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Week of January 13, 2022

JEFFERSON COUNTY, COLORADO

A publication of

INSIDE: VOICES: PAGE 12 | LIFE: PAGE 14 | CALENDAR: PAGE 11 | SPORTS: PAGE 16

VOLUME 17 | ISSUE 30

Lutheran OB Hub creating better outcomes JCPH gives for moms and babies update on county COVID-19 stats Wheat Ridge Council hear COVID numbers, new isolation and quarantine protocols.

BY BOB WOOLEY BWOOLEY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

believe we’re starting to meet some of our metrics on this and we’re starting to have babies that come out better. So, it really makes our hospitals a safer place for a mom to have a baby.”

As an example of what increased monitoring might find, Lowery said it can be common for babies to have the umbilical cord around their neck in the womb. Usually, she said, that situation doesn’t create a problem. But there can be instances where it could cause a huge drop in heart rate. In this scenario, if the bedside nurse didn’t see the change on the fetal heart rate strip, the more experienced nurse in the hub would be able to call her and make her aware of the situation.

That allows for an appropriate intervention to be weighed and acted upon if necessary. The intervention could be as simple as turning the mom-to-be over to keep her in the optimal position, or, it could mean rushing the patient in for an emergency cesarian section to deliver the baby before the

Head of Jefferson County Public Health’s (JCPH) Office of Pandemic Response Christine Billings gave an update on the County’s latest COVID stats during the Jan. 3 Wheat Ridge City Council meeting.

Billings said with a base population of 586,579, Jeffco had an 18.8% positivity rate on a 7-day average as of Dec. 30.

“That means approximately one in five individuals who are testing for COVID-19 are testing positive,” she said. “This is not unexpected considering we are dealing with the Omicron variant. It is estimated that over 90% of the circulating virus in the state of Colorado can be attributed to Omicron.”

Billings said the strain is highly contagious and infectious, but Jeffco’s 14-day average hospitalization rate of 1.2 per 100,000 persons for Dec. 14-27 is encouraging.

Jeffco’s seven-day COVID-19 case counts as of Jan. 2 were 953.5 per 100,000 persons. According to Billings, that seven-day count greatly exceeds the highest number the county saw at the peak of the surge in Nov. 2020.

For seven-day case incidents as of Dec. 25, Billings said adults aged 20 or older accounted for 473.8 cases, while those aged 12 - 19 accounted for 422.3. Five to 11-year olds, who recently became eligible to receive the vaccine, accounted for 259 cases and children aged 0 - 4 made up 274.3 cases.

Billings said the positive amid all of the disease currently circulating through the county is that hospitalizations are on a slight decline, as of Dec. 30, compared to the steady climb the county saw from summer through early

SEE OB HUB, P2

SEE UPDATE, P2

Deb Lowery, Senior Director, Women’s Services, and nurse, Jessie Sanchez, in the new OB Hub at Lutheran Medical Center in Wheat COURTESY OF SCL HEALTH Ridge.

Innovative program puts second set of eyes on moms-to-be.

BY BOB WOOLEY BWOOLEY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Necessity, as they say, is the mother of invention. Don’t believe it? Just look at the changes to daily life the pandemic has brought to the last two years — many of which are here to stay.

The need to find new ways of doing things with the potential to create even better outcomes was a driving force in an innovative new program rolled out at SCL’s Lutheran Medical Center and St. Joseph’s Hospital over the past nine months.

The program — a new way of monitoring fetal heartbeat during labor, is already drawing interest from other medical institutions.

According to Deb Lowery, senior director of Women’s Services at both hospitals, it’s also starting to create better, healthier births

for moms and babies. Lowery said when babies are born, the delivery is typically scored using something called an APGAR (appearance, pulse, grimace, activity and respiration) scoring system. For example, a score of 10 indicates a great birth with a healthy baby.

Lowery said the hospitals started the OB Hub concept to do better surveillance on babies before they’re born.

She said it often takes more experienced nurses to watch fetal heartbeat patterns and look for nuances a more inexperienced nurse might not catch. But staffing shortages, especially pertaining to more experienced nurses, were making it difficult to make sure every mom-to-be was paired with a nurse with that kind of expertise.

So, drawing from the concept of telemetry floors, her department created the idea of an OB Hub staffed by more experienced nurses 24-hours per day to watch babies’ heartbeats.

“You can actually improve outcomes tremendously if you catch any kind of alteration in the heart rate early,” she said. “And I do

2 Arvada Press

January 13, 2022

A road trip of epic proportions Movie documents Evergreen man’s journey during his battle with ALS

BY OLIVIA JEWELL LOVE OLOVE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Having worked on film projects before, Gary Wyman decided after being diagnosed with ALS that he wanted his final road trip to be documented, and his friend Gabe Rovick made it happen.

On Dec. 21, F4D Studio in Golden released the film “From the Passenger Seat” that documents Wyman’s final road trip with friends during his journey with Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Wyman, a 1998 Clear Creek High School graduate, died on Dec. 21, 2018, at age 38.

ALS is a debilitating disease of the nervous system that quickly robs a person of the ability to use one’s limbs, the ability to speak

OB HUB FROM PAGE 1

situation causes harm.

“If they (the hub nurses) see something, they’ll call the nurse

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Rovick and Wyman became friends while working at Icelantic Skis together. Rovick said Wyman declined rapidly after the diagnosis. Then, he started talking about the road trip.

“He kept talking about going on a road trip in his van and documenting it, and that’s where I came in,” Rovick said.

Around 20 people joined the pair on different legs of the 5,000-mile trip that had emotionally taxing moments.

“The road trip was definitely an emotional rollercoaster at all times. You never really knew what to expect,” Rovick said. “Also knowing what the final outcome was all the time made it hard.”

Eric Heiland, a friend of Wyman family, joined him on the first part of the road trip. He also edited the film, which was the first full-length film Heiland has put together. He said he had a special

attachment to the project.

“There were definitely moments I was crying in the editing booth,” he said.

Heiland said he feels a sense of closure with the completion of the film and its release.

“I think Gary would be very proud and happy with how the film turned out,” he said.

Ashley Hart, an Evergreen resident, also became friends with Wyman through work at Icelantic Skis. Hart joined the road trip on the last leg of the journey.

When thinking about his favorite memories of the trip, Hart had multiple come to mind.

“Gary’s smile and the wonder in his eyes while we were whitewater rafting,” he said.

He also remembered being on a speedboat during a storm in Flaming Gorge, and Wyman’s laughter and smile being incredible.

After the trip was over, Hart and other friends who joined along

at the bedside and double check to make sure the in-room nurse is aware of the situation,” she said.

“When you have a new graduate nurse in the room, it may take her three or four or even five years until she can read those little subtleties on a fetal monitor strip that say the baby’s starting to get into trouble.”

Jessie Sanchez is a nurse that works in the hub and also on the floor. She said having the hub

increases situational awareness and having two sets of eyes has at times made it possible to act on an intervention more quickly than they might have been able to in the past.

According to Lowery, early data from the program indicates its already leading to better APGAR scores. The early success hasn’t gone unnoticed. She said she’s already fielded questions from hospital systems on the east coast

and in the south, as well as a major university and small community hospitals, all wanting to know more about the program. Now, the hospitals are preparing a research study to present to a medical journal.

To date, nearly 4,000 babies have been born while being monitored by the hub. Soon, she said, all SCL hospitals in the region will soon be able to participate in the OB Hub program.

someone tests positive for COVID-19, their day-zero starts on the day they first noticed the onset of symptoms (or on the day of their test if they were undergoing routine testing when they received the positive result). They need to isolate for five full days and can return to work or activities on day six if their symptoms have greatly improved and they have been fever-free without the use of medication for 24 hours. Those individuals must also continue to wear a mask for an additional five days when they are around other people.

“Quarantine gets a little more complicated,” she said. “The unvaccinated must quarantine for a full five days if determined to be a close-contact of someone with a positive diagnosis. They can return to work or activities with a mask on day six if they have not received a positive diagnosis. This guidance applies to individuals

who have received only one dose of the vaccine as well.”

Fully vaccinated (two primary doses, or one Johnson and Johnson dose) individuals who are more than six-months removed from their final primary dose, but have not received a booster, must also quarantine for a full five days if determined to be a close contact.

They can return to work on day six and need to mask for an additional five days. Vaccinated individuals still within the six-month window from receiving their second primary dose (or vaccinated individuals beyond the six months who have received a booster dose) do not need to quarantine, but are advised to mask for 10 days from the day of exposure. Those individuals are encouraged to test five days after exposure.

Billings said all of this information is subject to change as the CDC releases new or sector-specific guidance.

UPDATE FROM PAGE 1

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In what she called “super-awesome news,” Billings said more than 80% of eligible Jefferson County residents (over age 5) have received at least one dose of the vaccine. Of those, she said 5.4% were only partially vaccinated.

Over 90% of Jeffco residents between the ages of 30 and 39 have been vaccinated.

There were 80 COVID-19 related deaths in Jefferson County in December 2021. There have been 1,172 deaths in the county since the beginning of the pandemic.

Isolation guidance, she said, has been confusing for everyone as it continues to evolve. The CDC recently shifted guidance due to Omicron taking over as the most prevalent strain. As of now, if

SEE ROAD TRIP, P3

“From the Passenger Seat” is available to COURTESY OF F4D STUDIO stream on Vimeo

TURN TO THE COLORADO SUN FOR NEWS ACROSS THE STATE The Colorado Sun is a journalistowned, award-winning news outlet that strives to cover all of Colorado so that our state — our community — can better understand itself.

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Arvada Press 3

January 13, 2022

Police shoot, kill man brandishing shotgun in Wheat Ridge Suspect alleged to have been firing at random.

BY BOB WOOLEY BWOOLEY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A man carrying and allegedly firing a shotgun in the area of West 29th Avenue and Sheridan Boulevard was shot and killed by Wheat Ridge Police Jan. 6.

According to Wheat Ridge Spokesperson Sara Spaulding, police were

ROAD TRIP FROM PAGE 2

the way were involved in making

dispatched to the area at approximately 1:41 p.m. after receiving multiple reports of an adult male carrying the weapon on West 29th Avenue near Ames Street. In her press release, Spaulding said Wheat Ridge police officers who were already near the scene also witnessed the man firing the gun as he walked toward Sheridan Boulevard.

Spaulding said as police converged on the area, the man stopped in the intersection of 29th and Sheridan and challenged police on multiple occasions while brandishing his shotgun.

At that point, Wheat Ridge Police officers shot the man, who was then pronounced dead at the scene, Spaulding said.

Wheat Ridge Police Division Chief Darrel Guadnola said there will be an investigation into the shooting.

“While our officers responded to protect the lives of commuters and residents this afternoon, an incident that results in the loss of life is felt deeply by everyone involved,” Guadnola said. “As required by our policy, all the involved officers will be placed on administrative leave during the

investigation and will be provided with counseling and peer support as is routine in these situations.”

The investigation will be coordinated by the First Judicial District’s Critical Incident Response Team.

Several other law enforcement agencies including Arvada, Lakewood, Denver and Edgewater Police Departments and the Jeffco Sheriff’s Office responded to assist with the incident.

The suspect has not been identified at this time. This is a developing story.

the film. They did interviews and provided voiceovers.

Rovick, Heiland and Hart all took away a common message from their trip and relationship with Gary: Live life to the fullest.

More than that, the three hope the film results in more awareness for ALS. “It’s not talked about as much as say cancer research and diseases in that way,” Rovick said.

Hart reflected on the seriousness of the disease and how the film can spread awareness.

“I think it’s something that brings a lot of clarity to what’s important,” he said.

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Homes Built of Concrete Garner Increased Interest in Wake of the Marshall Fire

Last week’s column focused on ways that homes can be made more fireresistant, but there’s only so much you can do to protect wood frame homes from wildfires that are driven by hurricane force winds.

Looking at neighborhoods where every home was reduced to its concrete foundation, it’s not hard to question that common method of construction.

Reader Peter Deem made me aware of the use of insulated concrete forms (ICFs) to construct the entire “envelope” of a house and pointed me to Don Clem of the National Ready Mixed Concrete Association, which has a local office in Denver. That organization, along with its Colorado affiliate and several concrete companies, sponsored an 18townhome project in Woodland Park for Habitat for Humanity of Teller County last summer. Above right is picture of those townhomes under construction.

I was first introduced to the use of ICFs when I participated in the 1994 Jimmy Carter Work Project on the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation in Eagle Butte SD. The 28 homes in that project were conventional wood frame (“stickbuilt”) homes, but the concrete foundations were poured into ICFs. An ICF replaces more common wood forms which have to be removed from the foundation after it cures. The ICF provides insulation in the form of two inches of expanded polystyrene (EPS) both inside and outside the foundation. After seeing it there, I was surprised not to see ICFs in widespread use by production builders over the past 27 years.

The ICFs being promoted now are for

Come to Our Ribbon-Cutting Tonight (Thursday) in Golden

Golden Real Estate’s new office at 1214 Washington Ave. in downtown Golden is ready to welcome visitors, so the Golden Chamber of Commerce is hosting a ribbon-cutting at our office on Jan. 13th from 5 to 7 p.m. Readers of this column are welcome, and we hope to see many of you there.

Meet all our agents as well as our inhouse lender, Wendy Renee of Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp. Refreshments will be served.

above-ground use for exterior walls, and there are even ICFs for pouring concrete flat roofs. More commonly, there are concrete tile roofs, including one on the house Rita and I once owned on Parfet Estates Drive in Golden.

While concrete is a noncombustible material, the EPS insulating layers will melt with direct flame, but it does not act as a fuel source, will not promote flame spread, and will not release harmful gases. In addition, the ICF would be protected on the outside of a home by siding — for example, a fiber cement siding like Hardieboard, which is not combustible, and the flames would probably only be present briefly during a passing wildfire. The interior would be covered by drywall, as with a stick-built house.

Speaking of that, there is still the question of combustible vegetation such as juniper bushes that are close to your house. Another reader made me aware of Phos-Chek, the same fire retardant that you see used by aerial tankers to attack wildfires. While that chemical is red, it’s available in a colorless concentrate that you mix with water and apply using an ordinary sprayer to the vegetation around your home. A single bottle of Phos-Chek sufficient to make 5 gallons costs $59.99. You will need 5 to 20 gallons depending on the amount of vegetation you want to cover. at www.GoldenREblog.com I’ve posted a link to a KNBC news segment about a Malibu homeowner who saved her home from the Woolsey fire in November 2018 thanks to an application of PhosChek to the grounds around her house three months earlier.

In last week’s column I also mentioned that the soffit vents typical of homes with unconditioned attics can allow embers to enter the attic, igniting an interior fire, but I neglected to mention that there are ways to fireproof soffit vents to keep that from happening.

Another way that concrete homes are being built is using 3D printing pioneered by ICON, an Austin TX-based company which is currently building a 3D-printed 100-home Texas subdivision in partnership with Lennar. Icon built its first 3D printed home in 2018 as a proof

revolutionize homebuilding, and our team’s expertise and determination have already made this dream a reality. Our team has a passion for design, engineering, and elegant software. We have decades of experience in sustainable technology and construction innovation.”

Building with concrete is both less labor intensive, less expensive and more sustainable than building with lumber. It’s significant that one of America’s biggest builders, Lennar, is working with Icon to build those 100 concrete homes in Texas.

That project should provide Photo courtesy of Sara Vestal, Teller County Habitat for Humanity. facts and figures about the pracof concept, following which they built a ticality and economy of building with community of 3D printed homes in Ta- concrete that could be a powerful influbasco, Mexico. Here’s a picture of one ence on the rest of the home-building of those homes: industry.

Politicians Could Learn From the National Football League

Just as desktop 3D printers work by applying multiple layers of material following a computerized template, Icon’s huge 3D printers apply multiple layers of concrete. See www.IconBuild.com for more information about this company, which, by the way, has NASA contracts to build 3D-printed structures on the moon and on Mars. Their primary mission, however, is “to re-imagine the approach to homebuilding and construction to make affordable, dignified housing available to everyone throughout the world.”

Their home page goes on to say, “The audacious mission of Icon is to

One of my favorite parts of watching NFL games on television is at the end when the coaches and players who just “fought like hell” against each other converge on the playing field to shake each other’s hands and even hug each other, exchanging congratulations and best wishes to the players who just beat them.

And one of my favorite penalties is for taunting. Wouldn’t it be nice if there were a penalty for taunting off the field, including in politics? Nowadays we not only see politicians taunting, insulting and ridiculing each other but even refusing to concede that they were defeated.

In football, a coach can challenge a referee’s call, but the final call after review is accepted without question (except by fans), and the players proceed undaunted, accepting every call and moving quickly to avoid a delay-ofgame penalty.

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4 Arvada Press

January 13, 2022

Local group raises flag on mining project Says Denver Brick Company weak on community outreach

BY DEBORAH GRIGSBY DGRIGSBY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

A small group of Golden residents hopes to raise awareness and spotlight Denver Brick Company’s plans to expand its existing state land trust lease by nearly tenfold.

They say many in the community may have no idea what’s about to come their way.

According to the company’s application to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety, the Ft. Worth-based corporation seeks to convert its existing mine permit from a 110 Limited Impact permit to a 112 Reclamation Permit.

The conversion would allow DBC to increase the operational footprint from nine to 85.5 acres at its Golden Mine, located approximately .6 miles north of the city on the west side of Highway 93.

It would also authorize an increase in the amount of clay the company may extract from the mine.

Protect the Hogback is a grassroots nonprofit organization formed by several Golden residents and business owners. They say DBC has not done a good job engaging the community in the application process.

Golden resident Bill O’Brien said he and others first heard the details of the project at an online community meeting held by the company in December 2020.

PTH spokesperson Mike Rawluk fears many homeowners were not notified of the community meeting simply based on their proximity to the mining company’s property line.

According to Rawluk, all the DRMS requires is that the company notify homeowners closest to the project property line.

He points out, though, very few people live to the north of the city and behind the hogback.

PTH hopes it can open community dialogue and share information about the mine application so residents may come to their own conclu-

A Jan. 31 decision by the Colorado State Land Board may permit the Denver Brick Company to convert its existing mine permit from a 110 Limited Impact permit to a 112 Reclamation Permit. If approved, the decision would enable the Golden Mine, located across from the North Table Mountain West Trailhead, to increase its operational footprint significantly.

PHOTO BY DEBORAH GRIGSBY

According to Protect the Hogback, a grassroots organization that seeks to unify and communicate opposition to the Denver Brick Company’s application to covert its current lease with the state, says they are awaiting a decision from the State Land Board.

If approved, the Denver Brick Company would be permitted to expand the footprint of its Golden Mine operation, just north of the city. The decision is slated for Jan. 31 COLORADO STATE LAND BOARD GRAPHIC

(Left to Right) Golden residents Bill O’Brien, Mike Rawluk, Joanne Scarbrough, and Beth Dwyer are concerned about the Denver Brick Company’s plans to convert an exisiting mine permit. They say the company has not done enough to inform homeowners near the Golden Mine of plans to convert an existing mine permit from a 110 Limited PHOTO BY DEBORAH GRIGSBY Impact permit to a 112 Reclamation Permit

sion and take action if they are so inclined.

The New York native and Golden homeowner said that although the organization’s mission is to unify

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and communicate all public opposition to the mine’s expansion, it’s also focused on getting information out to the public — a task PTH feels DBC could do a lot better.

O’Brien questions why a company the size of DBC wouldn’t want widereaching communication with those who may be affected.

PTH Board Member Beth Dwyer said that DBC’s minimal engagement with the community is one of the primary reasons the organization came to be.

Another, she said, was to file a formal objection to the expansion, which PTH did, through the group’s attorney, on Oct. 27, 2021 — the last day of public comment.

The City of Golden also had questions regarding the mine, citing concerns about increased impacts from noise, traffic, and dust, as well as increased production limits.

They filed their comments in a letter to the DRMS on the same day as PTH. While projects like this trigger many reactions, Rawluk cautions that now is not the time to push on local government because the issue has not yet reached the county’s purview.

IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS Acme Brick Mining Application https://2f5470e7-e929-4502-b314101c343f81d7.filesusr.com/ugd/de9328_ 595f4ea5f5ad4ba6a1fb6bd296416845. pdf City of Golden letter to DRMS https://2f5470e7-e929-4502-b314101c343f81d7.filesusr.com/ugd/de932 8_065021e99dd647c6b54703fcfca40 1fc.pdf Protect the Hogback Letter of Objection https://2f5470e7-e929-4502-b314101c343f81d7.filesusr.com/ugd/de932 8_249be520ca5e44738bdb60a032d4 4f39.pdf State Land Board Solid Minerals Leasing Process https://slb.colorado.gov/lease/mining Colorado Department of Natural Resources Permitting Actions File Number: M1976007UG Site Name: Golden Mine Permittee/Applicant: The Denver Brick Company https://dnrweb.state.co.us/DNR/Mining/operatordb2/report2.asp?search=R evisionPendingApplication He emphasized this is still a state process, suggesting that concerned residents call the governor and contact state representatives rather than the county.

PTH filed an objection to the DBC application last October and has yet to hear anything formal from the state.

The Colorado Department of Natural Resources set the initial application decision date for Dec. 7.

Rawluk said the date was pushed out to Jan. 31, and PTH was not notified of the extension or the reason.

A PTH member found the extension posted on the Department of Natural Resources website.

By filing a formal objection to DBC’s application, Rawluk explains that PTH hopes to garner a hearing.

Colorado Community Media reached out to the Denver Brick Company for comment.

Calls were not immediately returned.

Meanwhile, PTH members share a variety of concerns.

SEE MINING, P5

Arvada Press 5

January 13, 2022

MINING FROM PAGE 4

Besides the dust and vibration, Dwyer says she is also concerned about appearance and says that having a mine at the north entrance to the city is not a good look for the community.

O’Brien points out the site lies close to open space areas, and he is

concerned about safety, referring to a 2014 event where two teens fell into an abandoned mine.

“My point is when you have this kind of activity, and you’re going to do blasting, and you have teenagers being teenagers, someone could get hurt,” he said. “I care a great deal about the safety of the surrounding community.”

Others want the company to answer questions about how blasting operations may affect the stability

and structure of nearby homes.

While waiting for the Jan. 31 decision, Rawluk encourages interested community members to get involved, volunteer, and donate.

He said an excellent source for information is the PTH website which has a signup page for emails and a page where documents may be viewed online.

As far as volunteer positions go, PTH needs subject matter experts in the field—those with mining indus-

try knowledge and would be most helpful.

To learn more, visit: https://www. protectthehogback.com/

FOR MORE INFORMATION P.O. Box 821 Golden, CO 80402 Email: protectthehogback@protonmail. com Website: www.protectthehogback.com

How you can help fire and shooting victims List of metro area funds accepting donations to help those affected by devastating tragedies.

BY BOB WOOLEY BWOOLEY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The Marshall fire destroyed more than 1,000 homes, damaged more than 100 more and caused over $500 million in damages, making it the most destructive wildfire in the state’s history, according to Boulder County officials. At least one life was lost and seven commercial buildings were also claimed in the blaze.

In light of the historic level of devastation, several local funds have been set up to help victims

of the tragedy: Community Foundation Boulder County, is collecting donations through Colorado Gives. Just go to coloradogives.org and click on “CO Fire Response.”

The American Red Cross is also accepting donations for fire relief.

To donate, text REDCROSS to 90999, call 1-800-HELP-NOW or go to redcross.org/local/colorado.

The Salvation Army also is collecting donations. Visit salarmy. us/firerelief2022 or text FIRERELIEF to 51555. If you would like to mail a check, use the following address: The Salvation Army Intermountain Division PO Box 2369 Denver, CO 80201-2369 Jewish Colorado has set up a fund for those displaced by the fire. To donate, visit jewishcolorado.org/jewishcolorado-boulderfire-relief-fund.

The Boulder County Wildfire Fund is collecting donations for residents impacted by the fires.

Visit commfound.org and click on the yellow “GIVE” link at the top of the page.

To help our four-legged friends, Humane Society of Boulder Valley is currently accepting monetary donations through their Emergency Safety Net Fund. Visit boulderhumane.org and click on the red “Donate” tab at the top of the page.

Sister Carmen Community Center is accepting donations for victims of the Marshall fire. More details can be found by visiting sistercarmen.org.

Denver, Lakewood shootings The Colorado Healing Fund is collection donations to assist victims of the Dec. 29, Denver and Lakewood shootings that claimed the lives of five individuals and injured sev-

eral others. Visit coloradogives. org/COHealingFund to help.

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FEB 4 - MAY 22, 2022 Charming, handsome, and a compulsive liar, Dorante arrives in Paris looking for a good time. He falls in love with the beautiful Clarice, but his dishonest ways throw him into a tangled web of mistaken identities and false accusations. After lying his way into a world of trouble, can Dorante lie his way back out again?

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6 Arvada Press

January 13, 2022

Poetry Gathering beckons well-versed cowboys, cowgirls to Golden Annual event preserves and celebrates heritage of American West

BY DEBORAH GRIGSBY DGRIGSBY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

If you’re a hankerin’ for a weekend rich in the storied history of the American West, then gather ‘round the campfire for the 2022 Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering, coming up Jan. 15 and 16 at the American Mountaineering Center in downtown Golden.

The event brings generations of cowboy heritage, traditions, and entertainment to life on stage to delight both young and old.

If you’ve never been before, Jerry Cunningham, longtime CCPG volunteer and spokesperson, said to expect to experience the a range of emotions.

“Once you go, you can never not go,” he said. “One minute, you’ll find yourself laughing in this deep, hard belly laugh, and the next, there’s a lump in your throat, and your eyes fill with tears.”

This year’s two-day roundup includes one evening performance, one daytime four-part themed session and a Sunday matinee.

It’s a family-friendly weekend that captures the spirit and lifestyle of the traditional American cowboy through poetry, song and verse.

For more than three decades, the Gathering has celebrated the cowboy life and culture with an all-star cast of award-winning cowboy poets and musicians from across the country and around the

Among performers slated for this year’s Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathing is Texas native singer and songwriter Jean COURTESY PHOTO Prescott.

world.

The 2022 Gathering features a blockbuster lineup of headlining performers: Andy Nelson, cowboy poet and humorist Carol Heuchan, renowned Australian bush poet Dave Stamey Eli Barsi, Canadian singer, songwriter, musician and yodeler Gary Allegretto, award-winning cowboy singer, songwriter and harmonica player Jean Prescott, award-winning cowgirl singer and performer

COLORADO COWBOY POETRY GATHERING Saturday, Jan. 15 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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Sunday, Jan. 16 10 a.m. Harmonica workshop 1 - 3:30 p.m. Matinee performance American Mountaineering Center

710 10th St. Golden, CO 80401 Plenty of free parking For information, schedule of performances and tickets: coloradocowboygathering.com 720-213-6446 (Leave a message)

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Cowboy, a mule packer, dude wrangler, and now one of the most popular cowboy entertainers working today, Dave Stamey will delight audiences at this year’s Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering in downtown Golden.

Australian Bush Poet Carol Heuchan will perform at the 2022 Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering at the American Mountaineering Center on Saturday, Jan. 15. Heuchan’s broad repertoire and stage charisma make her an audience favorite.

COURTESY PHOTO

Susie Knight, award-winning singer, songwriter and poet Terry Nash, award-winning Colorado cowboy poet Established in 1986, the Colorado Cowboy Gathering was formed to celebrate cowboy life and culture.

The performances rekindle life on the range as award-winning poets, singers, musicians, and yodelers recount the joys and hardships of the Old West.

Cunningham says the Gathering is a family-friendly event with plenty of programming for those

COURTESY PHOTO

with little buckaroos.

He adds that on Saturday, food trucks will be onsite at the CCPG with a variety of theme-appropriate chow.

“If you or a family member have never been to the Colorado Cowboy Poetry Gathering, it’s almost a sin,” said Cunningham. “You have to come—it’s life-changing.”

Tickets for evening performances and themed session matinees are on sale now at ColoradoCowboyGathering.com. Ticket prices range between $20 and $99.

Jeffco School Board gives January update New year picks up where old year leaves off — COVID-19 policies, small school closure concerns and staff shortages.

BY BOB WOOLEY BWOOLEY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

In the most recent Jeffco School Board meeting, several topics were discussed without covering a ton of new ground. COVID-19 policies and monitoring were clarified, a group of worried Fitzmorris parents and staff spoke during public comment and district employees continue to leave during a time when many departments are already short-staffed.

COVID-19 On the COVID-19 front, Pam Yoder, Jeffco’s COVID Response Team project manager, gave an update on changing guidance around isolation

and quarantine times. Yoder said CDC guidance has been adjusted to a minimum of five days of isolation or quarantine for students and adults who have tested positive or been exposed (with guidelines, depending upon vaccination status).

She said the only mandates currently in effect for the district are masks and quarantines.

“There is a surge for the Omicron variant,” Yoder said. “The Omicron variant is prevalent in schools and we need to use other mitigation strategies.”

She said the District knows that masks, testing and distancing are the best strategies and that moving forward, they will continue to look at Omicron’s impact on schools — monitoring attendance and the need for substitute teachers — to best determine if a decision will need to be made about how schools will operate moving forward.

One significant change that will be taking place during the spring SEE JANUARY, P7

Arvada Press 7

January 13, 2022

Jefferson County offers free radon test kits How to be aware of this invisible, dangerous gas that can cause serious health risks.

BY BOB WOOLEY BWOOLEY@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

January is National Radon Action Month. In an effort to increase awareness of the serious health threat the naturally occurring gas can create, and help residents protect themselves, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is giving away 1,200 free radon test kits this month (while supplies last).

Residents can sign up to receive one free test kit per address. Due to production delays, the kits will be mailed and should arrive in April.

In addition to the free test kit, residents who act quickly sending their kits in to be tested and receiving results by the first week of May, will be entered in a drawing for gift cards ranging from $10 - $25. As a reminder, JCPH wants residents to know that delays in returning the kits can cause them to be invalid, so they recommend using expedited shipping to return them.

Tracey Volkman, Senior Environmental Health Specialist at JCPH, said Colorado’s geology creates a risk in both old and new homes for the dangerous, radioac-

tive gas, and JCPH was proud to offer the testing program once again in 2022.

“Our residents have shown us that testing for radon is a priority for them, and we know that there are significant health benefits to testing for and mitigating against radon in our community,” Volkman said.

According to a JCPH press release about the free test kits, you cannot smell, taste or see radon. It said people are exposed to radon primarily from breathing radon in air that enters homes and other buildings through cracks and gaps in foundations. Radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and a top environmental cause of cancer

nationwide. In Jefferson County, more than half of homes tested have high levels of radon.

“By testing, you can know if you need to take steps to make your home safer for you and your family,” she said. “If we can find the places radon is getting trapped indoors, we can mitigate it and lessen the negative health effects it has on our community. That’s a win for us all.”

In the event your home test positive for high radon levels, there are several companies in the metro area that specialize in radon mitigation.

To sign up to receive your kit, please visit jeffco.us/2337/Radon and click on “request a radon kit to test your home.”

Uncashed TABOR check rate at 41% Jeffco treasurer says cash em if you got them

BY GLENN WALLACE GWALLACE@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Why did we get checks?

Jefferson County taxpayers received TABOR refund checks in the mail last month, as required by the state’s Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights Amendment (TABOR).

The TABOR Amendment requires governments in Colorado to refund excess revenue collected above the TABOR limit for a given fiscal year or seek voter approval to retain the excess revenue. In 2020, Jefferson County received exactly $1,543,575 in property tax revenue above the TABOR property tax limit, as a result, the county was required to give that money back to the taxpayers in 2021, which it did though the mail in December.

Each check cost about 97 cents in postage to send out. The printing and postage costs had to come out of the county’s general fund, as TABOR funds are not allowed to be used for distribution costs.

JANUARY FROM PAGE 6

semester is that unvaccinated students will no longer be required to take weekly COVID-19 tests to be allowed to participate in extracurricular activities.

Masks will continue to be required for all participants, coaches/sponsors and spectators.

Employee Attrition One of the most notable parts of the meeting was somewhat buried in the Consent Agenda section.

Board members are required to approve resignations and terminations, and as a consent agenda item, this type of item is routinely approved without discussion. However, from November through early January, the District lost 91 workers,

By The Numbers 212,874 checks $200,000 in postage costs $7 average check amount $0.01 smallest check amount 41% of checks remained uncashed as of Jan. 1 $8.7 million in county budget cuts last year Uncashed conundrum Jerry DiTullio, the county treasurer and public trustee, recently released some stats on how the refund distribution has gone so far.

As of Jan. 1 he reports that 87,298 of the checks remain uncashed, equalling roughly $536,299.

DiTullio said some of those uncashed checks haven’t reached the right person yet, with some property owner-addresses being out of date. He added that he received a few return envelopes with not-sonice anti-TABOR comments written on the envelope. But many others “just haven’t bothered with such a small amount.”

“Those funds just sit in perpetuity until someone comes and claims them,” DiTullio said.

He suggested check recipients donate the money to a charity or add the amount to a tip, to benefit the vast majority of which were resignations, not terminations. Of the 91 employees who’ve left their jobs, 17 were teachers, one was a special education learning specialist, one was a counselor and one was a school nurse.

The district also lost bus drivers, custodians, food service workers and paraprofessionals, to name just a few of the important positions at a time when they’re already shortstaffed.

In two cases, positions were eliminated, in another, the employee was dismissed and one employee’s departure was “performance” related.

Retirement was listed as the reason for 13 employees leaving. Still, that leaves approximately 70 employees who resigned in a time when retention is critical. In roughly the same SEE JANUARY, P18

the community, instead of it not benefiting anyone.

TABOR Take Two The early estimates from the Treasurer’s Department indicates that 2020 taxes collected by the county in 2021 will be even higher over the TABOR limit. DiTullio said early indications are that the total would be even higher than the $1.5 million from 2020.

It will be up to the Board of

County Commissioners whether to ask voters to keep the money, or to refund it again.

For help If you need assistance, either receiving your check, or getting it cashed, contact the Treasurers Department at 303-271-8337 There is more information about TABOR at jeffco.us/3994/What-isTABOR

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January 13, 2022

How to prepare for a wildfire in Colorado Experts say to map evacuation routes and gather emergency supplies

BY OLIVIA PRENTZEL THE COLORADO SUN

The Marshall Fire, which forced thousands to flee as flames raced across 6,000 acres in the matter of hours, offered a window into what has become a new reality for many parts of Colorado.

Even if you don’t live in a community directly adjacent to forestland, embers can travel through the air, move rapidly and travel great distances, especially when fueled by intense winds.

Here is a list of ways to prepare in the event a wildfire in Colorado: Before the fire Assemble an emergency kit.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency suggests packing the following items: • Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation) and at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio that can receive NOAA weather radio tone alerts and other batteries • Flashlight and extra batteries • First-aid kit Extra batteries • Whistle (to signal for help) • Dust mask (to help filter contami-

|

nated air) • Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities) • Manual can opener (for food) • Local maps • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery • Masks (for everyone ages 2 and above), soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes • Prescription medication and glasses. nonprescription medications to treat pain and diarrhea • A complete change of clothing including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes.

• Consider additional clothing for colder temperatures.

• Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank records. Place the documents in a portable, waterproof container.

• Cash and change • First aid book • Matches in a waterproof container • Sleeping bag or a warm blanket for each person • Pen and pencil Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children Pet food and extra water for your pet Diapers and formula Keep important documents together.

Collect insurance records, passports, birth certificates, property titles, Social Security cards and any other important documents that may be needed to file claims after the fire or might be difficult to replace.

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720.898.7200

As wildfire season is more of a year round concern, Colorado residents are encouraged to get ready by creating kits, protecting documents and planning ahead.

SHUTTERSTOCK

Know how you will communicate with your family.

Create a hardcopy list of contact information for your family and other important people and services, like doctors, schools or service providers. Make sure everyone carries a copy in their wallet, purse or backpack. When using a cell phone, a text message is the best way to communicate with family, as it uses less bandwidth.

Know your escape routes.

Have a map with more than one evacuation route and practice them with your family. Make sure everyone in the family knows your safe meeting place and let your friends and family know your plans.

Set up homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.

Homeowners should complete annual insurance policy “check-ups” to make sure they keep up with local building costs, home remodeling and inventories of their personal belongings, according to Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association.

Rates will vary depending on how likely it is a claim will be filed and how much it is likely to cost.

For example, a homeowner living in an area that has high wildfire risk would pay a higher insurance rate than a homeowner living in a lowrisk area. Renter’s insurance can cover the cost to replace the belongings inside your rented home (up to policy limits) and most policies include additional living expenses if you are forced out of your home from a fire.

Make an inventory of your home.

Take photos or record the belongings inside your home and store them outside your home or digitally.

Remember to document contents of drawers and closets and if recording, mention the price you paid and where and when you bought the item. Save receipts for major purchases and store them digitally or in a fireproof case. Don’t forget to document what’s inside your garage.

Create a digital backup of photos.

For photos taken with your phone, use Google Photos, Apple iCloud, Dropbox or similar services to keep your photos backed up online. For photo albums and other nondigital keepsakes, use a personal scanner to create copies or use a local scanning service to make backups of irreplaceable images.

Have a plan for your pets and animals.

Many public shelters and hotels

don’t allow pets inside. Know a safe place where you can take your pets before disasters happen. Have your pet microchipped. Make sure your address and phone number are up to date. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so.

Consider moving horses and large animals to a safe location early, before evacuation is ordered, if possible.

Know the risk of wildfire where you live.

Reducing fuels around your home can help mitigate wildfire risk. Colorado State Forest Service offers the following tips to help prepare your home and property for a fire: • Remove all debris, including leaves and needles, from decks, roofs and gutters • Screen the attic, roof, eaves and foundation vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh • Use tempered glass for windows.

CSFS recommends at least two panes • Replace combustible fencing or gates that are within 5 feet of your home • Rake and remove all pine needles and other flammable debris from a 5-foot radius around the foundation of your home • Keep propane tanks at least 30 feet from the home, preferably at the same elevation as the house; remove flammable vegetation within 10 feet of all propane tanks and gas meters • Keep firewood stacked uphill, or at the same elevation as, your home and keep the woodpile at least 30 feet away from your home; do not stack the wood between trees, underneath the deck or on the deck • Remove branches that hang over the roof and chimney • After thinning trees and shrubs, dispose of the slash by chipping, hauling to a disposal site or piling in open areas for burning later. Wood chips should be kept 30 feet or more away from your home.

As the fire approaches If there’s time, move flammable items like propane tanks, brush and wood piles at least 30 feet away from your home. Shut off the gas at the meter and turn off the air-conditioning. Shut windows and doors, but leave them unlocked so firefighters can get in after you evacuate. Remove flammable drapes and curtains. Listen or read the local news for updated emergency information Place valuable documents and mementos inside the car.

When you decide to leave Don’t wait for an evacuation order to leave. If you feel unsafe, go.

Consider traffic jams if you live in a densely populated area. Grab your go-bag and if there is time, your most important belongings, including personal documents, family keepsakes, cell phones and chargers.

This story is from The Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support The Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun.com.

The Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.

Arvada Press 9

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January 13, 2022

Colorado voters approved record conservation funding Parks, trails and open space are clear priorities after balloting

BY JASON BLEVINS COLORADO SUN

The year 2020 was a banner year for voters across the country approving taxes that protected open spaces, parks and public land.

There were 51 conservation funding measures on ballots in 2020 and voters approved 50 of them, creating a flow of more than $3.7 billion for the climate, open space and parks for the next two decades.

It was a high-water mark for conservation funding.

The election cycle in 2021 had fewer ballot conservation measures, but voters again came out in widespread support for directing tax dollars toward protecting public lands and natural spaces.

“It feels like we might be on the verge of moving something that has been good, to really great,” said Conor Hall, the director of conservation strategies, policy and advocacy for the Intermountain West at the Trust for Public Land.

The Trust for Public Land — alongside many conservation groups — championed 26 conservation ballot measures in 11 states in SEE FUNDING, P18

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January 13, 2022

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12 Arvada Press

GUEST COLUMNIST

Joe Webb

LOCAL

January 13, 2022

VOICES

E

Why I will vote for Eli Bremer

li Bremer is a friend of mine running for the United States Senate. He is seeking the Republican nomination to oppose Michael Bennet for reelection.

I met Eli through my involvement in the Colorado Republican party. We knew of each other by reputation and, to be frank, we did not really know each other well.

Eli handled an unfortunate situation in El Paso County successfully, and it was not something he had to do.

Nonetheless he took it on bringing it to a fair and beneficial conclusion.

That impressed me a great deal, so I sent him a message on Facebook thanking him for his efforts. We met each other at a party several weeks later, I introduced myself to him and we got along extremely well.

The first thing anyone

needs to know about Eli is that he is his own man. He does what he thinks is the correct course of action regardless of anyone else’s opinions.

He supported Donald Trump before many in Colorado did so. He is a Republican Party maverick. Even though he is a former Chairman of the El Paso County GOP, he has successfully sued the state party when they acted inappropriately with regards to assembly results.

He has uniquely amongst Senate candidates called out Republican extremists for indecent behavior.

Most importantly, Eli’s activism with regards to the U.S. Olympic Committee ended the abuse, both sexual and physical, of our Olympic athletes. As a former Olympic athlete, this was a cause that was important to Eli on a personal basis. The legis-

lation that prevented such abuse was sponsored by both Republicans and Democrats.

Eli knows how to accomplish bipartisan initiatives.

Eli is one of the most intelligent people I have met in my life. He is knowledgeable about many different things and always willing to share his insights in order to assist you. His academic record is also stellar. Eli is a graduate of the Air Force Academy and has an MBA from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. He also has a Masters from the George Washington University.

Eli has many naysayers who will speak poorly of him within the Colorado GOP with reports of exaggerated or distorted misdeeds. The truth, as I have observed, is that Eli seeks to remedy inappropriate actions and thus earns the wrath of those who

behaved wrongly. Once I got to know Eli well, I found him to be far more personally decent and accomplished than his detractors.

That decency, along with his resume and accomplishments, is why I will vote for him to be Colorado’s next United States Senator. What I will do is caucus on March 1 here in Jefferson County in order to be elected as a delegate to the state assembly. I will spend the day at the state assembly in order to vote to give Eli a place on next June’s primary ballot. I urge you to join me wherever you live in Colorado and do the same thing. Together we can give Colorado a worthy and accomplished United States Senator in 2022.

Joe Webb is the former chairman of the Jeffco Republican party.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Disappointment with Media Coverage of “Polarization” in Politics I value focusing on what is important in life, such as having respect for others, following science and using rational thinking. I am very disappointed with the media’s lack of coverage of today’s politics in America, including: 1) Improvement in the economy, progress with COVID and help for families in need. 2) Pending popular legislation on voting rights, climate change initiatives, tax reform for the rich, LBGTQ+ rights, efforts for DC statehood, among many others. 3) The current investigation into those responsible (and liable) for the Jan. 6 Insurrection and Coup attempt against our democracy.

However, our media largely ignores these issues and focuses on the idea that our society has become polarized, and treats both sides as being equally responsible for this polarization. Instead of covering the Big Lie about who won the election (based on reality) they try to portray “both sides”. In reality, one party is only slightly more liberal than it has been in years past, whereas the other party has been radicalized to a significant degree. Unfortunately dishonesty, harassment of fellow lawmak-

A publication of

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ers, courting violence, conspiracy theories, talk of “secession” and voter suppression have become normalized.

The mainstream media needs to step up. Cover the insurrection coup news, not how many points Biden is down in opinion polls.

Our democracy is being severely threatened and the media is not reporting it. People need to receive honest, thoughtful reporting and not just Fox News.

Paul Brunson, Arvada Arvada can be a leader in addressing Climate Change The Marshall Fire on Dec. 30, 2021 was the worst wildfire in Colorado history. It was a traumatic event for our community and was ever more horrific for our friends to the north in Superior and Louisville. This is a time for us to come together and support our neighbors. It is also time to realize this fire is not a wake-up call, but a “gut punch.” These disasters will happen again and again.

We cannot be complacent about climate change. We must rally together as Arvadans to address the threat of climate change head-on.

We need a Climate Action Plan for our community that outlines short and long-term actions we will take for mitigation, adaptation, and

resiliency — specifically reducing our risk of fire and flood.

I strongly believe cities can be the beacon of hope. Cities can adopt new technologies, buildings, and infrastructure that lower greenhouse gas emissions now.

Communities across the country, including our neighboring cities, have adopted plans with clear goals and have begun implementing specific actions. Arvada, we too, can be part of the solution, prioritizing and incentivizing electrification, energy efficiency, and renewable energy. We can provide financial and technical assistance to our businesses and residents to utilize energy-saving measures that reduce our climate impactandsave everyone money. By attracting new green businesses to Arvada, we can build a stronger, more sustainable, and resilient economy.

Join me and call on our city to put together a plan that moves us forward.

Randy Moorman, Arvada City Council District 1 Could education issues and angry moms help defeat Gov. Polis in November?

It was not long ago that Gov. Jared Polis reversed course on mask mandates, saying on public radio, “Public health [officials] don’t get to tell people what to wear; that’s

just not their job.” It was a rare departure from what his state health department (CDPHE) had been drumming for months.

Now, another state department, the Colorado Department of Education (CDE), is attempting to exert its authority over hundreds of thousands of children. Will Gov. Polis stand by and watch?

CDE has published its revised academic standards for K-12 social studies. Public comment on these proposed standards ends Feb. 1.

This deadline has been extended once — and should be extended again if Gov. Polis fails to weighin.

Just as education issues were the main downfall of then-Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe(D)...when he claimed, “I don’t think parents should be telling schools what they should teach,” — could education issues and angry moms help defeat Gov. Polis in November?

CDE’s proposed standards show an attempt to infuse critical race theory, social justice, and gender identity into classrooms for children as young as kindergarten.

See for yourself at CDE.state.co.us and enter a comment before it’s too late.

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Arvada Press 13

January 13, 2022

I

The importance of asking questions

love questions. Questions are the beginning of all learning, of all wisdom. Guy’s walking along, sees some interesting phenomenon, says, “Why do you suppose that happens?” That is how physics, astronomy, meteorology, psychology, chemistry… well, you get the idea.

Also, by the way, how relationships start. Many years ago I read a book that had one very smart piece of advice: start every conversation with a stranger with five questions. The author didn’t dictate what those questions should be, he simply said have five questions in your hip pocket to start conversations.

Asking about the weather doesn’t fit the bill, and just asking about the game on Sunday doesn’t do it.

But, asking about how long someone’s been a Bronco fan could lead to a fascinating conversation about history, family, frustration and futility.

Sometimes, you have to be careful with your questions. There are times and places that a certain line of questioning can get you in to trouble. A few years back, I stepped out of line and questioned the narrative about a local school issue, and, honestly, had colleagues who were considering performing some sort of

intervention. Or exorcism. Or something. Turned out, I was right, but by the time anybody learned the extent of that, the news cycle had moved on.

There also are questions that lead to futility. Pretty much any question Michael Alcorn these days about politics will lead you to a short hallway with a hard wall at the end of it for you to bang your head against. Asking an addict about their addiction will rarely produce anything of value. Asking a teenager, “What were you thinking?” leads nowhere useful.

There also is a class of question that is useless, but for a different reason. They fall into the category of “if you have to ask, you can’t understand the answer.” Ask a former athlete why they still work out as hard as they do, or why they play so hard at recreational games. Ask a runner why they run. Ask a musician why they practice. If you have to ask the question, you can understand the words, but you probably can’t understand the meaning behind

HITTING HOME

those words.

But none of that means stop asking questions. The more challenging the question, the more important the answer. For instance, The Denver Broncos are now facing another off season of turmoil and opportunity. Do they start with the simplest question: who should be our next head coach? Obviously, they have to answer that question; but will that question alone yield the answers they need? Probably not. How about this question: what type of man do we need as our next head coach? Ah, that might bring some interesting answers leading to even more interesting questions.

Or, maybe even deeper: how do we see this organization evolving in the next five years? That gets you somewhere.

It’s very early in the political cycle, but we do have elections coming up in about ten months.

And, I think, a lot of our politics has stagnated around the question “Who can beat the other person?” If that’s the only question we consider deeply, or, more importantly, ask of our candidates, then all we’re going to get

is another cycle of pre-school level argument that does nothing to inform the public and even less to raise up this great nation.

The answer last year was “vaccines!” Yeah, that was great. But, what we’re finding now is that was inadequate to a virus that doesn’t care about politics. Better questions might have led us to “vaccines first; but then, therapies, and then reliable testing, and especially advanced mitigation around the vulnerable…”

Everybody is busy, everybody is overwhelmed with information, so we tend to get our answers from a few trusted sources and not ask many questions. But maybe we have a responsibility to start asking more and better questions.

Michael Alcorn is a former teacher and current writer who lives in Arvada with his wife and three children. His new novel, “Valkyrie’s Kiss,” a finalist in the ScreenCraft Book Competition, is available now at mjalcorn@ comcast.net. His opinions are not necessarily those of Colorado Community Media.

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14 Arvada Press

LOCAL

LIFE

Highest-elevation spots in metro Denver counties sit at some unexpected places

January 13, 2022

M

BY ELLIS ARNOLD EARNOLD@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

T

o outdoor-recreation enthusiasts, Colorado is known for its fourteeners: mountain peaks that exceed 14,000 feet. But take a drive through the Denver area, and you might notice how the elevation varies — even all the way down here.

Finding the highest-elevation points in metro Denver counties takes you to places that you might not expect to hold the top spots. Some sit in areas that make for great photos or bike rides.

Here’s a look at the highest points in several metro counties and information about their surroundings.

Arapahoe County Unless you live in the immediate area, there’s a good hance you’ve never passed by Arapahoe County’s highest stretch.

It sits near the edge of far southeast Aurora, just outside of Blackstone Country Club, amid the maze of twisting suburban streets.

A map illustrates the locations of Douglas County’s high-elevation points.

COURTESY OF DOUGLAS COUNTY Douglas County sits a few blocks to the south across County Line Road — and Elbert County sits a short drive to the southeast.

Soopers there.

Walk a couple blocks north, though, and you’re Michael Hubbard, a geographic information out of Jefferson County and back inDenver, close system analyst with Arapahoe County, believes to Denver’s highest point. that the highest point in the county point sits “The highest point within the City and County near the intersection of Powhaton Road and of Denver is somewhere along the south and/ Otero Drive, at around 6,220 feet above sea level.

Hubbard said he determined that location from or west fence lines behind the residence 4899 S. Johnson St.,” a statement from Denver staff “our 10-foot elevation contours that cover the said. “These fence lines are along the boundary entire county.” between Denver and Jefferson counties, and Near the high point, the south Aurora area elevation continues to rise to the south and west. features the large Southlands outdoor mall but The elevation here is approximately 5,684 feet quickly gives way to the plains to the east.

-5,685 feet.”

The high point is not far from where Smoky If you don’t pay close attention to the look of Hill Road ends, dipping south of Arapahoe Road. the street signs, you wouldn’t know you’re back The Smoky Hill Trail, once the shortest route The street signs along Kipling Street — within the City in Denver. to Denver from Kansas, ran roughly along parts of Denver and just outside Jefferson County — north of The spot is part of the area where Denver’s of what is today Smoky Hill Road, according to Belleview Avenue on Dec. 29. The highest point in the the Aurora History Museum. The route was used boundaries snake farthest southwest. Parts of City of Denver sits a short walk away. that general area were annexed into Denver from the 1850s until 1870, according to a guide Course. sometime in the 1970s, according to materials on from the museum online.

• Denver International Airport ranges from “Archaeological evidence found near (a histori- the Denver Public Library’s website.

5,300 feet to 5,400 feet.

On the other end of Denver near its southeast cal) marker indicates that native peoples occuAll elevations shown in Denver’s statement edges, another high point sits near where Interpied the area approximately 850 years before the were derived from the “2014 1-foot contour GIS state 25 meets Belleview Avenue. first European American immigrants arrived,” layer created in conjunction with the 2014 Den“Honorable mention should be given to the the guide says. ver Regional Aerial Photography Project.” building site at 6900 E. Layton Ave. in the Belleview Station area,” Denver’s statement to Adams County Broomfield Colorado Community Media said. “Prior to the Another place where the suburbs meet the Broomfield’s highest point sits near Rocky development of this block, city contour data plains, Adams County’s highest point, just off of Flats National Wildlife Refuge, a place with a showed a couple of small domes exceeding 5,685 Interstate 70, is not far from an industrial area. complicated history. feet. It is unlikely that these survived developDrivers can access the area off a frontage ment.” road along I-70 — Colfax Avenue, which, after The high point sits at 5,851.11 feet, according to Elevations at other points of interest in Densome twists and turns, continues east past the a statement from the city and county. ver, according to the city, include: I-70/E-470 interchange and crosses Powhaton “General location is south of state Highway • Loretto Heights Park, just to the west of the Road.

128 and east of Indiana Street. The elevation point was derived from (the) Broomfield 2006 Based on the county’s contour map, the highest Loretto Heights campus, rises to approximately 5,510 feet. The “historic building(s)” on the camAerial/lidar mapping project,” the statement point in the county is northeast of that crossing. pus sit at about 5,490 feet. The 70-acre campus, from spokesperson Carolyn Romero said.

It is 5,670 feet in elevation, located on 26th Ava former Catholic college that grew out of an Rocky Flats was once a U.S. nuclear weapons enue, approximately 2,680 feet east of Powhaton effort by the Sisters of Loretto that dates back to plant that from 1952 until 1989 manufactured Road, said a statement from county spokesper1891, sits off Federal Boulevard and Dartmouth the plutonium detonators, or triggers, used in son Amber DiGiallonardo.

Avenue. nuclear bombs. Production was halted amid an Signs advertising new homes in the area sit at • Inspiration Point Park summits at approxiinvestigation of the plant’s operator, Rockwell the intersection of Powhaton Road and 26th AvInternational Corporation, for violations of enue, a mark of the continuing suburban sprawl. mately 5,415 feet. The park sits along Sheridan Boulevard just north of I-70 and offers compelenvironmental law, according to the Britannica ling views. online encyclopedia.

Denver County • The old radio station at the southwest corner At first glance, the area of Kipling Street of Ruby Hill Park is at 5,395 feet. The park sits and Belleview Avenue looks like a nondescript in southwest Denver near the Overland Golf suburban intersection: a Taco Bell here, a King SEE HIGH POINTS, P15

Arvada Press 15

January 13, 2022

2021’s best albums use music as bridge, inspiration

M

uch like the year immediately preceding it, 2021 posed more than its share of challenges. As individuals, community members and global citizens, we all had to be more thoughtful than ever about what we owe to ourselves and those around us.

Whether as a balm or bridge, music continued to play a crucial role for me and many others. In a year brimming with things to pay attention to, it’d be easy to miss some great music.

Here are five albums that might’ve passed you by but are worth every minute you give them.

Kississippi — Mood Ring Kississippi, the name which Philadelphia’s Zoe Allaire Reynolds records under, gives a handy glimpse of the sense of humor of the artist.

That humor is all over her second full-length, “Mood Ring,” and it’s both a tool for her and a bit of a deception. Reynolds artfully uses it on numerous tracks, but it also masks how incisive and searching she is as a writer.

“Mood Ring” is full of indie rock and pop gems, but the hooks never overpower the heartbreak Reynolds achingly explores. “Around Your Room” isn’t just one of the album’s best songs, but one of the best of the entire year. In it, she pleads for the return of a lost love, name-checks Cyndi Lauper’s most well-known song and conjures all the nostalgia

HIGH POINTS FROM PAGE 14

The site was one of 13 nuclearweapons production facilities in the United States during the Cold War and was managed by the Department of Energy, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website.

The plant operated from 1952 to 1994, with manufacturing activities taking place in the center portion of the site with a large buffer zone around the area, the website says.

“Dismantling of the plant and cleanup of the highly contaminated site was undertaken in the mid1990s and declared completed in 2005,” Britannica’s website says.

“Two years later, most of the site was designated a national wildlife refuge, with areas set aside for eventual recreational use, while the remainder was permanently closed to the public.”

Whether the remaining contamination constitutes a significant risk to public health is a matter of dispute, Britannica’s website says.

Visiting Rocky Flats National

COMING ATTRACTIONS

of first love. It’s the kind of magic trick that gets under your skin.

Peyton — PSA There’s something about a great R&B record that just lives in your brain. The slickness of the grooves Clarke Reader and warmth of the vocals can make the music seem more like an old friend than the thoughts of someone you don’t know. “PSA,” the debut album from Houston, Texas, native Peyton expertly evokes these very feelings while adding her own flourishes.

Peyton Booker is the granddaughter of Theola Booker, a legendary Gospel singer, and that same passion and love of the craft is all over the songs on “PSA.” While R&B is the main genre, on any given track you’ll hear classic soul or even shoegaze elements wafting through. For a debut album, “PSA” shows nothing but promise and I cannot wait to hear how she continues to experiment and blend genres to her will. The title says it all - start paying attention to Peyton now.

Isaiah Rashad — The House Is Burning When Kendrick Lamar announced last year that he had just one album left to make on California’s Top Wildlife Refuge is free.

“Discover the 10.3 miles of yearround hiking trails for wildlife viewing, photography, and to connect with nature,” the webpage says.

Douglas County The highest point in Douglas County is near Thunder Butte, according to a statement from county spokesperson Wendy Holmes.

The spot’s elevation, according to the “LIDAR 2020 Contours,” is 9,836 feet, the statement said.

A butte is an isolated hill with steep sides and a flat top, similar to but narrower than a mesa.

The next-highest point is near Devils Head, at an elevation of 9,748 feet, according to the county.

Both points sit in the southwest part of the county. Thunder Butte is located west of State Highway 67, southwest of the Town of Larkspur, according to a map provided by the county.

Devils Head sits far south of where state Highway 67 meets Rampart Range Road. It’s east of Rampart Range Road, west of Larkspur.

Jefferson County The highest point in Jefferson

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Dawg Entertainment record label, fans of their lineup could be forgiven for wondering what would happen without its biggest star. But thankfully Isaiah Rashad finally released his much-anticipated sophomore album, “The House Is Burning,” and put any worries about the label’s future to rest.

Funky and introspective, the album follows a particularly difficult time for the Chattanooga, Tennessee, rapper — Rashad struggled with poverty and addiction issues and while it would be cliché to say he’s emerged stronger than ever, there’s a new vitality and wisdom in his music. It’s never ponderous or preachy but remains immensely listenable throughout. And when you combine Rashad’s writing with some top-tier production work, you get the year’s best rap album.

Rostam — Changephobia Making pretty music sounds like a simple proposition but doing it without being treacly or overly sentimental takes a real artist. As a member of Vampire Weekend, producer and solo artist, Rostam Batmanglij has been making some of the prettiest, most subtly layered music around for nearly 15 years. His second solo full-length, “Changephobia,” might be his most gorgeous collection of songs yet.

The songs he creates here are all quicksilver melodies and sharply

Clear Creek This story is intended to highlight lesser-known points of high elevation in counties, but the highest elevation in Clear Creek County

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Wild Pink — A Billion Little Lights When describing the American west, some of the terms that could be aptly used include spacious, sprawling and complex. The same could be said of “A Billion Little Lights,” the third album from New York’s Wild Pink. Which tracks, because the album was born out of a larger project all about the country’s western expanse. And while this may be a shorter album than originally intended, no depth or scope was jettisoned in the process.

Channeling the same heartland rock that groups like The War on Drugs have brought back in style, with a literary perspective that owes as much to John Prine as it does Bruce Springsteen, “A Billion Little Lights” is full of songs to get lost in. The group’s music has never sounded bigger. If they keep growing at this rate, there will be no stopping them.

Clarke Reader’s column on culture appears on a weekly basis. He can be reached at Clarke.Reader@hotmail.com.

County is Buffalo Peak at 11,589 feet — also known as Freeman Peak, according to a statement from county spokesperson Julie Story.

“Buffalo Peak is part of the Kenosha Mountains and is located (about) 2.5 miles south of Wellington Lake, just east of the JeffersonPark county line, in the Lost Creek Wilderness of Pike National Forest,” the statement said.

Some other relatively high summits in Jefferson that are closer to the Denver area, according to Jefferson’s statement, include the following spots: • On Green Mountain at 6,855 feet • North Table Mountain has three peaks; the highest is at 6,575 feet • South Table Mountain has two peaks; the highest is at 6,335 feet • On Mount Carbon at 5,772 feet The information in the county’s statement came from a data set from the United States Geological Survey dated 2010, according to the county.

No Clipping Required.

written character studies. All the tunes bend and conform to Batmanglij’s surprising sonic architectures, resulting in an album that is full of gems that sound completely different than the bulk of pop stars’ tunes.

For something a little less ordinary, “Changephobia” is something special.

is 14,278 feet at Grays Peak, according to visitclearcreek.com, which says it is “the official travel planning website for tourism in Clear Creek County.”

Elbert County Asked about Elbert County’s highest point, Greg Thompson, county planning manager, pointed to a map on peakbagger.com. He said he doesn’t necessarily have any more specific information than that site would have.

The Elbert County high-point elevation is given as around 7,360 feet on the webpage at tinyurl.com/ ElbertCountyHighPoint. That spot is near the Elbert-El Paso county line, according to the webpage’s map. Elbert meets Douglas County some distance to the west, according to the map.

“It was interesting to see how the contours changed from one end of Elbert County to the other,” Thompson said, speaking about the map. “The high point in the south end is about 1,000 feet higher than Kiowa and 2,000 feet higher than Limon. It’s a more pronounced elevation change than I would have anticipated!”

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16 Arvada Press

LOCAL

SPORTS

January 13, 2022

No. 9 D’Evelyn girls hoops sharp after holiday break

BY DENNIS PLEUSS JEFFCO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

GOLDEN — There was no rust on D’Evelyn’s girls basketball team Jan. 4 at Golden High School.

The Jaguars — No. 9 in the CHSAANow.com Class 4A girls basketball rankings — completely dominated 4A Jeffco League rival Golden in the first game back from the holiday break. D’Evelyn took a 68-12 conference victory.

“Holy cow! We were just all over the place to start the game,” D’Evelyn coach Chris Olson said after the 56-point victory that featured the Jaguars jumping out to a 36-0 lead. “You never know the first game after break what it is going to look like. We have been talking a lot about the mental approach.”

D’Evelyn (8-1, 2-0 in league) nearly shutout Golden (4-5, 1-1) in the first half. Golden junior Sage Manning got the Demons on the scoreboard with just more than a minute left in the second quarter to end a 36-0 run to start the game.

“We just ran our zone stuff and people hit shots,” Olson said of D’Evelyn scoring 39 points in the first half to Golden’s 4 points. “That is what happens when you have a lot of good players around that can do things.”

D’Evelyn sophomore Peyton

Marvel led all scorers with 17 points.

Marvel buried a 3-pointer to end the first half. She did most of her damage in the second quarter making a trio of 3-pointers.

“We started strong and started on top,” Marvel said. “Our defense was really strong and our offense just carried through.”

The Jaguars finished with four players in double-digit points.

Marvel and junior Rebecca Taylor (12 points), along with seniors Mikky Smith (14 points) and Maddie Topping (10 points) led the way in D’Evelyn’s second highest scoring output of the season.

The league win also gives D’Evelyn a quick start out of the gates with a 2-0 record in conference play. The Jaguars took a double-digit road victory against Evergreen right before the holiday break on Dec. 21.

“We have a tough top-end of the league,” Olson said referring to Green Mountain, Littleton, Evergreen and his Jaguars. “We have to make sure we are playing and working hard.”

The lone loss so far this season with a defeat against Monarch. The Coyotes (8-0) are currently ranked No. 5 in Class 5A. “Playing all those hard 5A teams at the beginning of the year I think really helped us,” Marvel said. “We lost to Monarch, but still played

Golden senior Anna Kennedy, left, dribbles in front of the Demons’ bench while being covered by D’Evelyn sophomore Macy Scheer during the Class 4A Jeffco League game PHOTO BY DENNIS PLEUSS/JEFFCO PUBLIC SCHOOLS Jan. 4 at Golden High School.

strong.”

D’Evelyn was scheduled to host Alameda International on Thursday, Jan. 6, to finish off play this week.

However, the game was postponed because of health and safety protocols on Alameda’s team.

“I like the mentality and the makeup of our team,” Olson said. “We’ll

be ready for whoever is next.”

Golden grabbed its first conference win with a 39-28 win over rival Wheat Ridge on Jan. 7.

Dennis Pleuss is the Sports Information Director for Jeffco Public Schools. For more Jeffco coverage, go to CHSAANow.com.

D’Evelyn rallies from double-digit deficit to edge Golden in OT

BY DENNIS PLEUSS JEFFCO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

DENVER — The path for boys basketball teams in Class 4A Jeffco League can be like driving on the roads of Colorado at night during a winter snowstorm … the journey can be long and treacherous a times, but if navigated correctly, you can get to your destination.

The 16-game conference schedule is at just the beginning, but D’Evelyn (6-2, 3-0 in 4A Jeffco) navigated its first icy curve with a come-from-behind 74-62 overtime victory Jan. 5. The Jaguars stayed undefeated in conference play with the home league victory over Golden (5-4, 1-1).

The Demons took a 42-32 lead with 3:47 left in the third quarter when senior Richie Pruett made a free throw, giving Golden its largest lead of the game. However, D’Evelyn battled back behind seniors Max Grant (20 points), Bodhi Anderson (17 points), Troy Benko (14 points) and Braeden Scheer (14 points) to rally for the win.

Grant did most of his damage in the fourth quarter pouring a 10 points. His biggest play was making a driving layup and then quickly stealing the inbound pass for another layup for essentially a 4-point play.

D’Evelyn senior Max Grant, 3, drives to the basket during the Jaguars’ overtime victory over Golden on Jan. 5. Grant scored 20 points to help D’Evelyn dig out of a double-digit deficit to grab the home victory.

“That was cool,” Grant said play midway through the fourth quarter that cut Golden’s lead to 54-53. “I got the layup and then hid behind the guy, snuck in there and finish again.”

Junior Nick Vacanti drained a huge 3-pointer for the Jaguars with just over a minute to play in regulation-time to tie things up at 60-60.

“We haven’t been a very good SEE SPORTS, P17

Golden senior Richie Pruett, right, dribbles around D’Evelyn senior Braeden Scheer during the first half Jan. 5 at D’Evelyn Junior/Senior High School. Pruett had a gamehigh 23 points, but it wasn’t enough as the Jaguars scored a 74-62 overtime victory.

PHOTOS BY DENNIS PLEUSS/JEFFCO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Arvada Press 17

January 13, 2022

SPORTS FROM PAGE 16

perimeter shooting team,” D’Evelyn coach Will Gosch admitted. “Tonight it was nice to see guys able to share the ball and when we needed guys knocked down shots they did.”

In the first minute of the 4-minute overtime period the hot outside shooting continued for the Jaguars.

Scheer made his fourth 3-pointer of the night and Anderson canned his third shot from long range to open up a 66-60 lead in overtime.

“I think we had some momentum going into overtime,” Grant said.

“We started out with two quick 3s and it was over from there.”

D’Evelyn was without leading scorer in junior Elijah Gusmus, but Gosch was pleased with how his team adapted and finished with four players in double-digit points.

“The kids stepping up for guys who weren’t here just shows that we’ve got some depth. That’s nice to have,” Gosch said. “Everyone should be back when we play Alameda.”

Golden was also a little shortened too and received a scare with 2:50 left in the fourth quarter.

Pruett injured his pinky finger on his left hand going after a loose ball and missed about a minute of action.

“It was dislocated for a quick second. It’s the first time that has ever happened to me,” Pruett said of the untimely injury late in the fourth quarter. “I thought I just jammed it and then I looked down at it. Luckily, D’Evelyn’s trainer was able to pop it back it and I was able to go.”

Pruett finished with a game-high 23 points. Seniors Zach Weiler (14 points) and James Lacey (12 points) had nice games, but it wasn’t enough.

“This is our first league taste against one of our best league opponents,” Pruett said. “I think the next time we play them we’ll be a different team and hopefully get the win at home.”

Golden did grab its first conference win with a 25-point victory against rival Wheat Ridge on Jan. 7. D’Evelyn improved to 3-0 in league with a dominating 81-18 victory against Alameda International on Jan. 7.

Dennis Pleuss is the Sports Information Director for Jeffco Public Schools. For more Jeffco coverage, go to CHSAANow.com.

Cerebral Palsy doesn’t slow down Chatfield senior Parker Teff

BY DENNIS PLEUSS JEFFCO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

LITTLETON — On a Monday morning after winter break in Chatfield High School’s gym, Parker Teff found himself in one of his favorite spots on the basketball court.

The Chatfield senior drained 3-pointer after 3-pointer from the corner during a drill. No other player could touch his mark of 28 3-pointers made during the two minutes.

“I knew early that inside wasn’t really my game,” Teff admitted.

“I focused all my life on shooting and have gotten really good at it. It is what got me here. I’ve thankful that I put in all the work to get me here.”

Through 10 games this season Teff is 33-for-94 from 3-point range for a pretty impressive 35 percent.

He had a season-high 21 points on seven 3-pointers before winter break against Rocky Mountain.

While becoming one of the best 3-point shooters in Class 5A took a lot of hard work, Teff also had to overcome being born with Cerebral Palsy.

“I’ve kind of had to adapt all my life,” Teff said. “It just makes my right side a lot weaker than my left. Normal things are sometimes challenging for me. Opening a door or gripping stuff with my right hand. I’ve been able to overcome and adapt.”

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. CP is the most common motor disability in childhood.

Teff gives a lot of credit to his father for teaching him that he can do anything that he puts his mind to. Physical therapy for several years, dribbling weighted basketballs with his right hand to get stronger, along with getting in the weight room put Teff in the position to be a key contributor his senior year for the Chargers.

“Honestly, my first impression was it’s going to be tough,” Chatfield boys basketball coach Erik Buehler said of Teff being able to reach playing at a 5A varsity level.

“Basketball is a sport that requires a certain amount of athleticism.”

Teff has proven himself to his coaches at every level that he can adapt and overcome some of his physical limitations.

Chatfield senior Parker Teff shoots a free throw during a Chargers’ practice after winter break on Monday, Jan. 3. Teff is one of the PHOTO BY DENNIS PLEUSS/JEFFCO PUBLIC SCHOOLS top 3-pointer shooters in Class 5A despite being born with Cerebral Palsy.

“Midway through his sophomore year, I was like, ‘This kid is one of the best shooters I’ve ever coached,” Buehler said. “On top of that even as a freshman his (basketball) IQ was well above his age.

He just got smarter and smarter. He studied the game and to his credit he realized if he could become an elite shooter it would allow him to continue to play basketball.”

There was never any doubt in Teff’s mind that he could play high school basketball. One of his best friends — senior Christian Foutch — knew the two would be on the court as seniors for the Chargers.

“He is one of the best players on the court all the time,” said Foutch, who has been friends with Teff since preschool and was actually talked into playing organized basketball by Teff starting in the 7th grade. “He has definitely outworked everybody to be here. He put his mind to it and wanted to be here. It’s cool that he wanted to be apart of this team and grind it out to be with me and a bunch of the other boys.”

Foutch actually didn’t know Teff had CP until both were in a middle school together.

“Honestly, I had no idea Parker had anything until about the 8thgrade. We were doing pushups together,” Foutch said. “I asked

him what was up. He said he has Cerebral Palsy. I was like, ‘What?

How long have you had that?’ I had no idea.”

Opponents on the basketball court might not realize either. They might be too busy watching Teff drain 3-pointer after 3-pointer from the corner on them.

“I have never seen a kid with CP play varsity sports,” Buehler said.

“I think his work ethic and mindset has allowed him to do that.”

Dennis Pleuss is the Sports Information Director for Jeffco Public Schools. For more Jeffco coverage, go to CHSAANow.com.

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C R O S S W O R D JANUARY P U Z Z L E FROM PAGE 7

timeframe, eight new hires were made. Additionally, seven administrative appointments were made from Dec. 2021 - Jan. 2022. However, these appear to be new positions, not replacement staff to make up for workers lost.

Fitzmorris Elementary Parents, teachers and the principal of Arvada’s Fitzmorris Elementary spoke during public comment of growing concerns about possible closure of the small, neighborhood school, with many referencing discussions of the possible closure allegedly being held by the District.

Jenn Withee, Fitzmorris’ principal, spoke first, calling it an incredible school with a truly amazing community. Withee said one of the

FUNDING FROM PAGE 10

2020 and voters passed all of them, marking a first-ever sweep since the trust began helping communities pass conservation measures 25 years ago. Typically the group sees about 85% of the measures it backs win.

In 2020, voters in Colorado renewed Adams County’s quartercent sales tax, which will yield about $400 million for parks and open space in the next 20 years.

Denver voters in 2020 approved a quarter-cent climate sales tax that proponents expect will generate $720 million for climate programs over the next two decades. Voters in 15 Western Slope counties approved a property tax increase that will direct $100 million in the next 20 years toward water projects.

In 2021, voters in Colorado again approved a record amount of conservation funding, setting an off-year election cycle record in Colorado with $580 million in funding for the next 20 years.

Arapahoe County’s Measure 1A permanently directs the county’s quarter-of-a-penny sales and use tax to parks, wildlife areas, trails, farms and local conservation projects. Over 20 years, the tax will

biggest challenges the school is facing, due to declining enrollment, has been the need to have more splitgrade classrooms, which can make it more difficult for students to engage in a rigorous curriculum connected to grade-level standards. Decline in enrollment also caused the school to lose a licensed teacher. The school now has only five licensed teachers for six grade levels (K-5).

Withee and others who spoke, called for the board to take a hard look at equity in the district, referencing the lack of resources, activities and after-care opportunities for families.

The board does not engage with speakers during public comment, so no feedback was given. As of the writing of this article, Fitzmorris Elementary continues to be an option for the 2022 school year in Jeffco’s open enrollment process which ends Jan. 10.

create about $560 million in funding. Colorado Springs’ Measure 2D directs $20 million in tax dollars to a regional wildfire mitigation plan. And the rejection of Denver’s Ordinance 304, which would have lowered the sales and use tax in Denver, protected sales tax funding for parks and climate policies that Denver voters approved in 2018 and 2020.

But it wasn’t a sweep in 2021 like 2020. Conservation groups lost Colorado Springs’ Measure 2C, which would have doubled a sales tax that funded parks, trails and open space and extended the tax to 2041.

(Hall said the campaign for 2C had diverse support but was unable to overcome “a wave of very conservative voters who turned out to vote on up-ballot races, mostly involving school boards.”)

New normal possible Conservation groups are looking at the wave of diverse voters approving taxes for land protection in 2020 and 2021 as, possibly, a new normal. Could conservation become one of the few bipartisan issues that unites voters from both urban and rural areas? Hall thinks so.

“I think there’s a realization that we have to step up,” Hall said.

SEE FUNDING, P23

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FUNDING FROM PAGE 18

“People recognize the importance nature plays in their lives and they want to protect that for generations to come.”

So does Jessica Goad, the deputy director of Conservation Colorado.

She sees the state’s growing population of outdoor users outpacing the ability to protect open spaces and access to natural spaces.

“People are seeing that pressure in the outdoors every time they go outside, so it’s no wonder conservation measures are seeing such success right now,” she said.

Colorado has a long history of paying taxes to keep natural spaces open, accessible and free of development. Boulder County voters approved one of the state’s first open space sales taxes in 1967.

The creation of Great Outdoors Colorado in 1992 has resulted in more than $1.3 billion of Colorado Lottery money funding some 5,300 conservation projects in all 64 Colorado counties.

More recent votes have directed conservation dollars toward urban and overlooked areas, like Denver’s Climate Protection Fund and Arapahoe County’s 1A. “There is a realization moving forward on how important it is to focus on who has access to conservation funding dollars,” Goad said.

“We believe broad and large scale public investment is needed and

conservation should be viewed as a core government function akin to infrastructure and law enforcement.”

It’s not just voters who are coming around to conservation.

Politicians are more ready to direct tax dollars toward protecting threatened landscapes, water supplies and equitable access to the outdoors.

Recent legislation approving the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, which funds Colorado Parks & Wildlife shows lawmakers willing to invest in conservation.

To reach lofty goals like protecting 30% of the nation’s land and water by 2030, conservation funding needs both lawmakers and voters, Goad said.

“Over and over again, Colorado voters are saying it is our priority to invest in conservation and they are demonstrating that by not just approving conservation measures but putting conservation leaders in office,” Goad said.

Rural areas see newcomers A lot of urbanites have moved to rural enclaves in the last 18-plus months and those newcomers are big fans of outdoor recreation on public lands. The crowding at trailheads and in heavily-trafficked areas is amplifying the need for more trails and places to recreate.

And a new swell of rural voters is ready to help pay for that access and expansion.

At the same time growth pressures in rural communities are

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creating more homes and more development.

“All these rapid changes and rapid growth is really getting people’s attention about how their communities are changing. Regardless of your political stripe, you are noticing these things,” said Megan Lawson, an economist with Montana’s Headwaters Economics, a nonprofit research group that studies rural and public lands issues.

Some of Lawson’s more recent research shows more people moving to counties with lots of recreational opportunities and those newcomers tend to have higher incomes than people moving to cities. And those new residents appear more ready to direct tax dollars toward conservation.

That demographic shift mirrors the recent evolution of outdoor recreation.

Playing outside, not long ago, was considered a mere pastime.

Now it is growing into a critical economic engine anchoring rural economies. (The latest federal accounting of outdoor recreation — an important tool for framing recreation as much more than a side pursuit for fun-seekers — shows a growing industry contributing $688 billion to the U.S. economy.)

More communities are trying to build their economy around outdoor recreation and that requires space to play, Lawson said.

“This really does not have to be partisan,” she said. “It really depends on how conservation is framed and making sure that

whatever is developed or protected meets the needs of the communities, whether it’s a community walking trail or trails for ATVs or economic development. If the investment matches what residents want and need most, it’s not surprising to see it win voter approval.”

In places where sales taxes have been funding conservation for many years, voters often approve extensions of those taxes because the benefits are evident in trails, parks and swaths of undeveloped, protected land. The challenge going forward for conservation groups is to introduce those sales taxes in new locations, like Weld County, Mesa County, Garfield County and the San Luis Valley, Hall said.

“There are still corners of Colorado where we have not yet been able to establish that first sales tax to get the local conservation funding flowing. That’s where we want to take this momentum, into these jurisdictions that don’t have this funding,” Hall said. “Access to nature should not be a privilege. It should be a right. It’s so important to our development and health.”

This story is from The Colorado Sun, a journalist-owned news outlet based in Denver and covering the state. For more, and to support The Colorado Sun, visit coloradosun. com. The Colorado Sun is a partner in the Colorado News Conservancy, owner of Colorado Community Media.

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