Colorado’s adverse possession laws, more commonly known as “squatter’s rights,” allow people to claim ownership of a property they’ve occupied without permission, once specific criteria is met. These laws — designed to settle disputes over land use — have become increasingly contentious in a modern context, raising questions about their impact on property owners in […]
Education
Carbondale-Congo connection brings rainwater collection to flood-ravaged African region
Mark Weinhold recalls a moment while standing at the edge of a large ravine carved by massive flooding along the Congo River in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo, surveying the creeping erosion that was threatening nearby homes.“This older man walks out of his house and sees us. And, when you see people who are not Congolese […]
‘Pages of the Past’ to share stories of the storytellers
For Carbondale Historical Society Vice President Will Grandbois, the upcoming Winter Speaker Series event is particularly near and dear to his heart. “Pages of the Past” will delve into The Roaring Fork Valley Journal — predecessor of The Sopris Sun. Besides Grandbois having been editor of The Sun, his mother, Rebecca “Becky” Young, started The […]
‘Speakeasy’ cracks open public speaking
Lynn Aliya is known in the Valley for her work as a Colorado Mountain College (CMC) professor and as the drive-home gal on KMTS. Recently, she released her first book, “Speakeasy: A Radically New Approach to Public Speaking (Less Fear, More Fun),” in October of 2024. It’s an interactive, fill-in-the-blank and step-by-step breakdown of her […]
Naturalist Nights set to begin Jan. 8
On Jan. 8 and 9, the highly anticipated Naturalist Nights, an annual winter speaker series spotlighting critical environmental topics pertinent to the Roaring Fork Valley, commences. In a collaborative effort between Wilderness Workshop, Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) and Roaring Fork Audubon, the series will feature five experts who will discuss pressing conversations such […]
The Learning Council: Paonia’s community builder
One crisp morning last fall, children harvested apples from a local orchard and brought them back to The Learning Council’s (TLC) community kitchen to prepare a meal. This activity was more than an agricultural lesson — it exemplifies how the Paonia nonprofit weaves education into a celebration of connection and culture. Nestled in the heart […]
Reality Town prepares students to balance life and their checkbooks
By Lou GallYouth Correspondent This past month, Glenwood Springs High School (GSHS) held Reality Town, an event that focuses on teaching high school students how to balance life with the cost of living. Jill Wilson, a financial literacy teacher and the director of the GSHS event, had a lot to say. “It’s a culminating activity […]
‘Home: Art Across Borders’
This article by Felipe Perez originated from Sol del Valle, and has been translated for our English readers. The healing powers of art and education converged in the Valley last Friday, Dec. 13. This unique blend created a stage for courageous young people who emerged as warriors of words and brushes at The Art Base […]
Ross Montessori prepares to pass the torch
Ross Montessori School, celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, is preparing for a change in leadership. Head of School Sonya Hemmen is training Associate Head of School Mandi Franz to take over her position come July 1. Hemmen has held the position since 2012, and intends to stay in education at some level. “I would […]
‘Trouble Dog’ delights readers of all ages
Tucker is not your average troublesome pup. Sure, he might destroy your house, dig up the entire garden or maybe tackle you with kisses, but he’s smart, focused, and with the right kind of love and attention, he might just be the greatest conservation dog ever. Inspired by the real-life hero dogs of the world-wide […]
