Brighton Banner February 20, 2014

The Banner

45¢

Brighton news for Brighton readers

Volume 6, No. 8

February 20, 2014

8 pages

Report from the Capitol

By Lou Ellen Bromley for The Banner September floods have led to a flurry of proposed water legislation that could affect residents and towns involved in the floods last fall, Rep. Kevin Priola said while addressing the Brighton City council on Tuesday.

While updating the council on the early action in the Colorado General Assembly, he said the heavy snowpack in the mountains this winter brings with it the very real possibility of flooding again this spring. He said that on some ski trips he has taken this year he noticed that the snowpack above the Eisenhower tunnel is greater than it has been as far back as he remembers.

Priola also explained some of the bills being considered by the legislature that would have an impact on Brighton residents, and answerED questions by council members. One measure he is sponsoring is the Great Act, which would place highly effective teachers in schools that have “turnaround” status, based on Colorado Department of Education standards, where, he said, the teachers would have the greatest impact on students’ education.

He also discussed changes he is supporting for the Public Employees

All smiles for Sister Cities

Avery Hawk, 31/2, successfully bids on a child’s bed lamp during the Brighton Sister Cities Dinner/ Auction on Saturday at the Brighton Recreation Center. The nearly $9,000 raised Saturday will help pay for some local sutdents to attend the Sister Cities 20th anniversary celebration late this spring in Ziebice, Poland. At right, Isabel Pawlak, Sydney McKinny and Kendal Smith are three of the Sister City exchange students this year.

Lou Bromley photos fior The Banner

See City Council, Page 2

Parents, students discuss middle-school experience

By Evelyn Wiant for The Banner Middle school was the topic of a School District 27J Board of Education linkage meeting with parents and students of district middle schools.

Before parents and students answered questions from the board about the middle school experience, how middle school works and whether they are happy with the middle school experience, each student answered the same questionnaire in writing. Board members split into four groups to pose the following

questions to the participants: FOR STUDENTS: What is the most difficult part of being a middle school student?

“The dress code is unfair and unclear for the students. Sometimes (a student) gets in trouble for tight jeans on this day but not on that day, or one student gets in trouble but another student doesn’t. It needs to be clear and not seem discriminatory, like they’re choosing to single students out. It’s not just the dress code, either; lots of things are unclear and inconsistent for students. The medication

policy: The medicine is supposed to be locked up, but on the first day, my daughter’s nurse gave her inhaler back to carry in her backpack. And then someone stole her inhaler from her gym locker. It’s inconsistent and that’s hard on parents and students.”

– Laurie Brinegar, Overland Trail Middle School (* parent speaking on behalf of her student, who could not attend the meeting) What do you like the most about being a middle school student?

“Changing classes and having a locker. My son likes having a locker:

Inside The Banner this week Small ‘Monuments’

Film critic Michael Miller says Monuments Men is a great story, and it could have been told much better.

– Page 5

Who’s calling?

The beauty of Lewis Ortiz’s job these days is he’s

selling Avon products, and he’s thrilled about it.

– Page 6

Also:

Letter to editor ..................... 2 Calendar ................................. 4 Bravo ...................................... 5 Obituaries ............................. 7 Sports ..................................... 8

Don’t miss: Fine Arts at 4 on Sunday – See story, Page 5

Potestio, BHS join tornament field.

– Page 8

It’s like a transition into growing up.

And he gets lots of different experiences now that he goes to different teachers for each subject instead of one teacher for everything.” – Olivia Wright, Overland Trail Middle School (* parent speaking on behalf of her student, who could not attend the meeting) “The students universally said that sports and activities are the things that drive them to do well in classes.

They’ll work at getting successful in class because they get to do those See Middle School, Page 3

2

The Banner

Brighton Banner

February 20, 2014

Brighton Banner (USPS 290), February 20, 2014, Volume 6, No. 8, published weekly by Banner Press, 315 Strong St., Brighton, CO 80601 Subscription price $27 a year.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Brighton, CO Postmaster: Please send address changes (Form 3579) to Brighton Banner, P.O. Box 1006, Brighton, CO 80601. © 2014 Banner Press Publisher, ad sales representative .... Mark Humbert News inquiries, call 303-654-1155 or e-mail ask@brightonbanner.com.

Advertising inquries: 720-937-6064

Letters to The Banner Pennock Center thanks community for its support Dear editor: Pennock Center for Counseling appreciates the community support and involvement seen recently by the number of individuals and business that helped sponsor our recent fundraiser.

We want to thank this years' sponsors of our 2014 Healing Hearts Benefit. These businesses and individuals helped the center host a successful event on February 7th.

Healing Hearts helps the center raise money to support our low-cost mental health services for some of the most vulnerable in our community.

Thank you especially to

Cummins Rocky Mountain and United Power, our Platinum Heart Sponsors. We are grateful to our Golden Heart Sponsors: Brighton Animal Clinic, Community Reach Center, Jim VincentFarmers Insurance and Joanna Sakata. We also thank Blake C. Bischoff Insurance, Brighton Auto Body, Brighton Eye Associates, Gordon & D’Ann Bacon, Smile 4 Life Dental and Valley Bank & Trust, our Silver Heart Sponsors.

Jody Pierce, Director, Pennock Center for Counseling

City employees charity recognized City Council, from Page 1

Retirement Association program for state employees, and how to make it more cost effective by eliminating “spiking,” involving extremely higher rates of pay for state employees in their latter years. He said the reform could be done by using a first year plus a five-year average salary to base retirement benefits on. It currently is based on the three highest-paid years an employee worked.

Council member Rex Bell brought up concerns about the future of water and its use in Colorado. Priola said the legislature’s three main concerns should be education, water storage for the future and transportation.

In other council business: • Police Chief Clint Blackhurst presented certificates of recognition to members of Brighton’s Employees Charity organization. He said 110 Brighton employees donate money from their salaries to support local programs for the needs of children, such as school supplies, coats and gloves, and gift cards for family's and seniors at Christmas. Several local businesses also received recognition for their help.

Blackhurst said this year that all shopping for the charity’s holiday gifts was done at local businesses, supporting local economy by spending $22,000 in the community.

• The council approved amendments to the Brighton Municipal Code expanding the number of alternate members of the Planning Commission to two. It also elininated term limits for “professional-status” members of the Brighton Historic Preservation Commission.

Community Development Director Holly Prather said both changes reflected the difficulty in a city the size of Brighton to find qualified volunteers to serve on various boards and commissions, particularly those required by the state to qualify Brighton’s commission as a certified local government.

• The council authorized Parks and Recreation Director Gary Wardle to apply for a grant from Great Outdoors Colorado for up to $950,000 for the completion of a segment of the Colorado Front Range Trail (a hard-surface bike/hike trail) from E470 to Brighton. The segment will complete the trail along the Platte River into Brighton from Denver.

Michele Lopez, a Colorado State University site coordinator, talks to students about their post-high-school educational options during the career forum last week at the Robert M. Shopneck Boys & Girls Club.

Elena Guerrero Townsend photo for The Banner

District 27J students set sights on future

By Elena Townsend About 400 high school students contemplated their future last week, asking “What do I want to do with my life?” Many found an answer to that question at Brighton’s yearly career forum.

“This career forum is our brainchild,” said Teri Sanchez, coordinator for Small Business Development.

Sanchez started the program in 2003. This year she had help from Robert Smith, director of Brighton Economic Development Corp., and Dori Benavides, director of the Front Range Community College Brighton Center.

This year’s forum began as a business-to-education summit because all three often heard these questions: “How are your schools?” “Are we going to have a work force ready to meet our community’s needs? What do we need kids to know to prepare for the future?”

“We want our youth to remain in Brighton,” Sanchez said. “We work as a community to direct our students toward obtaining workforceready skills. We provide them with options. Our answer to those questions is yes, we’re getting our next-generation workforce ready.”

Resource partners from many companies and organizations, such as Brighton Police and Fire departments, United Power, Valley Bank, Adams County Work Force Business Center, Kaiser Permanente, Sam’s Club, and E-470, were present to answer questions.

Displayed in the gym

where all the companies gathered was a career cluster chart. The chart showed each industry and the skills needed in that particular industry.

The chart also displayed how skills from one job might overlap into other clusters.

Students were encouraged to study the chart and ask representatives questions about it.

“In one room is another component teaching students about career planning,” Sanchez said during the event. Representatives from six different colleges and universities – Aims Community College, Community College of Denver, Front Range Community College, Metro State College, Colorado State University, and the University of Northern Colorado – participated in the forum.

At the forum, students spoke with resource partners and were educated on how to pursue a career. They also received information about local scholarships for college.

Students might go online and look for big scholarships, unaware that there are local scholarships available. At the forum, students received a list of local scholarships. They can then follow up with their school counselors.

Representatives discuss the differences between two- and four-year colleges and differentiate between proprietary and state-funded schools.

Students learn the cost of college.

They and their parents can use this information to decide on the best option for them: community college, a university, or technical school.

“The forum has a few

components – basically, education, work, and technical schools,” Benavides said. “We are using a software program called Naviance. With this program, students can connect learning to what life is about after high school.”

Students are encouraged to use Naviance all through their high school years, to hone in on their career interests.

“And with knowledge, instead of planning a career in teaching, we say plan your career in education,” Benavides said. “With that in mind they can open the door to 10 different employment opportunities instead of just one.”

Students are encouraged to find employment that is a good fit for them. It is essential to their well-being to match their personalities to where they are going to spend most of their day.

“I go to work every day doing what I love,” Benavides said, “and that is what I want these kids to find: A job they love doing.

“We try to broaden their horizons and to look at all the components in their field of choice. That will give them a lot more employment opportunities.”

“And that’s what this forum is about,” Sanchez said. “We want to give them as many options as possible.

And we continually strategize in order to further develop the program. This forum goes back to what Hillary Clinton said – ‘It takes a village to raise a child.’ So we created the village to help them get the skills that they need.”

February 20, 2014

Brighton Banner

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Exchange program a family affair

By Michelle Boyer for The Banner Brighton High School exchange student Jonas Lach is nearly as close to his American family as he is to his own family in Germany. He is probably even as close to his host family, the Randalls, as was his mother to her American host family, the Leffners.

Lach said it’s pretty much a family tradition for all of his own family back home to be involved in the student exchange program. His mother, Hilke, participated in a similar foreign-exchange program for adults when she traveled to Phoenix for a year. She held a job similar to a nanny for the two younger children, Nick and Andrea, in the Leffner family.

Lach’s older sister, Leonie, was an exchange student in California four years ago when she was 15.

“She just decided to be an exchange student because she saw all her friends doing it before,” he said. “Her friends would come back and were so happy about their experiences the past year. She also talked to our mom about her personal experiences and year.”

Lach’s girlfriend from Germany (Lousia) also is doing her foreignexchange program this year – in Massachusetts.

“We both decided this was the best year for us to both participate in the Taste Program, which is the exchange program in Germany,” he said. “In America, the exchange program is called Culture Homestay International. I mostly decided to do the program because I saw how much fun my sister was having contacting her host family. She has enjoyed Skyping with them, too. My girlfriend and I just wanted the overall experience.”

Jonas Lach played tennis this year in Brighton, above. Lach with the Randalls, his host family, at right.

Lach said the best experience he’s had this year is the luck he’s had with his host family. “You never get to pick your family that you’ll be with the year you’re here,” he said. “I just lucked out and couldn’t have asked for anything more.”

He said it’s been wonderful having two host brothers, since he’s never had a brother before. He said he has bonded well with Ben and Zach Randall.

“I’m more open with my host family and more who I am with them,” he said. “I can just be myself, and it is just very special. They are wonderful.”

During Christmas break, Lach was

fortunate to travel to Phoenix to visit with the Leffner family. “We all just had a second Christmas,” he said. “It was nice and warm there, especially in the winter. We went fishing and shopped a lot. Of course, we also ate a lot.”

Lach has been to visit the Leffners’ before, but this time it was easier since he was already in the U.S. and since Colorado is pretty close to Arizona.

“I just visit the Leffners because we are very good friends and I feel like they are my stepfamily,” he said.

There’s still one sibling who’s yet to experience the foreign exchange student program, Lach said. His younger sister, Finja,10, is scared to even think about traveling abroad, he said. “Eventually, she’ll probably have the experience. She’s just too young right now to know.”

Lach is a 16-year-old exchange student. He said he’s really enjoyed a lot of his high school experiences this year.

“I loved the football game against

Prairie View, especially since they both don’t really like each other and it’s a big game,” he said. “I also went to the dance. I’m looking forward to prom this year, too.”

He enjoyed playing tennis this past fall with his host brother, Ben, and will play lacrosse this spring at Prairie View High School, since Brighton doesn’t have its own team.

“This will be my first time playing lacrosse,” he said. “It looks fun. I play soccer and tennis in Germany. I run a lot in soccer and I’m fast. Tennis (includes) the racquet, which is similar to the stick with a net in lacrosse.”

Lach was excited for the Super Bowl this year, because he’d never been around so much hype. “I like the Broncos and it’s a big thing since it’s been 16 years since they’d been to the Super Bowl,” he said.

After this year, Lach is pretty sure his relationship with continue with his host family. He said he’ll visit the Randalls as often as he’s able. He said the Randalls also plan to visit Germany sometime.

QUESTIONS FOR THE PARENTS What do you wish you had known about middle school before your child started middle school?

“There was a lot of hand-holding in elementary. The teachers are trying to teach them basic skills, so there’s a lot of helping. And if you don’t learn those executive-function skills and you get to junior high, then you’re just the bad kid.” – Laurie Brinegar, Overland Trail Middle School parent

come to a stop. ” – Albert Bond, Prairie View Middle School

Students feel classes fall short of their needs Middle school, from Page 1

things.” – Dick Hodge, a Boys and Girls Club founder and volunteer.

Do you feel your classes are meeting your academic needs? Why or why not?

“No, I don’t. There are times when it does, but there are so many distractions. It’s harder for students who need more of a push academically, and maybe need a little more attention from the teacher, but there are kids who are just causing problems and making the teacher not like her job. Then sometimes there are times when the advanced kids get done with their work and want to move on, then have to just wait. I feel we need to expand more, so kids can learn skills for specific jobs. And things are reviewed too much, where we spend all this time relearning stuff that we learned last year or several grades before.” – Chris Disher, Overland Trail Middle School student “Not really, I don’t think my classes challenge me as much as they could.

You’re just sticking kids in a classroom and teaching them all the same thing. I feel that I’m capable of much more but I’m not getting that because of the way that class is run. There

need to be advanced classes in every subject. Also, test scores are not the best way to put kids in advanced classes; it needs to be more about their work determination and their interest. Test scores are ruining our schools.” – Olivia Wright, Overland Trail Middle School *

If you were the principal of your school, what is one class, activity or rule that you would add or change?

“I would make elective classes the same across all the schools. Because there’s this class at another school where you can take gym all year, and I would rather take that than take art.

Or do an after-school math club, which would help me more later in life. I also think the eligibility for sports are too easy. Right now you don’t have to sit out until you have an F. I think it should be a C-minus or lower.” – Mitchell Bond, Prairie View Middle School student “In seventh grade we had a full year of STEM-like class. We would switch teachers each quarter and have different projects, like building a bridge. Anyone at my school can take it, I think there should be more of that. ” – Mikey Landwehr, Vikan Middle School student

If you could add a class, activity or rule, what would it be?

“I think our middle schools lack a lot of arts. Not art class, there’s plenty of visual art going on, but I’m talking about orchestra and choir, band, foreign language, theater. Non-visual arts.” – Keri Bond, Prairie View Middle School parent “There seem to be some issues with discipline. At my daughter’s school there were some kids constantly disrupting the class, and it seemed like it was taken from the parents all the way up to the principal, but this disruption continued to go on. I would like to see teachers and administrators have the tools to make that behavior stop. It seems if that kind of thing is documented enough that it should

Is there anything else you think the Board of Education members and the superintendent should know about your child’s middle-school experience?

“When Thomas was in the fifth grade, I went to visit Vikan and got some information. I met Debbie, the counselor, and she gave me all her information. They just told me everything I needed to know. My children are grown, and I’m being a mom all over again. This is new to me again.

They were very helpful and I couldn’t be more thankful. He would have been lost in a bigger school. I’m very pleased with Vikan.” – Sherry Franks, Vikan Middle School grandmother “One thing that I’m glad they changed this year was giving them their schedules before the first day of school. I know that coming in as a sixth-grader, my daughter was very anxious about that, just from not knowing what to expect. I like that the sixth-graders don’t really interact with the other grades much, they all operate in their pods. They showed it to us at Check It Out Night.”

– Brenda Castro, Prairie View Middle School parent.

Brighton Banner

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Today

The week ahead

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.

Final weekend for ‘Shrek’

The Duloc dancers give Lord Farquaad a lift in a scene from Shrek, the Musical. The Prairie Playhouse production begins its final weekend of a three-week run at 7 p.m. today at the Armory, 300 Strong St. Additional shows are at 7 p.m. Friday and 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday. See the calendar listings for ticket prices.

Banner Press photo

Word on the street Question: Have you been watching the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia? And what is your favorite winter sport? (at Eagle View Adult Center) – By Elena Guerrero Townsend

“Yes, I’ve been watching them. I love the ice skating and snowboarding games.”

– Jan Bryan

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

“Yes, I’ve watched some of it. I like the slalom. I wish I knew how to curl.”

– Jim Smith

Friday

Story Time at the Firehouse, Fire Station 55, 15959 Havana, 10:30 a.m.; story time and station tour, snack, for children 3-5 with caretaker; free, RSVP required to Dawn, 303-659-4101

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

Beginner Beekeeping Class presented

by Brighton Beekeeping Club, Agfinity / Ace Hardware at 55 W. Bromley Lane, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; $20 for the all-day class includes a Subway lunch, RSVP, 720685-1950

“Yes, I’ve watched a lot of it. I love the couples ice skating, snowboarding, and the ski competitions. I wish I could ice skate.”

– Carol Stockley

Family Fun in The Studio, Anythink Brighton, 10-11:30 a.m.; Come to The Studio to learn how technology can be family friendly. Experiment with Lego WeDo and snap circuits together to learn about computer programming.

RSVP online anythinklibraries.org

“I love all the sports.

However, my heart goes out to all those men and women competing in Sochi. They’ve worked diligently to get to the Olympics, and some of the competition facilities are not up to par.”

– Phyllis Negrete

Cancer Support Group, Platte Valley Medical Center, 11 a.m.-noon; for cancer patients and their families, hosted in the Oncology Clinic, suite 270, refreshments, RSVP 303-498-2200 Shrek, the Musical, Prairie Playhouse production in the Armory, 3 p.m. and 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

Today is Tennis Day,

February 20, 2014

p.m.

Events at the Armory Shrek The Musical, Prairie Playhouse production, 7 p.m. today, Friday and Saturday, 3 p.m. on Saturday. $10 online, $15 at the door, $7 online $8 at the door for children 12 and under.

Disney’s Peter Pan Jr., Platte Valley Players presentation, March 7-8, 7 p.m. Based on the Disney film and J.M. Barrie's enchanting play, Disney's Peter Pan JR. is a modern version of the timeless tale about a boy who wouldn't grow up with no flying required. For more information, visit plattevalleyplayers.org Colorado Chamber Players in free concert, 4 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 510 S. 27th Ave. Fine Arts at Four presentation.

Monday

Toddler Tales, Anythink Brighton, 9:3010:15 a.m.; stories, songs and finger for kids 2-3, and some social time for caregivers while the children play. RSVP online anythinklibraries.org

Basic Microsoft Word 2010, Anythink Brighton, 10-11:30 a.m.; Learn basics of Microsoft Word 2010 to create a resume or write a letter. Create new documents, make changes and how to make additional enhancements. Bring a flash drive or an email address and we’ll save the changes that you’ve made.

Music and Movement, Anythink Brighton, 10:30-11 a.m.; Sing, dance, and learn how to play some basic instruments. For kids ages 2-6. RSVP online anythinklibraries.org Readers Theatre Performance, Eagle View Adult Center, 11 a.m.; free

Low Vision Group, Eagle View Adult Center, 1-2 p.m., for seniors 55-plus with visual impairments, support, information, drop in, free

Tuesday

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

The Studio: Pretty Placemats, Anythink Brighton, 6:30-8 p.m.; Using decorator fabric, sew or weave a striking placemat or table runner to beautify your home. For adults. Supplies provided.

RSVP online anythinklibraries.org

Wednesday

Adams County Quilters, Fairgrounds Parks Meeting Rooms, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

AlloSource Tour, Eagle View Adult Center trip, 8:30 a.m.; visit one of the largest nonprofit providers of bone and soft tissue for use in grafts and medical treatments; slide show and one-hour walking tour; lunch at The Creek Seafood Grill, $4 plus meal ($11+), deadline was Feb. 18

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

The Studio: Crochet Necklace, Anythink Brighton,10-11:30 a.m.; Learn a simple crochet stitch and create an elegant necklace. For adults. Supplies provided. RSVP online anythinklibraries.org 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

Cribbage Tournament, Eagle View Adult Center, 12:30 p.m.; prizes, refreshments; $4 The Studio: Light Painting, Anythink Brighton, 2:30-4 p.m.; Create cool paintings with flashlights and cameras. For grades 6-12.

After-School Get Together: Pop-Up Cards, Anythink Brighton, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Create pop-up cards for any occasion. They can be as simple or as intricate as you like. For students in grades K-5.

Adams County Open Space Meeting, Fairgrounds Parks Meeting Rooms, 5-9 p.m.

Thursday

African Stories, Eagle View Adult Center, 10:45-11:15 a.m.; Storyteller Lois Burrell will share some African tales; stay for a special African-American Heritage meal provided by Volunteers of Americas; call Audri 303-655-2271 for lunch reservations - deadline Feb. 25

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 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

Social Networking: Facebook, Anythink Brighton, 7-8 p.m.; Need help with using Facebook? Create an account and see all of the different features this social site has to offer. Upload pictures, browse and keep current with family and friends. We will focus on security and how to best introduce yourself to social networking. Registration suggested anythinklibraries.org

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

Eagle View lunch menus

Monday, Feb. 24: Chicken Cacciatore, Whipped Potatoes, Seasoned Brussels Sprouts, Breadstick with Marinara, Fresh Pear, Fat Free Milk Tuesday: Hash Brown Casserole, California Vegetable Blend Tossed Green Salad with Lite Ranch Dressing, Biscuit with Margarine, Banana, fatfree milk Wednesday: Sweet and Sour Pork, Lo Mein Noodles, Orange Spiced Carrots, Wheat Bread with Margarine, Mandarin Oranges, Fortune Cookie, fat-free milk Thursday: African American Heritage Day, Oven Fried Chicken, Candied Sweet Potatoes, Seasoned Greens, Pickled Beets, Cornbread with Margarine, Peach Cobbler, fatfree milk Friday: Potluck, serving at 11:30. Bring dish to feed 10 people and table service.

Brighton Banner

February 20, 2014

5

True war story OK, but it’s not monumental

A group of men finds they are in a race against time to avoid the destruction of 1,000 years of culture without thinking they would be risking their own lives to protect and defend some of mankind's greatest achievements.

That is exactly what the Monuments Men do.

As is typical with a truestory film, the story line is compelling. In this case it’s the greatest treasure hunt in history. An unlikely group of museum directors, curators and art historians are put together near the end of World War II to find most of Europe’s art masterpieces stolen by Nazis and return them to rightful owners, if possible. Along the way, they have battles with entities other than Nazis, such as acceptance from fellow Americans, disbelieving civilian partisans with vital knowledge, and a Russian brigade with a similar mission and much better financed and equipped than the Americans are.

The assignment is dangerous and takes them behind enemy lines. One art piece in particular becomes the centerpiece for the film and the focus of the team because it cost one of its members his life. The German army is under orders to destroy everything as the Germans retreat to Germany and the Reich falls. That makes scenes such as the one with Nazi flamethrowers somewhat difficult to watch.

This film is serviceable and competent, but there are some snags. It appears to have been made with an obvious conventional formula and onedimensional character types.

There are too many scenes with speeches underlining the importance of art. The director fills it with too many filler shots, the pace slacks with regularity, and consequently its execution suffers.

Notwithstanding, the production values remain strong and its period details are just fine.

It also could have been edited a little better. The film is choppy and episodic as it jumps from one encounter to the next. The result: Some audience members may find it a trifle difficult to follow.

While all the principal actors add depth to their characters and charm to the movie, we have seen them all in better roles and better movies.

Usually a movie based on the true story is a pretty darn good movie. Monuments Men

Free chamber music Sunday

Movies By Michael Miller

Abby Wright and Kathy Farina review new movies regularly for The Banner.

Monuments Men

At AMC Theaters in Brighton Pavilions Writers: George Clooney, Grant Heslov (based on book by Robert Edsel and Bret Witter) Director: George Clooney Starring: George Clooney, Matt Damon, and Bill Murray Genre: Action, biography, drama Rating: PG-13 for some images of war violence and historical smoking Run time: 1 hour, 58 minutes.

Michael’s grade: 3 of 5

seems to be an exception to that rule.

Don’t misunderstand: Monuments Men is informative and entertaining, but it never rises to a level of exciting, memorable, or being great; and it could have been.

The remarkable story of this valiant small group of men deserved a better film treatment.

Joining the force

New Brighton Police Officers Steve Woodruff and Tommy Quayle were sworn in officially on Feb. 7 at the Brighton Police Department headquarters. Quayle is the son of Officer Tracy Quayle.

Ken Bromley photo for The Banner

The Colorado Chamber Players will perform Sunday during the free Fine Arts at Four concert at 4 p.m. in First Presbyterian Church, 510 S. 27th Ave. The Players will be joined by guest artists Catherine Beeson and Thomas Heinrich.

A viola quintet by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and a short string sextet will precede the concert highlight: the Schubert C-major cello quintet.

Schubert’s final work for chamber ensemble was composed just two months before his death, in the summer of 1828.

Fine Arts at Four will present the free concert with the help of Valley Bank and SCFD. The final event of the 2013-1014 concert season is the April 27 performance by the Ragtime Orchestra from Morgan Community College at First Presbyterian Church.

Wilma Rose seeks county office

Former Brighton City Councilwoman Wilma Rose has announced she is a candidate for Adams County Commissioner in the new District 5.

Rose has lived, worked and raised her family in Brighton and Adams County for the past 37 years. During that time she worked 17 years for the Brighton 27J School District serving children with special needs as an Inclusion Specialist. After retiring from the school district she worked as an organizer for Colorado WINS.

Rose also served for eight years as a city councilwoman, who left because of term limits in January 2014. During her tenure on City Council, she was actively involved in a wide variety of public-policy issues, which included water conservation, zoning, transportation, parks and opens space and arts and culture appreciation, according to her news release.

As an Adams County Commissioner, Rose said she will focus on county transportation issues, promoting sustainable small and large

businesses, procurement of jobs and job training and continue to improve the image of Adams County with her positive, open and thoughtful leadership skills.

Rose encourages all Adams County citizens to become involved in their caucus on March 4 in their communities and become a delegate at their County Assembly and support Wilma Rose for County Commissioner.

Contact Wilma Rose with any questions at 303-659-3639 or wilma.k.rose@gmail.com.

Brighton Banner

6

February 20, 2014

Avon the latest calling for businessman

By Elena Guerrero Townsend for The Banner Avon products have been around since 1886, and male independent representatives aren’t a novel idea. Men joined forces with women to sell top-of-the-line beauty products some time ago.

So here comes Brighton’s Avon guy, Lewis Ortiz.

Ortiz joined the Brighton Chamber of Commerce in 2012 when he sold Lindt Chocolates. Currently he is an ambassador for the Chamber, which means he’s an extension of the Chamber. He also works at Platte Valley Medical Center as an endoscopy technician.

“My mom bought Avon when I was a young boy,” he said. “She adored their products. Making the decision to be 'The Avon Guy' wasn’t hard for me.

“I want to expand my business in Brighton and form a team in the area, as well,” he said. “As a member of the Chamber they post my hot deal on their website. They also include me in their weekly newsletter. There are a lot of perks belonging to

Avon salesman Lewis Ortiz holds up two of Avon’s catalogs – the general catalog, at right and the book for high-end cosmetics, Mark., at left.

Elena Townsend photo for The Banner

Brighton’s Chamber of Commerce. With their help I can expand my business.”

After Ortiz joined Avon, he learned about Avon’s Foundation for Women. Part of its philanthropy program funds breast cancer research.

The foundation sponsors walks all over United States to raise breast cancer awareness.

“I appreciate Avon’s breast cancer crusade,” he said.

“Right now the crusade to eradicate the disease is close to my heart. My friend recently had a double mastectomy.”

Ortiz is proud to tell customers who are concerned about animal testing that Avon products put an end to that in June 1989.

Mother’s Day is just

around the corner and Avon’s spa products on that day are big hits. “My biggest dailyselling items are extensive,” he said. “A few are ANEW skin-care products and, of course, Skin So Soft is an Avon staple. Avon’s SSS Original Bath Oil is a natural repellant against mosquitoes that now comes in a convenient pump bottle.

Most people are unaware of Avon's beauty and fashionboutique-line division, called Mark. It has all the runwayinspired looks. This line has been around for 10 years.

Mark appeals to people who like the brands Lancome, Sephora, or MAC. “My (female) customers trust my opinion about how the product looks on them.

They know I will give them an honest answer rather than trying to get a sale. My customers love our jewelry, kids’ line, all of our products called Naturals.”

Ortiz listens to his customers' feedback about the products and passes that information on to his other customers. He attributes that strategy to his sales of mas-

cara taking off.

“A method I use to bridge the gap between me not knowing firsthand about our women’s products, because, of course, I don’t use makeup,” he said. “I send my customers a YouTube video. The video shows them how to apply one of our hottest products, Mega Effects mascara.

It’s a revolutionary way to apply mascara.”

Avon guarantees if you are not 100 percent satisfied you can either exchange the product or get a full refund.

“I will be your personal shopper – your Avon guy,” Ortiz said. “Avon is a great company with an array of products, color cosmetics, skin care, fragrance, fashion and personal care.”

Customers can go to www.youtube.com/user/AvonPro ductsInc to watch a video and learn tips on how to apply Avon’s cosmetics or learn about the latest lines.

To place an order, call Ortiz at 720-209-3313 or email him at Lewisinreunion@comcast .net. To shop at home, go to www.youravon.com/lewisortiz.

At Your Service

Chamber honors top teacher for January

For Service Guide

The Banner rates, call

Evelyn Wiant photo for The Banner

McLean elected to lead E-470 Board

303-654-1155

Banner Classifieds MANY HOUSES AND APARTMENTS FOR RENT Call Lambert Realty 303-659-1216

Karah Reygers, membership services manager at the Brighton Chamber of Commerce, presents Scott Peterson, a fourth-grade teacher at North Elementary, with a bag of goodies. Peterson was named the Chamber's Teacher of the Month for January. Peterson’s colleague, Carrie DeWaters, said of Peterson; “Scott is an educator who works to close the achievement gap.

His students have struggled in school, and he works diligently to help them achieve grade-level academics and then some.”

FREE HELP-WANTED/ POSITIONS-WANTED ADS in The Brighton Banner.

Call 303-654-1155 for more information

Brighton Mayor Dick McLean has been elected chairman of the E-470 Public Highway Authority board of directors, composed of representatives from each of its eight member municipal and county jurisdictions McLean previously was vice chairman, a position now

held by Thornton Mayor Heidi Williams, according to a news release from the E-470 Board. Adams County Commissioner Chaz Tedesco was elected secretary/treasurer. The five other board members are Arapahoe County Commissioner Bill Holen, Aurora Mayor Steve Hogan,

Commerce City Councilman Jim Benson, Douglas County Commissioner Roger Partridge and Parker Councilman Josh Martin.

Each of the eight jurisdictions selects one of its elected officials as its own appointee to serve on the board of directors.

Brighton Banner

February 20, 2014

7

Obituaries/funeral notices Zoila Johnston

Zoila Johnston, 47, of Brighton, died Feb. 15. She was born in Mexico to George Johnston and Bernabe Sanchez and attended school in Anthony, N.M. She married Bernardo M. Cruz in March 2013.

Zoila lived in the BrightonFort Lupton area for most of her life and worked several jobs to help support her family.

Survivors include her husband, Bernardo Maltos Cruz, of Brighton; children Elijio Johnston, Jacob Reynoso of Brighton, Sabina Reynoso of Broomfield and Elizabeth Reynoso of Westminster; three brothers; three sisters and seven grandchildren.

Vigil service, 7 p.m. today with visitation beginning at 5 p.m. Funeral service will follow on Friday at 11 a.m. All services will be held at TaborRice Funeral Home.

Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. Tabor-Rice Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

Ruben A. Lucio Jr.

Ruben A. Lucio Jr., 52, of Fort Lupton, died Feb. 15 in Greeley. He was born in San Angelo, Texas, to Ruben A. Sr. and Eloisa S. (Jaso) Lucio. He attended Brighton High School. Ruben married Nancy R. Lomeli on July 24, 2001.

Ruben was a longtime resident of Brighton, moving from San Angelo after spending a short time in Denver.

He worked for Halmark and Steel Work for many years and various other jobs.

Survivors include his wife, Nancy; parents Ruben Sr. and Eloisa of San Angelo; son Michael (Erin) Pennetta of Springfield, Mo.; daughters Yvette Pennetta and Chantel Pennetta of Seattle; stepdaughter Shila (Mitchell) Crespin of Northglenn; brothers Leroy J. (Judy) of Thornton, Oscar J. (Julie) and Andrew M. (Valencia) both of Fort Lupton; sisters Linda L. (John) Rubio of Las Vegas, Lydia A. Scothorn of Northglenn, and Patricia C. (Jesus) Villalobos of Brighton.

Visitation 5-8 p.m., Friday at Tabor-Rice Funeral Home.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Ruben Memorial Fund at Fundly.com.

Tabor-Rice Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

Jim Woodard

Jim Woodard, 84, formerly of Keenesburg, died In Windsor on Feb. 15. He was born in Roy, N.M., to Joseph and Emma Woodward, the 13th of 13 children.

He married Marjorie in 1954, moved to Colorado and eventually settled in Keenesburg, where they

raised eight children. Jim retired from Leprino Foods in 1989 after which he operated a lunch wagon, did carpentry work and enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his family.

Survivors include his children Darlin, Linda, Terry, David, Danny, Cindy, Jim and Tammy; 35 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, seven fourth-generation grandchildren and three fifth-generation grandchildren. Services to be announced at a later date. Tabor-Rice Funeral Home is handling the arrangements.

David and Michael (Shelley) Hilton; first wife Virginia and their son Dane (Phyllis) Rutherford; his brother Clark (Louise) Rutherford and many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Celebration of life, 1-3 p.m., Friday, at Bella Sera Event Center in Brighton.

Contributions, in lieu of flowers, can be sent to: Wounded Warrior Project https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/default.aspx?tsid=72 &campaignSource=WEBSITE&source=ONLINE Tabor-Rice Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

DuVerne Rutherford Manuel J. Romero

While resting at home with his wife, Karen, and son Dane, DuVerne A. Rutherford, 81, died Feb. 14.

Cause of death was cancer and complications. He was born in Henderson to DuVerne Eugene and Amelia Elizabeth (Wagner) Rutherford. He was known as Lucky, Vern, Dad, Grampa or any number of mispronunciations of DuVerne, most simply called him Dee. Karen (Killius) and Dee celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary in January.

He graduated from Brighton High School in 1950 and married Virginia Ann (Stathem) in 1952. While in the Air Force in Lake Charles, La., their son Dane was born in July 1954. As a staff sergeant, Dee flew third seat in Strategic Air Command B-47 bomber missions. After a few years in Los Angeles working for Pacific Telephone, the family returned to Brighton.

A long career at IBM, spanning more than 27 years, followed after graduating from a Denver electronics institute.

As a civil engineer and technical specialist, Dee received numerous recognitions and awards.

In 1979, he married Karen and they, along with Karen’s sons David and Michael, moved to Green Mountain. In 2003 they moved back to Brighton.

He loved racecars, building and driving dragsters for more than 20 years with his racing friends and family. His ‘The Block Shop’ machineshop business, co-owned with Tony Heesacker, Joe Blackburn and John Johnson, helped countless racers to be successful. As a younger man, played tennis. Dee also hunted and fished, went snow skiing, and water skiing. Dee always took time to assist neighbors and friends and family to fix whatever was broken, or create some tool or part or gizmo that made life easier.

DuVerne is survived by his wife, Karen, and her sons

Manuel J. Romero, 84, of Brighton, died Feb. 13 at his home. He was born in Johnstown to Richard and Simonita (Maestas) Romero.

Manuel attended schools in Brighton. He married Sadie Lopez in Fort Lupton.

Manuel lived in Brighton most of his life. He was a truck driver for Ringsby Truck Line for many years, retiring in the early 1980s.

Mr. Romero was a member of St. Augustine Catholic Church; the Brighton Eagles Lodge 2063; and the Teamsters Union Local 17.

Survivors include his sons LeRoy M. (Tina) of Denver, and Larry T. of Brighton; daughter Dorothy K. (Michael) Romero of Brighton; brothers Cundo of Northglenn, Julio of Westminster, and Tony of Thornton; sisters Clara Bird of Aurora, Jean Thompson of Columbus, Ohio, and Susie Chavez of Denver; four grandchildren, 10 greatgrandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

Services were earlier this week. Memorial contributions can be made to Suncrest Hospice, 777 E. Speer Boulevard, Denver, CO 80203. Tabor-Rice Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Willie Nell Bristol

Willie “Teddie” Nell Bristol, 97, died Feb. 13 in Grand Junction. She was born in Gorman, Texas, to William H. and Serilda (Dunn) Lay. She married Sam Ornsby, and had a daughter, Barbara.

They were divorced in 1942 and she married George Bristol. When George was discharged from the Army, they moved to Brighton.

Willie was a cosmetologist, and seamstress. She retired from Adams County Courts.

She and George, along with Barbara and Leroy, owned the Toy Box Toy and Hobby Store.

Survivors include her daughter, Barbara (Leroy) McElwain; grandchildren, Kammy (George Delpit),

Blake (Sheri) McElwain; four great-grandsons, Cory, Justin, Wyatt and Royce; and a greatgreat granddaughter, Ally.

Private graveside service at Fort Logan National Cemetery. Tabor-Rice Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Rodrigo Sanchez

Rodrigo Sanchez, 91, of Brighton, died Feb. 12 in Brighton. He was born on May 25, 1922, in Mexico.

Rodrigo married Flora Garcia Loya in 1949 in San Francisco Del Oro, Mexico.

He immigrated as a laborer in the mid-1950s. Later he worked construction.

Survivors include his wife, Flora; sons Rodrigo Jr. (Margaret) of Irvine, Calif., Jose Luis (Irene) of Lochbuie, Victor Manuel and Ernesto Javier both of Brighton; daughters Maria Elena Sanchez, Flora Estela Sanchez and Juana Maria Sanchez all of Brighton; brothers Fidencio Sanchez of Brighton, and Tomas Sanchez of Chihuahua, Mexico; sisters Antonia Maez and Herlinda Sanchez both of Brighton, and Ludyvina Sanchez and Estela Silva Sanchez both of Chihuahua; nine grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.

Services were earlier this week. Tabor-Rice Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Esau ChavezMolina

Esau Chavez-Molina, 80, of Brighton, died Feb. 12.

Services were earlier this week. Tabor-Rice Funeral Home handled arrangements.

Elsie L. Burkett

Elsie Louise Burkett, 87, died Feb. 11. She was born Oct. 11, 1926, to David and Anna Weber in Brighton. She graduated from Brighton High School in 1944. After graduating from college in California, Elsie returned to Colorado and worked as a secretary for the Bureau of Land Management, and various other secretarial positions. She concluded her career by working for Colorado State Bank.

After retiring, Elsie participated in the Ms. Senior Colorado Pageant and was crowned Ms. Senior Colorado in 1995. She became the director of the Colorado Pageant for several years.

She is survived by her sons Michael Patrick McBride of Williamsburg, Va.; John Robert (Lynette) McBride of Canon City; and Kenneth Wayne McBride of Aurora; grandchildren Heather Caitlin (Joshua) Ainsworth of Thieusies, Belgium; Ryan Christopher (Elise) McBride of Canon City; and seven great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association.

Florence V. Baslee

Florence V. Baslee, 94, of Brighton, died Feb. 11 in Greeley. She was born on June 25, 1919, in Henderson to Sidney T. and Amy (Flower) Sallada. Florence attended school in Henderson. She married Lloyd Baslee in November 1937 in Henderson.

Florence was a life-long resident of the Brighton/ Henderson area. She worked for Adams County Social Services as a technician for 15 years. She was a lifetime member of Henderson Community Church.

Survivors include daughters Stella (Bob) Templeton and Sylvia Chinn both of Greeley, and Bonnie (Lonnie) Hagel and Shirley Williams both of Brighton; nine grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and seven great-great grandchildren.

Memorial service was Wednesday at Henderson Community Church, 12001 E. 120th Ave., Henderson.

Memorial contributions can be made to Henderson Community Church.

Tabor-Rice handled arrangements.

Donna McCullough

Donna Maxine McCullough, 87, died Feb. 11.

She was born in Brighton to Lenora and Gordan Aumiller.

She married Leo T. McCullough on Sept. 11, 1944, in Palisade. They had five children, Dana McCullough of Grand Junction, Norma Jean Rhines of Quartzsige, Ariz.; Keene McCullough of Grand Junction; Lee Manuel of LeGrand, and Pam Miracle of Quartzsite, Ariz.; and 17 grandchildren.

Services were Feb. 14 at the Clifton Assembly of God Church. See more at: www.legacy.com.

Brighton Banner

8

February 20, 2014

3 regional champs lead BHS to state

By Michelle Boyer for The Banner Prairie View High School will send four wrestlers, along with Brighton High School’s five wrestlers to compete in the 5A State Championships, today through Saturday at the Pepsi Center in Denver. (Name, weight, place, final match outcome, overall record): Tony Balderas, 106 pounds, BHS, first, 3-2 decision (29-7 overall record); Jared Garcia, 113 pounds, BHS, fourth, Rule (22-10); Keynan Davis, 120 pounds, PVHS, fourth (34-15); Bradley Lehman, 132 pounds, PVHS, second—7-1 decision (33-7); Ray Baca, 126, BHS, first, 1.05 minutes –technical fall (33-9); Luis Bejarano, 145, PVHS, second, 6-3—decision (36-7); Dalton Wadkins, 182, BHS, first, 2:14 fall (17-4); Alex Munoz, 170, PVHS, second, 12-10—decision (34-12) and Sam Jackson, 285, BHS, fourth,1:55 fall (32-11).

Brighton placed fourth overall at regionals as a team

Prairie View wrestlers Luis Bejarano, left, Junior Lehman, Alex Munoz and Keynan Davis will join five Brighton wrestlers at the state tournaMichelle Boyer photos for The Banner ment, starting today in Denver. last weekend, scoring 147.5 points in Region 4, held at Bear Creek High School, and Prairie View placed sixth, scoring 101 points during the Region 1 tournament, at Cherokee Trail High School last weekend.

Sam Jackson, placing fourth, is competing at state the second consecutive year.

“I lost two matches right away last year,” he said. “I plan to place and beat anybody who tries to be in my way this year.”

Brighton’s Jared Garcia is excited to attend state.

“It’s something new, and I’ve always wanted to go,” he said. “I’m going to take it one step at a time. It’s always a goal to be a state champion, but it’s a long shot. I’ll have the chance again next year and anything can happen downtown.”

Prairie View sophomore Bradley Lehmann Jr. is competing at state for the first time.

“I wrestle year-round and

put a lot of hard work in both on and off the mat,” he said. “I’m expecting to have tough competition that will eleRay Baca vate their game. I will trust my training and leave it all on the mat. I’ll take one match at a time and hope to achieve a spot on the podium. I have great teammates who work hard also. I hope we all will be award winners together.”

This year is Luis Bejarano’s third to qualify for state.

“I went 2-2 at state last year, and was one away from placing,” he said. “My hope this year is to be the first state champion at Prairie View. I’d like to thank Coach (Jason) Humphrey for everything he’s helped me with, especially this year. Since (becoming a father), not a lot of people believed in me. Everyone

thought I’d give up, but I had support from everyone.”

“I just beat the No. 2- and No. 3-ranked kids in the state back to back, when I’m ranked at No. 6,” Brighton 106-pounder Tony Balderas said. “I’m going out there to take state and wrestle my heart out. This is the end of my 13-year wrestling career, and I have to make it worth something.”

During regionals, Alex Munoz said he was nervous going in and he realized he had the No. 1 seed from Ponderosa. “I was nervous for that match, but as soon as I got my first takedown all the nerves had gone away, and I knew I was going to win and go to state,” he said.

Munoz is returning to state for the second straight year.

Another first-timer to state is Kenyan Davis. “I’m excited to go to state,” he said. “I’m a little nervous, but not much, because I know I have the tools and technique to get done what needs to be done.”

Potestio, Lady ’Dawgs take 17-6 record into state tourney

By Michelle Boyer The Lady Bulldogs basketball team is headed to the Class-5A state playoffs next week. The tournament seeding will take place on Sunday.

Brighton already is guaranteed a first-round bye, and either a fourth or fifth seed, based on its 17-6 overall record and 8-1 league record.

Coach Dan Doehler said sophomore center Sidney Potestio is the future of Brighton basketball.

“This season she missed the first seven games due to a knee injury,” he said. “She was slow coming back but is healthy and has emerged as one of our go-to players inside. She works hard at her craft to be the best she can be and dedicates summers to playing on the club circuit, which allows her to play against high-level competition. Sidney will be expected to play big minutes for us during this playoff run, and

in the future.”

The 6-foot-1 athlete says her height helps her quite a bit because it gives her an advantage in rebounding, defense and having to keep the ball high when she makes post moves.

Potestio has played basketball since she was 5.

“I got started because my dad was a college basketball player, and knew I had the potential to be good, so he started coaching me,” she

said. “I did dribbling camps with him as a kid, and went to most of his games when he helped coach the girls’ basketball team at Longmont High School. My mom has also coached me since I was in fourth grade, and up until eighth grade on a club team.”

She said she practically grew up in the gym since she began to walk, so it was only natural for her to play the sport. She also puts the shot and throws discus in track.

“We’ve had a great season this year, and we’re ending with a record of 17-6,” Potestio said.

“We’ve all worked really hard and the seniors definitely deserve this league championship to end their high school careers, and I’m glad I could be a part of it. We achieved our goal this year of winning the East Metro Athletic Conference League, which we haven’t done in quite some time.”

By Michelle Boyer for The Banner State 5A girls’ swimming was as good as Brighton High School Coach Carl Diehl had hoped for. He said both individual swimmers, Hailey Spratte and Desiree Salais, just weren’t “on” with their times as in the previous week at East Metro Athletic Conference League Championships.

Spratte said she had bad preliminary swims, but she managed to make it back to Top 16, and in the finals she swam a best time in the 100meter backstroke in 57.71 seconds.

“This year I tried a different event than the 200 freestyle I usually swim,” she said. “I tried swimming the 500 freestyle. I was off of my best times in preliminaries, which hurt my other times.”

She finished ninth in the backstroke. Spratte will finish out her swimming year at

North Jeffco Club, training for her time at Colorado State University next year.

“State was great,” Spratte said. “Our relays did very well.”

Salais said it just wasn’t her week at state with her swimming. She finished 43rd in the 50 free with a time of 25.65, and 36th place in the 100 free with a time of 55.47.

The 200 medley relay team finished with a time of 2:55.80, and in 26th place.

The 400 freestyle relay team broke the school record again at state this year as it finished with a time of 3:47.43 and placed 22nd overall. The 200 freestyle relay team finished in 36th place with a time of 1:46.98.

“It was a good experience for many of the new swimmers this year at state,” Diehl said. “Some of the freshmen who went as alternates got motivated for next year, which is a good thing.”

BHS swimmers feel ‘off’ at state meet