Johnny, a self-described “Jewish-Rasta-Zen-Quaker-Humanist,” passed away at his home in Paonia on July 10, surrounded by family. He was 74 years old. In the year since his cancer diagnosis he was cared for closely by his sons, Alex and Zack, and his former wife, Caryn. Johnny often said he felt lucky in life — and […]
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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 inLocal Government
Redstone’s southern bridge to be replaced next year
During the monthly Crystal River Caucus meeting on July 10, Pitkin County presented plans to demolish and replace the southern Redstone bridge in 2026. Overlooked by the Redstone Inn and located across from Coke Ovens Open Space, the two-lane bridge serves as the most direct entrance into the Redstone business district from Highway 133. The […]
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 […]
Posted inLocal Government
Carbondale Report: New lodging approved for Main Street
The Carbondale Board of Trustees tackled a light agenda ahead of Mountain Fair weekend and the next town manager, Ryan Hyland, arriving in early August. All trustees were present minus Christina Montemayor. The unanimously approved consent agenda included accounts payable and tree board member applications from Vanessa Harmony and Leslie Kuhn. There were no public […]
Posted inLocal Government
Basalt Report: Town keeps an eye out for fires and lions
Last Wednesday, the Basalt Police Department responded to reports of a wildfire caused by a lightning strike located above Pinion Drive. Roaring Fork Fire Rescue personnel hiked into the area and successfully controlled the spread. While Basalt PD was notified of the fire by multiple 911 calls, responders were also notified by its Pano AI […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
In SoL’s ‘Cabaret,’ ‘life is beautiful, the girls are beautiful’ and ‘even the orchestra is beautiful!’
This weekend, Stage of Life Theatre Company (SoL) continues its run of the 1966 black comedy “Cabaret.” This very well may be the only musical that has ever made this reporter shed a tear. It is a vision into a fantastical yet genuine world, about real people dealing with real problems at the end of […]
Posted inLocal Government
RFTA Report: E-bikes, holiday bus capacity and Transportation Coalition dominate July meeting
This month’s online meeting started quickly with approval of the June minutes. During public comment, community member Kathleen Brehm spoke up about her injuries and experience stemming from a collision with an e-biker. She requested the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) and Pitkin County establish a self-report database for accidents and mechanisms for enforcement around […]
Posted inLocal Government
GarCo Report: Hiring freeze, horse poop, MLK Jr. Day, unfunded mandates and more
Public comment in the afternoon of Monday’s Garfield County Commissioner (BOCC) meeting included West Glenwood Springs resident Jamie Darien with complaints about an unnamed neighbor who is apparently collecting fire hazards in his backyard. Darien said there is brush, dry grass, palettes and 30 to 40 hot tub covers that have also attracted mice and […]