FORMER ASPEN MAYOR DIES
Aspen—She never backed down from a good debate on the issues, especially when it involved the environment, social issues or her beloved town of Aspen. Former Aspen Mayor and Pitkin County Commissioner Helen Klanderud has died. According to reports Klanderud passed away yesterday after suffering a massive stroke in her doctor’s office the day before. She was airlifted to Swedish Medical Center on Wednesday but never regained consciousness. Klanderud served three terms as the Mayor of Aspen and probably would’ve been elected to three more if not for term limits. While Pitkin County and the city of Aspen were her home base for 42 years, Klanderud was also a passionate champion of many causes and non-profit groups. She was respected by county and city leaders across the state for her commitment to family and the community. Helen Klanderud was 76. Funeral services are pending.
GLENWOOD CITY COUNCIL ENDORSES MILL LEVY BALLOT QUESTION
Glenwood Springs—The Glenwood Springs City Council unanimously endorsed a ballot question calling for a five year mill levy increase to cover the increased costs of emergency services. On average, homeowners would pay an additional 40 to 95 dollars per year in property taxes.
ALPINE BANK UNVEILS INTEREST FREE LOAN PROGRAM FOR FURLOUGHED FEDERAL WORKERS
Glenwood Springs—Alpine Bank announced a program today to help out thousands of federal workers in Western Colorado pay their bills during the government shutdown. Federal employees are no longer collecting paychecks so in the meantime, Alpine Bank has set aside 13 million dollars to loan out the amount of their next paycheck, interest-free. Bank officials say the workers can repay the money when the government reopens for business. The loan program is available to any federal employee within the Alpine Bank service area. Applicants do not have to be Alpine customers.