The 5 Best Candidates for Mr. Basalt

Basalt’s character comes from the balance it strikes — between river and mountain, tradition and growth, creative expression and everyday life. The community is shaped not just by the landscape but by the people who invest in it, nurture it and show up for it year after year. Recognized in the Best of Aspen, Snowmass and Basalt contest, this category honors local men whose presence helps define Basalt’s spirit. They organize, welcome, create and connect — often in ways that feel quiet but meaningful.

Ryan Honey

As Executive Director of The Arts Campus at Willits (TACAW), Ryan Honey has helped build one of the valley’s most vibrant cultural centers. TACAW brings music, theater, comedy, film and community events into a welcoming, energy-forward environment. Ryan’s leadership reflects a belief that arts belong to everyone — not just audiences but neighbors. Through his work, TACAW has become more than a venue; it’s a gathering place that strengthens Basalt’s creative identity and sense of shared experience.

Franklin Ruch

At Zane’s Tavern Willits, Franklin Ruch contributes to one of the town’s most recognizable casual hangout spots. Zane’s is the kind of place where conversations stretch long, games spark excitement and regulars greet each other by name. Franklin plays a role in maintaining that comfortable, approachable atmosphere. His presence reinforces the idea that a great community space doesn’t need to be fancy — it just needs to feel like home.

Ryan Slack

Through his work with the Town of Basalt, Ryan Slack helps support the operations and services that keep the community running smoothly. Municipal roles often operate behind the scenes, but they shape daily life in meaningful ways — from public events to long-term planning to responsive communication. Ryan’s role reflects a commitment to stewardship and collaboration, demonstrating how local government can be grounded, friendly and connected to the people it serves.

Chris Ryan

With Ryan Investments, Chris Ryan works with clients to navigate financial planning, investment strategy and long-term decision-making. His approach emphasizes trust and clarity — guiding individuals and families through personal financial landscapes that can carry both opportunity and uncertainty. Chris’s presence in the community reflects professionalism rooted in relationships, where sound advice supports stability and shared confidence.

Dick Carter

Richard “Dick” Carter is known for his decades of creative work, much of it inspired by the landscapes and light of the mountain West. His art captures abstraction and atmosphere, exploring form and color in ways that feel both structured and fluid. As an established artist living in Basalt, he contributes to the region’s cultural fabric not only through the pieces he creates, but through the perspective he brings to conversations about art, place and identity.

Thanks, ChatGPT.