserve the quality of wildlife habitat and the vitality of wildlife populations.” As local mountain bikers know, this area is closed much of the year (Nov. 30 to May 15) for elk migration. This fall, pavement — and the cars driving faster— will impede local herds that are already constrained by human encroachment.
GARFIELD from page 6 an issue at all.” McCloud explained that Xcel is upgrading a substation near New Castle. “We’re also replacing roughly 200-plus transformers where we’re doing all the lines going in and out of there,” he said, adding that outdated equipment has created challenges for the town. “But in the next year or so, they’re going to have a much better product, and they will have fewer outages,” he said. Xcel’s use of drones, AI cameras and weather stations is expected to help reduce outages. “We have an entire team of meteorologists that do nothing but work [on] and predict our weather forecasts,” McCloud said. McCloud said the utility would only engage in a Public
Safety Power Shutoff — an intentional shut-down of the system for public safety — in the most extreme wildfire conditions, like red-flag weather. He added that it’s an activation of last resort, involving high levels of communication with local officials and constant monitoring even after the weather clears. As for data centers? “From Xcel’s position, we acknowledge that the business model for data centers and developers is out there, and they’re looking all over the country,” McCloud said. He added that the need is growing and that Xcel is trying to plan ahead by ensuring the strength of the electrical grid. “We are working with regulators and the Public Utilities Commission,
our stakeholder communities and our customers to make sure that the burden and the cost of the infrastructure and the build-out for a data center is not put on our consumer,” he said. You can find a recording of Monday’s meeting and other archived BOCC meetings at the Garfield County website, garfieldcountyco.gov
CARBONDALE from page 7 phase one to include a six-month check in to gauge the phase’s progress.
Preliminary budget Also in the Tuesday meeting, the trustees reviewed a first draft of the 2027 budget, which saw a 23.4% year-over-year increase in expenditures, the bulk of which were directed toward personnel costs and capital projects. The 2027 estimated town expenditures tallied $31.1 million, compared to an estimated $25.2
million in expenditures through 2026. Personnel replacement of a wastewater main, $675,000 toward costs accounted for $11.35 million of the 2027 total, Carbondale Recreation Center heating, ventilation while capital projects accounted for $9.5 million. and air conditioning, $500,000 toward the Highway The $31.1 million in planned spending next year 133 Industry Place easement and design, $487,000 is $8.1 million more than the town’s expected 2027 toward street resurfacing, $450,000 toward office revenues, which tallies $23 million and nearly equals renovation and more. the 2026 estimated revenue. Most of the difference between next year’s spending and revenue is due to The 2027 budget must be finalized by Dec. 15. planned capital projects, Hyland said after the TuesFor more on the first draft of the 2027 budget, look at day meeting. the Oct. 13 meeting documents on carbondalegov.org Those includes $1 million put toward the Chacos Park Master Plan entry, $1 million toward the THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | October 15-21, 2026 13
Beijin-Tokyo “Amateur Eats” is The Sopris Sun’s food review, written by Carbondale resident and eating enthusiast Jake Skardon and published on the third Thursday of each month. There are 1,300 miles between Beijing also great, and I favored it over the sweet and Tokyo, covering eastern China, the and sour sauce that came with the Po Po Korean peninsula and Japan. To eat your Platter. Along with the pork dumplings, way from one to the other would be impos- the scallion pancakes are a must-order sible, lest you be cursed with immortality appetizer at Beijin-Tokyo. or conscribe an army; thousands of years In between appetizers and entrees, my of culinary history, tens friends had forgotten of thousands of regional their Saturday obligacuisines and hundreds tions and were on their of thousands, if not second or third carafe millions, of restaurants. of sake. I had rigged a Does Carbondale’s time bomb that surely own Beijin-Tokyo do exploded the next mornits namesake justice? ing. Does working on Perhaps not to the Saturday really count as implied scale, but there work? If so, should that is an impressive menu “chill, low key” Friday with dozens of “Amernight be considered a icanized” Chinese weeknight? If weekclassics. There is also, end-eve can become AMATEUR allegedly, sushi on their a work day, can weekonline menu, but I’ve days become weekend EATS never seen it on their nights? If my friends By Jake Skardon dine-in menu, or heard were so preoccupied of anyone ordering it for that matter. Secret with the concept of waking up early on sushi aside, Beijin-Tokyo is a true Carbon- Saturday, were they now effectively drinkdale mainstay, its decades of longevity ing on the job? You might as well drink driven by a balancing act of service, conve- every night, or not at all. Who am I to say, nience, affordability and quality. try it yourself and find your own answers. I visited on a Friday evening expecting The entrees arrived quickly after we a crowd, but aside from a large takeout had finished the appetizers, plates of beef queue, the dining room was only moder- fried rice (ordered “spicy,” with emphasis), ately full. No issues there, because I had sesame chicken and pork moo sho. The brought a crowd with me: a bunch of beef fried rice was, to my disappointment, rowdy, unscrupulous man-children who not discernably spicy. It was still quite chomped at the bit of eating on my dime. tasty, the fried rice still had some moisture For my part, I had fasted all day to prepare about it, giving it a great bite. The assorted for a family-style feast. veggies all had a nice “crunch”, which I will After being seated, the service was fast always prefer over soft and soggy vegetaand attentive. Within a minute or two, bles in fried rice. The beef was of ample we had drinks on the table: bottles of quantity: a tiny bit chewy, but not enough Sapporo, carafes of hot sake for my friends to detract from the dish. and a small pot of jasmine tea for myself The sesame chicken was a strong iter(in observance of Sober October). Before ation of the Chinese-American classic. It our waiter returned, a few of the beers and is a large serving, arguably enough for two most of the sake was gone, and I observed people on its own. The chicken is nuggeted one friend who had “a very busy Saturday and deep fried in such a way that, if I had morning” get bullied into another beer a bottomless pit of a stomach, I could eat or two, or three. These lads were going to all day. The batter is crisp on the outside, need a lot of food to wash down the drink. but then dissolves all the way to the meat To start, we ordered the Po Po Platter, once the tooth breaks ground. The sesame a sampler of several classic deep-fried sauce/glaze was a tad sweet for my taste, appetizers, and the Scallion Pancakes. The but the rest of my table disagreed. I am a Po Po Platter came with pairs of egg rolls, savory over sweet kind of man anyway, spring rolls (we ordered extra of these on and this was good enough for me to recogthe side), fried dumplings, crab rangoons, nize my bias. chicken wings and pork ribs. Standouts The pork moo shu was probably the were the dumplings, which had a pleas- strongest entree of the night. A stir fry of antly juicy pork meatball filling, pairing thin pork slices, scrambled eggs, cabbage very well with table soy sauce rather than and other veggies, served with a bowl of the sugary syrups on the platter, and the hoisin sauce and flour tortillas. This dish chicken wings, which had crispy skin, is less saucy than others, with a texture moist meat and no overwhelming sauce contrast between softer bites of pork and or seasoning. My only contention was egg with crunchy cabbage, and lets the the pork ribs, which were not bad, but I veggies and egg carry the flavor. With was thrown off by the overly sweet red-40 hoisin sauce added, it gains a distinct glaze. A bonus of the Po Po Platter was umami, spiced flavor, although the hoisin an open flame hot rock, which served no is best deployed in small dabs. The tortillas function on a plate of already fried foods, continued on page 15 but certainly gave it some pizzazz. The Scallion pancakes were a hit on our table, devoured seconds after it arrived. I RESTAURANT RATING would call them flakey pastries rather than pancakes: savory, melt in your mouth Cuisine: Chinese goodness, with a hint of rich scallion-ish Quality: (4/5) flavor buried in its oily layers. Whatever Price: $20-$30 per person soy sauce based sauce came with it was
OPINION
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14 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | October 15-21, 2026
Love? I learned the secret in 1989, while duti- Dad stayed. It was the same reason I stuck fully visiting my parents in Manhattan. by Mom after he died. It was simply the Dad, 87, woke up more confused than right thing to do, and Dad and I shared a usual. Mom and I urged him to see his belief in doing the right thing. By the time doctor, and he reluctantly agreed. The I was born, Mom was a mere shadow of doctor said to bring him in at once, so I the charming, competent and beautiful called a taxi. Exam findings were negative. woman he married before they fled the “Go home and take it easy,” the doctor Nazis, leaving a piece of her soul in Vienna. advised, and I started calling another taxi, By the time I graduated from college, she’d but Dad was adamant: been a Valium addict “I’m walking. I’ll meet for years, unable to take you at home.” I followed care of herself, much him into the increasless her family. But Dad ingly blustery October had taken an oath when weather. Two blocks he married her, and later, he broke the keeping it gave his life silence. “I guess I have to meaning. Leaving her tell you. I hope you don’t might have eased one tell your mother. I have a burden, but would have date.” Then he led me to added another, greater the McDonald’s at 72nd burden. So, he found a and Broadway. way to keep his promise. Jean was a pleasant By spring, Dad’s mind MATURE woman, maybe 25 years was failing badly, and he younger than Dad, a no longer kept in touch CONTENT dental assistant for one with Jean. Apparently By Ron Kokish of Dad’s clients before desperate to know how Dad retired at 80. She told me they often he was, she risked phoning the house. spent afternoons together, and that she was Mom answered and figured it out. She grateful that Dad had introduced her to panicked, packed a bag, realized she had opera, classical music and museums. Their nowhere to go, and called me. I don’t relationship provided needed companion- remember much about our phone call, ship without financial obligation. but when it ended, she seemed calmer Though taken aback, I understood. and said she would stay the night and Dad was lonely. He and Jean enjoyed think it over. She never mentioned it again things Mom wasn’t interested in. When he until after Dad died, two years later. Mom met Jean, I supposed, sex was one of those outlived him by six years, during which things. By now, though, I thought that sex she rarely left her apartment, relying on was probably unimportant for them. My my wife Niki and me to manage her affairs, mother was a demanding and jealous and on paid caregivers to meet her daily woman who openly begrudged my father needs. We flew across the country to look and me even the little time we occasion- in on her several times a year. ally spent together without her. She may Mom mentioned Jean once more have been uninterested in going to muse- during those six years. “It was my fault. I ums with him, but he would be in for it if never liked sex. My friends told me to do he took someone else. it for his sake, but I was selfish. Still, I think The more I thought about it, the more he loved me.” sense it made. When I was a child, Dad “I don’t know about the sex, Mom, sent Mom and me for long country vaca- but I know he loved you,” was all I said. It tions. Usually, he visited on weekends, but was much more complicated, of course, sometimes “work” kept him in the city. but Mom had an explanation she could During the year, he often worked evenings, live with. sometimes until after midnight. When Did he really love her? Not in the way he was home, he and Mom often argued I love Niki. But he stayed with her, cared bitterly about her demands. By the time I about what happened to her and looked was a teenager, I could see what he was up out for her as long as he could, while findagainst, but I couldn’t understand why he ing the closeness he needed elsewhere. didn’t leave her. I wanted him to go, and When he couldn’t manage anymore, Niki to take me with him. “Why do you stay and I took over. As a teenager, I thought with her?” I pleaded. “Do you love her? Do Dad was making the wrong choice. Now, you?” “Leave me alone!” was all he said. I think he made one possible right choice. That October evening in 1989, I asked him Does that count as love? Maybe. If so, I calmly, “You’ve always had girlfriends, guess I loved her too. haven’t you?” “Only a few,” he muttered. Would I keep the secret? Indeed, I Mature Content is a monthly feature would, because I finally understood why from Age-Friendly Carbondale.
OPINION
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EATS from page 14 were of the generic, somewhat dry variety, and I would have preferred crepe-style wraps that usually accompany moo shu. However, with plenty of filling and hoisin sauce, they get the job done. Probably for sharing, although I could have eaten all of it myself. As I eased out of my food coma, I realized it was almost closing time, and my friends were engaged in some sort of vulgar
political debate, which probably can’t be printed here. We paid and made a quick exit. Overall, Beijin-Tokyo provides the best dollar-to-calorie ratio in Carbondale, with a great dining room and phenomenal service. While the menu isn’t ambitious, they cover the basics so well that there’s nothing more to be desired. If you want to eat like a king without spending like one, Beijin-Tokyo is the place for you! THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | October 15-21, 2026 15
ASPEN & SNOWMASS Pitkin county Library Hyman Avenue Box Wheeler Opera House Box Snowmass Town Park Station Aspen Valley Hospital Mi Chola Snowmass Clarks Market Snowmass Mall Alpine Bank in Snowmass Alpine Bank in AABC BASALT & EL JEBEL Willits General Store Alpine Bank ANB Bank Basalt Quick Lube Basalt Regional Library Big O Tires El San Miguel Box Casa Tequila CC’s Cafe Whole Foods Eagle County Courts Crown Mountain Express Lube El Jebel Mobile Offices El Korita Hightone Autobody El Jebel Laundromat Mountain Family Health Cazadores Scottie’s The Basalt Store Timbo’s Hightone Automotive and Tires CARBONDALE 3rd St. Center Alpine Bank Carbondale Library Main St. Box Catherine’s Store Food Truck Carbondale Recreation Center City Market Carbondale CMC Edna’s Hair Salon Gloria’s Boutique Garcia’s Jalisco Grill La Fogata La Perla La Placita La Roca Lift-up Sunburst Valley Meats First Bank GLENWOOD SPRINGS Glenwood Springs Library Centennial Park Box Comfort Dental Coin Laundromat Glenwood Recreation Center Glenwood CMC El Yaqui First Bank Frida’s Glenwood Hot Springs Yampa Hotsprings Valley View Hospital Impuestos Seguros La Michoacana Mountain Family Health Post Office Garfield County Human Resources Sal Mex Tequila’s Tony’s Bakery Super Taco Alpine Bank on Grand Ave New Castle New Castle Library City Market Carniceria Elias Hacienda San Miguel Post Office Tapatios Alpine Bank SILT Silt Library La Placita 2 La Placita Market LeMora Pizza Silt Roundabout RIFLE Cafe y Pasteleria Galea East Ave & 3rd St. Box City Hall Box E 12th St. Box El Patron El Rincon Jalisco Grill Mercado San Jose Momma’s Nachos Mexican Dining Paleteria La Korita Promex Bakery Remington Square Spyderwash Tapatios La Baja Espresso Rifle Library Imperio Variedades Dinora Diversity Salon Alpine Bank on 4th St Alpine Bank on Airport Rd PARACHUTE Nalini’s Taqueria Jalisco El Tapatio City Hall Box Parachute Library Running Burrito Lift-up Fifty Shadz Salon Sinclair Vero’s Mexican Bakery
Look for stories like this in this week’s Sol del Valle!
Full edition is available every Friday afternoon on newstands and at businesses from Rifle to Aspen
What I believe By Raquel Rivera Lopez
I believe in love, that it is pure and free, without force, subjugation or hesitation, a love that is built on commitment and respect. I believe in benevolence, that sees the hunger of those in need and extends a hand to quench their thirst, ease their hardship, soothe their sorrow. I believe in God, who gives me courage each day and lights my eyes each morning to witness His wonders. I believe in myself; I believe I am someone who can achieve anything my heart sets out to do.
I believe we are everything and nothing all at once, like tiny fireflies in a meadow, shining with their own light, illuminating the path of those beside us. I believe in all that has made me weep, the cruelty and the indifference of those closest to me, and this loneliness that I carry. I believe in hope and in death, which comes for each of us, its will impossible to evade … I believe I am everything I have ever wanted to be. Raquel’s book of poetry is available for purchase at tinyurl.com/lascigarras Raquel Rivera Lopez
Clouds glow in the evening light of December 2024, north of Rifle. Photo by Ingrid Zuniga
Follow Leonardo Occhipinti’s “Nuevo Mundo” in Sol del Valle every week in Spanish.
Owen McArdle — Editor • owen@soldelvalle.org | Margarita Alvarez — Advertising • margarita@soldelvalle.org www.soldelvalle.org • info@soldelvalle.org • 970-404-7208
16 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | October 15-21, 2026
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores. Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com
Carbondale in color Jane Bachrach Sopris Sun Correspondent
Although there is still some color on the leaves of the trees in Carbondale, most of the brilliant colors of fall 2026 are beginning to fade and fall and will soon become dry and crinkled. The skies will turn gray and the temperatures will (or should) fall, as winter begins to close in. So, if you can’t get out there and enjoy what’s left of the vivid colors, plant your eyes here and enjoy the beauty of Carbondale in color. Fall colors evoke memories of summer sunsets.
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THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | October 15-21, 2026 17
LETTERS Yes to school funding With so many statewide measures on this year’s multi-page ballot, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Remember: you don’t have to vote on every single issue, but there is one local measure where your vote matters tremendously. The single most important question to vote YES on is the Roaring Fork School District’s Question 5C, which you’ll find near the end of your ballot if you live in RFSD’s boundaries from Glenwood to Basalt. Voting Yes on 5C is the single best way to support our local schools, teachers and students. Question 5C is a modest property tax increase that goes directly toward increasing teacher and staff salaries — projected to raise starting teacher pay by approximately $5,000. This funding is critical. The state recently reduced RFSD’s cost-of-living adjustment, despite our district having the fourth highest cost of living in Colorado. To recruit and retain the quality educators and staff our students deserve, we must pay them a living wage. Please make sure to turn your ballot over and vote YES on 5C. Let’s support our local schools with local dollars that stay right here in our community. Ben Bohmfalk Carbondale
Reconsider South Bridge The Glenwood Springs council is moving forward with the South Bridge Project; an $80 million plan aimed at creating a fourth evacuation route primarily for Four Mile residents. While federal funds will cover about $50 million, Glenwood Springs citizens are expected to shoulder the remaining costs, including project management and all cost overruns. In addition, there are long-term costs for maintenance, snow removal, policing and repayment of the bonds needed to fund the balance. This comes at a time when Glenwood is already struggling to meet its current financial obligations. Since the 2002 Coal Seam Fire, we now have a comprehensive evacuation plan, featuring early notifications, access to the Dry Park and the Prehm Ranch roads and coordinated rapid response from various agencies. Given these improvements, the necessity of a new mile-long road and bridge — especially one that is outside of the city limits and will primarily benefit Garfield County residents — seems questionable. It is particularly concerning that Garfield County is not contributing financially and is instead calling for further studies before construction begins. The project will have irreversible impacts on daily Midland Avenue users, leading to increased traffic and eventual gridlock. Additionally, the anticipated growth in the Four Mile area will further strain Midland and require more emergency services. Finally, a new traffic light on Highway 82, the taking of portions of the Jackson Ranch, and impact on the Rio Grande Trail cannot be minimized. For an event with a low probability and robust existing safety plans, the costs and consequences of this project appear to outweigh the benefits. I urge city leaders and residents to reconsider whether this project is truly in Glenwood Springs’ best interest. Chuck Peterson Glenwood Springs
Know your vote Colorado voters beware of those ballot initiatives! Many of them do the opposite of what their title implies. For example: Amendment 85 — “Plain Language Ballot 18 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | October 15-21, 2026
from page 2
Questions” sounds wonderful, but its real purpose is to make it harder for citizens to successfully get ballot initiatives in front of voters and harder to enforce if passed. There are already clear laws about ballot language. Since there are so many ballot initiatives, here’s a brief look at their purpose: Amendment 81: forces local law enforcement to assist with ICE. Amendment 82: amends the constitution and limits our ability to control greenhouse gasses. Amendment 83: amends the constitution and takes wildlife planning away from professionals. Amendment 84: makes it harder to vote in Colorado when we already have an excellent system. Amendment 85: redundant to current laws, and will create legal challenges to many initiatives. Amendment 86: basically limits our ability to respond when other states gerrymander. Amendment 87: IMHO, a good one. Cuts taxes on low income, raises on higher incomes. Proposition NN: another good one: uses money already collected to fund education. Proposition 132: another “war on drugs” proposal that is expensive and treats the symptoms rather than the root of the problem. Proposition 133: similar to above but with sex trafficking; may make it harder on victims and limits a judge in sentencing. Proposition 134: a culture wars proposal taking away school districts’ ability to decide who can play in which sport. Proposition 135: another culture wars proposal taking away a family’s ability to decide what is best for their child. Proposition 137: a good one; directs existing taxes on sporting goods to conservation measures. Peter Westcott Carbondale
Don’t fall for it I just finished voting, and WOW is the ballot wording confusing! Between misleading language on our ballots and massively-funded disinformation campaigns, I encourage everyone to seek some trusted sources before voting on the ballot measures. Typically, citizen groups get initiatives onto the ballot by relying on volunteer signature collectors, people who are passionate about the cause. This year, eight ballot initiatives were bankrolled by the far-right, dark-money group Advance Colorado, which spent millions of dollars hiring professional signature-collectors. Funded by right-wing, ultra-rich individuals, Advance Colorado is trying to push their Project 2025 agenda onto our state: expand ICE power in Colorado, block clean energy policy and cut taxes for the richest Coloradans. Advance Colorado has bankrolled Amendments 81, 82, 83, 84, 85, and 86, as well as Propositions 132 and 136. Propositions 133, 134 and 135 have been financed by far-right billionaires and anti-trans groups. If I hadn’t learned about the money and politics behind these eleven measures, I probably would have voted yes on some of them. On the surface, they seem quite reasonable. Now I know to vote NO. A great website for learning more is WhoIsAdvanceColorado.org by investigative journalist Logan Davis. It’s more important than ever this year to vote, vote early, and vote carefully! Debbie Bruell Carbondale continued on page 19
PARTING SHOT
LETTERS A Democratic Congress Dear Republicans and Independents, If you’re unhappy that the president transferred $52 million that Congress approved to help countries suffering from Russia’s war against Ukraine and instead gave it to far-right leaders in South and Central America — after Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-NY) put a hold on the funds because the switch was unlawful — there is something you can do about it. Consider helping balance Congress by voting against Jeff Hurd, who has repeatedly supported Trump, seemingly because he fears that opposing him could cost him his job. If you’re troubled by the President spending taxpayer dollars on political ads supporting his own agenda, help give Congress a backbone by voting for Democrats. Unlike members of Congress whose political careers may depend on staying in Trump’s good graces, you won’t be punished for voting your conscience. A stronger Democratic presence in Congress could help get things done that you can feel good about — or, at the very least, provide a check on a president who appears willing to defy Congress, disregard the law and use the power of the presidency to benefit himself and his family. If you have doubts about the President or his administration, you don’t have to sit on the sidelines. You can vote for
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Democrats and help restore some balance and accountability to Washington. Kate Friesen Carbondale
Tragedy on White Hill
The Town of Basalt celebrated its 125th anniversary with a shindig on Saturday, Oct. 10. A lunch was served free of charge, which included hot dogs and hamburgers, along with soft drinks, and a pie-baking contest topped it off to make it an extra sweet event. The Basalt Regional Heritage Society had the Arbaney Barn open with lots of memorabilia from the early days of Basalt. Around 3pm, the rain came down and halted the rest of the planned activities, including the scheduled musical acts. Despite the weather, Basalt rose to the occasion of its quasquicentennial celebration. Photos and text by Bob Rugile
White Hill, or County Road 101 leading up to the Catholic Church in Carbondale, is frequently traveled on not only by the people who live on the road, but by folks wanting to give themselves a challenge since it is uphill. At any given time, you can see people walking, jogging or walking their dogs, horses and the occasional donkey, riding their bikes, skateboards and scooters. A week ago, a baby bear was hit and killed by someone and left on the side of the road. As if the bears haven’t had enough troubles this year! For those of us who came across this little bear, it was heartbreaking. No animal deserves this. To the people who drive up and down White Hill and treat it like it is a race track, I’d like to ask them to PLEASE SLOW IT DOWN. I cannot imagine how anyone could have been going so fast that they couldn’t stop in time to avoid this tragedy. What if it had been one of the kids or people who are on the road at any given time of day? For those racing to get to the church on time, I’d like to remind you, “Never drive faster than your Angels can fly.” Lynn Kirchner Carbondale
LEGAL NOTICES
LETTERS POLICY: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor. Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome. Please, no smearing, cite your facts and include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@ soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.
Published by the order of Town of Carbondale.
NOTICE is hereby given that a proposed budget has been submitted to the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District for the ensuing year of 2027; a copy of such proposed budget has been filed in the office of the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District, where the same is open for public inspection; such proposed budget will be considered at the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors to be held at Carbondale Fire Headquarters, 301 Meadowood Drive, Carbondale, Colorado on November 11, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Any interested elector of Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections thereto at any time prior to the final adoption of the budget.
Published in The Sopris Sun on October 15, 2026.
Published in The Sopris Sun on October 15, 2026.
NOTICE OF FINAL SETTLEMENT Notice is hereby given that on October 27th, 2026, at 6:00 pm final settlement will be made with Grand River Construction Co, 817 Colorado Ave, Suite 101, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601, by the Town of Carbondale, 511 Colorado Ave, Carbondale, CO, 81623, on a contract for labor and materials for a project known as the Weant Blvd Pedestrian Crossing project and that any person, co-partnership, company, association of persons, or corporation who has an unpaid claim against Grand River Construction, or its subcontractors, for labor and materials, may, at any time, up to closing of business the last work day prior to final settlement, that is, by October 26th, 2026, file a verified statement of the amount due with the Town of Carbondale (Attn. Kevin Schorzman) (kschorzman@ carbondaleco.net) pursuant to Section 3826-107, CRS, as amended. Failure on the part of the Claimant to make such verified statement, prior to the final settlement on the contract with Grand River Construction, will relieve the Town of Carbondale from any liability for such Claimant’s claim.
PUBLIC NOTICE OF PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME Public Notice is given on Sept. 25, 2026 that a Petition for a Change of Name has been filed with the Pitkin County Court. The petition requests the name of Alexandra Jerkunica be changed to Alexandra Erika Jerkunica. County Case Number 26C39. Published in The Sopris Sun on October 15, 2026.
NOTICE OF BUDGET
(Pursuant to 29-1-106, C.R.S.)
THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | October 15-21, 2026 19
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