Volume 1 No. 16 January 27, 2016
Volume 1 No. 8 January 27, 2016
Delivering to over 25,000 homes and businesses on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month in Dacono, Erie, Frederick, Firestone, Mead PO Box 676, Firestone, CO 80520 • PO Box 331, Erie, CO 80516
CSU Ag Department to Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship
by Dr. Ajay Menon, Dean of CSU College of Agricultural Sciences Growing up in India, my brother and I used to venture out regularly to the British Library and the American Library in the City of Mumbai to look for new or used American magazines and newspapers. We would tear through them looking for advertisements featuring the Marlboro Man – who was, for us, the embodiment of the American West. Tacking these pages up on our bedroom wall, we would gaze at them and imagine what it would be like to live in that place of big sky and open ranges, of hard work and seemingly limitless opportunity. Today, that distant dream is my reality. As dean of Colorado State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences, my work routinely takes me out to the farms and ranches of our state, where hard-working women and men continue to reap hope and opportunity from the fruits of their land and labor. I am daily inspired by the Western spirit and drive that so entranced me as a child. What I didn’t realize then -- and what many who are removed from our state’s agricultural industry don’t realize -- is that agribusiness today is as active in urban centers and boardrooms as it is in the field. The agricultural industry that is focused on feeding a planet of 9 billion people is diverse, sophisticated and far-reaching – and our charge at Colorado State is to educate students who are prepared for the real business of 21st century agriculture. Agriculture is a significant and reliable base industry in Colorado, making up nearly 20% of the state’s gross domestic product. The core of this industry’s output is $15 billion of products that are grown, processed and marketed, with each dollar of sales generating another 50-60 cents of inputs and wages in the local economy. And Weld County is the preeminent standard bearer for Colorado agriculture, ranking among the top 10 agricultural counties in the nation. To best meet the needs of this vital industry, our college is intensifying its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. Our capacity to produce more food, to secure and steward our natural resources, and to prevent outbreaks of food-borne illnesses depends on our ability to develop new science and create new technologies. Research within our College is focused at the nexus of food, water and energy and informed by the interaction between technology, business, and agriculture. Our faculty grapples with issues of labor-force development, rural and urban economic growth, and advancing science for the betterment of humanity. As the business models for both small and large producers evolve and adapt to meet a growing global population, our students need to understand how the business of agriculture can remain viable and profitable. I’ve spent my academic career in business, and this is the perspective I bring to the role of dean. Our college faculty possesses a broad set of expertise and experiences that touch on every aspect of 21st century agriculture. Our shared commitment is to provide our students with an exceptional education in the science and business of agriculture and to serve our state – indeed, the world – with game-changing research and discovery that positively impacts the food we eat, the spaces in which we live and work, and the innovations that get to market. Whether on campus, through the statewide Extension and Agricultural Experiment Station networks, or the planned National Western Center in Denver, we at CSU remain committed to President Abraham Lincoln’s dream of the land-grant university as an academic institution focused on educating the citizens of our state for economic and social betterment for all.
Groundbreaking for Erie’s Newest Fire Station
On Wednesday, January 20th Mountain View Fire Rescue, assisted by several local dignitaries, broke ground on Erie’s newest fire station located in the southern portion of the Town of Erie near Piper and Bonanza Drive. The nearly 7,000 square foot station will include living quarters for up to six personnel staffing the station 24/7, two oversized bays for apparatus, and a training/meeting room. A siren to alert the citizens in the event of an emergency in the Town of Erie will be located on the site. “The Town & Mountain View share a vital role in keeping Erie safe. And I have no doubt that through our continued partnership we will serve today’s residents and our future residents with the services they expect and deserve,” stated Erie Mayor Tina Harris. Building a fire station is a significant investment in the community, and the benefits are numerous. Not only will service to the southern portion of Erie be improved due to faster response times and emergency personnel availability, the citizens will realize this enhanced service without an increase in their taxes. Mountain View Fire Rescue prides itself on superior planning and financial management. In addition to funds set aside in its Capital Reserve Fund for this project pursuant to the District’s Strategic Plan, the District applied for, and was awarded, an Energy and Mineral Impact Grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA) in the sum of $600,000, resulting in significant cost savings to the District and its citizens. Mountain View Fire Rescue thanks all those that attended and assisted the District with this important milestone. Any questions regarding this project can be directed to Mountain View Fire Rescue by calling 303-772-0710 or by emailing info@mvfpd.org.
What’s In This Issue:
Page 2: Way of the World Page 3: Erie Chamber to Host Colo. Business Summit Page 4: Weld Commissioner Kirkmeyer Speaks on Solar Facilities Page 5: Brookfield Residential Underway in Firestone Page 6: Weld Commissioner Cozad Eager to Assist Aging Population Page 7: Sweetheart Tea Hosted by Colorado Tartans, Feb. 13 Page 8: Weld County Fair Wins Award at IAFE Convention Page 9: Small Winter Gardens Add Joy to the Season Page 10: Frederick Rated Top 10 in 2015 Page 11: Inspire Dental Celebrates Grand Opening Page 12: Anytime Fitness Hosts Food Drive for Help Center Page 13: Sharp Bros. Seed Provides Quality Seed Page 14: School Resource Officer Recognized by CV Rotary Page 16: WOW Automotive New Business in Mead
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Way of the World
by Bob Grand Iowa and New Hampshire are getting close. Who will win? On the Democratic side Sanders is picking up momentum and Hillary is slipping. You have to ask yourself what are between 100 and 150 FBI agents looking at with her. I am afraid dark things are coming. A couple of weeks ago I projected that Joe Biden is not out the race yet. What if the FBI drops a hammer on Hillary? The head of the FBI is a man with high marks for integrity. If they recommend an inditement will the DOJ do anything? Based on the Petreaus case you have to wonder. But the buzz now is that the investigation has expanded to include the relationships with Clinton Foundation donors and implications of favors for pay issue. What a mess! Just do not sell Uncle Joe short. I think he is waiting in the wings to save the Democratic Party from the pesky Republicans and maybe the Democrats themselves. Meanwhile the Republicans continue their cat fighting. I am sure Ted Cruz was not expecting the citizenship issue to raise its head. Legal scholars have a consensus that he is indeed a natural born citizen because of his Mom being a US citizen. That, however, does not stop the pot stirrers. Myself, I am a little nervous about first term Senators running for President, no matter how well intentioned. Having said that, the field gets a bit thin. Trump is not perfect by any means, yet his appeal is genuine to a lot of people who are just plain sick and tired with Washington being Washington, including both establishment parties. Speaking about parties do you wonder why both parties in Colorado, the home of the best place to live in America, have done little to have the voice of the Colorado voters help impact the decision process going on? Ask yourself why that is? The answer is perplexing. It shows a lack of leadership, on the Democratic side to buck the Washington establishment and the national party. On the Republican side. It appears to be an effort to maintain the status quo. They seem to think that mediocrity should be the goal. It helps to explain why both parties in Colorado are minority parties with declared Independents growing daily. Maybe we should start an effort to focus on improving Colorado’s impact on national elections. Maybe that might mean our state parties would begin to care about all the citizens of Colorado and not the narrow membership of their existing, ever shrinking base. As always we invite your thoughts and comments: publisher@lostcreekguide.com
Firestone Now Accepting Applications for 2016 Scholarship Program
FIRESTONE, Colorado – Graduating seniors in 2016 who are Firestone residents are invited to apply for three scholarships presented on behalf of the Town of Firestone. The three $1,000 scholarships will be awarded under the following recognition titles: Excellence in Academics Scholarship, SAFEbuilt Academic Excellence Scholarship and Career Advancement Scholarship. The Town of Firestone Scholarship Program has had the honor of partnering with area students for academic excellence and continuing professional achievement. Firestone’s goal is to assist students who have set goals for themselves and have already shown exceptional capability in achieving them. Scholarship awards will be used for tuition expenses at the winners’ school of choice, usually a four-year college or trade school. Any student who maintains their residency in Firestone is eligible to apply. Applicants are expected to have actively participated in extracurricular and community service related projects in Firestone and the Carbon Valley area. To be considered for the scholarships, eligible students must complete the application and provide supporting documents as outlined in the requirements. The application and requirements are available online at www.firestoneco.gov/scholarships or at the Firestone Community Development offices at 8308 Colorado Blvd. Ste. 200 in Firestone. The deadline to submit applications is April 1, 2016, at 5 p.m. Applications will be reviewed by the Firestone Scholarship Committee. Scholarship presentations will be made at the May 11, 2016, Board of Trustees meeting.
Delivering on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Bob Grand - Publisher 303-753-6109 publisher@carbonvinews.com
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Carbon Valley Independent PO Box 676 Firestone, CO 80520
Letters to the Editor are encouraged. Letters may be edited for length, libelous, or inappropriate content. All letter submissions should include name, address, & phone number for verification purposes. Letters are published at the editor or publisher’s discretion. Opinions expressed in letters to the editor do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Carbon Valley Independent or staff.
The goal of the Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent is to provide good news for our readers on the Local, County, and State level that will be of interest. We always welcome letters to the editor or email us directly.
January 27, 2016
The Highs and Lows of Agriculture
By Commissioner of Agriculture Don Brown There is no doubt that life in the agricultural community is about more than business decisions. A farmer doesn’t work tirelessly conserving the land and a rancher doesn’t carry a cold newborn calf into his own home to warm up if the bottom line is the only thing that mattered. The truth is, being in an agricultural business is a combination of both: a heartfelt dedication to an honorable career and decisions that affect the family bank account. Over the last few years, the agricultural community has seen record highs for the prices of many of our commodities such as corn, cattle, and wheat but that all changed last year. These lower prices are causing net farm and ranch income to drop dramatically. In fact, in 2011, Colorado’s net farm and ranch income was a record-high $1.8 billion while a recent estimate from the CU Leeds School of Business Ag Estimating Team puts 2015 income at just $824 million. Plus, overall expenses continue to increase along with additional rules and regulations. But the outlook isn’t as gloomy as it sounds. The economy is often faced with a roller coaster of highs and lows so the recent trend is to be expected on some level, balance sheets remain strong, and the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement offers new export opportunities. While the recent drop in prices is creating a more challenging business environment, agriculture remains one of the state’s most important economic sectors. Agricultural producers have always strived to be on the forefront of innovation because it protects the environment, creates better livestock husbandry practices, and fosters economic growth. Colorado’s potential for ag-related innovation inspired Governor Hickenlooper to speak of Colorado as the ‘Silicon Valley of agriculture.’” Ultimately, the recent agricultural economic downturn can be concerning but it is also a natural movement in the economy and it has no effect on an aspect of agriculture that will not change: our way of life is a tremendous responsibility and privilege that we hold on to. Through our efforts, families have safe, affordable food on their dinner table and help create a way of life that is the foundation of this great state. And we do this while protecting natural resources and the environment and will continue to develop sustainable farming practices to protect the land for the next generations.
Letters to the Editor
Michael J. Rourke Announces Candidacy to Maintain the Office of Weld County Assistant District Attorney
GREELEY, CO- On the evening of January 5th, 2016 amongst family, friends, elected officials, and community members, Michael J. Rourke officially announced his candidacy to maintain the office of Weld County District Attorney. Introduced and applauded by Assistant District Attorney Robert W. Miller, Rourke addressed the crowd with his background, Rourke is the eldest of two boys, originally from Denver, Co. He obtained his B.A. in History from the University of Colorado at Boulder went on to receive his Juris Doctorate from the University Of Denver College Of Law in 1997. Michael began his career as a deputy district attorney in the 18th Judicial District in Centennial, Colorado. After seven years with Arapahoe County, in January of 2005 he moved to Greeley, Colorado as a Chief Deputy District Attorney for the Weld County District Attorney’s office. He was promoted to Assistant District Attorney in 2007 and was appointed by the Governor as District Attorney of the 19th Judicial District in January of 2015 where he has served since. Throughout his career, Michael has prosecuted 11 First Degree Murder cases, numerous Sexual Assaults, Sexual Assaults on Children, and Crimes of Violence cases. More notably however, is his focus on the victims in his cases. Michael’s genuine compassion for keeping crime victims at the center of the criminal justice system has proven time and again to bring confidence and closure to those whom he helps. He said on Tuesday evening, “Giving victims a voice when they cannot speak for themselves is the most significant responsibility I will ever know.” Michael has made Northern Colorado his home and takes great pride in being an active Weld county resident. He has given presentations on Prosecuting No-Body Homicide cases, Prosecuting Sexual Assault on Children cases, and training for law enforcement on legislative changes, testifying in court, constitutional considerations and Appellate Court case-law updates. Some of Michael’s volunteer activities include formerly serving as a board member for the Frontier Academy Charter School Board, coaching little league baseball, t-ball and soccer, serving on the Weld County Community Corrections Board, of which he was the Chair, and assisting with the Migrant Christmas Fiesta held in Greeley. Over the course of the past year, Rourke has, along with all of the county’s law enforcement officials, created and implemented the Weld County Critical Incident Response Team which serves as a separate agency in all officer-involved shooting investigations. In addition to this ground breaking measure for the county, he has also continued juvenile restorative justice efforts and grew the office’s diversion program as an alternative measure to traditional prosecution. Moving forward in 2016 and beyond, Michael vowed to continue his tough stance on gang violence, white collar crimes, and crimes against children. Rourke’s campaign can be researched and contacted at Rourkeforda.com. Please email contact@rourkeforda.com for any follow up questions or interview requests.
January 27, 2016
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Letters to the Editor Re-elect George Heath, Trustee for the Town of Firestone
I have had the privilege of knowing George Heath for the past 18 years. During this time I have watched him serve our community even before he was elected to the Planning and Zoning Commission. His leadership skills enabled him to bring new vision to this important area of town government. Then, when he became Trustee for the Town Board he has become an advocate for the entire town of Firestone. When George is faced with an issue he doesn’t react; he acts. He has the perseverance and tenacity of a bulldog. When faced with an issue he checks all the facts, makes sure he is right, and then perseveres to find an answer. He is the epitome of a true humanitarian; always just one phone call away to helping anyone who has a need, whether personal or otherwise. He extends himself tirelessly; much like the Energizer Bunny-ever ready to do whatever it takes to keep Firestone the Community in Motion. George and his wife, Betty have been residents of Firestone for the past 19 years. They have a blended family of 7 children, 12 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild and another due in June, 2016 and they all live out of state. Betty is a free-lance journalist who writes the weekly column, “As I See It,â€? in the Longmont Times-Call every Sunday. She often writes about ‘The Mr.â€? and his antics. They both give back to their community in many ways including volunteering as Santa and Mrs. Claus for the Firestone Holiday Festival each year. Betty volunteers at Prairie Ridge Elementary School and enjoys playing word games and teaching children how to write from their hearts. George has a proven record of leadership and outreach throughout the Carbon Valley and beyond. Besides serving on the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity, he is also ViceÂChair of Weld County Housing Authority, member of the Area Agency on Aging ai1d Leadership St. Vrain and was recently appointed to the Building a Better Colorado Forum. He also advocates for a strong retail presence and progressive growth plan in the Carbon Valley that includes job providing businesses as well as sit-down family oriented restaurants. His is a voice that demands to be heard. If you want George to continue being your voice in Firestone, then I ask you to please vote for his re-election as Trustee for the Town of Firestone in the upcoming election, April 5, 2016. Regards, Tony Onorat0
Reelect Paul Sorensen for Mayor – Town of Firestone
April 5, 2016 the voters of the town of Firestone will have the opportunity to choose the leadership for our community for the next two to four years. It is an honor to serve our community as the Mayor and I vow to continue my dedication as I seek reelection for my next two year term. Serving the Firestone community for the last eight years as a Trustee, Mayor Pro-tem and Mayor has given me the history and knowledge to continue leading our community forward. During my first term as Mayor I am extremely proud of our Firestone community being recognized as a great community. In 2015 Firestone was recognized as the “Best place to raise a family�, “Best place for home ownership�, “2nd safest community in Colorado and 6th safest in the U.S.�. These accolades are no surprise to many of us, but it is reassuring to know we have done it right. Over the last eight years we had to endure the hard times of a bad economy and now we are seeing a boom in development as the economy stabilizes. Last year we were able to negotiate with the largest development in the town’s history to choose Firestone as their community of choice. The annexation of the 1,600 acre Master Planned community, Barefoot Lakes, into Firestone will ensure our “Community in Motion� continues moving in the right direction. Many projects that have been in the planning stages for years and in some cases decades are finally becoming construction projects. I pledge to keep the ball moving on improving our infrastructure (including the McClure extension and water line replacements in Historic Firestone), keeping our community safe (including working with our police dept. on their needs) and working with companies to bring in the best services and jobs to our community. The new UC Health Medical offices, Lee Schwab Tire Center, Pepper Jacks family restaurant and the Cimarron Apartments are amongst some of the new projects to open in 2016. I have been blessed in so many ways serving the Firestone community over the years. I strive to do my best to ensure all opinions are heard during our board meetings as well as represent our community at local, state and federal levels with professionalism and passion. If you get a chance to talk with any of the Town’s staff I am confident they will give you their honest personal opinion of my past performance and their confidence in my ability to lead our community. April 5, 2016 is our election day. Please make voting for your representatives the highest priority. I ask that you give me the opportunity to keep our community moving forward by voting for Paul Sorensen-Mayor - Town of Firestone. (www.Sorensen4Firestone.com)
Journalism Scholarships Available
Up to four college scholarships and two high school scholarships are available through the Colorado Press Association’s Scholarship Program, run by the Denver Foundation. The Colorado Press Association is a trade association dedicated to the preservation, progression, and modernization of the state’s news media. The CPA College Scholarship Program seeks to encourage and assist college journalism and media students who have demonstrated commitment to the field. The deadline to apply is March 7. Scholarship awards will be paid directly to a recipient’s college or university and can be applied toward tuition and fees only. Please note that award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship acceptance policies of a recipient’s school. This award is not renewable. An individual may only receive this award one time. Awards must be used for the 2016-2017 academic year. Applications and selection criteria are available at The Denver Foundation website at www.denverfoundation.org. The direct link to the college application is https://denverfoundation.academicworks. com/opportunities/199. The direct link to the high school application is https://denverfoundation.academicworks.com/opportunities/191. For more information, please contact Jack Czarniecki at 303.996.7328 or at jczarniecki@denverfoundation.org. You can also talk with Czarniecki if you’re interested in donating to the non-profit scholarship program.
Erie Chamber of Commerce to Host Colorado Business Summit
The Erie Chamber of Commerce is proud to host the first Colorado Business Summit. It will be held on Wednesday, February 17, 2016 from 8:00 am – 1:30 pm at the Lionsgate Event Center, 1055 S. 112 Street, Lafayette, Co. 80026. Our morning will kick off as you check-in and retrieve your Colorado Business Summit Bag, followed by socializing and networking, and a continental breakfast. Our Keynote speaker Todd Williams will begin his presentation at 9:00 am. Todd Williams has years of experience writing the training programs on service delivery for one of the most recognized hotel chains in the world; a brand known for its customized, personalized, intuitive service. A firm believer in the notion “hospitalityâ€? is not an industry, but instead a way of living that puts others first, he’s helped teams across the nation improve their customer relations. Todd knows the success of a team focused on serving has little to do with the information “taughtâ€? to individuals, and everything to do with shaping the innate gifts within those individuals. Teaching others to live heart-first become his mission. “It is hard to relate from Todd’s biography how impactful this person can be!â€? ‌ Jeff Wagnaar, President of the Erie Chamber of Commerce Director of Physical Therapy, Avista The morning continues with two outstanding workshops. Workshop #1 is hosted by Warren Rothman. Warren is a Senior Human Resource Consultant at Chicago-based Blue Prairie Group, LLC offering over 30 years of human resources leadership in many diverse industries and companies. As Chief Human Resources Officer, Warren led a number of human resources departments as they reconfigured strategy, structure, process, policies and systems. He has overseen the complete redesign of employee communications, established performance management and pay-for-performance programs, and redesigned benefits packages, yielding multi-million dollar savings. In the areas of staffing, Warren has directed the recruitment of middle and senior management, post-hire on-boarding and retention initiatives, and reduced turnover by fifteen percent. Warren will be speaking on “Hiring and Recruitingâ€?. Workshop #2 is hosted by Amy Tallent. Amy and her husband Jesse are the owners of The Tallent Company. They offer many services including, but not exclusive to, social media and office management. Amy’s expertise in in social media, marketing, and branding. We believe you will walk away from the workshop with a plethora of information. Amy will be speaking on “The B Work- Branding Your Businessâ€?. Following the workshops, a delicious buffet lunch prepared by Greens Point Catering will be awaiting you. As you dine, we encourage you to exchange business cards, network, and get to know more about the people and businesses attending the Summit. We will end our Colorado Business Summit with Mark Hoog. Mark Hoog is a successful entrepreneur, a sought after motivational speaker, a bestselling author, the Executive Director of the Children’s Leadership Institute and a Captain with United Airlines. Mark is inspiring people from all walks of life with his powerful message of “Conscious Leadershipâ€?. Mark’s dynamic speaking style challenges you to ignite and boost productivity, shift your leadership paradigm, unlock your leadership style and rediscover inner strength and hidden talent. Touching on timeless leadership tenets, Mark shares the secrets to having a successful business and living a successful life. “Conscious Leadershipâ€? will change how you do business. “Mark Hoog projects such a sense of charisma and power that he captivates an audience in the first few minutes of the presentation. Hoog’s story tugs at your heartstrings while making you think about how to move forward in life with purpose and determination through conscious leadership. Hoog soon will be a name everyone across the country will recognize.â€? ‌ James M. Rath, Marketing and Events Director, Northern Colorado Business Report We look forward to you joining us at the Colorado Business Summit ---expand your knowledge, networking opportunities, and hopefully your business! Registration form available on line at www.eriechamber.org or contact the Erie Chamber 303.828.3440.
Wednesday, February 17, 2016 8:00am – 1:30pm Lionsgate Event Center, Lafayette, CO Summit includes continental breakfast, buffet lunch, workshops and speakers
Keynote Speaker: Mark Hoog “Conscious Leadership�, successful entrepreneur, bestselling author, Executive Director of the Children’s Leadership Institute, United Airlines Captain Register at: www.eriechamber.org
Call 303-828-3440 for more information
Sponsored by Erie Chamber of Commerce
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Weld Commissioner Kirkmeyer Speaks on Proposed Change to Weld County Code Regarding Solar Facilities
Weld County is the number one agriculture producing county in the state, accounting for nearly 1/4th of the state’s agricultural economy. Weld County’s land use policies support a high-quality rural character which respects the agricultural heritage and traditional agricultural land uses of the county, especially as agricultural lands are converted to other uses. In the past couple of years, Weld County has received several inquiries from companies looking to install large scale solar facilities throughout the county. The commissioners reviewed the Weld County Code to ensure these types of facilities met the intent of the county’s comprehensive plan and the agricultural zone. The intent of the agricultural goals in the Comprehensive Plan is to support all forms of the agricultural industry and, at the same time, to protect the rights of the private property owners to convert their agricultural lands to other appropriate land uses. The primary purpose of zoning is to segregate uses that are thought to be incompatible. In practice, zoning is used to prevent new development from interfering with existing agricultural operations, residents or businesses and to preserve the “character” of a community. Which is why you typically don’t see a new factory being plunked down in the middle of an established residential neighborhood in a residential zone or homes being built in an industrial zone and why you shouldn’t see a 110 acre, 75,000 panel solar facility being built in an agricultural zone. Because agricultural users of the land should not be expected to change their longestablished agricultural practices to accommodate the intrusions of urban users into a rural area, the commissioners are revising the county code. Large utility solar facilities (they are not farms or gardens) are considered to be an industrial use. And as such, should be properly sited in an industrial zone. However, to accommodate our agricultural property owners, the county commissioners directed staff to revise our code and procedures to continue to allow small-scale solar facilities in the agricultural zone. A small-scale facility is currently defined as a facility that produces two (2) megawatts or less and is situated on sixteen (16) acres or less. These small-scale facilities, called Community Solar Facilities, would continue to require a Use by Special Review (USR). Larger scale solar facilities that produce more than two (2) megawatts and cover more than 16 acres of ground will be required to locate in the industrial zone. This change in the county code will ensure that solar facilities establish compatibility with surrounding land uses, natural site features and, most importantly, the agricultural areas of our county. The commissioners are not proposing to “ban” solar farms. Again – they are not farms. Having grown up on a farm; owning a dairy farm and still owning and living on a farm, I find calling a solar facility “a farm “ preposterous. The county commissioners are simply adhering to our comprehensive plan, protecting all private property rights and working to ensure the harmonious development of Weld County
Support Your Local Small Businesses!
Flippin' Flapjacks Pancake Supper
Saturday, February 6 * 4 pm - 7 pm First United Methodist Church 316 Elizabeth, Platteville, CO $6.00 all-you-can-eat kids 5 and under eat FREE Pancakes, Eggs, Sausage, Coffee and Orange Juice Bring extra "dough" for our Sweetheart Drawings Sponsored by Platteville LIons Club
January 27, 2016
A letter from Erie Mayor Tina Harris
-From Erie Edition Jan/Feb 2016: https://www.erieco.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/2374 With the last Board of Trustees meeting for 2015 behind us, I’d like to share with you five words worth repeating: “Erie is a great investment.” I believe in these five words in part because, the Town is financially sound; our economic development efforts are strengthening and our future has never looked brighter. And as I’ve previously shared with you - there’s plenty of evidence to support my claim. We all lead busy lives – especially with the holidays upon us, but I’m asking that you please take just a few moments to read about the Town’s financial management strategy, one which includes a practice of conservative budgeting; attentive management of our investment portfolios; responsible debt management and revenue diversification. CONSERVATIVE BUDGETING: During our December 8th meeting the Board approved the 2016 Budget that includes a surplus of revenues over expenditures of $275,000. During the months-long budgeting process, the Board of Trustees identified our priorities for the coming year. We’ve taken a fiscally responsible approach – one that preserves the public health and safety of our town; allows us to maintain quality service delivery and gives us the ability fund one-time capital projects. Not only are the Town’s finances sound - they have been for some time. Our reserves are more than adequate. Excluding onetime expenditures in 2015 we have run surpluses in the General Fund since at least 2012, and are budgeting to do so in 2016. Total actual combined fund balances have increased each year since 2012. How we report our budget is just as important as the budget itself. In case you haven’t heard, the Town has recently been awarded the Government Finance Officers Association’s “Award for Excellence in Financial Reporting” for 2014. I would like to commend our Town Administrator A.J. Krieger and Finance Director Steve Felten for another job well done. INVESTOR RATINGS: Three times in the last year we have seen the Town’s overall credit rating improve. These favorable ratings are attributable to the overall economic health of Erie and reflect the confidence that Moody’s Investor Services and Standard &Poor’s (S&P) have in the financial management of the Town’s enterprise funds and the Town’s management team. Among various positive points they make, S&P states that “Erie’s budgetary flexibility is very strong” and they consider General Fund reserves “very strong”. They also state in their report that the Town has “very strong liquidity”, that the Town’s budgetary performance is “strong” and that the Town’s management conditions are viewed as “strong”. RESPONSIBLE DEBT MANAGEMENT: During the period of 2004 through 2009 the Town issued over $100 million in debt. Total debt outstanding is currently approximately $97 million. As those familiar with municipal financing know, just because it’s debt doesn’t mean it’s bad. Still, $97 million is a big number. The Town’s job now and for the foreseeable future is to diligently manage our resources and service that debt. And rest assured we are doing just that. Twice since taking office as Mayor in April of 2014, the Town has refunded (refinanced) portions of our water debt to achieve better interest rates AND SAVE RESIDENTS MONEY! As recently as October of this year, the Town refinanced Water Enterprise Revenue Refunding Bonds, issued originally in 2007. Due to strong demand and market conditions, actual savings over the life of the bonds will be $1,606,000; 27% more in savings than we originally projected. DIVERSIFYING OUR REVENUE BASE: By now you should know (because I keep repeating it) that a King Soopers Marketplace is coming to Erie. First, I want to thank you for your patience as you’ve waited while the Town has been hard at work to attract retailers. Not only have you waited for additional local shopping opportunities – you’ve waited for the opportunity to have your hard earned dollars go back directly into our local economy. The annually renewable sales tax revenues generated by the King Soopers Marketplace at Vista Ridge will go a long way towards diversifying our economy. We are also moving forward with “Nine Mile Corner” a 50 acre retail center at Highway 287 and Arapahoe Road and “Four Corners” a planned 45 acre mixed-use development that includes 14.5 acres of community commercial to accommodate the type of neighborhood retail our community has been craving for years. So whether you are like me and have lived here for years or whether you’ve just recently moved here – I hope you now understand why I say Erie is a great investment. Honestly, I would not trade places with any other city or town inside or outside of Colorado. Not one. There are those who would disagree with me I’m sure, but the fact is – there’s just so much good that’s happening in Erie right now, even the harshest critic deep down inside wants to be a part of the Erie success story. It is an honor to serve as your Mayor. Sincerely, Mayor Tina Harris
New students enroll at Fort Lewis College
DURANGO, CO (01/22/2016)-- The Spring 2016 semester welcomed new transfer and freshmen students from all over the country to Durango, Colorado. Timothy Frasure of Longmont ; Frasure ‘s major is Adventure Education. Migmar Dolma of Erie ; Dolma ‘s major is Psychology. Fort Lewis College is the Southwest’s crossroads of education and adventure. Our blend of small classes, dynamic academic programs, and a liberal arts perspective leads to transformative learning experiences that foster entrepreneurship, leadership, creative problem solving, and life-long learning. And our unique & beautiful mountain campus, on a mesa above historic Durango, Colorado, inspires an active and friendly community with a spirit of engagement, exploration, and intellectual curiosity.
January 27, 2016
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Brookfield Residential Underway in Firestone
-From the Firestone Voice Nov/Dec 2015: http://www.firestoneco.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1034 The 1,300 acre annexation from Brookfield Residential has now been recorded by Weld County and is officially within Firestone municipal boundaries. The annexation was approved by the Firestone Board of Trustees in May. This annexation now increases Firestone’s Town limits to 9,089.47 acres, or 14.2 square miles. The annexation includes the Brookfield Residential property along Colorado Boulevard south of Highway 66 and east of Interstate 25, extending Firestone’s current northern border. The development, which will be named Barefoot Lakes, will ultimately bring new homes and a host of new amenities to the area, an outcome Firestone safety, public works and other community leader’s welcome. administrative areas. This will help Brookfield Residential has already meet current and future growth demands to meet the level of services begun work on the first phase of dethat residents have come to expect. velopment which is anticipated to BUDGET REVIEW AND APPROVAL The Board of Trustees provided include nearly 300 homes. Paving insight to staff on the 2016 probegan on Oct. 14 for the main enposed budget. Staff will make revisions and adjustments based on trance to the community off of the feedback from the Board and will East Frontage Road. The first homes present it at the Dec. 9 meeting. are expected to begin construction by early 2016. The development is planned to include new homes as well as interconnecting trail systems, numerous parks and amenities around a 120-acre lake, located within the community boundaries and adjacent to the St. Vrain River.
New Senior Director for Brookfield Residential
Denver firm puts Marc Savela in charge of land development
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (Jan. 6, 2016) – Brookfield Residential has named Marc Savela as its new senior director of land development. In his new capacity, Savela will oversee the initial stages and the follow-up of the Brookfield Residential communities in Colorado such as Solterra (Lakewood), Midtown (Denver), Brighton Crossing, Tallyn’s Reach (southeast Aurora) and now Barefoot Lakes (newest community in Firestone). He works with local governments, regulatory bodies, engineers and construction partners to ensure that Brookfield Residential communities meet all stakeholder standards. The Barefoot Lakes community, just east of I-25, is expected to be an economic engine for the area with shopping, dining, entertainment and recreational opportunities for more than 5,000 new homes. Savela’s involvement began with Brookfield’s purchase of the land; and in his new role, he will oversee every aspect of the development. Savela is also involved in Brookfield Residential’s recent launch of the Shoal Creek Valley community in the Kansas City area. He joined Brookfield in 2006 as a project manager, and he has more than 15 years of experience in real estate development. He holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Colorado’s College of Engineering; and he is a licensed civil engineer in Colorado. About Brookfield Residential Brookfield Residential of Colorado is a division of Brookfield Residential Properties Inc., a leading North American land developer and homebuilder. Brookfield entitles and develops land to create master-planned communities. The company builds and sells lots to third-party builders, as well as to Brookfield’s own homebuilding division. Brookfield also participates in select, strategic real estate opportunities, including infill projects, mixed use developments, and joint ventures. For more information, please visit BrookfieldResidentialCO.com, or call 303-706-9451.
Colorado Pork Producers Council Hires New Executive Director
Colorado Pork Producers Council has hired a new Executive Director to oversee the operations of the organization. Joyce Kelly took over the leadership of the organization in September 2015. Kelly comes to the organization with experience in Extension, conservation and agricultural education. She has a Bachelors and a Master’s degree in Agriculture from the University of Arizona in Tucson. Kelly was born and raised on a ranch in northern Arizona. She helps her husband farm in the Greeley area. Kelly’s number one goal during the next few months is to help spread the word about CPPC and how it can benefit its current and any new members. Feel free to contact the CPPC office to find out how the CPPC can better serve your needs. CPPC office contact information has changed The contact information for the CPPC has changed. The new mailing address is PO Box 116, Lucerne, Colorado 80646. The office phone number is (970) 356-4964. Don’t forget to check out our web site at www.copork.org or look for us on Facebook by searching for Colorado Pork Producers Council.
Town of Erie Medication Take-back Program
-From the Erie Edition Jan/Feb 2016: https://www.erieco.gov/ArchiveCenter/ ViewFile/Item/2374 The Town of Erie is offering a new service for residents, making it easier for you to dispose of your unused and unwanted household medications. This Medication Take-Back Program will run from Monday, January 11, 2016 through Monday, June 13, 2016. There are two options for Erie residents to participate in the Medication Take-Back Program: Purchase a pre-paid envelope at the Police Station and mail your unwanted medications. Pick-up a free, pre-paid envelope at the Annual Spring Clean-Up on Saturday, May 7, 2016. (Available to the first 50 participants) WHY USE THE MEDICATION TAKE-BACK PROGRAM? Offers Erie residents a way to clear your home of the medications which are no longer needed. Safety of loved ones! Unused medications could fall into the hands of small children and cause accidental poisoning. Protect our environment. Flushing or trash disposal of unused and unwanted medications can cause pollution of lakes, streams and water supplies. OPTION 1: PURCHASE A PRE-PAID ENVELOPE AT THE POLICE STATION How does it work? Residents purchase a TakeAway Medication Recovery System envelope at the Erie Police Station Fill the prepaid, tamper-evident envelope with medications, including controlled substances (Schedules II-V) Seal the envelope with the special tamper-evident seal Drop off at any U.S. Postal Office The envelope costs $4.20, available for purchase at the Erie Police Station MondayFriday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. OPTION 2: PICK-UP A FREE, PRE-PAID ENVELOPE AT THE ANNUAL SPRING CLEAN-UP How does it work? Erie residents can pick-up a FREE, pre-paid envelope at the Leon A. Wurl Service Center during the Annual Spring Clean-Up held on Saturday, May 7, 2016. This offer will be available to the first 50 Erie residents during this event. Residents pick-up a TakeAway Medication Recovery System envelope at the Spring Clean-Up Fill the prepaid, tamper-evident envelope with medications, including controlled substances (Schedules II-V) Seal the envelope with the special tamper-evident seal Drop off at any U.S. Postal Office
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LIQUORS of Firestone Mon - Thu: 9:00 am - 10:00 pm Fri - Sat: 9:00 am - 12:00 am Sun: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm
(303) 485-0246 11078 Cimarron St # 1, Firestone, CO 80504
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Firestone Board of Trustees Reviews 2016 Proposed Financial Budget
-From the Firestone Voice Nov/Dec 2015: http://www.firestoneco.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1034 As part of the budget process, Town staff highlighted some of the key projects and goals for 2016 in their preliminary budget presentation to the Board of Trustees at its Oct. 21 work session. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS Improvements in the Firestone community will continue in 2016. Colorado Boulevard – The Last Chance Ditch Culvert will be replaced prior to the rehabilitation with a 2.5- inch overlay of Colorado Boulevard (CR 13) between Mountain Shadows Boulevard and Zinnia Avenue (CR 26). Godding Hollow Box Culvert Phase 1 on Firestone Boulevard – The first phase of additional culverts to the Godding Hollow ditch will take place next year as five of the 11 proposed culverts will be constructed under Firestone Boulevard (CR 24) just west of Birch Street (CR 11). First Street Replacement – As part of the phase one improvements in Historic Firestone, street repairs will be made to First Street following the water line replacement in late 2015. The repairs on First Street will be between Grant Avenue and Buchanan Avenue. Patching & Slurry Seals – Ongoing street maintenance of patching and slurry seals will be done on several roads: Pinecone Avenue (CR 20) from Colorado Boulevard (CR 13) east 2 miles; Sable Avenue (CR 22) between Colorado Boulevard (CR 13) and Birch Street (CR 11); Frontier Street (CR 15) between Firestone Boulevard (CR 24) and Sable Avenue (CR 22); and Firestone Boulevard (CR 24) from Birch Street (CR 11) to Frontier Street (CR 15). Overlay – A 2.5-inch overlay will be done on Birch Street (CR 11) from Sable Avenue (CR 22) south to the Town limits approximately one-half mile. WATER CAPACITY Given the high price of water and limited availability, the Town continues to work on increasing its water capacity and planning for future infrastructure needs. The Town is currently partnering with other communities and districts to look at native water supplies. The outcome of this project, coupled with similar studies, will guide future projects to increase the Town’s water capacity by identifying water rights, storage and transmission facilities and identify financing options. One of the components in the Town’s ability to increase water capacity continues to be actively participating in the Northern Integrated Supply Project (NISP), as outlined on page 3. STAFFING As part of the budget proposal to the Board of Trustees, it was recommended to increase staffing in public safety, public works and other administrative areas. This will help meet current and future growth demands to meet the level of services that residents have come to expect. BUDGET REVIEW AND APPROVAL The Board of Trustees provided insight to staff on the 2016 proposed budget. Staff will make revisions and adjustments based on feedback from the Board and will present it at the Dec. 9 meeting.
January 27, 2016
Weld Commissioner Julie Cozad Eager to Assist Colorado’s Aging Population
WELD COUNTY, CO – When Weld County Commissioner Julie Cozad learned she was selected to serve on the Colorado Commission on Aging, she was thrilled. “The issues that face our aging population are important to me,” said Cozad. “I’m interested in exploring efficient and thoughtful ways our communities can collaborate to address the concerns of our aging population.” Cozad, who was appointed to the Commission by Governor John Hickenlooper earlier this month, has served on the Board for the Weld County Area Agency on Aging and was the Commissioner Coordinator for the Weld County Department of Human Services last year. “Serving on the Weld County Area Agency in Aging Board was very fulfilling,” said Cozad. “It opened my eyes to the issues our older residents face, and I am passionate about supporting this group of people.” So passionate, in fact, that Cozad volunteered her time last year to serve as a Guardian on the September 13 Honor Flight, which sent veterans from World War II, Korea and Vietnam to Washington DC. Closer to home, Cozad will use her past experience as a land-use planner to look at creative and sustainable ideas when it comes to providing housing, transportation and health care opportunities to the growing older population. “Many communities aren’t currently able to provide the support this demographic desires, especially as the number of older people increases,” said Cozad. “I look forward to working with my commission members to find solutions to the problems my grandparents, parents and the current older population face.” The Colorado Commission on Aging consists of 17 volunteer members appointed by the Governor, with the consent of the Senate. Each member serves a fouryear term advocating for the senior population. Cozad will serve on the Colorado Commission on Aging until 2019 and will attend meetings every other month in different areas of the state. For more information about the Colorado Commission on Aging, visit https://sites. google.com/a/state.co.us/cdhs-cai-aas/colorado-commission-on-aging. For more information about the Weld County Area Agency on Aging, visit the Department of Human Services web page at www.weldgov.com.
‘Next Generation Agriculture’ the focus of 2016 Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture;
Technology, labor issues and changing rural demographics among the many topics to be discussed
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There’s no shortage of issues discussed among the public, media, lawmakers and industry when it comes to food production, and the 2016 Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture will take on many of these critical topics, all while examining the future of ag in the Centennial State. In particular, this event will explore how Colorado can best prepare a next generation of top-notch producers, who will be tasked with feeding a rapidly growing population, and doing so with less resources while facing a number of challenges. The 2016 Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture – titled “Next Generation Agriculture” – is set for 8 a.m. on Feb. 18, taking place at the Renaissance Denver Hotel (3801 Quebec St). The event is open to the public and media. Anyone interested in attending can learn more and register at www.governorsagforum.com. The Forum – hosted by the Colorado Agricultural Leadership Program – will cover the future of Colorado’s rural communities, labor availability challenges, succession planning for farmers and ranchers, working in multi-generational workplaces, the changing landscape for women in ag, Colorado’s new cannabis industry, technology, biotechnology, social media and more. The approximately two dozen presenters and panelists slated to take the stage at this year’s Forum include: * Dr. David Brown, Co-Director of Cornell University’s Community & Regional Development Institute, and International Professor of Development Sociology * Jason Resnick, Vice President and General Counsel with the Western Growers Association * Juriana Sperandio, Head of Organization Development with JBS LLC * and a myriad of Colorado farmers and ranchers, Colorado State University faculty, and other experts and officials from the industry. “Colorado’s $40 billion ag industry is a top two or three contributor to our state’s economy each year, employs thousands of Colorado residents, has been instrumental in leading us out of the recent recession, and most importantly, helps feed Colorado’s 5 million people. Any conversations focused on supporting this industry and maximizing opportunities for the next generation of producers are absolutely worth having,” said Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper. This is the 25th year of the Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture, which in recent years has been hosted by the Colorado Agricultural Leadership Program (CALP). CALP, now working with its 12th class, is a nonprofit organization that develops and enhances the leadership capabilities of diverse men and women committed to the future of Colorado’s agricultural and rural communities. Once again this year, the Colorado FFA Foundation will host the Farm Credit Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame reception and banquet immediately following the Governor’s Forum on Colorado Agriculture, starting at 4:15 p.m. During this annual event, new inductees officially take their place in the Colorado Agriculture Hall of Fame, while a “Rising Star” in the industry is also recognized. To learn more and register for that event, go to coloradoffafoundation.org. Additionally, the Colorado Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association will be hosting its annual meeting at the Renaissance Denver Hotel on the day prior to the Governor’s Forum on Agriculture. To learn more, go to cfvga.org.
January 27, 2016
Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Sweetheart Tea hosted by Colorado Tartan Day set for Feb. 13
The ever popular Sweetheart Tea hosted by the non profit Colorado Tartan Day to raise funds to celebrate Colorado Tartan Day in April and providing it free for the public. Enjoy being served by men in kilts and Celtic entertainment while you sip on a good cup of tea and partake in delicious finger sandwiches, scones and other goodies. Held on February 13th at 1p at St. Brigit Episcopal Church 110 Johnson St., Fredrick, CO www.coloradotartanday.com. At the bottom of the page click on Events and follow the directions. This tea sells out quickly so don’t wait to register.
Firestone Moves through Permitting Process with NISP for Water Storage
-From the Firestone Voice Nov/Dec 2015: http://www.firestoneco.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1034 In recent months Firestone residents may have heard more about the Northern Integrated Supply Project (NISP). As a member of NISP, the Town of Firestone is one of 15 municipalities U.S. Highway 287 and water disalignment options tricts that have Glade Reservoir 170,000 Acre feet partnered along Wellington with Northern Poudre Valley Canal Windsor Ditch Colorado Water Galeton Reservoir Conservancy Dis45,000 Acre feet Glade Horsetooth Pipeline trict to form the Ault participants of Fort Collins the NISP, which Horsetooth will construct two SPWCP South Platte Water Reservoir Pipeline Larimer & Weld Canal Eaton Conservation Project new reservoirs in Windsor Northern Colorado for long-term New Cache Canal ch e la municipal water Pou d r e Riv er Loveland storage. Greeley Big The extensive Th te om at ps Pl public process beon h t u R iv So er gan in 2004 which included an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This process has included reviews by a number of state and federal agencies including EPA and Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Following comments received in 2008 on the draft EIS, the NISP Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement (SDEIS) became available for review on the Army Corps of Engineers website in June 2015, which opened the door for comments from a variety of organizations. The October NISP participants’ meeting allowed Northern Water staff to brief the group on some of the comments received by the Corps. Most were constructive and centered primarily on the water quality model and native habitat for fish and wildlife. However, a handful of negative comments came from the City of Fort Collins and the City of Greeley. Neither of those municipalities are participants in the project and many of their comments were addressed in the SDEIS or will be addressed in further water quality modeling that is planned with the final EIS. A final EIS is expected to be completed in 2016. Work on the final report has begun by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers along with some final water quality modeling. The Northern Integrated Supply Project will consist of the construction of two reservoirs, Glade and Galeton in Northern Colorado. Glade reservoir is the larger of the two reservoirs and will have the capacity to hold 170,000 acre-feet of water. While Galeton will be the smaller of the two reservoirs, it will have the capacity to hold 45,000 acre-feet of water. When both reservoirs are complete the water will help supply Firestone with the water needed for the municipality’s future. For more information, visit www.firestoneco.gov/NISP. 25
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Diverse Housing Options Coming to Firestone
-From the Firestone Voice Nov/Dec 2015: http://www.firestoneco.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1034 The Firestone community will soon offer diverse housing options to allow both current and future residents to select the type of home that fits them best. Until recently, Firestone had less than 40 apartment units in its historic area, with the majority of housing comprised of single-family dwellings. “Having a sufficient supply and selection of housing options is vital to the economic, social and cultural sustainability of our Firestone community,” said TJ Dlubac, Director of Community Development. “The Town should continue to ensure Firestone offers a diverse community with a broad set of housing choices for all residents.” As Firestone plans for future housing needs, the Town realizes that a diverse housing stock becomes more necessary. As the baby boomer generation ages, an increase demand for affordable senior housing and assisted living options increase. Alternatively, as the Denver metro area swells with millennials flocking to the Front Range, the Firestone community must also address the changing needs of this generation as they seek rental opportunities and desire “lock-and-leave” communities. The Firestone Board of Trustees has approved three multi-family home projects through the past 10 years. Cimarron Pointe is already going vertical with several apartment buildings located on Cimarron Street just south of Firestone Boulevard. This apartment complex will include 112 units within two-0story buildings. The same developer is also building Firestone Meadows, which is located at the intersection of Firestone Boulevard and Oak Meadows Boulevard. Firestone Meadows will include 264 dwellings in 11, three-story buildings, as well as a clubhouse, greenbelt areas and a pool. The developers have already begun grading work at Firestone Meadows. Booth Farm Apartments was recently re-approved with no immediate plans for construction.
Colorado 4-H Foundation Scholarships
-From Weld County 4-H Jan 2016 Newsletter: http://weld4h.org/ assets/8d4A4BcA8bD6b0A9B8a4.pdf The 2016 Colorado 4-H Foundation Scholarship application form will be accepted January 15 - April 1, 2016 on the Colorado 4-H Foundation website: www.co4hfoundation. colostate.edu/scholarships.shtml. 2016 Scholarship Application Procedure • All application materials will be submitted using the electronic universal application form. • No letters of reference, transcripts or signature pages are required. Students will supply the names of three people we may contact for references. Needed transcripts will be requested directly from the High Schools. • All applications will be evaluated for the Holthaus, Murdoch’s and Smith scholarships. Helpful Hints: • Fill out and submit only one electronic 4-H scholarship application form. • Review the requirements for the CADA, Kimberling, Portouw and Sandstead scholarships. If you meet the requirements, highlight the boxes on the electronic application form. • Questions: please contact the Colorado 4-H Foundation at 970-491-1537 or 970-491-2768. Winners are selected by the Colorado 4-H Foundation Scholarship Committee
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
January 27, 2016
Upcoming Events in the Lost Creek Guide, Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent Areas
January 2: Denver Nuggets Skills Challenge (Longmont) 7: Colorado Geology at the Library (Longmont) 9: Roller Derby New Year’s Bout (Longmont) 8: Free Friday Film at the library (Broomfield) 14: The Great Divide at the Library (Longmont) 19: Community Heroes Awards Breakfast (Firestone) 23: Kaleidoscope Concert Series (Erie) 23: Winter Farmers Market (Greeley) 23: Polar Pedal Bike Ride (Greeley) 29: Father Daughter Dance at the Rec (Greeley) 30: Father Daughter Dance at the Rec (Greeley) February 5: Night of the Stars Talent Show (Northglenn) 7: Big Game Fun Run (Broomfield) 7: Old Man Winter Bike Rally and Run (Longmont) 11: Garden City Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Banquet (Garden City) 13: Kaleidoscope Concert Series (Erie) 13: Winter Farmers Market (Greeley) 13: Parent’s Night Out (Longmont) 13: Ault Sweetheart Lantern Festivle (Ault) 25-26: Red Cross Blood Drive (Garden City) 26: NOCO HBA Spring Home & Remodel Show 27: Winter Farmers Market (Greeley) 27: Daddy Daughter Sweet Heart Ball (Northglenn)
March 4-6: Boulder International Film Festival (Longmont) 10: Meet and Greet (Firestone) 10: Youth Career and Job Fair (Longmont) 11: Student Art Show (Broomfield) 12: Winter Farmers Market (Greeley) 13: Parents Night Out (Longmont) 25: Easter Eggstravaganza (Windsor) 26: Easter Egg Hunt (Dacono) 26: Winter Farmers Market (Greeley)
Erie Library Events Thursday, January 28 at 3:30 PM Winter Wonderland Family Craft and Cocoa Thursday, February 4 at 6:30 PM Money Matters: Social Security Options Thursday, February 11 at 11:30 AM Let’s Get Erie on the Map! Thursday, February 18 at 6:00 PM Celebrate National Chocolate Month Making the Easiest Chocolate Gifts Ever Thursday, February 25 at 5:30 PM Canvas & Cocoa for Grown Ups
Weld County Fair Wins Award at IAFE Convention
The International Association of Fairs and Expos (IAFE) held its annual convention November 29th through December 2nd, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. IAFE is an association of fairs and expos with membership from all over the world. At each annual convention the IAFE holds award contests, including the Hall of Honor Communications Awards contest, where members are encouraged to enter communication and promotional tools used at their events to be judged. The Weld County Fair entered one of its promotional posters and was awarded first place in the Division of Fairs with attendance up to 100,000. Janet Konkel, Weld County Fair Coordinator accepted a plaque from the organization. The 2016 Weld County Fair will be held July 27th through July 31st, 2016. The Fair is completely free – no parking charge, no admission fee and all activities at the Fair are free to those who attend. Fairgoers can see many types of animals at the fair, from rabbits to dairy cows! There are also exhibits on display of projects completed by 4-H and FFA members, as well as open class exhibits from youth, adults, and seniors in our community. To learn more about the Weld County Fair or find out how you can be a part of it, visit www.weldcountyfair.com.
Carbon Valley Rotary Community BINGO Night – February 20th!
Carbon Valley Rotary will be hosting another Community Bingo Saturday evening, February 20, 2016 at the Tri Town Senior Center in Frederick. Entry Tickets are $5 per person - everyone that enters must have an entry ticket. Game Packs of all 7 games are $5 and will be available to anyone with an entry ticket. Total cost is a minimum of $10.00 for a chance at a total cash payout of $1,000. Additional game packs and specials will be on sale at the event, as well as refreshment concessions provided by the Senior Center members. Doors open at 6:00 pm and Bingo will begin at 7:00 pm with one intermission. Tickets are now available from any Rotary member or at Zadel Realty in the Safeway Shopping center, 8110 Colorado Blvd., Firestone, (303) 833-3012. Proceeds will go toward some of our Youth Literacy programs: providing dictionaries to 3rd graders in the Carbon Valley area, sending youths to summer leadership camps, or purchasing books for our annual Easter Egg Hunt. Bring the entire family and join us for great community fun, all ages can play and all ages can win. Help the Carbon Valley Rotary Club continue to make a positive difference in the community! For more information email BevMendel@carbonvalleyrotary.org.
Rotary is a worldwide service organization spanning more than 200 countries connecting 1.2 million members. Organized in 1905 in Evanston, Illinois, Rotary International is one of the most productive service organizations in the world. In their 110 years of existence Rotary has helped millions of people globally with health, hunger, disease control, clean water and sanitation, shelter, and education. For information about Rotary visit www.carbonvalleyrotary.org or email info@carbonvalleyrotary.org
Ault: http://www.townofault.org Broomfield: http://www.ci.broomfield.co.us/calendar.aspx Dacono: http://www.ci.dacono.co.us/1012/Events Erie: http://www.eriechamber.org/events Firestone: http://www.firestoneco.gov/events Garden City: http://www.gardencitychamber.net/ Greeley: http://greeleycalendar.com Longmont: http://visitlongmont.org/events Northglenn: https://www.northglenn.org/events Windsor: http://www.windsorgov.com/specialevents
Libraries:http://www.mylibrary.us/events/featured-events
Weld County Commissioners Name 2016 Chair, Pro-Tem and Coordinator Responsibilities
WELD COUNTY, CO – During their Monday meeting, the Weld County Board of Commissioners named Commissioner Mike Freeman as Chairman of the Board and Commissioner Sean Conway as Chair Pro-Tem for 2016. Each year, in accordance with the Weld County Home Rule Charter, the commissioners rotate chair and pro-tem positions as well as department coordinator responsibilities. Freeman was elected as Weld County Commissioner in 2012 and represents District 1. Conway was re-elected as Weld County Commissioner At-Large in 2012. “Over the last two years, I have been able to learn from former Commissioner Chairs Douglas Rademacher and Barbara Kirkmeyer,” said Freeman. “I am ready to start 2016 as Chairman of the Board and have a productive year.” The Board also rotated coordinator and assistant coordinator responsibilities for county departments. These assignments last for the duration of the year and are designed to facilitate communication and project coordination between the department and the Board. The 2016 assignments are: l Department of Finance and Administration o Coordinator: Commissioner Freeman (Chair); Assistant Coordinator: Commissioner Conway (Pro-Tem) l Department of Health Services o Coordinator: Commissioner Conway; Assistant Coordinator: Commissioner Cozad l Department of Planning Services o Coordinator: Commissioner Cozad; Assistant Coordinator: Commissioner Freeman l Department of Public Works o Coordinator: Commissioner Kirkmeyer; Assistant Coordinator: Commissioner Moreno l Department of Human Services o Coordinator: Commissioner Moreno; Assistant Coordinator: Commissioner Kirkmeyer To contact any of the commissioners, please call 970-336-7204 or email them at the appropriate email address: mfreeman@weldgov.com, sconway@weldgov.com, jcozad@ weldgov.com, smoreno@weldgov.com or bkirkmeyer@weldgov.com. For more information about the Board of County Commissioners, visit www.weldgov. com.
January 27, 2016
Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Small Winter Gardens Add Joy to the Season
From CSU Extension, Andrea Dunn Colorado State University Extension Master Gardener in Larimer County You have put your garden to bed, raked the leaves, and now you are ready for those first snows and a wintery white and sometimes brown landscape. It’s time to turn your attention to the holidays. However, it won’t be long (maybe December or January) until you will once again be longing for more green, some fresh veggies and yes, even some fresh tomatoes. Here are three ways to exercise your green thumb both indoors and out and to brighten the stark winter season. Plant Fresh Herbs Indoors Think about the herbs that you would like to use for those special holiday dinners and everyday cooking. Bay leaves add flavor to soups and stews. Rosemary is wonderful in breads and potatoes, and don’t forget parsley, chives, and basil for salads and main dishes. If you have tender perennials like bay and rosemary in your garden, dig them out and transplant them to a clay, wood or ceramic pot. Hardy perennial herbs like parsley, sage, and chives can be divided out of your garden to grow indoors. Herbs, like basil, can be planted from seed indoors and you can start harvesting once the plant starts to have lots of leaves. The important thing to remember is that herbs are sun loving so they will do best in a south facing window. Home Grown Veggies Grown in Containers Once you have to buy the tough and tasteless store tomatoes, you will be longing for the full flavored tomatoes you ate from your summer garden. You can grow tomatoes (and more!) indoors to continue the full flavor of homegrown produce. One tomato plant can be grown in a 6-inch pot or two plants in larger pots using recommended seeds such as Pixie, Patio, Toy Boy, Small Fry or Tiny Tim. You will need to germinate the seeds first in a small pot with starter mix that is kept moist. Transplant when they are three inches tall. Light fertilization should occur about two weeks after you transplant. What about pollination you ask? A slight tap of the main stem and larger side braches causes the pollen to fall from the open flowers. Make sure you don’t run out of fresh tomatoes by starting a new plant every couple of weeks. Other vegetables you might consider growing in containers this winter are salad greens, radishes, peas and carrots. Remember you will need a longer container for the carrots. Of course, if you really want to extend your growing season, building a cold frame, hoop house or even a simple greenhouse can be a good way to start seeds and grow winter crops. Before you do this, consider whether you want to garden year round or if you need a vacation this winter to enjoy other interests. Resources for these are listed below. Add Color to the Outdoors with Cold Weather Container Plants The first thing to remember when planting containers outdoors is to use a container that won’t crack and break with freezing and thawing temperatures. Another trick is to select plants for two zones cooler than your hardiness zone. You can make some spectacular outdoor pots using emerald arborvitae, small conifers and ornamental cabbages and kale. Add dogwood spikes and holly berries for some extra color and voila!—you have added some beauty to your landscape, entry or patios. Looking for additional gardening information? Check out the CSU Extension Horticulture blog at www.csuhort.blogspot.com for timely updates about gardening around the state. Visit PlantTalk Colorado ™ for fast answers to your gardening questions! www.planttalk.org PlantTalk is a cooperation between Colorado State University Extension, GreenCo and Denver Botanic Gardens.
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Firestone School Resource Officer Provides Positive Relationships
-From the Firestone Voice Nov/Dec 2015: http://www.firestoneco.gov/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/1034 Securing safe and healthy environments in our schools is a job School Resource Officer Luke Dunker doesn’t take lightly. As a member of the Firestone Police Department, Dunker spends his days inside the walls of local schools providing mentoring, counseling, guidance and, first and foremost, safety. The School Resource Officer (SRO) Program has been an ongoing relationship between the Firestone Police Department and the St. Vrain Valley School District since 2009. The program provides a schoolbased law enforcement officer to partner with the district and provide valuable resources to school staff, fostering positive relationships and developing strategies to resolve problems affecting today’s youth. “The key to having a great SRO program is having the right person in that position,” said Brian Young, the principal at Coal Ridge Middle School in Firestone. “Luke has provided a wonderful connection between the Town, our community and our school by what he brings forth. He’s a natural at what he does and has built a great connection with the kids.” The role that Dunker plays goes beyond providing a safe place to learn. As a critical member of the school team, he is also part of the teaching and counseling staff providing instruction in health classes on topics such as domestic violence, relationships and drugs. Classes aside, he said most of his job is spent as a school counselor with a badge. “Some days I work with kids who need tutoring support, while others are spent providing counseling to kids dealing with issues at home,” Dunker said. “This is the most positive interaction we can have as police officers. We’re able to build a connection between police and kids to promote a healthier community.” While Dunker spends the majority of his day at Coal Ridge Middle School in accordance with the school district agreement, he also provides police support and guidance to Prairie Ridge and Centennial Elementary schools. At the elementary levels he spends more time connecting with the students and building a positive rapport between police and kids. It also allows him to establish good relationships with the kids so they know he is someone to be trusted. In addition to providing mentoring and counseling support, Dunker looks for opportunities to provide ongoing education. This year, he partnered with the Longmont Youth Center to begin a girl’s empowerment program at Coal Ridge Middle School. For one hour a week, Dunker and members of the Youth Center provide leadership training to promote positive change. A boy’s program will begin later this year.
Mead Appoints Mike Segrest as Interim Town Manager
The Town of Mead Board of Trustees appointed Mike Segrest to serve as Interim Town Manager effective December 1, 2015. Segrest will serve until a new Town Manager is appointed and will assist the Board of Trustees in the recruitment of the next Town Manager. Segrest has extensive experience in municipal management, most of it in Colorado. He has worked in the Colorado communities of Lakewood, Boulder and Snowmass Village. He also worked in Austin, Texas and Moraga, California. He is now a local government consultant providing services in interim management, executive recruitment, financial sustainability, and strategic planning. “I am very enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve as Interim Town Manager in Mead,” Segrest said. “This is a great community with tremendous potential. I am confident that the Board of Trustees will find an exceptional person to be the next Town Manager for Mead.”
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Frederick Rated Top 10 in 2015
-From Town of Frederick Website: http://www.frederickco.gov/CivicAlerts. aspx?AID=225 and Town of Frederick Facebook Page: https://www.facebook. com/media/set/?set=a.1183465885014731.1073741878.171801832847813&type=3 As 2015 ends and 2016 begins, the Town of Frederick staff rounded up the biggest achievements that propelled the community forward this year. We hope you enjoy this list, as voted on by Town of Frederick staff. 10. Arbor Day – As a newly named Tree City USA, the Town celebrated Arbor Day by planting a tree at each elementary school in Frederick and giving tree seedlings to all of the students who participated in the ceremony. We’ll be celebrating again and adding many more trees to the community in 2016. 9. DRCOG Award – The Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) recognized the Town’s efforts in revitalizing downtown and building community identity with a Local Government Award in the program’s Action category. The Action category recognizes completed or implemented projects, programs or plans that demonstrate follow-through on multiple goals of the region’s long-range plan. 8. Community Canvas Program – Through a partnership between the Frederick Arts Commission and Frederick Power & Light, the community gained two new pieces of art in the form of painted electrical boxes. The two local artists that were commissioned for these bright, active murals will be joined by other artists who will have the chance to create their own concepts as this program continues in 2016. 7. Safeway Traffic Signal – All of the requirements were met for the installation of a traffic signal at the entrance of Safeway and Frederick Recreation Area on Colorado Blvd. Safeway installed the signal as part of an agreement that was made when Safeway was built, and it will help to make a busy intersection safer. 6. Hotel Tax Approved – Voters approved Ballot Measure 2G to create a 4% excise tax for hotel guests, and showed they are ready to support the right kind of economic development for the future of our community. 5. Two New Events – Frederick created Chainsaws & Chuckwagons and DIY Day in 2015 and based on the response from the community, these two will be staples in the Town’s event lineup for many years to come. 4. Frederick Power & Light Improvements – Two new carcharging stations were added to Frederick through a Charge Ahead grant this year, one in Downtown Frederick and one at Frederick High School. Frederick Power & Light also upgraded all customers to advanced meters which cuts down on costs of manually reading meters and helps increase efficiency and reliability for better customer service. These improvements help to keep Frederick on the cutting edge of technology for the benefit of our residents. 3. Police Reaccreditation – Frederick’s police department met the extensive criteria needed to receive reaccreditation for another five years. The process took nine months of preparation because it’s meant to be an intensive procedure that requires a law enforce-
January 27, 2016
ment agency to demonstrate and consistently maintain compliance with over 200 professional standards of performance. There are fewer than 50 police departments and sheriff’s offices in Colorado that have achieved accreditation. The fact that Frederick police have achieved and renewed accreditation shows their commitment to professionalism and excellence in community service. 2. Flood Repairs – We made giant leaps in flood recovery this year by completing the repairs and drainage improvements on Godding Hollow Pkwy (CR 18) that will now bring it up to 100-year flood capacity. Bella Rosa Parkway (CR 20) was also repaired and Wetland Loop was bid out and work began as 2015 ended. More improvements will be made to Godding Hollow Parkway east of Silver Birch Blvd (CR 11) and Wetland Loop will be completed in 2016, which will round out the entirety of the flood repairs. With the repairs behind us, Frederick will continue working to make sure drainage infrastructure is in place throughout the community well into the future. 1. Park and Trail Improvements – At the start of 2015, the Farm was a neighborhood without a park. Take a trail out for a visit now and you’ll find a playground, picnic shelter, benches and trashcans, with irrigation and landscaping to follow. We also improved trail connectivity in the Farm and near Summit View and Godding Hollow Pkwy (CR 18). Add in the installations of the recycling water unit for the splash pad and a bathroom at Crist Park, and it’s clear the Town is dedicated to continuously improving our parks!
Manning Gives Broncos Best Chance To Win
By Chris Rymes, Carbon Valley Independent (Submitted early January 2016) Brock or Manning? Peyton or Osweiler? Who should be the starting quarterback for the Denver Broncos during their playoff run? The great debate rages on. Peyton Manning stepped off the bench in relief for an ineffective Brock Osweiler during the second half on Sunday’s game against the San Diego Chargers to rally the Broncos to a 27-20 win, clinching the team’s fifth AFC West title in a row and a conference no. 1 seed that gives the Broncos home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. With Brock getting the last seven starts of the regular season, but Manning the one turning in the latest and greatest performance, which quarterback should be named the starter? If you look strictly at each player’s individual season statistics, the answer is Brock Osweiler. But when it comes to the intangibles that aren’t tracked on a stat sheet, Manning gets the nod. For sixteen years Peyton Manning was able to run his type of offense; an offense that primarily consisted of a shotgun formation that looked to pass first and run second. So it was no surprise Manning had trouble this season adapting to new Head Coach Gary Kubiak’s offense that primarily consists of an undercenter formation and run first to set up the pass mentality. When Manning got sidelined due to a foot injury, he was able to watch an inexperienced quarterback in Brock Osweiler successfully run Kubiaks offense. Seeing Brock’s success had to of humbled Manning’s accustomed offensive philosophy, and provided him with the learning curve that will allow him to execute Kubiak’s offense. This season, Manning may have suffered from more scrutiny by fans and the media, in regards to his less-than stellar play on the field, as well as, off the field distractions, than any of his prior years in the NFL. All season long people criticized Manning and said his career was over and he would never play another down in a Denver Broncos uniform after Brock took the starting role. The last time everyone counted him out was in 2011 during his final season with the Indianapolis Colts. Manning was going through multiple neck surgeries and people at that time also wrote him off, saying he could not bounce back from the surgeries, leading the Colts to cut Manning from the team. How did Manning handle that adversity? He followed it up by having the greatest single season for a quarterback in NFL history in 2012 as a Denver Bronco. Manning has proven over the years that he plays at his best right when you begin to think he has nothing left to offer. Manning knows his performance over the next three games for the Denver Broncos will ultimately write how his legacy will be remembered. Lose in the playoffs, and Manning will always be remembered as one of the greatest regular season quarterbacks of all time that always seemed to stumble in the playoffs. Win the next three games, become a two-time Super Bowl champion, prove all the doubters and naysayers wrong, and get that fairy-tail ending to a career that all athletes dream of; going out on top. With so much on the line, expect Manning to be the starting quarterback.
January 27, 2016
Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Inspire Dental Celebrates Grand Opening
On December 18th, Inspire Dental celebrated their grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Carbon Valley Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Kari Amick, owner of Inspire Dental, hosted the celebration along with her husband, Jon. Many members of the community made it out to the event and enjoyed delicous food, drinks, music and holiday cheer. Located in the new Colorado Blvd Medical and Professional Plaza near Safeway and Ace Hardware, Inspire Dental is right in the heart of Firestone. Inspire Dental’s motto is “nurturing oral health through genuine relationships.” They strive to live out this mission in the way members of our community are cared for, and this begins with the first phone call you make. Jen, the front office administrator, is the helpful, friendly voice you will hear. Her goal is to make the process of getting started as a patient as easy as possible. The relationship continues to develop when you visit the practice for the first time and sit down face to face with Dr. Amick in her office prior to sitting in the dental chair. She truly wants to get to know you as a person and understand your health, needs and desires before the mask and gloves go on. This is part of the holistic approach embraced by Inspire Dental. They recognize that you are a whole person, not simply a set of teeth, and your overall health and well-being are the ultimate goal of any dental care they provide. During your exam, Dr. Amick and her delightful assistant, Rachael, will do a very thorough exam and take photos of your teeth in addition to traditional x-rays. These photos are displayed on a computer monitor so that you can see exactly what is going on. It’s both fun and informative! With this method, you will have a clear understanding of any treatment that is recommended. Inspire Dental is commited to using only materials that are bio-compatible and minimizing your exposure to harmful chemicals. Dental treatment such as fillings or crowns are done in the most conservative way possible, often using the dental laser as a complement to traditional methods. The laser has unique properties that make it both effective and beneficial to the health of your teeth and gums. Come experience this personalized, holistic approach for yourself! Make your appointment today by calling 720-598-1111 or visit InspireFirestone. com.
Aims Community College Ranked Best in Colorado
Community colleges are quickly moving up the ranks as a viable option for higher education and Aims Community College is no exception. WalletHub recently ranked the best community colleges in the nation - including seven in Colorado. Coming in at number one, Aims was ranked the best community college in Colorado and No. 116 overall, out of 670 other institutions. The report put out by WalletHub, a Washington D.C. financial analyst company, compared metrics across four different categories: cost and financing, classroom experience, education outcomes and career outcomes. Within those four categories were analysis of tuition costs, available aid and school spending efficiency, academic challenge and student-tofaculty ration, retention and graduation rates and return on education investment, according to the Denver Business Journal. Aims’ rank in each of the four categories were as follows: Cost and Financing: 75 Classroom Experience: 134 Educational Outcome: 51 Career Outcomes: 581 “Aims employees are dedicated to doing everything within our ability to help students succeed and achieve their educational goals,” said Dr. Leah L. Bornstein, president of Aims. “For this reason, our faculty and student services professionals collaborated, using research and best practices to enhance the student experience, in and out of the classroom.” With scheduling flexibility, smaller class sizes and lower cost community colleges are beginning to compare favorably to traditional four-year institutions and Aims Community College is continually improving, innovating, and keeping its eyes on the future to provide high quality education at an affordable price for graduates to enter the workforce with credentials from the most industry savvy career and technical programs available.
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Rebekah Hallman of Erie, CO Named Fall 2015 Graduate of Kansas Wesleyan University
SALINA, KS Rebekah G Hallman of Erie, CO has been named among the forty-two official Fall 2015 graduates of Kansas Wesleyan University (Salina, KS) after completing a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education Summa Cum Laude on Dec. 11, 2015. Kansas Wesleyan extends its congratulations on this outstanding achievement, and welcomes Rebekah to the KWU Alumni Association! Kansas Wesleyan University - Founded in 1886, Kansas Wesleyan is a liberal arts university affiliated with the United Methodist Church, and accepts students of all faiths. KWU provides a rigorous academic liberal arts education in its undergraduate and pre-professional majors and its MBA degree. Signature options among the many academic majors and pre-professional programs offered by KWU are Emergency Management, Criminal Justice, Nursing, Christian Ministry, Teacher Education, and Ecospheric Studies and Community Resilience. Check us out at www.kwu.edu.
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Aims Community College sets the stage for your future with a high-quality education at the most affordable tuition rate in Northern Colorado. You’ll learn in a community of support with expert faculty, students dedicated to success, and world-class programs designed to place you at the front of your chosen field. The moment is now.
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Anytime Fitness - Firestone Hosts Food Drive for Carbon Valley Help Center
Firestone, CO – With a commitment to the community, Anytime Fitness-Firestone hosted a food drive during the last six weeks of 2015 to benefit the Carbon Valley Help Center. During the season of thankfulness and giving, gym members brought in cash donations, canned goods and non-perishable food items as a way to give back to the community. A total of 108.6 pounds was collected, along with $100 in cash donations. “Giving back to this community is important, and as a Firestone business we value organizations like the Carbon Valley Help Center who help people in need,” said Nicole Grine, owner of Anytime Fitness-Firestone. “I’m proud of our members who helped out during this food drive.” The Carbon Valley Help Center was founded in 2013 and helps people in need move toward self sufficiency by providing information referrals and emergency food supplies throughout the Carbon Valley area. About Anytime Fitness Ranked #1 on Entrepreneur’s prestigious Top Global Franchise list, Anytime Fitness is the fastest-growing gym franchise in the world, with more than 3,000 gyms serving nearly 3,000,000 members on five continents. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Anytime Fitness prides itself on providing its members with convenient fitness options and friendly, personal service in well-maintained facilities which feature top-quality exercise equipment. Gyms are now open in all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, England, Scotland, Ireland, Grand Cayman, Poland, the Netherlands, Spain, Qatar, India, Chile, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Belgium and the Philippines. All franchised gyms are individually owned and operated. Join one gym and use them all. About Carbon Valley Help Center Founded in 2013, the Carbon Valley Help Center is a 501(c)3 focused on helping people in immediate need move toward self sufficiency by unifying Carbon Valley resources in the communities of Firestone, Frederick and Dacono. Located at 150 Buchanan Ave. in Firestone, the center is open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with appointments recommended. For more information about the Help Center, call 303-833-6626, visit www.carbonvalleyhelpcenter.org or email info@carbonvalleyhelpcenter.org.
January 27, 2016
Friendly Fork Christmas Party
THE FRIENDLY FORK LUNCH PROGRAM; On our last lunch before the holidays we had a visit from the Firestone Home Depot Santa and to our surprise he came with his Elf, the store manager and one of her supervisors. Santa wanted to know what he should do and we told him anything that was legal, then the fun began. ..They gave gift cards to all seniors who sat on Santa’s lap and they helped seniors get their meal. Home Depot did an awesome contribution to our lunch program and a great tribute to all the volunteers. We cannot thank them enough. RSVP Director Marsha Shafer came to the event to honor and pin 5 veterans who also serve as volunteers. We presented gifts to all that attended the lunch and a little holiday cheer. Everyone was well fed and went home with a smile. This was all done with a great team of volunteers. Every Tuesday and Thursday ALL seniors can get a hot nutritious meal for a suggested donation of $3.00. The lunch is served at the Rec Center located at 701 Fifth Street, Frederick at 12:00 noon. The program is funded through the Area Agency On Aging and is the Weld County Nutrition Lunch Program. The meals are prepared by the UNC Dining Service under the direction of a nutritionist and served by volunteers. It’s all about eating, talking, laughing and having a good time. The meals fill a nutritional need which many seniors tend to neglect and less inclined to cook for themselves. The lunch also fills a social need for many seniors If you would like to join us for lunch it’s easy to do, just call the Front Desk at 303-833-3660 ext. 4 tell them you would like to come to lunch and we will have a meal reserved for you, if you have any questions please call 303-682-2369
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January 27, 2016
Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Camp Unplugged, Summer Horse Camp has Successful Debut
WOW !! Camp Unplugged made a great debut at Dragonfly Farm in Platteville, CO, last summer. The name for our summer horse camp began as an intention ~ a desire ~ to help kids “unplug” by putting down their phones and devices, which creates a space for them to embrace nature, listen to the quiet sound of a horse breathing, and “plug” into the natural world around them. Our day camp for boys and girls aged 8 – 12, focuses on developing each camper’s curiosity, selfesteem, problem solving, and communication skills. We offer a full week of learning about horses and donkeys, how to be safe in their presence, and community building with each other and another species. Each camper was responsible for taking care of their “special horse” with grooming, daily feeding and clean up. Our days were filled with horse activities, art projects, journal writing, and learning fun things about nature. Here is what the campers and their parents had to say about their experience. “This was my most fun camp ever. And also my first one!” Camper M /Loveland, CO “My boys had a great time at camp. They learned compassion towards animals and nature. They got to be up close with animals that they don’t normally get to see. This was such a great experience for them that I am definitely having them sign up for camp next year. They don›t get to experience this anywhere else.” JJ /Greeley, Co “I would like to say thank you for bringing Camp Unplugged to the town of Platteville. My daughter learned a lot from the experience. She has learned how to take care of animals as well as to be understanding of their feelings. The experience will follow her through life. She is looking forward to next summer. As a parent I am looking forward to more programs for children in Platteville with animals and nature. Thank You!” J /Platteville , Co Camp Unplugged 2016 Schedule: June 20-24, July 11-15; 9am – 3pm Limited spaces available : Reservations Required. For more information about, please contact : Annette Price at Dragonfly Farm @ annette@what-wire.com and visit www.onthewingsofahorse.com L a u r e n Munger, Sacred Hoofprints @ l a u r e n @ sacredhoofprints.com; Friday, June 24 and visit www. Chris Young sacredhoofprints.com Saturday, June 25 Both AnVince Neil of Mötley Crüe nette and LauFriday, July 1 ren are certified Equine Thomas Rhett Gestalt MethSaturday, July 2 od coaches and To Be Announced work with the horse and huSunday, July 3 man bond Chris Janson in their private practicThomas Rhett es. To learn more about the EGCM method visice low pr PACKAGE it m www. or ONE PRICES f GreeleyStampede.org $60 INCREASE touchedbyaat only g MAY 1 in t r sta 970-356-7787 horse.com
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Local students named to Deans Honor Roll at Fort Hays State University
HAYS, Kan. -- Colorado students are among the 1,239 named by Fort Hays State University, Hays, Kan., to the Deans Honor Roll for the fall 2015 semester. The list includes undergraduate students only. To be eligible, students must have enrolled in 12 or more credit hours and have a minimum grade point average of 3.60 for the semester. Full-time on-campus and FHSU Virtual College students are eligible. Students are listed alphabetically by city and ZIP with their classifications and, for those who have declared them, majors. Students without a classification are students seeking a second degree or are students who, though full time, are not seeking a degree. Fort Hays State is one of six universities in the Kansas Board of Regents system. Dacono: Nathan Curtis Harrison is a junior majoring in athletic training. Firestone: Emma Christine Wright is a freshman majoring in technology studies (industrial). Longmont: Alicia Nicole Vigil is a senior majoring in education. Kailey Nanette Klibbe is a freshman majoring in nursing. Megan Ann Thompson is a junior majoring in elementary education. Loveland: Samantha Paige Villarreal is a junior majoring in education. Mead: Ryan P. Aragon is a freshman majoring in health and human performance (sport and exercise therapy).
Sharp Bros. Seed Co. Provides Quality Seed at Competitive Prices
Since opening the doors in 1958, the seed industry, agriculture and Sharp Bros. Seed Co. have seen many changes, but some things remain constant, including our values and aspirations as a company – build the best seed company we can, not the biggest. We believe in providing quality seed, at a competitive price, and offering technical support and outstanding service in a timely manner. One of the most satisfying parts of our business is the personal relationships we’ve built over the years. As we look to the future, you can be assured that we will continue to take care of you with an old-fashioned focus on building long-term relationships. Our success as a company depends on your success. We are blessed to work with some of the best seed producers in the United States. These producers are committed to growing the highest-quality seed available, and many of these growers provide us with state-certified, weed-free seed. The dedication shown by these growers, along with the support of our knowledgeable staff, provides you key ingredients for success – the best seed from the best seed provider. Sharp Bros. Seed Co. carries grasses, forbs, shrubs and erosion control products. We also carry an extensive line of seed for turf, alfalfa and small grains. Sharp Bros. Seed Co. is located nearby in Greeley, CO. We supply our seed to many dealers throughout Colorado, Nebraska, Wyoming, South Dakota and North Dakota. Contact us when you need a custom mix or just a standard mix and we will be glad to help you. Sharp Bros. Seed Co. 101 East 4th Street Road, Greeley, CO 80631 (970)356-4710 www.buffalobrandseed.com
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
United Power Looking for Kids to Create Electrical Safety Posters
Brighton, Colo.—United Power is enlisting the help of local children to create electrical safety posters that will be displayed for National Electrical Safety Month in May. Kids in grades kindergarten through fifth are invited to submit their creative ideas that incorporate electrical safety concepts or safety tips to illustrate for the community the importance of electrical safety. Posters will be used in May to commemorate National Electrical Safety Month—an annual, nationwide campaign to raise awareness about electrical hazards. Six winning designs will be selected, one from each grade. Winning posters will be displayed throughout the United Power service territory—in print, online and on select bus benches. The winner from each grade will also be awarded a $50 cash prize. The deadline for Electrical Safety Poster Contest entries is Friday, March 18, 2016. Posters must be submitted on the official coloring contest entry form, which is available at any United Power office, online at www.unitedpower.com and will be included in the February United Newsline, United Power’s monthly newsletter mailed directly to members. United Power employees will judge posters based on creativity and illustration of a key electrical safety concept. Winners will be announced on Monday, March 28, 2016. Contest Details Child must be a dependent of a United Power member. Winners will receive $50 cash awards. Six winners will be chosen. One from each grade K-5. Winning posters will appear online, in print and on bus benches for the month May. Entries must be submitted on the official contest entry form. DEADLINE: MARCH 18, 2016 Electrical Safety Tips Stay away from powerlines & electrical equipment. Use care when plugging & unplugging. Never mix electricity & water. Never stick toys or other objects into electrical outlets. Don’t overload outlets. Ask an adult for help you can never be too safe! Electrical Safety Poster Contest details and entry form: http://www.unitedpower. com/coloring-contest/ United Power, your Touchstone Energy® Partner, is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative delivering electricity to more than 75,000 customers at homes, business, and farms in Colorado’s north central front range. More information about the co-op can be found at www.unitedpower.com.
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January 27, 2016
School Resource Officer Luke Dunker Recognized by Carbon Valley Rotary
FIRESTONE, Colorado – School Resource Officer Luke Dunker was recognized by the Carbon Valley Rotary at its annual Community Service Awards breakfast on Jan. 19, 2016. Dunker has been with the Firestone Police Department since 2011 and became the SRO in 2012 serving Firestone schools to provide mentoring, counseling, guidance and, first and foremost, safety. The role that Dunker plays goes beyond providing a safe place to learn. As a critical member of the school team, he is also part of the teaching and counseling staff providing instruction in health classes on topics such as domestic violence, relationships and drugs. Classes aside, he said most of his job is spent as a school counselor with a badge. While Dunker spends the majority of his day at Coal Ridge Middle School in accordance with the school district agreement, he also provides police support and guidance to Prairie Ridge and Centennial Elementary schools. At the elementary levels he spends more time connecting with the students and building a positive rapport between police and kids. It also allows him to establish good relationships with the kids so they know he is someone to be trusted. The annual awards ceremony by the Carbon Valley Rotary recognizes individuals from each of the fire, law enforcement and teaching professions, as well as a Carbon Valley adult and youth, for their exceptional service to the community. In addition to Dunker, additional recognitions were awarded to Lt. Ryan Fossen with the Frederick-Firestone Fire Protection District, Frederick High School Counselor Kathy Zulauf, Carbon Valley resident Jerry Hedke and Nakayta Neu, a Frederick High School student.
Weld County Commissioners Recognize Lin Dodge for 25 Years of Service
WELD COUNTY, CO – Last week, the Weld County Board of Commissioners recognized Lin Dodge, Department of Planning Services Building Technician, for her 25 years of service to Weld County. Dodge started in the Public Safety Communications Department before transferring to the Clerk to the Board’s office. While working for the Clerk to the Board, Dodge became very interested with rightof-ways and land uses so it was a natural switch for her to move to the Planning Department. “Lin is an exemplary employee,” said Director of Planning Services Tom Parko. “She always went above and beyond to help staff with any questions or projects, and she From left: Commissioner Sean Conway, always had the customer’s best Commissioner Julie Cozad, Director of Planning Tom interest in mind when helping Parko, Lin Dodge, Commissioner Barbara Kirkmeyer them with the permitting proand Commissioner Steve Moreno present Dodge cess.” As a Building Technician, with a retirement plaque. Dodge was responsible for all the zoning, property research and addressing for all building permits as well as addresses for all of Weld County. Dodge was also involved in many projects and developed numerous trainings and procedures for the Planning Department. “I am always impressed with Lin’s positive attitude and customer service skills,” said Commissioner Julie Cozad, coordinator for the Planning Department. “The Board appreciates everything Lin has done for the county.” “Thank you for a job well done,” said Commissioner Pro-Tem Sean Conway. “Congratulations, and enjoy retirement.” Dodge plans to spend her retirement with her friends and growing her jewelry business. For more information about the Weld County Department of Planning Services, visit www.weldgov.com.
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January 27, 2016
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
Preparing for Alternative Fueled Vehicles in Northern Colorado
Northern Colorado Clean Cities (NCCC), a coalition of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Clean Cities program, will be holding an informational meeting, at 1:30pm on Tuesday, January 26, 2016, in conjunction with the Colorado Farm Show. The public is welcome to attend. The meeting will be held in the Grasslands Room of the Event Center at Island Grove Regional Park, 501 N. 14th Ave. There will be presentations from NCCC, Sparq Natural Gas, Ward Alternative Energy, Stirk Natural Gas, and Colorado Energy Office. Topics will include information on what is occurring in the region in the area of alternative fuels, and alternative fueled vehicles (including electric vehicles), and new compressed natural gas (CNG) station developments in northern Colorado. Sponsored by the DOE’s Vehicle Technologies Program (VTP), Clean Cities is a government-industry partnership designed to reduce petroleum consumption in the transportation sector. Clean Cities contributes to the energy, environmental, and economic security of the United States by supporting local decisions to reduce our dependence on imported petroleum. Established in 1993, in response to the Energy Policy Act (EPAct) of 1992, the partnership provides tools and resources for voluntary, community-centered programs to reduce consumption of petroleum-based fuels. Clean Cities is instrumental in cultivating an advanced transportation community in which people learn about a wide range of options and technologies. In addition, Clean Cities helps create markets for alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs), fuel economy, idle reduction, and other emerging transportation technologies. There are currently over 100 Clean Cities coalitions, nationwide. For more information about NCCC, please contact Maria Eisemann at 970-988-2996 or via email at marianococc@gmail.com . You can also visit us at www.northerncocleancities.org.
FACE takes the stage in Erie for a good cause
The Erie High School Education Foundation (EHSEF) launches a new event this year to find new, creative ways to continue increasing the scholarships they are able to give to well deserving kids each year. Their newest idea is a concert with the FACE, the famous all vocal band based out of Boulder, Colorado! On Friday, March 4th at 7 p.m. attendees will be able to enjoy this great band, while also knowing the ticket sales are going to serve a larger purpose. The EHSEF is ran completely on donations and has 14 volunteers that serve as the Board of Directors. Last year alone they were able to give out over $22,000 in scholarships which was a new record for the organization. EHSEF President David Sullivan states, “We know the need is great each year so we are planning to be able to take care of more students. College is not getting cheaper and these kids need our help now more than ever.” To buy tickets visit Erie High School’s website at www.facevocalband.com. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Local band, CR5 will also be performing a few songs to open the show. Tickets have sold much faster than expected so please consider purchasing yours soon!
Firestone Sons of the American Legion to Host Sweetheart Dinner
American Legion Post 1985, 870 1st Street, Firestone, CO 80520 303-833-4172 The Sons of the American Legion, Firestone #1985, will host their annual Sweetheart Dinner on Friday, February 12, 2016 from 6 to 8 PM. The dinner will be steak and shrimp, baked potato, salad, rolls and dessert. The cost is $20 for singles and $35 for couples. Prepaid tickets must be purchased in advance by February 8, 2016. Only 40 tickets available so get your tickets now!! Sorry, we will be unable to accept walk-ins for the dinner. Karaoke will be provided by Tom and Annette Aragon from 7 to 11. Proceeds will benefit our Child and Welfare Foundation and Colorado Boy’s State programs.Contact Squadron Commander, Joel Long, (720-341-1697) for more information.
Time:
AMERICAN LEGION POST #1985 870 1ST STREET FIRESTONE, CO 80520 The SAL’s annual Sweetheart Dinner will be on Friday, February 12, 2016 from 6 to 8 PM. The cost is $20-singles, $35couples. Prepaid reservations required by February 8, 2016. Sorry, we will not be able to accept walk-ins for the dinner Tom and Annette Aragon will provide Karaoke at 7PM. Contact person: Joel Long, 720-341-1697
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Carbon Valley Independent & Erie Independent
WOW Automotive New Business in Mead
WOW Automotive Mission Statement: Quality Service & Value With positive, productive thought, energy and action, Grounded in passion, honesty and integrity.
Mike Malin, owner and President of WOW Automotive, says it and means it. Located just off the frontage road on the east side of I-25 at the highway 66 and I-25 interchange, with a Longmont zip code, but really in Mead. The address is 4022 Mulligan Drive. Mike has a new facility with about 70 cars on hand on average, with stock changes almost every day. With a full time mechanic on site, JD Story, who works on preparing WOW vehicles. Mike brings over 34 years experience in all aspects of the automotive field to the table. He believes that your reputation is the most important asset that you have and believes, his, speaks for itself. The new location opened December 1st 0f 2015. Mike’s philosophy is simple: match up the customer with the vehicle he wants and make the transaction as easy as possible. Mike works with over 15 lending institutions that can assistance with financing. That financing of course depended on the credit worthiness of the buyer which will affect the applicable interest rate. Mike believes a transaction has to work for both the buyer and the seller. He makes it simple on his end, He is the only contact you have to deal with, for everything. Mike says the longest part of the transaction is deciding what vehicle you want. WOW Automotive is open six days a week from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Saturday. WOW Automotive is offering a 3 month or 3,000 mile limited warranty on major components for a limited time. Additionally, as a get to know your neighbors, Mike is offering a $500 credit to any new buyer. Mike has been married to his wife Kathie for 33 years and has 2 sons and a new grandson whose picture you will see on his desk. Mike certainly has a positive attitude and shares that right off the bat. Mike served in the U.S. Army and works hard to make all his customers including veterans, get the best deal for them. If your are looking for a good used car come down and see Mike, He will do everything he can to put you in the vehicle that fits your needs! Go to the WOW Automotive web site at: wowautomotive.com to check out the vehicles on hand as well as an easy on line credit application.
January 27, 2016
Tax Notices Contain Good News for Property Owners
WELD COUNTY, CO – This week the Weld County Treasurer’s Office will mail more than 190,000 tax notices to Weld County property owners outlining their 2015 taxes due in 2016. Included in the notice are a couple of items of good news for county property owners. First, real property owners will notice a credit amount (in red) on the first line relating to the Weld County portion of their tax bill. For the 22nd consecutive year, real property owners will receive a reduction in the mill levy from Weld County Government, which under the state constitution is authorized to impose a maximum mill levy of 22.457 mills. This credit of 6.238 mills results in one of the lowest mill levies along the Front Range – 15.8 mills. “Paying less in property taxes means our property owners get to keep more of their hard-earned money,” said Commissioner Chairman Mike Freeman. “The Board of Commissioners takes fiscal responsibility seriously. That includes not only the money government spends on infrastructure and services but also the money it collects from taxpayers who pay in to the system to support those projects.” Second, real property owners will receive a flier reminding them about the benefits of donating to the Weld County Bright Futures Grant Program. The program, which has received almost $250,000 in donations during the past few months, will provide up to $3,000 a year to students living in Weld County looking to pursue post-secondary education. “We want property owners to know they can donate to the program up to June 2015, and still take the reduction in their 2015 property tax,” said Commissioner Pro-Tem Sean Conway. “Many individuals and businesses have taken advantage of the win-win opportunities the Bright Future Grant Program provides – the property tax credit of up to 50% of the donation and ability to assist a Weld County student reach their educational goals.” If you are a real property owner in Weld County and do not receive your Real Estate Tax Notice by the first of February, please contact the Weld County Treasurer’s Office at (970) 353-3845 x 3290.
OUR MISSION STATEMENT Quality Service & Value with positive, productive thought, energy and action, grounded in passion, honesty and integrity Mike Malin, President
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