Metro West Advertiser 112422

Early-season snow o to good start in high country

BY CHRIS OUTCALT THE COLORADO SUN

Snowpack on the Western Slope is off to a good start, but experts caution it’s difficult to draw many meaningful conclusions from snowcovered, high-country peaks this early in the season.

“It’s kind of like leading a football game by a field goal halfway through the first quarter,” Jeff Lukas, an independent climate researcher, wrote in an email.

As of early November, the statewide snowpack was 140% of the median from 1991 to 2020, and 142% in the Colorado River headwaters area specifically, according to SNO-

TEL data compiled by the Natural Resources Conservation Service. The averages were slightly higher elsewhere on the Western Slope. Still, there’s a long way to go. Typically, on Nov. 9, Colorado is about 8% of the way to achieving statewide median snowpack, Lukas said. Right now, the state is about 12% of the way there, he said. But, Lukas cautioned that there’s very little correlation between mountain precipitation in October and early November and the final totals across an entire snow season.

In about a third of the past 35 years, early-season snow totals looked something like they do so far this year, Lukas said. The seasonending snowpack across those 12 years, however, runs the gamut, from a handful of average years to a very good 1995 and a dismal 2012.

Nevertheless, it’s better to have snow on the ground than not, he said.

“Every little bit helps. Just like a field goal early in the first quarter,” he wrote. “But it needs to be followed up with a lot more scoring.”

Given the challenges facing the Colorado River, water managers across the region will be watching the snowpack especially closely this year. More than 40 million people rely on the snow that accumulates high up in the mountains in the Colorado River Basin and then flows into the river and its tributaries. The water is also used to irrigate millions of acres of farmland. However, a series of subpar snow years and dry soil conditions paired with sustained water use has drained the country’s two largest reservoirs — Lake Powell and Lake Mead — and strained the entire Colorado River system.

So far this year, the biggest in-state beneficiary of the early-season snow

Fort Lupton retirement contributions to increase

BY STEVE SMITH SSMITH@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Fort Lupton City Council approved an increase in contributions to the city’s 401a money purchase retirement plan during a Nov. 15 regular meeting.

Councilors voted 5-1 to increase employer and employee contributions to 4.5 percent in 2023. Council already approved an increase to 10.2 percent for employees and employers on the sworn police officer retirement savings plan.

Councilwoman Valerie Blackston cast the lone “no” vote Nov. 15. She preferred an increase in money from the city but not the workers. In a Nov. 8 town hall meeting, she cited the new employee contribution and the potential impact of a pending cost-of-living adjustment for city workers.

The cost to the city is almost $38,000 next year. Staff notes said the actual figure depends on headcounts and payroll.

“The employees will pay an

A fox ventures through the snow on Conifer’s Shadow Mountain.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DEBBIE FORD

Too soon to get excited, but snowpack is 140% of average

Fort Lupton’s new open space state -of the- art fitness court

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Fort Lupton’s Rail Road Park South has added a new place for residents to work out with a modern outdoor fi tness court supported by a mobile app, according to a news release.

“The City of Fort Lupton is excited to offer the community an incredible opportunity to enjoy fi tness in a fun, free, outdoor environment. Exercise is a key component to overall health and living a healthy lifestyle. We are thrilled to provide this amenity to our community, “ said Julie Holm, Assistant Recreation Director.

The new Fort Lupton recreation center joins a nationwide effort by the National Fitness Campaign to build healthy fi tness infrastructure in city public spaces and schools.

The City of Fort Lupton is scheduled to unveil its new fi tness court at Rail Road Park on November 21.

The City of Fort Lupton and dozens of other cities and towns nationwide were awarded $25,000 in grants from NFC to help support and build the infrastructure. In addition, to the grant funding, Salud sponsored and contributed to the project and the city of Fort Lupton.

The fi tness court is an open-air wellness center for all ages and fi tness levels. Users can check programs and offerings at the park

via the the free “Fitness Court” app, which was designed on behalf of the National Fitness Campaign and includes a digital fitness coach that transforms the outdoor gym into motivational workout.. The app can be downloaded for iPhone or Android.

The National Fitness Campaign was founded as a gym in San Francisco, California, in 1979, aimed at broadening healthy infrastructure

in cities and schools.

It developed its system in 2012 for cities and towns to add fitness to its public open spaces, according to National Fitness officials. According to officials, across the county, there are 100 active Fitness Courts built. It’s campaign goal is to reach 250 cities and schools by the end of 2022.

“I love the idea of having a free outdoor gym available to the public

for all fitness levels and ages. What an awesome opportunity for families to work out together and stay in shape together as a family. Having the Fitness Court is a great way to show the community that working out can be cool and fun,” Lacie Reckard, Fitness Coordinator.

For more information about the Fitness Court, contact Julie or Lacie at the Fort Lupton recreation center at 303-857-4200.

Fort Lupton council OKs new furniture for new library

BY STEVE SMITH SSMITH@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Fort Lupton City Councilors made quick work of $450,00 in spending at their Nov. 15 meeting.

All of the items were on the council’s consent agenda during its Nov. 15 regular meeting. Usually, there is no discussion because the city considers the items “routine” and eligible for one motion and one vote.

Items that were approved in that single vote included furniture for the new home of the Fort Lupton

Public & School Library in the amount of $181,000 from the city’s library fund. OfficeScapes submitted the low bid;

The vote also approved a $108,000 bid from Shelf Image for shelving inside the new library location. The money also comes from the library fund.

The vote also amended the municipal code in the areas that deal with classes of licenses and due dates for fees for liquor-licensed businesses. Four liquor license classifications are in place, but the city anticipates

more liquor establishments and, thus, a need for more classifications. The list of new anticipated businesses includes brewpubs, distillery pubs, vintners’ restaurants, lodging and entertainment, arts and race tracks. City Clerk Mari Pena plans to present cost figures at a Dec. 6 council meeting;

The purchase of five Motorola portable radios for the police department also made the cut. The $21,000 cost comes from the budget’s police equipment fund;

The vote also included retention

bonuses for full-time employees who finish up their initial performance review period by the end of the year, full-time employees who haven’t completed the review period but have worked for the city either parttime or seasonally for three years or part-time employees who have worked 700 or more hours in the year ending Nov. 11.

The cost is estimated to be $139,000 spread out among the general fund, the golf course fund, the recreation center fund, the community center fund and the library fund.

A new open air fitness court was scheduled to be be unveiled at Rail Road Park South Nov. 21. COURTESY

Opportunities in government to make your voice heard

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Weld County’s advisory groups, volunteers that advise County Commission, are looking for new members

“Advisory boards help us provide the best services every day to residents and businesses throughout the county,” Weld County Chair Scott James said. “The work volunteers do helps

us decide how our services can be most effective.”

There are several openings, including the Board of Public Health, Building Trades Advisory Committee, the Extension Advisory Council, Greeley-Weld Housing Authority, Planning Commission, Weld County Building Code Board of Appeals, and Workforce Development Board.

The advisory boards and

commissions each have their purpose. The advisory boards involve residents with expertise, knowledge, and input from the county commissioners and department on issues that impact the communities. The board members recommend areas of improvement with government services that have good outcomes to serve the people, according to officials.

Those who serve gain profes-

sional experience learning how government works. Weld County is looking for ambitious applicants for the advisory boards. Some boards require candidates with specific expertise to grow professionally.

For more information regarding the current openings and the application process, visit www. weld.gov/go/boardopenings. Applications are accepted through Nov. 28, 2022.

Weld County road intersection improving for safety

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The intersection of Weld County Road 66 and WCR 41 will get new left turn lanes, improved lines-of-sight for drivers and new pavement this month, all meant to make the road safer, according to a news release.

“We’re always looking for ways to make our roadways safer and more efficient to ensure they meet the needs of travelers now and in the future,” said Weld County Commissioner Scott James. “We’re glad to have DOLA’s support on this project, which will help us

deliver the best improvement possible to those who use this intersection.”

The Weld County Board of Commissioners awarded the contract to IHC Scott up to $12,821,742.91 to construct the road improvement, according to officials.

The intersection project is north of Greeley, and east of Highway 85. The plans are to construct left turn lanes on all four legs of its intersection— correct sight distance issues, concrete, and asphalt paving at the intersection with the installation of new signs.

The intersection will be designed to resist flooding with a

concrete box culvert for Eaton Draw. In addition, the development of roadside drainage and irrigation ditches.

According to officials, IHC Scott has a reputation for constructing award-winning projects in Weld County, such as WCR 49 and the roundabout at WCR54 and WCR17 that opened on September 30, 2022.

Also, the Weld County of Public Works worked with the Horrocks Engineers over 2 ½ years ago to design for improvements at the intersections of WCR 66 and WCR 41. The public works department controls the inspection and construction of the projects to make certain the

projects are completed on time, on budget, and following the required county construction specifications.

Weld County, in July, enrolled in an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA). DOLA, with the agreement, awarded the county a $700,000 Energy and Mineral Impact Grant to be used for the intersection project, according to officials.

The project is projected to be completed by July 2023. Construction updates and closures will be posted to the county’s Facebook and Twitter social media.

Starting the Season

Dec. 1

Fort Lupton Holiday lighting con test: City residents and those who live within five miles of the Fort Lupton City limits can register with the Cham ber of Commerce to have their home holiday displays reviewed and judged. Winners in several categories will be announced at 3 p.m. Dec. 19. Contact Allison Johnson at executivedirector@ fortluptonchamber.org for more infor mation or register at shorturl.at/fijwF.

Dec. 2

Thornton Santa Calling: The regis tration deadline for Thornton’s annual

check-in from Santa is Dec. 2. Santa will call between 6 and 8 p.m. Dec. 13 through 15.

Adults can register interested kids, specifying a date and rough time for the call and providing some informa tion about their child — name, age, address, brothers and sisters, favorite things, the names of their pets, what they want for Christmas and how they’ve been behaving.

One of Thornton’s volunteer elves will call, putting Santa — or one of his helpers — on the line when they’re ready. Visit https://www.thorntonco. gov/festivals-events/Documents/ santas-calling-form.pdf for the regis

tration form.

Call 720-977-5916 if you have ques tions or need more information.

Noel Northglenn: The City of Northglenn kicks off the holiday cel ebration from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Parsons entrance of the Northglenn Recreation Center at 1 E. Memorial Parkway. Many of the most popular events from past festivals will be back!

Santa will be on hand and ready to take pictures with the families –whether they are free (taken with your own phone) or $5 per photo with a professional photographer. Mrs. Claus will be there too, sharing her favorite holiday songs. There will be free crafts for the kids, carriage rides and free children’s books while supplies last. There will also be new opportunities to learn about winter holidays in other cultures.

A pizza dinner can be purchased, with proceeds going to benefit the Northglenn Community Foundation. And returning this year, the gym will be reserved for fun and chaotic indoor snowball fights.

Historic Westminster Home Town Christmas: The Westminster Historical Society hosts this annual event featuring carolers, roasted chest nuts and visits with Santa from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in Fireman’s Park, 7290 Bradburn Blvd. Stick around for the lighting of the park’s Christmas tree, reportedly the tallest living Christmas tree in the state.

Thornton Christmas Memories Concert: Thornton’s Community Chorus will offer two performances of

their annual holiday concert “Christ mas Memories”, featuring all varieties of holiday music, at 4 p.m. and again at 7 p.m. in the McAllister Park Build ing, 750 W. 96th Ave., Thornton. Email thorntonchorus@gmail.com for more information.

Dec. 3

Adams County Holiday Bazaar: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the at Riverdale Regional Park and Fairgrounds, 9755 Henderson Rd., Brighton. Featuring holiday crafts, homemade gifts and other treats. Admission is $3, cash, and children 12 and younger are free.

Cookies and cocoa with Santa: Come visit with Santa, enjoy some cookies, play some games and have a professional photograph taken from 10 a.m. to noon at the Fort Lupton Public Library, 425 S. Denver Ave., Fort Lupton.

Olde Fashioned Christmas: North glenn’s Stonehocker Farmhouse, 10950 Fox Run Parkway, will host the annual celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Satur day and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Enjoy holiday music as soon as you enter the door from local performers includ ing the Northland Chorale. You can browse affordable baked goods, gifts and stocking stuffers in the kitchen. Santa awaits upstairs to take photos with the kids. Afterward, they can pick out a free book to bring home, thanks to Northglenn Build A Generation.

Brighton Tree Lighting Ceremo ny: The city’s annual holiday season opener moves to Founders Plaza, 5 S. Main St., and runs from 2-7 p.m

Is a Donor-advised Fund Right for You?

Eagle View Adult Center Update –Nov 23 - 30, 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 November & December Newsletter is available. Eagle View is closed Nov 24 & 25.

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.

Medicare Open Enrollment

Schedule an appointment with a Bene ts in Action certi ed Medicare counselor to get some one-on-one assistance in determining which plans are best for you. Bene ts in Action counselors are SHIP certi ed by the Colorado Division of Insurance and are unbiased and professional. Call Evon at 303-655-2079 to make an appointment. 12:00 noon - 3:00 p.m. Tuesdays. Nov. 15 - 29. Free. Deadline: Fri. before Denver Decades: 1930 - 1960

From 1930 to 1960, Denver raced toward the suburbs, silenced the clang-clang of the streetcar, and marched both upward and into the wider world. Join Kevin Snow from Denver History Tours for an exploration of an amazing thirty years of Denver’s history. 1:30 p.m. Tues. Nov 29. $4. Deadline: Mon. Nov 28

Cribbage Tournament

Our monthly cribbage tournament is lots of fun and includes prize winnings. Just drop in and pay the fee to the tournament volunteer. 12:30 p.m. Wed. Nov 30. $4

You can find many ways to support charitable organizations. One method that’s gained popularity in recent years is called a donoradvised fund. Should you consider it?

It depends on your situation. But you might at least want to know how it works.

First, you can contribute cash or assets that can quickly be converted to cash and if your contribution is tax deductible, you’ll receive the deduction in the year you make the contribution. Additionally, there are ways to avoid capital gains taxes.

You’ll then choose how you want the money invested within the fund. Most donor-advised funds offer several professionally managed portfolios.

Finally, you decide which IRS-approved charities should receive grants, when they should receive them and how much they should get.

Keep in mind, though, that once you put the money in the fund, you cannot access it for any reason other than charitable giving.

Consult with your tax and financial professionals before investing in a donoradvised fund. If it’s appropriate for your needs, it’s a chance to do some good — while also helping your own financial strategy.

The day kicks off as Santa comes to town at 2 p.m. with free face painting and the Teddy Bear & Friends Tree. New this year is a Winter Market on South Main St. (near the plaza) from 2-7 p.m. The market will feature unique artists, crafters and artisan food ven dors.

The tree lighting is scheduled for 5 p.m., followed by a concert perfor mance by Boulder’s Face Vocal Band. Contact Amy Porter at 303-655-2126 for more information.

Westminster Holiday Lights: The city of Westminster kicks off the countdown to Christmas at 5:30 p.m. with the annual Holiday Lighting Cer emony at City Hall, 4800 W. 92nd Ave. in Westminster.

Come see the magical wonderland of lights, complete with holiday music, hot chocolate, cookies and a visit from Santa Claus. There will be a full-sized sleigh and miniature train for photos, and carnival games. Free of charge, sponsored by SCL Health and O’Toole’s Garden Center.

Dec.

9

Fort Lupton Parade of Lights: The city hosts its holiday parade of bright lights and cheer beginning at 6 p.m. at 605 4th St. – the Bank of Colo rado Operations Center. A tree lighting ceremony is set for 6:45 p.m. Santa sticks around for photos from 7-8 p.m.

Thornton Winterfest: Come celebrate the season with the city’s an nual holiday celebration through Dec. 11 at the Carpenter Park Fields, 108th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard. The festival opens at 6:30 p.m. Friday, and 10 a.m. Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday and runs until 9 p.m. nightly.

The festival features Santa’s Village,

with ice skating, ice carving, food vendors, a tree decorating contest, a beer garden and visits from Santa Claus himself. The city will also present a holiday movie Friday night and another on Sunday night.

Saturday events include a breakfast with Santa at 7:30 a.m., a 10 a.m. Winterfest Fun Run 5k, a holiday marketplace and an 8:30 p.m. fireworks display.

Dec. 10

Santa on the Plaza: Bring a camera or smartphone to snap photographs of Santa on the plaza at Westminster City Hall, 4800 W. 92nd Ave. in Westminster. While you are there, enjoy the magical wonderland of lights, the full-sized sleigh and the miniature train – all of them suitable for holiday photos! The event is being hosted by the Westminster 7:10 Rotary Club.

Build a Bird Wreath: Create beautiful works of art for birds and humans alike to enjoy during the holiday season, while learning more about the birds that call Standley Lake home. Meets at 10 a.m. the Standley Lake Regional Park, 11610 W 100th Ave, Westminster. The cost is $5 per person. Limited to 20 participants, register online at shorturl.at/bhop2.

Brighton Parade of Lights: More than 60 colorful and creatively decorated floats will be featured in the city’s 27th annual holiday parade. The parade steps off at 5 p.m. heading south on North Main St., turns east onto Bridge St. to 10th Ave. and then to Southern Ave. before turning east to return to City Hall. Contact Amy

Porter at 303-655-2126 for more information.

Dec. 11

Advent Radio Players: Once again, the Advent Lutheran Church in Westminster will present two “Old Time Radio” Christmas comedies performed live at 1 p.m, in the church, at 7979 Meade St.

This year, they’ll be presenting a recreation of an episode of “The Life of Riley” called “No Christmas Bonus,” originally starring William Bendix. That will be followed by a Christmas episode of “My Favorite Husband” called “George’s Christmas Present.” That radio program, which aired from 1948 to 1951, originally starred Lucille Ball and was the forerunner of “I Love Lucy” on television.

These plays will be performed using the scripts and sounds from the original plays as they were broadcast on

the air in 1948 and 1949 using several microphones and lighted applause and “on the air” signs. Donations are appreciated.

The plays will also be live-streamed on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/adventwestminsterco “Miracles” A Kantorei Choral Celebration: Northglenn Arts hosts this celebration of the season with Denver’s premier choral ensemble Kantorei and special guests performing a multicultural collage of seasonal music at 2 p.m. at Northglenn’s Parsons Theater, 1 East Memorial Parkway. Performances are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16 and 17 with a 2 p.m. matinee Dec. 18 at Parsons Theater.

The show includes performances of Ed Henderson’s “Milagros de Navidad” for guitar, marimba and percussion; carols by Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo and a musical celebration of Hannukah with arrangements by com-

poser Joshua Jacobson. Tickets range from $18 to $25 with discounts for seniors and the military. Visit https:// northglennarts.org/ for more information or to purchase tickets.

Dec. 16: Holiday Hi-Fi: Motones & Jerseys: Holiday Hi-Fi returns to Northglenn featuring nine singers backed by an incredible band performing holiday classic favorites alongside some of the greatest songs of the 20th century. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 16 and 17 with a 2 p.m. matinee Dec. 18 at Northglenn’s Parsons Theater, 1 East Memorial Parkway. Tickets range from $18 to $25 with discounts for seniors and the military. Visit https://northglennarts.org/ for more information or to purchase tickets.

Dec. 17

Santa on the Plaza: Bring a camera or smartphone to snap photographs of Santa on the plaza at Westminster City Hall, 4800 W. 92nd Ave. in Westminster. While you are there, enjoy the magical wonderland of lights, the full-sized sleigh and the miniature train – all of them suitable for holiday photos! The event is being hosted by the Westminster 7:10 Rotary Club.

Dec. 20

Hanukka at Orchard Mall: Families can come and celebrate Chanukah with The Orchard’s Grand Menorah Lighting Celebration with live music, latkes, donuts, hot beverages and a variety of performances between 5:306:30 p.m. at the Orchard Town Center Square, 14697 Delaware St. Westminster -- next to the Rock Bottom Restaurant and the AMC Theaters. Hosted by The Chabad of NW Metro Denver in loving memory of Jessica Ridgeway on The Orchard’s entertainment stage.

FILE PHOTO

BRIEFS

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 from 2 to 7 p.m. Sunday, 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. 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/Tree-Lighting-Winter-Market. For more information, contact Susie O’Connor at soconnor@brightonco.gov.

Holiday season begins Dec. 3

The holiday season begins in earnest in downtown Brighton Saturday, Dec. 3, and Saturday, Dec. 10.

The annual tree-lighting ceremony is from 2 to 7 p.m. Dec. 3 at Founders Plaza, 5 S. Main St.

New to the event is a winter market on South Main Street, near the plaza, that will feature artists, crafters and artisan food vendors. Vendor applications will be accepted until Friday, Nov. 25. Visit https://www.brightonco.gov/ FormCenter/Public-Information-22/ Winter-Market-Vendor-Application-134.

Santa will be on hand. There will be face painting and the Teddy Bear

& Friends Tree (from 2 to 4:30 p.m.)

Face Vocal Band. an all-vocal rock band, will perform on the FNBO stage from 5 to 7 p.m. The tree lighting is set for 5 p.m.

The 27th annual Festival of Lights parade starts at 5 p.m. Dec. 10. The theme is “A Hometown Holiday Tradition,” featuring almost 65 entries. Those who would like to enter, visit https://www.brightonco.gov/470/ Festival-of-Lights-Parade. The deadline is Nov. 25.

Call Amy Porter at 303-655-2126.

Colorado Gives Day

The Adams and Broomfield counties’ chapter of Court Appointed Special Advocates is observing Colorado Gives Day Tuesday, Dec. 6.

A press statement said donations to CASA help provide volunteers to children and youth in the child welfare system. Donations will be doubled by matching funds up to $100,000, thanks to support from the Lembke Family. Donations ar tax-deductible and qulaify for the Colorado child Care Contribution Tax Credit.

Visit https://www.coloradogives. org/organization/Casaa-B?blm_ aid=18554916.

Tip A Cop

Brighotn police and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office are teaming up to participate in this year’s Tip-A-Cop fundraiser from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7, at the Texas Roadhouse, 3738 Eagle Blvd., Brighton.

Proceeds benefit Special Olympics. Call 720-623-4221.

DA Academy

The 17th Juidicial District Attorney’s Office is offering a free, eight-week program to explain the workings of the office and the criminal justice system.

It starts at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, at the DA’s office, 1000 Judicial Center Drive, Brighton. The registration deadline is Friday, Dec. 1. Info? Email chopper@da17.state. co.us.

‘Holiday Splendor’

The city of Brighton’s community art show ARTfest will be presenting the “Holiday Splendor” exhibit through Jan. 18 at The Armory Performing Arts Center, 300 Strong St.

Show sponsors include the Brighton Cultural Arts Commission and The Armory Performing Arts Center. Partial funding is provided by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District.

Contact Sandie Mackenzie at 303659-5400 or David Gallegos at 303-6552176. To confirm viewing hours at The Armory, call 303-655-2026.

ONGOING

Brighton adds new ChargePoint stations

The city of Brighton announced it was opening three new charging stations for electric vehicles.

The stations are at the Brighton Recreation Center at 555 N. 11th Ave. Eagle View Adult Center at 1150 Prairie Center Parkway. and Platte Valley Medical Center at 1610 Prairie Center Parkway.

The first hour of charging is free at each location. The locations have

two stalls and two charging stations each that operate much like a parking meter, with a $2-per-hour charging rate after the first hour.

For other ChargePoint station locations, visit https://uk.chargepoint. com/charge_point. For more information, please contact Assistant Director of Public Works Chris Montoya at cmontoya@brightonco.gov.

Museum volunteers

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

Call Bill Armstrong, museum specialist, 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 homeowner 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/Water-AuditProgram

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 representation 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 re placements, according to a statement. Property owners are responsible for that maintenance work. The program halves the replacement costs between the city and the property 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.

American Legion meets in Brighton

American Legion Post 2002 meets regularly the second Thursday of each month, and all veterans are invited to attend. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. in the United Power headquarters building, 500 Cooperative Way.

Senior meals

Eagle View Adult Center will serve hot VOA lunches on Mondays and Thursdays. Advance reservations are required. Call EVAC 303-655-2075 for more information.

Our Family Helping Your Family

Walk with a doc

Platte Valley Medical Center’s cardiac rehab team and Walk With A Doc will host monthly walks with Dr. Christopher Cannon, an intervention al cardiologist at Brighton Heart and Vascular Institute.

This is a walking program for ev eryone interested in taking steps for a healthier lifestyle. After a few minutes to learn about a current health topic from the doctor, spend the rest of the hour enjoying a healthy walk and a fun conversation. It’s a great way to get out, get active and enjoy all the benefits that come from walking.

Hearts in the Arts’ rental assistance program begins

The Brighton Urban Renewal Authority began the Brighton Hearts in the Arts rental assistance program. It’s designed to help local artists who occupy physical space in the down town urban renewal area with rent costs.

It’s open to arts-focused nonprofits, according to a statement, plus for-prof it art galleries and art studios. Some of the ‘Need-to-meet” criteria include a 501(c)(3) designation and to be sure that the function and mission of the facility is to exhibit, create, present and sell artwork in several forms of media.

Artists can apply for grants that will cover up to half of their annual or monthly lease but no more than $15,000 per year.Visit brightonura. org/176/Brighton-Hearts-the-Arts. Call 303-655-2150 or email aherrera@

brightonedc.org.

Meet the mayor

Brighton Mayor Greg Mills wants to meet the public during new, one-onone meetings. It’s a chance to learn about current projects, new develop ments and share issues.

Meetings are the third Friday of every month in 15-minute slots, starting at 10:30 a.m. Reserve a time slot at https://www.signupgenius. com/go/10c0d4caaa62fabf9c34-meet. Indicate whether you want to meet in person at City Hall, 500 S. Fourth Ave., or virtually. Call 303-655-2042.

Mental health

Community Reach Center offers in-person intake assessments from 8 a.m. to noon Tuesdays at the Brighton Learning and Resource Campus, 1850 E. Egbert St. in Brighton. Call Com munity Reach Center at 303-853-3500.

For walk-in intake, bring an ID and insurance information. For those who would prefer to complete the intake forms and schedule an appointment, the intake forms are available online at www.communityreachcenter.org. There will be a short screening for flu-like symptoms before entering the center to ensure safety and wellness for everyone.

Anyone feeling unsafe or suicidal should call Colorado Crisis Services at 1-844-493-8255, text 38255, or visit the Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUC) Center at 2551 W. 84th Ave., Westminster.

Through an arrangement with The

Colorado Spirit Program, there is support for feelings of worry, hope lessness, anger, loss, isolation and disconnection that many individuals are experiencing as a result of the pandemic.

It’s free and confidential. Services include virtual individual and group counseling. community networking and support, assessment and referral to community resources and psycho educational materials and emotional support. Email J.Sheehan@Commu nityReachCenter.org.

Help for vets

Qualified Listeners, a veteran and family resource hub serving northern Colorado and southern Wyoming, has several power chairs, power scooters and electric wheelchairs available.

The VA offers urgent care ser vices to eligible veterans at both VA medical facilities or at in network urgent care clinics that are closer to home. Use this benefit to treat minor injuries and illnesses that are not life-threatening, such as colds, strep throat, sprained muscles, and skin and ear infections.

To find the closest facility to you visit www.va.gov/find-locations or call 720-600-0860.

Qualified Listeners also needs vol unteers to drive veterans to and from appointments, run errands for veter ans who cannot get out, handyman services, help administer veteran and family resource guide inventory in local libraries and veterans to be trained to become qualified listeners.

24-Hour Phone Lines 303-654-0112 • 303-857-2290 Brighton: 75 S. 13th Avenue Obituaries, Arrangements and Resources Online at taborfuneralhome.com

In Loving

Self placement available online at TheBrightonBlade.com

BY ANDREW FRAIELI AFRAIELI@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In 1928, two Black dancers in a dance marathon in Harlem — George Snowden and Mattie Purnell — broke away from each other to throw in some solo freestyling. With that, they started the process of creating one of the most popular swing dances ever: Lindy Hop.

It obviously spread from Harlem, and today exists across the country, including in Denver. The dance — along with swing music itself — has ebbed and flowed in popularity over the last few decades, but the fast-paced swing-outs

and stomping beats have held onto Denver, developing a small community that’s easy for beginners to start in and experts to explore.

“I think there’s a lot of room for growth to provide many opportunities for people that want to dance,” said Kenny Nelson, founder of Swingin’ Denver — a swing school and local dance party hoster.

Nelson himself has experience teaching around the world, but the last eight years he’s been teaching Lindy Hop across Denver and

hosting social dances from the Mercury Cafe to the Savoy.

The current big three places for Lindy Hop in Denver, according to Nelson, have been the Mercury Cafe, the Savoy and the Turnverein as they are what have survived the ebb and flow.

“The Mercury Cafe got its start in the ‘90s when neo-swing was

happening, and they’re the one place that remained when everyone else was gone…it kind of all fizzled out,” Nelson explained. “I mean, it went with the ebb and flow of popular music. The pop bands tried to grab that sound and it lasted for a bit, but it didn’t last.”

The Mercury Cafe now hosts the teaching and party-hosting group Swing Nights twice a week, every Tuesday and Sunday evening, with Ceth Stifel teaching many of the classes from beginner to intermediate. “The Merc,” as it’s also called, has a live band almost every Sunday as well.

The Turnverein, a 5,280 square foot ballroom, hosts a broader range of dance classes from many different teachers like argentine tango and general ballroom, but also a free Lindy Hop class at 7 p.m. every Friday and a dance right after.

Nelson himself found a home at the Savoy near Five Points in the city, where he teaches beginner and intermediate classes and hosts a live band and dance on the first Wednesday of every month.

Music is, of course, a central aspect. The right variation in tempo, a swinging sound that will convince dancers onto the floor, mixing songs from well-known to gems — all harder than it may seem.

“Swing dancing is inevitably tied to the music, having some music that is really good and swinging,

and DJs that are paying attention to the dance floor is very crucial for having creative dancing,” Nelson said.

He describes a talent loss around 2008 and 2012 though, in DJing, dancing, and teaching, but has seen it start improving since 2013.

“I really feel like, in certain areas, live music has stepped up, and it’s

great, whereas DJing definitely hasn’t come back,” Nelson said. He references some of the bands that he’s hosted before like La Pomp, that play “swingin tin-pan standards” and “soulful originals” according to their Instagram, putting them in a category “of the new current bands, with younger members, who are really talented and really

In terms of the stability of the scene now, it’s hard to tell.

“It’s kind of hard to get the complete pulse post-pandemic on the scene here. It certainly feels like it’s getting more stable,” Nelson said, pointing to venues having live music again as a promising step.

The dance’s history as a Black dance is a focus Nelson tries to give when he teaches.

“There’s been a lot of international conversations around the role of teaching, how we ought to be teaching, and how we can best respect the fact that we are teaching a Black dance — how can we best provide solid representation and appreciation for the dance,” he said. “I still think there’s lots of room for improvement there too.”

Specifically, the idea that the dance had a “revival” is what is pushed back on. As Nelson puts it, it “presents a whitewashing of the current popularity of swing dancing - i.e. it paints a picture of an activity ‘saved’ from extinction by white people, rather than a living art form still practiced within Black communities.”

Within Denver though, it is far from extinction or needing to be saved. Tuesday nights at “The Merc,” Friday nights at the Turnverin, and Sunday nights back to “The Merc” again, Lindy Hop is going strong in the city and welcomes beginners, experts and intermediates all alike.

Take a hop, skip and a jump into the city and see what you can do to the tune of “swingin tin-pan standards.”

Ceth Stifel and Dani Botello, teachers from Swing Nights, performing at the Mercury Cafe.

COURTESY OF MARA ELAINE

BY ALLISON SHERRY COLORADO PUBLIC MEDIA

In conceding his Republican bid for state attorney general, Arapa hoe County District Attorney John Kellner said that despite his party’s losses last week, they single-handedly forced state leaders to pay attention to public safety in a way they weren’t before.

“Throughout this campaign, which was so focused on public safety, we charged a lot of hearts and minds,” Kellner told a crowd of support ers. “We convinced Gov. Polis to get behind a bill that says, hey I want to increase the penalties for car thieves. That happens because of campaigns like this.”

Colorado’s crime rates, particularly around auto theft and fentanyl over doses, were an omnipresent theme on the campaign trail.

In his state of the state speech earlier this year, Polis said that he wanted to make Colorado among the top 10 safest states in the nation. He often characterized fentanyl as one of the biggest threats posed to Colo radans and told CPR News he would support criminalizing possession of any amount of the drug — a de parture from others in his party who believe criminalizing possession of drugs only punishes addicts.

Republican silver lining

Then in September, Polis wrote a letter to the state’s bipartisan Colo rado Criminal and Juvenile Justice commission saying that he wanted to strengthen the penalties for car thefts.

In his proposed budget, there is more money funneled toward local law enforcement than in previous years and an overall 26 percent in crease devoted to public safety.

A policy priority, or a cynical posi tion for political gain?

Despite all that, many Democrats say the GOP mantra throughout 2022 that Colorado is crime-infested was a cynical position to promote for politi cal purposes.

“The public-safety issue raised in this campaign was basically a fear tactic,” said Maureen Cain, legis lative and policy director for the Colorado State Public Defender. “It didn’t work. I think voters rejected their fear tactics. But has there been a fear-based response in the Demo cratic party to this political message? Yes, I think so.”

Cain said that the language on the campaign trail —from 8th Congressional District Republican candidate Barbara Kirkmeyer falsely accusing her Democratic opponent of “legalizing” fentanyl, to attacks on a bipartisan-supported misdemeanor reform bill that Republicans attri bute to increasing auto theft rates — did not actually advance public safety.

“I don’t think it helps the public’s understanding,” she said. “One side

is fear-mongering, are we going to say: too bad, so sad, we’re not going to talk about it?”

For outgoing Colorado House Speaker Alec Garnett, a Democrat, the high-profile conversations about public safety, and who launched them, is a kind of chicken-egg ques tion.

“The governor has said he wants Colorado to be one of the safest states in the country. That’s not because Republicans brought the issue up on the campaign trail, it’s because communities want to see crime go down,” said Garnett, who is about to become Polis’ chief of staff. “Republi cans are stretching to figure out some silver lining in what ended up being a historically bad night.”

On the campaign trail throughout the state, Kellner said he heard from people concerned about crime rate increases — not only violent crime, but also catalytic converter thefts and business break-ins. He thinks the at tention paid on that, including atten tion driven by some media coverage, was effective in elevating the policy issue for Republicans.

“It’s durable and it will stick with people going into the next legislative session. This is really not a Democrat or Republican thing,” he said. “It cuts across party lines and it’s something I’m really proud of that we were able to elevate that conversation … and put it on the media’s radar, the statis tics around our state.”

What’s next for John Kellner and other Colorado politicians

Heading into the legislative ses sion, where Democrats have large majorities in both chambers, Kellner said he hopes to keep the importance of crime relevant — even though he is returning to his day job as elected district attorney for Arapahoe, Doug las, Elbert and Lincoln counties.

He plans to urge lawmakers to strengthen penalties for additional possession of illegal drugs, not just fentanyl, and get rid of the system that doles out varying sentences for auto theft depending on the value of the car. Kellner also wants to strengthen laws around people with criminal records possessing fire arms.

“We recognize that legislators are not subject matter experts,” Kellner said. “We’ve gotten more feedback that there is more engagement.”

Kellner said even Democratic legis lators have reached out to him.

In a statement from Polis’ spokes man Conor Cahill, he said the gover nor’s overwhelming victory last week showed that “the people of Colorado, regardless of their political party, support the governor’s work to im prove public safety in Colorado.”

“It’s clear the governor’s com monsense approach in support of improving public safety resonated with Coloradans from across the spectrum,” Cahill said.

This story is from CPR News, a non profit news source. Used by permis sion. For more, and to support Colo rado Public Radio, visit cpr.org.

They pushed conversation on crime, public safety

FROM

has been southwestern Colorado and the San Juan Mountains, a region that has been hard-hit by drought and dry soil conditions the past few years. The southwestern part of the state registered 217% of the median snowpack as of Nov. 10.

“We’re in the best shape we’ve seen for about five years — it’s a good start for sure,” said Ken Curtis, general manager of the Dolores Water Conservancy District, which

INCREASE

FROM PAGE 1

identical cost,” the notes said. “How ever, it will be a pre-tax contribution, so the net effect will be less because it re duces an employee’s taxable income.”

Hiring and keeping police officers

Council also approved staff refer ral bonuses for sworn police officer candidates. Staff notes said improving the bonus … will lead to more refer rals. Fort Lupton officers are working

manages the Dolores Project.

In addition to the early snow, a steady pattern of monsoonal rains throughout the summer helped southwestern Colorado quite a bit, Curtis said.

“Depending on how you feel about trends or odds or statistics, we are looking better, and you might say we’re due,” Curtis said.

In 2021, farmers and ranchers who rely on water from the Dolores Project received a 10% supply. This year, the project operated on a 35% supply.

Becky Bollinger, the assistant state climatologist, said it’s good to

12-hour shifts instead of four, 10-hour days.

“It’s a common practice to let employ ees recruit,” Fort Lupton Police Chief John Fryar told councilors. “The bonus program is structured to pay the incentive upon hiring and the end of the performance review period, gener ally one year.”

“I’d prefer to see half paid in six months,” said Councilwoman Valerie Blackston.

“When we go through the testing, we’ll weed out the people we would be losing,” said Human Resources Coordi nator Amanda Rice.

TURN TO THE COLORADO SUN FOR NEWS ACROSS THE STATE

The Colorado Sun is a journalist-owned, award-winning news outlet that strives to cover all of Colorado so that our state — our community — can better understand itself. In this way, The Sun contributes to a more

vibrant, informed and whole Colorado.

The Sun, launched in 2018, is committed to fact-based, in-depth and non-partisan journalism. It covers everything from poli tics and culture to the outdoor industry and

get a head start on snowpack now so that the state is less reliant on big storm after big storm during the heart of the winter.

“For me, seeing these storms kick off and that we’re a little ahead on snowpack is good,” said Bollinger, who is part of Colorado State Uni versity’s Colorado Climate Center. “In general, I feel pretty positive about this.”

The snow in the high country this week was especially nice, she said, because the next week or so looks like it’s going to be drier across the state. However, temperatures are likely to remain cooler, which

The referral program is available for police officers, sergeants, lieutenants and the chief.

“Can any employee recruit? Or is it just police officers?” Mayor Zo Hub bard asked.

Fryar said he’d look into it. City attorney Andy Ausmus thought the program could be available to all employees. The current bonus is $75. Fryar called that “not particularly incentivizing.”

Early squad cars

Fryar had an unusual problem on his hands Nov. 15. He wanted three new

is good, Bollinger said. “What that means is that while the snowpack isn’t going to accumulate, it’s prob ably not going to melt in those midto-high elevations,” she said. “When you have those cold temperatures, that will help support the snowpack that’s already there.”

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.

police cars in time for next year. Two of them, though, showed up this year and need to be paid for from this year’s budget. The amount is a little less than $123,000, payable from the general fund. Council unanimously approved the accelerated purchase.

One of the cars replaces Fryar’s Tahoe. The other will be an unmarked patrol car.

“The third one isn’t scheduled to be in until February,” Fryar told council ors.

“We haven’t approved that one yet?” Hubbard asked.

“No, not yet,” Fryar said.

education.

Now, The Colorado Sun co-owns this and other Colorado Community Media news papers as a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy. The Sun is CCM’s partner for

statewide news.

For Colorado Sun stories, opinions and more, and to support The Sun’s misssion as a member or subscriber, visit coloradosun. com.

TRIVIA

TELEVISION: At which popular restaurant does Penny work in “The Big Bang Theory”?

ASTRONOMY: Which one of Jupiter’s moons has active volcanos?

GEOGRAPHY: The Tiber River flows through which famous capital city?

LITERATURE: Who wrote the novel “The Martian Chronicles”?

U.S. STATES: Which river forms the eastern border of Iowa?

U.S. PRESIDENTS: Who was the first president to give a televised address from the White House?

GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What image on Canada’s flag is a recognizable symbol of the country?

MOVIES: Who voices the character Princess Anna in “Frozen”?

ANIMAL KINGDOM: An elephant has the most muscles in which part of its body? Answers

Bradbury. 5. Mississippi.

Truman.

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