Elbert County News 0423

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April 23, 2020

ELBERT COUNTY, COLORADO

A publication of

County commissioner candidates emerge

Elbert County commissioner Chris Richardson, pictured here with Ron Turner, will be seeking a second term in office this November.

COURTESY OF ELBERT COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY

Elbert County Commissioner Grant Thayer will be seeking a second term in office this November.

COURTESY OF ELBERT COUNTY REPUBLICAN PARTY

Thayer, Richardson run for second terms

BY TABATHA STEWART SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Elbert County Republicans showed their support for incumbent County Commissioners Grant Thayer and Chris Richardson at their March 28 county assembly, as both were nominated by the party to run for a second term this November. The assembly was held electronically via WEBEX, with more than 140 Republican participants.

Thayer and Richardson spoke with the Elbert County News about their backgrounds and hopes for second terms.

Grant Thayer, Elbert County Commissioner District 3 Occupation I have a very eclectic background. I started out as a laborer in the oil patch, then went on and got an engineering degree. I rose up in the ranks from the position of a field hand, and worked my way up to become a chief operating officer for a public oil company, then chief executive officer for two companies owned from Wall Street companies. I have bought and sold ranch properties in Elbert County, and ran a purebred breeding operation for cattle

Kathleen Conway, a Democrat, is seeking the Elbert County Commissioner District 3 seat.

COURTESY PHOTO

Democrat seeks District 3 commissioner post

for 30 years.

Contact information I can be reached through the county email at grant.thayer@elbertcounty-co.gov or via phone at 303-621-3114.

Why are you seeking to remain in this office?

I’ve had a good career, a good life, I’ve been married for 49 years. I’ve served on the planning commission and the library board, and spent most of my life over the years serving citizens of this county in one way or another. It’s just something that I like to be part of. I am proud of many accomplishments we’ve achieved, but the job is not complete.

What makes you the best person for the job?

In one word — dedication.

I am proud of my contributions to Elbert County government over the last three-plus years. Many of my accomplishments are the result of serving with fellow commissioners Chris Richardson, Rick Pettitt and Danny Wilcox. We have served together and have accomplished better county government together.

Kathleen Conway, who lives north of Elizabeth, is a Democrat seeking the Elbert County Commissioner District 3 seat, now held by incumbent Republican candidate Grant Thayer. Conway shared her reasons for running and plans for the office with the Elbert County News.

Occupation I am retired after working in mortgage banking with Security Pacific Mortgage and First National Bank of Denver. I was also the chief deputy clerk and recorder of Douglas County for 10 years.

SEE REPUBLICANS, P10

SEE DEMOCRAT, P10

PERIODICAL

DID YOU KNOW INSIDE

BY TABATHA STEWART SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Colorado is experiencing a record number of unemployment claims.

For more, turn to page 2.

VOICES: PAGE 8 | LIFE: PAGE 11

ElbertCountyNews.net

VOLUME 125 | ISSUE 12

2 Elbert County News

April 23, 2020A

Unemployment claims break Great Recession record Federal law will make gig workers eligible for benefits

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

HELP AVAILABLE FOR FAMILIES IN NEED Colorado families who have encountered economic hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for assistance.

Families can apply for the Colorado Works County Emergency Disaster Program through Colorado PEAK, an online service that allows qualified Coloradans to screen and apply for medical, food, cash and early childhood assistance.

Go to coloradopeak.secure.force.com for more information or to apply.

Among the requirements are that a family’s annual combined gross income must be below $75,000 and the household must contain at least one child 18 or younger.

During the fallout from the Great Recession, the week with the highest number of claims for unemployment assistance filed was the clocked in at just 2,321. week ending Jan. 9, 2010, with 7,749 For the week ending March 28, claims.

61,583 initial unemployment claims came in. The following week, 46,065 This year, the week ending March initial unemployment claims were 21 — when Colorado closed dine-in restaurant and bar service, and hair filed. In the week ending April 11, the department counted 104,217 iniand nail salons, spas, and tattoo and tial unemployment claims filed. massage parlors — shattered that Those four weeks represent the record. month-long period with the most Then, the next three weeks saw unemployment claims filed in Colothe numbers increase fivefold. rado on record, according to Cher Colorado’s economic upheaval Haavind, deputy executive director during the COVID-19 pandemic has of the state Labor Department. disrupted hundreds of thousands of In the coming weeks, Colorado lives, reflected in no more concrete may see the most unemployment terms than the number of Colorabenefits paid by dollar amount on dans applying for unemployment record, possibly topping the record benefits: those who have been laid from the Great Recession, which off, had work hours reduced or have lasted 18 months from December been furloughed, meaning tempo2007 to June 2009 and created ripple rarily laid off. effects of job losses lasting long afThe week ending March 21 saw terward. A direct comparison is dif19,745 new unemployment claims ficult because Great Recession data filed, according to a Colorado is monthly, said Ryan Gedney, senior Department of Labor and Employeconomist for the department. ment news release. That set a new Olde Towne 1065 N Ford.pdf 1 4/16/20 “That 12:18 said, PM we paid out roughly state record, far outpacing the Great $103 million in regular (unemployRecession numbers. The week prior

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ment) benefits May 2009 — the highest monthly total on record.

From week ending March 21 to week ending April 11, we paid out $109 million in regular (unemployment) benefits,” Gedney said.

Colorado’s unemployment rate increased from 2.5% in February to 4.5% in March, according to a news release from the department. That’s Colorado’s highest unemployment rate since August 2015, according to the release.

The unemployment rate is measured based on the week that includes the 12th of the month — March 8 to March 14 — so the change in unemployment rate reflects the impact on Colorado’s employment during the first stages of the COVID-19 outbreak in the state, but before Colorado ordered certain businesses to close during the week ending March 21.

Working on wait times The state Labor Department experienced unprecedented traffic from those looking to file claims, and department officials in April were in conversations to outsource some call activity — as other states have done — to help take pressure off the regular call center, Haavind said.

The system “was handling 2,000 claims a week — now we’re at, in some weeks, 60,000. The sheer volume of calls to the call center is just unmanageable,” Haavind told reporters April 16.

Haavind also warned the public about fraud: She’s heard reports of people going door-to-door misrepresenting themselves or calling and asking for bank routing information and saying it regards unemployment benefits, for example.

“Just to remind folks, you should never be asked for personal identifying information” in those ways, Haavind said.

Data across industries The five industries with highest number of claims for the week ending March 28 were: • Accommodation and food services: 21,124 claims; • Health care and social service: 9,717; • Retail: 7,400; • Other services, such as nail and beauty salons and barbers: 5,914; • Arts, entertainment and recreation: 4,080.

“Now, you may be asking why health care and social assistance claims are in that top five list,” the department said in a “talking points” sheet for a call with report-

HOW IS COVID-19 AFFECTING YOU?

Let us know how the COVID-19 pandemic is having an impact on you, the challenges you have encountered or acts of kindness you have experienced. To share your story, send us an email at: newsdesk@colorado communitymedia.com ers. “The primary driver in the increase in those claims is from offices of dentists. Offices of physicians, other health practitioners — like chiropractors and optometrists — and child day care services are also seeing substantial increases in claims.”

Gig workers, others now eligible Those who work part-time or temporary positions as gig workers — such as driving for Lyft — are also eligible for unemployment benefits in light of the recently passed federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. On April 17, the state announced that people who have lost gig work and similar previously ineligible positions will be able to apply for benefits starting April 20.

The legislation makes “pandemic unemployment assistance” available for up to 39 weeks to those not ordinarily eligible, according to the state Labor Department. That includes gig workers, the self-employed, contract employees, those who cannot work from home during a shelter order and those who have exhausted regular unemployment benefits. It also includes workers directly impacted by COVID-19, such as those who need to care for a child whose school is closed or a dependent who tested positive for the illness.

“When you add on the newly eligible workers under the CARES Act, we could easily see more than $200 million per month” paid in unemployment benefits in Colorado, Haavind said.

The state Unemployment Insurance Division has to reprogram its systems to provide the new benefits, the state Labor Department said in a news release. All eligible workers will receive these benefits backdated and will not lose out on any amount to which they are entitled, the release added.

Additional weekly $600 available Also new under the CARES Act is the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program, providing an extra $600 per week to any individual eligible for any unemployment compensation program.

The state said that provision also will become effective April 20.

Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation provides an additional 13 weeks of benefits beyond the standard maximum of 26 weeks for regular unemployment benefits.

To apply for unemployment assistance, visit www.colorado.gov/ pacific/cdle/file-claim.

Elbert County News 3

April 23, 2020

Commissioners await state action on virus restrictions County hopes for guidance on scaling back orders meant to protect public

BY TABATHA STEWART SPECIAL TO COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

How will Elbert County residents and business owners get back to normal once Colorado’s state-mandated stay-at-home order is lifted?

And what will that new normal look like?

According to Elbert County Commissioner Chris Richardson, the answer to those questions remain to be seen, and will depend largely on what Gov. Jared Polis and his office recommend.

“What we’re watching now is what the state will do,” said Richardson.

“It could be extended statewide to high-population counties, or he (Polis) could conceivably say they’re just turning this over to county-level decisions. There’s an assumption at this point that there will be some guidance from the state on opening businesses.”

Richardson expressed frustration with the way Polis’ office handled the announcement of the initial stay-at-home order connected to the COVID-19 pandemic, citing miscommunication that left Elbert County

officials scrambling at the last minute to prepare the county for the order.

“There was some length of time between when he issued the order, we were notified of the order, and when the actual documentation was made available,” said Richardson.

“That left us, late in the evening, trying to reach out to our employees and deciding how to adhere to the guidelines swiftly.”

Richardson said he hopes the governor’s office will share information and their intentions sooner rather than later.

“The order expires on the 26th, and it would be an incredible disservice if we don’t have some indication by the 20th,” said Richardson.

If the order expires and the county hasn’t received any guidance from the governor’s office, Richardson said they will encourage people to continue the safety practices they’ve been using, specifically physical distancing and limiting contact with others unless necessary.

Commissioners are working with the Elbert County Public Health and Environment department to determine the best way to start opening local businesses, and that could include allowing bars and restaurants to open in a limited capacity.

“Restaurants could, say, open half of their dining rooms, distancing

tables and diners, sanitizing after each customer, and encouraging shopkeepers to maintain a safe environment,” said Richardson.

Dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak, and planning on the county level has been a challenge, according to Richardson, largely due to lack of accurate information regarding citizens who have been diagnosed, tested or exposed to the coronavirus.

“It’s been pretty frustrating on the county level because of lack of good information regarding our own citizens,” said Richardson. “We know when somebody tests positive, but there’s no visibility of who may have been in contact with a doctor for symptoms. There’s little information on people who are not symptomatic, or on those with symptoms who are self-quarantining. We assume we would be notified of any death of county citizens who were hospitalized outside the county.”

According to state figures through April 15, Elbert County had been home to 17 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with one reported death.

The confirmed cases have been concentrated in two zip codes — 80107, which is the greater Elizabeth area, and 80138, primarily a Parker zip code which includes residents of northwestern Elbert County.

While county officials are taking a “wait and see” approach, Richard-

son had some words of advice for residents.

“If you think it’s good for you, keep doing it. It’s not the government’s role to tell you what to do, so maintain what you feel is working,” said Richardson. “Our citizens always react well in crisis situation.

They take care of each other.”

Grace Erickson, assistant town administrator for Elizabeth, said the town will be looking to the governor’s office and Elbert County for guidance on how to re-open businesses after the order is lifted.

“The governor’s office hasn’t yet released how the stay-at-home order will be lifted, but we expect it will be a phased approach,” said Erickson. “We do know that social distancing will still be in place, and we’re keeping in close contact with Elbert County’s health department, who will be providing guidance on phasing back in-person activities once that’s allowed on a state level.”

Both Elbert County and the Town of Elizabeth have instituted virtual public meetings, allowing residents to watch meetings live, as well as email questions for officials to address. Elbert County meetings can be viewed on Youtube at www. youtube.com/channel/UCupNTEqqkrX5y0KVe8J_DQw, and Elizabeth meetings can be accessed through the town’s calendar function at townofelizabeth.org.

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4 Elbert County News

April 23, 2020A

#ACCSTRONG

Letter to the Community From ACC Dear ACC Community Partners, At this time of unprecedented challenges, we want you to know that ACC stands with you in the fight against this current global pandemic, COVID-19. ACC has had the honor to be your community college partner for over 50 years. We take our role in our communities seriously, and we are very proud of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni who are making a difference in addressing these COVID-19 challenges.

ACC has had the privilege to train many of the nurses, EMTs, police officers, early childhood professionals, medical assistants, lab technicians, and mortuary personnel that are on the front lines of this battle. Their heroism simply has been remarkable. While we have temporarily closed our campus facilities and moved to remote instruction in an effort to play our role in social distancing, the college is still open in every sense of the word to serve you. If you have been laid off and/or seeking a career change, we are here for you. We partner with major sectors such as health care, technology, finance, the arts, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing so we can keep top talent flowing into our workforce in careers with sustainable wages.

Our ACC Foundation and workforce programs are here to partner with your organizations and businesses who seek to collaborate to build innovative workforce solutions, such as apprenticeships, scholarship funding, and financial support for program innovation. We seek to graduate well-prepared students from our high quality programs at the most affordable cost in Colorado, and we can’t do it without the financial support of our partners.

Thank you again for standing with ACC for over 50 years. We are here to support our communities and work together towards a stronger tomorrow.

Sincerely, Diana M. Doyle, Ph.D. President, Arapahoe Community College

For information on how to enroll or learn more about ACC programs: ACC Admissions Office 303.797.5637 or email admissions@arapahoe.edu

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For information on workforce and community partnerships: Eric Dunker, Associate Vice President and Dean of Business, Technology, and Workforce Partnerships 303.797.5859 or eric.dunker@araphaoe.edu

For information on volunteer, sponsorship or investment opportunities: Courtney Loehfelm, Executive Director, ACC Foundation 720.440.4666 or courtney.loehfelm@ arapahoe.edu

Elbert County News 5

April 23, 2020

COVID-19 rates disproportionately higher among blacks, Hispanics, Pacific Islanders Blacks are 3.9% of state population but make up 7% of cases with race reported, Colorado data shows

POLIS ON DISPARITY Gov. Jared Polis commented on the racial differences in COVID-19 cases at an April 13 news conference, saying that asthma and diabetes — and diet — disproportionately are problems for racial minorities and could be relevant to the disparity.

Asked what his administration is doing about the disparity, Polis said, “We care about everybody” and that people live in integrated communities.

“You can’t say we’re … stopping it for Hispanics and not for white people or for blacks and not for Hispanics,” Polis said. “The reason to stay at home is for everybody; that drives down infection rates across the board.”

“The things I’ve heard is that it’s likely a proxy for socioeconomic issues — which, obviously, there’s no short-term solution for that. It’s part of a broader problem that our country has with regard to extreme income disparities,” Polis said.

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Out of more than 5,000 COVID-19 cases with race and ethnicity data reported in Colorado, the black, Hispanic and native Hawaiian-Pacific Islander populations show statistically higher rates of the disease than others, according to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

While black or African American residents are 3.9% of the state population, they make up 7% of its cases, according to an April 13 news release.

That disparity between percentage of population and percentage of cases far outpaces all other race categories, aside from native Hawaiians-Pacific Islanders, who represent 0.6% of Colorado’s cases but make up just 0.1% of its population, according to the release.

The race and ethnicity data repre-

sent 67% of all reported COVID-19 cases in Colorado as of April 13.

Cases with an unknown race or ethnicity were excluded from the calculations.

Initial disease reports to public health departments often are missing information on race and ethnicity,

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6 Elbert County News

April 23, 2020A

RATES FROM PAGE 5

according to the state health department, which is drafting a public health order to clarify the type of data the department needs from health care entities.

COVID-19 Community Response Assistance is as close as your phone or computer. We understand that this is a difficult time for many in our community. Douglas County is ready to help you find support. Call 303.688.4825 for information about human services countywide including: *Food, shelter and childcare emergency assistance *Aging, employment and disability resources *Physical and mental healthcare The call center is staffed 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., Monday through Friday to answer your questions and provide assistance. Call to speak with department staff or visit DouglasCOVID19.com

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month What would you do if you suspected child abuse or neglect? Call 303.663.6270 or 1.844.4CO.KIDS. Visit douglas.co.us and search Child Welfare to know the signs of child abuse and neglect and what to do if you believe a child is at risk.

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What’s happening with your County government?

Our commitment to open and transparent government includes online posting of information about all public meetings at which the business of government is conducted. To view agendas for various public meetings and participate remotely visit douglas.co.us and search for Meetings and Agendas.

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Explaining the disparity “Colorado has racial disparities in certain chronic diseases due to unequal access to health care and economic opportunities occurring over many generations,” the state health department said in the release.

Because studies have shown people with underlying health conditions are more likely to die of the virus, tracking racial and ethnic data is a high priority for the department, it continued.

“We know that social and health care inequities affect outcomes, and that becomes even more apparent in times of disaster,” Jill Hunsaker-Ryan, executive director of the department, said in the release. “There have been generations of institutionalized barriers to things like preventive medical care, healthy food, safe and stable housing, quality education, reliable transportation and clean air. Research shows that these types of factors are the most predictive of health outcomes.

“There is much to be learned from this disaster, and the uneven effects of COVID-19 on different communities will perhaps be one of the most profound lessons,” Hunsaker-Ryan continued.

As of April 13, Colorado’s tally of COVID-19 cases reached nearly 7,700 across 56 counties, with nearly 1,500 hospitalized, about 38,700 people tested and 308 deaths. There have been 72 outbreaks at residential and non-hospital health care facilities.

Starting April 14, the state health department was to add race and ethnicity data to its daily update of COVID data AT covid19.colorado. gov.

Cases broken down by race White and Asian Coloradans, and those of multiple races, showed statistically lower rates of COVID-19, according to the data. American Indian and Alaskan natives’ rates were not statistically different from their percentage of the state population.

The 5,188 cases with race and ethnicity data reported show the following counts: • White: 3,064 cases, 59.1 of total • Hispanic: 1,458 cases, 28.1% • Black: 363 cases, 7% • Asian: 116 cases, 2.2% • Multiple races: 96 cases, 1.9% • Other: 38 cases, 0.7% • Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander: 29 cases, 0.6% • American Indian or Alaskan natives: 24 cases, 0.5% As a percentage of the Colorado population in general, whites make

ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE IF YOU HAVE COVID-19 SYMPTOMS

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, first call a health care provider, clinic or hospital.

The provider will give instructions on where to go to for care and testing.

If instructed to seek care, follow the precautionary advice of the medical provider before going into any health facility, the state advises.

Certain people are at higher risk of getting very sick from COVID-19, including older adults, especially those over 80; and those with chronic medical conditions such as heart, lung or kidney disease. Older adults who have chronic medical conditions are at the highest risk.

Illness can be severe and require hospitalization, but most individuals recover by resting, drinking plenty of liquids, and taking pain- and fever-reducing medications, according to the state.

Other advice from public health officials: • Stay home if you are sick.

• Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces such as desks, phones, doorknobs and rails.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. up 67.8%, Hispanics 21.7%, blacks 3.9%, Asians 3.1%, American Indian or Alaskan natives 0.6%, and native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders 0.1%, according to 2018 U.S. Census Bureau data cited in the news release.

Those of multiple races make up 2.7%. Population data do not include the “other” category.

Deaths broken down by race The data also included deaths by race and ethnicity, showing that blacks were similarly overrepresented in the death count, making up 6.8%, or 17 deaths. Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders were overrepresented with 1.6%, or four deaths.

American Indians and native Alaskans were also overrepresented. White Coloradans were slightly overrepresented as well.

Hispanics were underrepresented, as were Asians and those of multiple races.

The data included race and ethnicity data for 249 deaths, representing 81% of all reported COVID-19 deaths in Colorado as of April 13.

The deaths among cases reported with race and ethnicity show the following counts: • White: 172 deaths, 69.1% of total • Hispanic: 44 deaths, 17.7% • Black: 17 deaths, 6.8% • Asian: seven deaths, 2.8% • Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander: four deaths, 1.6% • Multiple races: three deaths, 1.2% • American Indian or Alaskan natives: two deaths, 0.8% No deaths were listed under the “other” category.

Elbert County News 7

April 23, 2020

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8 Elbert County News

O

LOCAL

VOICES

There’s a message in a bottle, and it’s mixed

n a Monday in March, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock briefly panicked the city by declaring liquor stores to be non-essential businesses. He declared they would have to close and remain closed until further notice, starting the next QUIET day.

Maybe you know DESPERATION what happened next.

For the rest of that Monday lines were out the door at liquor stores around town.

Twenty-five years ago, I would have needed a U-Haul.

Then that evening, Hancock changed his Craig Marshall mind.

I thought about Smith those of us who drink and drink a lot. As well as about the ones who might be triggered to relapse during a quarantine.

Have current events affected alcohol sales? Just a little.

R

April 23, 2020A

The Washington Post reported, “The extreme worry and isolation sparked by the coronavirus pandemic is likely leading many people to increase their consumption of beer, wine and hard alcohol, experts say. A recent survey by the market firm Nielsen reported offpremises sales of alcoholic beverages across the United States have grown 55% in the week ending March 21.”

Twenty-five years ago, I wouldn’t know what day it is right now. Alcohol — specifically vodka — was my best friend. Until it wasn’t.

I’m not out of the woods: no one in recovery is. But there have been no temptations or cravings during this wild ride through the pandemic.

As for others? I don’t know, but I’m guessing it’s been too much for some of us. If true, my thoughts are with you.

There’s no glamour in being an alcoholic, but there have been some glamorous alcoholics.

Lord Byron, John Barrymore, W.C. Fields, Ben Affleck, Dana Andrews, Oksana Baiul, George Best, Hum-

phrey Bogart, Charles Bukowski, Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, William Holden.

Holden, 63, was found dead in his Santa Monica apartment, apparently after falling during a binge and hitting his head. He was found two or three days after the incident.

There is a misconception that J.D. Salinger saw Holden’s name on a marquee for the 1947 film “Dear Ruth” next to the last name of his co-star, Joan Caulfield, and that’s where the main character in “The Catcher in the Rye” came from. However, Salinger had written a short story in 1941 about an alienated teen named Holden Caulfield.

I am not entirely sure why I have not relapsed. After all, the conditions are perfect for what I am: an isolation drinker.

Isolation drinkers drink at home, alone. That’s me.

It’s a seemingly perfect way to wallow in the disease (if that’s what it is).

Until when? Until an isolation drinker runs out of alcohol and then it’s the worst.

I walked for miles to get a bottle.

Each step was necessary and each step was humiliating. Necessity won every time.

If this were a meeting I’d tell my story. It’s not unusual: lots of help, therapy, research, meetings, help, therapy, determination, meetings and luck.

Luck? I’m lucky to be alive. I’ve thought about it and I think about it every time I read about someone like Amy Winehouse.

Like her or not, that girl could sing.

If I had checked out 25 years ago, I wouldn’t be sitting here doing something I love, writing, with someone I love nearby.

I’m not about to tell anyone to quit drinking, especially right now. The illusion of alcohol’s benefits might be too great. I just hope anyone who has relapsed makes it to the other side of this alive.

Craig Marshall Smith is an artist, educator and Highlands Ranch resident.

He can be reached at craigmarshallsmith@comcast.net.

Building winning relationships at home and at work

elationships at home are being strengthened during our time of quarantine and isolation as we get reacquainted with our family. Relationships are also being tested as we know that old saying, “Familiarity breeds contempt.” Relationships at work are also being strengthened as people are WINNING stepping up their WORDS virtual communication game and figuring out how to work productively and positively while working from home.

Yet some relationships at work are suffering as the remote working scenarios are not work- Michael Norton ing out as planned.

If you have figured out how to deepen your relationships at home and at work, I encourage you to stay on your path, and maybe share with others some of your secrets. In this brief column, I hope to share a few insights when it comes to building winning relationships at home and at

work. You will recognize that some of the things that help create a winning relationship from home and at work are really the same things.

When I hear of relationships that are struggling, whether it be at home or at work, one of the most common topics that comes out is a lack of communication. Are we over-communicating? Are we under-communicating?

Have we gone totally silent and counting on grunts and groans to send our message? And when we are communicating, are we making sure that we are truly listening? Are we listening with the same passion that we want to be heard? Are we talking with our family and our remote associates? Or are we talking at our family and remote associates?

My guidance has always been to look for the good when communicating. Too often we are looking for an opening to provide an answer or some kind of comeback. When we look for the good, we will find the good. When we listen to understand, we will earn trust. When we communicate in a way that allows our family, friends, and associates to be heard, we start building winning relationships. Communica-

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any feelings of anger or blame about this virus and the economy with the feelings of love, kindness, respect, gratitude, forgiveness, and hope. Borrowing from the Bible and 1st Corinthians 13:13, “And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.”

When we take the time to really communicate, find ways to show our gratitude and appreciation, and learn to love on our families, friends, loved ones, coworkers, customers, and partners, we will have an awesome foundation for building winning relationships at home and at work.

So how about you? My hope is that all the relationships in your life are strong and happy. If you could use a little help with communication, showing gratitude, or living in the spirit of love, I would love to hear from you at mnorton@tramazing.com. And when we learn how to build winning relationships at home and at work, it really will be a better than good week.

Michael Norton is the grateful CEO of Tramazing.com, a personal and professional coach, and a consultant, trainer, encourager and motivator to businesses of all sizes.

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tion is so very important as it is one of the primary ways that we share information and feelings.

Gratitude is next on the list, as it’s been said that gratitude is one of the strongest human emotions. Showing gratitude lets those around us know just how important they are to us and how much we truly appreciate them. We can communicate gratitude in so many ways; saying please and thank you; providing recognition of a job well done; letting our loved ones know how much we love them; doing something for others that they are fully capable of doing for themselves, just to show them we care about them.

We discussed communication and gratitude, now let’s add one more for today, and that is love. Not just the romantic kind of love, but love and kindness for those in our homes and who we work with. Love and respect for all the people making sure we can still get food and other essentials. Love and awe for the people working so hard in health care and on the front lines. Unconditional love and unconditional forgiveness for anyone who may have offended us or hurt us. Replace

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Elbert County News 9

April 23, 2020

Area leaders urge census participation Effort to get accurate count is forced to adapt amid pandemic ripple effects

BY JESSICA GIBBS JGIBBS@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

As Jefferson County Commissioner Casey Tighe watched people stay at home and socially distance amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he couldn’t help but see their efforts as an act of patriotism.

There’s another way people can help their country during the crisis, he said, and that’s by completing the 2020 census, which launched as communities across the nation ramped up public health measures in connection with the pandemic response.

“Ask your family, your friends: ‘Have you filled out the census?’”

Tighe said.

- While the census may not be top of mind for people amid the pandemic, as they worry about economic hardships and their health, local nonprofit and elected leaders are urging residents to use the extra time at home to partake in the “the gold standard” of data collection.

Gillian Winbourn is program director for Together We Count,

y

RESPONSE BY COUNTY Here are the response rates for some metro area counties, according to an April 13 news release by the U.S. Census Bureau: Douglas County: 63.9% Jefferson County: 63.2% Arapahoe County: 58% Elbert County: 56.3% Adams County: 53% Denver County: 51.5% a statewide nonprofit aiming to ensure historically undercounted people are represented in the 2020 census. Participation, particularly now, is paramount, she said.

“This is a way to help Colorado rebuild and make sure that it can get its fair share of support continuing for the next 10 years,” Winbourn said. “I think in a time like now, we can see how much we rely on services and the government services.”

Together We Count started in 2017 and will operate only for the duration of the 2020 census effort. The organization already expected challenges to the 2020 census because of distrust in government and the possibility that some people will face hurdles responding in new ways.

Before COVID-19 hit, the U.S. Census Bureau was already gearing up for people to respond online, by phone and by mail — for the first time in census history.

Together We Count focuses on

reaching populations like renters, immigrants, refugees and people with low literacy — all demographics the census bureau defines as hard to count, Winbourn said. The nonprofit also adds older adults to that list and stresses that young children count.

“We knew that it was going to be a more challenging time,” she said.

“Particularly with COVID, it’s really affected the timeline.”

Gillian noted the census opened on March 12, shortly before social distancing measures took off.

Local governments and nonprofits had to scrap many of their traditional outreach methods to promote the census because of COVID-19, like providing education at community events and meetings. Many said they are now relying more heavily on social media to get the word out.

The U.S. Census Bureau adjusted

its 2020 census operational timeline in response to the pandemic. Field activities are not likely to resume until June 1. The current deadline to respond is Aug. 14, said spokeswoman Laurie Cipriano.

As of April 13, the Colorado response rate trailed Kansas by less than 1 percentage point, coming in at No. 11 on the list of states with the best self-response date. Just shy of 52% of Colorado households had responded. The national selfresponse rate was 48%.

Within Colorado, two counties — Jefferson and Douglas — are neck-and-neck for the best selfresponse rate in the state, with both above 63% as of an April 13 report.

Commissioners for each county said they are competitive and shooting for that No. 1 slot.

SEE CENSUS, P14

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Dale Lester Moser, 88, of Parker,CO passed away on April 5, 2020. He was born on February 25, 1932 in Pittsburg, PA to Lester and Gertrude (Chapman) Moser. Dale worked in the motion picture business. Please visit www.pfh-co.com to leave condolences as no services are planned at this time.

Louise P. Tolar, 98, of Parker, CO passed away on April 6, 2020. She was born in Louisiana to Homer and Pearl (McMillan) on March 7, 1922. No services are planned at this time; visit www.pfh-co.com to leave condolences for the family.

Mary Ann Steinke, 85, of Castle Rock, CO passed away on April 8, 2020. She was born in Devil’s Lake, North Dakota on February 28, 1935 to Helmer and Amanda (Christenson) Stoe. The family has chosen not to have any services at this time, but please visit www.pfhco.com to leave condolences.

Leslie Ellen Weisshaar, 54, of Franktown, CO passed away on April 8, 2020. She was born in California to Edward and Carol (Hoff) Florreich on December 10, 1965. No services are planned at this time, however, you may visit www.pfh-co.com to leave condolences for the family.

Marcia Chipman Hough, 88, of Parker, CO passed away at home on April 8, 2020. Marcia was born in Reading, MA on May 13, 1931 to

Henry and Phyllis (McNevin) Chipman. You may leave condolences at www.pfh-co.com for the family.

Barbara Ann Pettit, 68, of Parker, CO passed away on April 10, 2020. She was born on June 12, 1953 to Clyde and Barbara (Bowles) Buckner. Condolences may be left at www. pfh-co.com for the family as no services are planned at this time.

Bonnie Jean Winters, 79, of Parker, CO passed away on April 10, 2020. She was born on November 20, 1940 in Illinois to Albert and Violet (Smith) Tomlinson. No services are scheduled at this time, however, you may visit www.pfh-co.com to leave condolences for the family.

Easton Richard Srofe, 4 months old, of Parker, CO passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2020. He was born in Colorado to Travis and Rebbecca (Fierens) Srofe on December 11, 2019. He was a superhero to all who knew him. There was a graveside burial at the Bear Creek Cemetery in Evergreen, CO on April 18, 2020.

James Phillip Springer, 66, of Parker, CO passed away on April 12, 2020. He was born in Camden, New Jersey to Henry and Ruth (Dillon) Springer on March 2, 1954. Please visit www.pfh-co.com to leave condolences to the family, as there are no services planned at this time.

Please visit us online at www.pfh-co.com for full obituaries and more.

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10 Elbert County News

April 23, 2020A

REPUBLICANS FROM PAGE 1

How should growth in the county be managed in the coming years?

There’s different aspects, and the first one is property rights. If a family owns the property they should have the opportunity to manage that property in the manner that they deem best for them.

There’s also the economic environment. We’ve got about 28,000 people in the county. Much of the growth has been in the northwest part of the county due to location. If people follow all the rules when applying for applications, we have to accept that growth is appropriate.

What would be your biggest priority if reelected?

The big issue right now in my mind is economic continuity. With this virus (the COVID-19 pandemic) I’m very concerned that we’re going to see a 2008 kind of a downturn, and we have to plan for that. We know the economy always has ups and downs, and we’ve been planning for this. We’ve set aside in excess of $5 million, so that if we have an economic downturn at least we have a savings account to help us through that.

What else should voters know about you?

I am humbled by county voter faith in me, and sincerely promise that I will do everything possible to protect our way of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

DEMOCRAT FROM PAGE 1

Contact information Phone, 303 908-0831; email, saidkathy@aol.com Why are you seeking this office?

After the approval of a new housing development over the avid protests of Elbert County residents, and with no real plans to provide adequate services for those new residents, it became apparent to me that the current BOCC had forgotten for whom they serve.

Additionally, at a commissioner town hall, a current resident who lives on a road that adjoins the future new development politely asked if they had considered how his road would be impacted. The commissioner said

Chris Richardson, Elbert County Commissioner District 1 Occupation County commissioner, retired U.S. Army colonel Contact information Phone: 720-641-2546; email: Chris@ Richardson4Elbert.com web: www.

Richardson4Elbert.com; Facebook: www.facebook.com/richardson4elbert Why are you seeking to remain in this office?

I care about Elbert County - its citizens and our future.

I first ran for this office because I felt positive change was needed. County leadership was in disarray, budget and finances were not receiving adequate attention, and citizens were not receiving the quality of service they deserved.

During this term in office we have secured our county’s financial future, setting aside over $5 million in stability and contingency funds, increased transparency and communication with all citizens, expanded citizen services, and have dug deeply into quantifying our county’s future needs so we can plan wisely.

I am running again because although I know I have helped move our county in a positive direction, there is more work to be done and continuity is important.

What makes you the best person for the job?

In a word, “experience.” There is a steep learning curve that comes with the job of Commissioner. Admittedly, there was a lot of learning in the first

year in office. Three of us came to office at roughly the same time and just as we thought we were hitting our stride, we unexpectedly lost our county manager.

The next six months allowed us to learn the inner workings of the county to a much higher level than most commissioners ever will. This grounding allowed us to respond rapidly and effectively to the situations we have faced since — the Forest Ridge Fire, the Bomb Cyclone, and now the COVID-19 pandemic while ensuring county services to the citizens are uninterrupted.

How should growth in the county be managed in the coming years?

It is no secret that Elbert County is growing. But, according to updated numbers from the office of the state demographer, that rate is considerably slower than was projected just four years ago. In 2016, the county was expected to reach over 72,000 residents by 2050 — a doubling of population. The most recent figures published at the end of last year now indicate that total population by that date will be 22,000 less. Or a rate of slightly less than 2% per year.

What drives growth? Nearly 90% of those who work outside the home commute from the county to work. It has been said that, “Jobs drive growth and houses are where jobs go to sleep at night.” Almost all of our county’s growth has been driven by the job market in the metro Denver area. Though we have taken steps over the past four years to encourage economic activity in the county, our proximity to the

metro will continue to be the primary driver for the foreseeable future.

My focus as commissioner in regard to growth is ensuring we have common sense, practical regulations that recognize property rights, support conservation of our aquifer waters, leads to improvements in our local road networks — both capacity and quality — and, wherever possible, levy on developers the infrastructure costs associated with the impacts of their developments.

What would be your biggest priority if reelected?

If entrusted with a second term — my goals remain unchanged: to serve the citizens of Elbert County honorably, professionally, and with a focus on preparing the county for a strong and vibrant future. The priority issues — plural as we can work on more than one thing at a time — are to continuously improve communication with citizens, conservation of our aquifer waters, improvements of roads, and financial position.

What else should voters know about you?

My military service has provided me with perspective. I have lived in many communities throughout the nation and around the world and we chose Elbert County as our forever home and the place to raise our daughter. After 13 moves in 23 years, this is where I will remain. I am committed to public service. Whether in office or continuing to volunteer for the many organizations I am currently involved in, I will always work to make us a stronger county.

“no,” cut him off and moved to the next question.

What makes you the best person for the job?

I have years of serving the public in county government and understand how decisions we make today can affect the quality of life in this county for generations to come. Growth can either be a blessing or a curse for a county.

Managed correctly and taking into consideration the vision of longtime residents, as well as being open to the possibilities brought by new ideas, this county can be a model. Looking at the other counties we can see inspiration as well as cautionary tales. Careful growth that does not destroy the very reasons we all chose to live here is my goal. Let’s keep the ability to hear the coyotes and to see the stars at night while adding good changes that actu-

ally add value for all of us and not just enrich the greedy.

How should growth in the county be managed in the coming years?

So far growth has not been managed at all. During the last real estate boom the BOCC was “open for business.” At that time they snatched up as many new home starter fees as they could and felt rich.

Apparently, they didn’t realize that all those new residents would expect many expensive services that the county infrastructure could not support. Law enforcement, water, schools, libraries and roads, were all things with budgets that could not handle the strain. They even expected the county offices to be open and staffed five days a week. The cost for this quickly outpaced the large bag of starter fees received. At the same time commercial requests were delayed by lack of staff or mishandled until they chose a different county.

Residential homes on small lots are not a plus for a county facing water shortages and that have scant ability to provide services. Homes on larger lots and small acreage take less water, less bodies needing county services and

still pay real estate taxes. Clean commercial development in proper areas provides real estate taxes, possible sales tax, and jobs with a minimum of county services needed.

What would be your biggest priority if elected?

I want to leave the county financially, environmentally, and structurally sound with a better vision of the future than it has today. One of the best ways to do this is to have the residents interested and involved. By making sure that BOCC hearings are not held at 9 a.m. on a weekday morning which keeps working people from attending. Right now we have a “part time” county. The professional staff needs to be paid a professional wage and treated with respect.

What else should voters know about you?

I lived in Elbert County in the 1980s and raised my family here. I came back 11 years ago as we all considered it home. I love this county and its people.

I see amazing potential that has never been unlocked. Not by destroying its natural beauty or selling the water to the greedy, but by finally asking the people what they want.

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Elbert County News 11

LOCAL

April 23, 2020

LIFE

Local runners navigate postponements, crowded trails amid COVID-19

BY CASEY VAN DIVIER CVANDIVIER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

I

n March, Lakewood High School cross-country and track coach Bryn Smetana was four months into training for her first Boston Marathon. She was following a training schedule planned out to the day and the mile, preparing for a race about a month away, when an announcement threw a wrench into her plans: Following the lead of numerous athletic events worldwide, the marathon would be postponed for five months.

“I was doing my longest runs and running every day, and now I have to in a sense start over,” Smetana said. “I recreated my entire plan.”

With the marathon rescheduled from April 20 to Sept. 14, Smetana’s focus has shifted from pushing herself to the limit to simply maintaining her fitness levels. And among fellow Colorado runners also waiting out the five-month marathon delay and the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, many have taken the same approach.

The Boston Marathon brings more than 30,000 runners from across the world to Boston each spring. This year, more than 300 individuals from the Denver area have plans to run the race, with entrants making a series of unexpected adjustments to ensure they can stay committed to an event that is SEE RACE, P15

QUALITY & VA

Barb Hurtt, who lives in unincorporated Jefferson County, runs along Golden’s Clear Creek Trail. Hurtt has been a runner for about 25 years and has run about half a dozen previous marathons, with plans to run the Boston Marathon this year, postponed until Sept. 14.

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12 Elbert County News

April 23, 2020A

Answering your questions about COVID-19 in Colorado What are stay-at-home order limits? When will COVID-19 peak occur? Can a person get COVID-19 twice? And more

Left, two N95-type face masks, or respirators, at left. On right, a third respirator, an N100type mask. The N95 protects against matter such as dust, aerosols and smoke, as well as biological particles, including bacteria, viruses and allergens.

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Still have questions about COVID19? You’re probably not alone.

Just over a month after authorities detected the new coronavirus in Colorado, information about the disease itself — and how Colorado policies are reacting to it — is still evolving and can be tough to follow.

Here is a look at questions about COVID-19 in Colorado, including answers about how the statewide stay-at-home order is enforced (hint: you don’t need to provide paperwork to police), whether you can leave your house to take care of a friend, when the pandemic will reach its peak in Colorado and more.

How far can a stay-at-home order go?

It’s unclear, but it appears unlikely that the order could get much more extreme.

Under Colorado law, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has broad authority to

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close theaters, schools and other public places. The agency also can seek isolation or quarantine of individuals when necessary to protect public health, according to a fact sheet from the office of Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser.

The health department’s executive director, Jill Hunsaker Ryan, has not said the state is considering closing more types of businesses or giving people less ability to leave home — nor have other state officials.

The state has been evaluating the success of the order, and “if we need to do something differently around the stay-at-home order, we certainly can,” Ryan told reporters April 6.

But she added: “When we make these decisions in Colorado, the governor takes into account personal freedom and economic consequences and then tries to balance all that in the context of hospital capacity.”

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When will the peak occur?

The “peak” is the time when the number of reported COVID-19 cases reaches its highest point.

Data show that Colorado’s social distancing has slowed the spread of COVID-19 and has delayed the peak to some degree.

For a while in March, the number of COVID-19 cases in the state was doubling every 1 1/2 days. As of early April, cases were doubling roughly every six days, according to state officials.

The peak “could be anywhere from May until later in summer, and we hope to narrow that down,” Rachel Herlihy, state epidemiologist, told reporters on April 6. She noted that predictions depend on the level of social distancing the stay-at-home order achieves — in other words, how well people comply.

Can I take care of a friend?

The statewide stay-at-home order explicitly says Coloradans can leave home to care for family members and pets — and even livestock — in another location. But what about a friend?

The order also allows for taking care of other “vulnerable” people.

During the pandemic, state officials have used that term to mean people more likely to become infected with COVID-19 — people older than 60 or those with serious health conditions.

Young people who have disabilities or other needs may need support, too, said Mike Willis, director of the state Emergency Operations Center.

The word “vulnerable” used in this part of the stay-at-home order isn’t limited to older adults, or people with disabilities or serious health conditions, according to Ian Dickson, a spokesman for the state health department.

And in general, the order allows Coloradans to deliver necessary services or supplies, such as food or other groceries, to others.

What about school resources?

Under the order, Coloradans can still get meals or collect materials for online class from schools or related institutions.

What happens when stay-at-home order ends?

The order is set to expire April 26.

But even if it is lifted on that date, life won’t fully snap back to normal until

there are medical advancements regarding the virus, such as a vaccine, Gov. Jared Polis said at an April 8 news conference.

“The guidance around how we do business and live our lives in a safe way, because the COVID-19 virus will still be with us after April 26, will be issued before April 26,” Polis said.

State officials are considering how restaurants can reopen in some way, whether it’s at the end of April or later, Polis said.

Lifting the order likely doesn’t mean going to a crowded concert at the Pepsi Center or going to a crowded bar and dance club anytime soon, Polis told reporters two days later.

Can I get COVID-19 twice?

Based on public health officials’ understanding of other coronaviruses, those who recover from COVID-19 should have immunity, said Ryan, the health department director.

But the full picture is not yet understood, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Patients with MERS-CoV — another coronavirus that causes severe respiratory illness — are unlikely to be re-infected shortly after they recover, but it is not yet known whether similar immune protection will be observed for COVID-19 patients, the CDC’s website says.

Will I get pulled over by police?

Violating Colorado’s statewide stayat-home order could result in a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment in a county jail for up to one year.

But Coloradans likely won’t see law enforcement conduct road checkpoints or pull over drivers or pedestrians to enforce the order. When asked about such measures, Willis said the state encourages voluntary compliance.

The 18th Judicial District Attorney’s Office, which covers Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln counties, said this in a news release: “Law enforcement and public health officials are tasked with investigating possible violations of the orders, but if they question you, you do not need to provide any paperwork or documentation that your travel is essential. There are no checkpoints because of COVID-19.”

Is testing free?

In March, there was confusion over the actual cost of a COVID-19 test.

“Testing is free,” a March 10 state news release said.

The cost of medical visits related to getting tested was a different story.

Now, because of recent federal legislation, people with any kind of private health insurance should have free access to the COVID-19 test — along with any doctor visits associated with getting the test — with no co-pays, deductibles or co-insurance charged, according to the Colorado Division of Insurance.

SEE QUESTIONS, P13

Elbert County News 13

April 23, 2020

Skip agitation with meditation Practitioners offer guidance for launching a routine

BY ELLIOTT WENZLER EWENZLER@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

When Sean Thompson developed a stress-related ulcer in college in 1988, a psychology professor recommended he try one simple practice to find relief: meditation.

After trying out the professor’s tape of a guided meditation, Thompson made a life-altering discovery.

“What happened was it worked,” he said. “I started feeling more relaxed.”

Twenty-four years later, Thompson founded the Centered Path Buddhist meditation center in Parker.

The center, which he describes as more of a study group than a religious organization, teaches folks of all backgrounds how to harness the power of meditation.

“The only people who it can’t help are those who aren’t willing to try,” said Thompson.

Many psychologists, including Dr. Justin Ross at UCHealth’s Center for Integrative Medicine, also recommend the practice to reduce stress.

“There are tens of thousands of published studies on this,” Ross said. “The research at this point is pretty extensive and comprehensive across a wide range of conditions and concerns.”

Mindfulness meditation can reduce stress, anxiety and depression and improve wellness and the ability to cope with disease, he said.

“We talk about meditation as being a core pillar of wellness for all of us,” Ross said.

Especially now, as many people’s mental health is strained by the anxieties and uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, meditation can help everyone find a sense of peace, he said.

“This is going to help (people) better manage this unprecedented time

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Coloradans should check with their health-care provider to be sure, though.

For Coloradans with Medicare, all of the costs are covered if a doctor orders a COVID-19 test, according to the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Under Colorado’s Medicaid program — Health First Colorado — and the Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+), all the costs of testing and the doctors’ visits associated with getting tested are covered, according to the state Department of Health Care Policy and Financing.

Uninsured Coloradans should contact that office at 303-866-2993 to ask

we’re in,” Ross said. “It’s such a high time of anxiety, this is a really easy place to get relief.”

Mary Dohrmann, a psychologist with The Golden Wellness Center, encourages meditation as a way to cope with all of the daily changes prompted by COVID-19, she said.

“When something gets taken away from you, that causes grief,” she said. “People are trying to function in this new way of being, and that causes anxiety ... for that it would be wonderful to use these techniques to ground yourself every day.”

Dohrmann, Ross and Thompson agree that meditation can be extremely beneficial for those finding themselves frequently worried.

When anxious, “you’re like a bag in a windstorm,” Dohrmann said.

“You’re not very rational, you can’t think clearly. Grounding yourself brings you back to (earth).”

Steps to meditation While meditation can be practiced anywhere, it’s best to find a quiet place to sit or lie down, Dohrmann said.

“Ideally you’re sitting comfortably on a cushion or against a wall or in a chair — with feet on the ground, not hanging,” she said. “And then just kind of rest your hands where they feel comfortable.”

Thompson recommends those interested in beginning a practice start by choosing a quiet spot in their home that’s used solely for meditation, he said.

Once comfortable, the first thing to do is simply become aware of your body, thoughts and breaths.

“The only thing they need to learn how to do is shift their focus to the breath,” Ross said. “Every meditation practice has the foundational component of bringing awareness to the present moment.”

After that, the goal is to identify whenever a distraction comes up.

“It’s about recognizing when you’re not present and learning that you have the ability to bring your

about options. To apply for Medicaid and Child Health Plan Plus, visit colorado.gov/peak.

Can I get a test?

The state is working toward mass testing capability to more accurately quarantine individuals “instead of quarantining an entire society,” Polis has said.

Such an effort could take weeks or perhaps months to be ready, he said in late March.

In the meantime, the state health department has reminded residents that at-risk individuals — such as hospital patients, health-care workers and some others — are first in line for scarce testing supplies.

“If you have only mild symptoms, self-isolate and don’t wait for a test,” Scott Bookman, incident commander for the department, said in a March

awareness back to something occurring right now,” Ross said. “That’s why the breath is so powerful, it can only occur right now.”

Often, beginners will notice their brain coming up with all sorts of distractions.

Have I finished the laundry?

Does the dog need a walk?

What will I make for dinner?

Thoughts and feelings like these are normal and will likely always come up. The hallmark of meditation isn’t halting these, but learning to recognize them and then return to the breath, Ross said.

It can be useful to identify where in the body the breath is most intensely felt, whether that be in the belly, the nostrils or the chest, Thompson said. He also recommends trying to identify when there is a long or short breath.

“That gets the mind to calm down,” Thompson said.

Dohrmann suggests beginning with a simple technique of inhaling for four seconds, then exhaling for four seconds, repeating the breath pattern for two minutes.

No failure, just awareness Many people say the reason they haven’t tried meditation is because they can’t find the time, Ross said.

“The reality is … it can be as simple as three to five minutes a day,” he said.

It’s best to try to fit in a brief meditation every day, Dohrmann said, “But whenever you can do it is also best.”

Another reason people give for not wanting to try out meditation is because they worry they won’t do it correctly. But Thompson, Ross and Dohrmann agree there really isn’t a downside to trying.

“There really is no failure in meditation, there’s just observation and awareness,” Ross said.

Thompson points out that even if things don’t go according to plan, it still isn’t a failure.

“Worst-case scenario,” Thompson said, “you fall asleep.”

30 news release.

How can I get financial or other help?

The state has put together a website of resources for food, shelter, rental assistance, unemployment assistance, child care, health care and more: stayathomeco.colorado.gov/ get-help-now.

Or call 2-1-1 for help with many of these resources.

How can I get help as a business?

Small business owners in Colorado with fewer than 500 employees can apply for a paycheck protection loan to help keep their workforce employed during the pandemic.

Visit the U.S. Small Business Administration’s website for more information: www.sba.gov/fundingprograms/loans/coronavirus-reliefoptions.

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14 Elbert County News

April 23, 2020A

CENSUS

There’s also the issue of representation in Washington.

Since 1790, the census has determined the number of seats a state FROM PAGE 9 receives in the U.S. House of Representatives.

“If you’re at home and you have “There’s a lot of speculation that access to computer and internet, the state of Colorado is going to get you probably have some time to do an additional congressional disit. It’s a way to break up your day,” trict,” Thomas said.

Tighe said.

Tighe said an accurate census But there’s much more at stake count translates than bragging rights, the to an appropriate commissionlevel of repreers stressed, as sentation in the census will Congress for the determine how state and creates much federal “a fair playing funding is funfield around neled down to the country” if local communithe nationwide ties. count is accu“There is so rate. much that is Under the based on getadjusted census ting an accutimeline, bureau rate count. We experts will need to have a assess and decomplete count liver each state’s and that means population total, 100%,” said which deterCasey Tighe, Douglas County mines its numJefferson County commissioner ber of seats in Commissioner Lora Thomas. the U.S. House of Thomas, Tighe Representatives, and Winbourn to the president listed a slew of services impacted

by April 30, 2021. by the census.

The president delivers apportionFunding health-care clinics, Mediment counts to congress within 14 care and Medicaid, highways and days. Redistricting counts are then transportation, disaster relief, eduto be delivered to states by July 31, cational programs, fire departments 2021. and human services are just some Completing the census takes of the community services that rely minutes, Thomas said, estimaton census data. ing she finished in less than five The data also informs the busiminutes. ness community, such as helping “It’s really straightforward,” she grocery stores decide where to open said. “There’s no trick questions. locations, Winbourn said.

It’s easy to answer.”

‘If you’re at home and you have access to computer and internet, you probably have some time to do it. It’s a way to break up your day.’

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Elbert County News 15

April 23, 2020

RACE

LOCAL RUN CLUBS

FROM PAGE 11

now months away — and stay fit in a time when training requires more precautions than ever before.

Those precautions span the physical, such as learning to run with a mask on, to the social, as distancing guidelines require residents to stay at least six feet apart.

Focus on safety Arvada resident Brad Lindeberg said he often has run with groups like the Arvada Runners club, but since the pandemic hit, the group has canceled its weekly group runs, staying in touch over social media instead.

Thornton resident Veronica Reish said that while she used to complete longer training runs while her father biked beside her, she since has transitioned to running alone.

But even despite a commitment to running without training partners, social distancing can prove difficult along the Denver area’s crowded trail system, the runners said.

“I’ve done a couple of very early morning runs, but I’m trying to not go out because there are more people on the trails,” Reish said. “I’ve had to step back a little bit and do a lot more running on the treadmill at home.”

Others, like Rich Airey, a Denver resident and running coach, have turned to running on the streets to avoid crowded parks and trails.

“There’s hardly any traffic. I’m trying to run every street (in the city),” Airey said. “I started off with

Lakewood High teacher and cross-country coach Bryn Smetana runs a trail in Littleton, wearing a cloth face covering as directed by the CDC. COURTESY OF BRYN SMETANA a square-mile perimeter of my house and I’m going from there. I check off the streets as I go.”

Another common challenge for local runners has been figuring out exactly how much to run, as they balance unusual amounts of free time with the fact that races won’t resume until the fall.

As a coach, Airey said he has seen two common trends among Colorado runners.

“Either people are completely losing all of their motivation and doing nothing, or they’re thinking, ‘I need to take advantage of this and do more,’” he said. “My advice would be just to continue what you’ve been doing and, if anything, do a little bit less.”

Lindeberg agreed, saying members

When social distancing restrictions are lifted, area runners can get together with any one of the many running clubs spanning the metro area. Groups include: Arvada Runners: facebook.com/groups/ arvadarunners Belmar Running Club: facebook.com/ BelmarRunningClub Castle Rock Run Club: strava.com/ clubs/211712 Colorado Masters Running/Racewalking Association: comastersrun.org Denver Trail Runners: denvertrailrunners. com Highlands Ranch Running Club: highlandsranchrunningclub.org Mile High Runners: www.milehigh runners.com Rocky Mountain Road Runners: rmrr.org of the running community have been encouraging one another not to push themselves too hard.

“When you train really hard, you compromise your immune system.

Now, it’s more of a focus on running for enjoyment and not doing as many miles,” he said. “We’ve collectively said, let’s just get our base mileage in and be ready to race when races start happening again.”

A positive spin For some, the rescheduling has come with silver linings. Littleton runner Callie Skokos, for instance, had plans to run the Boston Marathon April 20 and the London Marathon April 26.

With both rescheduled, for Sept. 14 and Oct. 4 respectively, she’ll now have a longer turnaround between the two races, she said.

Aiming to raise money for Children’s Hospital Colorado through the race, she acknowledged the virus could have a negative impact on fundraising. “Especially with people being out of work, people are more focused on their day-to-day, instead of donations,” she said.

That said, “I hope through the summer, I’ll possibly be able to raise more,” she said.

Barb Hurtt, a University of Denver teaching assistant professor who lives in unincorporated Jefferson County, added that for runners who actually have more work during the pandemic, instead of more free time, the postponement has been a somewhat welcome break.

“My work obligations increased about 50%, so it’s kind of been a blessing that I’ve had less demand on my training,” she said. “And I’ll enjoy being able to train over the summer, in nicer weather — I can’t tell you how many days I spent on the treadmill in February.”

Many of the runners said they remain unsure whether the race will actually go forward as scheduled in September, or if the virus’s impacts will prompt the Boston Athletic Association to postpone the race again.

But if all goes as planned, Airey, Hurtt, Lindeberg, Reish, Skokos and Smetana all still plan to represent Colorado at the race later this year, with hopes that the changes could, ultimately, even improve their times Sept. 14.

“This has helped me strengthen my runs. It’s something I look forward to every day,” Smetana said. “I’m just grateful I’m still able to get fresh air.”

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