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ROARING RAPTOR REWARDED

Acosta, Brighton police commander, dies

Brighton Police Department Cmdr. Frank Acosta passed away of natural causes, the city announced Sept. 23.

Acosta joined the police department in February 2000. Before that, he was a state trooper for eight years.

Acosta was a patrol officer, a detective for the North Metro Drug Task Force, a patrol sergeant, an in-

vestigations sergeant, an investigations commander and most recently, as commander of the department’s professional services unit. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served in the 82nd airborne stationed in Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

He earned a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Regis University and a bachelor’s degree in management from National American University.

“This is a horrible loss and we all

feel the pain,” said Brighton Police Chief Paul Southard in a press statement. “Commander. Acosta was such a bright light loved by all in our department. He served our community with such dedication over the past 22, years and we are forever grateful for his commitment.”

Survivors include his parents; his wife, Kandy; 10 children; nine grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

questions answered

How to vote and more

Colorado Election Day is Nov. 8 with a U.S. Senate seat, eight congressional contests, races for four statewide offices, 100 state legislative jobs, 11 ballot initiatives and more at stake at the county and

guide, we’re here to answer some questions about voting and how the election works. Let us know what other questions you have by filling out the form at the bottom

Colorado has automatic voter registration if you get a driver’s license or interact in some other way with state government. But you may also register online with a valid driver’s license, Colorado identification card or Social Security number.

SEE VOTING,

STAFF REPORT

MB Towing & 1-76 towing received the business award for their parade entry of dinosaurs. Marco Balderas is walking the Raptor to promote a safety campaign to slow down when they are working on the roadways to remove cars. See more photos on page 8. Photo

WATTS

Janet Byrne (Butler) Watts

January 27, 1928 - September 12, 2022

A true lady and rock of goodness for her family, Janet Byrne Butler Watts passed away peacefully September 12, 2022. Her kindness and ability to make everyone she met feel special will be missed by all.

Janet was born in Denver CO. on January 27, 1928, to Leo William and Louise Maria years together.

Janet worked for Mountain Bell Telephone and e Mental Health Center of Boulder County. She was a lifelong Episcopalian, and a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in

She was proceeded in death by her husband George, her parents, sister Kerby Mumma

and brother Leo William “Bill” Butler.

Janet is survived by her brother and sister-inlaw Bob and Judy Watts of Longmont CO, nephews and nieces Leo William Butler III of Green Bay WI, Christine Burkhardt of Washington DC, Beverly and David Liddell of Lynwood WA, Paul and Susan Butler of Hermitage PA, John and Missy Watts of Overland Park KS, Judd and Kori Watts of Longmont CO, Kathleen Livingston of Fort Lupton CO, thirteen great nephews and nieces and four great- great nephews and

A celebration of Janet’s life will be at St John’s Episcopal Church on Saturday, September 24 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of owers, donations can be made in Janet’s name to St John’s Episcopal Church or Bridge House in

MATHISEN Pamela Rae Mathisen November 30, 1955 - September 16, 2022

Pamela Rae Mathisen, 66, of Fort Lupton, CO, peacefully went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Friday, September 16th, 2022, with her family by her side. She was born on November 30th, 1955, to Ronald and Ella (McCrery) Heitman in Denver, Colorado.

Pamela grew up in the Fort Lupton/ Brighton area and graduated from Brighton High School in 1973. She graduated from Chadron State College with a Bachelor of Science in Home Economics.

She married the love of her life, Mark Mathisen on August 20th, 1977, at the Brighton United Methodist Church.

Before Pamela retired, she worked as the Executive Director for the Adams County Retirement O ce and Board of Retirement. She retired from Adams County with 31

Pamela was a member of the Brighton United Methodist Church, the Order of Eastern Star, and the Daughters of the

J. Mathisen of Fort Lupton, CO; her son Morgan Mathisen and wife Brittany, and their sons Liam and Wyatt of Windsor, CO; her daughter Miranda Lowery and husband Gary, and their daughter Emilia of Morton, IL; her son Mitchell Mathisen, and his daughters Madelyn, Lillyann, Kathryn and Juliet of Fort Lupton, CO; and her sisters Colleen Heitman and Ronell Heitman of

She is preceded in death by her parents Ronald and Ella Heitman, and her daughter-

A Visitation will be held 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. ursday, September 29th, 2022, at Brighton United Methodist Church. A Life Celebration Memorial will take place 10:00 a.m. Friday, September 30th, 2022, at Brighton United Methodist Church, followed by a luncheon. e Interment will be held at Elmwood Cemetery in Brighton, CO at 1:30

To view the full obituary and to share condolences with the family please visit www.

One fast meeting for Fort Lupton City Council

BY STEVE SMITH SSMITH@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In the span of less than 10 min utes, Fort Lupton City Council did the following during its regular meeting on Sept. 21:

Council approved an intergov ernmental agreement between it, the city of Brighton, the city of Lochbuie and the city of Com merce City for victim advocate ser vices, effective Jan. 1. The annual fee runs about $52,500.

Council also approved a property

Brighton Housing Authority section 8 applications through Sept. 30

STAFF REPORT

The Brighton Housing Author ity will reopen its waiting list for two different types of hous ing vouchers for two days.

The authority will accept ap plications for low to moderate income Brighton residents to receive two kinds of housing vouchers that can be used to pay part of their monthly rent and utilities.

Applications are only avail able on line at www.brighton housingauthority.org through 5 p.m. Sept. 30. The application process was scheduled to open Sept. 28. People with disabilities and those who require reason

casualty renewal insurance plan totaling almost $394,000, a $43,000 boost from the 2022 premiums. Staff notes said previous years’ in creases were due, in part, to police and legislative officials’ liability costs. The figure is an estimate, and the exact amounts will be spread out between affected funds and added to next year’s budget.

Council also OK’d the Colorado Big Thompson’s 2023 assessment from the Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District. The amount won’t be greater than $158,600. The

charges are for 50 acre-feet of 2022 assessment at a rate of $49.10 per acre-foot, according to staff, and more than 3,000 acre-feet at 2023 assessment levels of $50.55 per acre-foot. The fee is $4,500 more than in 2022.

The project, according to its website, collects and delivers more than 200,000 acre-feet of supplemental water per year from the Western Slope to more than 1 million residents and 615,000 acres of irrigated farmland in northeast Colorado.

Housing aid list opens

able accommodation to apply for the programs should contact the authority at 303.655.2160.

There are two kinds of vouch ers available, Housing Choice vouchers and Project-based vouchers. The authority manag es about 251 vouchers currently.

The Housing Choice voucher program is a tenant-based sub sidy that is portable and moves with the tenant to their choice of housing. The program al lows families to select a home in the private rental market. The selected home must be inspected by the housing authority before signing the lease and annually to ensure the housing unit meets the authority’s standards. The authority also reviews the ten ant’s income and family com position for program eligibility and rent calculations annually. Choice voucher entries will be held in a pool with drawings conducted throughout 2023 to

Classes continue at Fort Lupton HS despite circulated threats

STAFF REPORT

The Weld Re-8 School District became the latest in a series of school districts to face rumored threats to school safety.

In a district website post Sept. 23, Weld Re-8 Superintendent

Alan Kaylor said officials re ceived reports of conversations between a small number of students concerning a threat to school safety. The district, school administrators and Fort Lupton

SEE THREATS, P9

select which residents will be eligible to apply for the pro gram. Applicants will be notified by mail and will receive instruc tions to complete the application and eligibility process.

Applicants not selected for the 2023 calendar year will be purged from the list, and must reapply during the next wait list opening.

Program Based vouchers are associated with specific prop erties, apartment units and programs and applications are separate and distinct from the tenant-based Housing Choice voucher lottery program.

Generally, only families who qualify for a three bedroom units according to Housing Choice occupancy standards will

Council also accepted applica tions and established neighbor hoods (the city) for two potential liquor licenses. One is for El Raparo Mexican & Grill Inc, in the 800 block of Seventh St., and the other is for a Family Dollar Store at 130 S. Denver Ave. Hearings for both are Tuesday, Oct. 18.

And, lastly, councilors got an update on Fort Lupton’s football team. The Bluedevils, who didn’t play last week, are 3-1 this season. FLHS travels to Berthoud at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30.

be eligible for placement on the Project- waiting lists.

Although project-based pro gram assistance is tied to the specific rental unit, after one year of continuous occupancy the family may request the next available tenant-based Housing Choice voucher, which permits continued assistance on the open private rental market. If the family does not complete one year of continuous occupancy in the authority’s Project-based unit, then the ability to request an HCV voucher is forfeited.

For more information regard ing the Brighton Housing Au thority, contact the Brighton Housing Authority by phone at 303-655- 2160 or email info@ brightonhousing.org.

Services announced for sheri ’s deputy killed in hit-and-run

BY STEVE SMITH SSMITH@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The Weld County Sheriff’s Offi ce announced funeral plans for the deputy who died in a hit-and-run crash Sept. 18.

Services for Alexis Hein-Nutz will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at Foundations Church in Loveland. They are closed to the public, but sheriff’s offi ce spokesman Joe Moylan said the church will provide a live stream at https://live. foundationschurch.org/ Meantime, the suspect in the incident remains in jail on a $500,000 bond. Thanks to a number of tips, authorities were able to

track Norberto Gonzalez-Garcia to Fort Collins, according to Weld County Sheriff’s Offi ce spokesman Joe Moylan. The sheriff’s department, the Colorado State Patrol and Fort Collins police arrested Gonzalez-Garcia late Sept. 19. His fi rst court appearance was Sept. 20, during which a Weld County judge increased Gonzalez-Garcia’s bond to $500,000.

The 24-year-old Weld County sheriff’s deputy died Sept. 18 in the hit-and-run crash. Weld County Sheriff Steve Reams identifi ed the deputy as Alexis HeinNutz. Hein-Nutz, who was a week from her 25th birthday, joined the department almost four years ago and was assigned to the jail, where she was a detentions deputy.

Reams said Hein-Nutz was riding her motorcycle on her way to work when the crash happened at AA Street and WCR 37, just north of Greeley, according to offi cials.

“Gonzalez-Garcia made no attempt to provide Alexis aid despite her obvious injuries,” Reams said in a statement. “Instead, he ran away like a coward and hid in a nearby cornfi eld.”

Troopers with the CSP are helping the sheriff’s offi ce with the investigation. Reams said evidence at the scene — a false green card and a fake Social Security card — indicated Gonzalez-Garcia was in the country illegally.

Hein-Nutz was born in Bismarck, N.D. Reams said it was the deputy’s dream to be a peace offi cer. After she graduated from the Weld County jail academy, HeinNutz posted this on Facebook.

“After many years of dreaming of being in law enforcement, I can

fi nally say I am offi cially following my dreams. This is only the fi rst stepping stone to a brighter future. Here is to a better life and doing what I was meant to do.”

Reams called his fallen deputy “a hard worker, a caring deputy and a positive force for our agency.”

“I share in my deputies’ grief and in their anger over her senseless and tragic passing,” Reams said in the statement. “But we are a family, and we will get through this painful event together.”

The sheriff’s offi ce is accepting donations to help with the deputy’s funeral through its 501c3 program. Drop off checks at the sheriff’s department headquarters, 1950 O St., Greeley, Include your name, address and phone number to receive a tax letter.

Anyone with information should call CSP investigators at 303-2394501.

Gala evening, ra e, raise money for CASA

STAFF REPORT

Live music and dance performances and a chance to win a trip to Mexico helped raise $193,000 for kids needing help in court.

CASA, the Court Appointed Special Advocates of Adams and

Broomfield counties hosted its annual Indulge for CASA gala Sept. 14, 2022, at Denver’ sBalistreri Vineyards Event Center.

The event raised more than $193,000 to aid CASA’s mission of providing court-appointed volunteer advocacy for children and youth from the child welfare

E AGLE VIEW A DULT C ENTER

1150 Prairie Center Parkway • Brighton, CO 80601 • 303-655-2075 • www.brightonco.gov

Eagle View Adult Center Update –Sept 28 – Oct 5, 2022

Eagle View Adult Center is open Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Call 303-655-2075 for more information. e September & October Newsletter is available.

Cards, Games and Pool

If you like to play games like bridge, pinochle, dominos, scrabble and pool… Eagle View is the place to get connected. Check out the newsletter for playing times.

VOA Lunch

A hot, nutritious lunch is provided by Volunteers of America, Mondays and ursdays at 11:30 a.m. Please reserve your VOA meal in advance: For Mondays reserve the ursday before, for ursdays reserve the Monday before.! Call Eleanor at 303-655-2271 between 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Mon. & urs. Daily meal donations are appreciated.

$2.50 Donation per meal if age 60+. $8.50 Mandatory charge if under 60 Harry S. Truman

Most historians admire this tough, bow-tied man for his candor, courage and determination. His were some of the most di cult decisions any President had to make a er being thrust into the job a er FDR’s death. Presenter Paul Flanders

1:30 p.m. urs. Sept 29. $4. Deadline: Wed. Sept 28

Readers eatre Performance

e Readers eatre performances are always a lot of fun. Drop in for the free show and support our hard-working acting troupe! Play is done in time to take advantage of the VOA lunch a erwards. RSVP for lunch by Mon. Sept 26; call 303-655-2271. 11:00 a.m. urs. Sept 29. Free

Balance Safety

Dr. Eric Anderson of Brighton Clinic of Chiropractic will help expand your knowledge of your body and health regarding balance. He will discuss recent studies and tips to help keep you safe. 1:30 p.m. Wed. Oct 5. Free. Deadline: Mon. Oct 3

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system so every child can be safe, have a permanent home and get the opportunity to thrive.

Guests enjoyed an evening of fine wines, decadent desserts, music and a large silent and live auction. This year’s theme, An Evening in Old Hollywood and featured vocal performances

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from Black Iris Collective followed by a choreographed dance from Live Love Dance.

“I was blown away by the energy throughout the event. It is wonderful to see so many supporters come together for the

SEE GALA, P5

Weld o ers bivalent vaccines

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment is offering the updated Pfizer and Moderna bivalent COVID-19 vaccine booster, according a news release.

According to health officials, a bivalent vaccine works by stimulating an immune response against two different antigens, such as two different viruses or other microorganisms.

According to health officials, the updated vaccine would offer protection against COVID-19 during the fall and winter seasons, with the virus mutating over time, according to health officials.

The updated vaccine will be available in two locations, the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment and Southwest Services Complex.

Platte Valley Medical Center will be here to give annual u shots. No appointment necessary - just walk in. For more information, call 303-498-3590. 8:00 - 11:00 a.m. urs. Oct 6 303-659-4148

None of us can guarantee that our carefully laid plans will always yield the results we want. But by taking the right steps at the right times, you can greatly improve your chances.

To Schedule a Virtual Tour or for more info call Nellie at:

The Southwest Weld County Services Complex, 4209 County Rd 24 ½, in Longmont, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays and from noon to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays. The site will also be open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment, 1555 North 17th Avenue, Greeley. That site is open from 8 a.m to 5 p.m. weekdays.

Residents should call to schedule an appointment at (970) 304-6420; appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are accepted.

Alexis Hein-Nutz was on her way to work at the time

Thornton poised to increase water, sewer rates

BY LUKE ZARZECKI LZARZECKI@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Thornton is poised to approve a 4% increase in water rates and a 13% increase in sewer rates. The item was discussed at the Thornton Sept. 20 plan ning session.

Finance Director Kim Ne whart said the cost of water operations have increased by 18% over 2022 due to inflation and the new EPA-issued health advisory regarding PFAS would cost $80 million in improve ments to the system.

“This 4% was needed before any PFAS regulations have been talked about or before any infla tion,” said Newhart.

The money from the utility bills goes to providing drink ing water as well as capital improvements to upkeep the infrastructure and customer service.

Rates are calculated through a fixed service charge and a tiered water volume rate.

All customers reside in Tier

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FROM

children in our community,” said Lindsay Salas, CASA Chief

1, which is the average winter consumption. Customers will also fall into Tier 2, which is the monthly outdoor allowance and is priced per 1,000 gallons.

If customers use more than Tier 2’s allotment, they fall into Tier 3 or Tier 4. Based n this summer’s usage, 13% of customers went into Tier 3 for August and less than 1% went into Tier 4.

Increases would be from $8.00 to $8.32 for the fixed service charge.

Tiers 1 and 2 were the same before and remain the same. Both would go from $5.66 to $5.89 under the new proposal.

Tier 3 goes from $8.49 to $8.83 and Tier 4 from $16.98 to $17.66.

For the average winter bill, costs will increase about $1.30 and for the average summer bill, costs will go up about $2.58.

Thornton’s average monthly bill will go from $65 to $67. That puts the city a little lower than Westminster but higher than Northglenn, which is $61.

Executive Officer. The evening closed with the drawing of raffle prize for eight days and seven nights at Villa Costa Brava in Los Cabos, Mexico. This year’s prize was graciously donated by Nick &

“All I ask is that we stay lower than Westminster,” said Mayor Jan Kulmann.

For those using about 42,000 gallons of water in the summer, costs will go up about $10.

For sewer rates, the increase proposal is 13% compared to 2022 rates. The increase will match inflation until 2027, as long as additional rate increas es occur that match inflation.

For sewer rates, Thornton is among the lowest compared to neighboring cities, at $23 on av erage. Westminster is about $34 and Northglenn is about $26.

Thornton also provides a util ity assistance program, which includes all utilities. Customers whose household income does not exceed 60% of the state median income or those who qualify for other assistance programs can use the program. The city pays for the assistance program through late fees.

City Councilor Julia Marvin asked whether the staff thinks residents may be frustrated since the city increased rates

Candace Werth.

Indulge for CASA would not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors and event partners. The organi zation would like to give special recognition to Platinum Spon

last year.

“People understand that costs increase to operate a system like this,” said City spokesper son Todd Barnes.

City Councilor Kathy Henson said with rate increases, the city needs to be walking the walk by being mindful of con servation.

“We need to be mindful about conservation so people don’t have the idea that their rates are increased to water a side walk in the park,” she said.

She said she has received an gry calls about watering meth ods in the park.

Thornton already has plans in place to reduce the amount they are irrigating parks. In fact, the program Naturally Thornton will be converting 300 acres of the city’s park’s Kentucky Blue Grass to native grasses and plants in the next 10-12 years to reduce water usage. So far, 38 acres have been completed, with the city able to convert 25 acres per year, the project should be completed by 2034.

sors, PDC Energy and Kenneth & Myra Monfort Charitable Foundation, and Diamond Spon sor, Adams County Government.

To learn more about how you can support CASA, please visit casa17th.org or call 720 523-2855.

Hispanic Restaurant Association celebrates Latin American culture

Through

BY LINDSEY FORD, ALEXIS KIKOEN ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

Breaking into the restaurant industry can be competitive, confusing and discouraging, especially for Hispanic American chefs and workers. That is where the Hispanic Restaurant Association (HRA) comes in.

The Denver-based nonprofit was founded in February 2021 as a way to help Hispanic individuals navigate and advance through the complexities of the restaurant industry, as well as educate the public about Hispanic culture and food. The organization recruits and connects new chefs with experienced culinary personnel, guides restaurateurs through byzantine processes like the food and beverage licensing system, and ultimately builds leadership skills in the restaurant community.

“You don’t really see a Hispanic chef; you always see Hispanics working in the dish pit or doing prep, so [the Hispanic Restaurant Association] kind of gives us the opportunity to allow people to take steps up in the culinary industry in Colorado,” said Salem Mares.

Mares is the pastry chef at Nomad Taqueria + Beer Garden, located inside Origin Hotel Red Rocks. She said that the HRA helped her “push her limits” when it comes to making food. Marez also explained that the restaurant industry can be very competitive and people often have

little to no support. But she said that that’s not the case with the HRA.

“No one is ever [like], ‘I’m above you,’” she explained. “It’s always, ‘We’re all equal individuals, we all learn from each other, we all gain from one another.’”

John Jaramillo and Selene Nestor co-founded the HRA during the pandemic. Nestor said she and Jaramillo saw a huge need for an organization to help support Hispanic-owned businesses. “Because as you know, the pandemic affected everybody but, especially minority-owned businesses,” Nestor explained. “And us being Hispanic, that’s where it hits home.”

Hispanic Americans experienced tremendous personal and financial loss during the pandemic. A 2021

survey by the Pew Research Center found that more than half of Latino adults knew a family member or close friend who was hospitalized or died from COVID-19. Additionally, the survey found that 49% of respondents or someone in their household either lost a job or took a pay cut during the pandemic.

Additionally, a study by American University’s Center for Latin American and Latino Studies found that Latino-owned businesses were disproportionately affected by the pandemic and that “Latino business owners were more likely to seek, but less likely to receive, funding from non-governmental sources than were white business owners.”

Nestor sees the future of the HRA as the main Hispanic serving institution that helps not only Hispanic people but all people. “We want to educate and elevate our community about what Hispanic cuisine actually is,” she said. “There’s a lot more to it than just tacos.”

The breadth of Hispanic cuisine is on display at Mares’ restaurant. The head chef, Pablo Aya, is passionate about infusing local Colorado food with traditional Mexican dishes.

“I have a really big passion for cooking,” Mares said. “I love messing with different flavors. I love messing with different food. I love putting smiles on people’s faces.”

Mario Martinez, a chef who works alongside Mares and Aya, explained that elk, venison and locally grown produce like microgreens are included in dishes. But Martinez’

Craft Show County Museum’s

favorite dish on the menu is one that reminds him of Mexican heritage: the cricket taco.

Martinez recalled visiting his grandmother’s house and how the first thing she always asked him was, “Mijo, did you already [eat] something?”

“So, in my heart right now … what talks to me is the food,” Martinez explained. “That, you know, you just want to welcome someone with something that you create with love.”

That personal touch is something Mares relates to: “I love giving people food that they’ve never tried before and different flavors that they’ve never tasted, and they can go home and say, ‘Hey, I got to have this today,’” where you touch someone with your food is what boosts my passion for food.”

As a way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the HRA is launching Hispanic Restaurant Week, which begins Thursday, Sept. 22. Governor Jared Polis even signed a statewide proclamation recognizing the celebratory week. Day one of the festivities includes a Food Truck Festival at 6200 S. Syracuse Way in Greenwood Village. More information is available on the HRA website.

This story is from Rocky Mountain PBS, a nonprofit public broadcaster providing community stories across Colorado over the air and online. Used by permission. For more, and to support Rocky Mountain PBS, visit rmpbs.org.

Adams County Museum Shows

A fundraiser the Adams County Museum

Salem Mares, a pastry chef, said that the Hispanic Restaurant Association helped her “push her limits” when it comes to making food. COURTESY OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN PBS

New unique western apparel store opens in Brighton

BY BELEN WARD

BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Mraz Boots and Accessories hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony bringing a new western apparel store to Brighton on September 22.

Owners Naylea Meraz and Ezequiel Meraz opened their store quietly in April, selling unique and colorful artisanal leather, boots, purses, wallets, and other associates for men, women, kids, and work boots, including clothing and jewelry.

“We decided to open a boot store because my dad always liked boots, to honor him. He enjoys being here at the store too. All our merchandise comes from Mexico,”

Naylea Meraz said.

They sell unique aprons with art painted on the fabric, cowboy boots, and hats with embroidered sunflowers, flowers, and one-of-akind relief designs on boots with three-dimensional elements.

“I was excited to open the store and I like shopping, “ Naylea said.

He agreed.

“It felt wonderful to open my store, I like boots and they are cool,” Ezequiel said.

Mraz Boots & Accessories, 204 S Main St., Brighton, Colorado 80601, (720) 688-0453, website: https://mrazboots. square.site, email: mrazboots21@gmail.com. Follow on Facebook @mrazboots.1.

Goats milk means healthy skin at Brighton boutique

Goat Bubbles Bath & Body cuts the ribbon

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

What started as a lark at a 2019 meet-up has become a new storefront in Brighton.

Goat Bubbles Bath & Body hosted its ribbon-cutting cer-

emony with the community of Brighton on September 15.

“I opened my store on August 8 of this year, but have been selling online since 2019,” said owner Rikki Rolando.

Rolando is from Kansas and moved to Colorado 11 years ago. She was a CNA/CMA for 15 years before moving to Colorado.

“I have been a licensed massage therapist since 2011. I’ve been a knitter and crochet for 18

years,” Rolando said.

Rolando said she got into the bath and body business, learning to make soap from goats’ milk.

“In 2019, I was invited out to a lady’s house for a Fibereista meet-up, and that’s where we had a fun day of learning how to make goat milk soap, and I loved it so much,” Rolando said.

After learning how to make soap Rolando, I started making it at home with her sister-in-law,

and I decided to start selling it, opening a store online.

“My hopes for the future, I would like to be able to carry on with my storefront and have fun with it. I’m not looking to get rich off of it- just be creative and share my wonderful creations with everyone,” Roland said.

Goat Bubbles Bath & Body is located at 240 E. Bridge St. Brighton, CO., 720-636-3078.

Mayor Mills, Brighton Chamber of Commerce and the Meraz family celebrate their ribbon- cutting ceremony.

PHOTO BY BELEN WARD

Chamber awards Parade float winners

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM the Fort Lupton’s Trappers Day parade on Sept. 17, the Fort Lupton Chamber of Commerce each year recognizes the most creative parade entry and awards several designated honors.

Mayor’s Choice Award, Grand Marshall Award, Parade Spirit Award, Business Award, Civic Award, and School Award.

Business award MB Towing & 1-76 Towing Manuel Balderas, Jen Bell, and Manuel Jr. Balderas.

Grand Marshall award Girls Scout Troop 70757 Jessica Holbrook and Rachel VanHorne.

Spirit award Copper Kettle Kitchen & Catering Francis LaBarbera.

Mayor award presented to Colorado PT Cruisers. Left, Mayor Zo Stieber-Hubbard, Rick and Patty Conine with Jen Bell.

The civic award went to Country land Lyons Club, Shea Strom, Marla, Strom, and Jenny Collins, Jen Bell.

PHOTOS BY BELEN WARD

police investigated. The process included interviews with those allegedly involved.

“After completing our investigation, we are confident that at no time was there a threat to our students or staff,” Kaylor said. “We will continue to operate normally today with no changes to class schedules or operations. We thank you for continuing to partner with us in maintaining a safe and effective learning environment for every student.”

Kaylor also saluted those

who made officials aware of the threats.

“As always, we encourage anyone – student, staff or parent–to report any safety concerns to school administration or local law enforcement,” the post read. “You can also anonymously report concerns via safe2tell.org and 1-877-542-7233.”

Adams City High School closed Sept. 21 because of rumored threats. The school also went into lockdown Sept. 20 because a student brought a gun to school.

Schools in three cities — Denver, Montrose and Alamosa — were the targets of swatting calls, too.

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BREIFS

Art in the Park rescheduled

The city of Brighton rescheduled its annual Art in the Park festival to Saturday, Oct. 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Carmichael Park,650 Southern St. The new date was necessary because of bad weather earlier this month.

Artists not previously registered can still sign up at brightonartinthepark.com. The deadline for new registrations is Sept. 30.

This one-day festival will give attendees the opportunity to meet with local, regional, and international artists showcasing their work, enjoy live music, watch artist demonstrations and entertain children with interactive art activities. In addition, food will be available for purchase through food trucks in attendance. The festival is free to the public.

For more information, please visit brightonartinthepark.com or contact David Gallegos, arts and culture coordinator, at 303-655-2176 or dgallegos@brightonco.gov.

Brighton Barktober Fest Sept. 30

Dogs and their family and friends are invited to come paw-ty at the inaugural Barktober Fest from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, at the Brighton Sports Complex, 1111 Judicial Center Drive.

Tickets prior to the event are $10 for adults and $5 for youth ages 17 and under. Tickets at the door are $15 for adults ages 18+ and $10 for youth ages 17 and under. Ticket proceeds will go towards the nonprofit animal rescue organization Soul Dog Rescue.

There will be an off-leash area designated for dogs. Registration and

a waiver form will be required for every dog in attendance. To submit the forms or to learn more about Barktober Fest, click here.

There will be food trucks, live entertainment with a DJ and band and alcohol available for purchase for human adults ages 21 and older.

Contact 303-655-2200 for more information.

Armory Performing Arts Center concerts

The city of Brighton announced its lineup for concerts at the Armory Performing Arts Center, 300 Strong St.

Sept. 30: FACE vocal band, an allvocal band, at 7 p.m.

Oct. 1: Mr. Majestyk’s 8-TRack Revival, a ‘70s rock and pop band, 7 p.m. Oct. 29: Yesterday, The Beatles Tribute, at 7 p.m.

Nov. 18: The Long Run, performs its annual “Alter Eagles” set at 8 p.m.

Nov. 19: The Long Run, Colorado’s tribute to the Eagles, at 8 p.m.

Tickets are available at brightonarmory.org. Contact Gary Montoya, events and downtown initiative manager, at gmontoya@brightonco.gov.

Gummball 5K

The fifth annual Gummball Rally will be Saturday, Oct. 1, at Adams County Regional Park, 9755 Henderson Road, Brighton. The 5K walk/ run is in honor of former Adams County Sheriff’s Deputy Heath Gumm, who died in the line of duty in 2018.

The cost is $30 for racers 13 and older and $10 for 12 and younger. Those 12 and younger get in free.

Each includes a shirt/swag bag guaranteed with entry by Sept. 14.

Packets will be available for pickup at 4201 E. 72nd Ave. from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30. Proceeds benefit a nonprofit that supports law enforcement and first responders.

For more information, email tracykilgore71@gmail.com.

Henderson church hosts dinner

Henderson Community Church,12001 Oakland St, will host its 62nd annual roast beef dinner from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1. The church will have seating available and a band and dinners will be available for take-out, as well. It will also be an opportunity to come check out our “new” backyard.

Dinners are $15 per person. Questions? Call 303-659-4748 or office@ hendersonchurch.org.

Learn the history of Brighton at Cemetery Walk

Elmwood Cemetery will host its ninth annual Cemetery Walk 1 to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1, at the cemetery, 14800 Old Brighton Road. The event will give residents a peek into the lives of Brighton’s historical leaders, farmers, pioneers and soldiers buried in the cemetery. Volunteer guides will be dressed in period attire to talk about their ancestors and their connection to Brighton.

The event is free to the public. Maps will be available to help guide visitors through the self-guided tour. If you have questions, please contact Cemetery Manager Rhiannon Natali at rnatali@brighotnco.gov.

Car registration now open for Car-nival Palooza 2022

In preparation for the annual trunkor-treat event Car-nival Palooza, the Brighton Recreation Center has opened registration for cars to participate in the event. Car-nival Palooza is scheduled for 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 29, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Brighton Recreation Center parking lot (555 N. 11th Ave.).

Cars are decked out for the Halloween event and participants will be handing out candy to kids. Participants must bring their own candy to give away during the event.

If you’d like to participate, register at www.brightonco.gov/registermycar before Oct, 26.

If you have questions, please contact Katy French, Youth Recreation Coordinator, at 303-655-2209 or kfrench@brightonco.gov.

Winter Market needs artists, crafters

The City of Brighton is seeking unique artists, crafters, and artisan food vendors to participate in a Winter Market during the city’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The arts and crafts “Winter Market” will be held from 2-7 p.m. Dec. 3 on South Main Street near the city’s Founders Plaza.

No resale, wholesale or direct sales are allowed. Seasonal arts and crafts are preferred. Vendor applications will be accepted until Nov. 25. The fee for a vendor space is $25. Registration will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis as space is limited.

SEE BRIEFS, P11

Vendors must provide their own tent as well as tables and chairs if needed.

To learn more and to apply, visit www.brightonco.gov/459/TreeLighting-Winter-Market. For more information, please contact Special Events Coordinator Susie O’Connor at soconnor@brightonco.gov.

Arts Commission seeks nominations for arts awards

The Brighton Cultural Arts Com mission is seeking nominations for its 2022 Excellence in Arts Awards presentation at 7 p.m. on Nov. 3, at Eagle View Adult Center, 1150 Prairie Center Parkway.

The commission is asking for nomi nations for masters in the visual arts, performing arts, literary arts and cultural arts in education. The group is also taking nominations for vi sionaries for leaders in the Brighton cultural arts scene and for outstand ing arts volunteers. There is a Beyond Brighton category for individuals, groups or businesses from outside Brighton who have strengthened our community’s cultural arts.

Call for art for Winter Showcase

The city of Brighton Eye for Art program is calling for artists for the 2022 Winter Showcase, a four-month show from Oct. 28 through Feb. 15, at Brighton City Hall, 500 S. 4th Ave.

The Winter Showcase is an opentheme show and a great time to display artwork during the holi day buying season. It may include oil, acrylic, watercolors, graphite

drawings, photography, fused glass, pottery, computer painting, mixed media, jewelry, glass and sculptures.

The deadline to submit artwork is Oct. 11.

For more information, visit the Eye for Art web page or contact David Gallegos, arts and culture coordina tor, at dgallegos@brightonco.gov or 303-655-2176.

Dia de los Muertos art sought for The Armory

The Art at The Armory annual Dia de los Muertos exhibit is seeking local artists to join the show that runs through Nov. 16 at The Armory Per forming Arts Center, 300 Strong St. This exhibit is a collaboration with the Chicano Humanities & Arts Council with support from the Brigh ton Cultural Arts Commission. The Armory will host a reception Oct. 28 featuring entertainment and refresh ments. If you have questions, contact Armory House Coordinator Marcus Garcia at 303-655-2140.

Boards/commissions

The city of Brighton has openings on several of its volunteer boards and commissions. The list includes:

Planning commission: Two alter nate members

Board of appeals: Several member openings

Parks and recreation advisory board: One Ward 2 member, two alter nate members and one agriculture/ farming member

Brighton Urban Renewal Author ity: Three /members

Historic preservation commission: Two alternate members and two professional members

Brighton Housing Authority: Two

alternate members

Lodging tax advisory committee: One lodging provider member and two alternate members

District plan commission: One city of Brighton commissioner

Fill out a form online here:www. brightonco.gov/199/Vacancies

Museum volunteers

The Brighton City Museum needs volunteers to help with visitors, research and collection project-based duties.

Call Bill Armstrong, museum spe cialist, at 303-655-2288.

Water audit program

The city of Brighton and Resource Central teamed up to provide a free water audit for businesses and home owner associations. The program aims to help residents and cities increase water use efficiencies and reach conservation goals.

Call 303-999-3824 or visit https:// www.brightonco.gov/589/WaterAudit-Program

COVID vaccination clinics

Adams County and Tri-County Health are offering free vaccination clinics from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Anythink Brighton, 327 E. Bridge St. COVID-19 rapid tests at the Brigh ton Recreation Center

As part of the Colorado Depart ment of Public Health and Environ ment’s community distribution pro gram, the Brighton Recreation Center is offering free at-home COVID-19 rapid test kits to the public. Come to rec center, 555 N/ 11th Ave., Mondays - Thursdays 5:30 a.m. - 9 p.m., Fridays 5:30 a.m. - 7 p.m., Saturdays 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.).

Kits will be made available to the public while supplies last.

Staff will be distributing the iHealth rapid antigen tests (self-col lected lower nasal swab), which have received emergency use authoriza tion by the Food and Drug Adminis tration for home use by patients 2 and older. Results should be available in approximately 15 minutes.

Email cdphe_covidtesting@state. co.us or call 1-877-268-2926.

Legal self-help clinic

The Access to Justice Committee hosts a free, legal self-help clinic from 2 to 3:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month. The program is for customers who don’t have legal rep resentation and need help navigating through legal issues.

Volunteer attorneys are available to discuss such topics as family law, civil litigation, property and probate law. Call 303-405-3298 and ask for Legal Self-Help Clinic at least 24 hours in advance.

Sidewalk, curb and gutter program

The city of Brighton’s 50.50 Side walk, Curb and Gutter program is underway. The program helps ease the financial costs of maintenance and replacements, according to a statement. Property owners are re sponsible for that maintenance work. The program halves the replacement costs between the city and the prop erty owner.

The program began in 2004. Last year, it assisted 14 homeowners. The city says the program has saved about $75,000 worth of repairs.

Visit www.brightonco.gov/50-50 to apply. Call 303-655-2036 with questions.

Is there a deadline to register?

No. Coloradans may register in person or online to vote through Election Day. To receive a ballot in the mail, you must be registered by Oct. 31, and you will have to return it to a drop box or vote center.

How do I check whether I’m registered?

Check your voter registration by entering your name, ZIP code and date of birth. You may also change your address online. But if your name changed, you’ll have to fi ll out a paper form. If your registration says it’s “inactive,” that’s because you’ve missed voting more than once or your ballot was returned as undeliverable. You may re-register online or by submitting a paper request.

When will my ballot arrive?

Oct. 17 is the fi rst day that ballots will go out in the mail to registered voters and must all be mailed by Oct. 21. If you want to receive a ballot in the mail, you must register by Oct. 31. If your ballot doesn’t arrive, contact your county clerk.

What if I don’t receive a ballot in the mail?

Contact your county clerk’s offi ce and they will be able to help you.

How do I return my ballot?

Once you’ve fi lled out your ballot, sealed it in the return envelope and signed and dated the envelope, put it in the mail or take it to one of 400 drop boxes or 350 voting centers. (Most voters drop their ballots off.) Your ballot must be received by 7 p.m. Nov. 8. The Colorado Secretary of State’s Offi ce says ballots should be deliver in person, not mailed, after Nov. 1.

You may sign up to use BallotTrax, and you’ll receive an email, text or both when your ballot is accepted.

What if I want to vote in person?

More than 350 voting centers will open Oct. 24 at the latest (some counties may open earlier). Contact your county clerk for nearby locations and hours where you may vote in person. Polls are open Saturday, Nov. 5; Monday, Nov. 7; and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 8.

Do I need identification to vote?

If you vote in person or are voting by mail for the fi rst time, you must present identifi cation such as a driver’s license, U.S. passport or other identifi cation on this list.

Where can I find more information?

To register online, check your current registration and get key election information, GoVoteColorado.gov is the place to start. It

includes a variety of election information.

Where can I get more information about the state questions on the ballot?

Every election, the Ballot Information Booklet (known as the Blue Book) is produced by the state. It provides voters with impartial analysis of each initiated or referred constitutional amendment, law or question on the ballot. It includes a summary of the measure, arguments for and against, and a brief fi scal assessment.

Download a copy at bit. ly/2xjpqAd.

This story is from The Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support The Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun.com. The Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.

CCM writers, sta net 19 newspaper awards

CPA hosts annual event

STAFF REPORT

Colorado Community Media staff received 19 awards in the Colorado Press Association’s annual Better Newspaper Contest, which honored the state’s best journalism work for 2021.

Leading the honorees named during a Sept. 17 ceremony at Co-

ors Field was west metro reporter Rylee Dunn who received two fi rst-place honors. Dunn received the top prize in the Best Series or Sustained Coverage in the Class 4 division for the work on the Olde Town Arvada shooting and a fi rstplace award in the Best Business/ News Feature category for her work on Namiko’s 30-year history.

Dunn also took second place for Best News Story for her investigative work on a former political

candidate being charged with felony identity theft.

Douglas County reporter Elliott Wenzler also took home several awards, including fi rst place for Best Health/Enterprise Story for an interview with Tri-County Health’s Dr. John Douglas after one year of the COVID pandemic.

Wenzler received two second-place honors for feature (H2O’Brien Pool) and news photography (Homeless issues in

Douglas County). She and former reporter Jessica Gibbs were honored in the breaking news category for their coverage of the STEM school shooting trial.

West metro reporter Olivia Jewell Love was excited to receive her fi rst professional award, taking home second-place honors in the health category for an article on Evergreen-area RNs tackling nurse burnout through healing groups.

1. U.S. STATES: Which state’s official animal is a panther?

2. LITERATURE: What was the color of the man’s hat in the George” book series?

3. TELEVISION: Chuck Woolery was the original host which TV game show?

4. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: was the location of the White Castle

5. COMICS: What’s the name of the where Clark works?

6. MOVIES: Which 1980s movie a character named Aurora Greenway?

7. PSYCHOLOGY: What fear is represented in the phobia eisoptrophobia?

8. GEOGRAPHY: How many African countries have Portuguese as their official language?

9. ANIMAL KINGDOM: On average, cats sleep how many hours a

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Answers Florida. Yellow. “Wheel of Fortune.” Wichita, Kansas. The Daily Planet. “Terms of Endearment.” A fear of mirrors. Six. About 15 hours. Seven. 2022 King Features

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