Salida Daily Digest Saturday, July 18, 2026
Ty's Take
There's a peculiar moment every summer when this valley catches fire—literally and figuratively—and people show their true colors. The Aspen Acres fire pushing toward fifty percent containment is the real story here, along with South Arkansas Fire Protection District doing what it takes to staff up for the next one, but the noise around canceled fireworks and second-guessing our firefighters is the kind of noise that gets louder the farther you are from the actual work. Meanwhile, the rest of us are doing what we do: the car club's running their first show at the airport, the brewers are gathering, the Fiber Fest artists are painting windows, and on Wednesday night there's free music on the beach because sometimes you just need to remember why you live in a town where the mountains are still higher than the drama.
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Ark Valley Voice
Custer County GOP Leaders’ Tantrum Over Canceled Fireworks, Criticize Fire Fighting Efforts
Custer County GOP leaders faced backlash for criticizing firefighting efforts and mocking the service of local firefighters during a dispute over canceled fireworks. The controversy has drawn attention to concerns about respect for first responders and public safety priorities in the community.
Free Road to Smalltown Concert on The Beach Wednesday, July 22
Road to Smalltown is bringing free live music to Buena Vista on Wednesday, July 22, featuring the band Bonfire Dub at The Beach at River Runners from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. The all-ages event welcomes families and friends to bring blankets and enjoy an evening outdoors.
Fire Sparked by Lightning 6 Miles North of Salida
A lightning-sparked wildfire about 6 miles north of Salida was brought to full containment by mid-afternoon after firefighting crews quickly mobilized to battle the blaze. Rain in the area aided firefighting efforts as crews returned to base by late afternoon.
Aspen Acres Fire Nears 50 Percent Containment, Recovery Begins in Many Areas
The Aspen Acres Fire has reached 50 percent containment, and recovery efforts are underway in affected areas as community members gather for updates. A public meeting is scheduled for Friday, July 17, at the Raymond Aguirre Community Center in Gardner to discuss fire status and recovery.
Arkansas Valley Car Club Hosts Inaugural Car Show At Airport
The Arkansas Valley Car Club held its first-ever car show at Central Colorado Regional Airport, showcasing classic cars, trucks, motorcycles and specialty vehicles on the tarmac. The inaugural event drew enthusiasts and collectors from across the region.
National Cyclospora Outbreak is Centered on Michigan
Chaffee County Public Health is alerting residents to a multistate Cyclospora outbreak currently centered in Michigan, urging awareness about the foodborne parasite. Colorado is not believed to be affected at this time, though residents should remain informed about symptoms and prevention measures.
South Arkansas Fire Protection District Approves Severity Staffing to Enhance Wildfire Readiness
The South Arkansas Fire Protection District approved funding to staff a wildland fire engine during periods of high fire danger, addressing community concerns about wildfire readiness. The district plans to deploy trained firefighters and equipment for rapid response while also conducting...
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The Mountain Mail
Wilson explores belonging and life changes in memoir ‘Lonely Girl’
Salida resident Elizabeth Wilson recently published her memoir "Lonely Girl: An Unexpected Love Story," exploring themes of belonging and identity through her personal experiences with career changes, motherhood, and relocation. Wilson started a local publishing press called Whispered Wisdom and...
Fiber Fest seeks artists for window contest
Fiber Fest is seeking artists to participate in a window display contest, offering a creative opportunity for local talent to showcase work throughout the community.
South Ark Fire approves staffing a wildland truck
South Arkansas Fire Protection District approved up to $50,000 to staff a wildland fire engine during high-danger fire periods, positioning trained firefighters and equipment for rapid response within the district. When not responding to fires, crews will conduct prevention work including patrols,...
CCCF and Monarch to award $15,000 in grants
The Chaffee County Community Foundation and Monarch Mountain are offering up to $15,000 in grants to nonprofits working on community projects aligned with environmental sustainability, recreation, and humanitarian goals. Applications open July 27 and close August 28 for IRS-recognized 501(c)(3)...
Brewers Rendezvous sees returning vendors and attendees
The annual Brewers Rendezvous took place at Riverside Park on July 11, bringing together returning vendors and attendees for a day of craft beverages and community celebration.
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