Brighton banner February 13, 2014

The Banner

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Brighton news for Brighton readers

Volume 6, No. 7

February 13, 2014

8 pages

Author: Citizens want to have fun

Career plans form at forum

An estimated 400 10th-through12th-graders attended a CareerPlanning Forum Tuesday at the Robert M. Shopneck Boys & girls Club. Above, the Brighton Police Department’s Justin Moore, Alex Covarrubias and Monce Portillo talk to Kevin Gallegos, left, and Stepan Kotov. At right, Jim Brady talks about E-470 to Jesse Brookke, Elias Schaffer, Devin Wright, Eli Oneal. Event sponsors included District 27J, Brighton Economic Development Corp. and Front Range Community College.

Elena Townsend photos fior The Banner

Is it to bee or not to bee this spring?

By Elena Guerrero Townsend for The Banner Not that many people have a hobby as sweet as Dave Swanson’s.

For the past four years, his hobby has been beekeeping. He’s president of Brighton Bee Club. This year he will bring in master beekeeper David Izaguirre of Greeley to offer a beginner’s beekeeping class.

Bee season is around the corner. So if beekeeping – an outdoor hobby that could potentially lead to some extra income – sounds intriguing to you, head to Agfinity Inc. /Ace Hardware, 55 W.

Bromley Lane on Feb. 22.

For $20, Izaguirre will share his knowledge and prepare you for a fun and fabulous first year of beekeeping.

The class takes place 9 a.m.-4 p.m. in the upstairs conference room. A Subway lunch is included in this class.

For further mentoring, join the Brighton Bee Club. It also meets in the upstairs conference room at Agfinity every second Wednesday of the month.

“People are welcome to stop in and observe the meeting before deciding to

See Bees, Page 3

Beekeeper Dave Swanson

Inside The Banner this week Love and Harley

One Brighton woman went to greath lengths to buy her husband a Harley Davidson on their 25th wedding anniversary. – Page 2

A drive for safety

A Platte Valley ambulance driver saw a need and start-

ed the First Gear Defensive Driving Academy.

– Page 6

Also:

Brighton Banter..................... 2 Calendar ................................. 4 Bravo ...................................... 5 Obituaries ............................. 7 Sports ..................................... 8

Don’t miss: Sister Cities Dinner-Auction Saturday – Calendar, Page 4

Kremer, Lady Bulldogs sweep Prairie View.

– Page 8

By Lou Ellen Bromley for The Banner Peter Kageyama, author of the book, For the Love of Cities, told the City Council on Tuesday that fun should be part of any city’s plans.

Kageyama, a co-founder and producer of the Creative Cities Summit, an interdisciplinary event that brings together citizens and practitioners around the idea of the city “lovable city,” was a guest speaker at the council study session that was second of a three-part “City Council 2014 Advance, a conceptual blueprint for long- and short-term visioning and budget effort.”

The popular speaker – about bottomup (strong citizen participation) community development and the people involved in the making positive change to cities – is also the former President of Creative Tampa Bay, a grassroots community change organization. He spoke to the city’s department heads and management staffers on Tuesday before the council session and was scheduled to speak to the Urban Renewal Authority on Wednesday.

Using a slide show and brief videos, he spoke about progressive changes in other cities, sometimes at the grassroots level, and how the citizens of a city should have a relationship with their town and be involved in making it a great place to live.

He believes a city should be lovable to its residents and interesting to visitors, to do this a city must look at five important things: A city should be functional, safe, comfortable, convivial and above all, fun. Kageyama provided several examples of how cites have been improved by thinking “outside the box” and involving its residents in fun ways to make their city stand out.

He said that in order to make a city See City Council, Page 2

2

The Banner

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Rituals, traditions add spirit, value to community City Council, from Page 1

fun there have to be elements that make the residents feel a part of the city itself. Also important are the cities rituals and traditions: They add to the spirit and value of the community. The things that people dislike about their towns are often issues in a city that are resolved but have little impact on the emotions of the citizens. Examples such as traffic, lack of parking, education and city services, are all important but seldom sway people to love or hate the city.

“People need to play more,” he said. Bike trails and walking areas give people the opportunity to get to know their neighbors and see things in town they wouldn't usually notice – such as interesting buildings, structures and new businesses in town.

Another example of how to create a fun, safe city was to make it “dog-friendly,” to have paths and dog parks.

“Dogs are great ice-breakers,” he said, “people are more likely to talk to each other if there is a dog to help start a conversation. Dogs help humanize the city and create a feeling of safety.“ Another suggestion was farmers’ markets. They promote interaction within the community and serve as small-business incubators.

Kageyama spent two days touring Brighton, and some of his thoughts for City Council included being open to the suggestions by the citizens of Brighton, and to realize that sometimes the solution to a problem might not look like a solution but may reap great results.

Also, first impressions do matter: Make sure the first impression a visitor to the city gets is a positive one.

“Encourage storytellers,” he said. The city should be encouraged to share stories about positive things that happen in town. “There's nothing wrong with telling a good story and it shows civic pride.”

He warned against complaints were there is no solution. “These waste time, energy and money that can be better spent elsewhere.”

He also suggested holding a council meeting devoted to good news about the town and its people.

“Mind the gap between the city we want and the city we can afford and find a way to work for it.”

After Kageyama's presentation, City Manager Manuel Esquibel spoke to City Council about the quality of life and the passions for Brighton and suggested the Council look for the fun in any projects in the coming year.

Before Kageyama’s presentation, Seth Armentrout and Samantha Pentycofe of the Brighton Youth Commission gave a report to Council about the National League of Cities conference they attended in November. They said the NLC conference focused on understanding themselves, on diversity and inclusiveness and how to pass on that training to future generations of the Youth Commission.

They also requested two informal meetings each year with the City Council so they could get to know council members better and be more comfortable with them.

Mayor Dick McLean told the youth commissioners that the City Council is proud of the Brighton Youth Commission and that they are role models for other youth commissions nationwide.

Don’t forget to write

The Banner welcomes your letters to the editor. Mail them to The Banner, 315 Strong St., Brighton 80601, or email to letters @brightonbanner.com. All letters must include contact information from the author.

Brighton Banner

February 13, 2014

Brighton Banter

Guest commentary about our city

Big anniversary gift hard to buy, hide

Valentine’s Day is fast approaching and believe it or not, a lot of us ladies enjoy finding a loving and thoughtful gift for the men in our life. Not necessarily just at Valentines Day but for any holiday or occasion. But the reality of it is, it’s hard for a woman to find a gift her husband or boyfriend will really like. A good home-cooked meal and letting them have complete control of the TV for a relaxing day at home may be their idea of a perfect gift, but sometimes you just want to do something special.

Something that will make them think, “Wow, this is awesome.”

Over the years I have tried to find gifts that my husband of 41 years would really love. And although I feel he appreciates my efforts, there haven’t been that many gifts that have knocked his socks off. For that reason the one that I did manage to get, I remember in detail.

In fall 1997 my husband, Ken, and I were staring down the barrel of 25 years of wedded bliss. I had a good job then, working in the Colorado Vital Records office, with 10 other women who at the time, were more than happy to encourage me make the purchase of a gift that would affect my husband and my life to this very day. I can still hear their gleeful voices saying: “Do it! Do it! Do it!”

The “Do it“ in this case was to purchase a NEW Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Ken and I have always had a Harley but never a new one.

When we were dating in 1971 Ken had a used blue 1963 Harley, and after we had been married a few years we bought a used 1972, white, full-dress Shriner Edition Harley Davidson that we still own. The 1972 bike was the one we rode and enjoyed for along time. But soon, with having two boys to raise, we got more involved in their lives and interests and didn't have the time to ride the Harley much for years.

When the boys got older we had more time to ride again and even joined a motorcycle club or two to have folks to ride with.

But, as will happen with any older vehicle, there started to be a few minor repair issues with the ’72 Harley that left us on the side of the

Brighton Banter is a frequent column by members of local government, education, commerce and public safety and the community on a subject they choose. The opinions expressed are those of the individual writers. We invite reader comment.

road waiting to be rescued.

We had started talking about taking longer trips with our friends and I started to wonder about our old bike. I really didn't want to be stranded someplace a long way from home.

Which brings me back to Vital Records and my “friends.” With so much encouragement from the ladies at work, I felt I should at least check out the local dealership if for no other reason than to save face. Back in those days Harley dealerships didn’t have the big bikes just sitting on the showroom floor as they do now. In fact, when I called Sun Harley Davidson in Thornton I was toldthere were only three being shipped to them for the year.

I was instructed by a salesman to check back every few weeks to find out when the bikes came into the shop. I also was told that Sun Harley Davidson never pre-sold the bikes, it was first-come, firstserve.

The first one was a solid black Harley FLHTC. I never even saw it. Before I could get to the dealership it was gone, sold before it even got to the showroom floor. A month later, the second FLHTC arrived, it was a red one, I drove over to see it but when I got there it, too, was sold. It had made it to the showroom floor but already had a shiny, red “sold” tag attached to the handlebars. The salesman I talked to told me to call the following morning and they would let me know if the sale went through for the bike. If not I could come back and try to buy it.

I walked around the big. gorgeous red bike looking it over, it was the biggest bike Harley made, with chrome everywhere, and it only had 5 miles on it. That’s my kind of new! The salesman also told me the third bike they were getting was a two-tone FLHTC, red and black, and it was expected to arrive very soon. Now I was excited, maybe I had a shot at the

two-tone Harley.

The following morning I went to work as usual and on my morning break I called Sun, only to be told that yes, the first guy’s sale didn't go through but … another guy walked in and put money down on the bike just as the business opened that morning.

Drat!

My coworkers were unhappy about the bike being sold again, too. They all seemed to have a personal interest in my efforts to buy a bike.

I was disappointed but relieved in a way: I had never bought anything that expensive on my own in my life.

Ken and I always made big purchases together. In fact I didn't know if I even could, was my personal credit rating good enough? And if I bought the bike I sure didn't want Ken to know about it before our anniversary. What a cool surprise it would be.

That very same afternoon I got a phone call back from Sun Harley Davidson, was I still interested in the red Harley? It seemed the second buyer decided he wanted to try for the two-tone black and red Harley and had backed out of the deal. By now the gang at work had gathered around my desk and was cheering me on! I told the salesman that there was no way I could get there before 5:30 p.m. and asked if they would hold it for me.

“No” he said,” they would have to sell it to whoever got there first with the money.”

What could I do? I couldn’t leave work early, and the dealership was way across town.

Then he asked a question I would never in a million years have thought of, “Do you have a credit card”?

Who knew you could buy a new Harley Davidson with a credit card! I was told I could put a deposit down on the bike by phone and they would start the paperwork.

So now, with the urgings of all my workers and before I could chicken out, I gave him my credit-card number. With cheers and high fives around the office, I took the next logical step. I called my son Travis and told him what I'd done. At first he didn't quite believe me but agreed to meet me at the Harley dealership

See “Red,” Page 3

Brighton Banner

February 13, 2014

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Surprise took his breath away “Red,” from Page 2

Dave Swanson of Agfinity/Ace Hardware stands in the Agfinity storeroom with some of the equipment necessary for beekeeping. He said local beekeepers go to California once a year to buy bees and queens to stock their hives.

Banner Press photos

Taste of honey varies, based on diet of the bees in hive Bees, from Page 1

join,” Swanson said. “The annual fee to join the Colorado State Beekeepers Association is $20. Seven of those dollars go to CSBA, and the rest goes to the Brighton Bee Club. Currently, we have around 20 people in the club.”

CSBA has been around for 100 years. CSBA brings in speakers to teach about the nuances of beekeeping.

Topics range from the current state of bees to everyday solutions for beekeepers.

Start-up costs are completely up to the new beekeepers.

They must first determine how many hives they’d like to keep. The basic tools are hives, gloves, mask, hive tool, smokers, and bees.

“We sell all the tools they need here at Agfinity/Ace Hardware,” Swanson said.

“Every year at the end of

April I go to Loveland to pick up my bees and a queen, he said. Local beekeepers go to California once a year to buy bees and queens. The bees come in a 3-pound screened box.” Beekeepers can select from a variety of honey bees.

Honey from each hive has its own distinctive flavor, color, and texture. It all depends on the location and variety of plants that the bees pollinate.

The honey from bees that pollinate alfalfa and clover will taste much different than honey from bees that pollinate sunflowers or vegetables. Beekeepers can design their own signature flavor by transporting their hives to a variety of different fields.

“Honey harvested locally that is unpasteurized is better for you,” Swanson said. “It has allergy-fighting properties. Local beekeepers usual-

ly sell their honey in one-gallon glass containers. When heating honey to transfer it to smaller containers do not heat it over 140 degrees; otherwise you can cook out some of the allergy fighting properties in the honey.”

“The honey industry is unregulated,” he said. “For example, the small packages of honey in restaurants contain mostly corn syrup and water. They have very little honey in them.”

Beekeeping is a seasonal hobby. Although it is hard to imagine spring right now while Colorado experiences frigid weather, spring is just around the corner.

For more information or to attend Beekeeping 101 contact Swanson at dswanson@agfinityincco or Cathy Ader at cjader@hotmail.com. Another source is www.coloradobeekeepers.org.

to check the bike out that evening after work. We got there at the same time and the salesman happily showed Travis the new bike, and told me, “Congratulations, please step this way to sign on the dotted line and kiss your paychecks for the next three years goodbye.” Or something to that effect, I was rattled to my toes by then.

Now the fun started. Ever try to hide a full-dress FLHTC Harley Davidson? We arranged to pick the bike up the following Friday after we bought some insurance for it.

Insurance? I guess I hadn't thought this through very well, seems you can't take a bike off the dealership floor without insurance. Having never bought insurance before (that was Ken’s job), I called our agent in Brighton and got his wife. A lucky break for me, because after I explained what I had done she got right into the spirit of things. Not only did she get the bike covered right away, but she put sticky notes on every phone in the office that said, “If Ken calls DO NOT say anything about a new Harley.” Bless her.

Next step: where to hide it.

Fortunately, our next-door neighbor had just built a huge new garage and offered to hide it in there for me. The trick now was to get it past Ken's nose without him seeing it. Travis owns a small utility trailer we could use to haul it into hiding, and some good friends to help. He told his Dad he was lending it to a friend that Friday, and I told Ken I had a meeting after work and would be home late: So far so good.

Travis and I met after work at the dealership, and with the help of several men at Sun Harley Davidson got it loaded, tied down and ready for a ride home. Travis took it to his friend Dwayne's house to hide out until 9 p.m., when we knew Ken would be in the bathtub and the coast would be clear. At 9:15 Travis and Dwayne rolled right past the picture window of our house, Harley in full view on the trailer, and right into the neighbors’ garage.

The night of our 25th anniversary Ken had planned a romantic dinner out.

Usually Ken took me to a very fancy restaurant for our anniversary, but I didn't want to get to far away so I talked him into a nice Chinese restaurant nearby.

While we were at dinner, Travis and Dwayne took the bike out of hiding and set it up to surprise Ken. They

unloaded it from the trailer, (which I hear is a story all its own) put it in the garage, facing the door and tied balloons all over it. Next they placed a couple of spotlights around it.

With everything set, they waited for us to come home.

When we drove in the driveway the boys were ready, Dwayne had a video camera to record Ken’s reaction when Travis opened the garage door and did his Vanna White impression.

At first I wasn't sure Ken was too happy. He sat in the car staring at the Harley and not saying a thing. After a while I ask him if he wanted to get out and have a closer look. Still not saying a word, he got out of the car and walked around the bike, not touching it but just circling it.

The boys and I were getting pretty nervous. Was he happy? Unhappy? We couldn’t tell. Just about the time I decided I had made a huge mistake in getting it. Dwayne noticed Ken wasn’t breathing.

Dwayne told Ken, “Sir, you need to breathe.” Ken had been holding his breath from the time Travis opened the garage door – in shock, I guess.

After he started breathing, everything changed, he sat on the bike started it and truly came back to life. He was happy and excited now.

Score one for the wife!

We still ride that red Harley. We have been to the East Coast twice on it and to the West Coast once, as well as to numerous bike rallies, road trips and adventures of our own. We have been to places we would never have gone to if not for the bike and have gotten to know a lot of great people along the way.

We have even gone on two ocean cruises, biker related of course.

Our last road trip was in August 2013 to Milwaukee, Wis., for the 110th anniversary of Harley Davidson Motorcycles. “Red” suffered two breakdowns on the trip.

I wonder if “Red” is trying to tell me he's ready to retire with the white Shriner bike.

Sorry, Red, I have priced the new Harleys (Yikes!), so you are a long way from retirement, old friend.

Good luck this Valentine’s Day finding the perfect gift, as they seem to be few and far between, but worth it when you do find the “perfect gift” for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion. The great memories you make together are more than worth their weight in chocolate.

Lou Bromley covers the City Council for The Banner.

Brighton Banner

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Word on the street Question: February is Heart Health awareness month what are you doing to keep your heart healthy? (at Brighton East Farms) – By Elena Guerrero Townsend

“At the beginning of the year, I started working out to various videos at home. I also use light weights with my program.”

– Amanda Delgado

Today

The week ahead

Caregivers Support Group, Eagle View Adult Center, 10-11 a.m.; join other caregivers for valuable information and support, all ages welcome, 303-4264408

Yoga, Platte Valley Medical Center Conference Center, 12:15-12:50 p.m.; $6 drop-in rate; certified instructor. Bring your mat, info 303-498-1840.

Bunco, Eagle View Adult Center, 1:153:45 p.m.; Bunco is an easy game, learn it in 5 minutes; fun, refreshments, prizes, $4, deadline two days ahead

Ansel Adams Symphony Salute, Eagle View Adult Center trip, 4:30 p.m.; the Lamont Symphony Orchestra at D.U. performs music by Copland and Bruckner; concert includes a newly composed tribute to photographer Ansel Adams.

Dinner before at Poppies, $10 plus meal ($12+); deadline was Feb. 7

“Recently, I found out that I have high blood pressure, so I started walking with my family.”

– Eugene Morgan

Pilates Mat Class, Platte Valley Medical Center Conference Center, 5:15-6 p.m.; increase strength, tone, flexibility, stamina, overall fitness and health, taught by licensed physical therapist and certified Pilates instructor, $9 per class, 303-4981840 Craigslist: Buying and Selling, Anythink Brighton, 7-8 p.m.; Come and see what Craigslist has to offer, how to create an account and buy or sell. Get help searching and responding to advertisements. An email account is required.

Registration suggested.

Bingo at the VFW, 6 p.m.,161 N. Main St. Progressive last game.

Friday

“As a family, we started cooking more heart healthy meals and going out to eat a lot less. ” – April Villani

Friday’s Feast, Eagle View Adult Center, noon; herb chicken soup, sandwich and cookies; entertainment by Mike and Phil; $4, deadline Feb. 12

Shrek, the Musical, Prairie Playhouse production in the Armory, 7 p.m.; the hilarious story of everyone's favorite ogre comes to life on stage; adults $10 online, $15 at the door; 12 and under $7 online, $8 at the door

Saturday “I’ve been feeding my body nutritious foods that have the vitamins I need.

I work out six times a week in order to grow strong. I make sure I live a happy life because that adds to keeping the heart healthy!”

– Liz Enriquez

February 13, 2014

Hearts for Hearts 5K, Fairgrounds, 9 a.m. check in, race starts at 10; Great way to be active this winter and support the Platte Valley Medical Center Cardiac Rehab Program with a morning walk or jog. All ages welcome, participants receive a T-shirt, water and snacks.

Entry, $25 adults, $10 anyone 15 or younger; http://heartsforhearts5k.eventbrite.com.

For more information: Danielle Elliott 303-659-7000 or delliott@pvmc.org; Franchesca Neil 303-498-1850 or cfneil@pvmc.org; Kathleen Doyle or kathleen.doyle@q.com.; inclementweather date, Feb. 22 Bloomin’ Buddies Garden Club meeting, 10 a.m., upstairs at Ace Hardware, 55 W. Bromley Lane. City Forester Kyle Sylvester will discuss tree maintenance and pruning and desirable trees for Brighton; all are welcome

Diabetes Basics and Nutrition Class, Platte Valley Medical Center, 10 a.m.noon; Introduction to diabetes sets the stage for a solid understanding of what diabetes is, and basic-management principles including a healthy meal plan with foods you like. A steppingstone to more classes on stress, exercise, medications and dodging diabetes complications.

Medicare and most health plans cover all or a portion of the cost. Don't miss this opportunity, ask your doctor for a referral. For more information, call Cynthia Foster at 303-498.1699.

Denver Pops Roundup, Eagle View Adult Center trip, 1 p.m.; a tribute to

p.m.

Events at the Armory Images of Ziebice, A pictorial trip to Sister City Ziebice, Poland. Awardwinning photographer and Ziebice resident Sanislaw Popardowski’s photo essay. View the architecture, nature, city life and landscape of 750-year-old city. Exhibit runs through Feb. 17.

Shrek The Musical, Prairie Playhouse production, 7 p.m. on Feb. 14, 15, 20, 21 and 22, 3 p.m. on Feb. 22. $10 online, $15 at the door, $7 online $8 at the door for children 12 and under.

Night of Stars annual audition, 6 p.m., Feb. 17 for ages K-12. $5 audition fee.

cowboys and the Wild West with selections from Aaron Copland’s Rodeo, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma; late lunch at Big Hoss Bar-B-Q in Denver, $17 plus meal ($10+), deadline Feb. 7 Brighton Sister Cities Annual Dinner and Auction, Rec Center, 6-8 p.m., tickets $12.50 Shrek, the Musical, Prairie Playhouse production in the Armory, 7 p.m.; the hilarious story of everyone's favorite ogre comes to life on stage; adults $10 online, $15 at the door; 12 and under $7 online, $8 at the door

Sunday

Breakfast at the V, everyone welcome: 7-11 a.m., VFW Hall, 161 N. Main St.: Eggs to order; ham, bacon or sausage; hash-browns, toast; pancakes. Seniors, $5, under 55, $5.50.

Monday

Presidents Day holiday

Tuesday

Rocky Flats History, Eagle View Adult Center trip, 11:45 a.m.; History Colorado Center presents “Rocky Flats: A personal story, a community story.” Can tour the center after the lecture. $15; deadline was Feb. 4

2:30-4:30 p.m.; Transform ordinary paint samples into miniature notebooks. Use them to write secret messages to your friends or as a mini-journal. For students in grades K-5.

Simple Ways to Love Your Heart, Platte Valley Medical Center, 6 p.m.; A few simple choices made today can add up to years of living with a stronger, healthier heart. Interventional Cardiologist Behzad Molavi, M.D. FACC, shares the latest insights and discoveries in the area of preventative cardiology; tips and recommendations for healthy eating and effective patterns of exercise, as well as up-and-coming treatments for heart disease; FREE, register online at pvmc.org/rsvp or call 303-498-1481.

Tour of the Women’s and Newborn Center, Platte Valley Medical Center, 6 p.m.; Meet in the lobby by the fireplace; free by appointment, 303-498-3518

Thursday

Free blood-pressure screening, Eagle View Adult Center, 10:30-11:30 a.m.; performed by Brighton Firefighters Healthy Tips, Eagle View Adult Center, 11 a.m.

Understanding the Silent Killer, PAD, Eagle View Adult Center, noon; Dr. Khan will talk about Peripheral Arterial Disease, its signs, symptoms, prevention and treatment; deadline Feb. 19 Yoga, Platte Valley Medical Center Conference Center, 12:15-12:50 p.m.; $6 drop-in rate; certified instructor. Bring your mat, info 303-498-1840.

Pilates Mat Class, Platte Valley Medical Center Conference Center, 5:15-6 p.m.; increase strength, tone, flexibility, stamina, overall fitness and health, taught by licensed physical therapist and certified Pilates instructor, $9 per class, 303-4981840

Baby Basics, Platte Valley Medical Center, 6 p.m.; This class helps you set realistic expectations for your baby’s first months and provides information and hands-on practice on feeding, bathing, diapering, care basics, vaccinations, safe sleeping, car-seat use; $40, register at 303-498-3518

Yoga, Platte Valley Medical Center Conference Center, 4:45-5:20 p.m.; $6 dropin rate; certified instructor. Bring your mat, 303-498-1840.

Wednesday

Baby Bounce, Anythink Brighton, 9:3010:15 a.m.; songs, rhymes and stories for babies and their caregivers. For ages birth-23 months. RSVP online, anythinklibraries.org

Brighton Book Lovers, Anythink Brighton, 10-11:30 a.m.; Join a discussion of Cuckoo’s Calling by Robert Galbraith (pseudonym of J. K. Rowling).

This is the story of Detective Cormoran Strike, a private investigator who lost a leg during a landmine explosion in Afghanistan, and his investigation of a supermodel’s suicide. For adults.

Primetime for Preschoolers, Anythink Brighton, 10:30-11 a.m.; stories, finger plays, songs and other fun activities just for preschoolers. For ages 3-5. RSVP online, anythinklibraries.org

The Studio: Mermaid Boxes, Anythink Brighton, 2:30-4 p.m.; Create a beautiful shell-encrusted box –a new library souvenir! For grades 6-12.

After-School Get Together: Paint Sample Notebooks, Anythink Brighton,

John Hadfield portrays Shrek in the Prairie Playhouse production of Shrek, the Musical.

Banner Press photo

Shrek, the Musical, Prairie Playhouse production in the Armory, 7 p.m.; the hilarious story of everyone's favorite ogre comes to life on stage; adults $10 online, $15 at the door; 12 and under $7 online, $8 at the door The Studio: Computer Guts 101, Anythink Brighton, 7-8 p.m.; Ever wonder about the whizzing and whirring noises coming from your computer? Take a look at the guts of the computer and identify the different parts. Start learning basics of opening a computer and dismantling it. RSVP online

Tell us Send your organization’s public events to mynews@brightonbanner.com, or write to The Banner, 315 Strong St., Brighton, CO 80601

Brighton Banner

February 13, 2014

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11 PVHS athletes sign letters of intent

By Michelle Boyer Eleven Prairie View High School student-athletes signed National Letters of Intent last week.

Caleb Dameron (baseball, Northeastern Junior College); Jordan Jones (baseball, Oklahoma Christian); Connor Simpson (football, Southwestern Minnesota State); William Walter (football, Western State); Caleb Baumgartner (boys soccer, Adams State); Veronica Walker (girls soccer, Wayne State College); Linsey Killen (softball, Lamar Community College); Jade Morton (softball, Western Nebraska Community College); Alyssa Parson (softball, Lamar Community College); Taylor Werth (Lamar Community College) and Jocelyn Garcia (volleyball, Concordia University).

Gonzalo Godinez, boys’ soccer coach, said he was honored to support Caleb Baumgartner during his signing. “He’s a team leader, and a captain who always gives 100 percent and is always ready to motivate our team,” he said.

“Connor Simpson, ‘Big Red,’ was the foundation, rock and leader of our football team,” Coach Todd Riccio

Coaches at Prairie View High School talked about the 11 student-athletes who signed letters of intent last week.

said. “Without him we wouldn’t be where we were this season. He played offensively and defensively. He put our team first, rather than himself; with no questions ever asked.

“Will Walters doesn’t say much, but is a quiet leader who helped teach our younger kids. He came to our youth camps to help the kids, and I know he could do the same thing at Western State.”

Girls’ soccer Coach Jason Oulman referred to Veronica Walker in three words: physical, compassionate and outspoken. “She’s one of the most physically aggressive players I’ve coached,” he said. “Routinely she fouls, but earns them because she

doesn’t want to be defeated.

She’s compassionate because she’s vocal, easily angered and her own worst critic.”

He said she’s outspoken, since she’s always willing to extend a hand to a friend, or will be the first to introduce herself to a new player.

“She’s not just a soccer player, she’s an awesome girl,” Oulman said.

Two baseball players signed.

“Caleb Dameron comes from a faith-based family and walks the walk,” Coach Tim Cardenas said. “He’s a leader in the weight room and in the classroom. If baseball is gone, he’ll be OK.” Faith also runs deep in Jordan Jones. “I have a lot of respect for him, and what

he’s been through,” Cardenas said.

Cardenas said both athletes have strong character, but the student always comes first for them, before the sport.

Four young women signed for the softball program.

Coach Mark Gonzales said first baseman Taylor Werth was dynamic to the program and to the team. “Her lightheartedness always was a calming force or helped break the ice,” he said. “She’s highly respected by the team as a leader.”

Shortstop Linsey Killen was the leadoff hitter. “She could handle a lot of pressure, Gonzales said. “When we expected to score early, she took that on her shoulders.”

Michelle Boyer photo for The Banner

Alyssa Parson, a pitcher and outfielder was close to giving up the high school part of the game, but Gonzales believed her consistency and sustainability brought a lot of life to the Thunderhawks softball program.

The catcher for the team, Jade Morton played softball for 10 years, and has always aspired to be a college athlete.

“We had confidence in her to drive a run in, or to hit a ball out of the park,” he said.

Volleyball Coach Amy Grace recognized athlete Jocelyn Garcia. “She can be loud, mean, sweet and sincere whenever she needed to be,” Grace said.

Five BHS athletes choose their colleges

By Michelle Boyer Five student-athletes from Brighton High School signed their college Letters of Intent last week during National College Signing Day. Reagan Ritchey signed with the University of Jamestown in Jamestown, N.D., to play golf. “She’s a very good golfer and is home-schooled,” BHS Athletic Director Todd Potestio said.

Ritchey was awarded the East Metro Athletic Conference league champion award in 2012 and 2013. She received the Bulldog Award for outstanding leadership and dedication, all-conference first team for 2011, 2012 and 2013, Colorado High School Athletic Association State Championship participant 2012 and 2013 and four-year varsity letterman.

Ritchey started playing golf in 2011, but helped elevate the Bulldogs’ golf team.

“We’ve had girls’ golf for a long time, but it’s always been a small team,” she said.

“Over the past three years and this spring season, I can say I’ve worked hard to elevate the program. Everyone knows I exist and that Brighton is a force to be reckoned with. Also, I’ve had a coach from another high

school tell me that he’s always excited for any of his players to get to play with me, because I play the game the way it’s supposed to be played. That’s huge.

Ritchey said she’ll miss her big family, but she believes she’ll have another family at school and knows they’ll do a great job taking care of her, too. “I’ll love them like I love my own family,” she said.

Her words on recruitment are to not make a decision out of fear, but to just take a leap of faith. “Go to a college where you like the coach, because this will be your parent the next four years,” she said.

Bulldogs quarterback Tanner Pepin signed to attend Itasca in Grand Rapids, Minn. “I chose Itasca because they’re giving me a chance to play quarterback, where other schools may not have,” he said. “The distance is going to be tough, but the sacrifice will be worth it.”

Pepin made first-team allconference quarterback and offensive team most valuable player this year. His junior year he was first-team allconference linebacker. He’s been a team captain for two years.

“I never thought I’d go to school for track, because my intention was first to attend

for softball,” Katelyn Ellis said. “Chadron State just offered me more money, and I really like the school.”

Ellis runs and is a dominant high-jumper. She hopes to leave a legacy of reaching the school high-jump record of 5 feet, 5 inches, which she has achieved. In 2013, Ellis finished fifth in state for the high-jump. She’s made allacademic and has lettered in both softball and track. She’s also a member of the Future Farmers of America.

Ellis joined track in sixth grade because of her coach, Eddie Landeros. “He’s encouraged me and has made me the person I am today,” she said.

Rachael Lopez will be continuing a family tradition as she decided to attend Colorado State University in Pueblo. John Martinez, her uncle and former BHS track coach, attended CSU-Pueblo and was an All-American and a Hall of Famer for track.

Her cousin Jeff Martinez also was an All-American and Hall of Famer.

A multisport athlete, Lopez said she’s always had the most success at running and it was always something she was good at. “Fortunately, I’ll be able to run at the college that carries some family tradi-

tion,” she said.

Lopez runs the 400 and 800 meters. She holds the school record of 2 minutes, 6 seconds in the 800-meter run, which previously stood for nearly 25 years.

She’s been first team allconference for cross country, track and swimming and has made first team all-academic.

By the time she graduates, she’ll have lettered 15 times; 12 athletically and three academically.

Payton Bonino signed to attend Southern Utah

University, a Division I school. She’s made first team all-conference and the Top 10.

She’s usually at every sporting event. She said she loves to eat, sleep and snowboard.

Her favorite movie is Forrest Gump.

Bonino made first team allconference in 2011, 2012 and 2013. She also made first team academic all-state in 2011, 2012 and 2013. She was named Best All-Around Player for 2011, 2012 and 2013. In 2012 and 2013 she was team captain.

Brighton Banner

6

February 13, 2014

Defensive driving school is no accident

By Elena Guerrero Townsend for The Banner He’s not a superhero, and he doesn’t wear a costume, but he is trying to make the streets safer for us.

Michal Michalkow has worked as an emergency responder who has been driving an ambulance for 10 years.

“I’ve seen too many accidents happen in adverse weather conditions.

(Emergency) responders must get to an accident no matter how bad the roads are,” he said. “Learning to drive in adverse conditions is a must.”

He believes that most drivers, including ambulance drivers, don’t have sufficient training in how to drive in bad weather.

“A year ago there was a terrible car accident on U.S. 85 and a young high school student lost her life,” Michalkow said. “Seeing the aftermath of that accident really motivated me to start my own defensive-driving school.

“I wanted to help young drivers learn how to drive better,”he said.

Today drivers have additional distractions with calls, texts, and tweets coming in on their cell phones. Young drivers tend to drive too fast.

Combine all that with bad weather, and they quickly get into trouble.

Our youth are still learning the immense responsibility of driving a vehicle. Many people, especially first-time drivers, can find themselves skid-

With the touch of a few computer keys from inside the car, the SkidCar, attached to the frame of a vehicle, can present the driving student with a simulation of conditions on wet or icy roads while driving on dry Elena Townsend photos for The Banner pavement.

ding and not knowing the dynamics or philosophy of what happens while skidding.

Michalkow spent time talking to owners of driving schools, and he researched defensive-driving tactics. He also took what he learned from the defensive-driving classes he was required to take before he started his own driving academy. Then he spent a year designing a class before opening the doors to First Gear Driving Academy in October.

His company is the first in the Denver Metro Area to offer driving techniques using a SkidCar, which has innovative equipment attached to

Michal Michalokow

the vehicle’s underside.

The equipment allows him to simulate all kinds of weather in order to teach his students how to safely drive

in adverse conditions.

“There are too many accidents on the streets, and I am just trying to make driving on them safer,” Michalkow said.

He enjoys teaching people the proper way to drive in snow, ice, or sleet. “Drivers tend to panic when hydroplaning or skidding, so I teach them how to maneuver their vehicle in those situations,” he said.

Michalkow gives classes in three permanent locations: the Adams County Fairgrounds, Denver International Airport, and at Douglas Elementary School in Boulder. In addition, his school can come to you. He can use his large trailer to

give classroom instruction to companies all over the metro area.

Students get three hours of driving instruction. His class consists of 4-6 people in a vehicle. The students switch off every 7 minutes, giving them opportune time to learn.

He can put a vehicle safely in a skid going 5 mph using his laptop to control the SkidCar while he is in the passenger seat. Many of his students are amazed how quickly they learn to maneuver safely out of a skid.

First Gear goes above and beyond when training its students. During classroom time students are instructed in and can discuss topics such as rural driving (driving on a dirt road), city driving, traffic prediction, basic automotive mechanics, the effects of alcohol, and highway safety.

Companies that own fleets can send their drivers to First Gear and receive a discount on insurance. For most private insurance companies, drivers up to 24 years old and anyone over 50 can get a discount after taking his class.

Platte Valley Medical Center now uses First Gear to train its ambulance drivers.

First Gear Driving Academy is open to everyone. Michalkow’s office number is 720-202-6414, and his direct line is 303-249-1841.

Email michal@firstgeardrivingacademy.com or go to www.firstgeardrivingacademy .com to see his course schedule and fees.

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Did the cold weather or some other excuse mean you haven’t bought your Valentine’s Day card yet?

How would you like to send your Valentine’s card – though a little late – with customized personal message without leaving home?

Pour yourself a hot drink, sit in your favorite chair and grab your laptop. Customers can send out a professionallooking personalized greeting card that includes postage using SendoutCards.

Linda Sue Head, independent distributor for SendoutCards, sends cards all year long to her extended family in Greeley. Sending out greeting cards to her family is a fun way to keep in touch with them. She also helps others do the same.

One day Head received a unique birthday card from her sister-in-law. Printed inside the card was Head’s sister-in-law’s picture. She used SendoutCards. Head looked into the company and loved its motto, “Changing

lives one card at a time.”

When she became an independent distributor, she named her business Breath Taking Connections. On her fireplace mantel is a quote from comedian George Carlin: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”

She hopes when her family or friends open a greeting card from SendoutCards it takes their breath away.

As a small girl, Head received birthday cards from her Aunt Gladys, who lived in Nebraska. Getting a card in the mail as a young girl was a big deal. Her aunt made her feel special and also taught her to celebrate and cherish every moment.

She wants to share that experience with others.

“I feel I can touch people’s lives without ever being in their presence and sometimes people are more willing to receive a message from me when they are in their own space,” Head said. To her, the

business is magical.

She helped a customer design a special birthday card in less than 7 minutes.

First one decides whether the card will be two-, three-, or four paneled or a postcard.

Then, the card-buyer can choose from more than 1,500 designs to click and drag onto a template. Next, choose a greeting, a type font and maybe a personalized note.

Head downloaded personal photos from an i-Phone to her computer. Two photos were automatically added to the template.

It was simple, fast and easy. Cost was about a dollar, including postage.

Customers also can add a gift. Cards are printed and mailed from a warehouse in Salt Lake City, so customers never have to leave home.

Sign up with Linda Sue to send out Valentine’s Cards or any type of greeting cards or to sign up as an independent distributor. Call her at 970590-4800, or email Lindasuehead@gmail.com.

Brighton Banner

February 13, 2014

7

Obituaries/funeral notices Samantha Marie Sanchez-Shennum

Samantha Marie SanchezShennum, 16, of Fort Lupton, died Feb. 9 after a long battle with osteosarcoma, which began in May 2013. She was born in Denver to Marcos Sanchez and Christi Shennum and recently had finished her freshman year at Fort Lupton High School.

She attended Access Church, formerly Pathway Assembly of God, in Brighton. She loved Duck Dynasty, and enjoyed watching House Hunters. She loved school and enjoyed reading.

She enjoyed singing songs with her family every night before bed.

Samantha is survived by her parents, Marcos Sanchez of Brighton and Christi Shennum; maternal grandparents David and Carole Shennum of Fort Lupton; maternal great-grandmother Rose Shennum of Havre, Mont.; paternal grandparents Bartolo Sanchez of Commerce City and Nana, Guzmara Castaneda, of Brighton; siblings Tomas Sanchez, Jazmin Sanchez, Nathaniel Sanchez and Iliana Sanchez all of Brighton.

Visitation, 5-7 p.m. Friday at Tabor-Rice Funeral Home.

Funeral service, 10 a.m.

Saturday at Access Church, 133 S. 27th Ave., Brighton.

Interment at Kirk Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Samantha Sanchez Memorial Fund c/o Zac’s Legacy Foundation, 2990 W. 29th St. No. 1, Greeley, CO 80631. Tabor-Rice Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Nancy L. Gerstenberger

Nancy L. Gerstenberger, 70, of Denver, died Feb. 10.

Survivors include her husband of 47 years, Jim Gerstenberger, Brighton; sons Mark of Brighton and Todd of Henderson, Nev.; grandchildren Angela, Joann, Crystal, Haley, Giovanna, Giana, and Gunnar James; brother Gary Brunetti; and mother-in-law Louise Gerstenberger.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Lucille, and son David. Memorial services, 2 p.m. on Feb. 22 at the Olinger Crown Hill Pavilion of Reflection. In lieu of flowers donations preferred to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Donald E. Ross

Donald Eugene Ross, 80, died Feb. 3. He was born to Randall Ross and Marie Burley Ross on Feb. 4, 1933, in Akron. He graduated from Akron High School in 1950.

On Aug. 19, 1951, Don

married Yvonne Churchill.

They had four children: Randy Ross of Lakewood, Ronald Ross of Lakewood, Sharon Thomas of Scottsdale, Ariz., and Debra Dusenberry (deceased).

Don went to work in Sydney, Neb., then moved to Denver in 1951 and worked in the sheet-metal trade for 44 years, retiring in 1995.

Don was an avid archer and bow hunter and spent his weekends camping, fishing, practicing archery, and attending kids’ baseball and softball games. During the 1960s, Don built pickup campers and recurve bows.

Don won many awards for his passion of archery.

In 2004, they moved to a home near Brighton. Yvonne sustained a traumatic head injury from a fall, and died Feb. 12, 2005.

In summer 2006, Don met Lila Read Gebauer at a funeral for one of Lila's relatives.

On June 30, 2007, Don and Lila were married and honeymooned in Jamaica.

Don was preceded in death by his first wife, Yvonne, his daughter, Debbie, and two grandchildren. Survivors include his wife, Lila; sons Randy (Vickie) Ross, Ronald (Lori) Ross; daughter Sharon (Michael) Thomas; seven grandchildren and one greatgrandchild; and sister Elnora (Roger) Highland and husband.

A funeral service was held Feb. 10, in Akron. Interment was held at the Akron Cemetery. Memorial donations may be made to the Denver Hospice, or to the cancer-research charity of your choice.

Hugh G. Cassidy

Hugh G. Cassidy, 68, of Hudson, died Jan. 27 at home. He was born on Jan. 14, 1946, in Denver to Hugh E. and Wanda June Cassidy.

In 1964, he graduated from Longmont High School before moving on to graduate in 1968 from Boise Bible College.

He made best friends with his neighbor at age 10, married her at age 18 and together he and Judy raised two children.

He enjoyed fishing and music. He played banjo and guitar and loved to sing, especially Gospel music. He worked in many churches

around Colorado, including Eads, Brighton, Broomfield and Longmont. Most recently he was a pastor at New Horizons Christian Church in Dacono.

Survivors include his wife, Judy; and son, Sean Cassidy, and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Shanna Boss.

Memorial service, 3-5 p.m. on Sunday at Rocky Mountain Christian Church in Frederick. Additional arrangements by CarrollLewellen Funeral & Cremation Services.

Lucy O. Rangel

Lucy O. Rangel, 91, of Fort Lupton, died Feb. 8. She was born in Topeka, Kan., to John and Ruth (Castro) Olmedo.

Lucy attended the Old Independence School on Weld County Road 27 and public school in Brighton. She married Victor Rangel on Feb. 15, 1953, in Platteville.

Lucy spent most of her life in Fort Lupton, where she was a member of St. William Catholic Church. She worked during World War II as an explosive operator, manufacturing bombs. Primarily, Lucy was a homemaker and devoted mother who attended to her family and to those around her. She was meticulous in the details in cooking and keeping house for her family. Lucy helped operate the family business.

Even though she suffered from a brain tumor, Lucy kept an impeccable way about her.

She was a devoted Catholic and teacher of faith and humanity to her family.

Survivors include her husband, Victor Rangel; son Emil Rangel, both of Fort Lupton; sisters Liz (Joe) Sanchez of Commerce City, Irene (Bob) Morales of Denver, Sophie (Larry) Martel of Lakewood, Genieva Torres and Helen Olmedo, both of Denver; brother Joe (Grace) Olmedo of Denver.

She was preceded in death by brothers Jess, Manual and Lloyd; sisters Effie and Lupe.

Rosary service and Mass of Christian burial were Wednesday in St. William Catholic Church. Graveside service will be at 1 p.m. today at Fort Logan National Cemetery.

Tabor-Rice Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Erma Louise Morris

Erma Louise Morris, 103, of Brighton, died Feb. 6. She was born Oct. 19, 1910, to Martin and Ethel Jensen in Gothenburg, Neb. Survivors include daughters Nadine (Wes) Adle and Nola (Tim) Gibson; 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 10 great-greatgrandchildren; daughter-inlaw Sylvia Brady and sister Faye Kommdahl.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Lester Morris; son John Gilbert Brady; grandson Randy Brady and great-granddaughter Sara Brady; siblings Edith Findley and Russ Jensen.

Funeral service, 10:30 a.m. today at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, Thornton.

Burial at Crown Hill Cemetery, Wheat Ridge.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Alzheimer’s Association, 455 Sherman St., No. 500, Denver CO 80203. See more at: http://www.horancares.com/obituary/Erma-Louise-Morris/ Brighton-CO/1342132#sthash .4tkb QFJE.dpuf

Brian Thomas Birch

Brian Thomas Birch, 37, of Brighton, died Feb. 3. He is survived by his children, Andrew, Mariah and Emily.

He is a special uncle to Alex and Savannah. Brian also is survived by his parents, Jerry and Cathie Birch; sister and nephews Shawn, Derek and Devin and his grandparents Faye and Terry Dargan. Brian was preceded in death by his sister Lisa and grandparents Christine and George Birch.

He was a volunteer football coach for many years.

Memorial mass was Tuesday at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Northglenn. A memorial for the children has been established. In lieu of flowers,

Brian’s donations may be made to the Coach B Memorial Fund at any U.S. Bank.

Nancy Jean Midcap Butler

Nancy Jean Midcap Butler, 77, died Feb. 6 at home in Fort Lupton with her daughter Beverly and dear friend Kim Porter at her side. She had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2009.

Nancy Jean was born in Denver, the eldest daughter of Paul Lawrence Midcap and Leah Nancy Coburn Midcap.

She grew up on the family farm north of Fort Lupton.

Nancy eloped with her high school sweetheart, Leo William Butler II, in 1957.

Bill’s career as an educator took them to places such as California, New Mexico, and Durango, Aurora, and Eaton.

In 1975 she began working at Monfort’s as an ambulance driver and secretary. In 1982 she was transferred to Grand Island, Neb., as manager of Health Service. In 1988, she became Risk Management Corporate Health and Wellness manager.

She enjoyed researching genealogy, making jewelry, painting and reading.

Survivors include Aunt Clemmy Fitch of Longmont, little sister Diane (Jerry) Peck, of Michigan, and sister-in-law Janet Watts of Boulder. She also is survived by her children, Leo William Butler III of Green Bay, Wis., Beverly (David) Liddell of Lynnwood, Wash., Paul (Susan) Butler, Kathleen Livingston and Kim Porter of Fort Lupton; eight grandchildren and one greatgrandson. A service was held Tuesday at the Fort Lupton Methodist Church.

Memorial donations may be made to the University of Colorado Hospital Cancer Center – www.uch.thankyou 4caring.org.

Brighton Banner

8

February 13, 2014

Bulldogs capture double-OT victory

By Michelle Boyer for The Banner Brighton evened the season score against Prairie View in boys’ basketball on Friday, rallying past and outlasting the Thunderhawks, 74-69 in double overtime.

“The PVHS win was huge,” shooting guard/small forward Michael Willis said.

“We had already lost to them earlier in the season and that loss left the whole team with a bad taste in our mouths.

We all knew that we couldn’t let that happen again. We made an effort to come out to the game more calm and collected.”

Willis helped seal Friday’s rival-match victory with 22 points. Adam Tabor started the second game of a boysgirls doubleheader with a three-pointer; Toby Heidt added 17 points to the winning effort, of which 13 were made in the fourth quarter, and Tabor Jensen kept Brighton in the game with eight rebounds and was physically dominant throughout the game.

Willis said the team was able to start the game calm and it greatly helped the Bulldogs’ play.

“We got a little over amped-up: We let our emotions get the best of us during

the first matchup last month,” Coach Eli Haskell said. “This game we came out more composed. The kids were really playing better and had the experience. We fouled way too much the last game, having (more than) 20 turnovers, and this time the team only had five.”

Haskell is really proud of the team. “Everyone played well, and Nate Morales was one who played physically with nine rebounds, eight assists to take control of the game,” he said. “I felt we could compete better this

By Michelle Boyer For a second time this season, the Lady ’Dawgs basketball team defeated cross-town rival Prairie View, 47-20, on Friday.

Brielle Brady led the team in scoring with 17 points, along with Brittani Zink’s 10 points.

Not only was it a rival game, but also Senior Night.

“Emotions were really high because we’ve been playing together since sixth grade, and we became one big family,” Aili Kremer said. “Once second half came, we knew what we needed to do to win and we came out and did it.”

“It really surprised me during the beginning half of the game,” Coach Dan Doehler said. “It was 18-10 at the half and pretty ugly. I didn’t expect that. Once we were able to talk at the half, we came back and were able to hold them off.

“We rebounded like crazy people,” he said. “Kayla Michel made 10 rebounds alone.”

Doehler said the team just had to regroup at the half and make Prairie View beat them in a half-court game, but the Thunderhawks couldn’t do that in the end.

Brighton plays its biggest game of the season at 7 p.m.

Tuesday.

Kremer, a 5-foot-5 point guard, said her team has had a pretty amazing year.

“We all contribute to the game so much,” she said.

“It’s been a great experience playing with these girls and I’ll miss playing with them. ” Kremer has averaged 5.6 points a game.

Kremer said basketball is her passion because it’s proved to be a stress reliever, and because it’s something that didn’t just come easy to her.

Brighton senior Michael Willis.

Lady ’Dawgs sweep PV

time. It was a great win for the kids no doubt. Both teams shot so well, and it was one of those games where one of the teams had to lose, and I’m glad we were on top.”

Haskell said it was a nonconference game, but a big win for the team. The goal the team has had this season, despite its 3-11 start, was to win nine games. “If we were to get to nine wins, it could give us to playoff hopes,” he said. “We’re hoping the selection team would notice the quality wins, and those nine wins toward the end of our season.”

He said he’s proud of the team, which has won four of its past five games and started the week with a 7-13 overall mark and a 4-3 record in conference play. Haskell said the players all have been able to keep their eyes on the goals.

“The kids just didn’t throw in the towel,” Haskell said.

“We just got on a roll as a team.”

Brighton plays host to Northglenn tonight at 7 p.m. and will play its last game of the season Tuesday at Thornton at 7 p.m.

“We were also able to just play our game, and keep our composure, which allowed us to play our best game,” Willis

said of the Friday night win.

“When the game got tough we remained calm and this led to our win, despite the two overtimes. The game was even bigger than just beating our rivals on account that it kept our playoff hopes alive, and our season goal is kept alive.”

The 6-foot-6 senior said his height helps him as a guard by giving him a height advantage. “It allows me to get my shot off when I want, and as a small forward my height helps me get rebounds easier,” he said.

Willis has averaged 16.3 points a game with 1.2 assists and 4.6 rebounds.

“I’ve been playing basketball for as long as I can remember,” he said. “I don’t even remember why I started; now it’s just part of my life.

Basketball is my passion. I love to play the game and feel it has done so much for me. I wouldn’t be the same person I am today without it.”

Willis said this year has been a season of learning.

“With our new coach we had a lot to learn,” he said. “(Haskell) also was taking over a program that had never played man(-to-man) defense and lacked the basic basketball knowledge that had normally been taught

before or in the early years of high school basketball.

“The main goal of the season has been to ramp up and keep getting better by the time February came around. I believe we’ve met that goal and are playing our best basketball now. This goal goes along with the goal to make it to the playoffs and win a playoff game. Whether this goal will be met is yet to be seen, but our team is improving practice by practice and our goal is within reach.”

During his high school career, Willis was awarded first-team all-state academic team for all four years for not only basketball, but also football. He made second-team all-conference in football, Top 10 in academics, third-year letterman for basketball, firstyear letterman for football, all-event team and a most outstanding player at Colorado Invitational Camp 2013, and most outstanding player at Rocky Mountain Fall Showcase All Star Game 2013.

Willis is unsure of the college he’ll attend, but he does know he’d like to study premedicine and of all the schools he’s considering he would have the opportunity to play basketball.

S

Spratte, BHS head to state

By Michelle Boyer for The Banner It was no surprise for the Lady Bulldogs swim team to claim their 13th league title last weekend.

“No one had a chance this year,” Coach Carl Diehl said. “This may be the strongest team we’ve had. We’ve had six in the top seven places with best times.”

Diehl said there were no real surprises going into the East Metro Athletic Conference meet.

“I knew we were going to win, and the team just really swam well,” he said. “It’s just beyond belief the great swims and I couldn’t be happier.”

Some of the most amazing memories have been made for Brighton High School senior Hailey Spratte swimming for the Bulldogs for the past four years.

“It was awesome to be able to be a part of winning leagues four times,” she said.

“Swimming at state all four years has been a learning experience. The first year I swam at state, I didn’t make it (among the top swimmers). The second year that I swam at state, I made the top 16. Last year I made it to the top eight and medaled. This is my fourth year, and I’m hoping to make it back to Top 8 in both of my individual events (500 free and 100 back).”

Last weekend, Spratte placed first in her events and was named East Metro Athletic Conference Swimmer of the Year.

Spratte swims the 200 Medley Relay, in 1 minute, 55.55 seconds; 500 free, 5:10.62; 100 backstroke 1:00.03; 400 free relay 3:51:30.

At state, she will compete only in the 200 medley relay, the 500 free, the 100 back and the 400 free relay.

Brighton High School swimmer Hailey Spratte will make her fourth trip to the state swimming meet.

Michelle Boyer photo for The Banner

“We’ve had a lot of fast girls this year,” Spratte said. “Alecia Sprague, Isabel Pawlak, Destiny Chacon, Desiree Salais and Ashlin Chavez have all stepped up and really competed hard this year. We have a very strong team that we are taking to state.”

Spratte feels that the team heading to state is very strong. She knows they’ll all compete to the best of their abilities. “State is one of the most intense meets that I’ve ever been to,” she said. “I know with that level of pressure we’ll all be pushed to swim faster and harder than we ever have before.”

Brighton freshman Desiree Salais will compete individually in the 50 and 100 freestyle events at state. “I’d love to see her sneak into the Top 16 in the 50-free at state,” Diehl said.

Spratte already has signed her letter of intent to attend Colorado State University next year. She’ll continue her training through Jeffco Swim Club until college starts, and she‘ll continue her swimming with CSU.

Brigh Adam

M