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Sopris Carbondale’s weekly

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Volume 7, Number 17 | June 4, 2015

Roaring Fork High School

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2015 See more graduation highlihghts on pages 12-14. Photos by Jane Bachrach and Lynn Burton.

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Carbondale Commentary

The views and opinions expressed on the Commentary page do not necessarily reflect those of The Sopris Sun. The Sopris Sun invites all members of the community to submit letters to the editor or guest columns. For more information, e-mail editor Lynn Burton at news@soprissun.com, or call 510-3003.

Please fill out your fire district survey (Editor’s note: This guest opinion is an updated version of an e-mail that was sent last week but not received by press time due to the 16-hour, valley-wide communications outage).

By Gene Schilling We have just concluded a series of 11 neighborhood meetings about our Master Plan study. Some of these were well attended and others were not. We are disappointed that more citizens did not attend, as the goal of these meetings was to solicit community input about fire and ambulance services. Many of you have had the opportunity to offer your feedback in a survey that was mailed to a sample of district residents between May 29 and June 2.

This survey was mailed out to approximately 3,500 residents. This represents a random, scientifically valid sample and we urge all of you who receive a copy to complete the survey. The survey should take 5 to 10 minutes to complete and will come with an option to complete it online. All completed surveys, whether mailed or completed online will be confidential. You will have approximately two weeks to complete and return the survey. Your participation is very important to us, especially since the meetings were not as well attended as we had hoped. Finally, for those who have not been sent a survey by

mail, you will have an opportunity to take the survey online in the latter part of June.

In other Master Plan happenings, Almont Associates, the technical advisors for the Master Plan, visited the district for four days in late April. They toured the entire district including all fire stations. They examined operations, equipment, the district’s vehicles and records, and interviewed all personnel, including the board members and volunteers.

They are now analyzing this information and will be submitting a report within the next month. This report will include recommendations on how to meet the future challenges facing the district and what it will take in terms of staffing and other resources to meet both national standards as well our community’s expectations.

This self-examination process has been very challenging and time consuming but we are convinced that the outcome will result in a fire district that will meet your expectations while providing service that meets national standards in a cost-efficient manner. We look forward to your continued participation in the next two months and will continue to reach out to you and communicate on our progress.

OPINION

Gene Schilling is board president of the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District).

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 news@soprissun.com or via snail mail to P.O. Box 399, Carbondale, CO 81623. The deadline to submit letters to the editor is noon on Monday.

Good job on 133 Dear Editor: I am a resident of the Crystal River Valley. I have been observing the reconstruction of Highway 133 between Carbondale and Redstone. I drive, or ride my motorcycle or bicycle up and down this highway on a daily basis. As a result I have had the opportunity to closely watch this highway reconstruction work since the work began. It is a very extensive project including bridge work, rock work, road base improvement and repaving.

First, I signed up for the weekly e-mail that is sent out by the staff at CDOT. That e-mail keeps me informed of the work scheduled for that week. I have observed the quality of work done by United Companies (the general contractor) and A-1 Traffic Control. The staff of both of these firms appear to be very concerned about the safety of the traveling public and the quality of the work performed.

At times I have had to wait as traffic in the narrow canyon has to be restricted to one direction of travel. While this is inconvenient, the time is typically minimal and the flaggers are friendly and courteous. Since I receive the e-mail I can typically plan if there will be travel restrictions, where they will be

and if I need to leave earlier to compensate.

The next phase of the construction will be re-pavement of the highway. It will obviously be larger and likely more inconvenient, but the condition of Highway 133 requires this work to maintain a safe highway. Overall, this is a very good project and is needed for all of us that care to travel up and down this beautiful valley.

Carl Smith Redstone

Thanks to these businesses Dear Editor: We are writing to thank some amazing businesses here in Carbondale.

First, we would like to thank Aaron Taylor and Darren Broome from Aloha Mountain Cyclery for volunteering their time and resources to Carbondale Middle School.

They came for over three hours and worked on many different bikes that needed repair.

They fixed our brakes and chains, and showed us how to do our own repairs. Darren and Aaron brought many extra parts to fix up the bikes.

Also, we would like to thank Jenny from Ragged Mountain Sports for donating tubes LETTERS page 15

2 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

For sale: Slightly used, lopsided Planet Last year, during the Keystone XL pipeline with chemical warfare doesn’t make a corvote in Congress, Greg Grey Cloud was ar- poration a terrorist.” — Winona Laduke rested for singing an honor song about everyLet’s face it. Our planet is in the discount thing returning to harmony. Ever since then bin because of corporate greed, and our govI’ve found myself clinging to the harmony ernment has forfeited the people for the concept like I would a life raft, especially profits. The recent give-away of sacred when I’m drowning in environApache land in Arizona to a mental petitions on Facebook. foreign mining company beThere was an earthquake in cause of the copper deposits 2011 that, according to the U.S. buried deep underground is Geological Survey, moved the just another shining example main island of Japan eight feet of how it works; Congress givand shifted the Earth on its axis. ing away land that isn’t theirs Inuit elders have written to to give for copper that won’t NASA warning of the Earth’s be ours to sell. It makes me shift; they claim the sun no irate that it’s legal for a foreign longer rises where it used to corporation to take possession and the moon and stars are of land already owned, but it’s

By Jeannie Perry placed differently. Considering illegal for the owners of that how much time this tribe land to protest the land grab. spends in darkness, star placement is defiBut then I remind myself to take a mennitely their bag, baby. I, on the other hand, tal step back, to think about humans in the can only tell if it is the big dipper or the lit- big picture, and harmony in the end, and I tle dipper when I can compare them side-by- do feel better. Sure, it’s a hard realization that side in the night sky. in the sea of life, our individual little boats If we are anything right now, as a planet, don’t really matter, but it’s massively reaswe are out of balance. Future earthquake- suring to know that the other side of that caused shifts (and the weight of more water coin is that we can’t frack up the whole in the oceans putting pressure on the plates world — beyond our own existence, that is. and therefore causing more earthquakes) The Earth will be fine, upside down or could significantly change life as we know it not. We, on the other hand, may be lost at on Earth. And don’t even get me started on sea without so much as a dipper to guide us. the dams; the weight of the stagnant water and silt piling up is making the Earth bloated. Water needs to move, and eventually — with, or without, our dam obstruction — it will.

What I hope is happening, is that the To inform, inspire and build community. planet is flipping over, giving the Southern Donations accepted online or by Hemisphere a turn on top. (Of course, in mail. For information call 510-3003 space there is no top or bottom, that’s all Editor: propaganda from the guys making the Lynn Burton • 970-510-3003 maps). But what I fear is happening, is that news@soprissun.com we are causing irreparable changes to our Advertising: planet in the name of negligence and greed.

Bob Albright • 970-927-2175 And in this society, instead of respected eldbob@soprissun.com ers, we’ve got reverted-to-seventh-gradeReporter: John Colson mentality elders. What is it with the texting Photographer: Jane Bachrach and Tweeting while the President of the Graphic Designer: Terri Ritchie United States addresses the nation?! Are you freakin’ kidding me? You’re not even CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS board@soprissun.com allowed to text in seventh grade social studBarbara Dills, President ies class.

Denise Barkhurst, Vice President Today’s government is comparable to a Debbie Bruell, Secretary melee on a playground. We, the people, are Colin Laird • Sue Gray • Craig Fulmer pinned down by the corporations, with our Cliff Colia • Diana Alcantara faces in the dirt, while Congress argues with Honorary Board Members itself over who has the ball and then hands David L. Johnson • Laura McCormick Jeannie Perry • Trina Ortega • Frank Zlogar over our lunch money every single time. ReFounding Board Members cently, Colorado dodged the ball that was Allyn Harvey • Becky Young • Colin Laird SB 232, a hopscotch to jeopardizing our Barbara New • Elizabeth Phillips public lands through the subterfuge that is Peggy DeVilbiss • Russ Criswell state management. I now realize why the Sopris Sun, LLC • P.O. Box 399 Koch Twins made such large campaign con520 S. Third Street #36 tributions in the last election, as they are Carbondale, CO 81623 poised to buy the western half of this coun970-510-3003 try so they can lay pipe all over the damn www.soprissun.com place (even as the correlation between fracking and earthquakes becomes more apparSend us your comments: feedback@soprissun.com ent with each new day).

The Sopris Sun is an LLC organized under the 501c3 “Someone needs to explain to me why non-profit structure of the Roaring Fork wanting clean drinking water makes you an Community Development Corporation. activist, and why proposing to destroy water

OPINION

Ps & Qs

Leach withdraws contract request during executive session Board to discuss issue June 10

By John Colson Sopris Sun Staff Writer Carbondale Fire Chief Ron Leach, who has served for decades without an employment contract at the Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District, recently told the district’s board of directors he wants a contract for his remaining time on the job.

But at a special meeting on June 2, after the fire board ran into opposition over its attempt to take Leach’s request behind closed doors, the discussion was moved to the fire board’s next regular meeting, scheduled for June 10.

The chair of the fire board, Carbondale Police Chief Gene Schilling, told The Sopris Sun in the wake of the June 2 meeting, “Ron withdrew his request for a contract” after a brief executive session.

But, Schilling continued, further discussion will be on the agenda for the June 10 meeting, about the advisability of having a contract in place for the position of chief, which in 2014 carried an annual salary of nearly $115,000.

According to a summary provided by Leach, the department’s budget for 2014 included salaries totaling more than $1.2 million for 18 positions, out of an overall operational budget of $2.5 million.

At least one fire board member feels a contract for the chief may not be a good idea.

“If we were taking one employee and saying ‘we need to have a special contract for you’,” said fire board member Carl Smith about Leach’s proposal, “what will the message be to the other 17?”

Noting that “all employment in the dis-

trict is at-will,” meaning anyone can be fired at any time for any reason or no reason, Smith questioned the need for contracts at all.

Others on the board, though, seemed on Tuesday to be more receptive toward Leach’s request.

“The wave of the future is that more people have contracts,” declared Schilling, although a check with the Basalt & Rural Fire Protection District revealed that the chief there, Scott Thompson, does not have one, nor does fire chief Gary Pillotson with the Glenwood Springs Fire Department.

But now, according to Leach, he is no longer seeking a contract.

“It’s not about me now,” Leach told The Sopris Sun on Tuesday. “I actually don’t feel a need to have a contract in place. I’ve moved beyond that.”

There was no reason given at Tuesday’s meeting about why Leach wanted to modify his relations with the fire district by seeking a contract.

Leach, who is 65, told The Sopris Sun in a telephone interview, “I think it adds stability to the organization, for the manager to have a contract with the elected officials.”

The issue came up more than a month ago, according to fire board member Mike Kennedy, who relayed that information in response to a question at the meeting about whether it is urgent to get a contract in place when there has not been one for so many years.

“That’s not so urgent,” Kennedy said of the lag time between Leach’s initial request and the scheduling of Tuesday’s special meeting to talk it over.

Most members of the fire board — Schilling, Kennedy, Bob Emerson and Lou Eller — were ready to close the meeting to the public when objections were raised by Smith,

this Sopris Sun reporter and two members of a subcommittee working on a master plan for the fire district.

Smith, the most recently elected member of the board, said he felt that the board should talk in open session about whether the fire chief’s job needs a contract.

“I would disagree,” said Schilling about the closed-meeting debate, adding that “it’s a board matter” that need not be discussed in open session.

But one of the subcommittee members, Hank Van Berlo, thought otherwise.

“I think that it would help kind of dispel the distrust and (concerns about) the lack of transparency” that some residents of the fire district feel toward the district, said Van Berlo.

Another member of the subcommittee, Tom Flynn, told the board that to go behind closed doors to talk about Leach’s proposal would be “very poor timing,” given the fire district’s ongoing fiscal problems and the feelings of distrust mentioned by Van Berlo.

Flynn wondered whether Leach envisions a contract that reflects employment descriptions in the departmental handbook, or

whether the chief is hoping to tie down a “golden parachute” for when he retires. Flynn mentioned that Leach, himself, has hinted that his retirement could be as soon as a year from now.

Schilling, as he has in past meetings, claimed that while some feel the district’s electorate is unhappy with how the district is being run, he has heard exactly the opposite from his sources, including some that he said have wondered “why has he never had a contract” for his job.

The board went behind closed doors, on a vote of 4-1 with Smith dissenting, to talk with Leach about his proposal. But, but after the executive session ended, Schilling told this reporter that the contract request had been withdrawn.

He declined to divulge anything said by Leach or the board members during the session, but explained that a discussion about a contract for the chief’s job would be held in open session on June 10.

When asked why the discussion had not been held in the open on Tuesday, Schilling retorted, “We had to hear stuff first” from Leach.

Trustee objects to agenda overload; discussion continues

By John Colson Sopris Sun Staff Writer For at least a couple of Carbondale’s elected leaders, the job of being a town trustee entails meetings that run far too long, and a general workload that is harder than it should be for an essentially volunteer position.

How to improve the situation, though, is not a simple matter.

At the May 26 trustee meeting at Town Hall, Trustee Allyn Harvey objected to the expected duration of the meeting, which was scheduled to last until 9:30 p.m. despite a stated goal of the town to have meetings start at 6 p.m. and end by 9 p.m.

“We meet at six, we’re supposed to get out by nine, and we rarely do, so what, are we now reaching for 11?” Harvey demanded in an exasperated tone. “I think this agenda management is disrespectful to the people on this board.”

Others on the board concurred.

“I would agree with Allyn, that there are no good decisions made” after three hours of intensive debate on various topics, declared Trustee Frosty Merriott.

Mayor Stacey Bernot suggested they

could add to the number of monthly meetings, but Harvey retorted, “Or, people could wait” for a spot on a later agenda, without adding to the overall number of meetings per month.

With that in mind, Harvey moved to punt a discussion on the town’s weed-control policies to a later meeting, a move that was approved by the board, though the discussion did not end there.

“I don’t like these 300-page packets anymore than you do,” commented Bernot, referring to recent agendas that have been accompanied by packets of background and other information that regularly swells the overall pile of agenda documents into the hundreds of pages.

“We spent three public hearings on a four-plex,” the mayor added, referring to a recent controversy surrounding a redevelopment project at 190 Sopris Avenue.

Town Manager Jay Harrington, however, pointed out that the trustees themselves are partly responsible for the expansive nature of the trustee meetings, by directing staff to look into new issues all the time, ranging from energy efficiency initiaTOWN COUNCIL page 9

Street crew member Bruce Wade (left) and sculptor Harold Linke (right) install his piece “Novus Grande” at the Launchpad on Monday. A total of 14 new sculptures are being placed around town this week as part of the 2015 Art aRound Town exhibit. A walking tour with the artists takes place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on June 4.

Photo by Lynn Burton THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 3

Town Briefs

Street crew a busy bunch these days Sopris Sun Staff Report The town’s street crew was busy last week, reported Town Manager Jay Harrington in his weekly memo to the Board of Trustees and other town employees.

Harrington reported that street department employees continued work on the alleys around town, worked with artists installing their works under the Art aRound Town program, including placement of new marble bases for the artworks. Street crews also teamed up with the utility department to clean up two large drywells installed by the Colorado Department of Transportation last year at an unnamed location.

Harrington noted that a general invitation has gone out to attend the Carbondale Public Arts Commission for a walking tour of the new art installations on June 4. The tour starts at 5:30 p.m., with a community reception at the Village Smithy restaurant from 7-9 p.m.

Highway 133 project workers were scheduled to be placing soil in the roundabout and medians along the highway this week, and motorists were cautioned to expect delays as the soils are hauled in. In addition, Harrington reported, pine trees, perennials, shrubs and deciduous trees were to be delivered this week for landscaping along the highway. Highway users, particularly bicyclists, were advised to use caution and common sense when encountering exposed topsoil along the highway corridor, and to not attempt to ride across the highway through the mud.

As the town parks crew settles into its summer mowing schedule, Harrington reported difficulties in hiring and retaining lawn maintenance personnel from temp services, and wrote that advertisements have been placed in local newspapers to recruit seasonal parks workers.

From the recreation department, Harrington reported that programming for the week was to include Motion Mondays and

Krafty Kiddos for preschoolers, along with the start of summertime skateboard lessons. The town’s contract tennis instructor, John Bresnitz, is back at work for the summer, offering youth and adult tennis lessons starting on June 9.

Other summertime recreation programming includes the Climbing Club, Start Smart Soccer, T-Ball, Friday Field Trips and Youth Hiking Trips. Registration for all programs is available at www.carbondalerec.com.

The summer youth baseball and softball programs report four youth baseball teams (58 players) and two softball teams (24 players), as well as six men’s softball teams in the summer league.

Play was set to commence on June 2, with games on Tuesday nights at Bill Hanks softball field.

At the John M. Fleet municipal pool, the town is offering four, two-week sessions of American Red Cross swim lessons, starting on June 8.

The early-summer pool hours, through June 7 are noon to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday for lap swimming; noon to 5 p.m. for open swim on weekends; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the wading pool all week long.

At the town-owned and town-run Gateway RV Park, of the 120 spots available in the week from May 23-29, the overall occupancy rate was 32.5 percent, with 39 slots occupied. Reservations for the May 30-June 6 period stood at 16 sites reserved for a total of 33 people, Harrington reported.

The water department reported a “modest odor issue” at the wastewater treatment plant the week of May 18-24, and staff is said to be keeping an eye on the equipment after adjustments were made, Harrington wrote in his memo.

He also reported that the town already has closed on new purchase agreement for additional solar power from the Clean Energy Collective, as was approved by the trustees last week.

“An easy way to

Cop Shop From May 21st to May 28, Carbondale Officers handled 251 calls for service (See attached report). During this period, officers handled the following cases of note, according to a summary provided by the police to the Sopris Sun. NOTE: Carbondale Police Chief Gene Schilling reports that during the nighttime hours of June 1, several vehicles were entered and rummaged through in Hendrick Ranch.

The police department is asking citizens who have any information regarding the suspect(s) to contact the department at 9632662. “We are encouraging citizens to keep their vehicles and buildings locked and secured,” Schilling said.

THURSDAY, May 21: At 8:01 p.m. police took a report of a boy's Giant bicycle having been stolen from the Carbondale Branch Library. The bike was described as black with colored duct tape on it.

THURSDAY, May 21: At 8:11 p.m. police responded to a call about trespassing on Main Street. A man was arrested on charges of trespassing, violating a restraining order, and harassment (use of obscene language and gesture). He was taken to Garfield County Jail in Glenwood Springs.

FRIDAY, May 22: At 2:20 p.m. a man reported to police that he had lost a tan billfold containing “a large amount of cash” on Main Street the day before. As

make a difference.”

Get yours G eett you rs ttoday! tooday!

4 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

COPS page 21

Lured astray by lush, green grass, several cows in the recent Nieslanik cattle drive defected the herd and tromped down into a ditch at the west end of Main Street last week.

Someone had to ride down into the ditch and fetch the cattle out. That task fell to Paul Nieslanik, who performed his job pretty well. Photo by Jane Bachrach

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EFFECTIVE SATURDAY, JUNE 13TH

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RFTA SUMMER SEASON

RFTA SUMMER SEASON SCHEDULES Summer schedules are effective SATURDAY, JUNE 13TH. Changes have occurred on the VelociRFTA BRT, Local-Valley, Hogback, and City of Aspen routes.

Preview schedules at WWW.RFTA.COM

HORARIOS RFTA PARA LA TEMPORADA DE VERANO

Traveling? Need to Refresh?

Complete AVEDA Salon Open 7 days a week! 9-7

Horarios de verano son efectivos el SABADO, 13 de JUNIO. Cambios han ocurrido a las rutas de VelociRFTA BRT, Local-Valley, Hogback, y rutas de la Ciudad de Aspen.

Para ver los horarios con anticipación visite WWW.RFTA.COM

Call 970.925.8484 for more information or visit WWW.RFTA.COM

THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 5

Scuttlebutt

Send your scuttlebutt to news@SoprisSun.com.

Set up your shift now The 44th annual Carbondale Mountain Fair is now signing up volunteers. Squads include: Peace Patrol, the Green Team, Information Booth, T-Shirt Sales, Raffle Tickets, Trash and more. Put in four hours and you receive not only a Mountain Fair Tshirt, but entry into the New Belgium cruiser bike raffle. The fair takes place July 24-26. For details, call 963-1680 or go to Carbondalearts.com.

replied, “The Carbondale area is likely within historic sage-grouse habitat, although it is on the very southeastern edge of the (bird’s) range. The area likely does not provide the extent of sagebrush necessary for a viable population nor the year round habitat requirements. For example, the area may be lacking suitable winter habitat where the birds need larger sagebrush with sufficient canopy cover to be above snow level.” There you go.

Speaking of which

AVLT starts Kea Hause fund

Once again, The Sopris Sun is asking readers and non-readers alike to send in their best, worst or first Mountain Fair memory. Pretty much everyone within a 10,000-mile radius of Carbondale completely ignored this invitation to help fill up the paper last year, but maybe someone will rise to the bait this year. Note: No prizes are being offered to respondents and blackmailers are not allowed. Send your blurbs to news@soprissun.com. We’ll try to print them on Mountain Fair weekend.

The Aspen Valley Land Trust has started a fund in the name of the late Kea Hause to restore, improve and protect riparian areas on the Roaring Fork and Crystal Rivers. For details, go to avlt.org.

There will be a celebration of life for Hause at the River Valley Ranch barn from 4 to 8 p.m. on July 11.

Rainbow Gathering update If you’re planning your summer around attending the Rainbow Family of Light Gathering on July 1-7 …. well don’t, not yet anyway. The welcomehome.org website reports federal lands in the following states are up for consideration to (like it or not) “host” the annual hippie fest: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont. Michigan, Wiscon-

Father’s Day 2015

Bumper Sticker Truck of the Week honors go this Toyota T100 parked at City Market on May 28. Note to owner: Some cops and CSP troopers love stopping vehicles with busted out tail lights. Photo by Lynn Burton sin, Indiana, Illinois or South Dakota. The Sopris Sun’s Old Geezer Counter Culture expert theorizes the decision makers within the Rainbow Family’s non-hierarchy hierarchy have decided where to hold the gathering but they are keeping it secret for as long as possible, so that local law enforcement agencies won’t have as much time to organizing their hassle possies like they always do. Stay tuned for details.

Why’s there no grousing?

The federal government recently released its much anticipated protection plan for the greater sage-grouse. The birds are common in west Garfield County, but despite a fair amount of sage in the Carbondale area, they are seldom if ever are seen in these parts.

Well, The Sopris Sun asked a Colorado Parks and Wildlife staffer why there is such a dearth of sage-grouse around here and he

Hold the presses Colorado Rocky Mountain School holds its graduation at 10 a.m. on June 6, while River Valley Ranch holds is annual Neighborhood Garage Sale starting at 7 a.m. the same day.

They say it’s your birthday Folks celebrating their birthday this week include: Jenn Roeser (June 7), Diane Zastrow (June 8), and Rock Leonard and Henry Ortiz (June 9).

The Sopris Sun would like to honor your dad.

Share a favorite photo of you and your father with our community.

Photos will be published in the June 18 issue of The Sopris Sun and/or online at www.soprissun.com.

Carbondale Recreation Department’s

Youth Tennis Program 2015 Ages: 5 - 8 years Time: 9-9:45 am

QuickStart Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays Cost: $60 per session

10-Under Tennis Ages: 8-10 years Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays Time: 10 am-11 am Cost: $72 per session Pre-Competition Ages: 11 and up Days: Tuesdays and Thursdays Time: 1:30-3 pm Cost: $90 per session Three Sessions Available!

Dates: Session 1: June 9-25 Session 2: July 7-23 Priv Session 3: August 4-20 ate Ava Lesson s i

Adult Tennis Clinics

Please submit your high-quality photo to terrir@soprissun.com

by Friday, June 12.

Please include “Father's Day” in the subject line and in the body of the email include both of your names and towns of residence. Note: Use largest setting on your camera to assure best print quality. Any photos that don't make it into our print issue will be featured on our website.

Questions? Call 510-3003

6 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

labl e

Ladies Clinic (USTA level 2.5-3.0) Ladies Clinic (USTA level 3.5-4.0+) Days: Tuesday & Thursday Days: Tuesday & Thursday Time: 3:30-5:00 pm Time: 5:30-7:00 pm Cost: $40 per session Session 1 -June 30 & July 2 Session 2 -July 28 & 30 Session 3 -August 25 & 27 For online registration

www.carbondalerec.com

970-510-1290

C’dale, other towns, planning for water shortages

By John Colson Sopris Sun Staff Writer On the heels of one of the wettest spring times in recent memory, it may be difficult for Carbondale residents to think in terms of drought and water shortages, but that is exactly what the town’s Board of Trustees is doing these days.

At a work session in May, the trustees met with water expert Mark Fuller, head of the Ruedi Water And Power Authority [RWAPA), which oversees the operations of the hydroelectric dam and reservoir on the Fryingpan River east of Basalt, to confirm that the town will continue to be part of a regional water-conservation plan.

That plan, which got its start in 2013 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding among the plan’s participants, is an effort to catalogue and preserve the different water resources of the Roaring Fork Valley.

The participating agencies include the towns of Carbondale, Basalt, Glenwood Springs and Aspen, along with the Snowmass Water and Sanitation District.

Fuller told the trustees at the work session that the signatories to the plan are all municipal water entities, as opposed to counties, because of restrictions in the CWCB’s grant-making regulations.

In a memo to the trustees, town utility director Mark O’Meara wrote that the plan is an outgrowth mainly of the “dry summer season of 2012,” when water systems up and down the Roaring Fork Valley were sorely taxed by high demand and low water supplies.

In Carbondale, O’Meara wrote in his memo, the imbalance between demand and supply meant the town’s water systems were running at near-100 percent capacity, an indication that future, even more severe drought events could be a big problem.

That potential, O’Meara indicated, lead the town to begin working with the Community Office of Resource Efficiency

[CORE] and RWAPA on water conservation plans for the town and the region.

To pay the planning costs, the Colorado Water Conservation Board issued a grant of $93,000 with required local matches from the participating agencies [Carbondale put up $6,250 for its part), and Fuller appeared at the May 19 meeting to seek an “acceptance document” that is needed from the signatories to the plan for release of the final 10 percent of the CWCB grant.

‘We don’t want to look at this as requiring any given activity … by any of the participants,” Fuller assured the trustees. “We want you to incorporate those parts of the plan that you feel comfortable with … we want this to fit your priorities and your needs.”

The Carbondale trustees agreed, in concept, with Fuller’s request, although not without some specific reservations.

“We’re missing a ton of people and a ton of high-end [water] users,” noted Mayor Stacey Bernot, specifically mentioning such senior-water-rights holders as Crystal River Ranch, owned by Sue Rogers, as an example of entities that can have a major impact on the flow of the Crystal River.

“That’s why the Crystal River runs dry,” the mayor said, referring to the amounts of water that are annually siphoned off by big landowners.

Plus, she said, the town needs to be wary of signing away any of its water rights by mistake, which could mean trouble for future water-related projects the town has in mind.

“We’re very conscious of being efficient, being conservation minded, but I don’t want to give up our resources,” said Bernot, explaining that the town must consider such things as future housing for seniors, teachers and other groups, as well as the idea of expanding the town’s ditch system to provide untreated irrigation water for more homes than it does now.

Town Manager Jay Harrington, in a telephone interview

this week, noted that Carbondale adopted its own water conservation plan earlier this year, as well as a “watershed protection plan” aimed mostly at preserving water quality rather than quantity.

“Now, we just need to make sure that the actual details of the plan align with how we operate our water system,” Harrington said of Carbondale’s future participation in the planning effort.

Fuller told The Sopris Sun on Wednesday that he is in the middle of visits to the other signatories to the plan, and that it is likely that a draft of the “acceptance document” will be submitted to the different participants in July.

Carbondale has apparently not had any bear or mountain lion sightings so far in 2015, although this fox was recently spotted at Carbondale Nature Park (aka Delaney dog park). Photo by John Toly

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THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 7

Dance Initiative presents new work by Patrick Mueller

By Chloe Burton Special to The Sopris Sun Strolling into the Launchpad on a Saturday afternoon, you may find yourself in the midst of a startling scene involving five people. It’s silent, one person is spinning like a whirling dervish, one is knocking a fist on her head as if to check the contents, one is upside down, limbs tied in a knot, and one is jotting down notes and nodding like it all makes sense. The one taking notes is Patrick Muller, Dance Initiative’s first ever-resident choreographer.

Mueller comes with a unique resume. He’s the founder and artistic director of the contemporary dance and performance art company, Control Group Productions, in Denver. His work with CGP has been presented by the Biennial of the Americas, Denver Office of Arts & Venues, Denver Theatre District, American Dance Festival’s MFA program, work|space, Naropa University, Boulder Fringe Festival and others. Mueller has also performed with Troika Ranch Dance Theater in New York, and the Ben J. Riepe and Mancopy Danse companies of Europe.

“To live in Carbondale and have the exposure and opportunity to work closely with an artist such as Patrick, and also share the work with the public, is such a privilege,” said dancer Meagan Shapiro. “His attention to detail, quality and nuance have challenged and expanded me tremendously as a mover on both a brain and body level. I’ve no doubt this residency will positively impact what I can offer dancers in my teaching

here in Carbondale.”

Muller has been working with Dance Initiative since 2013, bringing workshops in various modern techniques, contact improvisation and composition to Carbondale. “Damage: Hazards of Parallel Play,” a new work by Mueller, will be performed

by Carbondale’s CoMotion: A Conscious Movement Project.

Dana Ganssle-Ellis, Deborah Colley, Meagan Shapiro and this writer each come from diverse dance backgrounds and have been working closely with Mueller since late March.

“Damage: Hazards of Parallel Play” is modern dance, a category so wide and uniquely interpreted, globally, that if you know what modern dance is, you still might not be sure what to expect.

Modern dance started out as a rebellion against ballet and it’s traditional rules and steps. Where ballerinas train for perfect unison with each other, stretch for long limblines and bruise their toes with pointe work, modern dancers connect to the earth. Modern dance emphasizes artistry and the individual dancer as an artist.

But the question remains: what should you expect upon walking into the Launchpad this coming Friday and Saturday night?

Expect to see strength and subtlety. Expect to see something funny and something sad.

Expect to see collision between the dancers and the world around them. Muller writes, “The work draws together the artists’ personal histories with observations of young

children in their first encounters with others and the world around them … . The result, for each of us, is a unique constellation of scar tissue: a set of stories, traces, lessons learned, vulnerabilities revealed – crystalized moments of mortality.”

Dance is art, but unlike a painting, the experience can’t be captured once it’s done.

Watching a video of a past performance is not the same as being in an audience watching

first hand, the dancers’ bodies being used to the fullest extent to say more than words can.

Dance is a perishable art, a “crystalized moment of mortality,” here one minute and gone the next. And yet it’s alive and growing in Carbondale. Catch these moments at the Launchpad at 8 p.m. on June 5-6. Tickets are $10 online and $15 at the door. Space is limited. Reserve your seat at danceinitiative.org.

Chamber looking for bike tour volunteers Sopris Sun Staff Report The Carbondale Chamber of Commerce is looking for volunteers to help with the Bike Tour of Colorado on June 22-23, and is also telling businesses to get ready.

“We encourage you to promote your menu, art and merchandise, and offer Bicycle Tour of Colorado specials and/or Spandex discounts. Consider mail/ship opportunities for bike tour participants,” said a chamber press release.

The tour covers 420 miles and runs from June 21-27, with Carbondale being the second stop of the tour on June 22. Tour organizers expect 800 cyclists from across the U.S. and various foreign countries.

The cyclists will be coming from Leadville, pedaling the 88 miles into town from the east. “We expect the majority of the riders to arrive around 2 p.m. on June 22,” said chamber director Andrea Stewart. Most of them will camp, shower and eat their meals at Roaring Fork High School.

“Upon setting up camp, or after checking into local lodges, the cyclists and their supporters are on their own that afternoon and evening,” Stewart added.

The chamber is producing a block party for the riders and community at Fourth Street Plaza from 2 to 8 p.m. on June 22.

The chamber of commerce is looking for volunteers to help at an information booth, and at the block party.

For details, call 963-1890.

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ROTARY SCHOLARSHIPS TICKETS THE SOPRIS SUN Jack McKay 303-349-4261 or jhmlag@msn.com KDNK Proceeds support the humanitarian efforts INFORMATION of the Rotary Club of Carbondale Ken Neubecker 970-230-9300

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8 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

Town council om page 3

Crystal River Elementary School students closed out the school year with some tug-of-war during the school’s annual field day last week.

Photo by Jami Friday

tives, to the question of weeds, to the expansion of the town’s network of ditches to provide untreated irrigation water in parts of town where the ditches currently do not run.

Trustee Katrina Byars, conceding that “our town is growing, things are more complex,” suggested the trustees might want to consider raising the salaries of those on the board, especially in light of the possibility of adding meetings to the monthly schedule.

Currently, trustees are paid $600 per month, and the mayor $1,000 per month, as compensation for attending three or four meetings in a month, reading through the heavy packets of information in advance of every meeting, and serving as liaisons for a long list of organizations and governmental entities that the trustees keep in touch with.

As Harvey pointed out, a trustee can spend 30 hours or more in a month at his or her trustee duties — “that’s almost a work week.”

In a telephone interview this week, Bernot noted that she and Harrington regularly review agendas before they are set in stone, and that sometimes issues come up without any prior scheduling.

For instance, she said, two recent meetings featured lengthy discussions about so-called “smart meters” that the Holy Cross Energy cooperative is planning to install at their customers’ homes.

That topic first was raised by a citizen during the public comment portion of a regular meeting, rather than as a scheduled agenda item, and “we were trying to be somewhat responsive to a person who came before us,” Bernot noted.

“The smart meters was packet overload,” the mayor admitted.

But, she continued, it was in response to citizen demand, an example of situations where “there’s a

lot of material that people think is needed” to adequately inform a debate before the trustees.

“Who are we to limit what’s relevant or not before the meeting?” she asked. “If we go to 11 or later, that’s what we do. But I am mindful that some trustees might not feel that way.”

Bernot also recalled that, before she became mayor six years ago, meetings often went as late as 11 p.m. as a result of long, detailed debate.

“It’s gotten easier, not harder,” she protested, although she acknowledged that the board of trustees will need to have a discussion about the interlocking issues and priorities behind the “overload” question.

For Harvey, the solution should begin with the review of upcoming agendas.

“I put this on the mayor and the town manager,” he declared. “They actually are aware of the work flow” and are the only ones in positions to affect how that work flow unfolds.

Bernot, though, stressed that the town staff has a difficult enough time simply putting the voluminous packets together, without having to figure out which specific documents can be left out and which need to be included to provide the trustees with the right amount of information.

“I know that the staff wants to be sure we have the necessary information,” she said, mentioning the Thompson Park residential project and the 190 Sopris controversy as examples of the staff simply trying to satisfy the trustees’ need for data.

In examining the underlying issues, Bernot concluded, “There’s definitely room for improvement” and predicted that it will come up on a future agenda, whether for a regular meeting, a work session or even a retreat of some sort.

STRANG RANCH Summer Pony Camp Starting June 15th Please call 963-2319 or email for more info Bridgetstrang@hotmail.com

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Have you considered your life’s legacy? with Rev. Stephan Papa Join us Sunday, June 7, 2015 – 10:00 a.m.

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Join us in celebrating Third Street Center’s 5th birthday.

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Reverend Stephan Papa Inspirational, Contemporary Music by Jimmy Byrne Heather Rydell, Youth Program Minister Childcare Provided

THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 9

Community Calendar THURSDAY June 4 ART AROUND TOWN • CPAC unveils its 2015 Art aRound Town exhibit with a walking tour starting at 5:30 p.m. at town hall. A reception follows from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Village Smithy. The participating artists are: Elizabeth Akamatsu (Nacadoches, Texas), Brian Bickel (Des Moines, Iowa), Joe Burleigh (Carbondale), Mark Cesark (Carbondale), Matthew Duffy (Washington, D.C.), Steven Durrow (Fruitland, Maryland), Ede Ericson (Santa Fe, New Mexico), Timothy Flood (Denver), Kimmerjae Johnson (Lafayette), Suzanne Kane (Las Cruces, New Mexico), Mia Kaplan (Macomb, Louisiana), Harold Linke (Evergreen), Sue Quinlan (Boulder) and John Simms (Jackson, Wyoming).

RODEO RETURNS • The Carbondale Wild West Rodeo returns to the Gus Darien arena (east of town on County Road 100) Thursdays through Aug. 20. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., slack at 6 p.m. and grand entry at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 per adult; $30 per car load (up to six people) with additional adults $5 each. Kids under 10 are free if accompanied by an adult. Advance and discount season tickets are available at the Roaring Fork Valley Coop. Info: carbondalerodeo.com.

LIVE MUSIC • Steve’s Guitars in the old part of the Dinkel Building presents the OK Factor (violin and cello duo). Let Them Roar opens the night at 8:30 p.m. Info: 963-3304.

LIBRARY • The Carbondale Branch Library hosts “Gaming & Lunch” from noon to 1 p.m. through the summer. Free lunch is provided for those 18 and under. The program is

To list your event, email information to news@soprissun.com. Deadline is noon on Monday. Events take place in Carbondale unless noted. For up-to-the-minute valley-wide event listings, check out the Community Calendar online at soprissun.com. View events online at soprissun.com/calendar.

partnership with the Food Bank of the Rockies as part of its Summer Food Service program. Info: 963-2889 and gcpld.org.

LIBRARY • The Carbondale Branch Library kicks off its Adult Summer Reading program with the Starletts at 6:30 p.m. The Starletts are four powerhouse vocalists who share the leads and back ups in a synergy of Motown, soul and rock with a hint of jam. “You’ll hear covers in a whole new way, yet they feel as familiar as your favorite pair of booty shakin’ jeans!” Info: 963-2889 and gcpld.org.

HEALTH FAIR • Aspen Valley Hospital’s annual health fair offers lab tests from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. at its after-hours medical care facility (234 Cody Lane). Info: avhaspen.org.

ROTARY • The Mt. Sopris Rotary meets at Mi Casita at noon every Thursday.

FRI.-SAT. June 5-6 DANCE • Dance Initiative presents “Damage: Hazards of Parallel Play,” a new work by Dance Initiative’s Artist in Residence Patrick Mueller at 8 p.m. at the Launchpad. The piece will be performed by dancers of Carbondale’s contemporary movement company, CoMotion: A Conscious Movement Project, who have been working closely with Mueller since late March. Tickets are $10 online and $15 at the door. Space is limited. Reserve seats at danceinitiative.org.

FRIDAY June 5 FIRST FRIDAY • First Friday returns with various events, gallery receptions and related activities downtown and elsewhere. Main Street will be closed from Third Street to

PT & FT Direct Support Professional

Weant Boulevard. For more info, read on.

MOVIES • The Crystal Theatre presents “Far from the Madding Crowd” (PG-13) at 7:30 p.m. June 5-11.

COMMUNITY PORTRAIT • The annual community portrait session takes place at 6:15 p.m. at Fourth and Main.

SURLS DEDICATION • The dedication for James Surls’s sculpture “Sewing the Future” takes place at the Launchpad starting with light refreshments at 5 p.m., followed by a short program at 5:15 p.m. including Carbondale Mayor Stacey Bernot, James Surls, primary donor Jim Calaway and Carbondale Public Arts Commission chair Ashley Todey.

The sculpture is located in the roundabout at Main Street and Highway 133.

BOOK SIGNING • Charlotte Graham holds a book signing for her newest work, “Memoirs of a River, Up the Crystal Volume Two,” from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Launchpad. Several people profiled in the book will be in attendance, as well as her historic car (Nelly Belle), which is featured on the book’s cover.

The Humble Plum farm-to-food business will also be parked out in front. Info: 963-1680.

CLAY CENTER • The Carbondale Clay Center (east end of Main Street) opens the show “Patterns & Texture” with a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. The show features: Heather Mae Erickson, Julia Galloway, Bryan Hopkins, Rain Harris/Paul Donnelly, Matt Hyleck, Matt Repsher, Ralph Scala and Leigh Taylor Mickelson. Also, buy a shot glass at the Carbondale Clay Center, take it across the street to the Marble Distilling Company, and you get a $3 shot for $1. Info: 963-2529.

ANNIVERSARY PARTY • Dancing Colours at the west end of Main Street celebrates its 10th anniversary with a party, while in the same building The Beat restaurant holds a grand opening party.

BRING YOUR HELMET • The second annual Mass Pillow Fight breaks out at 6 p.m. at Fourth and Main. Bring your own pillow.

LIVE PAINTING • Marcel Kahhak does a live painting from 6 to 8 p.m. at his studio downstairs in the Dinkel Building.

ART DEMO • Bill Linse demonstrates his “bucket art” from 6 to 8 p.m. at Mousai Gallery (50 Weant). There’ll be refreshments and nibbles from 5 to 8 p.m.

BLOCK PARTY • Marble Distilling Co. hosts a block party at the east end of Main Street as part of its grand opening. The Resident Powder Hounds will start the tunes at 5 p.m. The party will also feature Harmony Scott Jewelry Design and the Carbondale Clay Center. Info: marbledistilling.com.

CLOSING • The photography show “Walk With Me” closes at the Launchpad tonight.

LIVE MUSIC • Steve’s Guitars in the old part of the Dinkel Building presents Under the Willow (an acoustic string quartet) at 8:30 p.m. Info: 963-3304.

LIVE MUSIC • Carbondale Beer Works presents Wink & the Signal from 9 p.m. to midnight.

LIVE MUSIC • Rivers restaurant in Glenwood Springs presents Dry Hollow from 9 p.m. to midnight. No cover. Upcoming Friday CALENDAR page 11

Labyrinth Reflexology Path Yoga Spiral Right on the Rio Grand Trail in downtown Carbondale

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Bill Linse demonstrates his Bucket Art from 6 to 8 p.m Refreshments and nibbles from 5 to 8 p.m.

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Take a break from your busy schedule with a visit to the Peace Garden:

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Interested applicants contact Staffing Manager Sarah Simms at sarahsimms@mtnvalley.org.

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10 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

Find us on Facebook and Pinterest Mousai Gallery | 50 Weant Blvd. | Carbondale, CO. 81623 | 970-948-5687 Mousaigallerycarbondale@gmail.com

Community Calendar night bands are the Leonard Curry Trio, Valle Musico and Nanogram. Info: 928-8813.

SAT.-SUN. June 6-7

continued from page 10

takes place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Carbondale Middle School. There’ll be contests and prizes. The cost is $5. Info: 963-1109 or nettmarkham@aol.com.

LIBRARY • The Carbondale Branch Library presents a movie matinee and free lunch for those under 18 starting at noon. Info: 9632889 or gcpld.org.

TUESDAY June 9

FRIDAY June 12

MONDAY June 8

SATURDAY June 6

LIBRARY • The Garfield County Branch Library presents the Boulder-based Jeff & Paige at 10:30 a.m. Expect science-based songs and skits, quick costume changes, a mystery critter and lots of audience participation. Info: 963-2889 or gcpld.org.

HEALING • Rhonda Piccola of Universal Healing Solutions presents an open forum titled “Happy Healthy Healing and Mysticism” from 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. at the Third Street Center through June. The cost is $10 (first timers are free). Info: 618-8725.

LIVE MUSIC • Kanpai Sushi in Glenwood Springs presents the Logan Brothers from 7 to 10 p.m.

SUNDAY June 7 LIVE MUSIC • Steve’s Guitars in the old part of the Dinkel Building presents Bradford Lee (folk) and the Bluegrass Playboys (rip-roaring bluegrass on the way up) at 8:30 p.m.

Info: 963-3304.

MON.-WED. June 8-10 HOOPS • The “Summer of Dreams 10,000 Shots” shoot clinic for boys in grades 6-8

FRI.-SUN. June 12-14

THEATRE • SoL Theatre Company presents “Free to Be … You and Me” at the Third Street Center. Curtain times are 2 and 7 p.m. on Friday, 7 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday.

There’ll be an arts and crafts bazaar at noon on Sunday. Tickets will be available at the door and at soltheatrecompany.com.

BIKE-A-PALOOZA! • Aloha Mountain Cyclery presents its sixth annual Bike-A-Palooza!

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. There’ll be free mountain bike demo rides, free food and beverages, music and “bike centric fun.” Aloha Mountain Cyclery is located in the La Fontana Plaza on Highway 133. Info: 963-2500.

LIVE MUSIC • Steve’s Guitars in the old part of the Dinkel Building presents singer/songwriter Pierce Pettis at 8:30 p.m. Info: 963-3304.

Further Out

STICH’N TIME • The Mt. Sopris Historical Society presents Stich’n Time (an old fashioned gathering) from 6 to 8 p.m. next to the log cabin museum on Weant Boulevard. Display your quilts, bring your handiwork, enjoy passages from “Carbondale Pioneers: 1979-1900,” sip cool lemonade and chomp some fresh baked goodies.

STALLARD OPENING • The Wheeler/Stallard Museum in Aspen opens the show “Bests, First & Worsts: Aspen in Objects.” The show features more than 90 artifacts that tell Aspen’s quirky history – good and bad. The hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is $6 adults, $5 seniors and free for kids 12 and under.

Ongoing

ART DEMO • The Glenwood Springs Art Guild holds its monthly demonstration at 7 p.m. at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (on Grand Avenue). This month’s presenter is Patty Ringer. Info: 274-3325.

FREGOSO CONTINUES • The Wyly Art Center in Basalt continues “The Psychology of Emotions” by Roaring Fork High School student Amaranda Fregoso through June 13. Info: 927-4123.

WEDNESDAY June 10

SATURDAY CRAFTERNOONS • The Wyly Art Center offers Saturday Crafternoons from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. It’s for all ages; kids 4 and under must bring a parent. The cost is $5 per project. Info: 927-4123.

ROTARY • The Rotary Club of Carbondale meets at the Carbondale Fire Station at 6:50 a.m. on Wednesdays. Info: rotarycarbondale.org.

MONDAY June 15 ENTRY DEADLINE • The entry deadline for the Wyly Art Center’s “Pencil Us In” public installation is June 15. The pencil garden will be

MAYOR’S COFFEE HOUR • Chat with Car-

planted in July. Info: wylyarts.org.

FRIDAY June 19

CELEBRATION • The Third Street Center celebrates its fifth anniversary with cake and root beer. More info to come as it becomes available.

Save the Date SATURDAY June 20

ROTARY HAPPENING • The theme of this year’s Rotary Club of Carbondale Happening is “Viva Mexico.” The night will be filled with a celebration of music, culture and cuisine from Mexico. There’ll also be a silent auction. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and tickets are $125. To snap one up, e-mail Steve Skinner at steve@kdnk.org or call him at 963-0139. It all takes place at the Orchard (110 Snowmass Drive). Info: carbondalerotary.com.

bondale Mayor Stacey Bernot on Tuesdays from 7 to 8 a.m. at the Village Smithy.

BRIDGE • The Carbondale Bridge Club meets at the Senior Matters room in the Third Street Center Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. You must have a partner and the fee is $3 per person. Info: 963-0425.

CARBONDALE LIBRARY • The Carbondale Branch Library holds Family Story Time every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m., and Tablab/Wii Gaming at 4 p.m. on Thursdays.

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THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 11

RFHS graduation 2015 One valedictorian, Brianna Boland, couldn’t make Roaring Fork High School’s commencement on May 30 because she’s in Taiwan as a Rotary exchange student. The other two valedictorians, Emily Bruell and Ben Carpenter, did make it. Bruell invited students to shed labels such as “gay,” “slacker,” or “class clown.”

Carpenter urged fellow graduates to “always be grateful for the people who surround you and support you.”

A total of 57 students were presented with their diplomas last Saturday morning. After the Roaring Fork Band played “La Lira” and the students entered two-by-two through the school gym’s doors then took their seats, the RFHS Choir sang the national anthem, and principal Drew Adams and teacher Matt Wells made their remarks, it was time for a little fun.

That’s when Best Boy Jackson Hardin (far left, middle) stepped to the podium, donned a Rasta hat and red sunglass and then removed them because that’s not who he really is. On that note, out came his juggling clubs for a lively demonstration of that skill, followed by a brief speech in which he urged students to “ … Love. Love all you can.”

Next was Bruell (left center), who started by saying she left middle school and entered high school with a label, a sort of “brand name … Emily Bruell.”

She said the brand was a quiet one, “ … the kind of brand who takes a ton of AP classes … wins spelling bees. … The selling point of the brand is that it’s smart, although users may experience the side effects such as over quietness, spending too much time stressing over tests and grades, and behavior frequently classified as ‘nerdlike.’” To punctuate her point, she held a sign in front of her that said “SMART.” Bruell said she was terrified by the “power of labels” and during her junior year at Chewonki Semester School GRAD HIGHLIGHTS page 13

Photos by Jane Bachrach and Lynn Burton

12 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

Grad highlights om page 12 in Maine, she realized she was something besides a “ … smart girl. I realized was gay. And I was terrified of the stigma that that label held.”

She continued being “smart girl” and made sure nothing “contrary” slipped out.

“But now … it’s out. In fact, we can make it more official.”

Bruell then flipped over her sign to reveal the word “GAY.” To which the entire graduation class in front of her spontaneously leaped to their feet for a standing ovation, with many audience members joining in.

After the applause died down and everyone sat back down, Bruell started closing her remarks with “ … While the label is accurate, it’s also not everything. I’m not just gay, I’m not just smart … No label is big enough to hold an entire person. … You can always choose to give up the labels you make, to judge a person simply as human.”

To read Emily Bruell’s entire commencement address, go to http://bit.ly/1FUlELV.

THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 13

Bridges High School graduation 2015 Bridges High School Valedictorian Malia Machado (left) compared her classmates to trees in a forest during commencement on May 29. None of the trees are exactly alike, but each is dependent upon the other. “You are all vital to the whole,” she said, “and can make a difference just by being you.”

Other speakers included students Mayra Flores and Carla Cortes for opening remarks, teacher Maggie Riley, RE-1 Superintendent Diana Sirko, and Indika Hardenbrook for the final presentation.

In a student produced video, teachers and administrators were asked for advice to this year’s graduates. Mitch Ross replied, “Be safe, and don’t do anything stupid. And remember, it will all work out in the end, and if it doesn’t work out, it’s not the end.”

Left center: Paul D. Bushong Jr. presents the Aspen Community Foundation’s Fast Forward scholarships to Evelyn Martinez (left) and Kareli Salcido (right). Martinez said she will attend the Salon Professional Academy in Grand Junction; Salcido will pursue a nursing degree at Colorado Mountain College.

A total of 21 seniors either graduated from Bridges High School on May 29 or took part and plan to complete their studies this summer. All together, graduates received $136,650 worth of college scholarships, including direct scholarships from colleges and universities, and several scholarships provided by local organizations.

14 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

Letters continued om page 2 to CMS. She donated many tubes to CMS and we used those tubes to fix many flat tires. Overall, we were able to repair at least 20 bikes. We were able to learn how to fix our bikes and now we have bikes ready for our end of year ride to Red Hill and for all summer long!

Thanks again to these generous businesses.

Sixth graders Carbondale Middle School Kenny Teitler Sixth grade ELL teacher

Explain the roundabout Dear Editor: Can someone explain to me about this roundabout? If you go on the inside lane, and you’re going to go straight ahead, and then there is the second lane, and you’re either suppose to turn into town or you’re suppose to turn into the Sopris Shopping Center?

But somebody on the right hand side of you cuts you off and gets irate because you go straight ahead and it’s narrowed down to one lane.

So you either have to let them get ahead of you or you are going to get in an accident.

Same way going south. There is a sign here by the market entrance that says it narrows to one lane. Well, I have been cut off three or four times, because the car on your right decides they don’t want to pull in behind you and after you get past the trailer park entrance, you’re still on the road and they are on the dirt? They start screaming and honking and throwing a fit. Somebody is going to get hurt. I get bet they don’t do that with a big truck either.

I would just like an explanation. It seems like if you’re heading south and not going into the market, but straight ahead that the outside lane needs to be turning into the market. Is that not correct? Just thought somebody from the newspaper could tell me or at least shed some light on this.

Jane Spaulding Carbondale

Thanks to the Buddies Dear Editor: As the school year is ending, I wanted to thank the Buddy Program for the Outdoor

Leadership class they have provided for me and my classmates at Roaring Fork High School.

I really, really, really enjoyed this class! I’ve learned many, many things in the class such as CPR and wilderness First Aid, and I’m very thankful for it. In order to grow you need to place yourself in tough situations – like getting to the hut on snowshoes and backpacking in the wilderness. These things are a part of the class and a part of life. I am really glad that I had the opportunity to participate in this class. Thanks Buddy Program!

Jimmy Serrano Roaring Fork High School Carbondale

Observe hemp week Dear Editor: Industrial hemp is being celebrated through June 7 with Hemp History Week.

If you’re not yet familiar with this amazing all-purpose plant that can be turned into over 25,000 different products, this is the big week to educate yourself. Start by visiting the “Vote Hemp” website (www.votehemp.com).

It’s also the big year to finally make industrial hemp legal for farmers to grow in the United States because it has a chance to finally be eliminated from the definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substance Act. Yes, that’s right. Federal legalization is very possible this year and when that happens we can really begin utilizing hemp’s powers to address our very real economic and environmental challenges.

The two bills (S.134 and H.R.525 of the 2015 Industrial Hemp Farming Act) have unprecedented bipartisan support, but like everything else, won’t pass unless we, the people, make a stink and demand that our congressional members co-sponsor these bills.

The Hemp Industries Association estimated the total retail value of hemp products sold in the U.S. in 2014 to be at least $620 million. Because it’s federally illegal to grow, but legal to import, U.S. farmers are completely shut out of seeing any revenue from this lucrative crop. It’s a complete travesty that the U.S. is the only First World nation where it is still federally illegal to grow.

Jackie Chenoweth Carbondale

Obituary Susan Kip Tindall 1945-2015 Susan Kip Tindall, 69, of Carbondale, died Friday, May 15, 2015 after a sudden brief illness.

Born in Denver, Colorado on Oct. 4, 1945, Susan was the youngest daughter of Alys B. Adams and Kester G. Adams.

Growing up in Denver, she attended public schools, graduating from George Washington High School. She graduated with a degree in elementary education from the University of Northern Colorado in 1967, and was a member of Sigma Kappa Sorority. She embarked on

what was to be a 40-year career teaching at the kindergarten level, including a long tenure in Carbondale with the Roaring Fork School District.

After a five-year hiatus she came out of retirement and worked as teaching assistant with Mount Sopris Montessori School in Carbondale where she worked until her untimely death.

She is survived by her husband, John Tindall of Carbondale; daughter Jennifer Groves Kuhn and her husband Andre Kuhn; her grand-daughter Adrianna Kuhn Carbondale; her sisters Jean Arnold of Kansas City, Missouri, and Nancy Jarrell of Lexington, Virginia; and four nephews and three nieces.

A memorial celebration of Susan’s life will be held in July in the Carbondale area at a date to be announced in the near future.

ROARING FORK HIGH SCHOOL PROJECT

Thanks RFHS Project Graduation is a community effort to keep our high school seniors safe on the important night of graduation, and is completely funded and supported by the generous donations and volunteer efforts of these businesses and individuals.

A sincere THANK YOU on behalf of the Roaring Fork High School graduating class and those who know and love them.

20/20 Eyecare Ace Hardware Ackerman Log & Timber Alison Osius and Mike Benge Aloha Alpine Bank American Furniture Warehouse American Legion Post 100 Amore Realty Art and Carolyn Ackerman Aspen Skiing Company Avalanche Ranch B & H General Contractors Bank of Colorado Basalt Printing Beaver Lake Lodge & Cabins Bethel Party Rental Berthod Motors Bill Kirkland Blue Door Bonfire Boosters Club - Roaring Fork HS Brad and Nancy Zeigel Briston Peterson Canberra Concrete Pumping of NA Carbondale Animal Hospital Carbondale Car Care Carbondale Center LLC Carbondale Dental Center Carbondale School Bus Drivers Carbondale Soccer Club Carolyn and Dan Hardin Casual Culture Cathy and Patrick Derby Chad & Jennifer Roeber DVM Chris Leonard CiCi Kinney Cindy Kenney Agency City Market Cobble Creek Landscaping Coldwell Banker Mason & Morse Colorado Poolscapes, Inc. Compass for Life Long Discovery Cowen Center Convenience Store Crystal Fly Shop Crystal River Spas Crystal Springs Builders Crystal Theater Crystal Valley Dental Assoc.

Dan Bullock Dave Carpenter & Laura Kirk Debbie and Marc Bruell Debra Martinez-Braun Distinguished Boards and Beams Dominoes Dos Gringos Burritos

Ernie and Carol Gianineti Factory Outdoors Frank Traverna RE Fred Pulver Frosty & Carly Merriott Garvik Consruction, Inc. George Tempest Giro Glenwood Caverns Glenwood Hot Springs Glenwood Insurance Gloria's Grand Farnum Printing Grand Junction Pipe Gruenfeldt Construction H.P. and Gwendolyn Hansen Harmony Scott Harry Mayer Construction Heidi's Holy Cross Hunter Electric Impressions of Aspen In and Out Driving School Jackie and Scooter Hansen Janet and Robert Mineo Janet Johnson/Mary Ellis Riverstone Real Estate Jennifer Hunt Joe Markham & Cindy Nett John Foulkrod and Georgia Chamberlain Joseph Meade Kaegebein Fine Homebuildng LLC Karen Salamida Karin Evans KDNK Kim and Lori Spence KSPN - Colleen Barill La Perla Fashions Lance Luckett and Leslie Lamont Leary & Ellen O'Gorman Lee Ann Eustis Matt Wells M.R. Maintenance and Repair, LLC Margaret Chain Marybeth Joiner Maureen and Artie Rothman MG Landscaping Mi Casita Mt. Daly Enterprises - Julia Marshall Napa Nicole Cavarra Nick Forbes Pam Rosenthal Pan & Fork

Penny Ridley & Katie Marshall Peppino’s Pizza Pixie Byrne Pour House R & A Enterprises of Carbondale Ragged Mountain Randi Lowenthal Red Rock Diner Redstone Castle Redstone Inn Rick Herrington River Valley Ranch Roaring Fork Family Practice at Valley View Roaring Fork Cabinets Roberts & Company Salon Sublime Sean Martin Seven Star Rebekah Lodge Sopris Engineering Sopris Self Storage Sopris Chiropratic St. Mary of the Crown Stableford Studios Sunburst Car Care Sunlight The Sopris Sun Telephone System Consultants Thrift Store of Aspen TJ Concrete Tom and Elizabeth Penzel Toni Cerise Town of Carbondale Trident True Nature Umbrella Roofing Valley Meats La Carniceria Village Smithy Walmart Wayne & Susan Rudd White House Pizza Whole Foods Mario Alverde Woody Creek Tavern Four Mountain Sports Melissa Reynolds

Apologies to anyone we may have neglected to list.

Please know that your contribution has helped save lives.

THANK YOU! THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 15

Community Briefs

Please submit your community briefs to news@soprissun.com by noon on Monday.

Fire district sends survey

Virtual vet job fair slated

The Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District Master Plan has sent out surveys to 3,500 randomly selected residents as part of its ongoing master plan process. The survey should take less than 10 minutes to complete and can be completed on online or on paper and mailed back, according to a press release. There is also an option to complete the survey online in Spanish. All completed surveys, whether mailed in or completed online, will be confidential. Residents who do not receive a survey can fill out the survey online in late June.

Get My Vet a Job hosts an online career fair for veterans, spouses and family members on June 5, according to a press release. Employers from across the U.S. are posting jobs, with more than 200 in Colorado. For details, go to jobfairfriday.com.

Youth radio workshop coming The Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program holds its Summer Radio Workshop on June 15-18. The workshop is geared toward 12- to-14-year-old students who are interested in learning more about broadcast communication. The students will spend the week at KDNK learning what it takes to be a DJ, interviewing musicians and creating public service announcements.

The workshop is $200 and partial scholarships are available.

For details, e-mail beth@azyep.org or go to beth@azyep.org.

Rodeo news It isn’t too late to help sponsor the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo. You can join the many businesses, organizations, individuals and families that help to sponsor the rodeo. Call Mike Kennedy at 379-3907 for more info. Those interested in becoming a volunteer can call Melanie Cardiff at 3790809. The rodeo takes place every Thursday from June 4 through Aug. 20.

VLA slates dinner Valley Life For All holds a dinner, and takes input, to celebrate its fourth birthday at the Third Street Center from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on June 15. “Our mission of creating access to resources by connecting opportunities for people of all abilities, their families and communities is being realized every day,” said a VLA spokesman. “We know we can do more.” To RSVP, call 319-1279 or e-mail gary@valleylifeforall.org.

Chip an’ sealers hit Basalt The Basalt public works crew will chip and seal several Basalt streets from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 8-12. Those streets are: Midland and Two Rivers roads, east on Two Rivers to Highway 82; Sopris Drive from Spur to Homestead; Sopris Drive, Frying Pan to Spur Lane; Frying Pan Road, the barber

It looks like Ernesto, the People’s Choice winner in the 2014 Art aRound Town exhibit, will be sticking around for a long time, after a private party bought the Jamie Burnes steel and wood sculpture, and donated it to town.

The Carbondale Board of Trustees is expected to finalize the deal at its meeting on June 9. Sources told The Sopris Sun the over-sized buffalo will be put out to pasture on Highway 133. Photo by Lynn Burton shop to Sopris; Willits Lane, Highway 82 to Widget Street.

Vehicles left on the streets during the project will be towed, according to a press release. One lane will be open for traffic; expect delays. For more information, call 927-4723, ext. 500.

Smart Drive offered RSVP offers AARP’s four-hour Smart Drive Program at the CMC Center in Glenwood starting at 9 a.m. on June 10.

The cost is $20. For details, call 384-8747. June 10

Free Fishing Weekend Colorado Parks and Wildlife holds its annual Free Fishing Weekend on June 6-7, when all ages can fish without a license anywhere in the state. “CPW encourages anglers to get out and take advantage of the opportunity to experience fishing Colorado’s more than 2,500 lakes and reservoirs, or on 10,000 miles of fishable streams,” said a spokesman.

Emergency 911 calls Here are the emergency 911 calls for the week of May 24-30: • Medical emergencies (8); • Trauma emergency (1); • Motor vehicle accident responses (3); • Hazardous materials cleanup (1); • Fire alarm responses (8); • Smoke alarm responses (3); • Carbon monoxide alarm (1); • False call/no incident found (1).

www.soprissun.com

Colorado Rocky Mountain School “You’re off to Great Places!

Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting, So... get on your way!”

- Dr. Seuss

Congratulations Class of 2015

Check out our website!

Carbondale’s www.soprissun.com community supported, weekly newspaper Featuring: • The E-edition • Linkable, searchable news

Plus: • Fun polls • Easy calendar submission • A live Twitter feed • More photos ... and videos, too!

16 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

Arizona State University Berklee College of Music Boston University Brandeis University University of British Columbia University of California, San Diego Case Western Reserve University Clark University Colorado College Colorado State University Eckerd College Elon University Emerson College Fort Lewis College Full Sail University Gonzaga University Johnson & Wales University (Providence) University of Michigan Middlebury College Montana State University, Bozeman

New York University Occidental College Pacific University Paris School of Business Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute University of Rochester Santa Clara University Savannah College of Art and Design Skidmore College Stockholm University United States Coast Guard Academy University of California, Irvine University of Colorado at Boulder University of Oregon University of Puget Sound University of Vermont University of Washington Whittier College Willamette University Worcester Polytechnic *indicates matriculation

A college preparatory boarding and day school serving students in grades 9 -12. crms.org | 963-2562

Here, gone and back again: Lilly comes home (Editor’s note: This is the third and final installment in a series about Mary Lilly.

She is 99 years old).

Mary Lilly moved with her son Charles to an eight-acre spread south of Carbondale on Nettle Creek in 1971. She was soon involved with the League of Women Voters, the Mt. Sopris Historical Society, Carbondale Methodist Church and other local groups. She remains active today, and takes part in the weekly military memorial at the Carbondale Town Hall flag pole. Photo by Lynn Burton

By David Troxel Sopris Sun Correspondent As western ranches go, it wasn’t grand or impressive, but the location was good. Eight and a half acres carved out of the 52-acre Four Pines Ranch, right on Nettle Creek where it joined the icy blue Crystal River.

Mary thought it would do just fine. “It had an apple orchard and two little guest houses, an old house that had been fixed up, and a beautiful old stable,” she remembers. And there was a bonus: “Free water, coming out of the creek through a wooden pipe held together by wire, running right through the property. Well, you know, in the west free water is invaluable!”

Life on the ranch So in 1971, Mary Lilly quit her life in Washington, D.C. to settle near Carbondale, the little mountain town she had grown to love from afar. Charles, the younger of her two sons, had helped her to scout out the property. Now he too made the big move, leaving his college studies in Iowa to help his mother start a new life. Together, they fixed up the ranch buildings and stables, cleaned out some ditches, and started using that wonderful mountain water to grow apples like nothing found in the produce aisle today.

“The orchard was planted with heirloom varieties like Pear apples and Wealthy apples. And Charles was wonderful with animals,” she adds, “so we raised some pigs and boarded cattle and sometimes horses, just a few.” When the ranch could spare them, Mary and Charles were active in the Carbondale community that already included good friendships going back 20 years or more. They had stayed close to John and Anne Holden, and the Perry clan, met and befriended new people, and were soon involved with the Mt. Sopris Historical Society, the Carbondale Methodist Church, the League of Women Voters and other local groups. Charles continued his education at Colorado Mountain College, and Mary soon signed on there to teach art.

Life at Nettle Creek was much like any ranch lifestyle — hard work blended with great satisfaction and shared freely with neighbors and friends. It went on like that for 28 years, and might have lasted longer but for an urgent call for help that Mary and Charles could not refuse.

was soon on his way from Nettle Creek to look after his father.

“Two months later,” Mary recalls, “I had sold the ranch and bought a place in Maui. Charles was the general overseer of all of that, taking care of his father and fixing up the new house.” In what seemed like only a moment, her life in Carbondale appeared to have become a memory.

Family in need

End of an era

After her marriage to Dr. John Lilly ended in 1959, Mary had kept the family home near Washington. Dr. Lilly continued his research on dolphin intelligence and metaphysics, ultimately establishing his own laboratory facility in Malibu, California. But with two sons and 23 years of marriage between them, John and Mary Lilly were never entirely estranged. “Every time he came to Washington, D.C. he would call me up to see how I was doing,” she recalls. Mary and Charles had been living at the ranch near Carbondale for just over 20 years when, in 1992, Dr. Lilly re-

With the court date fast approaching, Mary and Charles helped Dr. Lilly prepare for the trip to Santa Monica to save his Malibu home and research center. The tension of their situation mounted when John developed an infection near his heart and had to undergo surgery to have a pacemaker implanted. Shortly after, weakened and not at all well, he left Mary and Charles in Maui and flew with Philip to the mainland.

The court case went badly for Dr. Lilly, and the property was lost. Under the stress, he was hospitalized again almost immediately. John Jr., the Lilly’s elder son, traveled

tired to Hawaii.

Within a few years, John Lilly’s health had begun to fail, while at the same time the ownership of his Malibu property was challenged in a California court. Dr. Lilly was by then a famous man, but in retirement in Hawaii he had only Philip, his caretaker, to provide reliable support. In 1999, faced with poor health and legal troubles, he reached out for family, and son Charles

“So here I am … it’s been very complicated, and I’ve only told you the highlights.”

from his home in Mexico to be at his father’s bedside in California. Mary and Charles waited in Hawaii for news, and on Sept. 30, 2001, they received word that Dr. John Lilly had passed away.

Mary would later learn that all his friends, and Johnny and Philip, were there when he died. “One day he just said ‘It’s too noisy, everybody get out of here,’ so they left him alone in his hospital room. And he died,” Mary said.

Alone on the island So Mary and Charles found themselves alone on Maui, far away from Carbondale and their close friends, sorting through the pieces of Dr. Lilly’s legacy. They wintered there on the island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. When the Hawaiian spring came in, it brought with it another unexpected blow.

As Mary recalls, “One morning at 6 a.m., Charles asked me to take him to the emergency room, about 15 miles away at the Kahului Hospital. I drove him, and he seemed to be alright, but at midnight they called me up and said that Charles had died.” Her younger son and former ranch partner, she learned, had suffered heart failure caused by a medication he had been taking. Their friend Philip, who had been Dr. Lilly’s caretaker, drove Mary back to the hospital that night, where she found Charles “sitting up in bed looking alive.”

But he was gone.

Home to stay As she relates the events of those months following Dr. Lilly’s death, Mary’s gaze seems to softly penetrate the confines of her living room, beyond the present moment, to rest on the memory of that difficult time. She continues: “I began thinking then, ‘Where will I go? What will I do?’ So eventually, about three months later, I sold the house in Maui and bought this house, and moved back here.” Here, of course, being Carbondale.

Mary Lilly was home again, and with the help of son John Jr. she settled into the little house in the Carbondale west side neighborhood where she now lives. Johnny stayed with her for a time, while she put her household together, and then he returned to his home and work in Zacatecas, Mexico.

Mary quickly renewed her friendships and activities in the community. After nearly four years had passed, she took a trip to Mexico to spend some time with Johnny. He encouraged her to consider moving there herself, where she could be closer to him and his wife Colette. “So we toured around Guadalajara and various places looking at property for me,” she recalls. “I didn’t see anything I thought I could stand, and so I came back.”

It would be Mary’s last visit with Johnny. Not long after returning to Carbondale, she got word that her firstborn son had been hospitalized for pneumonia, and soon succumbed to the condition. “So now,” Mary says, “I’m the only one alive on both sides of the family.” She does know of two nieces and a second cousin in California. But apart from them, she says, “That’s all, there are no more. I’m it.”

“So here I am.” She pauses and then smiles. “It’s been very complicated, and I’ve only told you the highlights.”

I put down my notes and turn off the recorder. We sit quietly for a moment, surrounded by photos and artwork, mementoes of a long and fully lived life. Mary’s yearling cats, Daisy and Sophie, who earlier were romping and getting into mischief as she talked, are dozing in their chairs.

Then the doorbell rings us both back into the present, and a familiar voice calls “Hello! Are you home?” Mary’s soft smile widens and her eyes dart to the door. “Yes, yes,” she calls back cheerfully. “I’m here, come in, the door is open!”

Mary Lilly is home in Carbondale at last, and as they do most every day her friends have come to see her. As they enter, she turns back to me and beams. “Life just seems to go on and on, doesn’t it?”

THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 17

Carbondale Soccer Club now counts 300 players

By Trina Ortega Sopris Sun Correspondent When Juan Quintero first got involved with the Carbondale Soccer Club, he was 6 and it consisted of two boys’ teams. Today, the club is 300 players strong (with some very nimble-footed girls along with the boys), 16 head coaches, 13 assistant coaches, and three division coordinators.

There are two paid part-time staffers, including Quintero, now 31, who is the parttime coaching director. The backbone of dedicated volunteers — both parents and nonparents who just love the game — has helped the club grow into a successful nonprofit that unifies the community in more ways than one.

“We have players from Ross Montessori School, Carbondale Community School, Crystal River Elementary School, Carbondale Middle School, and the Waldorf School. The club brings all these kids and families together,” according to Quintero, whose daughter, Genesis (10), plays on a girls’ U12 team that recently competed in the Grand Mesa Invitational-Border Battle tournament. (Three Carbondale teams placed first in their divisions and won gold medals). The club additionally hosts fundraisers and an end-of-season potluck where the fare ranges from ceviche and burritos to burgers and hot dogs.

“We have a large Latino community, and they get involved with [the club]. Not only do we have Latino coaches, but we also

have a lot of Latino players, and their families all show up to cheer their team on,” Quintero added.

Andrea Chacos’ kids Ari (10), Cooper (9) and Desi (6) have been playing with the club since age 4. Chacos has been a volunteer with the club for more than six years, helping coach, coordinating U6 and U8, and serving on the board of directors.

“Soccer makes it so easy to connect with so many different people,” Chacos said.

“The club connects families and gives them common ground and something to rally around. On the sidelines, it doesn’t matter where you live, work, what language you speak … we all cheer loudly for the team and love watching them all play.”

Club leaders actually make it a point to have kids from different schools play together. Soccer is a “common language,” according to Chacos and can teach children about teamwork, sportsmanship, how not to be a “showboat,” how to deal with aggressive or “unfair” players on the field, and how to win with grace.

Karin Evans has watched two of her four children play, starting at the U6 level with the club in 2000. Both continued playing through high school. She has volunteered for the club and has served as the paid registrar/coordinator since 2005.

“It has been a family affair for quite some time,” Evans said. “I believe my children and many of the kids I’ve watched grow through the years with the club are as

outstanding a people as they are, and have achieved all that they have, because of the fundamentals and foundations they were taught playing soccer with [the club].”

Evans says managing the volunteers and coordinating so many kids is a great under-

“On the sidelines, it doesn’t matter where you live, work, what language you speak … we all cheer loudly for the team and love watching them all play.” taking. (The U8 category, which is ages 6-8, enrolled 65 children this spring, for example). There is a fall and spring season, with some indoor opportunities at the middle school gym in the winter. In the summer, the club offers weeklong camps through the British program Challenger Soccer and less formal drop-in summer sessions with local volunteer coaches. Each season, players meet for two practices per week and the older-age players compete in weekend games and tournaments throughout the Western Slope.

“We are very fortunate to have amazing

volunteers who are doing this work because they love soccer. They care about the youth in our community. The hours and energy involved to be a volunteer soccer coach is huge,” Evans said.

Some coaches don’t even have kids in the club; they just love soccer. While parent volunteers can opt to have their child’s club fee waived, nonparent coaches receive an equivalent stipend at the end of the season.

But Quintero says soccer is rewarding on both an individual and team level, and it’s why he continues to help grow the club.

“I love watching players make their own decisions on the field. You can actually see them thinking, before they get the ball, what they are going to do next. It is the only team sport without set plays. It’s a player’s game: They make all the decisions out on the field. As coaches, all we do is give them the skills to succeed, but the players do all the work.”

He sees a bright future for the club and aims to get all coaches trained by U.S. Soccer to enhance the kids’ long-term development and love for the game.

“We want every player, no matter their ability, to continue to play soccer all their lives. This is such a rewarding game that no kid should ever quit. Kids play sports because it’s fun, and that is what we want our kids to do — have fun while learning how to play the game and improving players’ skills.”

Registration for fall season is taking place now at: www.carbondalesoccer.org.

Non-profit highlight

ROTARY CORNER

ROTARY CLUB OF CARBONDALE June with Carbondale Rotary

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2014-15 Rotary International Theme

“Light Up Rotary”

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“SERVICE ABOVE SELF”

RI President Gary C.K. Huang Carbondale Rotary Practicing Service Above Self, at home and around the world …

Student scholarship and community grant funds come from Carbondale Rotary’s annual Happening dinner, dance and silent auction event.

Every Thursday Rain or Shine

June 4, 2015 to August 20, 2015

Gates Open 5:30 p.m.

Slack 6:00 p.m p.m..

Grand Entry 7:30 p.m.

Gus Darien Arena

1 mile East of Carbondale on Catherine Stor Storee Road

carbondalerodeo.com c arbondaler odeo .com 18 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

This year’s Happening, Carbondale Rotary recently awarded $12,000 in scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Roaring Fork and Basalt High schools. This year’s recipients are, from Roaring Fork: Ian Rothman, Roy Benge, Ben Carpenter, Ariel Murphy, Briana Boland (our Rotary Youth Exchange student this year in Taiwan), Mario Alverde, Emily Fuller and Emily Fisher; and from Basalt: Oswaldo Ramos, Daniela Chissum, Michelle Lehman and Jamie Briscoe.

“VIVA MEXICO!” takes place Saturday, June 20, at the Gathering Center.

Your participation is appreciated to help us achieve our scholarship and grant goals for the year. See any club member for tickets to the event, or email thehappening@ carbondalerotary.com

The Carbondale Rotary Club meets at 6:50 a.m. on Wednesdays at the Carbondale Firehouse. Visitors are welcome to come enjoy our weekly program and learn about the wonderful work Rotary does in the community and around the world.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS June 10 Robin Hamill President Haiti Children June 17 Club Assembly June 24 Jon Fox-Ruben Valley Settlement Project For program suggestions, contact Rick Carlson, rccarlson@gmail.com

For membership and other Rotary Club information, visit www.rotarycarbondale.org

Market a rarity: farmers actually help run it

Entering its 10th year

By Denise Barkhurst Sopris Sun Correspondent For the 10th year running, quality fruits and vegetables are coming to Carbondale’s Farmers’ Market at Fourth and Main Streets. Tangy eggplants, crispy green beans, juicy melons and sweet onions complement the baskets of brightly colored peppers that spill onto the tables. Add to these the aromas of heritage tomatoes, roasting Anaheim peppers and fresh peaches, and the farmers’ market becomes a treat for all the senses. The food is picked a day or two before it hits the market tables, and the images can make Bonedalians’ mouths water in anticipation.

The market started when Carbondale’s then economic development director, Joanne Barnett, reached out to bring in local growers for a mid-week market. Stinky Bloom Flowers, Orchard Valley Farms, Forte, Okagawa, Rancho Durazno and Borden Farms were among the first to join in the concept of a market owned and run by farmers. In the state of Colorado, only organizers in Carbondale and Aspen decided to tackle this business concept. In Carbondale, the market formed its own 501(C)(3) non-profit organization and elected a board; fees stay low, $175 a year, and farmers decide on new participants based on the quality of their goods. “We look for serious farmers who are making a living growing food, not re-selling goods from others for a third person profit,” states Guy Borden.

This is the heart of the market — to promote buying local, fresh foods while supporting small farmers. This is also what makes Carbondale one of the better markets for vendors. According to Borden, “Carbondale is a great place because working people want to support local farms.” Aside

COMMENTARY

The Carbondale Farmers’ Market looks for serious farmers who are making a living growing food, not re-selling goods from others for a third person profit. The market heads into its 10th year on June 10. Photo by Denise Barkhurst from that, there’s a social connection. Borden claims, “It’s one of the best markets for the people I’ve come to know over the years.” Adds Frank Zlogar, former market manager, “What I like about it is that it’s laid back — like Carbondale. The town has been great in supporting the market and the location in the Fourth Street Plaza is ideal. It’s Car-

bondale’s living room where we’re sure to see many of our friends. We usually hang out for hours talking to the vendors, buying our local food for the week and listening to great music. We look forward to Wednesday each week during the season.”

FARMERS’ MARKET page 23

More tha than 20 homes part rtic icipa ipate te

Items Inc nclude: lude: -Furniture -Electronics -Household Items -Clothing -Toys -Sport portin ing in g Equipment -Books

THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s weekly community connector • JUNE 4-10, 2015 • 19

EAT. SHOP. PLAY CONFLUENCE OF RIVERS, RECREATION & CULTURE

Forest Service, SkiCo partner on visitor center Sopris Sun Staff Report The Aspen-Sopris Ranger District, Aspen Skiing Company (Ski Co.), and the Forest Conservancy are partnering to pilot a new Visitor Information Services (VIS) location for the summer of 2015 at the base of Aspen Highlands in the Highland’s Ticket Office, located on the Roaring Fork Transit Authority (RFTA) bus route. The new location opened on May 26, according to a press release.

The relocation is due to the forest service’s current budget challenges. “Relocating the VIS to the Highlands location consolidates our seasonal services and reduces administrative costs while still providing a vital service to the public,” stated Karen Schroyer, Aspen-Sopris District Ranger. “By locating at Highlands, we are able to supplement our Visitor Information Services with Maroon Bells staff and volunteers. We are fortunate to work with great partners such as Ski Co. and the Forest Conservancy to pilot this model for the season.”

The pilot move was made possible by

working with partners at Four Mountain Sports and SkiCo. “We are excited to have the forest service based at Highlands at the entrance to the most popular attraction on the White River. The Highland’s Ticket Office can host forest service educational programs and information hosts as well as provide parking and other facilities. Aspen Skiing Company is happy to provide this location to the benefit of our guests and community,” said SkiCo vice-president Rich Burkley.

Forest service personnel and volunteers from the Forest Conservancy will rotate through the staffing schedule at Highlands seven days a week. They will provide map and trail information in addition to interactive interpretive presentations on local flora, fauna and ecology. Free forest service trail, camping and vehicle use maps will be provided to the public at the new Highlands location.

“We look forward to partnering with the forest service and SkiCo to provide information and interpretive programs at Aspen Highlands,” stated Marcia Johnson, Execu-

tive Director of the Forest Conservancy.

The Forest Conservancy is actively seeking out additional volunteers to staff the Visitor Information Services area at Highlands. Serving as a representative of the Forest Conservancy and the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District, the VIS volunteers will welcome the public face-to-face and by telephone at Highlands. The VIS volunteers will have excellent communication skills to effectively interact with the visiting public and exceptional knowledge of the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District trails, camping and wilderness practices. This is an unpaid position. To apply as a VIS volunteer log on to forestconservancy.com or call 963-8071.

The Aspen-Sopris Ranger District also worked with RFTA to extend the Maroon Bells bus schedule to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the busy summer months, increasing the length of day by one hour in the morning to accommodate backpackers who want to get an early start to the trails. Visitors can take the free Castle Maroon Bus from downtown Aspen to reach Aspen Highlands. The bus

will begin running from the Highlands to Maroon Bells on June 13.

The White River National Forest and the Aspen-Sopris Ranger District are continuing efforts to be as efficient and sustainable as possible. The goals of the forest and district are to continue to provide the most effective service to visitors with limited resources available. Aspen-Sopris Ranger District, SkiCo, and the Forest Conservancy will evaluate the long-term viability of the relocation at the end of the season.

The future of the Aspen Ranger Station at 806 West Hallam is still under consideration.

For the time being it will remain a work center for field crews and will not be open to the public. The Sopris Ranger Station on Main Street in Carbondale is open year-round to the public. People inquiring about permits should call 963-2266. Phone calls placed to the Aspen Ranger Station will be forwarded to the Aspen Highlands VIS/Ticketing Office and answered by a U.S. Forest Service representative at 945-3300 or 925-3445.

Chip Seal Monday, June 8 to Friday, June 12, 2015 The Basalt Public Works Department continues its series of summer streets maintenance Monday, June 8 through Friday, June 12, from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m.

NOW ACCEPTING SUMMER CLOTHING ITEMS FOR CONSIGNMENT Also accepting furniture, jewelry, art, housewares and gift items SPIRIT LIFTING CONSIGNMENT

970-927-4384 144 Midland Avenue, Basalt, Colorado 81621

Coffee with the

Mayor

Scoops

Ice Cream

Open daily Basalt’s Only Ice Cream Shop

On Wednesday mornings, after a Tuesday night Council meeting, visit in an informal setting with Basalt Mayor Jacque Whitsitt for coffee and a chat at Saxy’s Coffee Shop, 104 Midland Avenue.

ASPHALT MAINTENANCE WILL OCCUR AT: Midland & Two Rivers: EAST on Two Rivers to Hwy 82 Sopris Drive: Spur to Homestead Sopris Drive: Frying Pan to Spur Lane Please do not park any Frying Pan Road: Barber Shop to Sopris vehicles along the roads during chip-seal applications. Willits Lane: Hwy 82 to Widget Street Vehicles left on street will be towed. One lane will be open for traffic. Expect delays.

Maintenance schedules are subject to change. The town appreciates your patience while we keep the town beautiful. Call 927-4723 x 500 for more information.

Mon-Sat 10-5 Sun 12-5 Down the Block from Big O Tires Basalt 180 South Side Dr 927-6488

This is a great opportunity to share your thoughts, make comments and catch up on what’s happening in Basalt.

All issues and topics welcome.

The next Coffee with the Mayor is:

Wednesday, +VOF at 8 a.m.

20 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

"Non-Profit Supporting Local Sustainable Agriculture"

e path is clear for the Carbondale creative district Cop Shop

By Amy Kimberly Reflection is important, especially as we look to move forward in life. The Carbondale Creative District is 1-year-old in June, which begs the question, “What have we accomplished?”

Luckily, this is an easy question to answer, thanks to the hard work of a core group of stakeholders, the Carbondale town government and the Colorado Office of Economic Development (OEDIT). In one year we have a cohesive vision with a clear path to continued economic vitality. We have a common language that can be found in the Carbondale Parks and Recreation master plan, the Carbondale Creative District strategic plan, the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Council, and within the Carbondale Board of Trustees.

We have strong direction laid out in our strategic plan through the work of our four task forces: Way Finding and Connectivity, Governance, Marketing and Outreach and Economic Vitality. We have some funding to move forward on these projects, especially around Way Finding and Connectivity. We have collected information on over 200 creative businesses that call Carbondale home.

This information will be housed online and will help strengthen this rich broth of busi-

ness and artistry.

We have a vision for beautification, and use of information and interaction on our bike paths, and will slowly begin to implement the Rio Grande ArtWay, thanks to a fruitful relationship with RFTA. We have a grant in to the National Endowment on the Arts, which we may or may not get, but it is beginning a relationship with a strong national funder.

We have a visual guide (a cowgirl on a bicycle) that has public support and will be used to identify points of information, gateways and business support. We worked with the Carbondale Planning and Zoning Commission on the draft UDC and are actively identifying potential live/work and affordable housing projects. We have procured the Colorado Creative Industries Summit in 2016, which will bring over 300 “creatives” from around the state, as well as national funders and innovators.

We have some data, with more being collected, so that we can assess how our efforts are going and we are working closely with other creative districts to inform and promote these districts. Most importantly, we are helping to create -- along with the town’s Comprehensive Plan, the draft UDC, and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan -- a proactive vision for Carbondale. While this project is mothered by the Carbondale Council on

COMMENTARY

Arts and Humanities (CCAH), it takes a village of volunteers to birth this baby.

In order to continue this good work we need more volunteers to get involved and help us collect data, represent the Creative District at meetings and shape the vision of our future. We need more financing. The Carbondale Council on Arts and Humanities is working on procuring additional grant money but you can help simply by becoming a member of CCAH. Membership helps us continue this important community planning, along with all the other work we do in our schools, facilitating artists and providing opportunity for our underserved communities.

We need artists and planners and designers and visionaries to keep this project growing in a meaningful way. We need you!

Our story in Carbondale centers on volunteerism, localism and honoring our environment. Our history is one of providing our own means through ranching and resources, and our vision for the future maintains these strong ties to our earth. This Creative District plan will impact energy consumption by providing more opportunity for people to shop locally, work without commuting and utilizing local resources. This story empowers entrepreneurism, brings clarity for a path forward and engages all our communities. This story is our story. To get involved, offer support or stay informed, please go to www.carbondalearts.com. Your voice is important.

Amy Kimberly is executive director of the Carbondale Council on Arts and Humanities.

om page 4 of May 22, the wallet had not been turned in as lost or located by police.

FRIDAY, May 22: At 7:43 p.m. police were called to a lodging establishment regarding an intoxicated party who allegedly had damaged property in his hotel room. He was arrested and taken to Garfield County Jail.

FRIDAY, May 22: At 11:59 p.m. police responded to a 911 call, and contacted a man who was bleeding from his hands and his head. The man allegedly attacked a police officer and was arrested on a charge of second-degree assault, and then taken to Garfield County Jail.

SATURDAY, May 23: At midnight, police were looking for a “suspicious male breaking into cars” when they came upon a juvenile who was “stumbling down Hendrick (Drive),” according to a police report. The juvenile was stopped and ticketed for being a minor in possession of alcohol or drugs.

SATURDAY, May 23: At 8:18 a.m. police were contacted by a local woman who reported that her vehicle had been broken into through an unlocked rear hatch, and that several items had been stolen.

SATURDAY, May 23: At 10:26 a.m. police were contacted by a man who reCOPS page 23

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From Nepal: e caste system and disaster relief Editor’s note: This is Hamilton Pevec’s latest article after recent earthquakes in Nepal.

By Hamilton Pevec Special to The Sopris Sun POKHARA Nepal — It made me feel like a good consumer spending a lot of money on relief supplies, more than $1,000 (U.S.) on tarps alone. One ton of rice plus 330 pounds of potatoes cost $470! Seventy mattresses and 35 yards of foam matting cost $600.

We collaborated with a new group, got everything ready to go and booked a truck for 8 a.m. the next morning. By 10:30 a.m. it still hadn’t arrived; then we remembered it was Saturday. The driver told us he would be there, and then he must have remembered he doesn’t work on Saturday but failed to inform us. We took the extra day to do more purchasing, arrange another truck and Jeep, and go to bed early. The truck showed up on time a day late. It took three hours to collect all our supplies from around Pokhara, but once we were on the road, all the usual apprehension burnt off under the scorching sun, a cool 105 degrees.

I sat on the pile of mattresses in the back of our Jeep we named Gaia-98. I am probably too used to the roads now. I don’t even notice the near misses and abundant close calls. The police checks have become routine.

I chuckle to myself as they record our info by hand on paper. How will they ever crunch that data?

We were better organized on this mission than ever before. We assembled more supplies, made more direct contact and had a list to follow. This was a test run of our own personal evolution. I made a list of what we would drop at each village. The protocol: List the supplies that get dropped, our village liaison would sign it, translate it to Nepali and date it to become our official record.

Palungtar Our first stop was Palungtar. There were at least 70 homes and half were destroyed by the earthquake. The feeling was strange there.

We all felt it, and it wasn’t just because this was this trip’s first drop. On the outside, the people were well dressed, gold dangling from their ears, fancy motorbikes and big houses

From left to right: Rooz (Iran), Jolie (France), Hamilton (USA) and Priya (Nepal). The foursome recently completed another relief mission to rural parts of Nepal to aid victims of the recent earthquakes.

Right: Among other items, the group distributed 70 mattresses, 35 yards of foam matting and a ton of rice. Photo by Hamilton Pevec that looked intact. It was not the grungy disaster look I had become familiar with. We unloaded the supplies, the count was made and then they started asking for more.

“We need four more tarps,” many people said to Rooz and me. They asked all of us for just “four more.” We explained to them that if we have extra we will bring more later.

Robin said, “We need to pow-wow for a minute.” Her tone was urgent. “OK guys,” he continued. “There is another group over there saying that they were not included in the supply list, that all these people are Chettri and they will not share these supplies with the other half of the village, which is Gurung.”

Our impact on communities became painfully clear: Our presence there had amplified the caste divisions. “What do we do?” someone asked. “Nothing,” said Rooz, “That is not our business.”

We took the Gurung info and request for supplies, but I felt a deep sadness. I was angry at the family we contacted for excluding half the village and I was shocked that these petty caste divisions are still practiced. I wanted to tell them off, but I judged them silently.

Next stops

Here are a few of the Nepalese who have received supplies funded by more than $30,000 raised in the Roaring Fork Valley.

A pair of Basalt Middle School students raised $2,000. Photo by Hamilton Pevec

Sudip Luitel had already called me five times, asking “Where are you?” We picked him up and he showed us to his beautiful off, off road village. We entered another world, flat and tropical with lots of trees lining the houses and farms. We unloaded in a small field and the villagers came out to collect.

They lined up very orderly and had a relaxed

22 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • JUNE 4-10, 2015

feeling the whole team felt. It was one of our smaller requests, with just 550 pounds of rice, 35 beds, and 10 tarps.

We also included blankets, dhal, salt and sugar.

We stayed to observe the distribution that Sudip handled very well. We were back on the road in 40 minutes feeling good that we were half way finished and making good time.

Next was Bonpale, a Dalit village that is “low” caste and suffered a lot of damage.

We went there on our previous trip but returned to make sure they had enough food.

They also requested children’s clothing but we didn’t have any. You wouldn’t know it from the road, but the village and most of the rice fields were destroyed. We unloaded the rest of our food because the last stop was only requesting tarps and mattresses.

Raigaun Just as we were leaving Bonpale we got a phone call from Madhu, our liaison for Raigaun. “Are you OK? Last night a relief truck was robbed by a gang on our road.”

These kinds of stories are more frequent, at least once a week. We decided that if we got robbed we would not fight or protect the supplies. We climbed up the dirt road, with a new feeling of apprehension and adventure.

Upon arrival the whole village was outside waiting for us. We unloaded 41 tarps,

35 mattresses and 28 blankets. We sent our truck driver home and he wanted more money than we had agreed. Madhu, the local school teacher, wanted us to stay and eat. We declined, he insisted and we explained to him that we had to go. He said “two more minutes.” They gave us tea and then his brother and he made speeches thanking us. It was quite sweet and felt real when they adorned us with garlands. It was a community moment.

A relief Driving away, it was a relief for us to be done. It was a long day but there was still some daylight to spare as we looked for the campsite we used before. I fell asleep looking at the stars, thanking God we were safe and sound.

Hamilton Pevec is a documentary filmmaker and former Carbondale resident. He and his Nepalese wife, Devika Gurung, live in Pokhara, Nepal. He is not a trained aid worker but is working to get supplies into isolated areas of Nepal.

Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Market î&#x2C6;&#x2021;om page 19 Jeff Jackel, recreation director for the town, emphasizes the importance of the market. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market has a tremendous economic impact in generating downtown trafďŹ c that helps other businesses and restaurants on what would otherwise be a quiet, mid-week day. We support the market with a $500 town grant towards the music, set up the stage and provide the street barricades.â&#x20AC;?

At other markets, fees can run as high as $2,500 plus a percentage of sales, driving a vendor list of folks who sell food, like brokers, but have nothing to do with growing it.

As a result, the integrity of the market is lost; it becomes about quantity, not quality. The proďŹ t goes to those selling, not growing, and the quality of the food (or lack thereof) isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really â&#x20AC;&#x153;owned.â&#x20AC;?

When the Carbondale market was at its peak, Cloud Nine Brownies, Avalanche Cheese, Pappardellesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Pastas, and a host of meat, bakery and ďŹ&#x201A;ower vendors were at the market. Now, only three farmers have held onto their spots at the Fourth Street market with other artisans and prepared-food vendors ďŹ lling out the plaza; others fell away

Cop Shop î&#x2C6;&#x2021;om page 21

ported his vehicle had been stolen from in his unlocked vehicle had been entered the front of his apartment the night before. night before and â&#x20AC;&#x153;rummaged through.â&#x20AC;? He The vehicle was found later that day in reported that a small backpack had been front of another residence in town. taken but was found with all contents inSATURDAY, May 23: At 12:30 p.m. a side a short distance away from the vehicle. local man reported to police that his vehi- SUNDAY, May 24: At 3:15 a.m. police got cle had been entered through an unlocked a report about an intoxicated male at the door, but that nothing had been taken.

RFTA park and ride lot. While ofďŹ cers Department ate all of you. Thank you.

SATURDAY, May 23: AtChris 2:05Chacos p.m. a were en route to the location, dispatch reoject, and to woman reported that her unlocked vehicle Din!â&#x20AC;? ported that the man had gotten into an orsformed that Project â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gunga had been entered the night before, but ange Subaru and was driving south on Carbondale nothing had been taken.

Highway 133. The vehicle was stopped planting volBoogieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thanks and the driver was arrested and jailed on a SATURDAY, May 23: At 2:18 p.m. police nie Hays with charge of drunk driving. were contacted by a man who reported that Dear Editor: oss, and Zane This past Friday, over 1,000 people kicked de Coalition. rborist, Dave off their Fourth of July celebration with one many duties of Aspenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most popular traditions: the anr pot in our nual Boogieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Buddy Race to benefit the Buddy Program! This 5K race and 1-mile with planting family and canine walk provides funding to ots are: Mary support nearly 1,000 local youth and their Street Spirits), families through many critical services and (Koru con- programs including individual mentoring, erly (CCAH), group mentoring, leadership education, tive (soon-to- Lemonade Day, activities, scholarships, and ary on Fourth therapeutic counseling.

David Houggy Susanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FlowExecutive Director t participants The Buddy Program

and though the recession had a clear downward affect, vendors and customers still thrive on the tasty food and fun social aspects. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s market is always one of our favorite ways to meet our customers and geek out over coffee. With the espresso and pour-over stand front and center itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great way to see our coffee in action,â&#x20AC;? states Rock Canyon Coffee owners Craig Fulmer and Heidi Johnson.

Borden, in the meantime, loves to talk cooking and recipes with his customers, advising them on how to grill Japanese eggplant or stuff squash blossoms. He says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about supporting local farmers and eating locally grown food. If we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t support local farmers, eventually all of our food will come from China and Mexico,â&#x20AC;? a trend already seen at corporate grocery stores.

The market begins Wednesday, June 10 and runs through the end of September.

when they decided they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make enough money.

To be sure, the viability of all farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; markets is shrinking for many local growers and small businesses, even though the number of markets is increasing across the state.

While the trend is towards more organic foods, that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t translate into successful markets. Each year there are more farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; markets, and sellers are constantly looking for the ones that can provide the greatest return on their efforts. This often means that vendors abandon one market for another newer one. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also competition from outside sources; according to Borden. Whole Foods has clearly taken a bite out of the Basalt farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; market, taking it from one of his most proďŹ table markets to one that is struggling to keep its farmers.

Yet, Carbondale continues to hold its own,

Unclassifieds Submit to unclassifieds@soprissun.com by Friday 12 p.m. Rates: $15 for 30 words, $20 for up to 50 words. Payment due before publication.*

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