Pitkin County Open Space and Trails’ hundred million dollar project, to build a bike trail from Carbondale to McClure Pass, started in Carbondale and the beginning of the trail was built to KOA. Now, instead of proceeding from beginning to end, they propose jumping over the middle segment and wish to build at the far end. They propose to build the segment of the trail from Redstone to McClure Pass and have applied for approval to place part of the trail on the White River National Forest.
As you consider the effects of such a trail on Redstone, think about this. The users will not be just the very few, very hardy riders who can pump their way to the top of McClure. Those people will be a minute fraction of the trail users. There’s money to be made, and entrepreneurs eager to make it, hauling vanloads of people and bikes from Redstone, to the top of the pass, so they can coast back down here, to their parked cars.
Bicyclists are being hauled up, to coast down now, at Vail, on Maui, and other places. At
Aspen, vanloads of people are being hauled up Highway 82 and given paddleboards to float on the Roaring Fork River, back downstream to Aspen. Now Pitkin County must deal with parking and traffic problems on Highway 82. Think how many of our minor attractions, have now become overcrowded. Penny Hot Springs is so popular the county must spend thousands to develop a management plan. Lead King Basin has drawn so many off-road vehicles, that limits are now being considered and Marble streets are crowded with trucks and trailers. Now reservations are required to visit Hanging Lake and Conundrum Hot Springs.
There are other concerns with this application, the effect on wildlife, and the fact that it is segmented, which makes it hard to assess the cumulative effect of the whole project. And if you live between Redstone and KOA, you cannot ignore the segment up here, which is designed as bait, designed to create public demand to fill in the gap back to KOA.
Watch for your opportunities to write or speak on this matter.
Bill Jochems, Redstone
T HE C RYSTAL VALLEY E CHO
& Marble Times
Mission Statement: To provide a voice for Crystal Valleyites; to bring attention to the individuals and local businesses that are the fabric of the Crystal Valley region; to contribute to the vitality of our small town life.
Editor • Gentrye Houghton
Publisher • Ryan Kenney
Contributors
Charlotte Graham • Dan Sohner
Charley Speer • Amber McMahill
ADVERTISING SALES
Gentrye Houghton • 970-963-1495
GentryeH@hotmail.com
DISTRIBUTION
The Crystal Valley Echo is published monthly, and is distributed throughout the Crystal Valley.
NEWSPAPER BOX LOCATIONS:
Carbondale City Market (inside) • Village Smithy
Carbondale Post Office • Redstone Inn
Redstone General Store • Marble Hub
Propaganda Pie
FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS
Please send $40 for print or $25 for digital editions along with address information to:
The Crystal Valley Echo 364 Redstone Blvd. Redstone, CO 81623
Notes to the Community
To the many friends who called offering food, help, and encouragement-- Thank you.
To the members of the Redstone knitting group for the lovely shawl-- Thank you.
It is these acts of kindness that make it hard to leave Redstone. You are all so special!
Sincerely, Marlene Remmers
To our readers,
Twenty nineteen was filled with new opportunities. We acquired The Echo and produced our first issue in August, we’ve slowly hired a writing staff, and almost crashed a computer during production in November.
As we roll into a new year, and also a new decade, The Crystal Valley Echo is committed to providing a voice to Crystal River residents. Through lots of trial and error, we continue to hone our own voice by bringing you in depth articles on issues that affect all of us up and down the Crystal as well as the stories that make the Crystal Valley unique.
That being said, we always want to hear from you. As it is because of you, our dear readers, that the vitality of this valley exists. We look forward to this upcoming year and all that is has to offer.
From all of us at The Crystal Valley Echo to you, we wish you good tidings in 2020!
Sincerely, Gentrye Houghton
2020 is not just the beginning of a new year and a new decade. 20/20 hindsight also comes into play, therefore, this month’s story shall be known as “Glad We Got to Know You.”
It was a treat to visit with a couple who have been married 52 years, but I was a bit taken aback when I heard that Ernie and Betty Bradley were soon moving on.
After 21 years in their Chair Mountain/Evergreen subdivision along County Road 3, Redstonians Ernie and Betty Bradley are bidding the Crystal River Valley a fond adieu and heading off into the wild blue yonder.
Getting to Know You
in the Osgood Suite. “It was the end of May,” Betty said. “The next morning it snowed! We had no idea that we’d end up living here.
“[But] we knew we wanted to come back to the Western Slope,” she went on. “We were first thinking about up [towards] Ruedi.”
Charlotte Graham
Excited about their travel plans over the next few months, they’ve promised that we’ll see them again. Mostly because many, many friends will open their doors and not let them forget how much these two have enriched the two communities they love — Redstone and Marble.
How did they find their way here? Short story: Ernie was a graduate of Colorado School of Mines with a degree in petroleum engineering. He went through four years of ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corp) and entered the military as an officer.
At the same time, Betty was in college at Mesa Junior College and part of her extracurricular activities was helping his aunt with Girl Scouts in Grand Junction. The aunt introduced them while Ernie was visiting, soon on his way to Vietnam. Within a year, they married in Hawaii on one of his R&R (rest and recuperation) leaves.
After his service to the country, Ernie had a career with Exxon where the family with three sons hopscotched between Texas, Wyoming, Colorado, and then back to Houston until Ernie retired.
One event, not realized at the time, may have set their course to Redstone. Betty had always wanted to stay at the Redstone Castle. For her 40th birthday, Ernie surprised her with a reservation
Ernie, a compound-bow hunter and avid outdoors sportsman, had made a list of important priorities—three of which were: good hunting, hiking, and fishing nearby. Also, a devout conservationist for 35 years, Ernie sits on the Rocky Mountain Big Horn Society board, and coordinator for the Trout Unlimited state meetings for many years.
Their realtor, Mytt Anderson, told Betty, who happened to be visiting her parents in Denver, of two houses in our valley. Betty saw and called Ernie. “I’ve found the house!”
“I figured I’d better get over there before she did anything,” Ernie interjected.
As Betty tells the story: “He came, he saw the house, then he went fishing. And caught some really nice fish. He came back and said, ‘Let’s sign the papers!’ We loved it all; the mountains, the river, the neighbors.”
Being retirees didn’t mean just smelling the roses for these two. Soon after they settled in, Betty met Marion Lyons, who was on the Board of the Redstone Art Foundation (RAF) and encouraged Betty to join them to help plan workshops. Betty has since been part of RAF for 18 years, overseeing 12 of them as President, doing what she loves most, providing art scholarships to students.
Betty was also Carbondale’s chapter HC President of PEO International, whose sole purpose, according to Wikipedia, is “a philanthropic organization where women celebrate the advancement of women; educate women through scholarships, … and motivate women to achieve their highest aspirations.”
IN REDSTONE AND MARBLE
Ernie & Betty Bradley
“She served as Secretary-Treasurer of our Home Owners Association for ‘ever,’” Ernie added, “and she also was the Hospitality person for the Church at Redstone for many years.”
Mr. Bradley was no slouch in the community-building department himself. He was the first Chairman of The Marble Hub Board of Directors when it formed in 2012. By that time, Ernie already had a pretty full plate of community service. “We got to know Bruce and Connie Gledhill and the Church at Redstone. I served as Chairman of Leadership for a few years, then as Treasurer for 15 years,” he said.
It cannot be stressed enough that with Ernie’s astute guidance, both tiny non-profits got their bylaws and covenants in proper working order and have become stronger pillars of their respective communities because of him.
A new love in Ernie’s life came along in the last 10 years: He has become a birder. “It’s a very addictive hobby,” Ernie said, “I’ve identified about 1,400 birds—but there’s about 10,000.”
Betty takes it all in stride. “Remember, he’s an engineer,” she said laughing, “so, he’s got all the pictures labeled, when and where he sighted them.” They’ve been all over the U.S., Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia. “And I’m going to Ecuador in February,” he added. Good thing they love to travel.
In addition to the many friends they’ve made in the Crystal River Valley, Ernie said, “We are not anticipating finding another place to live as enjoyable as here.”
They’ve closed out this holiday season with their family including four grandchildren with Christmas Eve at the Redstone Inn, plus another night at the Castle, compliments of her book group.
Betty had the last word. “We came here as strangers not knowing anybody and now, we’re leaving here feeling that everyone is family!”
Happy New Year 2020! Traditions Around the World Memories Recipe: Black Eyed Pea Salad or Dip
“In Chile, they eat 12 grapes, one for each month. They also wear yellow underwear for good luck in life while wearing white underwear is for good health. They fill a suitcase and run around the block, so that the next year will be full of travels. Eating lentils is for prosperity and good luck in the new year, and putting money in your right shoe is also for good luck."
— Mario Ortega
"[In Mexico,] You throw lentils out the door for good luck, clean your house and sweep all the negativity from the past year.”
— Rebecca Shank
“One of our New Year’s Eve traditions is taking down the Christmas tree and decorations, cleaning the house while others watch the Rose Bowl parade and football games. And of course, eating black eyed peas and cornbread.”
— Betty Bradley
5 Cups cooked black eyed peas
4 slices crisp cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
3 Tablespoons chopped green onions
2 Tablespoons finely chopped jalapenos
2 Tablespoons chopped parsley
1 1/2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 1/2 teaspoons Emeril's Original Essence
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Combine the black-eyed peas, bacon and no more than 3 Tablespoons of the reserved bacon fat, mix and add all the remaining ingredients in a large bowl. Toss well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, best overnight. Allow mixture to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Toss again before serving. Serve with chips or as a salad.
“Years ago, I made a New Year's resolution. I'm proud to say it's the only New Year's resolution I have been successful at keeping. That resolution was to no longer make New Year's resolutions.”
Sunday,
Sunday, Jan.
Abominable.
— David Johnson
“It was the New Year's eve of '99, we were rolling into the new century and it was also the year of the millennium madness when all the computers , electric grids, etc. were all predicted to shut down. We had a great big ol’ party at the Crystal Club with a big balloon drop, and had decorated the place to the max.
We all laughed at the notion that the world was shutting down and nobody believed it. The notorious New Year countdown started 10 - 9 - 8, and when it got to 1... all of our power went out!
Everything got super quiet, and then people yelled " It really happened!" There was a lot of excitement, we were all in total disbeleif scrambling around for candles. Billy happened to look out the window and saw the neighbors across the street had lights on.
It turned out a neighborhood kid, around the age of 10, pulled the breaker in the back of the club and shut the power off. That was a fun New Years we will never forget!”
— Kim Amicon
Redstone Community Association Bulletin
rCa approveD for Craft workShop
What is CRAFT? Founded in 2018 by the Colorado Tourism Office, the Colorado Rural Academy for Tourism (CRAFT) empowers rural destination partners with training and implementation funding for local economic development strategies that promote tourism assets, strengthen alignment around tourism development goals, and uncover new opportunities for economic growth through tourism. Implementation funding grants are available after all successfully completed CRAFT opportunities to help our rural destination partners put into action key priorities determined throughout the course of their work.
RCA applied and was awarded the opportunity to participate in a CRAFT Workshop focusing on Marketing and Social Media. This workshop is an intensive training and work for communities or regions wishing to advance a tourism-related strategy relating to specific industry segments. After successful completion of this program, RCA will be eligible to apply for implementation funding, this is a non-matching grant up to $2,500.
The CRAFT Workshop is scheduled for early February. If you're interested in participating in this workshop, please contact RCA at RCAredstone@gmail.com
JANUARY RCA MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 7TH AT 7PM AT THE REDSTONE INN
SkatinG rink now open
The ice skating rink opened in early December and will remain so until midMarch, weather conditions permitting.
Donated skates of varying styles and sizes hang in the shed next to the rink; these are available for free use to the public, Please hang them again when not in use. Hockey equipment is also available; to help maintain the surface, we ask that nothing be left on the rink after use.
Skating opens daily until 8 p.m., after which it is resurfaced as needed and as weather permits.
The skating rink is completely funded by your donations and maintained by volunteers. If you enjoy this service, please considering leaving a contribution in our donation box located on the shed.
MEMBERSHIP FORM
Redstone is an unincorporated village that relies completely on donations and volunteerism spearheaded by the Redstone Community Association (RCA)
Your membership dues directly fund RCA projects and events.
Thank You for your support!
Winter Pet Care
First, lower your expectations. Yes, your dog may seem excited at first, but that excitement may be short-lived. While you may have this grand plan about getting out for a long walk, run or ski, your dog may just want to sniff around. Which brings us to the point: Pay much closer attention to your dog.
In the winter, more so than any other season, things can degrade quickly. Factors such as the cold or even dehydration can get to your pup quicker than you think.
Make sure you are checking their paws, often, for ice buildup and cuts, and, even though you’re surrounded by snow, it’s worth bringing water. Chances are that they are working harder than normal pushing through the snow and thus, exerting more energy.
Checking their paws is also important after you’re home and once everyone is sufficiently warmed up, make sure your pup isn’t licking his or her feet. If they are, this could mean that their paws got too cold on your walk or that you crossed over some salt or de-icer, which is harmful to pets.
You also need to pay attention to the timing of when your dog is exerting the most energy, or when they are just out for a stroll. Keep in mind that they may be energetic during the beginning of the walk, playing in deep snow, which will melt while their body temps are high. Then, after they cool down some, that moisture could freeze or aid in making their body colder than normal and it’s a lot harder to keep a wet pup
PAW WAX RECIPE
To make your own paw protectant, simply combine:
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Coconut Oil
• 1 tbsp Shea Butter
• 4 tsp of beeswax
In a double boiler and melt contents on low (this is important so you do not burn the oils). Pour into your desired container(s), and let cool.
The resulting product will last up to two years.
warm.
Along those same lines, it is often recommended to keep the hair between a dog’s pads trimmed. Check with your vet regarding your specific breed (or breeds).
Make sure you have your commands all figured out. Without all the summer foliage, animals such as deer and squirrels are far easier to see from a distance for both you and your dog. Keep this in mind if you’re going offleash. You will need to make sure you are paying attention so that you can keep your dog from charging off into the woods and hurting himself on a stick or snowbank.
Protect yourself. This seems like an easy one, but one of the best ways we can take care of our dogs is to make sure we take care of ourselves. If you’re walking your dog on a leash, be sure to pay attention to ice on the roads. There’s nothing worse than seeing a friend or neighbor out on a walk and having your dog pull you over because of their excitement.
Finally, avoid hazards like deep drifts or the river. This should go without saying, but the Crystal River in winter is COLD and no place for a dog, especially when the ice bridges start to form.
Dan Sohner
Recycling in Marble by Amber McMahill
This month, life’s gotten a little easier for Upper Crystal River Valley residents as the town of Marble rolled out their new recycling program. Until now, recycling has been a headache for environmentally-minded residents, requiring the stockpiling of recyclables in every available space before eventually undertaking a three-hour round-trip to properly dispose of materials outside Glenwood Springs.
Mayor and owner of Slow Groovin' BBQ restaurant, Ryan Vinciguerra, knows this scenario all too well. Of the nine years, they have been in operation, Slow Groovin' has recycled every single year. In the beginning, this meant loading up trailers of cardboard and glass to haul it off. Then, a few years ago, he was able to contract with Valley Waste Solutions, the company now providing the recycling services for the town.
"I was excited to have options for waste collection and
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS
MARBLE
TOWN COUNCIL ELECTION APRIL 7, 2020
The next regularly scheduled municipal election for Trustees of the Town of Marble is scheduled for April 7th, 2020. There are 4 trustee seats up for election, 2 four year terms and 2 two year terms. The mayor’s seat is also up for election for a 4 year term.
Nomination petitions will be available for circulation between the dates of January 7th, 2020 and January 27th, 2020 from the Town Clerk. Nomination petitions must be issued by the Town Clerk only. Anyone interested in running for one of the open seats can contact the Town Clerk at Leach@TownOfMarble.com.
Qualifications: All candidates must be a qualified elector of the Town of Marble, a citizen of the United States, at least 18 years of age, and must have resided in the Town of Marble for one year immediately prior to the date of the election.
Petitions must be returned to the Town Clerk no later than 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 27th, 2020.
The Town of Marble is a non-partisan body of local government, therefore, there is no party affiliation designation.
thought it would be a good fit for the town,” explains Vinciguerra. “Most people here already recycle, so for the town to provide a way to do that without all the hassle, everyone benefits." A recycling program in Marble has been discussed periodically over the past decade. Deciding to finally tackle the matter, he approached the other members of the town board of trustees.
Trustee Emma Bielski immediately volunteered her time towards the effort, "It was an idea I was interested in ever since [then council member] Max Gibbons brought it up quite a while ago. It was well-received by residents and supported by the town council." Bielski began to work with Vinciguerra and town administrator Ron Leach to flesh out the details and form a plan. Wanting to make it as accessible and easy as possible, they decided to locate the recycle dumpsters just south of the Marble Firehouse and make it available twice a week - on Tuesday and Saturday mornings from 9 a.m. until 11 a.m. They took the plan to the board where it was unanimously approved.
At present, the program is open to all Upper Crystal Valley residential recycling, including those outside the town. "If we start to exceed our limits we might have to re-examine that, but the more people recycling the better, right? Residential only though, Slow Groovin' will still have their separate service." Vinciguerra joked. This inclusion extends to Redstone which is currently in recycling limbo with the loss of its collection program and has transitioned to curbside recycling subsidized by Pitkin County.
A major piece of the puzzle is volunteers needed to receive the materials and help navigate the sometimes confusing list of what can and can't be recycled. "I think some people are intimidated by recycling properly,” Vinciguerra explained, “so, edu-
cation really is the key to getting the program off the ground." The first round of volunteers includes Terry Langley, Ron Leach, Larry Good, Emma Bielski, and Mike Yellico.
"I'm really excited about the opportunity to educate, not only about how to recycle but also about the importance of it and doing it right. It is a learning opportunity for everyone," adds Bielski, who has taken leadership of the volunteer component.
Volunteers are asked to commit to two shifts a month, lasting only two-hour periods, for three months. They will be given brief, oneon-one training as well as visuals so they can better assist anyone with questions.
Anyone wishing to volunteer may reach out to Emma Bielski at EmmaBielski@gmail.com or Ron Leach at Leach@TownOfMarble.com.
Christmas in Marble:
Left: The Marble Hub provided hot drinks and bird seed, peanut butter, popcorn, pine cones, and beautiful dried fruit for attendees to make wildlife friendly tree trimmings.
Right: It was a beautiful snowy weekend and attendees found all sorts of ways to get from the school to the church and to The Hub.
Left: Crystal Valley kids rocking fashion and fun outside the Marble Community Church. The church hosted a chili lunch, a bake sale, and a gift basket raffle.
Right: The Marble Charter School hosted quite the crowd for their Pancake Breakfast then kept the festivities going with a craft fair – from beautifully packaged herbal products by Earth Medicine Collective and custom marble jewelry from Marble Mo Creations.
A Photo Essay by Charley Speer
Left: The gingerbread house table in the school cafeteria was a popular stop on the Festival Circuit.
Right: Maybe Tesla needs to consider solar pink roof marshmellows along with their solar shingle line.
Left: Local Bob Rue showcased his intricately carved wood ornaments and magnets at the Craft Fair.
Right: Kari Duame of Elk Mountain Leatherworks had a beautiful display of her work and took custom orders at the fair.
Vintage Valley
All materials provided by the Redstone Historical Society IN MEMORIAM
Twenty nineteen marked the end of an era with the passing of two members of the Osgood family: Charlotte Pearl Osgood Blackmer and Peter Russell Osgood, the great-niece and great-nephew of Redstone’s founder, John Cleveland Osgood. Their father, Charles Russell, was the son of J. C’s brother, Charles Edward, who joined his brother’s growing CF&I enterprise in 1896.
Charlotte, born in 1917, recalled living in Redstone with her family between 1925-27, when her father was hired by his uncle, John Cleveland, to manage the ongoing renovation and updating of Cleveholm Manor. Charlotte attended school in Redstone and spent considerable time at Cleveholm, where she remembered being entertained by Osgood’s third wife, Lucille. Among the generous gifts donated to the Historical Society by her family is a set of Japanese dolls presented to her by Lucille. Charlotte died on August 27th at the age of 101.
Peter, born in 1935 and the youngest of the family, also recalled early memories of Redstone and of Lucille, who spent much of her time in Denver after the sale of the Manor. Peter’s interest in preserving mementos from the remaining estate led to the saving of an original set of Castle blueprints from the architectural firm of Harnois and Boal. Members of both families have been extremely generous in sharing memories, pictures, genealogical information, and artifacts; and numerous family donations are now on display at the Redstone Castle. These items are an important part of the Osgood story. The Society is deeply indebted to the family for allowing the public to share these fascinating reminders of Redstone’s early history.
Another family whose roots go back to early Colorado also experienced the loss of an early area resident. Calvin “Fred” Gerbaz, born in Gerbazdale in 1929, moved with his family to Redstone, where they resided in the summer months in the nearby Coal Basin area. At various historical gatherings, Fred and his brother Ernest (Ernie) shared stories of their early years in Redstone. There were few residents in the village at the time, but the boys attended school there, sharing a classroom in the 1940s with members of the Frank Mechau family. In addition to school and chores, the brothers found time for adventure and, in their words, “a bit of mischief along the way.” The Society greatly appreciates the support that Fred and Edna and Ernest and Marg have provided as members over the years.
Fast-tracking to recent history, Redstone mourns the loss of Susan McEvoy Strong, 1958-2019 Sue was a devoted member of the community for the past 24 years. She was the force that kept the Redstone Castle alive through more than six failed ownerships that included a Ponzi scheme and a two year IRS seizure. Sue entertained and educated thousands with her Castle tour in her signature Lady Bountiful costumes, was the secretary of the Redstone Historical Society and was the energy behind the society's annual events. As a writer for the Crystal Valley Echo, her Vintage Valley columns and area stories were an informative blend of events in Redstone, both past and present. We honor her memory.
The Redstone Historical Society is interested in hearing and sharing stories from Redstone’s past. If you have an account relating to the history of the area, let us know! Email us at HistoryRedstone@gmail.com
We would like to share these stories on our website: www:History.RedstoneColorado.org/Vintage-Valley
The schoolhouse and students in winter of 1926-1927. The teacher is Norma Kenney. The students are: Richard Pritchard, Bill Morgan, Clairice Gates, Winifred Kenney (later Kitts), Mrs. Kenney; back row, Catherine Roberts, Blanche Whitbeck, Charlotte Osgood, Dale Pritchard
Students in the Redstone School in the 1940's. (from front, clockwise), Vonnie Mechau, Dorick Mechau, Duna Mechau, Fred Gerbaz, and Ernest Gerbaz. Norma Kenney was the teacher.
5
2019 YEAR IN REVIEW
What's Up with Pitkin County?
The Pitkin County Commissioners hold weekly work sessions on Tuesdays and bi-monthly public hearings on Wednesdays in our BOCC meeting room at the Pitkin County Administration and Sheriff’s Building. Both meetings are televised live and repeated on locater CG12 TV. They are also streamed live and available on the County website. Agendas are posted in the Aspen/Glenwood newspapers and on-line at www.PitkinCounty.com. In this column, your District 5 Commissioner, George Newman offers his take on current matters. You can reach him at George.Newman@PitkinCounty.com.
From capital projects to energy codes to conservation easements, 2019 has been a productive and truly “green” year for Pitkin County.
Starting with capital projects, we recently opened a new Aspen Ambulance District facility next to Aspen Valley Hospital. Approximately 13,000-square foot, this green-designed building includes 85 rooftop solar panels, with four separate crew bedrooms above a large temperature-controlled ambulance bay, replacing an antiquated 2,800-square foot facility. The renovation has begun on the 140-yearold historic Pitkin County Courthouse to include all new LED lighting. Press on a national scale has been generated with the partial completion and occupancy of the first net-zero electric-powered community housing project in the State and perhaps in the Nation – a partnership including Pitkin County, Habitat for Humanity, Roaring Fork School District, Town of Basalt, and Holy Cross. During his recent site visit, Governor Polis remarked, “Today I got to see the future (and present!) of net-zero energy affordable housing at Basalt Vista.”
The BOCC passed on first reading a new Energy Code, including amendments to the recently updated International Energy Code, establishing an energy usage standard for all residential projects.
In addition, new Land Use Code text amendments address our 2017 Climate Action Plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions generated from the built environment (more to come on these in future columns). To cap all of these Climate Action efforts, the BOCC unanimously approved a 35- acre solar farm on a bench across the river from Shale Bluffs, expected to produce 5-megawatts of energy – or enough electricity to power about 900 homes/year and offset an estimated 8,750 tons of CO2 annually.
Meanwhile, translator sites have been rebuilt at Williams Peak, Jackrabbit, and Elephant Hill with broadband services now available through those sites as well as off the Crown. We began a public process at the airport, utilizing community advisory groups to help establish a vision for the future, including airport modernization and improvements in the years to come. In addition, a new on-site travelers’ parking area has been completed along with a cell-phone waiting area for arriving passenger pickups.
Our Human Services Department provided well-attended senior services in Redstone twice a month; launched a housing stability coalition with over 100 stakeholders; updated the Pitkin County Age-Friendly Community Initiative; responded to 346 child and adult protection referrals; and provided funding to 69 agencies through the Healthy Community Fund totaling $3.1 million. Finally, voters approved a tobacco sales tax recommended by the Board of Public Health.
Public Works completed the last phase of the Redstone Coke Oven Rehabilitation and Site Improvement Project; repaired an unanticipated wash-out of Coal Creek Road; and began rock fall stabilization
for the long-awaited Castle Creek Trail to the Music School. While preliminary approval was granted from the State for the first phase of expansion at the Landfill, the BOCC approved an updated Construction and Demolition Debris Fee program as well as a new Waste and Recycling Ordinance, both meant to help extend the life of the facility.
Open Space and Trails launched planning processes for Penny Hot Springs, the historic Emma Townsite, and North Star Nature Preserve, all to be concluded in 2020 and approved an updated management plan for the Moore Open Space. Capital improvement projects included Dottie Fox overlook on Watson Divide; work on the Castle Creek Trail to the Music School; new bridge decking (Wingo Junction and Emma) along the Rio Grande Trail as well as a new bridge on the lower Hunter Creek Trail. As noted in my November column, several OST collaborative partnerships addressed biodiversity with the bighorn sheep herd, AVLT’s land conservation plan, and the Watershed Biodiversity Initiative in the Roaring Fork Watershed. Acquisitions included several small parcels throughout the County, including Redstone, Emma, Old Snowmass, Red Mountain, Owl Creek, and Brush Creek Village. Capping these off is an approximately 1,240-acre conservation easement up the Crystal that will protect over 96% of the historic Sunfire Ranchland, including wildlife habitat areas and agricultural areas while allowing the ranch flexibility to engage in small-scale educational and agri-tourism operations.
It truly has been an exceptional year at Pitkin County and I wish you all a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!
• 10:30 am – Tai Chi ($5)
• 11:30 am – Restorative Yoga ($5)
• 12:30 pm – Lunch (RSVP by 10 a.m. the Friday prior, $5)
• 1:30 pm – Program (See below details)
JANUARY 7: NUTRITION EDUCATION WITH MOLLY BRUCHEZ, MS, RD Learn simple ways to reduce your intake of processed foods and how to choose healthful convenience/prepared foods.
JANUARY 21: WOODCARVING WITH VICKIE & REX BRANSON
A woodcarving demonstration by internationally renowned artists Rex and Vickie Branson. Watch and learn as Rex turns a block of wood into a beautifully detailed face. There will be a free drawing to win the finished carving.
The
Send us your email address: (970) 920-5432
George Newman Pitkin County Comissioner District
Redstone programs are for residents and visitors of the Crystal Valley.
THE MARBLE TIMES
Marble Charter School was 1 of 2,800 schools of all the 50 states that colored their classrooms and hallways with pulseras and the stories behind them. Pulseras mean “bracelets” in English. Each one is made in Nicaragua and Guatemela by fair trade cooperatives, artisan families, and independent artists throughout those countries.
The funds raised from our pulsera sale benefited countless Central Americans, raising money for scholarships, secondary education programs, human rights issues, environmental projects, youth shelters, and social enterprises, in addition to sustaining employment for nearly 200 artisans in Nicaragua and Guatemala.
On top of the impact abroad, our pulsera sales changed the lives of our students here in Marble. The Pulsera Project educated the K-8 students about life in Central America and cultivated student leadership and awareness of global social issues.
Marble Charter School
A tuition free, public charter school serving K-8th grade students in the Crystal River Valley Mission: Marble Charter School teaches a growth mindset in a flexible, unique, and nurturing environment that empowers our learning community to explore significant ideas and exceed state standards.
• Common core curriculum with an emphasis on growth mindset and character building
• Focus on Outdoor Education
• Low student to teacher ratios
• Daily bus service to and from Carbondale Middle School
Please call or email for information and to schedue a tour of our school.
418 West Main Street, Marble, Colorado 81623 970-963-9550
From MCS Director, Amy Rusy: " I thought this was a cool picture that Ron Leach took when doing the 5:30 a.m. bus check. Ron is so dedicated as our bus driver!"
Oil and Marble*
by Ruby, Grade 7
Competition makes humans better.
Leonardo: falling short on projects, unable to conclude very last brushstrokes, foggy minded. Upon him the chance of a lifetime. A piece that could seal his fate in history forever, completing his fame and fortune; the Duccio Stone. This stone had been neglected, failed and forgotten. Leonardo could twist, turn, and bend the statue any and every way he wanted. This could be it; no one was in his way. Da Vinci presented himself to the Operai, to claim the stone, and finally present himself to the public unapologetically with his true art. Surely he’d get the piece; no one was as great as the master from Vinci.
A man. A worn-out, pasty-faced, wearied man. Leonardo had seen him before, at the party. The man who was surely made in the dark. The man was a sculptor, but no competition for Da Vinci; or so he thought.
Michelangelo won. Took the commission as well as Leonardo’s pride. What was Leonardo to do now? Work harder. Finish one thought at a time; his Mona Lisa. Leonardo must start his reputation again; this was the start. Though the piece was not meant for anyone than Mona, her husband and children, as well as her company, he may still be recognized.
He worked for many years to complete the painting. It was the day of the unveiling of Michelangelo’s David. Leonardo was dropping off the Mona Lisa to her husband. As it was being handed over, her husband, Francesco
del Giocondo, said that he wanted to be at the uncovering of the David because he felt that he wanted to support an artist. Leonardo grabbed the painting and ran.
Until the day Leonardo died, he claimed the painting was unfinished. I believe that because Giocondo said such wonderful things about Michelangelo, Leonardo took it upon himself to become better and stay with projects until he felt they were complete. Now, over six million people go to visit Mona and she is one of the most influential and talked about art pieces of all time.
Competition makes humans better.
*inspired by the historical novel Oil and Marble (2016) by Stephanie Storey
Far Left: Marble Charter School climbed on the boulder outside of the Carbondale Recreation Center after they enjoyed an afternoon of climbing, playing volleyball and basketball.
Top Right and middle: All school meeting. The K-2 class presented about the organs of the human body.
Bottom Right: Hiking in the woods. An afternoon P.E. Hike.
THE MARBLE TIMES
Joel and Albert’s Life Story*
by Chris, Grade 7
It is a hot day as Joel hangs over the edge of the boat looking at his reflection in the Sea of Galilee. He asks, “How is the boat staying up if it’s only me in here?” He tries to get settled into the boat again and he ends up falling and flipping the boat. He comes up from under water and the boat hits his arm.
He later goes into the town to get his arm checked out. The doctor says, “Feels like you broke your ulna. Let’s use mud and palm leaves to heal you. Remember if the palm leaves fall off, use more mud to fix its seal.” Joel leaves the doctor and goes on a walk by the hills of sand. When he is there, he goes to the top of one of the sand hills to see the sun set on the horizon, wishing to have a friend to hang out with because he is bored all the time. Two months later he finds a guy named Albert.
Joel says, “Where did you get the name from?”
Albert says, “It was my great grand father’s name.”
“I love that name; it is amazing!” says Joel. “Do you want to go eat some meatballs and sweet potatoes?”
"I would love to eat some!” says Albert. Later that day they go to the hills to hunt birds to have fun. The next day they both eat duck together.
One day Albert finds a sick puppy and takes it home. He gives the puppy some left-over duck. Joel and Albert think the puppy won’t live, but it’s a miracle the puppy does. They train the puppy to hunt ducks.
The puppy is now about two years old and hunting like a monster. Joel and Albert have now known each other for eight years and have had the dog for six years. They want to make the dog more of a monster at hunting, and they do. Now the puppy is more of a monster and looks like one, too.
As they are boating across the Sea of Galilee, they let the dog have fun in the water to cool off from the heat. They decide to also jump in. “It is 98 degrees out and it was a good idea to
jump in the water!” says Albert. Once they decide to get out of the water, the dog does not want to leave, so they get back in to get the dog. When they bring the dog out, they name him Jay.
Jay is now twelve and close to the end of his life. Joel and Albert are trying to spend as much time with Jay by doing everything they used to do. They are all getting old and slow, so Jay is not as energetic. They are going to miss each other when their time on earth is over. Joel is thinking about the time they had together like when he met Albert and found Jay. Joel and Albert are crying because Jay can’t walk and they know it is his time to go.
Two years later Albert and Joel are living together and are close to the end of their lives. Joel and Albert both die in their sleep. Everything they own goes to the community.
*inspired by the historical novel The Bronze Bow (1961) by Elizabeth George Speare
Thanksgiving at Marble Charter School
January 2 The Town of Marble holds their regular council meeting at the Marble Community Church, 7 p.m.
January 3 35th Annual Skier Appreciation Day at Sunlight Mountain. $20 lift tickets with proceeds benefitting regional United Way. For more information call 970-945-7491 or visit SunLightMtn.com.
January 4 Hub Grand Opening, the Hub will be open every Saturday from 10am - 3pm offering hot drinks, snacks, merchandise and more.
January 4 Avalanche Awareness Education Class with Matt Huber from The Colorado Avalanche Information Center, 9 a.m. — 12 p.m. at the Marble Firestation. The event will be focused on areas surrounding Marble and how factors like terrain and local weather patterns affect avalanche conditions historically and currently. The format will be a loose presentation based around discussion and questions. A light lunch will be provided. Avy gear recommended but not required. If you bring Avy gear, we might head out for a ski. Free!
January 4 Heathen Challenge National Ski Mountaineering Qualifier at Sunlight Mountain. For more information call 970-945-7491 or visit SunLightMtn.com.
January 5 Teacher/Student Appreciation Day at Sunlight Mountain. Free skiing for all Re-1/Re-2 teachers and staff with discounts for students. For more information call 970-9457491 or visit sunlightmtn.com.
January 7 The Redstone Community Association meets for their regular board meeting, open to the public, 7 p.m. at the Redstone Inn. All are welcome to attend, as well as availability to join the board. For more information, e-mail RcaRedstone@ gmail.com.
January 8 Wilderness Workshop’s Naturalist Nights. Topic: Divas in the Treetops: Why do Female Birds Sing? with Lauryn Benedict, Ph.D., University of Northern Colorado. Third Street Center, Carbondale at 6:00 p.m. or January 9 at ACES –Hallam Lake, Aspen at 6:00 pm.
January 9 Crystal River Caucus meeting, 7 to 9 pm at the Church at Redstone, on the Boulevard. Agenda will include: Final discussion of the Penny Hot Springs Draft Management Plan; Caucus response to the Colorado River Roundtable regarding a proposed Crystal River Water Augmentation Study; Election of an alternate Caucus Board member; and the Redstone 2016 LLC (Redstone Castle) application and Annual Review.
January 10 Mixology with Leslie. Have fun making and trying new cocktails! Open to the public, $10 per person.
January 11 Second Saturdays in Marble. Wood Carving with Rex and Vickie Branson from 1 — 4 p.m. Come for a relaxed lesson in wood carving, materials and limited tools are available for use. Rex and Vickie are both nationally award-winning sculptors and carvers. It is the perfect winter hobby for those stormy nights. Free!
Crystal Calendar
Send event information to gentryeh@hotmail.com
JANUARY
January 11 Cooking Class: Mexican Food with Severina Ramirez 1 — 3 p.m. at The Marble Charter School. Learn how to make a traditional Mexican dish then sit down to enjoy it with fellow participants. Free!
January 11 Full Moon Winter Tri, 3:30 p.m. — 6:00 p.m. Watch the full moon rise on the serene white snow in this unique winter race. The race includes a 3K Run, 4K Cross Country Ski, 5K Fat Tire Bike. The race can be done as an individual or as a Team of 2 or 3. This short fast course is guaranteed fun. Get there at 3:30pm to set up and the race starts at 4:30pm. $35 per indivicual/race team. $5 discount when registering with a non-perishable food item. For more information, contact Margaret Donnelly at 970-510-1280 or mdonnelly@ carbondaleco.net, or visit www.CarbondaleRec.com.
January 13 Yoga with Jamie Fiske, 3:45 — 4:45 p.m. at the Marble Charter School.
January 14 Book Club Introductory Meeting facilitated by Max Gibbons 7pm-8:30pm at the Marble Hub.
January 15 Wilderness Workshop’s Naturalist Nights. Topic: Denizens of the Alpine: Breeding Site Selection and Winter Movements of Brown-Capped Rosy-Finches with Amy Seglund of Colorado Parks & Wildlife, and Aaron Yappert, Wilderness Biologist. Third Street Center, Carbondale at 6:00 p.m. or January 16 at ACES – Hallam Lake, Aspen at 6:00 pm.
January 16 Bingo at the Inn. 6:30 p.m. in the Bar & Grill.
January 17 Valley Visual Art Show opens at the R2 Gallery at The Launchpad, Carbondale. Exhibit will remain until February 28. For more information visit www.CarbondaleArts.com or call 970-963-1680.
January 18 Local Artist Spotlight: Outdoor Sculpture with Will Handville 1 — 3 p.m. Meet at the Marble Hub. Come learn how Wil makes his amazing metal sculptures for free!
January 19 Inky Hands Traveling Art Studio presents Family & Friends Paint Party at the Redstone Inn: Design your own Colorado wooden flag sign. 2 p.m. — 4 p.m., $40. Advanced tickets available at EventBrite.com. For more information visit Inky Hands Studio on Facebook or Inky-HandsStudio.com.
January 20 Yoga with Jamie Fiske, 3:45 — 4:45 p.m. at the Marble Charter School.
January 22 Wilderness Workshop’s Naturalist Nights. Topic: Disappearing Elk: Loving Our Wild Places to Death with Paul Millhouser, Rocky Mountain Wild. Third Street Center, Carbondale at 6:00 p.m. or January 23 at ACES – Hallam Lake, Aspen at 6:00 pm.
January 25 My Journey as an Artist: Christina Salomon. Chris is a self-taught bead weaver and wire wrapper as well as an experienced weaver in tapestries, shawls, cloth, and
shawls on floor looms. She prefers working in beads for easy portability. Come learn about her artwork and journey. Free!
January 26 Sunday Funday Movie matinee at the Redstone Inn, 2 p.m. — 4 p.m., showing Abominable. Movie and popcorn are free; pajamas, blankets, and pillows welcome!
January 27 Yoga with Jamie Fiske, 3:45 — 4:45 p.m. at the Marble Charter School.
January 29 Wilderness Workshop’s Naturalist Nights. Topic: Maintaining CATCHments, Not WaterSHEDS: The Effects of Wildfire with Liz Schnackenberg from the U.S. Forest Service. Third Street Center, Carbondale at 6:00 p.m. or January 30 at ACES – Hallam Lake, Aspen at 6:00 pm.
Ongoing…
The Marble Hub will be open on Saturdays from January 4-April 11, 2020 from 10:00am-3:00pm to give community members an opportunity to socialize and enjoy free coffee, hot chocolate and pastries.
A draft management plan for Penny Hot Springs is now available for review and public comment. Please go to www.pitkinOSTprojects.com and click on the Penny Hot Springs page to review the plan and submit your input. The plan will be presented during the December RCA meeting, on December 3 at The Redstone Inn, 7 p.m.; the comment period will continue through Jan. 17, 2020.
Each winter Wilderness Workshop partners with the Aspen Center for Environmental Studies and Roaring Fork Audubon to co-host the popular Naturalist Nights speaker series. Topics range from wildlife biology to geology, from climate science to environmental policy. For more information: WildernessWorkshop.org/Naturalist-Nights/
- Wednesdays at Third Street Center, Carbondale at 6:00 pm
- Thursdays at ACES – Hallam Lake, Aspen at 6:00 pm.
Body Fusion class with Lisa Wagner. Meets every Tuesday and Thursday, 8:30 — 10 a.m., at the Church at Redstone. All are welcome!
Yoga and a Soak at Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs, $25 cash/ class. Bring your mat, towel, swimsuit, water, and snacks. Complete your experience and ask about massage availability when you call 970-963-2846 to reserve your yoga spot. Mondays — 9 a.m. with Shannon Jones Wednesdays — 6 p.m. with Whitney Roginski Saturdays — 9 a.m. with Sarah Coburn
Second Saturdays in Marble. Wood carving with Rex and Vicky Branson 1 pm — 4 pm, at the Marble Charter School, will continue through the winter.
For anyone needing help stretching their food budget, Gunnison County Officials currently have boxes of food available distributed through the Marble Community Church. There is no charge to the recipient and no reservation is needed; boxes are available for an individual or up to a family of four and contain enough meals to last approximately three days.
Please call Pastor Jon Stovall at the church to arrange a pickup time for your box today, (970) 963-1464.
Parting Shot
Echo Travels
The Redstone Castle has part-time and on-call staffing needs for the following positions: Housekeeping, breakfast assistant, light maintenance, and grounds. If you have an interest in working for the Castle, please submit an email to info@ theredstonecastle.com. No phone calls, please. In your email, include your positions of interest and associated skill levels.
A skier on McClure Pass looking down the Crystal River Valley toward White House and Treasure Mountains from the jeep road that is popular for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.
Photo by Charlie Speer
Jon and Peggoty Stovall and Peter and Becky Bone were pilgrams on the El Camino de Santiago trail in October. They carted The Echo with them to Spain and sent us this photo. Thanks, Becky!
