Mountain Youth Network o ers avalanche course leading to valuable certification
BY
At least a dozen Clear Creek County residents took part in a recent avalanche training course over three days up Guanella Pass provided by Mountain Youth Network. e course is designed to
meet the requirements of the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE) level 1 skill set. “ e rst day of class includes all of the nitty gritty of snow science done in a classroom setting,” MYN Youth Involvement Coordinator Nico Guzman said.
Day two includes hands-on training of what conditions lead to avalanche conditions and honing your skills as far as what to look out for when you’re traveling in the backcountry, according to Guzman.
Outbound Mountain Gear out of Evergreen provided the certi ed instructor to teach the
I-70 construction and delays continue in Clear Creek County for at least next year
BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Clear Creek County residents, commuters, tourists and commercial drivers are feeling the growing pains as a massive redesign and construction on the I-70 corridor continues to cause tra c delays.
e $700 million I-70 Floyd Hill Project rst broke ground in July 2023 with the intent that the interstate will be in its new alignment in both east and west directions in 2028 with the entire project complete in 2029.
According to the Colorado De-
course, which can cost an individual hundreds of dollars to obtain the Level 1 certi cation. MYN was able to provide the training to Clear Creek County residents free of charge using grant money from the Ofce of Economic Develop-
Merrel Harvey (Left) and Ethan Lee Davis Ackerman take part in avalanche training up Guanella Pass in Clear Creek County March 30 sponsored by Mountain Youth Network PHOTO BY NICO GUZMAN
The Typical Wood-Frame Home Which Has Dominated Subdivisions Since the 1990s May Soon Be History
Let’s say that the writing is on the wall. The kind of site-built wood-frame homes that have dominated new American subdivisions since about 1990 are getting too expensive to satisfy America’s needs in a time of severe housing shortage.
Several factors are at work which make that style of home construction soon to be obsolete.
Factor #1: Labor shortages, especially with immigrant labor being deported.
Factor #2: Wildfire vulnerability of wood-frame homes, as demonstrated in Boulder County and more recently in southern California.
just a few years ago, but is now becoming mainstream. Other builders have learned from Lennar’s experience and multiple companies have entered that space.
Factor #3: Climate change, which is spiking a demand for greater resiliency in home construction — not just from fire, but from high-wind events like tornadoes and hurricanes.
Factor #4: Higher costs, aggravated no doubt by 25% tariffs on the Canadian lumber used in most new homes.
Having followed trade publications for the home construction and related industries, I am convinced that other technologies and techniques for home construction are about to go mainstream, making today’s wood-frame, onsite building process soon to be obsolete, or at least out of favor except for super expensive custom homes.
I also believe we will see more attention paid to the siting of new homes. It’s easy enough to site a home so that it benefits from solar gain, even if it is not solar-powered. Simply having big windows to the south with a wide overhang allowing solar gain from the low sun in the winter and shade from the high sun in the summer is a no-brainer, but it seems there has been a shortage of architectural brains in current and past siting of new homes. Similarly, having fewer windows on the north side of the house is simply smart “passive house” design.
Having an enclosed rather than open foyer (what’s called an “air lock”) is common sense too, and costs very little to implement.
That’s just the beginning of the changes I expect to see in new subdivisions. Lennar has already built a 3D printed subdivision in Texas (see picture). 3D printing of homes using concrete was a novelty (which I wrote about)
A Fast Company article in January 2023 proclaimed that “3D-printed houses are the suburbs of the future.”
The pictures at right are from that article. Here’s an excerpt: “Iowa City-based Alquist 3D, which specializes in reasonably priced automated construction in rural areas, has already started building Project Virginia, in which it will create 200 3D-printed homes (all variations on craftsman designs, also framed in layered concrete and topped with gabled wood-framed roofs) around the state, starting in tiny Pulaski (population 8,691). It’s also starting a 25-home project in Malvern, Iowa and a 10-home development in Muscatine, Iowa. Alquist founder and CEO Zachary Mannheimer says the firm has about 500 total units — ranging in price from $250,000 to around $400,000 — in the pipeline in Virginia, Florida, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, and Texas.”
Nothing says “mainstream” quite like Iowa and those other states. Colorado can not be far behind. Just last month, CBS Colorado (Channel 4 News) reported on a $638,000 grant under Colorado’s Innovative Housing Incentive Program to a Salida company, Verotouch, following the completion of their two 1,100-square-foot 3D-printed homes in Buena Vista.
“We are proud to accelerate innovation in housing to better address Colorado's housing needs,” Gov. Jared Polis said. “The unveiling of the first 3D-printed homes in the state is a great example of our state’s efforts to support new construction methods and create more housing now.”
The layered concrete walls of 3D-printed homes are naturally fire resistant. They are typically one-story homes with a standard peaked roof made from wood trusses, as you can see in the picture above. The front three homes in that picture show a 3-D home at different stages of completion. A gantry straddling the foundation transports the tube which lays down layer upon layer of concrete slurry following a computer program.
Previous Columns on Innovation & Technology
The dates are clickable links on our blog, http://RealEstateToday.substack.com April 3, 2025 —International Builders’ Show 2025 Showcased Some New & Inspiring Products Feb. 27, 2025 — As Society Deals with Affordability, Expect Greater Focus on Manufactured Homes Sept. 26, 2024 — Is a Heat Pump Right for You? Here’s Some Information to Help You Decide. Aug. 15, 2024 -- What to Ask If Buying Solar-Powered Home; Level-Up Sustainability & Recycling July 18, 2024 — Renovation Trends Reflect a Desire for Comfort, Warmth and Healthy Living May 23, 2024 — Model Home Tour Was Uninspiring. Where’s the Innovation & Sustainability? Also: Here’s the Innovation and Sustainability — Thrive Home Builders’ Loretto Heights Project May 16, 2024 — EPA’s ‘Energy Star NextGen’ Designation Is for Fully Electrified Homes May 2, 2024 — Break Away from Common Exterior Products With These Winning Products Mar. 21, 2024 — What’s Behind the Buzz About ‘Indoor Air Quality’ and ‘Sick Building Syndrome’? Feb. 22, 2024 —Startup Develops Concrete That Absorbs CO2; Another Turns Straw into OSB Boards Feb. 15, 2024 — Here’s an Innovative Approach to the Off-Site Modular Home Construction Industry Dec. 21, 2023 — D.R. Horton Inks Deal to Build with OSB Made From Grass Instead of Wood Nov. 9, 2023 — Here Are Some Ideas for the ‘Adaptive Reuse’ of Vacant Office Buildings
Also: 3D-Printing Home Construction Firm Is Relocating to Greeley, Colorado
Oct. 12, 2023 — Here’s a Company Selling ‘Self-Powered’ Manufactured Homes Starting at $310,000 Sept. 14, 2023 — I Found Only One Marshall Fire Home Being Rebuilt with Fire Resistance in Mind
Sept. 7, 2023 — Geothermal Energy, Big Sister of Geothermal Heating & Cooling, Is Coming Along June 1, 2023 — Innovative Startup Makes ‘Carbon Negative’ Building Materials Made From Grass
May 18, 2023 — Liv-Connected: A New Player in the Manufactured and Modular Housing Industry
Apr. 6, 2023 — YouTube Features 40+ ‘Top Green Products’ from the International Builders Show
Mar. 23, 2023 — Geothermal Heating & Cooling Can Be Practical & Affordable on Community Level
Feb. 23, 2023 — Boxabl, the Las Vegas Manufacturer of ADUs, Is Ramping up Production
Feb. 9, 2023 — Understanding Indoor Air Quality and How It’s Managed in Super-Insulated Homes
Jan. 26, 2023 — This Year’s CES Show Featured Some Exciting New Technologies and Products
Dec. 15, 2022 —Lennar’s New Subdivision Near Austin, Texas, Features 3D-Printed Homes
Dec. 8, 2022 — A Subdivision in Pueblo Sets the Standard for All-Electric Home Construction
Nov. 10, 2022 —KB Home Is Building All-Electric Homes — But Not in Colorado
Oct. 13, 2022 — Homes That Survived Marshall Fire Were More Airtight & Had Conditioned Attics
In past columns, I have written about a local company, Colorado Earth, which has pioneered construction of homes using compressed-earth bricks called EcoBlox. That’s more labor intensive, since the walls have to be laid by workers, but homes share the same benefits of being fire and weather resilient.
New technology abounds in the other components that go into home construction. For example, in June 2023 I wrote about a company, Plantd, in North Carolina, which has developed an alternative to OSB, the wall sheeting and roof decking used in virtually all home construction, made from a fast-growing perennial grass, grown locally on former tobacco plantations, saving 17 trees per house
and sequestering 8 tons of carbon dioxide per house. See www.PlantdMaterials.com
A Fast Company article in October 2024 reported that homebuilder D.R. Horton had ordered 10 million of Plantd’s panels, enough to build 90,000 homes.
The innovation taking place in every other component of home construction — doors, windows, manufactured housing, appliances, and more — is stunning to behold, confirming for me that a major revolution in the home construction industry is already unfolding. Be sure that I’ll continue to write about it here!
I have posted links for everything mentioned in this article on our company blog at http://RealEstateToday.substack.com
Does Your Older Home Have a Federal Pacific Electrical Panel?
An estimated 28 million American homes built in the 1950s through the 1980s, including many in Colorado, have an electrical panel manufactured by Federal Pacific Electric, which lost its UL certification decades ago because of multiple failures of its Stab-Lok breakers to trip when overloaded, thereby causing a fire hazard.
Our friends at Alpine Building Performance, LLC, shared these additional issues with the FPE panels:
The breakers often don’t connect properly to the panel’s bus bars, causing arcing, overheating, and potential fire hazards.
Some Stab-Lok breakers get stuck in the “on” position, even when manually switched off, making it impossible to cut power.
Reports suggest that FPE manipulated UL testing results, leading to unsafe products being approved for use.
Studies indicate that homes with FPE panels have a significantly higher likelihood of electrical fires compared to other panels. For these reasons, any home inspector hired by a buyer can be expected to recommend that replacement be demanded of the seller.
Charities Which Used Our Free Box Truck
Miss It. So, We’ve Launched a GoFundMe Campaign to Bring It Back.
Back in February, I announced that our truck needed a new engine and other repairs and that we decided to retire it instead. This was a big loss to such non-profits as the Wounded Warrior Project, Family Promise, BGoldN, Christian Action Guild, Buffalo Bill Days, and the International Rescue Committee, among others, which used the truck more often than our clients!
The truck is off the road but still available to be repaired — or replaced, if we raise enough money. If you’d like to contribute, visit www.BringItBack.info. Thanks!
Above: A 3D-printed home in Desert Hot Springs CA. Below: A Lennar 3D subdivision in Texas
CONSTRUCTION
partment of Transportation, the project stretches from west of Evergreen to eastern Idaho Springs, encompassing an 8-mile section of the Mountain Corridor.
When complete, CDOT expects several key changes in tra c patterns, elevated highways and rounding tight turns near the base of Floyd Hill to ease historic trafc delays and crashes in the area.
CDOT plans include:
• Adding a third westbound I-70 travel lane where a two-lane bottleneck currenting exists. e new lane will be a fulltime, tolled Express Lane from just west of Homestead Road (Exit 247) through the Veterans Memorial Tunnels to Colorado Blvd./Idaho Springs (Exit 241).
• Rebuild bridges due to use, wear and tear, and heavy usage.
• Construct a missing two-mile section of the frontage road between US 6 and the Hidden Valley/Central City Parkway interchanges, which will improve emergency response.
• Build an extended on-ramp from US 6 onto eastbound I-70 for slow-moving vehicles to have more room to merge.
•Improve tra c ow and access at interchanges and intersections. Improve sight distance and safety by straightening roadway curves.
Clear Creek Courant speaks one-on-one with I-70 Project Manager Kurt Kionka
“In our schedule, we have milestones that our contractor (Kraemer North America) has to meet; so, by the end of 2027 westbound is in its nal alignment and open to tra c.” Kionka said. “In 2028 eastbound is in nal alignment and open to tra c.”
It’s the time between now and project completion that motorists traveling in either direction are subject to tra c holds for rock scaling and blasting lasting between 25-to-45 minutes Monday- ursday.
e anticipated closures are announced by CDOT daliy via text message that can be accessed by texting oydhill (one word, lowercase) to 21000.
Kionka conceded the text alerts for blasting delays usually include a broad and unpredictable timeframe of between 9 a.m.and 3 p.m.
When asked if CDOT is working to narrow anticipated closures to target timespeci c blasting delays, Kionka said, “We’re working on it.”
In the immediate future, Kionka said, signi cant changes to the mountain landscape will be taking place in the summer
months.
“You’re going to see the mountain by the twin tunnels start to come down this summer and throughout the year.” Kionka said. “Lots of drills will also be evident on the project to establish 80-foot concrete columns to be built as the new I-70 alignment becomes evident.”
For the most part Kionka said construction is on track and on time, with the caveat that carving mountains with steel and explosives to accommodate these massive concrete support structures is unpredictable in an ever changing high country environment.
“We haven’t had any ‘game-changers’ we’ve tracked along pretty well; we’re meeting all of our deadlines right now and we’re tracking on a pretty good schedule.” Kionka said.
Speeding safety issues e entire I-70 Floyd Hill Project is considered and enforced as a construction zone with a speed limit of 45 miles-perhour, according to CDOT.
Tra c nes are typically doubled in these construction zones and Clear Creek Deputies as well as Idaho Springs Police are watching and writing often costly citations.
“We want to protect the construction workers and the motorists through narrow lanes, curves and frequent tra c shifts, so that’s why enforcement is so important through there,” Clear Creek County Sheri Public Information O cer Jennifer Fulton said. “In the rst three months of this year we responded to nine crashes in the construction zone.”
Here are the ne amounts for construction zone speed violations as enforced by the state:
• 5 -9 over: $204.50
• 10- 19 over:
+ 4 points o license • 20- 24 over: $704.50 + 6 points • 5 -39 over: results in a court summons and usually a careless driving charge as well
Between Jan. 1 of this year and Feb. 11, county records show, Clear Creek deputies issued 175 citations for speeding through the construction zone (mile markers 242247).
Idaho Springs PD issued 170 in the same time frame according to Fulton. In one example, according to Fulton, a single deputy issued 10-citations over a two day period in March in the construction zone for a total of $4,008.50 of assessed nes.
CDOT is planning a Work Zone Awareness campaign beginning April 21 to highlight safety concerns of highway workers across the state.
Lesson in creating Ukrainian Easter eggs comes to Idaho Springs workshop
“Pysanky” is a Ukrainian word meaning “to write” and fragile egg shells are the canvas in this unique art form
BY CHRIS KOEBERL CKOEBERL@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
e intricate art and craft of decorating a Ukrainian Easter egg is handed down through generations, historians maintain the craft has existed for more than 2000 years.
When Meghan Vickers came to Colorado more than 20 years ago, she brought those skills with her as she had been introduced to the art by her grandparents who were Russian and Ukrainian.
Many of Vickers’ fragile eggshell collections are on constant display at the Sit N Chill Ice Cream shop she owns with her husband Jason at 1501 Miner St. in Idaho Springs.
However, once a year, Vickers teams up with the Clear Creek County Library District to demonstrate the centuries-old art form of Pysanky, meaning “to write” in Ukrainian, to whomever wants to learn.
At least a dozen students attended her workshop April 1 at the Idaho Springs Library, some as novices, others looking to take their egg art to the next level.
“I enjoy creating something and I enjoy teaching other people how to create them,” Vickers said during the class. “ e coolest thing for me is I started teaching my own children last year and so it’s been really neat to pass it down to my own kids in addition to people in the community.”
A diverse group of women attended the workshop carefully heating tiny needles to be lled with beeswax to provide the outline for one-of-a-kind patterns on a
hollow egg which can be as small as a quail egg to the sizable shell of an ostrich egg.
e youngest student in the class was 6-month-old Junior ew from Idaho Springs who watched his mother, Jessica, from the comfort of his carrier.
“In high school, I was very shy and art was my outlet to nd myself and led to what I do today so I’m excited to get back to my original of working with my hands and creating,” Jessica ew said.
ew said she pursed higher education, with the help of scholarships, in the graphic design industry when eventually,
“I got a call on my birthday, the rst birthday after my dad passed, and I was o ered a job in the aerospace industry as a technical illustrator, so I draw satellites and graphics for proposals,” ew said.
However, her Pysanky egg design is probably the only work of art ew creates that can be seen by her family and friends as her professional design work is classi ed.
“A lot of the work is classi ed and has a top-secret clearance, so unfortunately a lot of the work I do the public can’t see,” ew said.
An immigrant from Ukraine, Maryna Ozerova, has lived in Colorado for more than a decade calling Idaho Springs home now.
She said the class was a throwback to her life and time in Ukraine but is happy to be taking the class at the Idaho Springs Library.
Vote
“It’s very exciting, this is a country of immigrants and everyone has a story,” Ozerova said.
According to historians the Ukrainian Easter Eggs symbolize the release of the earth from the shackles of winter and the coming of spring with a promise of new
hope, new life and prosperity.
Vickers said her goal is simply to provide the next generation the knowledge and art of the craft which will be their responsibility to continue.
“I’m just trying to teach the appreciation of the art,” Vickers said.
Lesson in creating Ukrainian Easter eggs comes to Idaho Springs Library April 1.
PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL
A twist in the long-running Vizguerra deportation case leads to another delay
BY BEN MARKUS COLORADO PUBLIC RADIO
In a tactical shift, attorneys for Jeanette Vizguerra are now arguing that she is being unfairly targeted for deportation by government agents frustrated by their inability to remove her from the U.S. during a 15-year process.
e new approach by attorney Laura Lichter, led ursday, caused the cancellation of a recent court hearing designed to determine whether Vizguerra could continue to be held by the government for deportation.
Instead, U.S. District Judge Nina Y. Wang convened a status conference and gave the government three weeks to respond to Lichter’s forthcoming new argument that pursuit of Vizguerra is rooted in their frustration with her criticism over the years of Immigrations and Customs Enforcement.
“As the court is aware, this case has been moving very quickly and there have been material changes, some additional facts, that we determined after we led our initial petition,” said Lichter. “One of those centers around our concern that Ms. Vizguerra’s detention was retaliatory for her exercise of her rst amendment speech rights.”
“She was ambushed in the Target parking lot by o cers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement who said ‘wenally got you.’”
Such an argument may not ultimately protect Vizguerra from deportation, but it adds a new wrinkle to a case that has played out for more than a decade through immigration courts and the news media.
And, at least for now, it means she will remain held in the ICE detention facility in Aurora.
e government asked for 21 days to respond to the yet-to-be- led amended petition, noting that the court has already put a stay on any deportation until federal court proceedings run their course, which the judge said could push a hearing on the matter to late next month, depending on when the amended petition is led with the court.
Vizguerra has multiple federal court cases in process — including the one
heard Friday. While her attorneys challenge her detention in federal district court, they’re also disputing the validity of the deportation order against her in the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals. ey argue the government never properly served her with a deportation order and failed to fully inform her of her right to appeal.
Federal agents detained Vizguerra on March 17 — less than two months after President Donald Trump returned to ofce — while she was working at a Target store in the Denver area. Her attorneys led a habeas petition the next day, contesting her detention.
Vizguerra rose to national prominence in 2017, when she evaded immigration authorities by living in a church basement early in the rst Trump administration. Her public de ance drew widespread attention, making her a symbol for both immigration activists and hardliners.
She came to Colorado from Mexico in 1997 and worked her way up from cleaning o ces to organizing for the janitor’s union. In 2009, a routine tra c stop launched what has become a 15-year battle to stay in the U.S. Federal authorities initiated deportation proceedings, and while she appealed, Vizguerra traveled brie y to Mexico in 2012 to visit her dying mother. She later pleaded guilty to illegal reentry.
After serving one year of unsupervised probation, Vizguerra successfully applied for stays of deportation ve times. But when Trump rst took o ce in 2017, ICE denied her sixth request. She sought sanctuary in the First Unitarian Church in Denver’s Capitol Hill neighborhood.
Time Magazine named her one of the 100 most in uential people of the year in 2017. Her cause was championed by Colorado lawmakers, including thenCongressman Jared Polis, who said she was being unfairly targeted. Soon after, she received a two-year stay of deportation and left the church.
It was a short-lived reprieve. In 2019, when her stay was not renewed, she again sought sanctuary in the church. By 2020, amid the pandemic, protests over the killing of George Floyd, and a turbulent election year, Vizguerra quietly left the church once more.
Like many immigrants with uncertain
status, Vizguerra kept a low pro le — working at Target and raising her U.S.citizen children — until Trump was reelected last year. His administration again moved to deport her shortly after his inauguration.
Vizguerra’s national pro le has helped her secure extraordinary legal resources. Many of the hundreds of cases that go through immigration court in Colorado every year are rarely a orded more than limited pro bono help. Often people going through immigration court don’t have an attorney, and are confused by the proceedings. Many are deported to their home countries with no fanfare, no press.
Vizguerra’s attorneys told the judge that they were “frustrated” by the immigration authorities trying to proceed with so-called “reasonable fear” interviews
with Vizguerra. It’s a normal part of the process, triggered by previous deportation orders.
“I sent an email yesterday to the Houston asylum o ce reiterating my concerns about representation and they’re not communicating directly with my client unless I was present, and asking them to hold the review in abeyance pending the result of this litigation,” said Lichter. e judge didn’t rule on that issue, but noted that Vizguerra has the right to have council present at the interview. e judge also ordered the case to be unrestricted, so that the lings are publicly posted online going forward. is story is from CPR News, a nonpro t public broadcaster serving Colorado. Used by permission. For more, and to support Colorado Public Radio, visit cpr.org.
Jeanette Vizguerra announces bad news in her case to obtain a U-Visa outside the First Unitarian Society of Denver, June 20, 2019.
PHOTO BY KEVIN J. BEATY/DENVERITE
Easter ... Saturday? Answers may be in the eggs
Spring is fully in the air and Easter is right around the corner. We all know when to celebrate that holiday because we start seeing all kinds of colorful egg-shaped things and bunnies and wind-up hopping chicks and our regular candy packaged in pastel colors, all in an entire aisle devoted to everything Easter in the grocery store.
In this day and age, we all get plenty of warning that the most mobile of moving date holidays is going to be happening on Sunday, …Uhm, Sunday, April…Ok, some Sunday in April, unless it’s the last Sunday in March. No, that can’t be it this year, we passed that day and none of my family called. Ok, let me get out my calendar. Now, let’s see.
Nah, I don’t need a calendar, there’s a formula! Google. Ok, it says here that it’s a movable feast. Yes, we already know that. Easter Sunday falls on the, wait a second…Apparently it depends on whether or not you are using the Gregorian calendar or the Julian calendar. I guess you do need a calendar. So, which one is mine? It has pictures of motorcycles and a di erent woman each month, and I don’t think any of them are named Greg or Julian. ere’s a Julie, but that’s probably not it. Let’s just go with that calendar since I al-
ready have it.
In our fast-paced, instant-gratication world, I sometimes worry that encouragement is an art form we are forgetting how to use. Some might be thinking I am wrong that they can point out inspiring things all around us. But encouraging others is di erent than inspiring them. Inspiration res our hearts and points the direction we should go. Encouragement says let me walk alongside you as you navigate this di cult path.
Encouraging others is not complicated but does take some intentionality. Two of the most helpful things you can do when trying to encourage others is to personalize the encouragement and to create opportunities for people to receive that encouragement on their time frame.
Sometimes, a window into how someone else has done something is the very best way to help you imagine how to do it yourself. As I have mentioned in the past, “Words of Encouragement” started when I was looking for a way to support a friend and his wife as they navigated his stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis. My e orts were far from perfect, but they were genuine, heartfelt e orts. My encouragement came in the form of emails so that they could read on their own time.
Today, I am sharing two of the emails that I sent Shane and Summer over the course of his four-year battle, in hopes that you will nd inspiration for encouraging others. e rst email was sent in the later weeks of Shane’s rst chemotherapy rounds. You could see, at that time, that the medicine was wearing him out, and he needed encouragement to keep going. e second came as
Next, we have to nd the rst Sunday after the Paschal Full moon. Alright there’s a formula for that too. Apparently, that’s the full moon that occurs on or after the March or Spring equinox. Wait, there’s an asterisk there.
(*Note that the spring equinox date used by the Christian Church is always March 21 to simplify matters. In fact, the astronomical date of the equinox can shift by a day or so. In 2025, the astronomical date of the equinox is March 20). Alright, this is a little more complicated than I thought it was going to be. Let me just look for where it says Easter Sunday on my own calendar. Ah, there it is. Sunday, April 20. It’s right there on Julie’s page!
Now that you know when it is, you can start planning things like a traditional Easter dinner. Stop! Don’t Google that unless you are some kind of crazy gourmet chef! e rst page that comes up is “50 Easter Dinner Recipes You’ll Make Every Year.”
ey think we are going to make 50 things for one Sunday dinner every year? I’m afraid to look at what they came up with for anksgiving. ere’s an endless collection of cooking pages for Easter, but most of them have a picture of a ham and au gratin potatoes at the top, so I guess that’s a good place to start.
Ok, you have the dinner ideas and the right Sunday, let’s look at a few events in Golden that you can enjoy. e rst one is the most iconic event, and that’s the annual Kiwanis Club and Golden Chamber of Commerce Easter Egg Hunt. It’s a big one and it happens every year in Parfet Park on the corner of 10th Street and Washington Avenue. is year it’s going to be at 10 a.m. sharp on Easter…Saturday? Seriously? After I just went through all that guring out when Easter Sunday is?
Yup, that’s right. It happens on Saturday, April 19. ey do it on Saturday every year so it doesn’t clash with other things like church services that happen on Sunday. And when they say 10 a.m. sharp, they mean sharp and you don’t want to be even 30 seconds late for this one.
On the morning of the hunt, thousands of plastic eggs are spread throughout Parfet Park with di erent areas for di er-
A personal journey to help a friend in need
ent age groups. But once the bell sounds, the kids clean the park in no time. So, plan on getting there plenty early to nd parking and walk to the park. All kids up to the age of 10 are welcome to participate, and they get lots and lots of kids.
Now, if you prefer to go to an Easter egg hunt on Easter Sunday, there will be one for the entire community on the lawn of the First United Methodist Church of Golden, located at 1500 Ford St. at 11 a.m. It’s for kids from 2 years old through fth grade. And they have their own parking lot!
And one more. e Golden Mill at 1012 Ford St. in Golden is having its annual Easter egg hunt from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will have eggs there for adults! Now, either they are really good at hiding things or they will be replenishing the eggs throughout the three hours, but either way, it sounds like fun. So, Happy Easter!
John Akal is a well-known jazz artist/ drummer and leader of the 20-piece Ultraphonic Jazz Orchestra. He also is president of John Akal Imaging, professional commercial photography and multimedia production. He can be reached at jaimaging@aol.com.
Shane was battling for his life three years into his ght and needed to be reminded of the beauty surrounding his life. Less than a year later, he would lose that battle.
August 8, 2017 Shane and Summer,
Every Monday in college during the football season, we had to run the CC (Colorado College) Stadium Hill 10 times at the end of practice. e hill was probably 35 yards long and very vertical. I never liked that hill, but I especially hated it when we were preparing to run the ninth hill. I hated it because we were not done, but we were close. ere was still work to do and no way around it. Each week it took a special kind of mental focus to get started on that ninth hill.
Marathon runners talk about the 19th mile in the same way (OK, my hill was less taxing than seven more miles of running.) ey tell about the mental energy that must go into breaking through that 19th-mile barrier.
As someone working to overcome a struggle, I know you can re ect on barriers you have needed to ght through as well.
You, me, marathon runners; we have all done what we needed to do because we knew the reward for our diligence. is part of your struggle is no di erent than those hills, or that mile. e rewards are bigger, but the mental energy needed to make it
up that hill is tremendous. We would all have you take a di erent road if it were possible. But it is not. So, you are going to do what must be done. is is the time when you must believe in the process, trust in God’s plan, and use all of the determination you can muster. is struggle is messy, but you are built to push through it. You have the mental toughness inside you. e rewards are coming, every indicator points to that result. Stay strong.
You have got this,
Jim April 15, 2020 Shane and Summer, ere are moments in our lives when we know we are witnessing something spectacular. It might be a sunset or some other natural wonder. It could be a collective achievement or an individual’s special moment. ey are sights that stick with you forever. I still remember sitting in the stands at Mile High watching John Elway work his magic to beat the Houston Oilers in the last few seconds of a playo game, as my brother-in-law sat next to me repeatedly yelling, “un #!.%$ believable!” I also remember the space launch I watched, which carried an experiment created by Eaglecrest students on board, and the sunsets Beth and I saw over open space in New Mexico.
Meet Miners Alley’s ‘National Bohemians’
TCOMING ATTRACTIONS
here’s no timetable when it comes to the creative process. Sometimes, an idea can take years to get from your mind to out in the world. at’s the case for local actor and playwright Luke Sorge, whose “National Bohemians” is making its world premiere at Miners Alley Playhouse “ is the rst play I wrote when I was 20 years old, but it’s undergone many changes since that initial script,” he said. “It went through a lot work with great people and theaters like the Benchmark eatre before making its way to Miners Alley.”
Directed by Warren Sherrill, “National Bohemians” runs at Miners Alley, 1100 Miners Alley in Golden, through Sunday, April 20. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. ursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Loosely inspired by Sorge’s experiences with his father and brothers, the show follows estranged brothers om (Len Matheo) and Oscar (Steven J. Burge) as they return home to deal with a family crisis. eir older brother, John (Tim Fishbaugh), has taken their mother from her care facility, claiming he’s ending her su ering. e family, which includes John’s daughter Liah (Jenna Moll Reyes), has to come to terms with di cult truths as they face a literal and gurative hurricane.
Working on a world premiere can be both exciting and challenging, but Sherrill said Sorge has been great to work with as they shaped the production.
e thing about those “unforgettables” is that you know it right away, as soon as you rst glimpse it. ere is never a doubt of the beauty of it, of its perfection, or the fact that it will in uence you for the rest of your life. I hope that in the midst of this bat-
“A lot of times, having an author or playwright around isn’t the best experience, but Luke has been a great collaborator,” he said. “We’ve always believed in the show and believe we have all the right elements to make it truly enjoyable for audiences. We’re really lucky we get to do the world premiere.”
AVENUE FLASHES
John Akal WORDS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Jim Roome
Clarke Reader
ROOME
tle, you will take a moment to look at the beauty and the perfection of the life you have built. And that the longer you gaze, the more you are amazed and the more you gain strength and determination. e road you are travelling is di cult, do not forget to take in the sights. You are amazing and you have got this. Keep your eye on the beauty of what surrounds you, Jim
I hope you will be inspired to keep the art of encouragement alive and will take a moment to share with me your stories of encouraging others.
Jim Roome lives in Arvada with his wife Beth. He spent 34 years in public education. Lessons learned from the one two punch of being diagnosed with MS shortly before his best friend was diagnosed with terminal cancer led him into a new pursuit as a freelance writer and speaker. He uses his life experiences and love of stories to inspire, educate and encourage local, national and international audiences. Contact him at jim.roome@gmail.com.
for families and people of all ages and are available at https://www.jccdenver.org/ portfolio-items/queer_seder/.
Maria Bamford to Perform at PACE Center
While the show certainly tackles weighty issues, that doesn’t mean it is without humor. Sorge described it as a “dark play about death, but still a comedy,” and said Sherrill and the cast have found the humor he embedded in the script and brought it to the stage. at blend of darkness and light mirrors the way life so often can be.
“I hope there are enough points of view on stage that everyone in the audience can relate,” Sorge said. “I believe folks will see themselves re ected in the characters.”
e humanity present in “National Bohemians” is a major draw for Sherrill, who added that he hopes audiences come away appreciating the time they have with those they love.
“ e message to me is how important family is and how life is eeting,” he said. “We all have petty things that we challenge ourselves with that we shouldn’t, but life just gets in the way sometimes.”
Information and tickets are available at https://minersalley.com/shows/national-bohemians/.
JCC Denver Hosts Queer Seder
e Jewish holiday of Passover is just about to start – this year it goes from April 12 through 20 — and to mark the occasion, the Staenberg-Loup Jewish Community Center(JCC Denver) in Denver is hosting its annual Queer Seder from 6:30 to 9 p.m. on ursday, April 17.
According to provided information, the Passover Seder is a “time to celebrate, contemplate and rejoice around freedom,” and the Queer Seder will honor the hard-won freedoms the LGBTQIA+ community has earned and the work there is still to do. It will be led by local rabbis and leaders in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Tickets are available on a sliding scale
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Maria Bamford is one of the most unique and hysterical stand-up performers in the comedy world. Not only is her sense of humor and timing impeccable, but she mines her own struggles with mental illness and other challenges she’s faced in her life for her shows. ere’s a reason her specials and lm and television appearances are so highly revered. Bamford will be coming to the Parker Arts, Culture & Events (PACE) Center, 20000 Pikes Peak Ave., at 7:30 p.m. on ursday, April 24. is is a big get and I’m sure tickets are going fast, so secure yours https://parkerarts.org/event/maria-bamford/.
Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Paul Simon at the Paramount Theatre
We’re getting close to prime concert season in Colorado, which means fans are about to be spoiled for choice when it comes to live music. ere are some great options this week, but it would take something seriously top-tier to beat Paul Simon at the Paramount eatre, 1621 Glenarm Place in Denver. For a while there, it didn’t seem like we’d get Simon touring anymore, so this is an opportunity that should absolutely not be missed. Simon is touring in support of 2023’s lovely and introspective album, “Seven Psalms,” and he’ll be performing for three nights: 8 p.m. on Monday, April 14, Wednesday, April 16 and ursday, April 17. e man is responsible for at least one perfect album and numerous classic songs, and the Paramount is the perfect venue for his music. In other words, don’t miss this. Information and tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com
Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.
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Safety concerns in a Je co kindergarten classroom spark legal and ethical questions
BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SGLASSMAN@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Parents of several kindergarten students at a Je erson County elementary school have come forward in recent months with concerns about repeated classroom evacuations, student injuries and growing anxiety among their children, all tied to the behavior of a single classmate.
“Some days, my son comes home and tells me he sat outside coloring for over an hour because the classroom had to be evacuated again,” one parent said. “He tells me he doesn’t feel safe. And I can’t tell him he’s wrong.”
According to these families, the situation has disrupted learning and raised serious questions about safety, support and accountability.
To protect the privacy of those involved, this story does not name the school or individuals. What follows is a deeper examination of what unfolded, what the law requires and how parents in similar situations can advocate for their children.
e student at the center of these concerns has a disability and is protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. is federal law ensures students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education in settings that are as close to the general education environment as possible.
But when one student’s behavior results in repeated harm to classmates and possibly to the teacher, the legal and ethical challenges grow more complicated.
While the parents involved in this situation consistently emphasized their support for inclusive education, their concern, they said, is not the child’s diagnosis but the district’s response — or lack of one — to ongoing disruptions in the classroom.
What parents say is happening in the classroom
According to multiple families and veried by public records, the student repeatedly injured classmates and a teacher, prompting numerous classroom evacuations and ongoing safety concerns.
One parent said his daughter was hit in the head with a wooden block on the rst day of school. Weeks later, the same child was reportedly struck with a pencil. As more incidents surfaced, the parent said, concern turned to alarm.
Other families described similar inci-
dents: one child was punched in the face, and another had her hair pulled aggressively. A student was reportedly pulled o the monkey bars, kicked in the head and later chased across the playground. Another student was allegedly kicked in the face three times on the school bus.
e classroom teacher was also reportedly injured, according to a records request showing the teacher documented multiple injuries during the year.
Parents allege their children evacuated the classroom at least 14 times from August to March. During those evacuations, students went to other parts of the school, often the library, sometimes for over an hour, while the child calmed down.
Several children began associating school with fear.
One reportedly began refusing to attend, telling his parents, “I don’t feel safe at school.”
Parents said early attempts to raise concerns were met with empathy but little action. As incidents continued, families contacted district o cials and organized among themselves, compiling a timeline of injuries and evacuations to track the pattern.
Frustrations deepened when district administrators told the families they couldn’t share speci cs due to privacy laws. e Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, or FERPA, restricts schools from disclosing information about individual students, including disciplinary actions.
While parents acknowledged the student’s right to support under IDEA, the disabilities act, many questioned what steps were being taken to protect the rest of the class.
“ e district keeps citing FERPA and IDEA as reasons they can’t tell us more,”
Parents say repeated disruptions have raised safety concerns at one Je co school.
one parent said. “But no one will answer a simple question: What are you doing to keep the rest of the class safe?”
The district’s response
According to a timeline created by parents, families began raising concerns in the fall. When initial conversations with the principal didn’t result in change, they escalated their concerns to Community Superintendent Lynn Torr, Interim Chief of Schools Todd Engels and Deputy Superintendent Kym LeBlanc Esparza. e district added additional classroom support, including a one-on-one paraprofessional, frequent administrator presence and eventually a behavioral specialist. But parents said those e orts were ine ective.
Responses, parents said, were sympathetic but noncommittal. One was told the matter was “being handled at the highest levels,” but e orts to schedule meetings proved di cult.
In the parent timeline, they documented a response from Torr stating he was waiting for a reply from Superintendent Kym LeBlanc-Esparza to schedule a meeting with them and that “getting a meeting on her calendar takes an act of God.”
Je co Public Schools Associate Chief of Communications and Strategic Partnerships Kimberly Mahugh said leadership took the issue seriously as soon as they became aware and did “everything in its power to protect the safety and well-being of everyone involved.”
When asked why Torr told parents that “getting a meeting with LeBlanc-Esparza would require an act of God,” Mahugh acknowledged the statement was unprofessional and said she would make sure someone would follow up with him directly.
What the law says
Federal law requires schools to educate students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment, meaning alongside their non-disabled peers as much as possible. When a student exhibits aggressive or disruptive behavior, it’s the school district’s responsibility to act, according to Selene A. Almazan, legal director at the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates.
at can include reevaluating the student’sIndividualized Education Program, conducting aFunctional Behavior Assessmentand updating theBehavior Intervention Plan.
“ e interventions should be proactive, not reactive,” Almazan said. “It’s not about corralling a student. e student has to learn what to do with these big emotions or these impulses.”
Districts must also collect data, identify behavior patterns and assess whether additional support or a change in placement is needed.
Almazan said schools sometimes claim their hands are tied, but that’s not entirely accurate.
“ ey’re not tied. at’s a myth,” she said. “ ey could go to a hearing o cer and get the equivalent of anHonig injunctionand get the student removed.” is process requires proof that a student poses a danger to others, typically under theserious bodily injurystandard. ough the bar is high, Almazan said, it remains a legal option if other interventions fail.
Yet, families of other students in the classroom have fewer direct legal protections
“ ere are no direct rights under IDEA for the other students,” Almazan said. “But the school district is still responsible for what’s happening in that classroom. is is a school issue. is is not about this student. e responsibility is on the adults to create a safe and supportive learning environment.”
What parents can do
While families of students in general education settings may have limited legal recourse, there are steps they can take to advocate for their children and press for change.
1. Focus on your child’s experience Almazan said parents are most likely
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to get answers by requesting records related to their child, such as evacuation logs, missed instructional time or support services o ered.
2. Ask for support services
If a child is anxious, afraid or struggling emotionally due to classroom disruptions, parents can request a meeting with school sta . Almazan said schools must respond when a student’s learning or well-being is impacted.
3. Follow the chain of command
Begin with the child’s teacher, then the school principal. If the issue isn’t resolved, escalate through the district’s reporting structure. In Je erson County, that includes the community superintendent, chief of schools and, if needed, the superintendent’s o ce.
4. Document everything
In this case, parents compiled a detailed timeline of incidents, communications and actions taken — or not taken — by school and district leaders. Almazan said this documentation can support requests for services or complaints.
5. Learn the system — or get help navigating it
Even if a child isn’t on an IEP, families can work with special education advocates or attorneys to understand district obligations and legal options.
6. Keep the focus on accountability, not blame
In emotionally charged situations, it can be tempting to assign blame. But, advocates say focusing on systemic accountability is more e ective. Blame isolates individual students; accountability pushes districts to act.
Case of measles reported in Colorado
Pueblo adult who traveled internationally has disease
BY JOHN DALEY CPR NEWS
Health o cials con rmed a case of measles March 31 in a Colorado resident from Pueblo who had recently traveled to an area of Mexico where there’s an ongoing measles outbreak.
e case was in an unvaccinated adult, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment said in a joint press release.
ey urged Coloradans to check their vaccination status, monitor for symptoms, and be aware if they were at a pair of possible exposure locations, both in Pueblo, starting March 17.
“Measles is one of the most contagious diseases we know, but it is also highly preventable,” said Dr. Rachel Herlihy, deputy chief medical o cer and state epidemiologist. “ e MMR vaccine provides excellent protection and helps prevent outbreaks like the one we are seeing globally. We urge Coloradans to review their vaccination status and take steps to protect themselves, their families, and their communities.”
Outbreaks have been popping up around the country, including in Texas and New Mexico, with cases for 2025 already at higher levels than all of last year.
As of March 27, a total of 483 con rmed measles cases were reported in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s been record-
ed in 19 states: Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Washington. Colorado is the 20th state with a recent measles case.
Health o cials, in their release, posted locations where people could have been exposed to measles ey include a deli and cafe, Southwest Deli and Cafe in Pueblo, and a clinic, Southern Colorado Clinic Pueblo West, where people could have been exposed to it. ey said those who were there recently should “monitor for symptoms for 21 days after exposure and consider avoiding public gatherings or high-risk settings.” Monitoring for symptoms is key for people who are not vaccinated with the MMR vaccine. ey said they would update the locations, as needed.
People who were at the deli between March 17 and March 21 and the clinic on March 22, should monitor for symptoms and consider avoiding public gatherings and high-risk settings, public o cials said.
If you think you’ve been exposed and how to protect yourself
Measles symptoms typically develop seven to 21 days after exposure. ey include fever, cough, runny nose, red eyes, and what measles is best known for, a rash. It usually starts on the face several days after exposure and spreads.
Health o cials urge people who were in one of the locations during the exposure period and developed symptoms to immediately contact their health care
provider by phone.
If you don’t have a provider, they said to call an urgent care center or emergency department and explain that you may have been exposed to measles. Calling ahead is a safety precaution that can prevent additional exposures to other people, according to the release. ose who have received the MMR vaccine or were born before 1957 are generally considered immune, according to the release. Health o cials recommended all Coloradans make sure they and their children are up to date on MMR vaccinations. e MMR vaccine has been available for decades.
Some adults, not just kids, may need to get an MMR vaccine as well, according to infectious disease experts.
People who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should closely monitor for symptoms during the 21 days after a possible exposure. If you’re exposed to the virus, getting the MMR vaccine within 72 hours after exposure can prevent infection.
Unvaccinated individuals, or those who aren’t sure of their immunity should talk to their health care provider about receiving the MMR vaccine. More information on vaccination and exposure to the virus is available from the CDC.
A child’s immunization records can be checked through the Colorado Immunization Information System (CIIS) Public Portal, though records may be incomplete if all vaccines have not been reported by providers.
is story is from CPR News, a nonpro t public broadcaster serving Colorado. Used by permission. For more, and to support Colorado Public Radio, visit cpr.org.
2025
BEST OF THE BEST VOTE NOW THROUGH APRIL 15TH
Colorado GOP picks Horn as party chair
Former Routt County treasurer vows to unite party and boost fundraising
BY JESSE PAUL THE COLORADO SUN
Brita Horn, a former Routt County treasurer, was elected March 29 to serve as the next chair of the Colorado GOP, vowing to unite the highly fractured party, boost fundraising and show up for candidates as Republicans look to right their wayward ship in 2026.
“We have so much division, we have so much distraction,” she told members of the Colorado GOP’s central committee. “Guess what the Democrats are doing right now? ey’re winning elections.”
Horn, who ran unsuccessfully in 2018 for state treasurer, won 53% of the party chair vote in the second round of voting over former Weld County Commissioner Lori Saine. ere were about 440 members of the Colorado GOP casting ballots at the party’s reorganization meeting in Colorado Springs.
Horn beat out six other candidates for the job, including Saine, former state Rep. Richard Holtorf, and Darcy Schoening, the state party’s director of special initiatives.
Horn lives near Steamboat Springs and is the chief of the Rock Creek Volunteer Fire Department. She’s long been active in Republican politics in Colorado.
Targetting statewide elections
Next year will be a big one for Colorado Republicans. e statewide o ces of governor, attorney general, secretary of state, treasurer and a U.S. Senate seat will be up for grabs. e last time a Republican won a statewide election in Colorado was 2016.
Republicans also will be defending U.S. House seats in the 8th and 3rd districts and seeking to ip more state legislative seats.
Horn replaces Chairman Dave Williams, whose two-year term leading Republicans in Colorado was marked by controversy after contreversy. Williams decided not to seek reelection.
During his tenure as chairman, Williams upset Republicans by taking sides in GOP primaries, albeit unsuccessfully; running for Congress and using party funds to boost his campaign; sending out an email that was o ensive to LGBTQ people; and trying to change the party’s bylaws to further his agenda. He also had a Colorado Sun reporter removed from a party gathering last year, stoking a national controversy.
Reporters weren’t allowed at the party’s reorganizational meeting March 29. Instead, they were forced to watch the event on a livestream.
Wins despite state party
Republicans ipped three state House and a U.S. House seat while Williams was in charge. But those victories happened mostly in spite ofthe state party, not because of it.
In the 8th Congressional District, where Republican Gabe Evans won, the Colorado GOP endorsed his primary opponent, Janak Joshi. e party didn’t report any direct spending to help Evans beat incumbent Democrat Yadira Caraveo in the general election.
Evans was so fed up with party leadership that he actually called on Williams to resign in July as part of a push to remove the organization’s entire leadership slate.
As for the three state House seats Republicans ipped last year, the party didn’t report spending any money on those races either. It was the state House Republican caucus campaign arm and independent expenditure committees that were responsible for the bulk of the activity in those contests.
Williams’ detractors, including Horn,sought to remove him as chairman in the leadup to the 2024 election, but their e ortfell short after a court battle. Williams sued Horn and the others.
e Colorado GOP central committee on Saturday also elected Las Animas County GOP Chairman Lee Phelan Sr. as vice chair, denying current Vice Chair Scheppelman a second term, and former congressional candidate Russ Andrews as secretary.
is story was printed through a news sharing agreement with e Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned nonpro t based in Denver that covers the state.
Former Routt County Treasurer Brita Horn will serve as the next chair of the Colorado GOP, vowing to unify the party and improve fundraising and candidate support. COURTESY PHOTO
Wil-
LIFESTYLES
Most Frequently Asked Questions About Fireplace Inserts
A wood burning insert like the Fireplace Xtrordinair Medium Flush NexGen Fyre Wood-burning insert increases the e ciency of a traditional open masonry replace.
Fireplace inserts are “on re.” ey are popular with homeowners who are looking to add warmth and value to the home without making major renovations, which is why we’re dedicating this article to the most commonly asked questions about replace inserts.
What Is a Fireplace Insert?
A replace insert is a prefabricated steel or cast iron re box designed to be installed within an existing masonry replace. If you’re looking for heat, choose wood- or gas-burning (either propane or natural gas), or pellet. Choose an electric insert if you’re looking for ambiance and a very modest amount of heat. In this article we’ll focus on gas and wood stove inserts, which
FEATURE OF THE MONTH
are the most popular.
Fireplace inserts are generally used for zone heating rather than whole-house heating. You may be able to heat most of your home with an insert, depending on the size and layout of your home, ceiling height, insulation and other factors. Our experts will help you determine whether an insert could heat your entire home or whether it makes sense to boost heat in the areas you live in the most.
is gorgeous stone replace got a major upgrade in heating e ciency and looks with the addition of the Mendota FV33i gas insert.
We installed this Hearthstone Clydesdale wood-burning insert in the family’s great room, where it replaces an old dra y replace.
Is a Fireplace Insert an E cient Heat Source?
A traditional open replace is not an e cient heater: but inserts are. In an open replace, most of the heat goes up the chimney, leaving only 10-15% to actually heat the living space. By contrast, today’s gas inserts and EPA-Certi ed wood stove inserts are very high-e ciency. ey absorb and then radiate heat even a er the re has gone out. ey also o en feature blowers that direct heat to the living space.
Can You Convert a Wood-Burning Fireplace to Gas? Yes! If you have a wood-burning masonry replace, you
FIREPLACES
From Page 13
can install a direct vent gas insert. You may need to run a gas line to the replace but once installed, you have a safe and reliable source of heat. You can also opt for adding gas log sets as an aesthetic addition to a former wood-burning replace, but these will not increase its e ciency.
How Do I Know If a Fireplace Insert Will Work For Me?
Most existing masonry (brick or stone) wood burning replaces can accommodate an insert! If you’re not sure if your replace is suitable for an insert, our NFI-Certi ed experts will assess your replace to make sure an insert will work.
Each type of insert (gas, wood, or pellet) has its own installation requirements and challenges. Our technicians will install the insert
and utilize the existing chimney by installing exible chimney liners. We adhere to building codes and plan for and resolve issues such as proper ventilation and clearances. We handle the logistics ahead of time and don’t leave anything to chance.
Which Is More Expensive to Operate, a Wood or Gas Insert?
Wood has the potential of being less expensive than gas but you have to be resourceful, plan ahead, and try to source nd cordwood for free. Hardwoods, which burn hotter and longer, are much more expensive than pine and not commonly found as “free rewood” but the trade o is that you use less wood. Pine, r, and spruce can o en be sourced locally for free.
E cient wood-burning inserts burn up to 50% less wood than old-fashioned wood stoves (which are already a giant step up from open replaces). Modern inserts use secondary combustion to incinerate combustible gases and
see FIREPLACES, Page 19
Please
is Kozy Heat Nordik 34 Gas Insert transformed this homeowner’s lower level from cold and uninviting to her favorite hangout.
Bridging the Gap in Mental Health Services
Mental health is a growing concern across Colorado, and in rural communities like ours, the need is even more urgent. Limited providers, nancial barriers, and social stigma o en prevent individuals from seeking the support they need. At All Access Wellness, we believe that everyone in our community deserves access to mental health and wellness services, regardless of their nancial situation.
is vision began with Sara Peterson, a local mental health provider and business owner. rough her work at Conifer Counseling and her involvement in various community initiatives, Sara saw rsthand the gaps in mental health services. She asked herself: What if there was a collaborative nonpro t dedicated to reducing barriers to mental health care? In November 2022, that vision became a reality when All Access Wellness o cially became a nonpro t organization. Since its inception, All Access Wellness
has built a network of mental health providers who can access funding to serve individuals who cannot a ord the mental health services they need to thrive. In 2024 alone, we funded 366 mental health sessions for 97 individuals, ensuring they received the care they needed without the burden of nancial strain. From supporting children who have experienced trauma to survivors of domestic violence to veterans needing support managing medications, All Access Wellness has been a bridge to wellness for our community this past year. But our mission extends beyond individual therapy sessions—we are working to strengthen the overall well-being of our community.
is year, we are expanding our impact through community connection groups and mental health events designed to bring people together and combat the isolation that o en intensi es mental health struggles. ese events will provide education, resources, and
a sense of belonging for individuals who may feel disconnected or unsupported.
One of our most exciting new initiatives is the Dude Talk Dinner, a program speci cally designed to support men’s mental health. Men’s mental health challenges are frequently overlooked despite the fact that nearly 80% of all suicides nationwide involve men. Research shows that men are signi cantly less likely than women to seek help for mental health concerns, leading many to struggle in silence.
Dude Talk Dinner aims to change that by reducing the stigma around men’s mental health, fostering a sense of camaraderie, developing resilience, and creating a support system for men in our community.
All Access Wellness is also launching free Community Connection Groups through our network of providers. ese groups focus on building a sense of community and support while participating in fun, engaging activities. Whether it’s mindfulness workshops,
movement-based gatherings, or creative arts sessions, these programs are designed to nurture well-being and create spaces where individuals can form meaningful relationships.
Mental health is not just an individual concern—it is a community issue. When people have access to the care and support they need, the entire community thrives. At All Access Wellness, we are committed to breaking down barriers, fostering connections, and ensuring that no one has to navigate life’s challenges alone. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient community for all.
All Access Wellness is a grassroots 501(c) (3) nonpro t organization committed to improving access to mental health and wellness services for children, families, and individuals in rural Je erson and Park Counties in Colorado. By donating to All Access Wellness today, you can give a neighbor the support they need to be well. Give or learn more at
How to Pick the Right Plants for Your Location
(StatePoint) When planning your yard or garden, you likely focus on the what and the where. A er all, a beautiful plant in a prime location enhances curb appeal and even bragging rights.
You may pay less attention though to understanding how your location, or plant hardiness zone, impacts your garden’s success. To help ensure your plants don’t just survive, but thrive, the experts at lawn care equipment manufacturer Exmark are sharing the following insights about plant hardiness:
What is Plant Hardiness?
Plant hardiness is the secret sauce of any healthy outdoor space. Plant hardiness is the ability of a plant to survive adverse growing conditions such as drought, ooding, heat and cold. Have you ever watched with frustration as a late-season temperature dip leaves your beautiful buds with a serious case of frostbite? Plant hardiness zones were developed to help landscapers, gardeners and lawn care enthusiasts avoid this heartache.
American farming contributes billions of dollars to the gross national product annually, which is one reason why the USDA has long monitored weather data. If determining when the average nal frost may occur for every region in the country is worth billions, what could that same knowledge mean for your garden? Well, choosing plants with hardiness levels appropriate to speci c planting zones gives you the best chance of cultivating healthy, beautiful plants.
What is My Growing Zone?
e United States is divided into 13 zones. Zones 1-6 being the coldest, and 7-13 the warmest. Zone 1 averages -60 degrees F while zone 13 never drops below 70 degrees F. A general guideline is to plant anything designated for your zone or lower, but never higher. Know what zone you live in and make a point
of checking the tag on the back of the plant or seed pack before planting.
Perennials Versus Annuals ere’s a reason you see palm trees in Sarasota, Florida, not Saginaw, Michigan. When it comes to perennials, it’s not about when the rst frost is, but how cold it gets, and whether that plant can survive and thrive
through winter.
Plant hardiness zones are less important however when it comes to annuals. Because these plants are only meant to last one growing season; waiting until a er the average rst frost date will save you from having to re-plant. Know that even if your plant survives the frost, it may never match the photo you saw advertised at the nursery.
Planting Zone Rule of umb
Plant hardiness zone maps are, well, all over the map. Consider the number assigned to your zip code as a starting point. You may live right at the break between one zone and the other. When in doubt, guess too low, rather than too high. In the South, the heat stress a plant not made for the conditions. Your particular geography can also a ect your hardiness zone, like if you live on a hill or in a valley.
For more insights, check out the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, and watch “Find Your Plant Hardiness Zone,” an episode of “Backyard Smart,” an original series from lawn care equipment manufacturer, Exmark. To watch the video, visit Backyard Life, which is part of a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping homeowners improve their outdoor living spaces. ere you can also download additional tips and view other Exmark Original Series videos.
Understanding what plants will thrive in your climate is essential to a healthy landscape. Fortunately, free resources abound to help you plant successfully.
A BOOK MAKES A GREAT GIFT.
A womanizing US president. Gin-drinking, poker-playing, skirt-chasing Cabinet members. And a plot from the inside to usurp control of the Navy’s oil reserves. Wild and juicy stuff this. And all of it a true chapter of America’s history.
There may not be another US scandal that is so heavy with corruption and criminality that weighs so lightly on our collective consciousness as the Teapot Dome Scandal. From 1920 to 1922, power-hungry politicians and corporate tycoons boldly schemed to steal the nation’s newest energy resourcel. In so doing these crooks put a black mark on the pioneering work of those who gave birth to Wyoming’s incredible bonanza.
With a deft researcher’s hand and the heart and attention of a creative writer, Constance Bierkan has written a rst-of-its-kind ctionalized recounting of what led up to this nearly forgotten nugget from the past, the Teapot Dome Scandal. Like No Place on Earth is a spirited coming-of-age story set in Wyoming at the start of the madcap Roaring Twenties and the birth of the oil industry. As much a love story as it is a historical deep-dive, Like No Place on Earth will be irresistible to book clubs and history buffs alike.
particulates that would otherwise go up the chimney, resulting in more heat and a lot less pollution!
As of this writing, natural gas is much cheaper than electricity in the Denver Metro area, which makes a gas insert an attractive option for homeowners looking for more heat without the work of a wood-burning appliance.
Can I Use an Insert
When the Power Goes Out?
Yes! Both gas and wood stove inserts are reliable sources of heat in a power outage. Most gas inserts operate on an electronic ignition system but with a battery backup: once lit, they stay lit. Blowers won’t work without electricity, but a quality gas or wood stove insert will radiate heat even when the power is out.
Does a Fireplace Insert Add Value To My Home?
Yes! According to Red n, homes with attractive replace inserts tend to sell faster and for 13% more than average.
e question then is which fuel is better, wood or gas? Each home is unique, and so is every homeowner. You may have easy access to wood and appreciate the idea of energy independence and the aroma and
crackle of an authentic wood re.
Or, you may prioritize the convenience, cleanliness, and instant on-o of a gas insert. We can help you make the right choice based on your home, heating needs, aesthetics, lifestyle, and budget.
Do Inserts Need Service?
Yes, both wood stove and gas inserts require annual service. e average wood-burning insert should get at least annual service depending on how o en you burn. Gas inserts need annual service to ensure e ciency and safety.
A wood stove insert needs service if you notice backdra (smoke blowing out of the insert rather than going up the chimney), if it’s hard to build or maintain a re, if there’s creosote buildup on the walls, or if there’s soot falling into the insert. e National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends annual inspections and service to ensure e ciency and prevent chimney res.
A gas insert needs service if your pilot won’t turn on or won’t stay lit, or there’s a lot of soot on your logs.
For your convenience, we forward-schedule service a year in advance or on a schedule determined by your service technician.
Can I Put a TV Above
My Fireplace Insert?
We get this question a lot. Putting a TV above the replace is
a popular way to optimize space. But, it must be done with caution because heat and electronics don’t mix. We recommend installing a mantel which will block rising heat. It’s a myth that putting your TV higher will protect it! Heat risesde ecting it is the only method that will protect electronics. e simple solution of adding a mantel will divert the heat away from the TV. We feature a variety of non-combustible mantels in our showroom if your replace doesn’t have a mantel and you want to add one.
Let’s Ignite Your Fireplace Insert Project!
Spring is the best time to get a replace insert project going because there’s plenty of time to assess the site, discuss your needs, choose the right appliance, and have it installed and ready to go before fall.
Please stop by our showroom at 7001 Hwy 73 just south of Evergreen to see our fully functioning gas and wood stove inserts in person, or call our friendly team of experts at 303679-1601. Our experts will help you determine whether your replace can accommodate an insert and the type of insert that’s best for your needs. We handle all of the planning and logistics and ensure your insert is installed to the highest standards. We look forward to making your home warmer and more attractive!
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CHURCHES
Parishioners in the pews
In general, the number of Coloradans identifying as Christian has declined, mirroring a national trend, according to Colorado Public Radio; and the Associated Press has reported how Protestant denominations’ national membership has been declining for years.
Regarding their own ocks, leaders from the six churches had mixed experiences.
Otey and Lawson said their congregations in Golden and Denver, respectively, have actually grown over the last ve years, especially if one includes online attendance. eir biggest demographic changes have been with young families and young adults, respectively.
Otey believed it was because people are seeking out a community that shares their values and beliefs, with the idea of raising their children in it, too. She summarized those parents’ experiences as: “I want to teach my kids about loving and serving our neighbors.”
Meanwhile, Forbes said the Arvada Stake’s overall membership hasn’t changed signi cantly, but there have been a few demographic shifts over the last ve years.
As western Arvada has grown, so has church membership in that area. Members from western Arvada tend to be young families, while eastern Arvada is more older people who’ve lived in the area for decades, Forbes described.
Additionally, he said the Arvada Stake has seen signi cant growth among its Spanish-speaking population.
Contrastingly, membership at the United Church of Idaho Springs and the First United Methodist Church of Fort Lupton have declined slightly.
Vivian Simpson, chair of the church council, said the United Church of Idaho Springs was averaging about 30 people at Sunday services before the pandemic. Now, it’s about 20 people in-person with another ve online.
Fort Lupton church leaders said their congregation averaged 80 to 100 people on Sundays before the pandemic. Now, it’s down to about 60 in the pews, with some joining online.
For the First Baptist Church of Denver, while its attendance and overall membership haven’t changed much, its space utilization has.
Kurt Kaufman, a member of the pastoral team, said the church used to have a high demand for facility rentals and parking-space leases before the pandemic. Now, demand for both has gone down signi cantly, impacting the church’s budget.
“We haven’t had a parking waitlist since 2019,” Kaufman said. “We’ve had to rethink what we do to make money and how to survive as a congregation.”
Pastors in the pulpit
Both the First Baptist Church of Denver and the United Church of Idaho Springs said their previous pastors left within the last ve years, and they’ve struggled to nd replacements.
Kaufman said he and fellow members of the First Baptist Church’s pastoral team are rotating responsibilities, including preaching on Sundays.
Similarly, Simpson said the Idaho Springs church has been looking for a part-time pastor since its former pastor retired in 2021.
Because it’s a combined Methodist and Presbyterian congregation, Simpson said the church has looked through Methodist, Presbyterian and unafliated channels. It’s had some interest, but nothing that worked out long-term, she described.
“Nationwide, there’s a shortage of ordained ministers for Methodist and Presbyterian (churches),” she said.
Simpson added that the Idaho Springs church can only a ord a part-time pastor, which makes the search more di cult.
In a similar vein, the First United Methodist Church of Fort Lupton has had a dedicated pastor in the Rev. Anna Viehland since 2022, but she splits her time between Fort Lupton and another Methodist church in Erie.
On March 29, St. John’s Cathedral ordained four
people as deacons. ey’re now scheduled to be ordained as priests in October.
Lawson said four ordained ministers in a year is about average for the Episcopal Church’s Diocese of Colorado.
However, with the in ux of young adults at the cathedral, Lawson said he’s seen increasing interest in ordination among his congregation. In 2025, St. John’s Cathedral will have ve members attend seminary, including one of the newly ordained, he said.
Charity in the community
In terms of ministry — both for their members and for the wider community — there were some common threads among the six churches.
Along with a greater push for online or hybrid events, church leaders said they’ve seen more demand for small-group events, such as Bible studies, parent groups and in-home ministering.
On top of their continued interfaith partnerships, the two Denver churches said they’ve seen more demand for social justice-focused events and groups.
In addition to its Faith in Action ministry, Lawson said St. John’s Cathedral now has the Re-Imagining Justice group that focuses on racial healing, and the Migrant Interest Group that does pro-immigration work.
Kaufman said the First Baptist Church is now “more attuned to hunger and social justice issues around our community” than it was pre-pandemic.
Part of that is because of its new outdoor community fridge, which has already distributed about 30,000 pounds of food since February 2023.
Additionally, because its parking lot isn’t as full as it once was, Kaufman said the church has been able to host a shower trailer and a safe parking program.
e other four churches said they’ve likewise seen increased demand among their safe parking programs, free weekly meals and similar ministries; and they’ve worked to meet that demand alongside other churches and nonpro ts.
“Some things that started during COVID really de ned who we are as a church,” Otey said. “We increased our services tremendously.”
During the COVID-19 shutdowns, Otey described how her church worked with the larger Golden community to distribute free food to the homebound and unsheltered — even distributing food outside when indoor gatherings were restricted.
And that work has continued to the present day, she said, as the church has expanded from free meals once a week to three times a week.
Forbes encouraged people to visit justserve.org to nd service opportunities near them. ese events are open to anyone, not just Christians, he emphasized, saying it could be anything from painting a
house to working at a local food bank.
“It’s become even more apparent how important those service opportunities are because of COVID and what we’re experiencing in society,” Forbes said. “We have more in common with our neighbors than we think … (and) when we have an opportunity to serve one another, those di erences dissipate.”
‘Best of all, God is with us’
Another common thread among the six churches was how di cult the last ve years have been, in one form or another.
Church leaders discussed loneliness among their members, concern about the declining number of Christians locally and nationally, and burnout among their volunteers and ordained ministers.
Viehland, Fort Lupton’s pastor, described how she’s seen not only laypeople but also clergy struggle with the pandemic’s immediate and long-term fallout.
She believed some clergy members — not necessarily local ones — were already burnt-out, and the pandemic was a deciding factor in them leaving ordained ministry. And Viehland said she didn’t blame them.
“Five years out, we’re just starting to reckon with the spiritual and emotional trauma that came from (the pandemic),” Viehland said.
Kaufman said the First Baptist Church was full of hope and joy when he joined in 2019. Now, he said it’s been “a struggle to nd joy with anything” and that the congregation has shifted to one that’s “less hopeful and more fearful.”
Still, leaders from all six churches o ered messages of hope and faith, especially with Easter approaching.
“It’s been very challenging to nd hope in earthly, worldly things,” Kaufman said. “‘Where is it that I nd hope?’ e only place is in my faith.”
Similarly, Fort Lupton church leaders summarized the experience of faith by quoting Methodist Church founder John Wesley: “Best of all, God is with us.”
Kaufman, Forbes and Simpson invited fellow Christians to celebrate Easter by deepening their relationships with God and with one another. ey also encouraged those “who are searching for something” to visit a local church and ground themselves in a loving God and a welcoming community.
Otey also emphasized how God’s love is unconditional and how the Holy Spirit is at work in everyone’s lives, community and shared world, even if they don’t know it.
Re ecting on the changes of the last ve years, and all the changes that are to come, Lawson said: “God is as real as God has ever been.”
Morning light shines through a stained-glass window of a cross and crown March 25 at the First United Methodist Church of Fort Lupton. Church leaders and others across the Denver area said their churches have changed permanently since March 2020, particularly with regard to technology. PHOTO BY CORINNE WESTEMAN
CROWSSUPDRO ELZZ
1. TELEVISION: Who had a 1980s workout video series called “Sweatin’ to the Oldies”?
1. ANATOMY: What is heterochromia?
3. GEOGRAPHY: What is a chain of islands called?
4. FOOD & DRINK: What is Canada’s national dish?
5. HISTORY: When was Facebook launched?
6. MEASUREMENTS: What is the shortest wavelength in the visible light spectrum?
7. U.S. STATES: Which state has the most miles of interstate highway?
8. MOVIES: What type of sh is Nemo in the animated lm “Finding Nemo”?
9. GENERAL KNOWLEDGE: Which month is designated as National Ice Cream Month in the United States?
TrIVIa
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Answers
1. Richard Simmons.
2. When the colored part of the eyes (irises) are two di erent colors.
3. Archipelago.
4. Poutine (French fries, cheese curds and gravy).
5. 2004.
6. Violet.
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8. Clown sh. 9. July.
10. 90 minutes.
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number and bar registration number of the attorney(s) representing the legal holder of the indebtedness is: Carly Imbrogno, Esq. #59553 Barrett Frappier & Weisserman, LLP 1391 Speer Boulevard, Suite 700, Denver, CO 80204 (303) 350-3711 Attorney File # 00000010350296
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.
Legal Notice No. CCC1034 First Publication: April 3, 2025 Last Publication: May 1, 2025 Publisher: Clear Creek Courant Public Notice
COMBINED NOTICE - PUBLICATION CRS §38-38-103 FORECLOSURE SALE NO. 2025-001
To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:
On January 27, 2025, 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)
QUEEN BEE EVERGREEN, LLC, a COLORADO limited liability company
Original Beneficiary(ies)
MONTEGRA CAPITAL RESOURCES, LTD., a COLORADO corporation
Current Holder of Evidence of Debt
MONTEGRA CAPITAL RESOURCES, LTD., a COLORADO corporation
Date of Deed of Trust May 15, 2020
County of Recording Clear Creek
Recording Date of Deed of Trust May 18, 2020
Recording Information (Reception No. and/or Book/Page No.) 295463* Book: 982 Page: 701 Original Principal Amount
$295,000.00
Outstanding Principal Balance
$450,000.00
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: You are hereby notified that the undersigned, as owner of the $450,000.00 Evidence of Debt identified above dated May15, 2020, as modified as described below, and secured by the Deed of Trust identified above dated May15, 2020, as modified as described below, declares that the covenants of said Deed of Trust have been violated for reasons including, but not limited to, the failure to make timely payments required under said Deed of Trust and the Evidence of Debt secured thereby.
Therefore, the owner of the Evidence of Debt has accelerated the indebtedness and declared the entire indebtedness due and payable in full. THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST
City of Idaho Springs
Condominium Map of Clear Creek Technol-
ogy Office Condominiums, Building D as recorded January3, 2017 at Reception No. 282737, in the records of the office of the Clerk and Recorder of Clear Creek County, Colorado, and as defined and described in the Amended and Restated Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions of Clear Creek Technology Office Condominiums, Building D recorded January3, 2017 at Reception No. 282736, in said records, County of Clear Creek, State of Colorado.
Parcel 2: Reciprocal Grant of Easements recorded June25, 1998 in Book 566 at Page 605 and Amendment thereto recorded July13, 2000 in Book 599 at Page 396, County of Clear Creek, State of Colorado.
The property has a street address of 35715 US Highway 40 Units D301/D302, Evergreen, CO 80439.
*Modified pursuant to three loan modification agreements:
Promissory Note and Deed of Trust Modification Agreement dated May15, 2022, recorded May 17, 2022 in the records of the Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder, State of Colorado at Reception No. 305808;
Second Promissory Note and Deed of Trust Modification Agreement dated May15, 2023, recorded May15, 2023 in the records of the Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder, State of Colorado at Reception No. 309363; and
Third Promissory Note and Deed of Trust Modification Agreement dated August14, 2023, recorded August15, 2023 in the records of Clear Creek County Clerk and Recorder, State of Colorado at Reception No. 310237.
Purported common address: 35715 US Highway 40, Units D301/D302, Evergreen, CO 80439.
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, 05/29/2025, 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 Publication4/3/2025 Last Publication5/1/2025
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: 01/27/2025
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:
Emily J. Bennett, Attorney #15431
LAFF . BENNETT, P.C.
3200 East Cherry Creek Drive South, Suite 200, Denver, CO 80209-3245 (720) 484-3933
Attorney File #
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.
Legal Notice No. CCC1033
First Publication: April 3, 2025
Last Publication: May 1, 2025
Publisher: Clear Creek Courant
City and County
Public Notice CLEAR CREEK COUNTY
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 2025 Budget Supplemental Appropriation within the Ambulance, Capital Projects, Emergency Telephone and General Funds
Notice is hereby given that the Clear Creek County Board of County Commissioners (“Board”) will consider adoption of supplemental appropriations to the 2025 budget related to the General, Emergency Telephone, Ambulance, and Capital Projects Funds at a regular meeting of the Board on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., at 405 Argentine St, Georgetown, Colorado, and via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/167562115.
A copy of the proposed supplemental budget appropriations is available for inspection by the public in the Finance office at 403 Argentine St, Georgetown, Colorado, and also available on the County’s website, at https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/agendacenter. Any interested elector of Clear Creek County may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections thereto any time prior to the final adoption by the Board.
George Marlin, Chair Clear Creek County Board of County Commissioners
Legal Notice No. CCC1059
First Publication: April 10, 2025
Last Publication: April 10, 2025
Publisher: Clear Creek Courant
Public Noitce
NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR FRANCHISE BY PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY OF COLORADO
NOTICE is hereby given that at the regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Idaho Springs State of Colorado, to be held on April 14, 2025, at the hour of 7:00 P.M. at 1711 Miner Street, Idaho Springs, Colorado 80452, Public Service Company of Colorado will request that the City of Idaho Springs City Council adopt a measure to approve an ordinance granting a gas and electric franchise to Public Service Company of Colorado, entitled: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF IDAHO SPRINGS GRANTING A GAS AND ELECTRIC FRANCHISE TO PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY OF COLORADO, ITS AFFILIATES, SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, THE RIGHT TO USE THE STREETS WITHIN THE CITY TO FURNISH, SELL, TRANSMIT, TRANSPORT, AND DISTRIBUTE GAS AND ELECTRICITY TO THE CITY AND TO ALL RESIDENTS OF THE CITY, GRANTING THE RIGHT TO ACQUIRE, CONSTRUCT, INSTALL, LOCATE, MAINTAIN, OPERATE AND EXTEND INTO, WITHIN AND THROUGH THE CITY ALL FACILITIES REASONABLY NECESSARY TO FURNISH, SELL, TRANSMIT AND DISTRIBUTE GAS AND
ELECTRICITY WITHIN AND THROUGH THE CITY AND FIXING THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS THEREOF.
The franchise to be applied for will be for a term of twenty (20) years. Public Service Company of Colorado shall collect a fee from a surcharge upon City residents who are customers of the Company.
The City of Idaho Springs City Council will conduct a public hearing at its regular meeting on April 14, 2025, to consider the first reading of the ordinance granting a gas and electric franchise to Public Service Company of Colorado. The hearing will be open to the public and may be attended in person or via Zoom. Interested persons may contact Deputy City Clerk Wonder Martell for a link to the meeting.
Dated at Arvada, Colorado, this 5th day of March, 2025.
PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY OF COLORADO
BY /s/ Daniel Trujillo
Daniel Trujillo
Area Manager
Legal Notice No. CCC1031
First Publication: March 27, 2025
Last Publication: April 10, 2025
Publisher: Clear Creek Courant
Public Notice CLEAR CREEK COUNTY
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING 2025 Budget
Supplemental Appropriation within the Ambulance, Capital Projects, Emergency Telephone and General Funds
Notice is hereby given that the Clear Creek County Board of County Commissioners (“Board”) will consider adoption of supplemental appropriations to the 2025 budget related to the General, Emergency Telephone, Ambulance, and Capital Projects Funds at a regular meeting of the Board on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 8:30 a.m., at 405 Argentine St, Georgetown, Colorado, and via Zoom: https://zoom.us/j/167562115.
A copy of the proposed supplemental budget appropriations is available for inspection by the public in the Finance office at 403 Argentine St, Georgetown, Colorado, and also available on the County’s website, at https://www.clearcreekcounty.us/agendacenter. Any interested elector of Clear Creek County may inspect the proposed budget and file or register any objections thereto any time prior to the final adoption by the Board.
Marlin, Chair
The Clear Creek Courant
AVALANCHE
ment in International Trade in the State of Colorado and Outdoor Recreation O ce, according to Guzman.
“ is grant is to provide outdoor certi cations for youth in the community, young professionals,” Guzman said. “So, we’ve got a couple of students from Clear Creek high school and a handful of folks who are in the outdoor industry, inspiring (people) to get into the snow patrol side of things and a paramedic with ski background trying to get into snow patrolling.”
Although grant funding provides easy and a ordable access to the training, Guzman said, it’s really the state investing in itself and local residents.
“ is grant from the O ce of Economic Development (puts) money into the Clear Creek community since recreation is
a huge part of the economy,” Guzman said. “So, being able to bolster the workforce, providing this development for young professionals in this community will, in turn, have a positive impact on the economy, having a better workforce and keeping it local.”
At the end of the three-day training, students should be con dent in several basic areas of avalanche safety, according to the lesson plan, including:
• Develop a plan for travel in avalanche terrain.
• Demonstrate the ability to identify avalanche terrain.
• E ectively use e AIARE Risk Management Framework to make terrain choices in a group setting.
• Demonstrate e ective companion rescue.
William Victoria is a Clear Creek County resident and Emergency Medical Technician who took part in the course which wrapped up March 27 in Georgetown.
PUBLIC NOTICES
“Being locked into a career of sitting at a desk all day was not working well for me and I left my job after two years to pursue something di erent,” Victoria said. “I started working as a ski instructor at Loveland last season and haven’t looked back since. e AIARE 1 certication will help to bolster my ski patrol applications and help me be safer in the backcountry.”
Merrell Harvey was one of two Clear Creek High School students, taking the training and is already a Loveland ski area employee.
“My biggest takeaway was just learning how much there is to know about the backcountry. How an AIARE 1 course is just getting the beginning and it helps you make good decisions but there’s still so much more to learn.” Harvey said.
“If building these skills might keep one person out of terrain they shouldn’t be in, that’s a success,” Guzman said.
The County seeks proposals from
capable of providing a full spectrum of vehicles to address our diverse operational needs, while also facilitating the disposal or trade-in of older surplus County vehicles and returning revenues from those transactions to the County. The selected firm will supply dependable, well-maintained vehicles across multiple categories, including administrative and law enforcement patrol vehicles as well as heavy equipment for road and bridge maintenance, such as front-end loaders, road graders, and dump trucks. All vehicles must have four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) and higher-than-normal clearance to navigate steep, rocky, unpaved roads. Because snow and icy conditions can persist for up to nine months each year, it is essential that vehicles perform reliably in extreme weather and maintain operational functionality over extended use.
Proposals must include a detailed description of available vehicle types, specifications, and leasing terms, along with information on maintenance and support services, delivery timelines, and strategies to meet the County’s unique requirements. A clear plan for managing the disposal or trade-in of surplus vehicles should also be provided, ensuring transparency in how revenues are returned to the County. Firms with experience serving similarly challenging regions are strongly encouraged to apply. Through this solicitation, the County aims to enhance operational capabilities, safeguard public safety, maintain infrastructure effectively, and optimize the value of its existing assets across a rugged, snowy terrain. The goal is to establish a partnership with a leasing firm that delivers flexible, cost-effective solutions tailored to the County’s operational and environmental demands.
SCOPE OF SERVICES
The County is soliciting proposals from qualified vehicle leasing firms to provide a diverse range of vehicles and services to meet its operational needs. The selected firm will adhere to the requirements outlined below to ensure transparency, reliability, and a successful partnership. The scope includes administrative vehicles, law enforcement patrol vehicles, heavy equipment for road and bridge maintenance, and the disposal or tradein of older surplus county vehicles.
Vehicle Categories and Specifications
1.Administrative Vehicles: Must be dependable, fuel-efficient, and equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD).
• Features should include basic safety equipment, heating, air conditioning, and comfortable seating for staff.
2.Law Enforcement Vehicles: Must be four-wheel drive (4WD) or AWD, and if available, with emergency lighting, sirens, and law enforcement-specific modifications. High clearance for off-road use, durable tires, and reinforced frames are required for additional safety.
3. Heavy Equipment for Road and Bridge Maintenance: Heavy equipment, including front-end loaders, road graders, and dump trucks, must be designed to handle rugged terrain and extreme weather conditions.
• Equipment must include snow removal attachments (as needed) or optional capabilities suited for extended snow use. Leasing terms should include operational hour limits, wear and tear allowances, and provisions for equipment-specific training.
4. Disposal or Trade-In of Older Surplus County Vehicles: Firms will facilitate the disposal or trade-in
of older surplus county vehicles listed on the County’s asset list in accordance with Colorado law.
All revenues generated from these transactions must be returned to the County. Proposals should include a detailed plan for assessing, valuing, and managing the tradeins to ensure transparency and maximize returns for the County.
In cases where the vehicle has no or limited value, a fee structure must be in place for the proper disposal or sale of low-value vehicles.
Conditions of the County
•Warranty Protection: Comprehensive new vehicle warranties must cover mechanical breakdowns, failure of critical components, and manufacturer defects for all leased vehicles and equipment.
• Warranty terms should specify timelines and exclusions, with available plans to cover extended usage or repairs.
•Mileage and Operating Limits:
• Administrative and law enforcement vehicles must include annual mileage limits, with proposals outlining fees for exceeding those limits.
Heavy equipment must specify operational hour limits and wear thresholds, with terms for cost adjustments to address excess use.
•Vehicle Conditions:
Vehicles and equipment must be delivered in new or like-new condition, unless otherwise agreed. Proposals should specify the age, mileage, and maintenance records of all proposed vehicles.
•Lead Time and Delivery:
Firms must provide delivery timelines for each vehicle and equipment type, with penalties outlined for missed deadlines.
Cost Structure
Firms must provide a transparent cost breakdown per vehicle type, which includes:
•Annual lease rates.
•Interest fees and any applicable financing charges.
•Annual service or maintenance fees.
Additional charges for exceeding mileage or operational limits.
Costs or credits related to the trade-in or disposal of older surplus vehicles.
Proposals with hidden fees or vague pricing will be disqualified.
Maintenance and Service
•The leasing firm will provide guidance on how routine maintenance must be handled for lease compliance.
Specific service schedules, repair response times, and covered costs must be explicitly detailed in the proposal.
Change Orders, Vehicle Returns, and Trade-In Compliance
• Proposals must outline a clear process for change orders, including timelines for substituting vehicles or adding equipment.
Vehicle returns at the end of the lease term must comply with wear and tear standards and be free of excessive deterioration. Additional fees for damages or non-compliance must be clearly outlined.
For the trade-in of surplus county vehicles, firms must ensure a transparent valuation and return of revenue to the County, with full documentation provided.
Legal Protections Performance bonds or alternative guarantees may be required to ensure the firm meets obligations.
Proposal Instructions
To be considered, firms must submit:
Detailed descriptions of all vehicles and equipment available, along with specifications and photographs.
• Full disclosure of warranty terms, maintenance responsibilities, and service commitments.
A transparent cost proposal, including
trade-in credit terms for older vehicles. References from municipalities or counties with similar leasing agreements, particularly those with comparable environmental and operational needs.
By submitting a proposal, bidders agree to comply with the County’s requirements, ensuring all vehicles and services meet the highest standards for quality, reliability, and fiscal transparency.
SCHEDULE
The tentative Request-for-Proposal schedule is as follows:
SCHEDULED ITEM DATE
Public Release of Request-for-Proposal April 01, 2025
Deadline for Submittals (4:00 p.m.)
April 28, 2025
Estimated Notice of Intent Award May 1, 2025
Estimated Starting Date: ASAP
Any revisions to the above schedule will be posted on the Clear Creek County website “Bid Postings” link. It is the responsibility of all submitting firms to review this website for scheduling updates as well as Request-for-Proposal modifications and addendums.
SUBMITTAL APPENDIX:
Provide any other information – unique capabilities, value-added services, etc. – relevant to the County’s evaluation of your Firm.
Clear Creek County will not be responsible f or any cost associated with the preparation of the Firms’ responses to this Request-for-Proposal.
SUBMISSION OF RESPONSE:
Responses shall be submitted in an email attachment package, clearly identified in the subject line as follows:
RFP Vehicle Leasing Services to Clear Creek County
Firms may not contact any team members, staff or employees of Clear Creek County or other parties involved in this project. All communications regarding this project should be directed to: Colton Rohloff, Clear Creek County Deputy County Manager.
Please deliver your responses to:
•Colton Rohloff
•crohloff@clearcreekcounty.us
•303-679-2312
The deadline for submitting a proposal is 4:00 p.m. MST, Monday, April 28, 2025
Responses will be time-stamped and logged upon receipt. Responses received after the deadline will NOT be considered. All timely and properly prepared Responses will be considered for evaluation.
RESERVATIONS:
The County reserves the right to reject any and all Responses and to waive any informality, technical defects or clerical errors in any Reponses as the best interest of the County may require.
Mountain Youth Network Youth Involvement Coordinator Nico Guzman on Guanella Pass March 30.
PHOTO BY CHRIS KOEBERL
oradans
LEAP ayuda a los residentes elegibles de Colorado a pagar una parte de sus gastos de calefacciòn de invierno.
