2009 06 18

Sopris Sun THE

VOLUME 1, NUMBER 19 • JUNE 18, 2009

Gateway to Carbondale’s History ... At What Price?

Looking south toward the Thompson House, which may become town property if the trustees approve the development plan for the surrounding 10 acres. Photo by Trina Ortega

Trustees set to grapple with development and a homesteader’s residence

By Trina Ortega

L

ocal groups pushing to save the historic Thompson House staged a latehour — and well-attended — gathering to win over support before the Carbondale Board of Trustees begins deciding the fate of the homesteader residence.

On June 13, the Mt. Sopris Historical Society, developer Freida Wallison and the Thompson family hosted invite-only tours and a pit barbecue on the property to impress upon attendees what they deem a priceless piece of Carbondale’s history.

The house would be deeded to the town under a development proposal from Wallison. But in order for it to happen, Wallison is asking for several concessions.

Located on a 10.2-acre parcel on south Highway 133, the proposal asks for a medium- to high-density neighborhood on what is known as the “county island” in unincorporated Garfield County. In conjunction with the development proposal, Cerise Park LLC is seeking annexation into the town and rezoning of the property.

Linda Criswell of the Mt. Sopris Historical Society told the gathering that the Thompson

house is a living display of what life was like in the early 20th century.

“There’s no other home that embodies the spirit of Carbondale like this one,” Criswell said in a short speech at the barbecue. “At our small log cabin museum, which sees about 400 visitors a year, many of them local school children and their families, we tell about what it was like to live here 125 years ago. But this house ... it shows it.”

P&Z says no Although it is not disputed that the house is of great historical and cultural value to the town, critics say Wallison has asked for too many leniencies and that the proposal is too vague.

Originally, Wallison sought to build 30 to 100 units, but that huge range in units was shot down. So was a plan for Aspen-sized homes in the 5,000-square-foot range.

Wallison also wants to count the Thompson House as “open space,” allowing her to skirt the town’s requirement that new developments include 15 percent open space.

But even with changes to the application,

P&Z concerns — including the cost of maintaining the house, inadequate open space, interruption of viewplanes and the continuing request by the developer for unprecedented flexibility to build anywhere from a few dozen to several dozen units — were enough for the 5-2 vote against.

Ultimately, P&Z determined the plan did not deserve annexation because the benefits to the town were too few.

THOMPSON HOUSE page 13

The Next Step Carbondale Board of Trustees meeting 6:30 p.m. June 23 • Town Hall Thompson Park Trustees review proposal for annexation and development of 45 to 85 residential units on a 10-acre parcel of land located between Hendricks Ranch and RVR, including possible acquisition of the historic Thompson House.

Carbondale Commentary Letters The Sopris Sun welcomes your letters, limited to no more than 400 words. Letters exceeding that length may be edited or returned for revisions. Include your name and residence (for publication) and a contact email and phone number. Submit letters via email to letters@soprissun.com or via snail mail to P.O. Box 399, Carbondale, CO 81623.

The need for high-speed Dear Editor: For residents of the Crystal River Valley interested in high-speed Internet, you may sign a Qwest survey of interest at the Redstone General Store or Crystal Club Cafe until July 1. If there is enough interest we may well get service that has passed us by. Qwest is being encouraged to provide service to isolated rural areas. There is no commitment on your part that you must subscribe to this service when it is provided. Let’s show Qwest we want this service.

Larry Puleo Carbondale

What were they thinking?

Dear Editor: Editor’s note: This letter was originally addressed to the Aspen Times and the Glenwood Post Independent.

Don’t you have a clue about the culture of this valley? Catherine Store does NOT divide the Roaring Fork Valley population, as indicated by the elimination of The Aspen Times from down-valley distribution! We are one valley with many community, news and consumer interests shared by people throughout the area.

It was bad enough that for the past many years the Post Indy never put sufficient numbers of papers in the news stands in Carbondale, despite my numerous calls saying they ran out by mid-morning. Now the big newspaper conglomerate has totally pulled The Aspen Times from stands downvalley past Catherine Store and hasn't even bothered to increase the numbers of Post Indys to compensate.

Bravo for the independent Aspen Daily News whose editor and publisher recognize the inter-relatedness of our valley's populations. And while I'm at it, kudos to the Sopris Sun for so quickly and beautifully picking up Carbondale's need for a local newspaper after the big boys shut down the Valley Journal a few months ago. Let's hear it for independent home-grown businesses!

Laurie Loeb Carbondale

Land like ours to begin with Dear Editor: With regard to the proposed exchange of the former Sutey Ranch adjacent to Red Hill for a piece of steep scrub oak BLM land adjacent to Mr. Leslie Wexner’s land on the lower slopes of Mt. Sopris, I have this observation to make: Over 100 years ago the 513acre Sutey land was government land that

belonged to all of us and was then GIVEN AWAY to a private owner by all of us to be used as a homestead. After the death of the Sutey brothers, who had brought water into the land and irrigated it for years, their ranch was bought by Mr. Wexner for millions of dollars. Mr. Wexner now proposes to give back to us that land, which was homesteaded for NOTHING DOWN, so that we can once more enjoy it as ours, in exchange for some land adjacent to his ranch. We gave it away once and we can get it back thanks to a man who could afford to buy it and now wants to give it back to us. Lucky us. Thank you, Mr. Wexner.

Sincerely, James Breasted Carbondale

Write PitCo on Sutey exchange Dear Editor: The Pitkin County Commissioners are the last county to officially support the proposed land trade for the Sutey Ranch (513 acres) and the Two Shoes Ranch (1,268 acres) in Carbondale. It is so important that you write a letter of support to the commissioners now. They need to know how important it is to our community to preserve these two large parcels of open space for wildlife and water issues, to avoid losing another ranch to development and to preserve public access to trails and wilderness, including Lily Lake public access.

What’s not to support? Eagle, Garfield and Gunnison commissioners have all publically voted in support of this trade so with Pitkin County’s support the proposal will move onto Congress. Pitkin County has participated in many other land trades similar to this in the past, so there is precedence for approval. These two parcels are a part of our valley-wide community and the impacts will reverberate through our communities, so Pitkin County has a responsibility to listen to the public and support this awesome opportunity.

For more information please see the May 28 edition of the Sopris Sun online.

Thanks, Laurie Stevens Carbondale

Cruisin’ thanks Dear Editor: The Valley Cruisers Car Club would like to thank the people of Carbondale for allowing us to bring our 11th annual car show to your town. We want to thank, The Town of Carbondale, The Carbondale Chamber of

Correction A picture caption on page 1 of the May 28 edition of the Sun contained an error.

The caption stated that the cabin pictured was on the homestead of the Sutey family.

We have been informed that the cabin was built by Roy Maxfield, whose homestead was later combined with the Sutey property.

2 • THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009

Commerce, and the Downtown Preservation Association. The show was a success due to these people.

Ron Madsen President Valley Cruisers Car Club

Thanks to donations from Precision Cut and Design, Black Magic Welding, Roaring Forge and over 100 hours of work by scouts and friends, the benches add a rest stop and a chance to sit and meditate on nature.

John Hoffmann Carbondale Troop 235 Unit Commissioner

Eagles fly Dear Editor: Saturday was a special day for the boys of Carbondale Troop 235. In a rare and propitious synchronicity the troop welcomed four new boys. The four rose through the ranks of Cub Scouts to receive their second year Webelos and their Arrow Of Light awards. Cub Master Dan Thompson led the ceremony where Mathew Wampler, Robbie Thompson, Jordan Saczak and Jeremia Bernat crossed over into Boy Scouts last Saturday at the Thompson Homestead Museum.

On the same day at a ceremony at the Heinig Residence, on Cattle Creek, Boy Scout Master Tom Provost watched as four men from Troop 235 were awarded their Eagle rank after they rose through the troop since 2002. The ceremony was led by Tom Dykema of Troop 225. The four new Eagles are; Alex Heinig, who, for his Eagle project, built the bridge over the irrigation ditch east of Crystal River Elementary School. This is the first step of a nature trail the school and Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers will build on the side of White Hill in September to teach students about our local ecology.

Tyler Ting for his Eagle project obtained donations of culvert from Grand Junction Pipe and fill material from Western Slope Aggregate. He and his friends spent over 100 hrs to install eight culverts in the irrigation channels at the Nature Park. This now enables smooth passage by the young, the physically challenged and the elderly at the beautiful open space.

Zak Jones, for his Eagle project built an ADA graded ramp with the help of his friend and the town staff, to access the same park.

This allows hand cycles and wheelchairs to take advantage of the birding and fresh air in the open space.

Alan Felix, built three steel benches for the Nature Park for his Eagle project.

Trail input needed

Dear Editor: I am writing to announce that I'm taking on the CTC (Carbondale Trails Committee) Chairman position from Cody Owen.

Cody Owen, Jean Owen, and John Hoffmann, along with many others, including Bob Lucas, Rob Comey, Thane Lincicome, Bill Spence (and I'm sure I'm missing some), have worked long and hard on behalf of our town's need for a great trail system that works to promote connectivity for bicycles and pedestrians. This includes improving existing trails and placement of new ones, especially where new development is concerned.

Your input, and that of other citizens of Carbondale is of great importance as we move forward proposing the CTC’s suggestions to the town. Anyone who is willing to give their ideas is invited to do so by emailing me or, better yet, attending our monthly meeting at 8:30 a.m. at Town Hall on the fourth Wednesday of every month. (I may call other meetings along the way that will incorporate an out-of-the-box meeting strategy, mainly to make the meetings fun.

Stay tuned.)

In the coming days and weeks I will be sending out an agenda that will outline the important items on the CTC's agenda. This includes suggestions for connectivity plans for the new Overlook development, Thompson Park, Villages at Crystal River (The Marketplace), the Downtown Overlay District and other possible trails. Please, if you have input for Carbondale’s pedestrian and bicycle trails, now is the time to speak up and, if you can, help me out some.

You can see maps of the new development proposals on the Town's Web site, www.carbondalegov.org.

Brent Moss Carbondale

Sopris Sun THE

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The mission of the Sopris Sun, LLC is to inform and inspire community members of Carbondale, Colorado.

Editor: Trina Ortega • 274-1861 or news@soprissun.com Reporter: Jeremy Heiman • Jane Of All Trades: Jane Bachrach Page Production: Terri Ritchie • Ad production: Barbara New Advertising Director: Jody Ensign 948-9715 Paper boys: Jack Sebesta, Rex Vanminnen, Mark Burrows, Russ Criswell Sopris Sun, LLC Managing Board of Directors: Russ Criswell • Peggy DeVilbiss • Allyn Harvey • Colin Laird Barbara New • Elizabeth Phillips • Rebecca Young

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Trustees see different Overlook than P&Z

By Jeremy Heiman The architects for the Overlook neighborhood are probably wondering just exactly what they’ve gotten themselves into – and how they’re going to out of it.

They hauled a thoughtfully designed plan for the residential/commercial neighborhood through a tough grilling by Carbondale’s Planning and Zoning Commission, only to meet an even more rigorous inquisition before the town trustees.

P&Z members spent months trying to determine whether the application, which calls for development of more than 150 residences and perhaps a hotel on what’s now a 12.3-acre light industrial patch north of town hall.

Their mission was to determine if Overlook meets the town’s goals for affordable housing, parks, parking, emergency access and other specifications and recommendations of the land use code, the Comprehensive Plan and the Economic Roadmap.

After its in-depth review of the application, the P&Z recommended that the trustees approve the application by a vote of 5-1.

In their initial meeting with the trustees on April 28, architect John Wolff, representing C’dale LLC, the Overlook ownership group, tried to remind the trustees that the P&Z had done its work, and now they would be considering such details as exactions (the fees and other demands the town would impose on the developer for the development’s impacts) and the overall financial benefits and impacts of the development.

But instead, the trustees have entered into their own extensive and intensive examination of the proposal on some of the very same points that the P&Z has already covered – and more.

On May 12, after a long round of trustee comment and critique, as he opened the application to comments from the public, Mayor Michael Hassig stated that at some point he is willing to accept the Planning and Zoning Commission’s work.

“I think we have larger policy issues to address, and I don’t want to spend 10 meetings doing this,” Hassig said.

We’re not P&Z Members of his board had just spent upwards of two hours challenging the owners’ representatives on such aspects as density, parks, school impacts and renewable energy.

But earlier that evening trustee Stacey Bernot had expressed an opposing viewpoint that now seems to be held by a majority of the board: “We’re not the P&Z,” Bernot said. “We’re the elected

board that governs this town. If it takes six meetings or 28, we’ll do what it takes,” she said, to examine this application and make sure it’s good for Carbondale.

Bernot, in an interview with the Sopris Sun, elaborated.

Noting that the Overlook is the biggest thing to come before the Carbondale Trustees since River Valley Ranch, she said many of her constituents have contacted her about the plan since it first surfaced, some in emails and telephone calls, and others at the grocery store or around town.

“P&Z is an integral part of the process,” Bernot said, but that board doesn’t see all the comments on land use applications that the trustees see. The trustees have to look at all the impacts that might result, 10 or 20 years later, from a project, especially one the size of the Overlook.”

In the trustees meetings with the Overlook’s representatives, Bernot has been especially outspoken about the proposed population density and the small amount of open space included in the plan.

Trustee Pam Zentmyer also has articulated concerns about density and open space, saying the small lots don’t allow enough grassy area for children and dogs to play in. She has also pointed out that the proposed narrow, curving streets will discourage residents from the rest of Carbondale from driving to Delaney Park, the town’s largest public open space.

“It doesn’t seem to be all that inviting to people outside the walkability range,” Zentmyer said in a May meeting.

Calls for green and clean Trustee John Hoffmann said he has also received emails and telephone calls and had conversations with constituents.

Hoffmann said in his opinion, Wolff and Lyon are insightful and creative designers, and should be able to come up with a livable, sustainable community, but the Overlook still needs work.

The bulk of the development should be oriented for maximum solar gain, primarily for passive solar design, Hoffmann said.

He also believes the ratio of affordable housing should be 20 percent, not 15, and that the concept of “visitability” — ease of access for the aged and those with disabilities — should be in place in a significant number of dwellings, so that residents can “age in place.”

Hoffmann is calling for the applicants to commission an environmental review involving soil samples, because large quantities of petroleum fuels and hydrocarbon chemicals were stored on parts of the site when it was a staging area for mining operations.

Ride the Rockies bicycle tour participants pedaled their way through Carbondale on Sunday en route over McClure Pass to Hotchkiss. For this year’s ride, 2,000 cyclists are pedaling 380 miles in six days. The tour concludes Friday, with cyclists pedaling from Aspen, through Carbondale, and back to Glenwood. Photo by Jim Ryan

Mayor says no conflict of interest Residents who have looked at documents on the Carbondale municipal Web site concerning the Overlook development have been surprised to see that Mayor Michael Hassig is listed as the project’s architect and urban designer.

Hassig is surprised, too. As mayor, he has been hip deep in the discussion of the project’s pros and cons, with the rest of the board of trustees.

“I have never been involved in that project,” Hassig said last week. Asked how his name got on the document, Hassig replied, “I have no idea.

“If I had any involvement with the project,” Hassig continued, “I would have recused myself completely.”

Hassig did say he responded to a request for proposals before the Overlook proposal was on the drawing board, but he and his firm were not selected for the work. Moreover, he said, since that time, he has gone out of his way, possibly at some expense, to distance himself from the project.

Before the Overlook proposal was submitted to the town, Hassig’s firm was working on a Basalt project called Stotts Mill, which involved one of the future partners in the Overlook, Hassig said.

When the Overlook application was submitted, Hassig’s firm severed ties with the Basalt job, to prevent any appearance of conflict. Now that new development proposals have dwindled to near nothing, Hassig said, he wishes his firm had kept the job.

Trustee Frosty Merriott shares some of Hoffmann’s concerns as well, including the call for an environmental review to determine whether the soils are safe.

The developer is said to have authorized a preliminary study, but Carbondale officials haven’t seen it. Merriott called for the results to be made public.

“I don’t want to vote on rezoning before I see the Phase I review,” he said, referring to the first level of testing under U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.

Renewable energy is also on Merriott’s mind. Carbondale’s energy code calls for 30 percent of the energy consumed in town to be from renewable sources by 2012. He suggested to the developer’s representatives that perhaps new construction in town should be operating on perhaps 40 or 50 percent renewables.

Different views on density

The density of the proposed neighborhood troubles Merriott, too. A couple of parts of the plan would have 23 and 20.6 units per acre.

“That’s almost double what our density is in the rest of town,” he said.

Hassig, the most consistent supporter of the plan, has expressed the opposite viewpoint on density.

“On the matter of density,” Hassig said, “there’s no surprise here. I’m a consistent advocate of density in town, where it belongs. The right stuff in the right place is still a compelling argument to me.”

Density saves energy, Hassig maintained, indicating that placing more residents closer to services reduces driving.

Hassig, in an interview, said he has not been contacted by a single citizen on the matter of the Overlook. Further, he said, it is important to keep all dialog on an issue before the trustees out in the open.

“I don’t want to talk about the Overlook outside of the public forum,” Hassig said. “People can talk to us, but the fact is we’re supposed to be conducting those conversations publicly. To have those conversations outside the public forum is probably inappropriate.”

“I’m willing to rely on those P&Z recommendations,” Hassig said, “but not unequivocally.” He said he accepts the idea that some of the trustees will always take issue with decisions by the P&Z. Stacey Bernot underscores that statement.

“At the end of the day,” Bernot said, “I have to answer to the public.”

THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009 • 3

P&Z approves zoning for higher density, taller buildings downtown

By Trina Ortega Carbondale’s Planning & Zoning Commission has signed off on a proposal for the Historic Commercial Core (HCC) in downtown that reduces the minimum lot area per residential unit and allows for an increase in building height from 35 to 42 feet.

Having debated concerns about how increased density would affect parking, the historical feel of downtown, and the quality of life for residents who live near Main Street, P&Z voted 5-2 on June 11 to recommend approval of what has been dubbed the “HCC Overlay.” The dissenting votes were cast by Lorey Esquibel and Kathy Goudy.

The idea of the overlay is that the underlying zoning remain in place, but a property owner can take advantage of “incentives” (increased density on the site and added building height) if the development has benefits to the town (such as affordable units and underground parking).

“It’s a very interesting situation to incentivize densification downtown with increased building height and elimination of the minimum lot size, but on the other hand it’s consistent with the Comprehensive Plan that wants that sort of thing,” P&Z co-chair Bill Spence told The Sopris Sun. “There will be more discussion on it, I’m sure.”

Esquibel, who weeks earlier had recommended P&Z not propose any zoning changes, stated that she still felt parking was not adequately addressed. A plan that allows for more units but does not require adequate parking spaces would only force parking

onto the streets and into surrounding neighborhoods, she said.

She suggested that the commission look at each proposal as it comes forward, and developers can opt to go through a PUD process if needed rather than changing zoning that would allow for “unintended consequences.” “… it seems better to look at each lot on an individual basis. We have more control over each design,” Esquibel said.

Goudy worried about the historical preservation of existing buildings. While there is a five-year stay and more formal reviews added to the overlay zoning plan, it still does not safeguard those buildings, she said.

“My concern is this benefits Town Center, the empty lots, but not the existing buildings,” Goudy said.

However, some of the requirements, including the step backs on the upper levels, concerned Larry Green, who owns the property at Sixth and Main and the building that houses CCAH and Artists Collective. For a small lot owner, “You effectively remove the incentive” and negate the whole process, with such requirements, he said.

One of the biggest issues to resolve has been parking and how higher density would affect what Spence called “vehicle clutter.”

The HCC Overlay zoning states that no more than 33 percent of the surface area of a lot shall be used for residential parking.

Lots up to 30,000 square feet must have a minimum of one parking space on site per

residential dwelling unit. Property owners with lots exceeding 30,000 square feet are required to provide a minimum of 60 percent of the multiple-family residential parking underground.

Those requirements, along with other parking stipulations, may be mitigated by a cash-in-lieu payment to the town for improving on-street parking.

Esquibel felt that cash-in lieu would simply open the door for developers to pay their fee and not worry about parking, which would then spill over.

Reflecting on the signficant land use applications that have come forward recently,

Esquibel said: “All of that is going to spill over somewhere; all of that’s going to build up. I think it is not good quality of life for the town of Carbondale.”

But other commission members said the cash in-lieu will help the town create more public parking. Charlie Keys said parking requirements make sense, and the overlay plan is the “first mechanism” to actually make zoning reflect the Comp Plan. The incentives help property owners design buildings that provide walkability, density, access to mass transit, affordability, and mixed uses, he argued.

The P&Z will sign-off on the final

Big projects working through review process There are several major land use proposals working their way through the town’s approval process. Below is a listing of the projects and their status before the P&Z or Town Trustees.

Thompson Park: 45-85 Residential units on a 10-acre parcel of land located between Hendricks Ranch and River Valley Ranch, including possible acquisition of the historic Thompson House. There is a public hearing before the Board of Trustees at 6:30 p.m. on June 23.

Downtown Overlay District: Regarding parking, building heights, commercial and residential building standards in downtown Carbondale. Approval was

recommended by the P&Z last week, so it now goes before the Board of Trustees.

No meeting has been scheduled yet.

The Village at Crystal River: (Formerly known as Crystal River Market Place) A mixed-use parcel north of City Market, west of Hwy 133. The continued public hearing before the P&Z is scheduled for 7 p.m. on June 25.

Overlook Neighborhood: Mixed use development with up to 220 residential units and 40,000 SF of commercial space on 12.29 acres north of Town Hall (formerly Mine Services). The continued public hearing before the Board of Trustees is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on June 25.

Life, liberty and the pursuit of a safe left turn.

Bicyclists have rights too.

SIGN UP TODAY FOR TRTC’S

Wednesday, June 24 is Bike to Work Day

2009 NEW SUMMER CHILDREN'S DRAMA CAMP

Participate by riding your bicycle or walking.

It’s good for you and for the environment.

Taught by professional teacher, director, and actress Miriam Shaw

kf as t s t and a e r b k r o W o t St o p by a Bik e n d g o o die s ! f o r f re e f o o d a

Rifle City Hall, 2nd & Railroad New Castle Burning Mountain Park, Main Street Glenwood Springs Centennial Park, 9th & Grand

4 • THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009

Stands open 7 to 10 a.m.

CLEEEEER Clean Energy Economy for the Region

For children ages 6-8, 9-11 and 12-14

HURRY! LIMITED ENROLLMENT THREE DIFFERENT TWO WEEK SESSIONS • Session 1, Tues-Thurs., June 23-July 2 • Session 2, Tues-Thurs., July 7-16 • Session 3, Tues-Thurs., July 21-30 LEARN MORE AT www.thunderrivertheatre.com OR CALL LON WINSTON AT 963-8200 67 Promenade, Downtown Carbondale, across from the Carbondale Recreation Center

py p a H ’s r e h Fat y!

Da

Gene B. Wewer 1912-1995 The greatest dad that ever lived.

My dad was my mentor, the happiest person I’ve ever known, self made, generous, funny, humble. He taught me patience, focus, honesty, perseverance. He embedded his love of nature in my soul. He was exceptionally successful “in the world”… more importantly, he was truly successful as a person. He loved life … flew airplanes, fished rivers and oceans, climbed mountains, planted crops. He supported his family from the age of 11 and always took care of the people he loved. He was my hero as well as a World War II hero. I miss the twinkle in his clear blue eyes.

Wewer Keohane Luckiest daughter in the world Carbondale (Cattle Creek)

“Wishing you a happy first Father’s Day!” Love, Keegan

“What I love most about my dad is that he is always excited to do things with me.”

Forrest Doherty, 9

Matthew Jaeger- Dad Keegan Jaeger- Son

“What I love most about my dad is he loves me. I like it when he makes me breakfast, and he is always happy.”

Wyeth Doherty, 6

Dad, You loved me through all of my ages and stages — the silly, the awkward, and the difficult. You’ve counseled a little, listened a lot, but let me decide for myself which paths to take, which lessons to learn by. You helped me develop a confident spirit by helping but letting me find my own way.

Dear Papa, I like when you ride bikes with me and hug me and tickle me! I loved going to the zoo with you and seeing the elephants. Because they were swinging their trunks and that means they’re happy.

Love, Renee Bruell Carbondale

Thanks for your faith in me.

Thanks for all your love. Thanks for being the great dad I still count on today.

One fun thing that I did with my papa was going camping without my mom and sister. I stayed up extremely late and, I can’t remember what we were reading at the time, but we read it by the campfire until it was really late for me.

He brought one of his instruments (he has a LOT) and we played and sang “Storms Are on the Ocean.”

In the morning, my mother and sister decided to come visit us.

They forgot that the Passat doesn’t do this kind of trail and almost drove off a cliff.

I love you!

Happy Father’s Day! Amber Van Berlo

I love my dad because he lets me do special things that I want to do — like let me have candy and ice cream, let me do construction work on the deck, and he plays video games with me.

Tyler Treadway, age 7 Carbondale

Emily Bruell Carbondale

I love my dad because he is cool. He takes me on trips like camping and stuff. We go hiking and I’m really fast and can climb higher than he can. My dad wrestles with me and reads me books.

Will Hassel, age 3 Silt

Father’s Day memory One of my best memories of my father came when I was 6 or 7, after an Oklahoma City snowstorm.

Dad went to the garage, pulled a sled down from the wall, tied it with a thick rope to the back of his Phillips 66 company car, loaded my younger brother, Rod, and me onto the sled, and proceeded to tow us around the block a time or two.

I remember thinking, “This doesn’t seem very safe but it’s fun.”

Moral: If you want to give your kids something to remember, do something a little crazy now and then.

Lynn Burton, Carbondale THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009 • 5

Scuttlebutt Eat your veggies Summer is officially here … the Carbondale Farmers’ Market began June 17 and continues from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Wednesday through Sept. 30. Don’t forget your bags!

Pedal for swag Wednesday, June 24, is Ride Your Bike to Work Day here in Carbondale, in conjunction with RFTA. Pedal by the Carbondale Chamber’s booth at the Farmers’ Market between noon and 3 p.m. for swag and healthy snacks and to be entered into a drawing for a $50 Chamber gift certificate.

Who spotted Soozie?

She sat shotgun in the blue pickup truck in the photo teasing the Valley Cruisers Car Show. Breccia Wilson was the first Sun reader to email with the correct location and she wins a free listing in the Unclassifieds section of the Sun. Congrats, Breccia, you’re our eagle eyes. And thanks to John at Grana for baking up the idea.

Long wait at the Post Office Mary Rose from the Post Office had a very serious foot operation recently but is doing well. Doctors placed seven screws and a bolt to fuse her foot. She says she misses all her great customers and friends from Carbondale. She will be on bed rest for six to 12 weeks. If you want to say hi, write to P.O. Box 97, Silt, CO 81652 or call 876-2030.

Let’s bag it Carbondale joins more than 31 green mountain towns in the CAST Challenge, a competition between towns in the western United States to encourage the use of reusable shopping bags. The Challenge began March 1 and runs until Sept. 1. The community that uses the most reusable bags, on a per capita basis during the six-month period will be deemed the “winner.” The prize to the winning town is a solar panel installation on their public school. Other par-

6 • THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009

ticipating towns in the Roaring Fork Valley include Aspen, Basalt and Snowmass Village.

RFHS grad an Alpine Bank scholar Recent Roaring Fork High School graduate Maritza Casas has dreams of designing cars and motors. Casas now is one step closer to her dreams as she was awarded one of 10 Alpine Bank Latino/Hispanic Scholarships for 2009.

The students are awarded a two-year scholarship covering the cost of in-district tuition and books at any Colorado Mountain College campus. Catsas plans to earn her associate degree from CMC before transferring to a four-year school to study mechanical engineering. Way to go, Martiza.

The candle at both ends Dennis Collins dropped a line to announce that Moonbeam Candle is reopening in Glenwood Springs next to Sacred Grounds. Hours will be noon to 8 p.m., and the address is 727 Grand Ave., Suite 2. Stop in for his great handmade, sweet-smelling, all-natural soy candles (you can even eat ’em).

R U a Lance fan?

Before all the hype about Lance Armstrong and Levi Leipheimer participating in the Omnium Time Trail was publicized, Backbone “Mediator” John DiCuollo was in his downtown Carbondale driveway early in the day when he saw two professional-looking bikers buzz by with a Subaru in trail. He thought it must be Lance training for the Tour.

DiCuollo’s suspicions were confirmed when his very excited brother-in-law, Luke, texted from Boston to say he’d read Lance’s Tweet about a training ride in Carbondale. BTW, the June 12 post reads: “Had a good ride w/levi_leipheimer this AM. Doing a TT tonight in Carbondale. +/- 10 miles.”

Basking in the Selva Sun

Bill Dunn and Judy Milne “swung by” to visit Paula Sullivan at her bed and breakfast in Selva, Italy. Paula used to live in Glenwood and worked in Carbondale. She now has a B&B where she also holds weeklong cooking and painting classes.

Fight the good fight

Relay For Life of the Roaring Fork Valley takes place Aug. 7 at the RFHS track. The overnight walking, running, playing, reflecting event is a fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. Teams are gearing up with various happenings. One team, The Healing Chameleons, is hosting a Chili’s Night Out fundraiser on July 9. If you go to Chili’s that night to eat, print out the team’s flier from the Web site www.RoaringForkRelay.com, show it to your server, and Chili’s will donate 10 percent of the sales to the ACS. Another fundraiser will be a Silpada Jewelry Party hosted by Kerry Williams on June 23. Profits from the orders will benefit local fundraisers walking in honor or memory of loved ones who’ve had cancer. For more about the Silpada party, call 963-1982.

Hidden Gems summer hikes series under way Hikes are part of wilderness campaign Sun staff Hidden Gems wilderness campaign volunteers are leading hikes in the Colorado backcountry to give people a chance to explore areas that have been proposed for wilderness designation.

The Hidden Gems Wilderness Campaign is a grassroots effort to expand protected wilderness areas in the White River National Forest. It is led by four wilderness groups, including the Wildnerness Workshop, the Colorado Mountain Club, The Wilderness Society and the Colorado Environmental Coalition.

Hikes are planned from Summit County to far western Colorado. Go to www.whiteriverwild.org and click on hikes/events to see the full calendar of hikes and locales, and to register to take part in the hikes.

The hikes planned for the Carbondale area and the Roaring Fork Valley include: Saturday, June 20, Crystal River/Gallo Hill — A moderately strenuous ascent out of the Crystal Valley into the existing Maroon Bells-Snowmass Wilderness, passing through these two proposed wilderness additions en route.

Saturday, June 27, Woods Lake — This relatively easy ramble in the upper Frying-

pan Valley starts at Woods Lake (the actual lake) and traverses the proposed wilderness addition of the same name to Eagle Lake, just inside the Holy Cross Wilderness.

Friday-Saturday, June 26-27, Red Table — A long ascent up the Ruedi Overlook Trail to a flat campsite and 360-degree views from the top of this long, little-visited ridge that’s one of the flagships of the Hidden Gems proposal.

Sunday, July 5, Thompson Creek headwaters — An exploration of the remote yet surprisingly gentle terrain of the Thompson Creek headwaters, southwest of Carbondale; this loop entails some bushwhacking and makes for a fairly long day.

Tuesday, July 7, Hay Park — A repeat performance of last year’s popular fullmoon hike up the Thomas Lakes Trail, at the northern base of Mt. Sopris.

Sunday, July 12, Basalt Mountain — A hike up Seven Castles Creek in the Fryingpan Valley.

Wednesday, July 15, Thompson Creek headwaters — Same as the July 5 hike.

Sunday, July 19, Huntsman Ridge — A fairly steep-ascent ending with panaromic views. Be prepared to bushwhack down to loop back to the trailhead.

Hikers traversing Huntsman Ridge, near McClure Pass, on one of last summer’s Hidden Gems outings. This Saturday the Hidden Gems Hike Series will explore the Placita Trail, near Redstone. Photo by Aron Ralston Saturday, July 25, Hunter Creek — A fairly easy ramble past the popular lunchride loop of lower Hunter Creek into the less-frequented terrain that is proposed to be added to the Hunter-Fryingpan Wilderness.

Sunday, Aug. 2, Red Table — A steady ascent on the Ruedi Overlook Trail leading to a forested shoulder of Red Table with views of the reservoir.

Saturday, Aug. 8, Treasure Mountain — A challenging ascent of a rugged, hard-to-

access thirteener that’s proposed to be added to the existing Raggeds Wilderness, near Marble.

Saturday, Aug. 22, Ruby Lakes — The hike to Petroleum Lake and the string of lakes above it is fairly easy, and the rugged alpine scenery — almost all of it above treeline — is phenomenal. (High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles needed; if you have one, let trip leader know.)

THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009 • 7

Cycling fans were treated to autographs and photos with pro racers Lance Armstrong (above) and Levi Leipheimer, who participated in the Western Slope Omnium’s Leg Breaker Time Trail on Friday. The course took the riders along County Road 109 between Carbondale and Glenwood. The pros head off to Europe soon for the Tour de France, which begins July 4. Photo by Becky Young

8 • THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009

The Carbondale Rotary Club held its annual Happening Event, the Great Bailout Balls of Fire, on Saturday with slashed ticket prices and simpler fare. But the club kept the fun meter “pegged on full throttle” as shown by Elvis and the EL-VETTES (above) and Chip and Linda Bishop (left). Photo by Lynn Kirchner

Out and about in Carbondale From pro cyclists and green pedalers to Rotarians putting on their blue suede shoes and bull riders putting on their courage, friends and neighbors enjoyed another great week in our little town.

Night turned into day with local bands jamming and folks drenched in buttery Maine lobster at the eighth annual Music and Lobster Fest on Friday and Saturday. Ella restaurant hired chef Lon Carter (far left) to prepare the crustaceans, described simply as “delicious.” Sam McDermott, and Nicole McDermott of Glenwood Springs and Meredith Paullin, Benjamin Brown and Maxwell Brown of Oakland, Calif. (left), chow down. Photos by Trina Ortega

Johnny Rebel goes for a ride at the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo last Thursday.

Photo by www.johnseidelphotos.com “Gene,” a Ride the Rockies cyclist, stops on Sunday at the Carbondale aid station on Holland Drive to strip a layer 15 miles into the start of the tour. Gene packed his collapsible bicycle and hopped the Amtrak from Chicago to Glenwood Springs.

Despite its funky look, gearing makes his bicycle as easy to pedal as the bikes with regular-sized tires. Photo by Julie Albrecht

Drama camp nurtures kids’ imagination

By Trina Ortega Drama teacher Miriam Shaw compares her teaching philosophy to that of Michelangelo sculpting stone.

“He said, ‘I saw the angel in the marble and I carved until I set it free,’” said Shaw, who will share her vision with youth in the Thunder River Theatre Company’s summer drama camps beginning this week.

The 2009 Summer Drama Camp features three different two-week sessions for all ages 6-8, 9-11 and 12-14. Children can enroll in any or all of the sessions that cover different information and skills.

Shaw will “free” the young actors in a setting that is individualized (each session is limited to eight students) and supportive.

“I’m an intuitive, passionate artist who can really help each child flourish in this environment. There aren’t any expectations and no experience needed,” she said.

In addition to learning about acting and the stage, students will gain self-confidence and public speaking skills that will be valuable throughout their lives, she noted.

“The skills they learn in this camp, they’re going to be able to use in any setting. They’re going to feel more confident when speaking to other children or a parent. Plus, it will be a lot of fun, and they’ll wish it wasn’t over,” she said.

Shaw enjoys working with children because of their uninhibited spirits. She said that as people become adults, they forget they we were once children and innocent at one time.

“Children have this natural tendency to learn through imitation and have an unlimited creative imagination,” Shaw said. Her goal as a drama teacher is to give some

form to this unlimited creative imagination.

Shaw has been in the student’s shoes herself. She studied in New York City under American actress Stella Adler, who worked with greats like Marlon Brando, Candace Bergman and Robert De Niro.

“I was very fortunate to get into her studio,” Shaw said, even though Adler was very strict.

“She would say, ‘Oh, darling, you don’t even know how to walk across the stage, how do you expect to be an actress,’” Shaw recalled. “She was a very demanding teacher, but the end results were astonishing because she could take someone with very little skill and transform their thinking.”

Shaw is not as “wicked” as Adler but she does expect a lot from her students. Acting is a craft and requires practice and study, she says.

TRTC Artistic Director Lon Winston said many of Shaw’s students have gone on to pursue professional careers.

“Miriam comes to us with a wealth of experience, and TRTC couldn’t be more pleased to have her on the team to help grow the educational program,” Winston said.

Classes will be Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, with the first session running June 23-25 and June 30-July 2. For the remaining dates and to download the brochure, go to www.thunderrivertheatre.com and click on “Professional Theatre Education for all Ages.”

For questions about the camp, contact Shaw at miriaminco@gmail.com or at (513) 833-7961. For information about scholarships and TRTC, contact Winston at lonw@sopris.net or at 963-8200.

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“Eleemosynary” closes TRTC’s 2008-09 theatre season Thunder River Theatre Company opens its final play of the 2008-2009 season, “Eleemosynary” (meaning charitable), by Lee Blessing on June 19 and runs it for three weeks, ending on July 3.

Directed by TRTC resident member Sue Lavin, the production also features TRTC’s Sharon Brady as Artie (last seen in TRTC’s “On Golden Pond”), and TRTC’s Holly Freeman as Echo (last seen in “Quilters”), and local actress Janice Estey as Dorothea.

Blessing, known for his witty exploration of meaty themes, takes on the trials and errors of family bonds.

The three generations of “extraordinary Westbrook women” sparkle with vitality and intelligence but stumble in giving and receiving love from each other.

Holly Freeman is Echo in TRTC’s upcoming The grandmother, Dorothea, is production “Eleemosynary,” which opens known as a great eccentric of her time. with a preview on Thursday.

Her daughter, Artie, angry at her mother’s manipulation, escapes into a life of research, and Echo, Artie’s daughter, uses a spelling bee to try to win back her mother’s love.

According to New York Times critic Frank Rich, “Eleemosynary” is distinguished by its brevity, its clever dialogue, its unassailable ideology and its reconciliatory conclusion.”

The play runs June 19-20, 26-28, and July 1-3, with a preview on June 18. Curtain is at 7:30 p.m., except June 28 when the matinee begins at 2 p.m.

Tickets are available online at www.thunderrivetheatre.com or by calling 963-8200.

THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009 • 9

Community News 112th Strawberry Days this weekend As Colorado’s oldest civic festival, Strawberry Days has no doubt seen big changes from the strawberry picnics of a century ago, but the essence of the festival remains the same — to have fun, meet old friends and make new ones. The 112th annual Strawberry Days festival takes place June 1921 at Sayre (Strawberry) Park in Glenwood Springs. The theme of this year’s event is “A Chinese Celebration.”

The festival features a carnival (at Glenwood Springs Mall, this year); an artisans’ fair; live music; food booths; the crowning of Miss Strawberry; the parade; a beer garden; the Kiwanis Ice Cream Social and the Rotary Pancake Breakfast.

A favorite on the Friday of Strawberry Days are the homebaked pies on “Pie Day,” sponsored by the Valley View Hospital Auxiliary. Proceeds go toward projects to benefit the Nurse Residency Program at VVH. Pie Day starts at 9 a.m.

Friday at the Methodist Church at 824 Cooper Ave. Slices of pie with coffee or a cold drink will be served and whole pies will be sold beginning at 10 a.m.

Festival parking is limited, and guests are encouraged to take the free Ride Glenwood bus system. There will be an additional stop at Sayre Park for the weekend, and bus hours have been extended to 11 p.m. to accommodate festival and carnival guests.

The carnival opens Thursday from 5-10 p.m. at the Glenwood Springs Mall. Events take place 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; and 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday.

For the full schedule and further info, visit www.strawberrydaysfestival.com.

Suicide prevention workshop The Garfield County Suicide Prevention Coalition and Mental Health America are offering a free, one-hour suicide prevention training called QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer), 6:30-7:30 p.m. June 23 in Glenwood Springs

Participants receive an hour of instruction and QPR booklet and card, complete with warning signs, methods to encourage a person to get help, and a list of resources available in our community.

Training is limited to the first 30 registrations received.

To reserve a seat, please call 970-665-6382.

College financial aid workshop Carolyn Williams of Colorado Educational Consulting will offer a free workshop to help students and their families strategize ways to pay for college in the current economy. The workshop will be held at 7 p.m. June 18 at the Carbondale Recreation and Community Center, 567 Colorado Ave. The goal of the workshop is to help all families, regardless of income, better understand the college cost landscape and maximize opportunities for scholarships and financial aid.

For more information, contact Carolyn Williams at Carolyn@coloradoeducationalconsulting.com.

Caregiver conference set in Glenwood A caregiver conference is offered from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

June 26 at the Glenwood Springs Community Center. It is free and open to family, friends, volunteers and agency professionals who provide care to another adult.

Please call 945-9191 Ext. 3061 or e-mail jumartin@garfield-county.com to register. Those who need respite care, and/or you would like to be an agency vendor at the conference should call 963-1639.

Ethiopia slide show at Dos Gringos Award-winning photographer Tyler Stableford will present a slideshow and a short video about Ethiopia at 7 p.m., June 22 at Dos Gringos Burritos.

Before Tyler and his wife adopted a young boy from Ethiopia last winter, he spent a week shooting a documentary for the humanitarian-aid organization Wide Horizons

Live Music

For Children, a nonprofit working to empower destitute children and alleviate the healthcare crisis in some of the poorest rural communities.

To see Tyler’s photographs, go to www.tylerstableford.com

Free health screenings

Mountain Family Health Centers will be conducting free health screenings throughout the region in June.

They are open to the public and no appointment is necessary. Screenings include measuring cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar levels, body mass index, and a heart disease risk assessment. MFHC suggests people fast for eight to 12 hours before the screening in order to improve accuracy.

In Carbondale, screenings will be held from 2:30-7 p.m. on June 24 at the Gordon Cooper Library, and again from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 27 at La Perla, 1018 Highway 133. In Glenwood Springs, screenings are also available 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on June 19 at the Glenwood Springs Library, 413 Ninth Street; and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Glenwood Springs Health Department, 2014 Blake Ave. Area businesses may also arrange for free screenings for employees or customers. Contact Sharla Gallegos at 618-3159 for more information.

Do-it-yourself divorce class

Alpine Legal Services presents its Do-it-Yourself Divorce class at 1 p.m. on June 18 at the Garfield County Courthouse in Glenwood Springs. Attendees will receive all documentation required to complete a divorce process along with information about how to manage a case from start to finish.

This clinic is supported by grants from Aspen Valley Community Foundation. A small donation is requested for this service but no one will be denied services for lack of ability to pay. For more information please call Alpine Legal Services at 945-8858.

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Obituaries Gail Carol Smith

John Nelson Palmer

Ms. Gail Carol Smith, 76, of Carbondale, Colo., formerly of Chicago, Illinois, passed away Jan. 25, 2009, at Heritage Park Care Center in Carbondale.

She was born Feb. 19, 1932, in Chicago to Carl and Libby Smith (deceased) of Chicago and Carbondale, Colo.

A graduate of Kalamazoo College, Mich., Gail was a teacher. Gail taught in Alsip and Oak Lawn, Illinois, California, Aspen, Bermuda, England, France and Japan. She was a former employee of Colorado Mountain College.

She was an artist, skier, environmentalist, outdoor advocate and a lover of music. She was a “woman for all seasons.”

Survivors include brothers William Smith of Orland Park, Illinois, and Charles (Colette) Smith of Marlow, England; cousins Jack Sebesta, Madeline Oakley; five nephews and nieces; and five great-nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her cousin Edith Rhodes Friends and family of Gail C. Smith plan to gather to bury her ashes at White Hill Cemetery, Carbondale, on Tuesday, June 23, 2009, at 6:30 p.m. A gathering to celebrate the life of Gail Smith will follow at the home of John and Lee Stickney.

Contributions may be sent to the Carbondale Council on the Arts and Humanities, 645 Main St., Carbondale, CO 81623, or the Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association, care of John Stickney, 76 Seven Oaks Road, Carbondale, CO 81623.

Iconoclast to the last, one of Carbondale’s most intriguing personalities, John Palmer, passed away at his home Monday evening, June 15, 2009, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. According to his younger daughter, Aurora, among his last words were: “I can’t believe Keith Richards outlived me.”

Mr. Palmer was 62.

Born the son of Gunvor and Joseph Palmer, on April 4, 1947, in Milwaukee, Wis., he attended local schools and eventually graduated from the University of Wisconsin Whitewater with a degree in political science and economics.

John moved to the valley in 1972 following a short, albeit colorful, career as a bellhop at the Playboy Mansion & Hotel in Lake Geneva, Wis. Like many of the young immigrants to the area in those days, he came for the skiing and took a variety of ad hoc jobs to support his love of the sport: trash collector, cowboy, logger, busboy … whatever. Eventually he settled in Carbondale and worked as a hired hand at Rex Coffman’s ranch on the Catherine Store Road and as carpenter.

It was in the building trades that he found his professional calling and over the course of his adult life he worked as an independent contractor, served as a part-time building inspector for the town of Carbondale and, for many years, as a building materials salesman at Valley Lumber.

During his almost 40 years in Carbondale, he was part and parcel of the renaissance of his adopted home from backwater berg to the vital, diverse and progressive community its residents now enjoy. Volunteering for and promoting what are now local institutions such as the Carbondale Council on the Arts and Humanities, Mountain Fair and KDNK, he produced a variety of fundraising events ranging from masquerade balls and battles of the bands to the infamous Carbondale Talent Show. His tenure on the town’s Board of Trustees in the 1990s came at a crucial time in Carbondale’s development, and he was instrumental in taking local politics in a new and responsive direction.

His marriage to his beloved ex-wife Marge Palmer in the early 1980s produced what he always called those “two beautiful girls,” his daughters Robin and Aurora, as well as a lifelong friendship with a step-son, Othar Lawrence.

Following a diagnosis of terminal cancer in spring 2006, a kinder and gentler version of the acerbic John Palmer emerged from the ashes, and he spent his last few years reestablishing relationships with his family, friends and loved ones, including an estranged son, Darin Batchman of New York, whom he fathered in Wisconsin in the early 1970s.

John was very proud in these last few years of his work with Challenge Aspen, teaching and sharing his love of skiing with disabled skiers. He also volunteered for a stint in Mississippi helping in relief work following Hurricane Katrina. Taking the days as they came, he was able to enjoy road trips on his BMW motorcycle, a month in Argentina at a Spanish language school and, just before his death, a special trip to Israel with his “two beautiful girls.”

John Palmer is survived by his daughters Robin Palmer of Fort Collins and Aurora Palmer of Carbondale and step-son Othar Lawrence of Carbondale. Additionally, he is survived by his parents, Gunvor and Joseph Palmer, sister Patty Mandela and brother Dave Palmer, all of Milwaukee.

No funeral services are planned, but the family will host a reunion of John’s friends and lovers on June 27 at the McIntyre Ranch on Prince Creek Road. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to do so may contribute to Challenge Aspen, John Palmer Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 6639, Snowmass Village, CO 81615.

February 19, 1932 – January 25, 2009

Cody Owen Longtime Carbondale resident Cody Owen passed away June 14, 2009. An obituary and notice of any services will appear in an upcoming issue of the Sun.

Welcome Colorado County Treasurers and Public Trustees!

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THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009 • 11

Community Calendar THURSDAY, June 18 LEGAL SERVICES • Alpine Legal Services provides free legal assistance. Donations accepted. For GWS events, call 945-8858. For Aspen, call 920-2828. Offerings include: Do it Yourself Divorce Class — 1 p.m. June 18 at the Garfield County Courthouse in Glenwood Springs and Thursday Night Bar — 5 p.m. June 18 at the Garfield County Courthouse in Glenwood Springs.

To list your event, email information to news@soprissun.com.

Deadline is 5 p.m. Friday. Events take place in Carbondale unless noted.

(PG). Also showing at 6 p.m. June 20 “Earth” (G).

FRIDAY-SUNDAY June 19-21 STRAWBERRY DAYS • The 112th annual Strawberry Days festival takes place June 19, 20 and 21 at Sayre (Strawberry) Park in Glenwood Springs. The theme of this year’s event is “A Chinese Celebration.”

COLLEGE WORKSHOP • Colorado Educational Consulting will offer a free workshop to help students and their families strategize ways to pay for college in the current economy. The workshop will be at 7 p.m. June 18 at the Carbondale Recreation and Community Center, 567 Colorado Ave. For more information, contact Carolyn Williams at Carolyn@coloradoeducationalconsulting.com.

SATURDAY, June 20

TRTC PRODUCTION • Thunder River Theatre presents “Eleemosynary” by Lee Blessing on June 18 (preview), June 19, 20, 26, 27, 28 and July, 1, 2, 3. Curtain is 7:30 p.m. for all shows, except 2 p.m. Sunday matinee on June 28. Tickets available online at www.thunderrivertheatre.com. For more information, call 963-8200.

HIKE SERIES • The next outing in the Hidden Gems Wilderness Campaign hike series is Crystal River/Gallo Hill on June 20. All hikes are free; advance registration required at www.whiteriverwild.org.

FILM EXHIBITION • In conjunction with its exhibit “No Sound,” the Aspen Art Museum presents John Hanhardt, consulting senior curator for Film and Media Arts at the Smithsonian American Art Museum, and AAM Director and Chief Curator Heidi Zuckerman Jacobson for a conversation about the exhibition at 6 p.m. June 18.

RODEO • The Carbondale Wild West Rodeo is ongoing through Aug. 20. For more about the rodeo, visit www.carbondalerodeo.com.

FRIDAY, June 19 TRANSPORTATION TALK • Reid Ewing, a nationally recognized expert on linking transportation, land use and energy security, will be the featured speaker at a workshop in Glenwood Springs on June 19. “Growing Cooler: Energy-Efficient Land Use and Transportation Planning,” is the first in a series organized by the Garfield New Energy Communities Initiative, CLEER and the Sonoran Institute. It will be from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs. Advance registration or pay at the door. For info, visit www.CleanEnergyEconomy.net.

MOVIES • Showing at 8 p.m. June 19-25 at the Crystal Theatre “Night at the Museum”

CELEBRATE SOLSTICE • A Summer Solstice Pipe Ceremony with Jacy Sundlie will be from 9:30-11:30 a.m. June 20 at Stairway Park (River Front Park 2) in Carbondale. A $20 donation includes materials for prayer ties and refreshments. For further information, call 948-5154 or email rita@davinikent.org.

WATER TOUR • Roaring Fork Conservancy hosts the Roaring Fork Headwaters Water Diversions Tour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 20 starting at Lost Man Creek Campground (CO 82 Mile Marker 55), east of Aspen. The tour is free and open to the public, however, space is limited, and registration is required at www.roaringfork.org/ events or 927-1290.

LIVE MUSIC • The Carbondale All Stars featuring Geoffrey Morris, Bobby Mason, Dave Johnson and Lee Dudley will play rock ‘n’ roll beginning at 9:30 p.m. June 20 at the Pour House.

SUNDAY, June 21 LITERARY NIGHT • Thunder River Theatre Company’s next free Literary Night takes place at 6 p.m. June 21 and focuses on the works of Ambrose Bierce, a satirist famous for his sardonic wit. This literary night features TRTC’s Julia Whitcombe. Phone 963-8200 or visit www.thunderrivertheatre.com for more information.

BLUEGRASS NIGHT • Dos Gringos Burritos holds Family Bluegrass Night every Sunday. Kids are welcome to this Sunday night jam, beginning at 5 p.m. with kids’ meal special deals and sidewalk chalk for additional entertainment.

MONDAY, June 22 STABLEFORD SLIDE SHOW • Award-

winning photographer Tyler Stableford will present a slide show and seven-minute video, “Visions of Ethiopia,” at 7 p.m. June 22 at Dos Gringos Burritos.

OPEN STUDIO -- The Third Street Artists host an open studio (all media) from 4-7 p.m.

Mondays at Carbondale’s new Third Street Center. Walk-in fee is $10; four consecutive sessions is $20. Bring all materials. Casual critique during the last half hour. Call 963-2122 or 963-8275 for more info.

TUESDAY, June 23 KIDS’ MUSIC FUN • Gordon Cooper Library invites children to make musical instrument out of a recycled object and play them on June 23 at Carbondale Town Hall.

Yvette MacEachen, popular local musician and child-care provider, will lead children in song and dance. Music Making is a part of the Get Creative@Your Library Summer Reading Program. Call 963-2889 for more information.

SONG WORKSHOPS • Lisa DancingLight’s “Sing Like a Star Write Like a Pro” summer performance events for tweens run June 22-26, July 6-10, Aug. 10-14. Youth will develop their stage voices using a microphone, learn how to cope with performance anxiety, and how to write and record a song.

No previous musical training necessary. For prices and to enroll, email lisadancinglight.com or call 963-3330.

DRAMA CAMP • Thunder River Theatre Company holds its 2009 Drama Camp beginning June 23. Go to www.thunderrivertheatre.com to view the brochure.

TRUSTEES MEETING • The Carbondale Board of Trustees meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Meetings begin at 6:30 p.m. at Town Hall. On the agenda: Thompson Park.

SUICIDE PREVENTION • The community is invited to a free, one-hour, suicide prevention training called QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) from 6:30-7:30 p.m. June 23 in Glenwood Springs. Training is limited to 30 participants; call 665-6382 to reserve a seat.

LIVE JAZZ • The Tuesday night Live Jazz Series takes place from 7-9 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays at Steve’s Guitars.

WEDNESDAY, June 24

GORDON COOPER BRANCH LIBRARY hosts Summer Read Alouds with teachers from Crystal River Elementary School at 12:30 p.m.

Wednesdays through Aug. 5. Bring a bag lunch. For more information, call 963-2889.

LIVE MUSIC • Noah Arneson and Adam Thomsen play acoustic reggae and “legal grass” from 7-10 p.m. at White House Pizza.

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Thompson House in trustees hands continued from page 1 “The question is we only get that opportunity [to review for annexation] once. And the question we have to answer is: Is that application worthy of that level of ‘up-zoning’?”

P&Z Chair Ben Bohmfalk said.

Some commissioners wanted to keep the discussion in play and suggested only recommending annexation.

Town Community Development Director Doug Dotson told the Sopris Sun it is beneficial for both the town and the developer to consider annexation and the development plan as one package.

“It is typical for a town to consider at least some level of development plan with an annexation, to understand what type of uses will be allowed, how much density will be granted, the ability of the town to serve that density, etc.,” Dotson said. “There are many advantages to this approach for everyone.”

Ultimately, the annexation-only argument A photo album owned by the Thompson family. The photo in the background is of LeAnn fell by the wayside, because several commisArbaney during her college years. Photo by Trina Ortega sioners couldn’t move forward without knowing what might occur on the surround- to roads; old), lined with lilac bushes on the south, a ing land. A recommendation of denial was • Future connections to Weant Boulevard, ditch on the southwest, a vegetable garden forwarded to the trustees. with spindly peas and other veggies coming North Bridge Drive and Graceland Drive; But that hasn’t stopped Wallison from • Variety of housing types and price points; in, a large grass yard, and a carriage house to pressing ahead. At the picnic on Sunday, a conthe southeast dating from the late 1880s, too.

• Sustainable layout and construction; ceptual plan was distributed with bullet points As visitors toured the two-story house and • Preservation of the Thompson House. touting the proposed neighborhood’s assets: saw the contents, many were reminded of • 17 percent of land dedicated to open A 125-year-old oasis their own families’ past, whether delighted by Built by one of Carbondale’s first settlers, the pocket doors dividing the rooms, or a space [with the Thompson House included as Myron Thompson, in the 1880s, the house is wooden radio (momentarily broadcasting a “open space”]; • 6 percent of land additionally dedicated an oasis. It sits tucked behind impressively Bee Gees tune played by a local radio station). large trees on the north (including a spruce A vintage washing machine that prompted to bicycle and pedestrian paths; • 20 percent of land additionally dedicated and cottonwood, both more than 100 years one person to say: “When you start seeing

things in museums that you played with as a kid… oh my.”

Period clothing, china, portraits, books, lanterns, fixtures, appliances and the other contents of the house have been donated to the Mt. Sopris Historical Society. Almost everything still works.

LeAnn Arbaney, the great-granddaughter of Thompson, was raised in the house until 1959, when she married.

Arbaney shared memories of the house with visitors, describing a Victrola record player with wooden needles, black-and-white photos of ancestors, and the time she was isolated for days in a tiny north-facing room because she had the measles.

Arbaney said her mother, Jewell, collected fine things and taught the children to appreciate the family’s belongings.

“We, as a family, came to the consensus to preserve everything,” she said regarding the donation to the Historical Society.

Suzannah Reid, a Historic Preservation Commission member, is conducting an assessment to estimate the cost of upkeep to the house. Her report will provide costs associated with proposed scenarios for the house and site — including use as a public gathering spot — and based on the intensity of use.

Arbaney’s brother, Lew Ron Thompson, lives on the site adjacent to the Thompson house and has been in the public eye stressing the importance of the house.

“You’ve got to know where you came from before you can know where you’re going,” he said.

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A SPOILED PET IS A HAPPY PET! THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009 • 13

Healthy body requires cardio, strength and flexibility training Fitness isn’t just running the Leadville 100, or squatting a Volkswagen-sized barbell, or having the flexibility to be in Cirque du Soleil. Complete fitness is having cardiovascular health, muscular strength and flexibility as a balanced package.

In the Roaring Fork Valley, we are very good at getting our cardio. We all live here for the outdoor amenities and sports. It is easy to use the bike path and hike up Red Hill. Most of us get the cardio piece of the pie, but strength training and flexibility are harder to obtain.

Cardiovascular exercise has a myriad of benefits such as conditioning the heart, lungs, and blood vessels, reducing bad cholesterol and blood pressure, lowering the risk of diabetes and heart disease, and decreasing stress, depression, and anxiety. Strength training exercise builds muscle, increases bone strength and builds tendon and ligament capacity. All this building helps increase metabolic function, which means more calories burned.

Resistance training can also prevent injury because larger muscles can absorb shock in sports like running or tennis. In addition, strength training is a wonderful cominto pliment to cardio as it increases muscle fiber and therefore the capability for work.

Flexibility training seems to always hit the bottom of

by Rebecca Stokes the workout priority list, but it shouldn’t. Flexibility helps maintain muscular balance, increase joint range of motion, and can improve performance in sports. It also has been shown to increase coordination and decrease injury. On top of this, it helps with posture, body awareness and can reduce low back pain and muscular tension.

Journeys Health

Summers in the Rockies are a cardio heaven, getting outside to hike, bike, swim and walk is a pleasure. It’s recommended by the American College of Sports Medicine that a person get at least 30 minutes of cardio three to five times a week as a minimum.

Unfortunately, strength training is easier inside a gym than outside, though creativity is welcome. For strength training, the recommended minimum is twice a week, one set of eight to 10 full body exercises, 10 to 12 reps to fatigue. You can get a full body workout in 30 minutes to an hour.

Lifting programs that go over an hour tend to have high dropout rates. If the weight room is not your favorite place, try a group exercise strength class and learn exercises in a fun environment. Hiring a personal trainer or getting an equipment orientation at a gym can be a great motivator.

Gaining and maintaining flexibility is all about taking the time. Stretching during your warm-up and cool down is a good way to sneak in flexibility. Studies have shown that stretching three to five times a week can help keep and improve your range of motion.

Count on five to 10 minutes of stretching after every cardio and strength training workout. Give yourself a few minutes to stretch after your outdoor activities. Sit on the floor when you watch TV and stretch. Another way to make time for flexibility is to take a yoga or pilates class. A class will not only help increase flexibility but will also reduce stress.

Now how do you put the pieces together? The first thing to do is figure out what physically activities you enjoy. Plan times for these activities when it is easy for you. Staying committed can be hard; working out with a buddy, going to group fitness classes, or hiring a trainer may help you adhere.

Fitness does not need to be extreme. To be truly fit we just need to balance cardio, strength and flexibility while having fun.

Rebecca Stokes is a personal trainer and group fitness instructor in Carbondale. She is also a freelance journalist.

The Yin and Yang of macrobiotics lead to a healthier, longer life

By Fred Pulver Community Correspondent There are many nutritional theories, and it can be confusing to figure out which one makes the most sense. Finding the right one can be an interesting and rewarding experience.

I started a journey of discovery many years ago, and came to the conclusion that the one that made the most sense to me was a system called macrobiotics.

The reason it made the most sense was because it is based on a principle of balance of opposites, called Yin and Yang by the ancient Chinese.

Now many people may think this is an obscure Oriental philosophical principle far removed from real life, when in fact it is simply a system that recognizes that life is made of opposites, and that for health and happiness, we need to learn the art of balance.

Regarding diet, there are dense (Yang) and expanded (Yin) foods, dry (Yang) and watery (Yin) foods and ways of preparing them that balance their Yin and Yang properties.

There are also opposite and complementary characteristics like sodium (Yang) and potassium (Yin), acid (Yin) and alkaline (Yang) properties of foods and beverages.

This may sound more complicated than it really is once you get the hang of it. I believe it is definitely worth taking time to study it, as we all can use more balance in our lives.

Macrobiotics bases meals around whole grains because they contain dense complex carbohydrates that give strength and sustained energy. Secondary foods are beans for protein and root and leafy green vegetables. If animal-source foods are desired, fish or fowl are recommended, along with salads and fresh fruit, locally grown if possible.

This basic diet can be modified to include variations based on body and blood type, personal preference and seasonal availability. It is a universally traditional way of eating that in various forms has sustained people throughout the world for thousands of years.

The finer points of macrobiotics are worth learning, as it is possible to live a relatively healthy life simply by eating and drinking sensibly. Hippocrates, the father of Western med-

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icine, is credited with saying, “Food is your best medicine. Let medicine be your food and food be your medicine.”

Perhaps if people studied how to take care of their bodies properly, their bodies would take care of them as they were originally designed to do.

Fred Pulver taught Macrobiotics for more than 34 years throughout the U.S., and locally through Colorado Mountain College and Aspen GrassRoots TV. He is the author of Introduction to Macrobiotics, and has written articles for Macrobiotics Today magazine for many years.

Challenger British Soccer Camp online sign up June 19 The Challenger British Soccer Camp for ages 3-16 will be offered in Carbondale Aug. 3-7 at Triangle Park, River Valley Ranch. Morning and afternoon sessions are available.

In addition to taking part in a daily regimen of foot skill development, technical and tactical practices, and daily tournament-style plays, each child will also be treated to a rich cultural experience and lessons on respect, responsibility, integrity, sportsmanship and leadership.

For the more advanced player wanting to take their play to the next level Challenger has added a new competitive evening camp for 11- to 18-year-olds focusing on full-sided strategy and higher-level technical development.

Sign up online by June 19 and receive a free British Soccer replica jersey. For more information and to sign up visit www.challengersports.com.

Movie stunt rider gets her ‘horse legs’ — all 18 of ’em — for rodeo crowd

By Kayla Henley Sopris Sun Intern Sally Bishop began riding horses while she was still in diapers. Her parents owned horses before she was born and growing up on a grape farm in Niagara in Ontario, Canada, she mastered her first trick at the age of 7: She could stand on a horse while riding at a full gallop. She has been trick riding for 20 years now, and Carbondale’s Wild West Rodeo and its attendees were treated last Thursday with a special visit from Bishop and her paint horses Jazz, Barley, Spot and Hades.

Bishop took the spotlight as she performed 4-up Roman riding. With her feet placed on the backs of her black paint horses, she drove her brown ones around the muddy arena. The two horses she stood on increased the space between each other ever so slightly, proving that no contraptions connected them. Bishop was standing on two full-grown horses while driving another two in front, with only her long reins to use for control.

She entered into a smooth pole-bending run, gently weaving in and out of the poles with her four paints.

Her next trick: a 1-foot-high wooden jump. There was silence while she rounded the corner, cantering as she approached the jump. Clumps of dirt were hurled into the air as the horses went over. Some audience members’ breath stopped dead as one of the back horse’s hooves sent the wooden jump falling to the ground.

Unharmed, Bishop recovered as she and the horses took a lap around the arena and prepared for a second attempt. She and her horses gracefully flew over the jump and applause burst from the audience.

The 36-year-old Bishop — who is a stunt rider in Hollywood movies — said she has wanted to Roman ride since she saw it at a rodeo and in the movie “Rio Grande” featuring John Wayne. She has now been Roman riding for four years and loves the feeling of the adrenaline running through her as she performs such stunts.

“It’s not a lot of thought process,” she told the Sun, pointing out that she’s only reacting to the situation at hand. “It’s more living-in-the-moment.”

Though she had made it look easy, Bishop said that it’s always much more frightening to practice Roman riding than it is to perform in front of a crowd.

Having never seen Roman riding before, rodeo spectator Travis Hughes commented that it was a great show and pointed out Bishop’ talent. It had given him a “jitter,” however, when her first attempt hadn’t gone according to plan.

“You don’t want to ever see someone crash, but it’s risky,” Hughes stated. Both Hughes and his friend Jason Dogue agreed that, overall, it was “pretty impressive.”

Bernhard Donaubauer had seen Roman riding done in movies and was one of the fans in the bleachers that night. “It was fantastic,” he said. His daughter, Cameron, who had been a competitor in the barrel race earlier that evening, agreed.

“Pretty gutsy, she is,” said Carl Damarau, a friend of Donaubauer’s. “Not something you see every day.”

There was also Einstein, the professional “play dead” Australian shepherd, who seemed to be enjoying the show from his spot next to Damarau.

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Stunt rider Sally Bishop of Canada performs 4-up Roman riding at last Thursday’s rodeo. Photo by Jim Ryan

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THE SOPRIS SUN • JUNE 18, 2009 • 15

The Sun has risen Through the efforts of a hardworking staff and a small group of dedicated volunteers, The Sopris Sun has published 14 issues this year covering the news and people of Carbondale.

The Sopris Sun is a new model of community journalism.

Communication and community-building are its sole missions.

It is a nonprofit newspaper – a new structure for newspapers in America.

All of the revenues generated through ad sales and donations will be used to improve the paper and its connections to the community.

Eventually, we imagine scholarships, writing workshops and community awareness projects as part of The Sopris Sun's annual contribution to Carbondale.

But in order for The Sopris Sun to succeed, it needs the community’s support. We are grateful to those businesses who have supported us through advertising, even in slow economic times.

And thank you to all who have contributed money and labor to bring this publication to Carbondale every week.

If YOU believe in community news ... in knowing what's happening at Town Hall... in learning about the latest from our schools ... in what's on tap at Steve's Guitars or Mountain Fair ... in the latest thoughts of your letter-writing neighbors, then please show your support with a donation.

The Sopris Sun is organized under the nonprofit Roaring Fork Community Development Corp., so your contributions are tax deductible.

Contributions to the Sopris Sun can be made care of Roaring ForkCommunity Development Corporation, PO Box 1582, Carbondale, CO 81623

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