The first Saturday in September, a unique fundraiser is set to make waves in Glenwood Springs. Raftoberfest combines a love for water and the dramatic local landscape with fundraising. Epic Experience is an Arvada, Colorado-based nonprofit that facilitates adventures and empowerment for cancer survivors. One of the nonprofit’s many creative charity events is Raftoberfest, a […]
Education
Posted inEnvironment
New studies indicate how Colorado ecosystems respond to wildfire
As of late, sunsets have been spectacularly colorful and horizon lines remain hazy. The air carries a distinct scent many associate with camping — some with fear — and air quality ratings oscillate between moderate to hazardous. Understandably, wildfire is at the top of many folks’ minds. And it’s no surprise that the Roaring Fork […]
Posted inEducation
Mark Johnson Memorial Fund success forms another step in funding school music programs
On Feb. 15, Mark Johnson, a local music educator and beloved community figure, tragically died in a car accident on Highway 82. In response to this, Jazz Aspen Snowmass (JAS), in collaboration with the Aspen Music Festival and School, created the Mark Johnson Memorial Fund, a “community fundraising campaign in support of the Carbondale music […]
Posted inEducation
PEAK learning comes to Marble Charter School
Known for its welcoming community and premiere outdoor education, Marble Charter School (MCS) is reimagining the transformative education years with the launch of PEAK, its innovative and newly developed middle school program. Beginning this school year, the PEAK (Project-based, Experiential, Action-Oriented and Knowledge) curriculum will capitalize on expertise from community leaders and Marble’s awe-inspiring location […]
Posted inSports
Roaring Fork student’s love for whitewater paddling going global
An acquired affinity for kayaking gained through summer camps and paddling rivers far and wide with friends and family is taking Helen Dillard on a big adventure this coming school year. Dillard, a student at Roaring Fork High School entering her sophomore year, was selected to attend the prestigious World Class Kayak Academy (WCKA). Based […]
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Book Review: Ann O’Brien’s ‘The Dance of Love’
There are scores of books available on or about the Japanese martial art aikido. Most of them are of the how-to variety depicting step-by-step explanations of aikido techniques or movements. Many also delve into the philosophical or spiritual aspect of the discipline, beginning with the translated writings of aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba (or O-Sensei, “Great […]
Posted inEducation
RFSD Report: School board elections, summer meetings and back-to-school reminders
The sound of whistles and upbeat raised voices from sports fields herald the turn of the summer. Autumn sports practices have begun, and the Roaring Fork School District (RFSD) is preparing for the start of a new school year, just two weeks away. High schoolers return to classrooms on Wednesday, Aug. 20, while elementary and […]
Posted inEducation
CMC trustees approve new biological science bachelor’s degree
Continuing to elevate the standard for higher education in rural communities, Colorado Mountain College’s (CMC) Board of Trustees unanimously approved a competitive bachelor of science degree in biological science. Pending approval from the Higher Learning Commission, the program will launch in fall 2026 at the Steamboat Springs and Breckenridge & Dillon campuses, thus becoming CMC’s […]
Posted inEducation
Eagle Mushroom and Wild Food Festival will enrich funga community
On Aug. 8-10, mushroom enthusiasts from around the country will gather to celebrate the world of mycology at the 16th annual Eagle Mushroom and Wild Food Festival (EMWF). Happening at the Brush Creek Pavilion in Eagle, the immersive experience will include hands-on workshops, keynote presentations, expert guided forays, live music by Sweet Jessup & The […]
Posted inEducation
Federal government freezes $71 million in education funding for Colorado schools
As school districts in Colorado prepare for the 2025-26 academic year, a freeze of $71 million in federal education funding by the U.S. Department of Education is affecting districts across the state, including in the Roaring Fork Valley. In an email, the federal government said it is holding $6.8 billion in education funding while they […]