Discover the inspiring story of Jim Markalunas, a third-generation Aspen native, Korean War veteran (US Marine Corps), and lifelong Roaring Fork Valley community leader in this heartfelt interview from the Roaring Fork Veterans' History Project, hosted by Lt.Col Dick Merritt. Join us as Jim shares his experiences: Growing up in Aspen's "Quiet Years" Serving during the Korean War Returning to contribute to his hometown as water department director, city council member, and advocate for Roaring Fork rail transportation This episode preserves the personal history and reflections of a dedicated veteran and local icon from Aspen, Colorado. Perfect for those interested in Korean War veterans stories, Aspen Colorado history, Roaring Fork Valley veterans, military oral histories, and preserving America's veteran legacies. Don't miss this touching tribute to service, community, and the enduring spirit of the Roaring Fork region. Jim passed away at home in Aspen in February, 2026 #KoreanWar #VeteransHistory #AspenVeterans #RoaringForkValley #USMarines #MilitaryHistory #OralHistory #AspenColorado #ColoradoVeterans #KoreanWarVeteran Subscribe for more powerful veteran interviews from the Roaring Fork Veterans' History Project! Know Aspen. Watch GrassRoots. GrassRoots programming is made possible by the producers' creativity itself, direct contributions from viewers, members of the Roaring Fork Valley community, and through grants from the Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund, The Town of Snowmass Village, the City of Aspen Community Non-Profit Grant Program, and The Aspen Thrift Shop. Founded by citizens of Aspen, Colorado in 1972, GrassRoots TV is the first and oldest community operated and programmed open-source media center and television station in the United States. Virtually all of the programming is created by local residents, occasionally with world renown guests. In partnership with the American Archive of Public Media and the Library of Congress, GrassRoots is currently cataloguing, restoring and digitally archiving 700 of the most at-risk original video programs out of its 45,000 title Community Video Archive. Help sustain this community treasure by donating now! Go to: https://bit.ly/GRTVContribute Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, HIT LIKE and leave a COMMENT to let us know if you enjoyed this video, it is important to us and the community for you to become part of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Download the GrassRoots Community Network iOS and Android apps Subscribe for more videos: https://bit.ly/2Ycpi4P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsCommunityNetwork/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/grassrootstv Web: http://www.grassrootstv.org/

How do you grow citrus, bananas, and year-round food in the Rocky Mountains? In this fascinating conversation, permaculture pioneer Jerome Osentowski and ecological designer Michael Thompson reveal how high-elevation food systems actually work. From underground “climate batteries” and passive-solar greenhouses to food forests, seed saving, and soil biology — discover practical strategies for local food resilience, regenerative agriculture, and sustainable living in cold climates. Whether you’re a homesteader, gardener, architect, or sustainability enthusiast, this episode shows how communities can produce abundant food even in extreme environments. Expect deep insights, real projects, and decades of hands-on experience from the Central Rocky Mountain Permaculture Institute — plus a hopeful blueprint for the future of food security. Know Aspen. Watch GrassRoots. GrassRoots programming is made possible by the producers' creativity itself, direct contributions from viewers, members of the Roaring Fork Valley community, and through grants from the Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund, The Town of Snowmass Village, the City of Aspen Community Non-Profit Grant Program, and The Aspen Thrift Shop. Founded by citizens of Aspen, Colorado in 1972, GrassRoots TV is the first and oldest community operated and programmed open-source media center and television station in the United States. Virtually all of the programming is created by local residents, occasionally with world renown guests. In partnership with the American Archive of Public Media and the Library of Congress, GrassRoots is currently cataloguing, restoring and digitally archiving 700 of the most at-risk original video programs out of its 45,000 title Community Video Archive. Help sustain this community treasure by donating now! Go to: https://bit.ly/GRTVContribute Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, HIT LIKE and leave a COMMENT to let us know if you enjoyed this video, it is important to us and the community for you to become part of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Download the GrassRoots Community Network iOS and Android apps Subscribe for more videos: https://bit.ly/2Ycpi4P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsCommunityNetwork/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/grassrootstv Web: http://www.grassrootstv.org/

What makes Aspen Aspen? 🌿 In this conversation, author Aaron Perry explores the soul, culture, and DNA of Aspen through his sustainability book Our Biggest Deal. From environmental stewardship to community values, this video dives into how Aspen’s past, present, and future are shaped by sustainability, place-based identity, and collective responsibility. Whether you care about climate action, sustainable communities, Aspen history, or thoughtful leadership, you’ll gain fresh insight into why sustainability isn’t just policy here—it’s culture. Topics include: sustainability, Aspen culture, environmental leadership, community values, and the future of mountain towns. Know Aspen. Watch GrassRoots. GrassRoots programming is made possible by the producers' creativity itself, direct contributions from viewers, members of the Roaring Fork Valley community, and through grants from the Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund, The Town of Snowmass Village, the City of Aspen Community Non-Profit Grant Program, and The Aspen Thrift Shop. Founded by citizens of Aspen, Colorado in 1972, GrassRoots TV is the first and oldest community operated and programmed open-source media center and television station in the United States. Virtually all of the programming is created by local residents, occasionally with world renown guests. In partnership with the American Archive of Public Media and the Library of Congress, GrassRoots is currently cataloguing, restoring and digitally archiving 700 of the most at-risk original video programs out of its 45,000 title Community Video Archive. Help sustain this community treasure by donating now! Go to: https://bit.ly/GRTVContribute Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, HIT LIKE and leave a COMMENT to let us know if you enjoyed this video, it is important to us and the community for you to become part of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Download the GrassRoots Community Network iOS and Android apps Subscribe for more videos: https://bit.ly/2Ycpi4P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsCommunityNetwork/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/grassrootstv Web: http://www.grassrootstv.org/

In this urgent episode of Come to Think of It, host Steve Nemerovski speaks with Gregg Roman, Executive Director of the Middle East Forum, about the largely unreported mass killings and nationwide protests in Iran. Roman provides historical context, eyewitness-based analysis, and expert insight into what he describes as crimes against humanity—exploring how decades of repression, economic collapse, and state violence have culminated in one of the deadliest crackdowns in modern history. Viewers can expect a sober, deeply informed discussion that challenges mainstream narratives and explains why this story matters now. Change Your Mind. Watch GrassRoots. GrassRoots programming is made possible by the producers' creativity itself, direct contributions from viewers, members of the Roaring Fork Valley community, and through grants from the Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund, The Town of Snowmass Village, the City of Aspen Community Non-Profit Grant Program, and The Aspen Thrift Shop. Founded by citizens of Aspen, Colorado in 1972, GrassRoots TV is the first and oldest community operated and programmed open-source media center and television station in the United States. Virtually all of the programming is created by local residents, occasionally with world renown guests. In partnership with the American Archive of Public Media and the Library of Congress, GrassRoots is currently cataloguing, restoring and digitally archiving 700 of the most at-risk original video programs out of its 45,000 title Community Video Archive. Help sustain this community treasure by donating now! Go to: https://bit.ly/GRTVContribute Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, HIT LIKE and leave a COMMENT to let us know if you enjoyed this video, it is important to us and the community for you to become part of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Download the GrassRoots Community Network iOS and Android apps Subscribe for more videos: https://bit.ly/2Ycpi4P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsCommunityNetwork/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/grassrootstv Web: http://www.grassrootstv.org/

What really happens on Fat Tuesday in the Roaring Fork Valley? 🎭⛰️ On The Local’s Show, host Erik Skarvin sits down with Andrew Bielecki, longtime endurance athlete and event director of the legendary Mother of All Ascensions at Snowmass. This episode goes beyond the race itself—exploring the culture, creativity, and community spirit behind one of Aspen’s most iconic Mardi Gras traditions. From snowshoe racing and uphill challenges to costumes, camaraderie, and post-race celebration, Andrew shares why this event blends athletic grit with joy, play, and local connection. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a Snowmass local, or curious about Aspen’s unique blend of sport and soul, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a front-row look at how Fat Tuesday is celebrated in the mountains. Know Aspen. Watch GrassRoots. GrassRoots programming is made possible by the producers' creativity itself, direct contributions from viewers, members of the Roaring Fork Valley community, and through grants from the Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund, The Town of Snowmass Village, the City of Aspen Community Non-Profit Grant Program, and The Aspen Thrift Shop. Founded by citizens of Aspen, Colorado in 1972, GrassRoots TV is the first and oldest community operated and programmed open-source media center and television station in the United States. Virtually all of the programming is created by local residents, occasionally with world renown guests. In partnership with the American Archive of Public Media and the Library of Congress, GrassRoots is currently cataloguing, restoring and digitally archiving 700 of the most at-risk original video programs out of its 45,000 title Community Video Archive. Help sustain this community treasure by donating now! Go to: https://bit.ly/GRTVContribute Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, HIT LIKE and leave a COMMENT to let us know if you enjoyed this video, it is important to us and the community for you to become part of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Download the GrassRoots Community Network iOS and Android apps Subscribe for more videos: https://bit.ly/2Ycpi4P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsCommunityNetwork/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/grassrootstv Web: http://www.grassrootstv.org/

Make Life a Little More Workable for Kids Every kid wants to relate to their world, and the people in it, with ease. Yet, most kids lack the ability to skillfully control their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. That’s why FocusedKids provides children, parents, and teachers with brain-based social emotional learning skills. When adults and children have a shared language and skill set around self-regulation, life becomes a little bit easier for everyone. Amanda Peterson is Executive Director of FocusedKids Change Your Mind. Watch GrassRoots. GrassRoots TV programming is entirely funded by direct contributions from members of the Roaring Fork Valley community, and through grants from the City of Aspen Community Non-Profit Grant Program, Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund, The Town of Snowmass Village and The Aspen Thrift Shop. Founded by citizens of Aspen, Colorado in 1972, GrassRoots TV is the first and oldest community operated and programmed open-source media center and television station in the United States. Virtually all of the programming is created by local residents, occasionally with world renown guests. In partnership with the American Archive of Public Media and the Library of Congress, GrassRoots is currently cataloguing, restoring and digitally archiving 500 of the most at-risk original video programs out of its 45,000 title Community Video Archive. Help sustain this community treasure by donating now! Go to: https://bit.ly/GRTVContribute Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, HIT LIKE and leave a COMMENT to let us know if you enjoyed this video, it is important to us and the community for you to become part of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Download the GrassRoots Community Network iOS and Android apps Subscribe for more videos: https://bit.ly/2Ycpi4P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsCommunityNetwork/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/grassrootstv Web: http://www.grassrootstv.org/

Explore the origins of the Slow Money movement in this thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation hosted by Brook LeVan with Slow Money founder Woody Tasch. In Sustainable Solutions: Slow Money, Part 1, Tasch unpacks the philosophy behind investing locally, restoring soil health, and re-aligning capital with community, food systems, and long-term ecological resilience. Drawing on ideas from his book Inquiries into the Nature of Slow Money, this episode challenges fast-capital thinking and introduces a more humane, values-driven approach to finance. Ideal for viewers interested in sustainable investing, regenerative agriculture, local food economies, and the future of fiduciary responsibility. Change Your Mind. Watch GrassRoots. GrassRoots programming is made possible by the producers' creativity itself, direct contributions from viewers, members of the Roaring Fork Valley community, and through grants from the Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund, The Town of Snowmass Village, the City of Aspen Community Non-Profit Grant Program, and The Aspen Thrift Shop. Founded by citizens of Aspen, Colorado in 1972, GrassRoots TV is the first and oldest community operated and programmed open-source media center and television station in the United States. Virtually all of the programming is created by local residents, occasionally with world renown guests. In partnership with the American Archive of Public Media and the Library of Congress, GrassRoots is currently cataloguing, restoring and digitally archiving 700 of the most at-risk original video programs out of its 45,000 title Community Video Archive. Help sustain this community treasure by donating now! Go to: https://bit.ly/GRTVContribute Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, HIT LIKE and leave a COMMENT to let us know if you enjoyed this video, it is important to us and the community for you to become part of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Download the GrassRoots Community Network iOS and Android apps Subscribe for more videos: https://bit.ly/2Ycpi4P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsCommunityNetwork/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/grassrootstv Web: http://www.grassrootstv.org/

Join AWF Reads, the signature literary discussion series from the Aspen Writers Foundation, for a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation on The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Díaz. Host Catherine O'Connell leads an engaging panel—Cam Scott, Gerry Kaplan, and Nicole Hernandez—through the novel’s rich terrain of voice, history, diaspora, pop culture, and imagination. Expect close reading, cultural context, and sharp insights into Díaz’s inventive language, the legacy of Dominican history, and the book’s enduring questions about identity, love, and fate. Ideal for book clubs, writers, students, and readers of contemporary literature. Know Aspen. Watch GrassRoots. GrassRoots programming is made possible by the producers' creativity itself, direct contributions from viewers, members of the Roaring Fork Valley community, and through grants from the Pitkin County Healthy Community Fund, The Town of Snowmass Village, the City of Aspen Community Non-Profit Grant Program, and The Aspen Thrift Shop. Founded by citizens of Aspen, Colorado in 1972, GrassRoots TV is the first and oldest community operated and programmed open-source media center and television station in the United States. Virtually all of the programming is created by local residents, occasionally with world renown guests. In partnership with the American Archive of Public Media and the Library of Congress, GrassRoots is currently cataloguing, restoring and digitally archiving 700 of the most at-risk original video programs out of its 45,000 title Community Video Archive. Help sustain this community treasure by donating now! Go to: https://bit.ly/GRTVContribute Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE, HIT LIKE and leave a COMMENT to let us know if you enjoyed this video, it is important to us and the community for you to become part of the conversation. Thanks for tuning in! Download the GrassRoots Community Network iOS and Android apps Subscribe for more videos: https://bit.ly/2Ycpi4P Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrassRootsCommunityNetwork/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/grassrootstv Web: http://www.grassrootstv.org/