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Giving voice

Craft Wellness in Basalt has carried an open mic tradition for almost five years. On Friday, Jan. 23, an offshoot will begin in Redstone, sponsored by the Pitkin County Library, at Joy & Wylde (6 to 8pm). Among other open mics in the Valley — like a Monday night offering at The Collective Snowmass through March (6:30 to 8pm) — intrepid performers have ample opportunity to share their voices with a supportive crowd. Story on page 5

Clockwise from top left: Joey Starr; Jen Roby; Billy Tweedy; Mike Waters; sisters Sophia and Maddie Webster; Raé Van Sunshine; Penelope Thornton; Shawn O’Neil; Erin Strawberry.

Photos by Thomas Howard/Howling Parrot

Earth, water, fire and air!

Woe is us. Yes, the millions of people in the Great American West who depend on the snowpack for 80% of our water. This year has shaken us to the bone.

Apparently, there was a warmer and drier year, winter 1980, that we are competing with. Oddly, more prominent in people’s memory was the terrible winter of 1976-77. People drove over Independence Pass until early January. Skiing, sans snowmaking, was very late in coming and was not good. Skiers, ski professionals (instructors and patrollers), local ranch and farm folks who ran lifts and snowcats … everyone suffered.

There was a significant difference between 1976 and 2025-26. Seventy-six was frigid! Residents in Redstone’s Osgood-era homes with dry-stack stone foundations experienced frozen water pipes up and down the Boulevard due to lack of insulating snow.

There was a bygone industry in all our valleys that perhaps not a soul alive experienced. Three doors down from the Redstone Inn and backed up to the Crystal River sits a small, two story blue building, which, despite its remodel, is clearly from the early 1900 building boom.

ranches and outlying residences. Sources record some Colorado ice harvesting operating at scale until World War II. This cold, unique and often fun livelihood has now gone the way of the horse drawn buggy. Gone but not forgotten, there are still ice harvesting festivals to commemorate this essential industry.

OPINION

CVEPA VIEWS

By John Armstrong

The Redstone ice house was the storage facility for tons of cubic meters of indispensable ice that chilled meat, milk and vegetables in every house in town. The building walls were insulated with dry sawdust that successfully preserved the ice for the entire year. People could buy ice on location, but home delivery was most common.

Such an essential commodity supported an industry employing many men at a time of year when work was scarce. Most every municipality had an ice house and a frozen water body to supply it.

The Redstone Farm, one mile south of town along the river, was the site of a pond where a busy crew sawed large blocks of ice in the cold winter months. Men used sharp irons to score an extensive geometric grid in the ice. Their ice saws had very large teeth and were seven to eight feet long. Pikes and tongs, conveyors and hoists facilitated the harvest.

The delivery wagons, and later trucks, were a common sight in towns into the last century. Homes had beautiful oak chests with multiple doors enclosing tin-smithed drawers to store the ice blocks and food.

Prospect Mountain Ranch in Marble Valley had the “luxury” of hydro-electric power, generated by an approximately fivefoot diameter Pelton wheel mounted along an irrigation ditch. Used for irrigation all day, the ditch was diverted to the wheel at night when it supplied lights and refrigeration. Rural electrification gradually brought the amenities of electrical appliances to

LETTERS

Literacy Outreach appeal

Thank you so much to The Sopris Sun for running a news brief about our information sessions and need for volunteer tutors. The meeting at the Carbondale Library on Jan. 16 was a success, but I would love to continue spreading the word about our program and our needs. Literacy Outreach is a nonprofit organization that has served Garfield County residents by teaching essential English-language skills to adults for the last 40 years. With the help of community volunteers, we have served over 3,228 residents, and there are currently over 110 more on our waitlist for lessons between Parachute and Carbondale. Anyone interested in learning more about how to get involved is invited to attend another one of our upcoming information sessions. We will have one on Jan. 23 at the Rifle Library at 4pm and one at our office (1127 School Street in Glenwood Springs) on Jan. 29 at 2pm. We can be reached at 970-945-5282 for more information.

Megan Webber Literacy Outreach

Poop at the park

I am a resident of Carbondale, a dog owner and a frequent visitor of Crown

About this time in Redstone history, another nascent winter economy arose. The Redstone Ski Area opened on Christmas 1960 with a short T-bar tow that operated just that year. The cute and colorful, short-lived lift still stands on private property. The T-bar was a far cry from the original grandiose proposal.

The vision was a tramway from Redstone to the upper basin of East Creek! Redstone is no stranger to extreme wealth. The developer was one of Texas’ first oil billionaires, Frank Kistler. Kistler bought the Hotel Colorado, the Glenwood Hot Springs and then moved up and bought the Redstone Inn. Kistler applied to the U.S. Forest Service for his ski development. Money was no object, but he was refused a permit. The reason was the lack of perennial snow in Redstone.

Newcomers will not remember the excitement of the Redstone Sled Dog Races. The late January event was Redstone’s answer to Aspen’s Wintersköl. Starting in the mid 1980s, the annual sled dog races started at the inn and ran right down the Boulevard to the Forest Service campground and back. The race spiced up winter doldrums, brought throngs to town and was coupled with ice sculpting and concessions. Rain, snow, warm … As popular for all as it was labor intensive for the Redstonians, the races lasted 25 years, until the vagaries of winter temperatures brought the event to an end.

Oh the joy that the Redstone Pillar brought everyone. Located behind the country store, the 30-feet tall, 15-feet wide azure blue tower became a Redstone tradition. Local climbers held an ice climbing festival for a couple of years, but inconsistent low temperatures exacerbated liability concerns making this festival short-lived.

Is it too late to save our winters? The Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association believes that, “weather” or not, only good things will come of a more conservative approach to resource management and a more diversified energy policy.

To learn more about the Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association and our mission please search www.cvepa.org or visit us on Facebook.

Mountain Park. Who wouldn’t be grateful for such a wonderful and expansive park for our community, our families and our pets, too!

The issue, POOP! I am as responsible as the next resident, visitor, part-timer, or up valley / down valley pet owner who is welcome to, and uses, our amazing park. We have such a gift in Crown Mountain Park and such vast opportunity. It is equally an amazing place to meet neighbors, make new friends and share the wealth of our home community.

I am guilty of chatting with another dog owner, potential friend, cute person in our valley and then, unbeknownst to me, my pup is off pooping! To make up for it, as I walk the loop and through the vast fields, I pick up YOUR pups’ poop.

I have picked up 20-plus poops on an average day. Can you join in? Can you help too?

Recently, I was told that its board of directors discussed making the park an on-leash-only zone. Oh my! What an enormous loss that would be to our community. Among the reasons is the poop factor. So if you see a poop, whether it comes from your pet or not, can you help out and pick it up, dispose of it responsibly and help keep our park as

spectacular as it is?

Last spring as the snow melted, the park had a sign that said they picked up 700 pounds of poop! Really? Why should they have to cover for all of us? I am out there gently reminding pet owners of our responsibilities and asking all of us not to turn a blind eye to poop.

Maybe a monthly or bimonthly community clean up (happy hour after!?) is the answer. What are you willing to do to keep our park as a dog-friendly, off-leash park that is equally shared with soccer teams, families, children, playgrounds, bike parks, etcetera. Please respond, and let’s make this work for us all!

Nicole Lucido Carbondale

Demand charge

I am writing to express my opposition to the demand charge proposed by Holy Cross Energy (HCE). While HCE frames this new charge as a way to “align rates with grid costs,” the reality is that the new charge is regressive and places a disproportionate burden on working families. HCE’s proposal imposes an additional $1 per kilowatt charge for electricity used based on the highest 15 minutes of continued on page 22

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Sopris Sun requests

The Sopris Sun is seeking local restaurants and catering companies interested in participating with our 17th anniversary wine tasting fundraiser at the Thompson Barn in River Valley Ranch on Feb. 17. In exchange for appetizers, The Sopris Sun and Sol del Valle will offer $600 in advertising credit. For details, contact Elizabeth Phillips at gravity@sopris.net

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The Town of Basalt is seeking qualified individuals to run for Town Council to serve a four-year term. There are three open seats on the ballot for the April 7 municipal election. Nomination petitions are available from the Town Clerk and must be returned, with 25 valid signatures, no later than 5pm on Jan. 26.

Gallery proposals

Do you have an idea for an art exhibition? Carbondale Arts is accepting 2027 gallery proposals featuring local and regional artists through May 4. Find the details at www.carbondalearts.com/exhibitions/2027-proposals and don’t miss the 47th annual Valley Visual Art Show opening at The Launchpad this Friday, Jan. 23, with a reception from 5 to 7pm. The show will remain on display through Feb. 23.

NOCTURNES

Local pianist extraordinaire Clay Boland Jr. has released two new albums on Apple Music, Spotify and YouTube: “NOCTURNES VOL. I PART I” and “NOCTURNES VOL. I PART II.” Together, the albums have nighttime improvisations in all 24 keys.

Wapiti Commons

Habitat for Humanity of the Roaring Fork Valley (Habitat RFV) celebrated the completion of Wapiti Commons on Jan. 16. This new 20-unit affordable condominium development in Rifle is the largest building Habitat RFV has constructed. Throughout the process homeowners completed financial education, navigated the complexities of securing a mortgage and contributed 250 hours of sweat equity to the project.

Glenwood fatality

Jennifer Parker, 47, and her dog were struck and killed by a semi-truck trailer towing a utility-enclosed semi-box trailer on I-70 west of Glenwood Springs on Wednesday, Jan. 14, around 7:19pm. The driver reportedly fled the scene after initially stopping and has since been identified. Witnesses are asked to call 970-249-4392 and reference case number VC260017. Our condolences to family and friends of Parker.

The Town of Carbondale officially wrapped up its first-ever capital campaign on Dec. 31, securing the funding needed to complete the new Aquatic Center. Nearly $2.1 million was raised from more than 500 individual donors, families, foundations, civic organizations and county and state grants, complemented by $2.3 million from the Town’s reserve funds and over $9 million in bonds and interest. “We had a mountain to climb, and we did it,” commented Parks and Rec Director Eric Brendlinger. At $13.4 million total, this will be the first all-electric aquatics facility in Colorado. The Carbondale Aquatic Center is poised to open this spring. Courtesy photo

Home Waters expansion

Home Water Real Estate Group announced last week the hire of two prominent Roaring Fork Valley professionals: Colorado native and internationally recognized fly-fishing guide Steven Brown, and former Carbondale mayor and property management expert Dan Richardson. “We’re thrilled to welcome Steve and Dan to the Home Waters family,” stated Mike Shook, founding owner and managing broker. “Both embody our philosophy of connection, stewardship and honest service. Together, they strengthen our ability to help clients find exceptional properties that reflect their lifestyle and legacy.”

Disasters appeal

Governor Jared Polis submitted an appeal to the Trump administration to reconsider its decision to deny two major disaster declaration requests for the 2025 Elk and Lee fires and flooding in Archuleta County. According to a press release, the Elk and Lee fires caused $27,491,064 in damages, which was verified through FEMA’s Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment. “We are submitting these appeals to help ensure that the Colorado communities impacted can get the support they deserve to recover more quickly,” said Polis.

Free tax help

High Country Volunteers offers free tax preparation assistance to individuals earning less than $67,000, as well as seniors, veterans

and individuals living with a disability, Feb. 3 through April 15. The Tax Assistance Program offers support for simple filings only. Assistance sites are located throughout Garfield and Pitkin counties, and appointments can be made by calling 970-896-6210. For more information, visit www.highcountryvolunteers.org/ourprograms

Youth In Nature

Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers is accepting applications for its 2026-2027 Youth In Nature high school internship program. Participants receive a $1,500 educational award over the course of the year, meet once a month for stewardship projects and outdoor recreation, including a backcountry hut trip, and discover volunteer opportunities and associative job prospects. Applications are due April 4. For more information, visit www.rfov.org/youth-in-nature

They say it’s your birthday! Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Joshua Adamson, Melissa Missy Elzey, Peter Green, Taylor Wagner and Abriah Wofford (Jan. 22); Josie Cruz, Jack Green, Bear Matthews, Becca Rogers, Christine Hill Smith and Hone Williams (Jan. 23); Linda Lafferty and Marty Silverstein (Jan. 24); Felina Cruz (Jan. 25); Kitty Bearden, Brian Colley, Alli Powell, Kat Taylor and Arick Zeigel (Jan. 26); Kaleb Cook, Laura McCormick Grobler and Elizabeth Ritchie (Jan. 27); Greg Albrecht, Sheila Duke and Carly Rosenthal (Jan. 28).

Craft’s open mic series boosts soulful expression

Redstone series begins Jan. 23

RALEIGH BURLEIGH

Sopris Sun Editor

There’s nothing quite like an open mic. Artists of varying skill levels arrive with a common impulse — to share their voice (or playing) with strangers. Whether a seasoned musician, upcoming star or hobby guitarist, all are welcome to take the stage and sing their heart, spit their poetry or tell a little story.

Since the summer of 2021, Dri Liechti has provided a space for these intimate, vulnerable performances. It began at Craft Coffee House, previously at 689 Main Street in Carbondale, and continues at Craft Wellness in Basalt. Among the early champions, Sopris Sun contributor Will Buzzerd and Dylan Stars helped lead the charge.

The spirit of an open mic dovetails perfectly with Liechti’s mission for Craft: To combat loneliness by giving people a welcoming place to find community. “Music allows people to have a place to go,” she commented, “and there’s so much local talent in this valley.”

Craft transitioned last year from a creative coffee shop abounding with events and support for small businesses, into a community wellness collective where yoga classes, workshops, pop-ups and more regularly take place at 160 Midland Avenue, Basalt. Among the offerings: a sauna and cold plunge for rent.

Nowadays, Adam Gray organizes the open mics most Wednesdays with

a spotlight on rising talents. During the summer months, the courtyard behind Craft surges with up to 60 people, many spilling over after the Wednesday concert in Basalt River Park. During the winter, it’s more of a cozy affair, with charcuterie and wine, and 50% of ticket sales go to the featured artist kicking off the night with an extended set. Among the spotlighted artists: Harley Ellis, David Brown and, most recently, duo Jenny Henry and Logan Coleman Pickrell ahead of their move to Asheville, North Carolina.

Gray takes each occasion to interview the featured artists about their work.

“I think people want to get to know the artists, to see the process,” he commented.

“That’s my open mic.”

Thomas Howard, owner of Howling Parrot, provides professional sound equipment and videography, archiving these soulful displays by locals and visitors alike. His skills were sharpened shooting for bluegrass festivals including Planet Bluegrass in Lyons.

“It’s like a family,” Howard affirmed.

“Everybody is super friendly.” Volunteering his time and expertise helps Howard connect with his son who passed on last year and was a close friend to Liechti and Craft.

Among the organizers, an emphasis on creating an attentive, encouraging tone is paramount. Unlike in a bar or restaurant, the audience is composed entirely of people there to respectfully listen, and

maybe even work up the courage to share.

“We’re just a family,” Liechti reiterated. “Anyone who walks through that door.”

And with community effort, the event continues to build.

Beginning this Friday, Jan. 23, at 6pm, Gray will take the open mic series to Redstone in partnership with Joy & Wylde and the Pitkin County Library. Joy & Wylde will serve hot soup made from scratch and charcuterie, along with specialty cocktails

and other beverages. According to Gray, what they’re building is “venue agnostic.” He added, “The spirit can travel.”

On Jan. 28, back at Craft, Penelope Thornton will be the spotlighted artist. The show starts at 7:30pm. You can catch Thornton performing a preview on Everything Under The Sun on KDNK this Thursday, Jan. 22, at 4pm.

Stay apprised of future Craft offerings at @craft_wellness on Instagram.

Harley Ellis serenades Jenny Henry and Logan Coleman Pickrell ahead of their move to North Carolina at Craft Wellness on Jan. 7, 2026. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Roaring Fork foot traffic, commerce remains hot despite lack of snowfall

RAY K. ERKU Sopris Sun Correspondent

Dry is a word many Coloradans don’t like hearing in January. Less snow means harsher skiing conditions, and sparse moisture could adversely affect the next wildfire season.

For the Colorado Headwaters River Basin, where resorts like Sunlight and all Aspen SkiCo mountains reside, it’s experiencing its lowest snowpack in state history. And at just 55% of normal, according to SNOTEL data, chamber of commerce officials around the Roaring Fork Valley suggest that many visitors are avoiding the slopes and going straight to the apres.

springs or to enjoy dried-out hiking and biking trails.

According to numbers provided by Langer, average daily visitor counts for the Glenwood Springs Visitor Center increased from 38 to 47 people between December 2024 and December 2025.

“We’re seeing a lot of traffic,” she said. “People want to come, spend money and hangout and shop.”

Anecdotally, I’ve heard that December for retail was very beneficial.

- Andrea Stewart, Carbondale Chamber

“When there isn’t a lot of snow [in] the surrounding areas, especially day trippers come here because the skiing isn’t great,” said Lisa Langer, director of tourism for Visit Glenwood Springs. “We’ve had a really good last few weeks because of low snow.”

Langer said visitors, especially from neighboring Eagle County, where Vail Resorts is also seeing a shortage of snow, find themselves in Glenwood Springs, perhaps looking for a soak in the local hot

of Commerce

The lack of snowfall hasn’t necessarily negatively impacted hotel stays either, according to Snowmass Tourism Director Julia Theisen. Snowmass Village, which currently boosts between 1,800-1,900 rooms for lodging, showed only about a 4% decrease in overnight lodging compared to this same time last year (about 70%), with “last minute bookings” still likely for the remainder of January, she said.

Light to moderate snowfall is expected this weekend. According to OpenSnow, at least three inches are forecasted in the Aspen area between Friday and Saturday. Meanwhile, X Games at Buttermilk is slated for Jan. 23-25 — this weekend.

“We’re definitely seeing some last-minute bookings,” Theisen said.

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“We’re expecting things to fill up as we get the snow.”

Prior to this anticipated influx, however, the Town of Carbondale also retained favorable foot traffic in contrast to low snowfall, according to Carbondale Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Andrea Stewart.

“Anecdotally, I’ve heard that December for retail was very beneficial,” she said. “It worked in the business[es’] favor.”

Though the town’s sales tax revenue for December is currently unavailable, Stewart quickly emphasized the continued success of the local Deck the Walls event.

With at least 70 vendors selling items like chocolate, candles and jewelry, this holiday bazaar saw up to a 3% increase in revenue from last year, according to Brian Colley, gallery manager at Carbondale Arts.

“We were kind of surprised it went up even more this year compared to last year,” he said. “It was really gratifying.”

The Sun asked whether a lack of snow affected foot traffic in Carbondale, from his point of view.

“I think we were surprised this year,” he responded, “because it seemed as busy as ever.”

Carbondale

Around Town

For more than twenty years, CPAC has brought rotating outdoor sculpture to downtown Carbondale, creating a year-round Artwalk that reflects the creativity and spirit of the community Artists of all backgrounds, including emerging makers, are encouraged to apply. Selected Artists to receive a $1,000 honorarium and a $500 travel allowance ENTRY DEADLINE

Feb. 10 2026

Thanks to local shoppers, as well as a steady visitor presence, Carbondale Arts’ Deck the Walls holiday market sales were up about 3% over last year. Photo by Sarah Overbeck, courtesy of Carbondale Arts

Glenwood traffic cameras curbing incessant speeding

JAMES STEINDLER

Contributing Editor

Have you fallen into the speed trap during a recent run to Glenwood Springs, perhaps after beating the light at Buffalo Valley and coming around the bend hastily approaching South Glen Avenue? Well, you’re definitely not alone. To curb incessant speeding, the City has placed one of its fancy new speed cameras nearby to catch motorists and send them a ticket in the mail.

Five automated vehicle identification system cameras were installed around the city, and after a public information and warning period priming locals, from Oct. 20 through Nov. 21, 2025, roughly 19,400 tickets have been sent out since. The deterrent strategy seems to be working, as data reflects that people are adjusting and slowing down (the primary goal). The speed cameras are being used in other parts of the state, following 2023 legislation that informed the provision in Colorado Revised Statute 42-4-110.5.

Even during that warning period, a couple hundred notices, sans fines, were sent out to owners of vehicles that triggered the cameras, but that didn’t even scratch the surface, explained Glenwood Springs Police Department Deputy Chief John Hassell, “because there were so many of them.”

While the above-the-limit threshold that prompts an issuance is not public knowledge, Hassell is confident commuters are beginning to figure that out.

The number of violations detected have already decreased, by 70-75% last week compared to when the program started out, explained Hassell. “As more tickets are issued, people are going to comply more with the speed limit,” he said.

However, he added that at this point it’s difficult to determine trends due to factors such as fluctuating traffic density throughout the year (it was hunting season when this started, Hassell pointed out) and road conditions. “We won’t really know until we look at a full year’s data,” he said.

The ramifications aren’t the same as those following a traditional traffic stop and citation, but rather treated as a civil matter, more comparable to a parking ticket. Being caught on camera doesn’t automatically result in points off a license or being reported to the Department

of Motor Vehicles or insurance.

Before the camera system, a Glenwood Springs police officer was specifically assigned to patrol traffic, issuing between 10 to 20 tickets a day, Hassell estimated. Most officers might write two a day, he added, and are still patrolling traffic.

One camera is on the 100 block of Midland, near the intersection with Wulfsohn Road, two more are next to Yampah Mountain High School (facing both directions), another is at the other end of Midland (near the Four Mile Road intersection) and the one that has seen the most violation is at South Glen Avenue coming into the city from Highway 82. Road signs are in place ahead of each camera on the roadways, cautioning motorists.

The fine is set by the state statute at $40, doubled in school or construction zones, and is the same “whether you’re doing 10 over or 30 over,” explained Hassell. There is a stipulation that violations over 25mph could result in a visit from an officer and possibly a more severe citation being issued.

Notices are sent to the registered owner of a vehicle, who is responsible for the fine regardless of who else might have been driving, and includes a photo of the vehicle and close up of the license plate, the date, time and location of the alleged violation, the payment due date and information on how to challenge the penalty. The municipal court house will hold contested hearings once a month, the first session taking place this Thursday, Jan. 22.

The revenue generated, according to the statute, must first be used to cover the overhead expenses associated with the system, including officer oversight. Excess funds can go toward public safety and associated traffic infrastructure.

“I hope that the community understands that this is about making our community safe, reducing speeds, reducing accidents,” Hassell stated. “We appreciate the amount of effort that’s been made by community members to slow traffic down.”

More information can be found at www.tinyurl.com/GWSspeedcameras

A sign on Midland Avenue warns drivers of an upcoming speed camera near Yampah High School. Photo by James Steindler

The Arctic Hoarder returns to Colorado

AMY HADDEN MARSH

Sopris Sun Correspondent

The North American wolverine (Gulo gulo luscus) is a survivor. It is called the Arctic Hoarder for good reason. This small mammal, a member of the weasel family, lives at high elevations where it’s cold and snowy. Wolverines scavenge for food in the summer and cache it away for winter. And they are returning to Colorado.

Senate Bill 24-171 or “Restoration of Wolverines” was introduced by former state senator Perry Will (now a Garfield County commissioner) in March of 2024 and had bi-partisan support. The bill became law two months later. The bill authorizes Colorado

Parks and Wildlife (CPW) to reintroduce the North American wolverine in the state with certain conditions. As long as the wolverine remains on the federal list of threatened or endangered species, CPW must establish a final 10J rule designating the species as a non-essential, experimental population in Colorado — much like the federal 10J rule governing grey wolf reintroduction. Gulo gulo luscus is federally listed as threatened.

The Act also mandates that CPW develop a restoration plan, a livestock damage compensation rule and a communication plan before paws hit the ground.

At January’s CPW Commission (CPWC) meeting, Dr. Robert Inman, CPW’s wolverine coordinator, told the Commission that the wolverine is smaller than a wolf. “It’s the size of a beagle dog or a corgi with long legs,” he explained. He added that females weigh from 20 to 25 pounds and males weigh 30 to 35 pounds.

“Do you realize how rare it is to see a wolverine?”

“They live in the coldest parts of the Northern Hemisphere,” he added, making Colorado’s High Country a good match, particularly as cold-adapted species face a warming planet.

According to Inman, the animal was extirpated from Colorado in 1919 and disappeared from the lower 48 states the following year. From 1930 to 1970, wolverines returned to the Lower 48 but did not occur in Colorado until almost a century after it was last seen. “During 2009, a male wolverine named ‘M56’ was radio-tracked as he dispersed from near Grand Teton National Park south into Colorado,” he said. “This was the first record of a wolverine in Colorado in 90 years.”

CPW has not yet sourced the wolverines for reintroduction. “Overall, western Canada tops the list,” said Inman. “But there are many source areas that can provide wolverines that should be able to thrive here.”

The plan so far is to release 15 wolverines per year for three years. “Thirty wolverines over two years would be sufficient,” explained Inman. But issues like survival of young animals, called kits, and genetic viability could reduce the population. “We are planning to target a little more than that in case some of the vital rates don’t match Colorado or there are unanticipated issues.”

He added that wolverines don’t move in packs, like wolves. Their home territories are large and they tend to stay there.

“In our Yellowstone study area, we estimated that there were 15 wolverines in an area about half the size of Yellowstone National Park,” he said. “That translates to about four wolverines per thousand square kilometers of habitat.”

He added that Colorado offers about 30,000 square kilometers of habitat and is capable of handling around 100 wolverines. “To understand how sparse wolverines are on the landscape and why it is so rare to see one, imagine the whole of Rocky Mountain National Park from north to south, east to west,” he said. “It’s 415 square miles and there’s room for four to five wolverines in the whole park.”

The wolverines will be released in alpine timberline areas north of I-70, in the high mountains south of I70 and north of Highway 50 and in the southern San Juan mountains.

As for livestock predation, Inman doesn’t see much of an issue there; wolverines tend to feed on smaller mammals like marmots. But domestic sheep share their habitat in Colorado. A livestock damage compensation rule is in the works.

Inman believes that bringing wolverines back to Colorado in the 21st century will work. “Wolverines may have been the first mammal to have been extirpated from the Lower 48,” he said. “This was a result of having no wildlife management laws at the turn of the century.” He added that poison bait is less of an issue these days and food for the wolverine is plentiful.

Seventy percent of habitat is in wilderness areas, which are roadless. Living in alpine habitat will also help ease the impacts of climate change. “Some people think that Colorado could actually be a climate refugium for the species,” he said.

You can find more information about CPW’s wolverine restoration project at www.bit.ly/CO-wolverines

Lepkowski returns, Feds urged to pay state disaster relief, county fair revenues up

AMY HADDEN MARSH

Sopris Sun Correspondent

Silt resident John Lepkowski is at it again with a new complaint about books in the Silt Library. The books are a series of graphic novels titled “The Boys” by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, the same books that a woman complained about last week. Lepkowski told the Garfield County Commissioners (BOCC) Monday that he had asked [Garfield County Court] Judge [Jonathan] Pototsky if there was anything he could do about “obscenity in the library.” Apparently, the judge recommended that Lepkowski contact the county attorney.

Lepkowski stated that he wrote a book review a couple of months ago on “The Boys” and received a letter from Garfield County Library District Director Jamie LaRue. “[He stated] that it’s fine and they’ll do nothing about it,” said Lepkowski. He went on to describe the books as “very obscene and raunchy.” But, he noted that the books were in the adult section. “The trouble is that the desk [in the Silt Library] is around the corner. They cannot see who’s in the adult section,” he explained.

Following in the footsteps of last week’s complaint, he said that the library is hiding behind the First Amendment. “It doesn’t say anything in the First Amendment that you’re authorized to put pornography — sorry, obscenity — where children can obtain it in a public place,” he argued. “The library’s a public place.” He hopes that the new library board of trustees can do something about the books.

Commission Chair Tom Jankovsky reminded Lepkowski that the BOCC only has the authority to appoint trustee members. “So your message needs to go to that library board,” he explained.

Delaney Deskin, the new Central Mountain Regional Representative in Senator Michael Bennet’s Grand Junction office, introduced herself, stating that she started the position in August of 2025, replacing Hilary Henry. Jankovsky and Commissioner Mike Samson requested that the Senator support inclusion of the annual funding for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation’s Water Smart program in the FY 2027 federal budget request. They also asked for Bennet’s support of Rio Blanco County’s appeal of the State of Colorado’s Major Disaster Declaration request related to last summer’s Elk and Lee wildfires.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and President Trump in December rejected the State’s $41 million disaster aid request for those wildfires and floods in other parts of Colorado. The BOCC signed a letter Monday to Trump and Governor Polis, urging them to reverse the decision. Polis has already come out against FEMA’s decision.

Samson stated that he thought President Trump made two mistakes. “I support President Trump in many of the things he is doing, but I think he made a terrible mistake — I’ll say it publicly — with the water situation down in southern Colorado,” he said, referring to a presidential veto of Republican Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s bill to provide safe drinking water to the Arkansas River Valley. “And, I don’t think this is a good idea either — not having support for Rio Blanco County’s disaster declaration.” Moving along, County Assessor Jim Yellico presented the certification of levies and revenue, stating that combined local government revenues throughout the county did not change much last year ($201,335,264) from 2024 ($201,294,909).

County revenues dropped 11.2% due to oil and gas revenue reduction. “The decrease in oil and gas values overtook the increase in residential values,” explained Yellico. “Thank you, Governor Polis,” said Jankovsky. “You’ve done a good job of hurting the natural gas industry in Garfield County and Rio Blanco [County] with your different rules and regulations. Not a single rig in Garfield County at this time.”

Other items included approval of the consent agenda, approval of a budgeted $7,000 for the Human Services Commission’s Humanitarian Awards dinner in April,

continued on page 19

CARE gets $10,000, Council hears Ride Glenwood On-Demand update

JOHN STROUD Sopris Sun Correspondent

A packed Jan. 15 agenda to start the new year took Glenwood Springs City Council about four hours to work through. Included were lengthy conversations around extra funding for the primary animal shelter that serves the area and a data dump and contract extension for the City’s on-demand transit service.

All council members were present for the meeting.

For topics not on the agenda, three downtown-area residents and business owners spoke to their concerns over what they described as excessive lighting at the new North Landing Park on Sixth Street. The park just recently opened, the culmination of a major construction project along the Sixth Street corridor that concluded in the fall.

Laurie Chase, who owns a gallery on Sixth Street, and Doug Burns, who owns a liquor store in that block, both said the lighting likely violates the City’s own lighting ordinance meant to reduce glare and preserve the night sky.

Several council members concurred and said City Council should work with staff to balance public safety with reasonable lighting levels. Staff also said new parking limit signs are forthcoming to prevent long-term parking there.

Following approval of the consent agenda — including appointments to the City’s Arts and Culture, Tourism Management, and Volunteer Firefighter Pension boards — Council heard a request for funding from Colorado Animal Rescue (CARE) Executive Director Wes Boyd.

The City, through its police department, already contracts with Red Hill Animal Health Center in Carbondale to hold stray dogs that are picked up within city limits. However, many of those dogs and animals brought in by residents of Glenwood and the surrounding area end up at the CARE shelter in Spring Valley, Boyd said.

In 2025, 28% of the stray pets and 18% of owner surrenders that came to CARE were from the Glenwood area, he explained.

Boyd initially requested $7,500, though a slim majority of council members, by a 4-3 vote, agreed to $10,000 for 2026. Counselors Mitchell Weimer, Ray Schmahl and Steve Smith were opposed, citing uncertainty about City revenues this year.

Council will likely revisit CARE funding come 2027 budget time.

On-demand transit update

Next, following a presentation from Garfield County Public Health Nutrition Programs Manager Christine Dolan about the dangers of sugary drinks, especially for children, Council dove into statistics and some discussion around the Ride Glenwood On-Demand transit service.

City Transportation Manager Lee Barger reported that since the app-based transit service began in May 2025, it has provided an average of 7,000 rides per month, with a high of 8,326 in October. New Year’s Eve saw the second-highest day, at 351 rides, he said.

The average wait time for a ride is 23 minutes, and 43% of rides are shared between multiple people, Barger also reported. The most popular destinations are City Market, Walmart, locations in Glenwood Meadows, the two hot springs resorts and the South Glenwood bus station.

There was a lengthy discussion about how the on-demand service dovetails with the fixed-route Ride Glenwood bus line that the City contracts with the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority to provide. The in-city bus service is free, where the on-demand, door-to-door service currently costs $1 per ride. Barger speculated that rate could probably be increased to $2 without cutting into use. The fee will be revisited after a rider survey is conducted in the spring, he said.

Council voted 5-2 to amend the contract with Glenwood Downtowner, LLC, extending the on-demand service through this year at a cost of $96,746 per month.

Next, City Engineer Ryan Gordon updated Council on 2026 infrastructure projects that are planned. A big one will be reconstruction of Coach Miller Drive west of Glenwood Springs High School, to include sidewalks, curb and gutter, and realigning the north high school parking lot entrance with Pitkin Avenue.

Public Works Director Matt Langhorst then gave a water supply forecast. Snowpack in the Grizzly and No Name creek headwaters, where Glenwood’s water is derived, is trending similar to the last serious drought year of 2018. Even then, Langhorst said the City had adequate water to serve municipal needs, though outdoor watering restrictions were needed.

The Ride Glenwood On-Demand van awaits riders outside the Glenwood Springs City Market on Tuesday, Jan. 20.

Photo by John Stroud

Annual planning, mobility discussions, e-bike concerns

ANNALISE GRUETER

Sopris Sun Correspondent

The Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) board started the year with reviews of 2025 accomplishments and the 2026 organization work plan. The group also heard a detailed presentation on the data from the October and November Zero Fare pilot program and held board officer elections for the next year.

During the public comment period, community member Kathleen Brehm spoke to the board about electric bicycles. She described herself as a victim of a reckless e-bicyclist, having been hit by an e-bike. “It is my belief that micromobility devices can coexist on the Rio Grande Trail with monitoring.” Brehm told the board that she is still physically recovering from an e-biker colliding with her over 18 months ago, and called for the board to establish a stronger strategy for monitoring electric bicycles and enforcing safety standards.

During board member comments, Aspen Mayor Rachel Richards provided an update on conversations around the entrance to Aspen. Richards raised a question as to whether community taxes originally used to construct upvalley RFTA bus lanes might be reappropriated as monitored commuter lanes. Her impression is that RFTA will play a significant role in eventual solutions for that traffic area. She proposed the possibility of using artificial intelligence modeling to identify possible solutions.

Board member Erin Zalinski of Glenwood Springs proposed looking into using trail cameras on the Rio Grande to gather more data on the types of e-bikes being used. David Knight of Basalt thanked the board for the memo about the Zero Fare pilot program. Carbondale’s Colin Laird suggested having the RFTA and other groups come present to the board. CEO Kurt Ravenschlag noted that the Transportation Coalition is scheduled to present at RFTA’s February board meeting.

The board then quickly passed the consent agenda with approval to public notices of RFTA meetings at the Blake Street Offices in Glenwood Springs. Ravenschlag proceeded to share RFTA’s 2025 year-in-review. In 2025, RFTA had 5.1 million annual riders, nearly back to pre-pandemic ridership levels. It also saw a 2% increase in Rio Grande Trail users, to over 309,000, and a 20% increase in WE-cycle use to over 311,000. Ravenschlag shared additional data, including the increase in city-based microtransit use of the Downtowner and Connect services in Aspen, Basalt, Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. The board noted the popularity of the new Glenwood Ride-on-Demand service, which started in June of 2025.

Ravenschlag presented an overview of the 2026 Strategic Work Plan, which the board saw a preview of in October. One major objective is working to ensure accessibility and mobility on the Rio Grande Trail corridor. RFTA has internally evaluated its efforts there as in progress

but behind schedule. Another objective is financial sustainability; Ravenschlag said the organization aims to complete a capital improvement plan by the second quarter of 2027 and take other steps to maintain a balanced long-range budget. Environmental sustainability also remains a priority for RFTA, which has been working on gradually phasing its operations to utilize renewable and efficient energy sources.

Following Ravenschlag’s presentations, the board heard a detailed update on the Zero Fare pilot program. The pilot attracted new and “discretionary” riders to RFTA services, and the program increased demand by 20% to 30%.

Providing the fare-free services increased operating costs, since it eliminated fare revenue. A survey of riders showed that 50% did not change their bus use based on the pilot, while 31% said they used RFTA services more often than they would have without the pilot. RFTA concluded that it does not recommend running any additional fare-free programs in the near future.

The next board meeting will occur on Feb. 12 at 8:30am at Carbondale Town Hall. The public can also join online via Microsoft Teams. An agenda will be available at www.rfta.com a week ahead of the meeting.

The RFTA 2025 year-in-review showed significant use of last-mile mobility services in Aspen, Basalt, Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. Courtesy photo

‘Science is all around us’

ANNALISE GRUETER

Sopris Sun Correspondent

Alex Tarika first joined the Aspen Science Center (ASC) as a member of the education staff in February 2024. She came from a background in classroom science education, having taught at Aspen Middle School from 2018 to 2022 and Carbondale Community School from 2022 to 2023. When Tarika joined ASC as a new mom, she quickly moved into the education manager role. In October, she stepped up to become the nonprofit’s next executive director.

Tarika is passionate about science education, and sees her teaching background as an advantage for increasing community access to ASC programs. “Knowledge of the education landscape and my connections with our local schools give me a unique understanding in this role,” she told The Sopris Sun.

Last year was a significant one for ASC programs. Tarika shared several highlights, most of which demonstrate the organization’s reach throughout the Valley.

CEF

JOHN STROUD

• K-12 school programs grew: ASC delivered 130 programs for 15 different schools, impacting over 3,000 students from Aspen to Glenwood Springs.

• Monthly STEM Exploration Hour programs continued at each of the eight libraries from Aspen to Parachute, impacting 850+ children and their families or caregivers.

• ASC increased Spanish-language and bilingual program offerings at schools and libraries, including a bi-monthly Ciencia en Comunidad program offered at each of the six Garfield County libraries.

• Approximately 15% of the people who attended ASC programs were native Spanish-speakers, up from less than 5% in 2024.

• Continued to offer weekly Snowmass Ice Age Discovery Tours, thanks to a multi-year partnership with the Town of Snowmass Village and Limelight Hotel. In total, 32 tours were delivered for 300 children and adults.

• ASC hired 12 high school and college-aged youth as paid summer intern educators.

• Launched a year-long paid Community STEM Leaders Internship program. Sixteen youth, from Aspen to Parachute, are developing and delivering STEM programs in their communities.

• Offered 28 hands-on, weeklong STEM summer camps, from Aspen to Rifle, providing 391 children ages 3 to 13 the opportunity to dive deep into exploring STEM topics.

Tarika and ASC staff plan to expand upon those achievements this year. One goal is to continue developing “Early STEM” programming with preschools and home childcare providers. Others include growing K-12 programs by offering more field trips and classroom sessions for each of the four school districts ASC serves (Aspen, Roaring Fork, Re-2, Garfield 16), as well as independent schools in the region. The organization is also increasing its summer camp programming to

offer 38 activities between Aspen and Silt.

Tarika said that ASC aims to increase cross-language programs. ASC wants to “increase our capacity to offer culturally-relevant, bilingual and Spanish-language programs, to better serve the significant Spanish-speaking communities of the greater Roaring Fork region,” she explained. Other goals include

building a series of panel-format programs for adults and increasing technology offerings like afterschool robotics for youth and tech courses for adults.

“Science is all around us and is critical to the progression of society and humanity,” Tarika said. “Our programs are designed to spark curiosity, build confidence and make

continued on page 22

coming into its own to support local schools

Sopris Sun Correspondent

An effort to resurrect a Carbondale-centric foundation to support the local schools has yielded a fair amount of success over the last two years.

In October of last year, the new Carbondale Education Foundation (CEF) also resurrected the town’s Oktoberfest celebration, taking it on as a primary fundraiser for the organization.

The event raised more than $20,000 in its first year, with huge potential to grow even bigger, said CEF President Jamie Nims.

That money is now going directly into public schools in Carbondale in the form of teacher grants to help pay for classroom supplies and special grants for experiential learning.

To help celebrate, CEF is hosting its second teacher and staff

appreciation event on Friday, Feb. 6, at the River Valley Ranch

Old Thompson Barn

“We want to honor the work of all the teachers and staff in the Carbondale public schools, and let them know that the community has their backs and is supporting them through some of the difficult financial transitions,” Nims said, referencing school district budget cuts that became necessary over the past year.

“We’ll have pizza and drinks and will be giving out gift cards and prizes,” he said. “We’re also including the kitchen, transportation and other support staff, because they tend to be less likely to get that public spotlight.”

While the two other Roaring Fork School District communities, Glenwood Springs and Basalt, have had strong local education foundations for many years,

Carbondale was slower to bounce back after an unsuccessful attempt by the district several years ago to combine the local foundations into a single district foundation.

The new CEF was officially organized in December of 2023, after the annual Cowboy Up fundraiser took it on as the primary beneficiary for a couple of its events.

“That first year, we did a handful of random projects (including providing support for the schoolbased health centers), but this past year we became a little bit more focused,” Nims said.

The organization was able to award $32,500 in grants to offset the cost for school supplies for students who are free-and-reduced-lunch eligible and don’t pay school fees.

“Now we have $30,000 for experiential learning, whether

that’s bringing people in or sending kids out on field trips, and just trying to increase unique enrichment opportunities for students across the schools.

“And that’s inclusive of the charters,” Nims said of the district-chartered Carbondale Community School, and the state-chartered Ross Montessori School. The alternative Bridges High School is also included in the foundation’s grant programs.

One such grant funded a visit to Crystal River Elementary School by aerial photographer and science educator Daniel Dancer of Art for the Sky.

Dancer had students wear blue and gold shirts and assemble in the school yard in the form of the Ram mascot. He then used a drone camera to capture the image with the number 427 at the top, signifying the parts-permillion carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere today.

Taking on the Oktoberfest celebration, formerly organized by the Carbondale Parks & Recreation Department up until 2020, seemed natural for the CEF, Nims said.

“We were able to put it together pretty quickly and got some major sponsors, and it was a huge success,” he said. CEF expects to make it an annual event.

Betsy After, who is one of the Carbondale representatives on the district’s Board of Education, said the education foundations in Carbondale, Basalt and Glenwood

Springs are able to tap into community generosity to provide supplemental funding for the public schools, which the district itself is not legally able to do.

“I’m particularly impressed and delighted by how quickly CEF has started up and been able to raise and distribute meaningful funds to schools in Carbondale,” she said.

Nims said he and his board hope to grow the foundation so that teacher grants can be an automatic “yes,” and to be able to expand the experiential learning grants.

The foundation would also like to be in a position to help offset the costs of providing free lunches for all students in the primary public schools, he said. The district was previously able to do that, at a cost of about $10,000 per school, but had to make cutbacks in that program.

CEF is also looking for more community members and businesses to support the foundation.

“There are a lot of people out there who may not want to join the board itself, but are willing to come in and help out and give a few hours here and there,” Nims said. “And, of course, if anyone wants to throw in any money to support teachers and staff, we’ll always take that.”

For more information and to donate, time or money, visit carbondaleeducation foundation.org

The Carbondale Education Foundation, now two years old, took over the former town-run Oktoberfest celebration last fall as a fundraiser to support grants for the Carbondale public schools. Photo courtesy Jamie Nims

The Aspen Science Center, based out of Carbondale, has been expanding community science programming for children year-round. In 2025, 60% of ASC’s programs served students between Basalt and Rifle, new executive director Alex Tarika told The Sopris Sun. Courtesy photo.

Roaring Fork girls building bench strength with big test coming Saturday

JOHN STROUD

Sopris Sun Correspondent

Dominating wins over weak teams pad the record and the scorebook, but don’t do much in the statistical game that determines Colorado high school basketball rankings, and ultimately seeding for the postseason.

Take the undefeated Roaring Fork High School girls basketball team, for example.

The Rams, now 12-0 after annihilating Aspen 72-5 Tuesday night, held the No. 2 ranking among Class 3A teams in Colorado last week.

This week, even after crushing wins over a diminished but still defending Western Slope League (WSL) champion Cedaredge Bruins, 64-39, and against Olathe, 72-20, the Rams slipped to No. 6, behind Front Range and Eastern Plains powerhouses Denver Christian, Colorado Springs Christian, Yuma and Wiggins.

A silver lining for the Fork in those kinds of games is an opportunity to build some valuable experience among the players coming off the bench.

Though the starting five still play into the opening minute or two of the fourth quarter, the big leads give head coach Mike Vidakovich a chance to rotate those players in more.

“Obviously, these younger kids are getting varsity experience, which is good,” he said. “Maybe it’s not meaningful minutes

in the overall picture, but it is to them.”

The power trio of senior Nikki Tardif and juniors Riley Bevington and Hazel Jenkins lead the way, with support from sophomore Annelise Bumgarner and freshman Abby Harris.

Coming on strong just in time for a run toward a league title and a promising postseason bid are players like sophomores Sydney Ostberg, Abigail O’Keefe and

now Lexi Filiss, who returns from an early season injury.

Jan. 15 on the road, the Rams passed the first of two big league tests with the win over Cedaredge.

“I’ve never seen them so intense before a game,” Vidakovich said. “They remember coming up short a couple times last year to Cedaredge, and they were ready to go.”

Bevington finished with 33 points in

that one, and is now averaging 31.2 points per game to lead the team. Tardif had 18, two more than her season average, while Jenkins had 13 rebounds.

Jan. 17 at home, the Rams easily handled Olathe; Bevington with 28 points, and Tardif with 22.

The next “stern test,” in the coach’s words, comes on the road at Meeker this Saturday, when the Rams, at 4-0 in league, will take on the fifth-ranked and undefeated (9-0, 4-0) Cowboys for sole possession of the WSL lead heading into the last half of the season.

Boys continue to roll

Meanwhile, Roaring Fork’s boys picked up a pair of key WSL wins last week as well, to claim the top spot at 4-0 in league (9-2 overall).

The Rams defeated Cedaredge on the road Jan. 15, 71-55, and Olathe at home on Jan. 17, 89-67. The leading scorer was senior Lucas Carballeira with 24 and 34 points, respectively, while senior Kiko Pena had 14 and 17, and junior Quentin Galbraith scored 13 and 17.

The Roaring Fork boys are also at Meeker on Saturday in what will be a key game for them as well. That’s followed by a nonleague game at 4A Aspen on Jan. 30, and both Rams teams are home against North Fork on Jan. 31 (2:30pm varsity girls, 4pm varsity boys).

Ram sophomore Sydney Ostberg high-fives her teammates as she’s introduced onto the court ahead of Tuesday’s showdown against Aspen Skiers. Photo by Kate Ott, youth correspondent

THURSDAY, JANUARY 22

ICE PROTEST

LINE DANCING

CABIN WINETASTINFEVERG

Thursday Feb 19th

Garfield County Democrats host a peaceful protest against ICE at the Midland Pedestrian Bridge in Glenwood Springs from 10 to 11am.

TECH CLUB

Alexandria Brancaccio leads line dancing for all ages and abilities at Native Son in Glenwood Springs at 6:30pm.

CRYSTAL THEATRE

5-8pm

Thompson Barn at RVR

The Carbondale Library invites teens and tweens to explore technology at the Carbondale Library every second and fourth Thursday at 4:35pm. The Aspen Science Center will guide activities exploring coding languages, hands-on hardware projects and more.

TEEN IMPROV

The Crystal Theatre Alliance presents “Hamnet” at 7pm tonight, tomorrow and Monday, plus a 3pm captioned screening on Sunday. “Sentimental Value” shows tomorrow at 3pm (captioned) and Sunday and Thursday (Jan. 29) at 7pm.

‘PASSAGE’

Teens try their hand at improv with the support of theater extraordinaire and Teen Librarian Travis Wilson at the Basalt Library from 4 to 5pm. Details at www.basaltlibrary.org

BenFeng Music Productions presents “Passage” at the Old Thompson Barn tonight and tomorrow at 7pm. This production blends live music and dance with an all-female ensemble. Tickets at www.benfengmusicproductions.org/ passage

PARTYGRASS

ART RECEPTION

Enjoy fine wines, great food from local chefs, live music, a silent auction and birthday cake! Reserve tickets at soprissun.com

Anderson Ranch Arts Center hosts a reception for local artist Brad Reed Nelson’s curated exhibit, “Use my Imagination,” also featuring works by ceramicist Sam Harvey, blacksmith Jordan Kepler, multidisciplinary artist Savanna LaBauve and textilist Claire Wright, from 5 to 6pm. Details at www.andersonranch.org

BEAVERS TALK

ColoradoWild and Roaring Fork Audubon present “Leave it to Beavers!” with wetland ecologists and beaver scientists Jessica Doran and Benjamin Jackson at the Third Street Center at 5:30pm.

DUNGEONS & DRAGONS

The Basalt Library hosts a Dungeons & Dragons campaign from 5:30 to 7pm. All are welcome, but some familiarity with the game is recommended.

NATURALIST NIGHTS

Learn about the ecology and resilience of pinyon-juniper woodlands at Hallam Lake at 6pm..

GHOST TOUR

Learn about Aspen’s dark side with a 60-minute guided ghost tour at 6pm. Reservations required at 970-948-4349 or www.AspenWalkingTours.com

MOUNTAINFILM

Mountainfilm on Tour arrives at the Wheeler Opera House with select adventure-themed documentaries at 6:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

‘ALMOST FAMOUS’

The Sopris Sun screens “Almost Famous,” a journalism-themed classic starring Patrick Fugit and Kate Hudson, at the Crystal Theatre at 7pm. Tickets at www.bit.ly/SSAlmostFamous

BOOKS IN BARS

Join the Carbondale librarians for a discussion about “Playground” by Richard Powers at an undisclosed bar from 7 to 8pm. Call the library, 970-963-2889, for coordinates.

COMEDY NIGHT

Steve’s Guitars hosts Patio Night Live Comedy featuring Garrett Hall, Tate Jordan, Beth Brandon and Miller Ford at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

FRIDAY, JANUARY 23

VALLEY VISUAL ART SHOW

Carbondale Arts opens the 47th annual Valley Visual Art Show, exhibiting over 70 local artists’ works, with an opening reception from 5 to 7pm. The show will remain on display through Feb. 23.

REDSTONE OPEN MIC

The Pitkin County Library presents an open mic night at Joy & Wylde in Redstone from 6 to 8pm.

TACAW presents Pixie and The Partygrass at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

SATURDAY, JANUARY 24

SUNLIGHT ENDURANCE

Sunlight Mountain Resort hosts a 12-hour endurance challenge, from 6am to 6pm. How many times can you skin up and ski down? Registration at www.sunlightmtn.com/events

SENSES EXPERIMENT

Explore five essential oils and experiment with combinations at the Bookcliffs Arts Center in Rifle at 10am. Registration at www.bookcliffs.org/upcoming

RAKU WORKSHOP

The Carbondale Clay Center teaches Raku firing from 9am to 5pm. Registration at www.bit.ly/Raku-CCC

D&D SPECIAL

The Glenwood Springs Library hosts a special Dungeons & Dragons “Storm King’s Thunder” campaign every second and fourth Saturday starting today, from 2 to 5pm. Sign up at the library or by calling 970-945-5958.

RETRO SKI FILMS

Join the Aspen Historical Society for a family-friendly, free evening of vintage film screenings at TACAW beginning at 4pm with après specials. Ski attire (retro or current) encouraged. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

RESPONDING TO ICE

We Keep Us Safe, a Denver-based group, is hosting a virtual training from 6 to 7:30pm on legal rights during interactions with law enforcement, how to identify ICE and how to respond if you witness a raid. Register at www.bit.ly/ ICE-training

BREATH & SOUND

Natalie Courtney and Conor Johnson team up for an evening of guided breathwork, meditation and a sound bath from 6:30 to 8pm at the Third Street Center. Tickets at www.tcfhf.org

‘26 PEBBLES’

Sopris Theatre Company presents “26 Pebbles” by Eric Ulloa at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

SCOTT STRICKLAND

Texas musician Scott Strickland performs a solo show at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

SUNDAY, JANUARY 25

NORDIC DEMO DAY

Independence Run & Hike hosts its annual (and free!) Nordic Demo Day, weather permitting, at Spring Gulch from 9am to 1pm, including skate

lessons at 11:30am. To reserve gear or sign up for a lesson, call the store at 970-704-0909.

WHAT DOES AWAKE MEAN?

A Spiritual Center (Room 31 of the Third Street Center) spins a CD by David Ault, inviting participants to “own the light,” from 10 to 11:30am.

ALBERT SCHWEITZER

Author/journalist Paul Andersen presents “Why Albert Schweitzer Matters Today” at the Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist service at the Third Street Center at 10am.

NORTH STAR SKI

Join Pitkin County Open Space and Trails rangers for a free exploration of North Star Nature Preserve on skis from 11am to noon. This offering repeats on Feb. 4 and Feb. 15. To RSVP, visit www.bit.ly/North-Star-Ski

PIGEON MUSICAL

The Wheeler Opera House presents “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!” at 4pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

WRITER TALK

The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies presents writer-in-residence Dr. Chris Dunn on “Wilderness, Freedom and the Limits of Commodification” at 4:30pm at the Catto Center at Toklat.

PIANO MAN

David Dyer performs “an unforgettable night of live piano music” at The Collective Snowmass from 5 to 7pm.

BLISS YOUR HIPS

Cari Eisenson brings back the Bliss Your Hips specialty class to Kula Yoga On Main today from 5:30 to 7pm. Registration and details at www.kulayogaonmain.com

MONDAY, JANUARY 26

GLENWOOD BOOK CLUB

The Glenwood Library hosts its Last Monday Book Club, exploring a range of genres and topics, from 2 to 3pm.

MEDIATION TRAINING

Colorado Mountain College offers a free, 40-hour mediation training course taught by conflict resolution expert and educator Wendy Huber, Mondays in Carbondale from 5:30 to 8:30pm through May 4. To register, visit www.bit.ly/4aRaL2N

PLANT-BASED POTLUCK

The Center for Human Flourishing hosts a plant-based potluck at the Third Street

Center from 6:30 to 8pm. Everyone can bring a dish, and should also bring their own utensils. Questions?

Email info@tcfhf.org

WISDOM WEAVING

True Nature hosts a monthly intergenerational gathering of women weaving meditation, ritual and conversation from 6:30 to 8pm.

SNOWMASS OPEN MIC

The Snowmass Collective hosts an open mic from 6:30 to 8pm. Brave participants are encouraged to arrive early and will receive a free drink for taking the stage.

TUESDAY, JANUARY 27

ZEBRA MUSSELS

Madeline Baker, an invasive species specialist with Colorado Parks & Wildlife, shares an update on zebra mussels and how detrimental effects can impede water conveyance on the Western Slope at the Basalt Library from 5 to 6:30pm. Register at www.roaringfork.org

DRAWING CLUB

The Roaring Fork Drawing Club scribbles and sketches together at Bldg Seed Architects by Gianinetti Park in Carbondale at 6:30pm. For details, visit @rfdrawingclub on Instagram.

WILD PERSPECTIVES

The Aspen Center for Environmental Studies presents “Medicinal Plants of the Roaring Fork Valley” with Penelope Thornton at The Collective Snowmass at 6pm.

CHANGEMAKER SERIES

Adventure filmmaker Bryan Smith presents “Capturing the Impossible” as part of the Wheeler Opera House’s Changemaker Speaker Series at 6:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com

FRÄNDER

Steve’s Guitars presents FRÄNDER, “modern acoustic folk music forged in the deep forests of northern Sweden,” at 8pm.

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28

ASPEN PERMITTING

The City of Aspen invites community members to connect with city permitting staff at a mix n’ mingle at the Pitkin County Library from noon to 1:30pm. ‘SMALLFOOT’ Youngsters are invited to a screening of “Smallfoot” at the Crystal Theatre at 3pm.

THURSDAY, JAN. 22 7PM CRYSTAL THEATRE

THE SOPRIS SUN presents

ALMOST FAMOUS

starring Kate Hudson and Patrick Fugit

A film about a young Rolling Stone Magazine reporter who, while covering a rockstar band on tour, falls in love with a groupie.

Every Saturday, Reina Katzenberger and The Project Shop are screen printing free tote bags listing U.S. constitutional rights in English and Spanish from noon to 2pm. The Project Shop is located at S.A.W. (525 Buggy Circle, Carbondale) in the southwest corner of the building. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

A FUNDRAISER FOR THE SOPRIS SUN AND SOL DEL VALLE LOCAL NEWSROOMS

Good Earth prioritizes people and place in landscaping

ANNALISE GRUETER Sopris Sun Correspondent

For over three decades, Carbondale-based Good Earth Landscaping & Maintenance has made it their business to enhance Valley homes and buildings. Originally started by David and Melanie Crandall, the company has been owned by business partners Jeff Margulies and Josh Austin since the winter of 2017/18.

Good Earth focuses on high-end landscaping in Aspen and throughout the Roaring Fork Valley. The company offers year-round landscape maintenance for both residential and commercial properties, in addition to landscape design. As contractors, Good Earth’s team consults clients based on budget feasibility as well as scope and layout of desired outdoor spaces.

Margulies, who serves as managing partner and operator, spoke with The Sopris Sun about ways Good Earth has grown and changed.

What originally inspired you to get involved in the landscaping business?

While neither Josh nor I come from landscaping backgrounds, we saw an opportunity to use what we had learned over the course of our careers in other industries to grow and elevate an already-great company — and what better place is there to create beautiful outdoor spaces than the Roaring Fork Valley!

How has the company changed and grown?

We can really only speak to the change that has taken place over the past several years; however, we’ve certainly changed a lot in that time! We’ve grown several times over, which has required the development of new processes and investment in our people and equipment.

We’ve developed a number of new capabilities and service offerings, from landscape and irrigation design to

fencing installation. We’ve really focused on implementing best practices and developing trainings at all levels of the organization so that we can provide consistent, expert services to our clients.

What are some of your guiding philosophies in your work?

Over the past several years, we have really focused on developing a culture of customer service at all levels of the organization. We really want to make sure that we have a clear understanding of what success looks like to our clients so that we can ensure that we meet or exceed those expectations. Internally, we are also highly focused on promoting positivity and teamwork.

Especially during the busy season, we spend as much (if not more) time with our colleagues as with our families. So we want to make sure that our teams enjoy working together, that we are helping one another, and (though the work we do is hard) that it is a positive part of our daily life.

Are there specific types of projects you particularly enjoy?

We love transforming and maintaining outdoor spaces to make them more usable, sustainable and enjoyable for our clients. That can mean a lot of different things depending on the nature of a property or project, but we enjoy our work most when we have the opportunity to work collaboratively with our clients and when they recognize the value of their environment through us.

What do you think is important for people to know about landscaping in our arid climate?

Not only do we live in an arid climate, but there are very distinct microclimates throughout the Valley. It is really important to have an understanding of site-specific conditions to make horticulturally-informed decisions

that will lead to success. That means understanding soil composition, sun exposure, appropriate plant material and designing or augmenting irrigation systems that will meet the landscape’s needs while conserving water.

Anything else you’d like to share?

We feel so lucky to be able to make one of the most spectacular places in the world a little more beautiful every day!

Good Earth’s services include masonry and cement installations, erosion mitigation and irrigation, water and lighting features and garden design and maintenance. You can learn more about the company at www.goodearthaspen.com

From a turn-of-the-century hospital for silver miners to a Network of Care that spans Primary Care to Surgical Specialists, we have been proud to serve the Roaring Fork Valley for more than 100 years. It’s our commitment to making extraordinary, wholeperson healthcare accessible—season after season, generation after generation. For you. For life.

In addition to design and installations, Good Earth does maintenance work and gardening for properties in the Roaring Fork Valley. Courtesy photo

Why the wooden stakes?

RED HILL COUNCIL UPDATE

Visitors to Mushroom Rock Trail may have noticed an increase in wooden stakes and boundary lines along sections of the trail. These markers outline closure areas where a test-case revegetation project was initiated by volunteers during the fall of 2025 in order to protect and restore the trail and surrounding landscape for long-term public use.

The terrain around Mushroom Rock is naturally fragile. Thin soils, steep grades and heavy use make the area particularly vulnerable to erosion. When people step off the established trail, vegetation is damaged, soils loosen and water runoff accelerates — ultimately widening the trail, degrading nearby habitat and increasing maintenance needs. The wooden stakes and boundary lines indicate reseeded areas where travel should be avoided so that damaged areas can recover. If trail users are willing to cooperate, they can expect to see initial signs of seed germination as early as this spring.

The restoration effort focuses on stabilizing soils by re-establishing native plant communities in several highly degraded areas. Native plants play a critical role in holding soil in place, absorbing water and supporting local wildlife. Allowing these plants time

and space to regrow is essential. Staying on the designated trail, respecting closures and keeping dogs on-leash in sensitive areas all contribute directly to the success of this work.

Unfortunately, there have been instances of one or two individuals illegally removing signage and boundary lines. These actions undermine restoration progress and create confusion for other trail users.

We hope that once people understand the purpose behind these boundaries — protecting the trail, the plants and future access — they will choose to respect them and allow the restoration work to continue as intended.

If you’re leaving a track, turn back!

So many of us love Red Hill, and we don’t blame you for wanting to visit all year long. It’s a really special place! However, you can best show your love by making good choices during sensitive shoulder season months. If the trails are not completely snow-covered, or if you time your visit later than early morning when things are still frozen solid, it’s going to be muddy. There are other nearby options that are accessible all season long such as the Rio Grande Trail, the sidewalks in River Valley Ranch

and the path at Crown Mountain Park — or even just walking around Carbondale’s many sidewalks. Check out our interactive Muddy Meter at the base of the Red Hill trails, and remember, “If you’re leaving a track, turn back!”

Support and thanks

These projects would not be possible without the support of the local community, individuals and corporate sponsors. We would like to sincerely thank the many volunteers who have dedicated their time to the Red Hill area. Their efforts have made a meaningful difference to our 19 miles of trails, particularly in improving trail drainage and reseeding off-trail areas that were previously damaged. With sufficient support, there are plans to expand and improve the trail system over the next few years, ensuring continued, sustainable public access for the entire community. For those who would like to help, be on the lookout for more trail projects in the summer and fall of 2026. You can visit www.redhillcouncil. org/donate to support the Red

projects

if

Hill Council, which is entirely run by volunteers, and therefore, 100% of your donation goes

directly toward trail efforts. Thank you for helping protect the Red Hill Trail system

ROOTED IN WRITING

a scribe tribe vibe rooted in belonging and oneness

A warm, monthly gathering in the intimate space of WHITE RIVER BOOKS in Carbondale, Colorado where we come together to root ourselves in reflection through storytelling and journaling. With prompts and meaningful stories, we will explore our beliefs, feelings, empowered actions, sense of belonging, and collective spirit for ourselves, our community and the world. This is an invitation to slow down, connect, and find stillness and clarity in the act of writing together. Bring your journal and a pen. Donations are optional.

Led by Jessica Amber Barnum and Izzy Stringham

6:30 - 7:30PM Fourth Tuesday of the month January 27 February 24

March 24

April 28

May 26

June 23

Recent

at the Red Hill trail system include a revegetation effort to restore damaged soils and an interactive Muddy Meter for users to inform one another

sections of trail are muddy and therefore impassible. Courtesy photos

The walk of a lifetime

Natalia Snider is a certified dream practitioner living in Carbondale. She works with people’s dreams and imaginations to facilitate self-healing. Every month, she will analyze someone’s dream in The Sopris Sun. Anyone can submit a dream for personal analysis or inclusion in this column by visiting: www.dreamhealings.com

Dream

I had a dream my dad came to pick me up so we could go to my granny’s house. My granny is pretty much the spiritual foundation of the family. So he picks me up, we chop it up about life, just different things that we struggle with, areas that we’ve improved on and improved in. Then we get about halfway, and he says, “Alright, son, you got to get out of the car. This is as far as I can take you. You got to walk the rest of the way.”

OPINION

just getting to know each other. I realize then that that space, that house she created, was a house for those who need help or any type of service, spiritual, mental, emotional, physical, from a spiritual perspective.

Then my dad got up, said something, prayed and then turned to me and said, “Hey, alright, now come on, you get up there now. You got to teach us something, or impart something onto us,” and that’s all I remember.

Interpretation

DREAM WELL

So I started walking, and as I’m walking, it was a little hot, so I took my shirt off. Then this owl flies toward me and I get a little scared. But then the owl lands on my left shoulder. I’m still kind of scared, but I’m like, “Why is he landing on me?” I was receptive to it, so I just kept walking with the owl on my shoulder.

By Natalia Snider

This dream is powerfully layered with meaning. Layers in dreams aren’t often so clearly double-defined, so this is very interesting. Let’s get right into it.

Protecting Snowmass Falls Ranch

Our public lands are treasured by most Americans and they deserve our protection. But there are rare exceptions when public lands can best be protected by key parcels of conserved private land. Most land incorporated into wilderness today is remote, high elevation mining claims. But with some land — like Snowmass Falls Ranch (SFR), with a road to its gate and adjacent to a heavily used trailhead in the Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness — it’s important to consider every management option to ensure protection of all values.

There are two deeded trails through SFR today. Given the accessibility and appeal of ranch land like SFR, there are two real risks: One, if the land is sold to the Forest Service that the federal government resales part for a luxury home; and two, the risk of degradation by overuse due to lack of management dollars.

GUEST OPINION

By Marj Perry

Then, I finally reached the destination. Before I knock on the door, the owl flies away. I come inside. A couple of people are already there — pops, granny, grandpa, and a few others. I didn’t know that we were getting ready to have Bible study/discipleship classes. We go around the room, talking, sharing our story, our testimony,

You begin in the car with your father, which signifies your time growing up under his leadership. The highlights of your learning are what you discussed. Then he drops you off, even though he’s going to be at the same house later. This represents you having to find your own path without him. The double meaning here is that this is your time growing up as an adult. Your mission during this time is to find your own knowledge and bring it to the house. Then the owl comes to you.

Owls are most often recognized in dream symbolism as beings of great wisdom. This

Pitkin County, owners of SFR since 2024, could meet their goals for protecting wildlife, ecological values, watershed and recreation by selling most of SFR to the Forest Service, and the agricultural part to a private landowner willing to work on county goals.

A sale to a private owner was anticipated by Pitkin County, and was written into the formal resolution and printed in the papers. The land would serve as a protective buffer and restoration could continue.

SFR was a working ranch for over 120 years. It is stunningly beautiful land, but it is agricultural land and will need active management for years to come. From the 1880s to 2023, there was continual grazing of cattle and irrigation from five adjudicated ditches. Old cabins, farm machinery and mining tools are scattered about the landscape. Since the 1990s, five people have been buried on the ranch; some with traditional benches and headstones, others marked by rocks. Over the decades, different noxious weeds increased, eventually dominating the land.

In 2007, using cattle as a tool, land and grazing management was stepped up to improve grasses and forbs while removing invasive species, resulting in healthier habitat — a job and challenge that was taken seriously. A secondary goal was to prevent the spread of noxious weeds to the current wilderness. A third was to restore the beaver ponds that washed out in 2000. Today, there is an extensive beaver complex, grasses with deeper roots and few visible weeds.

A sale to the Forest Service means a likely end to management, due to lack of funding. Without irrigation, grasses in once irrigated pastures are unable to compete and noxious weeds return. As weeds proliferate, there is a loss of biodiversity.

Today, SFR looks pristine. But looks are deceiving. It took just one very hot, dry summer without much irrigation to illustrate the future of both SFR and the adjacent wilderness.

The accessibility of this property invites abuse and overuse, and, as such, a partial sale to a qualified steward meeting county goals should be considered.

Ecological value and watershed health are high today, and will remain so if not subject to overuse. Historically, the property has drawn campers and “beer-bros” looking for a good time, and, more recently, recreational shooting with semi-automatic rifles — all acceptable uses in wilderness.

If the Forest Service opts for a full purchase of SFR, the damage could be significant to both SFR and the surrounding wilderness. There’s the political possibility of a resale, and a luxury home. Ecologically, there is the likelihood of overuse, affecting everything from birds nesting on Snowmass Creek to deer and elk; and campsites may abound, as well as human waste, degrading water quality.

The best outcome for habitat and wildlife is to avoid a playground; protecting both SFR and thousands of acres around it, allowing users a true wilderness experience. A strong supporter of wilderness and public lands should consider the details of the location, the challenges, and how — unlike most wilderness parcels — this ranch will require continual active management. The accessibility of this property invites abuse and overuse, and, as such, a partial sale to a qualified steward meeting county goals should be considered.

The last picture show

“Carbondale History, 1887-1976,” by the Carbondale Study Club (1976):

In the early days of the town, there was a motion picture theater on the north side of Main Street [351 Main, now The Pour House]. Every week there was a show … on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Admission was 10 cents for children and 15 or 25 cents for adults. It was known as Sherwood’s Picture Show. The silent movies, “Riders of the Purple Sage” and “The Iron Hand,” were two films shown. A player-piano made music for the movies. About 1927, it stopped showing silent films.

It’s hard to imagine a time before surround sound, or any sound at all. But, from the creation of “moving pictures” in 1894 until about 1930, screen stories were conveyed using only the actors’ grand gestures, interspersed with dialogue and narration cards.

Even without sound, going to the movies was a treat, especially for children. In “Memoirs of a River Volume Two,” local author Charlotte Graham recalls a 1973 interview with then 69-year-old Cleone Oliver: “I remember my mother sending me with 25 cents to get a soup bone … R.L. Sherwood owned both the meat market and the picture show, and my, how we’d save our pennies to go to the picture show … The Sherwood family didn’t really get the good pictures … Sometimes somebody would take us to Glenwood to see the really good pictures.”

on Main Street containing the defunct and dilapidated Crystal Theatre. Its history is described in The Roaring Fork Valley Journal’s Dec. 18, 1975 issue:

OPINION

What is now the Crystal Theatre used to be the dry goods department of the many faceted [Dinkel Building] operation. In 1950 … a pair of movie house entrepreneurs by the names of Eastling and Campbell had the floor lowered, and set up … one of their most successful operations. The Crystal, at its prime, featured as many as five movies per week. When TV came to the valley in 1959, however, it sounded the death knell for The Crystal [and] the last picture show bit the dust by 1961.

HISTORIOGRAPHY

By Sue Gray

In the 1920s, the Glenwood Springs theater would have been the Orpheum. In 1907, it opened as the Pastime Theatre, then changed to the Isis, then the Orpheum, before receiving its final designation in 1939: the Glen Theatre. After more than 40 years in operation, the theater was closed in 1983 due to structural issues. The building was demolished in 2002.

But Glenwood Springs had another option for mid-twentieth-century moviegoers, as noted in the Steamboat Pilot (Steamboat Springs) on Aug. 10, 1950:

Construction is well underway on the new drive-in theater west of Glenwood on Highways 6 and 24 … and will be named Canyon Drive-In Theatre.

The novel outdoor theater, which accommodated 325 automobiles, opened Sept. 12, 1950, and closed on Sept. 10, 1979. It was demolished in the early-1980’s for the construction of the Glenwood Springs Mall, where the Mall 3 Theater lasted until 2008.

Glenwood Springs’ last movie house, The Springs Theatre, closed in 2013 after 30 years in operation, when the owners decided it was too much of a financial burden to convert from 35mm film to digital — a necessary move since reels were being phased out of the theater business.

Meanwhile, back in Carbondale, the owners of the Crystal Theatre were facing the same dilemma. In 1984, Bob and Kathy Ezra leased the space in the Dinkel Building

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The theater space was subsequently leased for live performances by Colorado Mountain College and the Crystal River Opera Association. Throughout the 1970s, a variety of community shows, from film festivals to children’s puppet theater, were held at The Crystal. Carbondale’s annual spring talent show took place there from 1978 to 1981, when the space was condemned for safety reasons.

The reopening of The Crystal Theatre was announced by the Ezra family in The Roaring Fork Valley Journal on July 18, 1985:

“Dear Editor, yes, the movies are returning to Carbondale. Yes, it’s taken a long time and been a lot of work. But no, we didn’t do it alone … The sense of community support and enthusiasm has really overwhelmed us and fueled us on those days when [opening a movie theater] seemed an impossibility, even to us. For lack of a better word, we say thank you and see you at the movies.”

In 2013, the Carbondale community again came to the aid of The Crystal Theatre, when the Ezras faced the prospect of “going digital or going dark” and launched an appeal to help purchase the equipment necessary to convert from 35mm to digital projection.

According to The Aspen Times on May 20, 2013:

The result has been phenomenal. [The Ezras] are … finding out how people from Carbondale and the rest of the Roaring Fork Valley appreciate their efforts to keep the small, intimate, single-screen theater alive.”

Over a half-dozen movie theaters have come and gone from the Roaring Fork Valley. The recent announcement about the closing of Movieland in El Jebel reduces the number to two: The AF Isis in Aspen and The Crystal in Carbondale.

In 2025, the survival of The Crystal Theatre once again relied on community support, when the Ezras retired and sold the business to the Crystal Theatre Alliance (CTA), a nonprofit organization formed to purchase and sustain the theater for future generations of movie goers.

To keep the Crystal alive, visit www.crystaltheatrecarbondale.com and donate.

“She listens carefully, and thoughtfully considers the many tools in her toolbox that will best support what I am needing.”

client testimony

“No matter how I’m feeling going into a session, I am happy in Mishe’s presence and feel better when I leave.”

client testimony

To schedule your appointment call

OBITUARIES

Jeff Handwerk

August 18, 1951 - December 20, 2025

With heavy hearts and deep shock, we confirm Jeff Handwerk was the skier involved in the accident on Aspen Mountain on Dec. 19, 2025. He passed away from his catastrophic injuries the following day in Grand Junction.

Jeff was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1951 to Glenn E. and Helen T. Handwerk; his sister Jill joined the family in 1955. The family settled in Lakewood, Colorado. His love of skiing began at 5 years old, ignited by his dad, a 10th Mountain Division veteran. Jeff graduated from Alameda High School and earned his B.S. and M.S. degrees in chemical and petroleum-refining engineering from the Colorado School of Mines.

a third career move took the family to Salt Lake City, Utah. In addition to his full-time position as a process safety manager, he added the title of “coach” at the Solitude Mountain Junior Development Racing program. He held that position for 21 years, nurturing and encouraging many young racers to reach their own dreams on the slopes. He retired from the refinery in Salt Lake City in 2013, allowing him fulltime enjoyment of skiing and cycling which he pursued avidly, winning many awards and medals.

DREAMWELL

owl is your knowledge. Now here I could ask if you already have been bestowed with a great wisdom in your life, because the dream is not clear on where your waking self lands on this story timeline. However, I will proceed as if you have not gained this knowledge as I feel that will be most useful. So then, how do you gain this knowledge? Let’s look closely at the owl for clues.

First, right before the owl comes to you, you take off your shirt exposing your skin, which is the clearest metaphor for vulnerability there is in dream symbology. What this means for you is that to receive this knowledge you must be willing to take the walk alone, then to be open and vulnerable to however it may come, even if it scares you at first.

Second, the owl lands on your left shoulder. The left side of the body is recognized in many cultures across the earth dating all the way back to the Egyptians as the feminine side of the body. So, to me this reads that the knowledge that is coming to you has something to do with the feminine aspects of life. Let me be clear, I don’t think that the owl represents a woman that will teach you. It came as a symbol of knowledge — not to be mistaken for a human. So I believe that this knowledge instead is about the feminine aspects of being human - balancing your own masculine and feminine, perhaps. This will be clear to you when it happens.

He began his refining career with Sunoco in Wilmington, Delaware, but after two years, realized East Coast skiing wasn’t for him. He transferred to the Amoco refinery in Casper, Wyoming in 1979. There he began his ski coaching “side gig” at Hogadon Basin Ski Area and also discovered his passion for cycling, participating in road biking, time trials and the occasional mountain bike race. The cycling soon replaced his days of being a marathon runner.

While visiting his sister in Fort Collins, he met his wife, Susan (nee Fender). They married in Basalt in 1981 and welcomed their son, Derek, in 1984. In 1989, when the Casper refinery was slated to close, Jeff and his family moved to Dyer, Indiana, where he worked at Amoco’s Whiting refinery. He continued his real passions of cycling and skiing, driving to Wilmot Mountain in Wyoming twice weekly to teach.

Still, the Rockies continued to call, and in 1999,

In the fall of 2018, Jeff and Susan moved back to her roots in the Roaring Fork Valley. He quickly discovered new routes for cycling and new runs for skiing. He joined the Aspen Cycling Club and was a top competitor in the “old” group! He was a member of the BOOTech Race team in Aspen, where he fully embraced the Town Series races and enjoyed setting courses for his fellow racing buddies. He also participated in the NASTAR race courses.

Jeff was preceded in death by both parents and various other family members. He is survived by his wife, Susan; son, Derek (Alyssa) of Fort Collins; sister, Jill Handwerk of Fort Collins; nieces, Emily Weber of Denver and Lauren (Ty) Burtard of Woody Creek; in addition to nephew, Elliot (Sarah) Weber of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and competitors. We wish him smooth roads full of big climbs and steep descents and deep powder runs. A celebration of life honoring Jeff will be held at a later date in 2026.

Marilyn Bader

August 19, 1942 - January 12, 2026

Marilyn “Lyn” Bader of Bozeman, Montana, passed away peacefully at the age of 83 on Jan. 12. Lyn was born on Aug. 19, 1942, in St. Louis, Missouri, to Quentin and Estelle Crossman. She grew up with a deep love for the drum and bugle team and especially baton twirling. In high school, her team won the national championship and Lyn spent countless hours traveling throughout the United States in various competitive events.

She graduated from Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois, with a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She later taught nursing in Decatur. This led to a 20-year career in nursing which also included teaching in a vocational high school medical arts program in the Roaring Fork School District. She was known for her insistence on excellence in the application of medical procedures, her passion for teaching and her ability to make every student feel competent and appreciated. Many former students credit her with inspiring their careers and shaping their character.

Following her nursing endeavors, Lyn returned to higher education and earned a master’s degree in counseling from the University of Northern Colorado. She built several practices in Colorado and Michigan before retiring.

In 1964, Lyn married Jim Bader. Together they raised three children, helped raise six grandchildren and built a home filled with love.

She became very involved in church ministry, especially Stonecroft ministry where she witnessed hundreds of people regarding her faith.

Lynn is survived by her husband, Jim; children, Kristin Hall, Tricia Binford, Jeff Bader; brother, Mike Crossman; as well as six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Lyn will be remembered for her devotion to family and friends, and her honest approach to life and living.

Arrangements are in the care of DokkenNelson Funeral Service, www.dokkennelson.com

Finally, at your granny’s you meet a group of spiritual elders. This house, first layered, represents crossing over from life to death, being greeted by your guides and loved ones. Sharing your knowledge here is sharing the knowledge of your life in retrospect. The second layered meaning is that this is also representative of a place in which you are going to be asked to share your wisdom during your lifetime — a spiritually-based place for healing and growth.

This is a highly significant dream for your life. I suggest reflecting on all the aspects of it over and over in various ways at various times. Let more meaning, messages and understandings come from it. I believe you were given this dream to learn as much from it as you can and that it is part of the wisdom you will gain.

GLENWOOD

from page 8

A pair of ordinances were then approved on first reading related to building permit inspection fees and rules around installing wood-fired pizza ovens.

State of the City coming up

A late afternoon work session covered topics including a preview of the upcoming State of the City event on Saturday, Jan. 31.

Taking place from 5:30 to 7pm at Morgridge Commons (above the Glenwood Library, 815 Cooper Ave.), this new annual event is designed to bring the entire community together for meaningful conversations about Glenwood Springs’ most pressing projects and issues, according to a press release.

The evening will begin with a brief update on City projects, followed by interactive sessions with City leaders covering topics including traffic and transportation, infrastructure projects and utilities, public safety, housing and development, economic development, parks and recreation and City operations.

Those who plan to attend are asked to RSVP to www. gwsco.info/TownHall

GARCO

from page 8

intergovernmental health and human services agreements, and a fairgrounds fee waiver for the Colorado River Valley Little League try-outs.

The annual County Fair and Rodeo report showed an increase in revenues over the past five years, from a little over $267,000 in 2021 to more than $345,000 in 2025. Expenditures for 2025 were about $14,000 higher than 2021. Livestock sales from 4-H and the county CSU Extension were the highest they’ve ever been, according to county Extension director Karla Farrand.

The BOCC agreed that, all in all, it was a good fair. ”It’s our biggest party,” said Jankovsky.

The county landfill needs money for a new culvert, which the BOCC approved. You can view all BOCC meetings at the Garfield County website.

Mirror, Mirror: Which city is more messed up, Nairobi or Mexico City?

For eight days, Julián and I traveled through Nairobi, Kenya. The experience worked like a magnifying mirror: Observing this African city forces you, almost relentlessly, to rethink Mexico City.

Nairobi is a remarkably green city. Vegetation is abundant, and trees — jacarandas, mangoes, avocados, fig trees, ceibas — reach uncommon sizes. Many are over a century old and play a key urban role: They provide shade, reduce traffic noise and moderate temperatures. In this sense, Nairobi recalls certain areas of Mexico City, though here the vegetation is denser and better preserved.

There have been improvements in road infrastructure compared to a visit a decade ago. New highways and paved stretches exist; however, signage is poor and several projects remain unfinished. Pedestrians occupy a marginal place. Cars, matatus, motorcycles and tuk-tuks compete for space without clear rules. Traffic operates more by a logic of survival than by a planned mobility system.

OPINION

simple, healthy eating possible. The large gardens in residential areas partially offset traffic chaos and the poor condition of sidewalks. In terms of safety, Nairobi conveys a greater sense of calm than many neighborhoods in Mexico City. Everyday interactions are softened by basic greetings in Swahili, and in residential areas it is common to see interracial coexistence in restaurants and cafés, where African, Indian and European populations mix.

The city is marked by extreme social contrasts. Nairobi has close to five million residents, and around 50% live in informal settlements without regular access to safe drinking water or electricity. Moving between high-income residential areas and working-class neighborhoods happens abruptly, without visible borders. This fragmentation feels familiar to anyone who has lived in Mexico City.

Despite the presence of international organizations and global offices, Nairobi does not feel particularly cosmopolitan. The urban center is active but lacks the cultural dynamism that characterizes Mexico City. Central parks are occupied mainly by unemployed people and historic buildings show advanced deterioration. Access to cultural spaces like the Nairobi Gallery or the National Archives is limited and bureaucratic, with small collections and a sparse curatorial offering.

The food scene also reflects inequality. There are good restaurants in affluent neighborhoods such as Karen or Loresho Crescent, but they are expensive and largely inaccessible to most people. By contrast, markets offer excellent-quality fresh fruits and vegetables, making

A visit to Kibera, Nairobi’s largest informal settlement, concentrates many of the city’s tensions. Nearly one million people live there in highly precarious conditions. The vitality of the place is evident, but so is the physical and emotional exhaustion of its residents. Unlike in other contexts, children here rarely smile and adults do not interact with visitors, the priority is daily survival.

Our guide, Winnie, is from Kibera and now works independently organizing tours. She could not point to sustained urban improvement programs or public policies that have fundamentally transformed the neighborhood. Her presence, well put-together, steady, without victimhood, moves through poverty without romanticizing it and leaves a familiar feeling for anyone who has walked through marginalized communities in Mexico.

This visit led me to reflect on the role of civil society organizations. Walking through Nairobi and Kibera contrasts sharply with what I have observed for years in Colorado’s Roaring Fork Valley, where non-governmental and nonprofit organizations make constant efforts, often with limited resources, to promote coexistence with migrant communities and expand equality of opportunity. Educational, cultural and legal-support programs do not eliminate structural inequality, but they do create minimum conditions of dignity, trust and belonging. Nairobi does not offer a simple answer to the opening question of which city is “more messed up.” Rather, it confirms that urban inequality is a global phenomenon. The difference, to a large extent, is made by community organization and the collective will not to normalize exclusion.

Follow Leonardo Occhipinti’s

SOPA DE LETRAS

By Angélica Breña

Translation produced using ChatGPT and edited by Bianca Godina

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

All Lives Living

By Jessica Amber Barnum & Tanner Jones

Noticing is inspiring. Perhaps it’s only inspiring when you’re really noticing all lives living.

Noticing the homeless man who soundly sits on his makeshift chair, hood on his lowered head, hands in his tattered pockets, eyes peeking in intervals inspired by … I’m not sure. And, I look around to notice what he might be noticing.

Noticing the free-spirited dancing woman who swims drenched in the rhythms of the sound, eyes closed, soul exposed

magnetic in beauty and spirit, a nod to the divine within inspired by … I’m not sure. And, I look around to notice what she might be noticing.

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

Noticing the tuxedo cat who soundly sleeps under the porch’s rocking chair, black hair swallowing winter’s sunrays, snores rumbling the still air, eyes peeking in intervals inspired by … I’m not sure. And, I look around to notice what she might be noticing.

Noticing the long-haired boy looking up into the sky’s lightly falling snow, tongue reaching to taste, arms outstretched in crucifixion, surrendering himself to nature

inspired by … I’m not sure. And I look around to notice what he might be noticing.

Noticing the goddess elder who soundly saunters toward the moment’s wave, walker’s wheels strumming, pristine pink outfit shimmering, eyes peeking in intervals inspired by … I’m not sure. And, I look around to notice what she might be noticing.

Noticing is inspiring. Perhaps it’s only inspiring when you’re really noticing all lives living.

What are you noticing?

‘Could you drive to Denver right now?’

The conversation was bouncing all over itself, charged with the jittery energy of three friends who hadn’t been in the same room together. One was visiting from Denver, having recently moved from “freaking-nowhere Connecticut.” It was late. He showed no signs of leaving, despite being hours from home. I started worrying about his drive ahead and encouraged him to stay the night. He waved us off.

Our other friend, noticing my disbelief, explained that someone in our small mountain town uses one question as a litmus test for motivation. A way to measure how much on-demand stamina you have for doing hard things.

“Could you drive to Denver right now?”

Dim lights. Dinner settling. Warm booth on a winter night. Friends. Abandon it all, get in your car and drive three hours over two mountain passes, navigating an interstate so chaotic it has a dedicated

By Torrey Udall

Instagram account, @I70things. The channel’s recent feed features a jackknifed semi, a burning car on the shoulder and a helmetless motorcyclist carrying a live raccoon.

Could our friend do it?

Could I?

This was the lighter side of the coin we’d been flipping throughout the conversation. The heavier side was how ICE shot and killed a citizen in Minnesota that morning. How this week our government invaded Venezuela. How this month we’ve shattered temperature records, a countless reminder how down and out we are on climate. A question behind it all:

How do we be courageous?

How do we collectively avoid retreating from threats of retribution and consequences to jobs, families and companies? Self protection says weather the storm. The world is ringing the alarm to act.

Struggling for an answer, I drifted back to a moment this summer seeing a relative who dedicated their life to public service. Now semi-retired and home, he was being approached by despairing community members asking what can be done. A question I was nervous to ask myself.

His response surely was — for an average guy who struggles with work email and the coffee maker — not something I could take on.

If anyone understood the severity of these times and had the complex recipe for what an effective citizen would do, it was him, and I was bracing.

Him: “Do something, anything, one thing.”’

“What?” I recoiled. Did I hear a patronizing tone? Nope. That was the prescription.

He was echoing what historian Timothy Snyder writes in On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from

the Twentieth Century : “Institutions do not protect themselves. So choose an institution you care about — a court, a newspaper, a law, a labor union — and take its side.”

My family member elaborated, “I tell 70 year olds who have discovered TikTok, record a video telling your 13 followers that what is happening is not okay.” This is describing the reality that anything we do won’t feel adequate. But you do it, and so does everyone else, and that is power.

I left the restaurant before my friends. As the wheels started moving on my 10-minute drive home, I asked myself, “Could I …?”

“Could I drive to Denver right now?”

“Could I be courageous?”

“Could I do one thing?”

electricity used in any month. If a customer uses multiple appliances at the same time, the kilowatts used increase and so does the penalty. If the 15-minute usage is 12 kilowatts, the new demand charge is $12 on your monthly bill. Most working parents will have the highest usage when they return home to cook dinner, bathe children, run laundry, etcetera. These are not luxury activities that can be easily “staggered” or shifted to non-evening hours. Residents of multi-family units or apartments, without separate billing meters, may find themselves paying the charge for high demand neighbors, or the combined electricity use for the entire complex regardless of

Under this new structure, a single 15-minute spike in a month could significantly inflate a customer’s bill. The only way to avoid the new demand charge is to stagger the use of your various household appliances over the course of the day and sign up for “Time of Use” billing. This penalizes working families, while those with the luxury of flexible hours or those who can work from home can avoid these

HCE claims these changes give members “more control.” In truth, they shift higher costs onto working families who do not have the ability to perform life’s basic functions outside of evening hours when they return home from work. I urge the HCE Board of Directors to reconsider this regressive approach before their final decision on Feb. 18, and to find a more equitable way to manage grid demand. Members can comment on the proposed plan until Feb. 6

Glenwood Springs

The world is watching the decline of a psychopathic, retribution driven, malig-

In this nation, he is weaponizing the federal police and military against American citizens. People are being picked up in their homes, at schools and churches, all without due process. A citizen was shot in the head three times by a federal agent, and that was followed by a coverup from

You know who else did this kind of

thing in past history? Nazis!

When asked if there were any limits to his global powers he said: “I am restrained only by my own morality.”

Trump is an amoral man. You need to take the reins, and prevent the ensuing wars to come.

Trump is obsessed with invading sovereign nations for oil & regime change. Greenland is a NATO ally.

He just posted on social media that he is the “acting president of Venezuela.”

STOP TRUMP NOW!

What are all of you doing? Contact your Republican friends in Congress and implore them to do their jobs and block Trump. “We, the People” will remove all of the spineless Republicans in the November Midterms. This is the reality of what power used for evil can incite: resistance and rebellion. The American Revolution removed one King. We will not allow another, and YOU, Marco Rubio, should stand with our Democracy against another wannabe dictator!

I watched Trump walk away from an important oil executive meeting, to longingly muse about the destroyed East Wing and his big beautiful ball room.

Recently, his vindictive retribution has weaponized the DOJ to investigate Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. Trump uses his power to go after anyone who stands on ethical principles for the people of this country. This is an evil, self-serving, greed-grifting liar, now in our White House, or what is left of our White House. I hope that you believe in our democracy, the rule of law and our Constitution. If you do, then it is time to right the wrongs that you have allowed. It is time for action.

Holly McLain Carbondale

LETTERS POLICY: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor. Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome. Please, no smearing, cite your facts and include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@ soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.

ASPEN SCIENCE CENTER

from page 10

learning science feel accessible and fun. When I say it’s all around us, I mean we’re using science knowledge to understand our health, fix our cars, grow our food, cook our meals, understand our natural environment, design our infrastructure, program our computers, solve problems associated with climate change — I could go on and on!”

Tarika continued by specifying skills that children and adults alike can build through science study. “Learning and being able to speak science language at any level opens doors, builds confidence and empowers people to make informed decisions for themselves. From a more soft skills side of things, STEM learning involves essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, communication and leadership; people who engage in our programs are pushed to use and practice each of these.”

ASC celebrated its 20th anniversary last year. The organization was founded in 2005 by George Stranahan “and a group of science education-oriented individuals,” Tarika said. The nonprofit moved into its current Discovery Center space in Carbondale’s Third Street Center in 2019. According to Tarika, the midvalley location is an advantage. “[It] positions us really well to be able to travel efficiently to each community we serve, from Aspen to Parachute. This strategy of delivering programs directly in each community not only increases the accessibility of our programs, but helps us connect more authentically with people in these communities.”

TOWN OF CARBONDALE

511 Colorado Avenue Carbondale, CO 81623 www.carbondalegov.org (970 963-2733 Fax: (970) 963-9140

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Carbondale Planning and Zoning Commission for the purpose of considering a Major Site Plan review and two Alternative Compliance requests for the construction of a mixed-use commercial and residential building at 242-256 Main Street

Project Description: The combined application includes the demolition of the existing building and the construction of a new building with both commercial and residential units. Two alternative compliances are requested to reduce the ground-floor ceiling height from the 14 feet code requirement to 12 feet and to increase the building height from 35 feet to 42 feet for staircase and elevator overrides.

Property Location: 242-256 Main Street (Lot 6 Section: 34 Township: 7 Range: 88)

Applicant: Forum Phi

Owner: 242-256 Mains St LLC

Said Public Hearing will be held at the Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO at 7:00 p.m. on February 12th, 2026

Copies of the proposed application are on file in the Planning Department office, Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO and may be examined during regular business hours, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The application may also be viewed on the Town’s website at: https://www.carbondalegov.org/departments/planning/current_land_use_applications.ph p

If you would like to submit comments regarding this application you may send them via email to epeterson@carbondaleco.net by 5:00 pm on February 12th, 2026. The comments will be entered into the record. If you have questions regarding the application, please contact Ellie Peterson, Planner at 970-510-1212.

Publish: 1x January 22, 2026

Bill: Town of Carbondale Send POP to: Planning Dept. 511 Colorado Avenue 511 Colorado Avenue Carbondale, CO 81623 Carbondale, CO 81623

After more than 34 years in operation, Movieland 7 in El Jebel is set to shutter on Thursday, Jan. 22. Movieland first opened in 1991 thanks to Charles Moss, a real estate and entertainment entrepreneur who built the Orchard Plaza commercial condominiums and retail center.

Bow Tie Partners, a family business, once operated 40 movie theaters, but that number has declined since the COVID-19 pandemic, The Aspen Times reported. After Jan. 22, there will be a single Bow Tie theater left, located in Virginia.

“The Addams Family,” the first movie screened at Movieland, will return to the big screen for one last hoorah with showings at 2:20 and 5:20pm.

Photos by Tristan Mead