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RAISE A CUP OF KINDNESS CCC toasts to new beginnings

This year’s cup auction, the 28th annual, featured 246 handmade vessels donated by artists from all over the world in support of the Carbondale Clay Center (CCC). Taking place Dec. 12, it was the first to be hosted at the Old Thompson Barn in River Valley Ranch.

“It was the perfect venue,” commented CCC Executive Director Angela Bruno. “We hope to have it there every year, until we have our own event space after the completion of our capital campaign [for a new building].”

An architectural model of that new building was on display at the auction. So far, CCC has raised $3.6 million and anticipates raising $3.5 million more in order to break ground on the new building by spring of 2027.

Learn more at www.carbondaleclay.org/ shaping-the-future Photos by Will Sardinsky

Volume 17, Number 45 | December 18-24, 2025

Local journalism gave me the opportunity to pursue my dreams Let’s rewind the clocks 21 months. I was in the Roaring Fork life during a busy summer of thesis research. I learned as I went, Valley between the third and fourth semesters of my graduate finagling how to conduct interviews across an eight-hour time studies, which I was pursuing via a small international university zone difference. in southwestern Germany. In my free time, I was writing — not a By last autumn, I started to settle into designated beats. My new habit — but I was wondering if it was a practice in delusion. growing stack of Sun bylines got me a regular spot in the Daily I had been submitting essays and opinion pieces to magazines News columnist rotation. My lifelong writing dreams felt a new and newspapers for a year, and getting nowhere. kind of tangible, more concrete than the 2022 publication of my Then, a chance introduction. A family friend got a short book “Colorado Alpine Trail Runs,” which I’d always known was draft of mine in front of Sopris Sun Contributing Editor James a moment of rare serendipity. When winter brought me back to Steindler. He liked it. He shared it with Editorthe Valley, I felt brave. I joined the Aspen Writin-Chief Raleigh Burleigh. They printed it as a ers Network. I started inquiring about press guest contribution in early April of 2024. The passes to ticketed community events I wanted pair generously invited me to join weekly freeto cover. lancer meetings. Two weeks later, I got lucky Reporting for The Sun has allowed me again when the Aspen Daily News agreed to to learn about the regular functions and publish a salty guest column about traffic in processes of some of this valley’s institutions the Valley. and public services. I’ve learned about wildAfter a full year of futility, the chances felt fire science and the passionate advocacy of dizzying. In May, back in Germany, I followed countless experiential education programs. I through on The Sun’s invitation to freelance. have had the surreal privilege of interviewing I signed up for a reporting piece that sounded ski mountaineering legend Lou Dawson and interesting, and I successfully pitched a column spiritualist Marianne Williamson. series. The team agreed to let me write about The transformation of last year built my GUEST COLUMN confidence. I applied for Aspen Summer Words experiential education, about its U.S. history

By Annalise Grueter and its many forms in the Roaring Fork Valley.

— the worst they could say was “no.” To my It is simply accurate to state that this was thrill and shock, I got a different answer. This life-changing. While higher education is significantly more afford- June, I met a cohort of wonderfully creative and sensitive people able in most of the European Union than in our own country, and the tour de force teaching of punk writer Joshua Mohr.

I’d struggled to find work during my studies in Germany. My The weekly practice of crafting my reporting contributions for language skills were not at tax or legal form-level fluency. Writ- The Sun and my now-weekly columns in the Daily News tunes ing a few pieces a month for The Sun helped cover my apartment my instrument for creative drafting, too. I’ve been steadily revisrent while expanding my small and dusty writing resume. ing a long-form project and iterating lyrical and personal essays I’ll be honest: I stumbled into journalism. While my bache- in addition to the articles I’m privileged to write. This month, I lor’s degree was in creative writing and I spent several semesters had a dream come true: a memoir essay published in a literary as a proofreader and copy editor for my college paper, the film magazine, the University of Montana’s winter issue of Camas, depictions of a newsroom didn’t call to me. I worked many other which celebrates American West art and expression. professions in the decade between undergrad and grad school, The Sopris Sun has given me the immeasurable gift of buildincluding a four-year stint as a research editor. Somehow, it ing a writing career out of almost nothing. This team of people is didn’t occur to me that part-time, one-to-three contributions a passionate about writing for and about the diverse community in week to newspapers was an option. That is, until altruistic and our region’s towns and cities. They support and encourage one patient people opened that door right in front of me. another and shine light on businesses and people and instituInstinctive. That’s the word for how the start of my freelanc- tions that deserve independent, thoughtful, regular coverage. ing career felt. I went from a single guest column in April to two As we reach the end of this year, I hope you’ll consider supportpublished pieces in June to a whopping seven for the month of ing that work by donating, whether a one-time holiday gift or as July. The weekly meetings became the most consistent part of my a new SUNscriber.

OPINION

LETTERS What news?

When we write letters to the editor, what is our intent? Who is the audience?

Who reads? Who learns something and changes their mind? I recently heard less than 2% of people under 50 read a paper.

What percentage under 50 read anything not on social media? I read social media, too, but it’s quick-note, line-summary, five to 20-second information.

I stayed in a couple of hostels recently while traveling, getting into interesting conversations and being exposed to a different crowd than my usual one.

I “almost blew it” only once, when a 40-year-old woman commented that she didn’t get into news because people can’t tell what’s true, so what’s the point?

I took a moment then, with a still heated voice, replied, “Democracy requires engagement. It requires paying attention. Read reputable sources and follow the money.”

Later, I wished I’d also said, “Don’t be lazy.

Don’t let others do it for you, because they’ll be doing it for themselves — not for you.”

To those of you who do read this letter: challenge yourself. When is the last time you read nonfiction? Current fiction? A magazine you don’t subscribe to? Our libraries have all that. On Libby or Hoopla,

you can read pretty much any journal or newspaper behind a firewall. Yes, it takes a bit of effort. You actually have to seek it, not wait for it to fall in your lap or be sent to you from someone else.

And, while you are at it, consider when the last time was that you changed your mind about something substantial. Do you really have all the right answers to everything you care about? When was the last time you engaged in a conversation about something substantial with someone you disagree with? Were you able to find how they got to their position? Did you look in and discover how you came to your position? Is there a common value that drives both of you? Is there a mutually agreeable position you both can at least respect each other about?

I was fortunate to find paid work that rewarded me for being curious. It was a good fit, because, at my core, I am still. I hope many of you are, too. Happy winter light!

Susan Rhea Carbondale

Library law On Dec. 12, the Garfield County BOCC interviewed 12 candidates for three GCPLD trustee positions. All applicants are given a

2 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | December 18-24, 2025

packet which contains, for example, the Library Bill of Rights and access to Colorado library law, documents which spell out the predetermined and required duties of a library board trustee. The appointed trustee signs off, promising to uphold the ideas put forth. Unfortunately, it was clear that some had not read the packet.

One question, in my opinion, was instrumental in the decision as to whether that applicant would be considered an acceptable trustee. That question follows: Federal law, Colorado law and the Garfield County Library District’s bylaws require the library to protect children from material on the internet that is harmful to their beneficial development. Do you believe there should be the same reasonable policies for children’s access to books that are designated for mature audiences?

Why or why not?

This question referred to the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA), a federal statute, passed in 2000, that restricts underage minors from accessing obscene or indecent internet content via computers in facilities that receive federal funding, such as public schools and libraries. The statute requires those facilities to utilize continued on page 22

Editor Raleigh Burleigh 970-510-3003 news@soprissun.com Contributing Editor James Steindler Sol del Valle Editora Bianca Godina bianca@soldelvalle.org Digital Editor Ingrid Celeste Zúniga ingrid@soldelvalle.org Lead Editorial Designer Terri Ritchie Partnerships & Engagement Manager Luise Nieslanik Advertising Department adsales@soprissun.com Sol del Valle Marketing and Development Manager Margarita Alvarez margarita@soldelvalle.org Advertising Designer Emily Blong Delivery Frederic Kischbaum Youth Journalism Instructor Skyler Stark-Ragsdale Proofreaders Lee Beck Tracy Kallassy Ken Pletcher Hank van Berlo Executive Director Todd Chamberlin 970-510-0246 todd@soprissun.com Board Members / Mesa Directiva

board@soprissun.com Klaus Kocher • Kay Clarke Donna Dayton • Eric Smith Roger Berliner • Elizabeth Phillips Jessi Rochel • Anna Huntington Loren Jenkins • Carlos Ramos • Gayle Wells

The Sopris Sun Board meets at 6pm on second Thursdays at the Third Street Center.

The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with a mission to inform, inspire and build community by fostering diverse and independent journalism. Donations are fully tax deductible.

Sincerest thanks to our Honorary Publishers for their annual commitment of $1,000+ Lee Beck & John Stickney Kay Brunnier Frances Dudley Michelle & Ed Buchman Sue Edelstein & Bill Spence Deborah & Shane Evans Greg & Kathy Feinsinger Michael & Nancy Kish Gary & Jill Knaus Eric Smith Peter and Mike Gilbert Patti & George Stranahan Elizabeth Wysong Alpine Bank Emily & George Bohmfalk Kathy & Carter Barger Sandy & Paul Chamberlin Karen & Roger Berliner Donna & Ken Riley Gayle & Dick Wells

Legacy Givers for including us in their final wishes.

Mary Lilly

Donate by mail or online: P.O. Box 399 Carbondale, CO 81623 520 S. Third Street #26-B 970-510-3003 soprissun.com/Donate The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a proud member of the Carbondale Creative District

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Deck the Walls

OUR UNDERWRITERS AND NONPROFIT PARTNERS!

It’s not too late to shop local this gift-giving season. Carbondale Arts’ Deck the Walls holiday market remains open from 10am to 5pm most days (wrapping up on Dec. 24 at 2pm). This weekend there will be a pop-up farmer’s market at The Launchpad from 10am to 4pm Saturday and 11am to 4pm Sunday. Better yet, the Bonedale Winter Bonanza takes over the Carbondale Creative District with pop-up artists and special deals all day Dec. 20.

Local tragedy The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office reported Saturday that 19-yearold Stephen Bull, who went missing earlier this month, was found deceased near Upper River Road in the Woody Creek area following an extensive, multi-agency search effort. Bull had last been seen on Dec. 2.

The cause of death was not made public. Community members experiencing personal crises are encouraged to reach out to the Aspen Hope Center (www.aspenhopecenter.org) or 988lifeline.org

Bob Young passes on J. Robert “Bob” Young, founder and chairman of Alpine Bank, passed away peacefully at home on Dec. 11, surrounded by loved ones.

For more than 50 years, Young built Alpine Bank into one of Colorado’s most respected financial institutions, always guided by his belief in the power of caring for others. In 1973, he opened the first Alpine Bank, originally called Roaring Fork Bank, in Carbondale. The institution has since grown statewide with 39 locations and $6.8 billion in assets.

Another C’dale burglary

FirstBank Alpine Bank Colorado Mountain College Nordic Gardens Hilary Porterfield Basalt Library

NONPROFIT PARTNERS Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist Carbondale Arts Carbondale Rotary Club Colorado Animal Rescue

Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner?

Email Todd@soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866

On Friday, Dec. 5, Carbondale police responded to a burglary in the area of 1179 Highway 133. The reporting party saw a male enter her home earlier that day via security cameras. Officers recognized the male from prior contacts as Daniel Carlo Saporita. He was taken into custody the following day and stolen items were recovered from a search warrant. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Ann Korologos Gallery The Ann Korologos Gallery in Basalt is under new ownership. Sue Edmonds, gallery director since 2019, and Claire de L’Arbre, marketing director since 2017, are now co-owners of the gallery as of Dec. 1 — marking a new chapter as the gallery enters its 33rd year. “It is our honor to uphold the vision of this gallery as a cultural hub to connect a community that values a world enhanced by creative expression,” said de L’Arbre and Edmonds in a joint statement. “Our shared vision is to deepen our support for contemporary artists and continue cultivating a space where the spirit and stories of the West thrive.”

Outdoor grants Governor Jared Polis, Colorado Parks and Wildlife and Great Outdoors Colorado awarded $9.99 million in grants to advance projects relating to outdoor recreation, conservation and climate resilience. Among the 19 awardees, the Roaring Fork Outdoor Coalition received $87,000 to build partnerships, anticipate future recreation needs and promote inclusive recreation while upholding conservation goals. The Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust and Eagle County Regional Partnership were granted $2.5 million to protect nearly 18,000 acres of ranchland in the Colorado River Watershed through a proposed conservation easement.

Wildfire risks The American Red Cross of Colorado warns residents that high winds can turn a small spark into a fast-moving wildfire, even in winter. Extreme winds and dry conditions caused the Marshall Fire

Following a week-long postponement due to weather conditions, the Chris Klug Foundation hosted its 20th annual Summit for Life race on Dec. 13, bringing some 350 passionate participants to Aspen Mountain. The event raised over $120,000 toward promoting organ, eye and tissue donations.

Finishing first in the male division was Cooper Shanks of Carbondale with a time of 47:53.6, followed by Christian Kelly of Aspen and Elliott Bates of Glenwood Springs. In the female division, Manasseh Franklin of Carbondale finished first with a time of 57:14.4 followed by Rachel Beck of Woody Creek and Beth Krasemann of Carbondale. Courtesy photo

to spread rapidly on Dec. 30, 2021, destroying 1,084 homes near Boulder. To prepare, residents are advised to clear flammable materials away from their homes, to have a go bag and a plan and to sign up for local emergency alerts.

State budget Common Sense Institute, a non-partisan research organization, recently reported on Colorado’s $50 billion 2026 state budget. Among the findings: The Department of Health Care Policy and Financing has grown 459% in 20 years and now comprises 44% of the total state budget. K-12 education funding, meanwhile, dropped from 24% to 17% of total budget spending in the same time period. Find the complete report at www.bit.ly/CO-budget

Tech tyranny Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released a statement following President Donald Trump’s executive order restricting current and future state laws regulating artificial intelligence (AI), saying: “While AI has enormous potential to increase productivity and grow our economy, this unilateral action weakens Colorado’s ability to protect children and consumers.”

Seasonal work Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers is accepting applications for field instructors, trail crew members and a crew leader for its 2026 season.

Find details at www.rfov.org/careers

They say it’s your birthday!

Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Kathy Ezra, Daisy Tena, Ralph Wanner and Deborah VanCott (Dec. 18); Shirley Bowen and Frances Lewis (Dec. 19); Linnea Fong, Terry Glasenapp, Kenzie Hill, Beatriz Soto, John Taufer, Tyler Thompson, Prema Trettin and Travis Wilson (Dec. 20); Paula Fothergill, Shane Murray, Tommy Sweeney and Robin Waters (Dec. 21); Jessica, Carolyn and Jackson Hardin (Dec. 22); Chandra and Katie Bohannan (Dec. 23).

Your Mid-Valley Real Estate Expert Professionally Representing You with 19 Years of Experience

HILARY PORTERFIELD

Call me, I love to talk real estate!

970.319.5757 • hilary@hilaryporterfield.com • roaringfork-homes.com ©2025 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage is independently owned and operated.

THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 3

LOCAL NEWS

Is a gift we give each other Thanks to supporters who have already given this season; we’re closer to ensuring that free, bilingual, community-powered journalism continues to serve everyone in our valley.

That’s why we are seeking 250 new donors

by December 31 to help close our projected $250,000 budget gap for 2026 and meet our year-end challenge match.

But there is still important work to do.

Fewer than 10% of our readers contribute financially — and that isn’t enough to sustain this work through 2026.

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www.coloradogives.org/ TheSoprisSun 4 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | December 18-24, 2025

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Library board candidates chime in on restricted access JAMES STEINDLER Contributing Editor

it became its own district. He is an Army veteran, and here … We’re talking about books that I’ve seen that are considers himself a conservative. very sexually exploitative of children.”

He “definitely” agreed with controlling access to A resume was not included with Judy Herigstad’s On Friday, Dec. 12, the Garfield County Commissioners (BOCC), along with three members of the Garfield mature books in a way similar to that of the internet. “I cover letter, but she explained that she’s worked a lot County Public Library District Board of Trustees — Presi- hear the argument all the time that it’s really the parents’ of jobs “out of necessity,” including for the U.S. Army dent Adrian Rippy-Sheehy (Silt), Vice President Michelle responsibility to monitor that, but once they get into the and in armed security and information technology. “I love the library,” she said, adding that she’s “had the Foster (Parachute) and John Mallonee (at large) — inter- library they’re ours, they’re our responsibility.”

Since 2011, Gregorio Rios has worked as a petroleum joy of watching [the Parachute] library go from some viewed a dozen candidates, four for each of the three open seats representing New Castle, Rifle and Parachute. engineer technician for the Bureau of Land Manage- teeny-little shoebox to this fantastic building that Each member of the six-person panel chose one ment. Originally from Paraguay, he has lived in the U.S. people love to go to.”

She’s of the opinion that the library should “absoquestion from a set list to ask each candidate. There was for 20 years. He frequents the library and participates in its Latino heritage events. When he and his family travel, lutely, without a doubt” protect children from printed no opportunity for public comment. they tend to visit libraries. materials. “I’ve seen some of these materials and I wish I BOCC Commissioner Mike Samson He expressed that some library content never had,” she said. “I’d never wish that on somebody’s brought up the silver lining that controshould be accessible by a certain age, innocent child.” versy regarding access to a specific but that developing brains need Lynda Prendergast, a retired educator, has served series of manga books at the more guidance. Jankovsky pushed on several boards and committees, including as preslibraries resulted in wider interhim for clarity, repeating his ques- ident of the local Kiwanis Club. “I’ve taught kids and est for serving on the library tion. Rios responded simply, “I worked with parents in all kinds of different settings,” board. Not surprisingly, one think so.” said Prendergast. of the more pertinent quesAlex Vessell has been a public “I think that our library is already doing as much as they tions came from Chairman school teacher and resident in can do as far as where books are placed,” she commented.

Tom Jankovsky: “Federal law, Rifle for four years. “I live right When it comes to changing policy, she said it would have Colorado law and the Garfield near the library in Rifle, and I love to be discussed and voted on by the trustees.

County Library District’s bylaws going there,” he said. “I think it’s require the library district to a great place for the community. I New Castle protect children from material on -Michelle Foster think it’s a great place for knowledge.”

After graduating from Basalt High School, Kristi Gill the internet that is harmful to their Vessel opined, “There maybe could be moved to New Castle to raise a family. She was a nurse at beneficial development. Do you believe cases that we would be like, ‘Hey, this infor- Valley View Hospital for 35 years and 10 years at Grand there should be the same reasonable policies for children’s access to books that are designated mation would not be good to give out to kids’ … I think River Health. there’s some judgment there that could be made, but She said that she likes to do research rather than form for mature audiences?” an immediate opinion, so she went to the Silt Library For the sake of space, this report focuses on the overall I’m not in favor of huge bans or anything.” and looked up the manga books under scrutiny. If the candidates’ responses to that prompt. A recording of books are going to be on the shelves “they have to be the entire interview process, as well as cover letters and Parachute/Battlement Mesa A career educator and the former superintendent of put where children can’t get them,” she said. Otherwise, resumes, can be found at www.garfieldcountyco.gov/ Aspen School District, David Baugh moved to Colorado she worried that libraries risk parents not allowing their board-commissioners/meetings children to go there anymore.

“Part of the reason why I’ve served 10 years was in 2020, but just recently settled in Battlement Mesa.

“I thought this would be a terrific way to continue Nicole Gordon has been in New Castle for over two because nobody else was interested in serving from Parachute in the past,” chimed in Foster, who was community service,” he said. “I bring to the table the abil- years — Colorado for 25 — and has a masters degree in applauded for her decade of service. “It’s wonderful that ity to listen and try to understand different points of view.” journalism. She works remotely as a writer, editor and When it comes to regulating children’s access to print communications professional. “Libraries are near and we do have all of these applicants.”

The BOCC is expected to announce selections at its materials, he said that the law, particularly Colorado dear to my heart,” Gordon said, describing herself as an “enthusiastic patron” of the New Jan. 5 meeting, just in time for the library board’s first law, is clear. Although, he added, “I think we can provide sections, and I What do you think of the library Castle Library. meeting of 2026 on Jan. 8. think we can do that within the scope board appointment process and “While I absolutely sympathize Rifle candidates what qualities or values do you of the law.” with the desire to protect children, I seek in library board trustees?

Cynthia “Cindy” Bjerstedt has think adult books should be shelved First up for the Rifle seat was Juby Cumming, the in the adult section and that parents, chief deputy assessor for Garfield County. When asked lived in Battlement Mesa for over 10 Join the conversation on not government officials, should what her strengths are, she said she is “annoyingly orga- years, having moved from Ohio for a Mountain Perspectives: position at Grand River Health. She decide what kids look at.” Putting that nized” but also “easy going.” in the hands of the government, she “This is a really well-run library system,” she said, also fostered children over the years. said, would be a “slippery slope to drawing a comparison to all of the libraries she’s visited, “Children are very important to me, and protecting them is very importcensorship.” She, and others, said that from the East to the West Coast and as far as Scotland. what children can access on the interShe said it’s not the library’s position to monitor what ant,” she said.

“There’s been a lot of … wordnet is more concerning than what a child is reading, but rather parents’, who, she suggested, smithing around the ‘banning of they might find at the library. can review what their children are checking out.

John Gracey grew up on a dairy “I am an Evangelical Christian … and that is the most books’ and so forth,” she stated, and farm in Ireland. He has degrees in important part of my life,” said the next Rifle candidate, was the first to delve into the specifagriculture and food technology and former Garfield County manager Ed Green, who over- ics of the books in question. “We’re saw the library system initially in that position, before not talking about ‘Harry Potter’ books continued on page 23

Part of the reason why I’ve served 10 years was because nobody else was interested in serving from Parachute in the past ...

It’s wonderful that we do have all of these applicants.

THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 5

Glenwood’s Downtown Drug, more than just a place to get your prescriptions filled JOHN STROUD Sopris Sun Correspondent

Several little Santa secrets live along the main strip in downtown Glenwood Springs for those last-minute gifts, including on the shelves of a long-time Grand Avenue staple — Downtown Drug.

Margie and Pete Crow founded the pharmacy and gift shop a few doors down from its current location at 825 Grand Avenue in 1998. In 2021, they and business partners Myra Tobias and Bridgitte Doane sold it to Jason and Amanda Gotzinger.

What was already a go-to pharmacy and unique gift shop for locals has only continued to grow and thrive under the Gotzingers’ direction.

The pairing of an independent pharmacy service, alongside a gift shop that carries out-of-the-ordinary merchandise, is a niche business that only a few downtown main streets across the U.S. have managed to maintain.

“We originally thought that we wanted to narrow the scope of what we sell, but part of the fun of owning a gift shop is discovering new, unique products and not limiting yourself to specific categories of gifts,” Amanda Gotzinger said.

Currently, they carry everything from snow globes, greeting cards, souvenirs, pet toys, tea, purses and earrings, to board games, Pokémon and up to 9,000-piece jigsaw puzzles.

Amanda does most of the merchandising for the store, while also holding down

Downtown Drug owner Jason Gotzinger, back left, along with some of his shop and pharmacy staff, from left, Kaitlyn Randol, Kelly Tapia, Katie Montgomery and Alex Washington.

Photo by John Stroud

a full-time job as a pharmacist with Valley View Hospital. She and Jason both graduated from CU Health Sciences in Denver.

“I look for things that I haven’t seen before, things that are unique, not found on Amazon and the big box stores,” Amanda said. “I often search for Colorado-based products, but I don’t limit our selection to Colorado alone.

Most of the gift items cost less than $50.

“Our primary goal is to serve our community’s interests and hopefully gain repeat customers who always find something new and interesting that they haven’t seen before,” she said.

Amanda added that their 6-year-old daughter enjoys helping with product selection, especially anything that might appeal to children.

Jason Gotzinger is the head pharmacist

at Downtown Drug. He spent about 10 years working in the pharmacy at Target in Glenwood Springs before learning of the Crows’ plans to sell Downtown Drug and taking a leap of faith to buy the business.

The pharmacy side of things has had its challenges, especially with insurance reimbursements favoring the larger corporate pharmacies. However, a new law in Colorado (HB 25-1222, aka “Preserving Access to Rural Independent Pharmacies”) that goes into effect when the calendar turns to 2026, is meant to level the playing field.

It essentially says that insurance companies can’t pay the big pharmacy corporations more than the small, independent pharmacies for doing the same thing, Jason explained.

Amid shareholder pressures for corporations to downsize, he said Downtown Drug has actually been able to grow in recent years. Between the pharmacy and the gift shop, they now employ a staff of a dozen, he said.

“The shopping goes straight back into the people who are here having fun and enjoying what they do,” Jason said, as shared laughter between workers and a customer could be heard from inside the store.

Unique personalized services like home prescription deliveries, plus the friendly interaction between staff and customers on the floor also go a long way to enhancing the experience, he added. continued on page 19

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Law enforcers in Roaring Fork, Colorado River valleys play ‘leap frog’ Many agencies head into 2026 with increased pay RAY K. ERKU Sopris Sun correspondent

One thousand seventeen dollars per month. That’s a whopping $12,204 annually.

This was a starting salary offered to anyone interested in becoming a Thornton, Colorado police officer in March 1978, according to a classified advertisement printed in an old edition of the Rocky Mountain News.

By December 2025 — 47 years later — starting annual salaries for many neighboring Roaring Fork Valley law enforcers have increased roughly six times that amount. It’s now $76,440 for a beginning Carbondale patrol officer, an annual wage Police Chief Kirk Wilson called “competitive with neighboring agencies.”

“Compensation is always a consideration in recruitment, especially in a region with a high cost of living,” he told The Sopris Sun, adding, “To make entering the profession more feasible, we pay new hires full-time wages while they attend the police academy and cover all tuition and academy costs.”

The past four to five years, however, have still yielded a common “leap frog” game

among some of the nine police departments and three sheriff’s offices in the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys, said Stacie West, human resources director for the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office. Also a nationwide trend, a local law enforcer might migrate from one neighboring agency to the next based on factors like culture, cost of living and, of course, annual pay.

Pitkin County Sheriff Michael Buglione told The Sopris Sun that three patrol officers recently “have moved laterally” from neighboring agencies to his.

Meanwhile, a market analysis prompted Pitkin County in 2024 to begin offering $69,659 base salary to cadets with no experience plus a $1,000 sign-on bonus. If that cadet graduates the academy, the individual receives a 5.7% bump to $73,611.20.

“I think you also need to create a culture,” Buglione said.

“Because some people don’t do it for the money.”

Carbondale, a department of 14 sworn positions that historically has its officers sport zany tie-dye shirts underneath their kevlar during Mountain Fair, currently has three sworn

openings and are in the process of rehiring a former officer, Wilson said. It also has openings for a civilian records technician and a non-sworn municipal ordinance enforcement officer.

“In most cases, officers join or return to Carbondale because they feel a strong sense of belonging, value the professional opportunities and appreciate the department’s family-oriented culture,” Wilson said. “Officers want to be part of something bigger than themselves and work in an environment where they feel supported both professionally and personally. We work hard to offer that.”

But regular market analyses, though encouraged by law enforcement agencies, do have a negative effect on respective municipal and county budgets.

Based on recent studies, the City of Rifle this year increased its starting annual salary for patrol officers to $78,000, with raises ranging between 5.5% to 4% over the next eight years.

This prompted the Town of Parachute to implement a 10% budget increase for its police department, and by Jan. 1, 2026, continued on page 14

Carbondale Patrol Officer Isabel Herrera enters her police vehicle on Thursday, Dec. 11. Photo by Ray K. Erku

STARTING WAGES FOR LOCAL LAW ENFORCERS Parachute: By Jan. 1, 2026, “officer 1” positions will make between $59,020 to $84,989 Rifle: $78,000, plus annual raises ranging between 5.5% to 4% over the next eight years Silt: Ranges between $71,221 to $101,745 for entry-level positions New Castle: By Jan. 1, 2026, starting annual salary range (based on experience) will be $76,000 to $80,000 Glenwood Springs: By Jan. 1, 2006, entry-level positions will make between $72,425 to $82,992 Carbondale: $76,440 for entrylevel positions

Basalt: $65,707 for cadets; $75,198 upon academy graduation; $78,958 upon completion of field training Snowmass Village: Ranges between $73,383 to $95,398 for entry-level positions Aspen: Figures unavailable upon deadline Garfield County: Ranges between $67,704 to $75,828 for entry-level positions Pitkin County: $69,659 with no experience, plus $1,000 sign on bonus; $73,611 upon academy completion

THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 7

CARBONDALE REPORT

Three trustee plus mayor’s seat up for election RALEIGH BURLEIGH Sopris Sun Editor

Dec. 16 marked the final Town of Carbondale Board of Trustees meeting of 2025 and all trustees were present.

During general public comments, Sue Zislis with Age-Friendly Carbondale thanked the board for prioritizing Highway 133 safety improvements and renewing (and enhancing) the Downtowner microtransit service. She asked that accessibility at Town Hall (specifically the front doors) be a focus with upcoming renovations.

Fred Malo, chair of the Environmental Board, asked that the Downtowner be electrified in coming years.

The Downtowner contract for 2026 appeared on the consent agenda, including increased service during peak hours on weekdays (1 to 7pm).

The total cost is $782,933 of which the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority will cover $336,713.

Other items approved on the consent agenda included renewed participation in a collaborative effort to provide meal and transportation services to senior and disabled residents of Garfield County with Carbondale contributing $28,770; a letter of intent committing $500,000 toward acquisition of the Cavern Springs Mobile Home Park by residents if the remaining funds can be raised; a renewed agreement with Red Hill Animal Hospital for impound services.

Trustee comments included many

The Carbondale Historic Preservation Commission gave a courtesy review on Dec. 4 for a proposal at 242-256 Main Street (just east of the Village Smithy) presented by Forum Phi. The project aims to demolish the existing one-story commercial building to construct a three-story building in the Historic Commercial Core zone district. The application will next be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission. Screenshot from YouTube archive

accolades for Town staff, boards and commissions for their dedicated work.

Trustee Jess Robison mentioned there were no completed applications for the Carbondale Revolving Loan Fund in 2025, offering low-interest business loans ranging from $5,000 to $25,000.

New business began with approval of a recreational retail marijuana license for LOVA Carbondale to operate at 303 Main Street, previously the location of Verde Natural and once Miser’s Mercantile. Because that space has already

operated as a pot shop, Pioneer Interests Inc., LOVA’s parent company with seven other retail marijuana stores in Colorado (including one in Willits), will be able to open in the next few months.

LOVA previously intended to open their Carbondale store next to the 7-Eleven, at 1337 Main Street.

Trustees then appointed Keelan Bozman, an educator at Colorado Rocky Mountain School, as a voting member on the Parks and Recreation Board, and Susan Korber as an alternate. A new

program was approved for a composting pilot program at Carbondale Middle School funded by carryout bag fees. The Town’s Bag Fee Fund sits at around $100,000 and this pilot program, proposed by the Environmental Board, will cost $5,000 in year one and approximately $2,000 annually in partnership with Evergreen ZeroWaste.

Next, Tammy Tucker with Wember returned before the board with an Aquatics Center update. According to Tucker, the project remains on track for spring completion and the public sidewalk will be reopened by the end of December. Plastering of the pools, installation of solar panels and landscaping will begin in March. Trustee Robison emphasized that A.D. Miller Construction Services is responsible for winter protection costs above their contingency because that company’s delays pushed the project’s construction into a second winter.

Lastly, Town Clerk Patrick Thibault presented a timeline for the April municipal election. In 2026, trustees Chris Hassig, Colin Laird and Erica Sparhawk are up for re-election. Mayor Ben Bohmfalk has stated he is not running for re-election. Aspiring candidates for one of these four four-year terms can pick up a petition packet from Town Hall beginning Jan. 6 and must return it with at least 25 signatures from Carbondale registered voters by Jan. 26.

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GARFIELD COUNTY REPORT

‘Merry Christmas to the Sheriff’s office’ AMY HADDEN MARSH Sopris Sun Correspondent

Monday’s Garfield County Commissioner (BOCC) meeting was the last one of 2025.

First up was an anti-climactic presentation on mill levies for the 2026 budget year.

Juby Cummings of the county assessor’s office requested certification of mill levies, but did not have the exact numbers.

“We are waiting on five certifications of mill levies from various taxing entities,” she explained.

She said that the numbers should be on Commission Chair Tom Jankovsky’s desk by Thursday, Dec. 18.

The BOCC approved certification of the mill levies, sight unseen, asking Cummings if there would be any surprises.

“No surprises,” she replied. She said that it’s a matter of timing.

The State of Colorado deadline for county certifications is Dec. 22. The deadline for local tax entity certification is Dec 18.

The BOCC will not meet again until early January, so it’s sign now or miss the state deadline.

Next up was a request for a drone for the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) for search and rescue operations.

Cathy Dalla, Chris Bornholdt and Sheriff Lou Vallario were on hand to discuss the request.

Bornholdt said the department has five drones. “We got one from the DA’s office a few years ago,” he explained. “That one’s service life is over in January, and that’s the one we’re trying to replace.” He added that drones are used for search and rescue, overwatch for big incidents, wildfires and more.

“Last year, we probably used them maybe 30 times,” he said.

The GCSO was awarded a $30,000 backcountry search and rescue, pass-through grant from Colorado Parks and Wildlife, which will pay for the drone. The GCSO wanted the BOCC to approve an expedited “three-quote” process that will allow them to buy the drone before Dec. 23.

Why the deadline? “There have been some hiccups with regards to purchasing these DJI drones and the federal government,” explained Dalla. “So [the feds] are wanting to, after Dec. 23, not allow for a purchase of them until some other things get worked out on a higher level.”

Actually, DJI drones could be banned in the U.S. on Dec.

“Nobody is going to ban my Christmas.”

23. Under Section 1709 of the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), a national security agency must audit manufacturers, including DJI, a Chinese technology company, to determine if certain types of communications or video surveillance equipment are threats to U.S. national security.

The NDAA also says that if the DJI audit does not happen by Dec. 23, the Federal Communications Commission is required to blacklist the company, which could mean no new model approvals, firmware authorizations or imports.

Any federal security agency can audit DJI, but as of Wednesday Dec. 17, none have stepped up. This may change in the next week. But, if DJI

products are banned, what does that mean for people who already own one?

According to DroneDJ.com, current DJI gear would keep working. But future access across all product lines, due to a lack of next-gen upgrades and new product sales, could vanish.

GCSO did not cover these specifics on the record or during the BOCC meeting. Commissioners approved the request.

“Merry Christmas to the Sheriff’s office,” said Jankovsky.

SANE Program Among other things, the BOCC listened to updates from local nonprofits, including River Bridge Regional Center. Director Blythe Chapman talked about how the

Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) program is changing.

The local SANE program was resurrected in 2016 by Sherry Caloia, then-district attorney for the 9th Judicial District.

River Bridge took it on in 2018.

“It was the right thing to do at the time,” Chapman told the BOCC. But, she added, “After a number of years running the program, we have come to the conclusion that [it] does not fit our mission the way we initially thought it might.”

In an interview with The Sopris Sun, Chapman said the child-advocacy center has always had a standard to meet when it comes to child sex assault and medical exams. “And we have attempted to provide medical exams for continued on page 15

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RFTA REPORT

Budget approved, priorities discussed ANNALISE GRUETER Sopris Sun Correspondent

The Dec. 11 Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) board meeting took place exclusively online. While the main order on the agenda was to host a public hearing for final approval of the 2026 budget, the meeting covered several other topics. Following roll call, Chair Greg Poschman welcomed Alicia Gresley, who has been appointed by the City of Rifle to attend the meetings. Rifle is not a voting member on RFTA’s board, but has many residents who use its Hogback route services.

During general comments, board member Brandy Copeland mentioned the Town of New Castle’s gratitude for the new bus stop cover they have. Board member and Aspen Mayor Rachel Richards raised questions about fire evacuation planning and Rio Grand Trail safety for next year.

Richards asked to designate time to “get all jurisdictions on the same page” on these topics. RFTA CEO Kurt Ravenschlag noted that for Aspen fire evacuation, the response would be managed by Pitkin County Emergency Management and staffed by RFTA if necessary.

The board quickly passed the meeting’s consent agenda, including an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) and a memorandum of understanding (MOU)

for the Garfield County Older Adult Programs Traveler Services. Approval of the IGA authorized Greg Poschman as board chair to execute the agreement to fund transportation services for Garfield County residents who are 70 or older, use wheelchairs or otherwise have transportation needs unmet by typical services like buses. The MOU, an accompanying document, articulates the specific level of service to be provided in each constituent community: Glenwood Springs, Rifle, Garfield County, Carbondale, New Castle and Silt. Garfield County approved and signed both the IGA and MOU on Dec. 8.

RFTA budget manager David Carle and director of finance Paul Hamilton then presented the 2026 budget for a public hearing. The agenda packet included an executive summary of the planned budget, which has appeared before the board in two previous drafts.

The RFTA finance team anticipates that total 2026 funds will be $101.6 million, with nearly $76 million from general revenue, which comes mainly from sales and property taxes ($45.6 million and $18.4 million, respectively).

Anticipated 2026 expenditures total $96.4 million. The majority goes toward the general fund, totaling $70.8 million with almost $50.6 million designated for transit costs. Another $19.3 million

10 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | December 18-24, 2025

RFTA’s final 2025 meeting approved legislation to continue providing transportation services to senior and disabled Garfield County residents. Courtesy photo

is budgeted for service contracts, $16.9 million of which is specifically for bus operation or drivers. The budget includes around $5 million designated toward four different debt service funds.

The board turned to a third resolution, which certifies and levies a property tax of $2.65 million for the 2026 budget year. This levies from the 2025 year for 2026 collections. RFTA gained the authority to impose property taxes in December of each year.

The meeting closed with Kurt Ravenschlag’s CEO report. He opened his report by honoring Colorado state senator Faith Winter, who died Nov. 25 in a traffic accident on I-25. While she represented Colorado District 25, located on the Front

Range, Winter was a known advocate for public transportation, sustainability, and policies improving quality of life. Senator Winter championed state legislation that supported rural transportation agencies including RFTA to fund services as well as employee housing.

Ravenschlag also shared details on a study RFTA conducted around bikes on bus racks during winter months. This has historically been prohibited due to safety concerns and bus headlight performance reductions. The study was to provide data for future conversations. While Ravenschlag discussed details of the study, firm conclusions were not presented. continued on page 15

RAMS REPORT

Ladies roll to Weld basketball tournament title; now 6-0

Ram boys seek consistency The Roaring Fork boys are also ranked among the top 3A teams and are the favorites to repeat as WSL champs.

Also playing at the Weld tournament, the Rams defeated Weld Central, 73-46, but lost to Regis Groff, 81-65 (senior Lucas Carballeira led all scorers with 27 points).

That set up a thriller of a third-place game against Brush. The Rams won a close one, 58-56, to enter the holiday break at 4-2.

“There have definitely been some ups and downs, but mostly up,” veteran head coach Jason Kreiling said.

“They have a lot of experience playing together, and a lot of varsity experience that has allowed us to pick up where we left off last season.

“We do need to work on consistency, and the mental part of the game when things are not going our way,” he said.

Unfortunately, the Rams were dealt a blow when junior Quentin Galbraith went down with an injury during the Weld tournament. Kreiling said on Monday that they were awaiting test results to determine the extent.

The boys also travel to North Fork on Jan. 9 to open the 3A WSL season.

JOHN STROUD Sopris Sun Correspondent

Roaring Fork High School’s girls basketball team continued to impress at the Weld Central tournament last weekend, running the slate on a trio of Class 5A, 4A and 3A teams to win the tourney title and remain unbeaten going into the holiday break.

“The girls are playing very well right now and at a fast pace,” third-year head coach Mike Vidakovich said.

The Rams get to soak in the early-season success for a few weeks before opening the 3A Western Slope League (WSL) season on Jan. 9, on the road at North Fork.

“We have to stay focused,” Vidakovich said of what’s expected to be a more-competitive league this season than it was last year. North Fork, Meeker and defending league champion Cedaredge are all currently ranked ahead of the Rams among 3A teams in Colorado based on their respective early season successes.

The Rams are certainly making a case for themselves. At the Weld tournament, they defeated the host Rebels from the 4A Patriot League, 70-22, on Thursday, Dec. 4, to advance. Junior Riley Bevington amassed 44 points in the win, while senior Nikki Tardif had 16 points and 11 rebounds.

A showdown with 5A Regis Groff on Friday ended with a Roaring Fork win, 72-26 (Bevington 28, Tardif 16, sophomore Annelise Bumgarner 10 and junior Hazel Jenkins 10); and Saturday’s championship game saw the Rams brush off 3A Brush, 68-30 (Bevington 33, Tardif 20, Jenkins 9), to

Combined sports Rams senior Nikki Tardif keeps her eye on the basket during a pre-season practice. Photo by Ray K. Erku

stay undefeated at 6-0.

Bevington and Tardif are now among the 3A leaders in points and rebounds per game.

“We have very good athletes,” Vidakovich said. “They are fit and can play that up-tempo game for 32 minutes, and our rebounding has been great.”

A goal heading into the new year will be to develop some of the younger players for some depth coming off the bench.

“We have people that are capable of doing it, we just need to give them the repetitions and the confidence,” Vidakovich said.

Meanwhile, the combined-schools girls swimming, boys and girls wrestling and boys ice hockey teams also saw action this past week.

Top swimmers for the Glenwood Springs-based team at the Dec. 13 Cowboy Invite in Gunnison were Ellie Rippy, second in the 50 Free; Sylvia Duchscher, second in the 100 Back and fourth in the 200 IM; Isla Friel, fourth in the 100 Breast; the 200 Medley Relay, fourth; and the 400 Free Relay, third.

Roaring Fork student-athletes on the swim team include Friel, Maggie Cole, Caroline Cole, Claire Hardaker and Sophia Warner.

The Basalt-based wrestlers were at the Western Slope Showdown in Grand Junction, Dec. 12-13. continued on page 23

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Return Of The Light Both events are free and held at Third Street Center. All are welcome! www.truu.org

THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 11

CALENDAR

CHRIS

MAS

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Your annual holiday tradition!

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES DEC 23rd

5PM & 7PM

DEC 24th

3PM & 5PM & 7PM

6PM BOTH DAYS

www.TheOrchardLife.com 110 Snowmass Drive, Carbondale, CO 81623

Light Up the Holidays with Us! December

RY X Buckhorn Public Arts brings Grammy-nominated artist RY X to the Wheeler Opera House for an 8pm performance.

Tickets at www.wheeleroperahouse.com

THIRD THURSDAY BOOK CLUB The Third Thursday Book Club discusses “The Frozen River” by Ariel Lawhon at the Carbondale Library from 2 to 3:30pm.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20

TAROT READINGS Todd at Crystal Tuning in Glenwood Springs (802 Grand Avenue) offers tarot readings every Thursday from 1 to 3pm.

ICECREAM & CHOCOLATE The Basalt Library hosts a “scooptacular” home-made ice cream and chocolate party from 4 to 5pm.

COOKBOOK TALK & BEER Jennifer Glanville Love, author of “Our American Dream Cookbook” and a leader of the Brewing the American Dream Initiative, will be at Explorer Booksellers in Aspen from 5 to 7pm, along with Sam Adams tastings and bites from the Hickory House.

MOONLIGHT RACE Sunlight and Cripple Creek Backcountry team up for an uphill race up the mountain, with start times at 6 and 8pm. Find details at www.sunlightmtn.com/events TRIVIA NIGHT The Homestead and Handlebar (303 River Valley Ranch Road) hosts its final trivia night of the year from 6 to 8pm.

LIVE NATIVITY

Santa's Holly Jolly

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18

Truck-Mas Trip

19 & 20

FUNGI FILM FEST The Western Colorado Mycological Association presents the sixth annual Fungi Film Fest, to include 14 short films “that are often funny, intriguing, bizarre and always strange,” at the Crystal Theatre at 7pm.

STEVE’S GUITARS Taos musician Max Gomez performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www. stevesguitars.net HOLIDAY CABARET Theatre Aspen and TACAW present “All I Want for Christmas: A Holiday Cabaret,” “featuring a special performance starring the best of Broadway,” at TACAW at 8pm.

Tickets at www.tacaw.org

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19

‘SENIOR STROLL’ AT POWERS Seniors are invited for a tour of the Powers Art Center and its exhibit, followed by a holiday art making activity, from 11:30am to 12:30pm. Details at www.powersartcenter.org MUSIC ON THE MOUNTAIN Children of the Corn Liquor, “a Colorado duo bringing mountain soul to the heart of the Rockies,” performs at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park from 4:30 to 7:30pm.

Track Santa LIVE nightly at 5 p.m.

SOLSTICE AT THE LIBRARY The Basalt Library hosts a celebration of the shortest day and longest night of the year from 5:30 to 7pm, featuring storytelling, warm beverages and more.

See Santa’s festive fire engine sparkling with lights and music!

Track Santa's Trip

Departs Fire Carbondale Fire at 5:30pm Dec. 19 & Dec. 20

Carbondale Fire| www.carbondalefire.org | 970-963-2491 12 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | December 18-24, 2025

‘THE NUTCRACKER’ Crystal River Ballet performs “The Nutcracker” at Basalt Middle School tonight and tomorrow at 6:30pm.

Catch a 2pm showing tomorrow or Sunday. Tickets at www.tinyurl.com/ CrystalRiverNutcracker CRYSTAL THEATRE “Sarah’s Oil” opens at the Crystal Theatre at 7pm and repeats Saturday at the same time. Sunday’s captioned show is at 5pm.

“Rental Family” shows Saturday at 4pm.

DRUM & BASS McMission Presents throws a drum and bass party at The Cocoa Club in Carbondale from 8 to 11pm. Ugly sweaters encouraged!

‘BEE’ MERRY The Queen Bees perform a holiday show at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

BONEDALE BONANZA The town-wide Bonedale Winter Bonanza kicks off at 10am in Carbondale for a day of holiday cheer, cozy charm and shopping local. For details and a list of participating businesses, visit www.tinyurl.com/BonedaleBonanza WINTER FARMERS MARKET Stop by The Launchpad today (10am to 4pm) and tomorrow (11am for 3pm) for locally-produced culinary goods.

Deck the Walls continues through Dec. 24 with unique gifts for sale crafted by local makers.

KIDS’ ONLY CLAY SALE Youngsters are invited to shop for pricefriendly handmade ceramic gifts at the Carbondale Clay Center from 11am to 1pm.

LINE DANCING Caitlin Evans with Dance Initiative teaches line dancing at the Black Nugget at 11am.

REDSTONE COOKIE EXCHANGE Make three-dozen cookies, divide them into six cookies per container and exchange them with other bakers at the Redstone Gazebo at noon.

TRTC TREATS Thunder River Theatre Company invites folks to stop by for stories and pictures with Santa, hot chocolate and crafts from 2 to 6pm.

LIVE MUSIC Abbie Cheney performs live music at Mountain Tide Provision Co. from 3 to 5pm.

HOLIDAY PARTY Mountain Heart Brewing (1841 Dolores Way, Carbondale) hosts a holiday movie character costume party with tunes spun

by DJ Kid Knowledge from 5 to 7pm.

TWO RIVERS SOLSTICE Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists and The Center for Human Flourishing invite the community to a two-part solstice celebration, “The Longest Night: Persephone’s Journey.” It’s “an unusual blend of ceremony, participatory ritual, music and myth,” beginning with the “Descent Into Darkness” in the Community Hall at the Third Street Center at 7pm tonight and continuing tomorrow morning (10am) with “Return of the Light” in the Calaway Room. Details at www.truu.org/event DJANGO CAROLS LAPOMPE, a Denver-based jazz group, performs holiday tunes at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org DJ RUGGERO El Dorado hosts a Christmas party with DJ Ruggero spinning tunes from 8:30 to 10:30pm.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21

WORLD OF WONDER Jeanne Soulsby shares life experiences which brought her to view the world with new eyes at A Spiritual Center (Room 31 of the Third Street Center) from 10 to 11:30am.

RITUAL AND BOUTIQUE Aspen Shakti hosts a wellness fair and boutique with astrology, tarot, massage, fresh juice and more from 2 to 5pm. A community ritual, from 5:30 to 7:30pm, will follow.

On Saturday, Dec. 20, The Center for Human Flourishing and Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist (TRUU) invite the community to a volunteer-driven solstice celebration that is part ceremony, part participatory ritual, part concert and part theater. At 7pm, “The Longest Night: Persephone’s Journey — Descent into Darkness” brings an ancient Greek myth to life in the Community Hall at the Third Street Center.

“We’re weaving together myth, theater and live music so that people can feel the solstice, not just hear about it,” explained event designer and facilitator Micha Schoepe. “All the participation is optional,” he added, “and will also feel very safe.” The event will conclude with cookies and cider around a fire outside. Then, on Dec. 21, TRUU presents “Return of the Light,” completing the story’s arc during their Sunday service.

Courtesy photo

REINDEER AT THE COLLECTIVE Santa’s sleigh team will be outside of The Collective in Snowmass from 4 to 6pm today through Tuesday, Dec. 23.

MCBRIDE & GREEN Christian McBride and Benny Green perform at Jazz Aspen Snowmass’ new Paul JAS Center (422 East Cooper Ave, Aspen) from 6:30 to 8:30pm tonight and tomorrow night. Tickets at www.jazzaspensnowmass.org COMEDY AT TACAW Comedian Pete Lee performs at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

MONDAY, DECEMBER 22

HOLIDAY CAMP AT HALLAM Kindergarten through fourth graders are invited to participate in Aspen Center for Environmental Studies’ Winter Explorers Holiday Camp from 9:30 am to 12:30pm today, Dec. 30-31 and Jan. 2 at Hallam Lake. The registration deadline is 5pm on Friday, Dec. 19. Register at www.aspennature.org BLOOD DRIVE The Vitalant Bloodmobile will be parked outside the Basalt Library from 11am to 3pm. Details at www.basaltlibrary.org SNOWY SOIREE DanceAspen presents “Snowy Soiree,” a performance for all ages at the Wheeler Opera House at 3 and 5pm. Tickets at www.dance-aspen.org/events/ snowy-soiree SENSORY-FRIENDLY SANTA Challenge Aspen brings Santa to The Collective Snowmass in a calm, sensory-friendly, warm and welcoming atmosphere from 5 to 6pm.

HANUKKAH DINNER In celebration of the Festival of Lights, PARC Aspen hosts a Hanukkah dinner — to include an à la carte menu of freshly baked challah, matzo ball soup, slowbraised brisket and more — from 5 to 9pm.

PLANT-BASED POTLUCK The Center for Human Flourishing hosts a plant-based potluck at the Third Street Center at 6:30pm and shows a film regarding the health effects of processed foods.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23

JAZZ STRETCH Aspen Shakti hosts holiday yoga with live piano music inspired by Louis Armstrong from 4:30 to 6:30pm. Register at www.aspenshakti.com/yoga CHRISTMAS CONCERT Tom and Julie Paxton, formerly of the Dickens Carolers, sing cherished Christmas music at The Hoffman Hotel in Basalt from 6 to 7pm. They will give away CDs of the album they recorded with John Denver, “Merry Christmas, Aspen.”

The event is free. For details, contact juliecpaxton@gmail.com

ONGOING EVENTS ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS The Meeting Place in Carbondale (981 Cowen Drive) offers “Hole in the Donut AA,” Monday through Saturday at 6:45am, plus “Daily Reprieve” at noon on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Find a full schedule at www.meetingplacecarbondale.org ROARING FORK ZEN A new Zen meditation community based in Carbondale gathers for meditation at True Nature to sit from 8 to 9am on Mondays and 7:30 to 8:30pm on Wednesdays weekly.

TAI CHI 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.

PARKINSON’S EXERCISES An exercise class for people living with Parkinson’s Disease, MS or any other neuromuscular conditions is offered at the Glenwood Springs Library every Monday from 1 to 2pm. For more details, email dnovak@parkinsonrockies.org or call 866-718-2996.

IN STITCHES The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 1:30pm.

BOARD GAMES Kids (5 and up) play board games in the Treehouse Room at the Basalt Library Mondays at 4pm. Snacks provided.

ENGLISH IN ACTION Volunteer English tutors and developing learners meet for informal conversational practice at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 6:30pm.

Interested in becoming a tutor? Email angela@englishinaction.org or call 970-963-9200.

AFRICAN DANCE Dance to live drumming by the Carbondale Rhythm Collective at the Glenwood Springs Library on Mondays from 6:30 to 8pm.

BABY STORYTIME The Carbondale Library hosts baby storytime at 11:30am on Tuesdays.

RAISING A READER Basalt Library hosts an hour of storytime, activities and snacks Tuesdays at 10:30am.

PILATES Coredination offers weekly pilates mat classes for all levels at The Launchpad in Carbondale. Tuesdays from noon to 1pm intermediate/advanced students are welcome. Beginners are encouraged to attend on Thursdays from 8 to 9am.

For more info, call 970-379-2187.

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CHLOE FLOWER Globally-acclaimed pianist Chloe Flower performs with classical elegance and contemporary flair at the Wheeler Opera House at 6pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 LIBRARY CLOSURES All six branches of the Garfield County Libraries will be closed today and tomorrow.

* *

Winter Gear $12 each

Coats, snow pants, warm layers

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 26

Find more events at www.SoprisSun.com

CRYSTAL RIVER AIKIKAI Crystal River Aikikai offers aikido classes for kids from 4:45 to 5:45pm and teens and adults from 6 to 7pm on Mondays at 13 Moons Ranch, south of Carbondale.

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BRADMAN IN WILLITS Multi-Instrumentalist Brad Manosevitz performs a set at Westbound and Down in Willits from 6 to 8pm.

MOUNTAINFILM Mountainfilm on Tour stops by the Wheeler Opera House for a family-friendly matinee at 4pm. Tickets and details at www.aspenshowtix.com

RAGING GRANNIES All are welcome to join the Raging Grannies, singing for a healthy planet and a kind world, on Wednesdays at the Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists office at the Third Street Center from 4:30 to 5:45pm.

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THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 13

Colorado Face Company looks to pamper RFV MYKI JONES Sopris Sun Correspondent

Cameron Hesseltine is excited to serve the Carbondale community and beyond through the launch of her new esthetician business, in partnership with Ella Rose Salon. Hesseltine, originally from Atlanta, Georgia, has been in the Valley since 2023 and began her craft in facial, lash and brow work several years earlier, after earning her esthetician license in North Carolina, where she lived before moving to Glenwood Springs. Having recently opened Colorado Face Company, she looks forward to seeing how the business grows.

“I needed 600 hours in both North Carolina and Colorado, so transferring my license was not hard at all. It was actually so simple, and it definitely made it feel very like this is all meant to be, because it was so easy,” Hesseltine told The Sopris Sun. She continued, “Many people [who open their own businesses] have told me they don’t see much success even in the first two years. I hope that isn’t the case with me. I am a really hard worker, and I do believe I am capable of achieving that success. My main vision for Colorado Face Company is to become an integral part of the community.”

Shortly after arriving in the Valley, Hesseltine began building a clientele through her work at the Lupine Alpine Spa in Snowmass Village. Hesseltine’s return to this business back in June of 2024 lasted until October.

From there, she described a serendipitous

series of events that led her to opening her own business through a booth rental at Ella Rose Salon and Spa in Carbondale.

“Colorado Face Company is run under the umbrella of Ella Rose Salon,” she described.

“Rhianna Loy [owner of Ella Rose] knew my friend Jessica through doing her hair, and she hooked us up. We began texting and quickly found ourselves excited to connect. From the first day we started talking, she has been nothing but supportive of me and my goals.”

Through her partnership with Loy, Hesseltine said she has gained important guidance and friendship. “It feels hard sometimes to find support from other women. Unfortunately, a lot of women know that feeling, especially in a small community where there is a lot of opportunity for people doing the same thing, and it just meant the world to me that she was willing to bring me in and coach me on how to do my own business.”

At Colorado Face Company, Hesseltine provides her lash, brow and facial expertise. She considers herself a “brow-forward” specialist and has built a loyal client base who return for her services because of her attention to detail. Skincare got her into this world of service, and she is excited to bring these practices to the community at an affordable price.

“I think I give a great facial at an affordable price, especially for this valley,” she explained. “I think that’s where the Valley is missing things: value with low prices. The reality of people’s situations is that people

POLICE from page 7

Cameron Hesseltine, licensed esthetician, opened Colorado Face Company to provide skincare services in the Valley at an affordable price. Courtesy photo

can’t pay for $300 facials every month, and monthly facials are one of the best ways to be able to be consistent with your skin and learn what it needs so you can start building your own routine at home,” she expressed.

Hesseltine’s facial and brow lamination services start at $100 and include a dermaplane and lymphatic drainage.

To keep up to date, to book services and for a complete pricing list, follow @coloradofacecompany on Instagram or visit mysite. vagaro.com/ellarose/home

“officer 1” positions will receive an annual pay scale of $59,020 to $84,989.

Meanwhile, Silt Town Manager Jim Mann said a recent compensation range adjustment made by the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office triggered a significant pay bump for its police department. Its compensation range for entry-level police officers is $71,221.50 to $101,745, which is “a little over $10,000 on the high end due to GarCo’s increase.”

Still, openings persist.

West said Garfield County, which implemented a range of $67,704, to $75,828 for entry-level positions on July 1, has openings for three positions currently.

“We filled several positions this year,” she said. “But to have those three positions is significant for this agency right now.”

Perhaps feeling the high impact of personnel shortages is the Basalt Police Department, which currently offers $65,707 to cadets and $78,958 when they successfully complete field training, according to Lt. Aaron Munch.

The midvalley department currently seeks to fill five open positions.

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GARCO REPORT from page 9 children and adolescents onsite at River Bridge since our inception in 2007.”

The program no longer receives as many calls for children and adolescent exams, which is great, but SANE nurses aren’t getting the experience they need with children.

Chapman wants to tackle the mission mismatch before it becomes mission creep.

“We were spending more time on the adults, and those are not our patients,” she said.

“These are adult patients who are clients of other organizations in our community that are better equipped to serve them.” She has spoken with the directors of Response and Advocate Safehouse to see if they will help.

The other issue is lack of day-to-day, dedicated medical oversight of the SANE nurses. “Dr. [James] O’Donnell is available but it’s not on a supervisory level,” she said.

“So our nurses are looking to me for guidance.” UC Health is on contract with River Bridge to provide telehealth support for exams.

Chapman doesn’t want to see SANE disappear, but she has decided to close the adult SANE program at the end of the year. It’s non-negotiable. “I’m happy to provide whatever support I can,” she explained. “But it’s not going to be my program.” SANE exams are still offered in Frisco and Grand Junction.

Chris Roseberry, MD

Alexandra Kovar, MD

BOCC meetings for the entire year are available at the county website.

RFTA REPORT from page 10 Ravenschlag also shared that he participated in a Dec. 2 roundtable conversation hosted by the Colorado River Valley Economic Development Partnership. The meeting focused on regional transportation and the future funding of RFTA Hogback services for Rifle and New Castle. Ravenschlag expects that conversation to continue, and promised to update the board regularly.

The next board meeting will occur on Jan. 8 at 8:30am at Carbondale Town Hall.

The public can also join via Webex. An agenda will be available at www.rfta.com a week ahead of the meeting.

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Ciarra Bristol

December 15, 1989 November 9, 2025 Ciarra Bristol was born on Dec. 15, 1989 in Glenwood Springs. She lived and attended school in Carbondale and graduated from Roaring Fork High School in 2008. She attended Fort Lewis College in Durango and graduated with an art business degree. After college, her husband, Marlin Boyer, started Durango Shade Company, and they worked together building the business.

Marlin and Ciarra met in college in 2011 and their love grew into a strong and loving partnership. They married in 2017 and welcomed their son Summit in 2018. When Summit was only 10 months old, Ciarra was diagnosed with leukemia. She wanted nothing more than to be able to raise her son. For the next six years she fought, determined to do just that. She was a wonderful mom, and gave everything she had fighting a very hard battle with bravery, strength and grace right up until the end. On Nov. 9, 2025 she passed away in Durango.

Ciarra was bright, sassy and fun-loving. It was pretty easy to smile when Ciarra was around. Her sparkling blue eyes and beautiful smile lit up a room.

She was strong, spunky and loving.

When getting her cancer treatment, she could be seen dancing with her IV pole, howling in the hospital hall during COVID and even had the nurses singing with her while getting her chemo.

She’d probably say her wish was to make the world a better place. There were many things she cared deeply

Helping You Live the Extraordinary— Every Day

about. She was an animal lover at heart, especially dogs. She adopted, rescued and fostered many dogs while living in Durango. The environment was also something she really advocated for.

Always an artist, she enjoyed painting with watercolors. Another of her passions was gardening. In the middle of her battle with leukemia, she started a flower farm and loved nurturing her plants and watching them blossom.

She had many friends from Carbondale and Durango and loved spending time with them and her family. Besides being with her family, her heart was happiest outdoors, surrounded by Mother Nature’s magic, with the sun on her face. She enjoyed paddle boarding, traveling, camping, hiking and playing with Summit, Marlin and their dogs.

There will be a celebration of life next summer by her flower garden.

Her favorite charities are Blood Cancer United (www.bloodcancerunited.org) and Small Choices (www.smallchoicesfoundation.org) if you feel inclined to make a memorial donation.

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THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 15

5Point spins a highlights reel — and asks you not to eat ice cream In film, as in rock and roll, some things age poorly and some resonate. Old songs by the Rolling Stones still sound great.

Last week I was reminded that the 40-minute “A Line Across the Sky,” from 2015, is one of the best climbing films ever.

On Dec. 11, the Crystal Theatre in downtown Carbondale hosted “A Julie Kennedy Special: 5Point From The Vault,” a 5Point Adventure Film Festival retrospective emceed by its ebullient founder.

Tickets sold out in 19 hours.

The annual four-day 5Point fest, established in Carbondale 18 years ago, carries the motto,

“Come together. Return changed.”

A dozen films from the past 15 years showed at the Crystal Theatre, yet another local institution that everyone loves, or should anyway.

“It makes me so happy that we’ve been able to survive,” Julie Kennedy said of 5point as she took the stage. “It’s no easy task to keep a nonprofit thriving in this valley.

With your support we will make it … all the way to [year] 20.” An ice cream social has long been part of 5Point, and Kennedy vowed to give up ice cream, “which I love more than anything,” this month in return for viewers ponying up $10 they might otherwise spend

themselves on the same thing.

I have been involved in the festival since its inception, as a longtime friend of Kennedy, and one of the army of volunteers run

by Tracy Wilson. I’ve taken tickets, sold sandwiches, cleaned up, even babysat for a presenter. Last year I drove Kai Lightner, a visiting film subject, for lunch with students at Carbondale Middle School. Lightner, a natural with kids, wanted to know their names and what each liked to do, and whenever someone answered “to read,” he lit up, asking, “What are you reading?”

I’ve nudged my sons to volunteer; I think they liked doing

Julie Kennedy, 5Point founder, throws out ice -cream sandwiches while asking audience members to contribute $10 each, money she suggested they might otherwise spend on ice cream, to 5Point. Aisha Weinhold, executive director, stands to the right. Photo by Alison Osius

GUEST OPINION

By Alison Osius security best. Last year our older son took team spirit a little far, in my opinion, by getting a mullet as part of a 5Point obstacle course.

It was the first mullet administered, before the officiant quite got the hang of it, but hey, it grew out. (Full disclosure: this son is engaged to the fest’s new executive director, Aisha Weinhold.)

If possible, I appreciated “A Line Across the Sky” (directed by Josh Lowell and Peter Mortimer), even more this viewing. The multifaceted film covers a 2014 mission by two of this country’s finest rock climbers, Tommy Caldwell and Alex Honnold, to traverse the Fitz Roy massif in Patagonia, a ridge with seven peaks and 12,000 feet of vertical climbing. The duo has handily climbed 7,000 feet together in a single day, by linking the steep granite faces of El Capitan, Half Dome and Mount Watkins in Yosemite, but these snowy, rimed-up mountains are a

different realm. Caldwell climbed in Patagonia before, but Honnold never even used crampons and brought the wrong kind.

Two Patagonia experts, the renowned alpinists Rolando “Rolo” Garibotti and Colin Haley, class acts both, also aspired to the first traverse of the tower-studded skyline, and tried twice.

“We felt like such gumbies compared to Rolo and Colin,” Tommy said in the film.

The teams started out the same day, but in one of the film’s most uplifting moments, when Garibotti and Haley retreat, Garibotti gives Honnold his crampons. Interviewed later for the film, he called the act his “small contribution” to the effort, and in his writings he credits Haley for the suggestion, but consider: they had dreamed of this historic traverse and yet gave the needed tools to others who could feasibly succeed.

Beyond that, what makes the film is the natural humor of Caldwell and Honnold, who goof and laugh and razz each other amid cold and uncertainty during this gigantic and wildly hard undertaking. They get video footage on their phones. At different points each takes over and carries the effort.

“Two Laps” (Owen Trevor, 2010), filmed in Australia about a years-long swimming duel between elderly friends, is short (six minutes) and enchanting, continued on page 17

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5POINT from page 16 while “Cold” (Anson Fogel, 2011) imbues us with the sense of what it would be like — a sufferfest — on an 8,000-meter peak in Pakistan in winter, with now iconic imagery of Cory Richards (USA) sobbing after being churned out of an avalanche.

“Where the Wild Things Play” (Krystle Wright, 2017) is a high-energy celebration of women mountain athletes set to the soundtrack of “Short Skirt, Long Jacket” by Cake (“I want a girl who gets up early, I want a girl who stays up late”). In the eight-minute gem “Denali” (Ben Knight, 2015), a loyal canine comforts a young athlete, Ben Moon, during cancer treatment, and then the tables turn. (“Denali” was a phenomenon when it came out, and on Vimeo has racked up nearly 15 million views.)

A revelation was “Johanna” (Ian Derry, 2016), which displays the beauty of silvers and grays and crystalline formations as the Finnish free diver Johanna Nordblad swims beneath the surface of a frozen lake. We see her as filmed from below the ice and also from above, her face looking upward through the hard, thick surface. For me, that image invoked a primal fear, and uneasiness spiked my wonder.

Most of those in the packed Crystal Theatre knew of Hayden Kennedy, son of Julie and Michael Kennedy, an internationally lauded climber and alpinist who was a popular presenter at 5Point and is ever missed following his death at age 27, in October 2017. The very last showing was “First Light” (Fitz Cahall, 2013), Hayden and Jesse Huey’s hilarious sendup of mountain-sports films, as with faux gravity and self-importance they… string up holiday lights for clients in Boulder. The film brought out the tears, but ended the evening on a sweet and light note.

Next year’s 5Point iteration is April 23-26, so buckle up for some new stuff then. The fest brings talent and thought to our own town; you may not like every selection, but that’s grist for conversation. This is how local the event is: the credits for “Cold” thank “The Phat Thai Team.”

Deep state or mob rule?

The lessons of history When my grandfather died, I inherited his collection The other takeaway concerns an economic crisis evenof “The Story of Civilization” by Will and Ariel Durant. This tually faced by all civilizations. The broad idea is this: At the 11-volume series, 50 years in the making, stretches from “Our start of a civilization, everyone is pretty much equal. There Oriental Heritage” (volume 1) to “The Age of Napoleon.” are lots of opportunities and no guarantees.

The prose is magisterial. The Durants were shrewd, But things change quickly. Some people are just a little probing, superbly balanced in diction and hungrier or quicker. Their kids reap the idea. They did more than sum up the past. results. Capital grows across generations.

They sought wisdom.

Eventually, say the Durants, every civilization I confess I have not read the whole thing. comes to a crisis. It happens fast or slow. But, But I have flipped through the thousands by and by, a tiny percent of oligarchs owns of pages to consider what my grandfather everything. The vast majority notice that their underlined or commented on. And I did own lives are getting worse. At that point, read the companion volume: “The Lessons history tells us, there are just two choices. of History.” (It only has 118 pages.) Two big Progressive taxation. Redistribute the lessons stick with me. wealth. Take the largely unearned money One of them is the wry observation that from a staggeringly wealthy class and shove human beings are reliably violent and crazy. it down. Wealth can go a long way to reduce To try to rein in our more destructive influhuman suffering and make the foundations ences, we create institutions. The family. of our economy more sustainable. There are LITERATE Religion. Work. Nations. But institutions, people here in Garfield County who have no LIFE founded by human beings, take on human homes and often no food. It’s solvable. flaws. One in three women and one in four Armed revolution. Think the French

By Jamie LaRue men have been physically abused by an intiReign of Terror. It’s not clear that such revoluGarfield County mate partner; when children are abused, it’s tions actually improve the general condition.

Public Library District usually by a family member. Many religions But heads roll and once the violence starts it have histories of horrendous child abuse, and bloody warfare spreads with frightening swiftness. between sects of the same faith. Corporations commit crimes In both cases, the problem is that it’s always so much resulting in human and environmental damage. Nations are easier to break something than it is to build it. We can born through armed conflict and some die. unravel institutions but if we’re not replacing them with But I believe in institutions, particularly those whose anything better, then we’re just tearing through that thin purpose is the gathering of knowledge. Institutions help us paper veneer over our worst instincts. try to articulate purpose. They help us coordinate our efforts Generally I resist the notion that there are only two in a way that is both transparent and intentional. The decline choices about anything. But the Durants, steeped in human of support for longstanding institutions — see cries of fake history, make a compelling case for a choice between the news, of woke universities, of weaponized justice depart- deep state (one whose rules tend to stabilize society) or ments — is right up there with the decline of manners in mob rule. I find that I stand with the institutions. That used predicting social upheaval. to be the definition of a “conservative.”

OPINION

THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 17

Joseph and Gerard George Santayana was right when he wrote, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” In 1960, my friend John and I drove to Miami for spring break and came home with a tiny alligator we named Gerard Swope. We wanted to be cool.

We thought having a pet alligator would make us cooler, and that Gerard Swope was a very cool name for an alligator.

When Gerard wouldn’t eat the small bits of meat we put in his tank — was Gerard really a “him?” — we sought advice from the owner of a neighborhood fish market who kept alligators in his display window. Mr. Fish suggested pushing food down his throat with the eraser end of a pencil.

Soon, Gerard was lunging for food, nearly removing pieces of finger with each lunge, and growing fast. Very, very fast. Cleaning his tank became dangerous, and we didn’t even like him anymore, but what could we do? Mr. Fish came to the rescue again, agreeing to place Gerard in the gator community at his market. There, Gerard kept growing while smaller gators moved in, and soon we could no longer distinguish him from the crowd. But the window could hold only so many pounds of gator flesh, and we noticed that periodically the largest reptile would vanish.

I never dared to ask, but I suspect the largest became lunch for the smaller ones — and that, eventually, Gerard was the largest.

I’ve always felt guilty about my part the love he couldn’t give. They treated him in Gerard Swope’s short, unhappy life with kindness, respect and consistency, because Gerard’s story isn’t about an demanding only civility and compliance alligator. It’s about me wanting to be the in return. Using a strict, behavior-based kind of person who could handle some- approach, they isolated him in a “time thing I had no business handling and out” enclosure until he regained selfsomebody else getting control, and they hurt because of it. worked closely with Eighteen years later, his school to maximize my family and I tried consistency across enviadopting 8-year-old Joey ronments. He was never Bronson, the child of a unsupervised. In this drug-addicted mother structured setting, Joey, who died of an overdose who was smart, athletic, when he was 2. Joey cute and, when not was alone in the house angry, quite charming, with her corpse for 24 began improving. A year hours before someone later, his social worker came by. His father had thought he might be been shot dead earlier. A ready for the right adopMATURE paternal uncle adopted tive home.

Joey but relinquished Were we that home?

CONTENT him four years later after We were emotionally,

By Ron Kokish coming out gay and geographically and losing his marriage. financially stable, with graduate degrees Not surprisingly, Joey trusted no one. in social work and two well-adjusted He attacked other children (and some- children, one of them adopted. What times adults), soiled his pants almost could go wrong? As it turned out, a lot. daily, disobeyed, ate with his hands, Our children had good judgment and threw food, stole and destroyed prop- needed little supervision. Joey made erty. Why? He said that at night, his terrible decisions and needed constant mother visited him and warned him that supervision, but we didn’t want to treat if he ever let anyone else love him, she him differently. We gave him the same would stop coming. freedoms. Our children attended a After a year of failed foster homes, Joey private school that emphasized social was placed with well-paid, professional- relationships and responsibility in an ly-trained foster parents who didn’t need atmosphere of trust and liberty. Trust

OPINION

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18 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | December 18-24, 2025

and Liberty — two conditions that would bring out the worst in Joey. But we didn’t want to make him feel different by sending him elsewhere. Not to mention our reluctance to complicate our scheduling and transportation logistics. We foolishly believed that if we loved Joey, he would love us and forget his imaginary mother.

Joey’s terrible behavior returned almost at once, lying, stealing, attacking his “siblings,” terrorizing the neighborhood and stinking up the house by soiling his pants and hiding the evidence. When I asked what he thought would become of him, he said, “I’ll fight and fight until a policeman shoots me.”

Maybe that’s what happened, but we’ll never know. After almost a year, we gave up and returned Joey to the adoption agency, having done him about as much good as I did Gerard.

In the end, we proved unwilling to accept Joey as he was and give him the tight, dispassionate structure he needed. We thought we were such a cool family that Joey would give up his familiar self to become one of us. We were wrong. We weren’t cool at all. Wanting to be a particular kind of person isn’t the same as being prepared for the work that person must do, a lesson I suspect many of us learn too late. I sure did. “Those who cannot remember the past…”

Mature Content is a monthly feature from Age-Friendly Carbondale.

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Looking back and looking forward

DOWNTOWN DRUG

Three years ago, as we embarked on the journey of VOICES Radio We had the privilege of hearing stories that illustrated the endurHour, I would have been hesitant to predict the longevity and success we’ve ing power of love in the face of unimaginable obstacles, including loss achieved. It may sound dramatic, but the initial commitment felt monu- and death, offering profound testament to the human spirit. We were mental. MinTze Wu, Cassidy Wiley and I were united by a shared passion also honored to lift up queer voices within our community, celebrat— a deep-seated desire to amplify the diverse narratives of our community ing inspiring coming-out stories from beloved neighbors, fostering an through a new and accessible format. Yet, the reality of our busy lives (as atmosphere of acceptance and pride. three incredibly committed but time-strapped women) loomed large. The Beyond our studio conversations, we were able to capture and broadlogistics were daunting: securing three to five compelcast the vibrant tapestry of experiences from across ling guests per month, and then coordinating recordings our valley through live recordings. We shared the around the demanding performance schedules of both deeply personal journeys of storytellers who bravely VOICES and SoL Theatre. navigated immigration to the United States, and highHowever, the moment we started, the overwhelmlighted the powerful narratives of women overcoming ing support from our community became our anchor. significant barriers to achieve their professional and This network of encouragement provided the momenpersonal dreams and goals. Furthermore, we proudly tum we needed, and before we knew it, we were off dedicated airtime to shine a bright, celebratory light on and running. Our partners, KDNK, The Sopris Sun our vibrant Latino community during Hispanic Heritand Sol de Valle, have been absolutely indispensable, age Month, sharing stories that reflect their rich culture demonstrating unbelievable support and flexibility. and profound contributions.

Their willingness to adapt when our schedule inevitaToday, we are showing no signs of slowing down. bly shifted or when unexpected changes arose allowed In fact, what once felt like the most challenging aspect us to take a confident leap. With all these crucial pieces of this entire venture has now become what I cherVOICES in place, we started the show and, honestly, we have ish most: the continuous, rewarding work of finding never looked back. Except, of course, to take a moment the voices we are privileged to amplify. The discovery RADIO HOUR now to reflect on how far we’ve come! process is an ongoing honor, unearthing the individBy Jennifer Austin Hughes This past year has been nothing short of beautiful, uals right here in our community who possess a story a transformative journey that has unfolded in ways we never fully envi- that needs to be heard, who have something crucial to say and who sioned at the outset. I believe this capacity for organic evolution, this simply need a welcoming, trustworthy platform to share it. openness to wherever the format guides us, is precisely what keeps us This job is a responsibility I will never take for granted. I remain moving forward, perpetually curious and engaged. deeply honored to be a part of this production, alongside my dedicated When the year began, our nation, and by extension our local commu- partners, and I will continue to work tirelessly to bring these essential, nity, felt profoundly divided. We were faced with an environment where compelling stories to you. We are committed to this mission for as long people were understandably guarded, not always eager to sit across a as you all keep listening, keep reading and, most importantly, keep table from one another and share their deepest convictions. In response, yourselves open. Open to the voices of those around you, no matter we intentionally created a space for healing and authentic dialogue. By how different their lived experience or perspective may be from your the end of the year, we had successfully facilitated powerful, heartfelt own. Our collective journey relies on that openness. conversations that spanned difficult, yet vital, topics — from the intricacies of religion and the sharp edges of political discourse to the shared Catch VOICES Radio Hour airing on KDNK this Friday at 6pm and work of healing from past personal and collective traumas. archived at www.voicesrfv.org/voices-radio-hour

“We’ll even do back door pickups to help patients if they don’t feel comfortable getting out and walking on the ice, or something,” he said.

There’s also a health and wellness synergy between the drug store and the gift shop, which he noted has a distinct focus on spending time with family, or learning about something new and away from the distractions of electronics, Jason noted.

“Whether it’s board games or role playing games or card games, we really try to encourage more hands-on, educational, interactive activities,” he said.

Jason also encouraged holiday shoppers to check out the downtown Glenwood vibe in general.

“It’s just fun to come out and see everybody who’s out on the street, and all the other shops down here,” he said.

“Even if you just stop in to say ‘hi,’ you’ll get a smile or two.”

OPINION

from page 6

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THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 19

ASPEN & SNOWMASS Pitkin county Library Hyman Avenue Box Wheeler Opera House Box Snowmass Town Park Station Aspen Valley Hospital Mi Chola Snowmass Clarks Market Snowmass Mall Alpine Bank in Snowmass Alpine Bank in AABC BASALT & EL JEBEL Willits General Store Alpine Bank ANB Bank Basalt Quick Lube Basalt Regional Library Big O Tires El San Miguel Box Casa Tequila CC’s Cafe Whole Foods Eagle County Courts Crown Mountain Express Lube El Jebel Mobile Offices El Korita Hightone Autobody El Jebel Laundromat Mountain Family Health Cazadores Skotties The Basalt Store Timbo’s Hightone Automotive and Tires CARBONDALE 3rd St. Center Alpine Bank Carbondale Library Main St. Box Catherine’s Store Food Truck Carbondale Recreation Center City Market Carbonaldale CMC Edna’s Hair Salon Gloria’s Boutique Garcia’s Jalisco Grill La Fogata La Perla La Placita La Roca Lift-up Sunburst Valley Meats First Bank GLENWOOD SPRINGS Glenwood Springs Library Centennial Park Box Comfort Dental Coin Laundromat Glenwood Recreation Center Glenwood CMC El Yaqui First Bank Frida’s Glenwood Hot Springs Yampa Hotsprings Valley View Hospital Impuestos Seguros La Michoacana Mountain Family Health Post Office Gafield County Human Resources Sal Mex Tequila’s Tony’s Bakery Super Taco Alpine Bank on Grand Ave New Castle New Castle Library City Market Carniceria Elias Hacienda San Miguel Post Office Tapatios Alpine Bank SILT Silt Library La Placita 2 La Placita Market LeMora Pizza Silt Roundabout RIFLE Cafe y Pasteleria Galea East Ave & 3rd St. Box City Hall Box E 12th St. Box El Patron El Rincon Jalisco Grill Mercado San Jose Momma’s Nachos Mexican Dining Paleteria La Korita Promex Bakery Remignton Square Spyderwash Tapatios La Baja Espresso Rifle Library Imperio Variedades Dinora Diversity Salon Alpine Bank on 4th St Alpine Bank on Airport Rd PARACHUTE Nalini’s Taqueria Jalisco El Tapatio City Hall Box Parachute Library Running Burrito Lift-up Fifty Shadz Salon Sinclair Vero’s Mexican Bakery

Look for stories like this in this week’s Sol del Valle!

Full edition is available every Friday afternoon on newstands and at businesses from Rifle to Aspen

When Santa went south In Latin America, we believe in Baby Jesus as the encebado,” “guayos,” cometas,” etc. gift-giver. But one day, someone suggested to Santa He had to order extra gifts online (from the platform that he should cover the Southern Hemisphere.

Timo) because the number of soccer balls requested was “Hey, Saint Nick, wanna work with us? Come beyond comprehension, especially in Argentina, where on down. Down here we work on commission. it wasn’t even winter anymore, it was summer! DelivFor every gift you drop off, we’ll give you 20 ery took forever because everything arrived in a rusty bucks. And for every 10 deliveries, we’ll even container from China. Not every kid had behaved throw in tamales for your people”. well, so he had to gather extra coal from the mines Scratching his beard, Santa agreed, shy and in Magallanes, Chile. suspicious, because he’d already heard about And he didn’t realize that most houses some strange stuff. The Tooth Fairy once told didn’t have chimneys, garages or backyards him that her southern equivalent, Ratón Pérez, for sleigh-landing purposes. He had to ring was literally a mouse. some doorbells and sneak through windows Nonetheless, Santa set sail from the North ANCHORS AWEIGH at others. People even confused him with a Pole. He had to fly Latin American Airlines, sketchy burglar who wore a Christmas hat with

By Felipe Perez and everything started going downhill when long hair and a beard. He faced a couple of Sol del Valle they charged him new government fees to arrests and had to pay bribes for bail. transport the sleigh. In the cargo hold he barely fit his magic On top of that, Interpol is now looking for him for breach bag, which was sniffed by three different German shep- of contract. He showed up late, because in the Southern herds upon arrival. At Bogotá’s El Dorado Airport, he became Hemisphere gifts are handed out at midnight on the 24th, not famous on the TV show “Airport Alert” because Rudolph’s Christmas morning, and he left many kids crying. That’s not nose was bright red and covered in white snow… and that even counting the delays from traffic jams in Bogotá, São Paulo, seemed extremely suspicious. and Mexico City. It got so bad the Three Wise Men nearly beat In Lima, he had to wait because his luggage was rerouted him there from the Sahara. to the Cayman Islands, where, coincidentally, he keeps his Overheated, malaria-infected, with reindeer that now personal “donation” accounts. Then in La Paz, authorities jailed looked like stray dogs, he headed back to the North Pole. He one of his elves for allegedly panhandling outside parliament. had a layover in the U.S., but forgot to get his visa. So he came In Caracas he got caught in the hailstorm of the century; at least in through Sonora, reached Arizona, and stayed at a shelter for it reminded him of snow, but it dented his sleigh. So he paid a a couple of days while he fattened back up on tortillas and frijoneighborhood mechanic to retrofit the vehicle so he could land les (beans) and recovered his ruminant buddies from Animal it on the floodwaters of the Paraná in Brazil.

Protection Services. He was never the same again. So much so In Cartagena de Indias, people assumed he was just another that Mrs. Claus barely recognized him; she almost mistook him overheated gringo, shirt soaked in sweat, trench coat tied for Bigfoot or Donald Trump. around his waist. They gave him one of those “exotic” beach He told his beloved: “I’m never going back to the Southmassages that cost $100 for three minutes. ern Hemisphere. Down there everything works backwards. I’ll When he checked the kids’ wish lists, everything was in leave that to Baby Jesus, he’s the only one who can infiltrate Spanish. He had to find a priest to translate because ChatGPT the underworld.” couldn’t handle “trompo,” “golosa,” “matatena,” “palo Colorín colorado… Este cuento se ha acabado. (The end.)

Follow Leonardo Occhipinti’s “Nuevo Mundo” in Sol del Valle every week in Spanish.

Bianca Godina — Editor • bianca@soldelvalle.org | Margarita Alvarez — Advertising • margarita@soldelvalle.org www.soldelvalle.org • info@soldelvalle.org • 970-510-0234

20 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | December 18-24, 2025

Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com

Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores.

Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com

Winter Solstice John F. Neiley Glenwood Springs

The ragged butt ends of the day burn low, While darkness of the longest night draws near.

The river ebbs and freezes, choked and slow; Storm clouds looming, dismal, black and drear.

What hope can stand as winter’s reign impends?

That grim reminder of our own demise.

Just this: The crackling fire, a merry feast, strong friends, Sweet laughter, and the summer in your eyes.

Photo by Benny Blue @freeradicalpress

The tattered remnants of the year unwind As Earth leans weary on its wobbling pole.

The waning sun retreats to warmer climes To shield its pallid face from wind and cold.

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THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 21

LETTERS software filters and similar technology on behalf of underage patrons, but to disable those filters per the request of an adult user.

Senate Bill 24-216 was passed by the Colorado legislature in May 2024. This bill details what the library’s responsibilities are when considering the banning (removal, restriction or relocation) of titles. The bill emphasizes the role of professional knowledge and experience in creating public library collections.

What the BOCC wants is against the law.

CIPA protects children against obscene material defined as having no literary, political or scientific value. SB24-216 spells out library responsibilities when considering a challenge to a title. Both rules are followed by the library trustees.

In library school one learns to make a conscious effort to strategically arrange a collection so that age-appropriate information is in each section: children, young adult and adult. Our library district is following the law. The BOCC refuses to trust the experts and wants a commitment from the selected trustee to refuse to follow the law, to break the law. SHAME ON YOU. Jocelyn Durrance Carbondale

Traffic concerns Community members and transportation experts have raised serious concerns about the traffic mitigation plan proposed for the Harvest Roaring Fork development along Highway 82. A review shows the plan relies on assumptions that do not reflect existing conditions on an already constrained corridor.

The traffic analysis does not fully account for the project’s scale, which includes approximately 1,500 residential units, potential accessory dwelling units, commercial uses and a hotel. Using more realistic trip rates suggests the actual traffic impacts may be significantly greater than those presented.

Highway 82 is already operating at or near capacity, with daily volumes between 24,000 and 29,000 vehicles. Adding what could be more than 15,000 additional daily trips is effectively introducing a small city’s worth of traffic onto a roadway that is already strained.

Equally concerning is the lack of meaningful analysis of construction traffic. Years of heavy trucks, material deliveries, equipment hauling and worker commutes are not adequately modeled, despite impacts occurring long before occupancy and continuing through a multi-phase build out that could last through 2040.

22 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | December 18-24, 2025

from page 22

Safety risks are particularly acute in the Cattle Creek area, where increased traffic, turning movements and construction vehicles will heighten dangers for residents, emergency responders and wildlife.

This corridor also serves as critical wildlife habitat, and added traffic will worsen fragmentation and collision risks.

Finally, the mitigation strategy relies heavily on optimistic assumptions such as internal capture and reverse commuting.

If these assumptions fail, congestion will fall entirely on Highway 82, raising serious concerns for emergency response and wildfire evacuation.

If a traffic mitigation plan does not withstand basic scrutiny, the project is not ready for approval. Our community deserves realistic, transparent development that protects public safety and quality of life.

Miriam Muñiz Fennell Glenwood Springs

Safety or gridlock?

Our community must demand a safe and sensible development plan for the proposed 111-unit workforce housing project by Aspen One (Ski Co) near Blue Lake. While we fully support the goal of workforce housing, the current proposal is fatally flawed in its excessive scale and its catastrophic impact on public safety.

The project’s density, at approximately 5.5 units per acre, is incompatible with our neighborhood’s character. This is more than double the density of the existing Blue Lake community (2.34 units/acre) and forces the developer to build three-story, multi-family buildings that will fundamentally change the suburban look and feel of our area.

It is an urban apartment complex being dropped into a low-profile community.

Even more alarming is the traffic plan.

Aspen One’s traffic study is unreliable, based on the wrong standard (“Affordable Housing” ITE 223), which leads to a massive undercount. The claim that 111 units will generate only 28 total trips in the morning rush is simply unbelievable. The developer is so aware of the traffic disaster that they are asking for a waiver to excuse a Level of Service (LOS) failure at the Blue Lake main entrance (SH 82 and JW Drive/Valley Road). This failure projects an average wait of over five and a half minutes (334.5 seconds) per car for one turn — a direct compromise of public safety.

The resulting gridlock will not only be a daily nightmare but will also delay emergency response times, a concern formally raised by Roaring Fork Fire Rescue. continued on page 23

LETTERS

from page 22

The solution is not a safety waiver, but a sensible compromise. We urge our community leaders to formally oppose the current plan and demand a scale-back. Opposition could be reduced or withdrawn only if the project size is limited to a maximum of 50 to 60 total units and the buildings are reduced to one or two stories high. We need a good neighbor, not a safety disaster.

Susan Sullivan Carbondale

Liberty and justice Do these words sound familiar?

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”

Liberty and justice for all — that is our pledge, stated within the Constitution and its amendments.

What does “justice” mean? Receiving “due process,” if anyone, ANYONE, is accused of a crime, that person, regardless of citizenship status, receives a just and fair trial before being determined guilty.

SPORTS from page 11 Luca Del Cid (6-4) scored 3.5 varsity points, earning a technical fall over Eagle Valley’s Brider Bair in the second round, before falling in 2:45 to North Fork’s Abel Etter. Brooks Ragan (7-2) scored six varsity points, earning wins over a pair of Walsenburg wrestlers, Bianni Mayden in 2:06 and Jason Brown in 1:37, before falling to Alamosa’s Max Dokson in 0:54.

Roaring Fork student-athletes wrestling

During these past few months, U.S. military has been ordered to attack and destroy boats in international waters and murder all survivors. Those actions, those orders, are illegal.

Mark Kelly, a U.S. veteran and senator, publicly reminded our President — and all of us — that if anyone in the military is ordered to commit an illegal action, that person is obligated to refuse.

Trump has publicly stated Mark Kelly is guilty and should be hung.

Trump’s accusation is unethical, outrageous and dangerous. I thank those members of Congress who stood with Mark Kelly, voiced their own outrage and reminded all of us that our fundamental rights are being threatened. I support those courageous six lawmakers and veterans fully. They took action. They refused to violate their oaths to protect and uphold the United States’ Constitution.

I ask every single one of our representatives and senators to stand up and speak out.

I must do the same.

Nancy Bo Flood Glenwood Springs

LIBRARY from page 5 raised four children. He settled into a career in sales before meeting his wife and moving to the U.S. Aside from sales, he’s worked in homecare as well.

He and his wife are both musicians and perform a few times a year between the six library branches. “The library is the epitome of civilization,” he said, “and we have six wonderful Garfield County libraries.”

He commended staff and Executive Director Jamie LaRue. Green supported restricting child access to books he described as “pornographic,” by placing them out of reach or in a different room.

Brit McClin was the only incumbent to be interviewed, having served for the past year after being appointed by the BOCC to fulfill Crystal Mariscal’s term. “Probably the greatest strength that I have is that I know the job,” he said.

He explained that the library he went to growing up had an age-restricted section.

“I survived that,” he said. “So, personally, I really don’t care if we do that again.”

However, he restated the importance of following the law, and referenced Colorado Senate Bill 24-216 Section 2 standards, which restrains libraries from regulating access to resources based on partisan or doctrinal disapproval and places an onus on libraries to challenge censorship.

“Does the public have a right to take umbrage with some of these positions?

Absolutely,” he said.

Library recommendations The library board met on Monday, Dec. 15 to vote on its recommended candidates. All library board members were present, except Tony Hershey (Glenwood Springs). McClin recused himself for the New Castle discussion.

The board unanimously voted to recommend Gregorio Rios (Rifle), Lynda Prendergast (Parachute) and Brit McLin (New Castle).

PARTING SHOTS

this season are Waylon Applegate, Graham Rose, Colby Samuelson and Luca Shafer; and for the girls: Jocelyn Rivera, Isabella Gonzales and Ashley Nunez.

In recent action for the Glenwood-based hockey team, the Demons won 4-1 versus Aspen on Dec. 12, and lost 4-1 to Battle Mountain on Dec. 13; now standing at 3-2 on the season.

Roaring Fork hockey players this season are David Santini, Finley Carter and Luke Phillips.

Roaring RoaringFork ForkWell WellVault Vault Project Project

Public PublicWorks WorksDepartment Department Town TownofofCarbondale Carbondale 511 511Colorado ColoradoAve Ave Carbondale, Carbondale,CO CO81623 81623

BIDS ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENTFOR FORBIDS

Roaring RoaringFork ForkWell WellVault VaultProject Project Issue IssueDate: Date:12/18/2025 12/18/2025 || Closing ClosingDate: Date:01/19/2026 01/19/2026 Non-Mandatory Non-MandatoryPre-Bid Pre-BidConference: Conference:01/08/2026 01/08/2026@@11 11AM AMatatWell WellHouse House Sealed Sealedbids bidsfor forthe theconstrucMon construcMonofofthe theRoaring RoaringFork ForkWell WellVault VaultProject Projectwill willbe bereceived receivedfrom frominvited invited Bidders Biddersbybythe theTown TownofofCarbondale Carbondale(“OWNER”) (“OWNER”)atatTown TownHall, Hall,511 511Colorado ColoradoAve, Ave,Carbondale, Carbondale,CO CO81623, 81623, unMl unMl11:00 11:00AM AMon onJanuary January19, 19,2026, 2026,atatwhich whichMme Mmethe theBids Bidsreceived receivedwill willbe bepublicly publiclyopened openedand andread. read.

The TheRFWH RFWHWell WellIntake IntakeVault VaultProject Projectincludes includesthe theconstrucMon construcMonofofaanew newunderground undergroundconcrete concretevault vault including includingfive five(5) (5)piping pipingmaterials, materials,one one(1) (1)intake intakemanifold, manifold,one one(1) (1)connecMon connecMontotothe theexisMng exisMngwetwell, wetwell, and andone one(1) (1)connecMon connecMontotoan anexisMng exisMngwell. well.Work Workincludes includesallallassociated associatedsite, site,piping, piping,concrete, concrete,and and waterproofing waterproofingwork workrelated relatedtotothe theproject. project.

Bids Bidswill willbe bereceived receivedfor fora asingle singleprime primeContract.

Contract.Bidding BiddingDocuments Documentswill willbe beprovided providedtotoprospecMve prospecMve Bidders Biddersasaselectronic electronicPDF PDFfiles. files.

The TheIssuing IssuingOffice Officefor forthe theBidding BiddingDocuments DocumentsisisRoaring RoaringFork ForkEngineering Engineering(RFE), (RFE),592 592Hwy Hwy133, 133, Carbondale, Carbondale,CO, CO,81623 81623(Contact: (Contact:Maggie MaggieMcHugh, McHugh,PE PE(614) (614)256-4714, 256-4714,MaggieM@rfeng.biz).

MaggieM@rfeng.biz).

ProspecMve ProspecMveBidders Biddersmay mayexamine examinethe theBidding BiddingDocuments Documentsatatthe theIssuing IssuingOffice Officeon onMondays Mondaysthrough through Fridays Fridaysbetween betweenthe thehours hoursofof88AM AMtoto55PM PMand andmay mayobtain obtaincopies copiesofofthe theBidding BiddingDocuments Documentsfrom fromthe the Issuing IssuingOffice Officeasasdescribed describedbelow. below.Bidding BiddingDocuments Documentsare areavailable availableasaselectronic electronicportable portabledocument document format format(PDF) (PDF)files. files.AlternaMvely, AlternaMvely,printed printedBidding BiddingDocuments Documentsmay maybe beobtained obtainedfrom fromthe theIssuing IssuingOffice Officevia via in-person in-personpick-up, pick-up,for fora anon-refundable non-refundablecharge chargeofof$75 $75per perset. set.Checks Checksfor forBidding BiddingDocuments Documentsshall shallbe be payable payabletotoRoaring RoaringFork ForkEngineering.

Engineering.The Thedate datethat thatthe theBidding BiddingDocuments Documentsare aretransmiced transmicedbybythe theIssuing Issuing Office Officewill willbe beconsidered consideredthe thedate dateofofreceipt receiptofofthe theBidding BiddingDocuments.

Documents.Neither NeitherOwner Ownernor norEngineer Engineerwill will be beresponsible responsiblefor forfull fullororparMal parMalsets setsofofBidding BiddingDocuments, Documents,including includingAddenda Addendaififany, any,obtained obtainedfrom from sources sourcesother otherthan thanthe theIssuing IssuingOffice.

Office.

AApre-bid pre-bidconference conferencewill willbe beheld heldatat1111AM AMon onJanuary January8th, 8th,2026.

2026.This Thisconference conferenceisisnon-mandatory non-mandatorybut but highly highlyencouraged. encouraged.InInaccordance accordancewith withthe theContract ContractDocuments Documents(C-200 (C-200SecMon SecMon5.03) 5.03)the theContractor Contractorisis required requiredtotoconduct conducta asite sitevisit visitprior priortotobid bidsubmission. submission.That Thatvisit visitcan caneither eitherbe beatatthe thepre-bid pre-bidmeeMng meeMngoror arranged arrangedfor foranother anotherday dayand andMme Mmewith withTown Townstaff staffpresent. present. Reach Reachout outtotoMaggie MaggieMcHugh McHughfor fora asite siteGPS GPS locaMon locaMonand anddirecMons. direcMons.

AA5% 5%bid bidsecurity securityshall shallbe befurnished furnishedininaccordance accordancewith withthe theInstrucMons InstrucMonstotoBidders.

Bidders.Bidders Biddersshall shallsubmit submit proof proofofofqualificaMons qualificaMonstotoperform performthe theWork Workasasdescribed describedininthe theInstrucMons InstrucMonstotoBidders.

Bidders.

Public PublicWorks WorksDepartment Department Town TownofofCarbondale Carbondale

SERVICE DIRECTORY HOUSING AVAILABLE WILLITS RENTAL - 725 sq foot walk-up apartment walking distance to town center in beautiful residential neighborhood.

One bedroom, full kitchen, fully furnished. $2,500 / month with all utilities included.

EJCDC® EJCDC® C-111, C-111, Advertisement Advertisement forfor Bids Bids forfor Construction Construction Contracts.

Contracts.

Copyright ©© 2013 National Society of of Professional Engineers, American Council Copyright 2013 National Society Professional Engineers, American Council of of Engineering Companies, and American Society of of Civil Engineers. rights reserved.

Engineering Companies, and American Society Civil Engineers.AllAll rights reserved.

Call Mike at 730-545-7038.

S.A.W. Studio for Arts + Works hosted its annual SAWliday Open House on Dec. 13, inviting the community to tour studios and purchase art. Resident Mila Rossi treated visitors to a live painting demonstration.

Photo by Kate Ott

THE SOPRIS SUN | Your weekly community connector | December 18-24, 2025 23

Carbondale Chamber Member Celebrations July - December, 2025

Congratulations to the Carbondale Chamber Members who marked milestone achievements with a Ribbon Cutting or celebration! We are proud to be your partner in making Carbondale a more vital and dynamic place to live, work, and visit.

The Glow Studio

Mindful Me Playhouse

Pictured: Lorrie Barnett Fissenden, L.Ac., MSOM, Owner; and Andrea Stewart, Carbondale Chamber President & CEO

Pictured: Jess Robison, Carbondale Chamber Trustee Liaison; Andrea Stewart, Carbondale Chamber President & CEO; Jodi Burgart, M.ED, BCBA, Owner and Matt Burgart, Owner

Welcome, New Members!

AlpenGlow PT LLC Alpine Performance Labs, Inc. Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program Assured Ventures, LLC Aussie Plumbing and Heating, Inc. Banshee Bikes USA Inc Berger Behavioral Health, LLC Bionomic Trucking, Inc. Blue Horse Equestrian Carbondale Education Foundation Cook Design & Engineering LLC Crystal River Imaging LLC Crystal Springs Marketing

Dance Initiative Inc Drip Custom Beverage Elevation Fitness ELK MTN Brands LTD dba RKYMTN Adult Drinks (RAD) Flood & Peterson Guaranteed Rate, Inc. Hutchins Integrative Health PC Inkwell Games Inc. Interior Surroundings, LLC Lincoln Custom Homes, Inc. Mike Imes Consulting MountainRadiologyRadiology Partners

OMfluence | Hospitality Marketing Padgett Projects Patricia Pier Business Solutions LLC PowMat LLC Premier Nanny Network Protech Inspection Services Inc. Roaring Fork Zen SE Group Segal Development llc The Glow Studio, LLC The Hoffmann Hotel Townline Trucks Tribal Society Jiu-Jitsu

For more information regarding the Carbondale Chamber, membership and ribbon cutting opportunities, visit carbondale.com, or email chamber@carbondale.com.

24 THE SOPRIS SUN | soprissun.com | December 18-24, 2025