Within the circles of our lives we dance the circles of the years, the circles of the seasons within the circles of the years, the cycles of the moon within the circles of the seasons, the circles of our reasons within the cycles of the moon.
Again, again we come and go, changed, changing. Hands join, unjoin in love and fear, grief and joy. The circles turn, each giving into each, into all. Only music keeps us here, each by all the others held. In the hold of hands and eyes we turn in pairs, that joining joining each to all again.
And then we turn aside, alone, out of the sunlight gone into the darker circles of return.
Hands touching hands
Contra
will host two more events this winter season: March 14 and April 4 at the Carbondale Community School. New dancers are encouraged to arrive by 7pm for a lesson. Experienced dancers can show up after 7:30pm for less explanation of the basics. All ages are welcome to enjoy this wholesome tradition with live old-time music accompaniment. Tickets are $10 to $20 (suggested donation, cash appreciated) or $5 for students.
Roaring Fork
Dance
- Song (4) by Wendell Berry
Photos by Ross Kribbs
All things near and far
My scholastic aptitudes always tended toward the humanities. My high school offered “Humanistic Physics” for such dummies. In the textbook for this class was a quote by English poet Francis Thompson that I have never forgotten.
“All things by immortal power, Near or far, Hiddenly
To each other linked are, That thou canst not stir a flower Without troubling a star.”
—Francis
Thompson
OPINION
Divide Water Conservancy District filed an application in water court for storage ponds at Treasure Mountain Ranch and the Darien Ranch, both located along the Crystal River in Gunnison County. Questions remain as to whether these storage structures would render the Crystal River ineligible for Wild and Scenic status.
The Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association (CVEPA) is the only organization that seeks to watch over the health of the entire Crystal River watershed. Despite John Wesley Powell’s urging that political boundaries in the arid west be matched to watershed boundaries, our county lines seem indifferent to the flow of rivers. In its short 40-mile run to the confluence with the Roaring Fork, the Crystal River traverses three different counties — Gunnison, Pitkin and Garfield. The CVEPA board seeks to focus its energies within that watershed.
CVEPA VIEWS
By Dale Will
And yet, Thompson’s insight into the interconnectedness of things frequently leads our board into interesting discussions about which issues merit our concern. Our deliberations over the methane recapture proposal in Coal Basin were somewhat vexing as we all recognize that climate change is hurting our little watershed. To what extent should we accept some intrusion into our valley to help fight this battle on a larger front? The board remains somewhat perplexed by that question.
And now comes the proposed Harvest Roaring Fork development on the 283-acre Sanders Ranch property, long known as a critical winter elk habitat along the Roaring Fork River a couple miles below the Crystal River confluence. A Texas company, Reality Capital, proposes to build 1,500 residential units, 450 accessory dwelling units, 55,000 square feet of commercial space and a 120-room hotel. Two new traffic lights would be needed to handle an estimated additional 12,000 daily vehicle trips on Highway 82.
The potential impact of the Harvest Roaring Fork development on the Crystal Valley is palpable. This December, the West
LETTERS
CORRECTION: Regarding last week’s “Swords to plowshares, turning weapons into tools” article, Western Slope Mennonite Fellowship hosted the event, and the Sandy Hook tragedy occurred in 2012. Also, Roaring Fork High School junior Chase Fenton was mistakenly referred to by his older brother’s name.
Re: The Smithy
It was no longer a blacksmith shop the first time I stepped inside the Village Smithy building. In 1973 there was sawdust, there was an array of wood working machines and there were several stunning hardwood looms. Yes, maple floor looms and the smaller table looms on display and for sale. The weavers tool, the looms were a work of art in themselves. My girlfriend was a weaver and we were there to buy her new table loom which raised her craft to another level.
I knew that the beloved Finn, Paul Lappala, owned the building. Paul rented the Smithy to loom maker Chris Landry. Do their names sound familiar? The two friends later collaborated to establish our community gem Spring Gulch Cross Country Ski Area. And, oh yeah, Chris became known as the father of extreme skiing. He skied the first descent of the north face of Pyramid Peak (and much more) and defined the sport in a nutshell — “If you fall, you die!” Meticulous in all his endeavours, Chris made beautiful looms.
The West Divide application is intended as a backup supply for existing residential subdivisions whose water rights are at best tenuous in dry years. For excellent reporting on this topic by Heather Sackett, see Aspen Journalism’s Feb. 11 report “West Divide proposes backup water plan for Crystal River.” The clear upshot of the West Divide application is that the residential use of the watershed is already beyond its carrying capacity. And that capacity is likely diminishing with the ravages of climate change.
The Harvest Roaring Fork proposal ignores the limited capacity of both our environment and infrastructure. If we’re already short on water, will this development lead to more calls for dams? Does anyone think the existing traffic levels on Highway 82 or Highway 133 are acceptable? Reality Capital is claiming they will help provide affordable housing, and yet only 10% of the units will be deed capped for our workforce. The balance will be expensive escape housing for new residents, not existing workers. And the influx will increase the overall demand for services, at the expense of critical habitat. A significant net loss for our valley. For more information visit the Cattle Creek Coalition website, cattlecreekcc.com
Given the above, CVEPA is heartened that the Garfield County planning staff memo for the Feb. 25 planning commission meeting recommends denial of the Harvest Roaring Fork project due to its likely impact on water, habitat, affordability and traffic. Please see www.bit.ly/Harvest-GarCo-staff
We hope that the Garfield County commissioners heed their staff’s recommendation. Perhaps then, some realistic conversations about additional and permanent conservation of the Sanders Ranch property will be possible. All things near or far, by mighty powers connected are.
To support CVEPA and to learn more about our mission visit www.cvepa.org or follow us on facebook.
Chris moved on to become avalanche forecaster at the Yule Quarry, Red Mountain Pass, then Silverton. A short-lived fish and aquarium store occupied that space. Then, in 1975, Chris Chacos came from Aspen’s Crystal Palace and started a little breakfast place in that old blacksmith/ loom shop.
For over 50 years if you came to the Smithy you were home. You were in Chris and wife Terry’s home and you were part of family greater than a business or a building. It was warm, it was welcoming, it was the iconic, one-and-only Village Smithy, and it was Carbondale. For years Charlie and Jared kept the torch burning. We are all the fortunate ones to be woven into a fabric so rich and inclusive.
John Armstrong Satank
Physical therapy
The Roaring Fork Valley is fortunate to have exceptional, world-renowned surgeons and medical care. We are deeply grateful for the skill and dedication of our local healthcare providers. This letter addresses an important step in recovery after surgery.
Many patients are unaware that they have the legal right to choose where they receive outpatient physical therapy. Unfortunately, after patients have medical procedures at Valley View Hospital, Aspen Valley Hospital, and surgical centers such
as the Steadman Clinic/Howard Head, postoperative therapy is often scheduled before discharge. While this may be done for convenience and continuity of care, patients may not realize that independent options are also available.
Patients are not required to attend hospital- or corporate-owned physical therapy. Federal law protects a patient’s freedom to choose outpatient rehabilitation providers. Once discharged from surgery, the decision about where to receive therapy belongs to the patient.
Our valley is fortunate to have many highly-qualified, independently-owned physical therapy practices alongside hospital-based programs. Independent clinics often offer personalized care, continuity with the same therapist, flexible scheduling, and a strong focus on helping patients return to work, recreation, and active living.
Hospitals play a critical role in surgery and acute care, and their rehabilitation departments provide valuable services to our community. Independent clinics are not a replacement for hospital care, but a complement to it — offering additional options to meet diverse patient needs.
Patients can advocate for themselves by asking a simple question after surgery: “What are my physical therapy options?”
A collaborative healthcare system works best when patients are informed and empowered to choose the setting that feels continued on page 18
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SCUTTLEBUTT
Electric mountain biking
The Bureau of Land Management is seeking public input on a proposal to allow Class 1 e-bikes on all currently designated mechanized mountain bike trails within the Colorado River Valley Field Office boundary. Approval would affect more than 220 miles of trail in Eagle, Garfield and Pitkin counties. “Class 1 e-bikes have a motor that only works when you pedal and stops helping once you reach 20 miles per hour,” a press release described. Comments on the proposal will be accepted through March 25. Public meetings will be hosted in Eagle on March 11 and Silt on March 18, each from 4 to 6pm. Find more information at www.bit.ly/blm-e-bikes
So long, Chief Knott
After 13 years as Basalt’s police chief, Greg Knott has announced his retirement. “Under his leadership, the department expanded community policing efforts, enhanced officer training standards and prioritized collaboration with regional partners,” stated Mayor David Knight in a press release. “We are grateful for his service and his legacy.” The Town will announce plans for leadership transition in the coming weeks.
Red Dog Road fire
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A residence on Red Dog Road, between Carbondale and Redstone, was ablaze when Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District responded on Feb. 21, just before noon. The fire was brought under control by 1:35pm, according to a press release from the department, but crews remained to search for hidden hot spots and ensure it was fully extinguished. “We appreciate the rapid response and strong partnership from our neighboring fire departments, whose assistance [was] critical in sustaining water tender shuttle operations and supporting firefighting efforts,” said Incident Commander Harlan Nimmo. No injuries were reported and the cause is being investigated.
A high note
Twenty-eight elementary school students from Roaring Fork School District earned the chance to learn from professional clinicians and perform at this year’s All-State Elementary Choir on Jan. 31 at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs, a record turnout from the district. Ensemble selection for the annual choir event, organized by the Colorado Music Educators Association, is a highly competitive process, according to a district press release. “I was impressed by the work ethic of the students, who showed incredible perseverance and teamwork throughout this
Editor James Steindler has earned his “proverbial wings,” receiving a symbolic badge denoting him as The Sopris Sun’s next editor-in-chief at the nonprofit newspaper’s 17th anniversary party on Feb. 19. Raleigh Burleigh will depart the role on March 28 ahead of relocating to New Mexico. The party was a joyous celebration of community-driven journalism.
Photo by Klaus Kocher
process,” said Katrina Toews, Basalt Elementary music teacher.
‘Art in Motion’
Aspen Public Art and WE-cycle invite Roaring Fork Valley-based artists, 16 and up, to submit pieces for a chance to be featured on the Aspen system’s e-bikes and kiosks during the upcoming summer season. “We welcome this opportunity to co-create a mobile art gallery that will shine a spotlight on the deep talents of Valley artists,” said Lara Whitley, program lead of Aspen Public Art. The five winning artists will also receive a $1,500 stipend. For details and to submit, visit www. redbrickaspen.com The deadline is March 18.
Safe Passages
A new video produced by Roaring Fork Safe Passages in partnership with the Colorado Wildlife and Transportation Alliance, Pew Charitable Trusts, Western Resource Advocates and the Muley Fanatic Foundation highlights three Coloradans, including local ski legend Chris Davenport, whose lives were permanently altered by vehicular collisions with wildlife. In 2024 alone, at least
7,497 animals were hit and killed across Colorado, resulting also in tragic consequences for drivers and passengers. Find the video with information on advocacy for wildlife crossings at www.bit.ly/CO-wildlife
Da bears
Colorado Parks and Wildlife received 5,299 reports of sightings and conflicts with bears in 2025 — 15% higher than the previous six years. Trash continues to be the number one attractant, followed by livestock, chickens and beehives. An estimated 17,000 to 20,000 bears live in Colorado. Conditions such as drought or a late freeze affecting natural food availability often push bears into urban areas in search of sustenance.
Fickle support
Congressman Jeff Hurd (R-3) lost Donald Trump’s endorsement over his vote this month to repeal tariffs on Canada by ending a national emergency declared by the president to justify the action. Rep. Hurd argued that the administration’s tariffs are harming people and businesses in Colorado. “My responsibility is to defend the separation of powers regardless of political convenience,” he wrote. Trump’s support has shifted to Republican primary challenger Hope Scheppelman.
Hogback route
The Garfield County Commissioners opted not to subsidize Roaring Fork Transportation Authority’s (RFTA) Hogback commuter route beyond the fall, citing budget constraints. The county, which has subsidized the service since 2002, approved an intergovernmental agreement that includes $250,000 in funding that will sustain the service until Nov. 22. “This is providing service to around 200,000 rides annually,” David Pesnichak, RFTA’s chief operating officer, told the commissioners. “About 100,000 of those are boarding between Silt and Rifle, so right about 50% are within the service area we are looking to end service on, unless other funding is identified.” Service from Glenwood Springs to New Castle would not be affected.
They say it’s your birthday!
Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Barb Bush, Dottie Daniels, Dorsey Moore and Marty Rynearson (Feb. 26); Jeremy Dwiggins, Gaby Mata Serafin and Sara Tymczyszyn (Feb. 27); Junior Ortega (Feb. 28); Cole Buerger, Emma Duke, Robert Weinhold and Pusa Vhrin (March 1); Sean Jeffries (March 2); Barbe Chambliss, Bella Frisbie and Judey Kess (March 3); Kurt Trede, Jr. (March 4).
Pints and Perspectives is a monthly speaker series that brings the community together in a relaxed, welcoming setting. This month’s speaker is Planning Director of the Town of Basalt, Michelle Thibeault. Michelle will discuss current initiatives, how planning decisions are made and how residents
play a role in the process.
Contributing
New sparks at Bonfire Coffee — instant blends and other news
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
For nearly 15 years, Bonfire Coffee has stood as a place to gather on the north side of Main Street in Carbondale. The cafe has become a community treasure for its message board packed with event posters and social opportunities, for exhibiting local art on the walls and, most of all, for its delectable coffee. For owner Charlie Chacos, offering high-quality beverages has been important since the beginning.
Early in Bonfire’s existence, that meant a reliable espresso machine, roasted beans ordered from Seattle and well-trained baristas. But after a few years, Chacos turned to local roasting in partnership with a Glenwood Springs company called Defiant Bean. In 2013, the roaster and Bonfire Coffee merged to become a single entity, keeping the roasting facility in Glenwood and the cafe in downtown Carbondale.
This winter, the team at Bonfire has expanded offerings beyond its 15 craft coffee options, which include four single-origin roasts and 11 blends of beans combining flavors from different countries. The new products are two instant coffees, allowing
Bonfire enthusiasts to take local coffee with them traveling and camping. Chacos shared more about instant coffee and his thoughts on cafes.
What inspired your team to branch into instant coffee options?
We have been impressed with the quality of the instant Swift Coffee for a while now. We are attracted by the shelfstable aspect and the ability to hit different markets.
How did you select the roasts for Bonfire’s first two instant options?
We selected our two favorite coffees that worked with the instant production process. Smooth medium roasts translated better than our light roast coffee. Instant coffee options may expand depending upon how this is received by the market. What has the process been to create instant coffee?
There are a few instant coffee producers; our partner, Swift Coffee, offers the best product and can work with small-batch production. We were able to test a few of the blends in small batches to determine which worked best.
What are some of your favorite things about coffee?
It’s a fascinating product with a blend of science and art that is endlessly enticing. It is a simple product that is surprisingly complex. We love the positive energy in this industry and the coffee community.
What is your favorite way to drink coffee — espresso, drip, French, mocha, instant?
My personal favorite brew method is a single-serve pourover. A dynamic espresso can also make a magical drink. Bonfire will hit its 15th anniversary this year. What are some highlights from over that timespan?
It has been a rollercoaster of experiences over the past 15 years. Opening day was a major highlight; installing our new cabinets in 2022 was another; and purchasing our modular patio space was another. Taking over roasting in 2017 was a fascinating challenge that opened up a whole new aspect to learn and master.
What would you say coffee shops like Bonfire offer communities as a type of third space?
We are honored that our community embraces our space as an extension of their own home — a sanctuary apart from work and home. Some people need that “other space” to fuel their day. Anything else you’d like to share?
We are excited to announce that Bonfire Coffee Roastery will be moving to a new state-ofthe-art facility in April, in west Glenwood Springs. This new location will offer a retail shop — whole bean and brewing supplies, not drinks; a dedicated space for espresso training; and coffee tastings. It will house a new, best-in-class coffee roaster and double the size of our current production facility.
The two roasts the Bonfire
team chose for its initial instant coffee offerings are Central Scrutinizer and Colombia El Puente. The first is a medium roast blend of beans from Guatemala, Costa Rica and Nicaragua, characterized by a chocolatey flavor and a hint of citrus. El Puente is a singleorigin medium roast sourced from Huila, Colombia, with notes of fig and spices in addition to chocolate. El Puente beans are sourced from smallholder coffee producers with a focus on fair trade and ecofriendly harvest and processing. Each package of Bonfire Instant coffee includes six single servings. Both new instant coffee offerings are available at Carbondale’s Main Street location and online at www.bonfirecoffee.com
Bonfire allstars (left to right) Novy Anggreni, Oscar Soto and Leng Saga weigh the roaster’s new instant options. Photo by James Steindler
Voces Unidas urges Attorney General to investigate GarCo Sheriff ’s Office
LILY JONES KDNK News
Over the past year, Latino advocacy organization Voces Unidas de las Montañas has recorded a slew of civil rights complaints in Garfield County. According to a recent online post published by the Voces Unidas Action Fund, over the past year people have been “disappearing” from Garfield County jail to later appear in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody at its detention facility in Aurora.
The group asserts that nine of the 10 instances it investigated suggest that when individuals were “released” from the county jail, ICE agents were allowed to enter the jail and take them into custody before they walked free. Alex Sánchez, the president and CEO of Voces Unidas, believes such actions are against state law.
“It wasn’t as if ICE agents were outside the county jail and they tackled people as they exited a public building on the sidewalk,” Sánchez said.
“We have documented, based on testimony from impacted families and individuals … [and] public records, that ICE agents are allowed to come into the jail,” he continued. “We don’t know what happens inside that jail, but
certainly ICE agents are in secure jail facilities and individuals are never allowed to be free … We believe that’s inconsistent with state law.”
Colorado law has restrictions on local and state law enforcement agencies collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security on immigration enforcement. Specifically, Senate Bill 25-276 prohibits jails from delaying an inmate’s release to give ICE an opportunity to apprehend them, and House Bill 19-1124 forbids state and local departments from detaining someone on the sole basis of a civil immigration detainer. However, HB 19-1124 does permit police to assist federal authorities in the execution of a warrant that’s signed by a judge.
One case detailed by Voces Unidas, though not arising out of the jail, involves Luis Armando Rivas Martinez, a 60 year old who, as reported by Voces, had not had a run-in with local law enforcement in at least 11 years. He was arrested in the WalMart parking lot in Glenwood Springs in June 2025. Video, posted by Voces, shows two officers, one in a Garfield County deputy uniform and another donning that of a Special Problem Enforcement and Response (SPEAR) officer, a
multi-agency unit affiliated with the sheriff ’s department. The SPEAR officer, Nate LaGiglia, further assisted a federal agent at their request by transporting Rivas Martinez to a gas station in DeBeque to turn him over to Homeland Security custody.
Voces conducted a public records search but did not find any warrant for Rivas Martinez, and suspects this was another violation of the law. A report written by LaGiglia indicates that the federal officer said Rivas Martinez was wanted on federal charges, but no warrant is mentioned or included in records obtained by The Sopris Sun.
According to the Garfield County Associate Courthouse in Rifle, the county’s only case for Rivas Martinez was closed in 2016. However, a court spokesperson said that a warrant could have originated from another jurisdiction.
”He had not committed any federal crimes. [The] two deputies were acting as ICE agents, supporting and assisting civil ICE enforcement,” Sánchez said, “which, in Colorado, we believe is against the law.”
Following a detention period at the Aurora ICE facility, Rivas Martinez has since been deported to Mexico.
Voces Unidas is urging Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser to investigate the Garfield County Sheriff ’s Office for possible violations of state laws. State Senate Bill 20-217 gives the Colorado Attorney General the authority to investigate local law enforcement suspected of civil rights violations. The Attorney General’s Office declines to comment on ongoing investigations.
Sánchez said long-term harm inflicted on the immigrant and Latino communities in Garfield county could be immeasurable.
“Unfortunately, Garfield County government and [the] Garfield County Sheriff and his office have undermined decades and decades of goodwill and work as a community. And now because of their actions members of my community may not call
911,” Sanchez said, “may not respond to the calls of district attorneys … may not report domestic violence. Certainly, any encounter we have with the Garfield County Sheriff ’s Office will be treated as potentially hostile. That’s the consequence that this sheriff cannot see.”
The Sopris Sun and KDNK reached out to the Garfield County Sheriff ’s Office regarding allegations of inmates being turned over to ICE within the jail upon their supposed release. Records Manager Kiyvon Nye responded that they “[do] not track individuals or other agency involvement after the individual has bonded or otherwise leaves the custody of the Garfield County Jail,” adding, “no records exist to quantify” the claim. The Glenwood Springs ICE field office did not respond as of press time.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office in Glenwood Springs.
Photo by James Steindler
New pool poised to open May 23
RALEIGH BURLEIGH
Sopris Sun Editor
All trustees were present for a quick regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 24. First, a consent agenda was approved consisting of meeting minutes, accounts payable and two professional services agreements. The first asks Robert Schultz Consulting to draft a new request for proposals to develop the Town Center parcels into affordable housing, following the conclusion of nonprofit Artspace’s contract late last year. The second formalizes wildfire modeling with Dr. Hussam Mahmoud of Vanderbilt University for no more than $100,000; Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District will cover costs that may exceed that amount.
Several public comments were then heard. Carol Bruno, whose family owns Peppino’s Pizza, expressed concerns about safety on Main Street after a young girl was run over outside the restaurant, breaking a leg. Bruno suggested dropping the speed limit to 15 mph and returning the
BASALT REPORT
bike rack in front of Peppino’s to create a buffer.
John Williams followed up on a letter he submitted to the trustees regarding Chacos Park and the bandstand shade structure which was presented to the Historic Preservation Commission on Feb. 5. His request, as a citizen rather than a member of that commission: “Keep historic downtown Carbondale historic.” Robert Beauchamp supported Williams, asking for more design alternatives.
During trustee comments, Erica Sparhawk, Jess Robison, Colin Laird, Christina Montemayor and Mayor Ben Bohmfalk responded to the need for enhanced pedestrian safety on Main Street. In addition to lowering the speed limit, it was suggested that a midblock crossing may be necessary, possibly extending from the promenade which connects to Colorado Avenue. Chris Hassig and Ross Kribbs spoke about Chacos Park, sharing similar concerns about the size and “weight” of the shade structure.
Sparhawk also suggested the Town weigh in on the Bureau of Land Management’s proposal to allow e-bikes on local trails, including the Red Hill network which already sees some 40,000 individual trips per year. Kribbs announced that Colorado Parks and Wildlife is hiring a summer inspector at Ruedi Reservoir to prevent the spread of
aquatic nuisance species. Hassig requested exploration of an excise tax on storage units; annexation of the 502 Diner and surrounding area into city limits; and changes to planned unit developments.
Only two action items graced the agenda. The first was quick approval of a special event permit for the sold-out Carbondale Arts
Fashion Show, March 12-14. Lastly, trustees got a monthly update on the Aquatics Center. According to Parks and Rec Director Eric Brendlinger, the facility is on track to open officially on May 23. This will be preceded by a donor appreciation celebration on May 21, open to all who donated toward the capital campaign.
The next regular meeting, March 10, will focus largely on recommended changes to accessory dwelling unit rules proposed by the Planning and Zoning Commission, as well as Old Town recommendations from the Historic Planning Commission.
Council discusses plan for Willits housing and community space
WILL BUZZERD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
For nearly two years, the Town of Basalt has been making conceptual plans and conducting outreach to plan a new community space and affordable housing complex in the Willits Town Center.
The approximate 1.5-acre site is referred to in Town documents as Parcel 2E, and sits across from TACAW at the corner of Lewis Lane and Willits Lane. The project began in 2024, after Basalt secured a More Housing Now grant from the State of Colorado. In the summer of that year, the Town selected Charles Cunniffe Architects of Aspen to lead the design team, which began community outreach that fall, making use of focus groups, one-on-one conversations, an open house with neighbors and a student-engagement project with Basalt High School students to come up with a list of community needs.
Following these outreach strategies, the design team identified workforce housing as a critical need for the project. Those canvassed also desired a community space with a focus on youth and family amenities that could host safe and engaging
after-school programming, especially during the wintertime.
Outreach continued into 2025, when the design team displayed 3D mockups of aerial and pedestrian views in order to provide a sense of scale for the project and how it would visually impact the neighborhood. The team also provided mockups of reduced density versions of the project. During this stage, the team found that parking and traffic as well as height and density were concerns among residents closest to the site. Comments during this period were split between a four-story version of the project that reflected the scale of most buildings currently in Willits, while others preferred a three-story option that reflected the scale of residential neighborhoods nearby.
After the release of Eagle County’s Aging Well Roadmap for 2026 to 2030, the design team identified an opportunity to address the issue of social connection for seniors by expanding programming to adults and seniors within the community space.
Presently, Town staff are only at the end of the “concept and programing” phase of its landuse entitlements process. During which staff has been performing outreach to gauge community
interest in the project and create development goals, but has not prepared any sketch plans or entitlement applications.
“We are just at the very beginning, and we have a long way to go until we get towards anything that would be considered a final plan,” said Ashley Satterfield of Charles Cunniffe Architects.
Two public work sessions will be held later this year to further develop the project concept before the sketch plan and entitlements phase begins. The first work session will address questions of density, cost per unit and financing. The second will address the community space, during which Town staff will prepare a business plan and cost analysis.
Electrifying new construction
During the meeting, Planning Director Sara Nadolny led a presentation on Basalt’s roadmap towards net-zero construction with a focus on amending building codes for all-electric development.
Currently, the Town of Basalt is on the end of “Step A” of its roadmap towards net-zero construction and refers to its current code as “electric-preferred.” However, during “Step B,” which has an estimated time frame of 2026-2029, the Town
intends to amend the code such that new construction must be all-electric with exceptions for gas supplemental heating, emergency generators and other items as determined by building officials.
Nadolny stated that the exceptions are in place due to resiliency concerns. Because Basalt does not currently have its own microgrid, supplemental, non-electric heat systems need to exist for emergency heating in case of power outages. According to Nadolny,
exceptions for these systems are more likely to be doled out based on specific needs — for hospitals, for instance, rather than single-family residences.
In September 2025, the State of Colorado published a new Model Low Energy and Carbon Code which will become the default energy code on July 1 this year. However, because of the Basalt’s efforts to electrify and reduce emissions, the Town is already well ahead of the incoming state code.
In November, the Town hosted an open house at the Hoffman Hotel to gain community insight in regards to the planned Willits housing and community space. Over a two-day period, approximately 55 residents dropped by to offer opinions regarding use and density. Courtesy photo
The Historic Preservation Commission reviewed this version of the Chacos Park shade structure, advancing toward construction once funding is procured. A few trustees have raised concerns about the size and appearance of the structure. Courtesy graphic
Permit lapse alleged for Glenwood ICE facility, City response coming
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
City of Glenwood Springs officials say they will issue more information soon about a possible lapse in permitting for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to operate out of a West Glenwood commercial plaza.
Two members of the public, including the new chair of the Garfield County Democrats, Mae Gray, and resident Ashley Stahl, appeared before Glenwood City Council at its regular Feb. 19 meeting calling attention to the issue.
Gray and Stahl alleged the ICE facility located in the Midland Center at the intersection of Midland Avenue and Wulfsohn Road, based on their research through an open records request, has been operating for many years without a valid occupancy permit.
The situation was known by the City but never corrected, they said.
Especially if the facility is being used for detention purposes, even temporarily, there’s likely a zoning violation that the City should investigate, Stahl said.
Detention facilities are strictly regulated, and should something happen involving injury to or death of a detainee, the City could be liable, she warned.
With the lease for the space coming due at the end of March, Gray said it’s an opportunity to “get rid of ICE” presence in Glenwood Springs in response to the national outcry over immigration enforcement policies under the Trump administration.
“We appreciate and love our Latino community,” Gray said. “They are invaluable, and we would like to not see our friends, our family and our neighbors continue to be kidnapped.”
Gray added that on-site security for the federal government, which also operates a Social Security Administration office at the same location, has blocked a side access to the nearby pedestrian bridge where demonstrations protesting ICE have been held in recent weeks.
City Attorney Karl Hanlon said the permit situation is not exactly as it was being presented but that the City is researching the matter further and will publicly share more information, perhaps as soon as this week.
As of deadline for this report, no additional information had been disseminated.
Regular business…
Meanwhile, all Council members were present for the second regular meeting
of February.
During Council announcements, Mayor Pro Tem Erin Zalinski, who sits on the City’s Airport Board, reported that Glenwood will host the June 2027 conference of the Colorado Airport Operators Association.
“It will be a great opportunity to showcase our town, and our airport,” she said.
Following unanimous approval of the consent agenda and an alley right-ofway encroachment for electrical utilities associated with the new beer spa that is expected to open soon at the corner of Eighth Street and Cooper Avenue, Council heard a report from City Parks and Recreation Director Rod Tarullo regarding special events for the coming year.
The City is on track to either sponsor or host several special events or series, including Pride Fest, a Fourth of July celebration, Noon Year’s Eve (an early family celebration on New Year’s Eve), Movies and Music Under the Bridge, Noche Latina and Latino Conservation.
Many of those events are put on by the City, while others are organized by outside groups that make use of public spaces, he said.
The question, Tarullo continued, is whether the City has the capacity to offer or host any more events within a reduced $100,000 budget. That’s $50,000 less than last year, he said.
Council members suggested that spending for events should be relative to
The City of Glenwood Springs is interested in buying 97 lots from Garfield County that dot the steep hillside above Palmer Avenue near the City’s 12th Street water tanks, pictured here. The lots do not have any direct access and are considered “unbuildable” because of the steep slopes, but are currently being listed for sale by the County. Photo by John Stroud
District launches mill levy override exploratory process
ANNALISE GRUETER
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Earlier this month, the Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) board of education officially launched a mill levy override (MLO) exploratory process. Superintendent Dr. Anna Cole shared this at the Feb. 11 board meeting in Carbondale. The research work will evaluate the possibility of initiating and promoting a ballot initiative for this autumn, November 2026.
A MLO is one option for RFSD to further improve its budget standing after several years of challenges. If pursued, Cole shared in a memo, MLO funds would be used to support staff salaries as well as recruitment and retention efforts. Ten members of the RFSD administration and leadership teams are serving on the exploratory committee, including Cole, board chair Lindsay DeFrates and several district school principals.
Chief financial officer Christy Chicoine, who is also serving on the exploratory committee, stated, “Investing in our staff is an investment in our students’ success. This exploratory process will help us determine how to best bridge the gap between our current funding and the true cost of attracting and keeping the best educators in a high-cost district like ours. We need to find ways to ensure that high-quality educators can continue to afford to live in this community.”
To encourage community engagement in the exploratory process, RFSD announced three forum dates to share
All-State Elementary Choir performance. Twenty-eight students were selected from RFSD to perform at the annual event, a record for the district. Courtesy photo
information and hear input from parents, staff and other community members. The first will be held at Basalt High School on March 16 at 6:30pm. The next day, March 17, another will be hosted at Glenwood Springs Elementary School at 6:30pm. The third, Thursday, March 19, will be hosted at the Carbondale District Office at 6:30pm and will be live streamed and recorded for additional accessibility.
At each of the community meetings, Cole, Chicoine and Aimee Brockman, chief of human resources and talent, will present on the work of the exploratory committee. Cole shared that one of RFSD’s challenges in recent years has been maintaining competitive staff salaries in the face of “mounting external financial pressures.”
An MLO is an option that could be a solution to those factors.
“We help each individual understand their wants, needs, and goals, then provide them with a road map and the resources to get there. We don’t prescribe solutions—we help families create their own pathway to success.”
- Katherine Sand, Aspen Family Connections Director Aspen Family Connections is a family resource center, created to connect all Pitkin County children, youth and families with a wide range of community resources and is a grant recipient of the Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund. The voter supported Healthy Community Fund assists the Pitkin County community by providing grants to nonprofit organizations that provide critical health and human services and community resources.
Brockman shared, “Data reinforces what we already know, which is that teachers are the most important in-school factor influencing student learning. When turnover is high, learning and relationships are disrupted; when educators are stable and experienced, students thrive.” She added, “Roaring Fork Schools is the seventh most expensive district in the State of Colorado [out of 178 public school districts]. Although we have been proactive and creative — particularly through staff housing initiatives — these efforts alone cannot address the fact that it continues to become more and more difficult for staff to afford to live, work and remain in our school district.”
In addition to the launch of the MLO exploratory process, the RFSD board heard several community comments at the Feb. 11 board meeting. District resident
Marc Adler submitted a written comment expressing concern over the closure of Glenwood Springs High School on Jan. 30, when students walked out as part of a nationwide protest of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement tactics.
District parent Tanner Gianinetti presented a comment reiterating his previously raised concern about elementary school curriculum on health and bodies. District parent Parker Nieslanik also commented on the curriculum, stating that he felt it was introduced without adequate parent consultation. Community member Rick James presented a similar comment on the topic.
Outside of board meetings, RFSD has announced several district updates. Current assistant principal of Sopris Elementary School Carrie Hassel will take over as principal for the 2026-27 school year. At the end of January, 28 elementary school students from RFSD were selected to perform in the All-State Elementary Choir at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs. This is the largest number of students ever selected from a single district in the history of the choir.
The next RFSD board of education regular meeting takes place on March 11 at 6:15pm in the Colorado Room of the District Office, 400 Sopris Avenue, Carbondale. RFSD board meeting agendas are available on the board website. Meetings are live streamed on YouTube and recordings become available soon after.
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RFSD elementary students and teachers pictured at the Broadmoor Hotel in Colorado Springs for the
Basalt wrestlers represent at state tournament, Rams basketball into final stretch
JOHN STROUD
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Basalt High School’s boys wrestling team had three representatives compete at the Class 3A Colorado State Wrestling Championship held at Ball Arena in Denver over the weekend, but no podium finishes for the Longhorns.
Qualifying at 165 pounds, senior Luca Del Cid came into the state tournament with a 26-14 record on the season. He dropped his opening-round match with a pin at 2 minutes, 44 seconds and a 7-0 score to the eventual fifth-place finisher, Salida’s Jacob Johnson.
Del Cid went on to win his first consolation-round match 6-0 over Elizabeth’s Ronin Sexton in 1:48, before bowing out with a 6-0 decision in 2:39 to Kenneth Jordan from Bennett.
Qualifying at 190 pounds with a 27-6 season record was senior Herberth Requeno, who dropped a 14-0 major decision to Platte Valley’s Jason Harrison in the opening match. Harrison eventually took third place overall.
Requeno then won 8-1 (1:49) over University’s Alex Serrano in the consolation round, before bowing out with a 17-1 technical fall to Alamosa’s Jovanny Mendoza.
And qualifying at 215 pounds with a 28-11 season record was junior Brooks Ragan. He lost his opening match 6-1 (1:59) to Charlie Hanna from Timnath, then won a 6-0 decision over Amelio Cruz from the Alameda International School in 2:14. Ragan fell in 4:56 (15-5) to Fort Lupton’s Harold McClain to close things out.
Basketball update
The only Roaring Fork High School basketball action prior to Wednesday’s rescheduled senior night game against Cedaredge (results in next week’s Sopris Sun) was a boys game on the road to play a tough Class 5A Eagle Valley
team — a 69-49 loss for the Rams.
The Devils led from the start and held off a few charges from the Rams, en route to concluding their season at 19-3 and going undefeated at 6-0 to win the 5A Western Slope League. They entered this week’s 5A state playoffs as the No. 4 seed.
Roaring Fork, meanwhile, dropped to 17-3 with the loss, but still is on track to win the 3A WSL at 9-0 and continues to hold the eight spot in the state 3A rankings that would give the Rams hosting honors for the regional round of the state playoffs.
The Roaring Fork girls, meanwhile, stood at 18-2 overall and 9-2 in 3A WSL play, with a chance to take at least a share of the league title on Wednesday. They were ranked ninth in the state among 3A teams coming into the week, with hopes of moving into a top-eight spot for regional hosting.
Both Rams teams have a string of league games to close out the regular season, starting Wednesday (4pm varsity girls, 5:30 boys, with senior honors between games). A pair of road games wrap things up before postseason play, Thursday night at Grand Valley and Saturday afternoon at Gunnison.
Spring sports
Monday, Feb. 23, marked the first official day of practice for high school spring sports, including baseball, boys and girls lacrosse, girls soccer, track and field, girls tennis, girls golf and boys swimming and diving.
The first action of the season (weather permitting) will see Roaring Fork baseball at home against Montrose on March 7, girls soccer at Battle Mountain on March 6, lacrosse at Steamboat Springs on March 7 and track and field at the Rifle Invitational on March 13.
Basalt High School senior Herberth Requeno gets set to grapple with Jason Harrison from Platte Valley in the opening round of the Colorado Class 3A State Wrestling Championships in Denver on Thursday, Feb. 19. Photo by Barry Wallace/Wallace Photography
AIRPORT TERMINAL DESIGN OPEN HOUSE
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26
OPEN STUDIO
The Art Base invites painters to practice their art, with help available from Tish McFee, from 1 to 4pm.
GRAPHIC NOVEL CLUB
The Carbondale Library invites kids ages 9 to 12 to discuss the graphic novel “Maxwell Dark: Nightmare Hunter” by Brady Smith from 3:30 to 4:30pm.
BLACKOUT POETRY
Basalt Library leads teens in a poetry exercise erasing, highlighting and transforming existing texts to reveal hidden meaning from 4 to 5pm.
WILD MUSTANGS
Explore the journey of Colorado’s wild mustangs and adoption requirements at the Glenwood Library from 5 to 6pm.
RFOV TRIVIA NIGHT
Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers hosts trivia night at Carbondale Beer Works from 5:30 to 8:30pm.
FIRE & WATER SPEAKER SERIES
The Middle Colorado Watershed Council kicks off its Fire & Water Speaker Series with award-winning author and hydrologist Robert R. Crifasi presenting at the Hotel Colorado from 6 to 8pm. RSVP at www.midcowatershed.org/events
HAPPY HOUR DANCE
tomorrow and Monday at 7pm. Sunday’s 3pm show is captioned. “Encanto” screens on Feb. 28 and March 4 at 3pm.
‘THE SECRET GARDEN’
The Glenwood Vaudeville Revue continues its run of “The Secret Garden” on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm through March 22. Sunday matinees at 5pm pick up on March 8. Tickets at www.gvrshow.com
THE BROTHERS COMATOSE
TACAW presents The Brothers Comatose at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
TRIPTIDES
El Dorado presents Triptides at 8:30pm.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28
ZUMBA
Helen Cayoja guides a Zumba dance session at the Carbondale Library from 9 to 10am.
PRINTMAKING
Curt Carpenter teaches color reduction linocut printmaking course today and tomorrow from 9am to 3pm at The Art Base. Registration at www.theartbase.org
COLLAGING FOR MOMS
Jen Campbell hosts the final Happy Hour Dance Class of the month at Carbondale Arts from 6:15 to 7:30pm. Register at www.danceinitiative.org
MEAL PREP
The Center for Human Flourishing invites you to learn all about preparing and storing a week’s meals with chef and nutritionist Ricki McKenna at the Third Street Center from 6:30 to 8pm.
Moms are invited to turn their kids’ art pieces into collages at The Art Base from 10am to 1pm. Registration at www.theartbase.org
ORGANIC VEGGIE PLANTING
Growing Empowerment and the Safe and Abundant Nutrition Alliance host an organic vegetable growing workshop at the Glenwood Library from 11am to 1pm.
CARE FOR CAREGIVERS
BUTEAU-FUL
Comedian Michelle Buteau performs at the Wheeler Opera House at 7pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
STAND UP AT THE CRYSTAL
The Crystal Theatre hosts an open-mic comedy night at 7:30pm. Comedians can sign up at the door. Snag an advanced ticket at www.tinyurl.com/ CrystalComedy
‘K2’
Don’t miss Thunder River Theatre Company’s production of “K2!” Closing weekend features shows tonight, tomorrow and Saturday at 7:30pm. Sunday’s show is at 2pm. Tickets at www.thunderrivertheatre.com
FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 27
CHAMBER MUSIC
Aspen Music Festival and School string students offer a free chamber music recital at the Third Street Center at 5:30pm.
TUNES AT TOWNLINE
Mike Waters performs at Townline Trucks in Carbondale from 6 to 9pm.
True Nature offers “Care for Caregivers,” a free event sponsored by CASA, Lead with Love and Connection is the Medicine Foundation, from 2 to 4pm. Registration at www.truenaturehealingarts.com
KRISS HARMONY
Club Marble (150 Main Street, Carbondale) welcomes local musician Kriss Harmony for a performance (open to the public) from 5 to 7:30pm.
TUNES AT TOWNLINE
Singer songwriter Cruisin’ Susan Anderson performs at Townline Trucks from 6 to 9pm.
BLUES SUMMIT
Devon Allman, son of the late, great Gregg Allman, hosts a blues summit with Larry McCray and Jimmy Hall at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
COSY SHERIDAN
Cosy Sheridan and Heidi Rovig perform at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net
BRETT DENNEN
Brett Dennen performs at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
PERI PARTY
WTFF PeriMenopause hosts a fun, welcoming event to “learn and laugh” about perimenopause and menopause on Dolores Way in Carbondale from 6 to 8pm. Registration and coordinates at www.tinyurl.com/WTFFperiparty
‘NEWSIES’
SUNDAY, MARCH 1
A SPIRITUAL CENTER
A Spiritual Center (Room 31 at the Third Street Center) hosts an open discussion from 10 to 11:30am.
TEENS SKETCH
Glenwood Springs High School presents the Broadway musical “Newsies” tonight and tomorrow at 7pm and Sunday at 2pm. Tickets at www.tinyurl. com/NewsiesGSHS
CRYSTAL THEATRE
Catch “Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die” at the Crystal Theatre tonight,
Teen artists are invited to create without judgement the first Sunday of the month from 5 to 7pm at the Glenwood Community Center. All art supplies provided.
ECSTATIC DANCE
Alya Howe hosts an ecstatic dance at the Old Thompson Barn in River Valley Ranch with DJ Alejandra Rico from 5 to 7pm.
theSopris Stars
Volume 1, Number 5 | February 26 - March 25, 2026
ARTHUR CHERITH
Sopris Stars Theater Critic
The Theater Department at Glenwood Springs High School (GSHS) has officially brought “Newsies” to the Valley. The play, written by Harvey Fierstein, is certainly one that many theater critics have come across, but these local high schoolers brought the already heartfelt script to a whole new level of life.
“Newsies” is based on the newsboys’ strike of 1899, a movement facilitated by young people in retaliation against unfair pay by newspaper publishers, specifically Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst.
The story follows a group of young boys and teens
selling papers. The antagonist, Pulitzer, runs the newspaper and doesn't believe the papers are sensationalist enough. In order to afford catchy photos in the paper, what we might call click-bait today, he raised the price of papers and reduced the newsboys’ already slim paychecks.
Scared but also relentless and fierce the youngsters fight for change, despite the risks. The story doesn't solely follow the strike, which is not so much glorified as portrayed with sincerity. While the characters battle to overcome fear and their own hesitancy, the show also rings with hope.
Don’t get this critic wrong, the show is a gas — playful
but also honest and with an easy-flowing plot that pulls the audience in.
The beauty of the GSHS production lifted the already deeply in-depth storyline. One particularly intriguing aspect was the background of each character and the execution by the cast. Body language, attention to detail, interaction with the set and props was like watching a scene unfold in real life, just naturally beautiful. They weren't acting on the stage, they lived on it.
The amount of passion these teens brought, both on and off stage, was inspiring. And, best of all, it seemed as though they were genuinely having a lot of fun.
The lights, set design and choreography took this performance to the beyond. The entirety of the theater was at play with newspapers thrown to the audience and newsies running through seating. Scene changes were graceful and the lighting perfectly illuminated each precious moment.
All in all, every fun, creative detail added a world of life.
The musical sensation only runs one more weekend (Feb. 27 to March 1) with Friday and Saturday shows at 7pm and Sunday at 2pm. Tickets can be purchased at www.tinyurl.com/ NewsiesGSHS
Photo courtesy of Klaus Kocher
A youth newspaper powered by The Sopris Sun
Arthur Cherith, The Sopris Stars’ new theater critic, also spraypainted this art piece used in the production, which, in actuality, is about six-feet tall.
Photo courtesy of Klaus Kocher
An ode to Youth In Nature
Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers’ (RFOV) paid internship, Youth in Nature, became my anticipated monthly highlight as a sophomore. The internship nurtured my passion for the outdoors, yet, all the while, I learned not just about our local ecosystems but about myself, too. The application to participate next school year is still open, until April 4 that is, and I encourage other young people to apply.
At the beginning of orientation, my cohort was reserved. We were from different schools across the Valley and none of us were very familiar with one another. But by the second day of the hut trip, I felt as though I’d found lifelong friends. The hike to Margy’s Hut was strenuous, but it was our first taste of how a challenge (and exhaustion) would bring us closer together. We made burn piles, stocked the woodshed for winter and got our hands on pruning loppers for the first of many times that year. As we would all come to realize, the physical labor was a catalyst for our laughter.
presence of my friends, but also by obnoxious fun and days that were truly challenging. After my first real breakup, a trip to Maroon Bells served as a refreshing reminder of how much beauty there is in the world. I challenged my fear of heights on mountain summits, in the Colorado Monument canyoneering and in Rifle, where I regained confidence to rock climb. I was able to discover new places that had surrounded me my whole life, but that I had never explored.
OPINION
By Anna Sophia Brown
Youth in Nature forged so many moments I’ll always cherish. That first night at Margy’s, we lay in a circle, with our heads joined in the middle trying to pick out the constellations we knew. Vibrant stars saturated the Milky Way. We became astronomers in our own minds, finding snails and lengthy dragons twirling across the sky. Our chests hurt from laughing. Three nights disappeared into memory, cementing themselves as wistful reminders of the beauty of connection. The typical social separations imposed in education dissolved, and we became a mosaic of personality.
Encouraged to abandon our phones and take advantage of “slow fun,” the hut trip was a grounding experience. I clearly remember being asked to sit alone for 15 minutes and just pay attention. I became acutely aware of the smell of sweet vanilla seeping out of ponderosa pines, and the little pine siskin that hopped in the nearby underbrush. Like many moments on that trip, I reflected on how often my mind is everywhere but the present.
Throughout the year with Youth in Nature, none of my favorite moments followed the same structure. I was delighted in the quiet
Fashion Alert
By the time Saturday rolled around, I often found myself hesitant, tired or maybe even a little lazy, but I was always surprised by how much happier and energized I was by my cohort. Ben Sherman, RFOV’s education director, fueled my passion for biology through his endless plant facts. He was always understanding and supportive. While I may have been lucky with an especially good group, the environment created during our adventures was always positive. Our mistakes, fears and embarrassments transformed into light-hearted inside jokes.
Perhaps the most important relationship I gained from Youth in Nature was with the land. I grew up hiking, climbing and rafting. I loved being in beautiful places, but, until the internship, I had no idea how much effort sustainable outdoor recreation required.
For many of us living in the Roaring Fork Valley, access to nature has been a given. The hours of behind-the-scenes work can go unnoticed until you have the chance to be a part of it. Outdoor recreation is essential to our economy and culture, and I realized how important conservation efforts are in maintaining our local ecosystems.
Every time I participate in RFOV programs, I leave joyful and with a sense of achievement. As the application deadline approaches, and the volunteer season begins, I could not speak more highly of this organization. Their stewardship projects foster community while giving back to the incredible natural spaces we get to call home.
To apply for Youth In Nature, visit www.rfov.org/youth-in-nature
A passion for fashion
GISELLE "GIGI" RASCON
Sopris Stars Columnist
I now have empathy for voodoo dolls. Not in a literal sense, but the constant pricking with needles in hopes of making a masterpiece slightly warmed my heart towards them.
As Carbondale's annual fashion show grows closer by the day, so are deadlines. Those with a ticket in hand can't wait to see dancers weave their movement with structured silhouettes cascading down the runway. Yet what you won’t see are the bleeding fingers, sore muscles, the moments of staring into fabric like it personally offended you, the twitching eyes and the constant whisper of “What am I doing?” murmuring like a cricket in your ear at every stage of the process.
And yet everyone's excitement to witness this grand happening is what fuels every working hand behind it all. Let alone the passion. At least that's what keeps the fabric gliding beneath my fingertips.
Attendees' oohs and ahhs, vocalizing from their throats in admiration is really what keeps this continuously happening. But what really goes behind the planning, let alone the pieces? And the person stepping on the pedal?
There’s something powerful and beautiful about translating a visual be-
hind your eyes (I personally refer to this as delusion) into something real. And I'd personally say that it's not the final product itself that makes it special, but knowing the process was worth it.
When I was 15, I applied for an apprenticeship that Carbondale Arts was offering to local youth, supported by Reina Katzenberger’s mentorship. There were six of us, and infinite opinions. Deadlines did not care about our creative blocks. Life was getting in the way — school, friends, family, you name it. The garments we created held together, though, and probably better than we all did.
As stressful as it was, that experience taught me a lesson essential to working with a team of creative minds: it's not easy. It's brutal and beautiful. Merging six voices into a reasonably cohesive direction is an art in itself.
This year’s “carnival” theme feels like stepping directly inside a designer’s head. The juggling ideas, the roaring doubts, the colors. A concept that perfectly aligns with it all is making sense at midnight and turning questionable once the sun rises.
I figured it felt this way because this demanding process is still relatively new to me, despite having a slight taste of it. I interviewed a couple of my peer designers at Colorado Mountain
College (CMC), including someone who has been in the industry for years: CMC’s Fashion Program instructor, Cecilia Metheny. When I asked her whether her perspective on design has changed through this year’s experience, she responded: “Yes. It’s changed me in [turning] what’s in my mind into reality.”
Another participant, 13-year-old Elizebeth Shaw, hopes that people walk out the door keeping in mind “how creative people are in the process … how much work we all put into it.”
Within the fashion industry, especially when designers present to an audience, there’s often little room for error in the standard we set for ourselves. Designers can be perfectionists who romanticize chaos and roll with it,
the Sopris Stars
Youth Editor Lou Gall
lou@soprissun.com
Anna Sophia Brown anna@soprissun.com
Arthur Cherith arthur@soprissun.com
Hana Creyts hana@soprissun.com
Aurora Egan aurora@soprissun.com
Kate Ott katelynn@soprissun.com
Giselle “Gigi” Rascon giselle@soprissun.com
Vivienne Shapiro vivienne@soprissun.com
Youth Journalism Director
James Steindler james@soprissun.com
Youth Journalism Instructor
Skyler Stark-Ragsdale
Graphic Designer
Terri Ritchie
The Sopris Sun, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation with a mission to inform, inspire and build community by fostering diverse and independent journalism. Donations are fully tax deductible. The Sopris Stars is made possible thanks to The Sopris Sun.
Support The Sopris Stars Youth News Bureau by making a donation at www.soprissun.com/donate
while constantly reminding themselves that imperfection is what makes it feel valuable and surreal.
A crooked stitch can feel human. A slightly uneven hem can feel lived in. Yet it's the bumps on the road where you realize that fabric has its own personality and sometimes refuses to work with you. All the broken needles and the faint fiber pieces on the floor. It all means trusting what you're capable of doing and pushing yourself past the edge further than you already have, and truly believing in yourself in the mess you're caught in.
Behind every look that walks the runway is a designer who doubted it, and themselves, many times.
So when the lights hit and the music starts, know this: You’re not just seeing a garment. You’re witnessing resilience. Collaboration. Negotiation. A shared stress and passion to make it all happen.
You’re experiencing the outcome of what occurs when a room full of local creatives decided to believe in something invisible long enough to make it real.
So yes, maybe I do feel for voodoo dolls. Because sometimes creating something tangible means being poked at, tested and stretched, over and over again, until it feels right and delivers what is expected, and more.
But unlike the doll, we choose it.
The CMC line and many others hit the Carbondale Fashion Show runway March 12-14.
Juliana Reese draping onto a bodice.
Photo by Giselle "Gigi" Rascon
‘Everyone's a Ram’
VIVIENNE SHAPIRO
Sopris Stars Correspondent
Chairs skidded over the floors and backpacks were zipped shut as hundreds of students left Roaring Fork High School (RFHS) on Jan. 30 during lunch, a customary practice, yet nothing was customary on this occasion. In mere minutes, hundreds of students filled what was empty space along the roundabout near 7/11 in Carbondale. They raised their voices and doodle-etched hands in protest against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and demanded to be heard.
It started peacefully.
Glenwood and Roaring Fork students met at the roundabout, held signs and played music as cars drove by. Before long, about 50 more from Colorado Rocky Mountain School walked along the road to join the growing group. It was a spectacle to behold, the intermingling of young people with many differences but common values — private school and public school students, theater kids and jocks.
“I think what [protest] does is it helps people who feel attacked, helps people who feel isolated feel a lot less lonely,” RFHS senior Sam Stableford told The Sopris Stars. “And it has very little to do with politics and actually a lot to do with making sure that people feel loved and supported.”
Just after noon, the police were tasked with a feat of convincing the scores of teenagers to relocate. Officers clearly stated that their right to assembly would be respected, but explained that gathering on the island in the middle of the roundabout was prohibited.
As time crawled on, passive protest was tested. Drivers made derogatory gestures and insults paraded down. While the majority of students retorted exclusively with verbal recourse, one threw a snowball at an SUV after a driver allegedly flashed the middle finger. The police intervened, reinstating that in order for protest to remain peaceful, physical altercation of any degree would not be tolerated.
Frieda Wallison of Pitkin Country Republicans later reflected on the effectiveness of assembly and
ICE procedures in an interview with The Stars.
“Our legal immigration system is broken,” she said. “In many cases, the form of protest is counterproductive”. She provided the example of Renee Nicole Good, who was shot and killed by ICE agents in Minnesota. “It seemed to me that many of the protesters were acting in a violent manner, especially the woman who was killed … The [ICE] officers were threatened.”
While some Roaring Fork Valley residents disapproved of the student protest, more questioned teacher involvement. Many teachers took paid time off at Glenwood Springs High School, resulting in the closure of the school. Superintendent Dr. Anna Cole described the process of making the call to cancel school the night before.
“It was probably 10pm and we were kind of saying, ‘What's the status? What are you hearing? How many staff do you have? How many subs do you have? Can we cross over? Can we send more people? What are our options to keep school open? Can we do this?’” she said. “What we ultimately decided as a team was that we did not have enough adults who could be present in the building to ensure a safe environment for the day.”
In the following days, complaints from parents were not exclusively of the district's response to the events, but aired more on the side of teachers choosing not to go to work. One resident said on Facebook that "Teachers should model how to critically think through important events occurring in our country — including those that are politically biased. This involves teaching about these events, not advocating for them, while maintaining neutrality …”
Stableford, the son of a teacher, had a different take. “I think that educators, specifically, [being] able to voice their political opinion is not something that should be looked down upon,” he said.
At Roaring Fork, a group of teachers gathered together where students were being dropped off in front of the school in the morning, holding signs in support of all students, regardless of citizenship. Carmen McCracken
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was one of these teachers. When asked if she supported the student approach to these issues, she said, “I support students using their voice in order to create a change that they feel is necessary … I think that a part of being a citizen in a democracy is making your voice heard.” She also clarified, “I don’t, of course, support students who take that opportunity to [just] skip class.”
There was a little skepticism about some students’ motivation to join the walkout.
“Did some people just do the walkout to walk out of school?”
Stableford wondered. “Did some people go because they were feeling angry? Did some people go because they were feeling scared? Did some people go because they genuinely
Letters to the Editor
Have something to shout about?
believe in the cause?”
Student absences were not excused for the walkout, and some students were surprised and disappointed by this. But this, perhaps, gives deeper meaning to the power behind protest.
“Part of protest is we do it because we understand the consequences and we’re willing to take [the] sacrifice, right?” Cole said. “It makes a big statement when you accept those consequences. Rosa Parks didn't think she was just going to go get some cute photos of herself sitting on the front of the bus and become famous. She went to jail [and] she knew that.”
Before closing out the interview, the superintendent said that “everyone’s a Ram” at Roaring Fork High School, no matter their political affiliation or immigration status.
Email letters to the editor for publication in The Sopris Stars to youthnews@soprissun.com
On Jan. 30, students from across the Valley gathered at the roundabout in Carbondale after participating in a nationwide walk-out in protest of Immigration & Customs Enforcement.
Photo by Vivienne Shapiro
Infatuation to inflation
HANA CREYTS
Sopris Stars Correspondent
Every February, Valentine’s Day comes around. It’s 24-hours filled with love — both platonic and romantic — but the cost of the holiday can add up.
In 2009, spending on Valentine’s Day reached $14.7 billion nationwide, according to Statista, a global data analysis company. Since then that figure has increased steadily, with $29.1 billion spent this year, according to the site. This increase rate has been relatively steady, with the exception of Valentine’s Day 2020, when the number spiked during COVID to $27.4 billion. With spending skyrocketing by 97% between 2009 to 2026, some Roaring Fork Valley high school students expressed concern about the consumer-shrouded culture of Valentine's Day.
married couples against the emperor’s orders — which cost him his life. Apparently, it wasn’t until the 1800s rolled around when Valentine’s Day had turned towards sentimental, tangible gifts and love notes, and the Industrial Revolution soon fueled its consumerism.
“THE OVERCONSUMPTION IS NOT SOMETHING I HAVE EVER TAKEN PART IN."
- Kaila Ethridge, Basalt High School
Today, Valentine’s Day comes with many social media posts and couples uploading shared moments with their significant other with flowers and chocolate in frame. An inverse effect can be that others are left feeling envious or maybe even sparks a competition to purchase the most elaborate gifts for loved ones and exhibit it online. Where does this leave the people who don’t celebrate this holiday?
YES OR NO
Are they “just a friend?”
Do you kiss sometimes?
Are you “not dating?”
Do you hang out all the time?
Is it “complicated?”
Do you have attachment issues?
Are you seeing other people?
Do you lack long-term plans?
Are plans with them inconsistent?
Is one of you more interested than the other?
Do they put pressure on you emotionally?
Have they love-bombed you?
Do they consume your thoughts?
Are you unable to move on?
Do they text you good morning and good night?
Have they soft ghosted you?
Have they posted you?
Do you get gym pics?
Have you met the parents?
Do they introduce you as a friend?
Are all of your dates private?
“I think that Valentine’s Day is a worldwide celebration that celebrates love — not just romantic love, but also friendship,” Basalt High School (BHS) senior Hector Corrales said. At the same time, he added, “It seems like, in the modern day, it is more like a business.”
According to 6ABC in Philadelphia, the average American was projected to dole out an average of about $200 on Valentine’s Day this year. According to the article, 10% of that spending is on candy and flowers, chocolate is at about 30% and jewelry at about 40% (if you’re of drinking age, wine factors in at about 11%).
Factoring in both sources, the math breaks down to approximately $11.6 billion spent nationwide on jewelry, $2.9 million on candy and flowers, $8.7 billion on chocolate and $3.19 billion on wine!
Valentine’s Day as we know it originated in ancient Roman times, when folks gathered and celebrated fertility rites and were paired up through lotteries, an online blog from The Boutique COO detailed. It goes on that later, also in Rome, Saint Valentine secretly
Not everyone has a job that provides a steady income to be able to spend a lot of money on Valentine’s Day. Some people aren’t in relationships, or might be experiencing a break up. A prime example that comes to mind is teenagers.
“This Valentine’s Day was my first actual time celebrating the holiday,” said Kaila Ethridge, another senior at BHS. “The overconsumption is not something I have ever taken part in,” she added, echoing Corrales’ sentiment.
Sophomore Cristina Solis-Ruiz said that love isn’t only celebrated once a year. “Valentine’s Day I feel like is a very overrated holiday that is talking about love, when you can do that every single day,” she said. When asked how much she spends on Valentine’s Day, she replied, “I don’t spend that much on Valentine’s Day just because I don’t think it’s that necessary."
Overall, Valentine’s Day can be costly, but it also doesn't have to be. At BHS, students may not feel the need to spend too much on the holiday, while also appreciating an opportunity to celebrate love in all its forms.
The bottom line this reporter took is that everyone can show that they care about their friends, family and significant others all year — not just Feb. 14.
Do your loved ones dislike them?
Have they avoided telling friends?
Is it “not that serious?”
Do they depend on you emotionally?
Are you/they avoiding labels?
Have they told you they’re in love with you?
Have you made a playlist for them?
Do they randomly text you at night?
Do they call you for hours daily?
Have you ever fallen asleep while on the phone with them ?
Basalt High School held its Snowcoming dance a week ahead of Valentine's Day.
Photo by Hana Creyts
International Guitar Night returns to the Wheeler Opera House on Feb. 27 at 7:30pm, featuring ukulele master Taimane (Hawaii), Lucas Imbiriba (Brazil), Alexandr Misko (Russia) and Thu Le (Vietnam). Each artist brings a distinct style — from classical and flamenco to fingerstyle and island rhythms. Courtesy photo
MONDAY, MARCH 2
BASALT CANDIDATES
The Basalt Chamber of Commerce hosts a Town Council candidate forum at the Basalt Library from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Email questions to be asked of the candidates to director@basaltchamber.org For details,visit business. basaltchamber.org
WEAVING WISDOM
True Nature hosts an intergenerational gathering of women from 6:30 to 8:30pm.
TUESDAY, MARCH 3
ARTIST LECTURE
Anderson Ranch visiting artist sculptor Torbjörn Vejvi of Sweden speaks to his craft at the ranch from 4:30 to 5:30pm. Registration at www.andersonranch.org
ANIMAL DREAMS
VOICES partners with the Basalt Library for a story circle facilitated by Mitzi Rapkin from 5 to 7pm. This month’s topic is “Animal Dreams.”
HAND KNITTING PILLOWS
Learn to hand knit (sans needles) chunky and cozy pillows at The Art Base today and March 10 from 6 to 7:30pm. Registration at www.theartbase.org
‘FRIEDL’
The Aspen Historical Society presents Chris Anthony’s Aspen premiere of “Friedl,” a film about one of Aspen’s most influential ski pioneers, at 6:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
CONSENSUAL IMPROV
Catch a “one-night stand” jam workshop with Consensual Improve at TACAW at 7:30pm. Tickets at www. tacaw.org
SACRED BROTHERHOOD
Kyle Jason Leitzke guides a heart-centered conversation for men at True Nature from 7:30 to 9pm.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 4
PILATES & HAPPY HOUR
Spring Pilates in Carbondale hosts a weekly session at 3:30pm every
ONGOING EVENTS
ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS
The Meeting Place in Carbondale (981 Cowen Drive) offers “Hole in the Donut AA,” Monday through Saturday at 6:45am, plus “Daily Reprieve” at noon on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Find a full schedule at www.meetingplacecarbondale.org
ROARING FORK ZEN
A Zen meditation community gathers at True Nature to sit from 8 to 9am on Mondays and 7:30 to 8:30pm on Wednesdays weekly.
TAI CHI
Community tai chi sessions are hosted every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 to 10am at the Th ird Street Center. Newcomers are welcome. For details, email jhof@rof.net
GRIEF/LOSS SUPPORT
A new support group offering a safe and compassionate environment for individuals grieving any type of loss, regardless of when the loss occurred, gathers at the Th ird Street Center on the fi rst and third Monday of each month from 1 to 2:30pm. A licensed, professional counselor will guide participants in a discussion exploring healthy ways to cope and move forward. For more information, contact Dr. Terry Bordan at 516-242-9365.
IN STITCHES
The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 1:30pm.
RAGING GRANNIES
All are welcome to join the Raging Grannies, singing for a healthy planet and a kind world, on Wednesdays at the Two Rivers Unitarian Universalists office at the Th ird Street Center from 4:30 to 5:45pm.
CRYSTAL RIVER AIKIKAI
Crystal River Aikikai offers aikido classes for kids from 4:45 to 5:45pm and teens and adults from 6 to 7pm on Mondays at 13 Moons Ranch, south of Carbondale.
ENGLISH IN ACTION
Volunteer English tutors and developing learners meet for informal conversational practice at the Carbondale Library every Monday at 6:30pm. Interested in becoming a tutor? Email angela@englishinaction.org or call 970-963-9200.
AFRICAN DANCE
Dance to live drumming by the Carbondale Rhythm Collective at the Glenwood Springs Library on Mondays from 6:30 to 8pm.
BABY STORYTIME
The Carbondale Library hosts baby storytime at 11:30am on Tuesdays.
GROUP RUN
Independence Run & Hike leads a weekly group run on Thursdays departing from the store’s location next to the Carbondale City Market, at 6pm.
PILATES
Wednesday followed by happy hour at El Dorado. Details at www.pilatescarbondale.com
WORKSHOP FOR WOMEN
Sylvia Theisen, founder of Prime Time Coaching offers a workshop on the topic of “Design a Life You Love Living” at the Carbondale Library from 5:30 to 7pm. On March 11, Theisen will offer “Stepping Into What’s Next Even If You’re Not Clear Yet” at the same time. Registration at www.gcpld.org
PINTS & PERSPECTIVES
Basalt Town Planning Director
Michelle Thibeault is the keynote speaker for this month’s Pints & Perspectives series hosted at Mountain Heart Brewery from 5:30 to 8:30pm.
SOPRIS SUN BINGO
The Sopris Sun hosts Bingo night at Carbondale Beer Works at 6pm.
NATURALIST NIGHTS
Learn about the Douglas-fir beetle in our watershed with Dr. Dan West at the Third Street Center at 6pm. This Naturalist Nights event will repeat at Hallam Lake tomorrow at 6pm.
HEART HEALTH
Dr. Greg Feinsinger offers a free presentation on preventing heart attacks at the Third Street Center (Calaway Room) at 7pm.
THURSDAY, MARCH 5
‘THE VOICE OF HIND RAJAB’ Ceasefire Now RFV presents “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” an Oscar-nominated film about Palestine Red Crescent Society medics, at the Crystal Theatre at 7pm.
FILM AND CONVERSATION
TACAW screens “Billy Preston: That’s the Way God Planned It” followed by a conversation with executive producer Daniel Shaw beginning at 7pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org
BANFF
Catch the 2026 Banff Mountain Film Festival on tour at the Wheeler Opera House at 7:30pm. Tickets at www.aspenshowtix.com
COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE
Colorado Community Acupuncture offers community acupuncture sessions on the third Wednesday of each month with sliding scale payment options. To schedule an appointment, text or call 970-963-2150 or visit www.cocommunityacupuncture.com for more offerings.
Coredination offers weekly pilates mat classes for all levels in Carbondale. Tuesdays from 9 to 10am beginners are welcome at Dance Initiative’s Th ird Street Center studio. Intermediate/ advanced students are welcome from noon to 1pm at The Launchpad. For more info, call 970-379-2187.
Fruit Trees & Shrubs
Pruning and Grafting Series with Vanessa Harmony
Sharpen your tools, learn pruning principles and how to collect scionwood and propagate by grafting.
Saturdays 3/7, 4/4 and 5/2 in Carbondale
More Classes in Carbondale
ADOBE PHOTOSHOP
Tuesdays, 6-8:30pm, 3/3-3/24
BEGINNING SWING DANCE Wed, 6:30-8:30pm, 3/4-3/25
HERBAL ENERGETICS Thursday, 6-8pm, 3/12
PHILOSOPHY FOR MODERN LIVING with Bo Persiko Tuesdays, 6-7:30pm, 3/17-5/5
AIKIDO TRY IT FOR FREE Tue/Thur, 6-7:30pm, 3/17-5/7
PLEASANT DOGS AND PLEASED OWNERS Tue, 5:30-8:30pm, 3/17 ONLINE
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE II Wed, 1:30-3:30pm, 3/18-4/8
PILATES BLEND with Natalie Wed, 9-10am, 3/18-5/6
SCULPTURE Sat, 10am-2pm, 3/21-5/2
EXPLORATIONS IN MIXED WATER MEDIA Mon, 9am-12pm, 3/23-4/27
FUNDRAISING FOR NON-PROFITS Tues, 5:30-8:30pm, 4/7 ONLINE
SWING DANCE - LINDY HOP Wed, 6:30-8:30pm, 4/8-4/29
PLANTING A NATIVE MEDICINAL POLLINATOR PARADISE Thursday, 7-8pm, 4/9
MEDICINE OF OUR TREES Thursday, 6-8pm, 4/23
Scan to browse and register
REVIEW: ‘The Secret Garden’ musical
MYKI JONES Arts Correspondent
The Glenwood Vaudeville Revue recently opened Marsha Norman and Lucy Simon’s “The Secret Garden” — its first musical in five years. This show, which has a runtime of two hours including intermission, tells the story of Mary Lennox (played in this production by Stella Rouse), who is sent to live with her reclusive and grief-stricken uncle, Archibald Craven (portrayed by Brit White), and his brother, Dr. Neville Craven (played by Vaudeville owner and director of the show, John Goss), after her family dies of cholera while stationed in British India.
In the director’s note of the playbill, Goss expresses his excitement for bringing such a production to the Vaudeville stage — a personal goal for the past three decades of his theater career.
“Our last big production, ‘Into the Woods,’ was cut short by COVID back in 2020, and it has taken this long to get the nerve to pull the trigger on another large production,” Goss wrote. “Fortunately, the pieces came together to take a chance, and I am so pleased with the final product. It took a while to figure out how to put this huge production on the Vaudeville stage, but little by little it came together.”
The show does, in fact, more than come together. The production utilizes the entire space, including walkways between the tables. However, there isn’t a seat in the building where you can miss the action on stage, creating a blend of classic and immersive theater. During dinner service before the show, audiences are treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek into the process of getting the show up and running, as well as an informative series
of video slides which offer a kind of dramaturgy about the history of the show, the meaning behind certain words that appear (such as “Ayah” to refer to Mary’s nanny during her time in India) and videos from cast members introducing their characters and expressing their excitement for being involved.
Mary’s new home seems to be haunted by ghosts of the past, including her late parents, Captain Albert Lennox (played by Travis McDiffett) and Rose Lennox (Frances Westhoff ), and her aunt, Lily (Nattia Healy), and harbors secrets both within the walls and on the grounds where the gardens grow. Despite warnings from the housemaid, Mrs. Medlock (played by Lisa Langer) and her uncles, Mary’s curiosity keeps this story moving forward as everyone else comes to terms with burdens they’ve been carrying. Additionally, a chorus known as “The Dreamers,” portrayed
by Robin Cotton Cobb, Frances Westhoff, Travis McDiffett, Shannon Provost, Jet Quealy and Travis Dean Wilson, helps move the story’s poignant moments forward.
The show keeps you hooked with fun, whimsical musical numbers as Mary navigates the loss of her family while seeking a sense of belonging in this unfamiliar place. She meets additional characters throughout the show, including Martha (played by Camden Newitt), Martha’s brother (played by Micha Schoepe), the groundskeeper (played by Bob Moore) and, eventually, a secret cousin. All meet her adventurous, determined and stubborn nature with encouragement and softness. The chemistry of the cast can be felt and even envied; it is apparent that while there was a lot of work behind the scenes of this production, the cast truly enjoys themselves on stage.
Despite the show’s charm, it moved me in ways I did not expect. Speaking strictly from my own experience, I saw a lot of characteristics in Mary that reminded me of me at her age (10). While I hold a lot of love and space for those traits, they were not always appreciated by those around me. Whether Mary or any of the other characters, there will be elements in the character all audiences can relate to.
In addition, the two child stars of the show, Rouse and Benjamin Poirier, gave it their all and seem to have bright futures in the world of performance ahead of them. Their ability to handle a classic tale opposite seasoned performers was deeply impressive, especially given the themes of unrequited love and jealousy, pain and loss, grief and fears about what happens to us when we die — none of which are often so bluntly stated in children’s media.
Although “The Secret Garden” has many supernatural elements, it is a deeply human story with the perfect ratio of trauma and humor to help theater-goers forget about the chaos of the world for a little while. Even down to the antagonistic characters, the story offers myriad lenses through which we can all learn something about the human condition, regardless of how unreasonable it may seem at the time of unfolding.
“The Secret Garden” continues through March 22. Tickets are available at www.gvrshow.com
Mary Lennox (played by Stella Rouse) converses with Dickon Sowerby (Micha Schoepe). Courtesy photo
Puzzle and Pie Night: How fast can you go?
ALISON OSIUS
Sopris Sun Correspondent
Headlamp, all charged up. Spatula. Baking sheet. Those in the throng arriving early to Sunday’s annual Puzzle and Pie Night clasped the items under their arms.
None of which I’d used, despite duly bringing them, last year, but still I arrived thus armed for the fifth annual Puzzle and Pie Night at the Carbondale Recreation and Community Center on Sunday, Feb. 22.
While we in our scant team of three were no contenders — I’d be content to finish the 500-piece jigsaw puzzle in the allotted time — another in my cohort concurred.
“I will still bring them,” Aisha Weinhold had texted, “because it makes us look like a threat.”
Each year, 50-some teams of up to four converge to tackle jigsaw puzzles made from a photo of Carbondale chosen in a contest, with pizza and soda water served. The fastest finishers earn a (shared) $120 gift certificate from the Carbondale Chamber, with $100 and $80 cards for second and third places. Entry is $50 per team, and free for the photo-contest winner.
“The winner always ends up participating,” said Brian Froelich,
Aquatics and Health and Wellness Coordinator, adding that the others who submit images usually do, too. This year the chosen image, another by Tommy Sands, showed the Día de los Muertos Celebration, with Mount Sopris above in alpenglow.
According to Froelich, per estimates, the first year (2022) brought in 88 contestants; the number jumping to 200 the next year and holding at 280 in 2024 and 2025. This year brought roughly 250 people, he said.
Puzzle and Pie Night is the brainchild of Margaret Donnelly, formerly in Froelich’s job and a puzzler herself. Donnelly, now living in New Zealand, said via WhatsApp, “I was always looking for new things to do at the rec.
“One day a jigsaw-puzzle competition reel popped up on my Instagram feed, and I thought it would be super fun, an event for people to come together as a community for mental health and wellness.”
Jamie Wall, then special events coordinator, had previously worked for a puzzle maker, and arranged for personalized puzzles at a discount.
Donnelly added the pizza element, and Puzzle and Pie (named for the pizza, though
some comers have brought dessert pies for fun) was born. The contest starts with a countdown at 4:30pm and goes for three hours.
The inaugural event went to the immodestly but then unassailably named Best Team Ever, with a time of 1 hour 16 minutes 57 seconds. Placing second with 1 hour 19 minutes were the Puzzy Wuzzy Fuzzies.
That year, Ethan Peck of the Puzzy Wuzzy Fuzzies moved to Salt Lake City with his partner, Linnea Fong, but they returned to compete in the next event. Fong Tour 23, with Fong replacing someone who had moved away, roared back, winning (in 55:34) by a mere nine seconds and three pieces.
Peck texted this year from Utah, “Unfortunately, we haven’t come back for another competition, but hopefully will next year for skiing and the puzzle competition.”
Linnea Fong, the best puzzler on their team, added, “The pressure and weight of our [2023] win was so enormous that I immediately had to go home and do a puzzle for fun.”
In 2024 the winning time was just 47:23, and last year it was 61:14.
Jessi Rochel, who has competed four times, played this year with Sara Porter, Megan Currier and
a new swap-in, Alice Hackney. Rochel said her crew originally expected to be competitive. “When the first team finished, I don’t think we were halfway.”
She added, “Alice also was under the impression that we were going to be really competitive, and we had to inform her. We know better now.”
Three years ago I peered shyly into the basketball court, not wanting to distract the puzzlers. Eventually my son, Ted Benge, beckoned me in. He was playing with his now fiancee, Aisha Weinhold, and her parents, except that Aisha had departed for a Fashion Show rehearsal and only he and her father remained at the table, eyes locked downward. Nannette
Weinhold, the organizer, was off smiling, eating pizza and socializing. Mark and Ted eventually finished, and that was that.
Last year I was on a team with Ted and Mark, Aisha again pulled away.
“Whoa,” said Mark, as we shook out and gazed at our puzzle pieces. “This one is hard. Lots of sky.”
The event is social but, incongruously, we just stared. I had asked my husband, Mike Benge, to stop by, and then we coerced him into service.
The first team finished, leapt up and cheered. Others did shortly. They all do, an unnerving drumbeat. Yeah, yeah, yeah.
continued
The Pieceful Puzzlers ruled the night, finishing first in 49:47.(Left to right: Kris Theis, Bryan Koster, Maureen Handwerker, Warren Koster. Photo by Jan Koster
The Politics of Water
Turn on the tap, water pours out. We take it for granted. But our water was hard-fought in the early 20th century by some of the Roaring Fork Valley’s legendary champions of water rights.
In the late 1880s, Glenwood Springs attorney Edward T. Taylor dealt mainly with cases involving land and water issues. Particularly concerned with protecting and promoting the growth of agricultural industries on the Western Slope, water became Taylor’s primary focus as he rose through his political career. Taylor served in the Colorado State Legislature from 1896 until 1908, when he was elected to the U.S. Congress. He was Chairman of the Committee on Irrigation of Arid Lands, among others, and continued fighting for Colorado’s water rights until his death in 1941 at the age of 83. His remains rest in Rosebud Cemetery in Glenwood Springs.
OPINION
HISTORIOGRAPHY
By Sue Gray
One of Taylor’s famous impassioned speeches was made at the House Committee meeting of Feb. 1, 1910, in response to an attempt by the federal government to appropriate Colorado’s water, as recorded in “Federal Encroachments Upon the Rights of the West:”
Never before in the history of this country has there been such a systematic and determined effort upon the part of the Federal Government toward infringements upon the rights of the West … I am amazed at the boldness of the proposals [and] I cannot realize how the Members of this honorable House … can calmly consider the propositions to absolutely take from the people of the arid west some of the most sacred property rights they have … violating the very constitutional guarantees upon which those states were admitted into this Union.
The Colorado territory gained statehood in 1876 with water laws included in its Constitution. Article 16 established the Right of Appropriation:
The right to divert unappropriated waters of any natural stream for beneficial uses shall never be denied. Priority of appropriation shall give the better right as between those using the water for the same purpose, but when the waters of any natural stream are not sufficient for the service of all those desiring the use, those using the water for domestic purposes shall have the preference over those claiming for any other purpose, and those using the water for agricultural purposes shall have the preference over those for manufacturing purposes.
Taylor was instrumental in the passing of the Colorado River Compact of 1922, which included his proposal to rename the Grand River “the Colorado River.” The compact was an agreement between the seven Colorado River Basin states and the Federal Government to apportion use of river’s water equitably between the Upper Basin and Lower Basin states.
Water has always been a top issue in Colorado politics, requiring leaders to manage conflicts with the federal government, other states and even regions within the state. The Western Slope has been at the center of that conflict from the start.
In his book, “As Precious as Blood,” Mesa University history professor Steven C. Schulte recounts early attempts to maintain an adequate water supply for the Western Slope. His preface includes this summary:
From the 1930s to the 1970s, Colorado engaged in a series of battles that collectively could be called Colorado’s twentieth-century water wars. The conflict catalyst in its simplest form may be reduced to this: the majority of Colorado’s precipitation arises high in the mountainous region west of the Continental Divide, in an area referred to as the Western Slope. However, the vast majority of the state’s population resides on the Eastern Slope, or Front Range.
Defending water rights often required a good lawyer. In the 1930s, following in Taylor’s footsteps, Frank Delaney of Glenwood Springs became the leading Western Slope “water attorney.” He developed strategies that eventually led to his drafting of the Colorado Water Conservation District legislation, passed in 1937.
Both Taylor and Delaney fought hard to keep enough water in Western Slope rivers to allow expansion of agricultural production and municipal use during the development of the Colorado-Big Thompson Project, which proposed to take water from streams feeding the Colorado River and divert it to northeastern Colorado. The project, comprising 11 reservoirs, 18 dams, the Alva B. Adams Tunnel and six power plants, took nearly 20 years to build and was completed in 1956.
As Colorado’s population kept expanding, water needs increased and more diversion tunnels were created to carry the precious liquid from abundant Western Slope rivers to the arid plains of eastern Colorado.
Ruedi Reservoir, constructed in 1968 as part of the Fryingpan-Arkansas Project, is a diversion system that takes water from the headwaters of the Fryingpan and Roaring Fork River basins to the Arkansas Valley.
Colorado’s State and U.S. Representatives continued the battle for water into the late 1900s. But as their efforts often involved creating legislation aimed at reclamation projects, that is, the construction of dams, their efforts ran up against the burgeoning environmental movement.
In recent years, as western states have experienced increasing drought conditions, water issues are heating up. Even local governments must get involved, taking measures and enacting restrictions to protect the supply in nearby rivers.
So, next time you turn on the tap, don’t take that water for granted; be grateful for the early pioneers of Colorado’s water rights legislation.
Patricia DeFries Conger
November 1, 1929January 10, 2026
Patricia “Patty” DeFries Conger, 96, passed away peacefully on Jan. 10, surrounded by her loving children. Born on Nov. 1, 1929, in Oak Park, Illinois, Patty was a cherished daughter of Dorothy and John Webb and sister to George Webb and Julie Peralez, all of whom preceded her in death. Always a loving family, they instilled in her an appreciation for kindness and laughter, as well as a passion for the great outdoors.
After attending Cornell College in Mount Vernon, Iowa, where she met her first husband, Jerry DeFries, Patty continued her studies to become a physical therapist. Together with Jerry, she built a life in Loveland, Colorado, and later Aspen, where they raised four children, Karen Salamida, Kathie, Kim and Michael DeFries — while building a family life full of adventure. In Aspen, Patty and Jerry, known for their many endeavors, took ownership of The Peppermint Tree, a beloved candy shop where she and Jerry crafted specialties such as divinity, fudge and English toffee — the latter she continued making all her life.
After a divorce and a move to Glenwood Springs in 1978, Patty purchased and operated the Vapor Caves which she owned for 12 years. She was later reacquainted with and married Robert Conger, a man who had known her and Jerry back in Loveland when they were all young parents. They shared 20 happy years together in Denver and Marble, until Bob’s passing in 2011.
Patty found joy in the outdoors, gardening and her daily walks. She lived to welcome her first great grandson, Miles, on Oct. 28, 2025. She will be remembered for her generosity, gentle humor and unconditional love for her family whom she adored.
Her face always lit up at the sight of her children and her grandchildren, Shaun and Terra. Patty’s remains will be scattered this summer at the family cabin near Estes Park, surrounded by those she cherished and loved. “If there was ever a wisp of an angel’s wings across our hearts, it was the love of our mothers.”
GLENWOOD
attendance. Some events are better-attended than others, they noted.
As for outside events, Council encouraged Parks and Rec to actively entertain any other requests, and generally agreed, “the more the better.”
Council also unanimously approved on first reading a state-directed Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code for new residential and commercial building construction.
The code deals mostly with the use of fire-resistant building materials and maintaining defensible space around structures when it comes to vegetation, City Fire Marshal Robin Pitt said.
The new statewide code came about following the most active wildfire season in the state’s history in 2020. That was the year of the Grizzly Creek Fire in Glenwood Canyon.
While the initial code directive comes from the state, the City does have leeway to make the code even more stringent in the future, he said.
“As a community we know we live with a wildfire risk every year, and especially with this low snow year,” Pitt said.
Municipalities are required to have the new code on the books by April 1.
“Once we adopt the code, we’ll hit the ground running to get the word out to the community,” Pitt said. The new code was approved 7-0.
Also unanimously approved was an
PUZZLES
from page 13
At 7pm the organizers turned off the music. Contestants paused at our table as they, now done, ambled by.
“It was a hard one,” they’d say pityingly.
“We can finish,” we told each other, frantically inserting pieces. Nearby, staff and volunteers put away tables and chairs, threw paper plates into the trash.
“Five minutes!” organizers called out when I thought we still had 15.
We carried our last 25 pieces home on a piece of paper, and Mike and I finished the next day.
This year, Aisha, our friend Liz Melville, and I (Nannette bailed) arrived early, then hung on with rapt attention. We linked borders, tried to ignore the happy finishers, bogged down at the end. So much white sky.
“I’m never looking at the sky again,” Aisha said.
Eyes blurring, I started to question what
increase in the maximum amount victims of crimes in the City can request under the Victims and Witnesses Assistance and Law Enforcement (VALE) program, from $500 to $1,000.
The fund is limited to about $25,000 per year, and the payouts only compensate for a small amount of losses in most cases, City officials said. Doubling the amount per request does help, they said.
Finally, on a 5-2 vote, Council authorized Public Works Director Matt Langhorst to make an offer on 97 “unbuildable” lots on the east side of Glenwood Springs that are owned by Garfield County.
The lots, which have no access, dot the steep hillside east of Palmer Avenue, from about 12th Street north to Ninth Street. The County has offered over the years to sell the lots to the City, but formal negotiations never proceeded, Langhorst explained. The County now has a real estate representative working on its behalf and has listed the lots for sale.
The City is willing to pay $500 per lot, or $48,500 total, to take ownership and responsibility for the land. There is some benefit to the City, in that the lots abut City land to the east, and ownership would help the City with maintenance needs associated with the 12th Street water tanks and ditch, Langhorst said.
It remains to be seen if Garfield County will accept the City’s offer.
I thought were shades of the white or forgetting what shape I was seeking. Liz, with an exasperated sigh and roll of the head to relieve neck tension, moved to the other side of the table to change perspective. As we finished, organizers were sweeping the floor. Three hours is a long time to focus. I never even touched my pizza.
The puzzle comp is tiring but (so I hear) exhilarating, and this year’s posed a whole new set of winners. Maureen Handwerker of The Pieceful Puzzlers (winning by a minute and 44 seconds, with third place a minute behind second) said, “We had so much fun! It was the first time for all of us, so we were very surprised.”
Results
1. The Pieceful Puzzlers - 49:47
2. Com-Devils - 51:31
3. Piece, Love and Happiness - 52:22
Perfect kitchens are almost never used. The white marble gleams with the purity of a surface that has never met chile colorado. Stainless steel appliances without a single trace of sticky fingerprints. Impeccable, as if you had just peeled off the protective plastic film. In the corner, a cookbook struggles to stay open. In fact, this is the first time you’ve opened it. Above the stove, the perfect spot to hang a bundle of dried roses alongside a collection of vintage wooden cutting boards. Perfectly aligned to burn with elegance. But it doesn’t matter. It looks cute. It’s aesthetic.
This kitchen isn’t used for cooking; it’s used for photographing and tagging #SundayReset.
Social media didn’t give us tools to document, it gave us a stage. We’ve become the actors in these ecosystems. The spectacle is valued more than the memory. The applause, the “likes” and followers, has become more important than what we’re actually sharing or trying to preserve through photography. This is what platforms reward, and what we’ve grown accustomed to. Unfortunately, it strips away any
sense of authenticity, even in the most ordinary moments.
Nothing feels different anymore. Whether that’s because the algorithm was designed to reward certain behaviors or because we’ve allowed it, everything looks the same and completely different at the same time. Every time we participate in the circus that lives behind our phone screens, two things happen: comparison and performance. Morning routines. The self-proclaimed entrepreneur life. Airport selfies on the way to Puerto Rico or any other tropical island. We ask ourselves: How can they afford all of this? Why them and not me? Am I falling behind? Is my life just boring?
We produce the moments we share. It’s not that you’re jealous of the influencer life everyone seems to have, you’re comparing your behind-thescenes to their edited reality. Our friends have become micro-influencers, building their own personal brands. They talk to the camera and share their “day in the life.”
We create an online character that doesn’t always reflect who we are offline — not because we necessarily want to be
famous (though some might) but because that’s the behavior expected of you if you want to participate. Because, of course, not participating would be … like not existing.
Who are we documenting for? What happens to the memory of an experience once we edit it into something “post-worthy?” Ironically, what we lose is the very essence of what we’re trying to preserve. We live less present. Always thinking about pleasing the algorithm that will reward us on the grand stage of life. We want to be seen, applauded, admired for how we live. But not everything worth remembering belongs on a stage with an audience. It’s okay to have a photo album you never post. No one will applaud it and it still counts.
It’s not that social media is the enemy. It isn’t. The platforms we use can be incredible spaces for inspiration, connection and sharing. And it’s not that those of us who fall into the game of curating our lives are liars. The problem is what we
QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS
By Vanessa Porras
edit and the pressure to do so. Maybe your kitchen doesn’t need to be spotless. Maybe it doesn’t need the soft glow of a freshly lit candle. Not everything has to be beige or worthy of a “like.” Just like that kitchen, if no one were photographing your life, would you live it the same way?
The questions don’t end here. You can share yours with me at vanessaporras.art@gmail.com
Art by Sergio Manto, Instagram: @mantoilustra
JUST LET GO AND TRUST THE PROCE .
Share your works in progress with readers by emailing illustrations, creative writings and poetry to fiction@soprissun.com
Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores. Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com
Satank Frank, a previous short-time resident of KDNK Community Access Radio, awaiting the storm on Monday.
I’s
By Daniel Spiller Glenwood Springs
I is blue of the mundane what a brushstroke wouldn’t paint. I is wanting to be great only for my father’s sake. I is trying for words that won’t leave my brain. I is incomplete an easel ridden portrait.
Growing Stronger Together
At Aspen Valley Health, we understand that true wellness begins with a community that looks out for one another. That’s why we prioritize care that empowers individual and community vibrance by making it easy to access world-class services close to home. This commitment is a reflection of our vision to create one of the healthiest communities in the nation. Join us, and let’s thrive in this beautiful place we call home. For you. For life.
Photo by John Armtrong
right for them. Recovery is personal, and the decision about where to receive physical therapy should reflect each individual’s
Belinda Brownell Brownell Physical Therapy
Voices we refuse to hear Hind Rajab called for help. The medics attempting to reach her were granted permission to rescue her by Israel.
This was not an unavoidable tragedy. It was a conscious decision made by someone who controlled Hind’s fate in their hands. In Gaza, first responders wearing Palestine Red Crescent Society (PRCS) vests have been systematically targeted while trying to save the wounded. Children have been shot in tents, in apartments, in cars. And since the current “ceasefire” began in October, more than 600 Palestinians have still been killed by Israeli forces.
Six hundred people killed during a ceasefire. At least 200 of them are children,
A 2-year-old died earlier this week after Israel refused to allow him to leave Gaza for needed liver treatment. Now his month-old sister awaits the same fate. AP reports that last week’s victims included an 11-year-old girl who wanted to be a doctor and at least three other children who have been living in tents for years.
Hind Rajab was 6 years old. She sat trapped in her family’s car, surrounded by the bodies of her relatives, and waited for help for hours. She described the tank nearby. She was so small, so certain that if someone just knew where she was, they would come. PRCS medics did come. They were granted permission. They too
“The Voice of Hind Rajab” is an Oscar-nominated reconstruction of those final hours through the lens of the actual emergency calls. The film ensures her story — and theirs — cannot be so easily
Sponsored by Ceasefire Now RFV, “The Voice of Hind Rajab” will screen on Thursday, March 5, at 7pm at the Crystal Theatre in Carbondale. Admission is $15 at the door. All proceeds go to PRCS — the same organization whose medics are still being killed while trying to save lives, whose ambulances are targeted, whose staff bury their friends and family and keep working.
More than 600 Palestinians have died during this “ceasefire.” Children are still dying before they have a chance to know a world without bombs. Medics are still being targeted. And the world still hides behind euphemisms… to avoid admitting we are enabling a genocide.
We couldn’t save Hind. But we can refuse to look away, refuse the bliss of ignorance, and work to build a better world for ALL of the world’s children.
Robyn McBurney Redstone
Congressman Hurd, what a shame
If only our Congressman Jeff Hurd had known that President Trump was going to denounce him. He could have voted to protect the people of Colorado instead of toeing the Republican Party line dictated by Trump.
Maybe Hurd wouldn’t have voted to throw all those people off of Medicaid. And off of Food Stamps. Or not have
given trillions in tax breaks to the wealthy. Or not have cut all that funding for alternative energy. Or not have funded a runaway gestapo. Maybe he’d have kept his campaign promises.
We’ll never know. It’s possible that Hurd believes that too many Coloradans have health care coverage and that more people ought to worry about how to pay for groceries. Maybe he believes that the rich already pay too much in taxes. Maybe he’s fine with unidentified masked federal officers spreading fear among ordinary citizens, and worse.
I remember the picture that Congressman Hurd posted months ago as he stood next to a clearly unengaged and disinterested Trump in the Oval Office and Hurd praised all that the president was doing to bring down prices for the people of Colorado. What an embarrassment.
Our Congressman could have avoided all his shameless sucking up and just done his job representing us.
That is a shame.
Patrick Morrissy Carbondale
USA first
The slew of recent anti-ICE/Trump letters got me wondering what inspires such vehement hatred in woke folks. Is it because he’s not politically correct or doesn’t sound presidential? PC does not equate with honesty, and our political southpaws and mainstream media offer proof positive.
Trump may talk roughly and sometimes go on endlessly in long-winded speeches, but he doesn’t need a poll to tell you how he feels.
Dems say illegal entry is only a civil crime. What is civil about slashing pay scales and stealing jobs from citizens? What is civil about 20 million illegals getting billions of U.S. tax dollars meant for our neediest citizens.
Dems complain about housing affordability after allowing 20 million foreigners to compete for affordable housing with citizens. Dems were stone cold silent while cackling Kamala, the border tsar, ushered in tens of thousands of military-aged Chinese and Russian men. Sept. 11 only needed a few dozen terrorist martyrs. I pray our past sovereignty negligence does not result in great future harm.
Two deadly sins were the cause of Biden’s border blunder: greed and lust. Greedy business is addicted to cheap labor. Dem’s lust for power envisioned a future voting block of grateful illegals. Alas, for Dems, this will never be allowed.
The next phase of Trump’s deportation will be virtually ICE-free. Congress passing a couple of laws will have them all self deporting.
First, make using any fake social security number a felony with a mandatory five-year sentence. Second, make E-Verify a federal law for all employers. Third, fine employers $500 per illegal employee per week employed. And finally, split all fines imposed with whistleblowers.
We get to pick and choose who we allow to enter our country. The USA can no longer be the world’s woeful, wasteful, welfare welcome wagon.
I stand with Trump and put American citizens first.
Bruno Kirchenwitz Rifle
LEGAL NOTICES
NOTICE OF A BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PUBLIC HEARING
CONCERNING PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE GUNNISON COUNTY LAND USE RESOLUTION FOR THE CREATION OF A SHORT TERM RENTAL LICENSE PROGRAM
HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION:
The Gunnison County Board of County Commissioners will conduct a public hearing on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. in the Commissioners meeting room, Gunnison County Courthouse, 200 E Virginia, Gunnison, CO, to hear public comment concerning proposed amendments to the Gunnison County Land Use Resolution.
PROPOSAL: The Community Development Director has recommended amendments to the Gunnison County Land Use Resolution to create a Short Term Rental License program as specified by BOCC Strategic Business Plan Goal D. DELIVER HIGH QUALITY SERVICES: 2. “By December 31, 2025, Gunnison County will implement licensing procedures for short-term rentals”.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit verbal or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments by email: planning@ gunnisoncounty.org or letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing. A copy of the application is available online at: https:// www.gunnisoncounty.org/436/PermitDatabase. Select “projects” and type in LUC-26-00005 to view the file. Additional information may be obtained by calling (970) 641-0360.
ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing.
/s/ Hillary Iza Seminick, AICP Planning Director
Published in The Sopris Sun on February 26, March 5 and March 12, 2026.
TOWN OF CARBONDALE
REQUEST FOR BIDS - 2026 CHIP SEAL PROGRAM
The Town of Carbondale is accepting bids from qualified local contractors to perform work on the 2026 Chip Seal program. Sealed bids will be received until 11:00 am February 26, 2026, by the Town of Carbondale, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, Colorado 81623, at which time the bids will be opened and read aloud. Specifications and contract documents can be found on the Town of Carbondale website, or at Town Hall. Work on this project cannot begin prior to May 18, 2026, and must be complete by June 30, 2026. No chip seal work will be allowed on residential roads on Tuesdays as Tuesdays are residential trash and recycling collection days.
The Chip Seal Program consists of applying asphaltic binder and aggregate meeting CDOT No. 8 specifi cations on
approximately 51,470 square yards of street surface. An alternate bid is also included for sealing approximately 2,395 square yards of pavement at the town’s wastewater treatment plant. All work shall meet, at a minimum, the Town of Carbondale Chip Seal Surfacing Specifi cations. A list of the streets scheduled to be chip sealed are included (see Street Listing). The Town has a limited budget for the 2026 Chip Seal program and therefore reserves the right to adjust the quantities to fi t within the fi nancial limits of the program based on the bids received. The listed square yard measurements are estimates for bidding purposes only and the fi nal square yardage will be determined at the end of the project.
The successful bidder will be expected to enter into an Agreement for Professional Services with the Town (see attached Agreement). Bids shall be submitted on the bid form attached to the request for proposals.
Published in The Sopris Sun on February 19, 2026
PUBLIC NOTICE OF PETITION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Public Notice is given on January 29, 2026 that a Petition for a Change of Name has been fi led with the Eagle County Court. The petition requests the name of Andrea Pellegrini Olson be changed to Andrea Elizabeth Pellegrini. Case Number 26C1. Publication dates February 12, 19, 26 of 2026.
PARTING SHOTS
TOWN OF CARBONDALE
511 Colorado Avenue Carbondale, CO 81623 www.carbondalegov.org
TOWN OF CARBONDALE 511 Colorado Avenue Carbondale, CO 81623 www.carbondalegov.org (970 963-2733Fax: (970) 963-9140
(970 963-2733Fax: (970) 963-9140
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Carbondale Board of Trustees for the purpose of considering Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADU”) text amendments to the Unified Development Code (“UDC” and Title 17 of the Carbondale Municipal Code). The proposed text amendments would consider amendments to modify requirements related to ADUs outlined in UDC Section 4.4.4.A, Additional Standards for Specific Accessory Uses and Structures; Accessory Dwelling Units
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Carbondale Board of Trustees for the purpose of considering Accessory Dwelling Units (“ADU”) text amendments to the Unified Development Code (“UDC” and Title 17 of the Carbondale Municipal Code). The proposed text amendments would consider amendments to modify requirements related to ADUs outlined in UDC Section 4.4.4.A, Additional Standards for Specific Accessory Uses and Structures; Accessory Dwelling Units
Applicant: Town of Carbondale
Applicant: Town of Carbondale
Said Public Hearing will be held at the Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO beginning at 6:00 p.m. on March 10, 2026.
Said Public Hearing will be held at the Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO beginning at 6:00 p.m. on March 10, 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://carbondalegov.org/departments/planning/current_land_use_applications.php
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://carbondalegov.org/departments/planning/current_land_use_applications.php
If you would like to submit comments regarding this application, please send them via email to jbarnes@carbondaleco.net by 5:00 pm on March 10, 2026. After 5:00 pm on March 10, members of the public are welcome to bring written comments to the hearing or speak during the public comment period.
If you would like to submit comments regarding this application, please send them via email to jbarnes@carbondaleco.net by 5:00 pm on March 10, 2026. After 5:00 pm on March 10, members of the public are welcome to bring written comments to the hearing or speak during the public comment period.
If you have questions regarding the application, please contact Jared Barnes, Planning Director, at 970-510-1208.
If you have questions regarding the application, please contact Jared Barnes, Planning Director, at 970-510-1208.
Published in The Sopris Sun on February 26, 2026
Publish: 1x February 26, 2026
Publish: 1x February 26, 2026
Bill: Town of Carbondale Send POP to: Planning Dept. 511 Colorado Avenue 511 Colorado Avenue Carbondale, Co. 81623 Carbondale, Co. 81623
Bill: Town of Carbondale Send POP to: Planning Dept. 511 Colorado Avenue 511 Colorado Avenue Carbondale, Co. 81623 Carbondale, Co. 81623
BOVINE BIRTHING
AND TEXT BY JANE BACHRACH Animal Writes
Observing a cow give birth makes for interesting and heartwarming theater.
This Nieslanik bovine mom gave birth to her newborn bull-calf, fresh out of the oven and still wet behind the ears, on Monday, Feb. 9 at 1:23pm, to be precise.
The delivery took about 30 minutes from beginning to end, and it was about another 25 to 30 minutes before he stood up. After that, it didn’t take long before he was able to do some wobbly walking to where he found his mother’s milk, and about two seconds later he started suckling.
Tim Nieslanik says they are about halfway through calving this season.
