Clear Creek Courant January 25, 2024

VOLUME 52 | ISSUE 33

WEEK OF JANUARY 25, 2024

$2

SNOW DAY

Calson Elementary Pre-schoolers enjoy the weather and frozen balloon experiment after bitter cold and heavy snow canceled PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL school in Idaho Springs.

CURRENTS: 6 | VOICES: 8 | LIFE: 10 | SPORTS: 14

CLEARCREEKCOURANT.COM • A PUBLICATION OF COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

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See inside ad for homes and details

2 Clear Creek Courant

January 25, 2024Jan

Aaron Crawley named director of Emergency Medical Service in Clear Creek County Crawley will head EMS during transitory year for the county BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Clear Creek County EMS is amid a county-wide budget shortfall and will transition from in-house emergency dispatch control to Jeffcom911 early this year. Jeffcom911 was selected by Clear Creek County Commissioners to take over emergency communications for the county in November of last year. Aaron Crawley will be at the helm of the transfer expected in February of this year. A six-year veteran of the CCCEMS, Crawley has adopted and implemented several unique initiatives

within the county including, “Mugs for Rugs” a county-wide campaign aimed at reducing slips and falls for elderly residents. “We conducted a national recruitment and Aaron was the clear choice for taking on the leadership role of Clear Creek EMS. He has been an integral part of the organization for the last six years, and he has more than 10 years working and saving lives as a paramedic,” County Manager Brian Bosshardt said. On average, Clear Creek EMS responds to at least 1,800 calls for service each year. Seventeen full-time paramedics and EMTs, including one community paramedic and 11 critical care paramedics are on-staff to answer the call, according to county statistics. “All of our full-time paramedics are critical care endorsed with the county now, which is the highest level of certification a paramedic can

Aaron Crawley will take over as director of Clear Creek County Emergency Medical Service.

CITY OF IDAHO SPRINGS SEEKING BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBERS The City of Idaho Springs has several vacancies on its City Councilappointed boards and commissions. The City is seeking individuals who are interested in serving on the Planning Commission, Variance Board, and Historic Preservation Review Commission (HPRC). The Planning Commission is a recommending body to the City Council that reviews and revises the Comprehensive Plan, reviews subdivision requests, recommends annexations and final development plans for new developments, and amends the zoning map. The Variance Board decides on requests for variances to the Zoning Code and on appeals to staff interpretations of the adopted codes. The HPRC decides on requests to conduct work on a historic structure for the purpose of determining if the proposed work is historically appropriate. Members of the HPRC are not required to live in Idaho Springs but are required to be knowledgeable in history or architecture. Members of the Planning Commission and Variance Board are required to be residents of the City. Please submit your letter of interest to Deputy City Clerk Wonder Martell by 5:00 P.M. February 14, 2024 at City Hall, 1711 Miner St., PO BOX 907, Idaho Springs, CO 80452 or via email at cityclerk@idahospringsco.com. If you have any questions on the various boards, please call (303) 567-4421 and ask to speak to the City Planner.

CCHAT is a coordinated effort with Clear Creek EMS, the Clear Creek County Department of Human Services and law enforcement, including the Clear Creek County PHOTOS BY CHRIS KOEBERL Sheriff’s Office.

obtain, so the education level is extremely high and our performance level is high,” Crawley said. CCEMS also employs one full-time licensed crisis clinician as part of the Clear Creek Health Assistance Team to assist law enforcement. CCHAT is a coordinated effort with Clear Creek EMS, the Clear Creek County Department of Human Services and law enforcement, including the Clear Creek County Sheriff ’s Office. CCHAT is overseen by Clear Creek EMS, according to the county. Challenges in the new position include “sustainable funding and an increasing call volume with more visitors coming to and through the

country every day,” Crawley said. The unique challenges of responding to emergency calls in the mountains of Clear Creek County are outlined in the EMS mission statement. “Whether your emergency is in the shallows of the streams or the summit of the peaks, Clear Creek EMS will rise above to care for you,” the statement reads. Crawley said his goal in his new role as director is to maintain the high level of service that EMS provides the community. “His passion and care for his patients, residents and staff is evident, and we are lucky to have him,” Bosshardt said.

Clear Creek Courant 3

January 25, 2024

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NAR Releases Profile of Denver Metro Area Buyers and Sellers

Last week I reported on the real estate market in metro Denver. This week, I’m providing information from a National Association of Realtors (NAR) survey of buyers and sellers that was released in December. NAR did a national survey but provided data from the 169 Denver area respondents who had purchased a home in the 12-month period from July 2022 through June 2023. The buyers were identified from public records of transactions, not from MLS data. Those buyers who had also sold a home constituted the database for the survey of sellers. The survey was limited to buyers of primary residences, not investment properties. Here’s my editing of the report released for Denver via the Denver Metro Association of Realtors.

Characteristics of Home Buyers • In Denver, the median age of recent home buyers was 43 years old, compared to 49 nationally. The largest share of home buyers in Denver this year were in the 25 to 34 years age group (27 percent) and the 35 to 44 years age group (25 percent). This graph shows both the Denver and national breakdowns:

• 82 percent of buyers were White/ Caucasian, 9 percent were Hispanic/ Latino, 2 percent were Black/African American, 8 percent were Asian/Pacific Islander, and 3 percent identified as other.

Financing the Home Purchase • For 42 percent of buyers, the source of the downpayment was their savings, and 35% of buyers cited using the proceeds from the sale of a primary residence for their downpayment. Here is the full breakdown: • The median percent financed for first-time buyers was 91 percent compared to 75 percent for repeat buyers. • Buyers continue to see purchasing a home as a good financial investment. Eighty-two percent reported they view a home purchase as a good investment.

home was the desire to move closer to friends and family (17 percent), the neighborhood has become less desirable (nine percent), or moving due to retirement (eight percent). • Sellers typically lived in their home for 10 years before selling.

Do replace damaged countertops. Do repair damaged walls and replace damaged doors that can’t be repaired. Do replace those 1990s glass-and-brass lighting fixtures. (They’re so unappealing that Habitat’s thrift store won’t accept them as donations!) Do replace burned out light bulbs. Now that LED replacement bulbs are so cheap (under a dollar in bulk at many stores), I suggest replacing all your incandescents or CFLs with LED “daylight” equivalents. Do repaint where there is peeling or discolored paint. (Think “eyesore.”) Do replace rotted timbers on your deck, then power wash and re-stain or repaint as necessary. Do improve curb appeal (always the first impression), including weeding and pruning and freshening the front door.

man for our clients.) Beyond the above advice, I tell my sellers to be strategic about major issues which they know need to be done. If these are likely to become inspection issues, don’t fix them prior to listing your home if they’re not the kind of eyesore which would deter a buyer from making an offer. For example, I had a listing with damage to the concrete driveway. The seller was thinking he should repair it before putting the home on the market. We knew it would be an inspection issue, but by leaving it undone we could use it as a bargaining chip. Sure enough, we got under contract and the inspection demands included repairing the driveway. Since it was the most expensive item on a long list of repairs, we said we’d repair that but nothing else, and the buyer accepted it.

Characteristics of Homes Purchased Home Selling and Real Estate Profes• 16 percent of buyers pursionals chased a new home, and 84 per• 85 percent of sellers reported that cent of buyers purchased a pretheir agent provided a broad range of viously-owned home. services and management of most as• Detached single-family homes pects of the home sale. In Denver, 80 continued to be the most compercent said that their agent provided a mon home type for recent buyers at 79 Home Sellers and Their Selling Expe- broad range of services. percent, followed by townhouses at 11 rience • 67 percent said that they would def• For Denver sellers, the most com- initely or probably (19 percent) recompercent. 7% purchased units in multifamily buildings, included half- monly cited reason for selling their mend their agent for future services. duplexes, etc. • 68% of all buyers purchased in a Consider These Tasks to Make Your Home Market Ready First, only make improvements that (It’s true that red doors sell homes…) suburb/subdivision, 20% purchased in Do have someone with “fresh eyes” an urban area/center city, and 11 percent eliminate a defect or an issue which might turn off a prospective buyer. I call walk through your house and identify in a rural area or small town. • When it came to sustainability fea- these “eyesores,” things that stand out like other turn-offs. (Our free staging consulttures, windows, doors and siding were a sore thumb, and not things that are simp- ant performs that function.) Do not replace undamaged countertops “very important” to 34% of Denver buy- ly “dated” or out of style. Here are some examples: or bathroom fixtures just because they are ers. Coming in second was energyDo refinish hardwood floors that are “dated” — even those pastel colored bathefficient lighting at 28%, heating and seriously and obviously in need of refin- tubs and sinks. (I tell buyers “You can’t cooling costs at 27%, with solar panels ishing. buy those anymore!”) The exception being “very important” to only 9% of Do replace carpeting that is seriously would be the toilets. A white chair height buyers. (Nationally, solar panels were old, such as 1970s shag carpeting, or car- low-flow toilet can be replaced for a couonly very important to peting that is seriously worn or stained. ple hundred dollars and installed by any 6% of buyers.) (Again, think “eyesore.”) handyman. (We have a $25/hour handy-

Home Buying and Real Estate Professionals • 89 percent purchased through a real estate agent, and two percent purchased di• Denver buyers had a median income rectly through the previous owner. of $146,900. • 60 percent of buyers were married I’m Now Publishing on Substack Everything you read in this ad each couples, 16 percent were single females, week — and more — is published at ten percent were single males, and ten http://RealEstateToday.Substack.com percent were unmarried couples. and comes to you automatically each • 34 percent were first-time buyers. Wednesday. I also write a political col• 27 percent of buyers had children umn you might like. Find it at http:// TalkingTurkey.Substack.com. Since 1/6 under the age of 18 living at home. Rita and I are on a world cruise on the • 11 percent of home buyers pur- Viking Sky. You can subscribe to my chased a multi-generational home, to daily travelogue at http://WhereAreJim take care of aging parents, because of andRita.substack.com. children or relatives over the age of 18 During the cruise, I am making and moving back home, and for cost- receiving calls and emails as usual, even at sea, so feel free to contact me. savings.

We proudly provide free use of this moving truck to our sellers and buyers, along with free moving boxes, bubble wrap and packing paper. Non-profits and community organizations also put lots of free miles on it!

Jim Smith

Broker/Owner, 303-525-1851 Jim@GoldenRealEstate.com 1214 Washington Ave., Golden 80401 Broker Associates: JIM SWANSON, 303-929-2727 CHUCK BROWN, 303-885-7855 DAVID DLUGASCH, 303-908-4835 GREG KRAFT, 720-353-1922 AUSTIN POTTORFF, 970-281-9071 KATHY JONKE, 303-990-7428 “I cannot do all the good the world needs, but the world needs all the good I can do.” —Jana Stanfield

4 Clear Creek Courant

January 25, 2024Jan

Reproductive and sexual health services now available in Clear Creek County The public health clinic offers confidential services and free counseling in Idaho Springs BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Everything from counseling on contraception to testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections is now available to Clear Creek County residents at the county Health and Wellness Center at 1969 Miner Street in Idaho Springs. “It’s providing the full spectrum of family planning services in the county,” Director of Public Health Dr. Tim Ryan said. The reproductive and sexual services started just before the first of the year and represent the first time these services have been available in Clear Creek County, according to Ryan. The $90,000 start-up cost for the services is funded by state and federal grants, according to Ryan. The clinic offers free confidential counseling to anyone, regardless of age. Fees are based on a sliding scale according to income. However, no

one is turned away due to inability to pay, Ryan stressed. “Public health is all about prevention, you know, that’s what we do and this is and this is just the sexual and reproductive aspect of that prevention,” Ryan said. In order to become a one-stop clinic for these services, the public health clinic is now a licensed pharmacy as well with a full-time nurse practitioner available to write prescriptions on-site. Services offered at the clinic include: • Individual counseling on contraception, healthy relationships, preconception and pregnancy options • Contraceptive methods including pills, Depo patch, Implants and rhythm/cycle method • Emergency contraception • Pregnancy testing • Screening for STIs and HIV • Basic infertility services “All of those things provide people with options because it’s not a onesize-fits-all, it’s going to be what works best for the individuals in terms of their own lifestyle and planning,” Ryan said. Medical and clinical services are an important part of reproductive health but conversations between family members and/or clinicians are just as important.

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Clear Creek County Director of Public Health Dr. Tim Ryan talks about the reproductive and sexual heath services program at the health and wellness center for Clear PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL Creek County residents.

“The sooner you talk about it, the less likely you are to have an unintended pregnancy and/or an STI,” Ryan said. Appointments are free at the clinic and so are conversations about past, current and future reproductive concerns that Ryan said are critical LISTEN LIVE:

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to a safe and healthy community. “Hoping for absence and hoping that if you don’t talk about it it’s not going to happen is a surefire way to be a parent or grandparent,” Ryan concluded. To reach the Clear Creek Public Health Clinic call 303-670-7546.

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Clear Creek Courant 5

January 25, 2024

CURRENTS We’d like to know about events or activities of interest to the community. Visit www.clearcreekcourant. com/calendar/ and post your event online for free. Email ckoeberl@ coloradocommunitymedia.com to get items in the print version of the paper. Items will appear in print on a space-available basis. UPCOMING

FriYaY at Idaho Springs Library: Learning sign language is the theme throughout January at the library, where sign language expert Joe Merrit teaches how to sign emotions, food and colors. The class starts at 10 a.m. Friday Jan. 26 at the Idaho Springs Library, 219 14th Ave. Take a look at virtual reality at John Tomay Memorial Library: Oculus Quest Two virtual reality system will be available to explore the world of VR. Must be 12 or older and make reservations through the John Tomay Memorial Library in Georgetown, email heather@cccld. org. The event takes place 2-4 p.m. Jan. 26.

2024 Cabin Creek Pond Hockey Tournament: The 2024 Cabin Creek Pond Hockey Tournament will start at 8:15 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 24, on Georgetown Lake at Cabin Creek Brewing. For more information, visit the Clear Creek Metrong politan Recreation District website ot at clearcreekrecreation.com. to an Clear Creek County Commission meeting: Issues and agendas lic in the county addressed at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday Feb. 26 at 405 Argentine St., Georgetown. Meetings occur the first and third Tuesdays of each month with other irregular meetings occurring at the discretion of the County Commissioners. Indian Hot Springs in Idaho Springs retreat: Upgrade your Energy with Globally known Mystic Healers Ombiya and Fab at the Indian Hot Springs, Colorado Retreat March 1-4. Tickets are available at the hot springs: 302 Soda Creek Road, Idaho Springs, CO 80452. Test sirens scheduled: In an effort to notify people in the town of Georgetown of potential flooding due to the unlikely event of a dam failure at Xcel Energy’s Cabin

Creek or Georgetown hydroelectric plants, Clear Creek County would like to provide notice to the residents of Georgetown ahead of the test sirens expected to take place March 6 and on the first Wednesday of every month after that. Free senior foot care clinic: Clear Creek County Metropolitan Recreation will hold the event in Idaho Springs March 27 from 1-3 p.m. Call Heather at CCMRD 303567-2020. ONGOING

Clear Creek EMS/Evergreen Fire Rescue Launch Mugs for Rugs Campaign: Bring an old throw rug and you’ll leave with an awesome bright green mug! You can bring them to Station 1A in Dumont (3400 Stanley Road), or you can email captains@clearcreekems.com and CCEMS will come to you to make the trade! Have elderly neighbors? Bring them and their throw rugs with you. Clear Creek EMS also offers Fall-Risk Assessments. EMS will also bring someone from the fire department to make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. To request a visit, fill out the form located here: https://www.clearcreekcounty. us/1388/Community-Outreach Clear Creek Democrats: The Clear Creek Democrats meet from 5-7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at the Vintage Moose in Idaho Springs. Join them for conversation and social time. Blue Spruce Habitat volunteers needed: Blue Spruce Habitat for Humanity is looking for volunteers. A variety of opportunities and flexible schedules are available on new construction sites as well as for exterior minor home repairs. No previous construction experience needed. Contact volunteer@ bluesprucehabitat.org for information. Walk-in vaccine clinics: Walk-in vaccine clinics for adults and children needing flu and other vaccines are available from 10 a.m.4 p.m. Wednesdays at the Clear Creek Health and Wellness Center, 1969 Miner St., Idaho Springs. No appointments required for the vaccines, though you can pre-register by calling 303-670-7528.

Resilience1220 counseling: Young people 12 to 20 can get free counseling through an Evergreenbased organization called Resilience1220. Composed of licensed therapists, Resilience1220 serves individuals and groups in the foothills including Clear Creek County. They also facilitate school and community groups to build life skills in wellness and resilience among youth. For more information or to schedule a counseling session, visit R1220.org, email Resilience1220@ gmail.com or call 720-282-1164. Dental clinics: Cleanings, Xrays, dentures, tooth extractions and more. Most insurances are accepted including Medicaid. Sliding scale/low-cost options are also available. No appointment necessary. This is a mobile dentist that comes once a month. Call program manager Lauralee at 720-205-4449 for questions. Clear Creek Rotary 2000 meetings: Clear Creek Rotary 2000 meets at 7:30 a.m. Wednesdays at Marion’s of the Rockies. 2805 Colorado Blvd., Idaho Springs. For more information, email loeffler806@

comcast.net. Support After Suicide Loss: A safe place to share and learn after losing a loved one to suicide. This group meets every fourth Wednesday of the month from 5:30-7:30 p.m. via zoom or in person at the Resilience1220 office. For ages 14 and up. Suggested donation for this group is $15. Register at resilience1220.org/groups. Storytime with Miss Honeybun: Storytime with Miss Honeybun is at 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays at the Idaho Springs Public Library and at 11:15 a.m. Thursdays at the John Tomay Memorial Library in Georgetown. Sensitive Collection: Resilience1220 strives to inform and support highly sensitive people to live healthy and empowered lives. It meets the third Wednesday of each month from 6-7 p.m. and is offered via Zoom or in person at the Resilience1220 office. Register at resilience1220.org/groups. SEE CURRENTS, P6

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January 25, 2024Jan

Discover more at your clear creek county library

The Clear Creek County Library District empowers our community through literacy, human connection and equal access to resources. SPECIAL EVENTS

NATIONAL LIBRARY LOVERS MONTH February is National Library Lovers Month! Celebrate with a swoonworthy prize drawing: each time you come to the library, fill out a heart entry card with a brief note explaining why you love your Clear Creek County Libraries. We’ll draw two lucky winners at the end of the month! MONSTER MASH PARTY 4-6 p.m. Feb. 22 at Idaho Springs Public Library

Wolf down faboolous treats, play spooky games, and learn silly monster dances! Children under the age of eight years need an adult with them in the library. PROGRAMS

STORYTIMES 11:15 a.m. Tuesdays at Idaho Springs Public Library 11:15 a.m. Thursdays at John Tomay Memorial Library Share stories, play games, and get creative. Storytimes are a great opportunity to connect with other local families with young children. LIBRARY FRIYAYS 10 a.m. Fridays at John Tomay Memorial Library and Idaho Springs Public Library

CURRENTS FROM PAGE 5

Join us for FREE, scheduled activities to keep kids exploring and engaged on Fridays. Children under the age of eight need adult supervision. Guided activities will last about one hour. FRIDAY VIRTUAL REALITY SESSIONS 2-4 p.m. Feb. 9 at Idaho Springs Public Library and 2-4 p.m. Feb. 23 at John Tomay Memorial Library Explore new worlds at our virtual reality sessions for tweens and teens (ages 12 years and older). Please email heather@cccld.org to learn more and register. SEE LIBRARY, P7

Public Health offering sexual health and family planning: Clear Creek County Public Health is now offering Sexual Health and Planning Services at the Health and Wellness Center in Idaho Springs. Public Health is offering the following services: • Counseling • Emergency contraception • Pregnancy testing • STI and HIV screenings • Basic infertility services • Birth control options and referrals These services are confidential. Public Health can also now bill Medicaid and most private insurances. However, if you do not have insurance, fees are based on a sliding scale — and no one will be turned away if they are unable to pay.

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“Helping those in my community with their mortgage needs for over 36 years.” All applications are subject to underwriting guidelines and approval. Not all programs available in all areas. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Licensed and regulated by the Division of Real Estate. Cl Partners LLC dba Reverse Mortgages of Colorado, NMLS# 1846034, licensed in CO, MT License # 1846034, and TX. This is not a commitment to lend. Restrictions apply. Not all applicants will qualify.

This material is not from HUD or FHA and has not been approved by HUD or any government agency. The reverse mortgage borrower must meet all loan obligations, including living in the property as the principal residence and paying property charges, including property taxes, fees, hazard insurance. The borrower must maintain the home. If the borrower does not meet these loan obligations, then the loan will need to be repaid.

Clear Creek Courant 7

January 25, 2024

LIBRARY FROM PAGE 6

LUVBUG CODING 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. Feb. 14 at Idaho Springs Public Library Calling all fourth through sixth graders: learn basic coding concepts with a fun bracelet craft and Scratch coding activity! Please register with chris@ cccld.org. MONTHLY WRITERS’ CHAT Need some help plotting? Stuck in the middle? Join us for any or all six Quill & Spill sessions at the Idaho Springs Public Library to discuss your project and connect with other local authors! Hosted by local author, Lisa Manifold. Light refreshments provided. To register, email chris@cccld.org by the day before the event. Writers’ chats schedule: 9:30 - 11 a.m. Jan. 27 6-7:30 p.m. Feb. 21 9:30 a.m. - 11 a.m. Feb. 24 6-7:30 p.m. March 20 9:30 - 11 a.m. March 23 ADULT CRAFTS: FLOWER ARRANGEMENT WORKSHOP 10-11:30 a.m. and 12:30-2 p.m. Feb. 21. Marigold, 1620 Miner St., Idaho Springs Roses are red, violets are blue … nettles hint at defiance, and mint means virtue. Do you speak the secret language of flowers? Discover flower symbolism and learn about floral arrangements in this special workshop. Many thanks to Marigold in Idaho Springs for partnering with us! Supplies will be provided, but space is limited. To reserve your spot, please email chris@ cccld.org. BOOK GROUPS Connect with other local readers at our monthly book groups. Email libby@cccld.org for information. Idaho Springs Book Group 4 p.m. Feb. 12

“Where Coyotes Howl” by Sandra Dallas John Tomay Memorial Library Book Group 3 p.m. Feb. 15 “River of the Gods” by Candace Millard CONNECT WITH US

Idaho Springs Public Library: 303567-2020 John Tomay Memorial Library (Georgetown): 303-569-2620 Email us at hello@cccld.org or visit our website at www.cccld.org. LIBRARY SERVICES

COVID SUPPLIES FREE masks and take-home COVID tests are available at your Clear Creek County Library branches. COLLECTION Call or visit us to learn more and request items. • Explore our book and movie collection at www.cccld.org • View our Library of Things at https://cccld.org/library-of-things/ • Download the Libby App to your smart device to access thousands of ebooks and e-audiobooks. VISITING AND CURBSIDE PICKUP HOURS

All Clear Creek County Libraries will be closed Monday, Feb.19, in observance of Presidents Day Idaho Springs Public Library Hours Monday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday: CLOSED John Tomay Memorial Library Hours Monday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thursday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Friday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sunday: CLOSED Local History Archives — visitors are welcome with an appointment. Curbside pickup services — available by appointment; please contact us to schedule your pickup. HOME DELIVERY Let us bring the library to you! Call us for details. Home delivery services are intended for homebound persons and patrons experiencing illness, and availability is determined by weather and staffing. TECH ACCESS & STUDY SPACES Enjoy access to computers, WiFi, and study spaces at your Clear Creek County Library. TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE Our library staff can assist you with a variety of tasks –– using a tablet or smartphone, navigating the internet, setting up an email account, and more. Call us or email heather@cccld. org for more information. PRINTS, COPIES, FAXES Email printcccld@gmail.com or call your Clear Creek County Library branch to request prints, copies, and faxes — or just come in and use our equipment during our hours of operation! NOTARY SERVICES Notary services are FREE! Please contact your Clear Creek County Library branch to book your appointment. LITTLE FREE LIBRARIES Help yourself to free, gently-loved books from our Little Free Libraries at numerous Clear Creek locations. Visit our website to learn more. DONATIONS Please consider donating your gently-used books to CCCLD for use in our programs, book sales, and Little Free Libraries. Email kate@cccld.org or call us for more information. Please do not drop off book donations without pre-approval.

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Contact Us: 1630 Miner St., Idaho Springs, CO 80452 - 303-566-4100 Mailing Address: 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, CO 80110 Phone: 303-566-4100 Web: ClearCreekCourant.com To subscribe call 303-566-4100

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Columnists & Guest Commentaries Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Courant. We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone. Email letters to kfiore@coloradocommunitymedia.com Deadline Tues. for the following week’s paper.

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LOCAL

January 25, 2024Ja

VOICES Prismajic casts a spell at Colorado Mills

etting lost in a work of art is an experience that has been happening to people for centuries, and artists are always looking for new ways to get the public invested in their work. The creatives behind Prismajic have taken this urge and supersized it in its new location in Colorado Mills, 14500 W. Colfax, Suite 359, in Lakewood. “Prismajic is an immersive adventure that marries art and cuttingedge technology to transport visitors to the enchanting and surreal forest inhabited by Shiki, a mystical yeti and leader of the Spirits of the Forest,” wrote Lisa Fox, marketing manager, in an email interview. Co-founded by Eric Jaenike and Jennifer Mosquera, the organization has been around since 2013, but the Lakewood location is its first permanent home. According to provided information, Prismajic started building immersive experiences for corporate clients in 2013 under the name Artistry Events & Design. Even while doing that work, the aim was to open true mesmerizing experiences that could be enjoyed by everyone. They got closer to that goal with the 2019 opening of Natura Obscura, their first immersive experience, and afterward, Shiki Dreams came into existence. It began as a small pop-up and was named the 4th Best Immersive Experience in the country by USA Today in 2021. Since opening at Colorado Mills, the experience has been upgraded

and reimagined to also relaxing and calming. Ulti- menu favorites and as to the mysCOMING be even more un- mately, our goal is to have people tery portion of the evening, it cenATTRACTIONS forgettable for visi- walk out feeling better than when ters on the Stomach of the Ocean

tors — more than 35 artists worked on the project. “Prismajic was recruited by the 40 West Arts District and City of Lakewood to be an anchor for the Colfax Clarke Reader Creative Corridor. We loved the concept and wanted to be part of it,” Fox wrote. “The location provides us not only with proximity to the 40 West Arts District but also offers convenient access to metro Denver, Boulder, Ft. Collins, Colorado Springs and the mountain communities.” Getting lost in a world isn’t just something Prismajic is interested in offering in exhibit form — there’s also The Night Owls, which is a bit like a cocktail bar and a bit like one of the group’s installations. Sure, there are curated craft cocktails, mocktails, and light bites, but that’s not all. With a theme of European alleyways, nature and mystical owls, there’s also a stage for music, cocktail classes, poetry readings and other special events. The aim of Prismajic is to delight its visitors and help them get out of the real world for a while. “People love being part of this adventure of discovery,” Fox wrote. “We’ve dedicated a lot of thought and energy into making the experience both fun and exciting while

they walked in.” All the information you need and tickets can be found at www.prismajic.com. Virtuosic organ music comes to Lakewood

You might think you know what you’ll get with organ music, but whatever you’re expecting, it’s not how Cameron Carpenter does it. The world-renowned virtuoso composer and performer is bringing his unique approach to the instrument to the Lakewood Cultural Center, 470 S. Allison Parkway, at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 2. A graduate of New York’s famous Julliard School, Carpenter has spent nearly two decades mesmerizing audiences with his uniquely contemporary style of playing such a traditional instrument. For his Lakewood performance, Carpenter will be drawing from the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. Find information and tickets at www.Lakewood.org/LCCPresents. Find the missing diamond at The Fort

Guests at The Fort, 19192 Colorado 8 in Morrison, will have a little whodunnit with their dinner at the “Now You See It, Now You Don’t,” masquerade-themed murder mystery dinner event. The party will be held at 6 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 26. Attendees will be treated to a four-course prix-fixe meal featuring

Diamond, which has somehow gone missing. It’s up to the diners and a detective to find the vanished gem before it’s too late. Masquerade masks will be available at check-in. Details and tickets can be found at www.eventbrite.com/e/murdermystery-now-you-see-it-now-youdont-tickets. Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Isaiah Rashad: Cilvia Demo 10 Year Anniversary Tour at the Fillmore

No musician can know when (or if ) their breakthrough moment will happen. For Chattanooga, Tennessee, rapper Isaiah Rashad, his moment came with the release of his debut Top Dog Entertainment project, “Cilvia Demo.” The artist joined labelmates like Kendrick Lamar, ScHoolboy Q and SZA as a talent to watch, and in the ensuing years he’s absolutely lived up to the EP’s potential. To celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the release, Rashad will be stopping by the Fillmore Auditorium, 1510 Clarkson St. in Denver, at 6 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 27. This is an opportunity to hear one of rap’s strongest and most slept-on voices. I recommend you take it. Get tickets at www.livenation. com. Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail. com.

ABOUT LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Colorado Community Media welcomes letters to the editor. Please note the following rules: • Email your letter to kfiore@coloradocommunitymedia.com. Do not send via postal mail. Put the words “letter to the editor” in the email subject line. • Submit your letter by 5 p.m. on Wednesday in order to have it considered for publication in the following week’s newspaper.

• Letters must be no longer than 400 words. • Letters should be exclusively submitted to Colorado Community Media and should not be submitted to other outlets or previously posted on websites or social media. Submitted letters become the property of CCM and should not be republished elsewhere.

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Clear Creek Courant 9

January 25, 2024

OLDS: This week in the Clear Creek Courant… 50 years of Courant headlines not to be confused with news BY TEDDY JACOBSEN SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Kids join cancer battle – Jan. 23, 2013

ski race – Jan. 26, 1979

The fourth event of the Coors Colorado Pro Tour could be called the battle of the nations featuring Germany, Sweden, Chile, Italy and the U.S., but it was captured by Boulder man Stephan Hienzsch, 22. Undersheriff sacked in department shake-up – Jan. 25, 1974

Carlson Elementary gets grant for preschool – Jan. 26, 1994

Clear Creek County Sheriff Jim Miller fired Undersheriff Gene Kiefer less than 24 hours after two other members of the department turned in their resignations. In reference to the firing, Miller said “it got to the point that the tail was wagging the dog, or trying to” and that “insubordination is a good word for it.” Kiefer said Miller “just called me in and [said] ‘You’re fired.’” Kiefer also said he had planned to resign later that week.

Boulder man captures latest Pro Tour

The Clear Creek Courant was created in August of 1973. These items come from Courant’s historic archives. As it turns out, previous Courant writers had the same idea for the paper’s 25th anniversary. Their section was dubbed, “Olds: Not to be confused with news.” It lives on for an entire year to celebrate the paper’s 50th birthday.

A club created by Bailey Hunt at King-Murphy Elementary School collected hundreds of dollars at a bake sale last week. They donated all the proceeds from their two-day sale to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn., and to the Children’s Hospital Colorado cancer unit.

Carlson Elementary School had been given a $7,925 grant from the Colorado Department of Education to expand its preschool program, according to Principal Kim Summeril. She said the preschool was intended to provide a preschool option for those who cannot otherwise afford it.

OBITUARIES BUSCH

Alva Busch

Alva Busch, 76, of Idaho Springs, Colorado, passed away on December 10, 2023. He was a loving father and grandfather, survived by his daughters Michelle Busch of St. Louis, MO and Julie Wrigley of Collinsville, IL. Alva will also be remembered by his grandchildren Kristen Wrigley, Megan Tollison, Emily McKinney (Joshua), and Jacob Tollison, as well as his great-grandchild Matthew McKinney. Alva served in the Army during the Vietnam War, demonstrating his dedication and bravery. After his military service, he had a fulfilling career. Alva retired from the Illinois State Police as an Inspector and Chief Crime Scene Analyst, where he served for many years. He also served as a police officer for the Collinsville Police Department in the early 70s. Alva’s passion for true crime led him to become a published author, with his

books centered around crimes that occurred in the state of Illinois. Outside of his professional life, Alva had a variety of hobbies that brought him joy. He enjoyed mining, playing cards, and coin collecting. These activities allowed him to unwind and find solace in his free time. Alva Busch will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. His contributions to his country, community, and his passion for writing will be remembered and cherished. May he rest in peace. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Alva William Busch, please visit our floral store. Memorial services were held Thursday January 18, 2024 at United Church of Idaho Springs.

Memory In Loving

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10 Clear Creek Courant

January 25, 2024J

Volunteers say community orchestras create more connected, well-rounded society BY TAYLER SHAW TSHAW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

O

n a cold January night in a Wheat Ridge church, a large group of people traveled back in time to the 1800s — not by using new technology, but rather musical instruments. Brows furrowed and fingers fluttered as the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra, made up of roughly 70 volunteer musicians, perform a composition from an 1800s opera, “Carmen.” The community orchestra is one of many in the metro Denver region that offer people an opportunity to bring their musical talents and passions to life regardless of their profession, age or background. Despite the time and work it takes to execute exceptional performances, volunteer musicians through-

out the metro region say the effort is worth it, highlighting the value of music for themselves and their communities. Chris Loring, principal violist of the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra, said the orchestra brings together people who share the same passion that they’ve all had since first picking up their instruments. “And now, here we are. We have this talent that we can share with each other, and that’s really fulfilling just to put it all together and be artistic and have fun,” she said. “It’s a great sense of community.” In the southern metro region of Denver, the Littleton Symphony Orchestra shares a similar goal of upholding community, said Bill Mesa, an assistant principal percussionist in the symphony. “With any community orchestra, they want to be a part of the commu-

nity,” Mesa said. “Not just in it.” Compared to an organization like the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra, which dates back to the 1950s, a relatively newer community orchestra in the metro region is the Lone Tree Symphony Orchestra, founded in 2000. Katie Smith, principal oboe of the Lone Tree symphony, underlined the importance of having an orchestra in any community, whether it be Jefferson County, Littleton or Lone Tree. “Having arts organizations provides a more well-rounded community as a whole,” Smith said. “It creates a more pleasant community to live in when you have more opportunities for the arts.” The start of lifelong musical careers

For both Loring and Smith, their musical careers started at a young age with playing the piano.

Loring, a 42-year-old pet photographer and private music teacher who lives in Jefferson County, said that in sixth grade, she joined the student orchestra. Out of the roughly 25 students there, no one had signed up to play viola, a string instrument that is slightly larger than a violin and has a deeper sound. The teacher asked who in the room wanted to play viola, leading to an awkward silence, Loring recalled. “This cute boy next to me grabbed my hand, raised it up in the air, and the rest is history,” she said. “From that point forward, I really fell in love with the instrument.” She went on to the University of Northern Colorado and studied viola performance, and today, she helps teach young musicians. SEE MUSIC, P11

Clear Creek Courant 11

January 25, 2024

MUSIC FROM PAGE 10

“I love teaching for a couple of reasons. No. 1, I can have a hand in developing musicians that are going to come behind me,” Loring said. “These orchestras don’t fill up unless we have students that are learning and growing and developing a passion for something that some people might consider dorky or weird — but these kids are really, really excited about it.” Smith, a 50-year-old Highlands Ranch resident who does project work with Cigna Healthcare as her day job, said her mom was a church musician. “She started me on piano at 5 (years old) and then I apparently kept asking … what instrument I should play if I wanted to play in church,” Smith said. “She said, ‘Please play the oboe.’” Playing the oboe, a woodwind instrument, as a young child would have been a tall task, Smith said, so she initially started by playing the flute. By the end of fifth grade, however, she started the oboe. “I took to the oboe like a duck to water,” she said. Smith got her undergraduate degree in music from the University of Denver, she said. Although she had always intended to be a professional musician, when she got into college, she was encouraged to double major “so that I would at least have something to eat,” she said with a laugh. She got a minor in business and realized she did not want to pursue a professional music career, she said. “I think since I don’t do it as my primary profession, I get more enjoyment out of it as an avocation than a vocation,” Smith said. For Mesa, a 57-year-old Centennial resident, his music career started as a young boy playing drums on coffee cans that his mom discarded, he said. He recalled listening to his dad’s vinyl records that featured lots of

percussion, drawing him to the drums. “The clincher is when I first saw ‘Star Wars,’ and the music just blew me away,” Mesa said. “I thought, ‘Wow. Hear all those drums.’” Eventually, he picked up drums through public schooling and performed through college. However, he did not major in music performance. Rather, he found an interest in accounting and is now an accounting professor at Metropolitan State University of Denver. Highlighting the ability of community orchestras to connect people, he said some of his former students will attend the Littleton Symphony Orchestra’s concerts and come up to him afterward to catch up. “Those are all community factors. There doesn’t have to be anonymity,” he said about local performances. Discovering community orchestras

From seeing an advertisement to getting a phone call about an opening, the process of getting involved in a community orchestra can look different for everyone. Loring said she first learned about the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra when she moved to Golden around 2008, saying she saw an advertisement for it. She had been looking for an orchestra to join and had heard great things about it, she said. “It’s been around for decades, and many of the people who play in this orchestra have been here for decades,” she said. “When I joined, this was known as one of … the premier orchestras in terms of community orchestras for this area.” The orchestra, which musicians have to audition to get into, is made up of roughly 70 people ranging from college-age to post-retirement age, she said. “It’s a really great orchestra full of some insanely talented musicians. We have played repertoire that you hear from the professional symphony,” she said. SEE MUSIC, P12

Left: The Jefferson Symphony Orchestra is made up of roughly 70 volunteer musicians.

Arturo González, music director and conductor of the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra, giving directions to musicians on Jan. 8, 2024, at the Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church.

Musician in the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra plays their string instrument during a PHOTOS BY TAYLER SHAW Jan. 8, 2024, rehearsal.

WAIT, THERE’S MORE!

For more photos and an additional audio portion of this story, visit coloradocommunitymedia.com/2024/01/22/local-orchestra-volunteers-music-communitysymphony.

12 Clear Creek Courant

January 25, 2024J

MUSIC FROM PAGE 11

Smith got involved in the Lone Tree Symphony Orchestra around 2006 after hearing about it through a friend. When she started playing with the orchestra, they performed in a church, she recalled. Now, they perform in the Lone Tree Arts Center, which she said is an amazing opportunity that not every community orchestra has. She estimated roughly 60 musicians are in the orchestra, which requires an audition to join. “We provide excellent entertainment for the community and it’s done in a manner where it isn’t haughty,” she said. “It’s presented in a way that people really feel encouraged to go and I think they really enjoy the opportunity and they enjoy the performance.” Smith described making music with others in the symphony as both beautiful and challenging, especially if the musicians have different skill sets. “You have to be patient,” she said. Mesa got connected to the Littleton Symphony Orchestra when he got a phone call from the thenprincipal percussionist asking if he would be interested in filling in because the orchestra needed an extra person. Some time afterward, Mesa auditioned and became a regular member of the symphony about 17 years ago. “It challenged me more. It upped my game and playing because the players in the orchestra are remarkable, high caliber,” he said. “You can get some exceptional performances from the community orchestras in the Denver metro area that you live by, and you’re supporting the community.” The vision of the Littleton Symphony Orchestra, which is made up of about 50 musicians ranging in age from early 20s to upper 70s, is to provide performances that elevate the human spirit, Mesa said. “We pursue that relentlessly, knowing it’s something we’ll never accomplish,” he said. “That’s what drew me into the orchestra.” The value of music and community

Although volunteering in the symphony orchestra requires hours of practice and rehearsal, one of the most rewarding factors is making music with friends, Mesa said.

Violinists in the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra rehearsing on Jan. 8, 2024.

“There’s nothing quite like that type of effort when you have this number of people and when (a) performance pops and it sparks. And you can feel that from the audience because there is some communication between the orchestra and the audience,” he said. “It’s the best. You can’t replace it.” Community orchestras are valuable because they provide a music outlet for residents who may not have the budget to pay the higherpriced tickets to see a professional orchestra, Mesa said. “Just give the orchestra a chance,” he said. “It’s fun, and it’s live music … something we’re, I think, missing nowadays.” Smith said the Lone Tree Symphony Orchestra is fortunate because it has had the support of the city since the very beginning. Similar to Mesa, Smith said being a part of any orchestra is a unique, special experience. “I think the most rewarding part of any performance is knowing that you’ve provided not only (an) escape in what you’re doing and what you’re creating — you’re also creating an experience for somebody else,” Smith said. “I think the most important thing for folks to know is that we’re here,” she added. “You don’t necessarily have to go downtown to hear the symphony.” The most challenging part about being in a community orchestra is that the volunteer musicians have

Music stands were placed throughout the Wheat Ridge United Methodist Church as PHOTOS BY TAYLER SHAW the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra rehearsed on Jan. 8, 2024.

busy lives, Loring said. Yet, the time and effort is worth it. “As a musician, the thing that I love about working in a group like this and performing is that this is the only way we get to bring to life some of the art that’s been given to this world,” Loring said. “With classical music, we have composers who wrote these incredible manuscripts, and they wrote these ideas and these concepts and these stories in notes. “And it’s up to us to translate that, and to create a story and to tell that through our music using our talents. And that, to me, is the coolest part,” she added.

Community orchestras are important to the local community for a number of reasons, Loring said. One of them is that the orchestras provide activities for residents to enjoy. Another is the opportunity the orchestra provides to the volunteers, giving musicians a chance to continue to play their instrument when maybe they otherwise would not have. “How many people stop playing because they don’t have those opportunities?” Loring said. “Orchestras, like the Jefferson Symphony Orchestra, give that to people. And that’s really, really important for the community.”

Clear Creek Courant 13

January 25, 2024

SUPPORT LOCAL JOURNALISM

DON’T LET YOUR HOMETOWN NEWSPAPERS GO SILENT.

This year, even more than ever before, the news is in crisis. More than 17,000 news media jobs were cut just by June, at national and local outlets including at some of the biggest names like NPR, The Texas Tribune and Gannett. In fact, newsroom layoffs are up 20% from last year. Some of these outlets laid off more than 10% of their staff in the last few months — even as we head into a critical election year. These are devastating numbers. But all is not lost. Many local and independent newsrooms continue to launch across the country. With your contributions and subscriber memberships, small newsrooms like ours continue to grow, adding new journalists and expanding reporting and investigations. We’re committed to bringing the news to Coloradans. That’s because you deserve access to local, independent journalism that keeps you connected and informed — especially during challenging times. This is #newsCOneeds.

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14 Clear Creek Courant

LOCAL

January 25, 2024Jan

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More than 25 inches fell at Loveland Ski Area in in just 72 hours during the MLK holiday weekend, according to snow reports Jan. 14.

PHOTO BY DUSTIN SCHAEFER

Nearly two feet of snow adds powder and opens lifts at Loveland Ski Area A mid-January snowstorm scribed as a “slow start” to the The ski patrol is currently workThe Clear Creek County ski meant frigid temperatures and season. More than 25 inches fell ing to open lifts four, eight, and driving for Clear Creek on the mountain in just 72 hours nine in the coming days as snow area was inundated with dangerous County residents and tourists, but during the MLK holiday weekend, and equipment allows, Schaefer skiers and snowboarders are smil- according to snow reports. said. fresh snow over the Martin ing, according to Loveland Ski The additional snow allows “It’s looking like it’s going to be a Area Marketing Manager Dustin Loveland Ski Area to make more good season,” he added. Schaefer. of the mountain available to skiers Loveland Ski Area will operate Luther King Jr. holiday “Skiing and snowboarding con- and boarders. seven days a week, continuing ditions are just amazing up here, “The season started out slow through Closing Day in early May. weekend lots of powder, lots of smiles, peo- with snow, but this recent storm Lifts will run from 9 a.m. to 4 BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

ple are pretty stoked on the snow that just came in,” Schaefer said. This after what Schaefer de-

helped us out a ton. We opened up some of the steeps off of Chet’s Dream,” Schaefer said.

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Clear Creek Courant 15

January 25, 2024

LOVELAND PHOTOS FROM PAGE 14

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January 25, 2024Jan

Colorado Cowboy Gathering returns to Golden for poetry, music

BY CORINNE WESTEMAN CWESTEMAN@COLOROADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

If anyone can brave sub-zero temperatures and snowy conditions to put on a night-to-remember show, it’s cowboy poets and musicians. After taking a break last year, the Colorado Cowboy Gathering returned to Golden Jan. 11-14, but this time at a new venue. Or, technically two. After hosting a special membersonly show Jan. 11 at the new Miners Alley Performing Arts Center, the Colorado Cowboy Gathering held its Jan. 12-14 shows at the Buffalo Rose. During the Jan. 12 “Kickin’ It Off ” show, the place was nearly filled to the brim. From the front row to the back of the balcony, people eagerly listened to the performers’ songs and poems, which were a mix of classics and originals. Musician Lori Beth Brooke, a firsttime CCG performer from Texas, was impressed to see how packed the Buffalo Rose was on a Friday afternoon. She and the other performers described how they see each other at Western events throughout the year,

Musician Mike Blakely tips his hat to the audience after performing at the Jan. 12 Colorado Cowboy Gathering’s “Kickin’ It Off” show at Golden’s Buffalo Rose. Blakely, a singer-songwriter from Fredericksburg, Texas, has released 14 albums and performed PHOTO BY CORINNE WESTEMAN across the United States and Europe.

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Clear Creek Courant 17

January 25, 2024

POETRY

…and the skies are not cloudy all day

FROM PAGE 16

so the annual Golden-based gathering feels like a family reunion. Many of the regular attendees felt similarly. Golden’s Paul Chamberlin said he and his wife Nona love seeing their friends among the performers and fellow attendees every year. “It’s a fun weekend,” Chamberlin said. “ … We’re here to try and help support it because it’s a good event. We have lots of fun, and we’ve been to most of them for the last 33 years.” Edgewater’s Judi Karg, who’s been following CCG for a few years, loves how local the event is. She also appreciates the opportunity to enjoy cowboy poetry and music, saying, “It’s different. It’s not country. It’s not Western. It’s down to earth.”

As attendees listen, Dale Page recites a poem during the Jan. 12 Colorado Cowboy Gathering’s “Kickin’ It Off” show at Golden’s Buffalo Rose. Western musicians and poets from across the country performed during at shows Jan. 11-14. PHOTO BY CORINNE WESTEMAN

However, the organizers decided to forgo last year’s show, with Russell describing how everyone needed a break. For 2024, the organizers wanted to keep the shows in Golden but find a bigger venue, Russell continued. So, the Buffalo Rose seemed like a good choice. “The town wants us here, and we want to be here,” Russell said, adding how welcoming the Chamber of Commerce, the city and residents have been. Dave Stamey, a singer/songwriter who’s been performing at CCG for

Give me a home where the Buffalo Rose…

The Colorado Cowboy Gathering started 35 years ago at the Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities and typically coincides with the National Western Stock Show. Around 2011, CCG moved to the American Mountaineering Center in downtown Golden, board member Dennis Russell said. The 2021 show was canceled because of COVID-19 but returned in January 2022.

15-plus years, described how CCG has changed since he started performing while it was still at the Arvada Center. He said CCG continues to develop a very loyal audience, both locally and long-distance. It draws in regular attendees from all over Colorado, plus others who drive in from Kansas, Wyoming and elsewhere, he described. Stamey, who headlined the Jan. 14 show, traveled from California himself because he loves performing in Golden every year. “It’s a neat place,” he said.

For the uninitiated, Russell emphasized how the Colorado Cowboy Gathering doesn’t showcase the country music one hears on the radio, but rather songs and poems — whether original or traditional — about the cowboy lifestyle. Russell, a poet and singer/songwriter, said he writes about his life keeping cows and horses in southern Colorado. Many of his fellow performers had similar experiences, like Miska Paget who shared poems about being a veterinarian or Brooke who shared her yodeling, accordionplaying and songwriting skills. While she’s been playing accordion since second grade, Brooke started yodeling about 20 years ago. She said it’s about emphasizing the break in one’s voice that one normally covers up, but people can practice how to yodel versus sing. While she only performed 10 minutes during the Jan. 12 show, she expected a full slate for the Jan. 13-14 shows. But, she hoped to perform at CCG again if invited. Finally, Russell wanted newcomers to know CCG is family-friendly and features about 20 of the very best cowboy and cowgirl performers in the country. “They have to come,” Russell said of those who’ve never attended a show. “ … After one time, they’re hooked.”

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FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF GEORGETOWN 812 Taos St., Georgetown • 303-569-2360 Serving the community since 1874. Sunday worship 10:00 am. Please join us! FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF IDAHO SPRINGS 100 Colorado Blvd., P.O. Box 840, Idaho Springs, CO 80452 Family worship Sundays at 10 a.m. ALL ARE WELCOME TO JOIN US!

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WORSHIP DIRECTORY Join Our Worship Directory! Call Ruth at 303-566-4113

18 Clear Creek Courant

January 25, 2024Ja

© 2016 King Features Synd., Inc.

Solution

TRIVIA 1. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: What is the last name of Ken, who was Barbie’s boyfriend? 2. TELEVISION: In the sitcom “The Office,” the company is in which U.S. city? 3. GEOGRAPHY: In which country is The Matterhorn located? 4. MUSIC: Which 1990s group was the singer Beyonce a part of? 5. U.S. STATES: In which state is Monument Valley located? 6. LITERATURE: In which children’s book do the characters Tweedledee and Tweedledum appear? 7. MATH: In Roman numerals, what is XLVIII divided by XII? 8. MEDICAL: What is a common name for polythelia? 9. CHEMISTRY: How many elements are listed on the Periodic Table? 10. MOVIES: What is the year of the Olympics in the movie “Chariots of Fire”?

Answers 1. His full name is Kenneth Sean Carson. 2. Scranton, Pennsylvania. 3. Switzerland. 4. Destiny’s Child. 5. Arizona. 6. “Through the Looking-Glass.” 7. IV (Four). 8. Having an extra nipple, which affects about 1%-5% of the population. 9. 118. 10. 1924. (c) 2024 King Features Synd., Inc.

Crossword Solution

Clear Creek Courant 19

January 25, 2024

.com/Classifieds

DEADLINES:

CLASSIFIED LINE ADS: FRIDAY, 2 P.M.

SERVICE DIRECTORY: WEDNESDAY, 5 P.M.

LEGALS: TUESDAY 5 P.M.

SERVICE DIRECTORY ADS AND CLASSIFIED LINE ADS

Contact Ruth Daniels, 303-566-4113 rdaniels@coloradocommunitymedia.com

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CONIFER AREA SCHOOLS NEEDS YOUR HELP! With the passage of Healthy School Meals for All, all students have been eating at no cost since the beginning of the 2023-24 school year. WHAT THIS MEANS:

At some Conifer-area schools, we are feeding up to 450 students per day!

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Parent/Community Member Volunteers and Student Workers also accepted! This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

Help Wanted DRIVER Class B CDL propane delivery truck driver for Spring Valley Gas, Elizabeth. P/T & F/T positions; responsible for propane delivery and customer service. HazMat/Tanker endorsement. Propane certification a plus. Insurance age requirement 26 with clean MVR. SVG is building a team, not just a job! Starting salary based on experience & qualifications. Call 303-660-8810.

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Then the Town of Georgetown wants to bring your attention to a new position open here in Georgetown. If you’re responsible, able to work independently, anxious to learn while making a positive contribution, then Georgetown is currently hiring a full time

UTILITY WORKER. This position provides you the opportunity to work for a town that thrives on working collaboratively and overcoming challenges. We are seeking someone that loves what they do and is motivated to share their knowledge with others. Skills and knowledge desired in equipment operation and maintenance, excavation, water and wastewater plant and line maintenance, and general repair and maintenance. Full job description and application form are available at Georgetown Town Hall, 404 6th Street, Georgetown, CO 80444 and online at www.townofgeorgetown.us For more information call 303-569-2555 extension 3. Position open until filled.

Help Wanted

Clear Creek School District is hiring night custodians for Carlson Elementary and King Murphy Elementary starting at $18.13/hour. Apply at https:// www.ccsdre1.org/ humanresources

Do you love being a part of your local community helping businesses grow? If you like to talk to people we want to talk to you!

We are currently hiring for a local Marketing Engagement Specialist in the Golden area!

Please send resume to eaddenbrooke@coloradocommunitymedia.com

20 Clear Creek Courant

January 25, 2024Jan

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FOR SALE Inside eye level cript for sale at Crown Hill. Located inside front mausoleum facing Wadsworth. Worth $16,000 selling for $10,972. Call 303-480-0320 or 720620-2731.

Silver Plume, 2 story, 2 BD home, patio & yard. $2500 utilities included. Significant discount in exchange for handyman hours. No dogs. Avail. 2/15, prefer 3/1. Only serious inquiries, text 303570-1007.

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Silver Plume Studio, fully furnished apt. No dogs, includes all utilities, secure internet/cable. $850/mo, security deposit. Serious inquiries only 303-570-1007 text.

Clear Creek Courant 21

January 25, 2024

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22 Clear Creek Courant

January 25, 2024Jan

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PUBLIC NOTICES

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Public Notices call 303-566-4123 Legals Public Trustees Public Notice COMBINED NOTICE - PUBLICATION CRS §38-38-103 FORECLOSURE SALE NO. 2023-017 To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust: On November 20, 2023, the undersigned Public Trustee caused the Notice of Election and Demand relating to the Deed of Trust described below to be recorded in the County of Clear Creek records. Original Grantor(s) CHRISTOPHER T. MCGREEVY Original Beneficiary(ies) OPTION ONE MORTGAGE CORPORATION Current Holder of Evidence of Debt Deutsche Bank National Trust Company, as Trustee for Soundview Home Loan Trust 2006-OPT1, Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2006-OPT1 Date of Deed of Trust December 21, 2005 County of Recording Clear Creek Recording Date of Deed of Trust December 29, 2005 Recording Information (Reception No. and/or Book/Page No.) 236857 Book: 745 Page: 871-880 Original Principal Amount $120,000.00 Outstanding Principal Balance $77,609.54 Pursuant to CRS §38-38-101(4)(i), you are hereby notified that the covenants of the deed of trust have been violated as follows: Failure to pay principal and interest when due together with all other payments provided for in the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust and other violations of the terms thereof THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN. THE CHARTER OAK LODE MINING CLAIM, U. S. MINERAL SURVEY NO. 14853, AS DESCRIBED IN U. S. PATENT RECORDED IN BOOK 235, PAGE362, EXCEPTING THEREFROM ANY PORTION EMBRACED IN SURVEY NOS. 749, 1096, 2073, 1249A, 1462 AND 14761A, AS EXCEPTED IN SAID PATENT, AND A TRACT OF LAND LOCATED IN SECTION29, T OWNSHIP3 SOUTH, RANGE 73 WEST OF THE6TH P.M., MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE INTERSECTION OF LINE3-4 OF THE SAID CHARTER OAK LODE WITH THE CENTERLINE OF THE UNNAMED CLEAR CREEK COUNTY ROAD10-TC9 OFF OF MINERS CANDLE ROAD; THENCE NORTHERLY50 FEET ALONG THE CENTERLINE OF SAID COUNTY ROAD; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY ALONG A STRAIGHT LINE TO THE POINT OF INTERSECTION OF LINE2-3 OF THE CROMWELL LODE MINING CLAIM, U. S. MINERAL SURVEY NO. 14761 A WITH LINE3-4 OF THE SAID CHARTER OAK LODE; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG LINE3-4 OF SAID CHARTER OAK LODE TO THE POINT OF INTERSECTION WITH CENTERLINE OF THE UNNAMED CLEAR CREEK COUNTY ROAD10-TC9 OFF OF MINERS CANDLE ROAD, THE POINT OF BEGINNING, AND

A TRACT OF LAND LOCATED IN SECTION32, T OWNSHIO 3 SOUTH, RANGE 73 WEST OF THE6TH P.M., MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

City and County

BEGINNING AT CORNER NO. 4 OF THE NINTH NATIONAL LODE MINING CLAIM, U. S. MINERAL SURVEY NO. 1249 A; THENCE NORTHWESTERLY TO THE POINT OF INTERSECTION WITH LINE1-2 OF THE SAID CHARTER OAK LODE; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY ALONG LINE1-2 OF SAID CHARTER OAK LODE TO THE POINT OF INTERSECTION WITH LINE4-3 OF THE OREGON LODE MINING CLAIM, U. S. MINERAL SURVEY NO. 1096; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG LINE4-3 OF SAID OREGON LODE TO THE POINT OF INTERSECTION WITH LINE3-4 OF THE SAID NINTH NATIONAL LODE; THENCE NORTH ESTERLY ALONG LINE3-4 OF SAID NINTH NATIONAL LODE TO CORNER NO. 4 OF SAID LODE, THE POINT OF BEGINNING, COMBINED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED AUGUST9, 2001 IN BOOK 620, PAGE786, COUNTY OF CLEAR CREEK, STATE OF COLORADO.

The Town of Empire has passed and adopted Ordinance 269: An Ordinance of the Town of Empire, Colorado Amending the Town’s Sign Code, and Ordinance 270: An Ordinance of the Town of Empire, Colorado Creating the Position of Town Administrator. Effective February 24 2024.

Also known by street and number as: 719 MINERS CANDLE, IDAHO SPRINGS, CO 80452-3073. THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY CURRENTLY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST. NOTICE OF SALE The current holder of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, described herein, has filed Notice of Election and Demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust. THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will at public auction, at 11:00 A.M. on Thursday, 03/21/2024, at The Clear Creek County Public Trustee’s Office, 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown, Colorado, sell to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will issue to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law. First Publication 1/25/2024 Last Publication 2/22/2024 Name of Publication The Clear Creek Courant IF THE SALE DATE IS CONTINUED TO A LATER DATE, THE DEADLINE TO FILE A NOTICE OF INTENT TO CURE BY THOSE PARTIES ENTITLED TO CURE MAY ALSO BE EXTENDED; DATE: 11/20/2023 Carol Lee, Public Trustee in and for the County of Clear Creek, State of Colorado The name, address, business telephone number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: Ryan Bourgeois #51088 Barrett Frappier & Weisserman, LLP 1391 Speer Boulevard, Suite 700, Denver, CO 80204 (303) 350-3711 Attorney File # 00000009924903

Public Notice

Legal Notice No. CCC789 First Publication: January 25, 2024 Last Publication: January 25, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant Public Notice Public Hearing February 20, 2024 at 6:30 PM Empire Town Hall 30 E Park Ave Empire CO 80438 Second Reading of Ordinance 271: Administrative Regulations for the Board Legal Notice No. CCC788 First Publication: January 25, 2024 Last Publication: January 25, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant

Bids and Settlements Public Notice

or issued addenda is available via: County’s designated website: https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/bids.aspx

Requests for Clarifications Direct all inquiries to: scanada@clearcreekcounty.us Subject line exact text: RFQ PW 24-08 Submittal Requirements Proposals shall only be submitted electronically, as instructed in the RFQ. Respondents are required to register with Clear Creek County Public Works Division to receive a link for electronic submittals and notification emails related to this RFQ. RFQ Registration email: county.us Subject line exact text:

pw@clearcreekRFQ PW 24-08

Randall Wheelock, Chairman Board of County Commissioners Legal Notice No. CCC 1227 First Publication: January 25, 2024 Last Publication: January 25, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant Public Notice REQUEST FOR BIDS CLEAR CREEK COUNTY CLEAR CREEK COUNTY, COLORADO 2024 CRACK SEALING PROJECT General Notice Clear Creek County (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project:

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

Crack Sealing Project PW 24-03

Clear Creek County, CO Request for Qualifications for Road & Bridge Professional Engineering & Consulting Services RFQ PW 24-08

Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the Public Works facility located at 3549 Stanley Road (CR 312) Dumont, CO 80436, until Thursday, February 15th, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.

General Notice

The Project includes the following Work: The 2024 Crack Sealing Project includes the placement of approximately 24,000 pounds of crack sealant on various roads throughout the Clear Creek County.

Clear Creek County (County) is seeking proposals through a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) from highly qualified and experienced firms to provide professional engineering and consulting services. Capital improvements for the Road & Bridge Department are locally funded through the County Road and Bridge Fund with an annual budget of $2M to $4M for total project costs. There is a backlog of roadways identified for renewal and/or improvements that require the services solicited through this RFQ for construction planning over the next several years. The scope of services includes, but is not limited to, professional engineering and consulting for evaluation, design, and development of detailed construction plans and specifications, construction cost estimates, general analysis, and related project management services. Key Dates Advertisement: County website Thursday, January 25, 2024 Advertisement: Clear Creek Courant Thursday, January 25, 2024 Advertisement: Canyon Courier

The Attorney above is acting as a debt collector and is attempting to collect a debt. Any information provided may be used for that purpose.

Thursday, January 25, 2024 Request for Clarification Deadline Thursday, February 1, 2024, by 2:00 PM MST Submittal Due Wednesday, February 14, 2024, by 2:00 PM MST

Legal Notice No. CCC751 First Publication: January 25, 2024 Last Publication: February 22, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant

Information for Respondents The complete RFQ, including, but not limited to, detailed scope of services and submittal requirements, along with any official notifications

Bids are requested for the following Contract: PW 24-03 Contract for Construction of a Small Project Obtaining the Bidding Documents Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at the following designated website: https://co-clearcreekcounty2.civicplus.com/Bids. aspx?CatID=17 Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the designated website. Prospective Bidders are urged to register with the designated website as a plan holder, even if Bidding Documents are obtained from a plan room or source other than the designated website in either electronic or paper format. The designated website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the designated website. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the designated website. Instructions to Bidders.

Legal Notice No. CCC 1225 First Publication: January 25, 2024 Last Publication: February 1, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant Public Notice REQUEST FOR BIDS CLEAR CREEK COUNTY CLEAR CREEK COUNTY, COLORADO 2024 PAVEMENT MARKING PROJECT General Notice Clear Creek County (Owner) is requesting Bids for the construction of the following Project: Pavement Marking Project PW 24-04 Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the Public Works facility located at 3549 Stanley Road (CR 312) Dumont, CO 80436, until Thursday, February 15th, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. The Project includes the following Work: The 2024 Pavement Marking Project includes repainting centerline stripes, edge line stripes, stop bars, turn lane lines, and turn arrows on approximately 21 miles of roadway throughout Clear Creek County. Bids are requested for the following Contract: PW 24-04 Contract for Construction of a Small Project Obtaining the Bidding Documents Information and Bidding Documents for the Project can be found at the following designated website: https://co-clearcreekcounty2.civicplus.com/Bids. aspx?CatID=17 Bidding Documents may be downloaded from the designated website. Prospective Bidders are urged to register with the designated website as a plan holder, even if Bidding Documents are obtained from a plan room or source other than the designated website in either electronic or paper format. The designated website will be updated periodically with addenda, lists of registered plan holders, reports, and other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. All official notifications, addenda, and other Bidding Documents will be offered only through the designated website. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for Bidding Documents, including addenda, if any, obtained from sources other than the designated website. Instructions to Bidders. For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents. This Advertisement is issued by: Sean Wood, Chair Board of County Commissioners Legal Notice No. CCC 1226 First Publication: January 25, 2024 Last Publication: February 1, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant

We are community.

For all further requirements regarding bid submittal, qualifications, procedures, and contract award, refer to the Instructions to Bidders that are included in the Bidding Documents. This Advertisement is issued by: Sean Wood, Chair Board of County Commissioners

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January 25, 2024

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Public Notices Misc. Private Legals

Notice to Creditors

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

STATE OF COLORADO Colorado Inactive Mine Reclamation Program

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Charles Nelson, Deceased Case Number: 2023 PR 30033

The State of Colorado, Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety (DRMS), Inactive Mine Reclamation Program (IMRP) is preparing to develop a project in Clear Creek County. The Blue Sky Project site includes areas in Clear Creek and Gilpin Counties. Thirty nine hazardous mine openings were identified as potentially hazardous. The mine features will be safeguarded by being backfilled, installing bulkheads, installing grates, and filling with polyurethane foam plugs.

All persons having claims against the abovenamed estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Clear Creek County, Colorado on or before May 11, 2024, or the claims may be forever barred.

If you have any questions regarding this project contact Erica Crosby, at DRMS, 1313 Sherman Street, Room 215, Denver, CO, 80203, (303) 866-3567 X8115, by February 29, 2024. The Colorado Inactive Mine Reclamation Program mitigates hazards and environmental problems associated with past mining activities. The program is funded by Federal grant money made available to the State of Colorado through the U.S. Department of Interior, Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. Projects must meet eligibility requirements as outlined in the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 -- Public Law 95-87. Legal Notice No. CCC787 First Publication: January 25, 2024 Last Publication: January 25, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant

Nel Nelson Personal Representative 14005 E Arizona Ave Aurora, CO 80452 Legal Notice No. CCC778 First Publication: January 11, 2024 Last Publication: January 25, 2024 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant

###

BE Informed! Read the Legal Notices!

Clear Creek Courant January 25, 2024* 2

Without public notices, the government wouldn’t have to say anything else. Public notices are a community’s window into the government. From zoning regulations to local budgets, governments have used local newspapers to inform citizens of its actions as an essential part of your right to know. You know where to look, when to look and what to look for to be involved as a citizen. Local newspapers provide you with the information you need to get involved.

Notices are meant to be noticed. Read your public notices and get involved!

24 Clear Creek Courant

January 25, 2024Jan

LEAP provides energy assistance

to lower home heating costs.

LEAP proporciona asistencia de energìa para bajar los gastos de calefaccòn.

LEAP helps eligible Coloradans pay a portion of their winter home heating costs.

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS

LEAP ayuda a los residentes elegibles de Colorado a pagar una parte de sus gastos de calefacciòn de invierno.

ACEPTANDO SOLICTUDES

NOVEMBER 1 - APRIL 30 1 NOVIEMBRE - 30 ABRIL

For applications & support, contact Lisa Schell at the Health & Wellness Center, 303-670-7550 1969 Miner Street, Idaho Springs OR Tracy Troia at the Courthouse, 303-679-2364 405 Argentine Street, Georgetown