Letter From The Publisher
Supporting Small Businesses in Our Community
Publisher
The Brighton Buzz
The holiday season is upon us. A time to express appreciation for the people, experiences, and opportunities that enrich our lives. As we take a moment to give thanks and celebrate with our families and our communities – let’s not forget the uniquely valuable small, local businesses that are at the heart of our communities.
In today’s fast-paced world, shopping has never been more convenient with online giants and big-box stores offering rapid delivery and low prices. But, unlike mass retailers, small businesses and local shop owners offer personal relationships, leading to better service and customized recommendations. Whether it’s a handmade candle or boutique clothing, these businesses offer a personal touch that can’t be replicated.
The holiday season is a crucial time for small businesses. Events like “Small Business Saturday” remind us to support the shops that keep our communities vibrant. But it’s important to continue that support throughout the year to ensure these businesses thrive.
This holiday season, when shopping for a gift, a service, or just a little treat for yourself, consider visiting our local businesses first. Every purchase makes a meaningful difference, helping build a stronger, more connected community for everyone.
And, don’t miss the many fun and joyful events and traditions that our community has to offer:
Tree Lighting & Winter Market Founders Plaza Downtown Brighton Sat. Dec. 7th (See page 45 for details)
27th Annual Festival of Lights Parade Downtwn Brighton Saturday, Dec. 14th (See page 45 for details)
Happy Thanksgiving!
Small Business Saturday in Downtown Brighton November 30th
(See page 17 For Your Passport to receive discounts and win great prizes)
It’s November already, and once again I’m wondering how this past year has flown by so quickly. So many new and wonderful memories created, and blessings received over the past 12 months, and I couldn’t be more grateful for family, friends, and our community. I would especially like to thank past and present clients who were instrumental in helping both myself and Joni realize another year of recognition in the top five percent of Denver area REALTORS®. Our goal is always to represent our clients with the utmost professionalism, integrity, and success, so that designation is especially appreciated with the challenging market over the past year.
November is also the month to recognize and thank all the men and women who have served and are currently serving. We truly appreciate your commitment and service to protect our rights and freedom!
As we approach the holiday season of giving I would, once again, like to take this opportunity to shamelessly plug the importance of supporting our community of locally owned small businesses and artists. ey are an important part of our “collective community” of friends, family, and neighbors. During this time of year, I’m also reminded that community is more than simply a place or a group, but also a way of “being with each other.” Life is better when we look for the common ground and what’s best in each other. It makes us a stronger, better, and more resilient community— one which I am thankful, grateful, and very blessed to be a part of.
For proven expertise in establishing your home value and/or searching for a
or
home, please call Jan at (303) 520-4340.
Protect Your Family!
(Part 3 of 6)
and Jane’s daughter had struggled since the accident. She was only 13 when it happened, but after 10 years it was clear she was permanently disabled. Now 23, she is dependant upon government assistance for her survival and medical care.
Bill and Jane thought they did not need estate planning. Why not just put everything in joint tenancy, because “it is simple and may avoid probate.” inking about their disabled daughter, they sought guidance from a counseling-oriented attorney who took time to learn more about them, their estate, and their goals. eir primary objective was to protect their daughter after they died. e attorney worked with them to put together a plan that would place their savings, life insurance and home in a trust for their daughter, upon the second death. is would prevent the assets from disqualifying their daughter from the benefits she is receiving from government programs. As a result, the inheritance can pay for the things government programs do not cover, providing additional comfort to their daughter.
Estate planning can, and should, be more than avoiding probate and saving taxes. A properly designed estate plan can provide many additional advantages that protect your family. Most of these protections are ignored in basic estate plans. Individuals should look closely at all of the benefits a properly designed estate plan can provide to them while they are alive, and provide to their spouses and their families after their death. Does your estate plan address these types of issues?
If you have questions about effective estate planning, I encourage you to gain more knowledge about available planning options by visiting www.EstatePlans atWork.com to sign up for a complimentary educational workshop.
Can’t thank Mike enough for what he has done for my wife and I. Two occasions where we have used Mike for buying our first house and for the recent sale of that house. Both occasions Mike went absolutely above and beyond expectation. He even came over to help us with a plumbing issue and worked at our house for over two hours, no questions asked. If I could give him more than 5 stars I would. Thank you Mike for being an absolute rock star!
– Ethan Gilbert
Back in Balance CHIROPRACTIC Massage
& Acupuncture
non-invasive treatment using a targeted beam of light to stimulate cellular activity and speed up the body’s natural healing process. The M7 MLS laser’s robotic head scans the treatment area and delivers a beam of light that penetrates deep into the tissues stimulating mitochondria in cells, which increases ATP production, cell growth, and blood flow to the area. MLS laser therapy can help with pain reduction, decrease swelling, increase circulation, and improve healing time.
17 N. Main St.
Annual Punch Card 7 pizzas for $50
First 20 pizza orders get a bottle of Flatiron Peppers 12pm - 8pm
Last month as I was going through my usual pile of business mail and I ran into an oddity, a letter, an actual letter addressed to me personally. I thought, wait, is this real?
I opened it and there was a small piece of paper, handwritten… and in cursive! I was shocked! I think that in the last fifteen years I can count in one hand the times I’ve received a handwritten letter.
It was a very kind note from a stranger, Ms. Carole P. a reader of the Brighton Buzz in Ft. Lupton. e brief letter warmed my heart and made me smile by simply letting me know how much she likes reading my articles, but especially the one from last month. I enjoyed reading the letter, but what I loved the most, was the kind gesture of actually writing and mailing the letter.
On the other hand as an example, (and I’m sure you can relate) on my birthday I get emoji text messages and dozens of Facebook posts on my wall - I do get a nice birthday card from my mom though. Hey, I’m not complaining about far away friends wishing me a happy birthday on Facebook, but in general, that’s what most of us have turned into nowadays, an impersonal, low effort, drive by texting, posting, and messaging, where the personal touch has all but been lost.
Maybe I’m dating myself for my nostalgia for a more personal approach, face to face conversations, hand shakes, and handwritten letters. But I truly think that we show someone how important they really are to us by the effort we put into our interactions with them. Of course, texting, email, and all other electronic communications have a place and use, I just don’t think that we should let them steal our humanity.
Wanna have an important conversation? Don’t call, text, or email, go see that person.
Want to show you care? Celebrate an occasion? Don’t post on their Facebook wall, text them a heart emoji, or email them an E-Card. Buy them an actual card and write a personal heartfelt note and hand deliver it if possible.
Want to say something well thought out and important? Don’t email nor print a letter from your computer; it is not a contract! Get your paper and pen and get to writing…if you still remember how :)
If you have a relationship that matters, show it by putting some time and effort into them. Go to visit, write the note, mail the letter. I wished there were more people like Ms. Carole, and I thank you, not only for the letter, but for reminding me that I can do better (we all can) in showing my care and appreciation for those I love.
We have recently moved our office. To celebrate our new space, we are inviting you to bring family and friends to come see and experience the new location with us.
We’ll be collecting donations for Toys For Tots. Feel free to bring new unwrapped toys if you would like to participate.
Supporting the Toys for Tots Drive
Offered by: Tim Roberts - Edward Jones
Hi, we are Tim Roberts, Jen Roberts, and Forrest Hough, financial advisors at the new Brighton, CO Edward Jones branch, inviting you to join us for the annual Toys for Tots drive. Just stop by our branch between November 8th through December 11 to drop off new, unwrapped gifts for kids any age, from babies to teens. In addition to toys, you can donate items like art supplies, backpacks, hair dryers and sports equipment. Unfortunately we can’t accept monetary donations, including gift cards. For the Edward Jones branch nearest you, visit www.edwardjones.com.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC
you
e Inflation Reduction Act is the change agent that is causing a stir for 2025. e impact is that Part D coverage is being paid by a smaller amount from Medicare, leaving Insurance companies responsible for more of the burden. Due to that, the plans for 2025 have many changes and most often more limited benefits. e changes are on both Part D -Drug only plans and on Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) with or without Part D included.
Don’t be fooled about the $2000 cap on out-of-pocket drug costs. Yes, it is a benefit to some, however the caveat is your plan must cover ALL your drugs, by having them on the formulary. If your medicine is no longer on the formulary maybe there is a different plan to switch to so it is covered, or perhaps you will need to check with your doctor about a change to a drug that is on the formulary. e formulary is the specific list of drugs covered on a plan. Plans have changes to formularies each year, but this year they are more significant. In addition, the way the plan attributes your copayments and coinsurance to your out of pocket called a True Out of Pocket (TROOP) is complicated. Since the insurance company is absorbing more drug costs, other benefits on a Medicare Advantage plans have suffered and benefits you might have enjoyed in the past may be reduced or no longer be included for 2025.
Please check your coverage this year. If you have loved ones or friends that have not had a review of coverage, this year is important to do that in the annual enrollment (10/15-12/7) to avoid benefit and cost surprises for 2025.
Not on Medicare? Need regular health insurance and help with Connect for Health? – WE DO THAT TOO! Enrollment begins Nov 1, for 2025.
Who You’re Going To Call
Have you had a chance to check on your
Last month I went into some details on what changes you can make during the Annual Election Period, October 15 - December 7. If you have any questions about what you can or cannot do, please give me a call.
As a reminder, having the assistance from an insurance agent is a complimentary service to you. I love this about my career! I get to help people and not present a bill after.
Why is using an agent so great? An agent who has been working with Medicare Insurance for a number of years has been through hours of ANNUAL Medicare Certification or Recertification training. As agents we learn about plan details from the area representatives and become familiar with the ins and outs of the plans and benefits.
When you have an agent who is a broker helping you (like me), you’re able to compare the different insurance companies and see what company might have a good fit for you. Brokers don’t have a specific interest in only one insurance carrier so we are unbiased.
If you happen to get a telesales call, you’ll end up speaking to a sales person, likely in another state, who will talk fast and only go over the perks of the plan. He/She may not cover your medication costs or whether or not your physicians are in the network. e person might also not realize you get a regular injection/infusion that is covered by your Medicare Supplement without a copay but if you switch to the Medicare Advantage Plan you’ll end up with a 20% coinsurance payment with each injection. ere are so many things to fully consider.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us or your personal insurance agent whenever you have coverage questions. We are always happy to help.
Who You’re Going To Call
Who You’re Going To Call
Happy Thanksgiving!
Withthe anksgiving holiday coming we want to say thank you to all who have made the past 7 years at Blue Ribbon Hearing & Tinnitus Center a success. We are grateful to members of the community who have used our services and continue to refer friends and family. ank you for supporting our family and our locally owned and operated small business.
Check Sudden Onset Hearing Loss Immediately!
After receiving a call from a friend regarding sudden-onset hearing loss, I decided it is time for another reminder on the topic. Sudden-onset hearing loss can have numerous causes, some of which are easily remedied and others which require immediate medical attention to prevent permanent loss of hearing. If you or someone you know experiences sudden onset hearing loss, be aware that it should be checked immediately to determine the cause and expedite treatment.
Disfunction of any part of the auditory system can contribute to a sudden hearing loss. is includes a blockage of the outer ear canal, pressure from fluid or air in the middle ear, inflammation of the inner ear, or damage to the part of the brain that processes sound. e most common cause of a blocked ear canal that I see is impacted wax from using cotton swabs. Concerning middle ear issues, in recent years, I have seen more cases than ever before of otitis media (middle ear infections) where fluid in the middle ear prevents the eardrum from functioning properly. Most outer and middle ear issues can be fairly easily resolved. However, damage to the cochlea or inner ear from a viral infection is much more serious and can easily become permanent if not treated immediately.
e only way to determine the cause of the hearing loss is to first do a visual inspection of the ear canal (using a video otoscope so the patient can
also see inside the canal) followed by a hearing screening or air conduction test, then a bone conduction test if necessary to determine the type of hearing loss. Tympanometry can also be performed to check the pressure in the middle ear. Once the cause of the loss is determined, a recommendation for the next step in the process will be given. Again, any sudden onset hearing loss should be addressed immediately!
New Technology!
Last week I received a call from a patient who had watched a video about the new EDGE AI hearing aids and wanted to know if they would work for him. At that time, I could not give him a clear answer because the technology was so new that I had not yet learned enough about it. I had been caught off guard because the manufacturer had kept its release a secret. Since that time, I have attended a training meeting (everyone else in attendance was also surprised by the release) on the new technology and I am excited for both new and existing patients to try the new hearing devices.
e EDGE AI technology is available in nearly every style to be able to accommodate nearly every hearing loss from mild to profound. While there are many technical terms and numerous features and benefits I could write about, the things I am most excited about are the new tools for treating tinnitus, the processing that improves overall speech clarity and hearing in noise, and the new Bluetooth connectivity options. Please call to set up an appointment to find out if it will help you or a loved one hear and understand better.
Who You’re Going To Call
The Benefits of Making Charitable Contributions: Helping
Your Community and Yourself
O ered by:
Making charitable contributions is not just an act of kindness; it’s an investment in your community’s well-being and can even benefit you financially. When you give to a cause that matters to you, whether it’s a local food bank, an animal shelter, or a global humanitarian effort, you’re helping to improve lives and strengthen the fabric of society. But there’s more to it than just the warm feeling of doing good.
Community Impact
One of the most rewarding aspects of giving is seeing the difference it makes in your community. Your donations can support education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and much more. For example, your financial support to a local school could help provide new learning materials, or a contribution to a community garden could enhance green spaces for everyone to enjoy. When you give locally, you help foster a sense of connection and responsibility that binds communities together. Every contribution, big or small, can have a lasting impact on the people and environment around you.
Tax Benefits
Aside from the personal satisfaction of helping others, charitable donations can also offer tax benefits. In many countries, including the United States, donations to qualified charitable organizations are tax-deductible. is means you can reduce your taxable income by the amount you give, potentially lowering your overall tax bill. It’s important to keep records of your contributions and ensure that the organizations you donate to are registered with the appropriate tax authorities. Consulting a tax professional can help you maximize these benefits and ensure you’re following all the necessary guidelines. Call our office at (720) 949-7733 we’re happy to help.
Charitable giving is a win-win situation. You’re helping others, strengthening your community, and potentially reducing your tax burden—all while making the world a better place.
Who You’re Going To Call
Deepfakes
Provided by T. Lloyd Worth, Worth Wealth Management
Description is article discusses the rising impact of Deepfakes and how to identify them.
With the growth of technology, we’ve seen the evolution and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) skyrocket. Looking to simplify workflows or to innovate upon existing business, cyber criminals are using these same tools to for more sophisticated cyberattacks to commit identity theft or financial fraud. One such threat is known as deepfakes.
What are Deepfakes?
A “deepfake” is a type of synthetic media created using artificial intelligence techniques involving deep learning algorithms. is involves the alteration of digital content such as films, photographs, or audio recordings to imitate victims. Additionally, these can produce wholly unique content in which individuals are depicted doing or saying things they have not done.
A deepfake’s ability to disseminate misleading information communicated by a prominent or important figure, poses a huge security threat. For example, in February 2024, a Hong Kong firm lost $25 million when bad actors used deepfake technology to impersonate the company’s chief financial officer over a video conference. is highlights the threat deepfakes pose as they can easily be misinterpreted as legitimate if not analyzed thoroughly.
Potential Deepfake uses.
Deepfakes can be used for a variety of malicious purposes which are listed below:
• Misinformation and disinformation
• Phishing
• Social engineering attacks
• Privacy invasion
• Identity theft
How to identify Deepfakes?
Identifying Deepfakes can be challenging because of their deceptive nature. ey are designed to be as accurate as possible, which can make a Deepfake appear very convincing. However, there are a few cues you can look for to identify these scams:
As AI continues to evolve, so do methods of cyberattacks. It is crucial to be vigilant and mindful of video and audio sources as you protect yourself and your business.
If you have questions or would like to discuss this or your investments, please reach out to Lloyd Worth at Worth Wealth Management, (303) 558-0214.
Home Improvements
Community Living
Eagle View Adult Center
NEWS & INFORMATION
Senior Advisory Board
The purpose of the Advisory Board is to advise and assist in the needs and operations of Eagle View. The Board meets Tues. Nov 19 and Dec 17 at 1:00 p.m. Members are: Dave Thomas, Peggy Jarrett, Lou Ellen Bromley, Dan Buckner, Karen Swaithes, Steve Yarish, Bill Alsdorf, Heidi Storz, Judy Schissler, Gayle Shibao, Barbara Spakoski, and Randy Thornton. Visitors are welcome.
Charitable Contributions
Together we can continue to enhance the great programs and services offered for seniors and active adults in the Brighton area. Your financial support will be recognized on the donor wall at Eagle View. All donations are tax deductible. Make donations payable to: Brighton United Senior Citizens, 1150 Prairie Center Parkway, Brighton, CO 80601.
Donor Opportunities for Wall Recognition:
Friend: $100 - $499
Memorial: $100+
Sponsor: $500 - $999
Benefactor: $1000+
Outreach & Referral
Do you need help and are unsure where to turn?
Evon Benitez will assist you with completing forms and finding needed services. You’ll need to make an appointment to see Evon as she’s often meeting with others. To make an appointment, call Evon at 303-6552079. Leave a message.
NOVEMBER HAPPENINGS
Toys That Teach
Need holiday gift ideas for thegrandkids? Join experts from Anythink Brighton to get hands-on experience with some of theirfavorite early literacy and STEM (science, technology, engineeringand math) toys. Learn how thesetoys encourage reading, creativity, and problem-solving skills while being fun.
Wed. Nov 6 - 1:30 p.m.
Free
Deadline: Mon. Nov 4
Blood Pressure Screening
Firefighters from the Brighton Fire Department will perform FREE blood pressure checks for one hour. Stop by!
Fri. Nov 8 @ 10:30 a.m.
Thurs. Nov 21 @ 10:30 a.m.
VOA Lunch
1150 Prairie Center Parkway, Brighton, CO 80601
303-655-2075 I evacinfo@brightonco.gov www.brightonco.gov
Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Tech Tuesdays
A hot, nutritious lunch is provided by Volunteers of America, Mondays and Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. Please reserve your meal in advance. For Mondays, reserve the Thursday before; for Thursdays, reserve the Monday before. Call Eleanor at 303-655-2271 between 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Mon. & Thurs. to make a reservation.
Daily meal donations are appreciated.
$2.50 Donation per meal if age 60+
$8.50 Mandatory charge if under 60
Medical Equipment Loans
Basic medical equipment is available to loan out. Items may include wheelchairs, front wheel and seated walkers, canes, crutches, toilet seat risers, commodes, and bath benches. There is no guarantee what will be available at any time. Call 303-655-2075 for information.
Senior Wellness Clinic
The Clinic focuses on health promotion and disease prevention for seniors 55+. Operated by Visiting Nurses Association (VNA), services include foot care, health checks, and blood pressure checks. The fee for foot care is $40 payable at the time of your appointment. Foot care may be Kaiser covered with pre-approval. Reduced fee available upon approval. Masks required for everyone. Call 303-655-2075 for appointment. Clinic hours: 9:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Fridays: Nov 1, 8, 15, Dec 6, 13, 20 Monday: Nov 25, Dec 23
Need help with your laptop, tablet, or smartphone? We will do our best to help you become more comfortable using your device. Schedule an appointment with Calvin at 303-655-2187.
Massage
Feel great with a massage by our certified therapist, Laurie Lozano Maier. She has over 12 years of massage therapy experience. Call 303-655-2075 to make a onehour appointment. Pay Laurie at the time of service - check or cash.
Tuesdays and Wednesdays $60 for 1 hour
Deadline: Two days ahead
Transportation
Via Mobility - provides specialized transportation within the City of Brighton. Via can take you to medical appointments, grocery shopping, and Eagle View, to name just a few of the places you can go in Brighton. New Via users - call 303-447-2848 ext. 1014 to get started. To schedule rides, call 303-447-9636. Free rides to and from Eagle View to seniors living in the Brighton Via service area are provided by funding from the Senior Advisory Board.
FlexRide
This is an RTD service. Call 303-994-3549 for reservations. The driver will pick up and deliver you anywhere within Brighton, Mon - Fri. 6:00 a.m.7:00 p.m. Cost is the local RTD bus fare.
Friday Feast
Walker Williams will perform today. He’s a county music singer well-known throughout the area. We’re serving chili dogs, chips, salad, and cookies. All veterans will receive special recognition at the event.
Fri. Nov 8 -12:00 noon
$6.00
Deadline: Wed. Nov 6
Feathered Friends: Falconry
This month’s Feathered Friends focuses on the ancient sport of falconry! UNESCO recognizes it as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, and Nov 16th is World Falconry Day. Join us to learn about its origins, meet our master falconer Anne Price, and see her hunting falcon up close.
Tues. Nov 12 - 1:00 p.m.
$5.00
Deadline: Fri. Nov 8
Kindness Counts
Ever wish you could make a difference in Brighton? You can! This group focuses on fun, easy ideas for spreading a little kindness throughout the community. Each month we pick a project. Call Sue at 303-6552076 for information.
Wed. Nov 13 - 11:00 a.m.
Book Club
November’s book is The Wager by David Grann. Please read the book before the meeting so you are prepared for group discussion. Books can be found at a library, on Amazon, or at a book store. Facilitated by Gayle Wudarczyk.
Wed. Nov 13 - 1:00 p.m.
Free
Deadline: Fri. Nov 11
Fire Safety
Did you know winter months pose extra safety hazards due to weather and holidays? Join us for essential tips to keep you and your loved ones safe this season. We’ll also have a fun game with prizes. You won’t want to miss out! Facilitated by the Brighton Fire Rescue District.
Wed. Nov 13 - 1:30 p.m.
Free
Deadline: Fri. Nov 8
Note: Not all offerings are listed here. Please visit www.brightonco.gov for a complete listing.
& WINTER MARKET
DECEMBER 7, 1-6 PM
Founders Plaza
Downtown Brighton
29th Annual Parade
Visit with Santa, face painting, Teddy Bear and Friends Tree.
Live music from... 4 - 5:30 p.m.
Tree lighting at 5 p.m.
A Hometown Holiday Tradition
Community Living
Mortgage interest rates have been slowly retreating from their 23year high of 7.79% in October 2023. While this decline hasn’t significantly reduced rising house prices, it has brought the average home price to $416,700 as of August 2024, even as sales volume declined by 4.2% year-over-year. is combination of higher prices and interest rates is cooling some previously hot markets.
Listing prices in areas like Austin, TX, and San Francisco, CA, are showing declines, with Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO, down 7% to a median listing price of $627,450. Price cuts are also rising nationwide, reaching a two-year high at 18.9%, including 32.4% of listings in Denver seeing reductions.
Low inventories continue to support high home prices, but there are signs of change as listing supplies increased 22.7% to 1.35 million units for sale.
Amid these market conditions, the Federal Reserve lowered mortgage interest rates by 0.50% in mid-September, responding to a softening labor market and a rise in unemployment to 4.2%. Freddie Mac reported the 30-year fi xed-rate mortgage averaged 6.2% as of September 12, down from 7.18% a year ago.
Lower rates can make a significant difference. For example, a $400,000 home with 20% down at 7% interest results in a $2,129 monthly payment, which drops to $1,919 at 6%. Over the life of a loan, this reduction can save tens of thousands in interest.
Another variable is the new commission rules by NAR that took effect on August 17, 2024. Previously, listing agents typically asked for 5% to 7% commissions from home sellers, splitting them with other agents to incentivize showings and sales. is method has changed. Now, agents listing homes can no longer include offers of compensation to other agents in MLS listings. is puts homebuyers in the position of signing representation agreements upfront and specify how much they’re willing to pay their agents if the seller’s concessions don’t cover those fees. Sellers can still offer compensation to agents, but it may need negotiating as part of the prospective buyer’s overall offer. is shift could lead buyers to represent themselves or seek agents with flat-fee or a la carte services.
e market’s next steps remain uncertain, especially as many buyers and sellers adopt a wait-and-see approach. A Bankrate survey found that 35% of current homeowners would consider selling if rates fell below 6%, but with most existing mortgages already below that rate, further rate drops might be needed to stimulate new listings.
| November is lung cancer awareness month
While lung cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S., early screening and detection can dramatically improve your options for treatment and odds of survival. Intermountain Health uses state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and can quickly identify lung cancer even before symptoms begin. If diagnosed early, our team of cancer experts will select and start the most effective therapies while the disease is at its earliest state and easiest to treat.
To find out if you are at high risk for developing lung cancer, take our online quiz. Good Samaritan Hospital