Correction: Contributing Editor James Steindler added a contextual paragraph to last week’s guest column, “Questioning housing capacity in RFV,” regarding the South Bridge project. The paragraph has been removed online at the author’s request.
Helping LA
I’ve spent this last week haunted by desperate thoughts for those who are suffering in the wake of the catastrophic and heartbreaking wildfires in the Los Angeles area. My family and I called Altadena home before we moved to Carbondale. I’ve been mired in a fog of concern for the friends I know, and the thousands I don’t, whose lives have been destroyed or upended.
I also understand how far away this can feel. Even as the home where my daughter was born is reduced to ashes, even as I field texts from friends who are waiting to see what may remain of their former lives, I find myself turning to watch the light change on Sopris, to feel safe here, to be here — because here is where I am.
But I can’t get loose from it for long. The history is too close, the people too dear and the reality of the following thought I’ve seen floating around too present: “The climate crisis will manifest as a series of disasters viewed through phones, with footage that gets closer and closer to where you live, until you’re the one filming it.”
I urge everyone to please do what they can to contribute toward the aid of the too many thousands of people who have suffered incredible loss in the wake of these fires. Please consider donating to the California Community Foundation’s Wildfire Recovery Fund, American Red Cross or the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation. If you’re like me and you’d rather donate directly to specific individuals or families, consider GoFundMe, which has set up a dedicated page where you can donate to fire victims, first responders and others through their separate fundraising accounts.
Your contributions are real and essential in helping people begin to rebuild their lives from the ground up. With a sincere and aching heart, I hope that your generous effort is one you never need returned.
Clay Allen
Carbondale
Be a Buddy
I have been a Big Buddy with the Buddy Program for almost one year. During that time, my Little Buddy, Kevin, turned 13 and entered the last year of middle school. At the same time, I retired after working for 30 years as a civil engineer. Although I started the program thinking I could make a positive difference in a young person’s life, I have come to realize that I am reaping the benefits too.
For example, we have taken on a number of activities that I never would have done on my own. Over the summer, we panned for gold on the Colorado River. We didn’t get rich, but it made for a memorable experience that will stick with both of us for a long time. In the fall, we were able to raft through Glenwood Canyon, thanks to the generosity of Glenwood Adventure Company, which donated space on the raft. Glenwood Adventure is one of several local organizations that partner with the Buddy Program, giving Kevin and me the chance to try new things and meet new people in our community.
Being a Big Buddy has brought meaning to my life at a time when I might otherwise have felt adrift. Kevin has taught me to be open to almost any activity with the enthusiasm of a teenager. Simultaneously, I take my responsibilities as a mentor seriously. I always follow through on my commitments to my Little Buddy, and I set an example for how to be a conscientious and caring person.
I highly recommend the Buddy Program to adults who want the opportunity to positively influence a young person. In return, your own life will grow in unexpected and exciting ways.
Contact the Buddy Program today through their website, www.buddyprogram.org, or by email at contactus@buddyprogram.org to see how you can get involved as a mentor as well!
Colin Wagoner
Big Buddy
Aspen
Re: ‘Seeking Haystacks’
I am writing to say how much I appreciate the written contributions by A.O. Forbes published on a regular basis in The Sopris Sun. I particularly enjoyed his most recent opinion piece. Please continue printing this fine, thought provoking work.
Chris Brandt
Carbondale
The band played on
The MAGA ship of state sets sail at noon on Jan. 20, 2025 from Washington, D.C. With a reckless hand at the helm and danger looming in the uncharted darkness, an uncertain fate awaits.
In response to the approaching threat, the deck chairs are being rearranged as per executive order. “Full speed ahead!” orders the captain.
JM Jesse
Glenwood Springs
SpaceX in DeBeque
On Jan. 16, the Mesa County Planning Commissioners are holding a hearing for the proposed development of a communication facility with ground-based antennas at 1995 45 ½ Road, DeBeque, Colorado 81630, parcel # 2671-102-00-036. As concerned property owners in the area, we believe this facility would negatively affect the surrounding homes, families and the DeBeque community as a whole.
Our primary concern is that the development will drastically reduce property values in the surrounding area. We have chosen to build our homes here for the beauty and tranquility of the location, and we wish to maintain that environment. We understand that the facility would bring nuisances such as lights, vibrations, and noise — disturbances we specifically sought to avoid by living in this peaceful area. Additionally, with the land currently zoned as AFT (Agricultural, Forestry, Transitional) we are also worried about the potential environmental damage, which could harm local wildlife and destroy natural habitats.
My neighbors and myself are trying to ensure our voices are heard for the future health and growth of our families and community.
We appreciate your attention to this matter.
Jill Been
DeBeque
Letters policy: The Sopris Sun welcomes local letters to the editor. Shorter letters stand a better chance of being printed. Letters exclusive to The Sopris Sun (not appearing in other papers) are particularly welcome. Please cite your facts and include your name and place of residence or association. Letters are due to news@soprissun.com by noon on the Monday before we go to print.