Fort Lupton Press 081023

SECOND CHANCE

Democrats mark Inflation Reduction Act anniversary

Bennet, Polis, Caraveo and Pettersen tout green investments in Brighton

BY SCOTT TAYLOR STAYLOR@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Colorado Democrats wanted to mark the one-year anniversary of the federal In ation Reduction Act’s passage and the boon it’s been for investment in green energy so they came to Brighton, site of two major green energy projects announced this year.

“Colorado had a big hand not only in passing this bill but in shaping it and writing it,” U.S. Senator Michael Bennet said the press conference, anked by Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and Colorado’s two rst-year Congresswomen, District 8 Representative Yadira Caraveo and District 7 Representative Brittany Pettersen. “Because we passed that bill one year ago, the United States is better positioned than any country in the world to lead a global transition to on energy. And Colorado is better poised than any other state in America to lead that transition.”

Brighton has seen two major green energy manufacturers announce plans to build. In March, Fremont, Calif.-based lithium-ion battery manufacturer Amprius announced plans to open a factory in the city’s vacant Sears/KMart distri-

SEE ANNIVERSARY, P4

CENTERS OF COMMUNITY

Public libraries have much more than books to check out.

Brazilian Paulo Sergio Rodriguez, 26, rode the bull twice during the Professional Bull Riders touring pro contest at the Adams County Fair. On the first ride, which began after a thunderstorm, the bull slipped in the mud so the judges let him have a second ride. See more photos on page 10.

PHOTO BY BELEN WARD

Spaghetti Dinner on August 30

Fort Lupton’s Spaghetti Dinner is a very special fundraising event where 100% of the net proceeds from this dinner go directly to purchase school supplies – everything from backpacks to modeling clay to notebooks to computers– for students in Fort Lupton’s Weld RE-8 School district.

Enjoy homemade dinner and dessert, wine, and craft beer. Bring your appetite and your generosity!

e Spaghetti Dinner is sure to ll you up and help our kids thrive in school. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for kids 10 and under.

Drink wristbands are separate for $25 each.

Learn more at: https://www.fortluptonco.gov/968/Spaghetti-Dinner

Premier Members Credit Union hosting food drive

Premier Members Credit Union will be collecting donations for local food pantries during the entire month of August. Visit your local Premier Members Credit Union branch, or their corporate o ces in Broom eld to donate. Each branch chose a local food pantry to donate to ensure all donations stay local to that community.

Locally, ve branches of the credit union are hosting collections sites. ey include locations at 755 E. 144th Ave. in ornton, the sites at 10339 N. Federal Blvd and 8440 Fed-

eral Blvd. in Westminster and the locations in Firestone and Erie.

“We always want to provide support to our local communities,” said Carlos Pacheco, CEO of Premier Members Credit Union. “One of our company pillars is Premier: Gives, where we provide the communities we serve with funds and employee volunteers to support initiatives of education, nancial literacy, and basic needs. is food drive will help many members of our communities to thrive.”

Splash Park Sponsorship Opportunities

Fort Lupton is working on a Splash Park, but the city will need help from our local businesses and residents. If you’d like to sponsor the Splash Park and have your name engraved on the agstone sponsorship wall, contact Doug at dcook@ fortluptonco.gov.

Farm to Market tickets on sale

Tickets for Farm to Table, a fundraising event for the Platte Valley Medical Foundation scheduled for Aug. 17 are on sale now.

e Foundation’s biennial fundraising campaign will bene t women’s health services to help women connect with the care they need throughout their adult years and to support area women who do not always prioritize their own health needs. e foundation hopes to raise $500,000 in the campaign

cycle. ey conduct multiple fundraising e orts annually with Farm to Table as the largest event.

Farm to Table will be at 6 p.m. Aug. 17 on the hospital campus. Platte Valley Medical Center’s Chef Mike Anderson uses produce donated by area farmers to create a gourmet meal for about 450 guests.

e event garners so much support that it often sells out long before the date. is year, Muñoz reserved a block of tickets that are available to the public for $75 each. ey are available at https://ftt2023. cbo.io.

State youth council needs members

e Colorado legislature’s nonpartisan Colorado Youth Advisory Council has openings for new members across the state for the 2023-25 term.

e Youth Advisory Council is a statewide organization dedicated to youth-led civic service learning. Youth members lead policy committees that analyze issues and policies that impact youth across Colorado. Policy work can include making recommendations about current policies or advocating for new ones. Council members conduct research, write problem/solution statements, meet with subject matter experts, build relationships with legislators, and seek feedback from their peers and communities.

e Colorado Legislature created the youth advisory council in 2008 to give Colorado’s youth ages 14-19 a voice in lawmaking. Youth council members work each summer to propose policy ideas to a committee of legislators. Each summer, students present policy proposals to legislators. During the last two years, several policies the youth council identi ed became law, including increased crisis services, higher education programs for fostered youth, educational standards and e orts to prevent eating disorders.

Applications are due June 19. State organizers plan to host an informational session for applicants at 6 p.m. June 14. Find info at www. coyac.org/apply.

Donation time

e Fort Lupton Food & Clothing Bank is asking for donations of canned fruits and nuts, varieties of dry pasta and pasta dinners, peanut butter and canned meat such as tuna (including the pouches).

Other potential donations could include chicken, Vienna sausages, spam and salmon. e bank also needs personal items, such as toiletries and baby needs.

Drop o donations at the food and clothing bank’s back door, 421 Denver Ave., on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Call 303-8571096.

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 interventional cardiologist at Brighton Heart and Vascular Institute. is is a walking program for everyone 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 fun talk.

Blessings in a Bag

Fort Lupton’s Backpack Program helps school children in need with a backpack of healthy food. It’s an all-volunteer program and is in need of volunteers. If interested in volunteering or donating, call 303-7184440. Mail donations to Blessings in a Bag, 306 Park Ave., Fort Lupton 80621.

Drop-in child care

e Fort Lupton Recreation Center o ers drop-in child care from 8:30 to 11 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays or Tuesdays and ursdays. Call 303-857-4200.

Fort Lupton senior lunches

Senior lunches are available at noon Mondays at the Fort Lupton Recreation Center, 203 S. Harrison Ave. Sign up by noon the previous ursday. Call 303-857-4200, ext. 6166.

Weld Re-8 Board has four open positions

BY BELEN WARD BWARD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Weld Re-8 School district is looking to ll four board of directors’ seats up for election in November 2023, according to the news release. e school board is divided into seven districts, so the districts that are open for election are District A, District B, District E, and District D.

e positions are four-year terms. An information packet about the process is available to pick up at the district o ce or visit:www.casb.org. When scrolling, select the link for the 2023 elections.

e rst process to be a candidate is to start a petition with up to 50 signatures required to be submitted. e petitions will be available at the district o ce on August 9, at 8:00

a.m. Once the signatures are gathered, get the document notarized and turned in by Sept. 1 by 4p.m. at the 200 South Fulton Avenue district o ce.

According to o cials, due to the time needed to put petition materials together, they ask for your convenience and theirs to please schedule an appointment with Debra Smith at dsmith@weld8.org before picking

up the petition.

For more information about serving a board in this election or future elections, contact the Weld County District o ce, or to learn information about a school board member for the Weld County School District, call to make an appointment the talk to Debra Smith, an election o cial or Superintendent of Schools Alan Kaylor.

City to begin Bridge Street widening project in early August

City o cials kicked o a long anticpated widening project on Bridge Street July 27, working to create a four-lane roadway between 22nd Avenue and 42nd Avenue.

e $19.5 million project is expected to be complete by Spring 2025.

Bridge Street is one of the City of Brighton’s most traveled corridors, accommodating an average of 20,000 vehicles per day, according to a city statement. e current single through-lane road will be expanded to two through-lanes of travel in both directions.

In addition to widening opera-

tions, crews will be installing raised medians and turn lanes, implementing new curbs and gutters, replacing four tra c signals, making Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant curb ramps and sidewalk improvements, and upgrading utilities. ese improvements are expected to reduce tra c congestion, create safer and more accessible travel paths for multimodal

users, and enhance the functionality of several intersection locations.

“Improving the Bridge Street corridor is something that has been in the works for many years,” said City Manager Michael Martinez. “I am pleased to be here with you today as we o cially kick o a project that will pave the way to a brighter, more accessible future for our residents and commuters.”

Project Schedule

e project timeline is dependent on weather and resource availability and is subject to change. Normal working hours will be from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Crews may work on weekends as needed throughout the duration of the project. Work will be broken into three phases over the course of the project.

In the rst phase, crews will remove old pavement and work to widen the roads and make upgrades to utility lines.

e second phase will see work,

bution center on Bromley Lane. e 775,000-square-foot building would be home to 332 net new jobs in Brighton with an average annual wage of $68,516.

e Colorado O ce of Economic Development and International Trade announced in June that VSK Energy Inc. would expand into Brighton, bringing as many as 900 new jobs to the area. e company makes solar photovoltaic modules for energy-collecting solar panels.

e company plans to move into the 76 Commerce Center, a row of warehouses along Interstate 76 just north of Brighton’s 160th Avenue, in 2024.

ose two new projects join Vestas Blades’ manufacturing plant just north of the city. Danish-based manufacturer Vestas-American Wind Technology announced in 2021 plans to layo 280 workers at the East Crown Prince Boulevard location.

“ is company has faced a lot of

Our Family Helping Your Family

Don was born January 27, 1931 in either Trinidad or Branson, CO, depending on which document you read. He was the eldest of 3 brothers, Leo and James and his parents were James and Mabel Cummins. He grew up in Branson, where his Dad was postmaster and his Mother was homemaker and later a teacher. ey moved to Hoehne, CO in his junior year. He graduated from Hoehne High School while also working as a cowboy on the Box Ranch.

Don started college at Colorado A&M (now CSU) in 1948 as an Agriculture major, specializing in soils and geology. He joined Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity where he helped put himself through school by working in the frat house. It was at Colorado A&M in 1949 that he met his beloved wife, Dorothy Dexter in a chemistry class. ey were married for 23,096 days before she passed away in 2014. Don passed away on July 21, 2023 in Greeley, CO.

After Don and Dorothy married in 1950, Don worked as an oil eld seismologist for 8 years during which time they moved 25 times (CO, ND, MT, WY, NE, SD) before Don went back to school at Colorado State College (now UNC), graduating with a Social Studies degree (minor in Science) in 1959.

eir 26th and nal move was to Fort Lupton in 1959. He interviewed with Mr. Butler, superintendent of the Ft. Lupton Schools and his rst position was as a 7th grade teacher. In his second year he moved into the business services administrator for 20 years, managing the facilities, grounds, buses, food services, and special programs such as summer school for the migrant farmworkers’ children, the BOCES program and collaborated with Greeley’s Aims Community College to provide

uncertainty over the years as Washington has kind of gone back and forth on incentives,” Sen. Bennet said. “But now it’s going to spend $40 million to upgrade its Windsor and Brighton factories where it manu-

needed courses in the Fort Lupton area.

In 1980 Don joined the sta of Aims Community College and helped establish their South Campus in Ft. Lupton, overseeing the building of the campus facilities east of town. He was Dean of the Fort Lupton campus from 1981 until he retired in 1992.

When Don and his family settled in Fort Lupton, he became more and more engaged in the great community they called home. A man of many hats, literally and guratively. Literally as Don made numerous humorous presentations to organizations and, to the delight of his grandkids, at school classes telling stories and wearing the hats he collected over the years. Figuratively as Don (or “Mr. C” as he was known throughout the area) was an active participant in community and civic organizations.

Don and Dorothy were members of the First United Methodist Church of Ft. Lupton and served many roles in the church. Don was part of a group that created a summertime recreation program for the city, initially bringing opportunities for swimming, rollerskating, baseball, arts & crafts and trips to the movies for community youths, running it until the city took over in 1991. He worked with the Ft. Lupton Housing Authority for 28 years and was chairman for 24 of those years. He served on the Ft Lupton Community Education Council, the Ft. Lupton Chamber of Commerce working with the Ft. Lupton City Council and Ft. Lupton Development Corporation to bring in more jobs to the city. He was also Mayor of Ft. Lupton from

1983-1987, working with the city government to improve city services and the lives of its citizens. In 2017 he was awarded the Quiet Disciple Award by the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Methodist Church in recognition of his service to Ft. Lupton and the Ft. Lupton Methodist Church.

Don served on the Ft Lupton Planning Commission that developed the rst Comprehensive Plan as well as assisting in community improvements such as the Coyote Creek golf course, two re stations and raised money for the Jane DeDecker bronze statue at Ft. Lupton Public & School Library. He served on the Fort Lupton boards of the Japanese American Citizens League, e American GI Forum, the Fire Protection District (he was a radioman for the re department for 8 years) and the Arts Council as well as a member of the Rotary, Optimist, Kiwanis, and Lions Clubs. He was a long-time regular at the Friday morning Men’s Prayer Breakfast.

Don helped with the “One Fund” (now the United Way of Weld County) and led the establishment of Centennial Developmental Services, Inc (now Envision). He served on the Weld Crime Stoppers and Victims Assistance group, the Weld Energy Impact Team and Weld Private Industry Council. He was on the board of directors for United Power for 10 years and the board of directors for the Greeley Hospital (now Banner North Colorado)

Above all, rst and foremost, Don was a family man whose greatest joy was his wife, kids, grandkids, and great-grandkids as well

as his extended family as Uncle Don. His hobbies included reading, watching TV sports (his favorite was women’s college basketball), attending the sports and activities of his kids, grandkids and great-grandkids, playing family card games and pulling weeds in his ower garden. Don was also known for his outstanding collection of socks.

Don is survived by his 5 children and spouses, 11 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren - Cheryl (Cummins) and Jerry Peden, Sarah, Crystal; Jim and Christie Cummins, Justin and Hilary Cummins (Walden, Arthur), Tyler Cummins and Adam Yates; Mark and Chris Cummins, Amber and Jody Irsik (Nevaeh, Olsen), Nathan and Jennifer Cummins, Devin Cummins, Spencer and Jen Cummins (Ellie); Jill (Cummins) and Joe Bailey, JoJo and Kris Grano (Owen, Nora), Jana and Mike Baguskis (Dexter, Andee), Jacki Bailey; Polly Cummins.

e Cummins family thanks the Fairacres Manor of Greeley, CO, Accent Home Care and Hospice Care and Dr. Martin McDermott and sta for their professional care and treatment of our Dad, Grandpa and GreatGrandpa over the last few years”.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE

Saturday

August 12, 2023

11:00 AM to 12:00 PM Fort Lupton High School 530 Reynolds St. Ft. Lupton, CO 80621

In lieu of owers or gifts, please consider donating to the Cummins Care Scholarship fund, administered through the Weld Community Foundation (website, www.weldcommunityfoundation.org)

the press conference in Brighton, smack in the middle of her congressional district.

Swiss Company Meyer Burger

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis discuss the impact the federal Inflation Reduction Act has had on green energy investments in Colorado during an Aug. 2 press conference in Brighton’s Founders Plaza. BELEN WARD

CUMMINS

Donald R. Cummins

January 27, 1931 - July 21, 2023

Reading to learn, grow, imagine, escape

As part of our company’s onboarding process, we are invited to connect with new hires at every level of the organization and wherever they may live. Technology of course makes scheduling these calls and having these calls very easy when we are connecting with new remote team members. e other day I had a wonderful call with our newest team member, Adam. What we found that we had in common was a love for reading. And it was a great reminder for me that each year around this time, I publish my reading list and recommendations.

WINNING

then a history book or biography, then move to a business book, add in a personal development book, and then go to a ctional book. I have found that the diversity in my reading keeps me well-rounded and a ords me the opportunity to engage in conversations with people regardless of their own reading preferences. Reading so many di erent types of books also inspires tremendous creativity. So here is my current reading list, hopefully one or two may be of interest to you.

Faith-based books: “Mission Possible” by Tim Tebow, “All ings New” by John Eldridge, “If You Want to Walk on Water, You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat” by John Ortberg, “Let the Journey Begin” by Max Lucado, “ e Carpenter” by Jon Gordon

e summertime is always a great way to reacquaint ourselves with reading if we have not been as diligent in our e orts. Vacations and staycations o er us that time to unwind and relax with a good book. For me, depending on what I am reading, a great book transports me to di erent places, in di erent times, inspires creativity, and helps me to learn and grow personally and professionally.

I love this quote by S.I. Hayawaka, “It is not true that we only have only one life to live; if we can read, we can live as many more lives and as many kinds of life as we wish.” So spot on.

We all have our di erent genres of the types of books we enjoy reading. For me, I go through a cycle of ve di erent types of books and then repeat the cycle. I start with a faith-based book,

History or biography books: “ e Forgotten 500” by Gregory A. Freeman, “ e Last Stand” by Nathaniel Philbrick, “George Washington’s Secret Six” by Brian Kilmead and Don Yaeger, “ e Nine” by Gwen Strauss

Business books: “How to Sell to the Modern Buyer” by David Mattson, “10 Leadership Virtues for Disruptive Times” by Tom Ziglar, “Smart Brevity” by Jim VandeHei, Mike Allen, Roy Schwartz, “Traction” by Gino Wickman

Personal development books:

“ e Power of Who” by Bob Beaudine, “ e Power of Community” by Howard Partridge, “Becoming a Master Communicator” by Renee Marino, “What Drives You” by Kevin Miller, “Growth with Goals” by Jill Hellwig

Fiction books: “Dark Vector” by Clive Cussler, “Wild Fire” by Nelson DeMille, “ e Lion” by Nelson

as landscaping along the roadway.

DeMille, “American Assassin” by Vince Flynn, “Transfer of Power” by Vince Flynn

Again, those are just my recent favorites and if you are looking for a good book in a speci c genre, hopefully this list helps or inspires you to look at similar titles. And remember what Mary Schmich says about reading, “Reading is a discount ticket to everywhere.” It is so true, we can let whatever it is we read to lead us into a new paradigm and bring us into a new place mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Reading broadens our knowledge and leads us to new horizons. And the only thing that we are bound by is our own time and willingness to com-

mit to making the e ort to read and read more often.

How about you? What are you reading these days? I always love getting fantastic book recommendations from our community and sharing what we both get out of the reading. I would love to see your list at gotonorton@gmail.com, and when we can read to learn, grow, imagine and escape it really will be a better than good life.

Michael Norton is an author, a personal and professional coach, consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator of individuals and businesses, working with organizations and associations across multiple industries.

including new tra c signal, at the intersections as well as , sidewalk and ramp upgrades and new curbs and gutters. e nal phase will include paving and striping as well

Contact us: 143 S. Second Pl., Brighton, CO 80401 - 303-566-4100

Mailing Address: 750 W. Hampden Ave., Suite 225 Englewood, CO 80110 Phone: 303-566-4100

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e project work zone will impact both east and westbound lanes. Drivers can expect realigned lanes during widening operations with one through-lane of tra c open in both directions. ere will be no center turn-lane during the tra c realignment. Crews will begin widening the north side of the roadway

LINDA SHAPLEY Publisher lshapley@coloradocommunitymedia.com

MICHAEL DE YOANNA Editor-in-Chief michael@coloradocommunitymedia.com

SCOTT TAYLOR Metro North Editor staylor@coloradocommunitymedia.com

BELEN WARD Community Editor bward@coloradocommunitymedia.com

rst and transition to the south side mid-way through the project. Lane con gurations will change with each phase throughout the course of the project.

ere will be reduced driving speeds within the work zone.

ough impacts to travel are expected to be minimal, drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes

JOHN RENFROW Sports Editor jrenfrow@coloradocommunitymedia.com

LINDSAY NICOLETTI Operations/ Circulation Manager lnicoletti@coloradocommunitymedia.com

TERESA ALEXIS Marketing Consultant Classified Sales talexis@coloradocommunitymedia.com

AUDREY BROOKS Business Manager abrooks@coloradocommunitymedia.com

when available to minimize congestion. e project team anticipates delays of up to 10 minutes when traveling through the work zone. Please exercise extreme caution when driving through construction areas. Slow down, watch for workers and equipment, and leave plenty of space between vehicles.

Columnists & Guest Commentaries

Columnist opinions are not necessarily those of the Press. We welcome letters to the editor. Please include your full name, address and the best number to reach you by telephone.

Email letters to staylor@coloradocommunitymedia.com

Deadline Wed. for the following week’s paper.

BY CORINNE WESTEMAN CWESTEMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

For those who haven’t stopped by their local library in recent years, it’s not just a place to pick up and drop o books anymore.

In the post-pandemic era, libraries have become meeting places, remote work spaces, play areas and more. Rather than the repositories of books and other print media they once were, libraries are taking on more of a community center role, sta members at Denverarea library districts explained.

“ ey’ve always had that role,” said Holly Grant of the Clear Creek County Library District. “But now, it’s about … not just seeing (a library) as a storehouse of knowledge and scholarship.”

To that end, libraries have diversi ed the items and programs they o er to address community needs. Depending on the district, patrons can check out everything from camping equipment to virtual reality headsets. Additionally, patrons can access video- and audiobook-streaming services for free with their library cards.

Plus, along with children’s storytime and book clubs, library events and programs can range from puppy yoga to snowshoe hikes.

“It’s a very di erent library than what many of us grew up with,” Holly Whelan of Arapahoe Libraries said. “ … We have everything, everything, everything.”

Items and resources aplenty

Whelan’s words aren’t an exaggeration, as sta members from multiple districts said their libraries o er so much it’s hard for them to remember everything. So, before buying, renting or downloading something, check the library rst.

Along with books, movies and comics, districts have nontraditional items for check-out. Many o er laptops, iPads, Kindles, mobile WiFi hotspots, passes to local museums, cookware, GoPro cameras and science kits.

Mark Fink, executive director of Anythink Libraries — which has branches from ornton to Bennett — said his district’s TryIts collection includes musical instruments for various experience levels; lawn games; outdoor gear like snowshoes and backpacks; 3-D printers; sewing machines and crafting kits; and microscopes.

People have borrowed them for weekend barbecues, camping trips, one-o projects, or to see whether they’d want to buy their own. Fink said the TryIts collection has been so popular, Anythink Libraries has “expanded the level of items we provide.”

O ering items like these saves patrons money and helps the environment too, Grant pointed out, as people aren’t buying things they might only use once.

Along with physical items, districts have several online resources patrons can access with their library cards. rough these apps and online services, patrons can download e-books and audiobooks, stream movies and TV shows, and access tutoring services and online classes — all for free.

Lizzie Gall of Je erson County Public Library said patrons who used to spend money on Audible and Net ix

have saved money by nding their items through the library instead.

In-person services are also crucial, whether it’s answering technological questions or notarizing documents. Grant said Clear Creek patrons have asked for help setting up their Kindles and reviewing their emails, and tourists often stop into the Idaho Springs and Georgetown branches to ask questions about local sites and museums.

As Whelan summarized it: “If you think the library isn’t for you, or we don’t have anything to o er, think again. … We have something for everybody.”

Unique programs, events

Beyond summer reading and book clubs, libraries have expanded the type of events and programs they o er — ranging from outdoor and out-of-library adventures, to arts

and culture, to physical and mental health. Almost all are free and open to everyone, including out-of-district attendees. Some may require preregistration and/or tickets to cover event costs.

Clear Creek has hosted everything from snowshoe hikes to American Sign Language classes. It also has free present-wrapping stations in December, which are immensely popular, Grant said.

Both Je erson County and Arapahoe libraries have hosted after-hours laser tag for teens, which are well-attended and sometimes have fun themes like “Star Wars.” Gall highlighted other teen events, like this August’s Teen Iron Chef and the ongoing Coding Camp, which has expanded to include preteens.

Summertime outdoor concert series are

Local libraries o er nontraditional items and programs, preserve important ‘third place’

Eli Monreal plays Life-Size Clue during a March 31 teen event at Je erson County Public Library’s Golden branch.

FILE PHOTO BY CORINNE WESTEMAN

a seed library at one of its

EVERYBODY

popular at Anythink and Arapahoe library districts, with each concert drawing hundreds of attendees.

Fink noted how Anythink Libraries also has an artists-in-residence program through a partnership with the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art. e district’s also partnering with the City of ornton to build a 35,000-square foot nature library so people can engage with nature in an accessible way, he commented.

For Arapahoe Libraries, Whelan highlighted the Library For All program, which is for adults with disabilities and their caregivers. It also has a Memory Café for adults with memory loss, their caregivers and families.

Events like these have become crucial ways for participants to connect and interact with those in similar situations, Whelan described.

At Douglas County Public Libraries, the popular brew tour is return-

ing this year, which encourages patrons to support local breweries and co ee shops. Kerri Morgan, special events manager, said the district also hosts several literary trivia nights, library-wide scavenger hunts and similar events throughout the year.

Its thrice-a-year Storybook Holiday events are especially delightful, she added. ese themed nights at the library bring classic stories to life at springtime, Halloween and the winter holidays. is fall’s will be “ e Legend of Sleepy Hollow”themed, complete with interactive trick-or-treating.

“When you walk into the library, it’s almost like walking into a living expression of that piece of literature,” Morgan said of the Storybook Holiday events. “ … It’s all about making positive, lifelong memories inside the library.”

During the pandemic, virtual events became incredibly popular, and districts continue to o er hybrid options. Whelan said, for Arapahoe Libraries, it’s about engaging people no matter where they’re at — in the world, or in life.

“When we talk about getting people into the libraries, that doesn’t physically have to be walking through the doors,” she continued.

Preserving the ‘third place’

With libraries evolving as technology and community needs do, sta members emphasized how libraries are increasingly important meeting places. So, the buildings must re ect that.

More libraries now feature built-in cafes for people to relax, meet and/ or work. Fink said Anythink Libraries wanted its branches to feel like “high-end bookstores,” and help patrons “create special moments of joy or delight” through their library experiences.

Fink described how, in sociological terms, libraries fall into the “third place.” e premise is that a person’s “ rst place” is their home and their “second place” is work. us, “third places” like parks, churches, co ee shops and gyms are crucial for civic engagement and social interaction.

Libraries as “third places” are increasingly important for young

parents looking to get their children out of the house and meet other local families, Morgan described. eir popularity’s also growing among work-from-home folks who’ve lost their “second place” and want to work a free, o ce-type environment.

Morgan emphasized how, unlike some “third places,” libraries are completely free and open to everyone.

“It’s a place where, if you want, you can be entertained or educated,” she said. “It’s almost like a choose-your-own adventure.”

Gall, Grant and others emphasized how should re ect the people they serve, and adapt to their needs and interests. us, their districts are very responsive to patrons’ feedback for new items, events and programs.

“( e library)’s something that everybody can enjoy without feeling like there’s a price tag attached,” Grant continued. “ … If the library wasn’t there to o er all those elements of service, where would (people) get them from?”

Douglas County Libraries hosts a Halloween-themed Storybook Holiday event. The district hosts these events three times a year — in the spring, around Halloween, and in early December.

Brooks Bowland, 6, crosses the bridge during the Clear Creek County Library District’s snowshoe hike in February

FILE PHOTO BY SARA HERTWIG

Colorado funk band SuperMagick performs at Anythink Libraries’ Backyard Concert Series in 2016. COURTESY OF KENT MEIREIS AND ANYTHINK LIBRARIES

Arapahoe Libraries hosts

locations. Seed libraries have become a popular program among local library districts. COURTESY PHOTO

The 10 must-watch football teams along the Front Range

The 10 must-watch football teams along the Front Range this season

BY JOHN RENFROW JRENFROW@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

August is here and football is all everyone is talking about. With good reason. High school teams across the Denver area are gearing up for their opening week, and Colorado Community Media’s coverage area is vast (to put it lightly).

From Arvada in the northwest to Parker in the southeast, and the towns and suburbs in between that make up the Denver area, our reporters have a lot of action to cover. And, there’s no shortage of dominant schools, state champions, elite quarterbacks and more.Ahead of the 2023-24 season, we spoke with schools and coaches as well as our cadre of sportswriters, photographers and freelancers to determine our 10 must-watch high school teams of the season.

First, a disclaimer: with so many great teams, this list was di cult to put together. And with our two dozen community newspapers, this list could have gone way beyond just 10 teams. ere’s a method to the madness, though. e teams, coaches and players who were referenced most by our expert sources were compelling. We did our best to highlight the best in our coverage area – north, east, west and south. One interesting takeaway, too: e dominant teams are not the only

captivating teams. ere are countless reasons to watch any number of teams in the area.

Before we reveal our top 10, here are a few testimonies from our experts on teams around the metro area:

“Mountain Vista could also have a breakout year,” sports photographer Paul DiSalvo told me of the Highlands Ranch team. “ ey have maybe the best QB around in Austyn Modrewski.” “Another one I would throw in is D’Evelyn in 2A,” said Dennis Pleuss of Je co Public Schools.

“ ey won the 2A League 1 last year, and they are always in the mix for a conference title in 2A.” “In some

areas, a better-than-.500 season may not mean much. But it may signal the beginning of a new era in Fort Lupton,” said CCM’s Steve Smith. “ e Bluedevils were 5-4 a season ago, which marked the rst time in nine seasons that FLHS won more football games than it lost. e last time that happened (2013) was also the last time FLHS advanced to the state playo s. ey’ll be worth keeping an eye on.”“I also want to note that LPS Centennial Stadium has been built at Arapahoe Road and Colorado Boulevard, which will be a great thing to highlight this coming season,” said Heston Mosher, a local freelancer for our newspapers. e new sta-

dium will host Littleton, Heritage, and Arapahoe’s football teams this season.  “Lots of fun to talk about, but in the end, the nal will probably be Valor Christian versus Cherry Creek, with Cherry Creek winning AGAIN,” DiSalvo said.

But the teams play the games for a reason. So, here is who to keep an eye on this fall (in no particular order).

Cherry Creek Bruins (Greenwood Village)

2022 record: 12-2, 5A state champions

Week 1: August 25 vs. Ralston Valley

What to watch for: Can the Bruins keep up the tear they’ve been on?

Cherry Creek has all the bragging rights. ey’re coming o their fourth straight 5A state championship, including a hard-fought victory last year over Valor Christian. A big question is how will the Bruins replace star running back Carlson Tann? He was dominant last season and helped rally the Bruins in the second half of their championship win. But they can be beat. Last year, Cherry Creek did lose two games. But when it comes to Cherry Creek, just sit back and enjoy the show.

Valor Christian Eagles (Highlands Ranch)

2022 record: 11-3, 5A state runnerups

Week 1: August 26 @ Regis Jesuit

What to watch for: Can Valor Christian get over the hump this season? e Eagles lost just two games early last season before going on an undefeated run to the state champi-

Fort Lupton’s juniors Kaidyn Taylor (30) and Anthony Blan-Mendenhall (3) are focused during the national anthem prior to their Oct. 7, 2022 home league game against Eaton last year.

PHOTO BY JUAN ARELLANO

SEE MUST-WATCH, P9

MUST-WATCH

onship, where they ran into Cherry Creek and fell short 24-17. Reloaded with experienced, returning players, Valor will aim for its rst championship since 2018.

Columbine Rebels (Littleton)

2022 record: 10-2

Week 1: August 25 @ Mullen

What to watch for: How does Coach Andy Lowry reload after losing his top running back? Columbine opened last season on re with a six-game winning streak in which the Rebels beat their opponents by at least 20 points. If the 5A League 1 allows them to start hot again, it could mean trouble for the rest of the league, including teams like Ralston Valley and Arvada West.

Frederick Golden Eagles (Frederick)

2022 record: 8-4

Week 1: August 18 vs. Northridge

What to watch for: Frederick hopes to push for a league title. e Golden Eagles joined the 3A League 6 just last year, but nearly snagged the league title with a 4-1 record. Second only to Denver’s George Washington last season, Frederick took some time to get rolling last year. But Frederick managed to win a playo game before a tough 21-6 loss to Lutheran to end the season. If they can continue their late-season success early this season, they could make a strong push for 10 wins plus a strong showing in the playo s. Head Coach Matt Loyd is o to a strong start going into year two.

Ralston Valley Mustangs (Arvada)

2022 record: 10-3

Week 1: August 18 @ Mountain Vista

What to watch for: Senior Logan Madden is expected to be one of the top quarterbacks in the state this year. Last year as a junior, Madden

was a selection for All-Colorado, First Team All-State, and First team All-Conference, while throwing for nearly 2400 yards and 24 touchdown passes with a 71% completion percentage. If he can keep up his stellar play, the Mustangs could push for double digit wins.

Green Mountain Rams (Lakewood)

2022 record: 12-1

Week 1: August 25 vs. Golden

What to watch for: A very strong senior class headlines Green Mountain this season. e Rams’ perfect season hopes last year were ruined when they fell to Roosevelt brutally in the semi nals. But now they have all the tools to compete for the 3A state title if they can continue their dominance and play as expected this fall.

underRidge Grizzlies (Highlands Ranch)

2022 record: 11-2

Week 1: August 25 @ Arvada West

What to watch for: After going 11-2 and 4-1 in the 5A League 5, the Grizzlies emerge as perhaps the biggest mystery on this list. With a lot of graduated talent, and brand-new coach in Sam Camp eld, it will be interesting to watch if underRidge can keep up its dominance. e culture and reputation is strong, but now there are new faces. It should make for a must-watch season this fall.

Dakota Ridge Eagles (Littleton)

2022 record: 6-6

Week 1: August 25 vs. Pueblo West

What to watch for: Senior quarterback Blake Palladino is back for his nal season. e Division I QB committed to the University of Northern Colorado in the o season, and is determined to bring a state championship home for the Eagles.

e Eagles graduated RB Noah Triplett, leaving some big shoes to ll. But Palladino tells me he’s excited about the season and is ready to get to work. If nothing else, the Eagles will be a highlight show.

Ponderosa Mustangs (Parker)

2022 record: 9-3

Week 1: August 25 vs. Fort Collins

What to watch for: If it wasn’t for a two-game skid in the middle of their season, Ponderosa could have very well been undefeated going into the playo s in 2022. Now they bring back nearly everyone, and know how to win cohesively. e Mustangs are strong and experienced at skill positions like receiver, and since the core group is returning, Ponderosa could be scary in 2023.  Heritage Eagles (Littleton)  2022 record: 8-4

Week 1: August 25 vs. Mountain Vista

What to watch for: e Heritage Eagles could be primed for a breakout year. With returning players like senior quarterback Kurt Rossner and All-State senior linebacker Nick Long, the Eagles could make a push for double digit wins. After dropping two games early, Heritage went on a hot streak winning seven in a row. If they can start hot this year, watch out.

… CCM’s Alex K.W. Schultz’s breakout team of the year: Mountain Vista Golden Eagles (Highlands Ranch)

“A team that might really surprise people this year is Vista, which has been an afterthought on the gridiron in years past but looked to have a great foundation in place last season. e Golden Eagles nished

7-4 and ranked No. 16 in Class 5A in 2022, but all their key pieces are back, including junior quarterback Austyn Modrzewski (who passed for a state-second-best 3,327 yards last year) and their three leading receivers (Sean Conway, Jakhai Mack and Ja’pree Jennings), which is huge given that Vista’s o ense is built on slinging the ball around the yard. After the Golden Eagles played Valor Christian last year (a game in which Vista led with just a few minutes left), Vista coach Garrett Looney told me, “[Modrzewski] is only a sophomore, and he’s doing things that I haven’t seen seniors do.’”

Bonus:

Denver Broncos  2022 record: 5-12

Week 1: September 10 vs. Las Vegas

What to watch for: Can Coach Sean Payton get the best out of quarterback Russell Wilson and lead the Broncos to the playo s?

Colorado Bu aloes  2022 record: 1-11

Week 1: September 2 @ TCU

What to watch for: e Deion Sanders show. Are the Bu s nally ready for prime time? Gearing up for a Big 12 return.

Colorado School of Mines  2022 record: 13-3

Week 1: August 31 vs. Grand Valley State

What to watch for: Quarterback John Matocha. Can he continue his record-breaking success from 2022?

Showstopper as bull riders take stage at Riverdale Park

Riders was a shock-andawe showstopper Aug. 3 at the Adams County Fair at Riverdale Riverdale Regional Park with 23 riders doing their best to keep hold of the rope on the back of a 1,500 pound bull for eight seconds.

thunderstorms passed over the park during the competition, making for a muddy contest for several of the riders. e show went on, however, with Rockdale, Texas rider Ezekiel Mitchell claiming the top spot. the pagentry. New Yorkbased duo the Dubois Circus took the stage thoughout the weekend and San Diego-troupe the Animal Cracker Conspiracy brought their stilt-andpuppet act to the fair’s midway.

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This rider did a back flip o the bull, managed to roll, hopped back up, and ran out of the way at the Professional Bull Riders touring pro contest at the Adams County Fair.

This bull rider quickly tucked and turned to escape being trampled by the bull at the Professional Bull Riders touring pro contest at the Adams County Fair. PHOTOS BY BELEN WARD

Thu 8/10

Korey Foss: Rock Candy @ Hoffbrau @ 6pm Hoffbrau, 9110 Wadsworth Pkwy, Westminster

Wildlife Series: Biebzra National Park (8/10) @ 7pm Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Dr., Commerce City. 303-2893760

Club Seating: Paramount TheatreThe Marshall Tucker Band @ 7pm / $55 Paramount Theatre, 1621 Glenarm, Denver

Aftershock Colorado Band: Aftershock Rocks Cheers @ 7pm @ Cheers, 11964 Washington St, Northglenn

Sat 8/12

Movie Night- Pajama Party @ 12:30am Aug 12th - Aug 11th

Bison Ridge Recreation Center, 13905 E. 112th Avenue, Commerce City. 303-2893760

Dave Mensch - State HouseCommerce City, CO @ 8pm State House, 15591 E 104th Ave, Commerce City

Sun 8/13

Downsizing and decluttering @ 10am

Anythink Wright Farms, 5877 East 120th Avenue, Thornton. mmayo@ anythinklibraries.org, 303-4053200

Cirque du Soleil: Kooza @ 4:30pm

Grand Chapiteau at Ball Arena, 1000 Chopper Cir, Denver

Mon 8/14

Brighton Flix and Kicks @ 8pm Carmichael Park, 650 East South‐ern Street, Brighton. gmontoya@ brightonco.gov, 303-655-2126

Fri 8/11

What Your Heirs Should When You Have a Reverse Mortgage @ 4pm Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Dr., Commerce City. 303-2893760

Mojomama @ 6pm

Oskar Blues Homemade Liquids and Solids, 1555 Hover St, Longmont

Relay Relay: Sofar Denver @ 8pm Sofar Denver, Denver

Custom Hat Making

Experience (RARE FATE HATS) @ 11am 9490 Co Rd 25, Fort Lupton, CO 80621, USA, Brighton

Horseracing at Bally's Arapahoe Park @ 5pm Fort Lupton Recreation & Parks De‐partment, 203 S Harrison, Fort Lupton. 303-857-4200

Spano Farm-to-Table DInner! @ 6pm 5820 Lowell Blvd, 5820 Lowell Boulevard, Denver. dappelha@regis.edu, 720-6662228

Teague Starbuck @ 9pm Elevate Grill & Bar, 2831 W 120th Ave #200, Westminster

Colorado Rockies vs. Arizona

Diamondbacks @ 6:40pm / $9-$300

Coors Field, 2001 Blake St., Den‐ver

Wed 8/16

Medicare 101 (8/16) @ 3pm Eagle Pointe Recreation Center, 6060 E. Parkway Dr., Commerce City. 303-2893760

Foreigner @ 7pm

Ball Arena, 1000 Chopper Cir, Den‐ver

Thu 8/17

Dogstar @ 7pm Marquis Theater, 2009 Larimer St, Denver

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6. U.S. STATES: What is the capital of Vermont?

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Solution

Answers 1. A mob. 2. A rose. 3. ree. 4. e Swamp. 5. 1952. 6. Montpelier. 7. J. 8. Mercury. 9. Bob Dylan. 10. Sweden.

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announced a high performance solar cell manufacturing facility in Colorado Springs in July and Holy Cross Energy, the electric utility for much of Western Colorado, expanded the incentives for its solar energy expansion program. e program was initially meant to help lower income residents and the company expanded it to include moderate income residents.

“Holy Cross was able to meet its goals in part because of what we did with in ation reduction,”

Bennet said.

e act also set aside $4 billion in drought assistance for communities in the Colorado River basin, Bennet said.

Polis said federal legislation is key to his goal to have Colorado using 100% renewable energy by 2040 and it’s been important for the state’s green vehicle e orts.

“We built on electric vehicle incentives, we added electric bicycle incentives and we’re working on meeting the skills gap by making sure people are training for careers of the future in high demand jobs, including construction, re ghting, forestry and law enforcement,” Polis said.

Caraveo said it’s having a visible impact on the

303-566-4123

the individual is a candidate;

Legals

Metropolitan Districts

Public Notice

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE PROPOSED SUNRISE METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and particularly to the eligible electors of the proposed Sunrise Metropolitan District of the City of Fort Lupton, Weld County, Colorado (the “District”).

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that it is anticipated that an organizational election for the creation of the proposed District will occur on November 7, 2023. Any eligible elector of the proposed District interested in serving on the board of directors should file a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form with the Designated Election Official of the proposed District no later than the close of business on September 1, 2023, at the address below. Self-Nomination and Acceptance forms are available and can be obtained from Andrew M. Bryant, c/o McGeady Becher P.C., 450 E. 17th Avenue, Suite 400, Denver, Colorado 80203, (303) 5924380, email: abryant@specialdistrictlaw.com.

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN pursuant to Section 1-13.5-1002, C.R.S., that applications for and return of absentee voters’ ballots may be filed with Andrew M. Bryant, the Designated Election Official of the proposed District, c/o McGeady Becher P.C., 450 E. 17th Avenue, Suite 400, Denver, Colorado

80203, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., until the close of business on the Tuesday immediately preceding the election (Tuesday, October 31, 2023).

PROPOSED SUNRISE METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

By:/s/ Andrew M. Bryant

Designated Election Official

Legal Notice No. FLP908

First Publication: August 10, 2023

Last Publication: August 10, 2023

Publisher: Fort Lupton Press

Misc. Private Legals

Public Notice

Call for Nominations

Aims College District Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees of the Aims College District in the counties of Weld, Adams, Broomfield, Larimer, Logan, and Morgan, State of Colorado, calls for nomination of candidates for Trustees to be placed on the ballot for the regular biennial election to be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2023.

At this election, three trustees will be elected, representing the following trustee districts for four-year terms. To be qualified, a candidate must:

• Be an eligible elector (registered voter) of the Aims Local College District, as shown on the books of the clerk and recorder of the county in which the candidate resides on the date of the earliest signature on the petition;

• Have been a resident of Aims Local College District for at least twelve (12) consecutive months prior to the date of the election;

• Be a resident of the Aims Trustee District in which

• Consent to a background check examining the previous seven years, and publication of any past or pending criminal conviction, plea, charge, or other information relevant to the position sought, at the discretion of the College.

District A: RE-1 LaSalle, Gilcrest, Platteville

RE-3J Keenesburg, Hudson, Prospect Valley

RE-8 Fort Lupton Incumbent: Heidi Windell

District B: RE-6 Greeley, Evans RE-7 Gill, Kersey Incumbent: Mark Hout (term-limited)

District E: RE-5J Johnstown, Milliken RE-6 Greeley, Evans Incumbent: Lyle Achziger (term-limited)

A person who desires to be a candidate for Aims College District Trustee shall file a written notice of intention to be a candidate, a nomination petition (with at least fifty valid signatures), an acceptance of nomination in accordance with the law, and a background consent form.

Forms and petitions may be obtained at the President’s Office, Room 103, Beaty Hall, on Aims Greeley Campus from 8:00 AM to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Completed forms and petitions should be submitted to Jerry Harvey, Designated Election Official, in the President’s Office no later than 3:00 p.m. September 1, 2023. Questions regarding the election may be directed to Jerry Harvey at 970-339-6211.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Aims College District Board of Trustees has caused this call for nominations to be given this ninth day of August, 2023.

Aims Community College PO Box 69 5401 West 20th Street Greeley, CO 80632 EOE/AA/MF/Drug-Free

state.

“After years of federal disinvestment and neglect, many of our community are already seeing investments that are starting to vest with new projects that will grow our local economy, create jobs and improve life for Colorado,” Caraveo said. “ ere really is no better model so far of the early bene ts of these bills than Brighton, which in many ways is the nexus of our future here in northern Colorado. As an early recipient of many of these project funds, Brighton is poised to lead Colorado in clean energy manufacturing and will stand as an example of how this needed investment in our communities bene ts families and the future of our local economy.”

August 9, 2023

Legal Notice No. FLP905

First Publication: August 10, 2023

Last Publication: August 10, 2023

Publisher: Fort Lupton Press

Notice to Creditors

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

of Lan-Anh Ngoc Nguyen

Ngoc Nguyen,

City of Fort Lupton Expenditures