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Volume 6, Number 28 | August 21, 2014

RFHS plans solar array Students’ idea Sopris Sun Staff Report

A

A worker “nudges” a piece into place with a mallet at Sustainable Setting’s soon-to-be restroom just south of Carbondale.

Dozens of volunteers turned out on Saturday and Sunday to help put up framing for the mortise-and-tenon, timber frame structure. “Kids were driving pegs,” said Sustainable Settings Director Brook Le Van. “The community really came out … with banjos and guitars, it was fun.” The rough-cut timbers are all from local trees, which were also sawed and milled locally. Le Van said the 22-foot by 25-foot restroom will accommodate public gatherings of up to 500 and should be ready “before the snow flies.” Next up for Sustainable Settings in 2015: a 46-foot by 100-foot barn. Photo by Jane Bachrach

cting on an idea from students, the RE-1 School District is poised to build a solar array at Roaring Fork High School that will save the district $400,000 in energy costs over the next 20 years, according to a press release.

The school’s Energy Club proposed the array last school year, following the town’s installation of a similar array at the Carbondale Nature Park (aka Delaney dog park). “Roaring Fork High School is proud to have students with the grit, integrity and curiosity to accomplish such an amazing feat,” said Roaring Fork High School Principal Drew Adams.

“Energy Club members and their sponsor, Wendy Boland, have been championing energy reduction methods for years.”

The RE-1 School District, CLEER, Carbondale Clean Energy 2020 and Sunsense Solar are seeking community input on the school’s proposed solar array.

The large array would be built with no upfront cost to the school district, and would produce enough electricity to meet 100 percent of the school’s electrical energy needs on an annual basis.

The proposal will go before the Carbondale Board of Trustees for an endorsement on Aug. 26. A community open house to solicit feedback is set for 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 8, in the RFHS library, which overlooks the site of the array.

Sunsense Solar’s preliminary site plan depicts the array as five rows of panels mounted on ground-level framework. It would be located on vacant land on the south side of the high school. The array will produce 379 kilowatts of electricity, comparable to the amount of energy used by 76 average American homes.

“This is not only great for the community, it also models the importance of being good stewards of the planet,” Adams said.

“The array will be visible from some neighboring properties and from Highway 133,” said Roaring Fork School District Assistant Superintendent Shannon Pelland.

“We want to make sure neighbors understand the multiple values of the array. It will be educational for students, will save the school district money, and will help Carbondale meet its clean energy goals. We also want to hear any suggestions people might have about the design,” Pelland continued.

The array was downsized from what would have otherwise been needed, thanks to a major enSOLAR ARRAY page 4

free PBR with every bull ride $2 dollar pbr draft $4 Jack Daniel s honey shots

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23RD

Mechanical Bull Riding Competition 4th & Main St. Carbondale Practice at 3pm Competition at 7pm brought to you by:

kids bounce house fun prizes for bull riders!

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.

Bringing hope and healing to veterans

By Annie Davies In years past, when the summer nights began to shorten and the morning sun took longer to warm the Roaring Fork Valley, Russ, a veteran who served three years in the Navy, would begin to prepare for hardship.

While income in the valley picked up for many with the influx of winter tourists, Russ’ seasonal construction work would dwindle and bills would go unpaid. He was able to keep a roof over his head during the busier summer months but lost his apartment when his income dwindled; he was forced to move his few belongings outdoors, settling in a remote site where he pitched a tent and faced the elements alone.

Russ would come in to town for assistance with food and occasional shelter and found support from area non-profits, but was hesitant to re-engage with the community and unsure about resources that could help change his situation. It took an angel who was willing to meet him at his makeshift home, to stand beside him and slowly and persistently coax him to give the community a shot. This angel came in the form of a feisty social worker with a passion for veterans, and

Letters

The Sopris Sun welcomes your letters, limited to no more than 400 words. 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.

Bike race thanks Dear Editor: On behalf of the Carbondale Chamber and Tourism Council of Carbondale, I would like to thank everyone who made the Carbondale sprint leg of the USA Pro Challenge a success!

A special thanks to the following: Town of Carbondale Trustees and Staff, Lt. Chris Wurtsmith for coordinating the safety along the route, the farmer’s market vendors, Mike Waters and John Hatanaka for the lively music, Brian Colley for the “Carbondale” chalk outline, Marcel Kahhak for the live painting, our media partners for the coverage, the weather (no rain, woo hoo), InterMountain Waste & Recycling, It’s My Party, Joe Lang with Tumbleweed Productions, Carbondale Chamber staff and countless volunteers, and last, but certainly not least, the Carbondale community for participating in the chalk mural and for cheering on the riders!

We would also like to thank the city of Aspen for their guidance, and the USA Pro Challenge for this exciting opportunity. We invite you to post your USA Pro Challenge photos and videos on our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/Carbondale, #VisitCarbondale #ProChallenge Andrea Stewart Carbondale Chamber Executive Director

the backing of an organization equipped to provide holistic care.

Lydia DeLaRosa, a veteran support specialist with Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS), has a track record of success.

The work that she is doing, in collaboration with her colleagues, other non-profits, veteran advocates and public resources is making a dramatic dent in the number of homeless veterans in Colorado. Between 2012 and 2013, Colorado found housing for 827 homeless vets, posting the second largest decrease in veteran homelessness in the country.

DeLaRosa lives in Grand Junction, but with support from the local community and the new Western Slope Veterans Coalition, RMHS now has a part-time office at Carbondale’s Third Street Center and a homebase in the valley to better serve veterans like Russ.

The beginnings What developed into the Western Slope Veterans Coalition began as the vision of retired Lt. Col. Dick Merritt many years ago.

“The Colonel,” as he is affectionately known to many, believed strongly in the responsibil-

ity of the community to care for those who served and sacrificed for their country. He and other committed area veterans were introduced to me (director of communications/development at Rocky Mountain Human Services) early in 2014. They explained their need for strong organizational support to bring together the disparate resources for veterans and create an umbrella to share information, best practices and an infrastructure to ensure that the spectrum of mental and physical health, housing and employment needs that veterans can face are addressed in an efficient and effective manner.

At the same time, Rocky Mountain Human Services, was looking for opportunities to improve its statewide services in rural Colorado and create a stronger network between its Front Range and Grand Junction offices. RMHS has over 23 years of experience providing resources, case management and direct services to veterans, families and individuals with cognitive disabilities throughout Colorado and prides itself on the ability to keep administrative expenses to 11.5 percent — well below the industry average.

VETERANS page 9

e business of community events

By Amy Kimberly Putting on public events is easier said than done. That feel-good rush of sharing talent and good times with a community soon loses its youthful blush and gives way to an angry shade of gray. It’s an interesting phenomenon that eventually creeps its way into passionate places.

Take the example of my good friend Bryan Welker. He moved downvalley with his wife and soon had a family on the way.

He loved Carbondale but, most importantly, he had to make money to support his family. He didn’t have time to volunteer or involve his clients in community as ways to market themselves. (He is in marketing). Slowly, the Carbondale way bit him in the foot and he started observing the vibrancy that community events attracted and saw the value to involving himself, and his clients, in these events.

This kind of marketing is a win-win situation and Bryan and his clients dove in deep. They went to meetings, volunteered their time, donated product and money and supported the community in ways they were asked. And it worked. Their businesses grew; Carbondale events grew as well.

Then a funny thing happened. Some people decided that all this visibility for these few businesses was not good, or they didn’t like the sponsorship banners at events or the noise or the choice of music or … you get the picture. You think you are doing something good and it’s the classic ”I feel I am trying to help so why are all these folks angry at me”? feeling. I have

2 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • AUGUST 21, 2014

experienced this with Summer of Music concerts. James Surls has been on that end most recently and now my buddy Bryan.

What concerns me in this most recent situation is the perception that a Crystal River Spas or Sopris Liquor and Wine banner is a negative thing. These are our local businesses who are investing in our community, as well as in their futures. These are businesses that we want to be successful.

Even better, these are businesses that are willing to invest in community events.

Yes, INVEST. All these events take money to pull off, especially if the price tag is “Free to the Public.” The town of Carbondale is a generous and a wonderful partner in many of these events, but they can’t cover all the costs. This leads to the necessity for sponsorship and donations in covering the rest.

Thank goodness we have businesses like The Village Smithy, Mi Casita, Pour House, Crystal River Spas, Sopris Liquor and Wine, Bonfire, and The Agency, who put their money where their mouth is, not to mention hours of unpaid work to grow great events that attract folks and business to Carbondale. Now we want to eat them alive for showing off their logo or banner during these events as if it is an affront.

We promote “Buy Local” and believe in local business, so where is the disconnect?

More importantly, where is our gratitude?

Carbondale is a lovely melting pot of creativity, business, arts, nonprofits and humanity. Our strength is in our collaborations and respect for each other.

Lets keep it that way!

OPINION

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Donations accepted online or by mail. For information call 510-3003 Editor/Reporter: Lynn Burton • 970-510-3003 news@soprissun.com Advertising: Bob Albright • 970-927-2175 bob@soprissun.com Photographer: Jane Bachrach Ad/Page Production: Terri Ritchie CURRENT BOARD MEMBERS board@soprissun.com Debbie Bruell, President Barbara Dills, Vice President Colin Laird, Treasurer • Frank Zlogar Sue Gray • Denise Barkhurst Honorary Board Members David L. Johnson • Jeannie Perry Trina Ortega • Laura McCormick Founding Board Members Allyn Harvey • Becky Young • Colin Laird Barbara New • Elizabeth Phillips Peggy DeVilbiss • Russ Criswell

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www.soprissun.com Send us your comments: feedback@soprissun.com The Sopris Sun is an LLC organized under the 501c3 non-profit structure of the Roaring Fork Community Development Corporation.

RE-1 Pre-Collegiate Program enters new phase

By David D. Smith The RE-1 school district is expanding its Pre-Collegiate Program, so The Sopris Sun asked three of those involved – an administrator, student and mentor – to talk about their views and involvement.

The process of applying to and paying for college is daunting even for those with the best support systems. Navigating that gauntlet is usually more difficult for those students who are the first in their family trying to get a post-secondary education.

Over 10 years ago, visionary leaders in the Roaring Fork School District recognized this dilemma and, with the help of community partners, formed the Roaring Fork Pre-Collegiate Program. The program is designed to provide additional support to those students in the Glenwood Springs, Carbondale and Basalt schools who would be the first in their family to go to college.

The program offers academic and extracurricular enrichment through a volunteer-mentor based system. Mentors begin working with small groups of selected students in the seventh grade and stay with them through graduation. Many mentors

build lifelong relationships with their “kids.” Through regular meetings, mentors help to introduce the concept of college.

They work on nuts-and-bolts-like essays, resumes and college applications, and help students with financial aid and scholarship applications. The work is all geared towards establishing a culture and expectation of college attendance.

In addition to mentoring, the other cornerstone of pre-collegiate is the summer residential program, made possible by the support of Colorado Mountain College and the University of Colorado. In the summers before ninth and 10th grade pre-collegiate students spend a week at the Spring Valley campus of CMC, staying in the dorms and taking classes. Before 11th and 12th grade the students are able to spend two weeks in residence at the campus of the University of Colorado at Boulder. These summer programs are tremendously empowering for students, and many come back to high school able for the first time to really picture themselves in college and with a clearer vision and drive to attain that goal.

Currently the program is serving over 200 students, thanks to the efforts of over 25 mentors. Students must be recommended

to the program by a teacher or counselor.

Once accepted, the student must continue to meet high academic and community service obligations to remain in the program. Since its inception the program has had a 100 percent high school graduation rate and a 98 percent college attendance rate. Graduates of the program attend colleges from coastto-coast and many are recipients of awards and scholarships like the Daniels Fund Scholarship, the Chick Evans Scholarship, and the Boettcher Scholarship.

Until recently the program has operated with an executive director (currently Leslie Emerson) as the only full time employee, together with a part-time administrative assistant. Given the program’s success there have been “wait lists” created at many schools for students who may otherwise qualify for the program. Recognizing this need, members of the program’s Advisory Board, with the support of RFSD Superintendent Diana Sirko, approached the University of Colorado about expanding the program to meet demand. University of Colorado President Bruce Benson agreed, and awarded the program a three-year financial gift to hire a full-time assistant director, create better mentor resources, and

formalize and modernize to try to serve more students.

It is an exciting time in the valley for college preparatory services. Roaring Fork School District’s strategic plan includes the express goal of ensuring that all students are ready to meet the needs of college or career upon graduation. The Aspen Community Foundation (a founding pre-collegiate partner) is embarking on its Cradle to Career initiative. The Aspen Community Foundation also oversees the John Gold Pre-Collegiate Program Scholarship, which specifically provides financial support to pre-collegiate students. Pre-collegiate is another piece in this larger puzzle, and with the continued support of its partners, private donors and volunteers, pre-collegiate will strive to ensure that the barriers to college acceptance and attendance for first-generation students can and will be removed.

For more information on the program, volunteering or giving, please visit www.rfsdprecollegiate.org or contact me at dsmith@rfschools.com.

David D. Smith is assistant executive director for the RE-1 School District’s PreCollegiate Program.

Pre-Collegiate Program will “always believe in you”

By Yazmin Castillo Sopris Sun Intern “This program will always believe you.”

This is what Ingrid Gomez had to say about the Roaring Fork Pre-Collegiate Program, which caters to future first generation college students from Roaring Fork, Basalt and Glenwood Springs high schools. Along with other students, I have been involved in the program since my seventh grade year in Carbondale schools, and it has been a wonderful experience.

During the middle school years the program exposes you to different careers and also prepares you to be successful in your upcoming years of high school. When the students enter high school, that’s when all the fun and hard work begins.

The Pre-Collegiate Program also offers

four summer programs: two at Colorado Mountain College (which last a week) and two at the University of Colorado at Boulder campus (which last two weeks). I had the privilege to attend all of them. Not only were they a rewarding experience academically and socially, but it’s an involvement that I will carry and treasure my whole life.

Students from Roaring Fork, Basalt and elsewhere participated in the Roaring Fork program this last June, where they got a glimpse of what college life will be like.

Most of them being first generation college students, the experience was very beneficial in the college planning process.

I attended the University of Colorado Summer Pre-Collegiate program at Boulder, and it was one of my best years yet. I had the chance to be challenged academically,

live on a college campus and meet new people. During the stay at CU-Boulder, not only do we stay with other students from around the Roaring Fork Valley, but our program pairs up with students from the Summit County Pre-Collegiate Program.

“I like that they are there to help me when I am confused on what my next steps are going to be,” said Summit County senior Alex Veleta.

Pre-Collegiate is a phenomenal program.

They open up doors for their students and will do anything for them to succeed. I will be starting school soon as a Roaring Fork senior, and I know that I would not be able to go into this school year confidently without the assistance of the Pre-Collegiate Program. Current high school students as well as many college graduates who have been part of Pre-Collegiate can say we owe everything to this program, and wish that it continues to help other students.

Pre-Collegiate volunteer “hooked” on helping

By Bonnie Cretti Special to The Sopris Sun I retired from full-time teaching at Roaring Fork High School in the spring of 2004.

Within just a few weeks, I was contacted by the then-director of the Pre-Collegiate Program, Adriana Ayala, to see if I would be interested in becoming a volunteer mentor.

Would I take on a group of freshmen at RFHS who had lost their mentor? For some prescient reason, I did not hesitate to say “yes.” Ten years and many re-inventions later, I am still hooked.

Pre-Collegiate is a microcosm of what could and maybe should be provided for all high-school students in the Roaring Fork School District. It provides mentoring, test

preparation, access to opportunities, summer programs, parental support, and information about the entire college application process for its students. These advantages would benefit all students, but are only now available for those who qualify, who are first-generation college-bound and who show academic promise at some point between the sixth and 11th grades.

Yazmin Castillo is a wonderful example of the power of pre-collegiate. She will be entering her senior year at RFHS soon with skills, information, and motivation that could be at least in part a result of her participation in the Pre-Collegiate Program. The rest of the credit goes to Yazmin! She is unbelievably optimistic, responsible and willing, with a great PRE-COLLEGIATE page 13

U.S. racer Tyler Magner (left) won Tuesday’s Carbondale sprint in the USA Pro Challenge, followed by Kiel Reijnen (USA) and Jure Kocjan (Slovakia). More than 1,000 spectators lined Main Street for the race, which ended at Mt. Crested Butte about two hours after it rolled through Carbondale. For more photos, please see pages 5, 7 and 8. Photo by Jane Bachrach

THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • AUGUST 21, 2014 • 3

Solar array

om page 1

ergy efficiency project the school district is doing this year. Upgrades to the school’s heating, cooling and lighting are expected to reduce electric usage by 20 to 30 percent, allowing a corresponding reduction in the solar system size.

In June, Sunsense secured renewable energy credits for the project from Xcel Energy, through its highly competitive Solar*Rewards program. The renewable energy credit payments continue for 20 years, and are essential for the third-party financing arrangement set up to install the solar array, according to Katharine Rushton, commercial sales manager for the Carbondale-based Sunsense Solar.

Sunsense brought in California-based Sunforce Solutions International to pay for the project through a power purchase agreement (PPA). Roaring Fork will pay Sunforce a low, set rate for power generated, plus a minimal fee to Xcel Energy for backup electric service from the utility’s grid, according to Rushton.

“Bringing RFHS to net-zero for electricity will be a giant step for Carbondale to meet its clean energy goals,” said Michael Hassig, former mayor and a member of the Carbondale Clean Energy 2020 Technical and Financial Advisory Committee. “The high school is one of the single largest electrical users in town, and presents a great opportunity for more solar energy.”

The project is one of three large solar ar-

Sponsored by

COFFEE COMPANY 1150 Hwy 133 (Next to the New Roaring Fork Family Practice Clinic)

Cop Shop The following events are drawn from incident reports of the C’dale Police Dept.

THURSDAY Aug. 14 At 2:45 a.m. police received the first of several bear calls, most of which had to do with bears in trash cans, except for one about a bear walking down Cowan Drive. Other streets included Highway 133 and Ferguson Drive.

SATURDAY Aug. 16 At 9:31 a.m. police received the first of three calls related to an alleged rooster living on Mancos Drive. (Editor’s note: It’s hard to tell whether this issue was ever resolved to everyone’s satisfaction).

The proposed solar array at Roaring Fork High School would sit on the south side of the building. The project is a joint effort between the school, RE-1 School District, CLEER, Carbondale Clean Energy 2000 and Sunsense Solar. An open house at the school is slated for Sept. 8 at 6:30 p.m. to explain the array and field questions. Courtesy graphic rays in Garfield County that secured renewable energy credits this year from Xcel Energy through Sunsense. The other projects will power the water treatment plants serving the Battlement Mesa Metro District and the Town of Silt. Together, the three arrays add up to 1 megawatt of electrical ca-

pacity and represent a $2.3 million investment in solar energy.

An array being installed on the roof of the Carbondale Branch Library by Colorado Mountain College students is also being funded in part by Xcel’s renewable energy credits.

SATURDAY Aug. 16 At about 6 a.m. police assisted the fire district with a Dumpster fire on Nieslanik Drive. The fire did not appear to be intentionally set.

SATURDAY Aug. 16 At 11:31 p.m. police contacted four juveniles for curfew violations in the 1300 block of Main Street. A Carbondale kid was sent home; three from Glenwood were released to their parents.

Sunday Morning Worship at:

Carbondale Middle School Auditorium 9:00 Traditional Worship Service 10:00 Educational Hour Faithcarbondale.com

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N OS PECTATOR DOGS D O GS ALLOWED ALLOWED NO SPECTATOR 4 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • AUGUST 21, 2014

Photo by Lynn Burton

C’dale rises to Challenge Carbondale volunteers and town staffers rose to the occasion when the 2014 USA Pro Challenge bike race wound its way through town then out to Highway 133 on its way to the Stage 2 finish line at Mt. Crested Butte on Tuesday. The wait was long and the race action short, as folks started filtering downtown at about 10 a.m. to help with the Main Street chalk art, then drifted away after the last CSP vehicle turned south on Main Street to signal the end of the race caravan at about 12:45 p.m. In between, the Chamber of Commerce-organized farmer’s market and musicians kept everyone entertained and as busy as they wanted to be.

Carbondale apparently didn’t receive the helicopter coverage it was hoping for on NBC Sports, but was reportedly included at about the two-hour mark during a brief interlude in live coverage.

The USA Pro Challenge concludes on Aug. 24 with a 78-mile race from Boulder to Denver.

Photo by Jane Bachrach

Top to bottom: The bird’s eye view from a Koru window in the Dinkel Building. Pre-race publicity put the race’s entrance time into Carbondale at “about” noon but the sprint winners and rest of the peloton didn’t make it until about 12:45 p.m. There was no breakaway group so the back of the pack was separated from the front of the pack by less than a minute. Middle: As soon as the racers hit town and started down Main Street, up came dozens of cell-phone cameras along the course. A prime viewing spot was on the deck at Allegria and Phat Thai.

Bottom: The caravan that sandwiched the racers included official race vehicles, Colorado State Patrol cars, motorcycles for race media coverage and support vehicles (shown here).

Photo by Jane Bachrach

THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • AUGUST 21, 2014 • 5

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Healthy Foods, Healthy Lives              

       

   

          

    

Featuring "tasting stations"     

Scuttlebutt

Send your scuttlebutt to news@SoprisSun.com.

Agnes (left) and Baa (right) were recently spotted in the Roaring Fork Valley Co-Op. If you remember from 2011, Agnes and Baa are from Wyoming, got separated from their flock and hoofed it down to the sheepdog trials at Strang Ranch that year.

We’ll, Agnes and Baa are “baaaaack” and once again looking for their flock before the 2014 National Sheepdog Trials commence at Strang Ranch on Sept. 9. And if you’re wondering what’s up with Baa laying upside down, she got into the Co-Op’s horse treats and ate one too many. Photo by Jane Bachrach

Snarled in Aspen Some folks who planned their USA Pro Challenge bike-race day around getting on a RFTA bus at Rubey Park in Aspen at about 4:45 p.m., and making it to Carbondale about one hour later, were thinking (and fuming) again, when they were still sitting in snarled Aspen traffic at 5:45 p.m. Riders reportedly did make it into the BRT park-andride lot on Highway 133 until about 6:50 p.m. – one hour behind schedule. No official word from upvalley on why the buses were trapped in Aspen and couldn’t make it out, although a rider told The Sopris Sun the delay wasn’t due to anything that RFTA did or didn’t do. Tuesday’s race start was also delayed for about a half hour Tuesday morning for a “TV window,” according to a race spokeswoman. No word on whether that delay contributed to RFTA’s problems … or exactly what a “TV window” is. On a related note, at least two Carbondale area residents didn’t make it to the top of McClure Pass on Tuesday to view the race, after they were turned away and told the pass closed at noon and not the 1 p.m. as advertised. A CDOT spokesman told The Sopris Sun that McClure Pass was closed early because racers made better time than expected, and that the 1 to 3 p.m. closing times advertised in the days leading up to the race were “approximate” times.

Lulu vanishes into Smoke Patrons at the Red Rock Diner know her as “Lulu” but her entire name is Perla Anggasuria (she’s originally from Indonesia). Lulu is one of Carbondale’s top-notch waitresses and has been serving breakfast with a smile and good cheer for several years. She lives in

   

Glenwood Springs, though, and rolling out of bed at 4 a.m. or 5 a.m. can be drag, especially when working other jobs as well. So, Lulu put in her last shift at the Red Rock Diner a few days ago and is now a waitress at Smoke barbecue in Glenwood (“under the bridge”).

Drop in and say “hi.”

Talent agency issues cabin call Tricon Film & Television is casting for a pilot episode for a cabin home renovation TV series titled “Rustic Reno’s.” A Tricon spokeswoman said, “We’re desperately looking for families that would like to renovate or redecorate their cabin or are in the market to purchase a fixer upper cabin.” If you have a family, are 25-50 years old and are about to buy or renovate a cabin in Garfield, Pitkin, Eagle, Summit, Grand or Routt counties, email aisha.fairclough@triconfilms.com.

Gardening news

Word has it this has been a good year fo squash and a bad year for grasshoppers.

Independence Run & Hike turns 8 Independence Run & Hike in La Fontana Plaza celebrates its eighth anniversary on Aug. 22. Run on over and say “hi.” For details, call 704-0909 or e-mail independencerun@sopris.net.

They say it’s your birthday Folks celebrating their birthday this week include: Kathy McCann and Jeannie Perry (Aug. 22); Chrissy Leonard (Aug.23); John Hoffmann and Danielle Rozga (Aug. 25); Julia Tallmadge (Aug. 26); and Joanne Howard (Aug. 27).

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Gone in a blink It took racers less than a minute to pedal their bikes the half-mile from the east end of Main Street to Seventh Street, where they turned south, skirted Sopris Park for one block, hooked a left one block to Weant Boulevard then a right to Highway 133. Between the lead cars, the pack of about 120 racers, then the trailing vehicles, the entire caravan maneuvered through town in less than five minutes.

Photo by Jimmy Serrano

Photo by Debbie Bruell

Clockwise from upper right: Racers slowed a bit but not much before turning south on Seventh Street; motorcycles were sandwiched between the last racer and trailing support vehicles; spectators got their first good look at the peloton as it entered town at the east end of Main Street after leaving Aspen about 90 minutes earlier.

Photo by Jane Bachrach

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Chalk it up to Carbondale Chalk artists enjoyed another wide-open canvas at the USA Pro Challenge bike race on Tuesday.

Clockwise from upper right: scribblers of all ages filled in the gigantic “Carbondale;” Lisa Weurker did the lettering outline and volunteers added the color for the Thompson Divide Coalition, which hoped to attract a little helicopter coverage; Patrick Johnson sat out the chalking session because he broke both his little fingers in a recent bicycle race accident; Brian Colley is the man behind the “Carbondale” lettering.

Photo by Jane Bachrach Photo by Ruthann Zlogar

Photo by Jane Bachrach

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Ex-Interior official: How clean should we go?

Eric Skalac

When it comes to hydraulic fracturing, the web of federal and state environmental regulations have things pretty well covered.

That was the message of Rebecca Watson, former Department of Interior official, told Garfield County Energy Advisory board earlier this month.

Watson is the former assistant secretary of Lands and Minerals Management for the Department of Interior. She left Washington in 2005, and since then has practiced law in the west, representing renewable and conventional energy clients, logging companies, ranchers and others. Watson currently represents SG Interests, who holds natural gas leases in the Thompson Divide, west of Carbondale.

At the meeting, Watson spoke about the public perception that the oil and gas industry is exempt from big federal environmental laws like the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Clean Air and Clean Water Acts. Though those federal regulations do contain exemptions for the oil and gas industry, according to Watson, state environmental regulations pick up the slack.

In Colorado, that means environmental regulation by the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, covering gaps in the federal laws around things like fracking chemical disclosure, and regulation of methane releases and storm water runoff.

The state has a pretty robust system, Watson said. And though not unique among western states, Watson said Colorado is “ahead of the pack.”

Watson believes the environmental laws covering oil and gas operations are only getting more stringent, but she’s strongly opposed to hydraulic fracturing bans like those enacted in Longmont and Fort Collins.

“I don’t think that’s the right way to handle this,” Watson said. “Because energy is at the bottom of our whole quality of life and our economic well being.”

During the meeting, one Carbondale resident questioned Watson about that stance, asking if she’d heard of the Precautionary Principle, which in this case would put the burden of proof on the oil and gas industry to prove that hydraulic fracturing is not harmful to public health or the environment, assuming scientific consensus hasn’t already been reached.

“Yes, but you can be precautionary so that you don’t do anything,” Watson responded.

“And if the production of oil and gas is so terrible, we would’ve seen a lot more evidence of it than what we are seeing,” she added, talking about hydraulic fracturing specifically.

The executive director of the Thompson Divide Coalition was also at the meeting, and though he didn’t ask Watson about the Thompson Divide directly, he did ask about the appropriateness of drilling on public lands in general where there’s existing tourism, agriculture and recreation.

Watson said there were some places where oil and gas drilling wasn’t appropriate, and that the planning process is structured for just that: to help the federal government identify resources on public land and give them input on how those lands should be managed.

“The public has a huge role to play in helping the federal government decide those questions,” Watson said. She added that in her experience traveling western public lands states with the Department of Interior, she learned that, “it’s pretty hard to find a piece of ground that somebody doesn’t think is special.”

Ultimately, Watson described a fine balance between regulation that protects our natural resources and public health, and reg-

ulation that allows the country’s oil and natural gas to be developed economically. She thinks citizens need to look critically at environmental regulations.

“How clean do we go?” she asked. “Because none of our environmental laws require no discharge. We do discharge pollution into waterways. But it’s regulated so that it doesn’t impair the standards that EPA and the states have determined necessary to support

the uses of those waters.”

And as far as fracking bans? “Well, that’s just not realistic,” she said. “That’s not the way we do things in the U.S. What we do do is we look at it, we regulate it, we subject it to the scrutiny of the public, to litigation, and we regulate industries in that fashion. Because we have to have an economy as well.”

Eric Skalac is a reporter for KDNK.

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Veterans om page 2 The intersection of local support and organizational capacity — along with a lot of meetings and hard work — resulted in the development of the Western Slope Veterans Coalition (WSVC). The Colonel’s passion and vision are contagious, and the group has grown steadily to include members of the Aspen and Glenwood Springs Elks, support from Disabled American Veterans, advice from area human service agencies and veteran service officers, and information sharing and referrals from non-profits that care for veterans including Huts for Vets, the Salvation Army and Feed My Sheep.

The new Carbondale office, staffed part-time in the Third Street Center, will provide a “one-stop-shop” for veterans and their families to learn about and connect with local organizations and services. The office will also provide housing assistance, employment opportunities and support for veterans with traumatic brain injury.

Among the Western Slope Veterans Coalition’s goals: Eliminate veteran homelessness on the Western Slope, prevent veteran suicide and improve the mental and physical health of veterans on the Western Slope, support healthy and stable veteran families.

How you can help: Learn about the benefits your business can realize by hiring a veteran through RMHS’ employment program; invite a WSVC member to your next business, professional association or networking meeting to share information about our services; become a veteran mentor; support the coalition through a personal donation or through your business, or include the WSVC as a beneficiary of your next party or event For general information on the Western Slope Veterans Coalition or information about joining or supporting the WSVC, contact me at 303-636-5918 or adavies@rmhumanservices.org.

If you are a veteran who needs assistance, please contact Lydia DeLaRosa at 970-812-2993.

To access services and programs for veterans, please visit rmhumanservices.org/wsvc.

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Trusted Quality and Integrity Since 1944 THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • AUGUST 21, 2014 • 9

Community Calendar THURS.-SUN. Aug. 21-24 FILM • Mountain Summit: Mountainfilm in Aspen presents four award winning documentaries at the Wheeler Opera House.

For details, see the ad on the back page of this week’s Sopris Sun. Info: wheeleroperahouse.com.

THURSDAY Aug. 21 RODEO • The 2014 season of the Carbondale Wild West Rodeo concludes tonight at Gus Darien Arena east of town on County Road 100. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.; slack starts at 6 p.m. with the Grand Entry at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 adults/$30 per carload up to six, free for kids under 10.

Info: carbondalerodeo.com.

LIVE MUSIC • KDNK and Thunder River Theatre Company co-host a dance party featuring the Carolyn Wonderland Band at 7:30 p.m. Wonderland is an Austin, Texas based blues rocker. Matt Weitz, of the Dallas Observer, said Wonderland is, “One of the most impressively powerful voices recently heard anywhere, regardless of sex.

Able to cajole, promise and growl with equal power, she plays guitar with much the same forcefulness!” Tickets are $15 at the door; $10 for KDNK members. Info: KDNK.org.

OPEN MIC • Boomerang Coffee Company on Highway 133 hosts an open mic night from 7 to 10 p.m. featuring music poetry and stand-up routines. Coming up: on Sept.

4 Boomerang holds a latte art competition from 6 to 9 p.m., presenting some of the

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.

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Info: 970-749-7273.

Also performing at Rivers: TJAAR and Electric Lemons.

CLASSICAL MUSIC • New York-based composer/guitarist/singer-songwriter Hiroya Tskuomoto performs at the Carbondale Branch Library at 4 p.m. It’s free. His acoustic music is often described as “impressionistic and cinematic” and contains elements that range from folks and jazz to Japanese style music.

LIVE MUSIC • Steve’s Guitars in the old part of the Dinkel Building presents live music every Friday night. Info: 963-3304.

THEATRE • SoL Theatre presents a musical based on Amy Krakow’s “The Mutt and the Monster” children’s book series at the Event Hall (aka PAC3) in the Third Street Center starting at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Info: soltheatrecompany.com.

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

ART TALK • Wyly Art Center in Basalt presents a free art talk with Karen Divine at 5:30 p.m. Info: 927-4123.

FRIDAY Aug. 22 MOVIES • The Crystal Theatre presents “Magic in the Moonlight” (PG-13) at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 22-28; “Chef” (R) at 5 p.m. Aug. 22, 23, 25; “Away to Me” (NR) at 5 p.m.

Aug. 24 (fundraiser for 2014 National Sheepdog Finals) and “Begin Again” (R) captioned, at 5:15 p.m. Aug. 26.

LIVE MUSIC • Rivers restaurant hosts a CD release party from 6 to 9 p.m. for Dan Rosenthal’s debut recording “Arrows of Love.” The CD includes 19 local musicians.

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TNHA • True Nature Healing Arts (100 N. Third St.) presents Heart Rhythm: A Dance Liberation Project from 7:30 to 9 p.m. This is a fusion of dance, drums and sound; experience is not required. Info: truenatureheals.com.

REDSTONE • The Redstone Historic Society holds its annual membership drive from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Redstone Castle.

The night includes Crystal Palace founder Mead Metcalf and Stephanie Askew (of Redstone Rubies fame). They’ll perform opera and musical favorites. The event is open to the public; tickets are $25. Info: Sue McEvoy at 704-1843.

SATURDAY Aug. 23 LAND DANCE • The Aspen Valley Land Trust’s 11th annual Save the Land Dance will be held at the John Nieslanik Ranch at 5:30 p.m. Music will be provided by Halden Wofford and the Hi Beams. There will also be a sheep-herding demonstration. Tickets are $100; $50 for those under 40 years old.

Tickets are available at 963-8440 or at avlt.org. The sponsors include: Lost Marbles Ranch, Spring Valley Ranch (Seligman Family Foundation), Pitkin County Open Space and Trails, Bighorn Toyota, Gran Farnum Printing, Obermeyer Asset Management, Merrill Lynch, Sporting Ranch

Capital, Coldwell Banker/Mason Morse, Dalby, Wendland & Co., P.C., DHM Design, Chevron, and the Conservation Resource Center.

SUNDAY Aug. 24 FESTIVAL LAS AMERICAS • Roaring Fork Rotary Club Rotario presents the annual Festival Las Americas from 10 a.m. to dusk at Sopris Park. There’ll be music, food, games and more. Info: festivalamericas.com.

FILM • The 2014 National Sheepdog Finals presents the documentary “Away to Me” at the Crystal Theatre at 5 p.m. The film follows sheepdog champions from the U.S., Canada and South Africa in their quest to win the Soldier Hollow sheepdog trial in Utah.

CVEPA MEETS • The Crystal Valley Environmental Protection Association holds its annual dinner and meeting at the Redstone Inn starting at 6 p.m. (cocktails at 5 p.m.)

Dinner is $24. Info: 963-1389 LUTHERANS MEET • Faith Lutheran Church holds a worship service at the Carbondale Middle School auditorium: traditional service (9 a.m.), educational hour (10 a.m.), living praise worship (11:30 a.m.).

Info. Faithcarbondale.com and 925-7725.

ASC • A Spiritual Center in the Third Street Center presents Rick Davis (“Better to Give Than Receive”) at 10 a.m. Coming up: A Rev. David Alexander CD (“Spiritual Growth”) on Aug. 31. Info: 963-5516.

CALENDAR page 11

Community Calendar POETRY • Victoria’s Espresso & Wine Bar hosts the Aspen Poets’ Society open mic night. The River City Nomads, from Salida, will also perform. No cover. Info: 379-2136.

TUESDAY Aug. 26 TWO STEP TUESDAYS • Two Step Tuesdays hops back to its weekly shindigs the Masonic Lodge (901 Colorado Ave.) in Glenwood Springs. This is a country music dance mix so boots and country dress is encouraged. Dance lessons from 6 to 7 p.m., dance from 7 to 10 p.m. The cost is $15 per person and partners are not required. RSVP at meetup.com. Info: 379-4956.

GLENWOOD MARKET • Glenwood’s Downtown Market happens every Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. There’s live music and more. Info: glenwoodmarket.com and 6183650.

WEDNESDAY Aug. 27 LIBRARY INPUT SESSION • The GarďŹ eld County library system hosts a community meeting to solicit input for its new strategic plan at the Carbondale Branch Library at 6 p.m. RSVP and Info: gcpld.org.

BARSAMIAN SPEAKS • KDNK hosts an open house with the station’s DJs and journalists at 76 S. Second St. at 6:30 p.m., followed by a presentation from David Barsamian at 7:30 p.m. There’ll be wine and cheese. The open house is part of KDNK’s summer membership drive.

OPENING • The Aspen Chapel Gallery opens the show “Flock: Works Inspired by

continued from page 10

Birds� from 5 to 7 p.m. The local artists are Mary Ballou, Staci Dickerson, Linda Drake, Wewer Keohane, Tammie Lane, Jan Panico, Patty Ringer, Jill Scher, Jennifer Sellers and Lisa Singer. The show continues through Oct. 12.

FARMER’S MARKET CONTINUES • The Carbondale Farmer’s Market takes place at the Fourth Street Plaza from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday through Oct. 1. There’s live music, fresh produce, local meat/cheese/bread/crafts and more.

BOOK CLUB • The Senior Matters Book Club meets at the Carbondale Library at 4 p.m. to discuss “Me Before Youâ€? by JoJo Moyes.

LIVE MUSIC • Rivers restaurant holds an open mic night hosted by Dan Rosenthal from 8 to 10 p.m. Info: 928-8813.

CULTURE CLUB • The noontime Culture Club at the Third Street Center presents “Reaching the Higher Ground with Families and Communities in Conictâ€? with R. David Troxel. Info: 963-3221.

LOTERIA NIGHT • The Carbondale Branch Library hosts Loteria Night at 6:30 p.m. on the last Wednesday of the month.

ROTARY • The Rotary Club of Carbondale presents Patrick Hunter (CMC’s sustainability program). Coming up: on Sept.

3, Stacy Stein (Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment program); Sept. 10, Dr. Carrie Besnette Hauser (CMC president). Info or to suggest speakers: riccarlson@gmail.com and steve@kdnk.org.

Further Out

Save the Date

AUDITIONS • CMC Theatre holds auditions for “The Rimers of Eldritchâ€? at the Spring Valley Campus from 6 to 9 p.m. Info: JD Miller at svticketsales@ coloradomtn.edu.

SHEEPDOG FINALS • The 2014 National Sheepdog Finals will be held at the Strang Ranch on Missouri Heights Sept. 9-14. Volunteers are needed. Sign up at avlt.org or sheepdogďŹ nals.com.

Info: sheepdogďŹ nals.com. Tickets range from $5 to $40; kids seven and under are free.

TUES.-SUN. Sept. 9-14

TUES.-WEDS. Sept. 2-3

THURSDAY Sept. 4

THURSDAY Sept. 18

PARTY! • The Carbondale Community Food Co-Op throws a party at Carbondale Beer Works from 4 to 6 p.m. Let Them Roar will play; there’ll be some great rafe prizes. A $1 from every beer goes to the CoOp. Proceeds will help to pay for CCFC’s recent expansion.

BUSINESS EXPO • The Carbondale Chamber of Commerce’s annual Business Conference & Expo takes place from 8 a.m. to noon at the Orchard. More than 30 vendors are expected. Info: cailen@carbondale.com.

FRIDAY Sept. 19

THURSDAY Sept. 14

CHAMBER GOLF • The Carbondale Chamber of Commerce holds its annual golf tournament and ball drop at Aspen Glen, with registration starting at noon and shotgun start at 1:30 p.m. The ball drop’s grand prize is $1,500.

Info: cailen@carbondale.com.

PARTY!! • The Pour House celebrates its 30th anniversay on Sept. 14. Stay tuned for details.

Ongoing WTF CONTINUES • The CCAH show “WTF?: Wall, Table, Floorâ€? continues at the Third Street Center. The show features work

by Frank McGuirk, Doug Casebeer, Jill Oberman, and Andrew Roberts-Gray, each working within their primary medium (clay or painting), to make new work speciďŹ cally designed for display on the wall, the table and oor. “Form, function, and aesthetic qualities will ďŹ nd new solutions through this process,â€? said McGuirk, who is curating the show. “Works will offer decorative or utilitarian purposes — in some instance both, and will highlight the role of creative hand-made works to

enhance quality of living.� The show continues through Sept. 12, with a special Artist Beat event at 5:30 p.m. on Sept. 12. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday. Info: 9631680 or carbondalearts.com.

THOMPSON HOUSE TOURS • The Mt. Sopris Historical Society hosts free tours of the Thompson House Museum on Saturdays from 2 to 5 p.m. through the summer. The historic Thompson House is located directly behind the River Valley Ranch tennis courts.

Info: 963-7041.

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4TH ST. PLAZA

FARMERS’ MARKET Carbondale

IN FULL SWING UNTIL OCT. 1ST! WEDNESDAYS 10 AM - 3 PM

Peaches, produce, lunch, live music, coffee, pastries, pasta, gelato, gluten free bakery, cheese, fresh fish, jewelry, rugs and more!

More information at

CarbondaleFarmersMarket.com THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • AUGUST 21, 2014 • 11

Community Briefs

Go plant some wetland Roaring Fork Outdoor Volunteers stages its Rio Grande Wetlands project in Aspen from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 23. Volunteers will plant native vegetation in the soon-to-be completed Rio Grande Wetlands. “ ‌ (this) is an important part of Aspen’s environmentally responsible storm water treatment system,â€? said a RFOV press release. “This project will also increase the riparian habitat along the river and provide a beautiful, naturalized setting along the river for locals and tourists to enjoy.â€? Volunteers will be rewarded for their hard work with dinner and beverages at the end of the day.

Kids aged 6 to 12 are welcome, with supervised, ageappropriate activities just for them.

WW fixes Sopris trail Wilderness Workshop is looking for volunteers to help repair a one-plus mile section of trail above timberline on Mount Sopris on Sept. 5-7. Volunteers will camp out at Thomas Lakes on Friday and Saturday nights so they can get an early start on the trail. On Sunday there’ll be a barbecue for volunteers at the Dinkel Lake parking lot. You’ll have to bring your own

delivery in smaller, rural communities. The application deadline is Sept. 15. For details, e-mail Tedi Gillespie at tgillespie@wc-cf.org.

CMC holds GED, prep registration Colorado Mountain College is registering students for its adult learning labs in Carbondale and Glenwood Springs. The labs help adults who want to improve their basic academic skills, improve job opportunities, advance to college-level classes or take the GED test. In Carbondale, the classes are held at the Lappala Center Wednesdays from 9 to 11:50 a.m. Registration is Aug. 27 at 9 a.m. For details, call Gina at 947-8259.

JAS looking for volunteers JAS Aspen Snowmass is looking for volunteers for its upcoming Labor Day festival in Snowmass Village on Aug. 29-31. The lineup includes FUN; OneRepublic; Carrie Underwood; Ziggy Marley; Earth, Wind & Fire, and others. Volunteers earn a ticket for every five hours they work. For details, e-mail jasvolunteer@gmail.com.

Rock Bottom tours continue Rock Bottom Ranch between Carbondale and El Jebel offers farm yard tours at 11 a.m. from Monday through Friday. The suggested donation is $10 per family. Larger groups are also welcome. For details or reservations, call 927-6760.

Health grants available The Western Colorado Community Foundation is accepting applications to the Western Colorado Health Fund. Grants range from $1,000-$4,000 and are available to clinics, hospitals and other organizations to address access to health care and to improve health care

Fall Annuals & Perennials Arriving Daily!

Blooming Perennials, Trees and Shrubs Landscape Design and Installation )XZ $BSCPOEBMF $0 t )PVST %BJMZ 4VOEBZ

Folks enjoyed the music from Leadville Cherokee, and David Jacobs Strain, at Saturday’s KDNK Blues & BBQ at Fourth Street Park, although some were a bit more mesmerized by other action at the event. Photo

by Jane Bachrach

Come see top international sheepdogs compete! Enjoy a ffo ood and crafft ffair airr, spinning, weaving, lamb cooking and dog demonstrations. for the whole ffamily! amily!

Fun for

September 9–14, 2014

Tickets: Tickets: Adults $10 daily / $40 full pass Kids 8-16 $5 / $20 full pass, 7 and under are FREE Seniors $5 daily / $20 full pass

Schedules and more at sheepdogfinals.com.

Volunteers needed! - Sign up at avlt.org or sheepdogfinals.com 12 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • AUGUST 21, 2014

NO SPECTATOR SPECTATOR D O GS ALLOWED, ALLOWED, please please leave leave v p ets at at home NO DOGS pets

The 11th annual Lead King Loop charity races are slated for Marble on Sept. 14. There are three distances – 25K, 12.5 K and 2.5K (for kids) – for runners and walkers. “Any help we can get to drive runners, hikers or walkers to our event is great appreciated,� said a race spokesman. Proceeds benefit the Marble Charter School, which has an enrollment of 40 students in grades K-8. Participants in the race receive “tech-t’s,�

Slow Groovin’ BBQ, and great raffle prizes. For info or to sign up, go to leadkingloop25K.com.

gear; breakfast and dinner will be provided. Registration is required. For details, go to wildernessworkshop.org or call 963-8447.

PROCEEDS PRO C EEDS BENEFIT BENEFIT ASPEN A SPEN VALLEY V VA ALLEY L LAND AND TR TRUST UST

Wanna get loopy?

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

Valley Life for All: Promoting connections, awareness

By Sue Coyle Sopris Sun Correspondent The purpose is in the name: Valley Life for All, with the emphasis on the word “all.”

That word is meant to include people with disabilities and without disabilities throughout the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond. “It’s a different type of non-profit,” said Ro Mead, who is a community organizer for the organization. “I’ve learned a lot about this community, both able and disabled.

[This organization] is huge; it’s important.”

Valley Life for All (VLFA) began in 2010 when Katie Grange and Margaret (Gary) Bender, both mothers of children with disabilities, were searching for ways to integrate young people and adults with disabilities into everyday life. “It started with a big community meeting,” said Bender, who is now community organizer and project coordinator for VLFA. The goal is to build bridges between business owners, schools, service providers and other local organizations on the one hand, and the families of people with disabilities on the other hand.

Valley Life for All is based on a methodology known as asset-based community development, which stresses identifying a community’s assets and focusing on its capacities. “The key purpose is to build communities based on justice, equality and mutual respect,” according to a VLFA hand-out.

Bender’s daughter, Alex, was born with Down Syndrome 21 years ago, but her disability hasn’t prevented her from being an ac-

“We never make assumptions about what people can and cannot do.”

– Margaret (Gary) Bender VLFA project coordinator

tive community member and an athlete. Alex graduated from Basalt High School and represented Colorado in the 2010 National Summer Special Olympics in Lincoln, Nebraska. She went on to compete in skiing at the World Games in South Korea. Alex is a living example of her mother’s belief that disabilities do not define a life. “When we start including people at a young age,” said Bender, “they’re able to thrive and contribute.”

According to the organization’s website, the main issues they hope to address are “Awareness and attitudes; career and recreational opportunities; housing and transportation; waiting list for services; respite, families in isolation that need support.” It’s a tall order. Bender said, “It’s very difficult for them [people with disabilities] to get jobs.

Employers don’t know how to employ them.” Bender means to remedy that by opening channels of communication between employers and employees with disabilities. “We never make assumptions about what people can and cannot do,” said Bender. “We spend a lot of time on awareness.”

To this end, VLFA has offered a Local Valley Leadership Class, a free class for adults with disabilities and family members of children with disabilities. Participants learn about government systems and connecting with local organizations and community leaders. Made possible by a Local Leadership grant from the Colorado Developmental Disabilities Council, the sessions include overnight lodging and meals, child care, and a Spanish-speaking translator for each session.

Other funding for the organization comes from Eagle and Pitkin Counties, the towns of Carbondale and Basalt, and from local Rotary and Elks Clubs.

Mead is also exploring the possibility of creating a mentor program in which high school seniors and college freshmen would work with young people with similar diag-

Pre-Collegiate

om page 3

grade-point average and accolades from her teachers. She is also part of a loving family that she treasures and that is supportive of her and the program. She is one of the 10 students in my current mentor group. Our weekly Thursday lunch-time meetings are a highlight of my week. This upcoming school year will be our last year together, but it will be a busy one. Yazmin and the others will be re-taking their ACT tests, choosing and applying to colleges, writing essays, obtaining

noses. “Kids mentoring kids is such an amazing program,” she said. The program would be modeled on the national mentoring movement known as Eye to Eye, which pairs children with learning disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with college and high school mentors who have faced the same challenges.

The bottom line is inclusion. Her daughter was raised to be focused on possibilities, not limitations, and Bender believes this world view is the key to the success of VLFA. When asked what she hopes for the organization’s future, she replied, “I’d like to work myself out of a job. Everyone should be welcomed for who they are, not what they have.”

Valley Life for All is located in Carbondale’s Third Street Center, Suite 23. Their contact information is: 319-1279; valleylifeforall@gmail.com; www.valleylifeforall.org. teacher recommendations, figuring out the complexities of financial aid, and all the while participating in sports, school clubs and activities, their families, and of course, some demanding classes.

This is my third mentor group, and I know that I will stay in touch with many of them after they leave high school. It is one of the most rewarding parts of being involved in the Pre-Collegiate Program … following them after they are launched into the world and seeing where their hard work takes them.

KEEP THE SOPRIS SUN SHINING Your financial support is a critical part of our community news effort DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE

Donate online at

www.soprissun.com Send a check made out to The Sopris Sun LLC, P.O. Box 399 Carbondale, 81623 or Take out an ad for your business by contacting: Bob Albright 970-927-2175 bob@soprissun.com

PUBLIC NOTICE

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Town of Carbondale Nature Park Irrigation System Installation

The Town of Carbondale is requesting bids for the installation of an irrigation system at the Carbondale Nature Park. The project will include the installation of approximately 500 LF of class 200 PVC Main Line, 900 LF of Lateral Lines and approximately 128 various bubblers and emitters according to the Irrigation Plans.

Bid packets can be obtained at Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO 81623.

Bids are due 2:00 p.m., September 1, 2014.

Contact Larry Ballenger at 970-510-1217 or lballenger@carbondaleco.net for more information.

THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • AUGUST 21, 2014 • 13

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

Basalt Mountain Inn: New name, new amenities

By S. Michael Jundt Zach Fisher, manager of the Basalt Mountain Inn on downtown’s Midland Avenue, speaks reverently of the Inn’s metamorphosis. “The accommodations themselves have a history that can be traced back to 1951,� says Zach, “when it was The Basalt Motel. There were several transformations over the years, it became The Aspenwood Lodge, The Aspenwood Inn and The Green Drake.� Its latest incarnation, The Basalt Mountain Inn, has been in business since June after going through a major renovation all throughout fall and winter. The current owners purchased the property in 2006 and after mulling several options decided to invest in its renovation and bring forward some great amenities.

Zach’s personal experience began in his hometown of Rockford, Illinois, where he owned and operated a construction business. “After moving to the valley,� says Zach, “I immediately resorted to the hospitality industries like so many who chase after the valley’s recreational sports. I worked a few restaurants and an inline ski shop in Snowmass.�

Zach returned to the Midwest to operate a large resort in Eagle River, Wisconsin. There, he and his ďŹ ancĂŠe,

“Being on historic Midland Avenue is a huge advantage for us. This gives the guest a place to park in the off-street lot and they can walk to all of the fantastic restaurants and bars that Basalt has to offer.�

Meghan, began to immerse themselves in the hotel industry. The training served them well. The current owners of the then Green Drake, Michael Tierney, Josh Mondry and Charles Cunniffe, interviewed Zach and he has become the primary ďŹ xture of their business. “What sets us apart from other lodging in the area,â€? says Zach, “is our location and our rooms themselves.

There’s not a bad place to stay anywhere in this area but

our rooms bring a fresh and new look to the downtown core. Being on historic Midland Avenue is a huge advantage for us. This gives the guest a place to park in the off-street lot and they can walk to all of the fantastic restaurants and bars that Basalt has to offer.�

The renovations to each room are readily apparent.

Down comforters, updated bathrooms, at screen televisions with cable, and free wireless Internet are just a few of the new features. Most rooms  include a seating area, a refrigerator, wet bar with Keurig coffee maker and an in-suite bathroom. For more information visit basaltmountaininn.com.

Get iPhone creative The Wyly Art Center is offering Karen Divine’s class “Creative iPhone Photograhy� from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Aug. 22-24. Tuition is $390, members receive 10 percent off. For details, call 927-4123.

Registration is also under way for “Making Landscape Painting Relevant: Going Large� with David Warner from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Aug. 26. Tuition is $320, members receive 10 percent off. For details, call 927-4123.

The Hottest Place to COOL OFF! BASALT POOL

600 Elk Run Drive (Arbaney Park) (970) 927-4799 Daily fees: Child (3-7) $4. Student (8-17) $5; Adult $6.

Toddlers under three are FREE. Seniors (65+) $3.

Season passes available.

ItÂ’s a Jewel of a Pool

NOW ACCEPTING FALL CONSIGNMENTS Clothing, housewares, furniture, etc!

Coffee with the

Mayor

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$)# ' !$

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.

Wednesday, "VHVTU – Starbuck’s in Willits - from 7 to 8 AM And at Saxy’s in downtown Basalt from 8:15 to to 9:15 AM. 14 • THE SOPRIS SUN • www.SoprisSun.com • AUGUST 21, 2014

Open daily BasaltÂ’s Only Ice Cream Shop

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

• Ideas for downtown redevelopment? • Thoughts on marijuana laws? • Questions on the river project?

The next Coffee with the Mayor is:

Ice Cream

On the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month, meet in an informal setting with Basalt Mayor Jacque Whitsitt for coffee and a chat.

Scoops

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CMC continuing ed: Something for everyone Colorado Mountain College is now enrolling students for its fall semester. While we often think of “students� as those of the younger generations, the plethora of continuing education classes offered entices all ages and interests. Want to finally see what the yoga craze is all about? Learn conversational French for that upcoming trip to the south of France? How about exploring that inner artist with drawing and jewelry making classes?

If frustration abounds with

Legal Notice NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Roy Calvin Meller a/kfa Roy C. Meller a/k/a Roy Meller a/k/a Roy Calvin Meller Ill a/k/a Roy C. Meller Ill a/k/a Roy Meller Ill, Deceased Case Number: 2014PR30034

All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Pitkin, County, Colorado. on or before _________ (date)* or the claims may be forever barred.

Jeffrey C. Meller, Personal Representative 3626 So. Granby Way, Apt. L-7 Aurora CO 80014

Published in the Sopris Sun on August 21, 2014.

that new iPhone or iPad, there are classes that tackle how to fully use this new technology. Planning one’s retirement can also be a challenge, and CMC offers a way to address getting those ďŹ nancial plans in order as well.

On the fun side, has reading Tarot cards, learning couples massage or taking Tai Chi ever been an interest? Planning a trip to the Caribbean this winter can become more exciting if learning how to scuba dive is a personal quest. Of course, exercising requires “carb loading,â€? so ďŹ nding ways to prepare Italian pastas is also in the continuing education schedule.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Carbondale Planning and Zoning Commission for the purpose of considering a Subdivision Exemption to divide an 11,000 sq. ft. lot into two lots. The application also includes a variance from the minimum lot size of 5,500 sq. ft. to allow a 5,000 sq. ft. lot and a variance from the minimum rear yard setback of 7.5 ft. to allow a 5 ft. rear yard setback.

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The owners are Philip Jeffreys and Mirte Mallory. The applicant is Heather Henry of Connect One Design.

The property is located at 219 Sopris Avenue and is also known as Lots 21-24, Block 7, Town of Carbondale.

Said Public Hearing will be held at the Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO at 7:00 p.m. on September 11, 2014.

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Each of the college’s campuses offers extra curricular classes that range in genre and depth, and the relaxed environments make it easy to connect to other people in the community. The front desk staff at each site will help with any registration questions or the application process as a whole.

Perusing the catalog for Carbondale-speciďŹ c classes offers motivation for tackling that elusive skill of basic accounting if one is a business owner as well as an intro  Feeling to computer applications.  adventurous? Those with an interest in the secrets of our land can join a ďŹ ve day camping and Â

Copies of the proposed application are on file in the Planning Department office, Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO and may be examined by interested persons during regular working hours, 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Janet Buck Town Planner

Published in the Sopris Sun on August 21, 2014.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Public Hearing will be held before the Carbondale Planning and Zoning Commission for the purpose of considering an Infill Application to remove a single family detached structure and construct a 4 unit residential structure, the application also requires a variance for

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hiking trip in the Grand Gulch of Utah, where cultural and natural history will be discussed. Painting and stained glass classes, conversational Spanish, and CPR are also offered at the Lappala Center, as well as Zumba and strength training to maintain one’s health.

Learning feeds the brain with problem solving skills, intellectual analysis and pure pleasure. There is a great sense of satisfaction in ďŹ nally taking a step in a direction you’ve always wanted to go.  actor, artist, There is a budding literary junkie and scientist in all of us ‌ it really is just a matter of walking through the door.

the front setback.

The property is located at 191 Sopris Avenue, Town of Carbondale.

The applicant/property owner is Sopris Properties, LLC

Said Public Hearing will be held at the Carbondale Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO at 7:00 p.m. on September 11, 2014.

Copies of the proposed application are on file in the Planning Department office, Town Hall, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, CO and may be examined by interested persons during regular working hours, 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

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John Leybourne Planner

Published in the Sopris Sun on August 21, 2014.

Submit to unclassifieds@soprissun.com by Monday 12 p.m.

Rates: $15 for 30 words, $20 for up to 50 words. Payment due before publication.*

HOUSING WANTED. Gerry Johnston and Susie need a place to dwell in Carbondale before August 31.

Call 963-1081 or 309-8494.

MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE, Saturday, Aug. 23 from 8:30 a.m. on.

In the alley between Sopris and Euclid, 2nd and 3rd.

VOLUNTEER SPORTS EDITORS and writers needed for The Sopris Sun’s high school sports coverage. Experience not necessary.

Please contact Lynn Burton at news@soprissun.com.

VOLUNTEER needed to distribute Sopris Sun newspaper in Aspen every Thursday afternoon or Friday  morning. Will pay $10 for gas. Please call Lynn Burton at 510-3003. *Credit card payment information should be emailed to unclassifieds@soprissun.com or call 9486563. Checks may be dropped off at our office at the Third Street Center or mailed to P.O. Box 399, Carbondale, CO 81623. Call 618-9112 for more info.

  MOBETTAH MULFORD COMPOSTING CO.

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Now accepting clean, organic yard waste at no cost.

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Call 379-3307 for more details.

Support The Sopris Sun while The Sun supports your business!

FATBELLY BURGERS

Weather Insurance If it rains or snows bring the vehicle back within 48 hours and we will rewash it.

970-963-8800 745 Buggy Circle in Carbondale www.sunburstcarcare.com

Open Mon.-Sat. 8am-6pm and on Sundays from 9am-4pm for washes only

Service directory ads start at just $40.

Contact #PC "MCSJHIU at 970- or CPC@soprissun.com

Salads By the Locals For Ice the Cream Locals

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BEFORE AUGUST 31ST

Grab and Go NEW!

By Denise Barkhurst Sopris Sun Correspondent

Unclassifieds

Timely, relevant construction information for visitors, businesses and the community.

Brought to you by the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce.

- Gar de n s & La w ns -Irr ig a tio n - S to ne w ork -Cu sto m Rai se d Be ds -Tree s & S hru b s Providing organic and effective gardening solutions in the Roaring Fork Valley for over 9 years.

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THE SOPRIS SUN, Carbondale’s community supported newspaper • AUGUST 21, 2014 • 15