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Ontheedge

CPW faces tough call for sake of Avalanche Creek bighorns

By Will Buzzerd Sopris Sun Correspondent

If you find yourself mucking around Filoha Meadows or up behind Sopris this spring, keep an eye peeled for bighorn sheep. If you’re lucky, you might catch yourself a glimpse of one of Colorado’s few indigenous herds. However, as sure-footed as the species is, Avalanche Creek’s herd stands on unsteady ground.

Over the years, disease has caused the herd to slowly dwindle. With a critical point on the horizon, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) is pensively considering its options.

District Wildlife Manager John Groves has been observing this group for the past two decades. In that time, he has seen a continuously steady decline.

“We’re currently looking at about 40-50 animals total left in that population, where historically we were at 250 plus — maybe more,” said Groves during a presentation at the Crystal River Caucus meeting in March.

The Avalanche herd has experienced a low lamb survivability rate for decades. In the past, those deaths have been attributed to various causes — including parasites — widening the scope of potential management strategies. Now that the science and data analysis has improved, CPW has identified the culprit: a bacterial pneumonia complex contracted by contact with domestic sheep.

Currently, CPW is seeing a 90-95% mortality rate with the lambs typically succumbing to the disease within a season of being born.

CPW attempted inoculating the herd against the complex with little success. Domestic sheep have also been removed from the area in order to eliminate the primary source of infection, but the disease continues to circulate among the wild lambs.

This is because the disease isn’t typically transmitted from domestic sheep directly to a lamb, but from healthier fully grown bighorns that carry the disease but haven’t succumbed to it — and sometimes won’t show any symptoms.

CPW is considering a “test and cull” method with the Avalanche herd in

order to remove carrier sheep and give the lambs a better chance of survival. Over multiple years, members of the herd would be captured, tested and marked with trackers before being released. After several rounds of testing to identify chronic carriers, some of those carriers would be selectively euthanized to prevent further spreading of the disease.

This strategy hasn’t been used on this herd previously, but has been used on other herds throughout the West to some success.

In 2015, the test and cull protocol was performed on a similarly infected and declining herd in Hells Canyon, Idaho. That population did rebound. As a result of that success, the technique has been implemented along Idaho’s Salmon River, as well as in Washington and Oregon.

However, success is not guaranteed. Herd dynamics are different everywhere, and the specific disease complex can also vary from herd to herd. For an already low population, CPW has to delicately weigh their management options, while knowing that time is not on their side.

“If we have a high number of positive cases, we’re not going to go and just cull all of them,” said Groves. “If we get it wrong, then we’ve just wiped out a whole bunch of sheep that didn’t need to be.”

Translocation of new sheep into this population is theoretically possible, but that would cost the Avalanche Creek herd one of its most valuable attributes.

Avalanche Creek is host to a Tier One bighorn population, meaning that no substantial number of bighorns have been introduced to this herd. Only three herds in the state can claim the same. In Groves’ words, “This is the herd that’s always been there.” Translocating new sheep to Avalanche Creek could compromise the herd’s indigeneity.

For now, the question remains of how low a population can theoretically fall before rebounding. Groves stated that when a new herd is transplanted into an unpopulated area, wildlife managers typically introduce around 30 animals. So at least the Avalanche herd is still hovering above that baseline.

In short, CPW is between a rock and a hard place in figuring out how to keep this herd of sheep from the brink while still holding onto the indigeneity that makes it exceptional.

The indigenous Avalanche Creek bighorn herd, photographed by Sue Rollyson

Sink or swim OPINION

By Jeannie Perry Ps & Qs

Mike Pence won’t endorse Trump for president — it’s like Darth Vader standing up to the Emperor! Is it because Trump tried to have him hanged on the steps of the Capitol? Fair enough. I’ve held a grudge over much less ... So, I guess the question is, will the GOP split in half like the Titanic or simply sink to the bottom in one piece? Either way, the water’s coming in and the ship is going down.

Today’s Republican party reminds me of a sick, dying animal that snaps at anything and everything that gets near it. Banning books, reviving the Comstock Act of 1873, demonizing Taylor Swift: these are the desperate acts of the dark side. But the force for good is strong with younger generations — second only to Obi-Wan Kenobi because he has the patience of water moving through rock.

“Water does not resist. Water flows. When you plunge your hand into it, all you feel is a caress. Water is not a solid wall, it will not stop you. But water always goes where it wants to go, and nothing in the end

LETTERS

Not to burn

Over a year and half ago, when I saw the obscene books in the Silt Library, I did say burn the obscene, x-rated books. I have since changed my mind. Burn no books. Put the books behind glass and require someone to be 18 or older to checkout.

I did take out over 30 obscene, x-rated books from the Silt Library. The books were at a low level. The cost of the books was over $650. I would like to know who ordered the books. Was it one person or the library staff? The “Finder” series, “Prison School'' and “Ten Count” were some of the books most parents would NOT want their children to see. One parent told me they do not go to the library anymore with their children.

John Lepkowski, Silt

Who’s right?

Since Oct. 7, there has been a very bloody war going on in Israel. I went to a meeting of the Carbondale board of trustees last week. The hope was that the board might reconsider and call for a ceasefire. People spoke for and against. In retrospect, there was no likelihood that the trustees would call for a ceasefire. Little can be accomplished in separate threeminute-long comments. That is why

can stand against it. Water is patient. Dripping water wears away a stone. Remember that, my child. Remember you are half water. If you can't go through an obstacle, go around it. Water does.” ― Margaret Atwood

I like that. Be like water. Don’t get discouraged. Be patient and kind and whenever a narcissistic orange buoy gets in the way, just maneuver around it until we get our way: the way of independent freedom and choice. (Right here in Garfield County, we need to flood the commissioner meetings regarding their new self-appointed role of selecting library trustees who just might ban books — which only highlights their obsoletion as most young, impressionable minds are online these days. Stay up with that at www.protectgarcolibraries.org.)

What kind of dinosaurs still think a demure white woman sitting in her kitchen is the way to reach Americans? The fringe Republicans are laundering the news faster than the money these days. Trump selling bibles is obviously a way for the church to contribute to his political campaign, which is illegal in this country because the old white guys who founded the United States were adamant about separation of church and state — probably because they were fresh off the boat from a kingdom. But apparently the GOP was held back a grade or two and needs to relearn the lesson; illustrated by the fact that they just made it more difficult for breeders to breed by restricting women’s healthcare in Alabama.

boards and councils use this format.

There has been much criticism over the parachuting of food and emergency supplies into Gaza. As a metaphor, it is like throwing bread crumbs. People, and especially children, are literally starving to death. Ironically, the U.S. is still providing more deadly munitions to Israel.

Local supporters of Israel believe that any criticism of Israel is unwarranted and is divisive within the Valley population. What is not recognized is that most other countries find the actions of Israel against the Palestinians as unconscionable.

On Dec. 12 last year, 153 other countries voted to adopt a ceasefire. This week the U.N. Security Council voted 14 to 0 to demand that a ceasefire take place during Ramadan. The U.S. abstained. Who is right in this affair? Is it Israel or is it 153 other countries? And we can also point to hundreds of thousands of people around the world marching and protesting.

Standing in the way of simple declarations that call for a ceasefire, and complaining about others’ behavior, is in itself divisive. Moreover, Israel may self-destruct over the wanton destruction of the Palestinian people.

Patrick Hunter, Carbondale

Makes me wonder if so many of us are conditioned and desensitized that, as a nation, we’ll just stand by like mouth-breathers and watch a dictator in the making. It’s not like it hasn’t happened before — again and again.

The rinse cycle of fascism may keep the history book publishers in business, but I have a better idea. Let’s put AI in charge of Washington, D.C. Seriously, what do these people do that an algorithm couldn’t handle, and for a lot less of our taxpayer money? I know what you’re thinking: “What about the inherent bias that we see with AI?” Well, it couldn’t be any worse than what we’ve got now.

All of the futuristic stories have robots taking over at the manual labor level, but I would rather start at the top — you know, where the big bucks are. Imagine a revolution where the machines take over Congress and we all get to vote through an app on our phones. Then at least we would actually know how the majority feels about the issue, instead of always getting stuck listening to the squeaky wheels.

The incessant whining and whinging of these neo-nationalist talking heads is so damn loud I can’t hear myself think, much less hear the cries of Native women who vanish in atrocious numbers every year. What kind of civilized society ignores the incessant rape and murder of their most vulnerable? A vulgar capitalistic one with an unhealthy appetite for watching others suffer, I’d say.

Now is the time to redesign our representatives to protect and serve us, the people. Protect us from the corporate-owned clowns who are constantly trying to undermine our still-a-work-in-progress democracy.

Keep swimming, Jedi Knights.

Library concern

I am deeply concerned that the board of county commissioners (BOCC) feel the need to restrict free access to books for the citizens of Garfield County. How could they take away the selection process from the people of this county by choosing people for the library board who may want to ban books? Do they not remember it was the Nazi party that burned books in Hitler's Germany? Is that who they want to be?

I protest and ask them to reconsider their decision to personally appoint our board of trustees for the Garfield County Public Library District. Libraries are a bastion of democracy, by making it possible for anyone to request and read any book they want. People are intelligent enough to choose wisely and read what appeals to them. They don't need the BOCC to select what they can read.

I respectfully ask that the BOCC look up the history of just who goes about banning books to see that they really do not see themselves in that pack of repressive and dangerous people.

Illène Pevec, Carbondale

continued on page 22

Funeral home oversight on the horizon

By London Lyle Sopris Sun Intern

Editor’s note: This content contains details about the mismanagement of human remains.

When the news broke in February that former funeral home owner Miles Harford had allegedly kept a woman’s corpse in the back of a hearse for nearly two years and improperly stored the cremated remains of more than 30 individuals, Coloradans were shocked and disturbed. Harford is facing trial in Denver with prosecutors alleging that they have found even more cremated remains in his Denver home. Such instances have paved the way for a new bill in Colorado: Senate Bill 24-137 (Regulate Mortuary Science Occupations).

Colorado is the only state in the country that doesn’t require funeral home operators to have licensing. In fact, funeral home directors haven’t been required to hold a high school diploma or a GED.

Several other high-profile incidents have occurred over the past few years, including a December 2023 case in Penrose, Colorado, where nearly 200 human remains were found in an abandoned funeral home. In 2020, there was a case in Montrose where it was found that hundreds of body parts were sold for medical research

by an unchecked family-owned funeral home.

Colorado hasn’t always had relaxed laws for the funeral industry. However, in 1983, the state allocated only $2,000 towards annual inspections. From there, the continued need to save money led to further deregulation.

However, the days of little oversight in the Centennial State appear to be numbered. SB 24173 unanimously passed the Colorado Senate Committee on Business, Labor and Technology on March 26, following emotional testimony from several victims of funeral home mismanagement.

The bipartisan bill is headed to the Senate Finance Committee.

If signed into law, the bill would introduce mandates in order to legally operate a funeral home in Colorado. It would require that funeral directors graduate from an accredited mortuary science school, pass the arts section of the industry’s standard National Board Exam (NBE) and serve as an apprentice for one or more years.

The bill contains updated requirements for other positions in funeral homes as well. Mortuary science practitioners would have to obtain the same prerequisites, plus pass the NBE sciences exam. Embalmers would also need to graduate from an accredited mortuary science school and pass the

NBE, but only the science section.

Cremationists and natural reductionists would have to obtain certification as crematory operators from the Cremation Association of North America or the International Cemetery Cremation and Funeral Association.

While the bill has received little opposition, some have expressed concerns — particularly funeral home operators who are not licensed, but have been in the business for years with no infractions.

However, those already working in the field would be grandfathered in, but would have to meet special requirements. To obtain a provisional license, applicants would have to

have worked for at least 6,500 hours, served as apprentices for one or more years and passed a criminal background check. After 24 months without any hiccups, they’d be granted a standing license.

Licenses would have to be current at all times for cremationists, natural reductionists, embalmers and mortuary science practitioners. Six hours of continuing education classes would be required to renew one’s license.

If passed, the bill would open the door for disciplinary actions, including the suspension or revocation of licenses.

For more on SB 24-173, visit leg. colorado.gov/bills/sb24-173

Fremont County Coroner Randy Keller (middle) is accompanied by other officials in October 2023 at the Return to Nature Funeral Home in Penrose where well over 100 human remains had been improperly stored.

Photo by Parker Seibold, The Denver Gazette

Carbondale hops aboard Downtowner microtransit trial

By Raleigh Burleigh Sopris Sun Editor

Nearly one year after Carbondale launched WE-cycle’s bike share program, residents, visitors and workers alike will have another option for getting around town without a car. On March 26, trustees approved a contract with Downtowner, a company headquartered in Florida, for a sixmonth service trial beginning July 1.

With Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) matching $181,500 toward the trial cost, Downtowner will provide a three-vehicle fleet with one wheel-chair accessible vehicle for on-demand rides within town limits between 7am and 10pm on weekdays and 9am to 10pm on weekends. The expense was written into Carbondale’s 2024 budget with the idea of gathering impressions and data before fully committing to the program. If it proves favorable, a full year of service in 2025 would cost an estimated $726,000. That cost could be defrayed by another matching grant from RFTA’s First and Last Mile Mobility Fund, but there’s no guarantee.

Downtowner currently operates similar services in Basalt and Aspen and, according to Travis Gleason, co-founder of the Downtowner,

discussions are underway to create a Valley-wide brand and phone app to tie these services together. Snowmass Village is looking at using the same app to facilitate in-town connections with its own shuttle vehicles and drivers.

Currently, the Basalt service, which includes Willits, is limited to 7am to 10am and 3pm to 10pm and can be accessed through the “Basalt Connect” app or by calling 970-3551860. This will be the first year for year-round service in Basalt. Aspen’s service, which began in 2017, goes from 8am to 11pm daily.

On March 12, Mayor Ben Bohmfalk remarked that this service could potentially replace RFTA’s in-town circulator bus “if it accomplishes the same goal for less.” Currently, the circulator is funded by RFTA, whereas the Downtowner would rely on Carbondale taxes, as it’s currently structured. The circulator departs from the Park and Ride every 15 minutes, from 5am to 9pm daily, and only stops at City Market, the roundabout, pool and Rec Center.

Notably, trustees Lani Kitching and Luis Yllanes voted against the Downtowner contract when it first appeared on March 12, citing "too many variables." Both voted in favor when it returned on a consent agenda on March 26 with trustee

Chris Hassig voting “nay.” On March 12, Hassig expressed concern over setting a precedent that won’t be easy to undo if the service is popular but funding isn’t available.

“I share all those concerns,” said Bohmfalk, “but I think that’s going to be a community decision.” With budget work beginning in August, “We’re going to have to get a pretty quick read on whether we want to fund it for the next year.”

Roseberry, MD, FACS Trauma and General Surgeon, Chief of Medical Staff

How it works

Persons seeking transportation within town limits can use a bilingual smartphone app or call a special number to summon a cost-free ride. A shuttle will arrive within 20 minutes to bring that person to their destination, combining trips when possible for efficiency’s sake. In Aspen, the fleet is electrified. For this trial, it will be gas-powered.

The Downtowner could eventually come to replace Carbondale’s circulator service, which RFTA ranks “high for efficiency” with ridership numbers in 2023 above pre-COVID levels. Photo by Raleigh Burleigh

Library trustee candidate hammers BOCC about appointment process

By Amy Hadden Marsh Sopris Sun Correspondent

Monday’s Garfield County Commissioner (BOCC) meeting, minus Tom Jankovsky, started off as expected with the county libraries as the subject of the open public comment period. Library board trustee candidate Carole O’Brien was first out of the gate, scolding the BOCC for its lack of communication to candidates about the changes to Tuesday’s scheduled special library meeting.

O’Brien set the scene with a brief timeline of her application process, stating that she initially sent her letter of interest to the library district’s director, Jamie LaRue, on March 1.

“Since you all had just usurped the function of appointing [library] trustees, the application procedures were a little unclear at that time,” she said. The BOCC passed a resolution on Feb. 26 to “take control” of the library trustee appointment process (www.tinyurl.com/Feb28SoprisSun).

LaRue, continued O’Brien, forwarded her letter to the county. By March 18, she still had not heard anything from the county about how to proceed. She then emailed her letter to county manager Fred Jarman, who she said advised her that the interviews would take place at 1pm on Tuesday, April 2.

“On March 27, The Sopris Sun published an article quoting you, John, that the April 2 interviews were being postponed indefinitely,” she said. “That was the first I heard anything about that.” (The Sopris Sun did not indicate in its

coverage that the postponement was “indefinite.”)

Martin replied, “You can't always believe what you read in the press.”

To clarify, in response to a March 25 email from The Sopris Sun to county employees Jarman, Renelle Lott and Vola Mercer about the April 2 meeting, Martin called this reporter at home and said that the meeting was postponed. He emphasized “postponed,” stating that the meeting had not been “canceled.” At Monday’s meeting, Martin changed the characterization from “postponed” to “continued.” He said nothing about the phone conversation, but his reasons for putting off the April 2 meeting remained the same as what he told The Sopris Sun during that call: namely, that Jankovsky is currently out for medical reasons and that the full board should be present during the special meeting.

O’Brien questioned when the county would have notified candidates about the change in the April 2 meeting and made her thoughts known about the BOCC’s role in trustee appointments.

“You cannot be trusted to do this in the best interests of the library by bending to the will of a fringe group that is aligned with those trying to undermine our democratic institutions,” she said. “You have politicized a process that should not be political.”

Martin said during Monday’s meeting that everything has to go through a motion and a process.

“We will have a motion, and then we can go ahead and see if we’re going to hold our hearings tomorrow or if we’re going to temporarily

"The board gave me a cancellation and then a postponement and now a continuance."

postpone them until we have a full board and the library board is available,” he said.

Martin and Commissioner Mike Samson unanimously passed a motion to continue the library trustee candidate interviews to April 30 at 1pm.

In other news, the BOCC moved quickly through a short agenda, including approval of a liquor license for the Rough Bar in Rifle, the consent agenda, approval of a request for use of a county front-end loader to help clean up Hubbard Mesa as well as a contract to purchase a lot at 450 West 11 Street in Rifle for $195,000. Commissioners also approved a letter to state lawmakers opposing House Bill 24-1178, concerning local authority to regulate pesticides.

The entire meeting is available in the archived meetings section of the Garfield County website, www.garfield-county.com

April 5 th

Come enjoy the monthly celebration of local arts, shopping, restaurants, spirits, live music in the heart of the Carbondale Creative District.

SPRING INTO WELLNESS

The Center for Human Flourishing hosts a FREE event showcasing wellness practitioners and businesses who support the health and well-being of our community.

5-8PM at the Carbondale Recreation Center

INTERDIMENSIONAL THREADS by Chris Erickson and Claire Wright Closing Reception

5-7PM at the Launchpad presenting

check out @carbondalecreativedistrict and carbondalearts.com for details

Laws of the

What (not) to do with your furry

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

On Tuesday, Feb. 27, Carbondale police were dispatched to respond to several calls regarding two dogs running loose: one black and one tan. While en route to the area, near Village Road and Highway 133, dispatch reported that the tan dog was chasing pedestrians and attempting to bite them.

According to a press release from the Carbondale Police Department (CPD), several people attempted to capture and restrain the animals, and one person was bitten in the process. Both animals were eventually caught by police officers. The black dog was released back to its owner, while the tan dog was placed on a 10-day bite quarantine before being released back to its owners.

In a collaborative email response from CPD Chief Kirk Wilson and executive assistant Anna Ramirez, The Sopris Sun was told the quarantine period is standard procedure so the animal can be tested for diseases such as rabies.

“The owner of the dogs was charged with ‘Unlawful Ownership of a Dangerous Dog’ in Garfield County Court,” CPD stated. “When a dog owner

REGISTER TODAY!

Community Ed Classes in Carbondale

BEGINNING FOOD GARDENING

For beginning gardeners or anyone wanting to increase productivity in their garden.

Thursday, 6-8pm, 4/11

WINES OF JEREZ AND SAN LUCA DE BARRAMEDA

No other region ages their Sherry wine as long as this region. Tastings will us the deductive tasting method.

Friday, 6-8pm, 4/12

APOCALYPSE 101 SURVIVING A LONG EMERGENCY

How to survive local disasters, or a national/global catastrophe. Sat, 10am-1pm, 5/18

ACRYLIC PAINTING FOR BEGINNERS

Basic exercises to introduce this medium, and creating finished pieces from the first class.

Tues, 1:30-4:30pm, 5/21-6/18

PHOTOGRAPHY 101

Learn to capture and process dynamic photographs and become a more confident photographer with Joe Lavine. Tues, 6-8:30pm, 5/21-6/11

BEGINNING SWING DANCE

Learn the basics of Jitterbugsteps, turns, spins, dips - and get ready for your your next event.

Wed, 6-8:30pm, 5/22-6/12

SEWING

Start with a simple project or your own project of choice. Bring your machine or use ours.

Thurs, 6:30-9:30pm, 5/23-7/18

BALANCE AND MOBILITY

Consciously activate balance with strength, reflex, flexibility, sensory awareness, and concentration exercises.

Thurs, 1:30-2:20pm, 5/30-8/15

ZUMBA WITH MIMI

Burn lots of calories in this fun cardio fitness dance program with Latin music and rhythms. Thurs, 6:30-7:30pm, 5/30-8/8

CPR FOR YOUR BIZ/ORG

CMC Carbondale will custom build a CPR training for your staff or group members.

Call Sheehan Meagher for more info at 970-963-2172

FOR MORE INFO AND TO REGISTER . . .

Carbondale Lappala Center

690 Colorado Ave 970.963.2172

OPENING NIGHT

THURSDAY, APRIL 25

Hosted by NY Times best-selling author Jedidiah Jenkins

With special guests Renan Ozturk, Taylor Rees & Timmy O’Neill

Featuring The Polar Passage from Renan Ozturk and Taylor Rees plus 7 other premium adventure films.

THURSDAY, APRIL 4

PARKINSON’S

Sopris Lodge hosts Jodi Brown, CEO of Parkinson Association of the Rockies, for an educational presentation from 2 to 3pm. To RSVP, call 970-678-0057 or visit www.soprislodge.com/events

MINECRAFT

Basalt Library invites Minecraft players to hang out and build a city together every other Thursday at 3:30pm.

COMMON ROOTS

HeadQuarters hosts Common Roots, a men’s peer empowerment group, at 6pm. All adults who identify as he/him are invited.

REEL ROCK 18

The Basalt High School Climbing Club presents films from the Reel Rock 18 Film Tour at the high school at 5:30pm. Visit www.tinyurl.com/ BHSReelRock for tickets and more info.

APOLOGY ART

Julie Oldham hosts “Mastering the Art of Apology” at True Nature at 6pm. To register, visit www. truenaturehealingarts.com

CRYSTAL THEATRE

“One Life” shows at the Crystal Theatre tonight at 7pm and Saturday at 4:30pm. “Wicked Little Letters” screens on Friday, Saturday, Wednesday and Thursday at 7pm and Sunday at 5pm.

SWINGING LIGHTS

Steve’s Guitars presents The Swinging Lights, an amalgam of many genres, at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

FRIDAY, APRIL 5

KNIFE SHARPENING

Rolling Stone Knife Sharpening offers their services out of Botany Houseplant Shop. Knives, pruners or scissors should be dropped before Thursday, April 4 to be picked up on Saturday, April 6.

PRODUCED WATER

The Colorado Produced Water Consortium meets virtually from 9am to 1pm. Public comments on the final draft of the Initial Produced Water Regulatory Policy Coordination Recommendation Report are requested. For details contact hope.dalton@state.co.us

NATURE JOURNALING

Adults who wish to explore, observe and creatively document nature are invited to join a group of sketch book writers and artists every first Friday at 1pm at the Carbondale Library.

FIRST FRIDAY

“Spring into Wellness” with healing businesses and practitioners showcasing their offerings at the Rec Center from 5 to 8pm. Carbondale Arts hosts a closing reception for “Interdimensional Threads” at The Launchpad from 5 to 7pm. The Carbondale Clay Center hosts a reception for “Proximal Verdure,” an exhibit by HP Bloomer and Sam Oliver, at 6pm. The exhibit will be on display through April 12.

PRESCHOOL FUNDRAISER

Blue Lake and Little Blue Preschools host a benefit with live music and a silent auction at TACAW from 6 to 10pm. More info at www.bluelakepreschool.org

Singer-songwriter Dana Cooper’s CD release tour stops by Steve’s Guitars on April 6 at 8pm. “The Ghost of Tucumcari” is his 32nd studio album, featuring all-star guest artists and marking Cooper’s 50 years in the business of making music. Courtesy photo

JAZZMONAUTS

The Jazzmonauts perform at Mountain Heart (1841 Dolores Way) from 7 to 9pm.

DOUBLE FEATURE

Austin Skalecki performs at Steve’s Guitars at 8pm, followed by June Star at 9:45pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

SATURDAY, APRIL 6

BREATHWORK

Nick Nicholson and Lisa Wilson lead a daylong breathwork workshop at the Third Street Center, from 9am to 6pm. Tickets: www.bit.ly/April6breathwork

SEED STARTING

Kim Doyle Wille teaches about starting and transplanting seeds at the Carbondale Library at 10am. Growing Empowerment will host a second workshop at the Glenwood Springs Library at 2pm. All attendees will receive free organic heirloom seeds.

DAYTIME FILM

Basalt Library screens “An Inconvenient Truth” with Spanish subtitles and snacks provided at 11am.

SOUND IMMERSION

Ildi Ingraham hosts a sound immersion experience at the Carbondale Library at 4pm.

CONSENSUAL IMPROV

TACAW presents Consensual Improv for a night of comedy beginning at 8pm. Tickets at www.tacaw.org

SUNDAY, APRIL 7

COLOR FESTIVAL

SPELLEBRATION

Literacy Outreach’s 30th annual Spellebration event will be hosted at the Hotel Colorado beginning at 6pm. This year’s theme is “Under the LiteraSea.” Learn more at www.literacyoutreach.org

Sunlight Mountain Resort closes out the season with a color festival. Beginning at 3pm, environmentally safe color powder will be launched at participating riders and skiers on Midway. Echo Monday will perform music.

SUNDAY SESSIONS

El Dorado presents DJ Grim Nymph spinning 1970s West African psychedelic tunes from 4 to 7pm.

RANDOM CONVERSATIONS

Answer thought-provoking questions that allow you to connect with whomever is sitting next to you during “The Lost Art of Random Conversations” at the Carbondale Library at 6pm.

CONTRA DANCE

Carbondale Community School hosts the final contra dance of the season from 7:30 to 10pm with live music by the Wooden Nickel String Band!

MONDAY, APRIL 8

ECLIPSE WATCH

Can’t make it to totality? Garfield County Libraries will have you covered with eclipse viewing parties at all six branches beginning at 11am.

IN STITCHES

The In Stitches Knitting Club meets at the Carbondale Library at 1:30pm.

TUESDAY, APRIL 9

GIRLS WHO CODE

Basalt Library welcomes youth of all genders to learn the basics of coding from 3:45 to 4:45pm.

ENSEMBLE FLATIRONS

The Ensemble Flatirons, a brass quintet of University of Colorado Boulder graduate students, performs for free at the Basalt Library at 5:30pm.

RADIO BINGO

KDNK Community Access

Radio hosts fundraising bingo at Carbondale Beer Works at 6pm.

CRYSTAL BALANCE

Aspen Journalism and Colorado Water Trust present “Hanging in the Balance: Competing Needs for Water in the West” at 6:15pm. Register for free at www.tacaw.org

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 10

MONEY SMARTS

Basalt Library partners with Eagle County Healthy Aging to teach The Money Smart for Older Adults Program curriculum at the El Jebel Community Annex Building (0020 Eagle County Drive) from 11am to 12:30pm.

SPARK

Carbondale Library hosts SPARK at 2pm. “We’ll build, create, explore, concoct and invent together!”

WORDPLAY AND WELLNESS

Basalt Library invites teens to celebrate National Poetry Month by exploring wordplay strategies that empower self expression from 3 to 4:30pm. Registration is recommended at www.basaltlibrary.org

BEER TASTING

The Redstone Inn hosts a beer tasting featuring Carbondale’s Mountain Heart Brewing Co. from 5 to 7pm. To reserve your spot, call 970-963-2526.

‘ELEMENTAL’

The Roaring Fork Valley Wildfire Collaborative screens “Elemental” at TACAW at 6pm with door prizes, a silent auction and a panel of wildfire experts answering questions after the film. Find tickets at www.tacaw.org

MARTY O’REILLY

Steve’s Guitars presents Marty O’Reilly at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

THURSDAY, APRIL 11

CODING CLUB

The Aspen Science Center teaches coding to teens at 3:45pm at the Carbondale Library.

BANNED BOOK CLUB

Basalt Library’s Banned Book Club discusses Stephen King’s “Carrie” from 5 to 6pm.

RIVER STOP

The Middle Colorado Watershed Council holds the final of its 2024 speaker series events at the River Stop rest area in Rifle from 5:30 to 7:30pm. Jackie Corday, a water and land attorney, will present on low-tech stream restoration techniques together with Abby Burk, senior manager of the Audubon Society’s Western Rivers Program. To register, visit www.midcowatershed.org/events

BREATHWORK

Davis Cowles leads a men’s ceremonial breathwork circle at True Nature at 6pm. Register at www.truenaturehealingarts.com

COMEDY

Steve’s Guitars presents one final Patio Night Live! show featuring Beth Brandon and Miller Ford at 8pm. Tickets at www.stevesguitars.net

FRIDAY, APRIL 12

MINI GREENHOUSES

Learn how to make a miniature greenhouse for your seed starts using old CD cases at the Basalt Library from 3 to 5pm. More info at www.basaltlibrary.org

DJ BATTLE

Watch KDNK staff members battle it out in 30-minute DJ sessions at Mountain Heart Brewing starting at 6pm. This KDNK membership drive event is presented by Music Gumbo Productions. Ten percent of beer sales will go to KDNK.

FREE CONCERT

Enjoy a free concert with JW Francis and Paul Cherry at TACAW at 8pm by registering in advance at www.tacaw.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 13

AI DL

Author Ilia Delio, a double-doctorate holding “theologian futurist,” gives a daylong presentation at the Aspen Chapel called “Why AI Needs Spirituality” from 9am to 3pm. The presentation will also be live streamed. More info at www.aspenchapel.org

TRUE OR FALSE?

Learn how to identify false information on the Internet and social media at the Basalt Library at 11am. This is a bilingual event. Register at www.basaltlibrary.org

SPRING RECITAL

Jennifer Gary on flute and Karen Tafejian on piano present an evening of light classical music at the Carbondale Library at 6pm.

RIVER BRIDGE BENEFIT

River Bridge Regional Center hosts its Ninth Annual “Imagine” Fundraiser at Spring Creeks Ranch in Carbondale from 6 to 9pm. Tickets at www. tinyurl.com/ImagineRiverBridge

T SWIFT

TACAW hosts “Let’s Sing Taylor,” a live band experience celebrating Taylor Swift, at 7:30pm. Tickets are sold out!

SUNDAY, APRIL 14

SUNDAY SESSIONS

El Dorado presents KDNK DJ

Grateful Ed from 4 to 7pm.

MONDAY, APRIL 15

APOCALYPSE SURVIVAL

Are you prepared to live without electricity for a week, a month or more?

Sue Gray teaches survival basics at the Carbondale Library at 6pm.

PIRATE RADIO

Celebrating 41 years on the airwaves, KDNK screens “Pirate Radio” at the Crystal Theatre at 7pm. Costumes encouraged!

ADVERTISERS

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Wilderness Workshop

Every week, all year, Roaring Fork Valley readers pore over the pages of The Sopris Sun and el Sol del Valle in print and online. Why? Glad you asked. It’s to enjoy award-winning journalism and photography covering our Valley. It’s to find out what’s happening in Carbondale and surrounding towns; to know local government, Mountain Fair competition winners and more. AND IT’S THE ADS. Our readers can see who supports the Sun, what they have to offer and where they are located. We have 147 smart advertisers, and that number is growing, providing 60% of our revenue, keeping our lights on and our engines humming. The Sopris Sun and el Sol del Valle are open for business. Every week. All year long.

5point Film Festival

Advocate Safehouse

All Creatures Veterinary Care

Alpine Bank

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ArtBase

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TSA

Two Rivers Unitarian Universalist

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Mountain Valley Development Services empowers personal growth

By Jeanne Souldern Sopris Sun Correspondent

Mountain Valley Development Services (MVDS), now in its 51st year, began in 1973 when a group of mothers of children with disabilities wanted to help their children acquire additional skills before entering public schools. As they started enlisting therapists to work with the children and a coordinator who secured grant funding, they formally organized the Happy Times Preschool.

Sara Sims, MVDS’ executive director, and her administrative team recently met with The Sopris Sun at their offices at 700 Mount Sopris Drive in Glenwood Springs to discuss MVDS’s mission to support children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in Eagle, Garfield, Lake and Pitkin counties.

“Before the early 1970s, physicians advised new mothers and fathers that they needed to have their child raised in an institutional setting,” stated Sims. “This was before we had organized special education preschools in this area. Our origins were concerned parents who wanted to give their children a step up.”

Lisa Skoog, assistant director of day services, supervises day programs in Glenwood Springs and Silt. Skoog oversees clients working in the community and Community Connections, a program that “gets the clients out into the community doing fun activities, like horseback riding or rock climbing or skiing.”

John Klausz, director of adult services, works alongside Skoog overseeing both day and residential services. MVDS manages properties where clients reside, from Glenwood Springs to Battlement Mesa. Some homes accommodate up to seven individuals, while other apartments owned by MVDS may house just one person. Additionally, they provide residential services to individuals who have their own housing.

“Our mission is to be part of the community. We're your next-door neighbors. The folks we support need a little extra help to live the life they want in a community they want to live in,” Klausz explained.

Wherever a job opportunity aligns with an individual's interests, MVDS will advocate for them and assist to secure the position. In fostering independence and self-reliance, the goal is that clients are active community members. For adult services, MVDS supports 125 individuals aged 18 and above, with their oldest client being 78 years old.

The transportation needs of clients factor in a fleet of approximately 24 vehicles, ranging from small electric cars to larger vans and minibuses with ramps and lift systems.

Case management changes

Brent Basham, director of case management, coordinates meetings

with families and clients to assist them in selecting service providers. MVDS has conducted its own case management since the early 1980s, but that’s about to change.

A 2014 federal law aimed at conflictfree case management (CFCM), with additional guidelines mandated by two state bills in 2017 and 2021, will take effect on July 1. As a result, Northwest Colorado Options (under the umbrella of the Garfield County Department of Human Services) will assume the role of case management for MVDS clients.

“CFCM prohibits the delivery of case management support and home and community based direct services by the same agency or entity,” reads the the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing website.

This redesign will significantly alter MVDS's operational approach and, as Sims pointed out, communication is critical. “We want to make sure everyone knows what's happening,” she said.

Greenhouse cultivates jobs

MVDS’ two greenhouses (one currently under construction) are located behind the administrative offices and are managed by Hollis Vanderlinden.

Those working in the greenhouse are paid at Colorado’s minimum wage of $14.42 per hour. “It allows our clients to get some work experience, and on a day like today [when the team was coloring Easter eggs] people get to hang out in the greenhouse,” Vanderlinden said.

They grow annual and perennial bedding plants, which are for sale to the public whenever there’s someone at the greenhouse.

Currently, with the plants popping their colors, the atmosphere is invigorating. “So we let everybody spend time here to appreciate the plants,” they shared.

Mountain Valley Weavers studio

Melissa DeHaan, who has been working with MVDS since 2013, oversees a group of MVDS members who have paid jobs as loom weavers.

The Mountain Valley Weavers studio is located at 209 Eighth Street in Glenwood Springs, upstairs from the Bleu Door boutique.

With its 23 table looms, the workspace is where MVDS weavers work Monday through Wednesday.

Beginners learn loom setup, which can take eight to 10 hours, and the art of weaving. “We have a plethora of patterns, so there’s a never-ending supply of ideas. We don't replicate many patterns to keep people motivated, and the work is not boring,” DeHaan shared.

A local seamstress, Cynthia Worthington, takes the woven fabric and makes hand towels, tote bags, blankets, ponchos and more. The oneof-a-kind handwoven artisan goods

sale at the MVDS greenhouse in Glenwood Springs.

Top-right: On the day of The Sopris Sun's visit to Mountain Valley Weavers, Melissa DeHaan

two shoppers an impromptu lesson on loom weaving.

Bottom-right: A wide variety of plants are tended to by greenhouse employees, who are paid through MVDS employment programs.

are for sale at the shop with tags identifying the weaver's first name.

One of the shop’s more prolific weavers is Tyler, who has been weaving for 24 years. “He wants to come to work every day because it makes him so happy,” Skoog shared.

“The other day, a woman who was wearing a shawl that Tyler made came in to show him that she was wearing his shawl. People really appreciate their work, which is wonderful,” DeHaan concluded.

MVDS is currently seeking volunteers for the greenhouse and weavers studio. If you're interested, call 970-945-2306. They are also hiring caregivers. More information can be found at www.mtnvalley.org

All MVDS services are offered in Spanish as well.

We are delighted to offer you, our community, the opportunity to take advantage of low-cost blood tests

June 7 & 8

ASPEN

Aspen Valley Hospital Campus

Hosted at Aspen Ambulance 0403 Castle Creek Road

June 9

EL JEBEL

Eagle County Community Center 20 Eagle County Drive

By appointment only 8:00-11:30 am

Lab Tests Offered

• HealthScreen w/CBC – $79

Includes CBC, CMP, Ferritin, Iron Panel, Lipid Panel, TSH and Uric Acid (Fasting Required)

• hsCardio CRP – $42

• Hemoglobin A1C & EAG – $44

• PSA, Total – $47

• Vitamin D – $54

• T3, Free – $32

• T4, Free – $32

• CBC (Complete Blood Count) – $32

Visit aspenhospital.org/health-fair or scan the code for complete details.

Make your appointMent starting ApriL 17.

Above: Hollis Vanderlinden (left) and Lisa Skoog check out flower varieties available for

gave

Photos by Jeanne Souldern

Sol del Valle el

Conectando comunidades desde 2021

Volumen 3, Número 6 | 4 de abril - 10 de abril de 2024

Se enfrenta a una difícil decisión por el bienestar de los cimarrones de Avalanche Creek

Por Will Buzzerd Traducción por Dolores Duarte

Si esta primavera te encuentras por Filoha Meadows o por detrás de Sopris mantén la vista alerta por borregos cimarrones. Si tienes suerte, podrás ver uno de los pocos rebaños autóctonos de Colorado. Sin embargo, por muy segura que sea la especie, la manada de Avalanche Creek se encuentra inestable.

A lo largo de los años, las enfermedades han hecho que la manada disminuya lentamente. Con un factor crítico en puerta, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) está considerando sus opciones.

John Groves, responsable de fauna silvestre del distrito, lleva dos décadas observando a este grupo. En ese tiempo, ha visto un declive continuo.

"Actualmente quedan unos 40-50 animales en total en esa población, cuando históricamente teníamos más de 250, quizás más", dijo Groves durante una presentación en la reunión del Crystal River Caucus en marzo.

El rebaño de Avalanche lleva décadas registrando una tasa baja de supervivencia de los corderos. En el pasado, esas muertes se atribuyeron a diversas causas -incluyendo a parásitos-, lo que amplió el alcance de las posibles estrategias de manejo. Ahora que la ciencia y el análisis de datos han mejorado, CPW ha identificado al culpable: un complejo de neumonía bacteriana contraída por el contacto con ovejas dom ésticas. En la actualidad, CPW está observando una tasa de mortalidad del 90-95%, y los corderos suelen sucumbir a la enfermedad al cabo de una temporada de su nacimiento.

Borrego cimarrón de rebaño en el valle Frying pan y su pariente, diferentes al rebaño de Avalanche Creek. Fotos por Sue Rollyson

CPW intentó inocular al rebaño contra el complejo sin éxito. También se han retirado las ovejas domésticas de la zona para eliminar la principal fuente de infección, pero la enfermedad sigue circulando entre los corderos salvajes.

Esto se debe a que la enfermedad no suele transmitirse de las o vejas domésticas directamente a los corderos, sino a partir de cimarrones sanos y adultos que portan la enfermedad, pero no han sucumbido a ella, y a veces no muestran ningún síntoma.

CPW está considerando un método de "prueba y sacrificio" con el rebaño de Avalanche con el fin de eliminar a las ovejas portadoras y dar a los corderos una mejor oportunidad de supervivencia. A lo largo de varios años, los miembros del rebaño serían capturados, sometidos a pruebas y marcados con rastreadores antes de ser liberados. Tras varias rondas de pruebas para identificar a los portadores crónicos, algunos de ellos serían sacrificados selectivamente para evitar una mayor propagación de la enfermedad.

Esta estrategia no se ha utilizado anteriormente en este rebaño , pero se ha empleado con cierto éxito en otros rebaños del oeste. En 2015, el protocolo de prueba y sacrificio se llevó a cabo en un rebaño similar infectado y en declive en Hells Canyon, Idaho. La población se recuperó. Como resultado de ese éxito, la técnica se ha aplicado en Idaho a lo largo del Río Salmón, así como en Washington y Oregon.

Sin embargo, no está garantizado. La dinámica de los rebaños es diferente en todas partes, y el complejo específico de enfermedades también puede variar de un rebaño a otro. Para una población ya de por sí baja, CPW tiene que contemplar con delicadeza sus opciones de manejo, si bien el tiempo no está de su lado.

"Si tenemos un gran número de casos positivos, no vamos a sacrificarlos a todos", dijo Groves. "Si nos equivocamos, habremos acabado con un montón de ovejas sin necesidad".

La translocación de nuevas ovejas a esta población es teóricamente posible, pero eso le costaría al rebaño de Avalanche Creek uno de sus atributos más valiosos.

Avalanche Creek alberga una población de cimarrones de nivel un o, lo que significa que no se ha introducido un número considerable de cimarrones en esta manada. Sólo tres rebaños del estado pueden afirmar lo mismo. En palabras de Groves, "ésta es la manada que siempre ha estado ahí". Trasladar nuevas ovejas a Avalanche Creek podrí a comprometer la originalidad de la manada.

Por ahora, la cuestión sigue siendo cuánto puede descender teór icamente una población antes de recuperarse. Groves afirma que cuando se trasplanta un nuevo rebaño a una zona despoblada, los gestores de la fauna silvestre suelen introducir unos 30 animales. Así que, al menos, la manada de Avalanche sigue rondando por encima de ese nivel de referenc ia.

En resumen, CPW se encuentra entre la espada y la pared a la ho ra de encontrar la forma de mantener a este rebaño de ovejas al bo rde del abismo sin perder el carácter indígena que lo hace excepcional.

¿Cómo preparo mi hogar para la venta? OPINIÓN

Ask a Broker

Por Giovanna Kennedy

La primavera es un buen momento para preparar tu hogar para la temporada de verano. No voy a mentir: preparar tu hogar para la venta requiere mucho trabajo, pero si comienzas ahora y lo haces paso a paso, hará que el proceso sea mucho más fácil. ¡Para junio, tu casa estará tan bonita que quizás no quieras mudarte! Aquí tienes una lista de tareas sobre cómo preparar tu hogar para la venta:

Atractivo visual: Limpia el exterior de tu hogar. Las primeras impresiones

realmente lo son todo, y por eso el atractivo visual es la cosa más importante que debes considerar antes de poner tu hogar en el mercado. Eso significa limpiar toda la basura dejada por el invierno. Haz incluso la más mínima cantidad de jardinería: renueva el mantillo en los macizos de flores, recorta arbustos y plantas y siembra flores. Tómate el tiempo para lavar a presión el exterior de la casa, los decks y las aceras, y retoca la pintura exterior si es necesario. Estas son pequeñas cosas que marcarán una gran diferencia cuando se trata del resultado final: vender tu casa al mejor precio posible.

Prepara un hermoso espacio de vida al aire libre. No subestimes lo importante que es el espacio al aire libre para los compradores que buscan bienes raíces en la montaña. Te prometo que vale la pena organizar tu área de vida al aire libre. A los posibles compradores les gusta imaginarse relajándose al aire libre

y entreteniendo a amigos y familiares. Organiza un área de conversación y de comedor. Si utilizas muebles de exterior viejos, actualiza los cojines y añade algunos colores divertidos.

Prepárate para la inspección de la casa.

Prepara la casa para la inspección y reemplaza cualquier cosa que esté rota. Incluso algo tan pequeño como un grifo que gotea o una bombilla quemada puede desanimar a un posible comprador. También es una buena idea hacer una inspección de la casa de antemano, así sabrás exactamente qué esperar y podrás anticiparte a las reparaciones necesarias antes de que un comprador cruce la puerta.

Actualiza y mejora todo lo que puedas.

Un poco va un largo camino cuando se trata de esas pequeñas cosas que están desactualizadas, como los accesorios de iluminación, los grifos de cocina/baño y los toalleros. Una capa de pintura fresca

Cada vez que usas tu tarjeta de débito Loyalty*, Alpine Bank dona diez centavos a las causas comunitarias que son importantes para ti. *Las

¡Solicita tu tarjeta hoy mismo!

y nuevas manijas pueden actualizar eficazmente los gabinetes de cocina/baño.

Elimina cualquier mal olor.

Actualiza o elimina cortinas y persianas antiguas. Haz que limpien profesionalmente las alfombras y los suelos. Si están en mal estado, puede que valga la pena reemplazarlos. Si investigas bien, puedes encontrar buenas ofertas en alfombras, solo asegúrate de elegir un color neutro.

La pintura hace mucho.

Una capa de pintura fresca puede hacer mucho por el interior. Elige colores blancos y neutros para que la casa parezca más luminosa y amplia. Los espejos también son geniales para iluminar el hogar y hacer que los espacios parezcan más grandes.

Despeja el desorden.

Quita las fotos familiares, limpia los armarios y estantes, y retira los objetos de las encimeras. Haz una

limpieza profunda de los electrodomésticos y limpia las ventanas por dentro y por fuera. Una vez hecho todo esto, es hora de…

Contrata a un fotógrafo profesional.

Las apariencias realmente lo son todo cuando se trata de atraer al comprador perfecto. Vale la pena invertir en fotografía profesional. Es una inversión que te será recompensada con un precio de venta más alto.

Cuando se trata de preparar tu casa para la venta, piensa en ello como en una limpieza de primavera. Un buen agente inmobiliario también te ayudará a guiarte a través del proceso.

Giovanna O. Kennedy es una Corredora de Bienes Raíces afiliada con Slifer Smith & Frampton. Para más información visite su página web gokennedyrealtor.com o mándele un email a giovanna.kennedy@ gokennedyrealtor.com

¿T ie n e s m e d i c ame n t o s ?

Entregue sus medicamentos no usadas o vencidas y medicamentos de venta libre para eliminación segura

Sabado 27 de abril de 2024 - 8:00 am a 2 :00 pm

La ubicación de disposición es : Depar tamento de Policía de Carbondale 511 Colorado Avenue , Suite 911 Carbondale , CO 81623

970-963-2662

Los siguientes ar tículos NO serán aceptados : Agujas y punzones

• Mercurio (termómetros)

• Recipientes de oxígeno

• Quimioterapia / Sustancias radiactivas

• Frascos Presurizados

• Drogas Ilícitas

No es una solución, es sólo una curita OPINIÓN

Un llamado a las montañas

Por Jackie Ramirez

El 20 de marzo, el senador Michael Bennet y el representante estadounidense Joe Neguse, junto con otros legisladores de Colorado pidieron una supervisión al Servicio de Ciudadanía e inmigración de Estados Unidos, USCIS por sus siglas en inglés, en sus retrasos en la autorización de empleo para los beneficiarios de Acción Diferida para los Llegados en la Infancia, conocida como DACA por sus siglas en inglés.

“Más de 13.000 Dreamers ubicados por todo Colorado activamente están contribuyendo a nuestra

economía y a nuestra nación cada día y deberían poder renovar su autorización de empleo en una manera oportuna”, escribieron los legisladores de Colorado en una carta al director de USCIS, Ur M. Jaddou.

La carta llama atención a las numerosas solicitudes que han recibido las oficinas de los legisladores de Colorado con respecto a los retrasos de autorización de empleo y como ha llevado a muchos a perder sus trabajos por no poder renovar su autorización de empleo.

Un beneficiario de DACA por casi 15 años que desea permanecer anónimo, Lucas, se refleja en su experiencia con DACA y su largo proceso de renovación junto con retrasos.

“Me hizo sentir un poco nervioso porque al llenar la aplicación te estás exponiendo al gobierno de que estás aquí”, dijo Lucas mientras recordaba cuando llenó la aplicación de DACA. “Mis padres son indocumentados entonces ahora el gobierno sabe toda esa información solamente basándose en la forma y nunca sabes qué

es lo que va a pasar cuando el gobierno tiene esa información”.

Lucas maneja la vulnerabilidad que conlleva el alivio administrativo para los jóvenes al recordar la razón de porque él solicitó DACA. Fue para poder estudiar y trabajar, establecer una carrera exitosa y tener acceso a educación como todos los demás. Antes de que tuviera DACA, Lucas no se detuvo en sus esfuerzos para cumplir sus sueños. El tomaba cualquier experiencia de aprendizaje que estaba disponible para él que no requiera autorización de empleo.

“Nadamas hacer eso abrió muchas puertas a oportunidades porque la gente que me enseñaba me ponían en contacto con alguien en las escuelas para que a lo menos pudiera salir adelante aunque no me pagaban, todavía estaba aprendiendo”, dijo Lucas.

Hace dos años, Lucas renovó su DACA, pero una vez que recibió la aprobación para continuar trabajando y viviendo en los Estados Unidos, ahora tiene

que comenzar de nuevo el proceso de renovación. Aunque el proceso de renovación es similar a la aplicación inicial, la única cosa que es diferente es que ahora los beneficiarios tienen trabajos y necesitan reportar prueba de autorización de empleo o si no, su empleo es amenazado.

“Tengo que planear al menos tres meses antes para que todo llegue a tiempo y para que le pueda demostrar a mi trabajo que he renovado mi tarjeta para que lo puedan marcar en su sistema”, dijo Lucas. “El único desafío es que cuando entregas tu solicitud de renovación tres meses temprano o más, tu tiempo con autorización de empleo dura menos”.

“Es mejor entregarlo temprano porque uno nunca sabe. Para la otra semana, algo o alguien puede cambiar una ley y de repente nadie puede solicitar”, dijo Lucas. “Se siente un poco terrible. Tú no sabes cuando las cosas van a cambiar y eres muy vulnerable a lo que sea que alguien decida”.

Lucas dijo que antes se preocupaba por la incertidumbre de DACA pero entiende que las demoras en autorizar empleo no solamente impacta el empleo de la gente si no que mientras el tiempo pasa, hay más espacio para que haya cambios potenciales.

“Todos los que somos parte de DACA estamos atorados como en un purgatorio donde nada está pasando. No eres ilegal pero al mismo tiempo no puedes hacer nada de lo que un ciudadano puede hacer. El gobierno necesita tomar una decisión”, dijo Lucas. “DACA no es una solución, sólo es una curita”.

Mientras se desarrolla el año electoral y Lucas progresa en la escuela de posgrado, él anima a los que están en favor de apoyar a los beneficiarios de DACA hacia un futuro más estable, que ejerzan su derecho a votar.

“Solamente queremos ser miembros productivos de la sociedad”, dijo Lucas.

El radón es un gas radiactivo canceroso que entra a hogares a través del suelo. La única manera de saber si su casa tiene radón es hacer la prueba. Salud Pública del Condado Garfield está ofreciendo pruebas gratuitas. Recoja su kit:

40% de los hogares en el Condado Garfield han probado por encima del límite de acción de radón de la EPA.

CHISME DEL PUEBLO

Elecciones

¡Ya tenemos los resultados no oficiales! Los nuevos administradores municipales de Carbondale serán Jess Robison, Christina Montemayor y Ross Kribbs. En Basalt, David Knight servirá como alcalde, acompañado por nuevos administradores Hannah Berman, Angèle Dupré-Butchart y Rick Stevens. Ryan Vinciguerra ganó cuatro años más como alcalde.

Aliviando el hambre

Este sábado 6 de abril, Growing Empowerment organizará un taller gratuito para todas las edades en la biblioteca de Carbondale (de 10 a.m. hasta mediodía) y en la biblioteca de Glenwood Springs (de 2 a 4 p.m.) para proporcionar educación acerca de trasplante de jardín mientras se organizan semillas para distribuir a recipientes de comida de LIFT-UP. Luego, plantas de tomate y chiles serán trasplantados para ser regalados. Todos los participantes se llevarán a casa semillas de reliquias orgánicas y panfletos de información. Para más detalles, busque “Growing Empowerment” en Facebook.

No tan santuario

El alguacil del condado de Garfield Lou Vallario lanzó una declaración detallando las pólizas del departamento cuando se trata de trabajar con el Servicio de Inmigracion y Control de Aduanas (ICE por sus siglas en inglés). Debido a la ley de Colorado, la policía no puede retener a alguien por más de seis horas sin una causa apropiada. Antes de que la ley entrará en efecto, las personas solían ser

retenidas solamente por el propósito de su estado de inmigracion para que ICE los detuviera – una práctica conocida como “retención de ICE”. Sin embargo, Vallario declaró que el departamento continúa trabajando con ICE dentro de los límites de ley estatal, incluyendo dejar saber a los oficiales de ICE cuando alguien de interés está a punto de ser liberado.

Crédito de impuestos de E-bikes

Colorado es el primer estado en la unión en lanzar crédito de impuestos de bicicletas eléctricas. Gracias a la legislación aprobada el año pasado (HB23-1272), todos los residentes del estado son elegibles para ahorrar hasta $420 en compras de bicicletas electrónicas de un distribuidor calificado. Encuentre más detalles en energyoffice.colorado.gov/ebike-tax-credit

Protecciones de Crystal

El comité de Crystal River Wild and Scenic and Other Alternatives Feasibility Collaborative Steering ha asignado tres subcomités para observar los métodos propuestos de protección: 1) el Subcomité de Acuerdos Intergubernamentales. 2) el Subcomité de Flujo Máximo de Corriente y 3) el Subcomité de Vida Salvaje y Escénica. El comité directivo continuará reuniéndose cada seis meses y un recordatorio de cada método será presentado en la reunión de junio o julio. Encuentre el comunicado de prensa en Crystal Valley Echo de este mes y un reporte detallada por Heather Sackett de Aspen Journalism en aspenjournalism.org "Sincronías" parte 69, por Leonardo Occhipinti

¡SE AP XIMA EL DÍA DE LA MAD !

Invitamos a todas las madres con bebes nacidos dentro del último año que tomen un retrato profesional con nosotros para la edición especial del Sopris Sun, el 9 de mayo.

Llame a 970-510-3003 o mande un correo electrónico a raleigh@soprissun.com para hacer una reservación en el Third Street Center (520 S 3rd St, Carbondale) para el 6 o 13 de abril de 9am a mediodía ¡ Gratis!

Roaring

Fork High athletes dig in post-spring break cleats

By John Stroud Sopris Sun Correspondent

Roaring Fork High School’s spring sports schedule is back in full swing this week following spring break, with the marquee event being the three-day Trent Goscha Memorial Baseball Tournament starting Thursday at Ron Patch Memorial Field.

The Rams enter their home tournament with some confidence after a close game on the road at Class 5A Smoky Hill on Tuesday.

Though it resulted in a 5-4 loss, coach Marty Madsen said he sees some improvement every time his young team takes the field.

“We only have three seniors, so we’re still a young club that’s learning the game,” Madsen said. “We’re getting better every day, which is big, and we really loaded the front end of the schedule with some tough teams.”

The Rams are 2-6 going into this week’s tournament, and with the 3A Western Slope League schedule starting April 10 at home against Olathe (game time 3pm).

“That tough schedule will help us down the road, especially with the tournament and as we start facing the 3A competition,” Madsen said.

Against Smoky Hill, the Rams had a 3-1 lead going into the bottom of the fifth inning, before the Buffaloes answered with two more runs that inning and then scored runs in the seventh and the extra eighth inning to win it.

“We made a few mistakes that extended innings for them, and some that shortened our offensive innings, but it was a good baseball game and fun for them to play,” Madsen said.

Junior Cole Fenton and sophomore Kenny Riley split pitching duties for the Rams, with Riley taking the loss.

The Goscha tournament is played in memory of Trent Goscha, an avid youth baseball player who died unexpectedly during his eighth grade year at Carbondale Middle School in 2016.

Roaring Fork opens the tournament at 2pm Thursday versus Montezuma-Cortez, then takes the field at 2pm Friday against Grand Junction Central.

The other pool of teams features Glenwood Springs, Pagosa Springs and Cañon City. Pool winners and runners-up are to play on Saturday for the championship and third place.

Girls lacrosse

The combined Roaring Fork girls lacrosse team got back into action with a 17-11 win Tuesday at Steamboat Springs. Goals came from

Josie McKinley-Kitchell (7), Hailey Wolfe, Juliana Pittz and Grace Garcia (3 each) and Jordyn Miller (1).

The team stands at 1-2 overall heading into their 4A Mountain East League opener at 4pm Friday versus Eagle Valley. The Rams are also at home Saturday for a 12:30pm rematch with Steamboat Springs.

Boys lacrosse

The combined Glenwood Springs boys lacrosse team, which includes several Roaring Fork students, fell 19-4 at Telluride on Tuesday. Carbondale senior Cooper Chacos scored two goals, with one each coming from Carbondale sophomore Kiko Pena and Glenwood junior Tristen Bledsaw. Pena also had two assists.

The Demons are now 2-1 overall and 1-0 in 4A WSL play ahead of a home match at 5:30pm Friday versus Vail Mountain and then Monday at 4 pm versus Steamboat Springs, both at Stubler Memorial Field in Glenwood.

Track & Field

Roaring Fork’s coed track and field athletes had two multi-team meets over the spring break stretch. Here are the top eight scoring event finishes for the Rams.

Cedaredge Invitational, March 30: Sophomore Nikki Tardif – second 200-meter dash (28.66 seconds); second 400 meters (1:04.32); junior Isabella Moon – fourth 1600 meters (6:11.54); fifth 800 meters (2:42.99); senior Kyra Reeds –third 100 hurdles (18.57); second 300 hurdles (53.15); junior Aberdeen Kennedy – sixth 100 meter dash (16.71).

North Fork Invitational, March 23: Tardif – third 400 meters (1:03.52); eighth 200 meters (29.26); Moon – seventh 1600 meters (6:00.63); eighth 800 meters (2:48.01); Reeds – fifth 300 hurdles (54.98).

Girls soccer: The Rams come into the post-spring break schedule at 1-1-1 overall, with a home match against Coal Ridge at 6pm Thursday at Rams Stadium, ahead of an 11am Saturday match across town at Colorado Rocky Mountain School.

Girls tennis: The combined Basalt girls tennis team played at Aspen on March 21, falling five matches to zero, and was again at Aspen for a dual (no scores reported). They next play at Delta on April 9.

Sacred Economics

Our theme for April is Generosity. This Sunday we will explore what a “ sacred economics ” of deep generosity might look likein fact, what it already looks like, if we pay attention. Charles Eisenstein writes in his book, Sacred Economics, writes, “ We live in a world of fundamental abundance that we have, through our beliefs and habits, rendered artificially poor. ” Come celebrate that fundamental abundance and its mysterious ways!

Roaring Fork senior Kyra Reeds clears a hurdle in the 300-meter hurdle event last Saturday at the Cedaredge Invitational track and field meet. Photo by John Stroud

Sopris Theatre Company presents ‘The Book of Will’

By Myki Jones Sopris Sun Correspondent

Sopris Theatre Company, Colorado Mountain College’s community-student hybrid theater program, will present Lauren Gunderson's “The Book of Will” to close out its 2023-2024 season.

The Denver Center for the Performing Arts originally commissioned this comedic drama, and it won the Harold and Mimi Steinberg/ American Theatre Critics Association’s New Play Award in 2018. It runs about two hours, with an intermission between acts.

Set in London in 1619, the story tells of Henry Condell — portrayed by Michael Banks — and John Heminges — portrayed by Brad Moore, operations manager at Sopris Theatre Company. These two members of the King’s Men acting troupe are friends of the recently deceased William Shakespeare, working to preserve and create a folio of his collective works.

Also appearing in this production is Bob Moore as Richard Burbage and William Jaggard, Bostyn Elswick as Alice Heminges, Lisa Langer

as Elizabeth Condell, Pax Wild as Rebecca Heminges and Emilia Bassano Lanier, Joshua Adamson as Issac Jaggard, Chris Wheatley as Ben Johnson, Travis Wilson as Ed Knight, Horatio and Sir Edward Dering, JD Emmonds as Ralph Crane and Bernardo, Sean Hamilton as Boy Hamlet, Lindsey Hamilton as Susanna Shakespeare, and Chip Winn Wells as Anne Hathaway.

“There are a hell of a lot of really good actors in this, so just that alone should be enough to bring people in to see this show,” Banks stated. “Even if they're unfamiliar with the play, at least come see us.”

Asked why this production was chosen, Brad Moore said it was a combination of his adoration for Gunderson’s work and the play’s themes. Although filled with humor, he said, “The Book of Will” may leave audiences questioning their legacy and life, while also helping to reframe personal and collective grief.

“It's filled with humor, charm and compelling moments of genuine

emotion,” he stated. “These [characters] are facing their and their friends’ mortality and what it means to leave a legacy. I've certainly grown and learned from this process, as it’s given me a new outlook on grief and how everyone handles it differently.”

Director Thomas Cochran, a self-described Shakespeare aficionado, stated, “[Gunderson] is an amazing writer, and this script took me between laughing out loud as I read it and crying out loud when I read it. It took me through so many emotions and so many places. It’s a good script, so I jumped on board.”

Cochran further described the show as a journey of two men doing what was once thought to be impossible — publishing an anthology. In his day, Shakespeare typically did not finish and publish his plays all at once for fear of copycats. For members of the King’s Men troupe to keep his legacy (and their careers) alive, it took a lot of work.

“Plays weren't highly regarded, so for somebody to collect and publish them

in this fancy formal way was pretty crazy,” Cochran explained. “If they hadn't done it, we probably wouldn't have what we have of Shakespeare's works today.” What sets this production apart from previous Sopris Theatre shows is that older actors play most of the leading roles. Discussing the rewarding aspects of working on such a production, Bob Moore stated, “When Tom [Cochran] said he was doing this, it piqued my interest. The two characters I get to play are right up my alley. There are very few similarities between them — other than they lived simultaneously.”

“The Book of Will” will be presented at Colorado Mountain College’s New Space Theatre (Spring Valley Campus) at 7pm on April 5, 6, 12, 13, 19 and 20, with three Sunday matinees: April 7, 14 and 21 at 2pm. The production will also be streamed live on April 7, 13 and 19 including a post-show conversation with the cast and crew.

To purchase tickets, visit www.bit.ly/ SoprisTheatreTix or call the box office at 970-947-8177.

From left to right, foreground: Brad Moore, Travis Wilson (Center) and Bob Moore. Background: Sean and Lindsey Hamilton. Courtesy photo

‘Avalanche Dreams, A Memoir of Skiing, Climbing, and Life’ by Louis Dawson

By Tom Mercer Sopris Sun Contributor

Louis “Lou” Dawson describes “Avalanche Dreams” as “a work of creative nonfiction” and he advises the reader that “while autobiographical in nature,” the book is “an approximation of the author’s lived experience.”

The author, well known to most alpine and sport climbers, has changed some names in his book to protect people’s privacy. He notes that “several pseudonymous individuals are conflated characters,” distilling a character’s function and assigning those traits to another character in the story.

Dawson attributes his early fascination with climbing to reading his father’s collection of mountaineering literature as a young boy. He then joined a Boy Scouts mountaineering troop and later read James Ramsey Ullman’s “Banner in the Sky,” a fictional account of the first ascent of the Matterhorn. From beginning to end, Dawson imagined being the book’s main character. He was just 9 years old when he climbed a 12,000-foot peak in Colorado’s Sawatch Range. Later, while visiting Aspen, Dawson “loved walking the dirt

streets, inhaling the flinty dust of mine tailings the town used as a road base.”

It wasn’t long before his father sold their house in Texas to begin building a new one much closer to Aspen. Dawson attended Aspen High School and later Dave Farney’s mountaineering school in Ashcroft. Soon, he was climbing every day.

Dawson’s writing style is imaginative and features some truly creative similes. Describing one backpacking trip, he writes, “Mosquitoes and biting flies honed in on our unwashed boy scent like radarguided missiles, provoking a constant chorus of hand-slaps and curses.”

A later description of an area on Pyramid Peak reads: “A near vertical rubble pile. Rocks from toaster to refrigerator-sized … as if stacked by a Zen stone gardener in a fit of delirium.”

The writing is entertaining and will hold your interest. But what is most astounding about “Avalanche Dreams” is the breadth of the author’s experiences. Whether on treacherous mountain climbing projects, challenging sport climbing routes, or risky back-country skiing, Dawson’s adventures keep the reader imaginatively engaged. As an added feature, the author has included many photos that serve to enrich the

accounts of his many and diverse experiences, adventures and accomplishments.

Jeff Achey of Wolverine Publishing says that Dawson brought "higher and higher standards of difficulty to his local crags in Colorado. As he transitioned away from climbing into backcountry skiing, he became even more renowned and accomplished."

Dawson’s account of his eventual successful summit of Denali is epic. Denali is the highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet. As such, the author’s accomplishment serves as a fitting capstone for the recounting of many projects across his career. He likens Denali to “a fist punched from the planet’s core.” In fact, I doubt that any fist would be capable of stopping Dawson.

“Avalanche Dreams” provides a fascinating look at Aspen’s past in addition to the author’s many climbing and back-country skiing experiences. Thus, the book offers a

window into both Dawson’s life and the wonders of the natural world. Michael Kennedy, formerly of Climbing Magazine, says, "Lou has given us a wonderful account of his time on the heights and in the valley, rich in its exploration of the complexity, uncertainty and absurdity of a life dedicated to adventure, family and spiritual growth."

MOTHER’S DAY IS RAPIDLY APP A ING

All local mothers who have welcomed a baby into their lives this past year are invited to have a portrait taken to run in The Sopris Sun’s May 9 edition.

invited

Our professional photographer will be setting up at the Third Street Center (520 S. 3rd Street, Carbondale) on April 6 and 13 with additional dates added if necessary.

Please email raleigh@soprissun.com or call 970-510-3003 to coordinate.

Anti-hate speech assembly highlights Valley’s diversity

Roaring Fork High School recently hosted an anti-hate speech panel featuring a few representative voices from around the Valley. The event was the result of a student-led effort organized by the school’s Student Equity Council.

It was a resounding success, with the presenters sharing stories of their personal experiences as victims of hate speech. The impact of their words was palpable among the student audience.

This reporter had the opportunity to catch up with two of the speakers after the panel to get their thoughts.

“It was an honor to be included in this, I’ve never done anything like this before,” Rabbi Sima Oster of the Aspen

Jewish Congregation told The Sopris Sun. “It gave me a lot to think about in advance coming into this, and hearing from each of the panelists just now gave me a lot to think about coming out of it. I would love to participate in something like this at any time.”

When asked the same question, Travis Wilson, a youth advocate at Youthzone, said, “I really enjoyed this! This was a lovely experience. I loved hearing all the diverse voices in our community because the Roaring Fork Valley does have so much diversity.”

Wilson concluded by echoing Oster, “Absolutely I would do this again.”

Text by Gus Richardson Youth Correspondent

Photos by Sue Rollyson

(Right) Rabbi Sima Oster of the Aspen Jewish Congregation.

(Above) Travis Wilson, a member of the LGBTQ community and Valley local, shared his lived experience with, and gave some sound advice to, the young audience.

The panel was comprised of speakers from diverse backgrounds representative of the Valley.

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

Gifts to Bring Back from the Seashore

By Nancy Bo Flood

Footprints

From bare feet walking in wet sand, I would bring to you.

How simply they say, Now

Friendship

With trust that we hold For a moment, each other’s heart, Carefully, gently, As we share.

Joy

Of play, Children creating castles, Digging holes the surf will soon fill, The sea will wash away.

Endings and beginnings, I bring to you

Families leave, grow up, Return with children.

The sea will again whisper ola hello welcome

I bring to you footsteps mine, yours, Left in wet sand, Part of eternity.

I bring to you

Sunsets spilling roses and bird songs As surf curls, claps, thunders in our ears.

I bring to you Wonder.

Let it refresh you, Invite you to plunge Into your work, your play, like pelicans. Watch them dive from sky to sea, Soar upward again, Fearless.

Walk with me barefoot across sand, Knowing the brevity of now.

CARBONDALE Revolving Loan Fund

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

A sole chimney is all that remains of the former Aspen-Sopris Ranger District building on Main Street. Photo submitted anonymously

The Town of Carbondale developed the Carbondale Revolving Loan Fund (CRLF) to enhance the ability of local businesses to secure the necessary capital to finance start-ups, operations, or expansion The loan fund was set up in 2002 with a 50/50 partnership with the USDA The Town and USDA both contributed $50,000 In addition to providing access to capital, the CRLF is designed to help stimulate job creation and retention Loans are available to new or established businesses located within the town limits of the Town of Carbondale To-date, the fund has $150,000 to loan to for-profit and non-profit businesses based in Carbondale

CRITERIA

Loan proceeds may be used for business reasons, including real estate acquisition, construction, and equipment

Funds cannot be used for the refinancing of existing debt Applications will be considered on the basis of the character of the applicant, the applicant’s capacity to repay the loan, collateral and/or other sources of capital, and conditions affecting the applicant’s ability to repay the loan

The guideline for the amount to be requested is $5,000 to $25,000 The interest rate will depend on several factors such as the type of collateral, financial strength of the applicant, and the overall risk Fixed rates of interest will range from 3% to 5%

The term of each loan will depend on repayment capabilities and the purpose of the loan Repayment is monthly and loans are usually no longer than a 36-month term (3 years)

CONTACT

Scan QR code for more information or contact the Carbondale Chamber: 970-963-1890, chamber@carbondale com

The CRLF is made possible by the Town of Carbondale The Carbondale Chamber is not affiliated with the Town of Carbondale, rather assisting the Town by overseeing the marketing & promotion, and certain aspects of the administration of this program The loan funds are in no way exchanged with the Carbondale Chamber

Coming for your truck

And your SUV and your car. The WSJ [Wall Street Journal] reported last week that by 2032, the government will restrict new gasoline-powered vehicle sales to 29% of all new vehicle sales.

Lucid Group lost $145,824 per EV [electric vehicle] sale last year. Ford only lost $64,731 per EV sale; I suppose they plan on making it up in volume. Automobile manufacturers make their profits from selling gasoline-powered vehicles, which means in eight years the few new gasoline-powered vehicles available will necessarily come with higher prices and, I predict, higher demand, which will drive prices through the stratosphere.

In April 2023, the WSJ reported that if we replace all 250 million gasoline powered vehicles in the U.S. at a cost of some $12.5 trillion (my estimate), we would reduce global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by a whopping 0.18%, meaning that 99.82% of all global GHG emissions will continue.

I challenge Governor Jared Polis to drive to Cortez, Colorado in a gasoline powered SUV, then return to Denver in his choice of EV’s … in the dead of winter, then report back! Electric vehicles are a nonstarter in rural America. I propose

that we eliminate the Department of Energy (annual savings: $129 billion) and that Congress severely rein in EV mandates from the EPA [Environmental Protection Agency].

The masterminds who are plotting to replace our baseline, always-there electricity with intermittent, not-always-there juice, while simultaneously adding 50% demand to the grid via EV charging, are the brightest among us. They all went to the right schools. We are told to trust them, yet I doubt most of them could tell you where a package of hamburger comes from. And know this, they are coming for your truck, and for our way of life. Somebody needs to stop them!

Russ Andrews Carbondale

CD3 Republican Candidate

Letters policy: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor. Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome. Please cite your facts and include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.

L o ok ing to have f un and g ive b ack?

Join us at Rot ar y ever y Wedne sday at 7a.m. at t he Car bondale F ire St at ion!

V isit rotar ycarbondale.org for det ails

April 10 - Speaker TBD

April 17 - Evan Zislis - Aspen Institute, Hearst Community Initiative

The Fireball Drop moves to Main Street on First Friday in May! Tickets are on sale at City Market later this month so enter for a chance to win $5,000!

A l l a r e w e lc o m e ! RSVP

Rick Carlson

The heat is on! A new batch of firefighting students were spotted training at the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District facility on Meadowood Drive. Wrecked cars are also being used for extrication training by existing firefighters. Photos by Jane Bachrach

HELP WANTED

Light housekeeping and gardening.

WEEKLY: TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS 3 hour minimum, more as needed

RATE: $25.00 per hour

TRANSPORTATION/CAR MODEL/YEAR

Provide Copies of: Drivers License, Auto & Health

Age: 35 yrs to 55 yrs

Bilingual & List of references required.

YOU VALUE GIVING BACK, US TOO.

In fact, every Alpine Bank employee is provided 24 hours of paid volunteer time each year. And in 2024, we are challenging bank employees to use all 24 hours in an initiative called: 24 in '24. Join us