04232026 Issuu

Local power couple Marc and Sara McMillan walked away with the gold after their performance of “With Arms Wide Open” by Creed at KDNK Community Access Radio’s Lip Sync Battle, hosted by the Roaring Divas on Saturday, April 18 in the Community Hall of the Third Street Center. Team “Brady Pimp & the Aerialists,” featuring lead dancer Nathaly Camacho, took second for their choreographed rendition of Fergie’s “Fergalicious,” and “Arnie Jacobs” (Caitlin Evans) placed third, performing “Splish Splash” by

Critical thinking, Redwine Point and the evolution of knowledge

I am continually amazed how prescient are The Four Agreements posited by Don Miguel Ruiz. Do your best, be impeccable with your word, don’t make assumptions and don’t take things personally. What an extraordinary guide for keeping one’s mind engaged in a positive way, while admitting that our knowledge is limited and hopefully continually evolving.

When I first started my job with Pitkin County Open Space in 1999, I sought advice from many as to which lands we should seek to preserve through our nascent acquisition/preservation program. Perhaps no one in the Roaring Fork Valley at that time better understood wildlife habits than Kevin Wright, the district wildlife manager for what was then called the state Division of Wildlife. Kevin urged me to protect a property known as Red Wind Point.

the rights of way (ROW). At the spot in question, between the Nettle Creek and Crystal County Estates, the railroad obtained its right of way in 1892 from one John Redwine.

OPINION

CVEPA VIEWS

By Dale Will

In those days, the struggling Avalanche herd of bighorn sheep were still gathering there. At Wright’s urging, we purchased Red Wind Point, thereby protecting it from subdivision and development. The wild sheep seldom venture there anymore, but we keep a light on for them should their numbers and range begin to expand again.

Shortly after Open Space bought the property, an old timer explained to me that the name Red Wind Point referred to the sharp curve in the rail line there — abutting red sandstone — and the need for trains to slow as they would “wind” around it. The name stuck, and I included the name and the story in the official Open Space management plan for the site.

A couple of years ago, my confidence in the old timer’s story was unsettled after seeing an old map showing a “Redwine” Creek coming off Mt Sopris just downstream. Adding to the mystery, another map — this one predating the railroad in 1890 — showed a cabin there labeled “Redwing.” Research into yet another matter some years later brought into my possession the actual survey maps for the Crystal Railroad, each with a list of adjacent landowners who granted

A quick digital search within the Colorado Historic Newspapers Collection archives for the Crystal Valley revealed that John Redwine lived in our valley during this period and was known as an expert in the building of mine tunnels. It was he who homesteaded at this location and granted the ROW.

I now understand that “Red Wind” must have been a corruption of “Redwine.” I further surmise that the label “Redwing” on the 1890 map was most likely a typographic error, perhaps stemming from the thick European accents of those sharing information at the time.

Those of us who attempt to know landscapes must simply do our best. We can attempt to be impeccable with words, but should continue to question all of our assumptions.

The story about the name coming from trains slowing to “wind” around the point was apparently a fiction that suited someone’s misunderstanding of the actual name. Oral histories will morph words and meanings over time, like an extended game of telephone. I now have to admit that something I once confidently reported as a fact was simply wrong. The name should be Redwine Point! For me, one of the most shocking things about our current political climate, and especially our chief executive, is the intolerance for intellectual curiosity. The President’s withering treatment of reporters simply asking hard questions is an assault on critical thinking. Environmental advocates constantly face the need to take action based on best available information. Those of us who attempt to know landscapes must simply do our best. We can attempt to be impeccable with words, but should continue to question all of our assumptions.

Things of which we were once certain may turn out to be myths. Let us all have the courage to bow gracefully to the deepening of our knowledge. The CVEPA board is dedicated to passionate advocacy regarding the protection of the Crystal Valley. We also like to learn new things.

To learn more about the Crystal Valley Environmental Protections Association, visit cvepa.org

LETTERS

CORRECTION: The April 16 article

“Carbondale Report: Trustees streamline process and expand eligibility for ADUs” has been updated online to clarify that the amended town code does not permit ADUs in River Valley Ranch, Hendrick Ranch and Roaring Fork Village, as mistakenly stated. Zoning restrictions in these neighborhoods must be amended to permit ADUs.

Free Matt Franzen

Grace and mercy have grown scarce in the West these days. Government law-fare is nothing new in Aspen. When billionaire patriarch Lester Crown admitted to bribing public officials, the government granted him immunity.

The “Sandwich Board” lady — the one the same billionaires banned twice — is right about the embattled tree dweller: The Crowns should do the right thing for the community and make us smile, just as Aspen wisely stood down during the

recent art sign debacle.

Free Matthew Franzen. You can help anonymously here: gofundme.com/f/ help-matthew-save-his-eco-treehouse

“Mama Sandy” & Lee Mulcahy

Basalt & Arlington

Do as Hungary

Hungary did it! VOTE!!!

Robert J. Mineo

Crystal Valley

Hold Trump accountable

I am horrified at what we are doing to the historic Persian Empire. Randomly blowing up a 2,500-year-old civilization. The very seat of civilization and its precious antiquities. Trump’s fever dream, one-man war is the most irresponsible action to come out of America. Since this utterly horrendous act was committed by one man, I believe that Trump and his cabinet should pay for

it; every penny of the cost of mobilizing the Navy, Air force and Army in the wild race to the other side of the world. Then Trump and his cabinet should pay for the reconstruction of the Iranian society, until Iran is whole again. And then Trump must be held responsible for the death of every Iranian killed by our armed forces.

John Hoffmann Carbondale

LETTERS

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SCUTTLEBUTT

County Road 110 fire

Multiple fire departments responded to a structure fire at 596 County Road 110 the night of Sunday, April 19. Carbondale & Rural Fire Protection District responded at 8:40pm, finding the deck and two sides of the home ablaze, according to a press release. Firefighters brought the fire under control at roughly 9pm and remained overnight to monitor the situation. There were no injuries reported. An investigation team was still determining the cause of the fire as of press time. Incident Commander Joe Dell said the location of the fire made getting water to the structure challenging. “We initiated a water tender shuttle to maintain a steady water supply,” Dell said, extending gratitude to Glenwood Springs Fire Department and Roaring Fork Fire Rescue for their support.

Artsy summer camps

Registration is open for Carbondale Arts summer camps, including camps offering songwriting, instrument instruction, mural creation and more. Support children’s ability to participate in the camps by donating to the Carbondale Arts scholarship fund at bit.ly/48gBIee For more information about the camps, visit carbondalearts.com/ edu/#summer-camps

River Bridge

Colorado

Hilary Porterfield

Basalt Library

NONPROFIT PARTNERS

Unitarian Universalist

Carbondale Arts

Carbondale Rotary Club

Colorado Animal Rescue Interested in becoming an Underwriter or Nonprofit Partner? Email Todd@soprissun.com or call 970-987-9866

Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario was honored at an annual benefit on Friday, April 17, for his role in co-founding and maintaining the River Bridge child advocacy center, an organization created in 2006 supporting children who are victims of abuse. “This doesn’t belong to me,” Vallario said in an acceptance speech at the benefit. “There are so many people, from the very beginning to everyone in this room tonight, who made this possible.”

After resignation

Roaring Fork School District Board

Director Betsy After resigned last week from the school board, saying she is needed at home to support her son in his recovery following a mid-February ski accident. “His recovery has been a complex journey,” she said in a press release. “My family is now preparing for an upcoming surgery, and it is clear that the place I am needed most is home.” She added that stepping down from the board is a difficult choice, but “is the right one to ensure the board remains strong and my family is supported.” Board President Lindsay DeFrates said the board wholeheartedly understands After’s decision, adding that she will be deeply missed.

Energy assistance

The Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) advised Colorado residents to apply for Colorado’s Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) by the upcoming April 30 deadline. “LEAP helps Coloradans in need pay a portion of their winter home heating costs, freeing up household budgets for other essentials like groceries and rent,” stated a press release. Eligible Coloradans must make 60% of the state median income or less, which for a family of four is equal to or less than $83,256. Awarded families can receive between $200 and $1,000 in assistance. Folks can apply at cdhs.colorado.gov/leap

Revamped resource directory

West Mountain Regional Health Alliance, along with Regional Health Connector, recently updated its Resource Directory Guide, where folks with limited income can find health resources within Garfield, Eagle and Pitkin counties. The guide provides information about organizations in the three counties focused on free and reduced-cost resources, including adaptive wilderness programming, financial planning, medical bill assistance, support for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse, health clinics and more. The guide offers ample youth activities, including programming by the Aspen Science Center, The Art Base and Roaring Fork Youth Orchestra. Find the renewed guide at westmountainhealthalliance.org/resources

Aletheia Healing

The Aletheia Healing Center, a medical center offering legal psilocybin facilitation and ketamine-assisted therapy, announced its opening in Aspen earlier this month. “The Roaring Fork Valley I know and love is a community that values worldly cultures, bold ideas, reverence for health and a deep respect for nature,” founder Ashley Denny said in a press release. “Those values shaped me early, and they ultimately shaped the kind of healing work I felt called to bring home.” Born in Aspen, Denny brings 15 years experience in clinical psychology and 10 years experience working with natural medicines to the organization. For more information, visit aspenintegrativewellness.com

They say it’s your birthday! Folks celebrating another trip around the sun this week include: Rosemary Dewers, Lori Knotts, Nova Vhrin and Wendle Whiting (April 23); Enrique Abarca, Dick Gibson, Robin Scher and Holly Tullar (April 24); Julio Maciel, Tom McDonald, Hope Sontag and Stephen Shapiro (April 25); Gayle Embrey and Susan Jordan (April 26); Donni Cochran, Sandy Ekier, Rachel Gillespie, Wewer Keohane, Sloan Shoemaker and April Spaulding (April 27); Wes Boyd, Julie DeVilbiss and Julia Morton (April 28); Enzo Bonzi, Diana Sirko and Luis Yllanes (April 29).

Carbondale Tree Board brings the blooms on Town’s Arbor Day

ANNALISE GRUETER

Sopris Sun Correspondent

Each spring, communities around the world celebrate a variety of holidays around growth and living things. In the U.S., a new tradition started in 1872, when Nebraskan journalist and politician J. Sterling Morton prompted the secular observation of Arbor Day. Morton coordinated with communities across the state to plant one million trees on April 10 of that year.

While Morton’s initiative spread across the U.S. swiftly, with the American Forestry Association appointing a nationwide chair by 1883, it wasn’t the first-ever tree planting jubilee. In 1594, the village of Mondoñedo, Spain planted lime and horse chestnut trees in a park. In 1895, another Spanish village, Villanueva de la Sierra, hosted an Arbor Day in response to the environmental damage of the Napoleonic wars.

Carbondale’s official Arbor Day is over 30 years old, often celebrated in early May rather than late April. The Town has been recognized as a “Tree City” by the Arbor Day Foundation since 1992. Just a couple of years later, in 1994, the Carbondale Tree Board was authorized by the Board of Trustees.

This year, Carbondale’s Arbor Day will take place on May 2 in Hendrick Park from 10 am to noon. Town Arborist

Carl Meinecke will plant a honey locust, a fast-growing deciduous tree native to North America and known for its aromatic springtime blossoms.

Tree Board Chair Lisa Paige explained that the Arbor Day celebration helps Carbondale maintain its certification as a Tree City. The Tree Board will have an information table at the event with details for the community about different trees throughout the town.

“Diversity is essential so that invasive pests don’t ruin the entire canopy,” Paige said. “Meineicke will demonstrate how to safely plant new trees and present information on watering and tree care, especially in drought conditions,” which is top of mind for the Tree Board this year, according to Paige. “We are the stewards of this canopy … This means sometimes we need to be proactive.”

The Tree Board is also planning several other events over the summer. Members will also be at Dandelion Day sharing tree information, and there will be a summer arborist walk, scheduled for either June or July, depending on precipitation. Later in the summer, the board is looking to schedule other demonstrations on pruning and mulching.

Paige expressed enthusiasm for the planting that has been done in recent years: “We’re beginning to see some

really wonderful trees coming into our environment that are wonderful landscape specimens.”

She also shared that the Tree Board is gearing up for a large planting project in 2027, with hopes to expand planting in and around Chacos Park.

“Some of the new varieties have some really wonderful color and provide great habitat for songbirds,” she said. “For this year, most changes are going to be maintenance related, such as trimming or pruning. [Meinecke] is watching several trees closely, but no major changes are slated for this year.”

Paige said that the mitigation efforts Meinecke has headed over the past few years to limit the spread of the emerald

ash borer beetle have been working. The Tree Board provides recommended tree types on its website for planting, as well as guidelines for successfully planting new trees. Paige said that Meinecke will be adding suckerpunch chokecherries, lindens and other small blooming trees to Carbondale’s canopy.

To learn more about Arbor Day, tree planting and the benefits of shaded streets, visit the Arbor Day Foundation website at arborday.org. More details regarding Carbondale’s trees and those of other Colorado communities can be found on Colorado Tree View, where arborists compile data about maintained trees.

Roland McCook shares Ute history in Colorado, 1860-present

KATALINA VILLARREAL Sopris Sun Correspondent

On April 11, Roland McCook, an Uncompahgre band member from the Ute Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation, shared his knowledge and lived experience of Ute history in western Colorado. The free presentation was organized through the Glenwood Springs Historical Society’s speaker series and took place at the Glenwood Library. McCook currently runs an organization called Native American Cultural Programs, a nonprofit based out of Grand Junction.

“We had our own laws, most of which had to do with what’s right or wrong. We all have our conscience,” McCook said about the untrue notion that Native Americans were lawless.

McCook made sure everyone attending had a map of the original Ute lands in western Colorado up until 1860. He began by defining the names of tribes and noted that the Ute (Nuche in the Ute language) people did not consider themselves to be in tribes, but in families. Settlers used the descriptor “tribe” which has since carried over through colonialist recordings.

McCook started at the northwestern point of Colorado with the Yamprika family, the name meaning “root eater.” Just down from there was the Parianuche family, which means “elk people.” Taviwach, which translates to “sunny people,” was the original name for the Uncompahgre, or “red pond,” family in southwestern Colorado. Then, there were the southern Ute families: the Weeminuche, Moache and Kapota.

In 1861, the Uinta Valley Reservation was established in Utah and in 1868 the Treaty with the Ute (popularly known as the Kit Carson Treaty) sectioned off land spanning almost all of the Western Slope for the Ute people to

live on. However, the settlers wanted the land for mining and farming. That treaty only lasted six years before the Brunot Agree ment was made, which removed a chunk of Ute land, and so on and so forth until in 1880, when there was no western Colorado land for the Ute people to live on.

In response to the treaties encroaching on Ute land, Chief Ouray said, “You promised we’d have this original land.”

Eventually, there was a disagree ment among some White River Reservation Ute members and a settler representative, Nathan Meeker, on farming expansion over sacred ground, which led to violence.

“Everything we do is labeled as a massacre,” McCook said regarding the Meeker Massacre of 1879, which was used

as the reason for the forced removal of Ute people from western Colorado to Utah.

McCook said, “[The settlers’] lumped us all in one and moved us to Utah. [The Ute people] had been there over a thousand years and now they were herded like cattle, away from a way of life they knew.” From the plants that they made medicine from, and knew the seasonal growth patterns of, to the hunting grounds and animals native to the areas, the Ute families were torn away from their Colorado home.

McCook explained that since the forced relocation of the Uncompahgre people, the Utes from Colorado have been living on the Uinta and Ouray Reservation in Utah and the Ute Mountain Ute and Southern Ute reservations on the border of Colorado and New Mexico. The presentation covered the Ute history from 1860 to present time and how Utah became the current home for many Utes despite the fact that they were originally from Colorado.

McCook also shared his personal story and experiences across multiple careers. The last two positions he held were serving his community as a tribal governor for nine years and then working at the Smithsonian as vice-chair and chair of the Native American Repatriation Review Committee. He retired and moved to Montrose to be closer to the mountains of his ancestors, and now offers lectures on the history of the Ute people.

Public Works initiates talks on Crystal River water usage

Carbondale Public Works held a meeting on March 26 with Crystal River water managers (ranchers and farmers) to begin discussions on the Crystal’s water usage this coming summer. The initiative comes in the wake of record-low snowpack this past winter and anticipated very low flows in the Crystal and Roaring Fork rivers.

The gathering, organized and led by Scott Wenning, Public Work’s assistant director for utilities, was held at the Carbondale fire station. In a discussion with The Sopris Sun, Wenning, wanting to maintain the managers’ privacy, declined to give specifics about who attended or the exact number of participants, other than to say, “There was a good turnout.”

Wenning described the town’s municipal water system as background for the meeting. “We have three water-treatment plants” that are all connected and collectively supply “all the [potable] water demand through the whole town.” This is in addition to the four ditches providing untreated water for irrigation.

Carbondale’s primary potable water source is Nettle Creek, “on the shoulder of Mt. Sopris,” which gravity-feeds water to the treatment plant at its base that then flows downhill into town. There is also a well along the Crystal River near the Nordic Gardens nursery, and three wells by the Roaring Fork near the Nature (dog) Park; each location has a treatment plant.

Wenning noted, “This system does not have any reservoir storage at all,” and relies solely on the four wells and the creek’s spring runoff. Hence added concern about water availability — especially in the Crystal — this summer.

Wenning explained the meeting’s goal “was just to provide all the water users, water managers on the Crystal River a little forecast of what may be coming, in

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terms of level of drought.” He gave a short presentation to “show what this runoff forecast could be.”

“We are expecting, potentially, significantly less water runoff than [in] 2018,” he said, “the most recent real dry year that everybody remembers.”

The other purpose was “to initiate a collaborative dialogue with our neighbors” and for Wenning himself to get to know these folks better. In describing their response, he said, “I wasn’t telling them anything significantly new, [it was] more of a way to kick off discussion. People are interested, they’re paying attention.”

One meeting participant who did talk with The Sun was Bill Fales, who, with his wife Marj Perry, has long operated the large Cold Mountain Ranch just south of Carbondale. Fales reiterated the general, preliminary aspect of the meeting, where everyone agreed, “It’s going to be a tough year,” and that they plan to meet again soon.

He and Perry discussed the more sophisticated snowpack-measuring technology now available, including the automated SNOTEL system and the more recent use of airborne lidar mapping that allow for much more accurate predictions.

Perry noted, “They’re going to provide information for each watershed or each reservoir,” for a “much fuller understanding” of water availability.

Given that greater picture, Fales observed, “We’re looking at [a] thousand-year drought.” He continued, “Last year, out in the forest, we had springs that were dry that had never been dry ... and they certainly didn’t get recharged this winter.”

Fales recounted that following the dry 2018 season, he and Perry agreed to participate in a program with the Colorado Water Trust in which the trust pays water managers not to use all of their water allotment. However, because of certain stringent parameters for when the program can be implemented, they have so far been able to do it only one or two years. Perry noted that they were

continued on page 18

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YouthZone, River Bridge, Yampah teen parenting updates and a shout out to Larry

AMY HADDEN MARSH Sopris Sun Correspondent

Day

With no public comments, no elected official reports and a short consent agenda, the Garfield Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) got to the heart of Monday’s meeting right out of the gate. They listened to updates from local nonprofits that receive county funding.

YouthZone (YZ) provides services to improve everyday life for youth who have found themselves on the other side of the law and to reduce youth involvement in the criminal justice system. To that end, YZ worked with 239 Garfield County clients from January through March, with more than 670 substance-use education sessions and 151 mental health sessions. The non-recidivism rate so far this year is at 85%. YZ also received a $700,000 grant through the state attorney general’s office, in partnership with the City of Rifle, to renovate its Rifle office.

Blythe Chapman of River Bridge Regional Center in Glenwood Springs mentioned that referrals decreased in 2025. “I hope that’s a hooray,” commented Commission Chair Tom Jankovsky. Chapman said she didn’t know and pointed to trends that might have influenced the change, including people leaving the area, the high cost of living and a decrease in child abuse reports.

But this has allowed River Bridge to focus on existing clients and provide more preventive and mental health services. The goal, she said, is to “work ourselves out of crisis response and focus on preventive work.” She added that River Bridge continues to search for another building and that two local nonprofits, Advocate Safehouse and Response, have stepped up to help maintain the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner or SANE

program for adults. River Bridge continues to provide sexual assault exams for children.

A plethora of good news about Yampah Mountain High School’s Early Childhood Education and Teen Parent Program (TPP) came from Dr. Leigh McGown, director of the TPP, and April Moon, community liaison for the school. McGown said TPP has 22 students this year. “We have two fathers graduating this May and three moms,” she said, adding that TPP students are very engaged.

Moon agreed. “They don’t look forward to the breaks like we do,” she said. “They’re missing part of their family because we’ve become part of the integral workings in their life.” McGown added, “Our teen moms have become accustomed to having us in their life. It’s been a big honor to be able to be there for these kids.” Another big success, they said, is a workforce readiness program, offering credits in early childhood education from Denver’s Metro State University.

The biggest challenge, said McGown, is stable housing. “We have just under 80% of the teen parents who experience homelessness,” she said, adding that another trend is younger pregnancies.

The county’s Department of Human Service (DHS) update included federal assistance program disbursements for March, totaling $1,080,023. About 20% of county residents are on Medicaid; 4,000 are on food assistance. Sharon Longhurst-Pritt, DHS director, pointed out that people in the United States on refugee and asylum status no longer receive food assistance, which affects about 10 county residents.

The BOCC also approved items with long titles: an extension of the Memorandum of Understanding between the Colorado Department of Early Childhood and Garfield County DHS to administer the Colorado

City withdraws from interagency SPEAR

crimes task force

JOHN STROUD Sopris Sun Correspondent

Glenwood Springs, on a 6-1 vote by City Council, is withdrawing from the interagency Special Problems Enforcement and Response (SPEAR) task force that’s headed up by the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, over concerns about potential information-sharing with federal immigration enforcement.

At the April 16 City Council meeting, Glenwood Springs Police Chief Joseph Deras gave a report dispelling what he referred to as “largely speculative” comments from members of the public in recent weeks attempting to link SPEAR to immigration enforcement activities in Garfield County.

SPEAR has been criticized recently by those opposed to the aggressive federal immigration enforcement policies of the Trump administration. They’ve also called for closure of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Glenwood Springs, and an end to street-camera surveillance that they’ve said could also assist immigration enforcement.

However, at no time have Glenwood Springs police officers engaged in information-sharing through SPEAR that would lead to involvement by ICE, Deras emphasized.

The same is true for the street cameras, he advised Council in previous meetings.

Doing so would be a violation of Colorado state laws that restrict local police agencies from working with ICE, he said.

Several years ago, the City ceased paying for a police detective to be part of the former Two Rivers Drug Enforcement Team, due to staffing shortages at the time, Deras explained.

That was before the task force was reorganized as SPEAR in 2023 and shifted focus to a variety of “major crimes,” including drugs, weapons and human trafficking, child sex crimes and gangrelated crimes.

Glenwood has, however, remained a partner in the task force for purposes of sharing resources to investigate major crimes and identify and arrest offenders. That relationship has paid off in the interest of public safety, Deras said.

This is an exemplary [police] department, because of its history and reputation ... I think it’s important that we not taint that reputation, by others maybe not being up to those same standards.

- Councilor Steve Smith

“We do have crimes that have occurred in our community that exceed our capacity, and we have called on SPEAR to assist in that,” he said.

That said, Deras, City Manager Steve Boyd and City Attorney Karl Hanlon indicated they would support a decision to pull out of SPEAR.

continued on page 8

That’s based on two key points, Hanlon said, offering his legal take on the matter.

The City did suggest a wording change in the SPEAR agreement that would cite state law regarding information sharing with ICE.

But one obstacle is that the investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Homeland Security Investigations, is party to the SPEAR agreement.

ICE, which also falls under DHS, is not party to the agreement, but the concern is that there’s little to prevent one arm of DHS from sharing information with another, Hanlon said.

“It creates the appearance and possibility that there could be information-sharing that would violate state statute,” he said.

The suggested wording change in the SPEAR agreement “was found to be unfavorable” by the governing board that includes representatives from member agencies, and was not supported, Deras said.

Other member jurisdictions have asked for similar wording changes. Those were also rejected, he said.

In addition, SPEAR is partially funded by a U.S. Justice Department grant for drug investigations. Hanlon noted that the policy under the Trump administration is that local jurisdictions receiving federal grant money are to cooperate on immigration enforcement.

Council members were somewhat torn between the value of cooperation between police agencies to address crime, and possibly damaging the reputation of the Glenwood Springs Police Department if SPEAR officers were to act outside state law.

“I’m very aware of how cooperation is valuable, and that it’s pretty critical to the safety of our community,” Mayor Pro-Tem Erin Zalinski said. “But I think it was a reasonable request to make it more clear, and that the line will not be crossed.”

Councilor Steve Smith made the motion to withdraw from SPEAR.

“This is an exemplary [police] department, because of its history and reputation,” Smith said. “I think it’s important that we not taint that reputation, by others

Childcare Assistance Program, a 2026 operational budget supplement for Colorado State University Extension Services and an easement agreement and permit for a GPS station at the county landfill.

The GPS station is owned and operated by EarthScope, which runs the Network of the Americas. It collects seismic and geodetic data throughout the U.S. and Central and South America. The station also has tools for weather and land surveying, as well as construction uses. Apparently, the station’s original permit from 2006, which expired in 2018, was not renewed.

In other meeting news, the BOCC signed a letter, discussed last week, opposing the confirmation of two Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) commissioners. County Manager Fred Jarman put the letter together, stating that he had help from John Swartout, lobbyist and retired executive director of Colorado Counties, Inc. Swartout has represented anti-wolf groups Colorado Advocates

GLENWOOD

from page 7

maybe not being up to those same standards.”

Councilor Ray Schmahl was the only member to vote against pulling out of SPEAR.

“I’m not aware of any substantiated claims of our police department violating any state laws, and it’s a waste of time to be fretting over unsubstantiated allegations of potential violations,” he said.

Deras said that, regardless of the city’s decision, he does not think it will negatively impact cooperation between police agencies, which happens under established mutual aid agreements, aside from SPEAR.

for Smart Wolf Policy and the United Wolf Coalition. He lobbied on behalf of the Colorado Outdoors Coalition and Garfield County last year, supporting Senate Bill 25B-005 that reallocated more than $264,000 from the State Department of Natural Resources’ wolf reintroduction funding to the state health insurance affordability enterprise cash fund.

The BOCC plans to send the letter to the Colorado State Senate in time for the CPW commissioner confirmation hearings in Denver this week and will ratify it at the next regular meeting in May.

At the end of Monday’s meeting, Jankovsky gave a shout out to The Sopris Sun’s illustrator Larry Day. “I just want to say thank you to The Sopris Sun and your cartoonist. I really appreciated the caricature that he painted last week [in the paper],” he said. “Sometimes he makes fun of us with his drawings. But the one that was last week, I really appreciated it. It was a good caricature of the three of us.”

Garfield County Sheriff Lou Vallario also addressed the concerns over SPEAR in a written March 30 statement.

“To be clear, SPEAR does not work with ICE or provide information to them,” Vallario said. “You will not find any association with them in our memorandum of understanding (MOU), or anywhere else. ICE is one of 20-plus departments under the Department of Homeland Security. Colorado has several laws restricting working with ICE and we have and will comply with those laws as state-certified Peace Officers, until they are overturned by the courts.”

Ladies lacrosse moves into No. 3 spot in 4A state rankings

JOHN STROUD

Sopris Sun Correspondent

A string of convincing wins for the Roaring Fork High School girls lacrosse team has the Lady Rams ranked No. 3 among Class 4A teams in Colorado this week.

Roaring Fork capped the latest run with an 18-6 win over Fruita-Monument on the home field in Carbondale on Tuesday, improving to 10-2 overall on the season, while carrying a 6-2 record in the 4A Mountain East League — second only to top-ranked Battle Mountain. The Huskies have handed the Rams their only two losses this season.

The Rams scored a trio of wins ahead of the Tuesday matchup, 15-1 over Eagle Valley at home April 15, with senior Juliana Pittz and sophomore Charlotte Grobler scoring three goals apiece to lead the charge.

Then came a 17-7 win at Aspen on April 17, with Pittz scoring four goals, and senior Jordyn Miller and sophomore Eva Feinsinger each throwing down three.

On April 18, the Rams won 22-10 at Mullen, with junior Marin Weaver scoring five goals, plus three each from Feinsinger, Pittz, Miller and Grobler.

“I feel really good about the way they’re

playing right now,” head coach Dahl Miller said after the Tuesday win.

“I knew today would be a little tough,” he said of an improved Fruita team that made the Rams sweat with a scoring run in the third quarter of play. “We were probably looking ahead to Aspen coming up here on Thursday, but we eventually got it together, shared the ball well, and took care of the ball like we should be taking care of it.”

The Rams host the Aspen Skiers for senior night, beginning at 4pm on Thursday.

Dahl said the team has some work to do to close out the season strong and secure a high seeding for the 4A state playoffs. Brackets for the tournament will be announced May 2, after the Rams close out the season on the road at Summit on April 29 and Denver North on May 1.

“We need to work on taking care of the ball, and our preparation at practice is going to be huge,” Dahl said. “We have to treat these last games like we’re gearing up for the playoffs, so we’re positioned well going into the playoffs.”

Baseball

Meanwhile, the Rams baseball team was on the road at Cedaredge on Tuesday,

improving to 5-8 overall with a 12-1 win over the Bruins.

Last week, the Rams split back-to-back games with Basalt, winning 9-5 at their place on April 15, and losing the home stand 12-9 on April 18.

Next up, Roaring Fork is at Gunnison for a double header this Saturday, April 25.

Girls soccer

Also playing on the road Tuesday at Coal Ridge was the Lady Rams soccer team, who earned a 2-2 draw with the Titans.

In earlier action, Roaring Fork lost 5-1 at Delta on April 14, and rebounded to win 2-0 at home over Basalt on April 16; goals by juniors Tess Hayes and Mia Jimenez.

The Rams are now 3-5-3 overall, and 2-2-2 in the 3A Western Slope League.

Next up, they play at home Friday, April 24, against Mead (11am).

Track & Field

Roaring Fork’s track and field athletes were at the Coal Ridge Invitational on Friday, April 17. Finishing top eight in their respective events to earn team points were:

Girls — sophomore Kinley Richmond, seventh 3200-meter run (13 minutes, 50.74 seconds); 4x800 relay team of Richmond, juniors Sadie Silcox and Miley Stuart, and senior Caroline Cole, fourth (11:56.4).

Boys — junior Quintin Galbraith, sixth 100-meter dash (11.99 seconds), and eighth 400 meters (54.44); sophomore Levi Friday, sixth 1,600 meters (4:47.49), and seventh 800 meters (2:11.17); junior Davey Noyola, eighth 300 hurdles (47.36).

The Rams are at the Olathe Invitational on Thursday, April 23, as they gear up for the 3A League Championships April 30 to May 1, hosted by Coal Ridge.

CALENDAR

THURSDAY, APRIL 23

5POINT GROUP RUN

Start a day of 5Point adventure off on the right foot with a community group run, starting from Alpine Performance Labs at 9:30am today and tomorrow. All paces are welcome.

5POINT CONTINUED

5Point’s flagship festival continues in Carbondale through the weekend with pop ups, panels, parties and, of course, film throughout downtown Carbondale, but mainly between the Crystal Theatre and Carbondale Rec. For a list of events and tickets, visit 5Pointfilm.org/festival Adventure on!

CODING

Attend Aspen Science Center’s Tech Club to build hardware projects and learn various coding languages, including JavaScript, Python and HTML. The workshop is open to fifth graders and older and will be hosted at the Carbondale Library from 3:45 to 4:45pm.

SILEO QUARTET

The Sileo Quartet of Bloomington, Indiana — and featuring local musician Delaney Myers — performs at the Basalt Library at 5:30 tonight, and at Steve’s Guitars tomorrow night at 8pm. Tickets for the show at Steve’s are at tinyurl.com/QuartetatSteves

STATE OF THE FORK

The Colorado River District hosts its State of the Roaring Fork River meeting, in partnership with Pitkin County Healthy Rivers and the Roaring Fork Conservancy, at the Pitkin County Library from 6 to 8pm. Register at coloradoriverdistrict.org

BINGO FOR BOOKS

The Carbondale Library wraps up its celebration of National Library Week with an evening of Bingo open to all ages at 6pm.

ELVIS AT TACAW

TACAW will screen Baz Luhrmann’s documentary film, “EPIC: Elvis Presley in Concert,” at 7:30pm. Tickets at tacaw.org

FRIDAY, APRIL 24

WATERSHED CLEANUP

Roaring Fork Conservancy is seeking volunteers for its 28th annual Watershed Cleanup happening today through April 28. Folks will be assigned to specific locations within the Roaring Fork Watershed, from Aspen to Glenwood and Ruedi to McClure Pass. Register at roaringfork.org/events

SUSTAINABILITY CONFERENCE

Colorado Mountain College will hold an online event spotlighting the final projects of students in the Integrated Sustainability and Ecosystem Science & Stewardship programs from 9am to noon. Register for the Sustainability & Ecosystem Science Conference at coloradomtn.edu/sustainability-conference

ADAPTIVE RIDE

Challenge Aspen hosts an adaptive ride on the Prince Creek trails, taking off from the lower Prince Creek parking lot at 10am. Register at 5Pointfilm.org/festival

LIBRARY LOVERS

The Basalt Regional Library celebrates “the power of coming together” during an event focused on building relationships and connections. The “Library Lovers’ Party” is from 6 to 8pm.

CLAY DATE NIGHT

Couples are invited to explore the ceramic arts together at the Glenwood Springs Community Art Center Clay Studio from 6:30 to 8:30pm. Register at tinyurl.com/ClayDatenight

JOSH RITTER

Singer-songwriter Josh Ritter, who was recently featured in Rolling Stone magazine, performs at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at tacaw.org

SATURDAY, APRIL 25

BEAUTIFICATION CLUB

The Carbondale Beautification Club invites community members to lend a hand dressing up the town, starting from the pavilion in Sopris Park at 9am. “With enough volunteers, we can cover more territory,” club organizer Jeff Basler told The Sopris Sun.

5POINT 5K

The fourth annual 5Point 5K gets set at Independence Run & Hike at 9am. Register at 5Pointfilm.org/festival

EARTH DAY AT HABITAT

The Roaring Fork Valley Habitat for Humanity Restore hosts an Earth Day celebration during regular business hours.

SUSTAINABLE SETTINGS

Jared Minori instructs the second class in the “Building Fertility in Your Gardens” introduction to biodynamics series at Sustainable Settings from 10am to noon. No prior attendance is required. Register at sustainablesettings.org

DÍA DEL NIÑO STORYTIME

In celebration of Día del Niño, the Carbondale Library hosts bilingual storytime and festivities at 10:30am. For details, call the library at 970-963-2889.

EARTH DAY 2.0

The Farm Collaborative hosts an Earth Day Celebration from 11am to 2pm at 200 Agricultural Way in Aspen.

SALVATION ARMY

The Salvation Army hosts a donor and volunteer appreciation event to celebrate the support and service of those who help the organization from 1 to 3pm at the Glenwood Springs Library.

‘LET’S TANGO’

The Barn Music Series is back with “Let’s Tango,” a tribute to Astor Piazzolla bringing “audiences [on a] journey from the heart of the Rockies to the soulful streets of Buenos Aires,” at the Old Thompson Barn in River Valley Ranch at 7pm tonight and 3pm tomorrow. Tickets at benfengmusicproductions.org/lets-tango

‘RUNES’

The Zikr Dance Ensemble brings its 2026 spring tour, “Runes,” to the Aspen District Theater for a one-night-only performance at 7:30pm. Tickets at zikrdance.com

MARFA

Indie-emo-folk singer Cayden Wemple opens for the Americana-rock group Marfa at TACAW at 8pm. Tickets at tacaw.org

SUNDAY, APRIL 26

POETRY CONTEST

Submit traditional haikus or free-form poems for a poetry contest hosted by Glenwood Springs Library. To compete, submit up to three poems by email to tlamee@gcpld.org or bkoster@gcpld. org by April 26. Free-form poems must be capped at a 100-word limit and haikus must follow the 17-syllable format, split on a five-seven-five syllable rhythm over three lines. A poetry reading will be held at the library on April 30 from 5:30 to 6:30pm, when the winners will be announced.

‘MAGICK AS A SPIRITUAL PATH’ Jory Barnes presents how “magick” can be found in our daily lives at A Spiritual Center, room 31 of the Third Street Center, from 10 to 11:30am.

Mateo Sandate and the Heartstrings quartet celebrate their new album, “Believing in Beauty” — recorded over the winter at the Snowmass Monastery — with a tour through the Garfield County Libraries. Performances occur in Parachute (April 24), New Castle (April 25), Glenwood Springs (April 26), Rifle (May 1), Silt (May 2) and Carbondale (May 3). All showtimes are at 2pm and the concerts are free to attend at the respective libraries. Courtesy photo

ART INC

Art Inc, a class offering designed for children living with disabilities, explores textures at the Aspen Art Museum from noon to 2pm. Register at aspenartmuseum.org

MONDAY, APRIL 27

LES MIS SINGALONG

Folks are invited to sing along to favorite selections from the hit musical “Les Miserables” at the Basalt Library at 6:30pm. Aspen Community Theatre’s David Dyer will be on the keys. Sign up at aspencommunitytheatre.org

PLANT-BASED POTLUCK

The Center for Human Flourishing hosts a plant-based, whole-foods potluck and film screening at the Third Street Center at 6:30pm. Attendees are asked to bring a dish and their own plate, bowl, cup and utensils. Details at tcfhf.org

TUESDAY, APRIL 28

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program presents “Mama Mia” at the Crystal Theatre at 6pm. Guests are encouraged to don their best ’70s attire, and prizes will be awarded to the best dressed. Proceeds benefit the youth radio nonprofit. Tickets at tinyurl.com/ AZYEPmovienight

JAS STUDENT SHOWCASE

Jazz Aspen Snowmass students perform in celebration of International Jazz Day at TACAW at 6pm. RSVP for free at tacaw.org

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 29

KID FLICKS AT THE CRYSTAL

Dr. Seuss classic “The Lorax” screens at the Crystal Theatre today at 2:30pm. And “Goat” is back with a screening on May 1 at 7pm.

CAPTIVATE YOUR AUDIENCE

Lynn Aliya, local communications expert and author, teaches four “easy secrets” to captivate your audience at the Basalt Library at 5:30pm. Details at basaltlibrary.org

‘SCREENAGERS’

The Carbondale Library screens the documentary “Screenagers,” now updated for 2026 with the latest science, research and expert insights, followed by a discussion moderated by YouthZone. The film starts at 6pm. For details, call the library at 970-963-2889.

IMPROV OPEN CALL

Consensual Improv invites improvisers

“whose core values include: unity, commitment, excellence, joy and growth” to audition at TACAW from 7 to 9pm. For details and to sign up, email info@theconsensualimprov.com

THURSDAY, APRIL 30

TACT OPENING

To close out Autism Awareness Month, Ascendigo and Teaching the Autism Community Trades (TACT) celebrate the opening of the TACT headquarters in Carbondale (695 Buggy Circle) from 11am to 1pm. Details at tinyurl.com/ TACTCarbondale

VALLEY VIEW TOWN HALL

Valley View Hospital hosts a virtual community town hall from noon to 1pm. Register at vvh.org/events

FIRE & WATER

The Middle Colorado Watershed Council hosts the final event in its 2026 Fire & Water Speaker Series, “Firewise Futures: Readiness & Resilience in the West,” from 5:30 to 8pm at the Ute Theatre in Rifle. RSVP at midcowatershed.org/events

CIVICS BEE

Youthentity and the Carbondale Chamber host the first-ever Greater Roaring Fork Regional Civics Bee, where local middle schoolers will put their knowledge of government processes to the test, at the Carbondale Middle School from 6 to 8:30pm. RSVP at tinyurl.com/RFVCivicsBee

‘THE SHEPHERD AND THE BEAR’

The Crystal Theatre screens “The Shepherd and the Bear” — “set high in the majestic French Pyrenees [the film] explores a conflict provoked by the reintroduction of brown bears in the midst of a traditional shepherding community” — at 6pm. Tickets at tinyurl.com/ ShepherdsandBears

FRIDAY, MAY 1

ADVENTURE PARK

The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park reopens all of its rides for the summer season, and is offering a l ocals pass through April 30. Details at glenwoodcaverns.com

FAMILY BLOCK PARTY

May’s First Friday is for the whole family! The 16th annual Family Block Party kicks off at 4th and Main Street in Carbondale, featuring youth musical acts, family activities, a spirits and beer garden and more, from 4 to 8pm. Details at carbondalefamilyblockparty.com

HANDMADE AND VINTAGE MARKET

First Friday

MAY 1 4:308:30PM

MAIN ST. Between 2nd & 3rd

The Family Block Party returns on First Friday

MYKI JONES

Sopris Sun Correspondent

First Friday falls on May 1 and will kick off in Carbondale with the 16th annual Family Block Party at 4th Street Plaza and Chacos Park. This free, all-ages event, starting at 4 and ending at 8pm, is the result of collaborative efforts of multiple nonprofits, including the Andy Zanca Youth Empowerment Program (AZYEP), a pillar of the tradition, which will again take on the management of the Youth Stage.

According to AZYEP Program Director Adele Craft, this year, attendees can expect an “exciting and dynamic lineup of youth performances,” including by AZYEP DJs DJ PJ (Penelope Mathis) and DJ Rockers (Sathja Davis), singer-songwriter duo Edie O’byrne and Eli Sorenson, Legacy Dance Company, Glenwood Springs High School’s jazz band and Rock and Roll Academy bands Unrestricted and TOAST. AZYEP interns and DJs will emcee, “bringing their fun energy to Carbondale’s favorite family night out.”

“Beyond that, the heart of the event is the nonprofit booths. Each participating organization offers a hands-on, kid-friendly activity at no charge — everything from art projects and crafts to games and interactive experiences.”

Michelle Marlow, Family Block producer and owner of MRM events, said. “You’ll see things like rock painting, seed-bomb making, wildlife mask creation and other creative activities that keep kids moving and engaged.”

Colorado Animal Rescue, which has

been involved with the block party for many years, will be there with adoptable pets and to sling adult beverages at the Beer and Spirit Garden. Carnival games and similar activities will be provided by Carbondale Rec, and Carbondale Arts will roll over Rosybelle, its mobile makerspace. FocusedKids, Carbondale Middle School’s Gender Sexualities Alliance, LIFT-UP, the Rita B. Fund, Smiling Goat Ranch and Sopris Children’s Fund will also have a presence at the event.

Folks can also pursue the silent auction, with a wide catalog of items. All proceeds from the event benefit the organizations involved, “directly supporting youth recreation, family programs and animal-welfare initiatives throughout the Valley,” a press release stated.

“The biggest success has been giving nonprofits the space to truly activate and take ownership,” Marlow said. “Over the years, things that I originally managed — like the silent auction and the beer

and spirit garden — have been taken on by nonprofit partners, which has been a really positive shift.”

“Looking ahead, my main goal is sustainability,” she added. “I want to ensure this event can continue long-term.”

When Marlow started the Block Party 16 years ago, it was simply a fundraiser for Children’s Rocky Mountain School preschool. But it kept progressing over the years, and she felt that all the effort being put in could also benefit other organizations.

“What makes it unique is that every nonprofit involved shares that same focus. The organizations participating are all connected to supporting youth, families and the broader community, so the event naturally feels aligned and intentional,” Marlow said. “At its core, the Block Party has always been about community and family; bringing people together while supporting youth and family organizations that make this place so special.”

These sentiments were shared by Craft, who encourages the community to come out not only to support AZYEP but the kids involved, too.

“We hope community members will come out to support our talented young DJs, musicians, dancers and emcees,” Craft said. “This event is always one of my favorites because it is pure joy. There are so many smiling faces, from the performers and the crowd alike. We hope to see you there.”

For more details about the First Friday Family Block Party, visit carbondalefamilyblockparty.com

Basalt Elementary School get an A, earning state improvement award

KATE PHILLIPS

Sopris Sun Correspondent

The kids are more than all right at Basalt Elementary School (BES), seeing as the K-4 public school received the Governor’s Distinguished Improvement Award. Presented by the Colorado Department of Education, the honor recognizes schools that have shown significant improvements in closing achievement gaps and student growth. Only a limited number of schools statewide receive the award.

“We are so excited, happy and proud of our students and teachers,” said Whitney Carper Bell, the school’s culturally and linguistically diverse education coach. “It’s just a little snapshot of our school, but I do feel like it’s a testament of how hard our third and fourth grade teachers have worked to help our students.”

compared to peers across the state.” The elementary school’s results demonstrated an 80 MGP in English language arts and a 79 in math. Comparatively, statewide measures show a 50 MGP overall. Notably, 87% of BES multilingual learners experienced improvement, compared to 45% statewide and 50% district wide.

When you go into the classrooms, you’re not seeing second language learners looking lost.

- Whitney Carper Bell, Basalt Elementary School

BES received the award in August 2025, after demonstrating improved Colorado Measures of Academic Success scores over time. Data represents the 2024-25 school year and highlights students’ progress from third to fourth grade. Those students are now in fifth grade.

“One of the key measures used to determine the award is Median Growth Percentile (MGP),” according to a press release, “which compares how much students grow academically

Civics Bee empowers local students

VIVIENNE SHAPIRO

The Sopris Stars

The curtain has lifted on a national competition carving a pathway into our intimate valley: the Civics Bee. Youth empowerment nonprofit Youthentity and the Carbondale Chamber have partnered with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to bring the first Greater RFV Regional Civics Bee tournament to Carbondale Middle School (CMS) on April 30 at 6pm, providing a platform for local youth to test their knowledge of how our government functions.

“We hope you can come join us,” said Youthentity Executive Director Kristina Freeman, who hopes for a robust attendance to support the project and all the kids involved.

President and CEO of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce Andrea Stewart is working closely with Youthentity to tie the event together.

“You’re not too young to make a difference,” Stewart said. And it’s not just a one way train — participation in the Bee has the potential to change the lives of the bright, young individuals involved.

The top three finalists at the regional, state and national competitions all receive significant prizes. First place in the national competition yields the winner a $100,000 529 savings plan contribution to be used for future educational expenses.

“So that would be like a scholarship,” Stewart said. “I wish I had that,” she added, jokingly.

To increase visibility and access to the opportunity, Youthentity and the Carbondale Chamber worked to integrate preparation into middle school social studies curriculums. But ultimately, it came down to whether social studies teachers saw a place for it.

“It was optional to take it on as a class project,” said Nan Campbell, a sixth grade social studies teacher at CMS. “And I really wasn’t sure if I was going to because the curriculum’s already pretty full, but I did realize it fit perfectly.”

Harper Bond, a sixth grader at CMS, said the Bee is “an opportunity for kids to address a problem or an opportunity in our world and make a solution or come up with an idea.”

Campbell had every student in her class write essays and subsequently allowed them to determine whether or not they wished to submit it to the Bee independently.

“This is going to be my own small, mini-taking-action civics project,” Campbell said, “by engaging my students with this and showing them that their voice matters … that if they see problems, they can actually do things to make a difference.” Ten of Campbell’s students chose to submit their projects to the chamber.

Harbour Stevens, another CMS sixth grader, said that she thinks civics is important “because it helps us be better citizens.” Stevens’ essay explored topics regarding habitat loss in the Valley. “I feel like that topic matters because it shows how fast we’re kind of destroying our world.”

Alternatively, Bond focused her work on the value of youth perspective on community problems. “Kids and adults have different perspectives of things, and I think kids can address problems that adults can’t always see,” she said. She said she’d keep that in mind before she and her family set out on their spring break trip.

“I’m going to Washington, D.C. … I’m going to the Library of Congress, the White House, the Supreme Court,” she said. While on the trip, she found herself examining the difference between politics and civics.

“Our staff is reflective and committed,” Principal Grant Waaler stated in a press release. “We know where our kids are shining and where they need support, and we have a coordinated effort to address those needs. We often talk about being a ‘warm demander,’ someone who genuinely cares about their students and can still challenge them to [fulfill] their potential.”

The elementary school previously won the award in 2011, and has since sought to close achievement gaps. Two key changes were creating a culture of student accountability and restructuring the school’s unique dual language program.

Around 2021, the school was put on a state performance plan due to low test scores, and received a “Connect for Success” grant from the Colorado Department of Education. The grant allowed a team of BES teachers and staff to observe and connect with high-performing Colorado schools.

When asked about the current political divide, Stewart added, “Things tend to get political or polarized very quickly, so especially in these formative years of middle school, I think it’s helpful for [students] to just understand, especially from a civics perspective of learning, about your community and using your voice.”

Folks are invited to observe and support middle schoolers competing in the first Greater RFV Regional Civics Bee at Carbondale Middle School on April 30 at 6pm. RSVP at tinyurl.com/RFVCivicsBee

From cartoons to canvas:

Larry Day brings his landscape paintings to Redstone

DIONE HOLT, REDSTONE GALLERY Press Release

EDITOR’S NOTE: The author, Dione Holt, is the assistant of the Redstone Gallery.

If you pick up The Sopris Sun most weeks, you’ve seen Larry Day’s work. His cartoons have run in these pages since after he and his wife moved to Carbondale in 2019. What you may not know is that Day is also an accomplished landscape painter, and that the two have more in common than you might think.

Day is from rural Illinois, where, by his own admission, he “flunked high school art.” He went on to earn an associate degree in commercial art, worked as an artist for pinball and video arcade games and built a long and successful career as a storyboard artist in the advertising industry — drawing for companies such as McDonald’s, Allstate and Hallmark. He became an award-winning children’s book illustrator, and has received numerous honors for his advertising work, his illustrations and his cartoons for The Sopris Sun.

Day’s landscape paintings feel like a departure from everything that came before, and in some ways they are. He paints predominantly en plein air, a term coined by the French Impressionists of the 19th century, meaning

to paint outdoors from life. The work is loose and expressive, built up with layered texture and color, and the subject matter and brushwork carry clear echoes of French Impressionism.

”Beaver Pond,” currently on display at the Redstone Gallery, is a case in point: vibrant blues and violets, deep reflections and a textured surface of water plants. It reads like Colorado’s answer to Monet’s “Water Lilies.”

On the surface, it seems like Day’s paintings are in complete opposition to illustration and comics. However, when understanding his inspiration, it starts to make sense. Day says one of his influences is French cartoonist Jean-Jacques Sempe.

“He loves to work with chaos, and I do also. I think that’s one of my philosophical roots — to take chaos and to control it.”

If you’ve followed Day’s landscape painting progress over recent years, you’ll have noticed his work has made a progression from chaos to much more refinement in his more recent work. He is demonstrating an ability to reign in the chaos.

This month, Joy & Wylde and the Redstone Gallery are showcasing Day’s newest paintings: expressive oil landscapes rooted in the Crystal Valley and local areas. On Thursday April 23, from 4 to 6pm, the gallery will host a free ”Evening with the Artist.” Day will speak about his

work and career and will take questions from the audience. Wine and charcuterie will be served.

For those who want to see his illustration work alongside the paintings, Day’s storyboard illustrations are currently part of a group exhibition at the Aspen Chapel Gallery. Day will also be participating in this year’s Redstone Plein Air Festival, June 22 to 28.

Joy & Wylde, located on the banks of the Crystal River, offers a unique blend of art, shopping and dining in a thoughtfully designed setting. The gallery features

a notable collection of painting, sculpture and ceramics, while the boutique offers curated, locally handmade jewelry, textiles and home décor.

At the Wylde Café, guests can enjoy coffee and fresh pastries in the morning — sandwiches, charcuterie, wine and cocktails throughout the day. The relaxed riverside setting makes it an ideal place to spend time browsing, eating and unwinding. This summer, Joy & Wylde will host the annual Plein Air Festival June 22 to 28 in partnership with the Redstone Art Foundation.

The April 23 “Evening with the Artist” is free and open to the public. Joy & Wylde is located at 173 Redstone Boulevard. For more information, visit joywylde.com

ALISON OSIUS Sopris Sun Correspondent

‘For Peter Pan on her 70th Birthday’ mines playwright’s family history

Children at Crystal River Elementary School have been reading “Peter Pan,” the story first published as a play 122 years ago. They like the book (an abridged version), know all about Peter’s lost shadow, Tinkerbell, flying and the dog, Nana. Across town, and up the age spectrum, a team of veterans is acting in “For Peter Pan on her 70th Birthday.”

Missy Moore, artistic director of the Thunder River Theatre Company (TRTC), chose the play, the fourth the group has done by Sarah Ruhl. It features five siblings, aged late 50s to 60s, who gather at the deathbed of their father, 84. The production’s actors are also those ages.

“It highlights many of the actors who have made TRTC,” Moore told a small “Sips and Scripts” audience of aficionados at an initial read-through on March 30. “All of them have such deep, deep, deep roots in the creative history here.”

“For Peter Pan on her 70th Birthday,” which starts and ends in a theater, deals with joy, age, loss and growing up — or not. A central element is the oldest child Ann’s warm memory of how her father brought her flowers when she played the title role in “Peter Pan,” about the boy who could fly and refused to grow up, in a children’s theater production in Davenport, Iowa. Her father was a family doctor, busy with illnesses and emergencies. “But,” she tells the audience, “he never missed me playing Peter Pan.”

The play is directed by Renee Prince, past founding executive artistic director of VOICES, an area nonprofit featuring original productions. Prince also directed “As Close As I Can” for the Denver Fringe Festival and TRTC, “Endgame” at TRTC and “Lyonesse” for Aspen Fringe Festival. As an actor from Chicago, she originally came to

Colorado for a summer as a cast member at the Creede Repertory Theatre, and ended up spending seven years there as its education director.

Interviewed before the readthrough, Prince said: “This play asks really big, good questions about how we live in the face of death, in the face of mortality and the deaths of our cherished loved ones. How do we wake up and go about our day with the end here? The Peter Pan myth is helping us explore some very serious questions about the human condition. I’m taking [childhood] play and playing pretend very seriously.”

She brought up various human ponderings: “Will I be remembered after I die? Will I see the people I love again? Will consciousness persist somehow?”

The play is very personally observed. Sarah Ruhl, who has written nearly 20 plays and four books, grew up in a home full of pictures of her mother “all over

the house, flying,” as she wrote in American Theater, “in green tights.” Ruhl’s mother, Kathleen, as a teen played Peter Pan with the Davenport Children’s Theater — a life-defining event. A young Ruhl was “mesmerized” by a photo of her mother with Mary Martin, a Broadway legend who played Peter in one of her most famous roles.

Kathleen went on to a career as an actor and director in Chicago theater. Sarah wrote the play for her mother as a gift on her, yes, 70th birthday.

The protagonist, Ann, like Kathleen, once played Peter Pan and, also like Kathleen, has suffered crushing losses; Kathleen lost her husband when he was just 52 and, soon after, both parents to cancer. Ann has three brothers and a sister, as does the author, Ruhl.

The stage role of Peter Pan has historically been played by women. One explanation is that adult women could fulfill the part amid child-

the ghost, then dances with or embraces the ghost.”

The action takes place in a hospital room, at a wake and amid the fantasia of Neverland (the set will include a pirate ship, and one character doubles as Captain Hook). The siblings, denoted in the play by birth-order numbers, consider the moments they realized they had grown up, the appeal of never growing up and their own lives.

The three acts are called movements, as if in a symphony, and Ruhl writes in the prologue of the “musicality” of family speech. Dialogue in Movement Two is taken from interviews with her brothers and sister, and life patterns inform the characters’ habits of jumping in on each others’ sentences (with words or singing) and arguing politics (Clinton era). They tease, praise and irritate each other.

labor restrictions, while still looking small enough to play a boy. Androgyny also softened the character of someone stealing children out of their bedroom at night, leaving their parents and Nana bereft. Maybe the more boyish and innocent Peter seemed the better.

The original play follows the adventures of Wendy, John and the kindergarten-age Michael Darling, whom Peter teaches to fly and leads to Neverland, where there are fairies and mermaids and no one ever has to grow up, but also murderous pirates and a stalking crocodile.

Ruhl’s play’s first two acts are realism, or as much as they can be with a ghost wandering around. The third act is surreal: The siblings go to Neverland, a sort of spirit world.

“For Peter Pan on her 70th Birthday,” Ruhl writes in the preface notes, is styled upon Japanese Noh drama, with a three-part structure: “The protagonist meets the ghost, then recognizes

Prince called later years an intriguing time, for “the stories people have, that wealth of knowledge. I think we should spend way more time on this time of life. In our culture, there’s this cult of youth. Why? We’re missing so much when we make older people invisible. We’re robbing ourselves of so much of what it is to be a person.”

The assistant director of TRTC’s production is Travis Dean Wilson. The cast, all Roaring Fork Valley locals, is: Wendy Perkins, Chris Wheatley, Owen O’Farrell, Jeff Carlson, Kristin Carlson and Bob Moore.

“Peter Pan has been my favorite story since childhood,” Perkins, who plays Ann, said in a TRTC press release. She added, “I have never been this excited about a part and about the director, cast and the crew at TRTC.”

“For Peter Pan on her 70th Birthday” runs at TRTC May 1 through 17. For tickets, visit thunderrivertheatre.com or call 970-963-8200

Experts share keys to connecting with community through marketing

BIANCA GODINA

Sol del Valle

EDITOR’S NOTE: Panelist

Margarita Alvarez is the marketing and development manager for Sol del Valle.

In a “relaxed, useful and very practical” conversation based on real-life experiences, advice and strategies, Susie Meraz, moderator of the marketing panel during the third annual Let’s Talk Business event held on Wednesday, April 15, at Morgridge Commons in Glenwood Springs, led a discussion in which local experts shared how to authentically connect with the community.

The panel featured Crystal Mariscal, a bilingual communications strategist who supports government and community organizations in communicating clearly and effectively; Iliana Rentería, a storyteller at heart and strategist by profession who works with nonprofit organizations throughout the Roaring Fork Valley and across Colorado; and Margarita Alvarez, the marketing and development manager for Sol del Valle, who focused on strengthening connections between brands and the Spanish-speaking community.

During the event, organized by the Glenwood Springs Chamber of Commerce with support from the Latino Business Advisory Council, attendees had the opportunity to connect with various local organizations and businesses, and hear success stories from entrepreneurs, including Roxana Nevárez, owner of Roxy’s Aesthetics, and Giovanna O. Kennedy, a real estate broker in the Valley.

Taquería El Yaqui catered the event, which was conducted entirely in Spanish, with live English interpretation available. What is the most common marketing mistake?

Mariscal summed it up clearly: “Those who try to do too much end up accomplishing little.” She explained that many businesses try to cover too much without first building consistency or truly understanding their market.

She also emphasized the importance of the “three Ps” of marketing: product, place and

price. “First, you need to understand what you offer, who you’re offering it to and what your target market is,” she said.

Rentería noted that one of the biggest obstacles is fear. “People are afraid to start. There’s real fear,” she said. She described how the fear of putting oneself out there can paralyze entrepreneurs. Rentería also warned against expecting marketing to compensate for other areas of a business that are not well developed.

Alvarez added that marketing can feel overwhelming, especially with limited resources. She stressed the importance of setting a clear budget and understanding that trust takes time to build.

She added, “Before thinking about money, ask yourself: What voice does my business have? What message do I want to communicate? What brand am I representing?” What tools can new entrepreneurs with limited budgets utilize?

Rentería highlighted the role of social media, which has

transformed the marketing landscape. However, she recommended seeking guidance to develop a clear strategy, as that can make all the difference.

Mariscal shared practical tips such as using free tools like keeping a Google Maps profile updated, and learning to take quality photos or investing in a professional photographer.

“First impressions matter,” she emphasized, noting that a business’s initial image can significantly influence customer perception. She also stressed the importance of keeping contact information up to date and encouraged attendees to take advantage of courses at Colorado Mountain College to strengthen skills like photography and marketing.

Alvarez emphasized that one of the most valuable strategies is being present in the community, and building genuine human connections. How can a business stand out in a saturated market?

Rentería put it simply: If people

don’t see your work, they won’t know you exist. “You can be doing amazing things, but if no one knows about them, it’s as if you’re not doing them at all,” she said. She emphasized that authenticity and human connection are key to standing out.

Alvarez spoke to the importance of consistency and patience. “Making it through the first year, the third, the fifth, that’s already an achievement,” she said. She also highlighted the importance of strong customer service, adaptability and maintaining a consistent presence in the community.

Mariscal added that being strategic in relationships is also essential. “We live in a valley where time is limited, so you have to carefully choose which events and spaces to invest your time in, prioritizing those that truly connect with your business,” she explained.

At the end of the session, Mariscal invited attendees to pair up and practice a 15-20 second elevator pitch, including a brief introduction explaining who they are, what their business offers and why it matters to the community. She also encouraged consistent practice to communicate with greater clarity and confidence.

In summary, the three experts agreed that the best way to connect with an audience is through authenticity and consistency. Building trust requires ongoing presence and genuine relationships that go beyond a simple greeting.

Meraz described the three panelists as true “powerhouses” of marketing and communications.

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

The Messenger …

Rosemary Burkholder

February 2023

While working at my computer, movement on the ridge across the valley caught my eye. Without my glasses I could tell it was a big bird. The sky overcast the light flat the terrain a composition in black and white with generous amounts of snow blanketing the earth.

From the window, being naked without my glasses

I could identify the creature. The enormous dark body distinctive white head and tail soared along the ridge hunting.

I refused to lose sight

A majestic, bald eagle.

I watched, inquisitively as it scouted upon its quest. Was this a sign?

My answer to the question I sought earlier this morning?

Reluctantly, I moved, swiftly across a bridge from the office to the bedroom to grab eyeglasses, with hopes it would be visible upon my return. It was, and even more beautiful with corrective lenses. I watched, for long minutes, without guilt

Comparte tus proyectos creativos aún en proceso con nuestros lectores. Puedes enviarnos un correo electrónico con tus ilustraciones, creaciones literarias y poesía a fiction@soprissun.com

of returning to my project. Was this an omen?

The bird glided effortlessly, catching thermals, soaring nearly out of sight and returning. Minutes passed. My camera could not capture this moment.

Compelled to implant this memory in my mind.

Captivated, I absorbed, every second of each movement as I tried to read what it was showing me.

At that point, I realized I had received not just one answer to the question I awoke with, but several sentiments that I hadn’t really thought about.

the only ones to participate despite the trust’s hopes that all would do so, but “that just hasn’t happened.”

The ranch has also installed a centerpivot watering system in one of its fields, replacing the traditional flood-irrigation method. The pivot system diverts less water from the river but uses more than flooding (since some of that water percolates back into the ground). However, the pivot system drastically reduces the amount of time it takes to irrigate a field, meaning that the crop can be harvested faster and is of higher quality. The ranch also utilizes CoAgMET, a sophisticated on-site weather station, the real-time data from which allows Fales to water with optimum efficiency.

Back in Carbondale, Wenning said, “We have built a 25-year capital-expenditure framework to essentially build more resiliency [and] drought-management type of infrastructure into our system.” He cited as an example current construction

from page 13

Carper Bell said that the BES staff was impressed by schools that implemented purposeful engagement along with student ownership. Due to that inspiration, BES students now have their own data binder, which includes academic and social goals. When goals are achieved, they celebrate as a community by ringing the famous Longhorn bell in the foyer.

“It was great and I do feel like that was the start of getting us back on track,” said Carper Bell. “They’re checking in and tracking their progress. It has been huge in

The school also moved away from an outdated dual language model that separated students, created challenges for teachers and limited literacy outcomes. The new model allows students to engage in a 50-50 immersion setting. Together, native-Spanish-speaking and native-English-speaking students receive daily, balanced dual language instruction; math, science and social studies courses alternate between the languages.

“I think [this change] has likely contributed to our success, because our students are receiving more instruction in their second language than they were previously,” said Carper Bell. She also noted that the school has a robust reading intervention program that ensures students are reading at grade level in their

at the Roaring Fork treatment plant to increase its capacity.

In addition, the Town will leverage its senior water rights “to make sure that we can deliver water to our residents, kind of no matter what.” By late 2026 or early 2027, “We will have a comprehensive master plan that will provide a resilient and redundant potable water system for the whole community … that will include waterconservation efforts,” such as incentives for using lower-flow fixtures or replacing sod with xeriscaping.

One notable fact that Wenning shared was that despite development and growth in Carbondale since 1995, “We have seen no increased use of water in town.” Factors contributing to this include aggressive repair of water leaks, improved water-measuring technology, the use of ditchwater irrigation for public spaces and denser new housing with less yard space and more efficient fixtures.

first language.

“It’s inherently rigorous to be learning math, social studies and science in your second language, but we have such talented staff and teachers who use effective language strategies in the classroom,” Carper Bell said. “When you go into the classrooms, you’re not seeing second language learners looking lost.”

As a former second grade teacher, Carper Bell emphasized that when teachers are supported, kids will thrive. Recently, the Aspen Times named BES the “Best Place to Work,” and current results from the Teaching and Learning Conditions Colorado survey, a statewide analysis of educator perceptions of working and learning conditions, shows a score of 94% (the state’s average is 84%).

The school’s warm and welcoming community has played a critical role in its success. Its family liaison, Flor Prieto, helps families acclimate to the school and greater community, and a deep well of parent and community volunteers creates a full circle of support. Looking toward the future, Carper Bell is excited to celebrate this award with students and continue building upon the school’s success.

“Everyone is so supportive and you feel that when you walk in the building,” Carper Bell concluded. “The kids are happy and excited to learn.”

ORDINANCE NO. 2

SERIES OF 2026

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE TOWN OF CARBONDALE, COLORADO AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE TOWN OF CARBONDALE, COLORADO AMENDING CHAPTER 17 OF THE CARBONDALE MUNICIPAL CODE CONCERNING ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT REGULATIONS

NOTICE: This Ordinance was introduced, read, and adopted at a regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Town of Carbondale, Colorado, April 14, 2026. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after publication of this notice. The full text of said Ordinance is available to the public at www.carbondalegov.org or at the office of the Town Clerk, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, Colorado, during normal business hours.

Published in The Sopris Sun on April 23, 2026.

ORDINANCE NO. 3

SERIES OF 2026

AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE TOWN OF CARBONDALE, COLORADO AMENDING SECTION 16-1-20 OF THE CARBONDALE MUNICIPAL CODE TO REVISE THE DEFINITION OF HISTORIC DOWNTOWN AREA TO INCLUDE PROPERTIES WITHIN THE OTR ZONE DISTRICT, AND TO AMEND SECTIONS 16-4-130 AND 16-4-140 OF THE CODE TO EXTEND HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION REVIEW TO STRUCTURES OF MERIT THROUGHOUT THE TOWN

NOTICE: This Ordinance was introduced, read, and adopted at a regular meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Town of Carbondale, Colorado, April 14, 2026. This Ordinance shall take effect thirty (30) days after publication of this notice. The full text of said Ordinance is available to the public at www.carbondalegov.org or at the office of the Town Clerk, 511 Colorado Avenue, Carbondale, Colorado, during normal business hours.

Published in The Sopris Sun on April 23, 2026.

PARTING

NOTICE OF BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

PUBLIC HEARING

CONCERNING BOA-26-00001, A SETBACK VARIANCE REQUEST

A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED AT LOT 1, MIRACLE ACRES, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED JANUARY 4, 2023 UNDER RECEPTION NO. 689228, COUNTY OF GUNNISON, STATE OF COLORADO, COMMONLY KNOWN AS 2870 COUNTY RD 3 PARCECL NO. 2917-201-01-002

HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION: The Gunnison County Board of Adjustment will conduct a public hearing on May 12, 2026 at 1:05 p.m. in the meeting room upstairs in the Blackstock Government Center, 221 N. Wisconsin St. in Gunnison and/or by ZOOM meeting. To attend via zoom, use the zoom link posted on the agenda at https://gunnisoncounty.org/179/ Board-of-Adjustment

APPLICANT: Larry Darien and Gregory Pohle

PARCEL LOCATION: The property is located 2870 County Rd 3, Marble, CO. Legally described as Lot 1, Miracle Acres, According To The Plat Thereof Recorded January 4, 2023 Under Reception No. 689228, County of Gunnison, State of Colorado

PROPOSAL: The applicant is requesting a variance from Gunnison County’s 40 foot County road setbacks. The applicant would like to place a 26’ x 24’ detached garage on their parcel. The building would be placed 30.30 feet from the right-of-way for County Rd 3.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments by email: planning@gunnisoncounty.org, or by letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing. A copy of the application is available in the Community Development Department, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO;

TOWN OF CARBONDALE

TOWN OF CARBONDALE

ABSTRACT OF VOTES CAST AT A REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION HELD IN CARBONDALE, COLORADO

ABSTRACT OF VOTES CAST AT A REGULAR MUNICIPAL ELECTION HELD IN CARBONDALE, COLORADO

APRIL 7, 2026

APRIL 7, 2026

At an Election held at Precinct 1, Town of Carbondale, in the County of Garfield in the State of Colorado on the 7th of April, in the year 2026, the following named person received the number of votes annexed to their respective names of the following described offices, to wit:

At an Election held at Precinct 1, Town of Carbondale, in the County of Garfield in the State of Colorado on the 7th of April, in the year 2026, the following named person received the number of votes annexed to their respective names of the following described offices, to wit:

TOTAL VOTES CAST

TOTAL VOTES CAST

VOTES CAST IN PRECINCT 1

VOTES CAST IN PRECINCT 1

NAME OF CANDIDATE PRECINCT #1

Published in The Sopris Sun on April 23, 2026.

additional information may be obtained by calling the Planning Office (970) 641-0360.

ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing.

in The Sopris Sun on April 23, 2026.

MAYORS PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE

Former Carbondale mayors Stacey Bernot (left), who served from 2010 to 2016, Michael Hassig (second from right), 2002 to 2010, and Dan Richardson (right), 2016 to 2022, joined outgoing Mayor Ben Bohmfalk (second from left) at Carbondale Town Hall on Tuesday evening, April 21, for the swearing in of incoming Mayor Erica Sparhawk (center).

“I have had the absolute pleasure of serving with you [Bohmfalk] for the nine years I’ve been on council,” said Sparhawk ahead of being sworn in. “Thank you for stepping up and being mayor when you did, and for all of your support and encouraging me to run for mayor.”

“I feel so good stepping away from this because we’re in such good hands,” responded Bohmfalk. “It has been an absolute pleasure to serve with each one of you.”

Kade Gianinetti will assume the vacant trustee seat left by Sparhawk.

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

• HealthScreen w/CBC – $79 Includes CBC, CMP, Ferritin, Iron Panel, Lipid Panel, TSH and Uric Acid (Fasting Required)

• hsCardio CRP – $42

• Hemoglobin A1C & EAG –$44

PSA, Total – $47 • Vitamin D – $54 • T3, Free – $32 • T4, Free – $32 • CBC (Complete Blood Count) –$32