Sindy Smith, a resident of River Valley Ranch, stepped outside Monday evening to photograph the remarkable double rainbow arching across the eastern
Suddenly, she spotted this moose looking magnificent in the rain. It lingered for a portrait before wandering off.
The Glenwood Post, Oct. 9, 1909:
Carbondale is … announcing that her people will hold a mammoth “Potato Show”… on Saturday, October 23. She promises great times for all … and says she will have a grand barbecue … potato races, a [lady’s] nail-driving contest, pony races and dancing … Since Carbondale leads the world in raising spuds, it is safe to say that all who go will be treated to a sight they will never forget.
What has become an annual celebration of Carbondale’s agricultural history, started out as an exhibition of goods by farmers, gardeners and homemakers. Blue ribbons were given for first place and red ribbons for second place, in categories ranging from vegetable and grain harvesting to livestock, to preserves, cakes and needlework.
In the ensuing years, more contests were added. The 1913 Potato Day program announced the first prize for the “Married Women’s Footrace” was a pair of silk stockings. First prizes for the “Fat Man’s Race” and the “Slim Man’s Race” were the same: a box of cigars.
enterprise was described by Pat Noel in The Valley Journal on Oct. 7, 1993:
The demise of the potato industry began in the 1940s … when the price of spuds plummeted to 10 cents a hundred … Farmers let the crop rot in the field rather than sell it for so little … Valley farms gradually switched to hay, grain and grazing operations.
While the commercial potato industry moved to other states, Carbondale continued to celebrate Potato Day, with a brief pause during the two World Wars. In 1947, the Chamber of Commerce took on the task of producing the Town’s oldest festival. Farming families, like the Gianinettis, Nieslaniks and Cerises, kept growing potatoes, and their family members served on the chamber’s volunteer Potato Day committee.
Gender stereotypes held firm with “The Baby Show,” where the prize for the “Most Perfect Baby Boy” was “$5 deposited in the First National Bank of Carbondale, to draw interest until 21 years of age.” “The Most Perfect Baby Girl,” not needing financial independence, of course, received a gold locket. In the “Fattest Baby” category, the winner received a new pair of shoes from Dinkel’s Mercantile “to be selected by the mother.”
By Sue Gray
Carbondale’s potato industry began in the 1880s with the first homesteaders in the Crystal Valley: Alex Thompson, Sam Bowles, Oscar Holland and William Dinkel. As the popularity of spuds grew nationwide around 1900, everyone got into the potato business.
Irish immigrant Thomas McClure crossed two types of potato and developed the Red McClure. The variety had all but disappeared until 2009, when it was found growing in the San Luis Valley and brought back to Carbondale by Slow Food Roaring Fork to be distributed among local gardeners. This rare heirloom potato can still be found growing in fields and gardens around the Valley.
Eugene Grubb, owner of Mt. Sopris Farm, became an expert in all things spud-related, traveling the world as a “Potato Ambassador.”
An excerpt from Grubb’s book, “The Potato,” published in 1912, reads:
The Roaring Fork and Crystal River Valley section of Colorado is as nearly perfect in soil conditions as can be found, and the potatoes grown there are not excelled anywhere in the world.
Grubb may have been biased, but, by all accounts, the potatoes that were grown in this area were once prized by passengers of the nation’s railroads, which served them in their dining cars, patrons of New York City’s posh restaurants and World War I soldiers.
The beginning of the end of Carbondale’s once booming
CORRECTION: The first snow on Sopris this year fell on Sept. 13, not Sept. 15. Oops!
Promoting division
It’s disappointing to see The Sopris Sun continue to give Brian Colley a platform for what increasingly amounts to one-sided political jabs thinly veiled as satire. Colley’s column doesn’t aim to spark dialogue — it ridicules, dismisses and divides. That may pass for commentary in some circles, but it does a disservice to a community paper that claims to represent a diverse readership.
His work reflects a clear “left” leaning bias and frequently alienates those who don’t share his views. This kind of content doesn’t foster critical thinking or civic engagement, it entrenches division and discourages open conversation. Satire can be powerful, but when it’s used to demean rather than challenge, it becomes part of the problem.
If The Sopris Sun is serious about serving the ENTIRE community — not just one side of it — it needs to rethink the kind of voices it elevates. Otherwise, it
In the beginning, community members provided the ingredients and prepared the free barbeque lunch, with local homemakers baking the potatoes in their own ovens. By 1971, the cost of feeding several thousand people became too much, and a 50-cent fee was charged.
In 1999, the Potato Day planning torch was passed to the Xi Gamma Tau and Zeta Epsilon sororities, which carried on a tradition of choosing an annual theme, such as “Wide World of Spuds” and “Potato Sack is the New Black,” providing for entertaining parade entries. This year’s theme is “The Grate Spudsby” — a nod to the novel’s 100 year anniversary.
After 17 years, the sorority sisters were relieved by a committee of local nonprofit organizations, led by Carbondale’s Parks and Rec Department, which continues in that role today. This year Parks and Rec hired Kat Hardy, who also facilitates Dandelion Day, to head the expansive organizing efforts along with Kade Gianinetti — keeping it in the family, so to speak.
As the 116th annual Potato Day approaches, I’ll leave you with some encouragement from the past.
The Aspen Democrat Times, Oct. 20, 1911: Yes-Sir-ree! It’s Potato Day … tomorrow at Carbondale and it is time for you to stick your face in a great big, meaty, spud with butter on it — on the potato, not your face, we mean, but both may have butter on them for all the jolly farmers of Carbondale care.
The town will be wide open for visitors and the police have positive instructions to leave the Aspen bunch alone no matter what is done.
Going down, yes, away down to Carbondale.
Potato Day still relies on community volunteers. To find out how you can help during the Oct. 4 celebration, visit www.tinyurl.com/PotatoDayVolunteer or email potatodays@carbondalehistory.org For a list of events, see the back page of this week’s Sopris Sun.
risks becoming little more than an outlet for partisan messaging masquerading as local journalism.
Anna Green Carbondale
The phone rings. An employer wants to hire a mother trying to move to the Valley, but she can’t find childcare for her toddler. I add her to my waitlist, already 200 names long. I expect four openings in September. That’s it. The employer is frustrated, worried they’ll lose a great hire.
The phone rings again. A father, who is expecting a baby girl in January, is trying to get on the waitlist early. I congratulate him, and urge him to get on every list in the Valley.
This is the reality for families from Parachute to Aspen. The demand for childcare is enormous. The supply? Barely a trickle. Why? I could talk about teacher burnout, restrictive zoning laws or the lack of respect for stay-at-home parents and early childhood educators. (“Aren’t you just a babysitter?” people ask. “No. My work
shapes young brains more profoundly than future college professors.”) But, today, let’s talk about money.
In our Valley, most families need both parents working to stay afloat. Meanwhile, most childcare teachers can’t afford to live here. Facilities could raise tuition to pay teachers more, but then parents couldn’t afford care. So we’re stuck with too few facilities, understaffed classrooms and constant teacher turnover.
And that turnover is not just inconvenient. It’s harmful.
Young children are wired to form deep, secure bonds with their caregivers. It’s a developmental need. A child bonds with her teacher. She feels safe, seen, loved. Then the teacher leaves, unable to afford life here. The child grieves. She bonds again with the next teacher. That teacher leaves too. Over time, the child learns not to trust, or not to care. This isn’t just sad — it’s trauma. It affects behavior, learning, relationships and long-term physical and mental health.
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OUR UNDERWRITERS AND NONPROFIT PARTNERS!
The Carbondale Chamber of Commerce held its annual Business Confluence event on Wednesday, Sept. 17. Among the highlights, Carolyn Tucker with the Colorado Rural Workforce Consortium announced unemployment in Garfield County is hovering below the national average of 4.3%. Increased retirements, decreased birth rates and a generally aging population, she suggested, should motivate employers to consider flexibly hiring older, part-time workers. Keynote speaker Dr. Matt Gianneschi, president of Colorado Mountain College (CMC), calculated that a single person living in Garfield County must make $51,926 annually to meet their basic needs, and that number jumps to $92,898 with a child in the picture. He emphasized that CMC aims to educate workers who will remain in the community.
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Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner? Email Todd@soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866
The Michael E. McGoldrick (MEM) Scholars Foundation is awarding $100,000 to high school seniors in Colorado. The scholarship seeks students who are academically strong and reflect values McGoldrick held close: a love of discovery, a belief in human rights and justice, an appreciation for art and culture and respect for the natural world. Applications are open with the first round closing Oct. 15. Learn more at www.memscholars.org
From now through Oct. 17, graduating seniors in Colorado are encouraged to apply for the Daniels Scholarship which provides up to the full cost of attendance at partner colleges and universities across the country. Scholars who choose to attend a non-partner school are still eligible to receive up to $100,000 over four years. The scholarship awards strength of character, leadership potential, commitment to serving one’s community, academic performance or promise, a well-rounded personality and emotional maturity and stability. Find the application and more at www.danielsfund.org/scholarships
Aspen Snowmass is auctioning trail signs to help residents of two local mobile home parks purchase the land beneath their houses and become resident-owned communities, enabling over 500 locals, including 150 children, to remain in the area. Local governments and philanthropists contributed over $16 million to the cause and all additional funding will help keep rates affordable for residents. Check it out at www.bit.ly/aspensignauction
If you notice the new bike repair tool stand at the Prince Creek trailhead, that is the result of an Eagle Scout service project led by Andy McMichael (pictured) of Scout Troop #242. He noticed the need during practices as a member of the Roaring Fork High School mountain bike team. The project beneficiaries are the Roaring Fork Mountain Bike Association and Pitkin County Open Space and Trails. The project was made possible thanks to donations from the Aspen Elks Lodge, Basalt Lions Club, Rotary Club of Carbondale and generous individuals, along with volunteer labor from members of Scout Troop #242. Also this summer, Liam Heath of Basalt built a shade shelter for the bike park at Crown Mountain Park for his Eagle Scout project, which was funded by Aspen Elks Lodge and Basalt Lions Club and built with volunteer labor from the troop and community. Courtesy photo
The Bureau of Land Management has opened more public lands in Garfield and Eagle counties (north and west of Gypsum, north of Sweetwater Road, south of Derby Creek) that were previously closed due to the Derby Fire. Some areas inside the burned perimeter remain closed. Find the map at www.blm.gov/ucr-fire-restrictions
The Garfield County Commissioners (BOCC) directed the county attorney, Heather Beattie, on Sept. 15 to move forward with two interview processes for three library board of trustee positions. Myrna Fletchall vacated the Rifle position in July. According to Beattie, the
library board wants the Rifle position filled as soon as possible for budget discussions. The person who fills it this year will serve until the end of December, which is when that term ends. But that means the BOCC will hold another interview for the same position at the beginning of 2026. The other two positions will also be filled at the beginning of the year. No dates have been set for interviews.
On Sept. 16, 28 Roaring Fork Valley residents were recognized for their “exceptional service, leadership and commitment to the community” as recipients of the various Pitkin County Cares Volunteer Service and Greg Mace Awards for their volunteerism within Pitkin County. The Greg Mace award was established in 1986 in memory of Mace, a Mountain Rescue Aspen volunteer who died in a climbing accident on North Maroon Peak. The Greg Mace award went to Becky Ward, and on this side of the county, Hank van Berlo and William Shank each received the Crystal Valley Heroes award. For a full list of award recipients, visit www.pitkincounty.com/pitkincountycares
Governor Jared Polis and the State Demography Office released an analysis of housing availability in the state, using the latest data from 2023, which determined a 106,000 unit shortfall. Compared to a peak shortfall of 140,000 units in 2019, the gap has closed only somewhat and the report suggests that approximately 34,100 residential units would need to be built each year for a decade to meet the projected population increases. Forty-three-thousand units were built on average annually between 2020 and 2023, but construction has significantly slowed since due to rising building costs and elevated interest rates. For the full report, visit www.tinyurl. com/COHousingShortfall
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Taila Howe, Laura Stover and Geneviéve Villamizar (Sept. 25); Martin Calkins, Carolyn Cipperly, Teka Israel, Klaus Kocher, Kate Phillips, Kenya Pinela, Mateo Rader, Mimi Schlumberger and Leonard Zanni (Sept. 26); Susan Cheney, Kate Comer, Peggy DeVilbiss, Linda Fleming, Renee Ramge, and Jason White (Sept. 27); Madeleine Dameron Dahl, Andrew McMichael, Dave Reed, Kristin Stewart, Grace “Flash” Trevor Gallo and Pam Kaiser Williams (Sept. 28); Steve Jundt (Sept. 30); Wes Engstrom, Mark Grice, Heather Hicks, Blake Lockard, Daisy Salinas, and Mike Waski (Oct. 1).
Sopris Sun Correspondent
As bear season and archery season draw to a close, many hunters across Colorado are preparing for upcoming rifle seasons. Earlier this month, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) announced general reminders, permitting updates and safety warnings for hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts.
While hunters are well aware of the dates, it is a valuable reminder for hikers and other recreationalists that Colorado hunting seasons last until late November. Bear rifle and archery seasons started at the beginning of this month, and close on Tuesday, Sept. 30. After a two-week break, the first of four rifle seasons opens on Oct. 15 and closes Oct. 19. The remaining rifle seasons run Oct. 25 to Nov. 2, Nov. 8-16 and Nov. 19-23.
CPW requires that big-game hunters using a firearm must wear fluorescent orange or pink when in the field. Camouflaged orange or pink attire is not allowed on its own, as it is not visible enough to other hunters. The agency recommends that other recreation users also wear bright colors, especially during
rifle seasons. Orange, fluorescent yellow and pink are the most visible. For dog owners, it is practical to use similarly colored pet vests and collars during hunting season, and to keep dogs on leash even in sections of wilderness where voice control is acceptable.
CPW reminds the public that it is illegal to intentionally interfere with hunters, including causing animals to flee, interfering with access to public areas or, heaven
forbid, injecting oneself into the line of fire. In a Sept. 3 press release, the agency emphasized the shared responsibility of safety among hunters, hikers, bikers, leaf peepers, wildlife viewers and off-highway-vehicle users. Most of Colorado’s outdoor spaces are multi-use public land. During hunting season, it is crucial for both hunters and nonhunters to show respect and courtesy toward all other recreationalists.
While recent rain has allowed most counties to lift fire restrictions, wildfire risk remains a concern. Hunters are urged to secure chains on campers and trailers and check tires prior to driving to trailheads or access points. CPW recommends avoiding driving or parking over dry grass. Hunters and campers should remember to use established fire rings when possible,
and otherwise build fires away from flora. When putting out campfires, the coals should be cool to the touch to ensure the fire is adequately extinguished.
CPW reminds hunters that while coyotes and gray wolves can look similar from a distance, the two species are distinct. Both the federal Endangered Species Act and state law protect gray wolves in Colorado. Wolves can be close to three feet tall and six feet long, with broader snouts and ears proportional to the large canines. Wolf tracks are roughly twice the size of coyote tracks. Penalties for illegally shooting a gray wolf can include a fine up to $100,000, jail time and loss of hunting privileges. Coyotes are very slender, two-feet tall or shorter and around four feet long, with large ears and slender snouts. Hunters who wish to harvest coyotes need to complete additional steps. Even if they have not filled their big game license, coyote hunters must possess a small game license and complete a Harvest Information Program (HIP) survey.
Weather remains a risk even in autumn months. Following a lightning strike resulting in the death of two young hunters near
continued
WILL BUZZERD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Amidst increased demand for food and steadily diminishing funds over the past several years, food security nonprofit Lift-Up has had to reduce some its programming in order to cut back costs and redirect resources to where they matter most — providing reliable, nutritious food to residents of the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys.
Following difficult decisions to reduce staff, cut some of its services and shutter its thrift stores in Rifle and Parachute, Lift-Up remains cautiously optimistic that it will be able to meet 2026 with new services to accomplish its mission. In order for that to happen, they will rely on more community support than ever.
In 2023, Lift-Up purchased its current headquarters and main warehouse in Glenwood Springs which, while providing the organization with a central hub for food distribution, left it $1.5 million in the red. At the end of 2024, Lift-Up experienced a major shake-up when three members of its directorial staff stepped down for reasons unrelated to the organization’s financial strains. Combined with a tripled number of individuals seeking services since 2022 and a 27% reduction in philanthropic donations each year, 2025 has been more than challenging.
At the start of 2025, Lift-Up’s remaining directors hired contractors to temporarily plug gaps left by changes in leadership, including former Basalt Town Council member Elyse Hottel who presently serves as Lift-Up’s interim executive director. The new team took a hard look at existing programming, and in February of this year announced an adjustment to services in order to remain within budget.
One of the major changes was the discontinuation of drive-thru food distribution. Launched during COVID in order to maintain social distancing, the new team found that the program’s prepackaged food parcels led to food waste, as recipients wouldn’t always receive what they could use.
For efficiency, Lift-Up’s staff was reduced from 15 employees in 2024 to nine. The team also internally promoted Samantha Heald, who started out as a warehouse associate, to director of programmatic operations, helping stabilize the full-time staff. While that staff remains “lean and mean,” in Hottel’s words, Lift-Up still relies on the greater flexibility of contractors for services like grant applications.
Other cost-saving measures included the shuttering of Lift-Up’s Glenwood, Parachute and Rifle thrift stores. While the Glenwood thrift store operated on rented property, Lift-Up owned its buildings in Parachute and Rifle and made the difficult decision in August to sell both properties. Until sales are finalized, Lift-Up continues
to operate the food pantries in both Rifle and Parachute while on the lookout for new premises for those pantries within their local communities.
A press release stressed that food security is Lift-Up’s top priority. “Feeding people seeking support is our mission,” Hottel is quoted saying. “It’s what we do really well, and we need to double down on it because the rising cost of living in our region, coupled with federal funding cuts, is only going to increase the need.”
The need for increased efficiency also led Lift-Up to adopt a new internal program to track food distribution across its pantries and collect data on where and when demand is highest in order to better direct resources.
KATE PHILLIPS
Sopris Sun Correspondent
An exciting new chapter is unfolding for the local Nordic community as Olympian, World Cup champion and Basalt resident Sophie Caldwell Hamilton was recently named Nordic program director for the Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club (AVSC). She will replace longtime friend and colleague August Teague who held the position for nine years and is now AVSC’s executive director. Lina Sutro, AVSC alum and retired professional skier, has been promoted to Nordic’s race team head coach, Hamilton’s former role.
“I am so passionate about the development of the sport and community,” said Hamilton. “As program director I have the opportunity to be involved in every level from Bill Koch [Youth Ski League] to the race team. The more I thought about this job, the more I realized it really is my dream job. I am so thrilled this all worked out.”
Nordic is considered one of AVSC’s largest athletic programs. Alongside over 60 staff members, Hamilton will use her ski expertise — including high-performance athletics, time on the Rocky Mountain Nordic organization and National Nordic Foundation boards and previous AVSC roles — to elevate the sport and support over 350 athletes.
“We have this incredible group of coaches, which is a huge part of why I wanted this job,” she said. “I’m part of an amazing group of people and we have so much momentum with this staff.”
The excitement is mutual as Teague shared his sentiments on Hamilton’s promotion. “I can’t imagine anyone more qualified than Sophie for this critical role at AVSC,” he said. “She is passionate about the sport, intimately understands our goals and our athletes, and is dedicated to their growth as both athletes and people.”
Hamilton initially connected with AVSC during visits to
the Roaring Fork Valley with her partner and fellow Olympian Simi Hamilton. At the time she was a professional skier and would volunteer at practices offering insight and support. In 2021, she retired from professional skiing and moved to the Valley where worked full-time outside of skiing, but she still made the time to be the assistant national competition coach. Nearly two years later, the trails called her back when she was asked to become the full-time race team head coach.
The new role was deeply fulfilling for Hamilton who drew upon eight years of professional skiing to mentor and train the young athletes. “I spent a lot of time ski racing and I knew how things were supposed to feel and I knew what I was supposed to do, but I had to learn how to explain it from the coaching side,” she described. “August was the program director and we worked really well together. I was really happy in that role.”
Specializing in sprints, Hamilton’s ski career included time as Team Captain for the National Team, two Olympic berths and numerous World Cup starts that resulted in multiple podium finishes and two individual championship titles. In 2016, she became the first American woman to win a classic World Cup championship.
When the program director position opened, it was clear that Hamilton’s experience, excellent rapport with colleagues and eagerness to learn made her the perfect candidate for the role; and while her professional background outlines her ability to succeed, it is her childhood upbringing that shows the future of AVSC.
Growing up in Peru, Vermont, Hamilton was immersed in a small, but vibrant ski community. Her paternal grandfather, John Caldwell, was an Olympic skier who penned gold standard books about cross country skiing while her dad, Sverre Caldwell, was a legendary ski coach at
Stratton Mountain School. Her mom, Lilly, also successfully raced throughout high school and college.
Hamilton recalled fond childhood memories skiing with her brother and sister in their local Bill Koch League, where hot chocolate, games and informal races ending with lollipops took precedence. Raised with this support, Hamilton surrounded herself with coaches and people who were truly invested in her success and gave her ownership of her plans and career.
“I owe a lot to my parents,” she said. “They did a very good job of not applying pressure to be a racer. It was up to my siblings and I if we wanted to take it more seriously, and I think that’s why we all skied through college and never burnt out, because it was always fun.”
continued on page 22
MYKI JONES
Sopris
Sun Correspondent
OMfluence Marketing Agency, formerly known as Hospitality Marketing, has supported local service and tourism-oriented businesses since 2023. Their focus is on sustainable and human-first approaches with an emphasis on storytelling and close working relationships with clients. The company was started by Olivia Savard, who grew up in Marble and has an extensive background in freelance marketing, and Marlene Neidert, a long-time local with a background in tourism marketing. These two are not only business partners but good friends.
“Olivia and I met in 2018 at a Glenwood Springs chamber networking event where I was giving a presentation on social media marketing,” Neidert recalled. “I was working for Visit Glenwood at the time. She was early on in her freelancing and marketing journey, but already had a good set of clients and knew what she was doing.”
Both women maintained separate careers for many years. They collaborated on many projects after meeting in 2018, all the while dreaming of entering into their own joint business venture. The dream came to fruition in 2023
when together they launched Hospitality Marketing as their flagship brand. At the time, both were living outside the area.
“I moved back to Austria for a time in 2021, and Olivia moved to Vermont in 2022,” Neidert explained. “We connected on regular Zoom calls, and we finally decided, ‘Okay, let’s do this. Let’s finally build something together.’”
During the LLC’s infancy, the partners primarily worked with hospitality businesses, including Visit Glenwood and the Colorado Historic Hot Springs Loop. As the company grew, with the addition of Taylor Thulson as the business’s project and social media manager, so did the list of clientele broaden, prompting a rebrand from Hospitality Marketing to OMfluence. The current client list includes Cool Brick Studios, the Glenwood Vaudeville Review, Glenwood Insurance and Hot Springs of America.
In addition to these entities, this team has also supported ballot initiatives, such as the “Paving Glenwood Forward” street tax campaign, and local fundraising efforts, including for the Crystal Theatre Alliance and Town of Carbondale’s “Make a Splash” aquatics facility campaign. In each of these efforts, the tactics of
human-first marketing played a significant role. Savard elaborated on what those tactics look like.
“Growing up in the Roaring Fork Valley, where tourism is such a big thing, gives an opportunity to see things from all sides,” she said. “There are many times when locals want visitors to engage with our local culture and community while respecting it. There are a lot of times when the messaging can come off a bit dry, almost as if someone is speaking rules to you.”
Savard continued, “When we can start to weave it into destination marketing messaging, there’s ways to be able to highlight local voices, to celebrate local culture and be able to encourage people to have that stewardship and sustainability mindset when they are actually visiting, beforehand.”
She said this messaging was inspired by her and Neidert’s love for small-town character throughout the Valley as well as a mutual love of the outdoors. One example of their human-first marketing strategy can be found in their work with the Hot Springs Loop, where they launched the “Love the Loop” campaign detailing how to be a respectful visitor when soaking in the springs and how to meet locals.
Neidert explained their process,
beginning with one-on-one conversations with new clients to gather as much information as possible to then storyboard the language needed for a particular marketing script for the business or entity.
“Human-first marketing and authentic storytelling are elements that drive destination and tourism marketing, but work wonderfully for all small businesses up and down the Valley as well,” Neidert said. “I would say the common ground for how we start everyone’s marketing journey is sitting down with the business owner or organization and figuring out, ‘What are you about? What’s the unique story we can tell?’ It makes it more relatable.”
Discussing social media for their clients, Savard said growing an online presence is a crucial part of helping fellow entrepreneurs and business owners to stand out from the crowd.
“Having your business on social media does a variety of things. It makes you more searchable. It puts you on the web, which is vital now,” Savard explained. “Growing an online presence and being able to show up in social media spaces really positions you, no matter what your industry is, as an expert and active player inside of it.
To learn more, visit www.omfluence.com
Sopris Sun Correspondent
This summer, the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line celebrated its first anniversary and officially combined forces with Colorado Crisis Services. Established in July 2024, 988 Colorado is an additional resource for people struggling with emotional, mental health and substance use issues. The simple three-digit number confidentially connects people with trained professionals 24 hours a day for conversational support and guidance.
Last month, the 988 Colorado staff partnered with the Colorado Rockies baseball team at Coors Field to raise awareness about the service, in addition to launching a free ambient radio option on YouTube (@988Colorado). The organization had a pop-up lounge at the Rockies versus Pirates games from Friday, Aug. 1 to Sunday, Aug. 3. At the games, 988 Colorado Director Gordon Coombes told 9 News television that the majority of calls the resource line has received have been from men. The organization hopes that a presence at sports games will help raise awareness of the support options.
As of early June, 988 Colorado had answered over 364,213 calls. The majority of those were from individuals between the ages of 26 to 39, who phoned in with ideations of suicide, wellness concerns and/or social or interpersonal stresses. The resource is available in both English
and Spanish to maximize accessibility.
Public mental health support services have undergone changes nationwide and statewide this year. The presidential administration shuttered the national-level line’s option for LGBTQ+ youth in July, citing a lack of congressional funding. However, the national 988 hotline was only formally established in 2022. Colorado has had statewide mental health resources for far longer.
In 2013, then-Governor John Hickenlooper’s office established the Colorado Crisis Services hotline in response to the Aurora Theater shooting. That line had evolved in the 12 years since, and
coexisted with the national 988 line since 2022. This summer, Governor Jared Polis implemented Colorado General Assembly-passed legislation, SB25-236, to consolidate the state resources for simplicity and better access. Polis also declared Sept. 8 “988 Day” to raise awareness about the state resource during National Suicide Prevention Month.
988 Colorado is managed by a seven-member volunteer board appointed by the governor. The board worked with the Colorado Behavioral Health Administration to prioritize access.
Since July 1, Colorado Crisis Services calls have been forwarded to 988 Colorado.
Websites for both the preexisting resource and 988 Colorado provide information on evaluating mental health and seeking help. 988 Colorado has continued to contract with Solari Crisis and Human Services, which previously operated both the Colorado Crisis Services and the 988 Colorado Mental Health Line.
988 provides more than just the quickdial hotline. People in need can text the number for support, or even access a human-supported chat option via the website. The 988 radio option on YouTube is a three-and-a-half-hour offering of ambient music chosen specifically for soothing and calming in moments of distress.
988colorado.com includes infographics on recognizing emotional distress. Signs of depression or other emotional disturbance can include: difficulty focusing, irritability, sudden changes in sleeping and eating habits, isolating and risk-taking behaviors, substance abuse and fatigue.
The website lists a variety of resource groups within Colorado for teens, pregnant women, new mothers and people living with substance use disorders. 988 also directs people to walk-in centers statewide. While 988 does not have a location in the Roaring Fork Valley, the Aspen Hope Center, based in Basalt, offers local resources. The Aspen Hope Center has localized hotlines for the Aspen area and for Garfield County, provides referrals for short-term therapy and has a mobile crisis team.
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
Next month, for three consecutive weekends beginning Oct. 3, the Linwood Cemetery above Glenwood Springs will again bring history to life for the Glenwood Springs Historical Society’s 25th anniversary of its Ghost Walk tradition. For the second year in a row, there will be a one-night showcase at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue as well, Oct. 29. This is the biggest annual fundraiser for the historical society with proceeds benefiting current programming, future expansions in programming and upkeep at the museum.
John Goss, owner of (and recurring performer at) the Glenwood Springs Vaudeville Revue, said he looks forward to this year’s in-town performance in his space. In addition to making the tour accessible to people who can not physically walk to and around the cemetery, the ambiance places extra emphasis on the actors portraying historical figures.
“When there’s complete focus on the people on the stage, when you light somebody up, when you’re in the dark, it’s just amazing how it creates so much more focus and entertainment and such a better performance from the people doing their reading,” Goss said. “It brings in an audience who is there to listen to some wonderful stories and historical information around the area, and a surprising number of people are really into that.”
Glenwood Springs Historical Society Executive Director Mark Jensen, who joined the staff this year, looks forward to educating locals and visitors alike with this event.
“Ghost Walk brings people here,” he stated. “It appeals to a broader audience and shows how many people in Colorado connect with the history of the mountain towns. Keeping this event going is part of the historical society’s efforts to continue visibility in the community. We’re hoping
sales from this year will help us expand into other things, such as more tour opportunities around town, hosting additional events and possibly hiring more staff.”
According to Clara Miller, the event coordinator, audiences can expect immersive stories about some of the most well-known historical figures of Glenwood Springs. These include John Henry “Doc” Holliday, Dollie Barlow Landis Barnes, F. Hervey Lyle, Jasper Ward and several others, with some spots still open
for any hopeful actors.
“We are always still looking because things change with the event regularly,” Miller explained. “We always want more actors as well, because most people have their one story and they stick to it. So to be able to bring in more and new people allows us to bring in some stories that haven’t been heard for years, especially when it comes to men.”
Miller has been involved with this event and the historical society since she was in High School. She shared a bit about her love for the story of Dollie Barlow Landis Barnes, a woman who lived a colorful life in Glenwood Springs before running off to join the circus.
“I love Dollie’s story. She was married to this businessman and they were doing pretty well. He then passed away and she was raising her son, and she quite literally ran away and joined the circus. Like, very literally, she ran away and joined the circus. She left her son, Harry, who is thought to be the first white child born in this valley, here with her parents and went off with Al Barnes. He wasn’t faithful to her, so she actually was successful in getting a divorce from him at that time, which was pretty amazing,” Miller recounted.
For more stories like that of Dollie Barlow, grab tickets for a cemetery tour or the indoor production at www.glenwoodhistory.org/ghostwalk
In The Heart of the Carbondale Creative District
Featuring extended hours and special events at local shops, galleries, and restaurants Plus live music, food trucks, street activities, and games with community booths
Opening of Exhibits by Courtney Kenny, Michael Kinsley, & Laura Dortmans | Carbondale Arts | 5-7pm
Community Apple Cider Press with Waldkinder Inc.
Chacos Park | 5-7pm
Live Music
Chacos Park | 5-8pm
Breakdance Busking by 970 BeatKicks
Promenade y Main St | 5:30-7pm
Carbondale Clay Center Opening of Playful Pottery
Main Street Gallery & The Framer
Opening Night of The Secretary
Thunde r Rive r The at re | 7:30pm
Harvest Meal & Carbondale Historical Society
Membership Drive | Tr ue Nat ure | 5-9pm
Sign up to volunteer with us during First Fridays! Main Street is closed to thru traffic from Weant Blvd to 3rd Street
Full details at carbondalearts com
JOHN STROUD Sopris Sun Correspondent
The Roaring Fork High School boys soccer team played the state’s seventh-ranked 3A team to a scoreless tie on Satur day, Sept. 20, an outcome that in turn propelled the Rams into the top 10.
The physical bout produced multiple yellow cards for both teams, landed one Timnath player in the hospital with a shoulder injury, left another sprawled on the sideline with a charlie horse toward the end of the game and resulted in one Cubs’ booer being ejected from the stands by the referee.
“Yea, it was a physical game,” Rams Coach Nick Forbes said.
But it’s the kind of game they need to be prepared for come state playoff time, he said.
“We certainly stood up to the challenge and had a few chances to win it, as the other team also did,” Forbes said. “But proud of the team for staying calm and matching the physicality without getting emotionally ruffled.”
Much of the kerfuffle took place at midfield, where Roaring Fork and Timnath battled to put together the occasional scoring run. The Cubs, who held the No. 7 ranking coming into the match,
Fun Bike-a-Thon to fight Malaria
15-mile, all-ages, downhill, fun ride. Collect pledges for new bikes for African health workers to eradicate malaria! Visit: go.rallyup.com/bikes-for-bikes
Join Rotary volunteers to clean up Highway 82! Adult volunteers welcome, must RSVP in advance to Eric at 970 948-1369
CRYSTAL RIVER MEMBERS MT. SOPRIS MEMBERS
Alpine Animal Hospital
Aspen SavATree
MEDIA SPONSORS
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
‘THRESHOLD’
True Nature hosts a three-day retreat for women guided by Kemi Nekvapil, Laura McKowen and Elena Brower beginning at 10am today. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
RED HILL MAINTENANCE
Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers invites the community to help maintain trails and restore habitat on Red Hill from 2 to 6pm. Sign up at www.rfov.org
GRAPHIC NOVEL CLUB
The Carbondale Library hosts a graphic novel club, for ages 9-12, from 3:30 to 4:30pm with pizza! To sign up, call 970-963-2889.
LEGO CHALLENGE
The Basalt Library invites kids, 4 and up, to make LEGO creations for display from 4 to 5pm.
WRITING WORKSHOP
The Glenwood Springs library hosts a workshop for writing and discussion open to adults and teens from 5 to 7pm.
WOMEN’S GROUP
to Hanging Lake Trail for the first time since the Grizzly Creek Fire to conduct restoration work from 8am to 4pm. Register at www.rfov.org
SPRING GULCH
The Sopris Nordic Council needs help preparing the cross country trails at Spring Gulch from 9am to 1pm today and Sunday, Oct. 5. Sign up to volunteer at www.springgulch.org/events
‘OUT OF THE DARKNESS’
The Suicide Prevention Coalition of Garfield County hosts its sixth annual “Out of the Darkness Walk,” benefiting the Western Slope chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, at Two Rivers Park. Sign ups start at 9:30 and the walk begins at 10:30am. Register in advance at www.afspwalks. donordrive.com/WesternSlope
TAKE A KID BIKING
The Roaring Fork Mountain Biking Association hosts “Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day” at Coal Basin Ranch from 10am to 1pm. Register at www.rfmba.org
CHICKEN HARVESTING 101
AVALANCHE CREEK MEMBERS
MBS Associates
Mitchell and Company
Aspen Snowmass Sotheby’s International
Real Estate
Bank of Colorado
Brikor Associates, Inc.
Builders First Source
Carbondale Arts
Carbondale Comfort Inn & Suites
Coldwell Banker Mason Morse Real Estate
Colorado Mountain College
COMPASS For Lifelong Discovery
Cornerstone Home Lending
CoVenture
Days Inn Carbondale
DHM Design Corporation
DiPaulo Walker, LLC
Double Diamond Moving & Storage
Durgin Electric, LLC
Eastwood Investments, LLC
ECOS Environmental & Disaster Restoration
Element by Westin Basalt Aspen Valley Glenwood Hot Springs Resort
Gran Farnum Printing
Heritage Park Care Center
Integrated Mountain Group
Izakaya Carbondale
Martin Insurance Group
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
CMC President Dr. Matt Gianneshi
PRESENTERS
• Carbondale Tourism: Michael Stout
Town of Carbondale: Mayor Ben Bohmfalk Ryan Hyland
State of Colorado: Carolyn Tucker
SPECIAL THANKS
3 B’s Bakery
Alpine Bank
Belmont Clean & Restore
Bonfire Coffee Company
Botany Houseplant Shop
Carly Passchier eXP Realty
Christine Helling
Colorado Mountain College
FirstBank
Flowers on Main
Plosky’s Deli
Poster Placement
Promotional Concepts
The Home Group and Concept One Group
The Homestead
Third Street Center
Valley View Hospital
Village Smithy
Mountain Pearl Magazine
Osmia Skincare
Pacific Sheet Metal, Inc.
Paradise Publishing
Premier Party Rental
Promotional Concepts
Rate Mortgage Red Hill Animal Health Center
Redstone Inn
Roaring Fork Engineering
Roaring Fork Leadership
Roaring Fork School District
Roaring Fork Transportation Authority
Silver Mountain Properties
Sopris Lodge at Carbondale
Spring Pilates, LLC
State Farm Insurance/Hailey Mickley
Sunburst Car Care
Sunlight Mountain Resort
The Fireplace Company, Inc.
The Valley Hopper
Vectra Bank Colorado
Village Smithy Restaurant, Inc.
WDR Aspen White House Pizza
PANEL
• Andi Korber, Land + Shelter
Eric Mitchell, Phat Thai
• Izzy Stringham , White River Books
Cindy Dady, Sunlight Mountain Resort
• Moderator Steve Skadron , Colorado Mountain College
CHAMBER BOARD
CHAIR: Brendan Matthias, FirstBank
VICE CHAIR/SECRETARY: Ashley Worthington, Valley View Hospital
TREASURER: Garret Jammaron, Alpine Bank
Jamie Abbott , Carbondale Arts
Brion After, Independence Run & Hike
Carly Passchier, eXp Realty
Kiko Peña , Sopris Liquor & Wine
Lauri Rubinstein, Step Into Great
Steve Skadron, Colorado Mountain College
Steve VanDyke, PGA , River Valley Ranch Golf & The Homestead
TOURISM COUNCIL OF CARBONDALE CHAIR:
Erkko Alm, Alpine Bank
TOWN OF CARBONDALE LIAISONS:
Jess Robison & Christina Montemayor
CARBONDALE CHAMBER STAFF: Andrea Stewart, Heather Beach & Laura Seay
HeadQuarters hosts a women’s group exploring the theme of “emotional bank accounts” at 6pm. For details visit www.headq.org
LIVE MUSIC
Black Velvet performs at Heather’s in Basalt at 6:30pm.
ELDER WISDOM
Elder Shaman Woo Du-An shares his wisdom and “invites participants into a sanctuary of peace, self-acceptance and compassion” at the Third Street Center from 7 to 8:30pm. Register at www.tcfhf.org
CRYSTAL THEATRE
Tonight’s your last chance to catch Spike Lee’s “Highest 2 Lowest” at the Crystal Theatre, showing captioned at 7pm. “Downtown Abbey: The Grand Finale” opens tomorrow and continues Saturday at 7pm followed by a 5pm captioned showing on Sunday.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, TACAW!
Notorious jammer Melvin Seals, nicknamed “Master of the Universe” by Jerry Garcia, performs with JGB at TACAW at 8pm in celebration of the venue’s fourth birthday. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
ASPEN LITERARY FEST
Aspen Words presents the first-ever Aspen Literary Festival, three days to celebrate storytelling in downtown Aspen and featuring 40 authors. For a schedule of events and details, visit www.aspenliteraryfestival.org
FIRST BANK FIESTA
First Bank in Glenwood Springs (2014 Grand Avenue) hosts a cultural celebration in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month from 3 to 5pm.
‘KREUTZER’ AT TRTC
BenFeng Music Productions presents “Kreutzer” — “a genre-blending production that fuses three masterworks” — at Thunder River Theatre tonight and tomorrow at 7:30pm, and tomorrow and Sunday at 2pm. Tickets at www.thunderrivertheatre.com
HEATHER’S
Chris Bank and Hap Harriman perform at Heather’s in Basalt at 7pm.
SALOME SONGBIRD
Steve’s Guitars presents Salome Songbird at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27
RFOV AT HANGING LAKE
Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers returns
Learn how to harvest a chicken through a hands-on workshop at Rock Bottom Ranch from 9 to 11am. Register at www.aspennature.org
OKTOBERFEST
The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park celebrates Oktoberfest each Saturday through Oct. 11, from 10am to 6pm, with German inspired food, seasonal craft beers, live music and plenty to keep the kids occupied. For details, visit www.glenwoodcaverns.com
‘GODDESS GATHERING’
A Way Out and Sober Girl Social Club host a “Goddess Gathering” to include smudge stick making, oracle card readings and more at the Yoga Collective in Glenwood from 6 to 8pm. Register at www.tinyurl.com/ SoberGoddessGathering
‘LIVING WITH WOLVES’ Carter Niemeyer, author of “The Other Ten Wolves: A Yellowstone Backstory,” Suzanne Asha Stone, the founder of the International Wildlife Coexistence Network, and Idaho cattle rancher Glenn Elzinga, present “Living with Wolves: Preventing Conflict and Restoring Balance” at the Third Street Center from 6:30 to 7:30pm.
CINEMA DANCE PARTY
TACAW screens “The Rolling Stones: Havana Moon” with room to boogie at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28
A SPIRITUAL CENTER
Golden Sha and Jeanne Soulsby present “the story of the greatest leap, from the densest frequencies into the highest harmonic of peace and love” at the Third Street Center (Room #31) from 10 to 11:30am.
BASALT MARKET & MUSIC
Kitchen Stone performs during the final Basalt Sunday Market of the season from 10am to 2pm.
RFOV AT COFFMAN RANCH
Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers needs help spiffing up the Coffman Ranch today from 9am to 3pm. Structured youth activities for 4-8 year olds will be available from 9am to 12:30pm. Sign up at www.rfov.org
COAL BASIN HISTORY
The Redstone and Carbondale historical societies present “The History of Coal Basin: A Place-Based Interpretive Lecture” at Coal Basin Ranch (4180 Coal Creek Rd) from 1 to 3pm. RSVP at www.tinyurl.com/CoalBasin
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29
LAST MONDAY BOOK CLUB
The Last Monday Book Club discusses “The Shadow of the Wind” by Carlos Ruiz Zafón at the Glenwood Springs Library from 2 to 3pm.
MICHAEL BENNET HELP
Meet with U.S. Senator Michael Bennet’s staff in Glenwood Springs from 3 to 5pm. To register for a 15-minute appointment, visit www.bit.ly/GWSBennet
‘BIG WATER THEORY’
The Roaring Fork Kayaking Club presents “Big Water Theory,” an award-winning whitewater documentary at the Crystal Theatre at 6:30pm. Tickets at www.roaringforkkayakingclub.com
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30
YOGA AT THE LIBRARY
Devika Gurung guides a yoga session at the Carbondale Library from 7:30 to 8:30am. Beginners welcome.
‘DISCOVER YOUR LIBRARY’
The Basalt Library provides insight about how to use its online catalogue to narrow searches for next reads, place holds and more from 2:30 to 3:30pm.
NIA MOVEMENT
Mona Payne guides a “one-of-a-kind, instructor-led movement experience that blends dance, martial arts and healing arts into one powerful barefoot journey” at the Basalt Library from 5:30 to 6:30pm. Details at www.basaltlibrary.org
DRAWING CLUB
The Roaring Fork Drawing Club meets at the Cocoa Club for a sketching session at 6:30pm.
MODEST MOUSE
Modest Mouse performs at the Belly Up in Aspen at 9pm. Tickets at www.bellyupaspen.com
Community tai chi sessions are hosted every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 10am at the Third Street Center. Newcomers are welcome. For details, email jhof@rof.net
MOMMY MEET-UP
The Glenwood Springs Library hosts a “mommy meet-up” on Mondays from 11am to 12:30pm for mothers and their babies ages 0 to 3. There will be play items provided for the little ones and coffee and conversation for the moms.
IN STITCHES
The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 1:30pm.
‘EL PLACER DE LEER’
Delve into Spanish literature with Angélica Breña at the Basalt Library every Monday from 5 to 6:30pm. Spanish comprehension is necessary to participate. For more details, visit www.basaltlibrary.org
AFRICAN DANCE
Enjoy dancing to live drumming with the Carbondale Rhythm Collective at the Glenwood Springs Library on Mondays from 6:30 to 8pm.
POTTERY WHEEL 101
Want to test the waters before committing to a several-week class? Crave an evening out of the house? Interested in trying something new? Carbondale Clay Center’s teen and adult one-day “Intro to Wheel Throwing” is perfect for learning the basics and opening your eyes to the possibilities of clay. These classes are offered every Monday through Oct. 6, from 6 to 8pm. Register at www.carbondaleclay.org
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1
ASPEN CHAPEL GALLERY
In partnership with Aspen Journalism, the Aspen Chapel Gallery presents “Tell It Like It Is,” a mixed-media show with an opening from 4 to 7pm.
STEWARD THE ARTWAY
Help Carbondale Arts and Colorado Edible Forest tidy up DeRail Park, under the ARTway arch on the Rio Grande Trail, from 5 to 6pm. Bring some gardening tools if you’ve got them.
5POINT FUNDRAISER
Spring Creeks Ranch hosts 5 Point’s “In the Field” fundraiser with local food, spirits and music from 5:30 to 9:30pm. Tickets at www.5PointFilm.org
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2
LIBRARY BOARD MEETING
The Garfield County Public Library District Board of Trustees holds its regular monthly meeting at the Rifle Library from 2 to 4pm.
MEN’S GROUP
HeadQuarters offers a men’s group exploring “the inner knowing” at 6pm. For details visit www.headq.org
RFSD CANDIDATES
Roaring Fork Schools and the Roaring Fork Community Education Association host a forum with RFSD Board of Education candidates Jodi Barr, Tamara Nimmo, Elizabeth Taylor and Kathryn Kuhlenberg at the District Office in Carbondale at 6pm.
SPANISH CONVERSATION CLUB
The Carbondale Library hosts its monthly Spanish Conversation Club for beginner and intermediate Spanish learners from 6:30 to 8pm.
ROARING FORK INSIGHT
Roaring Fork Insight meets in-person at St. Peters of the Valley (200 Elk Run Drive, Basalt) every Wednesday from 11:30am to 1pm for a lightly-guided meditation followed by a short teaching
YARN GROUP
Basalt Library hosts a weekly yarn group on Tuesdays at 5pm. All are welcome.
BIKE PROJECT
The Carbondale Bike Project Shop helps people repair their bicycles on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 6pm and Sundays from noon to 6pm on the east side of Third Street Center.
SENIOR LUNCH
Every Wednesday at noon, Garfield County Senior Programs provides a nutritious meal for seniors at The Orchard. To reserve a place at the table, call 970-665-0041.
GROUP RUN
Independence Run & Hike leads a weekly group run on Thursdays departing from the store’s location, next to the Carbondale City Market, at 6:30pm.
COFFEE WITH THE MAYOR
Carbondale Mayor Ben Bohmfalk posts up at Bonfire every Friday from 8 to 9am, and everyone is welcome to stop by to chat.
COSMIC WHOLENESS
Micha Schoepe leads Cosmic Wholeness, an embodied movement and meditation offering that explores patterns found in nature, the cosmos and our inner lives, at The Third Street Center every Sunday from 2:45 to 3:45pm. More details at www.michaelschoepe.com/cosmic-wholeness
MONDAYS
URBAN LINE DANCING WITH QUEEN 6:15PM-7:15 PM
SATURDAYS
ZUMBA WITH ANDREA 10:30AM-11:30AM
ADULT HIP HOP WITH QUINCY 3:30PM-4:30PM ADULT BREAKDANCE WITH JOH & ISRAEL 4:30PM - 5:30PM
TUESDAYS KIDS ADVANCED BREAKDANCE WITH JOH 4PM-5PM KIDS/TEENS K-POP WITH JOAN 5PM-6PM
WEDNESDAYS
MINI ME RAVE & PLAY WITH JOAN (AGES 6 MONTHS-3YRS) 10AM-10:30 I $10/CLASS TINY TOTS HIP HOP WITH JOAN (AGES 3YRS - 5YRS) 10:30AM-11AM I $10/CLASS
KIDS BEGINNER HIP HOP WITH
THURSDAYS TEEN ADVANCED HIP HOP WITH QUINCY (AGES 12+) 4PM-5PM
WILL BUZZERD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
This week, Basalt Town Council held a public work session to discuss the possible creation of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) incentive program in order to address affordable housing scarcity.
Last year, the Town of Basalt contracted Economic Planning Systems (EPS) to complete the 2024 Basalt Housing Needs Assessment which, among many strategies, recommended the development of an ADU incentive program. In order to develop this program, the Town subsequently contracted EPS a second time along with Design Workshop, an architecture studio.
ADUs have already been recognized by the state government as a flexible, quick strategy to mitigate growing housing concerns. Colorado House Bill 24-1152, intended to make ADU construction easier and cheaper for homeowners, went into effect in June of this year.
While the bill standardizes ADU guidelines and allocates $5 million in grant funding and $8 million in loan support for homeowners and local governments,
it only applies to jurisdictions with metropolitan planning organizations. In other words, only front range communities and the Grand Junction area are affected by the bill.
However, EPS states in its report that the Town of Basalt can use this state bill as its framework for implementing its own ADU regulations.
Presently, Basalt’s code does not permit ADUs as a by-right in any zoning district. Instead they are permitted only by special review in three zoning districts, which comprise only 7.1% of Basalt’s total area, limiting opportunities for ADU development among otherwise suitable neighborhoods.
According to current Basalt rules, if ADUs are not explicitly allowed in a planned unit development (PUD) an amendment is required to permit them. The PUD amendment process is lengthy, requiring application submission, review by the Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council approval after a public hearing.
During a period of public outreach, Design Workshop met with representatives from four
different homeowners’ associations in Basalt to gather concerns and perspectives regarding ADU development in their communities. Design Workshop found that support was conditional. While there is general interest in ADUs, especially as a means to generate income, stakeholders were concerned about how ADUs might be employed and their impact.
Concerns included that the ADUs might be converted into short-term rentals and/ or increase residential density, resulting in additional traffic,
reduced parking and changing the feel of the neighborhood. Additionally, some found the PUD amendment process for ADUs to be too burdensome and emphasized the importance of reducing political and financial barriers to construction.
EPS’s report suggests possible regulations to ADUs in order to address affordability and usage concerns, including an administrative review process as an alternative to amending PUDs and implementing grant programs. It suggests that tenants
of grant-funded ADUs would have to either be employed within a three-mile radius of Basalt, be retired or disabled with prior local employment or telecommute full time while living within the threemile radius. Additionally, a tenant would have to sign a lease for a minimum of one year. The draft conditions are intended to ensure that ADUs serve their intended purpose, which is to support Basalt’s workforce. Homeowners who do not pursue grant funding from the
PLEASANT DOGS AND PLEASED OWNERS
Benett Bramson’s Seven P’sbasic guidelines for dog owners. Tue, 5:30-8:30pm, 9/30 ONLINE
PHOTOGRAPHY 101
Learn to capture and process dynamic photo and become a more confident photographer. Tue, 6-8:30pm, 10/7-10/28
FUNDRAISING FOR NON-PROFITS
Expand knowledge and development tools to build successful solicitations.
Tue, 5:30-8:30pm, 10/7, ONLINE
DIY FIRE CIDER IMMUNE BOOSTER
Preserve your garden or wild harvest in a medicine to use through the winter months.
Thur, 5:30-7:30pm, 10/9
SLOW FLOW YOGA
A gentle practice that connects breath and movement through a series of flowing postures.
Wednesdays, 8-9am, 10/15-12/10
AIKIDO
(TRY IT FOR FREE)
Learn to re-direct, neutralize, or avoid an attack altogether without harm to the attacker. Tue/Thur, 6-7:30pm, 10/21-12/11
HOW TO SUCCEED IN A COMPETATIVE
NON-PROFIT ENVIRONMENT Organization, administration, finances, fund raising, community building, volunteers, and more. Tue, 5:30-8:30pm, 10/21-11/4
CHRISTMAS COOKIE DECORATING
Ages 8+ Decorate your own cookies and get pro tips from the Pastry Chef Lab. Parents welcome. Wednesday, 3-5pm, 12/3
GINGERBREAD CONSTRUCTION
Ages 8+ Build a classic Gingerbread House. Supplies provided. Parents welcome. Saturday, 1-4pm, 12/13
PAPER WINDOW STARS
Age 9+ Fold colored wax paper to create geometric patterns of varying translucency. These stars make great gifts. Wednesday, 3-4:45pm, 12/10
*BEZEL MAKING - Seedorf Wed, 5:10-9:30pm, 11/5-12/10, CB
*SAND CASTING - Seedorf Thurs, 10:10-2:30pm, 11/6-12/11 , AS
*Call campus for Registration Info
BURLEIGH Sopris Sun Editor
All Carbondale trustees were present for their final meeting of September, addressing several items indicative of an evolving town.
First, a consent agenda was approved that included approval of minutes, special event permits for the Carbondale Historical Society (Membership Drive, Oct. 3 at True Nature) and English In Action (Fiesta de Tamales, Oct. 25 at The Orchard), liquor license renewals for Jalisco Grill and Cripple Creek Backcountry, accounts payable and an update to the Chacos Park site plan creating a more substantial buffer between the water-play feature and the street as well as removing on-street parking in the 4th Street Plaza area. A contract with Ajax Roofing Company was briefly discussed, addressing damages to Town Hall from a 2023 storm without electrification upgrades as previously intended.
One member of the public had a comment unrelated to agenda items. They claimed to have been sexually assaulted by a roommate in 2020 and said when reported to the police there was a brief arrest but no temporary restraining order. A lawsuit against the alleged perpetrator is being pursued, trustees were informed.
The first item on the agenda was an update from Carbondale Arts and the Chamber of Commerce regarding economic development. Both receive financial support from the Town toward this aim. The Chamber of Commerce receives $40,000 and Carbondale Arts receives $30,000 with half earmarked specifically for organizing First Friday festivities. According to Carbondale Arts, the total economic impact for local businesses from their programming is over $6 million, resulting in $211,785 in sales tax the Town collects.
A recent First Friday survey yielded 150 responses. Carbondale Arts Executive Director Jamie Abbott stated they’re taking feedback seriously, including negative feedback. Among the takeaways: a need for more events outside First Friday; more quality lodging for visitors; a centralized calendar for events; improved wayfinding to help visitors navigate. Trustee Ross Kribbs suggested The Launchpad could serve as a visitor center for tourists.
Kade Gianinetti, former owner of the now-closed Painted Pig restaurant, shared his thoughts too, stating that small businesses are struggling due in part to permits taking a long time to acquire and new pressures from the recent code updates.
Carey Shanks, co-founder of Marble Distilling, asked that more of a diversity of businesses be brought to the table going forward. “Arts is one spoke in the hub, and it’’s a big one,” he said. “But there are others all around town.”
Strong Start, Bright Future
Trustees then heard a presentation from Heather Henry, vice president of housing and childcare at Aspen One, and Rob Stein about Ballot Initiative 7A: “Strong
Start, Bright Future.” This initiative seeks to address the lack of affordable child care locally with a regional approach, establishing a special taxing district from Parachute to Aspen governed by a five-member board. A .25% sales tax (exempting groceries, gas, medications and diapers) would raise close to $10 million annually toward grants to child care providers, tuition assistance, outreach and administration. With little discussion, trustees voted to endorse the initiative, which will appear on this November’s ballot.
Trustees then met with Lauren Suhrbier, director of strategic development at CLEER, and Jeff Dickinson, president of Biospaces Energy Consulting, for an update on Carbondale’s ambitious Path to Net Zero plan with goals to reduce carbon emissions by 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2050. Carbondale has collected $15,000 to allocate toward rebates incentivizing energy efficiency upgrades in 2026. CLEER was asked to work on a proposal for administering those funds without adding to the Town Building Department’s workload.
Suhrbier took the opportunity to ask trustees to consider making Carbondale the lead applicant for a Colorado Energy Office Local IMPACT Accelerator Grant on behalf of Garfield Clean Energy, which will see a reduction in funding from Garfield County in 2026. Letters of interest are due by Nov. 17 for up to $200,000 in policy work funding and $1.8 million for implementation. The topic will return for further discussion.
Mountain Waste and Recycling received approval for an annual rate increase of 3.2% in accordance with their contract which bases fee schedule adjustments on the Western Region Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers.
The Public Works Department then met regarding the 2026 budget. Public Works Director Kevin Schorzman added $50,000 to the budget for more tactical urbanism trials, including temporary raised crosswalks, as the Town continues exploring features to improve the flow of multimodal traffic. Other big items include updating the Tree Inventory list and installing a crosswalk at Highway 133 and Weant Boulevard. New water meters and wastewater improvements are also in the budget, as well as replacement of a well on the Roaring Fork River.
Trustees were informed that operational costs are outpacing reserve funds in the Utilities Department. In five years, personnel expenses increased by 77% (largely due to medical insurance costs) and construction costs doubled, while rates have only increased by 35%. Staff requested a 10% increase in 2026 while a plan is formulated for future increases to keep pace with costs to “avoid a monumental jump in the future,” in the words of Schorzman. Even with the increase, Carbondale’s utility costs will remain low compared with other municipalities in the Valley, a graph showed.
Please join us for a Book Signing and Discussion with Carter Niemeyer, Suzanne Asha Stone and Glen n & Melanie Elzinga Fostering peaceful coexistence among humans, livestock & wolves.
September 27, 6:30pm -7:30pm, Third Street Center, Carbondale
livestock. Learn how to coexist with wolves from these experts.
2001 when he was recruited by the U.S. Fish
Carter C Niemeyer was wolf management specialist for USDA, and Wildlife Service to run the wolf r ecovery program in Id aho He Wolfer, Wolf
Land and his new book, The Other Ten Wolves : A Ye llowsto ne Backstory
Suzanne Asha Stone has been on the Western frontlines of wolf of the
Glenn Elzinga is CEO of Alderspring Ranch in the central Idaho Rocky Mountains where, usin g nonlethal coexist ence meth ods, they’ve had no livestock losses in ten years
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Glenwood Springs City Council will reconsider an earlier 4-3 decision to include a toll with the South Bridge project, after a slew of public comments at its Sept. 18 meeting warning that the move could jeopardize a nearly $50 million federal grant that would cover about 60% of the project’s cost.
Eleven people lined up during the public comments for items not on the night’s agenda portion of the meeting, all but one of them asking the council to revisit the decision.
Among them were two former city council members/ mayors, and the local chamber of commerce director.
“Losing this grant would be devastating for the project, and would negate years of work and investment already made in the effort,” Glenwood Springs Chamber Resort Association President and CEO Angie Anderson said, speaking on behalf of the chamber’s board of directors.
The prospect of a southern bridge crossing the Roaring Fork River between the South Glenwood neighborhoods and the Four Mile corridor over to Highway 82 represents a “critical evacuation route,” and was “strongly supported” by voters on
a 2016 tax question, Anderson said.
Former Mayors Jonathan Godes and Matt Steckler pointed out that $50 million (the grant is technically for $49.68 million) in federal money doesn’t come along very often.
“We have a shovel ready project, and we need to take advantage of it,” Godes said. “Please don’t let this project be the reason we are blacklisted for the next decade or two for federal monies.”
Four Mile resident Dave Rippy broke from the rest of the commenters, though, saying the need for an escape route “is overemphasized,” and that the new bridge will ultimately create a bypass route that will need to be controlled in some way.
All council members were present for the meeting, including Sumner Schachter who joined via Zoom while on vacation just so he could speak to the South Bridge issue.
While he voted on Sept. 4 with the majority in favor of the toll bridge concept, Schachter said new information since then had caused him to rethink his vote — namely, an opinion passed along to City staff from Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Executive Director Shoshana Lew that a toll
Federal policy impacts, energy, immigration & more.
Thursday, Sept. 25, 6:00 p.m. (doors open at 5:45 p.m.)
Morgidge Commons 815 Cooper Ave., Glenwood Springs
Free & open to the public
This talk is the second in an ongoing speaker series organized by the CoWest Noticias Collaborative (CNC), a partnership of news organizations across the Colorado River and Roaring Fork valleys.
plan could very well kill the project. Council voted 5-2 to reconsider the matter at its Oct. 16 meeting, with Councilors Steve Smith and Ray Schmahl opposed. Schmahl chastised the council for going back on a decision that was already made, which he found inappropriate.
situation with the West Glenwood Mitchell-Cooper Ditch and Pipeline Co. over nonpayment of its city water bill.
Mitchell-Cooper (MC) is a private shareholder-owned water utility serving a smattering of residential and commercial properties along Highway 6 & 24 in West Glenwood. However, since 2018, MC has had to purchase water from the city to run through its distribution system, due to a state health department boil order.
We have a shovel ready project, and we need to take advantage of it ... Please don’t let this project be the reason we are blacklisted for the next decade or two for federal monies.
- Former Mayor Jonathan Godes
Mayor Marco Dehm asked if a CDOT regional representative could be present for the followup discussion to help explain the agency’s viewpoint.
Mitchell-Cooper
City Council also heard an update from City Attorney Karl Hanlon regarding an ongoing
As of Sept. 17, the company was still $52,789.89 in arrears to the City, although a recent $8,500 payment had been made, Hanlon said.
“As with any water customer who fails to pay, the City will need to decide when to terminate service and proceed with a collection action,” he advised.
At the same time, though, the City does not want the residential customers in particular who are served by MC to be without water, so it’s a dilemma.
If the City does have to cut off water, Hanlon and Public Works officials said the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has a provision to step in and provide bottled water to the affected customers until the
service problem can be resolved.
Council members said they hope it doesn’t come to that, but they did vote 5-1 to give 120 days notice through a court proceeding that the water supply will be cut off unless payment is made on the outstanding balance.
In the meantime, MC has a pending lawsuit against the City over what it says is a breach of contract on the part of the City for switching some of the newly redeveloped properties in the MC service area over to city water.
City Public Works Director Matt Langhorst advised the council about a plan to enforce several regulations and safety controls at the City’s South Canyon Landfill.
Among them are rules against scavenging at the dump site, speeding along the landfill roads, smoking on site and illegally dumping hazardous wastes, such as car batteries.
The City will begin aggressively enforcing the rules, which it can do under state law related to city parks, attorney Hanlon explained. The landfill property is part of the City’s designated parklands in the extended South Canyon recreation area, which includes a network of mountain biking trails, shooting and archery ranges and a historical mining site.
It’s not as simple as clicking your heels, but you could be the road home.
Foster families are a bridge - a steady path forward when life has felt uncertain.
JAMES STEINDLER
Contributing Editor
About 100 people gathered at Sayre Park Sunday evening, Sept. 21, to celebrate the life and legacy of Charlie Kirk, a controversial media personality and co-founder of the conservative organization Turning Point USA. A few sign holders kept close to Grand Avenue, while drivers honked in approval or shouted in dismay.
Adilia Asplund of New Castle was there for “freedom” and because she said Charlie Kirk set a good example. She, like some others there, didn’t follow Kirk much before his death, but said that he gave people courage to speak out. “We all think differently,” she stated, adding she would mourn a senseless death of a Republican or Democrat.
“We are all brothers and sisters — white, Black — we are all human,” said Asplund.
After an opening prayer by Pastor Del Whittington, Garfield County Commissioner Perry Will took the stage.
“Today, our nation mourns the loss of one of its greatest sons and most endearing champions,” began Will, who added that Kirk was “a voice of reason in turbulent times and a beacon of moral clarity when the path forward seemed so uncertain.” He urged the audience to carry on Kirk’s legacy. “Yes, we have lost a towering figure, but we have not lost the ideals he fought for. Those remain, and it is now our solemn duty to carry them forward with the same courage, the same resolve and the same unyielding belief that tomorrow can be better than today.”
Spencer Thomas, chairman of Garfield County Republicans, was up next. He commended Kirk’s “prove-me-wrong” method and expressed his hope that it would continue on through others, encouraging the crowd to engage in dialogue with people who think differently — something he himself could improve on, he added. He went as far as to suggest that a chapter of Turning Point USA could be introduced into local
schools and Colorado Mountain College.
Thomas condemned political violence and “the rhetoric that gives false license to those who contemplate and commit it.” In an interview with The Sun, he elaborated that people should stick to arguing policy, and that calling someone a fascist or a nazi is “just irresponsible.”
During his speech, Thomas noted that Kirk’s wife, Erika, forgave the suspected shooter during the memorial in Arizona. “In that, I ask that you forgive those who may come at you with the most untoward language, the most hateful language. Forgive them and move right into engagement.”
When asked what he would say to people who believe that Kirk’s messaging was divisive, he said, “I would encourage them to take in a more full body of his work. Put it in context.”
Aaron Thomas of Rifle knew of Kirk before his passing, but said he really dug into his work after his death. “I watched countless hours of him and all he did was reflect Jesus. There was no hate that came from that guy — [just] love for God, love for family, love for country.”
Lastly, The Sun caught up with Caleb Waller, who previously ran as a Republican in Colorado’s HD57 race. He said that he is really hurting, but ultimately he hopes unity will come through dialogue.
“I think one of the biggest mistakes that happened in America was when we stopped talking religion and stopped talking politics … Because of the fact that now we can’t be in the same room together and disagree.”
Waller stated, “Our country is in a really hurting place right now,”, conceding that that is not just a Republican sentiment. “I’ve felt that on the left as well, to a certain extent, they’re also hurting from this.” He concluded by posing a rhetorical question: “Can we be human again, and not let something … hundreds of miles away, or what we’re reading online, dictate how we interact with our community?”
The event closed with a vigil, a walk around the park and a prayer circle.
Thomas H. Bailey was a man who refused to be confined by convention, seamlessly blending the worlds of high finance and the American West into a life that was authentically his own.
Born on July 3, 1937, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, to Clare and Jean Bailey, Mr. Bailey’s early years took him from the steel mills of Pennsylvania to Leamington, Canada, in 1939, where he spent his formative years. After high school, he pursued higher education at Michigan State University before earning his master’s degree in business from the prestigious Ivey Business School at the University of Western Ontario.
Act One: Wall Street meets the Wild West
Fresh from graduate school, Mr. Bailey made a decision that would define his character for decades to come: he headed west to Colorado’s mountains, drawn by his passion for the outdoor life of fly fishing and skiing. It was on a Vail chairlift that serendipity struck — a chance encounter with a Boettcher and Company executive led to his first position as a retail stockbroker in Denver.
Mr. Bailey’s exceptional stockpicking abilities quickly caught attention, earning him an opportunity to move to Boettcher’s New York office as an investment analyst. There, he immersed himself in the inner workings of Wall Street, building a formidable network of relationships with analysts, money managers and successful brokers. But the confines of pinstripe suits and corporate conventions never quite fit the Colorado mountain man at heart.
In the late 1960s, Mr. Bailey made his boldest move yet — returning to Colorado to form the investment partnership Bailey and Goldstein, with a $10,000 investment from his mother. Operating on a shoestring budget, he secured free office space from Bill Berger, the legendary “godfather
of Colorado mutual funds,” in exchange for investment ideas. While Berger was impressed with the young manager’s abilities, he was less enthused about Mr. Bailey’s casual attire of flipflops and shorts. The relationship reached a turning point one sweltering summer day when the formal Berger walked into the office sporting a Hawaiian shirt and shorts. “That has to be the largest Hawaiian shirt ever made!” Mr. Bailey exclaimed, marveling at Berger’s XXXL transformation.
In 1969, Mr. Bailey struck out on his own, founding Janus Capital, a fitting name suggested by his first wife Jeanne. The name was inspired by the two-headed Roman god of beginnings, endings and transitions — one looking to the past and the other to the future. His initial Janus Fund achieved national recognition with outstanding performance in the early ‘70s and survived the horrific bear markets of ’73 and ’74 vastly superior to his competitors. With the guidance of his dear friend, Michael Stolper, who helped polish his public image (including a much-needed wardrobe makeover), Mr. Bailey began appearing regularly in the financial press and on Louis Rukeyser’s famous television show, “Wall Street Week.”
Never one to forget his roots or neglect his passions, Mr. Bailey created the Bob Dope Fly Fishing Classic in the 1970s — an ingenious way to maintain East Coast financial relationships while sharing his love of fly fishing. The annual event drew rising Wall Street legends to venues like Chico Hot Springs Lodge in Pray, Montana, until certain guest behaviors eventually forced its discontinuation.
Mr. Bailey’s investment philosophy was as unique as his background. He viewed analyzing companies as assembling a mosaic, believing that only by gathering smaller bits of quality information
could one see the larger picture. As an ardent researcher and intimidating interviewer, he encouraged his analysts to travel extensively, visit companies and competitors, and attend industry gatherings. His low, patient voice, piercing eyes and uncanny ability to read people allowed him to ask unexpected questions that could put even the most confident CEOs on edge.
During Janus’ explosive growth in the 1990s, Mr. Bailey cultivated a distinctive company culture, hiring uniquely talented individuals while giving them room to perform without micromanagement. “How we treat our employees is how they will treat our customers,” he often said, remembering his own experiences as an employee for other companies. This philosophy paid dividends when Janus ranked No. 17 in Fortune magazine’s 1999 survey of the “100 Best Companies to Work for in America.” The company’s recruitment video, “This Ain’t No Wall Street Joint,” featured Mr. Bailey riding horseback across a snowy field, sharing his wisdom with new recruits. A Janus banner at Denver International Airport proudly proclaimed, “You’re Not on Wall Street Anymore.”
Under Mr. Bailey’s leadership, Janus achieved extraordinary growth, transforming from its humble origins to an industry titan. This transformation not only created meaningful livelihoods for more than 3,000 professionals across the globe but also generated unprecedented wealth, elevating countless employees and investors to millionaire status.
In 1991, Mr. Bailey embarked on his second great adventure, purchasing a quarter horse ranch in Carbondale from the equally eccentric Chas Foley. Here, the Wall Street legend learned to ride a horse, shoot a Colt .45 and perfected his fly-fishing skills on his own stretch of gold medal water along the Roaring Fork River. One of his favorite creeks on the property bore the evocative name “Crazy Woman.”
With the same methodical approach he applied to stock analysis, Mr. Bailey began studying bloodlines to create a world-class cutting horse breeding program. The Iron Rose Ranch grew to encompass 430 acres of pristine Colorado high country, becoming home to elite cutting horses like Reizin the Cash, Spooky Smarty Pants and Rey Down Sally.
Dr. Christopher Kawcak, veterinarian and director of Equine Clinical Services at Colorado State University, observed, “It is no surprise that his strategy for picking winning stocks translated to selecting elite broodmares, generating a wildly successful cutting horse breeding and training operation.”
Tom’s competitive spirit flourished in the cutting horse arena, where he won over $154,409 in prize money and proudly earned his collection of buckles. But his impact extended far beyond personal achievement — he became one of the largest private landowners and conservationists in the Roaring Fork Valley. Though this concerned some locals, few people knew that on occasion he generously allowed long-time ranch family members to remain in their cherished homes until their deaths, as he had done with Chas Foley, who is buried on the original parcel of the Iron Rose Ranch.
During a 2008 trip to Hawaii with friends, Mr. Bailey encountered the energetic and wildly adventurous Lisa Bernhoft and was immediately smitten. Within weeks, he returned for their second date and soon after, he invited Lisa
to trade her island life for his rugged western ranch in Colorado.
Lisa embraced ranch life with remarkable ease, quickly winning overBailey’sdiversecircleofoutspoken, ornery friends who knew his colorful past and former reluctance to settle down. She became a skilled fly fisher and advanced her horsemanship enough to compete in cutting competitions. During their frequent trail rides across the ranch, Mr. Bailey would share his detailed vision for the Iron Rose brand while Lisa listened with genuine interest. When ranch duties allowed, her passion for adventure and meticulous planning took them on extraordinary trips around the world, often accompanied by their eclectic group of friends.
In his later years, after discovering Gabe Brown’s book “Dirt to Soil,” Mr. Bailey became a passionate advocate for regenerative agriculture, transforming Iron Rose Ranch into a living testament to sustainable land stewardship. The ranch stands today and will for decades to come as a thriving example of his vision to protect the open pastures he loved so deeply.
Even after his competitive cutting days ended, Mr. Bailey continued supporting the riders and trainers who worked with his horses. Each July, his Texasbased team would migrate north to escape the heat, finding refuge and inspiration at Iron Rose Ranch under Tom’s watchful and encouraging eye.
Thomas H. Bailey’s incredible western journey ended at his beloved Iron Rose Ranch, with his wife Lisa by his side — a fitting end for a man who lived life entirely on his own terms, whether commanding boardrooms or working alongside his cutting horses in the Colorado high country.
He is survived by his wife, Lisa, children, Miranda and Ryan, and grandchildren, Goldie, Wilder and Claire.
Tom Bailey proved that success isn’t about choosing between your passions — it’s about having the courage to pursue them all with equal dedication and authenticity.
BY MÓNICA GRIJALVA RUIZ, LCSW Mental Harmony
The change in weather is indeed related to our quality of life. Every year, with the arrival of autumn and winter, many people experience more than just the simple cold in the air. It’s seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). These feelings are much more than just being “in a bad mood” because of cloudy and cold weather. It is a real condition that affects mood, energy and overall well-being.
Seasonal depression is characterized by recurring emotions, and symptoms appear in the darkest months of the year and tend to disappear when spring returns. Among its most common symptoms are persistent sadness, loss of interest in pleasurable activities, extreme fatigue, difficulty concentrating and changes in sleep and appetite — often with cravings for carbohydrates and weight gain. Some people describe feeling like the “spark” of their life goes out.
Science has identified several factors behind this disorder. The reduction of sunlight during fall and winter months seems to play a crucial role. Natural light regulates our circadian rhythm, similar to a biological clock that synchronizes sleep, energy and mood. When there are fewer hours of light, this internal clock can become misaligned, altering the production of melatonin (the sleep hormone) and serotonin (a neurotransmitter associated with happiness and calm).
These changes may explain why in winter many people feel sleepy during the day, fatigued and more irritable. Additionally, genetic factors and a history of depression can increase the risk of developing SAD.
SAD is much more common than we think. It is estimated that 4-6% of the population of the Northern Hemisphere suffers
from significant seasonal depression, while up to 20% experience a milder version known as the “winter blues.” It’s no coincidence that it’s more frequent in regions with long winters and short days. However, it can also occur in sunny climates, reminding us that it’s not simply a matter of geography but how each body responds to changes in light and temperature.
Beyond emotional symptoms, seasonal depression can deeply affect everyday life. It can reduce productivity at work, generate conflicts in relationships and decrease motivation for physical or social activities. For some people, this cycle repeats every
year, causing frustration and even fear of winter’s arrival.
It is important to clarify that seasonal depression is not a sign of weakness or something that can be “overcome” with willpower. It is a biological and psychological imbalance that deserves to be treated with seriousness and compassion.
The good news is that effective treatments exist. One of the most commonly used is light therapy, which involves exposure to special lamps (known as “light boxes”) that mimic sunlight and help regulate the biological clock. Many people notice improvement within a few weeks of daily use.
Self-care strategies are also recommended: exposure to natural light and going for walks in the morning, even on cloudy days. Regular exercise improves mood and energy, as do consistent sleep routines: going to bed and waking up at the same time to support the circadian rhythm. Mental health support, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, has also shown excellent results.
Talking openly about seasonal depression is crucial to reducing stigma. If you notice that every winter it becomes harder to get out of bed, your energy drops drastically or sadness becomes overwhelming, recognize that all of those feelings are valid and deserve space.
It’s also valuable to be attentive to those around us. Sometimes a loved one may be struggling in silence. An invitation to go outside for some sun, join community activities, a call to ask how they are doing or simply listening without judgment can make a difference.
Although seasonal depression can feel like an endless emotional winter, it’s important to remember it is treatable and symptoms usually ease with the return of light and warmer weather. Seeking support not only helps you get through the season, but also prepares you to fully enjoy the next one.
The light will return, both inside and out.
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
By Michael Lemmer September 2025
Summer slowly slouches away. You can feel it. The days are getting shorter. The nights are getting longer. There’s the whisper of a chill in the air. The Summer of 2025 is Spent. Happy Equinox!
Time slip-sliding away — Like The Sands In An Hourglass. Before you know it, the trees will be bare and the Fresh Pow will be flying. The tank-tops turn into parkas.
Sometimes it can be hard to catch your breath through all the hustle and bustle of these changing seasons. And through these changing times. Sometimes it’s only when we pause for a moment and look back that we can truly see what we’ve been through, and how far we have come.
Despite all the major issues we face ahead, despite the terrible tragedies the Mainstream
Media has inundated us with, we need to try to remember that Life is Good. A Brightly Blazing Beautiful actually. A precious gift not to be squandered on political trivialities. Every morning, I try to remember this — to savor my countless blessings for a moment before facing the tasks and trials of the Day Ahead.
Another habit involves the end of each Busy Day; during that peaceful, quiet time when all that can be done has been done. It’s during that time that I ask myself, “What Did You Do Today To Make The World A Better Place?”
It can be any little thing done to make the day a little brighter. Like the old “Pay It Forward” idea, where you buy the meal of the person behind you in line. Or something as simple as holding the door for someone. Or offering a smile and a “Have A Great Day” to the stressed out clerk at the store or on the phone. Or
Hours:
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
picking up trash down by the river or in the woods. Everything we do Matters, and it All Adds Up.
Imagine a world where the primary focus of every sentient being is how they can further improve it. Where the foremost thought in everyone’s mind is how they can bring some Joy and Love to the people they interact with throughout each day. What would that world look like?
To quote Charlie Daniels: “Lift your light high enough to brighten the path for those whose lights are flickering. Let’s all make the day count.”
IN OTHER WORDS, We’re All In This Together. Don’t Fear the Darkness, because with All of Our Lights Shining Together, We Damn Sure Got This!
We can change this.
Voting YES on 7A means a small sales tax increase that helps families afford care and gives educators the financial support they need to stay. It’s not just a tax. It’s an investment in our Valley’s future.
Even if you don’t have young children, you benefit from working parents. You shop at their stores, eat at their restaurants and rely on their services. Childcare is part of infrastructure. It’s essential to our economy and our quality of life.
What kind of community do we want to be?
Children need stability. And while children can’t vote, you can.
Please consider a YES vote on 7A.
Childcare benefits all
Stephanie Northrup Carbondale
The childcare crisis that we face is an economic issue that is universal. This is not just an issue that parents face alone, everyone is affected. When parents can’t find and/or afford childcare, the trickle-down effect of that is widespread. Children are our future, so let’s treat them as the valuable asset that they are. Above all, every child deserves the opportunity for a Strong Start, Bright Future. Vote YES on 7A for more affordable, accessible early childhood care and education for our kids from Parachute to Aspen.
Ali Cottle Carbondale
It’s a far-right authoritarian, ultra nationalist political ideology and movement characterized by a dictatorial leader, centralized autocracy, militarism, forcible suppression of opposition and often the belief in a natural hierarchy.
Maybe you want this, maybe you don’t.
If you are a MAGA supporter, rethink your attachment to a movement to which, for various reasons, you became attracted. Its fascist elements, even its fascist core — now more evident — is not something of which you should want to be a part. Leave it.
If you are a MAGA fellow traveler: stop rationalizing, stop justifying, stop enabling. If you are trying to stay neutral: stop acquiescing, stop ducking, stop evading responsibility. If you are a MAGA opponent: oppose the movement firmly and resolutely by all peaceful and political means. Defeat it. Speak up before it’s too late.
Robert J Mineo Crystal Valley
In 2013, Trump took his Miss Universe Pageant to Moscow, where he was supposed to meet up with Putin. Trump was akin to a hypnotist, as was Putin, who, I’d argue, taught Trump how to hypnotize large groups of people and in the process put Trump under his hypnotic sway. Over the next three years, Trump did an exhausting string of rallies where he basically mesmerized the Republican party. Over the years, Trump has held private phone calls and in-person visits with Putin. It’s not unrealistic to discern Putin’s sway in Trump’s destructive actions these past months, as he alienates our allies with tariffs that raise our own prices for materials, fertilizer and food.
Illinois governor J.B. Pritzker wrote in the The Contrarian that, “Trump’s attacks on Chicago aren’t really about stopping crime. Instead, Trump is creating chaos and destabilizing the country in order to erode our democratic institutions and cement his power.”
Trump’s war on the leadership in our armed forces, immigrants, Democratic cities and states is a gift of chaos, which I’m sure brings a smile to Putin’s face. At some point we need to recognize that Trump’s attack on free speech, along with his destructive policies and hate speech, is in the service of weakening America and reducing our freedoms. Trump’s acts will become increasingly destructive to the U.S. over time. We need to act, and call for Trump’s removal from the highest position in America. Time is of the essence.
John Hoffmann
Carbondale
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.
AVSC from page 6
For Hamilton, she is excited to share her love for Nordic with the next generation of skiers. Notably, she intends to expand AVSC’s Re-2 school district program that brings New Castle and Rifle students to Spring Gulch or Aspen for a day of skiing complete with Dos Gringos burritos and hot chocolate.
“My goal is to get as many kids on skis as possible,” concluded Hamilton. “I think Nordic attracts really good people. It makes their lives better, healthier, and it’s an easy thing to feel passionate about … I want to give all kids the opportunity to fall in love with Nordic and help them become lifelong skiers.”
On Oct. 4 from 9am to 2pm, the community is welcome to attend AVSC’s longstanding Sports Swap at the Willits Town Center. Visit www.teamavsc.org/ Aspen-Valley-Ski-Snowboard-Club to learn more about the ski swap, upcoming events and AVSC Nordic in general.
Monte Vista two weeks ago, it behooves people to review storm safety practices before venturing out. When unexpected lightning occurs, recreationalists should leave elevated areas as quickly as possible, including alpine areas above treeline and open meadows. However, sheltering under caves, overhangs or isolated trees is not recommended. The best place to shelter is in well-spaced forest between lower trees. Do not lie flat on the ground; instead squat in a ball-like position with your head tucked.
CPW has established a new permitting system for small game birds. Hunters wishing to harvest mountain sharp-tailed grouse, greater sage-grouse and white-tailed ptarmigan need to purchase a $5 annual permit, in
addition to a regular small game license, and complete the HIP survey. The permit can be bought online at www.cpwshop.com CPW hopes to better track these species for future hunting seasons and estimate interest levels for the small birds.
Limited licenses are still available for deer, elk, pronghorn and bear. Hunters can purchase over-the-counter licenses for bear, elk, pronghorn and white-tailed deer. Limited licenses that weren’t issued in the primary or secondary draws go on the “Leftover List” and are available for purchase in person or online. CPW posts a “Reissue Preview List” every Tuesday with hunter-returned licenses that become available for purchase every Wednesday morning. Hunting resources are available at cpw.state.co.us/hunting
from page 5
Lift-Up then purchased a trailer for a mobile food market in order to fight hunger in new regions. However, until the team secures a truck capable of towing a fullystocked trailer up the Roaring Fork Valley, the mobile food market will remain in Silt. Fortunately, over 200 volunteers help prop up the organization’s services. “It is phenomenally consistent,” said Hottel in reference to volunteer turnout. “Our volunteers are so dedicated. It’s amazing.”
Lift-Up continues seeking support in three ways — funds, food and friends (volunteers). Hottel highlighted the need for on-call volunteers when some of its regular teams need to tap out at the last minute, as well as additional hands for administrative
work in the Glenwood warehouse.
Even spreading awareness of food insecurity supports Lift-Up’s mission. “I think that folks are not necessarily savvy to the fact that there are people in our valley who are facing food insecurity,” Hottel said. Lift-Up plans to host a ticketed educational event on Oct. 29 in cooperation with Dion’s Chicago Dream, a Chicago-based nonprofit, with details forthcoming.
Food drop-off bins, business partnerships and active food drives remain essential for offsetting rising costs and fighting hunger in our community with increasing need. Instructions for how to lend a hand can be found at www.liftup.org
from page 14
Town would not be subject to the same restrictions. EPS also recommended that Basalt eliminate its exemptions for its inclusionary housing ordinance (IHO). An IHO requires a certain amount of housing in any development to be set aside as affordable. Among six mountain communities EPS researched, Basalt has the highest set-aside rate at 25%. But Basalt carries exemptions for developments below a certain size. Mayor David Knight questioned whether funds were available to establish an ADU grant program, especially considering the Town is already planning on implementing a deed buydown program to reduce the cost of
purchasing homes.
Town Planner Michelle Thibeault suggested that before the Town considers allocating grant funding the first step should be simplifying the ADU approval process to begin with, such that homeowners who already have the capital can construct an ADU independently.
While no action was required during this presentation and councilors questioned the specific implementation of the grant program, the council agreed that reducing barriers to ADU construction would be the first step towards bringing these alternative housing options into Basalt.
