Jeni Gotto’s long game in Westminster Public Schools
Gotto bets on competency based learning to drive lasting change in district
BY SUZIE GLASSMAN SUZIE@COTLN.ORG
At a time when many Colorado school districts are struggling to keep leaders in place, Westminster Public Schools is betting on stability.
Superintendent Jeni Gotto, who has helped shape the district since 2008, recently earned a contract extension through 2029.
e agreement re ects the school board’s con dence in her long-term vision, which centers on a personalized, skill-based approach known as competencybased learning and a renewed focus on measurable results.
Competency-based learning enables students to progress at their own pace by demonstrating mastery of speci c skills and knowledge, rather than advancing based on age or time spent in class.
Gotto believes this approach helps students learn in a way that actually meets their needs, providing them with both the time and support they need to succeed.
For example, a student who has mastered fth-grade math can move ahead to sixth-grade math, even if they’re still working on fth-grade literacy skills. ey wouldn’t advance in literacy until they demonstrate mastery in that area, regardless of age or grade level.
“I believe this is the best way to educate kids,” Gotto said. “My kiddo’s been here since preschool.”
Her goal is to embed competency-based learning so deeply in the district’s fabric that it survives leadership changes and withstands outside pressure.
at’s no small task in a system grappling with low test scores, rising class sizes and criticism of its administrative size and spending.
Reflections from a father, through his sermons
Reunion author publishes her father’s sermons as an homage
BY BELEN WARD BELEN@COTLN.ORG
When Reunion-based author Andrea Lende wanted to honor her father, the Rev. Dr. Richard J. Einerson, his words were what came to mind – speci cally, ten sermons he wrote recently.
“My dad was a pastor for many years. He’s 89 and turns 90 in July. Recently, he sent me about 10 sermons he wrote during his later years, after retirement,” Lende said. Lende helped dedicate his recently published book, “Still Speaking: Sermons from a Pastor Who Walked with the People,” featuring those sermons from late in his career, including his experiences in the South during racial unrest.
Beatitudes Publishing has just published the book, along with two others by Einerson: “Can You Trust the Bible,” which discusses the Bible’s origins and composition, and a book of prayers he wrote, called “Prayers for the People.”
Lende said they were all released in time for his 70th wedding anniversary.
“He was asked to step in as interim pastor for several di erent churches, and so he found some sermons that we could publish in a book and leave as a legacy to his kids, his grandkids,” Lende said. “We’re thrilled with the cover of this book; it’s a picture that we have in our home, and it’s probably my favorite picture of my Dad.” Lende said the picture of him on the cover of the book was taken at Sayles Memorial Church in the Providence, Rhode Island suburb of Lincoln, where some of her best years were spent on the East Coast, she said.
“He took a picture of that portrait, and it now hangs in his o ce. Our cover designer did an amazing job of creating our cover. I was brought to tears when I saw this.”
College to Civil Rights
Lende said her father attended Warner Paci c College and graduated in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science degree. He subsequently pursued his Master of Divinity degree
The cover of Rev. Dr. Richard J. Einerson’s new book, released this month in honor of his 77th wedding anniversary. COURTESY IMAGE
New rules for 2025-26 high school basketball season
Goaltending, bench decorum among main focuses
BY STEVE SMITH
SPECIAL TO THE COLORADO TRUST FOR LOCAL NEWS
We’re still a year away from Colorado adopting a shot clock for high school basketball. e rule kicks in for the 2026-27 season, with a 35-second timer for all classi cations. However, some changes are coming ahead of the 2025-26 season also.
e National Federation of High Schools adopted new rules and procedures changes for the coming high-school basketball season.
Goaltending/basket interference
A main focus is on dealing with goaltending and basket interference. e goaltending rule says a ball is on its downward arc toward the basket once the shot hits the backboard. If a defender touches the ball after it hits the backboard, it’s two/three points for the shooter’s team.
Before this rule change, it was up to ocials to determine whether the ball was still climbing toward the goal before any potential goaltending call.
“By establishing that a ball is considered to be on its downward ight upon contacting the backboard, this rule change introduces a clear and objective standard,” said Monica Maxwell, NFHS director of sports and liaison to the Basketball Rules Committee, in a statement posted to CHSAANow.com. “It signi cantly reduces the need for o cials to make subjective judgments regarding the trajectory of a shot, thereby enhancing consistency and accuracy in goaltending calls.” e rule regarding basket interference has also changed.
GOTTO
Building a system that lasts
But turning vision into reality takes more than belief; it requires system-wide alignment and sustained leadership.
While Westminster has long championed this instructional model, Gotto acknowledged there have been challenges. e system demands a deep understanding of customized pacing, detailed assessment and real-time data.
Leaders unfamiliar with the approach can struggle to balance those demands alongside traditional school management.
“We’ve seen what happens when someone comes in from the outside and has to learn both how to lead and how our system works,” Gotto said. “Something gives. And usually, it’s the competency-based learning side.”
To avoid those pitfalls, Westminster has doubled down on growing its own leaders. e district hasn’t hired an outside candidate for a district-level position in over a decade.
Instead, Westminster cultivates its leaders by promoting educators who have spent years in its classrooms and already believe in its approach.
From data to decisions
Part of making competency-based learning work is having the right tools, Gotto explained. e district uses a custom-built reporting tool called Empower, which gives teachers real-time, detailed
Now, only a defensive player can commit goaltending. e NFHS statement said the rule change disposes of the need to determine whether the ball in ight is a eld-goal attempt or a pass.
“Any alliteration of a shot attempt with contact to the basket or backboard by an offensive player would be considered basket interference,” the statement said.
Also, intentionally slapping or striking the backboard during a eld-goal try becomes basket interference and not a technical foul.
Also, incidents in which players who intentionally delay returning to the court after being out of bounds and then become the rst to touch the ball will result in an infraction and not a technical foul.
Bench rules
e NFHS also changed a rule related to time-outs.
Players on the oor when o cials call for a timeout are now “bench personnel.” e NFHS statement said the switch “ensures consistent enforcement of penalties for unsporting conduct by allowing o cials to issue technical fouls to bench personnel during time-outs.”
Before the change, game o cials had to determine whether a player who warranted a penalty for unsportsmanlike conduct was actually on the oor or the bench at the time.
“One of the points of emphasis this year will be bench decorum,” said Billy Strickland, executive director of the Alaska School Activities Association and chair of the NFHS Basketball Rules Committee, in the NFHS statement. “How can we help coaches and o cials know that communication is a twoway street? It just needs to be done in a proper manner.”
Keep up with all rule changes and sports at CHSAANow.com.
information on what students have and haven’t mastered. Rather than start over each year, students pick up where they left o . at kind of evergreen data, Gotto said, o ers more useful insight than state test results that arrive months later.
But those state test results still matter, especially in a state that ranks and sanctions districts based on how students perform each spring. And in that framework, Westminster continues to struggle. Like many high-poverty districts, it shows lower-than-average scores on the Colorado Measures of Academic Success.
Gotto doesn’t deny that academic performance needs to improve, but she also questions whether state tests accurately capture what students know.
While Westminster tracks student mastery through nuanced pro ciency scales, the state still requires students to take grade-level standardized tests. Gotto said this disconnect makes it harder to evaluate what students actually know and where they need support.
Gotto has been vocal with the Colorado Department of Education about this mismatch.
“My kid is in level seven math and level ve literacy,” she said. “He’s growing in both. But when he takes that test, it’s tied to a single grade level. So it doesn’t really re ect where he is.”
Preparing students for the real world
e district’s personalized approach extends beyond the classroom to career preparation. Soon, more students will be able to train for in-demand jobs in the manufacturing and construction indus-
tries, where Westminster sees real career potential.
In 2024, voters approved a $111 million bond package, which includes $40 million to expand the district’s Ranum Innovation Campus.
e site already o ers career and technical education pathways in aviation engineering, cyber-technology and biotechnology. Phase II will add advanced manufacturing and construction.
Westminster also recently signed a formal agreement with Front Range Community College to share teaching sta and equipment across its CTE programs. A new math co-teacher model ensures students in technical courses also get credit for core academics.
e district has also prioritized industry credentials, which Gotto sees as a more concrete outcome for many students. According to district data, Westminster ranks in the top 5% statewide in terms of the percentage of students earning industry-recognized credentials.
Addressing concerns and looking ahead
Still, CTE growth and competencybased instruction haven’t shielded the district from criticism. Class sizes in some schools have increased, raising concerns about teacher workload and the provision of individualized instruction.
And despite years of budget cuts, critics have pointed to the district’s administrative costs as disproportionately high for a district of its size.
Gotto acknowledges those concerns. She said the district is trying to be more strategic about sta ng going forward.
“We’re not replacing administrative po-
sitions just because someone leaves or retires,” she said. “Every position is being examined to see if it aligns with our mission.”
She said the district launched the Future Together Facilities Initiative to examine building use, enrollment trends and long-term sta ng models more closely. at committee, which includes community members, industry partners and university liaisons, is also advising how to phase in bond spending.
Union leaders say the district hasn’t always followed through on key parts of the contract, especially when it comes to sta ng and workload. While the district maintains that it follows all agreements in good faith, some educators argue that sta ng decisions and workload distribution have not always aligned with contractual obligations.
Gotto said she hopes to improve communication and rebuild trust with sta through more consistent implementation and oversight.
With a new strategic plan on the horizon, Gotto hopes to turn long-term commitment into measurable results. She believes the model works. Now she wants to prove it to families, sta and the state.
“We’re not where we need to be yet,” she said. “But we know where we’re going and we know how to get there.”
When asked what she hopes Westminster Public Schools will be known for in 2030, Gotto didn’t hesitate.
“I hope people recognize that we’re a district that gured out how to truly personalize learning and made it work,” she said. “Not just for some students, but for all.”
Eaglecrest’s Anthony Nettles skies for two in the Class 6A boys basketball state championship on March 15. Nettles led the Raptors with 14 points. PHOTO BY ROY WAKIMURA
More Buyers Are Choosing ARMs — Here’s Why It Might Be a Smart Strategy
Adjustable Rate Mortgages (or ARMs) were commonly used by purchasers from 2004 to 2006. Roughly 35% of mortgages originated during those years were “adjustable.” After the 2008 housing/ fiscal crisis, caused in part by risky mortgage loan products including ARMs, the number of ARM transactions made in the U.S. plummeted. But now we are seeing a resurgence of them.
As in the past, Jaxzann Riggs, owner of The Mortgage Network, helped me with the current situation so I could share it with you.
What Exactly Is an ARM?
Until recently there was not much incentive for borrowers to consider an ARM because (unlike the ARMs offered 2004-2008) there was virtually no disparity between rates offered on ARMs, and those offered on a 30-year fixed rate loan. In the past 30 days that has changed. As of June 15th, Mortgage Daily News reported an average rate of 6.88% and 6.90% for a 30-year fixed rate loan versus 6.625% and 6.45% being offered on a 5-year Adjustable Rate Mortgage.
An ideal ARM borrower often:
Plans to live in the home for fewer than 5, 7 or 10 years;
Ultimately, the risks of an ARM are manageable, providing you understand and plan for them.
An ARM is a home loan with an interest rate that adjusts over time. Historically, you start with a lower, fixed interest rate for a set period — typically 5, 7, or 10 years — and then the rate adjusts at regular intervals based on market conditions.
For example, a 7/1 ARM locks in your rate for seven years, then adjusts annually. A 10/6 ARM is at a fixed rate for 10 years, then adjusts every six months. These loans are structured with caps to limit how much your rate (and payment) can increase at each adjustment or over the life of the loan.
With
Why More Buyers Are Taking a Second Look at ARMs
Many purchasers anticipate rate cuts ahead. By using an ARM now, they will enjoy a slightly lower rate during the initial fixed period. Some have the hope that, instead of increasing on the adjustment date, the rate will remain the same or possibly come down. Experts say that the current flatter yield curve supports that theory.
While ARMs aren’t one-size-fits-all, they make a lot of sense for certain buyers, especially those with short- to mid-term homeownership plans or who are financially stable enough to absorb a future rate increase if needed.
Has a stable income and good credit or anticipates increases in income that would allow them to keep up with increases, in case their bet on the direction of rates turns out to be wrong;
Has a financial safety net in case payments rise; and
Understands how interest rate adjustments work.
This isn’t about gambling on the market, it’s about strategic planning. That’s where an experienced mortgage loan officer becomes invaluable. They can help you compare options, understand caps and margins, and decide whether an ARM aligns with your financial goals.
ARMs today are far more borrowerfriendly than they were in decades past. Most no longer carry prepayment penalties, and most feature rate caps that protect against sharp increases. And if rates go down, you may even benefit from lower payments and, of course, borrowers always have the option to refinance at a fixed rate when the time is right.
The Bottom Line
In a high-cost housing market like Denver’s, flexibility matters. An adjustable-rate mortgage could be a smart, strategic choice; especially when guided by the right mortgage professional. Whether you're buying your first home, upsizing for a growing family, or simply exploring ways to maximize your budget, it’s worth having a conversation with a trusted loan officer.
Jaxzann Riggs and her team at The Mortgage Network have helped thousands of Colorado homebuyers find the right loan for their life plans—whether that’s an ARM or something else entirely. To explore your options and see if an ARM could work for you, call Jaxzann on her cell, (303) 990-2992 or visit www.TheMortgageNetworkOnline.com
Temperatures Rising, Homeowners Without Air Conditioning Are Asking What’s the Best Way to Add It
I have a listing coming up later this summer in the Beverly Heights section of Golden. It has hot water baseboard heating, which is wonderful, but that means there are no ducts to distribute air from an A/C compressor.
Homes with forced air heating systems have it easy. A “chiller” connected to an outdoor A/C compressor can be mounted above the firebox for a few thousand dollars. It uses the same ducts as the furnace, and the forced air unit becomes an “air handler” for delivering the cooled air.
I have previously promoted the idea of using a heat pump to drive that “chiller” unit. Not only does it provide needed cooling, but the heat pump can also provide efficient heating in the winter, leaving the gas furnace idle or used only when it’s colder than the heat pump can handle (below 0º F with today’s cold climate heat pumps).
But what if there are no ducts, as in my listing in Beverly Heights?
The answer depends partly on the style of the house. Is it one-story, two-story, or splitlevel? The one-story home is easiest to accommodate with a ductless solution. An A/C compressor can be mounted on the roof, with an air handler in the attic below it. From there, flexible round ducts (not rectangular metal ducts) can direct that air to ceiling vents in the living area and the separate bedrooms, with a return air vent somewhere in between, such as in the ceiling of a hallway.
Alternatively (my preference), a groundmounted heat pump compressor can be positioned on an unobtrusive side of the house, with two hoses going to each of the wallmounted “mini splits” in those same rooms. The hoses are hidden in square conduits, usually white, measuring 3 or 4 inches square, running around the house at ground level and
then up the exterior walls to where the inside mini-split units are located.
I was fortunate to have a flat roof on my former office building, and I was able to put the compressor on the roof and run the two homes to three different mini-splits entirely on the roof, eliminating those visible conduits.
The conduits don’t have to be run outside, and the mini-splits don’t have to be on an exterior wall. If you visit the Golden Diner at 11th & Jackson in downtown Golden, notice the mini-split on the wall between the kitchen and the serving area.
In a two-story or split-level home, a roofmount compressor with an air handler in the attic becomes less optimal. However, it can still work. Cold air pumped into the top level can settle downward, cooling lower levels. An evaporative cooler (aka “swam cooler”) can work even better, because you can control where the cold air goes by which windows
New Energy Colorado Honors Former Gov. Bill Ritter
At its annual Summer Solstice Party at the Retreat at Solterra, New Energy Colorado presented former Governor Bill Ritter with a “Lifetime Achievement Award,” citing him for “Leading Colorado Towards a Clean Energy Economy.” Left to right, NEC board member Nancy Kellogg and VP Rebecca Cantwell are shown making the presentation. Ritter gave a keynote speech thanking NEC for its advocacy over the years and emphasized the importance of groups like NEC remaining vocal, “especially in these times.” As governor, he embraced and presided over the evolution toward green energy, and he has advocated for it ever since leaving office in 2011.
The event, held annually on the longest day of the year, is NEC’s primary fundraiser, supporting its Metro Denver and Arkansas Valley Green Homes Tours. The Denver tour is held on the first Saturday in October.
you open. That’s because there is no “return air” with a swamp cooler. It pumps outside air into the house, and you have to provide ways for that air to escape after doing its job of cooling the interior.
If you’re new to Colorado and came here from a locale with high summer humidity (Brooklyn, in my case), you may not be familiar with evaporative cooling. It works in the same way that a rain shower works. As the rain falls, it evaporates, thereby cooling the outside air. In a swamp cooler, a pump circulates a reservoir of water through membranes on the sides of the unit. A squirrel fan draws outside air through those water-soaked membranes, cooling the air by 10 or more degrees and pumps that cooled air into the home. The lower the outdoor humidity and the faster the fan, the more cooling you get.
But that air has to escape and it will travel through your home based on where there’s an open window. Four inches is the prescribed size of windows openings, and you can secure your window so an intruder cannot open it further and perhaps install an alarm.
The downside of the swamp cooler is that it requires occasional service, and if the unit is on the roof, that can be difficult or dangerous. The water in the reservoir, which is replenished constantly by a 1/4-inch supply pipe from inside your home, becomes dirty over time because of the soot that is being removed from the outside air by the water-
soaked membranes through which the air is being pumped. At the end of each cooling season and a couple times during the season, that water needs to be drained, and the membranes rinsed clean or replaced and the reservoir cleaned. At the end of the season, the reservoir and the supply pipe need to be drained to avoid freezing.
A heat-pump system with up to five minsplit wall units can work fine on a 2-story or split-level home. The conduits from the compressor to the wall units just have to run further up the outside of the house. At left is a picture of such a compressor with four wall units, each with its own thermostat. That’s the best thing about such a system. You could have the mini-split in your bedroom set at 70 degrees overnight and the other wall units off or set higher. This is far more efficient than cooling your entire house when you go to bed, whatever system you are using.
Trump Can Replace Fed Chair Next Year — What That Could Mean for Real Estate On my blog, I have a link to an interesting article from Brad at “Briefcase: Real Estate News” about Trump’s pressure on Federal Reserve chairman Jerome Powell to drastically reduce interest rates or resign. Powell says he won’t resign, but his term is up in 2026, and Trump is sure to replace him with someone like Treasury Secretary Bessent who would do his bidding. See http://RealEstateToday.substack.com
A 5-BR Golden Home With a True Chef’s Kitchen
$1,495,000
Homes in this late ’90s subdivision backing to the foothills come on the market rarely and sell quickly. This one at 165 Washington Street is especially sweet, with the most awesome chef’s kitchen you’ve likely ever seen. Beautiful maple hardwood floors grace the main level, with newer carpeting upstairs and in the walk-out basement. The Table Mountain views from every level, but especially from the primary suite, will take your breath away. If you’re a soccer fan, the posters and awards in the main-floor study will leave you wishing for autographs! A narrated video walk-through with drone footage can be viewed online at www.GRElistings.com. Or call your agent or Jim Smith at 303-525-1851 to schedule a private showing.
A single heat pump can drive up to 5 mini-splits, each with its own wireless thermostat.
Peter McNeilly named U.S. attorney
Appointee for Colorado has fought cartels, focused on fentanyl prosecutions
BY DYLAN LOTTS DLOTTS@TIMESLOCALMEDIA.COM
U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi appointed Peter McNeilly to serve as the United States Attorney for the District of Colorado.
McNeilly was sworn in by United States District Judge Daniel D. Domenico on June 16.
Before his appointment, McNeilly served as an assistant United States attorney in Colorado since 2014. As a federal
prosecutor, McNeilly focused on pursuing members of Mexican drug cartels, reducing violent crime and combating the increase in fentanyl-related deaths, which has made him one of the leading fentanyl prosecutors in the state. As a supervisor within the U.S. Attorney’s O ce, McNeilly oversaw the creation of federal task forces focused on transnational organized and violent crime.
In addition to his previous roles, McNeilly served as deputy United States attorney, chief of the Transnational Organized Crime and Money Laundering Section, the District of Colorado’s opioid coordinator, and the lead strike force attorney for the Denver Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces Strike Force.
McNeilly is also a lieutenant colonel in the United States Marine Corps. Before joining the U.S. Attorney’s O ce, he
was a Marine judge advocate. While he was on active duty, he prosecuted cases throughout the Marine Corps’ western region, which included sexual assaults, child exploitation, nancial crimes and crimes committed in Iraq and Afghanistan. In the reserves, he serves as a prosecutor, legal advisor on the sta for a three-star commanding general and is currently in his second tour as a military judge.
In his new role, McNeilly will oversee all federal criminal prosecutions, as well as all civil litigation on behalf of the United States government in Colorado. He will lead a team of more than 160 attorneys, sta and government contractors.
McNeilly’s senior leadership team consists of J. Bishop Grewell, who is the rst assistant United States attorney and chief of the appellate division, and Marcy Cook, the deputy United States attorney.
Hyundai, Kia one out of every five stolen cars in state
State patrol shares tips for drivers
BY MONTE WHALEY MONTE@COTLN.ORG
All vehicle owners can bene t by being protective of their cars and trucks, but Hyundai and Kia models are especially vulnerable to theft in Colorado.
e Colorado State Patrol says that Hyundai and Kia represent nearly one out
of every ve stolen cars in Colorado. Also, vehicles using a physical key for operation continue to be largely targeted by car thieves across the Denver Metro area, the CSP states in a news release.
e theft of Hyundais and Kias is also linked to organized crime in Colorado and is the focus of the Colorado Auto eft Prevention Authority — Metropolitan Auto eft Taskforce, the news release states. “ ese stolen cars are then used to commit other crimes across the Front Range,” the news release states. “From dangerous
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driving to business burglaries and beyond, preventing auto theft saves more than just a car: it makes our entire state safer.”
e CSP lists several precautions owners can take to keep their vehicles safe and o Colorado’s “Top Ten Most Stolen Cars” list.
ose include locking your car and taking your keys with you. Never leave a running car unattended. ey also suggest parking in a garage or a secure parking lot when possible, or in an area under constant supervision.
Another tip is to keep your car clean.
ieves hate clean cars and especially clean interiors. Anything left unsecured in a vehicle incentivizes a thief to target your
car instead of a clean one.
Owners of a Hyundai or Kia should check with their local manufacturer service center to determine if their vehicle quali es for a security software update.
e State Patrol also suggests drivers of those cars or of any car on the top list should use a steering wheel lock, which is available from many local Police Departments. Drivers should also use technology like a GPS tag or enroll in programs like Denver Track or Metro Track.
Use physical vehicle theft prevention devices, such as parking boots, gear shift/ pedal locks, and others, to stop thieves and alarms and immobilizing devices from a trusted installer.
Stolen cars, especially Hyundais and Kias, are often used to commit later crimes, according to the Colorado State Patrol. FILE PHOTO
REFLECTIONS
at the Paci c School of Religion, graduating in 1961. He earned a Danforth Foundation Grant and spent a year at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN, where he worked with students and studied with a historical theology professor, Dr. Langdon Gilkey, Lende said.
“In February of 1960, while he was at Vanderbilt University, the South began to hemorrhage with the civil rights movement. e black students of that era created an organization called the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee.”
Lende said that Civil Rights leader John Lewis, later a United States Congressman for Georgia, became the rst president of the organization as these young adults came together in the community to quietly advocate for their rights.
Her dad was profoundly a ected by this movement and he integrated it into his ministry and years of service.
“ e kids were sitting at the counters where they weren’t supposed to be sitting, and people were putting cigarettes on their backs. It was a horrible time,” Lende said. “It did a ect him for the rest of his life, shaping how he saw things, how he pastored, and his philosophy on various matters in one of his sermons.”
He began his Doctor of Ministry training at Andover Newton eological School in Newton, Massachusetts. After earning his degree in 1972, he moved to North Dakota to take a chaplain position at St. Luke’s Hospital.
“He served as a chaplain for St. Luke’s, now MeritCare, for eighteen years, ushering many through the corridor of life into death, praying with numerous individuals,” she said.
He retired from his chaplaincy career in 1995 but served as the interim pastor for several churches until his nal retirement at the age of 77. His interim pastor career took him to several churches across the country, from Minnesota to Colorado.
“I think he served as interim for three di erent churches after retirement; he had a hard time retiring. He just kept serving,” she said.
Lende said that quote in the book by Charles Spurgeon says, “One of the greatest rewards that we ever received for serving God is the permission to do still more for him.”
“ at’s been my dad,” Lende said.
Charting his ministry
Lende said my father’s book gives readers insight into the history of his ministry featuring sermons from a pastor who walked with the people.
“It is a blessing to be able to publish this book for him as his daughter, and have it ready for his 70th wedding anniversary, which was last week, Lende said.
“We nished the book in time to have ve copies ready for him so he could sign them for the grandkids and my twin sister. erefore, we had a small book signing in Phoenix, Arizona, last week, just for our family. He is so pleased at his age and to have published his words in print.”
Lende said her father published a book last year called “Can You Trust the Bible, a Biblical Primer for Lay People.” As a preacher who studied theology extensively and learned Hebrew, Greek and other languages used in writing the Bible, he had gained signi cant knowledge, she said.
“He wanted to give laypeople, like myself, who haven’t studied the Bible in a theological sense insight into how the Bible was put together and how they found all the books,” Lende said.
“ e title was a little scary: Can you trust the Bible? Ultimately, yes, you can trust the Bible, but we must exercise caution in our approach to it. After all, it took many years — hundreds, even thousands — to compile it all.”
Lende said her dad explains how the books were formed and assembled, including what came rst and who came rst, which is fascinating.
“He o ers valuable insights for those of us who are detectives and wish to learn about the Bible and its origins. It was gratifying to assemble that, and he completed it before he could no longer continue,” Lende said.
Andrea Lende with her father, Rev. Dr. Richard J. Einerson, today. COURTESY PHOTO
Korean rescue team helps with I-76 crash
Korean water rescue team came across the crash that killed one
BY MONTE WHALEY MONTE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
O cials with Adams County Fire Rescue are praising the help they received from several emergency crews in the area Friday night while dealing with a fatality on I-76.
Among the groups that came to help were nine members of the Korean National 119 Rescue team, who had been in Colorado participating in a nine-day swift water rescue training hosted by Golden Fire-Rescue.
e Korean team was returning to their hotel when they came upon the crash, located on the interstate between
Federal Boulevard and Pecos, according to Adams County Fire Rescue’s Facebook post.
A truck was traveling the wrong way on I-76 and crashed head-on into a sedan – the truck was traveling eastbound in the westbound lane, the re rescue’s post states, about 11 p.m.
e Korean team immediately secured the scene, called 911, and pulled the passenger out of the truck. Upon discovering he was in cardiac arrest, they immediately began CPR.
“Although the patient did not survive, we are incredibly grateful to these reghters for their swift response,” the Facebook post states.
e two drivers were transported “non-emergent” to the hospital, according to Adams County Fire Rescue.
Westminster Fire Department as well as the Colorado State Patrol and Adams County Sheri ’s O ce assisted at the scene, re rescue o cials said.
Members of the Korean rescue team helped with a fatality on I-76 June 13. COURTESY ADAMS COUNTY FIRE RESCUE
Chicken N Pickle opens new location in Thornton
Chicken N Pickle’s three opening in Thornton’s The Grove shopping center
BY MONTE WHALEY MONTE@COTLN.ORG
A national chain that specializes in showcasing America’s two favorite pastimes – eating chicken and playing pickleball – is opening its three-acre site in ornton on June 24.
Chicken N Pickle is an indoor/outdoor pickleball entertainment complex with locations across the country. Its newest venture is being unveiled in e Grove shopping center near I-25 and 144th Avenue. e facility marks the rst pickleball-dedicated venue in the ornton area.
Chicken N Pickle CEO Brad Clarke says that the enterprise is more than just a place to play pickleball and is an all-in-one destination for food, fun and community connection. e expansive complex blends professional-grade pickleball courts with a chef-driven restaurant, a lively sports bar and a variety of games and gathering spaces.
Whether guests can compete, connect or simply kick back, the ornton venue will deliver an experience designed to bring people together across seasons, ages and interests, Clarke said in a news release.
“We’re thrilled to bring Chicken N Pickle to ornton, a community that re ects our desire to o er a space where families, friends and colleagues can create memories and connect through playful experiences,” said Clarke. “Colorado’s active, outdoorsy spirit and ornton’s strong sense of community make it the ideal place for our next venue. We believe in the power of shared celebrations, whether it’s over a delicious meal, a refreshing beverage or a spirited game, to foster human connection and support our neighbors.”
Spanning more than three acres and over 45,000 square feet, the complex features eight professional-grade pickleball courts, including six indoor and two covered outdoor courts, for casual games or competitive play,
according to the news release.
e fast-casual, chef-driven restaurant specializes in wood- red rotisserie chicken with a focus on fresh, quality ingredients that are responsibly raised and ethically sourced, the news release states. Lawn games like cornhole, ping pong, Jenga and life-sized Battleship add to the playful energy, while rooftop seating with three unique event spaces (two indoors and one open-air) o ers courtside and mountain views. Additional reservable spaces like e Roost and e Boardwalk on the main dining oor, plus two bier gardens and a game yard, make the venue perfect for everything from relaxed evenings to private celebrations and team outings, the news release states. e ornton location’s indoor court building features an open-air design, with garage doors throughout the space that open halfway to seamlessly connect the indoor and outdoor spaces. It will be the rst Chicken N Pickle to include windows overlooking the indoor courts, bringing in dynamic new energy and ow to the space, the news release states.
e venue o ers adaptive pickleball programming and inclusive spaces that welcome everyone, from seasoned players to rst-timers and families. e company states that Chicken N Pickle takes seriously its role in promoting inclusivity, health and awareness through active participation in adaptive pickleball, fostering wellness, social connection and advocacy for individuals with physical disabilities. All skill levels are encouraged to join, with on-site wheelchairs available to ensure full accessibility for every guest. e grand opening celebration is scheduled for June 24, and continue throughout the week with themed events and giveaways designed to welcome the ornton community. See here for additional grand opening information.
Launched in North Kansas City, Missouri, in 2016, Chicken N Pickle has grown nationally, with locations in cities such as Wichita, Kan.; San Antonio, Texas; Oklahoma City, Okla.; Henderson, Nevada; Glendale, Arizona; Grand Prairie, Texas; and Grapevine, Texas.
Minnesota shootings rattle Colorado lawmakers
O cials ask for information to be removed from state’s campaign finance website
BY DELILAH BRUMER COLORADO NEWSLINE
More than 40 Colorado elected o cials have requested the redaction of their addresses and other personal information from the state’s online campaign nance database. e Colorado secretary of state suspended the website on June 14, due to safety concerns in the aftermath of shootings targeting two Minnesota Democratic lawmakers earlier that day.
Melissa Hortman, the Minnesota House Democratic leader, and her husband Mark Hortman were shot and killed by a man who came to their home posing as a police o cer, federal o cials said. Vance Boelter, 57, faces charges for the murders, as well as for the shootings of Minnesota Sen. John Ho man and his wife Yvette Ho man, who are expected to recover.
Colorado lawmakers have condemned the shootings, and many are taking additional safety precautions. Colorado House Speaker Julie McCluskie, a Democrat from Dillon, said
in a statement that “what happened in Minnesota has shaken us to our very core.”
“Our democracy is based on the idea that we resolve our di erences through peaceful debate and in courts, elected bodies, state legislatures and the halls of Congress, not political violence,” she said.
Colorado Senate President James Coleman, a Denver Democrat, said he has “been in close and ongoing communication” with the Colorado State Patrol, and he has adjusted his driving patterns when going to work, for safety reasons.
“ is assassination and targeted attack in Minnesota was a tragedy and a disturbing escalation of political violence in our country,” Coleman said. “It’s understandable that legislators are concerned for their safety and the safety of their families. I am for myself and my family.”
Colorado political candidates submit their campaign nance information, which is posted in the online database, known as TRACER, to comply with state election transparency laws. e website includes their home addresses, phone numbers and other personal information.
e secretary of state is allowing lawmakers to redact personal information online that is not required to be public based on a campaign nance rule that protects “any person who believes their safety or the safety of an immedi-
ate family member may be in jeopardy.”
A spokesperson for the Colorado secretary of state’s o ce said there is not a speci c time anticipated for when TRACER will be online again, but it will be “back up soon.”
Colorado House Minority Leader Rose Pugliese, a Colorado Springs Republican, said in a statement about the Minnesota shootings that “violence has no place in our politics. Not now. Not ever.”
“ is is an unconscionable act of violence,” Pugliese said. “ ere is absolutely no justi cation for targeted attacks on elected o cials — or anyone — based on their political beliefs. Our nation was built on civil discourse and the peaceful exchange of ideas, not horri c acts of violence. We are keeping the families of Rep. Hortman and Senator Ho man in our prayers.”
Coleman called for respect and less negativity in political interactions nationwide. He emphasized that he serves both Democrats and Republicans, and said the safety of all state lawmakers, as well as Coloradans as a whole, is a top priority.
“I keep my head on a swivel,” Coleman said. “We always need to be aware of our surroundings and not get caught o guard, but we can’t live in fear. We focus on what we can control.”
is story is from Colorado Newsline. Used by permission. For more, and to support the news organization, visit coloradonewsline.com.
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Chicken N Pickle opens its venue in Thornton June 24. COURTESY
Lessons to remember in times of struggle
Irst met Wendy when I was 14 years old, entering Holy Family High School as a ninth grader. Wendy’s outgoing personality, seemingly endless ability to nd joy in every situation, and her “but we won’t know for sure if we don’t try it” attitude made her very popular in our small class of 90-plus students.
roughout our high school years, Wendy demonstrated her compassion for others in many ways. She was always there to help when someone needed it. For me and my family, when my father was laid up following surgery to remove an eye that was lled with cancer, Wendy stepped in and helped me deliver the Rocky Mountain Newspapers that Dad and I would deliver each morning. at help would be amazing in itself; however, Wendy helped in the aftermath of a blizzard. We would get up at 4:30 a.m., go to the drop-o spot for the papers, fold them, and then try to navigate down the side streets in North Denver that were covered with 20 inches of snow. After completing the task, we would get ready for school, go to school all day, and prepare to do it again. For three days, this sel ess teenager helped my family as we navigated an incredibly di cult time.
After graduation, we went our separate ways. I headed to Colorado College; Wendy went to Creighton University in Nebraska. We saw each other on rare occasions. I saw her just a few days after the birth of her rst child, and we would catch up at reunions. However, aside from brief visits, we spoke to each other very little.
Each time I saw her, our conversation reinforced the idea that Wendy was still the person I knew in high school: energetic, enthusiastic, and caring. She became a triathlete, a teacher, and a mother to a gaggle of children. About thirteen years ago, she was running home after a workout, and her body failed her. She simply could not make it up the hill to her house. A few days
later, on Halloween night, Wendy was sitting in a chair and fell out of it for no apparent reason.
e next day at the doctor’s o ce, the reason became very apparent. She had brain cancer and was given two weeks to two months to live. A short time ago, a group of us from the Holy Family Class of 1984 gathered with Wendy at a restaurant in North Denver.
Con ned to a wheelchair, limited in her motion, and knowing that travelling from Omaha to Denver is becoming more challenging for her, we were all excited together and talk with this miracle.
As the nine of us reminisced, laughing and talking about our experiences in school and sharing about our lives since that time, I was utterly struck by the profound lessons I learned from this dear friend of 45 years in a short four-hour conversation.
e lessons learned that evening are great for all of us to consider, especially during times of struggle, and include:
• Just because someone has said it does not mean that it needs to be true.
— It is very clear that Wendy takes great pride in proving the experts wrong. 13 years is a lot longer than two months.
• We must not underestimate the incredible in uence that we have on other people.
— Wendy came back to Denver for the wedding of one of her nieces. Wendy is known in the family as the “favorite aunt,” not as the “aunt in the wheelchair” or the “aunt with brain cancer.” Wendy is the favorite because she is absolutely present in the moment, excited about life, and dedicated to the idea of making a di erence whenever she can.
• We have this moment, this opportunity, this chance to make a di erence. It is our responsibility to understand that and take advantage of it.
— Wendy has done that for 13 years. Our lives will be better if we live by that rule for even 13 minutes.
• Wisdom comes in increments. Wendy mentioned to us her seven Fs for surviving 13 years with brain cancer. ese seven things are pieces of wisdom she has gained as she has navigated her struggles. ey are hers to share, but it is my sincere hope that she will begin to write about those insights, allowing others to learn from her experience.
I will never forget this simple and wonderful evening. It was inspiring for all of us who could be there. e crazy part of the night lay in the fact that the insights were simply the product of a willingness to share and a determination to listen.
It is my sincere hope that as you navigate your struggle, you will seek both the opportunity to share insights and the chance to learn from others.
When you do those two simple things, the results will be transformative.
I hope my words encourage you and that you will share them with those who need support. ank you to everyone who has shared their stories with me so far; I truly appreciate hearing about the valuable ideas you nd in these columns and how you use them to uplift those around you. You can reach me at jim.roome@gmail.com.
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.
Don’t go it alone.
Exercise has value, even when mobility is limited
EWOMEN’S WELLNESS
xercise and stretching are crucial for women of all ages, especially as we age. roughout menopause, women naturally lose muscle mass along with a drop in estrogen levels. As we age, we can also lose some of our mobility, making traditional exercises a challenge. ere are a few different ways women can exercise, even if limited, to gain strength and better health. With even 30 minutes a week, there can be bene cial results. Strength Training. roughout menopause, women naturally lose muscle mass along with a drop in estrogen levels. Strength training slows the process of muscle loss during this phase of life. Lifting weights helps build the lost muscle, increase strength and improve balance and mobility. If you are new to strength training, consider going to a class to learn the proper techniques that will help you safely work out. Many of these exercises can be done in a sitting position.
Water Workouts. Swimming, water aerobics and water walking are very bene cial for women who have mobility issues. While you are in the water, your body weight is absorbed, meaning you can walk without the impact and pain on your joints. e added bonus is you get to enjoy the water and reap the bene ts of hydrating your skin.
Recumbent Bikes. Recumbent machines allow women to exercise from a relaxed position compared to other machines. is makes it easier to get on and
Jim Roome
Dr. Terry Dunn
Evergreen Mountain Art Celebration returns
There are few better ways to spend a summer day in Colorado than in the mountains, and if you can pair this with some wonderful cultural activities, how can you go wrong?
at’s what makes the Evergreen Mountain Art Celebration such a great event, and it’s even bigger and better in its eighth year. e event is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 28 and Sunday, June 29 at the Evergreen North Shopping Complex, 3719 Evergreen Parkway.
e juried ne art and ne craft show highlights 75 professional artists from Colorado and beyond. All of them use a range of mediums, including painting, jewelry, ceramics and more, to create works that honor mountain living and Western, Southwestern and rustic themes.
In addition to the art, visitors can enjoy live music. Colorado Roots Rock Unplugged, a duo that specializes in acoustic versions of classic rock, will be performing on Saturday and Link&Chain, a band of brothers performing reggae, will be on hand on Sunday. ere will also be a drawing for a $1,000 Art Festival Shopping Spree at noon on Sunday.
We interviewed Amber Calanni with Colorado Art Weekend about the event and what visitors should know.
Interview edited for brevity and clarity. What were you looking for in artists this year?
We want to feature art that ts into the “Mountain Modern” avor. “Mountain Modern” is a style that blends contemporary aesthetics with rustic, nature-inspired elements, but feels personal and connected to nature and elevated in presentation.
If someone has never attended the Celebration, what should they know?
COMING ATTRACTIONS
ey should know this festival is more than an art show, it’s a true celebration of Colorado mountain culture and “Mountain Modern” art. It’s free to attend, easy to access and full of authentic charm. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking to explore something new. Evergreen is a relaxed setting where you can enjoy art, meet the artists and connect with a creative community.
Why is it important to celebrate the arts at a time like this?
In a time when so much feels uncertain, the arts remind us of what grounds us; hope, beauty, self-expression and connection. Art gives us a chance to slow down, re ect and engage with something meaningful. is festival also gives families and individuals a reason to get outdoors, support artists and feel part of something positive and inspiring. What do you hope people come away with?
We want visitors to leave feeling uplifted, like they’ve spent their weekend immersed in something special. Whether it’s a new piece of art, a meaningful conversation with an artist, hearing a great musical performance or simply the peaceful experience of walking the festival grounds, we want guests to take away memories that last well beyond the weekend.
For more information, visit www.EvergreenArtShow.com.
Learn About the Life of a Colorado Hat Maker e Littleton Museum, 6028 S. Gallup
St., is looking at the history of a renowned hat maker in its new exhibit, Kate Ferretti: e Life of a Colorado Hat Maker. e exhibit opens on Friday, June 27, and focuses on Ferretti, a nationally recognized hat maker. She entered the workforce at 13 and went on to build a family business that spanned nearly ve decades. According to the provided information, “this exhibition explores sources from Ferretti’s family, as well as oral histories from the collections of the Littleton Museum and History Colorado, to help tell the full story of this fascinating local maker’s life.”
For more information, visit https://visitlittleton.org/event/kate-ferretti-exhibit/.
Big Belmar Bash Brings Party to Lakewood e City of Lakewood is celebrating Independence Day a little early, but with no less pomp and circumstance, with its Big Belmar Bash from 5 to 10 p.m. on ursday, July 3, at Downtown Belmar, 7337 W. Alaska Drive.
e evening will feature something for all ages, including live music and children’s activities. ere will also be a range of local vendors selling unique items and plenty of food and drink options.
Of course, the highlight of the night is a drone light show, which will begin
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at around 9:15 p.m. It will feature a eet “of 250 cutting-edge drones with stateof-the-art LED lights” illuminating the night and “MIX 100 will provide a curated soundtrack for the drone light show,” according to provided information. More information is available at www. Lakewood.org/BBB.
Clarke’s Concert of the Week — Elvis Costello & The Imposters at Bellco Theatre Elvis Costello is one of the greatest living songwriters we have and has been proving that repeatedly since his classic debut album was released in 1977. In the ensuing decades, he’s released several bulletproof records and worked with some absolutely amazing songwriters. In celebration of his stellar career, he’s bringing his band, e Imposters, and guitarist Charlie Sexton on the Radio Soul!: e Early Songs of Elvis Costello tour. e tour is coming to Bellco eatre, 1100 Stout St., at 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 29. e music of Costello’s early career is some of his best, so this will be a performance not to be missed. Get tickets at www.axs.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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• Email your letter to letters@coloradocommunitymedia.com. Do not send via postal mail. Put the words “letter to the editor” in the email subject line.
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Clarke Reader
KICK UP SOME DIRT AT THE COUNTY FAIRS AND RODEOS
BY HALEY LENA HLENA@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
Since their beginning, county fairs and rodeos have served as a place for members of the community to showcase their projects — animals, crafts, homegoods and culinary skills — celebrating agricultural and Western heritage. ey have included an element of fun, and today’s fairs and rodeos have evolved into a vibrant summertime event with live entertainment, music, carnival games and rides. And something they all have in common: mutton bustin’ and 4-H showcases.
Mutton bustin’ is a popular rodeo event in which children, typically between the ages of 4 and 7, ride sheep. e goal is to hold on as long as possible.
4-H stands for head, heart, hands and health. It is a national youth development program for children 5 through 18. Whether it’s agriculture, science, civic engagement or health, the program provides real-life experiences.
Arapahoe County
Date: July 24 to July 27
Location: Arapahoe County Fairgrounds at 25690 E. Quincy Ave. Aurora Website: arapahoecountyfair.com
First held in 1906, the Arapahoe County fair is one of the county’s longest-standing community traditions. ere’s plenty to explore with the mix of classic rodeo-style events and more modern activities, like silent discos and trampoline shows.
In addition to some new carnival rides, there will be a handful of shows and attractions available each day of the fair. ese include axe throwing, Canine Stars Stunt Dogs and the Perfection on Wheels BMX show. e Raptor Event Avian Show and Yucca Braiding take place July 25-27.
If some of the carnival rides are too intense for the younger children, the Kid’s Corral and Petting Farm will be open everyday as well.
Other performances include martial arts, a foot archery performer, Polynesian re dancers, e XO Dance Band,
hobby horse races, tractor pulls, the CPRA Rodeo and reworks. ere will also be a variety of contests, such as the livestock costume contest, knitting and crochet contests, jigsaw puzzle contests and the longest potato peel contests.
An admission ticket includes unlimited carnival rides, free parking, reworks, stage entertainment and access to all the shows and attractions. However, some attractions — such as Midway Arcade Games, the Pours on the Plains event and Boots Not Suits Fair Kick-O Dinner — require separate tickets.
Also, the tickets are only valid for one day. People will have to purchase a separate ticket if wanting to attend additional days.
Adams County
Date: July 30 to Aug. 3
Location: Riverdale Regional Park at 9755 Henderson Rd, Brighton
Website: adamscountyfair.com
e rst fair in Adams County was held in 1904, but it wasn’t called the Adams County Fair. e opening day was actually known as Tomato Day because two teams representing Democratic and Republican opponents faced one another and on command, threw tomatoes at the opposing team.
But, according to the county, the fair dates back even further: 1888. Back then, monthly market days featured horse-and-plow races, as well as cattle being auctioned o .
Today, much of that can still be experienced — minus the tomato throwing. is year’s fair will o er various 4-H livestock shows that include poultry, swine, sheep, rabbits, goats and other large animals. ere will also be racing pigs and amazing dog acts.
Friends and families will also have the chance to meet Paz the Sports Guy, sit down for a caricature, watch demolition derbies, play games and ride carnival rides.
As for music, the county has some big names coming to town. ey include Tyler Braden, Bayker Blankenship, Adrien Nunez and e Band Perry. en, on Aug. 3, Adams County is bringing back Dia de la Familia to celebrate community and culture, with performances by La Kumbre con K, Banda Arkangel, Charreada and more.
Admission to the fair is free. However, carnival wristbands range from $25 to $35 throughout the week.
Guests will also need a parking pass, which is $20. ose who pre-pay get $5
with a frisbee during a dog show at a previous year’s Arapahoe County Fair.
o . Get the pass at tinyurl.com/adamscounty-fair-parking.
ere will be a free shuttle to take guests from local schools to the fair.
Douglas County
Date: July 25 to Aug. 3
Location: Douglas County Fairgrounds at 500 Fairgrounds Drive, Castle Rock Website: douglascountyfairandrodeo. com
According to the Douglas County Library Archives, the county held a parade back in the 1950s as a way to promote the fair and encourage the community’s participation. It’s safe to say that plan worked — Douglas County now boasts a fair that is a 10-day event.
e carnival, fair, marketplace, kid’s corral, Discovery Ranch and the Kodiak Ranch petting zoo will be open everyday except for July 28-29. e times for these attractions vary by day.
Filled with homemade quilts, jams, jewelry, paintings and more, the marketplace — located inside the James R. Sullivan Events Center — is home to the creative arts, agriculture and oriculture exhibits, and the 4-H projects.
If you are interested in seeing animals, there will be some free animal shows including the Junior Division Dog Show, Farm Bureau Goat Roping, the Miniature Equine Show and swine and rabbit shows.
Other free events throughout the week include a parade on July 26 in downtown Castle Rock, a vintage car show, bake sale, fashion show, Captain Tall Tale and a pie eating contest.
A variety of free concerts will feature Jared Rogerson and the Rodeo Wreck, Kenya Reese, Ryan Chrys and the Rough Cuts, Wirewood Station, Je rey Alan Band and more.
And, to ensure accessibility to all, the fairgrounds has partnered with Developmental Pathways to host an accessible rodeo and fair experience called Unbridled Rodeo. e event, which will include roping, barrel racing and a mechanical bull, is designed for individuals with disabilities, lower mobility and/or with sensory sensitivity.
A child holds onto a sheep during the mutton bustin’ event at a previous year’s Arapahoe County Fair. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ARAPAHOE COUNTY
COUNTY FAIRS
Some events that require additional tickets are: Dustin Lynch concert; FarmTo-Table Brunch; ProRodeo Bares, Broncos & Bulls Roughstock at the Rock Rodeo; mutton bustin’; ProRodeo Patriot Night; ProRodeo Sponsoship Appreciation Night; and ProRodeo Cowboys for Cops. All rodeo ticket purchases include grounds admission. Grounds admission provides access to the marketplace, kid’s corral, food vendors, Midway stage entertainment, Hometown Rodeo and more special events.
Je erson County
Date: July 26 to Aug. 3
Location: 15200 W. 6th Ave., in Golden
Website: tinyurl.com/je erson-county4-H-fair.
Je erson County will be hosting a 4-H fair featuring some of the youths’ best work and projects.
e fair is free and open to the public and will take place in Exhibit Halls 1-3, the event center, silver spur arena, rodeo arena and horse stalls.
e Westernaires, a mounted precision drill organization, will also be performing from 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. on July 23 at the Je erson County Fairgrounds. Some of the Westernaires Red and White division horseback drill teams will bring an exciting and interactive performance. ere will also be activities for all ages, including a petting zoo, face painting and interactive learning opportunities.
While the performance is free to attend, it is encouraged to RSVP, which
can be found at westernaires.org/events.
Elbert County
Date: July 26 to Aug. 3
Location: 95 Ute Ave., Kiowa
Website: elbertcountyfair.com
While the Elbert County fair doesn’t feature a traditional carnival, in the sense of large and exciting rides, there is still much to enjoy for families and people of all ages.
e fair has a free Kiddie Corral area that includes small rides, bouncy houses and face painting. Additionally, the rst day will include a dog show, cattle show and end the night with reworks.
is year’s fair will also begin with a performance by e Walker Williams Band. Other music performances throughout the week will include High Plains Fiddle Fest, WMW Band and BlackHawk.
Although the fair became an o cial annual event in 1904, it was in 1934 that the fair moved to Kiowa and became recognized to focus on 4-H events, which continues to be a main focus. roughout the week, the youngest generation of animal enthusiasts will be showcasing their livestock, featuring dogs, hogs, horses, goats, rabbits, lambs, poultry, beef and dairy animals.
In addition to the team roping events and parade, one of the most exciting events will be the Young Gun Rodeo on July 26. is involves mini bronc, mini bulls, youth barrel racing and mutton busting.
While parking and admission to the fair is free, there are a few events that require the purchase of a ticket. ese include the 4-H Fashion Revue Showcase, mutton bustin’ and the BlackHawk concert.
The Douglas County Fair and Rodeo includes opportunities to view the Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association in action. COURTESY OF DOUGLAS COUNTY
Families can play a variety of carnival games at the Douglas County Fairgrounds and win small prizes. COURTESY OF DOUGLAS COUNTY
A young girl stands with a horse at a previous year’s Elbert County Fair. COURTESY OF ELBERT COUNTY
The Elbert County Fair marketplace includes a selection of homemade goods. COURTESY OF ELBERT COUNTY
Cyclist cruises by on coast-to-coast journey
Teddy Bloom rides for free speech, rights
BY ALEX K.W. SCHULTZ
SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA
In a time when the country is so divided and many feel the democratic way of life is being threatened in one way or another, 37-year-old Teddy Bloom is going for a bike ride.
But not just any bike ride. He’s dubbed it the Ride4Rights, a California-to-Washington, D.C., expedition to raise awareness of and support for four issues he says are vital to the American way of life: freedom of speech, justice, education and unity.
e Santa Fe, New Mexico, native started at the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco on April 20 and arrived in Denver on June 7. He plans to reach his nal destination, the Washington Monument, on Aug. 14.
He will have covered roughly 3,000 miles on his Kona Libre gravel bike and made 100 or so stops by the time it’s all said and done. is isn’t a left or right issue, the New Mexico Department of Transportation employee said. It’s simply for “people who like living in America and being in a democracy.”
“I do have more left supporters because they’re more against what the current administration is doing, but I do have a fair number of conservative supporters who like the conservative ideas of small government and states’ rights and whatnot,” Bloom said.
On freedom of speech and justice, Bloom said, “You need free speech to really be
able to assess the needs of the people in the country, to know the problems around the country, or what people need for their jobs and work. at’s how lawmakers can make good decisions. Justice, everybody should have due process. at way it’s as fair as possible.”
Bloom said he picked education as one of his riding themes because he believes it’s important for people to understand why certain federal agencies exist and what exactly those workers do.
Lastly, speaking about unity, he said, “It’s the idea that you shouldn’t be doing something just to screw over other people. When you’re trying to make a law or implement a process or something, it should be either because it’s to your bene t or the bene t of other people. In looking at the internet at least, people seem to have lost some interest in that.”
To amplify his work, Bloom created a website, posts regularly on several social media platforms and shares a daily vlog on YouTube.
When he enters a city or town, he also encourages others to ride along with him, if only for a few miles.
And while he’s run into some obstacles along the way — a tweaked hamstring early on, sloppy dirt roads, a hailstorm in Limon — he doesn’t plan on stopping until he reaches the marble obelisk in the nation’s capital.
“I wanted to do something a lot of people could get behind,” Bloom said. “ ese are very basic things for a democracy to function.”
Follow Bloom’s journey at ride4rights. com.
o the equipment. It is an excellent way to incorporate aerobic activity, which is important for heart health. is allows you to move your legs without putting the impact on your joints or risking a fall. Pilates and Yoga. Pilates and yoga help strengthen di erent muscles while also improving balance. e various movements help to improve your range
of motion. Often women do not move their joints as much as they should, which makes this an easier way to get moving. Chair yoga is another option for women with limited mobility because it focuses on slow and controlled movements with an emphasis on relaxation. Yet, the bene ts can be amazing because the stronger you get through these exercises, the less you can feel the need to use the chair.
Stretching. Stretching is one of the best practices for women that is often overlooked. When incorporated into a
daily routine, it can help improve exibility, reduce pain and improve sleep. e best thing about stretching is it can be done anywhere at any time of the day. Try a few stretches in your bed as you wake up or in the evening to wind down your day. Stretching can also be a perfect work break. It will loosen up your body and refresh your focus.
All of these exercises are good for physical health and mental health. Exercise releases endorphins, which improves your mood, memory and selfesteem while also reducing the feeling
of anxiety and depression. Carving out time in your daily routine to do these exercises can improve your quality of life as well. So don’t let limited mobility be an obstacle, there are lots of ways to gain strength, exibility and better health with a few minutes of exercise each week.
is guest column was written by Dr. Terry Dunn, the owner of Foothills Urogynecology, a Denver-based practice specializing in women’s health. To learn more, visit www.urogyns.com.
Santa Fe cyclist Teddy Bloom poses for a photo with his bicycle. Bloom is biking across America to raise awareness of and support for four issues he says are vital to the American way of life: freedom of speech, justice, education and unity.
COURTESY PHOTOS
Investigating the destruction of a sculpture
Police, private investigator part of a group looking into the failure of a giant Thornton sculpture
e destruction of a 30-foot-tall sculpture in north ornton remains a mystery.
Called “RAE,” the sculpture was erected in 2024 at the East 136th median as part of the city’s public arts program. But the colorful piece was heavily damaged overnight in March 2024 and its pieces were strewn along
the median, which is only a few yards from I-25.
City o cials said that it appeared at rst that the wind had taken the piece apart.
But this week, the city council was told that the cause of the sculpture’s “failure” during its warranty period is being investigated by ornton Police and a private investigator hired by the artist, Volkan Alkanoglu.
Also on the case is a licensed professional engineer and the sculpture’s fabricator.
e city should have the results of the probe this month, which will determine which party’s insurance will reimburse the city for the cost of the sculpture, said Erica Schmitt, the city’s public arts coordinator. e funds would be used for future projects,
Schmitt told the council.
e remaining metal footings and cement pads for “RAE” will be removed as ornton plans to put in a new city sign and xeriscaping landscaping for the median, she said. e sculpture, she added, will not be reinstalled.
According to the sculpture designer’s description, the name is an acronym for Robotic Art Experience:
“Standing proudly in the heart of ornton, Colorado, the towering sculpture named R.A.E. – the Robotic Art Experience – mesmerizes onlookers with its dynamic form and futuristic allure,” the description reads.
“Stretching an impressive 30 feet into the sky, this innovative sculpture symbolizes the city’s forward-thinking spirit and technological innovation.”
Thornton, Westminster lead state in seat belt citations
BY MONTE WHALEY MONTE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM
e ornton Police Department was one of the state’s leaders in giving out seat belt citations from May 12 to June 1, followed closely by the Westminster Police Department during those three weeks.
ornton and Westminster were among 60 law enforcement agencies along with the Colorado State Patrol that increased patrols and focused on issuing citations to unbuckled drivers over those 90 days. It was part of a state-wide e ort to emphasize Colorado’s new seat belt and car seat laws, according to the Colorado Department of Transportation.
According to preliminary data, 2,428 citations were written during the en-
forcement period across the state, which is part of the national Click It or Ticket campaign led by the National Highway Tra c Administration (NHTSA), according to a CDOT news release.
e Colorado agencies with the highest number of seat belt citations during the enforcement were ornton Police Department (99 citations), Westminster Police Department (89 citations), Larimer County (259 citations) and Loveland (367 citations).
In addition, Colorado State Patrol issued 1,023 citations, the news release states.
e 2,428 total citations given marked a 36% increase from the same Click It or Ticket enforcement period last year. Additionally, 206 drivers received a citation for having an improperly restrained child
in their vehicle under the age of 18, a 178% increase from the 74 citations given in 2024, the news release states.
Colonel Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol, said in the news release that fatalities in Colorado are down in nearly every tra c category compared to this time in 2020, including for unbuckled fatalities. Still, the state is aiming for zero tra c fatalities caused by drivers and passengers not wearing seat belts, Packard said.
Updates to Colorado’s child passenger safety law took e ect Jan. 1, 2025, raising the age requirement for seat belt use from under 16 years of age to under 18 years of age, according to the news release. e updated law also now requires children to use a car seat or booster seat until their 9th birthday when riding in a
passenger vehicle, and children under the age of 2 and below 40 pounds are required to sit in a rear-facing car seat. Parents and caregivers are responsible for ensuring proper restraint and will be ticketed if they fail to do so, the CSP states. More information about these laws can be found on the Colorado Child Passenger Safety Law webpage. O cials say that as temperatures rise, more people travel in their vehicles, increasing the risk of fatalities.
“Historically, tra c fatalities rise during the summer months as weather improves, and the days get longer. at’s why it’s important to wear your seat belt during all car trips,” said CDOT’s O ce of Transportation Safety Director Darrell Lingk in the news release . “Seat belts can protect your life during any type of crash.”
FINAL SETTLEMENT
Project Title: Painted Prairie E. 64th Ave & Dunkirk Improvements
Project Owners: Painted Prairie Public Improvement Authority
Project Location: City of Aurora, Adams County
The Painted Prairie Public Improvement Authority plans to accept the above titled project as substantially complete and for Final Settlement to WT Excavating, LLC after July 10, 2025. In accordance with the Contract Documents, the Painted Prairie Public Improvement Authority may withhold a portion of the remaining payment to be made to WT Excavating, LLC . as necessary, to protect the Painted Prairie
Public Improvement Authority from loss on account of claims filed and failure of WT Excavating, LLC. to make payments properly to subcontractors or suppliers.
Project suppliers and subcontractors of Hall Contracting, LLC. are hereby notified that unresolved outstanding claims must be certified and forwarded to:
Contact Person:Barney Fix, P.E.
Address: 8051 E. Maplewood Ave Suite 300 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 as soon as possible, but no later than July 3, 2025.
non-consecutive publications
Legal Notice No. CCX1755
First Publication: June 12, 2025
Last Publication: June 26, 2025
Publisher: Commerce City Sentinel Express
Estate of Jack E Waterman A/K/A Jack Waterman, A/K/A Jackie E
All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the Personal Representative or to the District Court of Adams County, Colorado on or before October 13, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred. Shelley S McMillan
By: Deputy Clerk
Probe continues into the collapse of RAE in north Thornton. FILE PHOTO
