appreciation for what really matters: gathering together, celebrating what we’ve built with our own hands and supporting the neighbors who feed us,” described a press release.
“Just like a century ago, we’re emerging from challenging times with a deeper
The 116th annual Potato Days has arrived with a plethora of community activations in store over the weekend on par with the theme: “The Grate Spudsby” — an homage to the 100th anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, “The Great Gatsby.” This year’s Potato Days is particularly special in that it honors the life of a local farmer and friend to many in Carbondale, Casey Piscura.
Not long ago, Carbondale Parks and Rec took over coordinating Potato Days with the help of local nonprofits and other community-based organizations.
This year, one of Piscura’s friends, Kat Hardy, took the helm as event coordinator and Kade Gianinetti continues in his ancestors’ footsteps as the duo breathes new life into the age-old tradition. Hardy, who also heads up Dandelion Day, loves to throw a seasonal party and finds meaning in gathering. She recalled
Sunfire Ranch hosted a fall harvest party on Sept. 20 with a hearty meal prepared by The Farmer and Chef and lively music by Tommy The Animal. This was Wild Mountain Seeds’ first growing season without founder Casey Piscura. A community of friends and supporters made it a success, promising a bountiful future for that keystone local ag hub.
Photos by Will Sardinsky
Jeanie Bueller rides again
“Oh, fine. What’s this? What’s his problem?” (Jeanie Bueller)
“He doesn’t feel well.” (Joyce Bueller)
“Yeah, right. Dry that one out and you can fertilize the lawn.”
“Jeanie? Is that you? Jeanie? I can’t see that far …” (Ferris Bueller)
“Bite the big one, Junior.”
“Thank you, Jeanie. You get to school.” (Joyce)
“Wait, you’re letting him stay home? I can’t believe this!
If I was bleeding out my eyes you guys would make me go to school. This is so unfair.”
“Jeanie, please don’t be upset with me. You have your health; be thankful.” (Ferris) “That’s it. I want out of this family.”
These days, I hear Jeanie Bueller’s voice in my head whenever I read about Trump’s latest hijinks: “That’s it. I want out of this country.”
OPINION
Ps & Qs
By Jeannie Perry
Except, I don’t. I want to stay and help — especially if Ferris needs a kidney transplant. I watched a lot of movies and television growing up, and in Hollywood’s United States of America the good guy always shows up just in time to thwart tyranny and save the day. Or better yet, they see the error of their ways, like Jeanie Bueller, and decide to help Ferris instead of being their usual petty, envious self.
“Well hello, Jeanie. Who’s bothering you now?” (Grace)
The weird thing is that we all used to agree on who the bad guy was. Whether it was a quintessential hero’s journey (Luke and Leia in “Star Wars”), or a stranger comes to town looking for odd jobs and good trouble (Sylvester Stallone in “First Blood”), or a combination of the two (Patrick Swayze in “Roadhouse”), there was always a greedy landlord/sheriff/ruler of the dark side waiting for a fight … And often you could tell he was the bad guy just by the hat he wore.
Speaking of hats, Melania keeps wearing her Hamburglar hat to formal events, begging for attention. I’m sorry, gal, but you had your chance last time when we all said, “Blink twice if you’re in danger.” This sequel is so much worse, and now it’s everyone for themselves. The rest of the world has figured it out. They know they can no longer count on the U.S. for any of the things that made this country great: immigration, innovation, science.
In fact, South Korea is suing us. US, the country that sent brilliant wisecracking, martini-drinking, idealistic doctors and nurses over during the Korean War to save lives (“M*A*S*H”). They’re suing because ICE apprehended and confined Koreans who were here to set up a Hyundai factory that would’ve employed Americans, not to mention produced cars for those of us who work for a living and just need a good, reliable vehicle. I mean, we can’t all embrace our inner “Knight Rider” with tinted windows and black plates on a car that looks like the drawing of an 11 year old.
When I was 11, I still believed our governmental process would hold up if confronted by fascism. Back in the 1900s, the USA was by no means perfect. We had a nasty tendency to gloss over the uncomfortable pillars of this country: slavery, war, genocide. But I did believe there were diligent grownups working on it. Today, with the divisiveness and sabotaging rhetoric, it feels more like the halls of high school than the U.S. Congress.
My own high school years were not my best, by any means: the tardiness, the slacking, the skipping class to go smoke in the Burger King parking lot … In a hand-me-down denim-clad, “Jack & Diane” singing “Breakfast Club,” I was a cross between the nerd and the outcast, with big hair and bigger plans to get the hell out of dodge and live my best life. But not once, in all my daydreams of living a Big Adult Life, did I imagine all our so-called leaders would turn out to be such sycophants, cowering before a wannabe authoritarian regime.
The collateral damage from this administration will be a real mess for a younger generation to clean up, but GenX may be retired by the time this freakshow leaves Washington. I know it can’t last forever, because hate never wins. And in the end, even Jeanie Bueller steps up. Save Ferris.
LETTERS
CORRECTION: A graph published in last week’s Basalt Report claimed that Carbondale’s code sets aside 20% of new developments over three units for inclusionary housing. In 2024, that percentage was increased to 25%.
Re: Promoting division
I was saddened to read a disparaging letter about Brian Colley’s work, not because the writer’s opinion differs from mine — but because I have long admired the talent of this young man. I believe he is a master of irony and humor and, above all, kindness. The freedom to express an opinion is a precious thing, and often requires a good bit of courage. That we have amazingly skilled local artists whose works appear in our newspaper is, for me, a real gift.
Kay Clarke Carbondale
Defending Colley
Anna Green argues that Brian Colley’s cartoons “entrench division.” I see the opposite. When our leaders trade in name-calling and half-truths, poking fun at that behavior isn’t mean-spirited — it’s fair game. Satire simply holds up a mirror. If the reflection looks rough, blame the circus, not the artist.
Colley is more than a cartoonist; he’s an active, engaged member of our community. Like Ms. Green, he values honest conversation. His drawings spark those talks by turning tangled news into one sharp picture. You may laugh, groan or argue back — but you do look, and you do think. That is the point.
Some say the opinion page should avoid controversy or lean “less left.” Yet the press earns its keep by airing every viewpoint, not by muffling the ones labeled progressive. A free society doesn’t punish ideas for sitting on one side of the spectrum; it weighs them, tests them, and lets readers decide. If Colley’s cartoons tilt left, fine — print them. If another artist tilts right, print those too. The answer to speech you dislike is more speech, not less.
Meanwhile, the standard set by many national leaders is to belittle and exclude. If we don’t question that conduct — loudly and creatively — our democracy starts to hollow out. Satire is one of the oldest tools citizens use to keep power honest. Protecting sharp voices today ensures that future generations always inherit a press brave enough to question power. Let’s argue, laugh and keep drawing. Our community deserves nothing less.
Kat Rich Carbondale
Yes on 7A
As a local small business owner and working mother of two, I am fully in support of ballot measure 7A. Our local working families are the foundation of our community, and every year it is only getting more expensive and more difficult to raise a family here.
Moving away once children are born should not be the choice families in Garfield County have to make, but I see it happening every year. 7A will give some much needed support to families with small children, taking a bit of the stress off of working people to figure out childcare, and benefits the children with quality programs. It’s time to take action that supports having a family and vote yes on 7A.
Izzy Stringham Carbondale
Racist mistakes
Republicans are having a hard time coming up with a coherent position on race, both historically as well as currently. The conservatives on the Supreme Court have ruled that universities cannot use race in determining admissions, yet ICE can racially profile people to meet Trump’s deportation quotas.
MAGA is up in arms with people posting Charlie Kirk’s racist quotes, saying it is disrespectful. Apparently, they mean it is disrespectful to remind people what Kirk said, not that what he said was disrespectful.
Trump has made national park exhibits remove a photo of a whipped slave because it makes America look
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Ag loan
The 2Forks Club is accepting new applicants for zero-interest loans designated for community farmers and food entrepreneurs growing capacity, improving infrastructure and advancing regenerative practices. Applications are due Oct. 28 at 5pm. Find details and information on joining the 2Forks Club to help strengthen our local food economy at www.thefarmcollaborative.org/2forks
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During the months of October and November, passengers can ride all Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) routes for free (excluding Maroon Bells shuttle services). This program is intended to make transit more accessible and advance RFTA’s sustainability goals. Learn more at www.rfta.com/zerofare
Election Guide
Aspen Public Radio’s 2025 Election Guide is now live at www.aspenpublicradio. org with details about state and local races as well as ballot issues for Pitkin, Eagle and Garfield counties. The guide will be updated if new information becomes available until Nov. 4 and also includes information on how to vote.
Bikes fighting malaria
The Carbondale Rotary Club is hosting a family bike-a-thon to fight malaria, Oct. 11 from 10am to 1:30pm, beginning at Hooks Bridge in Basalt and concluding at Ironbridge, east of Glenwood Springs. This 15-mile, downhill bike ride will raise money so frontline health workers in Africa can obtain bicycles to reach remote villages with insecticide-treated netting, vaccines and education. The goal is to raise $5,000! To register, visit go.rallyup.com/ bikes-for-bikes or call 970-948-5360.
Wildfire grant
The Wildfire Collaborative Roaring Fork Valley received a competitive grant through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Community Wildfire Defense Grant Program for $865,009 to “support the Glenwood Springs Wildfire Mitigation and Home Resilience Project, aimed at reducing wildfire risk, enhancing community preparedness and protecting critical infrastructure in specific high-risk areas,” including 3 Mile Mobile Home Park, according to a press release. Since its inception, the Wildfire Collaborative has obtained $5.4 million in wildfire resiliency grant funding for the Roaring Fork watershed. This funding is largely used for landscape-scale fuel reduction projects.
from ditch to town water to extend the growing
is helping to revive the grow dome after seeing our article
June. More help is needed in the form of tools, labor and financial contributions. A volunteer workday is tentatively scheduled for Oct. 25 and Hofmann can be reached at gretsgardens@gmail.com
Mobile Market
LIFT-UP received a $20,000 matching grant from the Western Colorado Community Foundation that’ll go towards the purchase of a truck that can haul the nonprofit’s new Mobile Market, which currently only serves the Silt community, to other areas of need. LIFT-UP’s goal is to raise $60,000 for a truck that can expand the service up valley, and is inviting the community to contribute. For more information, email development@liftup.org To donate, visit www.liftup.org/donate
Bipartisan rescue
Both of Colorado’s U.S. senators and all of its representatives in the House sent a letter to President Donald Trump in support of Governor Jared Polis’ request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for Rio Blanco County. The Lee and Elk wildfires and subsequent debris flows and mud slides in the county resulted in the destruction of homes, transportation infrastructure, thousands of acres of rangeland and damage to oil and gas and rural electricity infrastructure. The declaration would open up additional loans, insurance relief and other critical assistance, according to a joint press release.
Wheatley Open Space
Pitkin County Open Space and Trails is leasing 19 acres of irrigated agricultural land near the Highway 82 turnoff toward Snowmass at $25 per acre. Proposals are due by 4pm on Oct. 27. There is also a mandatory
pre-proposal meeting and site visit on Friday, Oct. 17 at 10am. More information is available at www.bit.ly/WheatleyRFP
Cañon City wild horses
The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) 40-year-old Cañon City Wild Horse Holding Facility and Wild Horse Inmate Program (WHIP) are shutting down. The Colorado Department of Corrections announced late last month that WHIP will “tentatively conclude at the end of November.” A BLM spokesman told The Sopris Sun that 2,073 wild horses are in holding at the facility, 100 of which are from Colorado herds. Wild horse support groups such as Grand Junction-based Friends of the Mustangs are stepping up to help train and adopt out the Colorado horses. BLM said the remaining mustangs will be shipped to holding facilities in Wheatland, Wyoming or Axtell, Utah.
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Ray Alexander, Josh Behrman, Tracy Kallassy, Bill Rice, Meddi Shaw, Megan Webber and Renee West (Oct. 2); Cole Fenton, Shannon O’Gara, Daniella Stanley Kline, Kate Schwerin and Kevin Steuben (Oct. 3); Matt Koenigsknecht, Jill Rubin and Mac Scott (Oct. 4); Lisa Girardot, Morgan Neely, Jessi Rochel and Tami Stroud (Oct. 5); Bill Anschuetz, Christi Couch and Matthew Roeser (Oct. 6); Bob Burns, Iliana Rentería and Camille Vogt (Oct. 7); Jody Ensign, Lani Kitching and Bo Persiko (Oct. 8).
Roaring Fork High School students Orin, Gael, Alea, AnaSophia and Laura planted two new fruit trees outside the grow dome with funding from Susila Dharma USA, organized by Illène Pevec. With help from Grand Junction Pipe and TE Builders, a new irrigation system has been installed which can switch
conversations with Piscura about “connecting the dots between stewarding the land and stewarding the people.”
Gianinetti explained that a number of families who settled here at the turn of the 20th century, including his own, still have a presence today. While many emigrated to work in coal mines, they also brought the know-how to farm the land.
“In that time period there was a huge potato farming movement in the Valley,” said Gianinetti. “It was something to be really proud of, and for that they formed the harvest festival at the end of the year and called it ‘Potato Days.’ That first festival started in 1909.”
Gianinetti’s grandfather, Ernie, was a key figure at Potato Days for many years. “Ernie put so much energy in,” said Gianinetti, who explained that in his later years his grandfather would always find something that needed to be fixed — from the ground where the potatoes were unearthed to the pits where the meat and potatoes are baked in Sopris Park. “[His] energy of always just being there, being supportive, and always pushing to make stuff better was really cool.”
After last year’s celebration, Gianinetti turned to Parks and Rec Director Eric Brendlinger and asked if the current model was sustainable, pulled together year after year with good will and no small amount of grit.
“So we put our heads together and decided to create a Potato Days production fund where the Historical Society would raise money needed to put on the festival,” Gianinetti stated. “We’ve been doing that for just over a year, I’d say, and been successful. We have a good little pot for future events and hopefully we get it to another hundred years.”
This frees up the funding generated during the event — from lunch proceeds to parade entry fees — “to be a vehicle for change,” Gianinetti added. That revenue will feed a community impact fund that will benefit a different organization associated with sustainable farming each year.
Community impact
The inaugural recipient of the community impact fund is Seed Peace - Casey’s Fund Supporting Farmers, a nonprofit carried on by the late agriculturalist’s parents, Bob and Debbie, that supports farmers in ways they often go underserved.
Much like the early potato growers of Carbondale, Casey “was a wizard when it came to co-creating with the earth and climate and the land here,” stated Hardy. His business, Wild Mountain Seeds, eventually gave birth to Seed Peace, a nonprofit enveloping his mission to expand regenerative farming and provide fresh, quality produce to folks experiencing food insecurity. After his passing in February, Rita Marsh of The Center for Human Flourishing helped triage Seed Peace into the care of his parents who continue the nonprofit today with a renewed purpose.
“Casey’s family has taken it over and now, instead of it being about the seeds and agriculture, it’s to provide health care services — mental health, primary care and holistic well-being vouchers — to farmers,” Hardy said.
Seed Peace is two-pronged, Bob explained. The “FarmStrong” element is a developing suite of medical and wellness services for qualifying farmers that includes partnerships with local providers. Farmers do not need to qualify financially for the mental health services Seed Peace provides, which include local and state-based providers.
“Any money that goes to Seed Peace, all of that money is going directly to pay benefits to these farmers,” said Bob, who covers other expenses, such as travel and schwag, out of pocket. In fact, the Piscuras are matching every dollar up to $150,000 raised before Dec. 1 themselves.
This will be Bob’s first Potato Days. He’s making the trek out from the New River Valley of Virginia, where the nonprofit also serves local farmers. Seed
Peace will have a booth at the park for those interested in learning more.
“Farming is more than a livelihood — it’s a calling. It can also be isolating and exhausting,” Bob stated. “This fund exists to help farmers survive hard times and feel supported — mind, body and spirit.”
Weekend highlights
On Thursday, Oct. 2 at 4:30pm, folks are invited to help wrap potatoes and corn at Carbondale’s historic Thompson House (301 Lewies Lane), and then can catch a screening of “The Great Gatsby” at the Crystal Theatre at 7pm.
On First Friday, the Carbondale Historical Society will kick off the weekend with a membership drive at True
Nature from 5 to 9pm. There will also be a cider press and fall altar at Chacos Park.
First thing Saturday morning, from 8 to 9:30am, Aspen Valley Land Trust will host its “Pre-tato Promenade” at The Coffman Ranch on Catherine Store Road. The Rotary Club will serve up pancakes at Chacos Park starting at 8:30am, followed by Ross Montessori’s annual Tater Trot Fun Run at 9am.
The parade starts down Main Street at 10:30am — feel free to dress to the theme. And there’s rumored to be a tractor pull to follow, but unlike traditional tractor pulls, where tractors do the pulling, farmers will compete to pull the tractors.
Cowboy Coffee will be hot and ready at 9am in Sopris Park,
when vendors will also open for business. Colorado Edible Forest will sell heritage, heirloom fruit trees ready for fall planting. The Community Harvest Lunch, sourced from local farmers, will be served from 11:15am until the food runs out. In keeping with the community impact model this year, there is a pay-it-forward option for people to purchase meal tickets to be given to local farmers or people experiencing food insecurity.
As if that isn’t enough, you can catch the Youth Gymkhana rodeo at the Gus Darien Arena on Sunday from 10am to 2pm. For a full list of events, take a glance across the spread.
Have a bountiful Potato Days, folks.
Potato Days has included many themes over the years. This Valley Journal archival photo shows a VW “Love Spud” in the 1994 parade.
The Contra Dance will take place in Sopris Park this year from 3 to 4:30pm on Saturday.
‘Wild for Good’ report directs advocacy for endangered landscapes
WILL BUZZERD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
On Friday, Sept. 29, Carbondale-based conservation advocacy nonprofit Wilderness Workshop released Wild for Good, a report highlighting 10 of western Colorado’s most ecologically-rich landscapes now at increasing risk of development. The report was released as a call to action to protect Coloradan public lands, and directs citizens to both experience their local landscapes for themselves and to advocate for their long-term protection.
“Public lands are part of Colorado’s identity, and once they’re gone, they’re gone forever,” said Will Roush, executive director of Wilderness Workshop. “This report is both a warning and a roadmap. It identifies specific steps we can take now to keep our most treasured wild places intact for future generations.”
In 28 full-color pages, the Wild for Good report catalogues Wilderness Workshop’s history with vivid landscape photography and quotes from representatives, business owners and scientists, all celebrating the cultural, economic and ecological value of Colorado’s wilderness-quality landscapes. The landscapes receive in-depth features noting their natural beauty, ecological diversity and conservation history — as well as the risks they presently face.
The report includes landscapes intimately
familiar to residents of the Roaring Fork Valley — such as the Crystal River and Thompson Divide — and landscapes further away yet no less ecologically significant.
Tucked in Colorado’s northwest corner, Greater Dinosaur receives attention for its petroglyphs and big game as the largest complex of unprotected land in the state. The Roan Plateau, often passed by commuters heading westward to Grand Junction, is featured for its population of genetically pure Colorado River cutthroat trout and blossoms of Parachute penstemon — an endangered alpine flower found only on the Roan’s shale outcrops.
The report was strategically launched ahead of National Public Lands Day, Sept. 27, a federal holiday meant to draw awareness to the country’s parks and wildlands. Wilderness Workshop distributed the report to Colorado state representatives, spreading awareness of these lands all the way east to Washington, D.C. while the federal government continues to draft proposals to sell and develop public lands for oil and gas use and eliminate conservation protections.
“We’ve been hearing from communities throughout the Western Slope that people really do want to be proactive about protecting these places and doing that before they’re lost to drilling,” said Campaign Director Michael Gorman. “This
report is a way for us to be proactive and set the agenda on these landscapes.”
The Wild for Good report was launched along with its own website, which Wilderness Workshop intends to use as a platform for activism and ongoing news updates regarding the status of different landscapes and the actions citizens can take to protect each one.
While Wild for Good encourages citizens to engage in more traditional forms of activism — such as writing letters to congresspeople and signing petitions — the campaign also uses social media to spread awareness about the risks public lands currently face.
Wild for Good instructs citizens to “Join the Movement” by first picking up an
official Wild for Good bandana at Wilderness Workshop’s Carbondale office and venturing to one of the 10 landscapes highlighted in the report. Participants can then snap a photo of themselves with their new bandana and email the image back to Wilderness Workshop and/or post the image to their social media account, tagging @wildernessworkshop on the post and including a short story about why they love their featured landscape.
The report takes care to remind Roaring Fork Valley citizens that the hundreds of thousands of acres of wilderness in our backyards only gained their protected status due to continued efforts by a dedicated community, tracing Wilderness Workshop’s
continued on page 19
The Wild for Good report highlights Eagle County’s Red Table Mountain, a nearly 50,000acre stretch lying north of the Fryingpan River, currently lacking an official Wilderness designation. The report emphasizes that Red Table Mountain stands at risk of development, and instructs readers how they can take action to protect this and other landscapes across the Western Slope. Photo by Jon Mullen
KDNK to host NPR’s Kirk Siegler at the Crystal Theatre
KEN PLETCHER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Carbondale community access radio station KDNK will play host to awardwinning broadcast journalist Kirk Siegler, National Public Radio’s (NPR) national correspondent for the West, at the Crystal Theatre on Thursday, Oct. 9 at 6:30pm. Longtime Roaring Fork Valley journalist Amy Hadden Marsh will moderate a discussion with Siegler, after which there will be a question-and-answer period with the audience. Money raised will benefit the KDNK news department.
Siegler is no stranger to Colorado, having come to the Valley two decades ago to work at KAJX in Aspen, followed by a stint at KUNC in Greely. In 2012, he joined NPR at its facility in Culver City, California, becoming a roving reporter for the West. In 2019, he helped establish the network’s first Idaho news bureau in Boise, where he has lived since.
In a recent conversation with The Sopris Sun, Siegler mentioned how much of his work is “breaking news” reporting, rushing from disaster to disaster (e.g. wildfires, hurricanes). He disparagingly called it “parachute journalism,” lamenting that “it’s difficult to get the really full story.” He has appreciated that NPR has given him the opportunity to do much more in-depth coverage.
A notable example was his reporting in the aftermath of 2018’s Camp Fire in northern California that destroyed several towns, including Paradise. Siegler spent several months following up with the former residents, “keep[ing] Paradise in the news,” and pursuing questions like whether the town should be rebuilt in the same location,
given the odds of another major fire in the area. Citing what he called “survivor’s guilt” (reporters like him who come in, do their stories and then leave for their safe homes), he said that he wanted to “let the [NPR] audience know that we understand and empathize” with the victims.
Siegler grew up in Missoula, Montana, and is a University of Colorado Boulder graduate. He has a great affinity for the outdoors, which is reflected in his numerous stories on climate change and the natural environment. In 2022, he was awarded a United Nations fellowship to report how deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon rainforest was affecting climate change. Many of his stories this year have been focused on issues related to the Trump administration’s approach to managing Western public lands.
KDNK Station Manager Megan Passmore told The Sun, “This is our first
fundraiser for the news department. I’m super excited that he’s making the trip to hang out in Carbondale!”
KDNK News Director Marilyn Gleason echoed Passmore’s enthusiasm, noting that the fundraiser is “an especially good idea after losing federal support.” She also cited Marsh’s efforts to make the event happen and to secure Siegler’s participation.
As has been widely reported, the spending bill passed by Congress this summer eliminated previously allocated revenue for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). This forced it to shut down and meant that no federal funding for public broadcasting was forthcoming. KDNK was scheduled to receive $174,000 — 27% of its operating budget.
Gleason said that while KDNK is managing financially right now, “Long term, we will have to make up [the revenue loss] with
more contributions from major donors … or shrink a bit.” The latter would be unfortunate, she lamented, having seen the station grow over the last 25 years she’s been associated with it.
Both Gleason and Siegler weighed in on the loss of federal funding. Siegler noted, “Smaller NPR stations are in a real bind,” especially local newsrooms “that are being hollowed out.” Private donations help in the short term, he said, “But what happens if there is an economic downturn? Will donations go away?”
Gleason noted that there are a dozen small stations in Colorado’s Third Congressional District, represented by Republican Jeff Hurd, “that are really impacted by shutting down the CPB.” By voting for the spending bill, “Hurd hurt the communities the radio stations serve,” she said.
Finally, when Siegler was asked if he has felt any pressure because of the current political climate, the answer was an emphatic, “No. I have not felt pressure of any significance.” He did note, however, that people have been somewhat more reluctant to talk with him, apparently fearing possible backlash. He immediately countered that, though, describing visiting the site of Charlie Kirk’s shooting in Utah the day after the attack. He encountered a man who had been “in the line of fire” and was visibly shaken and traumatized but who opened up to Siegler and said, “This can’t keep happening.”
Tickets for the event (with discounts for KDNK members) on Thursday, Oct. 9 at 6:30pm at the Crystal Theatre can be found at www.tinyurl.com/SieglerKDNK
Kirk Siegler on assignment for NPR at the Great Salt Lake, Utah in early 2024. Courtesy photo
How to recognize blue-green algae and mitigate health risks for humans and pets
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Have you ever felt unwell or like you had an allergic reaction after swimming in a pond? Well, the culprit could be blue-green algae, which thrives during warm weather in bodies of water experiencing eutrophication. Blooms of blue-green algae grow quickly and can produce cyanobacteria, which is toxic to humans and can even be fatal for pets.
With various long-term forecasts predicting that October temperatures will be higher than average, these algae risks, typically confined to the summer months, could extend into autumn. While blue-green algae occurs naturally in Colorado waters, historically it’s grown in small quantities.
In bodies of water tainted by excess agricultural fertilizer, nitrogen-based de-icing agents or even livestock and pet waste the algae can experience a bloom. Algal blooms are rapid growth spurts that affect the appearance, smell and composition of bodies of water. Health and environmental science professionals refer to these as “harmful algal blooms” (HABs). There is a higher chance of HABs being found in ponds, lakes and slow-moving tributaries near some farms, roads and dog parks.
Algal blooms often give water an opaque appearance with a pea-green tint. However, some blooms grow below the surface of water and may not be visible.
For people, exposure to toxic algae presents symptoms similar to allergies or common colds, and can include rashes or skin irritations, fatigue, fever, headache, sore throat or digestive problems. These issues are generally non-lethal, but anyone who suspects they’ve been in contact with toxic algae should shower or rinse with fresh water as soon as possible. It is recommended that people experiencing persistent or severe symptoms contact a healthcare provider.
Blue-green algae can be deadly to pets, who are also more likely to enter contaminated water.
It is even more risky if the animal drinks the affected water. Symptoms range from mild to serious. Minor symptoms may include drooling, low energy and loss of appetite; but they can be as severe as diarrhea, vomiting, stumbling and tremors.
If a pet comes into contact with HABs contaminated water, they should be removed from the water as quickly as possible. Owners should prevent the animal from licking their paws or fur until they’ve been thoroughly rinsed with clean water. If visible strands or chunks of algae are attached to their fur or skin, it should be picked or combed out. If a pet shows any symptoms, it’s advisable to contact a veterinarian immediately. It’s possible for animals to die within hours of exposure.
The Colorado Department of Public
some blooms grow below the surface of water and may not be visible.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Health and Environment (CDPHE) asks residents to help prevent algal blooms and to report contaminated water. Practices which help decrease the likelihood of HABs include picking up and properly disposing of pet waste and minimizing use of chemical fertilizers and de-icers with urea or nitrogen-based ingredients.
Property owners can also take precautions by establishing native-flora buffer zones between gardens or agricultural land and nearby bodies of water, like ditches or ponds. The plants can strengthen soil, provide habitat for native birds and pollinators, mitigate mosquitoes and absorb excess nutrients from fertilizers. Suitable native plants in the Western U.S. include saltgrass, shrubby cinquefoil (popular for its small yellow blossoms), chokecherry shrubs, swamp verbena, columbines and
butterfly milkweed.
CDPHE maintains a dashboard of recently reported algal blooms, safe water and potentially risky water. Because the only certain way to check for algal toxicity is to test for it, the department asks the community to report suspected toxic algae and to avoid entering suspicious water. Of 74 tracked bodies of water, 60 were reported safe, 11 with suggested caution due to blooms without detected toxins, three with verified toxic blooms and one as a third-party unverified report. Of those, Vega Reservoir between Rifle and Colbran was ranked as “caution” as of press time. Other potentially dangerous waters are further from the Roaring Fork Valley.
Readers can learn more about blue-green algae at cdphe.colorado.gov/toxic-algae
Algal blooms often give water an opaque appearance with a pea-green tint. However,
District to host board candidate forum Oct. 2
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
The Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) has had a busy start to the school year. As students and teachers got back into routines in September, the RFSD Board of Education regular meetings saw full agendas. The district is also preparing for the election of two new members for four-year terms.
Board of Education elections
RFSD is hosting a candidate forum for the Board of Education this Thursday, Oct. 2. The forum starts at 6pm and will be cohosted by the district and the Roaring Fork Community Education Association at the RFSD office in Carbondale. Individuals elected to the board are called directors and represent regional districts.
For District A, which covers the area east of Highway 133 and south of Highway 82, the two candidates vying for the position are Jodi Barr and Tamara “Tammy” Nimmo. The seat is currently held by Kenny Teitler, who is not seeking reelection. In District E, which runs along the north side of Highway 82 and up
the Fryingpan Valley, incumbent Kathryn Kuhlenberg is running for reelection, challenged by new candidate Elizabeth Cockrill Taylor.
Roaring Fork Community Education Association president, Charles DeFord, said, “What makes a candidate forum vital for teachers, students, families and administrators is that it offers all concerned stakeholders a chance to meet and hear from those candidates who will help steer the future of the district.” He elaborated, “Certainly candidates can convey their values and vision for our district through other avenues, but it is unique in that it offers all candidates an opportunity to directly address the challenges and issues our educators and students feel are most pressing.”
provided on the RFSD website. RFSD encourages community members to get to know their candidates. Superintendent Dr.
of Student and Family Services
Kelly Medina shared updates on student enrollment, growth and achievement data and considerations for continuing to close testing performance gaps among students in the coming school year.
What makes a candidate forum vital for teachers, students, families and administrators is that it offers all concerned stakeholders a chance to meet and hear from those candidates who will help steer the future of the district.
- Charles DeFord, Roaring Fork Community Education Association
This month, The Sopris Sun is conducting interviews with all four candidates, which will appear in upcoming issues of the paper. Until then, contact information and relevant campaign websites for each candidate are
Anna Cole said, “It is important our community understands candidates’ positions, interests and goals.”
September board meetings
At the Sept. 10 meeting, Cole and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Stacey Park, along with Director
CARBONDALE Revolving Loan Fund
While declining enrollment is part of a broader trend influenced in part by an aging local population, RFSD has observed over 280 students exiting the district between the end of the 2024-25 school year and beginning of the current academic year. Cole and Medina shared data on this, demonstrating that some 89% of those withdrawals were transfers to other schools. Yet only 11.5% were transfers to non-public schools; the majority of transfers were associated with family relocations, with students transferring to different Colorado districts, schools in other states and even schools in different countries. The RFSD board will hear another report on enrollment at the Oct. 22 meeting. Assistant Superintendent Park shared a detailed
memo and key points of student growth and achievement data. Continuing to bridge student performance gaps and support for all students will remain a strategic focus for the district.
In the Sept. 24 meeting, Dr. Cole and the strategic leadership team presented the first year report on a five-year strategic plan adopted during the 2024-25 school year. They noted highlights including the launch of a strategic plan data dashboard, steady student academic growth and increased school performance ratings for most schools and the district overall. Per Cole, the district Family Advisory Council and Equity Advisory Council provided critical input on district policies, and RFSD families reported some of the highest positive feedback the district has received related to communication, trust and transparency.
RFSD administration noted room for improvement in the implementation of strategic initiatives and in ensuring clarity for district stakeholders. The strategic leadership also noted room for improvement in academic achievement gaps. They
continued on page 22
The Town of Carbondale developed the Carbondale Revolving Loan Fund (CRLF) to enhance the ability of local busine secure the necessary capital to finance start-ups, operations, or expansion The loan fund was set up in 2002 with a partnership with the USDA The Town and USDA both contributed $50,000 In addition to providing access to cap CRLF is designed to help stimulate job creation and retention Loans are available to new or established businesses within the town limits of the Town of Carbondale To-date, the fund has $150,000 to loan to for-profit and no businesses based in Carbondale
CRITERIA
Loan proceeds may be used for business reasons, including real estate acquisition, construction, and equipment
Funds cannot be used for the refinancing of existing debt Applications will be considered on the basis of the character of the applicant, the applicant’s capacity to repay the loan, collateral and/or other sources of capital, and conditions affecting the applicant’s ability to repay the loan
The guideline for the amount to be requested is $5,000 to $25,000 The interest rate will depend on several factors such as the type of collateral, financial strength of the applicant, and the overall risk Fixed rates of interest will range from 3% to 5%
The term of each loan will depend on repayment capabilities and the purpose of the loan Repayment is monthly and loans are usually no longer than a 36-month term (3 years)
CONTACT
Scan QR code for more information or contact the Carbondale Chamber: 970-963-1890, chamber@carbondale com
The CRLF is made possible by the Town of Carbondale The Carbondale Chamber is not affiliated with the Town of Carbondale, rather assisting the Town by overseeing the marketing & promotion, and certain aspects of the administration of this program The loan funds are in no way exchanged with the Carbondale Chamber
New AVSC executive director August Teague
looks forward to supporting athletes
Last month, August Teague stepped up from his Nordic leadership role to become the new executive director of the Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club (AVSC). As a child, Teague was an AVSC athlete and competed on both the Nordic and Alpine ski teams. He returned to AVSC with extensive college and elite-level cross-country ski coaching experiences. He has served as the Nordic program director since 2016.
In a letter to AVSC alumni and community supporters this summer, interim executive director Beth Hoff Blackmer offered insight into what Teague plans to bring to the role. “[Teague] will prioritize expanding program access and participation, keeping athletes and families engaged and informed, supporting high-level performance and strengthening our club culture,” she wrote. The Nordic program is one of AVSC’s oldest offerings and among the largest, attracting more than 350 junior athletes every winter and engaging 60+ staff members. Teague’s replacement as program director, Olympian Sophie Caldwell Hamilton, was featured in an article last week.
Teague shared with The Sopris Sun that he is “most looking forward to working closely with our staff, athletes and families to carry AVSC’s mission forward.” He continued, “This club has such a rich tradition, and I am excited about the opportunity to strengthen the
pathways we offer for kids in the Valley, whether their goals are participation in our Aspen Supports Kids program, high performance or building lifelong connections through sport. I am especially excited to bring people together around our core values of teamwork, commitment and integrity, and to make sure every child in the Valley feels there is a place for them at AVSC.”
Teague noted that AVSC has changed and expanded over the past decade.
“The club has grown tremendously in both size and scope since I first coached here,” he said. “What has impressed me most is how AVSC has managed to maintain its community-driven spirit while also building more opportunities for athletes at every level.” Those additional opportunities take various shapes, he explained. “We have invested in professional coaching, expanded programs in all disciplines, and created more ways for families across the Valley to participate. At the same time, the sense of belonging and local pride that has always defined AVSC remains at the heart of everything we do.”
Teague expressed excitement about AVSC’s many signature events. After the annual Sports Swap at Willits, which takes place from 9am to 2pm on Saturday, Oct. 4, the club has a busy schedule through the winter in addition to competitions. “Our Nordic Bonfire at the Aspen Nordic Center is always
a wintertime family favorite,” Teague said, referencing the Aspen Golf Course fundraiser slated for February of 2026. He also mentioned the Audi Ajax Cup, “our biggest fundraiser of the year,” on Dec. 30. “It offers an incredible day of racing and celebration that directly supports our athletes.”
AVSC will host a second annual Ullr Fest this December to support the Nordic program throughout the Roaring Fork Valley, and the Snowboard and Freestyle programs will participate in Wintersköl via their Rail Jam event. Beyond those, Teague said, “Our athletes will be out on the hills, trails and halfpipes all winter long, and we hope the community will come cheer them on. We encourage anyone to check out our list of events on our website at www.teamavsc.org and sign up for the monthly newsletter there to find out what’s going on at the Clubhouse, around the Valley and beyond.”
The Nordic program changes are just a small sampling of AVSC promotions. Two administrative employees have been promoted into director roles: Cole Baggett as director of finance and Allison Johnson as director of communications. Athlete teams are recognizing veteran coaches with more responsibility as well. Eric Angus and Lina Sutro are both AVSC alums, stepping into the Snowboard 13+ Comp Team and Nordic Program Race Team head coach roles respectively. The Freestyle program has also named a new head coach for FIS Park and Pipe, Dave Zweig. AVSC is hiring for several more coaches as winter approaches.
PHOTOGRAPHY 101
Community Ed
Tue, 6-8:30pm, 10/7-10/28
FUNDRAISING FOR NON-PROFITS Tue, 5:30-8:30pm, 10/7,
Tue/Thur, 6-7:30pm, 10/21-12/11
Tue, 5:30-8:30pm, 10/21-11/4
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If you could be that person, call CARE!
ECOSYSTEM IMPORTANCE OF BEAVERS - FREE TALK Friday, 7-8pm, 10/24 in Basalt
*Credit Art Classes
*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
August Teague pictured with new U.S. Ski Team member Kate Oldham, who made a splash during her first World Cup season last winter.
Photo courtesy of AVSC
JV football building for the future, scores homecoming week win
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Roaring Fork High School’s homecoming week got off on the right foot — football, that is.
Playing only at the junior varsity level this season while in rebuilding mode, the Rams JV players got the Monday night spotlight, hosting Delta on the gridiron ahead of a student game of capture the flag that was part of Spirit Week.
It was a good one, as the Rams shut out the visiting Panthers 12-0, to move to 4-1 on the season.
After a scoreless first half, sophomore Blake Tardif busted through the Delta defense from inside the 5-yard line for a touchdown midway through the third quarter.
Late in the game, with only 18 seconds left to play, it was sophomore Tobin Vinciguerra who ran it in from inside the 20 for the Rams’ second touchdown. Both 2-point conversion attempts came up short.
What’s not coming up short, though, is perseverance for the young Rams team, head coach John Nielsen said.
“All we want to do is just maintain this season,” Nielsen said of
a short-handed squad that only had two reserve players suited up on the sidelines on Monday.
“We could use a little bit more on the supporting roles, but these guys have proven themselves,” he said. “I couldn’t be more proud of these guys. They play their hearts out every single game, and they’ve come a long way from when we first started.”
The road back to becoming a varsity program is on the coaches, along with strong middle school and youth feeder programs.
“We’ve had kind of a coaching carousel for a while here, and we really need some consistency and stability in that,” Nielsen said. “The coaches have to prove themselves, and they also have to buy into the program, same as the players.”
Boys soccer
The state-ranked Rams boys soccer team stumbled on Tuesday night just up the road against 3A Western Slope League rival Basalt, 2-1.
Roaring Fork had come into the week with the No. 6 ranking in the state among 3A teams, but the loss drops them to 5-2-1
overall, and 2-1 in the 3A Western Slope League.
Games stats were not immediately available.
On Sept. 24, the Rams won 8-1 at home over Grand Junction, scoring three goals in the first half and five in the second. Goals were scored by juniors Oliver Shook and Cal Stone, who had two each, with one each coming from sophomore Alan Rodriguez, juniors Wesley Serrano, Cristian Turcios and senior Jason Clemente.
The Rams host their homecoming game at 6pm Thursday, Oct. 2, against Delta. Homecoming royalty will be honored at halftime.
Girls volleyball
After winning 3-1 at Olathe on Sept. 23 (22-25, 25-20, 25-19, 25-19), the Rams lost one at home Sept. 25 against Aspen, 3-1 (25-20, 16-25, 23-25, 15-25).
The Skiers are now ranked among the top 10 3A teams in the state.
Roaring Fork stands at 4-10 overall, and 2-2 in the 3A Western Slope League, heading into their homecoming game Friday, Oct. 3 versus Gunnison, 6pm.
Cross country
Running at the Moffat County Invitational on Saturday, Sept. 20 Basalt senior Towler Scott was the overall winner with a time of 16:05.39. Roaring Fork sophomore Levi Friday, running for the combined Basalt-Roaring Fork team, was the second finisher for the Longhorns in 12th (18:05.68) and Roaring Fork sophomore Kaiden Werth was 34th (19:10.02).
For the girls, freshman Scarlett Jones was eighth in 20:48.38 and senior Addison Raymond was 12th (21:20.85). They were followed by a slew of Roaring Fork student-athletes, including junior Caroline Cole finishing 21st (22:32), freshman Maggie Cole in 32nd (23:12.17), sophomore Kinley Richmond in 35th (23:32.11) and junior Miley Stuart in 38th (23:49.7).
A Bond Beyond
Blake Tardif carries the ball for a gain during the Roaring Fork High School junior varsity football homecoming week win over Delta, 12-0, at Rams Field on Monday, Sept. 29. Photo by John Stroud
ADULT CLASSES KIDS/TEEN CLASSES
Starting Monday September 15 through December 13
DROP IN CLASSES $15/CLASS 15 CLASS PASS FOR $195
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
Classes start Tuesday, September 9 14 WEEKS I $15/CLASS
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 JOAN (AGES 7+)
2:30PM-3:30PM
KIDS BREAKDANCE WITH JOH (AGES 7+)
3:45PM-4:45PM
THURSDAYS
TEEN ADVANCED HIP HOP WITH QUINCY (AGES 12+) 4PM-5PM
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2
AMANITA MUSCARIA
Learn about the mushroom Amanita Muscaria’s cultural and medicinal legacy with Hamilton Pevec of the Western Colorado Mycological Association at Aspen Shakti (535 East Hyman Avenue, Aspen) at 5pm.
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.
MEN’S GROUP
HeadQuarters offers a men’s group exploring “the inner knowing” at 6pm. For details visit www.headq.org
‘THE WAY’
The Aspen Chapel launches its second annual free Sacred Cinema series with “The Way” starring Martin Sheen at 6pm. More info at www.aspenchapel.org
‘THE GREAT GATSBY’
In celebration of this year’s Potato Day theme, “The Grate Spudsby,” The Crystal Theatre screens the 2013 version of “The Great Gatsby” at 7pm.
WILD & SCENIC FILM FEST
The Middle Colorado Watershed Council presents the Wild & Scenic Film Festival at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue at 7pm with a live auction and door prizes. Tomorrow, the film festival will travel to the Ute Theater in Rifle with complimentary admission for Re-2 and Re-16 students and teachers. Tickets at www.midcowatershed.org/filmfest
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 3
ADDICTION SYMPOSIUM
A Way Out hosts its annual addiction breakfast symposium at TACAW from 8am to 1pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
GENEALOGY GROUP
The Glenwood Genealogy Group meets at their hometown library from noon to 1:30pm.
‘LARRY DAY, HA HA HA’
The Art Base hosts an opening reception for “Larry Day, Ha Ha Ha” from 5 to 7pm.
FIRST FRIDAY
Carbondale Arts hosts October’s First Friday, 5 to 9pm, which includes three exhibition openings at The Carbondale Arts Gallery, from 5 to 7pm with artist talks at 5:30pm, live music at Chacos Park, featuring Ted Zislis (5-6pm) and Beep Bop Boop (6-8pm) and much more. Main Street between Weant Boulevard and Third Street will be closed to traffic. Carbondale wants to know what you love and might want to improve about First Friday celebrations; find a survey at www.tinyurl.com/ CarbondaleFirstFriday
HARVEST CELEBRATION
In light of Potato Day, the Carbondale Historical Society hosts a harvest celebration at True Nature’s Peace Garden with music by Natalie Spears, local beverages and farm-fresh foods from 5 to 9pm. Tickets at www.bit.ly/CHSharvest
‘PLAYFUL POTTERY’
Main Street Gallery & The Framer hosts a reception for ceramicist Shana Salaff’s exhibit, “Playful Pottery,” from 6 to 8pm.
GHOST WALK
The Glenwood Springs Historical Society guides a Ghost Walk at the Linwood Cemetery every half hour from 6:30 to 8:30pm Fridays and Saturdays through Oct. 18. Register at www.glenwoodhistory.org/ghostwalk
RECONNECT
True Nature co-founders Deva and Eaden Shantay present “Connecting Through Sound” from 7 to 8:30pm in the Kiva as a standalone part of the RECONNECT retreat. Tickets and more weekend offerings are at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
‘RALLY THE VALLEY’
The “Rally the Valley” fundraising event, supporting the Mountain Valley and Aspen-Basalt mobile home park communities in their bid for resident ownership, takes place at the Third Street Center at 6:30pm. RSVP at tinyurl.com/RFVRally CRYSTAL THEATRE
“Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale” continues today and tomorrow at 7pm with a captioned show Sunday at 5pm. Catch “Army of Darkness,” a 1992 sci-fi, fantasy comedy, on Wednesday, Oct. 8 at 7pm.
‘THE SECRETARY’
Thunder River Theatre Company’s production of “The Secretary” opens at 7:30pm tonight and continues for three weekends with Thursday through Saturday showings at 7:30pm and Sunday matinees at 2pm. Tickets at www.thunderrivertheatre.com
P!NK EXPERIENCE
The Ute Theater in Rifle presents “Glitter in the Air: The Ultimate P!NK Experience” — a Denver-based tribute band accompanied by aerial silk performers — from 8 to 11pm. Tickets at www.utetheater.com
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4
PRE-TATO PROMENADE
Ahead of the Potato Day festivities, Aspen Valley Land Trust welcomes all to take a stroll at Coffman Ranch and learn about the land’s history from 8 to 9:30am. Register at www.avlt.org/potato
POTATO DAY
While Potato Days spans the weekend, the main event is always the first Saturday in October. At 8:30am, the Carbondale Rotary Club serves pancakes at Chacos Park, followed by Ross Montessori’s Fun Run there at 9am, the Potato Day parade on Main Street at 10:30am and the Community Harvest Lunch at 11:15am in Sopris Park. Vendors and the famous cowboy coffee will be open at the park starting at 9am, and music starts at 11am, culminating in a Community Contra Dance at 3pm in front of the Gazebo. For a detailed schedule, see page 4 of this week’s paper. Happy Potato Day!
RFOV AT RIFLE FALLS
Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers conducts a 30th Anniversary Commemorative Project at Rifle Falls from 8:30am to 3:30pm. Sign up at www.rfov.org
MOSAICS WORKSHOP
Design and craft your own mosaic serving tray at The Art Base from 9am to 12:30pm. Registration at www.theartbase.org
SKI SWAP
Aspen Valley Ski & Snowboard Club’s annual ski swap event takes place at Willits Town Center from 9am to 2pm. Over 30 vendors and individual sellers will offer great deals on sports equipment, soft goods and accessories.
ALPENGLOW
Alpenglow, Glenwood Springs’ independent bookstore, celebrates one year in operation with giveaways, snacks and more. Stop by between 11am and 8pm.
HARVEST PARTY
The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies’ family-friendly fall fundraiser takes place at Rock Bottom Ranch from 11am to 5pm. Tickets at www.aspennature.org
The Roaring Fork Valley Horse Council hosted its Rumble Ridge Harvest Party and Tack Sale on Sept. 20, highlighting four local nonprofits that provide equine therapeutic riding: Riding Institute for Disabled Equestrians, WindWalkers, Smiling Goat Ranch and Ascendigo Autism Services. Pictured (left to right): Kristin Connor of Smiling Goat Ranch, Dee Stiers and Mary Heywood of Riding Institute for Disabled Equestrians, Sydney Horowitz of Ascendigo Autism Services and Beth Gusick of WindWalkers. Courtesy photo
AFRICAN DANCE
Aspen Dance Connection welcomes Maputo Mensah, director of the Logo Ligi dance troupe, for a free drum class (4 to 5:15pm) and dance class (5:30 to 6:45pm) at the Glenwood Springs Library.
NOCHE LATINA
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the City of Glenwood Springs hosts Noche Latina, featuring family activities (4 to 6pm) and live music by Son de la Zona (6 to 9pm), at Bethel Plaza.
LOCALS NIGHT LIVE
Belly Up Aspen welcomes local musicians Tristan Trincado and Grayson Ratliff for a performance beginning at 8:30pm.
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 5
‘PADDLE PALOOZA’
HeadQuarters hosts a pickleball tournament benefitting The Mental Health Fund at the courts in Carbondale beginning at 9am. Details at www.headq.org/ event/paddle-palooza
INSTANT GRATIFICATION
A Spiritual Center explores “meeting our needs easily while affecting personal growth and relationships” with Katia Fernandinho at the Third Street Center (Room 31) from 10 to 11:30am.
CATRINA WORKSHOP
Livier Cruz Guerrero guides a free skeleton-puppet making workshop from 10am to 3pm ahead of the Día de los Muertos celebration in November. All are welcome.
CELEBRATING SHARILL
The family of Sharill Hawkins welcomes her friends to share memories at Four Mile Creek Bed and Breakfast (6471 County Road 117) beginning at 2pm.
IMMIGRANT STORIES
Garfield County Libraries presents “Our Stories, Our Strengths: Immigrant Stories” at the Rifle Library from 2 to 7pm. The Logo Ligi and Ngoma dance troupes will perform.
‘WIND IN THE WILLOWS’
The Wheeler Opera House invites families to “Wind in the Willows,” a theatrical adaptation of Kenneth Grahame’s children’s novel, at 3pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
ART OF CONVERSATION
Pick up a meaningful conversation with a stranger at the Carbondale Library from 6 to 7:30pm.
BREATHWORK
In partnership with Pathfinders, Allison Alexander facilitates a free breathwork session at True Nature from 6 to 7:30pm. RSVP at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
ECSTATIC DANCE
This month’s ecstatic dance at 13 Moons Ranch (6334 Highway 133) features DJ Alejandra Rico from 6 to 8pm. Questions? Contact alyahowe@me.com
MONDAY, OCTOBER 6
7B DISCUSSION
The Basalt Library hosts a presentation covering its proposed 7B ballot measure from noon to 1pm.
TOTE PAINTING
Basalt Library celebrates Banned Books Week with a tote bag painting event from 4 to 6pm.
CENSORSHIP DISCUSSION
Garfield County Public Library District Executive Director Jamie LaRue talks about attempts to restrict or eliminate access to library resources with a community discussion at the New Castle Library from 6 to 7pm.
CONSENSUAL IMPROV
Consensual Improv hosts a five-week improv comedy workshop beginning today and meeting Mondays at 6:30pm. The workshop includes registration for the One-Night Stand jam performance on Nov. 3. Registration at www.tacaw.org
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7
LIBRARIES CLOSED
All six branches of the Garfield County Libraries will be closed for staff training. You can still browse and request materials online at www.gcpld.org
‘THE LIBRARIANS’
Garfield County Libraries screens a new documentary, “The Librarians,” for free at the Ute Theater in Rifle at 6pm.
ACTING WORKSHOP
Graham Northrup teaches “Acting for the Camera,” a six-part interactive workshop on Tuesdays at TACAW at 6:30pm beginning today. Register at www.tacaw.org
DRAWING CLUB
The Roaring Fork Drawing Club hangs out at The Art Base beginning at 6:30pm.
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 8
LATINE ART
Anderson Ranch hosts a panel on cultural identity and representation with artists and educators Steven Molina Contreras and Carla Fernández at 3pm.
BANNED BOOK SPEAKEASY
Basalt Library hosts a panel on censorship in public libraries from 6 to 7:30pm.
OCT. 1 - NOV. 30, 2025
All routes from the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority will be free to ride Oct-Nov, 2025 as part of a new
Roarin g Fork
EXPLORE
Yout h Activi ti e s
The Sopris Sun is excited to introduce programs that let kids try new activities, build skills, and connect with their community in fun and meaningful ways.
COLORADO MOUNTAIN COLLEGE
December Festivity Classes
Christmas Cookie Decorating
Ages 8+ Decorate your own cookies and get pro tips from the Pastry Chef Lab. Parents welcome.
Age 9+ Fold colored wax paper to create geometric patterns of varying translucency. These stars make great gifts.
Wednesday, 3-4:45pm, 12/10
CALL FOR MORE INFO: 970.963.2172
690 Colorado Ave, Carbondale
GARFIELD COUNTY LIBRARIES
Children of all ages can explore, play, and learn through a wide variety of our engaging programs o ered each week.
From storytimes that spark a lifelong love of reading—whether for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, or the whole family—to active sessions like “Get the Wiggles Out” and “Shake Your Sillies Out,” there’s something for every energy level. Creative minds can dive into hands-on fun with “Spark” and “STEM Exploration” events, while bilingual and sensory-friendly programs ensure every child feels welcome and included.Across all six library branches—Carbondale, Glenwood Springs, New Castle, Silt, Rifle, and Parachute—families will find opportunities to connect, learn, and grow together. Whether you’re looking to introduce your little one to their first storytime, inspire curiosity with science and art, or enjoy enriching cultural experiences, the libraries are here to help your child’s imagination soar.
FOR MORE INFO: www.gcpld.org
Girls Basketball 2025 (grades 3rd- 6th)
Start date: October 13, 2025 End date: December 19, 2025 Time: 3:30pm-7:00pm
Location: CRCC
This league plays games against Aspen, Basalt, and Glenwood. The season will start October 13th. The kids will have two weeks of practice and then begin games on the 27th. Please register based on which practice schedule works better for you, either Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and Thursdays. Practices will last an hour and will be scheduled after school. Games will be played Monday-Thursday evenings. You can expect to have one game per week after they get started. We are looking for volunteer coaches. If you are interested please email wtempest@carbondaleco.net
Dates: October 13th – December 19th
Days: Practice Schedule dependent Cost: $95 or $75 if you have a uniform from last season REGISTRATION OPENS 8/18 @ 9:00 AM
Michael Kinsley reflects natural beauty in new show
MYKI JONES
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Michael Kinsley — a multidisciplinary landscape artist, former county commissioner, environmental activist, Snowmass resident and author with deep ties to both the Crystal and Roaring Fork river valleys — will be showing his work alongside two other artists this fall at The Launchpad.
Beginning Oct. 3, “Fluid Landscapes” will remain on display through Oct. 30 together with “Recording Time (with Scraps and Words)” by mixed media artist Courtney Kenny and “Intimate. Immensity.” by ceramicist Laura Dortmans.
Kinsley, an oil painter, worked for the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) for 33 years and began taking painting seriously at the age of 40. His work with RMI continues to influence the art he creates.
During his time with RMI, Kinsely worked closely with small and rural communities in 43 states and several foreign countries. One of his most notable projects on the Western Slope was beta testing a community development program focused on economic renewal in Carbondale, which had a population of just around 3,000 at the time.
“I loved my day job and found it fascinating for a myriad of reasons,” Kinsley reflected, “such as learning about how systems work and working in small communities all over the country.”
This showcase, a collaborative effort with Carbondale Arts, will reflect time Kinsley spent in the natural landscapes of southeastern Utah and western Colorado. He first came to the Roaring Fork Valley in his twenties, and said his art is meant to convey a deep connection to nature, appreciating its fragility and inspiring environmental advocacy.
“In the 55 years I’ve been here, I’ve just gotten deeper and deeper integrated into the natural world and how it makes me feel. How I feel now is sharply contrasted to when I first got here at 23 and was churning up fourteeners and the other testosterone-ridden games that us boys, and now, fortunately, a lot of women also play. In doing that, I would blow by what I now regard as the real essence of this place,” Kinsley stated.
He works both in a plein air and in-studio style when creating paintings. He said that while there are important differences in both styles, the practices build upon each other.
“What I do outside is more spontaneous. It’s much faster,” Kinsley said. “I’m generally not a fast painter, but when you work outside, you have to work fast, because the light is changing very rapidly. In being spontaneous, I often miss things, so in the studio, I’m able to spend a lot more time appreciating the shapes and the values and the shadows and working through all the implications of those things.”
Working outdoors also helps him better appreciate the nature that inspires his work. He likened the process to when people take photos of the landscape and how sometimes those images develop and look different from what the naked eye sees.
“What you see when you’re standing there is different than what your camera captures. I’ve had that experience many, many times, especially when I was in my early time of painting. I painted exclusively, as many people do, from photographs. But you can’t fully appreciate the composition unless you’re there on site and you’re noticing things. How the scene flows, how it comes together,” Kinsley said.
He looks forward to having conversations with those atten-
ding the opening reception on First Friday, Oct. 3, from 5 to 7pm at The Launchpad with artist talks beginning at 5:30pm, and seeing their reactions to his work, especially if they are candid ones that describe how the work makes them feel.
“I’d say that if I had a goal with a painting, it’s that I hope that they get some feeling from it, the piece, that’s maybe something like I felt when I was there on the scene,” he concluded.
For more information visit www.carbondalearts.com/gallery
“Sopris NW Evening,” oil painting by Michael Kinsley
“Cimarron Forenoon,” oil painting by Michael Kinsley
Sopris Theatre presents its 2025-2026 season
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
Sopris Theatre Company (STC) is proud to announce its 2025-2026 season and is in the midst of rehearsing for its opening show, “26 Pebbles.” This season is dedicated in memory of Gary Ketzenbarger, a former director of the theater department at Colorado Mountain College, who passed away in July.
“26 Pebbles,” written by Eric Ulloa, recounts the stories of the community members of Newtown, Connecticut who were impacted by the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy.
Directed by STC Artistic Producer Brad Moore, “26 Pebbles” tells the story through a series of monologues and dialogues, which detail the day of the shooting, the subsequent trauma and the road to healing. A central theme throughout is the power of community, which Moore says will be a throughline for the season.
“The connection with these shows is they all have to do with community,” Moore told The Sopris Sun. “It also questions what defines a community and a connection.”
“It’s about a small, obscure community nobody knows anything about that was existing quietly. Then, this horrific tragedy happens which brings them into the focus of the entire world,” Moore said of the opener. “The whole world is watching them as they go through and understand what’s happened, and how that’s impacting them — whether they’ve lost someone directly or indirectly.”
The play has been known to prompt conversations around gun violence the United States, particularly when it comes to children being harmed. STC’s rendition stars seven local actors: Sandy Redak, Willie Moseley, Calvin Parrish, Dakota Lavigne, Adi DelliQuadri, Morgan Walsh and Jay Edmonds.
“I’m of the belief that things can and will happen to us — whether it’s tragedies such as this, mistakes we’ve made, relationships we’re in or whatever,” explained Moore. “Whatever the situation may be, awful things can happen to and/or because of us, and I don’t think that is how our character
is defined. I think it is defined by how we crawl out on the other side and how we show up afterwards.”
On deck …
Next up, STC will feature Sean Daniels’ “The White Chip,” which will be directed by Julia Whalen. The play tells the story of Stephen McAlister, a functioning alcoholic who is in denial of his addiction up until a point. The “white chip” is a nod to the token system in traditional Alcoholics Anonymous meetings, wherein white chips often symbolize new beginnings.
“It’s another look into how we step through difficult times in life,” said Moore, “and how we learn from them when we come out the other side.”
The final show, also directed by Moore, is “The Cottage,” a comedy that tells the story of two deeply entangled couples. One of the women plans to expose her affair to not only her husband, but the lover’s wife as well. Mischief unfolds through a saga of sex, betrayal, desire, fate and love as these couples’ secrets unravel, albeit humorously.
“It is a bit of a stretch with ‘The Cottage,’ but it does explore the questions of what could be when unpopular or bad decisions are made,” said Moore.
IN A NUTSHELL
What: “26 Pebbles”
When: Opens on Oct. 10 at 7pm and runs two weekends, with Friday and Saturday showings at 7pm and Sunday matinees at 2pm. Talkbacks take place after the show on Oct. 11, 12 and 17.
Where: STC, New Space Theatre, 3000 Co Rd 114, Glenwood Springs
More info: For tickets, visit www.coloradomtn.edu/campuses/ spring-valley/cmc-theatre And mark your calendars, as STC will also bring “26 Pebbles” to the Wheeler Opera House in Aspen on Jan. 23 & 24 at 7:30pm.
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Sandy Redak and Jay Edmonds rehearsing for “26 Pebbles,” which opens on Oct. 10 at Sopris Theatre Company. Courtesy photo
Chris Roseberry, MD
Alexandra Kovar, MD
The ReMemberers
conjure up ‘The Lindworm’ at True Nature, Oct. 9
RALEIGH BURLEIGH Sopris Sun Editor
Amid the vibrancies of fall, a spectrum of colors bursting from the trees and drifting to the earth, leaving bare skeletal figures to be frozen and, eventually, reawoken — The ReMemberers presents “The Lindworm” at True Nature on Oct. 9.
Recalling the oldest of human traditions, this mythical performance weaves storytelling with music, humor and poetic depth to deliver a soul-penetrating experience.
“These old folk tales that were told by our ancestors and their ancestors, they talk about what it means to go down into darker spaces, darker places, realms of uncertainty, realms of silence, realms of loss. The secret to all of this is, it’s down there that we find the dreams. It’s down in those darker realms that we find mystery, imagination, soulfulness, tenderness,” Alex Harvey, one of the three performers, told The Sopris Sun.
The ReMemberers is a traveling trio of musicians and mythtellers based out of the Berkshires in Massachusetts. They’re motivated to connect audiences with grander realms of belonging.
“For whatever reason, we have become dismembered through life — through severing, through our disconnection with the ancestors, our disconnection with the land, our disconnection with each other,” Harvey continued. “These stories are built and created and performed and whispered into the mind to try and put together those dismembered parts of us. They’re trying to re-member us.”
So, what is a lindworm? In Scandinavian folklore, it’s a drag on-like creature, without wings, like a monstrous, armed serpent. And what does “The Lindworm” re-member for us?
“It is about how avoid ance works,” Havey explained, “neglect, reactivity, shame. And then, the way in which the things we try to hide grow into monsters in the shadows.” It’s the story of
When: Oct. 9, 7pm
Where: True Nature Healing Arts
How: www.truenature healingarts.com (early bird ticket sales end Oct. 6)
More: For a sense of the music, catch “Everything Under The Sun” on KDNK at 4pm this Thursday, Oct. 2 or archived late at www.kdnk.org
Paul Raymond Nieslanik
January
4, 1935September 23, 2025
As the second cutting of hay was being harvested on the ranch, Paul Nieslanik passed away on an autumn evening surrounded by the love of his family at his home in Carbondale.
Born in winter on the ranch in Spring Valley to John Sr. and Mary Nieslanik, Paul was the eighth of 12 children. Raised in a time where trips to town, even school, were adventurous and many times on horseback — Paul relished the outdoors, whether that was at work or play. He was raised by first generation Polish immigrants with a strong Catholic faith.
After graduating from Yampah High school in 1952, Paul enlisted in the Army and served as a radar tech in the 8th Infantry Division. A few years after being honorably discharged from the Army, Paul and two of his brothers, John and Bob, started the Nieslanik Brothers Ranch in Carbondale, where they worked both their beef cattle and dairy operations. Paul’s vocation of tending the land and shepherding his livestock meant years of early morning irrigating between milkings, checking laboring cows around the clock during calving season, trying to get hay up in between rain storms, and ensuring the potato crop would be bountiful.
In 1967, as spring turned into summer, June 17 to be exact, Paul married Celia Letey of Carbondale, at St. Stephen Catholic Church in Glenwood Springs. Paul and Celia were blessed with five children, Tim, Tami, Kim, Karen and Ted, and raised them next to the dairy in town. In 1986, Paul and Celia welcomed Stacey Patch into their family.
Paul was a lifelong sports enthusiast enjoying baseball, football, basketball, big game hunting, rodeo and, when time allowed, some fishing. Paul rooted for many teams — including the Detroit Lions and Tigers. His love for playing sports was superseded by his delight of watching his children and grandchildren in their sporting events. A Roaring Fork Rams fan to his core, Paul and Celia rarely missed a game or ski race that their children or grandchildren played in as a Ram, Glenwood Demon, Spartan, Mountaineer, Maverick, Pioneer or Team USA.
Ever joyful with his radiant smile and twinkling eyes, Paul made everyone that he came into contact with feel special. Paul was never short on jokes or great stories, he was, however, always in search of a toothpick. As a man of strong faith, Paul was invariably there to lend a hand and help a neighbor in any situation without hesitation. Paul and Celia’s quiet generosity touched many facets of Carbondale.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Bernard, John and Bob; sisters, Betty, Bernice, Dorothy, Adeline and Katie; and many others.
Paul’s greatest treasure was his family. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Celia; five and a half children, Tim Nieslanik, Tami (Chris) Broadhurst, Kim (Colt) Cornelius, Karen Crownhart (Jesse), Ted (Tammy) Nieslanik, Stacey (Mike) Bernot; 13 grandchildren, Shea, Tanner and Lily Nieslanik, Andrew and Emily Broadhurst, Cooper and Ally Cornelius, Letey, Carley and Erica Crownhart, Emmit Nieslanik, Hayden and Kendall Bernot; brothers, Ray (Elaine) Nieslanik and Jim Nieslanik; sister, Francis Mattivi; sister-in-law, Alice (Wince) Bershenyi; and numerous beloved extended family. Paul was anxiously awaiting the birth of his first great grandchild this October.
He appreciated the simple things, often remarking how lucky he was. Paul’s ability to recall details and memories was unmatched. His infectious laugh, strong handshake, steadfast guidance and unwavering faith will be forever missed. We, too, are fortunate to have known Paul Nieslanik. “Farewell, cowboy. What a ride it has been.”
Please join our family in celebrating Paul on Oct. 13 at St. Mary of the Crown Catholic Church, 397 White Hill Road, Carbondale. The rosary is at 9am, followed by funeral mass at 10am and interment at Hillcrest Cemetery and a reception. Share any special photos or stories of Paul to: pnieslanikphotos@gmail.com
In lieu of flowers, the family has set up the Paul Nieslanik Memorial Fund at Alpine Bank. To make a donation, please visit your local Alpine Bank location, or call 800-551-6098. All contributions will be donated locally to organizations Paul held dear.
WILD from page 6
own origins through the hard work of three women — Connie Harvey, Joy Caudill and Dottie Fox.
“Places like the Maroon Bells and the Raggeds Wilderness are areas that people are very grateful for. It was a lot of work [to protect those places],” said Gorman. “Those are great victories, and there’s more work to do. The pressures keep multiplying and the stakes are higher and now it’s our turn to take that next step.” The
report can be found online at www.wildforgood.org
Cavern Springs Mobile Home Park fight to save their community
HECTOR SALAS-GALLEGOS
Sol del Valle
On Saturday, Sept. 27, the Colorado Democratic Latino Caucus stopped by Glenwood Springs to meet with the Sopris Mountain Collective, a cooperative formed by Cavern Springs Mobile Home Park residents. The stop was part of the Caucus’ “Western Swing Listening Tour,” a biennial effort to connect legislators with communities across the four corners of Colorado.
Five legislators — Representatives Elizabeth Velasco, Javier Mabrey, Julie Gonzales, Matt Martinez and Alex Valdez — joined residents for the meeting. “I think it was a good meeting, and the fact that they came specifically to listen to us means a lot to me,” Judith Alvarez, president of the Summit Mountain Collective and a resident at Cavern Springs, reflected.
The discussion mainly centered on the collective’s effort to raise $26 million to purchase their park from its Maryland-based owner. The owner already reached a purchase agreement with an unnamed buyer for the same amount, however, the collective filed a complaint with Colorado’s Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) alleging a discrepancy between the listed and final sale prices, thus pausing the purchase. If DOLA requires a new notice of sale, residents would have another 120 days to raise funds and match the offer, though the owner is not required to accept it.
Securing that level of funding is proving difficult. Typically, resident-led purchases rely on a mix of local governments, state and federal subsidies and nonprofit partners like Thistle ROC, which helped facilitate the purchase of Aspen-Basalt and Mountain Valley mobile home parks for $42 million, as well as the 40-unit Mountain Mobile Home Park in Glenwood Springs for $4.5 million in August. But for the Sopris Mountain Collective, the timeline and price tag make the ask more difficult.
“We want to keep fighting as long as we can,” Alvarez told Sol del Valle. “But yes, people say, ‘You don’t have time. How can we help you?’”
This is why the collective invited the Colorado Latino Caucus — to explore options with legislators, leverage their influence and explore potential solutions at the state level.
Residents shared what life has been like under the park’s current ownership. They described rising rents, poor water quality, limited amenities and increasing fines and restrictions. Still, they emphasized their love for their home. The park’s location keeps them close to work and schools. What they want is to stay, to have a voice in their futures and see investments in their community.
But stakes go beyond the park. If these 98 homes face evictions, Glenwood Springs will lose working families and their children.
“I don’t think most of the community outside of this mobile home park has yet wrestled with the reality of the tremendous economic impact that this
will have on everything else,” said school board representative Jasmin Ramirez.
For residents, ownership is about more than money. Owning the park would prove to them that collective action can create change. “The intention is that instead of people getting rich, we can invest what we earn to improve the park,” said Alvarez. Legislators came away with a sense of urgency and better understanding of what needs to be done at the state level in regard to affordable housing. Asked pointblank what they could do to help the collective in the short term, the legislators brought up Colorado’s budget woes and a disagreeable governor as immediate barriers.
“We want to make sure that residents actually have a chance to be able to raise the funds, apply for loans, get everything they need to make an offer,” Representative Velasco said. “And they’re
not getting a discount. They have to match an existing offer, so it’s important that this process is actually streamlined.”
“When we talk about development of affordable housing, we should also equally be concerned with preservation of existing affordable housing,” added Representative Mabrey. “Andy Boesenecker led the way on rent stabilization for mobile home parks. That failed a couple of years ago, and I would like to pick up that fight again with a new governor.”
Even if the collective secures the funds, their journey won’t end there. “A 30-year marathon begins,” said Alvarez, referring to the potential loan model.
The purchase would also put the costs of fixing their drinking water and adding amenities on the cooperative. But for these neighbors, the investment is worth it, and the least of their worries.
“That’s going to cost a lot of money. But if we can buy it for $26 million, then we can fix it,” said Alvarez.
For now, the Sopris Mountain Collective has a renewed sense of hope and clarity about their situation, having had an audience of legislators in their backyards.
“Truly, a kind of power is being created where they have a voice, they can use it, whether or not they are citizens,” said Alvarez. “They are residents of Colorado. They pay taxes. They may not be able to vote on some things, but they can speak with their representatives, and those representatives are their voice.”
Follow Leonardo Occhipinti’s “Nuevo Mundo” in Sol del Valle every week in Spanish.
State Representative Elizabeth Velasco addresses Cavern Springs Mobile Home Park residents. Courtesy photo
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
Carbondale Treasure Hunt
The treasure vault awaits the clever mind, who reads the clues and seeks to find.
Before each First Friday’s celebration starts, this treasure will be hidden in Carbondale’s heart.
Through Main Street’s charm and gallery halls, past murals bright on building walls.
FIRST FRIDAY, OCTOBER. 3
The treasure waits where artists gather, where community bonds grow ever stronger.
So, gather friends and family near, let the hunt begin without fear.
For somewhere in this valley blessed, adventure calls — begin your quest!
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
In a valley where the Roaring Fork runs free, where golden aspens dance for all to see, October’s brush paints meadows rust and gold, as mountain whispers share their stories old.
An elder passed, but left a lasting flame, his son still tends what bears his father’s name, from Smithy’s hearth to this donated ground, where melodies and memories are found.
This sacred space was born from love and loss beyond compare, the father’s gift lives on in every note, while golden leaves in autumn breezes float.
Look where the town comes forth to celebrate and mountains meet their fate, beneath the trees that whisper soft and low, your treasure waits where golden trees glow.
Reflecting on this year’s fall colors. Photo by Jane Bachrach
bad. Does that mean slavery or whippings didn’t happen? Or that Republicans don’t think it’s history? Apparently, it isn’t history, as slavery has been revised/ minimized on government websites. Republicans came to power under Abraham Lincoln, but they don’t seem proud of that fact. I want the old Republican party to return. I want a government that recognizes our racist mistakes of the past and tries to correct them in the present and abolish them in the future. I want a government that makes me
Kate
Friesen
Carbondale
First off, I appreciate Representative Hurd’s support of renewable energy. But no amount of policy wins matter if we
Donald Trump has proven he doesn’t believe in the Constitution — only in power. He tried to overturn a free and fair election. He incited a violent mob on January 6. He sent federal forces into American cities to intimidate protesters. He’s vowed to use the Justice Department to punish
enemies and pardon his cronies. He’s gutted health care protections, attacked women’s rights and pushed a Supreme Court that has stripped away privacy and individual freedom.
This isn’t conservatism. It’s authoritarianism — plain and simple.
On Oct. 18, Glenwood Springs will host the No Kings Protest at Bethel Plaza, 250 7th Street. We’re drawing a line: no man is above the law. Not in Washington, not anywhere.
Here in western Colorado, we’ve fought hard to protect water, land and community from concentrated power. We shouldn’t accept one man trying to crown himself King of America.
To independents, moderates and anyone who still believes in freedom — it’s time to stand up. Join your neighbors on Oct. 18 in Glenwood Springs and send the message loud and clear: America has no kings.
Perrin Williams Snowmass Village
Potato Days
Potatoes like free speech.
R.J. Mineo Crystal Valley
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.
from page 18
an internationally acclaimed percussionist and storyteller who mentored with the legendary poet Robert Bly. Violet Southard is a singer and experimental sound artist. “She writes songs, tones ceremonial sounds, sings traditional songs in a number of
The music creates an impressionist ambiance, Harvey continued, “where a myth really enters the marrow of your bones. It’s a lot different than studying it in fourth grade.” He also promised, “It’s hilarious,” adding, “The story has elements
The ReMemberers tours different stories at different times, always responding to the moment we inhabit. With each new series comes a new cycle of songs “chosen and curated and shaped to create a kind of poetic resonance, or poetic tension with the story,” Harvey concluded.
RFSD REPORT
from page 9
observed strong outcomes in student academic and English language proficiency growth, but student academic achievement is lagging and significant gaps between demographics remain.
Another presentation followed, sharing a review of the RFSD Special Education program. Director of Special Education Patrick McGinty and Park shared key details. Special education is considered an area for growth in the district, and McGinty and colleagues have a detailed plan for training staff and expanding resource offerings.
October RFSD Board of Education regular meetings take place on Oct. 8 and Oct. 22 at 6:15pm in the Colorado Room of the Carbondale District Office, 400 Sopris Avenue. The board will also have a special meeting and retreat on Oct. 15. RFSD board meeting agendas are always available on the board website. Meetings are livestreamed on YouTube and recordings become available afterward for public accessibility.
Active Aging Wellness Expo
Friday, October 31 | 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Eagle County Community Center
20 Eagle County Dr. El Jebel, Colorado
Everyone is welcome to attend this FREE event!
P RE S E N T A TI ON S
Don’t Wait Communicate: Planning Your Living Will
Don’t Wait Communicate:
Planning Your Living Will
Sue O’Bryan, Alpine Legal Services
9:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
Sue O’Bryan, Alpine Legal Services 9:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m.
More Than a Signature: The Responsibilities of a Power of Attorney Matthew Trinidad, Alpine Legal Services 10:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Colorado Historical Hauntings Christi Couch, Eagle County Healthy Aging 11:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
NOTICE is hereby given that on October 14th, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., final settlement will be made with EXCAVATION SERVICES INC., 226 N. 12th Street., Carbondale, Colorado, 81623 by the TOWN OF CARBONDALE, 511 Colorado Ave., Carbondale, Colorado, on a contract for labor and materials for a project known as TOWN OF CARBONDALE 2nd STREET SEWER REPLACEMENT PROJECT and that any person, copartnership, company, association of persons, or corporation who has an unpaid claim against EXCAVATION SERVICES, INC., or its subcontractors, for labor and materials, may, at any time, up to closing of business the last
THE BASALT MIDDLE SCHOOL GARDEN IS BLOOMING AGAIN!
work day prior to final settlement, that is, by October 14th 2025, file a verified statement of the amount due with the TOWN OF CARBONDALE (Attn. Scott Wenning swenning@carbondaleco.net pursuant to Section 38-26-107, C.R.S., as amended.
Failure on the part of the Claimant to make such verified statement, prior to the final settlement on the contract with EXCAVATION SERVICES Inc., will relieve the TOWN OF CARBONDALE from any liability for such Claimant’s claim.
PUBLISHED BY THE ORDER OF TOWN OF CARBONDALE.
Published in The Sopris Sun on October 2, 2025.
After years of dormancy, the garden at Basalt Middle School is again yielding a bountiful harvest. About 20 students helped plant flowers, herbs and vegetables among the raised beds and in the greenhouse on campus in the spring through FLEX classes. Now, they’re able to take home fresh vegetables, as well as salsa and pico de gallo made with produce from their garden.
The kids said learning about pollinator plants, bees and how to tend to a garden has been a fun way to get out of the classroom while still learning.
Nickolas Torres said he enjoys the hands-on nature of the garden and appreciates the opportunity to show his peers how fun it can be to get off their phones. “It’s healthier for my brain and I want to be a good example,” he said.
PHOTOS AND TEXT BY JOSIE TARIS
Torres, Vigil Quintanilla and Medrano Telles fell quickly into a professional kitchen-like hierarchy, each taking a specific vegetable for which to be responsible.
After washing the vegetables, the team set some aside to be roasted and eventually blended for salsa.
Special education teacher Tsvetana Mawicke, seventh graders Moises Vigil Quintanilla, Antony Medrano Telles and Nicolas Torres and volunteer Lisa Ayres show off vegetables they helped plant in the spring, which are now ripening, on Monday, Sept. 29.
